U.S. patent application number 12/807292 was filed with the patent office on 2011-03-17 for paw-shaped hand covering and knee pad combination.
Invention is credited to Jennifer Hoppins, Richard Hoppins.
Application Number | 20110061142 12/807292 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43729000 |
Filed Date | 2011-03-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110061142 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hoppins; Jennifer ; et
al. |
March 17, 2011 |
Paw-shaped hand covering and knee pad combination
Abstract
One embodiment of a hand and knee covering combination having
animal paw shape and tubular sleeve shape respectively. Constructed
to simulate the reality of having fur during imaginary play, the
combination solves a need for wearers who enjoy pretending to be an
animal. The combination in another embodiment induces continuously
variable physical activity thereby reducing boredom during
exercise. The combination activates imagination through sensory
stimulation creating avenues of interaction between persons
previously separated by ability differences. Other embodiments are
described and shown.
Inventors: |
Hoppins; Jennifer;
(Greensboro, NC) ; Hoppins; Richard; (Greensboro,
NC) |
Family ID: |
43729000 |
Appl. No.: |
12/807292 |
Filed: |
September 1, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61275757 |
Sep 2, 2009 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
2/24 ; 2/159 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 13/065 20130101;
A41D 13/081 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
2/24 ; 2/159 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/06 20060101
A41D013/06; A41D 19/00 20060101 A41D019/00 |
Claims
1. A combination of fabric articles comprising: a. two hand covers
b. two knee covers whereby a human can perform various physical
activities on hard surfaces in comfort.
2. The hand covers of claim 1 having a plurality of finger
stalls.
3. The hand covers of claim 2 having a recess of sufficient size to
accommodate a human being.
4. The hand covers of claim 3 having predetermined shape.
5. The knee covers of claim 1 having a tubular shape.
6. The knee covers of claim 5 having flexibility.
7. The knee covers of claim 6 having a sufficient size to
accommodate a human being.
8. The hand and knee covers of claim 1 wherein said fabric has a
distinct texture.
9. The distinct texture of claim 7 is variable between smooth,
fibrous, piled, scaled and rough.
10. The hand and knee covers of claim 8 wherein said fabric having
predetermined color.
11. The hand and knee covers of claim 10 wherein use induces active
play.
12. In combination, hand and knee covers having a composition and
means for providing a continuously variable exercise for a
human.
13. The hand and knee covers of claim 12 wherein said composition
induces imaginative play.
14. The combination of claim 12 wherein hand covers comprise: a.
textured fabric b. a plurality of finger stalls c. a predetermined
creature paw shape d. a recess of sufficient size to accommodate
use by a human. e. a predetermined color
15. The combination of claim 12 wherein knee covers comprise: a.
textured fabric b. a tubular shape c. a sufficient size to
accommodate use by a human d. a predetermined color
16. A method of inducing social interaction between humans with
differences previously separated by a lack of unifying physical
activities comprising: a. providing set or of plurality of sets of
the hand and knee covering combination to one or more persons
whereby said persons engage collectively in imaginative activities
as expressions of pretending. b. said persons engage collectively
in physical activities.
17. The hand and knee covers of claim 16 are comprised of fabric
material having texture which simulates the reality of having
animal fur or creature skin.
18. The hand and knee covers of claim 17 having sufficient size to
accommodate use by a human.
19. The hand and knee covers of claim 18 having predetermined
color.
20. The hand and knee covers of claim 19 having predetermined
shape.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of provisional patent
application No. 61/275,757, filed Sep. 2, 2009 by Jennifer Hoppins,
titled: Set of Hand and Knee Coverings for Children Imitating Four
Legged Animals.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Prior Art
[0003] The following is a tabulation of some prior art that
presently appears relevant:
TABLE-US-00001 U.S. Patents Pat. No. Kind Code Issue Date Patentee
6,581,211 B1 2003-06-24 Golden D207442 Unknown 1967-04-18 Facci
4,333,181 Unknown 1982-06-08 Corriero D568546 S 2008-05-06
Mehrabani 5,978,962 A 1999-11-09 Hamowy
[0004] 2. Prior Art Continued
[0005] Our society values entertainment, especially the
entertainment of children. Yet limitless forms of passive
entertainment contribute to the epidemic of childhood obesity.
Therefore a need exists to inspire children to move their bodies
while being entertained. This need has been partially met with the
development of interactive exercise video games, various sports,
dance and skill building activities. However, adults as well as
children know that exercise routines eventually lead to boredom.
One way to reduce boredom is through engaging the imagination. Now
more than ever, there is a need to inspire children to use their
imaginative minds to move their bodies. Imagination is defined as a
power of the mind by which mental images are formed or the exercise
of that power. Children are empowered through the exercise of their
imaginations particularly when it involves physical activity. This
is because the practice of imaginative physical activity sets a
pattern of flexibility in thinking and flexibility in the body over
a lifetime.
[0006] Experience teaches that pretend play is a significant force
in child development and the most compelling toys are those that
simulate reality. For children who love to pretend to be cats, dogs
or other animals, the prior art holds several disadvantages.
[0007] Full body plush costumes have previously inspired physically
active, imaginative pretending in children. They also allow a child
to experience the simulated reality of having fur. Yet while worn
indoors or in warm weather, the suits increase the internal body
temperature to the point of discomfort. While a little sweat is
beneficial, wearing these suits results in lethargy, exhaustion and
irritated skin.
[0008] The prior Knee or Elbow Protector and Plush Toy by Hamony,
U.S. Pat. No. 5,978,962 (1999) proposes plush additions to knee
covers. These do not succeed in engaging the wearer to perform a
variety of physical movements related to imaginary play. For
example, a child wearing the knee protector integrated with a teddy
bear of FIG. 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 5,978,962 will not be inspired to
perform the various physical movements of a bear because real bears
do not carry cubs on their knees. In this instance, the purpose is
to induce a child to wear protection, not to simulate the reality
of having fur or being a bear.
[0009] Since our combination includes paw-shaped hand coverings, it
is important to note the Mitten by Golden, U.S. Pat. No. 6,581,211
(2003) and Tiger Paw Mitten by Facci, Pat. D207,442 (1967). On
their own, both are useful for warmth and style but miss the
physical benefits that adding knee coverings accomplishes. The
Infant Hand and Knee Covering Combination Pat. D568,546 (2008) by
Mehrabani was ornamentally designed to cover babies' tender skin
while crawling, but does not activate imaginary role playing and
various physical movements in older children.
[0010] Previously, hand and knee covers were used for protection,
warmth and style. They have also been used for infants learning to
crawl. While pretending to be a family pet during play, parents and
children need visually enticing, sensory stimulating cushion for
hands and knees. This need has not been met by the seasonally
available gloves, mittens and knee pads currently on the market.
These items are rarely available simultaneously in stores during
the same season. They have also not been combined to simulate the
reality of having animal fur in key areas that provide ease in
crawling, sliding, or other bodily movements related to this type
of imaginary expression. Often, the only knee pads available are
the type used for sports. These, such as the Protective Structures
for Joints by Corriero, U.S. Pat. No. 4,333,181 (1980) protect
knees from impact. However, their rigid shields may scratch wood
floors during use. They also lack the simulated reality of having
fur. While our combination can be used for protection, warmth and
style, multiple advantages exist over the prior art.
ADVANTAGES
[0011] The first advantage of one or more aspects are to activate
the imagination through sensory stimulation. The second advantage
of one or more aspects are to induce physical activity. The third
advantage of one or more aspects are to allow ease in sliding on
hard surfaces while providing stability. These and other advantages
will become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing
descriptions and accompanying drawings.
[0012] In one embodiment in which the combination is used during
imitation of animals, it is desirable to have ease in sliding the
knees over hard surfaces while having a measure of stability and
control using the hands. The ease in sliding aspect is achieved
through the soft, fibrous texture of the padded sleeves that can be
worn comfortably over knees. The measure of stability aspect is
achieved through the gripping texture of paw pads integrated on the
palm of the hand covers. Other advantages are as follows: [0013] a.
While worn, the imagination is engaged through the simulated
reality of having fur. [0014] b. With imagination comes an
expression through play. [0015] c. The expression includes a
variety of physical movements beneficial to health. [0016] d. The
ease of slip-on application encourages independence and self care
in young children. [0017] e. Use prompts social interaction. [0018]
f. Children of different physical capabilities such as walkers and
non walkers are drawn together by sharing the common activity of
crawling during use. [0019] g. The combination prevents damage to
hardwood floors. [0020] h. Use protects skin from friction during
active play. [0021] i. Use creates a change in perspective granted
by movement from upright, human posture to four legged animal
posture. [0022] j. Changes in perspective granted through use
promote empathy for animals. [0023] k. Use involves a positive
after affect. [0024] l. During a return to the wearers' natural
human role, a clearer understanding and appreciation for the
identity as a person within society is developed.
SUMMARY
[0025] Accordingly, an object of one embodiment is to provide a
compelling aid which triggers the imagination by simulating the
reality of having animal fur thus inducing a continuously variable
exercise. Another object of one embodiment is to provide
entertainment and fun to wearers while protecting skin from the
effects of friction during play. An additional object of one
embodiment is to provide ease in sliding knees over hard or
carpeted surfaces while simultaneously providing stability for the
hands during activity. Another object of one embodiment is to
promote inclusive interaction between persons having various
physical capabilities. Briefly stated, still another object of one
embodiment is to strengthen the wearer's identity as a person in
society.
DRAWINGS--FIGURES
[0026] FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of the dorsal portion of
paw-shaped hand cover as it is donned on the hand according to one
embodiment.
[0027] FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of the palm portion of the
first embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 2A shows a side view of the knee cover as it is donned
on the thigh, calf and knee in a semi flexed position.
[0029] FIG. 2B shows an elevated perspective view of the knee cover
in a vertical position.
[0030] FIG. 3 shows a human wearing the combination of hand and
knee covers while in a crawling position.
[0031] FIG. 4 shows three separate poses demonstrating a
continuously variable set of actions performed by a human wearing
the combination of hand and knee coverings.
[0032] FIG. 5 shows a human with limited physical abilities
(indicated by the presence of a wheel chair) and a human with
average physical abilities engaged in group play while wearing the
combination.
DRAWINGS--REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0033] 1 Paw-shaped hand covering [0034] 2 Palm pad for paw (1)
[0035] 3 Digit pads for paw (1) [0036] 4 Slot in body of paw-shaped
covering for allowing thumb (8) and fingers (9) of hand (10) [0037]
5 Elastic strip which grips the wrist (11) of the hand (10) to
which the paw-shaped hand cover (1) is donned. [0038] 6a Stalls for
multiple fingers (9) to be donned by hand (10) [0039] 6b Stall for
thumb (8) to be donned by hand (10) [0040] 7 Body for covering hand
(10) [0041] 8 Thumb [0042] 9 Fingers [0043] 10 Hand [0044] 11 Wrist
[0045] 12 Knee Covering [0046] 13 Body for covering the front side
of the knee, thigh, and calf. [0047] 14 Calf [0048] 15 Thigh [0049]
16 Slot in body of knee covering for allowing calf, knee, and thigh
to be donned [0050] 17 Body for covering behind the knee, thigh and
calf [0051] 18 Cushion material [0052] 19 Seam where front (13) and
back (14) of knee cover (12) meet [0053] 20 Knee [0054] 21a Human
[0055] 21b Human with different physical ability [0056] 21
Wheelchair representing human's (21b) different physical
ability
DETAILED DESCRIPTION--FIGS. 1-4 FIRST EMBODIMENT
[0057] We contemplate that features of this embodiment be made of
plush but other materials are also suitable. In this embodiment,
FIG. 1A shows a paw-shaped hand cover (1) having a texture to
simulate animal fur, three wide finger stalls (6a) and one thumb
stall (6b). The width of each finger stall accommodates a plurality
of fingers. This aspect permits ease in donning the paw-shaped hand
cover, particularly for young children who struggle to align and
separate fingers while donning a common glove with five narrow
stalls.
[0058] FIG. 1A further shows a perspective view of the dorsal
portion of the paw-shaped hand cover (1) and how it is donned on
the hand (10) of a human (21). A plurality of fingers (9) and thumb
(8) are fitted into finger stalls (6a) and thumb stall (6b) via
slot (4) while elastic strip (5) grips wrist (11) for a secure
fit.
[0059] FIG. 1B shows a perspective view of the palm portion of the
paw-shaped hand cover (1) with integrated palm pad (2) and digit
pads (3), elastic strip (5) and a slot (4) for donning on the hand
(10).
[0060] The dimensions of paw-shaped hand covers are typically but
not exclusively as follows: 6'' to 8'' from the tip of the middle
finger stall to the wrist, 5'' to 7'' wide from thumb stall to
opposite finger stall and 1/8'' to 1'' in thickness.
[0061] Accordingly, one method of assembly of the paw-shaped hand
cover proceeds as follows: Elastic strips (5) are wrapped within
the bottom edge of the palm and dorsal portions of FIGS. 1A and 1B.
Palm pad (2) and digit pads (3) are integrated onto textured side
of palm portion. To provide the simulated reality of an animal paw,
palm pad (2) is positioned and seamed onto the center of the widest
area of the palm portion, while digit pads (3) are positioned and
seamed near the tips of finger stalls (6a) and thumb stall (6b).
Palm portion of paw-shaped hand cover (1) is mated with dorsal
portion of (1) so that the reverse sides of textured fabric face
outward. A seam is then sewn around the edge, leaving a slot (4) at
the bottom. The paw-shaped hand cover is then turned texture side
out.
[0062] FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of the side portion of a
knee cover (12) and how it is donned on the thigh (15), knee (20),
and calf (14) of a human (21). A body (13) for covering the front
or knee cap portion having a texture simulating animal fur is
sandwiched on top of cushion material (18) and seamed together with
a body (17). The seam (19) connecting textured front side (13) to
back (17) is perpendicular to elastic strips (5) which secure the
knee covering (12) when donned. FIG. 2A also shows slot (16)
representing an opening in which the knee covering (12) is donned
on the thigh (15), knee (20), and calf (14).
[0063] The dimensions of knee pads are typically but not
exclusively as follows: 7'' to 9'' in length, 51/2'' to 71/2'' in
width having a 9'' to 12'' circumference at the top opening and a
7'' to 10'' circumference at the bottom opening.
[0064] FIG. 2B is an elevated perspective view of knee cover (12)
in a vertical position. A body (13) having texture comprises front
portion of knee cover. Cushion material (18) is sandwiched between
textured body (13) and body (17) which we contemplate will be
comprised of a stretch knit material although other materials are
suitable. The body (17) wraps around the circumference of thigh
(15), knee (20), and calf (14). Seams (19) connect textured body
(13) to knit body (17). Slot (16) represents an opening for donning
on the thigh (15), knee (20), and calf (14) of a human (21).
[0065] Accordingly one method of assembling a knee cover is as
follows: Elastic strips 5 are wrapped within the top and bottom
edges of body (17) and seamed. The body (13) is sandwiched on top
of cushion material (18) and body (17). The body (13) is then
seamed on all sides. The resulting composition comprising an
elasticized rectangular sheet with padded plush addition is then
folded in half so that the longest sides are aligned together with
texture side in. The resulting longest open side with mated edges
is then seamed. Knee covering (12) is then turned textured side
out.
[0066] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a human (21) donning the
combination of paw-shaped hand coverings and knee pads while in a
crawling position.
[0067] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a human (21) donning the
combination and demonstrating three movements performed during the
continuously variable exercise prompted by imaginary play.
Operation
[0068] The manner of using the paw-shaped hand cover and knee pad
combination is to apply each component beginning with the knee
pads. To apply the knee pads, the wearer uses similar motions
needed to apply socks. With a pointed toe, the wearer slides the
pad over the feet, continuing to slide the pad up and over the
knee. To apply the paw shaped hand covers, the wearer slides
fingers, thumb and hand into the slot, directing fingers and thumb
into stalls, choosing one stall to accommodate more than one
finger.
[0069] Once the hand covers and knee pads are in place, the
wearer's senses are triggered through the simulated reality of
having fur. This tactile and visual sensory experience activates
the wearer's imagination, thereby inducing continually variable
physical movements and expressions. These may include, but are not
limited to, crawling, sliding, rolling or scampering. During this
activity, the advantage of ease in sliding over hard surfaces
provided by the soft knee pads is realized. Simultaneously, the
advantage of stability provided by the texture of the paw pads on
the hand covers is realized. Further, the advantage of protection
from friction caused by crawling on hard surfaces or carpet is also
realized. These advantages allow the wearer to extend their time
spent in imaginative play acting.
[0070] To remove the combination, the wearer begins with the
paw-shaped hand covers. These can be shaken off using waving or
flapping motions. Alternately, they can be removed in the same
manner as one would remove gloves, one at a time while grasping the
material at the wrist with the alternate hand. To remove the knee
pads, the wearer may grasp the material at two places on either
side of the knees and push or pull toward the ankles and slide over
feet.
[0071] In the first embodiment, the paw-shaped hand coverings and
knee pads may be composed of plush that can be machine or hand
washed, allowing for extended use. Additionally, the components may
be constructed using repurposed or recycled fabric, adding an eco
friendly aspect.
[0072] Once the components of the first embodiment are removed, an
after affect occurs. The wearer transitions from imaginative play
acting to resume their normal activity as a person within society.
With this transition, a deeper understanding of their privileges as
a human being occurs. One example is the recognition of extended
vision granted from standing upright in contrast to the lower plane
of vision allowed during crawling on hands and knees. An additional
example is the experience of eating a meal at a table with utensils
after crawling on the floor pretending to eat pretend kibble
without hands.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION--FIG. 5 SECOND EMBODIMENT
[0073] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a human (21b) with
different physical abilities interacting with a human (21a) with
average physical abilities. Both are donning the paw-shaped hand
covering and knee pad combinations. The empty wheelchair (22) is a
symbol representing the event of physical activity shared equally
between persons formerly separated by ability.
Description of Operation of Alternative Embodiments
[0074] In the second embodiment, the combination functions as a
bridge between children previously separated by a lack of unifying
activities. When used in group play, children who cannot walk can
play equally with children who can. This is because imagining,
crawling, sliding, rolling or other actions are typical
manifestations of play during use.
[0075] Other embodiments are possible in which the hand covers and
knee pads simulate aspects of various animals or imaginary
creatures. For example, the hand coverings could be made in shapes
related to aspects of double-toed chameleons, monkeys, imaginary
purple monsters or scaly dinosaurs.
[0076] Conclusion
[0077] Thus the reader will see that according to one embodiment we
have provided at least one solution to the problem of reducing
boredom during exercise while fulfilling the needs described above
and succeeding beyond the prior art. Through the texture and form
of the components, the wearer is granted the simulated reality of
having fur without over heating the body. In the activity of
imagining themselves in another role, wearers of the combination
perform various physical movements. The soft outer surface of the
knee pads allow for ease in sliding on hard surfaces while the hand
coverings provide stability. The combination also prevents friction
caused by movement over hard surfaces and carpet. Use inspires
social interaction through imaginative performances. Entertainment
is provided to the wearer and to others through play. Empathy for
other beings and a deeper appreciation for being human is an after
affect of use. The combination is beneficial in group play for the
bridge it creates between children with differences.
Ramifications
[0078] Thus the reader will see that at least one embodiment
provides one or more ways to perform physical activity using the
imaginative mind. The combination in other embodiments is useful
persons of all ages and physical abilities. Use encourages social
interaction while entertaining. When removed the combination has an
after affect of developing the wearer's identity as a person in
society and compassion for other beings. While the above
description contains many specificities, these should not be
construed as limitations on the scope, but rather as
exemplification of one or several embodiments thereof. Many other
variations are possible. For example by altering the shape of the
hand cover to a frog's webbed foot, another creature or animal is
imagined.
Scope
[0079] Accordingly, the scope should be determined not by the
embodiments illustrated but by the appended claims and their
equivalents. The previous is considered as illustrative only of the
principles of the embodiments. Further, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is not desired to limit the combination to the exact
construction and operation shown and described. This is due to the
variety of real and imaginary creatures that influence the colors,
shape and sizes of each combination. All modifications may be
resorted to falling within the scope of the combination as
claimed.
* * * * *