HAND-HELD LOAD DISTRIBUTION DEVICE
A device (100) for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device (100) comprising a first portion (1) arranged for attachment to the wrist, arm or hand of a user of the device (100); and a second portion (2) arranged to support, at least in part, the weight of the hand-held load; wherein the first and second portions (1,2) are formed from a single piece of material.
The present invention relates to a device for distributing the weight of hand-held loads.
The manual hand and finger transportation of items such as grocery shopping or any other form of load can result in discomfort or even injury depending on the physical status of the individual, the weight of the load and/or the length of time in transportation.
According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, comprising means for attaching the device to the wrist, arm or hand of a user of the device; and means for bearing the weight of a load held by the user; wherein the device is formed from a single piece of material, preferably arranged such that at least part of the weight of a hand-held load is borne by said wrist, arm or hand of the user.
According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device being formed from a blank. The device may comprise a first portion arranged for attachment to the wrist, arm or hand of a user, and a second portion arranged, at least in part, to fit within the palm of a hand of the user, preferably so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load borne (or supported) by the second portion to said wrist, arm or hand via the first portion.
According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, comprising: a first portion arranged to attach the device to the wrist of a user; and a second portion arranged to support, at least in part, a hand held-load; wherein said first and second portions are formed from a single piece of material.
In conjunction with the first portion, the second portion is preferably arranged to support, at least in part, the weight of the load when held in the hand.
The device may be operable to be moved between a first configuration, in which the device is substantially planar, and a second configuration, in which the device forms a three-dimensional structure for distributing the weight of a hand-held load. The device may be arranged to have a substantially planar configuration prior to use. It may be convenient to store, transport or distribute the device in the first configuration, whereas the second configuration may be considered to be an operative configuration.
The first portion may be arranged to form a band (or strap) around the wrist, arm or hand of a user. The first portion may comprise two opposing sides, the device being operable to be used reversibly such that either side of the first portion may rest on the wrist, arm or hand of a user when attached.
The first portion may be arranged to have a substantially frustoconical configuration and/or to form a substantially frustoconical shaped band (or strap) so to conform to the shape of a joint between the wrist and hand of a user, for example when attached thereto. The frustoconical configuration and/or shape may be arranged such that the diameter of the cone increases towards the second portion, for example towards the wrist or hand when attached to a user, for example such that the inner surface of the band applies force whereby to distribute the load onto a user's wrist, arm or hand. Optionally, in either of the above arrangements, the frustoconical shape may be provided by the first end of the first portion being arranged at an angle of between 90 degrees and 180 degrees, preferably an angle of between 100 degrees and 160 degrees, more preferably an angle of between 120 degrees and 140 degrees, and even more preferably an angle of about 130 degrees, relative to the second end of the first portion.
Alternatively, the first portion may be arranged to form a ‘reverse’ substantially frustoconical-shaped band, for example such that the outer surface of the band might apply a force onto another surface thereby to distribute the load. Preferably, the same above-mentioned ‘relative’ angles between the first and second ends of the first portion may still apply, albeit that the first and second ends of the first portion would be pointing generally towards the second portion in the ‘reverse’ arrangement, rather than generally away from the first portion as in the previously described (‘non-reverse’) arrangement.
The first portion may be provided with one or more fastening means for attaching the device to the wrist, arm or hand of a user, preferably wherein the fastening means is removably attachable such that the device is reusable, for example wherein the device can be attached, detached, and reattached without damaging it. The fastening means may comprise one or more fastening elements provided on a first end of the first portion and one or more fastening slots provided on a second end of the first portion, the one or more fastening elements being arranged to engage with the one or more fastening slots so as to fasten the first end to the second end. The one or more fastening elements may be formed by one or more substantially semi-circular slots being provided in the first portion, for example so as to form one or more tabs. The one or more slots in the first portion may have rounded ends.
The second end of the first portion may comprise means for guiding the first end of the first portion so as to connect the first end and second end together, for example a slot through which the first end can be inserted.
The first portion may have a width of between 100 mm and 500 mm, for example, and preferably between about 300 mm and about 500 mm, though it could be wider or narrower depending on the intended application and hence load to be distributed.
The second (or first) portion may be generally perpendicular to at least part of the first (or second) portion, preferably such that the first extends away from the second portion in a generally perpendicular direction. The first end or second end of the first portion may be longer than the other of the second or first end of the first portion, for example wherein the device is generally axe-shaped. The second portion may be arranged, at least in part, to fit within the palm of a hand of the user so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load. The second portion may be arranged to extend at least partway across the palm of a hand of the user when the device is attached to the user, and optionally to extend at least partway along a user's fingers.
The second portion may be arranged such that it is capable of being curled over by a user's fingers when the device is attached to the user, for example whereby to form a channel (or groove) in the palm of a hand of the user hand for receiving a load when the device is attached to the user. The second portion may be arranged to be supported by the hand and/or fingers of a user, in use, when the device is attached to the user, for example so as to secure the second portion to or around the load, such as the handle of a carrier (or shopping) bag.
The second portion may comprise curved sides, preferably concave sides, preferably arranged to increase in width exponentially, as the distance increases from the first portion, such that a distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, is arranged to have a substantially flared configuration.
The second portion may be arranged to bow, preferably away from a user's palm, when under load, whereby the load can be supported by (at least the) opposing ends of the distal edge of the second portion, for example when the second portion is not supported by a user's fingers.
A (or the) distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, may be arranged such that it can be curled over upon itself whereby to secure the load within the second portion when held by a user whereby to secure the load within the second portion.
The device may be arranged such that it is operable to be used reversibly, for example either side of the device may be in contact with the user's skin without affecting the functionality of the device.
The device may comprise a single piece of material, preferably sheet material. The device may have a thickness of less than 5 mm, and preferably less than 1 mm. The device may be arranged to have a substantially planar (e.g. two-dimensional) configuration prior to use. The material may be resiliently deformable and/or resistant to being torn and/or stretched. For example, the material may be a material comprising plastic, such as polyester or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
According to at least one embodiment, there may be provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device being formed from sheet material having a thickness of less than 5 mm, and preferably less than 1 mm.
According to at least one embodiment, there may be provided a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device being formed from sheet material comprising material that is resistant to being torn and/or stretched, for example a material comprising plastic, such as polyester or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
The device may be formed from a blank. The device or blank may be dimensioned such that it can be formed (e.g. die cut) from an A4-sized sheet of material, preferably wherein a standard A4-sized sheet of material (e.g. paper) has a length of 297 mm and a width of 210 mm. The device or blank may be dimensioned such that two devices or blanks can be formed (e.g. die cut) from a single A4-sized sheet of material. For example, the first end and second end of the first portion may have relative angles (such as those described above) that enable at least one (device) blank to fit within the footprint of an A4-sized sheet of material and/or the second portion may have a width (e.g. between about 60 mm and about 100 mm—at its narrowest part—i.e. so as to fit within the palm of a hand) and/or a length (e.g. between about 80 mm and about 200 mm—so as to extend at least partway across the palm of a hand and/or across at least part of the fingers—not including the width of the first portion) that allows at least one device or blank to fit within the footprint of an A4-sized sheet of material.
For example, a device or blank having a length of about 290 mm, first and second ends of the first portion arranged at an angle of about 135 degrees apart, a first portion having a width of about 40 mm, and a second portion having a length of about 80 mm (extending away from the first portion), may allow two devices or blanks to be formed from a single A4-sized sheet of material, though it should be understood that this is just an exemplary arrangement of a device or blank.
According to another embodiment, there is provided a blank having an arrangement of curves and angles configured such that the blank can be assembled to form a substantially rigid three-dimensional article.
According to at least one embodiment, there may be provided a blank shaped as a device as described herein.
The blank may comprise a material that is resistant to being torn and/or stretched, for example a material comprising plastic, such as polyester or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The blank may comprise a substantially two-dimensional piece of material, preferably sheet material. Preferably, the blank consists of a single piece of material. The blank may be shaped such that it can be assembled to form a device as described herein.
According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a method of manufacturing a device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load as described herein, comprising forming the device from a blank, for example wherein the blank comprises a single piece of material.
According to another embodiment, there is provided a method of manufacturing a device or blank for distributing the weight of a hand-held load as described herein, comprising forming the device or blank from a single piece of material.
According to at least one embodiment, there is provided a garment comprising a device as described herein.
The present invention may extend to a device or a blank as substantially described herein with and illustrated in the accompanying figures.
The device can reduce fatigue and provide additional comfort and control whist supporting a load. It can be produced using light weight flexible material and utilises the basic laws of physics, and strategically placed angles and curves, to provide a rigid, strong and robust tool for distributing the force or weight of a load, once fitted to its user, which can be stored as a small flat (i.e. planar) flimsy object.
The device has many areas of ingenuity, including at least the following two aspects. The first aspect is the strap (also referred to herein as the “first portion”), which is arranged to fit comfortably around and thereby secure to the hand, wrist or arm, thereby distributing the weight or force of a load over a larger body area (e.g. the wrist), preferably away from the fingers. The second aspect relates to the bend shaft (also referred to herein as the “second portion”) that functions as palm and/or finger support, whereby the device is arranged to provide a wide and comfortable load bearing support that allows various types of different loads to be held in the hand. These two aspects have multiple applications, either together or individually.
As user herein, the term hand-held load preferably connotes a load that is, at least in part, held in the hand, for example wherein the device helps support (or distribute) at least part of the weight of the load when held in the hand, preferably wherein the weight of the load is distributed to the hand, wrist or arm to which the device is attached, in use, whereby to ease the load on the fingers for example.
As used herein, the term “single piece of material” preferably connotes a unitary piece of material, for example the same (or sole) piece of material.
As used herein, the term “blank” preferably connotes an item or article having a desired shape, preferably in a substantially planar/two-dimensional form, which can be folded, bent or otherwise manipulated to form a three-dimensional article. The blank may be formed from a piece of material (e.g. sheet material) using a stamping, punching, forging or cutting process (such as die cutting), for example. The term “blank” may also connote an article in unassembled form. Accordingly, when assembled, the article may be described as being formed from a “blank”. As used herein, the term “article” preferably connotes a device, though it is not limited to such a definition.
It will be understood that any apparatus feature described and/or claimed herein may also be provided as a method feature, and vice versa. Furthermore, any feature in a particular embodiment of the invention may be provided independently and/or applied to other embodiments of the invention, in any appropriate combination. As used herein, means plus function features may be expressed alternatively in terms of their corresponding structure.
An example of at least one embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
It will be noted that, in the figures, the same (or corresponding) reference numerals have (at least in part) been used to show the same (or corresponding) features and/or components.
In
As shown in
The cut-outs distributed along the strap 1 are substantially semi-circular shaped slots, whereby each slot effectively creates a hinged fastening tab 7 (e.g. a “fastening element”). In the example shown, the device 100 has three such fastening tabs 7, which are arranged such that optionally one, two or all three tabs 7 can be engage with corresponding fastening slots 5 (e.g. “fastening slots”) provided at a second end of the first portion (“strap”) to provide a range of device strengths. Once secured in the fastening slots 5, the tabs 7 may be further secured in place by the pressure of the fitting and/or a load or weight being supported by the device 100.
The size of the tabs 7 and the fastening slots 5 allows for multiple devices 100-1, 100-2 to be placed against each other and fastened. Whilst together they produce a thicker, multi-layered device 100 to provide even greater support, for example, whilst supporting heavier loads. As shown in
The device 100 is also provided with a guide slot 4 at a second end of the first portion 1 (preferably the opposing extremity) of the strap 1. The guide slot 4 (e.g. “guide means”) is an optional fitting aid for a user when adjusting and fastening the device. The fastening slots 5 are spaced apart 8, preferably in a regular spaced arrangement.
A, preferably, round hole 6 is provided for storing the device 100, for example handing it from a hook, or similar.
The angles 16, 17 subtending between the respective portions of the strap 1 and the vertical axis are, in this example, substantially equal. This arrangement allows the device 100 to be worn on either hand with the short section of the strap 1 being positioned either over the thumb, as shown in
The bend shaft 2 is the section of the device 100 that is placed in the palm of the hand adjacent the base of the fingers. When in operation, the fingers curve bend shaft 2 over to form a handle that can help to support a load.
As shown in
In
The neck 10 of the bend shaft 2 has a substantially exponential increase in width until it reaches the head 11. The neck 10 reduces the likelihood of a supported load unintentionally becoming dislodged from the device 100. The neck 10 is also responsible for directing some of the forces from a supported load through to the head 11.
The head 11 is the widest section of the bend shaft 2. Its function is to provide support to the rest of the bend shaft 2 by reducing the likelihood of the load unintentionally becoming dislodged from the device 100 by providing a curved ridge (or “lip”) at the end (i.e. the extremity) of the bend shaft 2, and by assuming some of the forces from the load which are channeled through the neck 10. The head 11 also provides a comfortable grip in a user's hand whilst fastening the device 100 to the user.
As illustrated in
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- 1. The user can grip on to the bend shaft 2, as shown in
FIG. 7 . - 2. The first end 3 of the strap 1 is passed behind the user's arm, as shown in
FIG. 8 . - 3. The first end 3 of the strap 1 is fed through the guide slot 4 (provided in the second end of the strap 1), as shown in
FIG. 9 . - 4. The fastening tabs 7 are inserted in to the fastening slots 5 and pulled backwards so that they slot in firmly behind the section between the fastening slots 5, as shown in
FIG. 10 . - 5. As the user curls their fingers, the end of the bend shaft 2 is curled upwards to form a semi-tubular shaped channel 26 (
FIG. 16(b) ) ready to bear a load or weight, as shown inFIG. 11 . - 6. The user can use their fingers to adjust the height of the load in the hand and increase or decrease the level of force distribution being applied by the device 100 to the wrist, arm or hand as shown in
FIG. 12 . The example load is a flimsy plastic carrier bag 20. - 7. Whist the device is in operation and/or a load is being transported, the dual benefit of the particular curvature 14 of the edges of the bend shaft 2 along with the effect produced from the Y-axis curvature of the semi-tubular channel 26, enables the load to remain securely held in the channel 26 with little likelihood of movement or slippage, and the user's fingers can continually adjust the amount of force distributed to the wrist, arm or hand without the need to adjust the strap or load.
- 1. The user can grip on to the bend shaft 2, as shown in
The area around the wide part of the hand, near the base of the thumb, provides a large area that can be used to distribute the weight of a load.
To use the device 100 to carry, for example, a plastic shopping bag the user inserts their hand and the bend shaft 2 through the handle of the bag 20, as shown in
The device 100 can be fitted to a hand of a user, as shown in
Once the load is in place, the fingers curve the bend shaft 2, as shown in
Once in operation, and after the user has curved the bend shaft 2 into a semi-tubular channel 26, The neck 10 of the bend shaft 2 has increasing angles, in relation to the load, on the edges as shown in
As shown in
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- i) enable the user to adjust the width of the section of the bend shaft 2 that holds the load. Based on correlation between length of hand and width of hand, the device 100 is also designed to adjust to the width of the hand based on the length of the hand. The longer the hand is, the point in which the user curves the bend shaft 2 will be further down the bend shaft 2, thus providing a wider channel for the load 26 (see
FIG. 19 ); - ii) reduce the likelihood of the load pulling down on the bend shaft 2 whilst supporting a load, as shown in
FIG. 14(a) . Once the bend shaft 2 is curved upwards into a semi-tubular channel 26 (seeFIG. 19 ) in readiness for a load, the angles created by the curved shape of the edges of the bend shaft 2 have the impact of countering the effect of the downward pull of force, from the load, as shown inFIG. 14(b) . Thus, there is little or no pressure on the bend shaft 2 to straighten or uncurl; and - iii) shape comfortably to the contours of the palm of the hand, as the rounded edges 14 of the bend shaft 2 can curve around the base of the thumb 14 (see
FIG. 13 ).
- i) enable the user to adjust the width of the section of the bend shaft 2 that holds the load. Based on correlation between length of hand and width of hand, the device 100 is also designed to adjust to the width of the hand based on the length of the hand. The longer the hand is, the point in which the user curves the bend shaft 2 will be further down the bend shaft 2, thus providing a wider channel for the load 26 (see
An example load, in this case a plastic shopping bag, is shown being placed onto the exemplary device 100 in
Rigidity is further increased when the user curves the bend shaft 2 into a semi-tubular shaped channel 26 (see
The device 100 gains additional rigidity and strength from the corresponding curvature of the material along the X-axis 28 and Y-axis 29, which occurs whilst a load is being supported. The X-axis 28 curvature (see
The force of the load is distributed from the semi-tubular channel 26 across the width of the bend shaft 2 through the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 up and through to the strap 1 to the users wrist, arm or hand.
If the load is sufficiently heavy the downward force 22 (see
Furthermore, the X-axis curvature 28 (see
Whilst the length of the tubular channel 26 might shorten, as a result of the bowing 25, the device 100 still provides a comfortable handle for the load. Depending on the material used to produce the device 100 and the thickness of that material, the load required to experience this bowing effect varies. Depending on the material, the user can create this effect on lighter loads by forcing a bend, kink or crease in the centre under the area of the bend shaft 2 supporting the load 21 (
Once the device 100 is fitted, the user is responsible for the distribution of weight across the device 100. The user can vary the load between the bend shaft 2 and the strap 1. It is possible for the user to take all the force from the load on the fingers or none of the force from the load on the fingers.
By feeding the first end 3 of the strap 1 through the guide slot 4 provided in the second end of the strap 1, a user can attach the device 100 with a single hand whilst keeping the strap 1 in the correct position.
The guide slot 4 can be bypassed if the user is able to fit the device 100 without using it or if alternative fastening attachments are used. Additionally, the guide slot 4 may not be required if the device 100 is inserted into, or forms part of, another garment such as, for example, a glove.
The fastening slots 5 allows the first end 3 of the strap 1 to be fastened to the second end of the strap 1, and adjusted for a comfortable fit, using the tabs 7. The user can select which slots 5 to use when fitting the device 100. The slots 5 accommodate individuals with larger or smaller hands using the device 100. This is also used to allow the user to select the width of the semi-tubular channel 26 created by curving the bend shaft 2. If the strap 1 is loosened the device 100 will fit further down in the hand and the area of the bend shaft 2 supporting the load can be higher up the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 where it will be narrower. Alternatively, if the strap 1 is tightened the device 100 will be higher up the hand and the area of the bend shaft 2 supporting the load can be lower down the body 9 of the bend shaft 2 resulting in a wider section to the bend shaft 2 supporting the load.
Aside from being flexible, the device 100 has no moving parts and no additional attachments are required. Other versions of the device 100 could have attachments and alternative fastening mechanisms, but the same principles and benefits described herein would apply, where appropriate.
The device 100 is preferably produced (e.g. die cut or stamped) formed from a single piece of material (e.g. sheet material) such as paper or card; thicker material may be used for the application of greater forces or heavier loads. Preferably, the device is formed from a material having a thickness of less than 5 mm, and more preferably less than 1 mm.
Ideally, the device comprises a tear-resistant material. Sheets of commercially available material comprising polyester, for example Xerox® “Premium Never Tear” synthetic media, or Print4Life “X-Tear Bright White-sided Tear-Resistant Waterproof Film” (a biaxial stretched PET polyester film), may be considered to be “tear-resistant”, for example. Such materials may also be referred to as “polyester film paper”.
Exemplary embodiments include a device 100 having a thickness of about 195 micron and weighing about 4 grams has proven ability to support and distribute loads weighing in excess of 10 kg; a device 100 having a thickness of about 270 microns and weighing about 5 grams has proven ability to support and distribute loads weighing in excess of 20 kg; and a device 100 having a thickness of 350 micron and weighing about 8 grams has proven ability to support and distribute loads weighing in excess of 30 kg.
The high strength results from the design of the device 100, which utilises basic laws of physics to transform the device 100 (during the fitting process) from a flimsy and flexible piece of shaped material into a rigid and strong tool capable of supporting a significant load. The result is a very small, very light and highly flexible tool, especially in comparison with other load supporting tools, which can be mass-produced and distributed very cost effectively.
The device 100 has many applications including, but not limited to, the carrying or transportation of one or more items, the reinforcement or strengthening of gloves, the distribution of weight across the fingers, hand, wrist, upper arm and/or shoulder. The device 100 can also be used to aid the support of individuals whilst holding onto a support rail, banister or over-head rails as found in public transportation vehicles.
The advantages of using the device 100 include a user experiencing less fatigue when carrying one or more items, the ability to carry heavier loads, the ability to carry more items, and the ability to carry a load for longer periods of time than without the device 100. Furthermore, there is less likelihood of physical damage to the fingers, muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as quicker transportation times of the load due to less stops in which the individual rests or switches position of the load.
Whilst incorporated within, or next to, a glove or on its own, the device 100 can also be used to carry sharp or awkward objects such as planks of wood, sheets of metal or sheets of glass as it protects the fingers whilst distributing the weight. As such, the device 100 has a range of other applications for example, and not limited to, within the building and construction industry or with baggage handling staff at airports.
In particular, the device 100 can be used in many applications where the fingers or palm of the hand are utilised for the carrying, holding, supporting, pulling, pushing or moving of any load, where the load has the ability to be grasped by, or be in contact with, the device 100 or a garment with the device 100 inserted within, next-to or behind it.
The surface of the device 100, on both or either sides, can display a multitude of visual forms, such as, designs, photos, drawings, barcodes, advertising, logos or branding to increase its visual and/or commercial appeal.
The device 100 may have particularly useful application for individuals with physical restrictions such as arthritis, and it can easily be fitted, adjusted or redesigned to accommodate amputees or individuals with physical deformities.
There are many options for the storage of the device 100 including, but not limited to, in a flat form hanging from the hole 6 (see
Once the device 100 is fitted, the guide slot 4 can provide extra rigidity and support to the device 100, which reduces the risk of movement whilst the device 100 is operation.
The device 100 can be fitted on either the left or right wrist, arm or hand and can attached with either the short end of the strap near the thumb or the long end of the strap near the thumb for maximum ease of installation, adjustment and fit, as shown in the ‘right hand’ examples in
The fitting of the device 100 on the hand, as shown in
The tubular-shaped channel 26 of the bend shaft 2 (see
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- i) reduces the likelihood of the load digging into the fingers;
- ii) distributes the load more evenly across all the fingers, rather than focusing the weight on one or two fingers; and
- iii) reduces the likelihood of the load squeezing the fingers in a manner such as a flimsy plastic grocery bag squashes the fingers together when being carried by hand.
The channel 26 produced by the bend shaft 2 (see
The user can adjust the shape of the bend shaft 2 to accommodate a large variety of loads and handles. For example, the user can use the device 100 to lift one bucket with a thin metal handle, a number of large plastic shopping bags, a sheet of glass, a plank of wood or any other object that can be accommodated by the device 100. As mentioned above, an example of the device being used to support a plastic shopping bag is shown in
The rounded shape of the head 11 of the bend shaft 2 (
The close-up diagram
The three fastening tabs 7 (see
The frustoconical shape 32 (see
The device 100 can be worn on either hand with either the short section of the strap 1 being positioned either over the thumb, as shown in
After use it is possible for the device 100 to become distorted, especially after supporting heavier weights. Depending on the material used to manufacture the device 100 it may be possible (for example, if using Xerox® “Premium Never Tear” Synthetic Media, or a similar material), to remove or reduce any distortion by placing the device 100 in boiling water or by ironing the device 100 using an iron on a ‘high’ heat setting. Once cooled the device 100 should function as normal.
The device is waterproof and its operation will have little or no impact after being placed in a washing machine and/or tumble dryer.
The bend shaft 2 can be fitted with a non-slip or slip resistant surface, for example by adhering a rubber strip (or other suitable member) to the bend shaft 2, to allow its use with loads that do not allow the full or semi-tubular shaped curvature of the bend shaft 2. This can be used for gripping items such as boxes, crates or used in the health and fitness industry to help support the hand and fingers whilst using equipment such as, for example, rowing machines, ores, dumbbells, pull-up bars, pull-down bars or any other item that requires the user to place a load or force on the fingers or hand.
An attachment may be fitted to the device (e.g. via an adhesive, moulding, riveting or other attachment means such as Velcro®), such as a piece of thicker material or a rigid channel, to further strengthen the device 100, or a specific attachment to fit a specific load (e.g. an adapter for holding a specific item), to enable the one or more of the benefits of the device 100 to be (further) utilised.
Alternative versions of the device 100 may incorporate a strap 1 lining (such as a padded and/or cotton-like material, for example), alternative fastening mechanism (such as Velcro®, for example) and/or non-slip grips over the strap 1 and/or bend shaft 2.
The shape of the fastening tabs 7 may vary according to the design. The hole 6 located along the first (longer) end 3 of the strap 1 can be provided elsewhere on the device 100. For example, the hole 6 can be located along the second (shorter) end of the strap 1, or within the guide slot 4.
The device 100 can be produced with different angles 15 (see
The shape of the bend shaft 2 or the material used can be modified to accommodate different shaped loads.
The shape of the device described herein can be altered to accommodate multiple requirements including, but not limited to, a more comfortable fit, easier fitting, more secure fastening, greater accommodation for varying sized and shaped hands and/or greater aesthetic appeal. Many of the features described herein can be applied to different forms of the device and so they are not exclusive to the device from examples within the descriptions herein.
Second device form 101, as shown in
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- i) The strap 1 of the second device form 101 shown in
FIG. 21 is wider to enable a greater area of weight distribution. This also allows for a great surface area for printed logos, branding, advertising or marketing. - ii) The fastening tabs 7 shown in
FIG. 22 are shaped with edges 43 that are slightly wider than the fastening slots 5 shown inFIG. 21 . When the fastening tabs 7 are inserted into the fastening slots 5 ofFIG. 21 these edges provide a more secure fitting that is less likely to become inadvertently unfastened. These edges 43 inFIG. 22 operate as a catch that will hold the fastening tabs 7 in place. It is still possible to remove the fastening tabs 7 when the user requires the device to be unfastened. A clicking sound may be heard when inserting and removing the fastening tabs 7. - iii) At the top of the strap 1 near the main body of the second device form 101 the edge has a raised section 33 (shown in
FIGS. 21 and 30 ) on either side of the area located above the centre of the bend shaft 2. These protruding sections are designed to curve outwards, as shown inFIG. 30 , in order to reduce the impact of the edges of the strap 1 focussing pressure on the front of the user's wrist or hand whilst the device is in operation. - iv) At the bottom of the strap 1 near the main body of the second device form 101, the edge has a raised or protruding section 34 (shown in
FIGS. 21, 24, 30 and 31 ) on either side of the area located either side of the bend shaft 2. These protruding sections are designed to curve outwards, as shown inFIG. 30 , in order to reduce the impact of the edges of the strap 1 focussing pressure on sides of the user's hand whilst the device is in operation.
- i) The strap 1 of the second device form 101 shown in
Third device form 102, as shown in
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- i) The strap 1 shown in
FIG. 23 is ergonomically shaped to provide a wider area to the back of the hand or wrist to enable greater weight distribution. It may also provide aesthetical benefits. - ii) The cut out strips 38 provide additional comfort when the third device form 102 is in operation by adjusting to the shape of the user's hand. Should the angle or shape of the user's hand be different to the angle or shape of the fitted frustoconical-shaped strap 1, the strap slots 38 can adjust accordingly as shown in
FIG. 24 . - iii) The angle of the bend shaft 2 to the long end of the strap 1 is less than the angle between the bend shaft 2 and the short end of the strap 1. This offset compensates for the shape of a user's hand and fingers which can result in a more comfortable handle whilst supporting a load.
- iv) A deep cut-out 35 extends through the area where the long and short end of the strap 1 meet above the bend shaft 2 and may also extend into the top of the bend shaft 2. This leaves a large gap 37 that can be used to insert the hand after the third device form 102 in fastened. An example of a closed strap 1 gap 37 is also shown in
FIG. 26a ) as a top-down view and b) as a bottom-up view.
- i) The strap 1 shown in
Once the fastening tabs 7 are inserted into the fastening slots 5 the hand can be inserted through the top of the third device form 102 through the gap 37. When the bend shaft 2 is placed in the correct position in the palm of the hand and the fingers curved around the outside of the bend shaft 2 there is minimal slippage as the forces are transferred from the bend shaft 2 up and through both sides of the strap 1. If the device is not fitted snuggly to the user, the strap 1 can be adjusted by removing the fastening tabs 7 and reinserting them into different fastening slots 5.
Fourth device form 103, as shown in
-
- i) It is produced in a fitted form with the bend shaft 2 pre-curled (as shown in
FIGS. 20, 27 and 28 ) or semi-fitted form with no pre-curl in the bend shaft 2 (as shown inFIGS. 25 and 26 ) using plastic injection moulding, heat based reshaping of a single sheet of shaped material or other production technique that results in a fully formed device.FIG. 25 shows the device with different orientations, a) is a side on view, b) and c) show different angles of a front view. - ii) The user is not required to fasten a strap as the fourth device form 103 can be formed with no fastening mechanism. The user inserts the hand through the gap 37, as shown in
FIG. 26a ) which is a view down through the device 103 and b) which is a view up through the device 103. Once the bend shaft 2 is in the correct position in the palm of the hand, the device is ready to support a load. - iii) The strap 1 protrusions 33 at the top of the strap 1 shown in
FIGS. 25a, 26a, 27a &b and 30 can be produced in line with the shape of the strap 1 or flared outwards which would allow for greater comfort when inserting the hand through the gap 37 and when the device is in use by reducing the likelihood of an edge digging into the skin. - iv) The strap protrusions 34 at the bottom of the strap 1 shown in
FIG. 25a, 26a, 27a &b, 28, 30 and 31 can be produced in line with the shape of the strap 1 or flared outwards which would allow for greater comfort when fitting and when the device is in use by reducing the likelihood of an edge digging into the skin. - v) The fourth device form 103 can also be produced with a cut-out slot 39 (as shown in
FIG. 28 ) and fastening slots 38. - vi) An integrated or detachable fastening belt 40 can be used in order to further secure the device prior to use. This can increase the range of hand sizes supported by the fourth device form 103 and can provide additional strength and rigidity.
- vii) The fastening belt 40, as shown in
FIG. 29 , can be produced with included fastening hooks 41 or adhesive, Velcro© or another type of fastening means. The fastening hooks 41 can be inserted into the fastening slots 38FIG. 28 allowing a tighter or stronger fit on the user. - viii) The fastening belt 40 (shown in
FIGS. 28 and 29 ), if detachable, can include a protruding, preferably mushroom shaped, fitting 42 which can be inserted into the cut-out slot 39 of fourth device form 103. Once inserted through the larger section of the cut-out slot 39 the fastening belt 40 can be pulled in order for the fitting 42 to be secured by a narrower section of the cut-out slot 39. - ix) The fourth device form 103 can be produced in varying sizes to accommodate the size and shape of different users.
- i) It is produced in a fitted form with the bend shaft 2 pre-curled (as shown in
The diagrams include examples of many of the features of the device and it should be noted that features shown in one form of the device can also be included in one or more of the other forms. Additionally, features shown in one or more of the device forms can also be excluded. For example,
The device 100, or a form of the device 100, could be installed as part of the handle or carrying section of any form of load that would benefit from one of more of the features of the device 100. For example, a briefcase could have the device 100 installed as part of its handle.
The size, shape, angles and fittings of the device 100 may be configured to accommodate a range of requirements such as, but not limited to; gender, culture, ethnicity, demographics, age, race, physical differences, types of load, and application. The device 100 shown in the drawing shows a basic and simple production method using a thin sheet of material where there are no additional parts, such as Velcro® fastening or a softer skin facing material such as padding, as mentioned above. In an alternative, such additional parts could be incorporated into the device 100.
While the present invention has been described herein with reference to a device for distribution of hand-held loads, it is envisaged that blanks of material, preferably sheet material, preferably tear-resistant and/or stretch resistant material, having an arrangement of curves and/or angles configured to form substantially rigid three-dimensional articles could be used to form a range of different devices, tools or items, for example.
It will be understood that the present invention has been described above purely by way of example, and modifications of detail can be made within the scope of the invention. Each feature disclosed in the description, and (where appropriate) the claims and drawings may be provided independently or in any appropriate combination.
Claims
1-29. (canceled)
30. A device for distributing the weight of a hand-held load, the device comprising a single piece of planar sheet material having:
- a first portion arranged to be fastened around a wrist or arm of a user of the device; and
- a second portion arranged to provide a handle for receiving the hand-held load in the hand of the user whereby to support, at least in part, the weight of the hand-held load;
- wherein the device is operable to be moved between:
- a first configuration, in which the first and second portions are substantially planar such that the device can be laid flat; and
- a second configuration, in which the first and second portions are moved relative to one another such that the device forms a three-dimensional structure capable of distributing the weight of a hand-held load when fastened to the user.
31. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion includes two opposing sides, the device being capable of being used reversibly such that either side of the first portion is capable of resting on the wrist or arm of a user when attached.
32. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion is further arranged to provide a strap for fastening around the wrist or arm of a user.
33. The device of claim 32, wherein a length of the strap is adjustable.
34. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion is provided with one or more fastening means for attaching the device to the wrist or arm of a user.
35. The device of claim 34, wherein the fastening means is configured for releasable fastening of the device to the wrist or arm of a user.
36. The device of claim 34, wherein the fastening means includes one or more fastening elements provided on a first end of the first portion and one or more fastening slots provided on a second end of the first portion, the one or more fastening elements being arranged to engage with the one or more fastening slots so as to fasten the first end to the second end.
37. The device of claim 36, wherein the one or more fastening elements are formed by one or more substantially semi-circular slots being provided in the first portion.
38. The device of claim 36, wherein the one or more fastening elements in the first portion have rounded ends.
39. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion has a substantially frustoconical configuration in the second configuration so to conform to the shape of the hand of a user when attached thereto, wherein the frustoconical configuration is arranged such that a diameter of the frustum increases towards the second portion.
40. The device of claim 30, wherein a second end of the first portion includes means for guiding a first end of the first portion so as to connect the first end and second end together.
41. The device of claim 30, wherein the first portion is generally perpendicular to the second portion.
42. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged at least in part to fit within a palm of a hand of the user so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load.
43. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged to extend at least part way across the palm of a hand of the user when the device is attached to the user.
44. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged such that it is capable of being bent by a user's fingers when the device is attached to the user, whereby to be curled over and form a channel in the hand of the user for receiving a load when the device is attached to the user.
45. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion is arranged to be supported by at least one of the hand or fingers of a user when the device is attached to the wrist or arm of a user so as to distribute the weight of a hand-held load.
46. The device of claim 30, wherein the second portion includes concave curved sides arranged such that a distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, has a substantially flared configuration.
47. The device of claim 46, wherein the second portion is arranged to bow under load whereby the load can be supported by opposing ends of the distal edge of the second portion.
48. The device of claim 30, wherein a distal edge of the second portion, relative to the first portion, is configured to curl over upon itself when held by a user whereby to secure the load within the second portion.
49. The device of claim 30, wherein the device is formed from a blank having an arrangement of curves and angles configured such that the blank can be assembled to form a substantially rigid three-dimensional article.
50. A garment comprising the device of claim 30.
Type: Application
Filed: May 12, 2017
Publication Date: May 30, 2019
Inventor: Justin Clapham (St. Lawrence)
Application Number: 16/301,229