U.S. patent application number 12/458831 was filed with the patent office on 2010-01-21 for handle and forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing the like.
Invention is credited to Stephen L. Tillim.
Application Number | 20100011541 12/458831 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46150311 |
Filed Date | 2010-01-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100011541 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Tillim; Stephen L. |
January 21, 2010 |
Handle and forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing
the like
Abstract
The present invention provides a design method and apparatus for
a handle providing a shape and structure that fills various regions
of the hand except a region in an area over the underlying carpal
tunnel. Such design method and apparatus provides for various
handles for use by a hand. In particular, the apparatus includes a
generally Y-shaped configuration, such as for a forceps/tweezers
handle with a working end. The handle can include a radial section
an ulnar section and middle section. The handle also can have a
radial arm, an ulnar arm and distal leg, with an ulnar end and a
radial end for engaging a portion of the hand.
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: |
46150311 |
Appl. No.: |
12/458831 |
Filed: |
July 23, 2009 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10420872 |
Apr 23, 2003 |
6944914 |
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12458831 |
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10279111 |
Oct 24, 2002 |
6988295 |
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10420872 |
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PCT/US03/12648 |
Apr 23, 2003 |
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10279111 |
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PCT/US02/33956 |
Oct 24, 2002 |
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PCT/US03/12648 |
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60330527 |
Oct 24, 2001 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
16/430 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 2017/32113
20130101; A61B 2017/2929 20130101; A63B 60/06 20151001; B25C 5/0285
20130101; A61B 2017/2939 20130101; A61B 17/3201 20130101; Y10T
16/466 20150115; A61B 2017/0046 20130101; A61B 2017/2918 20130101;
A61B 17/8875 20130101; Y10T 16/476 20150115; A61B 17/2909 20130101;
Y10T 16/48 20150115; A63B 60/08 20151001; B60T 7/08 20130101; Y10S
16/12 20130101; A61B 2017/2919 20130101; A63B 60/10 20151001; B43K
23/004 20130101; A61B 17/30 20130101; B25G 1/102 20130101; G05G
1/06 20130101; Y10S 16/19 20130101; A61B 2017/00477 20130101; A61B
2017/2931 20130101; A61B 2017/00424 20130101; A61B 2017/2927
20130101; A61B 17/3213 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
16/430 |
International
Class: |
B25G 1/10 20060101
B25G001/10 |
Claims
1-14. (canceled)
15. A handle for use with a hand, comprising: a unitary radial arm
including a radial end for engaging a portion of the radial side of
the palmar surface of the hand; a unitary ulnar arm including an
ulnar end for engaging a portion of the ulnar side of the palmar
surface of the hand; and a unitary distal leg for respectively
receiving the thumb of the hand and at least one of the index
finger of the hand and the middle finger of the hand, when the
radial end of the unitary radial arm engages a portion of the
radial side of the palmar surface of the hand and the ulnar end of
the unitary ulnar arm engages a portion of the ulnar side of the
palmar surface of the hand, wherein the radial end of the unitary
radial arm and the ulnar end of the unitary ulnar arm engage
corresponding portions of the radial side and the ulnar side of the
palmar surface of the hand to position the handle within the hand
without placing substantial pressure on a surface of the hand
located over the carpal tunnel.
16. The handle according to claim 15, wherein the radial end of the
unitary radial arm and the ulnar end of the unitary ulnar arm
engage corresponding portions of the radial side and the ulnar side
of the palmar surface of the hand to position the handle within the
hand without engaging a surface of the hand located over the carpal
tunnel.
17. The handle according to claim 15, wherein the handle is of a
unitary construction.
18. The handle according to claim 15, wherein the unitary ulnar arm
is for receiving the ring finger and the small finger of the
hand.
19. An apparatus for use with a hand, comprising: a unitary radial
arm including a radial end for engaging a portion of the radial
side of the palmar surface of the hand; a unitary ulnar arm
including an ulnar end for engaging a portion of the ulnar side of
the palmar surface of the hand; and a unitary distal leg for
respectively receiving the thumb of the hand and at least one of
the index finger of the hand and the middle finger of the hand,
when the radial end of the unitary radial arm engages a portion of
the radial side of the palmar surface of the hand and the ulnar end
of the unitary ulnar arm engages a portion of the ulnar side of the
palmar surface of the hand, wherein the radial end of the unitary
radial arm and the ulnar end of the unitary ulnar arm engage
corresponding portions of the radial side and the ulnar side of the
palmar surface of the hand to position the apparatus within the
hand without placing substantial pressure on a surface of the hand
located over the carpal tunnel.
20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the radial end of
the unitary radial arm and the ulnar end of the unitary ulnar arm
engage corresponding portions of the radial side and the ulnar side
of the palmar surface of the hand to position the apparatus within
the hand without engaging a surface of the hand located over the
carpal tunnel.
21. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the apparatus is
generally of a Y shape, an asymmetrical Y shape or a sling-shot
shape configuration.
22. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the unitary radial
arm, the unitary ulnar arm and the unitary distal leg form a shape
generally of a Y shape, an asymmetrical Y shape or a sling-shot
shape configuration.
23. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the unitary ulnar
arm includes a finger section and a palmar section.
24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the finger section
of the unitary ulnar arm is for receiving at least one of the ring
finger and the small finger of the hand.
25. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the palmar section
of the unitary ulnar arm is for engaging a portion of the palmar
surface of the hand.
26. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the palmar section
of the unitary ulnar arm is for engaging a portion of the palmar
surface of the hand.
27. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the finger section
and the palmar section of the unitary ulnar arm form a generally
obtuse angle configuration.
28. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the unitary radial
arm and the unitary ulnar arm form a generally obtuse angle
configuration.
29. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the unitary radial
arm is of a straight or curved configuration.
30. The apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the unitary ulnar
arm includes a generally obtuse angle configuration.
31. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the unitary radial
arm and the unitary ulnar arm form a generally obtuse angle
configuration.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Divisional of U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/420,872 filed Apr. 23, 2003. Priority is claimed based on
U.S. application Ser. No. 10/420,872 filed Apr. 23, 2003, which
claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/279,111 filed Oct.
24, 2002, which claims priority to the provisional application,
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/330,527, filed on
Oct. 24, 2001. Priority is also claimed based upon International
Application No. PCT/US03/12648, filed on Apr. 23, 2003 and upon
International Application No. PCT/US02/33956, filed on Oct. 24,
2002.
CLAIM FOR PRIORITY
[0002] This application claims the benefit of and is a Divisional
of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/420,872, filed Apr. 23, 2003, the
entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference, which
claims the benefit of and is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/279,111 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 of
International Application No. PCT/US03/12648, filed on Apr. 23,
2003, presently published in English under PCT Article 21(2), 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, presently 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
[0003] The present invention provides handles for forceps/tweezers
and method and apparatus for designing such handles. Desirably, the
forceps/tweezers have a generally asymmetrical "Y" shaped handle
designed to comfortably fit the hand when used. The present
invention provides a forceps/tweezers handle that desirably
includes two mirror image blades, which meet or connect at one end.
The forceps/tweezers handle of the present invention can be used as
a handle to assist the hand in pinching, gripping, holding, cutting
and other functions. The forceps/tweezers handle of the present
invention can be used for surgical forceps, a variety of surgical
instruments, tweezers and a variety of tools and instruments.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Forceps and tweezers are common tools made in the shape of a
stylus in which there is a working end or tip and a part that rests
on the fleshy space between the base of the index finger and the
thumb. Typically, forceps and tweezers are held like a pencil where
the thumb, index finger and middle finger hold forceps or tweezers
close to the working end. As used herein and as in human anatomy,
the anatomical term proximal is nearer and distal is further away
on the extremities in relation to the torso. Similarly, in relation
to the hand, typically the part of a forceps or tweezers resting
over the portion of the hand between the base of the thumb and
index finger is the proximal end, whereas the tips of forceps or
tweezers can be referred to as the distal end.
[0005] Forceps and tweezers have opposing blades or members and
fine tips enabling the hand to pick up and hold parts of various
objects with a range of grip intensity. The opposing actions of the
thumb and the long fingers manipulate the blades to move the tips
of forceps or tweezers together. Opposition, i.e. moving the tip of
the thumb and tips of the long fingers closer to each other, is
done by contracting opponens muscle of the thumb and the lumbrical
muscles of the long fingers. The lumbricals are small muscles
located in the palm of the hand and their contraction pulls the
proximal interphalangeal (PIP) bones at the base of the long
fingers. The opponens muscle of the hand pulls the base of the
thumb. When using forceps or tweezers, the function of fine pinch
is under control of the opponens muscle and the lumbrical muscles.
However, the function of gross pinch is under control of the
opponens muscle of the forearm that pulls the distal portion of the
thumb, and the deep flexor muscles of the forearm pull the distal
portion of the index finger and the distal portion of the middle
finger.
[0006] Typically, the blades of a forceps or tweezers receive
support in the resting hand from the middle finger that crosses
underneath them and the portion of the hand between the thumb and
index finger. However, when the distal tips of a forceps or
tweezers are moved together, the support for the forceps or
tweezers in the hand changes and greater support is generated at
the tips of the thumb and index fingers to hold the forceps or
tweezers. This can cause muscle and joint strain.
[0007] Some of the factors that can cause strain in the hand when
using a common forceps or tweezers include the width of the blades,
the spring force of the blades, the way the hand and wrist joints
function when grasping or pinching with a forceps or tweezers, the
number of muscle fascicles of a muscle used to contract a
corresponding muscle, and the position of the fingers on the
forceps or tweezers. Typically, wider blades of a forceps or
tweezers are easier to hold than narrow blades, and generally
require less muscle tension to pinch. The spring-like properties of
the material used for typical forceps or tweezers and the
connection of the blades can affect the muscle force required to
close a forceps or tweezers.
[0008] Most joints flex and extend and have a small degree of side
to side motion, while other joints can move in more than one
direction. In the latter joints, such as the thumb, there is larger
surface contact area at the center of the joint than the periphery
of the joint. When the thumb opposes the center of the long finger
tips, the bones at the base of the thumb contact more surface area.
When the thumb opposes the index finger or small finger, then bone
contact in the joint is at the respective sides of the joint, with
the joint contact area of the bones being less than when the thumb
opposes the long fingers. Therefore, the common forceps or tweezers
force the thumb to move to the radial side of the thumb joint where
there is less bone contact surface area.
[0009] Muscles are made up of sub groups called muscle fascicles.
These fascicles are made up of groups of muscle fibers. The amount
of muscle fiber contraction determines the strength or the pinch
force used to hold an object between the tips of the forceps or
tweezers. When the radial side of the thumb joint is used to hold a
common forceps or tweezers, the thumb opposes the index finger, and
the radial side of the opponens muscle contracts to pull the thumb.
In the common forceps or tweezers, fewer muscle fascicles and
fibers are typically used for pinch strength when the thumb opposes
the index finger than when the thumb opposes the center of the long
finger tips. If fewer muscle fascicles and fibers are used to
pinch, than potentially available, there is a greater chance of
fatigue and strain in these muscles and their fascicles. Therefore,
utilizing more muscle fascicles can desirably increase pinch
strength and reduce muscle fatigue and stress. Thus a forceps or
tweezers that increases the number of muscle fascicles used to
pinch a forceps or tweezers is desirable.
[0010] Moreover, pinch strength is also affected by the number of
muscles used in pinching. When the thumb and index finger pinch,
one lumbrical muscle is used to pinch the index finger against the
thumb. However, two lumbrical muscles, one for the index finger and
one for the middle finger, are used in pinching when the thumb
opposes the space between the index finger and middle finger. Pinch
forces are potentially greater when the thumb opposes both the
index finger and the middle finger than when the thumb opposes the
index finger alone. This potential grip strength is greater because
more opponens muscle fascicles are available when the thumb opposes
the space between the index finger tip and the middle finger tip
than when the thumb opposes the index finger tip. Thus, opposing
the thumb to the space between the index finger and the middle
finger has greater efficiency and can reduce muscle fatigue.
[0011] Additionally, hand strain can occur while using a common
forceps or tweezers. This is because the thumb and index finger
have a natural tendency to advance toward the tip of the common
forceps or tweezers when holding a stylus-type tool, creating
having the potential for excessive squeezing of the forceps or
tweezers. This can create exaggerated thumb flexion at the distal
interphalangeal joint (DIP) of the thumb and exaggerated index
finger flexion at the middle interphalangeal (MIP) joint of the
index finger while the DIP joint of the index finger extends. With
such exaggerated flexion, the tips of the fingers squeeze and
retract proximally, providing feedback or added pressure, i.e. "the
feel", that an object is being supported by the hand. Maintaining
this awkward position can also strain finger and wrist joints and
ligaments, especially when they suffer pre-existing damage. Such
awkward but common position of exaggerated flexion results from the
forearm muscles and tendons contracting the middle phalange of the
index finger and distal phalange of the thumb. This typically
requires significant force from the forearm muscles, which can add
strain and pressure within the carpal tunnel (CT) where the tendons
of the superficial flexor forearm muscles transmit direct pressure
on the transverse carpal ligament (TCL) and median nerve. Thus, the
strain and pressure in the CT from the tendons of the contracted
superficial flexor forearm muscles resulting from such awkward
position can lead to median nerve irritation and carpal tunnel
syndrome (CTS). Furthermore, strain in the muscles in the hand and
forearm can cause repetitive strain syndrome of the involved
muscles.
[0012] A typical problem posed with common forceps and tweezers is
that frequent use can cause pain in the hand, wrist and forearm and
lead to CTS. This problem has not been solved because the common
forceps or tweezers generally adapts a stylus-type tool to pinch
small objects. Such stylus-type tools can force the hand into an
uncomfortable position with the hand compensating for exaggerated
finger flexion, as discussed above, leading to this problem.
[0013] Efficiency is reached when the parts of the hand work in
harmony to perform a task. The goal of handle design for a forceps
or tweezers, as well as an objective of the method and apparatus of
the present invention is to promote such efficiency. An efficient
handle design should maintain the hand in a comfortable position. A
further goal of any handle or grip design, as well as a further
objective of the present invention, is to facilitate the function
of the hand and forearm muscles so they work in concert. Another
goal of handle design, as well as a further objective of the method
and apparatus of the present invention, is to facilitate the
function of the joints in the hand and wrist to reduce ligament
strain.
[0014] Furthermore, another goal of handle design for a forceps or
tweezers, as well as an objective of the method and apparatus of
the present invention, is to promote reduced pinch strength
typically required for holding an object. When less pinch strength
is required to hold objects, there is less strain to joints and
their surrounding ligaments.
[0015] Therefore, what is needed is a handle for a forceps or
tweezers, and a method and apparatus for designing such a handle
for a forceps or tweezers, that fulfills the previously mentioned
goals. Such a handle for a forceps or tweezers should promote a
reduced incidence of repetitive strain disorder and joint
injury.
[0016] Forceps and tweezers, such as surgical forceps and tweezers,
generally fall into three common types. The first type has two side
by side blade members hinged at one end and tips at the other
respective end. The blade members move toward each other and the
tips come together to grasp and hold. The blade members of this
first type of forceps and tweezers can meet and cross and then
extend like a scissors. The blade members of the second type of
forceps and tweezers are oriented one on top of the other instead
of side by side. In the second type, the handles extend
perpendicular to the orientation of the blade members and typically
the handles have rings to engage the fingers. The blade members in
the second type meet the handles at a hinge. Moving the ring
handles moves a pivoting member to open or close for grasping or
cutting tissue. A third type of forceps and tweezers uses a lever
or slide to actuate a mechanism that opens and closes the jaws of
an instrument.
[0017] Examples of the side-by-side blades of the first type of
forceps or tweezers include those in U.S. Pat. Nos. 288,096,
987,095 and 2,540,255, which are fruit pickers. U.S. Pat. No.
5,893,877 illustrates a forceps or tweezers which is a
microsurgical cup forceps U.S. Pat. No. 5,002,561 illustrates a
protective hand forceps and U.S. Pat. No. 5,176,696 is related to
handles for microsurgical instruments. The handles in U.S. Pat. No.
5,176,696 oppose the thumb to the index finger and middle
finger.
[0018] Examples of the ring or second type of forceps or tweezers
include those illustrated in the following U.S. Patents, namely
U.S. Pat. No. 4,043,343 illustrates forceps, U.S. Pat. No.
4,674,501 illustrates a surgical instrument, U.S. Pat. No.
5,160,343 illustrates a surgical instrument handle and forceps
assembly, U.S. Pat. No. 5,211,655 illustrates multiple use forceps
for endoscopy, U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,460 illustrates laparoscopy
instrument, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,318,589 illustrates a surgical
instrument for endoscopic surgery.
[0019] Examples of the lever or third type of forceps or tweezers
include those illustrated in the following U.S. Patents, namely
U.S. Pat. No. 4,644,651 illustrates an instrument for gripping or
cutting, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,470,328 illustrates a surgical
instrument handle and actuator means, in which both devices
described press down a lever. Other examples of the lever or third
type of forceps or tweezers include those illustrated in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,147,380 which illustrates a biopsy forceps device having
locking means and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,184,625 which illustrates a
biopsy forceps device having improved handle, both having sliding
locking devices. Another example of the lever or third type of
forceps or tweezers is illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 5,976,121 as a
medical manipulator that has a lever that straddles a shaft that
has a distal end with a grasping part.
[0020] What is needed is a forceps or tweezers allowing the hand to
pinch with greater efficiency, improved stability and reduced joint
and muscle strain and tension. The problem with many of the above
examples of common forceps or tweezers is that their design and
operation does not take advantage of the greater pinch strength
available from opposing the thumb to the index finger and middle
finger instead of opposing the thumb to the index finger.
Furthermore, the above styles of handles for common forceps or
tweezers do not efficiently utilize the palm of the hand to support
the handle. In addition, the handles for common forceps and
tweezers do not efficiently utilize the ring finger and small
finger to hold and stabilize the handle of the forceps and
tweezers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0021] The present invention provides handles for forceps/tweezers
and method and apparatus for designing such handles.
[0022] Also, in the design method and apparatus for handles for
forceps/tweezers of the present invention, the design method and
apparatus includes embodiments and methods based on measurements
made of the hand in a functional pinching position or Forceps Hand
Position (FHP).
[0023] A method and apparatus for designing handles for
forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing such
handles of the present invention is provided and is based on
defined anatomical positions derived from the functional anatomy of
a pinching hand. The method uses lines with respect to measurements
made in the hand when the thumb opposes the space between the index
and middle fingers. Apparatus, such as forceps and tweezers,
produced from this method make efficient use of the hand.
[0024] An advantage of handles for forceps/tweezers and method and
apparatus for designing such handles of the present invention of
such design is that such handles do not contact the skin over the
TCL. Therefore the TCL is not compressed and no pressure is
transmitted to the contents of the CT region during pinching or
using a handle of such design.
[0025] Another advantage of handles for forceps/tweezers and method
and apparatus for designing such handles of the present invention
is that the natural arcs of the fingers and palm are maintained. In
conforming to the natural hand anatomy a handle of this design
becomes more comfortable to hold.
[0026] Another advantage of handles for forceps/tweezers and method
and apparatus for designing such handles of the present invention
is that a larger part of the hand contacts the handle. Thus there
is the addition of the much greater hand area contacting a handle
of this design for pinching.
[0027] Another advantage is that using such handles for
forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing such
handles of the present invention does not compromise or distort the
arteries supplying the muscles in the hand. This is because such a
handle does not touch either the TCL and underlying CT where the
radial artery traverses Guyon's tunnel at the pisiform bone where
the ulnar artery goes deep to supply the structures of the
hand.
[0028] Another advantage of handles for forceps/tweezers and method
and apparatus for designing such handles of the present invention
is that they do not compromise, compress or distort the nerves that
go to the hand.
[0029] Another advantage of using handles for forceps/tweezers and
method and apparatus for designing such handles of the present
invention is that there is less strain on contents of and pressure
in the CT.
[0030] Another advantage of handles for forceps/tweezers and method
and apparatus for designing such handles of the present invention
is that there is less compression, distortion or irritation of the
median nerve by the superficial flexor tendons, which are closer to
the TCL and the median nerve in the CT.
[0031] The consummate advantage is that handles for
forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing such
handles of the present invention based on the advantages noted
above will reduce acute and chronic irritation, trauma and strain
to the tendons, bursa, joints hand muscles and median nerve. It is
therefore expected that the result will be in a reduced incidence
of CTS and repetitive strain syndrome for people who use forceps or
tweezers of this design.
[0032] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a
design method and apparatus for handles for forceps/tweezers of the
present invention having greater contact with the supportive areas
of the hand.
[0033] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a
design method and apparatus for handles for forceps/tweezers and
method and apparatus for designing such handles of the present
invention to optimize use of the flexor hand muscles to the thumb
and long fingers.
[0034] It is still another objective of the present invention to
provide a design method and apparatus for handles for
forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing such
handles of the present invention that utilizes reduced grip
strength as compared to a common forceps/tweezers.
[0035] It is still another objective of the present invention to
provide handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for
designing such handles of the present invention of various sizes
and shapes for various applications.
[0036] It is still another objective of the present invention to
provide handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for
designing such handles of the present invention related to various
hand sizes to accomplish the above and other objectives of the
present invention.
[0037] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the
distal end of handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus
for designing such handles of the present invention can include an
elevated surface or various surfaces acting as a reference or
references for positioning of the fingers on the
forceps/tweezers.
[0038] According to another aspect of the present invention,
handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing
such handles of the present invention can include those desirably
having generally a "Y" shape, the "Y" shape desirably being of a
generally asymmetric "Y" shape. The "Y" shape for such handle for
forceps/tweezers has three ends with two upper arms and one leg,
either as a single "Y" shape portion or having two "Y" shaped
portions joined at their respective proximal ends. While the
handles for forceps/tweezers of such aspect of the present
invention will generally have the two "Y" shaped portions joined or
meeting at their proximal end to perform a forceps/tweezers open
and close pinching function, the handle for the forceps or tweezers
can also be of a single "Y" portion, that can be adapted for
various mechanisms and implements, such as for a motorized control
function, such as for an implement, or as can be used for a shovel,
spade or pick, for example. The uppermost or proximal arm of each
"Y" meets and touches areas on the radial side and ulnar side of
the palm of the hand. Each leg or distal end of the "Y" extends
from the corresponding connection of the radial and ulnar proximal
arms of the "Y" to end near the tips of the thumb, index finger and
middle finger. The lower leg or distal end of each "Y" contacts the
distal part of the thumb, index finger and middle finger of the
hand. In embodiments having the two "Y" shaped portions, the
proximal ends of the "Y" are connected and the distal end of each
"Y" moves toward the other by the opposing movement of the thumb on
one "Y" and the index finger and middle finger on the other "Y". A
variety of working ends/working members attached to the distal
members of the handle by various means can be used to grasp, bite
or cut various objects. The present invention also provides for
handles, such as for forceps/tweezers, and method and apparatus for
designing such handles of the present invention to be made for a
plurality of hand sizes by adjusting the dimensions of the proximal
arm and the dimensions of the distal leg.
[0039] According to another aspect of the present invention,
handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing
such handles of the present invention desirably provide for the
thumb to oppose both the index and middle fingers, which is in
contrast to the thumb opposing the index finger alone as in the
common forceps or tweezers.
[0040] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing
such handles of the present invention desirably provide greater
stabilization because the handle for forceps/tweezers is supported
at areas within the hand, rather than resting on the middle finger
and the portion of the hand between the base of the thumb and index
finger.
[0041] According to another aspect of the present invention,
handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing
such handles of the present invention desirably provide for
maintaining the ring finger and the small finger in the T
Position.
[0042] Furthermore, handles for forceps/tweezers and method and
apparatus for designing such handles of the present invention
desirably optimize the position for the joints of the thumb, index
finger and middle finger so the respective MIP and DIP joints
cannot flex excessively. Therefore, the handles for the
forceps/tweezers of the present invention promote reduced demands
on the forearm muscles and the hand muscles, when used for
pinching.
[0043] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
handles for forceps/tweezers and method and apparatus for designing
such handles of the present invention can reduce or prevent injury
to joints, muscles, tendons and the median nerve in the CT
compartment.
[0044] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
handles and method and apparatus for designing such handles of the
present invention provide for power pinch that can utilize all of
the digits of the hand for pinch and not the first three digits of
the hand. Stress is thereby reduced at the metacarpal-carpal joint
of the thumb when the thumb meets the wrist bones, as compared to
when the thumb only opposes the index finger. When the thumb
opposes the space at the middle of the long fingers, this position
directs the stress across the four metacarpal-phalangeal joints of
the index, middle, ring and small fingers. Directing stress across
MP joints of the index, middle, ring and small fingers enlists more
muscles for pinching.
[0045] An object of the present invention is to desirably provide
handle designs that utilize the appropriate muscles to enhance
pinch.
[0046] Another object of the present invention is to desirably
provide handle designs that utilize the appropriate muscles for
delicate pinch.
[0047] A further object of the present invention is to desirably
provide handle designs that stabilize a handle within the hand.
[0048] An additional object of the present invention is to
desirably provide handle designs that position the thumb to oppose
the space between the index and middle fingers Moreover, another
object of the present invention is to desirably provide handle
designs that keep the hand in the T position where the tips of the
ring finger and small finger are substantially aligned.
[0049] Likewise, an object of the present invention is to desirably
provide handle designs that reduce muscle and joint tension.
[0050] Another object of the present invention is to desirably
provide handle designs that limit flexion at the PIP joints of the
opposing thumb, index finger and middle finger of the hand.
[0051] A further object of the present invention is to desirably
provide handle designs that contact the horizontal crease on the
radial side of the hand.
[0052] An additional object of the present invention is to
desirably provide handle designs that contact the hypothenar muscle
area between the horizontal crease on the ulnar side of the hand
and the pisiform bone on the ulnar side of the hand.
[0053] It is an object of the present invention to desirably
provide handle designs that position the handle in the hand by
having the ring and small fingers wrap around the ulnar member of
the handle.
[0054] It is another object of the present invention to desirably
provide handle designs that use the flexed ring finger and small
finger to pull the handle of the present invention toward the
radial side and ulnar side of the palm of the hand when the hand is
in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
[0055] It is also an object of the present invention to desirably
provide handle designs that have the ring finger and the small
finger direct (push/pull) the proximal part of the forceps/tweezers
handle against the radial side and the ulnar side of the hand.
[0056] Moreover, it is an object of the present invention to
desirably provide handle designs that prevent the handle from
slipping within the hand.
[0057] Additionally, it is an object of the present invention to
desirably provide handle designs that stabilize such handles used
with an apparatus within the hand.
[0058] Further, an object of the present invention is to desirably
provide handle designs that make the shape of the ulnar section
relate to the functional position of the ring and middle fingers
when the hand is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
[0059] Also, an object of the present invention is to desirably
provide handle designs that use the flexed ring finger to lift the
handle as it contacts the the proximal portion of the distal leg of
the handle when the hand is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0060] 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:
[0061] 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.
[0062] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are views of the hand in the Forceps
Hand Position (FHP). FIG. 2A shows the palmar surface view with the
thumb, index finger and middle finger ending in the same plane. The
tips of the ring finger and small finger end on the same line as in
the T Position. FIG. 2B is a view of the hand in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP) from the perspective of the radial side of the
hand.
[0063] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are schematic views illustrating
embodiments of handles of the present invention of a generally
"Y"-shaped configuration.
[0064] FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C are views illustrating a
forceps/tweezers handle of the present invention. FIG. 4A is
three-dimensional view. FIG. 4B is a side or profile view. FIG. 4C
is a top or radial view.
[0065] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B are views illustrating a hand in the
Forceps Hand Position (FHP) with the hand holding a
forceps/tweezers handle of the present invention. FIG. 5A is a
palmar view of the hand holding a forceps/tweezers handle and FIG.
5B is a radial view of the hand holding a forceps/tweezers
handle.
[0066] FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B illustrate lines for measurement to
determine the dimensions of a forceps/tweezers handle of the
present invention. FIG. 6A shows a palmar view of the hand with the
lines to be measured. FIG. 6B shows a radial view of the hand with
the lines to be measured.
[0067] FIG. 7 illustrates a protractor measuring device used to
measure the hand to determine angles and sizes for a handle of the
present invention.
[0068] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate a rectangular measuring
device used as an alternate to the protractor measuring device of
FIG. 7 to measure the hand for determining measurements and
locations of lines related to the measurements for producing sizes
for a handle of the present invention, with FIG. 8C and FIG. 8D
illustrating the arrangement, measurements and locations of such
lines used to produce a handle of the present invention.
[0069] FIGS. 9A through 9G illustrate variations of a handle of the
present invention. FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate variations at the
ulnar arm. FIGS. 9C and 9D illustrate variations at the contact
area where the thumb, index finger and middle finger can manipulate
a handle of the present invention. FIGS. 9E, 9F and 9G illustrate
extensions added to a handle of the present invention to adjust the
handle of the present invention for a plurality of hand sizes.
[0070] FIGS. 10A through 10G illustrate additions to a handle of
the present invention near the distal end of a handle. FIGS. 10A
and 10B illustrate an elastic means, such as a spring, to keep the
handle in an open position. FIGS. 10C, 10D and 10E illustrate
different views of a clamp to maintain a handle from a fully open
to a fully closed position. FIGS. 10F and 10G illustrates ring
members to receive the ends of corresponding fingers in a
handle.
[0071] FIGS. 11A, 11B and 11C illustrate various views of a
rotating mechanism located at a connecting area allowing rotation
of the radial arm and ulnar arm in a handle of the present
invention.
[0072] FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate views of an embodiment of a
handle of the present invention having a widened distal end.
[0073] FIGS. 13A through 13K illustrate various connection means at
the distal end of a handle of the present invention for connecting
various implements to the handle.
[0074] FIGS. 14A through 14E illustrate embodiments of mechanisms
to change the direction and orientation of pinch with respect to a
handle of the present invention, such as from a side-to-side
horizontal direction to an up and down vertical direction in
relation to a handle.
[0075] FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C and 15D illustrate a spring loaded
mechanism, such as for a surgical scalpel guard, integrated with a
handle of the present invention to provide for retraction and
extension of an implement for use with a handle.
[0076] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate working ends attached to a
handle of the present invention with the working end of FIG. 16A
being a microscissors and the working end of FIG. 16B being a
reverse tweezers.
[0077] FIG. 17 illustrates of an embodiment of a handle of the
present invention attached to a standard size scissors.
[0078] FIGS. 18A, 18B and 18C illustrate views of an embodiment of
a handle of the present invention that has a wider distal end, with
a working end positioned at the wider distal end, such as for
retrieving items such as files from a file cabinet or loose items
on a surface.
[0079] FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C and 19D illustrate various embodiments
of a handle of the present invention that can have devices
integrated with a handle. FIG. 19A illustrates a unitary handle of
the present invention having a single "Y" configuration. FIG. 19E
illustrates an embodiment of a generally unitary handle of the
present invention having an implement attached by a suitable
connection means to a handle of the present invention. FIG. 19C
illustrates an embodiment of a generally unitary handle of the
present invention that incorporates a motor driving means for
rotation or movement of a working end or an implement. FIG. 19D
illustrates an embodiment of a generally unitary handle of the
present invention having a motor driving means for opening and
closing a working end on ends of an implement.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0080] In order to more clearly and concisely describe the subject
matter of the present invention, the following definition for the T
Position is 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 FIG. 1.
[0081] T Position
[0082] FIG. 1 illustrates the hand 100 to the T Position. The T
Position is the position the hand 100 assumes when the tips 200a of
the long fingers 200 are aligned and the tip 201a of the thumb 201
opposes the space 320 between the index finger 202 and middle
finger 203. In this position the area that crosses the palm 102 of
the hand 100 known as the palmar arch 104 is concave. The finger
cup 106, shown as a dotted line, is the concave area made by the
long fingers 200 when the tips 200a of the long fingers 200 are
aligned and the long fingers 200 are flexed. The horizontal creases
108 of the palm 102 appear as a skin fold and aligns with the
palmar arch 104. On the radial side 110 of the hand 100 the
horizontal crease 108 is hidden by the thumb 201. The longitudinal
creases 112 also appear as a skin fold because the palm 102 of the
hand 100 is not flat when the hand 100 is in the T Position. The
MIP joints 250 of the long fingers 200 lie adjacent to each other.
The MIP joint 250 of the middle finger 203 is furthermost away from
the line 300 than the other MIP joints 250 of the other long
fingers 200 are from the line 300. The MIP joint 250 of the small
finger 205 is closer to the line 300 than MIP joints 250 of the
other long fingers 200.
[0083] Continuing with reference to FIG. 1, the hypothenar muscle
area 116 extends from the horizontal crease 108 of the ulnar side
11 of the hand 100 to the wrist 120 at the level of the pisiform
bone 126. The pisiform bone 126 of the wrist 120 is at the area on
the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 where the ulnar nerve and ulnar
artery enter the palm 102 under the hypothenar muscle area 116. The
transverse carpal ligament (TCL) 122 covers the carpal tunnel (CT)
124. The thenar muscle area 114 is on the radial side 110 of the
hand 100 and radial to the CT 124. The hypothenar muscle area 116
is on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 and ulnar to the CT 124.
The CT 124 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 122 than the deep tendons.
This places the superficial tendons next to the median nerve.
[0084] Forceps Hand Position (FHP)
[0085] There can be variations to the T position. FIG. 2A and FIG.
2B show an adaptation of the T Position to the position of the hand
100 in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). As shown in FIG. 2A and
FIG. 2B, when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP),
the thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle finger 203 are partially
extended from the T Position. However, the ring finger 204 and
small finger 205 remain in the T Position. In the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP) the tip 201a of the thumb 201 opposes the space 320
between the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the tip 200a of
the middle finger 203 as it does in the T Position. Also note the
tip 200a of the ring finger.204 and the tip 200a of the small
finger 205 end at the same line 340 relative to the T Position for
the hand 100. FIG. 2B illustrates a view of the radial side 110 of
the hand 100 with the hand 100 in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
When the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP), as shown
by the dashed line 305, the tip 201a of the thumb 201 is in
substantial alignment with the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and
the tip 200a of the middle finger 203.
[0086] Continuing with reference to FIG. 2A, the horizontal crease
108 as shown in FIG. 1, crosses the palm 102 of the hand 100 and is
hidden by the base of the thumb 201 until the horizontal crease 108
reaches the radial side 110 of the hand 100. The location of the
radial end of the horizontal crease 108 is seen on the radial side
110 of the hand 100 in FIG. 2B. FIG. 1 also shows the location of
the horizontal crease 108 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand
100.
[0087] Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, Plane C, as seen in FIG. 2B,
illustrates the relationship of the hand to the center line of a
handle of the present invention. Plane C passes through the radial
side 110 of the hand 100 to the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 when
the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). On the radial
side 110 of the hand 100 Plane C extends through the horizontal
crease 108 to bisect the space made between the thumb 201 and the
index finger 202 and middle finger 203. On the ulnar side 111 of
the hand 100 Plane C passes through an area M about half way
between the horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform bone 126 of the
wrist 120. Plane C then continues to pass through the DIP joints
252 of the ring finger 204 and small finger 205 when the ring
finger 204 and small finger 205 are in the T Position.
[0088] For illustrative purposes, with reference to FIG. 3A and
FIG. 3B, schematic representations of handles of the present
invention, are illustrated as schematic 400Y and schematic 400Y'.
As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 3B by the schematics 400Y and 400Y',
handles of the present invention, such as for use as a
forceps/tweezers, are generally of a "Y"-shaped configuration or
desirably of a generally asymmetrical "Y"-shaped or
"slingshot"-shaped configuration. A handle of the present
invention, such as illustrated by the schematics 400Y and 400Y' can
be considered to have two (upper) arms and one (lower) leg. In this
regard, handles of the present invention can have two arms Y1, Y1'
and Y2, Y2' that can be considered the proximal part of the
schematics 400Y and 400Y' corresponding to a handle of the present
invention. The two arms represented by Y1, Y1' and Y2, Y2' extend
to the palm 102 of the hand 100. The leg Y3, Y3' corresponds to a
distal leg of a handle of the present invention.
[0089] One arm Y1, Y1' of the schematics 400Y and 400Y' corresponds
to the arm of a handle that contacts the radial side 110 of the
palm 102 of the hand 100 and can be called the radial arm Y1, Y1'
of the schematic 400Y, 400Y'. The second arm Y2, Y2' of the
schematic 400Y, 400Y' corresponds to the arm of a handle that
contacts the ulnar side 111 of the palm 102 of the hand 100 and can
be called the ulnar arm Y2, Y2' of the schematic 400Y, 400Y'. The
leg Y3, Y3' of the schematics 400Y and 400 Y' corresponds to the
distal leg of a handle that extends to meet the thumb 201, index
finger 202 and middle finger 203 when the hand 100 is in the
Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
[0090] In the schematic 400Y of a handle of the present invention,
the radial arm Y1, the ulnar arm Y2 and distal leg Y3 can meet at a
common point Y4. Alternately, as illustrated in the schematic 400Y'
of a handle of the present invention, the radial arm Y1' can meet
the distal leg Y3' at another point Y4' along the distal leg Y3'.
However, it is generally preferable to have the radial arm Y1,
ulnar arm Y2 and distal leg Y3 meet at a common point Y4, as
illustrated in the schematic 400Y.
[0091] The ulnar arm Y2, Y2' of the schematics 400Y and 400Y' has
two sections, which are called the finger section Y21, Y21' of the
ulnar arm Y2, Y2' and the palmar section Y22, Y22' of the ulnar arm
Y2, Y2'. The finger section Y21, Y21' of the ulnar arm Y2, Y2'
starts where the radial side 110 of the DIP joint 252 of the ring
finger 204 meets the palmar side 221 of the DIP joint 252 of the
ring finger 204 when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position
(FHP).
[0092] The finger section Y21, Y21' of the ulnar arm Y2, Y2' ends
at the ulnar side 111 of the DIP joint 252 of the small finger 205
when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). The finger
section Y21, Y21' of the ulnar arm Y2, Y2' follows the line 350
made by connecting the volar (inside) surfaces of the ring finger
204 and the small finger 205 at their respective DIP joints 252.
However, the palmar section Y22, Y22' of the ulnar arm Y2, Y2' ends
at area M on the hypothenar muscle area 116 between the horizontal
crease 108 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 and the pisiform
bone 126 of the wrist 120. The palmar section Y22, Y22' of the
ulnar arm Y2, Y2' ends at the ulnar side 111 of the DIP joint 252
of the small finger 205 when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP). The finger section Y21 in the schematic 400Y of the
ulnar arm Y2 and the palmar section Y22 of the ulnar arm Y2 meet to
form an angle Y6, such as an obtuse angle.
[0093] The distal leg Y3, Y3' of the schematics 400Y and 400Y' also
originates at the DIP joint 252 where the palmar surface 210 of
ring finger 204 meets the radial surface 211 of the DIP joint 252
of the ring finger 204 when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP). The distal leg Y3 ends at Plane B made by the tip
201a of the thumb 201, the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the
tip 200a of the middle finger 203 of the hand 100.
[0094] The junction 214 corresponds to the common point Y4. The
junction 214 is defined at the meeting of the palmar surface 210 of
the DIP joint 252 of ring finger 204 with the radial surface 211 of
the DIP joint 252 of the ring finger 204 when the hand 100 is in
the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). Therefore, the junction 214
determines the location on the schematic 400Y where the radial arm
Y1, the ulnar arm Y2 and distal leg Y3 meet.
[0095] The radial arm Y1, Y1' can be straight or curved. The ulnar
arm Y2, Y2' angles or curves to conform to the angle Y6, Y6', such
as an obtuse angle. In the schematic 400Y the angle Y5, such as an
obtuse angle, is formed where the radial arm Y1 and the ulnar arm
Y2 meet as illustrated. The distal leg Y3, Y3' can be straight or
curved and has a distal end Y33, Y33'. The length of the radial arm
Y1, Y1' will vary with hand size. The length of the ulnar arm Y2,
Y2' will likewise vary with hand size. The length of the distal leg
Y3, Y3' will also vary with hand size.
[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 4A, FIG. 4B and FIG. 4C, the
embodiment of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention is shaped in the form of a generally asymmetrical Y or
slingshot shape. The forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention has two opposing blades 410. Each opposing blade 410 of
the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention can be a
mirror image of the other. Each opposing blade 410 of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention has a central
connection area CON from which extend a radial arm 415, an ulnar
arm 425 and a distal leg 435. The proximal part 405 of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention is supported
by the hand 100. The distal part 406 of the forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention performs the work of grasping,
pinching and other mechanical actions including cutting.
[0097] The proximal part 405a of each opposing blade 410 has a
radial arm 415 and an ulnar arm 425. The radial arm 415 and ulnar
arm 425 of each opposing blade 410 meet the connection area CON.
The ulnar arm 425 of each opposing blade 410 of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention has a finger
section 425a and a palmar section 425b. The finger section 425a and
the palmar section 425b meet at angle Y5 as discussed above in the
section related to the ulnar arm Y2 of the schematic 400Y of FIG.
3A.
[0098] The palmar end 417 of the radial arm 415 of each opposing
blade 410 meets to form a radial hinge 416. The palmar end 427 of
the ulnar arm 425 of each opposing blade 410 meets to form an ulnar
hinge 426. The hinges 416 and 426 can be made so one blade 410
continues or is formed integrally into the other blade 410. The
hinges 416 and 426 can also be made of a mechanical connection
means, such as a hinge arrangement. The radial hinge 416 and the
ulnar hinge 426 allow the opposing blades 410 to move toward and
away from each other.
[0099] The distal leg 435 of each opposing blade 410 extends from
the connection area CON. The proximal section 435b of the distal
leg 435 of each opposing blade 410 is attached to the connecting
area CON. The distal end 435a of the distal legs 435 of each
opposing blade 410 extends from the forceps/tweezers handle 400.
The distal end 435a of each distal leg 435 can be an integrated
working end 450a, tip or have multiple varied attachments for
performing various suitable tasks or functions, such as grasping,
pinching or cutting.
[0100] The width 415w of the radial arm 415 approximates the width
of base of the index finger 202. The width 425w of the ulnar arm
425 approximates the width of base of the small finger 205. The
width 435w of the distal end 435a of the distal leg 435
approximates the combined width of the distal pad 202b of the index
finger 202 and the distal pad 203b of the middle finger 203.
[0101] The palmar end 417 of the radial arm 415 can be consistent
with the corresponding surface of the palm 102 of the radial side
110 of the hand 100. The palmar end 427 of the ulnar arm 425 can be
consistent with the corresponding surface of the palm 102 of the
ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. Alternately the palmar end 417 of
the radial arm 416 and the palmar end 427 of the ulnar arm 425 can
be parallel to each other.
[0102] Also, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, the forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention can have three sections. There is the
radial section 401, the middle section 402 and the ulnar section
403. The radial section 401 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention is related to the radial side 110 of the hand
100 and can make contact with the thumb 201, the index finger 202
and the thenar area 114 of the palm 102 of the hand 100. The middle
section 402 includes the area of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention that can make contact with the middle finger
203 and ring finger 204 and without contacting the region over the
CT 124. The ulnar section 403 includes the area of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention that can make
contact with the small finger 205 and the hypothenar muscle area
116 on the palm 102 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. The
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention can be used
with right hand 100 or left hand 100.
[0103] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate a hand in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP) with the hand holding a forceps/tweezers handle of
the present invention. FIG. 5A is a palmar view of the hand holding
a forceps/tweezers handle and FIG. 5B is a radial view the hand
holding a forceps/tweezers handle. With reference to FIG. 5A the
horizontal crease 108 of the radial side 110 of the hand 100
contacts the radial hinge 416 at the palmar end 417 of the radial
arm 415 of each opposing blade 410 of the forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention. Area M on the palm 102 between the
horizontal crease 108 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 and the
pisiform bone 126 of the wrist 120 contacts the ulnar hinge 426 of
the palmar end 427 of the ulnar arm 425 of each opposing blade 410
of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention.
[0104] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 1 through 5B, the palmar
surface 210 of the middle phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and
the palmar surface 210 of the distal phalange 216 of the ring
finger 204 contact the ring finger contact areas 425c of the finger
section 425a of the ulnar arm 425 of the opposing blades 410 of a
handle of the present invention, such as a forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention. The palmar surface 220 of the middle
phalange 225 of the small finger 205 and the palmar surface 220 of
the distal phalange 226 of the small finger 205 contact the small
finger contact areas 425d of the finger section 425a of the ulnar
arm 425 of the opposing blades 410 of the forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention. The radial side surface 211 of the
middle phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and the radial side
surface 211 of the distal phalange 216 of the ring finger 204
contact the proximal section 435b of the distal leg 425 of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention.
[0105] The distal pad 201b of the thumb 201 contacts the distal end
435a of the distal leg 435 of one opposing blade 410 of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention and distal pad
202b of the index finger 202 and the distal pad 203b of the middle
finger 203 contacts the mirror image blade 410 of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention.
[0106] The hand 100 desirably supports a handle of the present
invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention, at five contact locations. The first support location is
where the radial side 110 of the horizontal crease 108 of the hand
100 contacts the palmar end 417 of the radial arm 415 of each
opposing blade 410 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the
present invention. The second support location can be where the
ulnar side 111 of the horizontal crease 108 of the hand 100
contacts the palmar end 427 of the ulnar arm 425 of each opposing
blade 410 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention. However, the optimal second support location is where
the palmar end 425b of the ulnar arm 425 of each opposing blade 410
of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention
contacts area M. Area M is approximately located between the ulnar
side 111 of the horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform bone 126 of
the wrist 120 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. The third
support location is where the palmar surface 210 of the middle
phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 210 of
the distal phalange 216 of the ring finger contact area 425c
contacts section 425a of each ulnar arm 425 of the opposing blades
410 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention.
The fourth support location is on the radial side surface 211 of
the middle phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and on the radial
side surface 211 of the distal phalange 216 of the ring finger 204
which contacts the ring finger contact area 435c of the proximal
section 435b of the distal leg 435 of the forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention. The fifth support location is on the
palmar surface 220 of the middle phalange 225 of the small finger
205 and on the palmar surface 220 of the distal phalange 226 of the
small finger 205 which contacts the small finger contact area 425d
of the finger section 425a of each ulnar arm 425 of the opposing
blades 410 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention.
[0107] Support and stabilization within the hand 100 for a handle
of the present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400
of the present invention, is enhanced by deep flexor forearm muscle
contraction on the distal phalange 216 of the ring finger 204 and
the superficial flexor forearm muscle contraction on the middle
phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and by deep flexor forearm
muscle contraction on the distal phalange 226 of the small finger
205 and the superficial flexor forearm muscle contraction on the
middle phalange 225 of the small finger 205 on the finger section
425a of the ulnar arms 425 of the opposing blades 410. Such
contraction pulls the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention against the horizontal crease 108 of the palm 102 at the
radial side 110 of the hand 100 and against a location within area
M of the palm 102 at the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. Support
for lifting objects held by a handle of the present invention, such
as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention, by the
hand 100 is enhanced by contact at the radial surface 211 of the
ring finger 204 with the ring finger contact area 435c of the
proximal section 435b of the distal leg 435 of the forceps/tweezers
handle 400 of the present invention.
[0108] The distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the opposing
blades 410 are moved to pinch the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention. Pinch is the function of forceps or
tweezers. Closing the distal pad 201b of the thumb 201 and the
distal pad 202b of index finger 202 can contribute to support when
using the common forceps or tweezers. However, the thumb 201, index
finger 202 and middle finger 203 are not necessarily needed for
support of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention. The thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle finger 203
are only involved with pinch. When using a forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention, the thumb 201, index finger 202 and
middle finger 203 are not generally used to support the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention. Therefore,
using the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention can
reduce strain on the muscles flexing the thumb 201, index finger
202 and middle finger 203 for fine or gross pinch.
[0109] Hand Measurements
[0110] One of the goals in developing the proposed forceps/tweezers
handle 400 of the present invention is to have it fit the hand. As
recognized in the shoe industry feet have a range of lengths and
widths. The same is true of hands. The length from wrist 120 to the
tips 200a of the long fingers 200 and width from the radial side
110 of the hand 100 to the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 vary such
that hands can be short and long, short and narrow, long and wide
and long and narrow. In general, male hands are longer and wider
than female hands.
[0111] It is possible to develop one size for a handle of the
present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the
present invention, to span many hands. However, holding a
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention will require
less muscular effort, be more comfortable and have greater
stability if it is made in various sizes for the hand 100 in the
Forceps Hand Position (FHP). The sizes for a handle of the present
invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention, will depend on measurements taken with the hand in the
Forceps Hand Position (FHP) as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.
[0112] With reference to FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, Line A1, Line A2 and
Line A3 are used to determine the range of sizes of a handle of the
present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the
present invention, for the human hand. Line A1 is the distance from
the space 320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the
tip 200a of the middle finger 203 extending to the radial side 110
of the horizontal crease 108 of the palm 102 of the hand 100. Line
A2 is the distance from the space 320 between the tip 200a of the
index finger 202 and the tip 200a of the middle finger 203
extending to Point P, which is in Area M at approximately one half
the distance between the horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform
bone 126 on the ulnar side 111 of the palm 102 of the hand 100.
[0113] The distances Line A1 and Line A2 are measured with the tip
201a of the thumb 201 opposing the tip 200a of the index finger 202
and the tip 200a of the middle finger 203 as shown in FIG. 2A and
FIG. 2B and the hand 100 as shown in FIG. 6B. Line A3 is the
distance from the radial side 110 of the horizontal crease 108 of
the palm 102 of the hand 100 to Point P in area M on the hypothenar
muscle area 116 on the ulnar side 111 of the palm 102 of the hand
100.
[0114] Individual measurements for a handle of the present
invention, can be taken, with the protractor measuring device 700
illustrated in FIG. 7, for a right hand 100 or left hand 100 in the
Forceps Hand Position (FHP). The protractor measuring device
includes a protractor 710 and a triangular measuring member made
from measuring members, such as rulers AA1, AA2 and AA3. Each ruler
has a slot, with a slot 705 in ruler AA1, a slot 706 in ruler AA2
and a slot 707 in ruler AA3. Fastening members, such as rivets pass
through the slots to connect the rulers so each ruler can slide
along the other. Rivet 701 connects Ruler AA1 and Ruler AA2 to the
center of protractor 710 where the zero degree axis X1 meets the
ninety degree axis X2. Ruler AA1 is also connected to the
protractor 710 along the zero degree axis X1 of the protractor 710
by rivet 702. Ruler AA1 and AA2 can move along rivet 701. Ruler AA3
is moveably connected to Ruler AA1 at rivet 703. Ruler AA3 is also
moveably connected to Ruler AA2 at rivet 704.
[0115] The distances for line A1, line A2 and line A3 are desirably
measured in centimeter along ruler AA1, ruler AA2 and ruler AA3.
The measurements for line A1 start at the horizontal crease 108 on
the radial side 110 of the hand 100 on ruler AA1. The measurements
for line A2 start at Point P in Area M between the horizontal
crease 108 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 and the pisiform
bone 126 on ruler AA2. The measurements for line A1 and line A2 end
at rivet 701. Ruler AA3 slides along ruler AA1 and ruler AA2 to
touch the palm 102 of the hand 100. The measurement for line A3 is
read at the gradation marks 715 where ruler AA3 crosses ruler AA1
to the gradation marks 715 where ruler AA3 crosses the gradation
marks 715 of ruler AA2. The angular degree reading area 712 on the
protractor 710 is read in the slot 706 of ruler AA2 to determine
the angle between Line A1 and Line A2.
[0116] Measurements were made on the right hands of fifty males and
forty females. The height of the males in this group ranged between
5'6'' to 6'4''. Female height ranged from 4'11'' to 6'0''. The
measurement for line A1 in the male hand ranged from 7 to 9.5 cm.
The measurement for line A1 in the female hand ranged from 7 to 8.5
cm. The measurement for line A2 in the male hand ranged from 9 to
11.5 cm. The measurement for line A2 in the female hand ranged from
9 to 11 cm. The measurement for line A3 in the male hand ranged
from 6.5 to 8 cm. The measurement for line A3 in the female hand
ranged from 6 to 7.5 cm. The angular degree reading from the
angular degree reading area 712 for males averaged 45 degrees and
the angular degree reading from the angular degree reading area 712
for females averaged 40 degrees. As expected, the male hand is
longer and wider than the female hand. This data can be analyzed to
develop groups of sizes for the proposed forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention.
[0117] Alternate Measuring Device
[0118] A rectangular measuring device 800 for measuring the hand
100 such as can be used for determining sizes and shapes of handles
of the present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400,
is desirably made of measuring members such as four rulers, as
illustrated in FIG. 8A, and can also be used when the hand 100 is
in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP) to measure sizes for the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention. The rulers or
measuring members are respectively indicated by the letters DD, EE,
FF and GG, with ruler DD as a first measuring member, with ruler EE
as a second measuring member, with ruler FF as a third measuring
member and ruler GG as a fourth measuring member. Each ruler DD,
EE, FF, GG is set at right angles to each other. Ruler DD and ruler
EE are generally parallel and in the X-axis direction, as
illustrated in FIG. 8A. Ruler FF and GG are generally parallel and
in the Y-axis direction, as illustrated in FIG. 8A. Each ruler DD,
EE, FF, GG has a corresponding slot 806, 807, 808, 809 along the
center of its length and has corresponding gradation marks 805. The
rulers DD, EE, FF, GG are connected by fastening members, such as
rivets 801,802,803,804, or other desirable fasteners, such that the
rulers DD, EE, FF, GG are loosely connected within the rectangular
measuring device 800. The loose connection at rivets
801,802,803,804 allows each ruler DD, EE, FF, GG to slide along in
the X-axis direction and/or the Y-axis direction. The dimensions,
length and width, of Rulers DD, EE, and FF can generally be the
same whereas ruler GG can generally have a wider portion, such as a
five millimeter wide segment 810, starting at elevation 812 at
approximately half the length of ruler GG. The other half of ruler
GG is a standard ruler or other suitable measuring device and is
identified as the narrow segment 811 of ruler GG. Measurements
start at the right end of ruler DD and EE indicated by RHT in FIG.
8A. Measurements start near ruler DD for ruler FF. Measurements
start near ruler EE for ruler GG. The wide segment of Ruler GG
faces the inside INS of the rectangular arrangement or rectangular
measuring device 800.
[0119] Referring to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the rectangular measuring
device 800 is positioned along Plane C (see FIGS. 2B and 6B) to
measure the right hand 100 in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). The
right end side RHT of ruler DD touches the horizontal crease 108 on
the radial side 110 of the palm 102 of the hand 100. The right end
side RHT of ruler EE is placed at Point P in Area M of the palm 102
on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. As illustrated in FIG. 8A
and FIG. 8B, ruler FF moves in the X-axis direction along ruler DD
and in the X-axis direction along ruler EE until the outside edge
FOUT of ruler FF is at the Plane B (see FIGS. 2A and 8B) where the
tip 201a of the thumb 201 opposes the space 320 between the tip
200a of the index finger 202 and the tip 200a of the middle finger
203. Ruler GG is moved in the X-axis direction along both ruler DD
and ruler EE until the narrow segment 811 of ruler GG touches the
palmar surface 220 at the DIP joint 252 of the small finger 205.
Ruler GG is then moved in the Y-axis direction until the elevation
812 on ruler GG contacts the radial side 110 of the DIP joint 252
of the small finger 205. The wide segment 810 now touches the
palmar surface 210 of the ring finger 204. This completes
positioning of rulers DD, EE, FF and GG for measuring a hand
size.
[0120] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 8A through 8D,
measurements are taken along measurement distances D, E, F, F', G
and H. Measurement distance D, as a first measurement distance, is
measured on the outer side DOUT from the right end side RHT of
ruler DD of the rectangular measuring device 800 from the
horizontal crease 108 on the radial side 110 of the hand 100 to the
outer side FOUT of ruler FF of the rectangular measuring device
800. Measurement distance E, as a second measurement distance, is
measured along the inner side EIN of ruler EE on the rectangular
measuring device 800 from the Point P in area M on the ulnar side
111 of the hand 100 to the palmar surface 220 of the small finger
205, when the small finger 205 is touching the narrow segment 811
of ruler GG and the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
Measurement distance F, as a third measurement distance, is
measured along the outer side FOUT of ruler FF on the rectangular
measuring device 800 from the outer side DOUT of ruler DD to the
ulnar side 203c of the middle finger 203 when the hand 100 is in
the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). Measurement distance F', as a
fourth measurement distance, is measured along the outer side FOUT
of ruler FF from the radial side 203a of the index finger 202 to
the ulnar side 203c of the middle finger 203. Measurement distance
G, as a fifth measurement distance, is measured along ruler GG on
the inner side INS of the rectangular measuring device 800 from the
inner side EIN of ruler EE to the radial side 110 of the ring
finger 204 when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
Measurement distance H, as a sixth measurement distance, is
measured along ruler DD from the outer side FOUT of ruler FF to the
wide segment 810 on the inner side GIN of ruler GG on the
rectangular measuring device 800.
[0121] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 8A through 8D,
measurement lines oriented and arranged to correspond to a hand in
the Forceps Hand Position (FHP) are drawn from the corresponding
first through sixth measurement distances D, E, F, F', G and H and
are desirably recorded on a medium such as on grid paper. These
measurement lines are used to produce corresponding outline lines
for an outline for a handle shape, with the outline formed by these
outline lines for a handle shape being illustrated in FIGS. 8C and
8D, and also being indicated in FIG. 8B, such as for the
forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention. First, a
first measurement line corresponding to the second measurement
distance E is drawn in the X-axis direction. Then, a second
measurement line corresponding to the fifth measurement distance G
is drawn in the Y-axis direction starting at a preselected
distance, typically five millimeters (consistent with the elevation
812), to the left of the line drawn corresponding to the second
measurement distance E. Next, a third measurement line
corresponding to the sixth measurement distance H is drawn in the
X-axis direction starting at the top GTOP of the second measurement
line drawn for the fifth measurement distance G. Then a fourth
measurement line corresponding to the third measurement distance F
is drawn in the Y-axis direction. A fifth measurement line
corresponding to the fourth measurement distance F' is then drawn
on the same fourth measurement line as the third measurement
distance F. Next, a sixth measurement line corresponding to the
first measurement distance D is drawn in the X-axis direction.
Furthermore, an end of the sixth measurement line for the first
measurement distance D is on the same Y-axis direction line as the
left end HLFT of the third measurement line for the sixth
measurement distance H, and the fourth measurement line for the
third measurement distance F is drawn in the Y-axis direction with
an end of the fourth measurement line starting at the left end DLFT
of the sixth measurement line for the first measurement distance
D.
[0122] As discussed above, a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400, of the present invention can come in a plurality of
sizes. The sizes of forceps/tweezers handles 400 of the present
invention can be compiled by drawing point to point outline lines
Z, Y, X, W, V and U to connect end points D1, F1', F1, G1, E1 and
E2 on the measurement lines corresponding to measurement distances
D, E, F, F', G and H as illustrated in FIGS. 8B, 8C and 8D. As
illustrated in FIGS. 8A through 8D, the first point to point
outline line is line Z, which connects end point D1 on the sixth
measurement line corresponding to the first measurement distance D
to end point F1' on the fifth measurement line corresponding to the
fourth measurement distance F'. The second point to point outline
line is line Y connecting end point F1' on the fifth measurement
line corresponding to the fourth measurement distance F' to end
point F1 on the fourth measurement line corresponding to the third
measurement distance F, with the end point F1 also corresponding to
the same end point on the third measurement line corresponding to
the sixth measurement distance H. Then the third point to point
outline line X connects end point F1 on the fourth measurement line
corresponding to the third measurement distance F, which also
corresponds to the same end point on the third measurement line
corresponding to the sixth measurement distance H, to end point G1
on the second measurement line corresponding to the fifth
measurement distance G, which is followed by the fourth point to
point outline line W connecting end point G1 on the second
measurement line corresponding to the fifth measurement distance G
to end point E1 on the first measurement line corresponding to the
second measurement distance E. The fifth point to point outline
line V next connects end point E1 on the first measurement line
corresponding to the second measurement distance E to end point E2
on the first measurement line corresponding to the second
measurement distance E. Finally, the sixth point to point outline
line U is drawn from end point D1 on the sixth measurement line
corresponding to the first measurement distance D to end point E2
on the first measurement line corresponding to the second
measurement distance E to complete the perimeter PER incorporating
the outline lines Z, Y, X, W and V for measurements for a handle,
such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention.
Perimeters PER for various hand sizes are compared to produce a
range of sizes for handles of the present invention. As discussed
above, the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention can
therefore contact the hand 100 at the following locations: at the
horizontal crease 108 of the palm 102 on the ulnar side 111 of the
hand 100, at a location in area M of the palm 102 on the ulnar side
111 of the hand 100, the palmar surface 210 of the ring finger 204
with the palmar surface 220 of the small finger 205, at the radial
side surface 211 of the ring finger 204, at the distal pad 201b of
the thumb 201, at the distal pad 202b of the index finger 202 and
at the distal pad 203c of the middle finger 203.
[0123] The sizes of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention are determined by plotting or recording measurements of
the perimeter PER. However, the shape of the forceps/tweezers
handle 400 of the present invention is related to those areas on
the perimeter PER which touch, or contact, the hand 100 at certain
areas. Referring to FIGS. 8C and 8D, sections of various outline
lines of the perimeter PER forming the contact areas for handle
measurements are indicated by double-arrowed lines for
corresponding contact areas with a hand 100. A first section N on
the sixth outline line U is a first limited contact area on the
perimeter PER for contacting an area of the hand related to the
horizontal crease 108 of the palm 102 on the radial side 110 of the
hand 100. A second section 0 on the sixth outline line U is a
second limited contact area on the perimeter PER for contacting an
area of the hand related to area M of the palm 102 on the ulnar
side 111 of the hand 100. A third section R on the fourth outline
line W is a third limited contact area on the perimeter PER for
contacting an area of the hand related to the palmar surface 210 of
the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 220 of the small finger
205. A fourth section P on the third outline line X is a fourth
limited contact area on the perimeter PER for contacting an area of
the hand related to the radial side surface 211 of the ring finger
204. The combination of a fifth section Q on the third outline line
X, a sixth section S on the second outline line Y and a seventh
section T on the first outline line Z are respectively fifth, sixth
and seventh limited contact areas on the perimeter PER for
contacting areas of the hand related to the distal pad 202b of the
index finger 202 and the distal pad 203b of the middle finger 203.
The combination of the fifth section Q on the third outline line X,
the sixth section S on the second outline line Y and the seventh
section T on the first outline line Z is duplicated on the distal
ends 435a of the opposing blades 410 of a handle, such as
forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention and can
relate to an area for the distal pad 201b of the thumb 201.
[0124] Therefore, the segments or sections of the respective sixth
through first outline lines U, V, W, X, Y and Z that are not on the
first section N on the sixth outline line U, the second section O
on the sixth outline line U, the fourth section P on the third
outline line X, the fifth section Q on the third outline line X,
the third section R on the fourth outline line W, the sixth section
S on the second outline line Y and the seventh section T on the
first outline line Z on the perimeter PER can have any curve or
shape because those areas generally do not contact parts of the
hand 100 on a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention.
[0125] Variations of the Handle
[0126] Referring now to FIGS. 9A and 9B, variations can be placed
at the ring finger contact area 425c and the small finger contact
area 425d of the ulnar arm 425 of a handle, such as the
forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention, such as
illustrated in FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B. A step 425e can be incorporated
into the finger section 425a of the ulnar arm 425 between the ring
finger contact area 425c and the small finger contact area 425d to
conform with the palmar surface 210 of the ring finger 204 and the
palmar surface 220 of the small finger 205 when the hand 100 is in
the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). Furthermore, the ulnar arm 425 of
a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present
invention can have a straight portion 425f to meet the palmar
surface 210 of the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 220 of
the small finger 205 when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP).
[0127] As illustrated in FIG. 9C and FIG. 9D, the distal end 435a
of the distal legs 435 of the opposing blades 410 of a handle, such
as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention can
have apertures 435c, concave portions 435d, be convex or have other
means to reference the distal pad 201b of the thumb, the distal pad
202b of the index finger 202 and the distal pad 203b of the middle
finger 203. The width of the distal end 435a of the distal legs 435
of the opposing blades 410 of a handle, such as the
forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention can be
limited to allow contact with the central parts of the distal pad
202b of the index finger and of the distal pad 203b of the middle
finger 203 of the hand 100.
[0128] A handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the
present invention can be made in one size or various sizes based on
above described measurements with reference to FIGS. 7 through 8D.
An alternative to making multiple sizes of the forceps/tweezers
handle 400 of the present invention is to add extensions 418, 428
to adapt a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the
present invention to a range of hand sizes. As shown in FIG. 9E and
FIG. 9F, for example, an extension 418 can be added to the radial
hinge 416 of the radial arm 415 and an extension 428 can be added
to the ulnar hinge 426 of the ulnar arm 425 of forceps/tweezers
handle 400 of the present invention.
[0129] As illustrated in FIG. 9F, the extension 418,428 can have a
collar 418a, 428a and a spring mechanism 418b, 428b to attach to
the edges of the radial hinge 416 of the radial arm 415 and the
ulnar hinge 426 of the ulnar arm 425 of the opposing blades 410 of
the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention.
Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 9G, the palmar end 419, 429 of
the extension 418, 428 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the
present invention can have a generally round shape.
[0130] In some instances, when pinch is relaxed, it is desirable to
maintain a resting distance corresponding to a distance when pinch
is relaxed between the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of
the opposing blades 410 of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400, of the present invention. FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B
illustrate spring mechanisms 437a, 437b inserted between distal
ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the opposing blades 410 of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention to maintain a
resting position RES, illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B for the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention. Such a spring
member 437a as shown in FIG. 10A can also maintain alignment of the
distal ends 435a so the working ends 450 can meet and not be
subject to excessive drift with respect to each other.
[0131] When using a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle
400, of the present invention it can be desirable to maintain
closure or partial closure of the working ends 450 attached to the
distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the opposing blades 410
of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention. FIG. 10C, FIG. 10D and FIG. 10E illustrate a clamping
mechanism 438 inserted between distal ends 435a of the distal legs
435 of the opposing blades 410 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400
of the present invention to maintain such a closed or partially
closed position for a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle
400, of the present invention.
[0132] As illustrated in FIG. 10C, the clamping mechanism 438
includes a clamping post 438a attached via an attachment 438b to
the distal end 435a of the distal leg 435 of a corresponding one of
the opposing blades 410 of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400, of the present invention. FIG. 10D illustrates a
generally closed position of the forceps/tweezers handle, such as
the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention with the
clamping mechanism 438. FIG. 10E illustrates a front view of the
clamping mechanism 438 with a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400, of the present invention in a generally open
position.
[0133] The clamping post 438a extends through an aperture 438c on
the other distal end 435a of the distal legs 435 of the opposing
blades 410 of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of
the present invention. The clamping post 438a has a locking plate
438d that engages with the teeth 438e to maintain the working ends
450 of the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the opposing
blades 410 of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of
the present invention in the closed position. The distal end 438f
of the clamping post 438a can be pushed by the tip 201a of the
thumb 201 or the tip 200a of the index finger 202, when a handle,
such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention
is used by a left hand 100, to release the clamping post 438a from
the locking plate 438d and open the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention.
[0134] In another variation, as shown in FIGS. 10F and 10G, rings
439 for the thumb 201 index finger 202 and middle finger 203 can be
attached to the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the
opposing blades 410 of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400, of the present invention to spread apart the working
ends 450 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention.
[0135] FIG. 11A, FIG. 11B and FIG. 11C illustrate another variation
at the central connection area 440 (designated in FIG. 4 as CON) of
a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present
invention. The central connection area 440 can have a rotating
mechanism 445 allowing angular movement of the attached radial arm
415 and ulnar arm 425 of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400, of the present invention. Such rotational movement can
adjust the position of the palmar end 417 of the radial arm 415 and
the palmar end 427 of the ulnar arm 425 of a handle, such as the
forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention to a user's
comfort when the handle contacts the horizontal crease 108 on the
radial side 110 of the palm 102 of the hand 100 for multiple hand
100 sizes. Angle K illustrated in FIG. 11A corresponds to the
angular degree reading 710 on the protractor measuring device 700
illustrated in FIG. 7. As discussed previously, the angular degree
reading 710 corresponding to angle K determined for female hands
was typically 40 degrees and the angular degree reading 710
determined for male hands was typically 45 degrees. Thus, the range
of rotational movement of a rotating mechanism 445 at the central
connection area 440 of a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400, of the present invention can be set to maintain the
angle K, illustrated in FIG. 11A, typically between 35 to 50
degrees to account for overlap among handle sizes. Furthermore,
each radial arm 415 and each ulnar arm 425 of a handle, such as the
forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention can be made
in different sizes or have extensions 419,429 such as illustrated
in FIG. 9E, FIG. 9F and FIG. 9G.
[0136] FIG. 11B and FIG. 11C illustrate a proposed rotating
mechanism 445 at the central connection area 440 of a handle, such
as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention. The
central connection area 440 splits to form a generally semicircular
channel 446 bounded by a generally semicircular inner sleeve 441
and a generally semicircular outer sleeve 442. Also, a radial slot
443 and an ulnar slot 444 are respectively located in the outer
sleeve 442 of the central connection area 440.
[0137] The distal section 420 of the radial arm 415 and the distal
section 430 of the ulnar arm 425 can be of a generally tapered
configuration. The distal end 420a of the distal section 420 of the
radial arm 415 and the distal end 430a of the distal section 430 of
the ulnar arm 425 meet at the inside margin 440a of the
semicircular channel 446 of the rotating mechanism 445 of the
central connection area 440.
[0138] For a handle, such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of
the present invention two cams 419a, 429a are attached to the outer
surface of the distal section 420 of the radial arm 415 and the
distal section 430 of the ulnar arm 425. The cams 419a, 429a are
elevated at edges 419b, 429b of the slots 443, 444. The cams 419a,
429a are designed to engage the slots 443, 444 in the semicircular
outer sleeve 442 when the distal section 420 of the radial arm 415
and the distal section 430 of the ulnar arm 425 are advanced into
the semicircular channel 446 between the semicircular inner sleeve
441 and the semicircular outer sleeve 442 of the rotating mechanism
445 of the central connection area 440. The cams 419a, 429a are
designed to slide in the radial slot 443 and the ulnar slot 444 to
retain the radial arm 415 and ulnar arm 425 in the semicircular
channel 446. The radial slot 443 and the ulnar slot 444 are
designed to allow rotation of the radial arm 415 and the ulnar arm
425 in a range of approximately 35 to 50 degrees in relation to the
angle K.
[0139] Another variation of the forceps/tweezers handle 400, handle
400a, of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 12A and FIG.
12B. This variation is related to the width WD of the distal ends
436a of the distal arms 436 of the opposing blades 410 of handles,
such as the forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention.
The variation on FIGS. 12A and 12B is based on achieving the
highest attainable pinch strength that can be produced when the tip
201a of the thumb 201 opposes the center of the tips 200a of the
long fingers 200 as discussed in the background information.
[0140] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 2B, when the hand 100 is
in the T Position, the tip 201a of the thumb 201 opposes the space
320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the tip 200a
of the middle finger 203 and the tips 200a of the long fingers 200
end in a line 300. However, in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP), the
thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle finger 203 are almost fully
extended to meet at Plane B while the ring finger 204 and the small
finger 205 are flexed to end at the line 300 as in the T position.
In the present variation handle 400a illustrated in FIG. 12B, with
the hand 100 in the T Position, the tip 201a of the thumb 201 is
repositioned toward the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 from the
space 320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the tip
200a of the middle finger 203 to the space 330 between the tip 200a
of the middle finger 203 and the tip 200a of the ring finger
204.
[0141] Therefore, in the variation handle 400a, as illustrated in
FIG. 12B, the width WD of the distal end 436a and the distal leg
436 are similar to the width across the long fingers 200 when the
hand is in the T Position. The relationship of the radial hinge 416
of the radial arm 415 to the horizontal crease 108 on the radial
side 110 of the hand 100 and the relationship of the ulnar hinge
426 of the ulnar arm 425 to area M on the ulnar side 111 of the
hand 100 are similar in this variation handle 400a to such
relationships in the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention. Also, the variation handle 400a does not contact the CT
area 124 of hand 100.
[0142] The variation handle 400a of the forceps/tweezers handle 400
of the present invention has the potential to produce the highest
pinch strength at the working end 450. However, generally less
pinch strength is necessary to hold an object because typically the
thumb 201 and all the long fingers 200 of the hand 100 are used to
pinch the distal end 436a of the distal leg 436 of the variation
handle 400a of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention.
[0143] FIGS. 13A through 13K illustrate various connection means
joined to or integrated at the distal end 435a, 436a in various
embodiments of the handles of the present invention, such as
handle's 400, 400a, 400b, 400c and 400d of the present invention,
for connecting various implements to the handle. For example, FIG.
13A illustrates views of a screw type connecting means 1100 for
implements of working ends 450. FIG. 13B illustrates views of screw
type connecting means 1100, 1101 and snap-in type connecting means
1102, 1103, 1104 for implements of working ends 450. FIGS. 13C,
13D, 13E, 13F and 13G illustrate views of various magnetic type
connecting means 1105, 1106, 1107, 1108, 1109, 1110, 1111, 1112 for
implements of working ends 450.
[0144] Also, for example, FIGS. 13H through 13K illustrate views of
rotating type connecting mechanisms 1113, 1115, 1120, with working
parts 1114 for the working mechanism 1113, with working parts 1116
for the working mechanism 1115, and with working parts 1121 for the
working mechanism 1120, for working ends 450 of implements, which
allow various changes in the position of the working ends 450 of
various implements relative to the handle.
[0145] Another handle variation 400b of the present invention that
changes the direction of motion at the working end 450 of the
handle 400b of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 14A,
FIG. 14B, FIG. 14C, FIG. 14D, FIG. 14E, FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B. For
example, the direction of movement at the tips of a common forceps
is generally parallel to the opposing motion of the thumb 201 to
the index finger 202 and middle finger 203. In the variation handle
400b, the motion of the working end/working member 450 of such a
handle 400b can be perpendicular to the opposing motion of the
thumb 201 to the index finger 202 and the middle finger 203. This
changes the motion at the working end/working member 450 of the
handle 400b from a side to side motion to an up and down motion in
this variation handle 400b of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention.
[0146] A common example of a surgical instrument used with an up
and down opening and closing motion for cutting or biopsy of tissue
is a pituitary rongeur. Opening and closing the ring handles of the
common pituitary rongeur position the thumb 201 and a long finger
200 of the hand 100 in a proximal and distal relationship to each
other. The proximal-distal motion of the thumb 201 and a long
finger 200 activates a sliding member to move in the
proximal-distal direction. The sliding member activates the working
member to open and close. Using such an instrument in which the
thumb 201 and a long finger 200 of the hand 100 move in a proximal
and distal direction typically is not as comfortable for the hand
100 as using the side to side opposing motion utilized in the
variation handle 400b of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the
present invention.
[0147] In this variation handle 400b illustrated in FIG. 14A, FIG.
14B, FIG. 14C, FIG. 15B, FIG. 15C and FIG. 15D, a fixed member 500
is attached to the inside 416b of the radial hinge 416 of the
radial arm 415 of the variation handle 400b of forceps/tweezers
handle 400 of the present invention. Above the fixed member 500 is
a sliding member 501 that activates the working end/working member
450 to open and close as illustrated in FIG. 14E. Brace members 502
connect the sliding member 501 to the inside aspect 435b of the
distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435. Sliding member hinges 503
attach the ends 503a of the brace members 502 to the sliding
members 501 and hinges 504 attach brace members 502 to the inner
aspect 435b of the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of
variation handle 400b of the present invention. Pinching the distal
ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the variation handle 400b of
the present invention moves the brace members 502 at the hinges
503, 504 to move the sliding member 501. Furthermore, the fixed
member 500 can rotate the working end/working member 450 when a
rotating mechanism is attached to the inside 416b of the radial
hinge 416.
[0148] Squeezing the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the
variation handle 400b of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the
present invention when the sliding member hinges 503 of the brace
members 502 are placed distal on the sliding member 501 push the
sliding member 501 away from the hand 100. However, as illustrated
in FIG. 15C, squeezing the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435
of the variation handle 400b of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention, when the sliding member hinges 503 attach at
ends 503b of the brace members 502 and the sliding member hinges
503 are placed proximal on the sliding member 501, moves the
sliding member 501 toward the hand 100. Moving the sliding member
501 can actuate any of a variety of mechanisms, as the working
end/working member 450, attached to the end of the sliding member
501, such as to close a fine scissors or other mechanism, such as
illustrated in FIG. 14E.
[0149] Also, referring to FIGS. 14A through 14E, the variation
handle 400b of the present invention can also be utilized in
conjunction with various endoscopic or surgical tools, as well as
other types of working tools that work at a distance from the
operator.
[0150] In various embodiments of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention, the gap between the distal ends 435a of the
distal legs 435 can be wider than the distance between the working
ends 450 of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention. The gap between the distal ends 435a of the distal legs
435 also depends on the inherent spring qualities of the material
used to make the opposing blades 410 of a handle, such as the
forceps/tweezers handle 400, of the present invention. The gap
between the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 for surgical
forceps and surgical instruments using the forceps/tweezers handle
400 of the present invention should generally remain between one
and two centimeters. A smaller gap can increase flexion and can add
strain to the PIP joints of the long fingers 200 and can increase
flexion and can add strain to the metacarpal phalangeal joint 201c
of the thumb 201. A larger gap also requires more gross than fine
motor skills to pinch.
[0151] Continuing with reference to FIGS. 15A through 15D, the
standard scalpel 1020 illustrated in FIG. 15A, is in the shape of a
stylus and is a fixture in surgery. During the course of surgery, a
scalpel blade 1021 can contact pathogens harboring in the patient's
serum. One problem associated with the standard scalpel handle 1022
is penetrating wounds to operating room personnel. Inadvertent
sharp wounds can transmit diseases to the assisting personnel. An
automatic retractable blade guard could prevent sharp wounds.
[0152] As previously discussed, variation handle 400b of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention can move a
sliding member 501 in relation to a fixed member 500. FIG. 15B
illustrates a retractable scalpel 1000, as the working end/working
member 450, with the sliding member 501 including a retractable
sliding guard 1005 that surrounds a fixed scalpel member 1006, as
the fixed member 500, including an attached scalpel blade 1021.
FIG. 15B illustrates a flat spring member 1010, as a first spring
member, attached to the opposing blades 410 and the retractable
sliding guard 1005. Alternately, a coil spring member 1011, as a
second spring member, can be attached to the fixed scalpel member
1006 and the retractable sliding guard 1005 as shown in FIG. 15D.
When the distal ends 435a of the distal legs 435 of the opposing
blades 410 of the fixed scalpel member 1006 of variation handle
400b of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention
are squeezed, the brace members 502 push the proximal hinges 503 to
move the retractable sliding guard 1005 toward the hand of the
operator to expose the scalpel blade 1021. When the distal ends
435a of the distal legs 435 are released, the retractable sliding
guard 1005 automatically covers the scalpel blade 1021.
[0153] One advantage of the retractable scalpel 1000 with the
forceps/tweezers handle variation handle 400b of the present
invention is promoting protection from sharp injury in the
operating room. Another advantage is that the retractable scalpel
1000 is based on the anatomic Forceps Hand Position (FHP), which
can make the retractable scalpel 1000 more comfortable for the hand
100 to hold and manipulate.
[0154] FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate working ends 450 attached to a
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention with the
working end 450 of FIG. 16A being microscissors and the working end
450 of FIG. 16B being a reverse tweezers.
[0155] FIG. 17 illustrates a standard size scissors variation
handle 400c of the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present
invention. Attachments of working ends 450 of many surgical
instruments, such as the microscissors attachment 450, illustrated
in FIG. 16A, generally extend from the distal end 435a of the
distal legs 435 of the opposing blades 410 in the same general
direction as the thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle finger 203
when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). In the
standard size scissors variation handle 400c of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention, illustrated
in FIG. 17, the standard size scissors variation handle 400c
attaches to a standard size scissors blades 451.
[0156] However, the relationship of the hand 100 to the standard
size scissors blades 451 of the standard size scissors variation
handle 400c is typically not in the same general direction as the
thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle finger 203 when the hand 100
is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). The direction of the
standard size scissors blades 451 of the standard size scissors
variation handle 400c in relation to the hand 100 is related to the
relationship of the hand 100 to line J illustrated in FIG. 2A. Line
J connects the space 310 between tip 202b of the index finger 202
and tip 203b of the middle finger 203 and the dorsal surface 252a
of the DIP joint 252 of the small finger 205 when the hand 100 is
in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). The attachment of the blades
451 of a standard scissors to the standard size scissors variation
handle 400c is such that the axis AX passes centrally through the
blades 451 and the axis AX is parallel to line J.
[0157] The rings 439 on distal end 435a of distal legs 435 of the
standard size scissors variation handle 400c allow the opposing
thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle finger 203 to open the
blades 451 of a standard scissors for the standard size scissors
variation handle 400c. The distal pad 201b of the thumb 201, the
distal pad 202b of the index finger 202 and the distal pad 203b of
the middle finger 203 oppose to close the blades 451 of a standard
scissors for the standard size scissors variation handle 400c.
[0158] In common scissors, the fingers of the hand 100 meet the
ring like extensions of the scissors blades. The thumb 201 opposes
the index finger 202 and the middle finger 203 and they enter ring
handles to open and close the common scissors. Typically, in such
common scissors, hand support is generally poor. Also, closing the
scissors places the thumb 201 uncomfortably close to the opposing
index finger 202 and the hand 100 is generally not integrated into
the handle.
[0159] The standard size scissors handle variation 400c of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention has advantages
over a common scissors. These advantages are related to contact
with the hand 100 at the horizontal crease 108 on the radial side
110 of the hand 100, at area M on the ulnar side 111 of the hand
100, at the palmar surface 210 of the ring finger 204 and at the
palmar surface 220 of the small finger 205. Furthermore, the ring
finger 204 and the small finger 205 pull the handle 400c into the
hand. These features add to support, given the scissors variation
handle 400c adapted to the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the
present invention, and integrate the hand 100 into the scissors
variation handle 400c adapted to the forceps/tweezers handle 400 of
the present invention. These areas of contact with the standard
size scissors variation handle 400c, adapted to the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention, integrate the
entire hand 100 and not only the thumb 201, index finger 202 and
middle finger 203 to open, close and hold a scissors.
[0160] FIGS. 18A, 18B and 18C illustrate views of an embodiment of
the handle 400a of FIGS. 12A and 12B of the present invention that
has a wider distal end 436, with a working end 450, the working end
450 including an implement, positioned at the wider distal end 436,
such as for retrieving items such as files from a file cabinet or
loose items on a surface.
[0161] FIGS. 19A, 19B, 19C and 19D illustrate various embodiments
of a unitary handle 400d of the present invention that can have
devices integrated with a handle. FIGS. 19A through 19D illustrate
embodiments of the unitary handle 400d of the present invention
having a single "Y" configuration with a unitary blade 410a, rather
than a pair of opposing blades 410. The unitary radial arm 415u and
the unitary ulnar arm 425u and the unitary distal leg 435u engage
corresponding portions of the hand 100 as the forceps/tweezers
handle 400 of the present invention as previously described. FIG.
19B illustrates an embodiment of the unitary handle 400d of the
present invention having an implement 452 attached by a suitable
connection means 452a to the handle 400d. FIG. 19C illustrates an
embodiment of the unitary handle 400d of the present invention that
incorporates a motor driving means 453a for rotation or movement of
a working end 453 or an implement 453, such as a drill bit or
screwdriver attachment. FIG. 19D illustrates an embodiment of the
unitary handle 400d of the present invention having a motor driving
means 454a for opening and closing a working end 454 or multiple
working ends 454 of an implement, such as motorized tweezers.
[0162] In summary, handles of a design according to the present
invention can be molded or formed into and contiguous with any of
many types of equipment commonly held by a hand. Furthermore,
handles based on the design method of the present invention can be
attached to or integrated into objects that can be lifted, rotated,
moved, carried, etc. Such handles of the present invention can
advantageously be attached or integrated into or with an object or
working end. Additionally, such handles of the present invention
can be designed to swivel and/or rotate on various axes at a
location of attachment. For example, the handle can be attached to
a shaft by an extension member, such as for turning.
[0163] Also, in the handles of the present invention, various
materials can be used for fabrication of the handles as, for
example, various woods, metals, plastics, composites, rubber
compounds, latex's and organic or inorganic materials, suitable for
the particular application of a handle of the present invention.
Further, various materials can be added to augment and personalize
the fit of a handle of the present invention.
[0164] The principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation
of the present invention have been described in the foregoing
specification. However, the invention which is intended to be
protected is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed.
The embodiments described herein are illustrative rather than
restrictive. Variations and changes may be made by others, and
equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the
present invention. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all
such variations, changes and equivalents which fall within the
spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the claims,
be embraced thereby.
* * * * *