HEATABLE GLOVE LINER, GLOVE CONTAINING THE SAME, AND METHOD OF MAKING THE SAME

Abstract

A heatable glove liner, including a glove shaped garment having a conductive composite yarn sewn along a portion thereof, wherein the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn have electrical leads configured for connection to a power source to form an electrical circuit, such that upon completion of the electrical circuit, the conductive composite yarn heats up due to electrical resistance; and a glove containing the same.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is related to, and claims priority from, U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/189,343, filed May 17, 2021, pending.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a glove liner that is heated through use of a conductive yarn connected to a power source, a glove containing the same, and a method of making the same.

Description of the Related Art

The “background” description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description which may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly or impliedly admitted as prior art against the present invention.

In certain professions, particularly military or law enforcement, the professionals are required to operate in extreme conditions, particularly in extreme cold conditions. For example, certain individuals may have to operate in helicopters that are open to the air in order to provide security operations, even when temperatures are well below OF, sometimes well below −50 F. In such conditions, the individual may have significant difficulty in maintaining feeling in the hands and fingers, due to the extreme cold. This is particularly true when the individual is having to be ready to fire a weapon during such security operations. There is typically a tradeoff between having gloves that are thick enough to maintain warmth and feeling in the hands and fingers, and gloves that are thin enough to maintain touch and dexterity of the fingers so that the individual can effectively operate a weapon in cases of emergency.

In many industries and professions there is also a need for protective wear that is cut and/or abrasion resistant, yet lightweight and comfortable for the wearer, and which can provide warming of the hands and fingers for operation in extreme cold environments. From maintenance workers crawling through HVAC ventilation shafts to weekend warriors participating in various sporting events to police officers having to confront knife wielding assailants, many individuals need protection from cuts and scrapes as they go about their daily activity.

Accordingly, there is a need for a glove or glove liner that can provide flexibility and dexterity to the wearer, while maintaining warmth of the hands and fingers in extreme cold environments.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One object of the present invention is to provide a heatable glove liner that can be readily heated with a power source to provide warmth and comfort to the wearer while maintaining flexibility and dexterity.

A further object of the present invention is to provide a glove containing the glove liner of the present invention, where the glove can also provide protection from cuts and abrasions, while maintaining the flexibility and dexterity requirements of the wearer.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a method for making the glove liner of the present invention.

These and other objects of the invention, individually or collectively, have been satisfied by the present inventor by the discovery of a heatable glove liner, comprising:

a glove shaped garment having a conductive composite yarn sewn along a portion thereof, wherein the conductive composite yarn comprises:

• • a) a core formed of at least one strand of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge;
  • b) at least one inner cover wrapped around the core in a first direction at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete coverage of the core by the inner cover, wherein the inner cover is a natural or synthetic yarn;
  • c) at least one outer cover wrapped around the at least one inner cover, wherein the outer cover is wrapped in a second direction opposite to a direction of a cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped, at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete cover of the cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped;
  • d) at least one bonding agent applied onto the at least one outer cover; and
  • e) optionally, a lubricant;

wherein the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn have electrical leads configured for connection to a power source to form an electrical circuit, such that upon completion of the electrical circuit, the conductive composite yarn heats up due to electrical resistance, gloves containing the glove liner, and a method for producing the glove liner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIGS. 1A-1D are representations of (1A) a pinky-finger side view, (1B) a thumb side view, (1C) a palm view, and (1D) a fingertip top down view of one embodiment of a glove liner of the present invention having the conductive yarn sewn along a perimeter of the glove liner.

FIGS. 2A-2D are representations of (2A) a pinky-finger side view, (2B) a thumb side view, (2C) a palm view, and (2D) a fingertip top down view of one embodiment of a glove liner of the present invention having the conductive yarn sewn tracing the perimeter of the liner along the palm side of the glove liner.

FIG. 3 depicts an aerial view of one embodiment of glove in a palm-away position according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4 depicts an aerial view of one embodiment of glove in a palm-facing position according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 depicts a longitudinal view of one embodiment of glove with an interior lining according to one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While the description below refers to a “glove liner”, it is to be understood that the glove liner may in actuality be a glove itself, when there is no outer layer over the glove liner.

The heatable glove liner of the present invention can be a knit glove formed using circular knitting to prepare a seamless glove or can be prepared by joining together two or more fabric glove components by sewing the components together. In one embodiment, the glove liner is prepared from two fabric portions joined along a perimeter by sewing to form a seam with the conductive composite yarn, leaving open a side corresponding to a wrist area through which a wearer would insert a hand. In another embodiment, the glove liner is prepared from two fabric portions joined along a line tracing a path adjacent a perimeter and located at least partially on a palm side of the heatable glove liner when assembled, said two fabric portions being joined by sewing to form a seam with the conductive composite yarn, leaving open a side corresponding to a wrist area through which a wearer would insert a hand. In additional embodiments, the same conductive yarn path can be provided on a knit glove liner formed by circular knitting, but having no seam present. In such embodiments, the glove liner is prepared, then the conductive yarn is sewn in the desired pattern into the glove liner.

The glove liner of the present invention can be made of any desired fabric made from any type of yarn, including but not limited to, natural fibers, synthetic fibers, composite yarns, etc. The size (denier) of the yarn used is not limited and can be selected based on the desired flexibility properties of the resulting glove liner. Cut resistant yarns can be used to provide additional strength and cut/abrasion resistance properties if desired, such as those made from high performance yarns or composite yarns containing high performance yarns as defined below.

To provide the heatable nature, a conductive yarn is sewn along a desired pattern in the glove liner, with each end of the conductive yarn having an electrical connector, through which the conductive yarn can be attached to a power source. The sewing of the conductive yarn can be performed by sewing the yarn into an already formed glove liner, or in certain embodiments, can be performed by using the conductive yarn to join two glove liner halves to form the glove liner, with the conductive yarn serving the dual purpose of providing the heating means and holding the parts of the glove liner together.

In one embodiment, the conductive yarn is sewn along at least a portion of the periphery of the glove liner, preferably including the periphery of one or more fingers, more preferably the periphery of a plurality of fingers, most preferably the periphery of all fingers (including in each instance the thumb as one of the one or more fingers). The portion of the periphery may be moved toward the palm side of the glove liner such that the palm side of the one or more fingers is preferentially heated.

The power source can be alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC), with a DC power source being most preferred for mobility and convenience. The power source should provide sufficient current to the conductive yarn to cause resistive heating along the conductive yarn, preferably less than 1 Amp of DC current. At 1 Amp or greater, the heatable glove liner can become too hot and cause discomfort to the wearer. The power source is preferably a 5 to 15 V battery, more preferably a 7 to 12 V battery, most preferably a 12 V battery (wherein in each case, the voltage can be a combined battery voltage for a combination of batteries).

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views.

In one embodiment of the glove liner of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1D, the conductive yarn is sewn along a perimeter of the glove liner. FIG. 1A shows a side view of such and embodiment of the glove liner of the present invention as seen from the pinky side of the hand. The glove liner (10) has the conductive yarn sewn along the perimeter/edge of the liner (denoted by dotted line (12)). The conductive yarn has two ends (only one shown in FIG. 1A) (14) which can be connected to the desired power source, one to the positive electrode and the other to the negative electrode. FIG. 1B shows the same embodiment of glove liner as shown from the thumb side of the hand. FIG. 1C shows the embodiment of the glove liner (10) as shown from the palm side of the hand. It is noted that FIG. 1C shows both ends (14) of the conductive yarn. While this depiction shows the two ends (14) on opposite sides of the glove, in another embodiment (not shown), the yarn ends can be on the same side of the glove, with the stitching of the conductive yarn along the glove liner being adjusted accordingly. FIG. 1D shows the embodiment of the glove liner (10) from a fingertip top-down view, showing the conductive yarn (12) sewn along the perimeter of the glove liner, and the two ends (14) on opposite sides of the bottom of the glove liner. Again, the two ends can alternatively be on the same side of the bottom of the glove liner. Additionally, depending on how the conductive yarn is sewn into the glove liner, the yarn ends (14) can be taken off any desired point of the glove liner, for ease of attachment to the power source.

In a further embodiment of the glove liner of the present invention, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2D, the conductive yarn is sewn along the shape of the glove liner, but is placed more toward the palm side of the glove liner. Such an embodiment provide improved heating of the fingers, providing substantial improvements in comfort of the resulting heated glove liner. FIG. 2A shows a side view of such and embodiment of the glove liner of the present invention as seen from the pinky side of the hand. The glove liner (20) has the conductive yarn sewn along the perimeter/edge of the liner (denoted by dotted line (22)). The conductive yarn has two ends (only one shown in FIG. 2A) (24) which can be connected to the desired power source, one to the positive electrode and the other to the negative electrode. FIG. 2B shows the same embodiment of glove liner as shown from the thumb side of the hand. FIG. 2C shows the embodiment of the glove liner (20) as shown from the palm side of the hand. It is noted that FIG. 2C shows both ends (24) of the conductive yarn. While this depiction shows the two ends (24) on opposite sides of the glove, in another embodiment (not shown), the yarn ends can be on the same side of the glove, with the stitching of the conductive yarn along the glove liner being adjusted accordingly. FIG. 2D shows the embodiment of the glove liner (20) from a fingertip top-down view, showing the conductive yarn (22) sewn along the perimeter of the glove liner, and the two ends (24) on opposite sides of the bottom of the glove liner. Again, the two ends can alternatively be on the same side of the bottom of the glove liner. Additionally, depending on how the conductive yarn is sewn into the glove liner, the yarn ends (24) can be taken off any desired point of the glove liner, for ease of attachment to the power source.

When the heatable glove liner is used to prepare a heated glove, the glove liner forms an inner layer and an outer layer is provided, which can be formed of any desired glove forming material. Preferred outer layer materials include, but are not limited to, animal hides, vinyl, and fabrics made from synthetic or natural fibers. One preferred embodiment uses an outer layer of leather. The inner layer and outer layer may be connected to one another or can be independent of one another. When connected to one another, the connection can be made in one embodiment by sewing the inner and outer layers together at one or more locations, or in a further embodiment, the connection can be made by adhering the inner and outer layer together at one or more locations using an adhesive.

In such a glove, the connector ends of the conductive yarn in the inner layer glove liner can project from the bottom/wrist opening of the glove, or can be routed through the other layer of the glove by formation of an opening through the outer layer.

The power source, preferably a DC power source such as a small battery, can be located outside of the thus formed glove (and carried by the wearer in a pocket or other location on the wearer's body), or in certain cases, can be located inside a portion of the outer layer, by formation of a recessed area or pocket in the inner surface of the outer layer and storage of the battery therein.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the glove liner can be used to line a glove as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,201,200, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Illustrative of one such embodiment, FIG. 3 depicts a back of a glove 100 in one or more embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. The glove 100 can include an exterior layer 145. The exterior layer 145 can be made of leather, for example. The exterior layer 145 can include a first interior layer 105 affixed to the underside of the exterior layer 145, wherein the first interior layer 105 is the heatable glove liner of the present invention, and is preferably made from a fabric formed of a cut and abrasion resistant composite yarn as described herein. The first interior layer 105 can entirely cover a hand of a wearer of the glove 100. The exterior layer 145 can cover at least a portion of the hand of the wearer of the glove 100. More specifically, the exterior layer 145 does not cover an index finger of the wearer. The exterior layer 145 may extend to a point at least past the third knuckle but not past the second knuckle. The index finger of the wearer is not covered by the exterior layer 145 for various performance and comfort reasons which can be important for very high risk situations. For example, not including the exterior layer 145 on the index finger of the wearer can significantly improve the dexterity of the index finger of the wearer. The dexterity is important for police officers, military personnel, and the like who may need to control a firearm, the index finger being the finger of the wearer that most commonly interacts with the trigger of the firearm. However, the interior layer 105 (glove liner of the present invention) provides warming of the hand and fingers, particularly the index finger of the wearer, thus providing greater feeling and dexterity, which is particularly important in extreme cold conditions. The exterior layer 145 around the index finger may prevent range of motion, sensitivity, and the like, and/or the additional material may get caught, hung up, add additional bulk, or may slow down the movement of the index finger in general. However, it may be important that the exterior layer 145 may remain covering the remainder of the hand of the wearer for various reasons including aesthetics, uniform consistency, warmth, built in padding, and the like.

The glove 100 can include soft knuckle pads 110 covering a first knuckle and a second knuckle of a middle finger, a ring finger, and a thumb to provide further protection from any contact with the knuckles. The soft knuckle pads 110 can be integrated into the exterior layer 145. The glove 100 can also include a hard knuckle protector 115 covering a third knuckle of each of the index finger, the middle finger, the ring finger, and a pinky finger. The hard knuckle protector 115 can be any rigid protective material, preferably plastic or metal, more preferably plastic selected from polycarbonates, or similar rigid plastics. The hard knuckle protector may be one piece of the material covering the third knuckle of each of the index, middle, ring, and pinky fingers without separation and includes contours to comfortably cover each third knuckle. More specifically, the height of the hard knuckle protector 115 may increase over the knuckle, and decrease in between knuckles. The hard knuckle protector 115 may be used for defensive purposes as the knuckle protector 115 may protect the third knuckles from cuts/abrasions, forceful contact from hand-to-hand combat (e.g., punching), and the like. Additionally, the hard knuckle protector may be used offensively as the hard material may cause more damage to anything the hard knuckle protector 115 contacts.

The glove 100 may also include protective padding 120. The protective padding 120 can cover at least a portion of a back of the hand of the wearer of the glove 100 to provide an additional cushion against any contact with the back of the hand of the wearer.

The glove 100 may also include an adjustable wrist strap 130 to adjust the tightness of the glove 100 around the wrist to secure the glove 100 to the wearer and prevent unanticipated removal of the glove 100. In connection with the wrist strap 130, the glove 100 can also include a connection strap 135, which may make a secure connection via Velcro, for example, to adjust the size of the wrist strap 130, as well as secure the wrist strap 130 to a predetermined position as may be determined and/or adjusted by the wearer of the glove 100. It should be appreciated that the wrist strap 130 and the connection strap 135 may be considered a single wrist strap adjustment mechanism via the combination of the wrist strap 130 and the connection strap 135.

FIG. 4 depicts a view of the palm-side of an embodiment of glove 100 of the present invention. This glove 100 can also include palm protection pads 140. The palm protection pads 140 can cover at least a portion of the palm of the wearer. The palm protection pads 140 may be strategically placed to reduce impact on the palm caused by recoil of a firearm, for example. The palm protection pads 140 can be integrated into the exterior layer 145.

The wrist strap 130 may be made of a second exterior material while still part of the exterior layer 145. The material of the wrist strap 130 can be any desired material, preferably formed from a natural or synthetic fiber, more preferably a stretch fiber, most preferably stretch nylon or stretch polyurethane. The connection strap 135 may be made of the same material as the rest of the exterior layer 145, such as leather, for aesthetic reasons, grip, durability, and the like.

Additionally, the first interior layer 105 (corresponding to the heatable glove liner of the present invention) is depicted as covering the palm-side of the index finger as well, thereby fully covering the index finger where the index finger includes at least the first and second knuckles.

FIG. 5 depicts a longitudinal view of an embodiment of glove of the present invention including interior layer 105. In this embodiment, the interior layer corresponds to the glove liner of the present invention. The interior layer 105 may entirely cover the hand of a wearer of the glove 100. The glove may still include the soft knuckle pads 110, the hard knuckle protector 115, the wrist strap 130, and the like as described herein. However, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the interior layer 100 extends at least over an entirety of an inner surface of the exterior layer 145 such that the interior layer is positioned between the exterior layer 145 and the hand of the wearer of the glove 100. Thus, the hand of the wearer of the glove 100 would not contact the exterior layer 145 while the glove 100 is on the wearer's hand. In another exemplary embodiment, the interior layer 100 extends at least over an entirety of an inner surface of the exterior layer 145 and at least over part of the wrist strap 130. Thus, in this embodiment, the wearer's hand may come in contact with part of the wrist strap 130 while wearing the glove 100.

An advantage of these embodiments of glove 100 is a configuration for optimal precision and protection. The first interior layer 105 (corresponding to the glove liner of the present invention) preferably includes material that is beneficial in many combat scenarios, for example, such that the material prevents cuts and abrasions. The material used in the first interior layer 105 may prevent a knife from harming the hand of the wearer of the glove 100. In addition to the safety, removing the exterior layer 145 from the index finger, such that the glove 100 does not include any additional material covering the first interior layer 105 on the index finger (i.e. an interior of the first interior layer 105 contacts the index finger of the wearer directly and nothing is positioned on an exterior of the first interior layer 105 over the index finger), improves the mobility, dexterity, and sensitivity of the index finger, which may be crucial in extreme situations where lives may hang in the balance, for example, and the split second decisions and the precision required of those making the decisions should not be held back by any poor performance of equipment. When crucial split-second decisions must be made, the wearer of the glove 100 can rely on the mobility, comfort, precision, and sensitivity of the first interior layer 105 covering the index finger where the index finger does not include the exterior layer 145. In extreme cold conditions, the wearer can also rely on their fingers, particularly the index finger, being comfortably warm due to the heatable glove liner of the present invention which is the first interior layer 105 of such an embodiment of glove.

The present invention glove liner uses a conductive yarn as the heating element for the liner. The conductive yarn can be any yarn having conductive properties sufficient to cause resistive heating when connected to a power source. Preferred yarns include, but are not limited to, yarns as described in US Published Application 2018/0087191 and/or PCT published application WO 2019/067694, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

In particular, the conductive yarn is preferably a conductive composite yarn comprising a central core having one or more strands of a conductive metal of 40 or higher gauge, an inner cover of one or more strands of a synthetic or natural fiber, which may optionally be a high performance fiber, and an outer cover of a synthetic or natural fiber, such as polyester or nylon strand(s), treated with a suitable bonding agent, and, optionally, with an outer application of a suitable lubricant. The conductive composite yarn is particularly suitable for use as a sewing thread.

The term “fiber” as used herein refers to a fundamental component used in the assembly of yarns and fabrics. Generally, a fiber is a component which has a length dimension which is much greater than its diameter or width. This term includes ribbon, strip, staple, and other forms of chopped, cut or discontinuous fiber and the like having a regular or irregular cross section. “Fiber” also includes a plurality of any one of the above or a combination of the above.

As used herein, the term “high performance fiber” means that class of synthetic or natural non-glass fibers having high values of tenacity greater than 10 g/denier, such that they lend themselves for applications where high abrasion and/or cut resistance is important. Typically, high performance fibers have a very high degree of molecular orientation and crystallinity in the final fiber structure.

The term “filament” as used herein refers to a fiber of indefinite or extreme length such as found naturally in silk. This term also refers to manufactured fibers produced by, among other things, extrusion processes. Individual filaments making up a fiber may have any one of a variety of cross sections to include round, serrated or crenular, bean-shaped or others.

Within the context of the present invention, unless otherwise denoted, the terms “polyester” and “nylon” are used generically and include any of the conventional members of the polyester and nylon families of fibers, respectively. Nylon is preferably nylon-6,6. Polyester is preferably polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate.

The term “yarn” as used herein refers to a continuous strand of textile fibers, filaments or material in a form suitable for knitting, weaving, or otherwise intertwining to form a textile fabric. Yarn can occur in a variety of forms to include a spun yarn consisting of staple fibers usually bound together by twist; a multi filament yarn consisting of many continuous filaments or strands; or a mono filament yarn which consist of a single strand.

The term “air interlacing” as used herein refers to subjecting multiple strands of yarn to an air jet to combine the strands and thus form a single, intermittently commingled strand. This treatment is sometimes referred to as “air tacking.” This term is not used to refer to the process of “intermingling” or “entangling” which is understood in the art to refer to a method of air compacting a multifilament yarn to facilitate its further processing, particularly in weaving processes. A yarn strand that has been intermingled typically is not combined with another yarn. Rather, the individual multifilament strands are entangled with each other within the confines of the single strand. This air compacting is used as a substitute for yarn sizing and as a means to provide improved pick resistance. This term also does not refer to well known air texturizing performed to increase the bulk of single yarn or multiple yarn strands. Methods of air interlacing in composite yarns and suitable apparatus therefore are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,349,531; 6,341,483; and 6,212,914, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

The term “composite yarn” refers to a yarn prepared from two or more yarns, which can be the same or different. Composite yarn can occur in a variety of forms wherein the two or more yarns are in differing orientations relative to one another. The two or more yarns can, for example, be parallel, wrapped one around the other(s), twisted together, or combinations of any or all of these, as well as other orientations, depending on the properties of the composite yarn desired. Examples of such composite yarns are provided in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,777,789; 5,177,948; 5,628,172; 5,845,476; 6,351,932; 6,363,703 and 6,367,290, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

In the present invention conductive composite yarn, the core comprises one or more metallic conductive strands. The metallic conductive strands can be made of any conductive metal, and preferably are of stainless steel or copper. Preferably, in order to provide sufficient flexibility of the metallic core, the metallic conductive strands should be of 34 or higher gauge metal, more preferably 40 or higher gauge, still more preferably 42 or higher gauge, most preferably 44 or higher gauge. In some preferred embodiments, the core comprises at least 2 metallic strands, which are most preferably insulated one from the other with either a polyamide or polyurethane sheath (the metallic strands having such polymeric sheaths are commercially available). For uses above 150° C., the polyamide covered metallic strand is preferred. When a stainless steel wire is used in the core, the stainless steel wire is preferably of 0.5-4 mil in diameter, more preferably from 1-2 mil in diameter, most preferably 1.6 mil in diameter (0.0016 in). The core can optionally comprise other types of yarn, depending on the intended use. In certain embodiments, the core further comprises fiberglass to improve cut resistance, or can include high performance yarns, such as ultra-high molecular weight polyolefin (such as SPECTRA or DYNEEMA), or aramid yarns. When fiberglass is contained, the fiberglass can be of any weight/rating, including but not limited to those in the following Table 1:

TABLE 1
Standard Fiberglass Sizes
Fiberglass Size Approximate Denier
G-450           99.21
D-225           198.0
G-150           297.6
G-75            595.27
G-50            892.90
G-37            1206.62

The core may be of any desired denier, depending on the unit weight of yarn/sewing thread desired. Preferably, the core has a denier of from 50 to 1500, more preferably from 200 to 900.

The inner and outer cover yarns can be any type of yarn, including both natural and synthetic fibers, and are preferably a synthetic fiber including, but not limited to, polyester, nylon, rayon, cotton, acrylics, etc. In certain embodiments, it may be desirable for the inner cover yarn to be a high performance yarn or high tenacity yarn. Suitable high tenacity yarns include any of the high tenacity yarns having the very low or non-existent elongation, preferably at least one member selected from the group consisting of fiberglass, aramids, and ceramic fibers, most preferably fiberglass. Since this inner cover is helically applied, when subject to the bending stresses generated in the sewing operation, the helical configuration will allow some elongation of the inner cover (even in cases where the yarn used to prepare the inner cover has little to no elongation properties itself) to prevent damage or breakage, particularly in a preferred fiberglass embodiment. The inner cover is wrapped around the core at a rate of turns per inch sufficient to provide coverage of the core, and varies depending on the denier and diameter of the core, as well as the denier of the yarn making up the inner cover. Preferably, the inner cover is wrapped at a rate of from 4 to 15 tpi, more preferably from 6 to 12 tpi. The inner cover yarn may have any desired denier, again depending on the desired size of the final product yarn. Preferably, the inner cover has a denier from 50 to 1500, most preferably from 100 to 1000.

The outer cover may be made of any desired fiber, including both natural and synthetic fibers, and is preferably a synthetic fiber including, but not limited to, polyester or nylon. Like the inner cover, the outer cover may be any desired denier, depending on the final size of the resulting yarn product and is preferably from 50 to 1500 denier, most preferably from 100 to 1000 denier. The outer cover is then wrapped at a rate sufficient to provide complete coverage of the inner cover, preferably from 4 to 15 tpi, more preferably from 6 to 12 tpi, again depending upon the composite denier of the core/inner cover combination and the denier of the yarn making up the outer cover. The outer cover preferably protects the core and inner cover.

The resulting composite yarn can have any desired composite denier, and preferably has a measured composite denier of from 300 to 2000, more preferably from 500 to 1500, most preferably from 1000 to 1400. While this is the measured composite denier, the resulting yarn has a size comparable to a typical composite denier of a non-metallic containing composite yarn of 150 to 1000, more preferably from 350 to 750, most preferably from 500 to 600. The reason for the much higher measured composite denier is the higher density (and thus higher weight per unit volume) of the metallic strands in the core.

Once the composite yarn is formed, it is subjected to a finishing operation in which at least one bonding agent and, optionally, at least one lubricant is applied. These can be applied in any conventional manner, including but not limited to spraying on the fiber, application by kiss-roll, or dipping the yarn into a bath containing the bonding agent or lubricant, either neat or as a solution in a suitable organic or aqueous solvent. The preferred lubricant is a silicone with paraffin added. Additional lubricants which have been found to be satisfactory are RAYOLAN 1813, Boehme FILATEX, or KL 400 (Kelmar). When the composite yarn is a composite sewing thread, the composite yarn is lubricated so that the sewing thread can withstand the heat of the needle as it repeatedly slides through the needle eye during the sewing operation.

The composite yarn is treated with at least one suitable bonding agent, including but not limited to at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyacrylics, nylons and other conventional fiber bonding compositions. The bonding can be applied to the assembled core, to the inner cover, or to the outside of the fully assembled composite yarn. Preferably, the bonding is applied to the outside of the fully assembled composite yarn. Once applied, the bonding agent is permitted to dry or cure to provide sufficient bonding of the yarn fibers.

For purposes of illustration, several examples are set forth below:

Example 1

Core: two 44 ga copper wires and one 1.6 mil stainless steel wire, each having a polyurethane coating

Inner cover: 70 denier polyester (PET)

Outer cover: 70 denier polyester (PET)

Bonding agent: polyurethane

Example 2

Core: two 44 ga copper wires, each having a polyurethane coating

Inner cover: 100 denier polyester (PET)

Outer cover: 100 denier polyester (PET)

Bonding agent: polyamide

Example 3

Core: two 40 ga copper wires, each having a polyamide coating

Inner cover: 50 denier polyester (PET)

Outer cover: 70 denier nylon (nylon 6,6)

Bonding agent: polyurethane

Example 4

Core: four 44 ga copper wires, each having a polyurethane coating

Inner cover: 70 denier Nylon (nylon 6,6)

Outer cover: 70 denier polyester (PET)

Bonding agent: polyurethane

Example 5

Core: two 44 ga copper wires, each having a polyamide coating, 100 denier SPECTRA

Inner cover: 70 denier polyester (PET)

Outer cover: 70 denier polyester (PET)

Bonding agent: polyurethane

Example 6

Core: two 44 ga copper wires, each having a polyamide coating, G-450 fiberglass

Inner cover: 70 denier polyester (PET)

Outer cover: 70 denier polyester (PET)

Bonding agent: polyurethane

A preferred embodiment of the conductive yarn used in the present invention is a conductive composite sewing thread, having 2 metallic strands in the core, preferably from 44 gauge copper wire. When such a conductive sewing thread is sewn using a standard bobbin type sewing machine, the resulting stitch provides a 4 lead system, thus having capability to provide a power lead, a ground lead and 2 signal leads. Such a system can be used to sew in conductive patterns into a fabric or garment, permitting the connection of various biometric measuring devices, or other electrical

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the conductive composite sewing thread has a core formed of two 44 gauge copper wires, and one 1.6 mil stainless steel wire, which provides additional strength to the sewing thread such that it can be sewn using commercial grade sewing machines, while still maintaining the desired electrical conductivity properties.

EXAMPLES

A glove liner as depicted in FIGS. 1A-1D was formed by sewing two fabric portions together with a conductive yarn according to the present invention. The conductive yarn ends were then connected to a power source. Power was applied at 0.61 A/7.4 V and 0.94 A/12.0 V and the temperature of the glove liner measured using a forward looking infrared (FLIR) system. For the 0.61 A/7.4 V power test, the temperature measured at the periphery around the thumb was 127 F, while the temperature measured around the periphery of the ring finger was 115.2 F. In the 0.94 A/12.0 V power test, the temperature measured at the periphery around the thumb was 142.8 F and the temperature measured around the periphery of the middle finger was 127.0 F. It was determined that while amperages of 1 A or higher (voltages of 12 V or higher) could be used, they would likely result in uncomfortably high heat generation on the fingers and hands of the wearer.

Preferred Embodiments: The following is a listing of preferred embodiments of the present invention, which is illustrative of the invention and not intended to be limiting:

Embodiment 1. A heatable glove liner, comprising:

a glove shaped garment formed by affixing two or more fabric portions to one another by sewing the two or more fabric portions together with a conductive composite yarn, wherein the conductive composite yarn comprises:

• • a) a core formed of at least one strand of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge;
  • b) at least one inner cover wrapped around the core in a first direction at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete coverage of the core by the inner cover, wherein the inner cover is a natural or synthetic yarn;
  • c) at least one outer cover wrapped around the at least one inner cover, wherein the outer cover is wrapped in a second direction opposite to a direction of a cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped, at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete cover of the cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped;
  • d) at least one bonding agent applied onto the at least one outer cover; and
  • e) optionally, a lubricant;

wherein the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn have electrical leads configured for connection to a power source to form an electrical circuit, such that upon completion of the electrical circuit, the conductive composite yarn heats up due to electrical resistance.

Embodiment 2. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 1, wherein said core comprises two or more strands of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge.

Embodiment 3. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 1, wherein said electrically conductive metal is copper.

Embodiment 4. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 3, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 42 gauge copper wire.

Embodiment 5. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 4, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 44 gauge copper wire.

Embodiment 6. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 3, wherein said core comprises two 34 or higher gauge copper wires.

Embodiment 7. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 6, wherein the two copper wires are each of 44 gauge.

Embodiment 8. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 7, wherein said core further comprises a stainless steel wire having a diameter of 1-2 mil.

Embodiment 9. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 1, wherein said outer cover is formed of at least one strand of a yarn selected from the group consisting of nylon and polyester yarns.

Embodiment 10. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein said core further comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene having a denier of from 100 to 300.

Embodiment 11. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein the conductive composite yarn is a conductive composite sewing thread.

Embodiment 12. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein the yarn has a composite denier of from 400 to 700.

Embodiment 13. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein the yarn has a composite deneir of from 500 to 600.

Embodiment 14. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein the lubricant is a composition comprising silicone and paraffin.

Embodiment 15. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein the glove liner is prepared from two fabric portions joined along a perimeter by sewing to form a seam with the conductive composite yarn, leaving open a side corresponding to a wrist area through which a wearer would insert a hand.

Embodiment 16. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein the glove liner is prepared from two fabric portions joined along a line tracing a path adjacent a perimeter and located at least partially on a palm side of the heatable glove liner when assembled, said two fabric portions being joined by sewing to form a seam with the conductive composite yarn, leaving open a side corresponding to a wrist area through which a wearer would insert a hand.

Embodiment 17. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 1, wherein the glove liner is prepared from three or more fabric portions.

Embodiment 18. A heatable glove liner, comprising:

a glove shaped garment having a conductive composite yarn sewn along a portion thereof, wherein the conductive composite yarn comprises:

• • a) a core formed of at least one strand of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge;
  • b) at least one inner cover wrapped around the core in a first direction at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete coverage of the core by the inner cover, wherein the inner cover is a natural or synthetic yarn;
  • c) at least one outer cover wrapped around the at least one inner cover, wherein the outer cover is wrapped in a second direction opposite to a direction of a cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped, at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete cover of the cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped;
  • d) at least one bonding agent applied onto the at least one outer cover; and
  • e) optionally, a lubricant;

wherein the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn have electrical leads configured for connection to a power source to form an electrical circuit, such that upon completion of the electrical circuit, the conductive composite yarn heats up due to electrical resistance.

Embodiment 19. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 18, wherein said core comprises two or more strands of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge.

Embodiment 20. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 18, wherein said electrically conductive metal is copper.

Embodiment 21. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 20, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 42 gauge copper wire.

Embodiment 22. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 21, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 44 gauge copper wire.

Embodiment 23. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 20, wherein said core comprises two 34 or higher gauge copper wires.

Embodiment 24. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 23, wherein the two copper wires are each of 44 gauge.

Embodiment 25. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 24, wherein said core further comprises a stainless steel wire having a diameter of 1-2 mil.

Embodiment 26. The heatable glove liner of Embodiment 18, wherein said outer cover is formed of at least one strand of a yarn selected from the group consisting of nylon and polyester yarns.

Embodiment 27. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 18, wherein said core further comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene having a denier of from 100 to 300.

Embodiment 28. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 18, wherein the conductive composite yarn is a conductive composite sewing thread.

Embodiment 29. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 18, wherein the yarn has a composite denier of from 400 to 700.

Embodiment 30. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 18, wherein the yarn has a composite deneir of from 500 to 600.

Embodiment 31. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 18, wherein the lubricant is a composition comprising silicone and paraffin.

Embodiment 32. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 18, wherein the conductive yarn is sewn along a perimeter of the glove liner.

Embodiment 33. The heatable glove liner according to Embodiment 18, wherein the conductive yarn is sewn along a line tracing a path adjacent a perimeter and located at least partially on a palm side of the heatable glove liner.

Embodiment 34. A glove, comprising:

an exterior layer having an exterior side and an interior side; and

an interior layer comprising the heatable glove liner according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 33.

Embodiment 35. The glove according to Embodiment 34, wherein the exterior layer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of animal hides, vinyl, and fabrics made from synthetic or natural fibers.

Embodiment 36. The glove according to Embodiment 35, wherein the exterior layer comprises leather.

Embodiment 37. The glove according to Embodiment 34, wherein the interior layer is affixed to the interior side of the exterior layer.

Embodiment 38. The glove according to Embodiment 37, further comprising at least one adhesive layer adhering the exterior layer and the interior layer to one another.

Embodiment 39. A glove comprising:

a reinforced multilayer material, including an exterior layer having an exterior side and an interior side, the exterior layer being absent from an index finger of the glove from a tip of the index finger to where the index finger connects to a palm portion, and a first interior layer affixed to the interior side of the exterior layer and covering the index finger of the glove, the first interior layer comprising the heatable glove liner of any one of Embodiments 1 to 33; and, optionally, a plurality of soft knuckle pads covering a first knuckle and a second knuckle of a middle finger, a ring finger, and a thumb.

Embodiment 40. The glove of Embodiment 39, wherein the two or more fabric portions forming the heatable glove liner comprise a fabric formed from a high performance fiber and being light-weight, cut and abrasion resistant, and permitting air and water vapor to flow therethrough.

Embodiment 41. The glove of Embodiment 40, wherein the high performance fiber comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene filaments.

Embodiment 42. The glove of Embodiment 40, wherein the high performance fiber comprises one or more composite yarns.

Embodiment 43. The glove of Embodiment 39, further comprising: a protective padding covering a portion of a back of the glove.

Embodiment 44. The glove of Embodiment 43, further comprising: a hard knuckle protector covering a third knuckle of each of the index finger, the middle finger, the ring finger, and a pinky finger.

Embodiment 45. The glove of Embodiment 44, further comprising: an adjustable wrist strap.

Embodiment 46. The glove of Embodiment 45, further comprising: a palm protection pad covering at least a portion of the palm of the glove.

Embodiment 47. The glove of Embodiment 39, wherein the exterior layer extends past a third knuckle of the index finger.

Embodiment 48. The glove of Embodiment 39, wherein the exterior layer does not extend past the second knuckle of the index finger.

Embodiment 49. The glove of Embodiment 39, wherein a hard knuckle protector covers the third knuckle of each of the index finger, the middle finger, the ring finger, and the pinky finger with no separation between each third knuckle.

Embodiment 50. The glove of Embodiment 45, wherein the adjustable wrist strap includes a strap connector.

Embodiment 51. The glove of Embodiment 50, wherein the strap connector secures the adjustable wrist strap via a hook and loop material.

Embodiment 52. The glove of Embodiment 39, wherein the exterior layer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of animal hides, vinyl, and fabrics made from synthetic of natural fibers.

Embodiment 53. The glove of Embodiment 52, wherein the exterior layer comprises leather.

Embodiment 54. The glove of Embodiment 39, further comprising at least one adhesive layer adhering the exterior and interior layers.

Embodiment 55. A method for keeping the hand and fingers warm, comprising:

applying a heatable glove liner according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 33 on a hand, wherein the heatable glove liner is electrically connected to a power source via the electrical leads at the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn to form an electrical circuit;

thus heating the heatable glove liner and warming the hand and fingers therein.

Embodiment 56. The method of Embodiment 55, wherein the power source is a DC power source.

Embodiment 57. The method of Embodiment 56, wherein the DC power source is a battery of 5 to 15 V.

Embodiment 58. The method of Embodiment 57, wherein the battery is a battery of 7 to 12 V.

Embodiment 59. The method of Embodiment 58, wherein the battery is a 12 V battery.

Embodiment 60. A method for keeping the hand and fingers warm, comprising:

applying a glove according to any one of Embodiments 39 to 54 on a hand, wherein the heatable glove liner is electrically connected to a power source via the electrical leads at the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn to form an electrical circuit;

thus heating the heatable glove liner and warming the hand and fingers therein.

Embodiment 61. The method of Embodiment 60, wherein the power source is a DC power source.

Embodiment 62. The method of Embodiment 61, wherein the DC power source is a battery of 5 to 15 V.

Embodiment 63. The method of Embodiment 62, wherein the battery is a battery of 7 to 12 V.

Embodiment 64. The method of Embodiment 63, wherein the battery is a 12 V battery.

Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims

1. A heatable glove liner, comprising:

a glove shaped garment formed by affixing two or more fabric portions to one another by sewing the two or more fabric portions together with a conductive composite yarn, wherein the conductive composite yarn comprises: a) a core formed of at least one strand of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge; b) at least one inner cover wrapped around the core in a first direction at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete coverage of the core by the inner cover, wherein the inner cover is a natural or synthetic yarn; c) at least one outer cover wrapped around the at least one inner cover, wherein the outer cover is wrapped in a second direction opposite to a direction of a cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped, at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete cover of the cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped; d) at least one bonding agent applied onto the at least one outer cover; and e) optionally, a lubricant;

wherein the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn have electrical leads configured for connection to a power source to form an electrical circuit, such that upon completion of the electrical circuit, the conductive composite yarn heats up due to electrical resistance.

2. The heatable glove liner of claim 1, wherein said core comprises two or more strands of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge.

3. The heatable glove liner of claim 1, wherein said electrically conductive metal is copper.

4. The heatable glove liner of claim 3, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 42 gauge copper wire.

5. The heatable glove liner of claim 4, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 44 gauge copper wire.

6. The heatable glove liner of claim 3, wherein said core comprises two 34 or higher gauge copper wires.

7. The heatable glove liner of claim 6, wherein the two copper wires are each of 44 gauge.

8. The heatable glove liner of claim 7, wherein said core further comprises a stainless steel wire having a diameter of 1-2 mil.

9. The heatable glove liner of claim 1, wherein said outer cover is formed of at least one strand of a yarn selected from the group consisting of nylon and polyester yarns.

10. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein said core further comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene having a denier of from 100 to 300.

11. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein the conductive composite yarn is a conductive composite sewing thread.

12. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein the yarn has a composite denier of from 400 to 700.

13. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein the yarn has a composite deneir of from 500 to 600.

14. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein the lubricant is a composition comprising silicone and paraffin.

15. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein the glove liner is prepared from two fabric portions joined along a perimeter by sewing to form a seam with the conductive composite yarn, leaving open a side corresponding to a wrist area through which a wearer would insert a hand.

16. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein the glove liner is prepared from two fabric portions joined along a line tracing a path adjacent a perimeter and located at least partially on a palm side of the heatable glove liner when assembled, said two fabric portions being joined by sewing to form a seam with the conductive composite yarn, leaving open a side corresponding to a wrist area through which a wearer would insert a hand.

17. The heatable glove liner according to claim 1, wherein the glove liner is prepared from three or more fabric portions.

18. A heatable glove liner, comprising:

a glove shaped garment having a conductive composite yarn sewn along a portion thereof, wherein the conductive composite yarn comprises: a) a core formed of at least one strand of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge; b) at least one inner cover wrapped around the core in a first direction at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete coverage of the core by the inner cover, wherein the inner cover is a natural or synthetic yarn; c) at least one outer cover wrapped around the at least one inner cover, wherein the outer cover is wrapped in a second direction opposite to a direction of a cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped, at a rate sufficient to provide substantially complete cover of the cover layer on which the outer cover is directly wrapped; d) at least one bonding agent applied onto the at least one outer cover; and e) optionally, a lubricant;

wherein the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn have electrical leads configured for connection to a power source to form an electrical circuit, such that upon completion of the electrical circuit, the conductive composite yarn heats up due to electrical resistance.

19. The heatable glove liner of claim 18, wherein said core comprises two or more strands of an electrically conductive metal of 34 or higher gauge.

20. The heatable glove liner of claim 18, wherein said electrically conductive metal is copper.

21. The heatable glove liner of claim 20, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 42 gauge copper wire.

22. The heatable glove liner of claim 21, wherein the at least one copper wire strand is a 44 gauge copper wire.

23. The heatable glove liner of claim 20, wherein said core comprises two 34 or higher gauge copper wires.

24. The heatable glove liner of claim 23, wherein the two copper wires are each of 44 gauge.

25. The heatable glove liner of claim 24, wherein said core further comprises a stainless steel wire having a diameter of 1-2 mil.

26. The heatable glove liner of claim 18, wherein said outer cover is formed of at least one strand of a yarn selected from the group consisting of nylon and polyester yarns.

27. The heatable glove liner according to claim 18, wherein said core further comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene having a denier of from 100 to 300.

28. The heatable glove liner according to claim 18, wherein the conductive composite yarn is a conductive composite sewing thread.

29. The heatable glove liner according to claim 18, wherein the yarn has a composite denier of from 400 to 700.

30. The heatable glove liner according to claim 18, wherein the yarn has a composite deneir of from 500 to 600.

31. The heatable glove liner according to claim 18, wherein the lubricant is a composition comprising silicone and paraffin.

32. The heatable glove liner according to claim 18, wherein the conductive yarn is sewn along a perimeter of the glove liner.

33. The heatable glove liner according to claim 18, wherein the conductive yarn is sewn along a line tracing a path adjacent a perimeter and located at least partially on a palm side of the heatable glove liner.

34. A glove, comprising:

an exterior layer having an exterior side and an interior side; and

an interior layer comprising the heatable glove liner according to claim 1.

35. The glove according to claim 34, wherein the exterior layer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of animal hides, vinyl, and fabrics made from synthetic or natural fibers.

36. The glove according to claim 35, wherein the exterior layer comprises leather.

37. The glove according to claim 34, wherein the interior layer is affixed to the interior side of the exterior layer.

38. The glove according to claim 37, further comprising at least one adhesive layer adhering the exterior layer and the interior layer to one another.

39. A glove comprising:

a reinforced multilayer material, including an exterior layer having an exterior side and an interior side, the exterior layer being absent from an index finger of the glove from a tip of the index finger to where the index finger connects to a palm portion, and a first interior layer affixed to the interior side of the exterior layer and covering the index finger of the glove, the first interior layer comprising the heatable glove liner of claim 1; and, optionally, a plurality of soft knuckle pads covering a first knuckle and a second knuckle of a middle finger, a ring finger, and a thumb.

40. The glove of claim 39, wherein the two or more fabric portions forming the heatable glove liner comprise a fabric formed from a high performance fiber and being light-weight, cut and abrasion resistant, and permitting air and water vapor to flow therethrough.

41. The glove of claim 40, wherein the high performance fiber comprises ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene filaments.

42. The glove of claim 40, wherein the high performance fiber comprises one or more composite yarns.

43. The glove of claim 39, further comprising: a protective padding covering a portion of a back of the glove.

44. The glove of claim 43, further comprising: a hard knuckle protector covering a third knuckle of each of the index finger, the middle finger, the ring finger, and a pinky finger.

45. The glove of claim 44, further comprising: an adjustable wrist strap.

46. The glove of claim 45, further comprising: a palm protection pad covering at least a portion of the palm of the glove.

47. The glove of claim 39, wherein the exterior layer extends past a third knuckle of the index finger.

48. The glove of claim 39, wherein the exterior layer does not extend past the second knuckle of the index finger.

49. The glove of claim 39, wherein a hard knuckle protector covers the third knuckle of each of the index finger, the middle finger, the ring finger, and the pinky finger with no separation between each third knuckle.

50. The glove of claim 45, wherein the adjustable wrist strap includes a strap connector.

51. The glove of claim 50, wherein the strap connector secures the adjustable wrist strap via a hook and loop material.

52. The glove of claim 39, wherein the exterior layer comprises at least one member selected from the group consisting of animal hides, vinyl, and fabrics made from synthetic of natural fibers.

53. The glove of claim 52, wherein the exterior layer comprises leather.

54. The glove of claim 39, further comprising at least one adhesive layer adhering the exterior and interior layers.

55. A method for keeping the hand and fingers warm, comprising:

applying a heatable glove liner according to claim 1 on a hand, wherein the heatable glove liner is electrically connected to a power source via the electrical leads at the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn to form an electrical circuit;

thus heating the heatable glove liner and warming the hand and fingers therein.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein the power source is a DC power source.

57. The method of claim 56, wherein the DC power source is a battery of 5 to 15 V.

58. The method of claim 57, wherein the battery is a battery of 7 to 12 V.

59. The method of claim 58, wherein the battery is a 12 V battery.

60. A method for keeping the hand and fingers warm, comprising:

applying a glove according to claim 39 on a hand, wherein the heatable glove liner is electrically connected to a power source via the electrical leads at the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn to form an electrical circuit;

thus heating the heatable glove liner and warming the hand and fingers therein.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein the power source is a DC power source.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein the DC power source is a battery of 5 to 15 V.

63. The method of claim 62, wherein the battery is a battery of 7 to 12 V.

64. The method of claim 63, wherein the battery is a 12 V battery.

65. A glove, comprising:

an exterior layer having an exterior side and an interior side; and

an interior layer comprising the heatable glove liner according to claim 18.

66. A glove comprising:

a reinforced multilayer material, including an exterior layer having an exterior side and an interior side, the exterior layer being absent from an index finger of the glove from a tip of the index finger to where the index finger connects to a palm portion, and a first interior layer affixed to the interior side of the exterior layer and covering the index finger of the glove, the first interior layer comprising the heatable glove liner of claim 18; and, optionally, a plurality of soft knuckle pads covering a first knuckle and a second knuckle of a middle finger, a ring finger, and a thumb.

67. A method for keeping the hand and fingers warm, comprising:

applying a heatable glove liner according to claim 18 on a hand, wherein the heatable glove liner is electrically connected to a power source via the electrical leads at the ends of the at least one strand of electrically conductive metal forming the core of the conductive composite yarn to form an electrical circuit;

thus heating the heatable glove liner and warming the hand and fingers therein.