U.S. patent application number 11/325433 was filed with the patent office on 2006-06-15 for parallel handle system and method for designing a parallel handle system.
Invention is credited to Stephen L. Tillim.
Application Number | 20060123651 11/325433 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46150371 |
Filed Date | 2006-06-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060123651 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tillim; Stephen L. |
June 15, 2006 |
Parallel handle system and method for designing a parallel handle
system
Abstract
A parallel handle, parallel handle system and method for
designing parallel handles for a hand for use with tools or control
mechanisms, that includes a handle having a radial section having a
side for receiving the thumb and having a side for receiving the
index finger, the radial section having a surface for engaging a
portion of the palmar surface of the hand, a middle section having
a side for receiving at least a portion of the middle finger and at
least a portion of the ring finger and having a surface that avoids
placing undue pressure on a surface of the hand located over the
carpal tunnel, and an ulnar section having a side for receiving the
small finger and having a surface for engaging a portion of the
palmar surface of the hand so as to position the end of the small
finger.
Inventors: |
Tillim; Stephen L.; (Los
Altos, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
REED SMITH LLP;Suite 1400
3110 Fairview Park Drive
Falls Church
VA
22042
US
|
Family ID: |
46150371 |
Appl. No.: |
11/325433 |
Filed: |
January 5, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10692340 |
Oct 24, 2003 |
7010835 |
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11325433 |
Jan 5, 2006 |
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10279111 |
Oct 24, 2002 |
6988295 |
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10692340 |
Oct 24, 2003 |
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PCT/US02/33956 |
Oct 24, 2002 |
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11325433 |
Jan 5, 2006 |
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60330527 |
Oct 24, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
33/701 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 17/1686 20130101;
Y10S 16/12 20130101; A61B 2017/2918 20130101; A63B 60/06 20151001;
A61B 17/00 20130101; A61B 17/1606 20130101; A61B 2017/0046
20130101; A63B 21/05 20130101; A61B 17/30 20130101; A61B 2017/00477
20130101; A63B 23/16 20130101; A61B 2017/2931 20130101; G05G 1/06
20130101; A61B 17/1611 20130101; A61B 2017/2925 20130101; A61B
2017/2919 20130101; A61B 2090/061 20160201; A61B 17/3201 20130101;
A63B 60/10 20151001; Y10T 16/476 20150115; A61B 2017/32113
20130101; B25G 1/102 20130101; Y10T 16/44 20150115; A61B 2017/00424
20130101; A61B 17/3213 20130101; A61B 2017/2939 20130101; B43K
23/004 20130101; A63B 60/08 20151001; B25C 5/0285 20130101; B60T
7/08 20130101; A61B 2017/2929 20130101; A61B 17/8875 20130101; A61B
2017/2927 20130101; G05G 1/503 20130101; A61B 17/2909 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
033/701 |
International
Class: |
G01B 3/10 20060101
G01B003/10 |
Claims
1. A method for designing a handle that corresponds to the sizes of
a hand, comprising the steps of: setting the hand in a T position
so that the tips of the of the long fingers of the hand are
substantially in alignment; measuring the distance across the
metacarpal bones of the long fingers of a hand from the radial side
to the ulnar side of the palm of the hand thereby defining a width
of the handle; and setting the distance from the ulnar palmar line
to the distal side of the carpal tunnel zone equal to or less than
the distance from the ulnar palmar line to the radial palmar line
such that undue pressure on the carpal tunnel zone is avoided.
Description
CLAIM FOR PRIORITY
[0001] This application claims the benefit of and is a Divisional
of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/692,340 filed Oct. 24, 2003, which
is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/279,111
filed on Oct. 24, 2002, the entire disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference; this application also claims the
benefit of and is a Continuation-In-Part of International
Application No. PCT/US02/33956, filed on Oct. 24, 2002, which has
been published in English under PCT Article 21(2), the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; and this
application further claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/330,527 filed on Oct. 24, 2001, the entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to parallel handles, parallel
handle systems and methods for designing a parallel handle system
for a hand for use in hold or using tools, such as those that hold,
grip, cut and bite objects. The present invention also relates a
parallel handle and parallel handle systems for use with control
mechanisms for control of various devices and functions.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Originally, known as pincers and used to handle hot coals,
pliers are an ancient invention of hand tools that hold, grip, cut
and bite objects. Pliers have two members, joined side by side on
an axis and rotate relative to each other. The joint of a pliers
allows each member to lever against the other and enhances the
force at the working end while the handle section is moved. The
joint can be a hinge joint, as used in standard pliers, or a pivot
joint as in common scissors. The working end of the members can be
generally short as in pliers or generally long as in scissors. The
length of the handle depends on the amount of leverage needed to
produce a force at the working end. The pliers handle is longer
than the working end and the scissors handle is shorter than the
working end. Pliers and other hinged tools are based on a
triangular hinged system in which the apex is the hinge while the
floor is open and the working end is attached to the apex.
[0004] As a hand grips an object the long fingers pull it to the
center and/or the proximal part of the palm of the hand. Each long
finger has three joints that allow a range of finger positions. The
joints between the metacarpal bones of the hand and the proximal
bones of the long fingers of the hand are called the metacarpal
phalangeal (MP) joints. The proximal end of the MP joints lie at
the horizontal creases in the palm. The joints between the proximal
finger bone and second or middle finger bone of the long fingers
are called the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints. The joints
between the middle bones and end or distal finger bones are called
the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints.
[0005] When the hand is flat the extensor muscles of the forearm
contract to extend the joints of the long fingers. When extensor
muscles relax the hand changes from extension to the neutral or
resting position. The muscular forces of extension and flexion of
the forearm muscles are balanced and all the joints in the hand are
partially flexed or bent. When the long fingers of the hand
simultaneously flex to pull an object toward the palm the angle of
each joint is related to anatomical and physiologic factors
including the length of the individual finger bones and muscle
contraction. Sequential joint flexion progressively closes the hand
by decreasing the joint angles. When a fist is formed the long
fingers flex and their fingertips align to touch the palm of the
hand. If the fingertips touch the palm near the horizontal crease
(distal part of the palm) then the angle formed at the PIP joints
is smaller than the angle at the MP joints. However, if the
fingertips touch the palm nearer to the wrist then the angle formed
at the MP joints is smaller than the angle at the PIP joints. The
significance of the angle of the long finger joint is related to
whether the distal or middle part of the long fingers pulls an
object. If the distal bones of the long fingers are pulling then
the PIP joints have greater flexion and smaller angles. However,
when the middle bones of the long fingers pull then the MP joints
have smaller angles.
[0006] The hand adapts to the shape objects as it pulls them to the
palm. Therefore, an object's shape determines which long finger
bones and forearm flexor muscles that pull. For example, if the
distal segments of the long fingers pull the flat side of an object
all sections of the forearm's deep flexor muscle contract. When the
middle bones of the long fingers pull the convex side of a flat
object, all sections of the forearm's superficial flexor muscle
contract. In both cases, the pull is symmetric across similar bones
of the long fingers and one muscle group is used. However, if the
object being gripped is round, like a cylinder, then similar
segments of the long fingers do not pull. Furthermore, the muscle
sections used to pull the bone segments of the fingers are
asymmetric. For example, a cylinder is gripped with the distal
segment of the index finger, the middle segments of the middle
finger and the ring finger along and the distal segment of the
small finger. The tendons of the middle sections of the contracting
superficial forearm muscle pull the middle finger segments of the
middle and ring fingers. Whereas, The tendons of the outside
sections of the contracting deep forearm muscle pull the distal
segments of the index and ring fingers. Thus, these asymmetric
muscle groups pull non-similar tendons from both the superficial
and deep flexor muscles of the forearm to pull the bones. Of note,
the tendons pulling the middle segments of the middle and ring
fingers are adjacent to the median nerve. Pulling these tendons
provokes compression and pressure on the median nerve in the carpal
tunnel (CT).
[0007] When viewing the palm of the flat hand from the wrist the
thenar eminence lies above the hypothenar eminence. The difference
increases when the thumb opposes the long fingers. When the thumb
opposes the long fingers and an object, like a cylinder, is pulled
toward the proximal part of the palm it first contacts the thenar
eminence. Then the object tilts toward the hypothenar eminence as
the ring finger and the small finger flex further to increase grip.
The added grip moves tips of the ring finger and small finger
closer to the palm and out of alignment with the ends of the index
finger and middle finger. This can produce discomfort in the wrist
as the flexor tendons of the ring and small finger move in the CT
against the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) and median nerve. The
discomfort is enhanced when the space in the CT is small or is
compromised by repetitive wrist injury.
[0008] As discussed above, pliers are hand tools based on the
triangular lever system and combine two members at an axis of
rotation or hinge. The handle members of pliers are commonly convex
or straight. Like a lever, one handle member can be fixed and the
other moves or both handle can move. The fixed handle member can be
considered held in place where it touches the thenar eminence and
the hypothenar eminence at the proximal part of the palm of the
hand. Long finger flexion advances moving handle member toward the
fixed member to close the working end. However, both handle members
can be moved toward each other from the hinge.
[0009] The working end of common pliers is usually held near the
radial side of the hand and the free end of pliers' handles rests
near the ulnar side of the hand. The palm holds the proximal handle
and the long fingers hold the distal handle. The free end of
pliers' handles is spread to open the working end. Actuating the
working end of the common pliers involves reaching with the distal
segment of the small finger and the distal segment of the ring
finger on the ulnar side of the hand to pull the distal handle
member. Next, the middle bones of the middle finger and the index
finger of the long fingers of the hand advance to pull the distal
handle member of the pliers. Simultaneously, the ring finger and
small finger advance so their middle bones also pull the distal
handle member of the pliers. This progression is related to the
distance required for the long fingers to reach the distal handle
member because of the hinge. The triangular hinged system forces
the smallest and weakest sections of the forearm flexor muscles for
small finger and ring finger to squeeze the pliers handle.
[0010] There are reasons that many people have hand and wrist
problems from repetitive use of common pliers. The wide free end
makes for longer reach and harder work for the ring finger and
small finger. By design, common pliers have concave or straight
handles. This causes the proximal member to press into the CT area
of the palm of the hand and transmits pressure to the transverse
carpal ligament (TCL) and the underlying median nerve. Joint and
ligament stress is present at the MP joints when the long fingers
of the hand reach off center for the moving pliers handle. This is
because the MP joints have limited side motion and the long fingers
are forced to deviate in the radial direction to reach and grasp
the moving handle. Such stresses from the long fingers deviating at
the MP joints can cause a problem. Furthermore, common pliers are
sometimes clumsy to use and are not made for single-handed
operation. It takes one hand to stabilize while the other spreads
the handles apart adding time to tasks.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0011] Lever systems are used for a range tools and implements to
magnify closing force at the jaws. The range of hand tools and
implements integrating hinges with levers is numerous. Among
levered hinged implements the hand uses are pliers, cutting tools,
hand brake and clutch controls and surgical instruments.
Applications for levered hinges include various hand tools,
bicycles, motorcycles and many others. Levers with hinges are used
in surgical instruments with various bone rongeurs using gross
motor function and endoscopic instruments requiring fine motor
skills.
[0012] Among many examples of handles for hand tools based on
movement at a levered hinge noted in the art include U.S. Pat. No.
6,134,994 Pliers with Ergonomic Handles, U.S. Pat. No. 6,427,565
Parallel Grip Pliers and U.S. Pat. No. 6,129,622 Pair of Scissors
for Cutting Shellfish. Other examples of hinged hand levers for
bicycle brakes include patents U.S. Pat. No. 5,005,674
Bi-directional Rotating Grip Brake, U.S. Pat. No. 5,540,304
Single-handled Vehicle Brake System and U.S. Pat. No. 5,660,082
Adjustable Brake Control for A Bicycle. Aside from the common
Kerrison rongeur and the Leksell double action bone rongeur an
example of a surgical instrument handle using a hinge includes U.S.
Pat. No. 6,129,740 Instrument Handle Design
[0013] Discomfort and hand fatigue occurs with repetitive use of
handles for tools with hinges based on the lever system. A
previously injured hand has greater discomfort at the damaged areas
than a normal hand. However, the repetitive use of such tools can
result in disability for workers. The reasons include strain
produced from obliging the small finger and ring finger initiate
squeeze with the smallest and weakest sections of the forearm
flexor muscles. Furthermore, the concave or flat handle design of
the fixed member transmits pressure to the transverse carpal
ligament (TCL) and the underlying median nerve. Discomfort can also
occur in the wrist from squeezing, thus tightening the ring finger
and small finger tendons, to increase the closing force of the jaws
of such implements or tools. Such increased grip forces the tendons
in the CT against the median nerve and TCL.
[0014] The Jaymar Dynamometer is one example of a common parallel
handle incorporated in a device to measure grip strength. Another
known parallel handle is illustrated in "Apparatus for Measurement
of Grip and pinch Strength, U.S. Pat. No. 4,674,330. The handles in
both of these devices place pressure in the valley of the palm
between the thenar and hypothenar eminencies. Such pressure is
directly over the TCL. The pressure produced in that area of the
palm can cause discomfort and pain. Also such pressure on the TCL
can limit the effectiveness and accuracy of a in the measurement of
grip strength, such as when the wrist is injured.
[0015] Hand tools that hold, grip, cut and bite objects are in
daily use. However, tools generally based on a triangular levered
system typically may not comfortable. A system for hand tools
efficiently using anatomical and physiological features of the
fingers, hand and forearm is needed and would be more comfortable.
A more efficient handle design would oblige the tips the long
fingers to substantially end at a line, and promote the long
fingers to form a cup. Such a handle would enable the divisions of
one muscle to contract at the same time to initiate like parts of
the long fingers to move across the handle's distal member. Such a
handle would spread segmental long finger pull symmetrically across
the distal member and result in a stronger grip.
[0016] Furthermore, the proximal member of such a handle would have
an empty space so as not to touch or place pressure on the region
of the CT. In addition, the proximal member would have an extension
where it contacts the hypothenar area. This extension would prevent
the ring finger and small finger from excessively forcing the
proximal member of such a handle into the ulnar side of the hand.
The result would be reduced median nerve compression and reduced
pressure in the CT. This would decrease ligament and joint strain
in the hand. A handle based on a parallel system with these
features added to the distal member and the proximal member of a
handle for pliers would require less effort to grip and be easier
to use than a triangular levered handle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention relates to parallel handles, parallel
handle systems and methods for designing a parallel handle system
for a hand for use in hold or using tools, such as those that hold,
grip, cut and bite objects. The present invention also relates a
parallel handle and parallel handle systems for use with control
mechanisms for control of various devices and functions. Such
handles provide a hand to squeeze one member toward another member
to apply force to a working end. Furthermore, the present invention
provides a method and apparatus for designing such handles.
Desirably, the handles have two generally parallel members designed
to comfortably fit the hand as the members move toward each other.
Furthermore, such a handle does not place pressure on the region of
the carpal tunnel of the hand. In addition, the present invention
provides systems that desirably connect both moving members. The
parallel handle system of the present invention can be attached to
various apparatuses to assist the hand in pinching, gripping,
holding, cutting and other functions. The parallel handle system of
the present invention can be used for a variety of surgical
instruments, pliers and a variety of tools and instruments.
[0018] In this regard the present invention provides a handle or
apparatus for use with the hand that includes: a radial section
having a side for receiving the thumb of the hand and having a side
for receiving the index finger of the hand, and the radial section
having a surface for engaging a portion of the palmar surface of
the hand; a middle section having a side for receiving at least a
portion of the middle finger and at least a portion of the ring
finger of the hand and having a surface that avoids placing undue
pressure on a surface of the hand located over the carpal tunnel;
and an ulnar section having a side for receiving the small finger
of the hand and having a surface for engaging a portion of the
palmar surface of the hand so as to position the end of the small
finger.
[0019] Also, the present invention provides a method for designing
a handle that corresponds to the sizes of a hand, that includes the
steps of: setting the hand in a T position so that the tips of the
of the long fingers of the hand are substantially in alignment;
measuring the distance across the metacarpal bones of the long
fingers of a hand from the radial side to the ulnar side of the
palm of the hand thereby defining a width of the handle; and
setting the distance from the ulnar palmar line to the distal side
of the carpal tunnel zone equal to or less than the distance from
the ulnar palmar line to the radial palmar line such that undue
pressure on the carpal tunnel zone is avoided.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The foregoing and additional features and characteristics of
the present invention will become more apparent from the following
detailed description considered with reference to the accompanying
drawings in which like reference numerals designate like elements
and wherein:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a view of the palmar side of the hand when the
hand is in the T Position illustrating the long fingers ending in
the same line and the thumb opposing the space between the index
finger and middle finger.
[0022] FIG. 2 is a view of the radial side of the hand when the
hand is in the T Position illustrating the long fingers ending in
the same line and the thumb opposing the space between the index
finger and middle finger.
[0023] FIG. 3 is a view of the palmar side of the hand when the
hand is in the Spread T Position illustrating the long fingers
ending in the same line and the thumb opposing and spread apart
from the tips of the long fingers.
[0024] FIG. 4 is a view of the radial side of the hand when the
hand is in the Spread T Position illustrating the long fingers
ending in the same line and the thumb opposing the space between
the index finger and middle finger.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a view of the palmar side of the hand when the
hand is in the Closed T Position illustrating the long fingers
ending in the same line and the thumb overlapping the space between
the index finger and middle finger.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a view of the radial side of the hand when the
hand is in the Closed T Position illustrating the long fingers
ending in the same line and the thumb overlapping the space between
the index finger and middle finger.
[0027] FIG. 7 is a graph representing the curves of the cup formed
by the long fingers in the Spread T Position, T Position and Closed
T Position in relation to described lines on the palm of the
hand.
[0028] FIG. 8 is a schematic view illustrating an embodiment of
parallel handles of the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 9 is a view illustrating an outline of the hand
contacting a schematic view of an embodiment of parallel handles of
the present invention.
[0030] FIGS. 10A through 10M illustrate variations of a parallel
handle of the present invention. With FIGS. 10A and 10B
illustrating a parallel handle having guide members on the radial
end and the ulnar end of the parallel handle. FIGS. 10C and 10D
illustrating various connecting mechanisms related to the
relationship of a guide member to the moving member. FIG. 10E
illustrates a parallel handle with guide members that telescope and
have coil springs in which the guide members are between the radial
end and the ulnar end of a parallel handle. FIG. 10F has a track
guide member and a telescoping guide member at the radial side of
the parallel handle with a left spring between the moving members.
FIG. 10G illustrates curved guide members at the radial end and the
ulnar end of a parallel handle. FIG. 10H illustrates non-parallel
guide members at radial end and ulnar ends of a parallel handle.
FIG. 10I illustrates a guide member and a coil spring at the radial
end and ring members allowing the thumb and long fingers to
separate the moving members of a parallel handle. FIG. 10J
illustrates replaceable members that can be attached to shafts to
create proximal and distal moving members of various sizes with
guide members at the radial end and the ulnar end of a parallel
handle. FIG. 10K illustrates a locking type guide member and spring
between radial end and ulnar ends of a parallel handle. FIG. 10L1
and 10L2 illustrate narrow and wide working ends attached to moving
members of a parallel handle. FIG. 10M illustrates stops that can
be applied to guide members to limit travel of a parallel
handle.
[0031] FIG. 11 is a view illustrating the hand contacting an
embodiment of a parallel handle of the present invention.
[0032] FIGS. 12A through 12S2 illustrate various embodiments for
applications of a parallel handle of the present invention. FIGS.
12A illustrates an embodiment of a parallel handle of the present
invention used as pliers. FIG. 12B illustrates an embodiment of a
parallel handle of the present invention for use as fine pliers.
FIG. 12C illustrates an embodiment of a parallel handle of the
present invention use as pliers with an adjustable working member.
FIG. 12D illustrates an embodiment of a parallel handle of the
present invention having two working ends. FIG. 12E. illustrates an
embodiment of a parallel handle of the present invention being a
shears. FIG. 12F illustrates an embodiment of a parallel handle of
the present invention used to shuck clams. FIG. 12G illustrates an
embodiment of a parallel handle of the present invention used as a
hand exerciser. FIG. 12H illustrates an embodiment of a parallel
handle of the present invention used as a hand dynamometer. FIG.
12I illustrates an embodiment of a parallel handle of the present
invention with a double action hinged mechanism used to cut
branches or rongeur bone. FIG. 12J illustrates an embodiment of a
parallel handle of the present invention used as a Kerrison rongeur
for spine surgery. FIG. 12K illustrates an embodiment of a parallel
handle of the present invention used for endoscopic surgery. FIG.
12L illustrates an embodiment of a parallel handle of the present
invention with a hinge to use as pliers. FIG. 12M illustrates an
embodiment of a parallel handle of the present invention with a
hinge to use as fine pliers. FIGS. 12N through 12S2 illustrate
examples of a parallel handle control mechanism that incorporates a
parallel handle of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0033] In order to more clearly and concisely describe the subject
matter of the present invention, the following definition for the T
Position, Spread T Position STP and Closed T Position CTP are
intended to provide guidance as to the meanings of specific terms
used in the following written description. In addition, it is to be
understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is
for the purpose of description, and not to be construed in a
limiting sense. The following discussion relates to areas of the
hand in relation to the present invention with reference to FIGS. 1
through 6.
[0034] FIG. 1 is a view of the palm 102 of the hand 100 and FIG. 2
the radial side 110 of hand 100. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 illustrate the
hand 100 to the T Position.
[0035] The T Position is the position the hand 100 assumes when the
tips 200a of the long fingers 200 are substantially aligned, line
300,and the tip 201a of the thumb 201 opposes the space 320 between
the index finger 202 and middle finger 203. In the T Position the
PIP joints 360 of the long fingers 200 lie adjacent to each other.
The PIP joint 360 of the middle finger 203 is further away from
line 300 than the PIP joints 360 of the other long fingers 200 of
the hand 100. The PIP joint 360 of the small finger 205 is closer
to line 300 than PIP joints 360 of the other long fingers 200.
Furthermore, when the hand 100 is in the T Position the palmar
surface 102 of the long fingers 200 form a cup 108 shown as curve
310. This finger cup 108 is the concave area formed across the long
fingers 200 when the tips 200a of the long fingers 200 are
substantially aligned at line 300 and the long fingers 200 are
flexed.
[0036] When the hand is in the T position the area crossing the
palm 102 of the hand 100 known as the palmar arch 106 is concave.
The horizontal creases 104 of the palm 102 appear as a skin fold
and align with the palmar arch 106. The thumb 201, illustrated in
FIG. 1, hides the horizontal crease 104 on the radial side 110 of
the hand 100. The longitudinal creases 122 also appear as a skin
fold because the palm 102 of the hand 100 is not flat.
[0037] Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the thenar muscle area
114 is on the radial side 110 of the hand 100 and radial to the CT
126. The hypothenar muscle area 116 is on the ulnar side 111 of the
hand 100 and ulnar to the CT 126. The hypothenar muscle area 116
extends from the horizontal crease 104 of the ulnar side 111 of the
hand 100 to the wrist 120 at the level of the pisiform bone 128.
The pisiform bone 128 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 is the
location where the ulnar nerve and ulnar artery go under the
hypothenar muscle area 116 in the palm 102 of the hand 100. The
transverse carpal ligament (TCL) 124 covers the carpal tunnel (CT)
126. The CT 126 contains the median nerve, four tendons from the
superficial flexor muscle of the forearm and four tendons from the
deep flexor muscle of the forearm. The superficial tendons are
closer to the inner surface of the TCL 124 than the deep tendons.
This placing the superficial tendons next to the median nerve.
[0038] In addition, illustrated in FIG. 1 is an area of the hand,
which can be called the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ, where pressure
and vibration is best avoided. The "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ
contains the proximal and distal parts of the median nerve and the
tendons to the long fingers 200 of the hand 100 that enter and
leave the CT 126. The "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ extends proximally
beyond the CT 126 toward the wrist 120 and distally toward the
horizontal creases 104. The proximal end CTZP of the "carpal tunnel
zone" CTZ ends at the wrist 120. The distal end CTZD of the "carpal
tunnel zone" CTZ ends approximately one centimeter proximal to the
horizontal creases 104 of the palm 102 of the hand 100.
[0039] As illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 the radial side
CTZR of the "carpal touch zone" area CTZ meets the radial palmar
line RPL and the ulnar side CTZU of the "carpal touch zone" area
CTZ meets the ulnar palmar line UPL. The radial palmar line RPL
crosses the thenar muscle area 114 of radial side 110 of the palm
102 of the hand 100 and defines the width of the radial side 100 of
the hand 100. The ulnar palmar line UPL crosses the hypothenar
muscle area 116 and defines the width of the ulnar side 111 of the
hand 100.
[0040] The radial palmar line RPL starts at the radial side 110 of
the base 201b of the thumb 201 and extends approximately 40% of the
width W of the palm 102 of the hand 100 toward the "carpal tunnel
zone" CTZ of the palm 102 of the hand 100. The ulnar palmar line
UPL starts on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 and meets the
ulnar side NTZU of the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ. The ulnar palmar
line UPL is located on the hypothenar muscle area 116 at
approximately half the distance between the ulnar side 111 of the
horizontal crease 104 of the palm 102 of the hand 100 and the
pisiform bone 128 of the wrist 120. The ulnar palmar line UPL
extends approximately 30% of the width W of the palm 102 of the
hand 100. This leaves the relative width of the "no touch zone"
area NTZ as approximately 30% of the central section of the palm
102 of the hand 100.
[0041] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 illustrate the hand 100 in the Spread T
Position STP. In this variant of the T position the MP joints 350
of the long fingers 200 of the hand 100 are spread and the thumb
201 is abducted at the metacarpal (MC) joint 380 of the thumb. The
tips 200a of the long fingers 200 of the hand 100 essentially
remain substantially aligned at line 300. The curve 310 of the
finger cup 108 is essentially the same whether the hand 100 is in
the T Position or the Spread T Position STP. This occurs because
the angles A1, A2 and A3 of the MP joints 350 of the long fingers
200 have no effect on the PIP joints 360 and DIP joints 370 when
tips 200a of the long fingers 200 are substantially aligned.
[0042] FIG. 3 also shows the tip 201a of the thumb 201 appears
directed toward the tip 203a of the middle finger 203 when the hand
100 in the Spread T Position STP. However, when the hand changes
from the Spread T Position STP to the T Position, the thumb 201
moves at the MC joint 380 of the wrist 120 and the tip 201a of the
thumb 201 opposes the space 320 between the index 202 finger and
middle finger 203.
[0043] FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 illustrate the hand 100 in the Closed T
Position CTP, which is a variant of the T position. The angle A3 at
the MP joints 350 of the long fingers 200 of the hand 100 is narrow
and the thumb 201 overlaps the middle finger 203. The tips 200a of
the long fingers 200 of the hand 100 essentially remain
substantially aligned at line 300. The curve 310 of the finger cup
108 is essentially the same whether the hand 100 is in the Closed T
Position CTP, the T Position or the Spread T Position STP.
Therefore, the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 is determined by the
alignment of the tips 200a of the long fingers 200 of the hand 100
and not the flexion angle A1, A2 and A3 at the MP joints 350 of the
long fingers 200.
[0044] FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4, FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 refer to
the curve 310 of the finger cup 108. For purposes of the present
application for a parallel handle system of the present invention,
the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 is drawn across the inner
surfaces 212, 213, 214, 215 of the middle segment 220 the long
fingers 200 of the hand 100 when the hand 100 is positioned in the
T Position, the Spread T Position STP and/or the Closed T Position
CTP. The curve 310 of the finger cup 108 can be drawn on the inner
surfaces 212, 213, 214, 215 of the long fingers 200 between the
middle long finger creases 262 and the distal long finger creases
264. The curve of the finger cup 108 can be drawn starting either
at the radial side 232 of the middle segment 220 of the index
finger 201 or the ulnar side 245 of the middle segment 220 small
finger 205. If the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 commences at any
point along the radial side 232 of the middle segment 220 of the
index finger 202 then it extends across the inner surface 212 of
the index finger 202. The curve 310 of the finger cup 108 next
crosses the inner surface 213 of the middle segment 220 of the
middle finger 203 and extends to the inner surface 214 of the
middle segment 220 of the ring finger 204. From the ring finger
204, the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 crosses the inner surface
215 of the middle segment 220 of the small finger 205 and ends
along ulnar side 245 of the middle segment 220 of the small finger
205 of the hand 100.
[0045] The curve 310 of the finger cup 108 is related to the size,
i.e. the width, length and depth of the bones of the hand 100 and
flexion at the joints 350, 360, 370 of the long fingers 200 of the
hand 100. The shape of the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 is
similar for various hand sizes when drawn at the same location
between the proximal finger creases 260 and distal finger creases
264 of the long fingers. The angles A1, A2, A3 of the MP joints 350
do not affect the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 as long as the
tips 200a of the long fingers 200 end at line 300. Furthermore, the
curve 310 of the finger cup 108, as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5
is similar for hands 100 of different people when the hand 100 is
in the T Position, Spread T Position STP or Closed T Position
CTP.
[0046] The shape of the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 can be
duplicated by placing a contour gauge across the middle segments
220 of the long fingers 200 of the hand 100 when the hand 100 is in
the T Position. Such shape of the curve 310 of the finger cup 108
can generally resemble a sine curve when drawn on a graph.
[0047] Alternatively, the shape of the curve 310 of the finger cup
108 can be determined by measuring the distance of corresponding
lines placed across the palm 102 parallel to line 300 and plotting
the measured distance to the middle segments 220 of the long
fingers 200 of the hand 100 which would fall on the curve 310. For
example, the radial palmar line RPL in FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 can be such
a line for determining the shape of the curve 310 if extended
across the palm 102 of the hand 100.
[0048] The distances measured from corresponding lines extended
from the radial palmar line RPL to the inner surfaces 213, 212,
214, 215 of the middle segments 220 of the middle finger 203, ring
finger 394, index finger 202 and small finger 205 that would fall
on the line 310 decrease progressively. FIGS. 1, 3 and 5 also
illustrate the locations of the radial palmar line RPL and ulnar
palmar line UPL for a hand 100 in the T Position, the Spread T
Position STP and the Closed T Position CTP. FIGS. 2, 4 and 6
further illustrate the radial palmar line RPL and the ulnar palmar
line UPL in profile as viewed from the radial side 110 of the hand
100 in the T Position in FIG. 2, the Spread T Position STP in FIG.
4 and the Closed T Position CTP in FIG. 6.
[0049] FIG. 2, FIG. 4 and FIG. 6 also illustrate the relationship
of the radial palmar line RPL and the ulnar palmar line UPL to the
middle segments 220 of the long fingers 200. The lines L1 and L2 in
FIG. 2, the lines L3 and L4 in FIG. 4 and the lines L5 and L6 in
FIG. 6 when drawn from the respective radial palmar line RPL and
ulnar palmar line UPL to each of the respective middle segments 220
of the long fingers 200 can provide measurements that correspond to
the shape of a parallel handle of the present invention based on
the design method of the present invention for use when the hand is
in the corresponding T Position, Spread T Position STP and Closed T
Position CTP.
[0050] Furthermore, as shown FIGS. 1, 2, 5 and 6 the radial palmar
line RPL is approximately at the same distance distal to the ulnar
palmar line UPL whether the hand 100 is in the T Position or the
Closed T Position CTP. However, as shown in FIG. 3, the radial
palmar line RPL and ulnar palmar line UPL are almost aligned when
the hand is in the Spread T Position STP when viewed from the palm
102. However, in the Spread T Position STP the opposing movement at
the MC joint 380 of the thumb 201 places the radial palmar line RPL
distal to the ulnar palmar line UPL as illustrated in FIG. 4. This
is because the thenar muscle area 114 moves the base 201b of the
thumb 201 while the hypothenar muscle area 116 remains in the same
position. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4,
FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 the distance from the curve 310 of the finger cup
108 across the middle segments 220 of the long fingers 200 to the
ulnar palmar line UPL decreases progressively when measured when
the hand 100 changes from the Spread T Position STP to the T
Position to the Closed T Position CTP.
[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates a graph formatted for a right hand 100 to
show the relationships of the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 for
the respective Spread T Position STP, T Position and Closed T
Position CTP in relation to the radial palmar line RPL, distal side
CTZD of the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ and the ulnar palmar line UPL.
The zero point (0,0) for the X-axis and Y-axis is the origin of the
ulnar side 160 of the ulnar palmar line UPL. The x-axis parallels
the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. Measurements for a hand 100 for
the ulnar palmar line UPL, radial palmar line RPL, the distal side
CTZD of the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ can be plotted in the Y-axis
direction as illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0052] Measurements for a hand 100 from the ulnar palmar line UPL
to the distal side CTZD of the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ, from the
ulnar palmar line UPL to radial palmar line RPL, from the ulnar
palmar line UPL to curve 310 of the finger cup 108c for a hand 100
in the Closed T Position CTP, from the ulnar palmar line UPL to
curve 310 of the finger cup 108b for a hand 100 in the T Position
and from the ulnar palmar line UPL to curve 310 for the finger cup
108a for a hand 100 in the Spread T Position STP can be plotted in
the X-axis direction as illustrated in FIG. 7.
[0053] Continuing with reference to FIG. 7, Distance C is from the
ulnar palmar line UPL to the radial palmar line RPL. Distance D
extends from the ulnar palmar line UPL to the distal side CTZD of
the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ. Distance E is between the ulnar
palmar line UPL to the curve 310 of the finger cup 108a when the
hand is in the Spread T Position STP. Distance F spans the ulnar
palmar line UPL to the curve of the finger cup 108b when the hand
is in the T Position. Distance G is from the ulnar palmar line UPL
to the curve of the finger cup 108c when the hand is in the Closed
T Position CTP. Distance C, Distance D, Distance E, Distance F and
Distance G are related to hand size and will be greater for larger
hands 100. Reasonable approximations, for example, for an average
hand 100, for Distance C is 1 centimeter, for Distance D is 1.5
centimeters, for Distance E is 7.5 centimeters, for Distance F is
5.5 centimeters and for Distance G is 3.5 centimeters.
[0054] Hand width W can be measured across the MP joints 350 of the
long fingers 200 on the palm 102 of the hand 100 as illustrated in
FIGS. 3 and 7, for example. Hand width W can be divided into three
segments in a ratio of 40:30:30 corresponding to the measured
distances for the lines RPL, CTZD and UPL as illustrated in FIG. 7.
These segments therefore respectively represent the approximate
widths of the radial palmar line RPL, "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ
(represented by the line CTZD) and ulnar palmar line UPL. The width
of the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 is the same as the width W
of the hand 100 and starts on the x-axis at the ulnar side 111 of
the hand 100. Width W of the hand 100 is related to hand sizes and
the width W will be greater for larger hands 100.
[0055] Hand width sizes W were measured on 30 adult female hands
and 25 adult male hands. Body height of the females in the group
ranged from 4'10'' to 5'10''. Body height of the males in the group
ranged from 5'4'' to 6'3''. The range of hand width W for the
female group was from 7 cm to 9 cm. The hand width W for the
majority of the 30 females was between 8 cm and 8.5 cm. The range
of hand width W for the 25 males was from 8.5 cm to 10.5 cm. The
range of hand width W for the majority of the male group was
between 9.5 cm and 10 cm.
[0056] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 illustrate a parallel handle schematic 400
of the present invention as formatted for a right hand 100. The
parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention is based on
the hand measurements illustrated in the graph of FIG. 7. The
parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention relates the
radial palmar line RPL, ulnar palmar line UPL, distal side CTZD of
the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ and the curve 310 of the finger cup
108 to corresponding areas on the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0057] Referring to FIGS. 7 through 9, the ulnar palmar line UPL
illustrated in the graph of FIG. 7 corresponds to the proximal side
426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410 of the
parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The distal
end CTZD in the graph of FIG. 7 corresponds to proximal side 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The radial palmar
line UPL in the graph of FIG. 7 corresponds to the proximal side
446 of the radial section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the
parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The curve
310 of the finger cup 108 in the graph of FIG. 7 corresponds to the
distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention.
[0058] When referring to the hand 100 proximal is closer to the
wrist 120 and distal is closer to the tips 200a of the long fingers
200 of the hand 100. Likewise, the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention can be separated by dashed line V into a
proximal part 410 and a distal part 450. The proximal part 410 is
closer to the wrist 120 and the distal part 450 is closer to the
tips 200a of the long fingers 200 of the hand 100.
[0059] As illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 two parallel lines
border the proximal part 410 and distal part 450 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The two parallel
lines are the radial contiguous line RCL and the ulnar contiguous
line UCL of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention. The ulnar contiguous line UCL is placed on the x-axis as
shown in the graph of FIG. 7. The radial contiguous line RCL is
positioned at a distance from the ulnar contiguous line UCL equal
to the width W of a hand 100 described in relation to the graph in
FIG. 7. The radial contiguous Line RCL includes a radial contiguous
segment RCLS that forms the radial end of the radial section 440 of
the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention. The ulnar contiguous Line UCL includes a ulnar
contiguous segment UCLS that forms the ulnar end of the ulnar
section 420 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention.
[0060] The radial line RL and the ulnar line UL illustrated in FIG.
8 and FIG. 9 separate the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention into a radial section 440, middle section 430 and
ulnar section 420. The ulnar line UL includes an ulnar segment 422
that connects the proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 to the
proximal side 436 of the middle section 430. The radial line RL
includes a radial segment 442 that connects the proximal side 446
of the radial section 440 to the proximal side 436 of the middle
section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The distal side 418 of
proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention connects the radial contiguous segment RCLSP to
the ulnar contiguous segment UCLSP. The distal side 418 can be of
any suitable configuration, such as a curved configuration or a
linear configuration.
[0061] The distal part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention is completed by connecting the proximal side
470 of distal part 450 to distal side 460 by the radial contiguous
segment RCLSD on the radial contiguous line RCL at one end of the
distal part 450 and by the ulnar contiguous segment UCLSD on the
ulnar contiguous line UCL at the other end of the distal part 450.
Furthermore, the distal side 460 in addition to conforming to the
curve 310 of the finger cup 108 can also be of other suitable
configurations, such that when the corresponding proximal part 410
engages with the hand 100, the corresponding proximal part 410
avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on the palm 102 in the
area of CT 126 of the hand 100. Also, the proximal side 470 can be
of any suitable configuration, such as a curved configuration or a
linear configuration.
[0062] Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 the radial
line RL and the ulnar line UL divide the parallel handle schematic
400 of the present invention including the proximal part 410 and
the distal part 450 into a radial division RD, middle division MD
and ulnar division UD. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the radial
division RD corresponds to the radial section RS of the proximal
part 410 and the radial section RS' of the distal part 450 and the
middle division MD corresponds to the middle section MS of the
proximal part 410 and the middle section MS' of the distal part
450, and the ulnar division UD corresponds to the ulnar section US
of the proximal part 410 and the ulnar section US' of the distal
part 450. Also referring to FIGS. 1 through 6, the radial division
RD of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention is
related to the thenar muscle area 114 on the radial side 110 of the
palm 102 of the hand 100, the index finger 202 and can include at
least part of the middle finger 203 of the hand 100. The middle
division MD of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention is related to the CT area 126 of the palm 102 of the hand
100, can include at least part of the middle finger 203 and can
include at least part of the ring finger 204 of the hand 100. The
ulnar division UD of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention is related to the hypothenar muscle area 116 on
the ulnar side 111 of the palm 102 of the hand 100 and can include
at least part of the ring finger 204 and the small finger 205 of
the hand 100.
[0063] Also referring to FIG. 9, with reference to FIGS. 1 through
6, FIG. 9 illustrates the contact areas of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention with the hand 100. The
proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention contacts the thenar muscle area 114 and the
hypothenar muscle area 116 of the hand 100. Specifically, the
proximal side 446 of the radial section 440 of the proximal part
410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention
contacts the palm 102 of the hand 100 near the radial palmar line
RPL. The proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal
part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention contacts the palm 102 of the hand 100 near the ulnar
palmar line UPL. The proximal side 436 of the middle section 430 of
the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention is adjacent to the area of the CT 126. However,
the proximal side 436 of the middle section 430 of the proximal
part 410 the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention
avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on the palm 102 in the
area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The distal side 460 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention contacts of the inner surfaces 211 of each middle segment
220 of the long fingers 200 of the hand 100.
[0064] The parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention
is the basis of a method for designing parallel handles with
parallel moving members and guide members. However, for certain
applications of the parallel handle of the present invention, such
as for a scissors or pincer application, the proximal part 410 and
the distal part 450 do not have to be parallel to each other or end
parallel to each other or move parallel to each other and, while it
is desirable, it is not necessary that the distal side 460 conform
generally to the curve 310 of the finger cup 108. However, as
mentioned previously in such a parallel handle, the proximal side
436 of the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention avoids contacting or
putting undue pressure on the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the
hand 100.
[0065] At least one of the moving members, based on the method for
designing the parallel handles for the present invention, can move
relative to a guide member when a hand is positioned in a suitable
position in relation to the parallel handle, such as the T
Position, or moves in a range of the suitable position, such as
from the Spread T Position STP to the Closed T Position CTP. Guide
members produced by the design method for parallel handles of the
present invention desirably keep the moving members in
substantially parallel relation when one or the other of the moving
members are moved. The moving members, based on the method for
designing parallel handles, are attached to the working ends of
tools, instruments or other implements that cut, bite, hold, grasp,
measure, pinch, pull, push, squeeze or perform other functions.
Handles designed from this method can be used for bicycle brakes,
calipers, hand dynamometers, pliers, spreaders, surgical
instruments, wrenches and other such implements.
[0066] The parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention
combines a proximal part 410, distal part 450, and moving or
supporting members for the proximal part 410 and for the distal
part 450 that are positioned respectively in corresponding relation
to the radial contiguous line RCL and ulnar contiguous line UCL.
Continuing with further reference to FIGS. 8 through 10M, of
various embodiments of parallel handles according to the present
invention are illustrated. Each section, side or line of the
parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention can be used
to design a parallel handle based on the design method of the
present invention, such as those illustrated in FIGS. 10A through
10M, for example.
[0067] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10A a parallel handle 500A
according to the present invention is illustrated. The proximal
moving member 510a and the distal moving member 550a of the
parallel handle 500A based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
guide members 580a1 and 580a2 of the parallel handle 500A based on
the design method of the present invention correspond to the radial
contiguous line RCL and ulnar contiguous line UCL of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention.
[0068] The proximal moving member 510a of the parallel handle 500A
in FIG. 10A based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520a, a middle section
530a and a radial section 540a. The proximal moving member 510a of
the parallel handle 500A based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516a and
a distal side 518a. The radial surface 546a of the radial section
540a of the proximal moving member 510a of the parallel handle 500A
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536a of
the middle section 530a proximal moving member 510a of the parallel
handle 500A based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526a of the ulnar section 520a of the proximal moving member 510a
of the parallel handle 500A based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518a of the proximal moving member 510a of the
parallel handle 500A based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 10A, the distal moving member 550a of
the parallel handle 500A based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560a and a
proximal surface 570a. The distal surface 560a of the distal moving
member 550a of the parallel handle 500A based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570a
of the distal moving member 550a of the parallel handle 500A based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0070] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10A, the radial surface
546a, middle surface 536a and ulnar surface 526a of the proximal
moving member 510a of the parallel handle 500A based on the method
for designing parallel handles of the present invention can be
flat, angled or curved. The width of the radial surface 546a, the
middle surface 536a and the ulnar surface 526a of the proximal
moving member 510a of the parallel handle 500A based on the method
for designing parallel handles of the present invention can follow
the 40:30:30 approximate ratio discussed related to width of the
radial palmar line RPL, distal side CTZD of the "carpal tunnel
zone" CTZ and ulnar palmar line UPL discussed in reference to hand
width W in FIG. 7.
[0071] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10B which is a profile
view of the parallel handle 500A and, with reference to the graph
of FIG. 7, for most hands 100 one-centimeter is typically an
approximation for the distance C. As illustrated in FIG. 10B one
centimeter is also a reasonable approximate gap for distance C'
between the radial surface 546a of the radial section 540a and the
ulnar surface 526a of the ulnar section 520a of the proximal moving
member 510a of the parallel handle 500A based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention. As discussed
with reference to the graph of FIG. 7, 1.5 centimeters is an
approximation for distance D on the graph of FIG. 7. 1.5
centimeters is also a reasonable approximate gap for distance D'
between the middle surface 536a of the middle section 530a and the
ulnar surface 526a of the ulnar section 520a of the proximal moving
member 510a of the parallel handle 500A based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention.
[0072] The importance of distance D', referred to in FIG. 10B, is
to avoid contacting or putting undue pressure on the palm 102 in
the area of CT 126 of the hand 100 between the "carpal tunnel zone"
CTZ of the palm 102 of the hand 100 and the middle surface 536a of
the middle section 530a of the proximal moving member 510a for a
parallel handle 500A based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention. In this regard, distance D' can
vary so to be equal to or less than distance C' and still avoid
contacting or putting undue pressure on the "carpal tunnel zone"
CTZ for certain designs of parallel handles based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention, such as the
distance D'' in FIG. 10B.
[0073] Therefore, distance D' can equal or be less than distance
C'. However, when the distance D' is less than C', to avoid
contacting or placing undue pressure on the "carpal tunnel zone"
CTZ with the middle surface 536a of the middle section 530a, the
depth 515a of the proximal moving member 510a of the parallel
handle 500A must be significantly less than, typically one-half the
distance between the distal end CTZD and the proximal end CTZP of
the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ. Therefore, as the depth 515a
increases, distance D' typically will increase to avoid contacting
or putting undue pressure on the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ by the
middle segment 530a of the proximal moving member 510a of a handle
500A based on the method for designing parallel handles of the
present invention. Further, a relatively small depth 515a for the
middle section 530a of the proximal moving member 510a, such depth
515a being equal of less than one-half the distance between the
distal end CTZD and the proximal end CTZP of the "carpal tunnel
zone" CTZ, of the parallel handle 500A may not need a recessed
middle section 530a to avoid contacting or placing undue pressure
on the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ. However, when the depth 515a for
the middle section 530a of the proximal moving member 510a is
generally greater than one-half the distance between the distal end
CTZD and the proximal end CTZP of the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ, the
parallel handle 500A based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention typically may need a recess at the
surface 536a of the middle section 530a of a proximal moving member
510a of a handle 500A to avoid contacting or putting undue pressure
on the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ.
[0074] The proximal side 516a of the proximal moving member 510a of
the parallel handle 500A can correspond to the proximal side 416 of
the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention. The distal surface 560a of the distal moving
member 550a of the parallel handle 500A can correspond to the
distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. However, the length, width
and cross-sectional shape of a proximal moving member 510a and a
distal moving member 550a depend on use and design of the
individual application.
[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 10A, in the embodiment of the
parallel handle 500A the guide members 580a1 and 580a2 are located
on the radial side 514a and ulnar side 512a of the proximal moving
member 510a and the radial side 554a and ulnar side 552a of the
distal moving member 550a of the parallel handle 500A based on the
method for designing parallel handles of the present invention.
However, the guide members 580a1 and 580a2 do not need to be placed
at the radial side 514a and ulnar side 512a of the proximal moving
member 510a or on the radial side 554a and ulnar side 552a of the
distal moving member 550a of the parallel handle 500A based on the
method for designing parallel handles of the present invention. The
guide members 580a1 and 580a2 of the parallel handles 500A based on
the method for designing parallel handles of the present invention
can be placed on either side of the hand 100 or only a single guide
member can be used. The guide member or guide members can also be
placed on one side of the hand 100 or spread apart from the radial
side 110 or ulnar side 111 of the hand 100, or a guide member can
serve as a pivot member permitting movement of the proximal moving
member and the distal moving member. Factors related to size,
design and use determine the location of the guide member or guide
members relative to the proximal moving member and distal moving
member.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 10C and FIG. 10D, suitable connection
members 610 between guide members 580a1 and 580a2 and proximal
moving member 510a and distal moving member 550a for the parallel
handle 500A are illustrated. The connection members 610 can be used
to maintain and stabilize alignment of the proximal moving member
510a and distal moving member 550a. A suitable connection member
610 can include projecting parts 620, which can also include
bearings 621, that allow the proximal moving member 510a and distal
moving member 550a to move or slide along a track 625 or other
device.
[0077] Also, as illustrated in FIG. 10D, the connection members 610
can include a fixed connection anchor 612, such as screws or pin
members, to fix the position of the proximal moving member 510a to
guide member 580a1, 580a2 to enable the distal moving member 550a
to move toward or away relative to the fixed position of a proximal
moving member 510a of a parallel handle 500A. Similarly, as
illustrated in FIG. 10D, the connection members 610 can include a
fixed connection anchor 614, such as screws or pin members, to fix
the position of the distal moving member 550a to a guide member
580a1, 580a2 to enable the proximal moving member 510a to move
toward or away relative to the fixed position of a distal moving
member 550a of a parallel handle 500A. Moreover, as illustrated in
FIG. 10D, when suitable connection members 610 are utilized, such
as bearings, and the proximal moving member 510a and the distal
moving member 550a are not fixed to the guide members 580a1, 580a2
then both the proximal moving member 510a and the distal moving
member 550a can move toward or away from each other as illustrated
by the arrows 613, such as to actuate the working ends of a
parallel handle based on the method for designing parallel handles
of the present invention.
[0078] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10E another embodiment of
a parallel handle 500E based on the design method of the present
invention is illustrated. Similar to the parallel handle 500A of
FIG. 10A, parallel handle 500E has a proximal moving member 510e
and a distal moving member 550e, whereby the proximal side 536e of
the middle section 530e of the proximal moving member 510e of the
parallel handle 500E avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on
the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 510e and the distal moving member 550e of the
parallel handle 500E based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
guide members 580e1 and 580e2 of the parallel handle 500E based on
the design method of the present invention correspond to the radial
contiguous line RCL and ulnar contiguous line UCL of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. However, the guide
members 580e1 and 580e2 are positioned between the radial end 514e
and the ulnar end 512e of the proximal moving member 510e and
positioned between the radial end 554e and the ulnar end of 552e of
the distal moving member 550e. Also, the guide member 580e1 and
580e2 each have a telescoping device 630e to permit relative
movement of the proximal moving member 510e and the distal moving
member 550e, and the telescoping device 630e can also include a
coil spring 640e for control and biasing of the movement of the
distal moving member 510e and proximal moving member 550e.
[0079] The proximal moving member 510e of the parallel handle 500E
in FIG. 10E based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520e, a middle section
530e and a radial section 540e. The proximal moving member 510e of
the parallel handle 500E based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516e and
a distal side 518e. The radial surface 546e of the radial section
540e of the proximal moving member 510e of the parallel handle 500E
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536e of
the middle section 530e proximal moving member 510e of the parallel
handle 500E based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526e of the ulnar section 520e of the proximal moving member 510e
of the parallel handle 500E based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518e of the proximal moving member 510e of the
parallel handle 500E based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0080] As illustrated in FIG. 10E, the distal moving member 550e of
the parallel handle 500E based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560e and a
proximal surface 570e. The distal surface 560e of the distal moving
member 550e of the parallel handle 500E based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570e
of the distal moving member 550e of the parallel handle 500E based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0081] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10F another embodiment of
a parallel handle 500F based on the design method of the present
invention is illustrated. Similar to the parallel handle 500A of
FIG. 10A, parallel handle 500F has a proximal moving member 510f
and a distal moving member 550f, whereby the proximal side 536f of
the middle section 530f of the proximal moving member 510f of the
parallel handle 500F avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on
the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 510f and the distal moving member 550f of the
parallel handle 500F based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
guide members 580f1 and 580f2 of the parallel handle 500F based on
the design method of the present invention correspond to the radial
contiguous line RCL and ulnar contiguous line UCL of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. However, the guide
members 580f1 and 580f2 are each positioned to the radial side 514f
of the proximal moving member 510f and the radial side 554f of the
parallel handle 500F. Also, the guide member 580f1 slideably
engages a track 625f in the proximal moving member 510f and the
distal moving member 550f to permit relative movement of the
proximal moving member 510f and the distal moving member 550f.
Also, the guide member 580f2 has a telescoping device 630f to
permit relative movement of the proximal moving member 510f and the
distal moving member 550f. Additionally, the parallel handle 500F
has leaf spring 640f positioned between and engaging the proximal
moving member 510f and the distal moving member 550f for control
and biasing of the movement of the proximal moving member 510f and
distal moving member 550f. Furthermore, the parallel handle 500F
has a working end 710f on each of the proximal moving member 510f
and the distal moving member 550f on which an implement, such as a
scissors or pincers, can be attached to the parallel handle
500F.
[0082] The proximal moving member 510f of the parallel handle 500F
in FIG. 10F based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520f, a middle section
530f and a radial section 540f. The proximal moving member 510f of
the parallel handle 500F based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516f and
a distal side 518f. The radial surface 546f of the radial section
540f of the proximal moving member 510f of the parallel handle 500F
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536f of
the middle section 530f proximal moving member 510f of the parallel
handle 500F based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526f of the ulnar section 520f of the proximal moving member 510f
of the parallel handle 500F based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518f of the proximal moving member 510f of the
parallel handle 500F based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0083] As illustrated in FIG. 10F, the distal moving member 550f of
the parallel handle 500F based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560f and a
proximal surface 570f. The distal surface 560f of the distal moving
member 550f of the parallel handle 500F based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570f
of the distal moving member 550f of the parallel handle 500F based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0084] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10G another embodiment of
a parallel handle 500G based on the design method of the present
invention is illustrated. Similar to the parallel handle 500A of
FIG. 10A, parallel handle 500G has a proximal moving member 510g
and a distal moving member 550g, whereby the proximal side 536g of
the middle section 530g of the proximal moving member 510g of the
parallel handle 500G avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on
the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 510g and the distal moving member 550g of the
parallel handle 500G based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
guide members 580g1 and 580g2 of the parallel handle 500G based on
the design method of the present invention correspond to the radial
contiguous line RCL and ulnar contiguous line UCL of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. However, the guide
members 580g1 and 580g2 are arcuately or curved in shape. Also, the
guide members 580g1 and 580g2 slideably engage tracks 625g in the
proximal moving member 510g and the distal moving member 550g to
permit relative movement of the proximal moving member 510g and the
distal moving member 550g. The tracks 625g can be or a curved or
arcuate shape to conform to the shape of the guide members 580g1
and 580g2. Furthermore, the parallel handle 500G has a working end
710g on each of the proximal moving member 510g and the distal
moving member 550g on which an implement, such as a scissors or
pincers, can be attached to the parallel handle 500G.
[0085] The proximal moving member 510g of the parallel handle 500G
in FIG. 10G based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520g, a middle section
530g and a radial section 540g. The proximal moving member 510g of
the parallel handle 500G based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516g and
a distal side 518g. The radial surface 546g of the radial section
540g of the proximal moving member 510g of the parallel handle 500G
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536g of
the middle section 530g proximal moving member 510g of the parallel
handle 500G based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526g of the ulnar section 520g of the proximal moving member 510g
of the parallel handle 500G based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518g of the proximal moving member 510g of the
parallel handle 500G based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0086] As illustrated in FIG. 10G, the distal moving member 550g of
the parallel handle 500G based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560g and a
proximal surface 570g. The distal surface 560g of the distal moving
member 550g of the parallel handle 500G based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570g
of the distal moving member 550g of the parallel handle 500G based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0087] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10H another embodiment of
a parallel handle 500H based on the design method of the present
invention is illustrated. Similar to the parallel handle 500A of
FIG. 10A, parallel handle 500H has a proximal moving member 510h
and a distal moving member 550h, whereby the proximal side 536h of
the middle section 530h of the proximal moving member 510h of the
parallel handle 500H avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on
the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 510h and the distal moving member 550h of the
parallel handle 500H based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
guide members 580h1 and 580h2 of the parallel handle 500H based on
the design method of the present invention correspond to the radial
contiguous line RCL and ulnar contiguous line UCL of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention although, the guide
members 580h1 and 580h2 are initially in skewed relation at a rest
position for the parallel handle 500H. However, the guide members
580h1 and 580h2 slideably engage a pin member 690h in tracks 625h
in the corresponding guide members 580h1 and 580h2 and the pin
members 690h also slideably engage corresponding tracks 691h in the
distal moving member 550h, and pin members 692h associated with the
proximal moving member 510h pivotally engage with the corresponding
guide members 580h1 and 580h2, to permit relative movement of the
proximal moving member 510h and the distal moving member 550h.
[0088] Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10H, it is not necessary for the
guide members 580h1 and 580h2 to always be in a parallel relation
for parallel movement of the proximal moving member 510h and the
distal moving member 550h of the parallel handle 500H based on the
method for designing parallel handles of the present invention.
However, as a hand 100 closes or opens while engaging the parallel
handle 500H, the position and alignment of the guide members 580h1
and 580h2 in relation to each other promote stabilizing and
maintaining alignment of the proximal moving member 510h and the
distal moving member 550h of the parallel handle 500H. Such
alignment promotes reducing MP joint 350 stress when the long
fingers 200 of the hand 100 open or close.
[0089] Additionally, the parallel handle 500H has leaf spring 640h
positioned between and engaging the proximal moving member 510h and
the distal moving member 550h for control and biasing of the
movement of the proximal moving member 510h and distal moving
member 550h. Furthermore, the parallel handle 500H has a working
end 710h on each of the proximal moving member 510h and the distal
moving member 550h on which an implement, such as a scissors or
pincers, can be attached to the parallel handle 500H.
[0090] The proximal moving member 510h of the parallel handle 500H
in FIG. 10H based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520h, a middle section
530h and a radial section 540h. The proximal moving member 510h of
the parallel handle 500H based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516h and
a distal side 518h. The radial surface 546h of the radial section
540h of the proximal moving member 510h of the parallel handle 500H
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536h of
the middle section 530h proximal moving member 510h of the parallel
handle 500H based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526h of the ulnar section 520h of the proximal moving member 510h
of the parallel handle 500H based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518h of the proximal moving member 510h of the
parallel handle 500H based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0091] As illustrated in FIG. 10H, the distal moving member 550h of
the parallel handle 500H based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560h and a
proximal surface 570h. The distal surface 560h of the distal moving
member 550h of the parallel handle 500H based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570h
of the distal moving member 550h of the parallel handle 500H based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0092] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10I another embodiment of
a parallel handle 500I based on the design method of the present
invention is illustrated. Similar to the parallel handle 500A of
FIG. 10A, parallel handle 500I has a proximal moving member 510i
and a distal moving member 550i, whereby the proximal side 536i of
the middle section 530i of the proximal moving member 510i of the
parallel handle 500I avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on
the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 510i and the distal moving member 550i of the
parallel handle 500I based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
parallel handle 500I has a single guide member 580i1 that
corresponds to the radial contiguous line RCL of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. However, the guide
member 580i1 is positioned to the radial side 514i of the proximal
moving member 510i and the radial side 554i of the parallel handle
500I and has a generally cylindrical shape. Also, the guide member
580i1 slideably engages a track 625i in the proximal moving member
510i and the distal moving member 550i to permit relative movement
of the proximal moving member 510i and the distal moving member
550i. Additionally, the parallel handle 500I has coil spring 640i
positioned between and engaging the proximal moving member 510i and
the distal moving member 550i for control and biasing of the
movement of the proximal moving member 510i and distal moving
member 550i. Also, the proximal moving member 510i and the distal
moving member 550i each have an integrally extending shaft member
730i at the corresponding radial sides 514i and 554i that engage
with the guide member 580i1 and with the coil spring 640i.
Furthermore, the parallel handle 500I has a working end 710i on
each of the proximal moving member 510i and the distal moving
member 550I contiguous with shaft members 730i on which an
implement, such as a scissors or pincers, can be attached to the
parallel handle 500I.
[0093] As illustrated in FIG. 10I, parallel handle 500I has a
proximal ring member 517i for receiving the thumb 201 and is
attached to the proximal moving member 510i. Furthermore, parallel
handle 500I has a distal ring member 557i for receiving the long
fingers 200 and is attached to the distal moving member 550i of the
parallel handle 500I. The proximal ring member 517i for the thumb
201 can have be pivotally attached by pivot members 616i at the
radial section 540I to allow the proximal ring member 517i to
rotate relative to the proximal moving member 510i so as to receive
either the right thumb 201 of the right hand 100 or the left thumb
201 of the left hand 100. The distal ring member 557i is attached
at or integral with the radial end 554i and the ulnar end 552i of
the distal moving member 550i for receiving the long fingers 200 of
either the right hand 100 or the left hand 100. The proximal ring
member 517i when engaged with the thumb 201 and the distal ring
member 557i when engaged with the long fingers 200 of the hand 100
assist in spreading the proximal moving member 510i from the distal
moving member 550i.
[0094] The proximal moving member 510i of the parallel handle 500I
in FIG. 10I based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520i, a middle section
530i and a radial section 540i. The proximal moving member 510i of
the parallel handle 500I based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516i and
a distal side 518i. The radial surface 546i of the radial section
540i of the proximal moving member 510i of the parallel handle 500I
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536i of
the middle section 530i proximal moving member 510i of the parallel
handle 500I based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526i of the ulnar section 520i of the proximal moving member 510i
of the parallel handle 500I based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518i of the proximal moving member 510i of the
parallel handle 500I based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 10I, the distal moving member 550i of
the parallel handle 500I based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560i and a
proximal surface 570i. The distal surface 560i of the distal moving
member 550i of the parallel handle 500I based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570i
of the distal moving member 550i of the parallel handle 500I based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0096] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10J, another embodiment of
a parallel handle 500J based on the design method of the present
invention is illustrated. Similar to the parallel handle 500A of
FIG. 10A, parallel handle 500J has a proximal moving member 510j
and a distal moving member 550j, whereby the proximal side 536j of
the middle section 530j of the proximal moving member 510j of the
parallel handle 500J avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on
the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 510j and the distal moving member 550j of the
parallel handle 500J based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
guide members 580j1 and 580j2 of the parallel handle 500J based on
the design method of the present invention correspond to the radial
contiguous line RCL and ulnar contiguous line UCL of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. However, the guide
members 580j1 and 580j2 are respectively positioned to the radial
side 514j and to the ulnar side 512j of the proximal moving member
510j and are respectively positioned to the radial side 554j and to
the ulnar side 552j of the distal moving member 550j. Also, the
guide member 580j1 and 580j2 each have a telescoping device 630j to
permit relative movement of the proximal moving member 510j and the
distal moving member 550j, and the telescoping device 630j can also
include a coil spring 640j for control and biasing of the movement
of the distal moving member 510j and proximal moving member
550j.
[0097] Additionally, referring to FIG. 10J, the parallel handle
500J can have a plurality of replaceable proximal moving members
515j and a plurality of replaceable distal moving members 555j
paired in different sizes so as to engage respective receiving
members 590j to respectively form the proximal moving member 510j
and the distal moving member 550j for a parallel handle 500J so as
to accommodate a plurality of hand sizes for use with a particular
device. These replaceable moving members 515j, 555j based on the
method for designing parallel handles of the present invention are
interchangeable and can slide, snap, bolt, latch or have other
means to connect to the shafts or receiving members 590j.
[0098] FIG. 10J illustrates a plurality of replaceable proximal
moving members 515j, such as replaceable proximal moving members
515j1, 515j2 and 515j3, and also illustrates a plurality of
replaceable distal moving members 555j, such as replaceable
proximal moving members 555j1, 555j2 and 555j3. For example, the
replaceable proximal moving members 515j 1 and 515j2 are of a
similar configuration, but of a different size, and with the
replaceable proximal moving member 515j1 being paired with the
similar size replaceable distal moving member 555j1 and with the
replaceable proximal moving member 51 5j2 being paired with the
similar size replaceable distal moving member 555j2.
[0099] Further, replaceable proximal moving member 515j3 is paired
with replaceable distal moving member 555j3 which are of a
different configuration than the replaceable proximal moving
members 515j1 and 515j2 and the replaceable distal moving members
555j1 and 555j2. The configuration of the replaceable proximal
moving member 515j3 is illustrative of configurations for the
replaceable proximal moving member 515j where distance D', as
illustrated in FIG. 10B, can vary so to be equal to or less than
distance C' and still avoid contacting or putting undue pressure on
the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ for certain designs of parallel
handles, such as the distance D'' in FIG. 10B. Furthermore,
replaceable distal moving member 555j3 can be of any suitable shape
or configuration, other than conforming to the curve 310 of the
finger cup 108 of the hand 100, such as of a cylindrical, oval or
rectangular shape.
[0100] The receiving members 590j can be of any suitable shape or
pattern for receiving the replaceable proximal moving members 515j
and replaceable distal moving members 555j such as for example a
circular, oval, square, rectangular or other cross-sectional
pattern or shape. Also, the receiving members 590j can each have an
integral working end 710j on each of the proximal moving member
510j and the distal moving member 550j on which an implement, such
as a scissors or pincers, can be attached to the parallel handle
500J.
[0101] The proximal moving member 510j of the parallel handle 500J
in FIG. 10J based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520j, a middle section
530j and a radial section 540j. The proximal moving member 510j of
the parallel handle 500J based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516j and
a distal side 518j. The radial surface 546j of the radial section
540j of the proximal moving member 510j of the parallel handle 500J
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536j of
the middle section 530j proximal moving member 510j of the parallel
handle 500J based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526j of the ulnar section 520j of the proximal moving member 510j
of the parallel handle 500J based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518e of the proximal moving member 510j of the
parallel handle 500J based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0102] As illustrated in FIG. 10J, the distal moving member 550j of
the parallel handle 500J based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560j and a
proximal surface 570j. The distal surface 560j of the distal moving
member 550j of the parallel handle 500J based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570j
of the distal moving member 550j of the parallel handle 500J based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0103] Continuing with reference to FIG. 10K another embodiment of
a parallel handle 500K based on the design method of the present
invention is illustrated. Similar to the parallel handle 500A of
FIG. 10A, parallel handle 500K has a proximal moving member 510k
and a distal moving member 550k, whereby the proximal side 536k of
the middle section 530k of the proximal moving member 510k of the
parallel handle 500K avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on
the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 510k and the distal moving member 550k of the
parallel handle 500K based on the design method of the present
invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal part 450
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
guide members 580k1 of the parallel handle 500K based on the design
method of the present invention corresponds to the radial
contiguous line RCL of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention. However, the guide member 580k1 is positioned
between the radial end 514k and the ulnar end 512k of the proximal
moving member 510k and positioned between the radial end 554k and
the ulnar end of 552k of the distal moving member 550k. Also, the
guide member 580k1 has a locking device 670k including a track 671k
that engages with a ratchet member 672k to selectively lock or
retain the parallel handle 500K at one or more predetermined
positions 673k. The parallel handle 500K can also include a leaf
spring 650k for control and biasing of the movement of the distal
moving member 510k and proximal moving member 550k.
[0104] Additionally, similar to the parallel handle 500J of FIG.
10J, the parallel handle 500K can have a plurality of replaceable
proximal moving members 515k and a plurality of replaceable distal
moving members 555k paired in different sizes so as to engage
respective receiving members 590k to respectively form the proximal
moving member 510k and the distal moving member 550k for a parallel
handle 500K so as to accommodate a plurality of hand sizes for use
with a particular device. These replaceable moving members 515k,
555k based on the method for designing parallel handles of the
present invention are interchangeable and can slide, snap, bolt,
latch or have other means to connect to the shafts or receiving
members 590k.
[0105] The receiving members 590k can be of any suitable shape or
pattern for receiving the replaceable proximal moving members 515k
and replaceable distal moving members 555k such as for example a
circular, oval, square, rectangular or other cross-sectional
pattern or shape, with the receiving members 590k being of a
generally rectangular shape in the parallel handle 500K. Also, the
receiving members 590k can each have an integral working end 710k
on each of the proximal moving member 510k and the distal moving
member 550k on which an implement, such as a scissors or pincers,
can be attached to the parallel handle 500K.
[0106] The proximal moving member 510k of the parallel handle 500K
in FIG. 10K based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention has an ulnar section 520k, a middle section
530k and a radial section 540k. The proximal moving member 510k of
the parallel handle 500K based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention also has a proximal side 516k and
a distal side 518k. The radial surface 546k of the radial section
540k of the proximal moving member 510k of the parallel handle 500K
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the radial
section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 536k of
the middle section 530k proximal moving member 510k of the parallel
handle 500K based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention corresponds to the proximal surface 436 of
the middle section 430 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel
handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The ulnar surface
526k of the ulnar section 520k of the proximal moving member 510k
of the parallel handle 500K based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal side 426 of the ulnar section 420 of the proximal part 410
of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention. The
distal surface 518k of the proximal moving member 510k of the
parallel handle 500K based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention corresponds to the distal side 418
of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention.
[0107] As illustrated in FIG. 10K, the distal moving member 550k of
the parallel handle 500K based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention has a distal surface 560k and a
proximal surface 570k. The distal surface 560k of the distal moving
member 550k of the parallel handle 500K based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 570k
of the distal moving member 550k of the parallel handle 500K based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of the distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0108] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 10L1 and 10L2, two
further embodiments of parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2 based on
the design method of the present invention are illustrated. Similar
to the parallel handle 500A of FIG. 10A, parallel handles 500L1 and
500L2 each have a proximal moving member 5101 and a distal moving
member 5501, whereby the proximal side 5361 of the middle section
5301 of the proximal moving member 5101 of each of the parallel
handles 500L1 and 500L2 avoids contacting or putting undue pressure
on the palm 102 in the area of CT 126 of the hand 100. The proximal
moving member 5101 and the distal moving member 5501 of the
parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2 based on the design method of the
present invention correspond to the proximal part 410 and distal
part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention. The guide members 58011 and 58012 of each of the
parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2 based on the design method of the
present invention correspond to the radial contiguous line RCL and
ulnar contiguous line UCL of the parallel handle schematic 400 of
the present invention. However, the guide members 58011 and 58012
are positioned between the radial end 5141 and the ulnar end 5121
of the proximal moving member 5101 and positioned between the
radial end 5541 and the ulnar end of 5521 of the distal moving
member 5501. Also, the guide members 58011 and 58012 each have a
telescoping device 6301 to permit relative movement of the proximal
moving member 5101 and the distal moving member 5501. Further, a
spring 6601 can be positioned between the proximal moving member
5101 and the distal moving member 5501 for control and biasing of
the movement of the distal moving member 5101 and proximal moving
member 5501.
[0109] The proximal moving member 5101 of the parallel handles
500L1 and 500L2 in FIGS. 10L1 and 10L2 based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention has an ulnar
section 5201, a middle section 5301 and a radial section 5401. The
proximal moving member 5101 of each of the parallel handles 500L1
and 500L2 based on the method for designing parallel handles of the
present invention also has a proximal side 5161 and a distal side
5181. The radial surface 5461 of the radial section 5401 of the
proximal moving member 5101 of each of the parallel handle 500L1
and 500L2 based on the method for designing parallel handles of the
present invention corresponds to the proximal side 446 of the
radial section 440 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The middle surface 5361 of
the middle section 5301 proximal moving member 5101 of each of the
parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2 based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to the
proximal surface 436 of the middle section 430 of the proximal part
410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present invention.
The ulnar surface 5261 of the ulnar section 5201 of the proximal
moving member 5101 of each of the parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the proximal side 426 of the ulnar section
420 of the proximal part 410 of the parallel handle schematic 400
of the present invention. The distal surface 5181 of the proximal
moving member 5101 of each of the parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention corresponds to the distal side 418 of the proximal part
410 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the present
invention.
[0110] Also, the proximal moving member 5101 and the distal moving
member 5501 can each have an integral working end 7101 on which an
implement, such as a scissors or pincers, can be attached to the
parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2. However, in the embodiment of the
parallel handle 500L1 of FIG. 10L1 the integral working ends 71011
project inwardly with respect to the proximal moving member 5101
and the distal moving member 5501 and, in the embodiment of the
parallel handle 500L2 of FIG. 10L2 the integral working ends 71012
project outwardly with respect to the proximal moving member 5101
and the distal moving member 5501.
[0111] As illustrated in FIGS. 10L1 and 10L2, the distal moving
member 5501 of each of the parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2 based
on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention has a distal surface 5601 and a proximal surface 5701.
The distal surface 5601 of the distal moving member 5501 of each of
the parallel handles 500L1 and 500L2 based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention corresponds to
the distal side 460 of the distal part 450 of the parallel handle
schematic 400 of the present invention. The proximal surface 5701
of the distal moving member 5501 of each of the parallel handles
500L1 and 500L2 based on the method for designing parallel handles
of the present invention can correspond to the proximal side 470 of
the distal part 450 of the parallel handle schematic 400 of the
present invention.
[0112] FIG. 10M illustrates a schematic of a parallel handle 500M
that can correspond to any of the parallel handles 500A through 500
L2 of the present invention that illustrate stops 585m attached to
a guide member 580m1 that functions to limit movement of the
proximal moving member 510m or the distal moving member 550m in
relation to each other. The stops 585m slideably engage the guide
member 580m1 and have locking means, such as screws 586m, to fix
the stops at various positions on the guide member 580m1 to limit
movement of the proximal moving member 510m or the distal moving
member 550m within a predetermined range of movement.
[0113] Referring now to FIG. 11, as well as to FIG. 9, FIG. 11 is a
schematic view illustrating the hand 100 in engaging relation with
a parallel handle 500 of the present invention. Also, FIG. 9 and
FIG. 11 relate the parallel handle 500 to the hand 100 in relation
to the parallel handle schematic 400 based on the method for
designing parallel handles of the present invention.
[0114] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 9 and 11, the palm 102 of
the hand 100 meets the proximal moving member 510 of the parallel
handle 500. Specifically, the thenar muscle area 114 of the palm
102 of the hand 100 contacts the radial surface 546 of the radial
section 540 of the proximal moving member 510 of the parallel
handle 500 based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention at or near the radial palmar line RPL at the
base 201b of the thumb 201 of the hand 100. The hypothenar muscle
area 116 of the palm 102 of the hand 100 contacts the ulnar surface
526 of the ulnar section 520 of the proximal moving member 510 of
the parallel handle 500 based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention at or near the ulnar palmar line
UPL on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. The recessed middle
section 530 of the proximal moving member 510 of the parallel
handle 500 based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention avoids contacting or placing undue pressure
on the area at CT 126 of the palm 102 of the hand 100.
[0115] As further illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 11, the long fingers
200 of the hand 100 contact the distal moving member 550 of the
parallel handle 500 based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention. Specifically, the inner surface
212 of the middle segment 220 of the index finger 202 of the hand
100 contacts the radial section RS' of the distal moving member 550
of the parallel handle 500 based on the method for designing
parallel handles of the present invention. The inner surface 213 of
the middle segment 220 of the long finger 203 of the hand 100
contacts the radial section RS' and the middle section MS' of the
distal moving member 550 of the parallel handle 500 based on the
method for designing parallel handles of the present invention. The
inner surface 214 of the middle segment 220 of the ring finger 204
of the hand 100 contacts the middle section MS' and the ulnar
section US' of the distal moving member 550 of the parallel handle
500 based on the method for designing parallel handles of the
present invention. The inner surface 215 of the middle segment 220
of the small finger 205 of the hand 100 contacts the ulnar section
US' of the distal moving member 550 of the parallel handle 500
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention.
[0116] Therefore, referring to FIGS. 9 and 11, squeezing a parallel
handle 500 based on the method for designing parallel handles of
the present invention transmits pressure to underlying bones at the
thenar muscle area 114 and the hypothenar muscle area 116 of the
palm 102 of the hand 100. Furthermore, squeezing a parallel handle
500 based on the method for designing parallel handles of the
present invention transmits pressure to underlying bones and soft
tissue of the middle segments 220 of the long fingers 200 of the
hand 100. However, squeezing a parallel handle 500 based on the
method for designing parallel handles of the present invention can
substantially prevent undue direct pressure from being applied to
the transverse carpal ligament 124, the underlying median nerve
126a, superficial flexor tendons 126b or deep flexor tendons 126c
in the CT 126 of the wrist 120.
[0117] Further, the cross-sectional shape of the proximal moving
member 510, distal moving member 550, and guide members 580 and
580' can vary depending upon the use and design of a handle 500
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention, such as illustrated in FIGS. 10A through 10M. The
proximal moving member 510, distal moving member 550 and guide
members 580 and 580' can have a variety of surface characteristics,
such rough or smooth or variations thereof, and can be formed or
fabricated of various substances and materials, such as a wood
material, a plastic material, a metal material or a composite
material.
[0118] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 9 and 11, as well as with
reference to FIGS. 1 through 8, the hand 100 moves through a range
of motion while contacting a parallel handle 500 when the proximal
moving member 510 and the distal moving member 550 or the proximal
moving member moves relatively to the other member. The positions
of the distal moving member 550 and the proximal moving member 510
as the hand 100 correspondingly moves relate to corresponding
distance movement ranges between the Spread T Position STP and
Closed T Position CTP.
[0119] As shown in the radial views of the hand 100 in FIG. 2, FIG.
4 and FIG. 6, line A and line B relate to and diagrammatically
illustrate the relative position of the hand 100 engaging a
parallel handle 500 as the hand 100 moves from the Spread T
Position STP to the T Position to the Closed T Position CTP or from
Closed T Position CTP to the T Position to the Spread T Position
STP the when the hand 100 is positioned as in FIG. 9 and FIG. 11.
Line A extends from the base 201b of the thumb 201 in the area of
the radial palmar line RPL to the curve 310 of the finger cup 108
along the inner surfaces 212, 213, 214, 215 of the middle segments
220 of long fingers 200 of the hand 100. Line B extends from the
area of the ulnar palmar line UPL on the hypothenar muscle area 116
to the curve 310 of the finger cup 108 along the inner surfaces
212, 213, 214, 215 of the middle segments 220 of long fingers 200
of the hand 100.
[0120] FIG. 11 also diagrammatically illustrates an example for a
range of the reach distance RDX. The reach distance RDX is a linear
measurement that extends from a point on the distal surface 560 of
the distal moving member 550 to a corresponding point on the
proximal side 516 of the proximal moving member 510. FIG. 11
illustrates a plurality of reach distances, RDX1 through RDXn, for
a parallel handle 500 when the parallel handle 100 is at a
predetermined position. Further, the reach distance RDX varies with
the movement of the hand 100 on the parallel handle 500 from either
the Spread T Position STP to the T Position, the T Position to the
Closed T Position CTP or the Spread T Position STP to the Closed T
Position CTP and can correspond to Distance E, Distance F or
Distance G with reference to FIG. 7. Reach distance RD can be a
factor for consideration in determining the sizes, shapes and
properties of handles for tools or implements based on the method
for designing parallel handles of the present invention.
[0121] FIG. 11 illustrates the travel distance TDX for an
embodiment of the parallel handle 500, such as for pliers-type
tools, and can be related to the closure requirements of the
working ends of tools utilizing a parallel handle based on the
method for designing parallel handles of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 11, the travel distance TDX is a linear
measurement that extends from a point on one facing part 720 of a
working end 710 to a corresponding point on the other facing part
720 of the other working end 710 of a pliers-type tool with a
parallel handle 500. The travel distance TDX can therefore be
measured at any one of various points and corresponding points on
the facing part 720 and can also be measured at various positions
of the working ends 710 that extend within a range of the open and
closed position for the working ends 710. The travel distance TDX
can relate to the function or the use of a working end 710 with a
particular embodiment of a parallel handle 500.
[0122] Also, with reference to FIG. 11, as well as to FIG. 7,
measurements for hand width W, as diagrammatically illustrated in
FIG. 7, can be used to determine various sizes for parallel handles
500. Multiple sizes of parallel handles 500, related to width W,
can be made to accommodate various hand sizes that can provide a
more comfortable, better fitting parallel handle according to the
present invention.
[0123] FIG. 12A illustrates an example of a pliers-type tool 810
with a parallel handle 500T1 similar to parallel handles 500L1 and
500L2. The parallel handle 500T1 of pliers-type tool 810 has a
proximal moving member 510T1 and a distal moving member 550T1 and
has two telescoping guide members 580T1 with a spring 660T1. The
pliers-type tool 810 has two opposing facing parts 720T1 at the
working ends 710T1. The working ends 710T1 extend from the proximal
moving member 510T1 and the distal moving member 550T1.
[0124] FIG. 12B illustrates another example of a pliers-type tool
820 with a parallel handle 500T2 similar to parallel handles 500F
and 500I. The parallel handle 500T2 of pliers-type tool 820 has a
proximal moving member 510T2 and a distal moving member 550T2 and
has a single guide member 580T2 and a leaf spring 650T2. The
pliers-type tool 810 has two opposing facing parts 720T2 at the
working ends 710T2. The opposing facing parts 720T2 of the working
ends 710T2 are tapered, such as to hold or grasp small objects. The
working ends 710T2 extend from the proximal moving member 510T2 and
the distal moving member 550T2. Further, FIG. 12B illustrates an
example where, as discussed with respect to FIG. 10B, the distance
D' can vary so to be equal to or less than distance C' and still
avoid contacting or putting undue pressure on the "carpal tunnel
zone" CTZ. In FIG. 12B the radial surface 546T2 of the radial
section 540T2 and the middle surface 536T2 of the middle section
530T2 are in linear alignment such that the distance D' is less
than the distance C', and the middle surface 536T2 of the middle
section 530T2 of the proximal moving member 510T2 avoids contacting
or putting undue pressure on the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ.
[0125] FIG. 12C illustrates an example an adjustable pliers-type
tool 830 with a parallel handle 500T3 similar to parallel handles
500L1 and 500L2. The parallel handle 500T3 of pliers-type tool 830
has a proximal moving member 510T3 and a distal moving member 550T3
and has two telescoping guide members 580T3 with a spring 660T3.
The pliers-type tool 810 has two opposing facing parts 720T3 at the
working ends 710T3. One of the working ends 710T3 has an adjustable
working member 832T3. In this adjustable pliers type-tool 830 one
or both of the working ends 710T3 can have an adjustable working
end 832T3 in which one or both working ends 710T3 can be moved to
different positions along a toothed track 834T3 by engaging
elevations 838T3 on a rotating cylinder 836T3.
[0126] FIG. 12D illustrates an example of a pliers-type tool 840
with a parallel handle 500T4 similar to parallel handles 500L1 and
500L2. The parallel handle 500T4 of pliers-type tool 840 has a
proximal moving member 510T4 and a distal moving member 550T4 and
has two telescoping guide members 580T4 with a spring 660T4. The
pliers-type tool 810 has four opposing facing parts 720T4 at the
working ends 710T4 at each of the radial side 514T4 and ulnar side
512T4 of the proximal moving member 510T4 and the radial side 554T4
and ulnar side 552T4 of the distal moving member 550T4. The working
ends 710T4 do not necessarily have to be the same as to shape, size
or function.
[0127] FIG. 12E illustrates an example of a shears pliers-type tool
850 with a parallel handle 500T5 similar to parallel handle 500A.
The parallel handle 500T5 of pliers-type tool 850 has a proximal
moving member 510T5 and a distal moving member 550T5 and has two
guide members 580T51 and 585T52 with a coil spring 640T5. The
pliers-type tool 850 has two opposing facing parts 720T5 at the
working ends 710T5. The shears pliers-type tool 850 has one blade
852T5 attached to a proximal moving member 510T5 and another blade
854T5 attached to a distal moving member 550T5. The blades 852T5
and 854T5 slide toward each other to cut objects when the distal
moving member 550T5 moves toward the proximal moving member 510T5.
The sliding movement is facilitated by a tab 856T5 on blade 854T5
which engages with a guide track 858T5 on blade 852T5, and the tab
856T5 engaging with the guide track 858T5 can also serve to connect
blade 852T5 to blade 854T5.
[0128] FIG. 12F illustrates an example of a bivalve or clam shucker
pliers-type tool 860 with a parallel handle 500T6 similar to
parallel handles 500A and 500I. The parallel handle 500T6 of
bivalve or clam shucker pliers-type tool 860 has a proximal moving
member 510T6 and a distal moving member 550T6 and has two track
guide members 580T61 and 580T62 with a spring 660T6. The bivalve or
clam shucker pliers-type tool 860 has two opposing facing parts
720T6 at the working ends 710T6. One of the working ends 710T6 has
a single blade 862T6 attached to the distal moving member 550T6
that cuts and pries a bivalve shell or a clamshell open. The other
working end 710T6 has a double retaining stop 864T6 attached to a
proximal moving member 510T6 for retaining a shell in position
while the blade 862T6 of the bivalve or clam shucker pliers-type
type tool 860 cuts and pries open the shell of the clam or
bivalve.
[0129] FIG. 12G illustrates and a hand exerciser 870 with a
parallel handle 500T7 similar to parallel handles 500E and 500I.
The parallel handle 500T7 of hand exerciser 870 has a proximal
moving member 510T7 and a distal moving member 550T7 and has two
telescoping guide members 580T7 each with a coil spring 640T7. The
coil springs 640T7 can be interchangeable so as to be of varying
lengths and compressibility. The parallel handle 500T7 of the hand
exerciser 870 has a distal ring 877T7 on the distal moving member
550T7 for receiving the long fingers 200 and has a proximal ring
878T7 on the proximal moving member 510T7 for receiving the thumb
201 of the hand 100. Such rings 877T7, 878T7 assist with spreading
of the hand 100 against resistance of expansion provided by the
guide members 580T7 with the coil springs 640T7. The proximal ring
878T7 can be attached to a shaft 879T7 in the radial section 540T7
of the proximal moving member 510T7 so the proximal ring 878T7 can
rotate for use with either a right hand 100 or a left hand 100.
[0130] FIG. 12H illustrates an example of a dynamometer apparatus
880 for evaluating grip strength of the hand 100 with a parallel
handle 500T8 similar to parallel handle 500E. The parallel handle
500T8 of dynamometer apparatus 880 has a proximal moving member
510T8 and a distal moving member 550T8 and has two telescoping
guide members 580T8.
[0131] The dynamometer apparatus 880 can have hydraulic fluid 881T8
in a system of tubes 882T8 within the guide members 580T8 and
within the proximal moving member 510T8. The hydraulic fluid 881T8
in the system of tubes 882T8 actuates a meter 883T8 attached to the
proximal moving member 510T8. The distal moving member 550T8 of a
dynamometer apparatus 880 moves plungers or pistons 884T8 in
telescoping guide members 580T8. In turn the meter 883T8 responds
to a change of pressure transmitted to the hydraulic fluid 881T8
within the system of tubes 882T8 to measure grip strength.
[0132] FIG. 12I illustrates an example of a double action implement
890 with a parallel handle 500T9 similar to parallel handle 500A.
The parallel handle 500T9 of double action implement 890 has a
proximal moving member 510T9 and a distal moving member 550T9 and
has two guide members 580T91 and 580T92 with a leaf spring 650T9.
The double action implement 890 translates the open and close
movement of the parallel handle 500T9 to a scissors-style tool
891T9 of the double action implement 890. The scissors-style tool
891T9 has a pair of supports 894T9 that respectively attach to the
proximal moving member 510T9 and the distal moving member 550T9 at
one end and to a corresponding pair of proximal hinges 892T9 at the
other end. The pair of proximal hinges 892T9 also respectively
connect the pair of supports 894T9 to working ends 895T9. A single
distal hinge 893T9 movably connects the working ends 895T9. The
working ends 895T9 each respectively have an opposing facing part
897T9. Reducing and expanding the distance between the proximal
moving member 510T9 and the distal moving member 550T9 of the
double action implement 890 actuate the working ends 895T9 to
respectively come together and move apart to rongeur bone, snip
branches and perform other cutting, grasping or pinching
functions.
[0133] FIG. 12J illustrates an example of a Kerrison-type surgical
apparatus 900 with a parallel handle 500T10 similar to parallel
handle 500A. The parallel handle 500T10 of the Kerrison-type
surgical apparatus 900 has a proximal moving member 510T10 and a
distal moving member 550T10 and has two guide members 580T101 and
580T102 with a leaf spring 650T10. The working end 909T10 of the
Kerrison-type surgical apparatus 900 is comprised of an upper
sliding member 901T10 and a lower sliding member 902T10. The upper
sliding member 901T10 and the lower sliding member 902T10 also form
one of the guide members 580T101. The proximal moving member 510T10
of the Kerrison-type apparatus 900 can be attached to or integrally
formed with the upper sliding member 901T10. The distal moving
member 550T10 can be attached or integrally formed with to the
lower sliding member 902T10. Alternatively, the proximal moving
member 510T10 of the Kerrison-type apparatus 900 can be attached to
or integrally formed with the lower sliding member 902T10, and the
distal moving member 550T10 can be attached or integrally formed
with to the upper sliding member 901T10. Movement of one or both of
the sliding members 901T10 and 902T10 by moving the parallel handle
500T10 causes the biting ends 903T10 of the working end 909T10 to
engage with an object or a part of the body for grasping, pinching
or cutting, such as to nibble bone during spinal surgery, for
example.
[0134] FIG. 12K illustrates an example of an endoscopic-type
surgical apparatus 910 with a parallel handle 500T20 similar to
parallel handles 500F and 500I. The parallel handle 500T20 of the
endoscopic-type surgical apparatus 910 has a proximal moving member
510T20 and a distal moving member 550T20 and has one guide member
580T201 and a leaf spring 650T10. The working end 909T20 of the
endoscopic-type surgical apparatus 910 is comprised of an upper
sliding member 901T20 and a lower sliding member 902T20, and a
hinge 915T20 connects the biting ends 903T20 of the working end
909T20. The upper sliding member 901T20 and the lower sliding
member 902T20 also form the guide member 580T201. The proximal
moving member 510T20 of the endoscopic-type surgical apparatus 910
can be attached to or integrally formed with the upper sliding
member 901T20. The distal moving member 550T20 can be attached or
integrally formed with to the lower sliding member 902T20.
Alternatively, the proximal moving member 510T20 of the
endoscopic-type surgical apparatus 910 can be attached to or
integrally formed with the lower sliding member 902T20, and the
distal moving member 550T20 can be attached or integrally formed
with to the upper sliding member 901T20. Movement of one or both of
the sliding members 901T20 and 902T20 by moving the parallel handle
500T20 causes the biting ends 903T20 of the working end 909T20 to
engage with an object or a part of the body for grasping, pinching
or cutting, such as to remove tissue during surgery, for
example.
[0135] FIG. 12L illustrates an example of a pliers-type tool 920
with a parallel handle 500T30 similar to parallel handle 500A. The
parallel handle 500T30 of pliers-type tool 920 has a proximal
moving member 510T30 and a distal moving member 550T30 and has a
guide member 580T30. However, the guide member 580T30 functions as
a hinge joining the proximal moving member 510T30 and the distal
moving member 550T30. The pliers-type tool 920 has two opposing
facing parts 720T30 at the working ends 710T30. The working ends
710T30 can include a pliers-type tool or a cutting tool, for
example. The working ends 710T30 extend from the proximal moving
member 510T30 and the distal moving member 550T30.
[0136] FIG. 12M illustrates an example of a pliers-type tool 930
with a parallel handle 500T40 similar to parallel handle 500A. The
parallel handle 500T40 of pliers-type tool 930 has a proximal
moving member 510T40 and a distal moving member 550T40 and has a
guide member 580T40. However, the guide member 580T40 functions as
a hinge joining the proximal moving member 510T40 and the distal
moving member 550T40. The pliers-type tool 930 has two opposing
facing parts 720T40 at the working ends 710T40. The working ends
710T40 can include a pliers-type tool or a cutting tool, for
example. The working ends 710T40 extend from the proximal moving
member 510T40 and the distal moving member 550T40. Further, FIG.
12M illustrates an example where, as discussed with respect to FIG.
10B, the distance D' can vary so to be equal to or less than
distance C' and still avoid contacting or putting undue pressure on
the "carpal tunnel zone" CTZ. In FIG. 12M the radial surface 546T40
of the radial section 540T40 and the middle surface 536T40 of the
middle section 530T40 are in linear alignment such that the
distance D' is less than the distance C', and the middle surface
536T40 of the middle section 530T40 of the proximal moving member
510T40 avoids contacting or putting undue pressure on the "carpal
tunnel zone" CTZ.
[0137] FIGS. 12N through 12S2 illustrate an example of a parallel
handle control mechanism 950 that incorporates a parallel handle
500T50, similar to parallel handles 500A and 500G. Parallel handle
control mechanism 950 can be used for mechanical or electronic
control functions of devices, such as, brakes, valves, pumps,
clamps, motors, and steering devices and for various other
mechanical, electrical or electronic control functions. FIG. 12N
illustrates a profile or side view of the parallel handle control
mechanism 950, with FIG. 12O illustrating the distal (front) view
of the parallel handle control mechanism 950, with FIG. 12P
illustrating a perspective view of the parallel handle control
mechanism 950 and FIG. 12Q illustrating a perspective view of the
hand 100 engaging the handle control handle mechanism 950. FIG. 12R
is similar to FIG. 12N except that it further incorporates a
control mechanism, such as for actuating and releasing a brake of a
vehicle. FIG. 12S1 illustrates an exploded view of a hinged control
mechanism used with the parallel handle control mechanism 950 of
FIG. 12N, and FIG. 12S2 illustrates an exploded view of an
electrical or electronic control mechanism used with the parallel
handle control mechanism 950 of FIG. 12N.
[0138] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 12N through 12S2, the
parallel handle 500T50 of the parallel handle control mechanism 950
has a proximal moving member 510T50 and a distal moving member
550T50 and has two guide members 580T501 and 580T502 with FIGS. 12R
and 12S including a coil spring 650T50 within the guide member
580T502. FIG. 12Q illustrates a hand 100 engaging the parallel
handle 500T50 of the parallel handle control mechanism 950 with the
long fingers 200 engaging the distal moving member 550T50 and with
the palm 102 and the thumb 201 engaging the proximal moving member
510T50.
[0139] Referring to FIGS. 12R through 12S2 various control
mechanisms are illustrated for mechanical, electrical, electronic
or electromechanical for control of various devices and functions.
In FIG. 12R, the guide member 580T502 includes coil spring 650T501
for biasing the movement of the distal moving member 550T50 when
utilized for controlling a device or finction.
[0140] FIG. 12S1 illustrates an exploded view of a hinged control
mechanism 1000 associated with the guide member 580T501 and with
the distal moving member 550T50. The hinged control mechanism 1000
includes an engaging member 1001 associated the distal moving
member 550T50 and a pivoting control member 1002. The pivoting
control member 1002 includes a proximal arm 1003, a distal arm 1005
and a pivot member or hinge 1004. The pivot member or hinge 1004
permits movement of the distal arm 1005 in response to movement of
the proximal arm 1003 when the proximal arm 1003 is moved by the
engaging member 1001 in response to movement of the distal moving
member 550T50. Engaging of the proximal arm 1003 by the engaging
member 1001 permits selective movement or positioning of the distal
arm 1005 of the pivoting control member 1002 which actuates control
line 1006 for corresponding control of a device 1007.
[0141] FIG. 12S2 illustrates an exploded view of an
electromechanical control mechanism 1100 associated with the guide
member 580T501 and with the distal moving member 550T50. The
electromechanical control mechanism 1100 includes an engaging
member 1101 associated the distal moving member 550T50. The
engaging member 1101 has a contact 1102 for selectively engaging
with one or more actuating contacts 1103a, 1103b, 1103c . . . 1103n
for corresponding control of a device 1107 when contact 1102 is
selectively positioned in engaging relation with one or more
actuating contacts 1103a, 1103b, 1103c . . . 1103n by selective
movement of the distal moving member 550T50. Selectively engaging
one or more of the actuating contacts 1103a, 1103b, 1103c . . .
1103n by the contact 1102 actuates a corresponding control signal
CS through line 1104 for corresponding control of the device
1107.
[0142] Other applications for tools using a parallel handle 500
based on the method for designing parallel handles of the present
invention include handles to actuate or control various mechanical
or electronic control functions of devices, such as, brakes,
valves, pumps, clamps, motors, and steering devices and for various
other mechanical, electrical or electronic control functions.
Furthermore, the proximal moving member 510 and distal moving
member 550 can have multiple interchangeable working ends. Like a
jackknife, such a handle can also have multiple working tools
inside each proximal moving member 510 and distal moving member 550
of a parallel handle 500 based on the method for designing parallel
handles of the present invention. This list of applications is not
comprehensive because there are many common tools that can be
actuated by moving the long fingers 200 to and from the palm 102 of
the hand.
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