U.S. patent application number 12/214781 was filed with the patent office on 2009-12-24 for batter's finger-worn variable-density control-pad.
Invention is credited to J. Robert Richard.
Application Number | 20090313737 12/214781 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41429723 |
Filed Date | 2009-12-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090313737 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Richard; J. Robert |
December 24, 2009 |
Batter's finger-worn variable-density control-pad
Abstract
A baseball batter's improved grip enhancing Pow'rPad.TM. device
providing therapeutic vibration sting-absorption, which in
critically configured for use upon one's upper/batting-hand, while
primarily employing the forefinger but optionally including the
adjacent middle-finger for positioning stability. The user's two
fingers are fully inserted (with or without a conventional
batting-glove) through a pair of intimately fitting spaced apart
holes provided into a resiliently flexile preferably
frothed-neoprene roll-stock material, clad on both sides with
reinforcing nylon/stretch-fabric. An integral bolster cushion
portion is arranged distally opposite the finger-holes, formed via
a circular-wrap of the pad material around an extruded-core of
resilient material. This constitutes the primary performance
enhancing feature, whereby both `advanced bat positioning`, and
advantageous `rebound-effect` is provided; --enabling the batter to
hit a ball further with greater control. The insert-cushion can be
selectively changed, thereby offering variable compliance
characteristics according to individual user preference; thus
encouraging a more aggressive bat-swing action by dispelling any
subconscious trepidation over dreaded debilitating hand-injury
shock-trauma.
Inventors: |
Richard; J. Robert; (San
Diego, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
J. Robert Richard
Ste, B, 7734-B Arjons Drive
San Diego
CA
92126
US
|
Family ID: |
41429723 |
Appl. No.: |
12/214781 |
Filed: |
June 23, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/20 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 71/14 20130101;
A63B 60/54 20151001; A41D 13/082 20130101; A63B 2102/18
20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/20 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/00 20060101
A41D013/00 |
Claims
1.) A lightweight batting-pad device aiding a batter's grip and
control of their bat, including positive self-aligning protection
of the delicate web area between thumb and forefinger; said device
comprising: a flexile body made from a conventional planar
cushioning material durably clad upon opposing sides with
nylon/stretch-fabric including two vertically spaced apart
intimately fitting finger-holes arranged proximally along the upper
outward-terminus thereof, plus a receiver-sleeve arranged along
opposite inward-terminus portion thereof for holding an elongate
insert-cushion of optional compliance means forming a bolster
lodged proximal the base of upper/batting-hand's forefinger and
middle-finger against which the bat-handle is supported, while the
proximal lower-half of same hand interfaces the bat directly
without aid of cushioning; batting-pad thereby displacing
bat-handle further toward forefinger's distal-end to provide
improved mechanical-leverage, enabling greater bat swing-speed.
2.) The batting-pad device according to claim-1, wherein said
receiver-sleeve of said bolster is elastic thereby enabling manual
press-fitted installation of said insert-cushion which can be
adapted from one of a variety of different materials and
cross-sectional configuration embodiments to suit a batter's
requirements; thereby enabling impacted ball to linger in contact
upon the bat a small fraction of a second longer whilst said
bolster becomes slightly compressed then rebounds upon bat-handle
during progression of bat-swing; said bolster thereby imparting
novel thrust modulation found to advantageously send the ball
further.
3.) The batting-pad device according to claim-2, wherein said
insert-cushion's material and configuration embodiment can be of
extruded open-cell or closed-cell foam material, or extruded
tubular polymer or elastomer material, and of circular or other
cross-sectional shape, which shore-durometer compliance rating
quality is therefore regarded as variable and determined according
to user preference.
4.) The batting-pad device according to claim-2, wherein said
insert-cushion's material and configuration embodiment is that of
an imperforate resiliently flexile capsule, containing a fluid
medium which may be compressible or non-compressible in nature
determined according to user preference and engineering-design
choice.
5.) The batting-pad device according to claim-4, wherein said
capsule is a tiny pneumatic cylindrical structure including a
finger operated coaxial button incorporating a plunger-piston with
integral check-valve means arranged at uppermost terminus of said
capsule, whilst lower-terminus of said capsule includes a coaxially
arranged push-button relief-valve means; thereby enabling batter to
pump-up said aggregate bolster to the degree of compliance firmness
they desire, or conversely deflate same to degree desired.
6.) The batting-pad device according to claim-1, wherein said
receiver-sleeve portion is formed by folding the cushioning
material over upon itself 180-degrees, and then sewing that said
inward-terminus edge permanently to the main said body portion,
resulting in a substantially O-shaped receiver-sleeve
cross-section.
7.) The batting-pad device according to claim-1, wherein said
bolster provides effective protection to the sensitive
abductor-pollicis-trans musculature while also protecting the
proximal joint of the thumb and proximal joint of the
forefinger.
8.) The batting-pad device according to claim-1, wherein said
finger-holes are nominally sized approximately 3/8ths-inch to
1-inch in diameter, covering usage from beginning youngster to
professional.
9.) The batting-pad device according to claim-1, wherein thickness
of said bolster lodged between bat-handle and base of both
forefinger and middle-finger is sufficient to advance stroke
position of the bat's longitudinal-axis approximately 11/2-degrees
to 3-degrees as bat is gripped normally in usage; and is measured
as an angle-of-incidence from the bat's longitudinal-axis generally
poised at a right-angle from batter's forearm-axis.
10.) The batting-pad device according to claim-1, wherein said
cushioning material is closed-celled frothed-neoprene or its
equivalent, and is of approximately 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch in
thickness.
11.) An ultra-lightweight batting-pad device aiding a batter's grip
and control of their bat, while providing protection to the
delicate web area between thumb and forefinger; said device
comprising: a flexile body made from a conventional planar
cushioning material durably clad upon opposing sides with
nylon/stretch-fabric including a single intimately fitting
forefinger hole arranged proximal the upper outward-terminus
thereof, plus a receiver-sleeve arranged along opposite
inward-terminus portion thereof adapted to receive an elongate
insert-cushion of optional compliance means forming a bolster
lodged proximal the base of upper/batting-hand's forefinger against
which the bat-handle is supported, while proximal lower portion of
same hand interfaces the bat directly without aid of cushioning;
batting-pad thereby displacing the bat further toward forefinger's
distal-end to provide improved mechanical-leverage, enabling
greater bat swing-speed.
12.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein said
receiver-sleeve of said bolster is elastic enabling easy manual
press-fitted installation of said insert-cushion which can be
adapted from one of a variety of different materials and
cross-sectional configuration embodiments to suit a batter's
requirements; thereby enabling impacted ball to linger in contact
upon the bat a small fraction of a second longer whilst said
bolster becomes slightly compressed then rebounds upon bat-handle
during progression of bat-swing; said bolster thereby imparting
novel thrust modulation found to advantageously send the ball
further.
13.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein said
material and configuration embodiment can be of extruded open-cell
or closed-cell foam material, or extruded tubular polymer or
elastomer material, and of circular or triangular cross-sectional
shape, which shore-durometer compliance rating quality is therefore
regarded as variable and determined according to user
preference.
14.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein said
material and configuration embodiment is an imperforate flexile
capsule, containing a fluid medium which may be compressible or
non-compressible in nature determined according to user
preference.
15.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein said
receiver-sleeve is formed by folding the cushioning material over
upon itself 180-degrees, and then sewing that said inward-terminus
edge permanently to the main said body portion, resulting in a
substantially O-shaped receiver-sleeve cross-section.
16.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein said
receiver-sleeve with insert-cushion provides effective protection
to the sensitive abductor-pollicis-trans musculature while also
protecting the proximal joint of the thumb and proximal joint of
the forefinger.
17.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein said
finger-holes are nominally sized approximately 3/8ths-inch to
1-inch in diameter, covering usage from beginning youngster to
professional.
18.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein
thickness of said bolster lodged between bat-handle and base of
both forefinger and middle-finger is sufficient to advance stroke
position of the bat's longitudinal-axis approximately 11/2 degrees
to 3-degrees as bat is gripped normally in usage; and measured as
an angle-of-incidence relative to a reference-line extending at a
right-angle from batter's forearm at the wrist.
19.) The batting-pad device according to claim-11, wherein said
cushioning material is closed-celled frothed-neoprene or its
equivalent, and is of approximately 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch in
thickness.
20.) A method of making and using a lightweight batting-pad device
aiding a batter's grip, control, and thrust of their bat, while
providing protection to the delicate web area between thumb and
forefinger; said method comprising: providing a flexile planar body
of closed-cell foam-material which is permanently clad upon both
broad sides with nylon/stretch-fabric that is at least
approximately 1/16-inch but not greater than approximately 1/4-inch
in thickness; then die-cutting said body of material into an
elongated D-shape while simultaneously providing a forefinger-hole
proximal the upper-corner of the outward-terminus thereof;
providing an integral bolster arranged along the opposite
inward-terminus of said body by folding-over an approximate
1/2-inch strip once upon itself, and permanently sewing long-edge
of said strip to said body, resulting in an elastic receiver-sleeve
dependent from said finger-hole body portion and having a
substantially O-shaped cross-section; providing an elongate
insert-cushion adapted from one of various conventional pliant
materials and cross-sectional configuration embodiments for manual
press-fitted installation into said receiver-sleeve; providing a
user's upper/batting-hand and installing batting-pad thereto by
simply extending the forefinger through said forefinger-hole, then
laying bat-handle against said bolster and closing the fingers in a
normal manner of two-handed batting-grip, the effect of said
bolster's upper presence thereby at once outsetting the upper
portion of the bat-handle at a slight bias relative to the upper
batting-hand's lower fingers while forcing said bolster firmly
against the web area between thumb and forefinger now at a
substantially advanced angle-of-incidence relative to batter's
forearm; providing batter a pitched ball and upon choosing to swing
at and impacting the moving ball, the bat-handle compresses said
bolster lodged against upper portion of user's upper batting-hand,
whereupon a fraction of a second later the bolster rebounds thereby
helping to send the ball further.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of Invention
[0002] This invention relates to hand worn grip assist means for
athletes, and particularly relates to resilient pads specifically
protective of a baseball batter's hand-web region; affording
enhanced control of batting performance.
[0003] 2. Relevant Prior-Art
[0004] Background research discovery provides some prior patent-art
regarded as germane to this disclosure, chronologically for example
U.S. Pat. No. 4,461,043 (filed: July 1982 by P. R. LoMedico) sets
forth DirectProtect.RTM., a popular light-weight cushioning-pad
which is made of flexible molded-rubber. It is adapted to encircle
a batter's thumb by provision of a single approximate 3/4-inch
diameter hole (surrounded by a larger wire reinforcement-ring
formed integrally into the pad's foam material), and configured as
a 1-piece structure in combination with a contiguous tongue like
portion extending radially therefrom, as is said to thereby overlap
and protect the `metacarpal phalangeal thumb-joint` of the batter's
upper-hand. Although this simple thumb-pad invention has been the
subject of several subsequent improvement USA-patents by the same
inventor (including refinements--U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,389,596/6,260,198/6,996,849/6,799,329), the essence of the
single-holed design remains that which has already been described.
Accordingly, the problem reported with this design is found in its
lack of a positively reliable radial-alignment or stabilizing
anchoring means relative to the thumb and web-region areas, of
which are to be desirably protected.
[0005] In my own U.S. Pat. No. 4,977,621 (filed: October 1989 to J.
R. Richard) wherein is set forth my original Mk-1 version
Pow'rPad.RTM., which is a resiliently flexile substantially planar
1-piece hand-grip assist pad employing four spaced apart aligned
die-cut holes adapted to individually receive all of the fingers of
one's hand; and being symmetrical is thereby intended to protect
the nerves and musculature of either a left or right hand. While a
layer of nylon/stretch-fabric is provided upon the side facing palm
of user's hand, an optional foam integral bolster like palm-cushion
(15) may also be included at the pad's distal inward-terminus
region furthest from said finger-holes, which not only acts to
dampen batting-vibration-shock to the palm of batter's hand, it
also advantageously serves to set a baseball-bat handle further
outward toward batter's finger-tips; --thereby enabling improved
grip and shock-absorption. In retrospect however, this earlier
configuration suffers several disadvantages: a.) owing it extends
the full-width of user's hand, some pro-batters report its mass
imposes excessive weight during bat-swing, which tends to be
counter-productive to the gain achieved by displacing the
bat-handle evenly toward one's finger-tips; and b.) owing that the
bonded-on bolster portion (necessarily neoprene-foam chemically
bonded to neoprene-foam) prevented adding a durable layer of
nylon/stretch-fabric clad upon the side facing away from user's
palm, the resulting pad is relatively fragile to the extent that it
is prone to tearing-out at the holes particularly when wearing
batting-gloves; and c.) owing the optional bolster portion is of
fixed construction, there is no means for altering the
density/compliance of the bolster in the field (ie: once leaving
the factory) according to user preference.
[0006] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,806,091 (filed: November 1996 by M. L.
McHugh) is shown a baseball-bat gripping aid device which is an
elongate strip of resiliently flexible foam material formed with
slightly undulating finger-stalls, in combination with an
exemplified elastic-band serving as a retaining means upon one or
more of the user's fingers; whereby the device specifically
interfaces upon the `superficial transverse metacarpal ligament` at
the base of user's fingers, whilst impinging against the
bat-handle.
[0007] In U.S. Pat. No. 6,532,594 (filed: May 2002 by E. C.
Barnett) is shown a planar flexible circular protective insert-pad
specifically for cushioning the impact of a fast moving ball caught
in a baseball-glove. The device is die-cut in 1-piece from
high-density microcellular-urethane roll-stock material; thus the
lower half-circle portion of the pad acts to protect user's palm,
while the upper half-circle portion includes two U-shaped
finger-reliefs acting to positively position the pad, while also
serving as a pair of protective-flaps relative to the fragile
sub-metacarpal (inward) region of the two fingers closest to the
thumb (index and middle fingers).
[0008] In U.S. Pat. No. 6,898,802 (filed: June 2004 by M. A.
Suarleo) is shown a flexible gripping-mitt or `grip-glove`, said to
be particularly suitable for barbell weight-lifting, and comprises
a major planar palm-pad portion which extends the full width of
user's hand, covering most of the palm and gripping surfaces of the
fingers. A smaller pad-appendage extends therefrom as to also
impinge against one's thumb gripping surface; --thereby forming a
substantially L-shaped configuration in plan-view. The main body of
this grip-glove is outwardly textured for slip resistance, but
otherwise free of undulations; and is held to the user's palm
region by an elastic-strap transversely encircling the back of
user's hand; while the thumb protecting appendage simply lays upon
the V-shaped region between thumb and index-finger. However, owing
the bulky construction, the grip-glove is not considered suitable
for gripping of a baseball-bat handle.
[0009] In U.S. Pat. No. 7,043,762 (filed: June 2003 by J.
Greenhalgh) is shown an athletic finger, palm, and wrist protective
"slider's-pad" for aggressive hands extended base-stealing
ground-diving by baseball players. This device is made principally
of leather, but with added foam palm-cushion proximal the
rear-terminus, where is included a transverse retention-strap; plus
the pad's forward-terminus is rolled entirely around a transverse
foam-dowel (about which the user wraps their fingers during their
sliding-dive to a base), and including a proximal forward-most
transverse elastic-band through which at least two of the user's
fingers are inserted to aid holding the forward portion of the
slider's-pad to their fingers during relaxation of the fingers.
However, the general bulk of the device would preclude usage as a
batting aid, and there is no anticipation of inserting differing
densities of foam-dowels.
[0010] Therefore, in full consideration of the preceding patent
review, there is determined a need for an improved form of device
to which these patents have been largely addressed. The instant
inventor hereof believes their newly improved Mk-II device,
commercially referred to as the Pro/Pow'rPad.RTM., currently being
developed for production under auspices of the `Sports Products
Consultants --Inc.` a mfg./mkt.company, exhibits certain
improvements and advantages as shall be revealed in the subsequent
portion of this disclosure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] A.) In view of the foregoing discussion about the earlier
invention art, it is therefore important to make it pellucid to
others interested in the art that the object of this invention is
to set forth a substantially improved specialized Mk-II
Pow'rPad.RTM., now configured to provide what is believed to be the
favored option in baseball bat-handle gripping effectiveness;
whereby my Pow'rPad.RTM. is not only a grip-pad, --it is a batter's
`control-pad`. In the preceding dissertation on the believed most
relevant prior-art patents, was included candidly critical review
of my earlier Mk-I/Pow'rPad.RTM. U.S. Pat. No. 4,977,621; and with
that understanding, this present disclosure endeavors to correct
those shortcomings of my Mk-I product via my Mk-II embodiment, the
result of thoughtful in-depth analysis toward discovering how to
overcome certain deficiencies of my nevertheless popular Mk-I
product. Accordingly, while my Mk-I embodiment served to impinge
upon a major portion of the batter's hand palm region, my new Mk-II
configuration teaches a far more compact and durable construction,
which is approximately one-forth the weight of my original Mk-I
batter's-model hand-grip assist pad. Thus, I have discovered
several enabling advantages, including improved bat-to-ball
momentum transfer; resulting in increased ball-velocity off the
bat! Moreover, because my new Mk-II embodiment concentrates its
protectiveness toward the delicate fleshy web-tissue and
contracting-muscle spanning between one's thumb and forefinger,
physiologically referred to as the `abductor-pollicis-trans`-muscle
(vital muscle enabling the thumb to firmly oppose remainder of the
hand), it is providing significantly reduced incidence of
RSI/repetitive-shock-injury trauma caused by so-called `bat-sting`,
a harsh resonance generated typically when a fast moving ball
impacts the bat-barrel at a region above or sometimes below the
bat's CoP/center-of-percussion or *`sweet-spot` *(region 5-7 inches
inboard of the barrel-tip) inducing a momentary longitudinal
bending, the resulting oscillations of which become telegraphed
down the narrowing handle, culminating there with a greatly
increased amplitude of vibration (owing the lighter mass at the
handle region) becoming a sharply amplified resonance twang, hence
a sudden severe muscle-spasm inducing vibration best described as
somewhat akin to a sudden AC-electrical shock; --which can even
occur on a one-time basis. If less energy is imparted to moving the
batter's hands (the upper-hand being essentially the fulcrum
point), then more energy will be transferred to the ball! Owing to
the dynamics involved, when a ball impacts the bat substantially
below the `CoP` it can generate a force tending to push the
bat-handle into the batter's palm, yet conversely, when the ball
impacts the bat substantially above the `CoP` the batter will feel
a slight push against their fingers, --trying to open their grip;
--but when the ball's impact point is proximal to the CoP there is
no tendency for the bat to rotate about the CoP. I am relating much
of this here so as to impart an appreciation as to my latest
understanding of the basic-physics which has influenced development
of my advanced Mk-II/Pow'rPad.RTM.. Additionally, a further object
of this disclosure is to set forth an improved device aiding in
absorption of dreaded bat-sting RSI-syndrome, which is known to
cause even professional baseball players to unconsciously `flinch`
in anticipation of the stinging-pain they have recently
experienced; --an affliction that can cause a fractional-second
hesitation, which is detrimental to their reaction-time, --thereby
adversely effecting batting-performance.
[0012] B.) Another object of this invention disclosure is to set
forth my improved Mk-II Pow'rPad article, wherein is additionally
provided a more durable construction now comprising a commercially
available closed-celled frothed-neoprene roll-stock material that
is preferably now preferably approximately only 1/8-inch in nominal
thickness (although a thickness range of 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch is
tolerable) including a bilateral (ie: both opposing broad sides)
layer of conventional closely-knit stretch-nylon fabric permanently
flame-bonded in a precisely controlled conventional calender
pressure-rolled bonding process. We then conventionally die-cut the
initial product into an elongate D-shape, including simultaneous
die-cutting of either one or two spaced apart approximately
5/8''-diameter (will vary according to adult or junior models)
finger-hole(s) arranged proximal the right-hand portion of the
exemplified D-shape (whereby with about 3/8'' spacing between the
holes (in my 2-finger embodiment), and about 1/4'' of material
outside the hole(s), and a transverse-width (extending between the
outward-terminus and the inward-terminus) of approximately
21/4-inches for both 1-finger and 2-finger models; whereupon we
then fold the opposite inward-terminus portion 180-degrees back
upon itself, and permanently stitch this resulting approximate
1/2-inch wide linear-flap to the main body portion about a 1/2-inch
from the said finger-hole(s), and thereby resulting in a
longitudinal length of approximately only 2-inches. The resulting
O-shaped receiver-sleeve portion of my Mk-II/Pow'rPad.RTM. product
is thus ready for post-insertion (press-fitted installation either
at the factory or by the user) of the generally cylindrically
shaped insert-cushion within the elastic receiver-sleeve integrally
fabricated by the afro mentioned pre-sewn procedure. So as enable
the user a variable-density cushioning capability, I prefer to
include in the packaging several different insert-cushions made
from different extruded-foam mediums, --such as from closed-cell
frothed-neoprene, frothed-polyethylene, frothed-urethane,
open-celled polymer, elastomer-tubing, etc.; plus, we are now also
considering the option of a light-weight pneumatic-capsule, and
possibly even a hydrostatic-capsule, all of which are designed to
meet the particular preferences of individual batters.
[0013] Configured as either a 1-finger (forefinger) or 2-finger
(forefinger & middle-finger) generic-variant embodiment models,
the 1-finger version is favored by some for its ultimately
light-weight quality, while the 2-finger version offers the
advantage of always being positively self-aligned relative to the
base of the forefinger and middle-finger; thereby remaining
properly oriented toward the web spanning thumb and forefinger.
While the finger-hole(s) vary in size according to the three
incremental classifications of small/medium/large/X-lag., the
diameters thus ranging from 3/8-inch (for beginning youngsters) to
1-inch (for a `pro` wearing batting-gloves). Generally speaking,
the longitudinal (with reference to the bat-handle axis) length of
my insert-cushions can range from about 11/2-inches long or less
for some 1-finger models, to 23/4-inches long or more for some
2-finger models; although it should be understood that a short
insert-cushion can be employed with the 2-finger model, and the
longer insert-cushion with the 1-finger model according to user
preference. Furthermore, owing this major reconstruction and
resulting diminutive size, the bolster (formed via combination of
receiver-sleeve and the insert-cushion) of my Mk-II Pow'rPad.RTM.
advantageously no longer comes in contact with the lower two or
three fingers nor the major palm area of the hand; thereby uniquely
concentrating the resulting offset displacing of the bat-handle
toward the more powerful forefinger (and including the
middle-finger in 2-finger models). However, bear in mind for
example, that owing the preferred open-ended construction of the
pad's receiver-sleeve, a user can if desired install a short
insert-cushion in the 2-fingered model, so as to thereby obtain the
self-aligning feature in combination with a more pronounced
offsetting of the bat-handle. Therefore, while I generally
recommend my 2-finger model for Junior/Little-league.RTM. players,
I believe more experienced on up to professional Minor-league and
Major-league baseball batters prefer trying various different
insert-cushion mediums, to select which particular combination of
features and insert-cushion density compliance characteristics best
suit their particular batting requirements.
[0014] Accordingly, owing the thickness of the now abbreviated
bolster, my Mk-II embodiment is uniquely able to advantageously
offset the longitudinal-axis of the bat approximately 1-degree to
3-degrees (given the bat is gripped in an otherwise normal manner
of usage) as measured relative to a reference-line extending at a
right-angle from the batter's forearm at the wrist; which is
tantamount to a lead-time effectively advancing the position of the
batter's stroke, providing significantly improved
mechanical-leverage for greater bat swing-speed.
[0015] C.) Another object of this invention disclosure is to set
forth an improved Pow'rPad.RTM. according to afore said items-A/B
wherein a further viable performance phenomenon was discovered
involving my Mk-II embodiment, whereby dependent upon the
compliance and shore-durometer (firmness vrs: softness)
characteristic of the insert-cushion, the impacted ball can
actually linger in contact upon the bat-barrel a small fraction of
a second longer (ie: measured in milli-seconds), during which
dwell-time duration, the bolster member lodged betwixt the
bat-handle and the base of the forefinger (and against the base of
the middle-finger as well, depending upon the length of
insert-cushion employed) becomes slightly compressed, then
instantaneously rebounds with thus stored energy transference upon
the upper bat-handle upon impact with the ball during progression
of the batter's swing. The `rebounding-effect` of my bolster member
thereby serving somewhat akin to the increased altitude achieved by
a swimmer high-jumping from a diving-board having a resilient
rubber spring-pad positioned thereunder at the fulcrum-point,
--imparting a novel thrust-modulating energizing action; --which I
have found via independently-conducted scientifically controlled
robotic/batting-machine tests, can potentially (dependent upon the
compliance characteristic of the bolster, relative to the weight
and swing-speed of the bat, and velocity of the thrown ball) send
the ball further owing to increased post-impact velocity.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT DRAWINGS
[0016] The foregoing and still other objects of this invention will
become fully apparent, along with various advantages and features
of novelty residing in the present embodiments, from study of the
following description of the variant generic species embodiments
and study of the ensuing description of these embodiments. Wherein
indicia of reference are shown to match related matter stated in
the text, as well as the Claims section annexed hereto; and
accordingly, a better understanding of the invention and the
variant uses is intended, by reference to the drawings, which are
considered as primarily exemplary and not to be therefore construed
as restrictive in nature; wherein:
[0017] FIG.-1, shows the primary `prior art` grip-pad worn upon an
exemplified left-hand, and is an oblique pictorial perspective-view
favoring the frontal upper-inward portion of my Mk-I 4-finger
embodiment (note: --is FIG.-2 in my original U.S. Pat. No.
4,977,621 which the reference-indicia have been removed to avoid
numeric confusion herewith);
[0018] FIG.-2A, shows a batter's open left-hand upon which is
installed my new ultra-compact 1-finger Mk-II batter's grip-pad,
while optional employment of a long/insert-cushion indicated
thereto via phantom-outline;
[0019] FIG.-2B, is a 2.times.-enlarged partial view thereof,
showing the 1-finger grip-pad embodiment in much greater detail,
and better revealing the usage of both a short/insert-cushion and
the optional long/insert-cushion;
[0020] FIG.-3, is a left-hand showing openhanded installation of my
generic-variant 2-finger Mk-II batter's grip-pad invention, which
is constructed in the same manner as is more clearly detailed in
previous FIG.-2B, but is self-aligning;
[0021] FIG.-4, is a slightly elevated side-elevation view
particularly concerning the batter's upper-hand gripping of a
bat-handle while wearing the Mk-II 1-finger embodiment (2-finger
model also indicated via phantom-outline) in typical manner of
usage, and including information illustrating the relationship of
batter's forearm and wrist-point relative to the bat's
longitudinal-axis, graphically demonstrating how the bat is
advantageously displaced by critical lodging of the bolster;
[0022] FIG.-5, is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of
an alternate generic-variant pneumatic or hydrostatic capsule like
insert-cushion, prior to its installation into the
receiver-sleeve;
[0023] FIG.-6, is a 3.times.-enlarged side-elevation diagrammatic
representation view with partial cut-away view revealing an
integral pumping mechanism for the FIG.-5 insert-cushion capsule,
showing how the capsule can be adapted with a miniature
finger-operated button-piston pneumatic-pump, providing a novel
variable compliance action;
[0024] FIG.-7, is a broad view of the human-hand, revealing the
musculature-structure, and in particular the
APT/`abductor-pollicis-trans` portion.
ITEMIZED NOMENCLATURE REFERENCES
[0025] 10,10'/10'',10K--bat-handle, longitudinal-axis position:
original/advanced, knob [0026] 11--prior-art Mk-I grip-pad [0027]
12'/12''--general overall Mk-II embodiment: 1-finger
version/2-finger version [0028] 13,13'/13''--pad-body, nylon
stretch-fabric: finger-base side/bat-handle side [0029]
14,14'/14''--upper outer corner, finger insertion holes:
forefinger/middle-finger [0030]
15,15'/15'',15A,15S--receiver-sleeve,
upper-terminus/lower-terminus, axis, stitching [0031]
16/16'/16'',16H--insert-cushion (standard): short/medium/long,
hollow center [0032] 17,17',17''--Insert-cushion simple capsule,
wall structure, internal space [0033]
18,18',18'',18#--insert-cushion pump capsule, cylinder-wall,
pushbutton, piston-body [0034] 18B,18C',18C'',18P--bulkhead,
pressure-chamber, anti-chamber, relief-plunger [0035]
18S,18V',18V''--piston-seal, flap-valve, check-valve [0036]
19'/19''--bolster assembly (receiver-sleeve & insert-cushion):
1-finger/2-finger [0037] 20,20'/20''--forearm-axis,
upper-hand/lower-hand [0038] 21,21',21'',21B,21M--human-hand:
[0039] . . . thumb, forefinger, middle-finger, base-region,
A.P.T.-muscle web region [0040] 22,22',22''--ball, hitting-zone,
ball path Ref.-arrow
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0041] Initial reference is given by way of FIG.-1, wherein is
exhibited the believed primary `prior-art`, my original and still
popular Mk-I/Pow'rPad.RTM. 4-finger grip-pad 11. In light of my
recent R&D-studies into the dynamics of baseball-bat percussion
upon impact with an official hardball, my Mk-I design 11 has been
revealed to provide a less than optimal configuration, particularly
as it applies to usage by baseball-batters. While indeed providing
a degree of protection from so-called `bat-sting`, as a batter's
aid the construction of my Mk-I does not adequately meet the needs
of today's baseball-batters, owing both to the bulk of its
excessive full-palm longitudinal-width, and its inability to
provide hand protection which can be advantageously varied in
compliance resilience according to individual user requirements.
Note in FIG.-1 how the Mk-I's flexile planar main-body (a) is
constructed of frothed-neoprene, but clad only on the palm
interfacing side with a fine-denier nylon/stretch-fabric (b), while
the obverse broad-side surface (c) is formed shaved of the normal
smooth-skin, which notion was to promote a greater as
coefficient-of-friction relative to the bat-handle. Plus, an
elongate wedge-shaped longitudinal-axis (d) bolster-cushion (e) was
permanently bonded to the pad's exposed-cell surface (c), which has
proved to be excessively bulky for many batters. Moreover, the
finger-holes (f) tend to fray and tear-out (especially when used
over a batting-glove) owing to absence of bilateral reinforcement
by an opposing layer of nylon/stretch-fabric.
[0042] Accordingly, study of generic FIGS.-2A/2B/3 at once reveals
the major change in construction residing in my new Mk-II grip-pad
embodiment. For example, it has been discovered that owing the
inherent friction of finger-hole impingement upon the forefinger, a
minimalist 1-finger embodiment is now provided per FIGS.-2A/2B,
owing provision of a fine-denier nylon/stretch-fabric upon both
sides of the pad-body 13 (proximal the finger-base impinging side
13'), and at the bat-handle impinging side 13''. Surprisingly, the
design first introduced in my here exemplified Mk-II 2-finger
Pow'rPad.RTM. configuration of FIG.-3, has come to realize its
ultimate performance potential via the relative diminutive size of
my latest Mk-II 1-finger Pow'rPad.RTM. embodiment exhibited in
FIGS.-2A/2B; yet it is this novel generic construction (shared by
both 1-finger and 2-finger versions) which has enabled a
significant performance advancement, --which shall be elaborated
upon later herein.
[0043] Examining the generic features better revealed in enlarged
FIG.-2B, we note the same basic construction configuration is
shared by both the 1-finger and 2-finger embodiments, and that the
insert-cushion 16 may include an optional hollow center 16H, which
provision is designed to further modulate compliance. The flexile
(ie: pliant and stretchable) planar grip-pad body 13 is comprised
of commercially available 1/16-inch to 1/4-inch (preferably the
thinner gauge of material) frothed-neoprene which is durably clad
upon both broad sides with nylon/stretch-fabric. This unique
grip-pad body is first die-cut into an elongated D-shape, while
simultaneously punching a forefinger-hole (plus an optional
middle-finger hole immediately thereunder in the case of a 2-finger
configuration) proximal the upper-corner 14 of the planar body's
outward-terminus. Then the O-shaped receiver-sleeve 15 portion is
created by folding the inward-terminus 15' once over upon itself to
the extent of at least 1/2-inch, and 1-inch at the most, where it
is permanently attached via linear machine stitching 15''; which
constitutes completion of the basic Mk-II grip-pad 1-finger and
2-finger construction. Finally, we install a generally extruded
standard insert-cushion 16 (short length exemplified in FIG.-2B)
into the resulting elastic receiver-sleeve 15, --thereby comprising
the essential core of the overall assembled bolster 19. Note also,
that the selected insert-cushion 16 may be substantially flush with
the top and bottom openings of the receiver-sleeve (as exemplified
in FIG.-2B), or it may be preferred that the insert-cushion
terminuses extend upwardly 16'' or downwardly 16'' as is
exemplified in FIG.-2A and FIG.-3; or alternately. filling just
half of the receiver-sleeve 15 as is indicated at 16' in FIG.-3
(wherein the insert-cushion may not be extend down in the
lower-half of the receiver-sleeve 15, if an individual batter
prefers to emphasize concentration of cushioning at the upper
portion of the receiver-sleeve). The embodiment of FIG.-3 is that
of my new standard 2-finger Mk-II Pow'rPad.RTM., which is
essentially a longitudinally elongated version of my FIG.-2A
1-finger Pow'rPad.RTM., the primary advantage of this 2-finger
embodiment resides in its providing a self-aligning relationship
relative to the base-region 20B of the two upper fingers
(forefinger and middle). Note also that my Mk-II Pow'rPad.RTM. may
be made in various different sizes; hence, proportionately scaled
up or down according to the hand dimensions of very young
ball-players, as versus the hand of a full-adult
pro/ball-player.
[0044] There remain subtle, however vital other differences which
are to become herein more evident and understood as important
improvements. For example, FIG.-4 shows how by virtue of
finger-hole 14' anchoring of the pad-body 13 to user's forefinger
21', the bolster 19 portion becomes naturally lodged in position
between conventional bat-handle 10 and the base-region 21B of
batter's upper-hand; thereby shielding the sensitive web region 21M
spanning between thumb 21 and forefinger 21' (although normally
covered by skin-tissue which is removed here, revealing the
underlaying APT/Abductor-Pollicis-Trans muscle) 21M from dreaded
bat-sting. However, orientation of my 1-finger version in FIG.-2A
is necessarily reliant upon the friction-fit of the elastic pad
material surround alone, while my 2-finger version in FIG.-3 has
the advantage of providing absolute positive orientation (will not
rotate in azimuth about the forefinger) relative to the APT
20M.
[0045] Study of FIG.-4 serves to graphically demonstrate how my
longitudinally abbreviated 1-finger Mk-II bolster 19'
configuration, and elongate 2-finger configuration 19'', act to
advance per ref.-`X` the swing stroke position of the bat's
longitudinal-axis 10' approximately 11/2-degrees to 3-degrees
(given a normal hand grip usage, and dependent upon the diameter
and compliance resilience of the bolster). This advantageous
function is shown measured as an angle-of-incidence of displacement
from the bat's basic longitudinal-axis 10'' poised perpendicularly,
at a right-angle relative to the batter's upper-hand forearm-axis
20; and by way of comparison, represents the basic position of the
bat's longitudinal-axis 10' without use of my grip-pad aid, while
the longitudinal-axis 10'' represents the approximate displacement
of the bat's longitudinal-axis when either of my Mk-II grip-pad's
12'/12'' are being worn upon batter's upper-hand 20'. Hence, it is
to be understood that when a batter swings their bat while wearing
my Mk-II grip-pad 12'/12'', the pitched-ball 22 actually approaches
the batter's strike-zone 22' (transverse-line on action ref.-arrow)
above the batting-plate (not shown) during an earlier sequence of
the batter's swing, as compared to the same situation without use
of my grip-pad. Accordingly, in the stage of the batter's swing
wherein they break from the basic poise of their bat, and commences
to rotate their wrists at a point approximately above the
batting-plate as is exemplified in FIG.-4, it is herein postulated
that the bat has actually traveled slightly further through the
hitting-zone than if my device were not employed. Moreover, by
optimizing this advanced displacement of the bat-handle 10 poised
in the batter's hands, the batter is thereby enabled to swing at an
enhanced angle through the hitting-zone 22' (action Ref.-arrow),
thereby serving to improve the batter's physical leverage,
resulting in increased bat-speed, which equates to greater power
potential to send a `well hit ball` (ie: on the so called
sweet-spot of the bat-barrel) further, yet with better control,
--according to batter testimonials. Note also, that this function
is in addition to the rebounding-effect discussed earlier in the
summary-section hereof.
[0046] Instead of the herein preceding considered `standard`
closed-celled foam-core type of resilient insert-cushion 16 (which
can be molded/extruded in various compliance durometers), in FIG.-5
is shown an alternate imperforately sealed somewhat balloon like
fluid-medium filled resilient capsule like insert-cushion 18,
having an approximately 1/32-inch to 1/16-inch thickness
flexile-polymer wall-structure 17' (ie: such as of tough
urethane-resin material) forming the internal spatial confine 17'',
wherein the contained fluid can either be `pneumatic` (by
containing a compressive gas such as air, nitrogen, --etc.) or
`hydraulic` (a non-compressive liquid such as a saline-solution of
water/H.sup.2O); either medium usage being according to user
preference and engineering-design choice. While the pneumatic
embodiment is advantageously lighter-weight and exhibits a
substantially greater degree of cushioning compliance than the
hydraulic version (for a given wall-thickness), the hydraulic
version naturally relies upon the inherent elastic quality of the
wall-structure 17' when subjected to momentary compressive-loads;
while both of these embodiments can be made to different
longitudinal lengths and diameters (--ranging between 3/8-inch to
3/4-inch) for selective interchangeable employment as an
insert-cushion 17 within the elastic receiver-sleeve 15 of either
my FIG.-2A and FIG.-3 grip-pad embodiments as a substitute for the
generally foam-polymer or foam-elastomer insert-cushion indicated
as 16 (or 16'/16''). Accordingly the length options of this fluid
type insert-cushion capsule 17 are regarded as equivalent to that
set forth for the standard insert-cushion (16/16'/16'').
[0047] In FIG.-6 is shown a more elaborate variable-compliance
iteration of my preceding ultimately simple capsule 17 like
insert-cushion, here a hybrid embodiment pump equipped capsule 18,
in which one end of the FIG.-5 capsule is left open, and the
flexile wall material 17' is ultra-sonically permanently bonded to
the rigid cylinder-wall insert 18', thereby forming a
pressure-chamber 18C' which can be readily inflated as desired by
the user, even while at bat if desired! To operate, user removes
the standard insert-cushion 16 from the receiver-sleeve 15 of their
Mk-II grip-pad 12'/12'', and inserts this special pump capsule 18,
leaving the approximately 1/2-inch rigid pumping portion extending
either well upward or well below the receiver-sleeve's terminuses
15' and 15'' respectively. The user then can finger depress
pushbutton portion 18'' several times to attain degree of
air-pressure desired within the pressure-chamber 18C'. Being that
the annular pushbutton 18'' is preferably injection-molded plastic
formed integrally with the piston-body portion 18# (having
integrally-molded feather-edged flange-seal portion 18S), each
stroke of the (ref.-action of large white-arrow, whilst the large
black-arrow represents the default return-stroke biasing-action of
pushbutton 18'') piston-body 18# forces air passed the rubber
flapper-valve 18V' into the pressure-chamber 18C' on other side of
bulkhead 18B, while conical check-valve 18V'' necessarily becomes
seated (to maintain air within anti-chamber 18C'' for compression
purposes). If the user senses an excessive firmness of the flexile
wall 17', the user merely depresses the conical check-valve 18V''
briefly with the tip of their fingernail (while depressing
pushbutton 18#), thus moving the relief-plunger 18P to open
flap-valve 18V' thereby releasing captive air-pressure to the
extent desired.
[0048] In FIG.-7 is shown a human-hand wherein the skin-tissue has
been removed to reveal the underlaying tendons and musculature. As
has been stated herein, an important function of this invention
disclosure is to facilitate improved protection of the web region
identified as the APT/abductor-pollicis-trans muscle 21M, which
spans between the batter's thumb 21 and their forefinger 21'.
[0049] Thus, it is readily understood how the preferred and
generic-variant embodiments of this invention contemplate
performing functions in a novel way not heretofore available nor
realized. It is implicit that the utility of the foregoing
adaptations of this invention are not necessarily dependent upon
any prevailing invention patent; and, while the present invention
has been well described hereinbefore by way of certain illustrated
embodiments, it is to be expected that various changes,
alterations, rearrangements, and obvious modifications may be
resorted to by those skilled in the art to which it relates,
without substantially departing from the implied spirit and scope
of the instant invention. Therefore, the invention has been
disclosed herein by way of example, and not as imposed limitation,
while the appended Claims set out the scope of the invention
sought, and are to be construed as broadly as the terminology
therein employed permits, reckoning that the invention verily
comprehends every use of which it is susceptible. Accordingly, the
embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or
proprietary privilege is claimed, are defined as follows.
* * * * *