U.S. patent application number 13/942845 was filed with the patent office on 2013-11-14 for vibration dampening material and uses for same.
The applicant listed for this patent is Matscitechno Licensing Company. Invention is credited to Carmen N. DiMario, Thomas Falone, Robert A. Vito.
Application Number | 20130302569 13/942845 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40454797 |
Filed Date | 2013-11-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130302569 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vito; Robert A. ; et
al. |
November 14, 2013 |
VIBRATION DAMPENING MATERIAL AND USES FOR SAME
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a material adapted to
reduce vibration and, more specifically, to a material adapted to
dissipate and evenly distribute transmitted vibrations. The
material is particularly suited for impact and/or heavy load
vibration resistance.
Inventors: |
Vito; Robert A.; (Kennett
Square, PA) ; DiMario; Carmen N.; (West Chester,
PA) ; Falone; Thomas; (Mickleton, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Matscitechno Licensing Company |
Kennett Square |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
40454797 |
Appl. No.: |
13/942845 |
Filed: |
July 16, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12324159 |
Nov 26, 2008 |
8545966 |
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13942845 |
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11304079 |
Dec 15, 2005 |
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12324159 |
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11019568 |
Dec 22, 2004 |
7171697 |
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11304079 |
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10999246 |
Nov 30, 2004 |
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11019568 |
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10958611 |
Oct 5, 2004 |
7150113 |
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10999246 |
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10856215 |
May 28, 2004 |
6942586 |
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10958611 |
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10659560 |
Sep 10, 2003 |
6935973 |
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10856215 |
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09939319 |
Aug 27, 2001 |
6652398 |
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10659560 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
428/158 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 60/54 20151001;
B25G 1/01 20130101; B32B 2307/54 20130101; B32B 3/18 20130101; A63B
60/16 20151001; A63B 2208/12 20130101; F16F 1/3605 20130101; B32B
5/18 20130101; B32B 2307/558 20130101; B32B 27/34 20130101; Y10T
428/2457 20150115; B32B 25/047 20130101; A63B 2102/18 20151001;
Y10T 428/24314 20150115; A63B 60/14 20151001; A63B 59/50 20151001;
A63B 60/06 20151001; Y10T 428/24612 20150115; Y10T 428/24479
20150115; Y10T 428/249953 20150401; B32B 1/08 20130101; A63B 60/10
20151001; Y10T 428/24496 20150115; A63B 2059/581 20151001; B32B
7/02 20130101; F16F 7/121 20130101; A63B 60/08 20151001; B32B
27/065 20130101; B32B 17/02 20130101; F16F 1/371 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
428/158 |
International
Class: |
F16F 7/12 20060101
F16F007/12 |
Claims
1. A vibration-reducing material comprising: a foam material layer
comprising a plurality of projecting sections made of substantially
rigid foam material and areas of predetermined weakness located
within the foam layer between the projections to allow the
vibration-reducing material to flex along such areas of
predetermined weakness and wherein the areas of predetermined
weakness comprise U-shaped cutouts in the foam layer, a high
tensile strength material layer that distributes vibration to
facilitate vibration dampening, the high tensile strength material
layer being generally non-elastic in a direction generally
perpendicular to a major material surface thereof; and a continuous
elastomeric material layer configured to absorb vibration; wherein
the high tensile strength material is located between the foam
material layer and elastomeric material layer.
2. A vibration-reducing material comprising: a foam material layer
comprising a plurality of projecting sections made of substantially
rigid foam material and areas of predetermined weakness located
within the foam layer between the projections to allow the
vibration-reducing material to flex along such areas of
predetermined weakness and wherein the areas of predetermined
weakness comprise compressed portions of the foam layer, a high
tensile strength material layer that distributes vibration to
facilitate vibration dampening, the high tensile strength material
layer being generally non-elastic in a direction generally
perpendicular to a major material surface thereof; and a continuous
elastomeric material layer configured to absorb vibration; wherein
the high tensile strength material is located between the foam
material layer and elastomeric material layer.
3. A vibration-reducing material comprising: a foam material layer
comprising a plurality of projecting sections made of substantially
rigid foam material and areas of predetermined weakness located
within the foam layer between the projections to allow the
vibration-reducing material to flex along such areas of
predetermined weakness and wherein the areas of predetermined
weakness comprise removed portions of the foam layer, a high
tensile strength material layer that distributes vibration to
facilitate vibration dampening, the high tensile strength material
layer being generally non-elastic in a direction generally
perpendicular to a major material surface thereof; and a continuous
elastomeric material layer configured to absorb vibration; wherein
the high tensile strength material is located between the foam
material layer and elastomeric material layer.
4. A vibration-reducing material comprising: a foam material layer
comprising a plurality of projecting sections made of substantially
rigid foam material and areas of predetermined weakness located
within the foam layer between the projections to allow the
vibration-reducing material to flex along such areas of
predetermined weakness and wherein the areas of predetermined
weakness comprise parallel U-shaped grooves, a high tensile
strength material layer that distributes vibration to facilitate
vibration dampening, the high tensile strength material layer being
generally non-elastic in a direction generally perpendicular to a
major material surface thereof; and a continuous elastomeric
material layer configured to absorb vibration; wherein the high
tensile strength material is located between the foam material
layer and elastomeric material layer.
5. A vibration-reducing material comprising: a foam material layer
comprising a plurality of projecting sections made of substantially
rigid foam material and areas of predetermined weakness located
within the foam layer between the projections to allow the
vibration-reducing material to flex along such areas of
predetermined weakness and the foam material layer further
comprising a plurality of vertical slits formed therein, a high
tensile strength material layer that distributes vibration to
facilitate vibration dampening, the high tensile strength material
layer being generally non-elastic in a direction generally
perpendicular to a major material surface thereof; and a continuous
elastomeric material layer configured to absorb vibration; wherein
the high tensile strength material is located between the foam
material layer and elastomeric material layer.
6. A vibration-reducing material comprising: a foam material layer
comprising a plurality of projecting sections made of substantially
rigid foam material and areas of predetermined weakness located
within the foam layer between the projections to allow the
vibration-reducing material to flex along such areas of
predetermined weakness, the areas of predetermined weakness
comprising grooves that form polygon shapes; a high tensile
strength material layer that distributes vibration to facilitate
vibration dampening, the high tensile strength material layer being
generally non-elastic in a direction generally perpendicular to a
major material surface thereof; and a continuous elastomeric
material layer configured to absorb vibration; wherein the high
tensile strength material is located between the foam material
layer and elastomeric material layer.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of and claims priority to
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/324,159, filed Nov. 26, 2008
which is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/304,079, filed Dec. 15, 2005 (Abandoned),
which is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/019,568, filed Dec. 22, 2004 (now
U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,697, issued Feb. 6, 2007), which is a
continuation in part and claims the benefit of priority to U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/999,246, filed Nov. 30, 2004
(Abandoned), which is a continuation in part of and claims priority
to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/958,611, filed Oct. 5, 2004
(now U.S. Pat. No. 7,150,113, issued Dec. 19, 2006), which is a
continuation in part of and claims priority to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/856,215, filed May 28, 2004 (now U.S. Pat.
No. 6,942,586, issued Sep. 13, 2005), which is a continuation of
and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/659,560,
filed Sep. 10, 2003 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,935,973, issued Aug. 30,
2005), which is a divisional of and claims priority to U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/939,319, filed on Aug. 27, 2001 (now U.S.
Pat. No. 6,652,398, issued Nov. 25, 2003), this application also
claims priority to each of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos.
10/958,941, filed Oct. 5, 2004 (Abandoned), Ser. No. 10/958,767,
filed Oct. 5, 2004 (Abandoned), Ser. No. 10/958,952, filed Oct. 5,
2004 (Abandoned), Ser. No. 10/958,745, filed Oct. 5, 2004 (now U.S.
Pat. No. 8,142,382, issued Mar. 27, 2012); priority to each of the
above identified applications is claimed and each of the above
identified applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein
as if fully set forth in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention is directed to a material adapted to
reduce vibration and, more specifically, to a material adapted to
dissipate and evenly distribute vibrations transmitted.
[0003] Repetitive contact and excessive vibrations can injure a
person or damage equipment. What is needed is a vibration
dissipating material adapted to regulate vibration that provides
the necessary rigidity for effective vibration distribution; that
can dampen and reduce vibrational energy; and that exhibits
superior vibration dissipation.
SUMMARY
[0004] One embodiment of the present invention is directed to
materials for use in items that regulate and dissipate vibration.
Each of the materials, and then their uses on certain items will be
described first in summary, and then in detail.
[0005] The first material comprises first and second elastomer
layers; and a reinforcement layer disposed between and generally
separating the first and second elastomer layers. The reinforcement
layer comprising a layer of high tensile strength fibrous
material.
[0006] The second material comprises first and second elastomer
layers and a reinforcement layer disposed between and generally
separating the first and second elastomer layers. The reinforcement
layer has a plurality of high tensile strength fibrous material
connected to the first and second elastomer layers and located
between the first and second elastomer layers. The high tensile
strength fibrous material is generally compliant only in a
direction generally perpendicular to the major material surface so
as to be generally non energy storing in the direction. The high
tensile strength fibrous material is also generally interlocked in
and generally held in position by the first and second elastomer
layers. Finally, the high tensile strength fibrous material
generally distributes impact energy parallel to the major material
surface and into the first and second elastomer layers.
[0007] The third material comprises a first elastomeric layer of
vibration absorbing material which is substantially free of voids
therein; a second elastomeric layer which includes an aramid
material therein and that is disposed on the first elastomeric
layer, wherein the aramid material distributes vibration to
facilitate vibration dampening; and a third elastomeric layer
disposed on the second elastomeric layer and adapted for
gripping.
[0008] The fourth material comprises a first elastomeric layer
adapted to absorb vibration, the first elastomeric layer being
substantially free of voids therein; a second elastomeric layer
which includes an aramid material therein and that is disposed on
the first elastomeric layer, the aramid material comprising a
plurality of individual strips of aramid of different sizes,
wherein the aramid material distributes vibration to facilitate
vibration dampening, the second elastomeric layer being
substantially free of voids therein; and a third elastomeric layer
that is disposed on the second elastomeric layer, the third
elastomeric layer being substantially free of voids.
[0009] The fifth material comprises: a first elastomeric layer of
vibration absorbing material which is substantially free of voids
therein; a second elastomeric layer that includes an aramid
material therein and that is disposed on the first elastomeric
layer, wherein the aramid material distributes vibration to
facilitate vibration dampening; and a third elastomeric layer
disposed on the second elastomeric layer.
[0010] The sixth material comprises: a first elastomeric layer
adapted to absorb vibration, the first elastomeric layer being
substantially free of voids therein; a second elastomeric layer
which includes an aramid material therein and that is disposed on
the first elastomeric layer, the aramid material comprising a
plurality of individual strips of aramid of different sizes,
wherein the aramid material distributes vibration to facilitate
vibration dampening, the second elastomeric layer being
substantially free of voids therein; and a third elastomeric layer
that is disposed on the second elastomeric layer, the third
elastomeric layer being substantially free of voids.
[0011] The seventh material comprises: a first layer adapted to
absorb vibration and being formed by an elastomer that is
substantially free of voids therein; a second layer which includes
an aramid material therein and that is disposed on the first layer,
the aramid material comprising a plurality of individual strips of
aramid of generally equal sizes, wherein the aramid material
distributes vibration to facilitate vibration dampening, the second
layer being substantially free of voids therein, the plurality of
individual aramid strips being generally parallel to each other;
and a third layer formed by an elastomer that is substantially free
of voids.
[0012] The eighth material comprises: a first elastomeric layer of
vibration absorbing material which is substantially free of voids
therein; a second layer including fiberglass material and that is
disposed on the first elastomeric layer, wherein the fiberglass
material distributes vibration to facilitate vibration dampening,
wherein the fiberglass material forms a substantially imperforate
sheet; and a third elastomeric layer disposed on the second
elastomeric layer.
[0013] The ninth material comprises: a first elastomeric layer of
vibration absorbing material which is substantially non-porous; a
second layer including a fiberglass material and that is disposed
on the first elastomeric layer, wherein the fiberglass material
distributes vibration to facilitate vibration dampening, wherein
the fiberglass material forms a plurality of individual strips that
are generally co-aligned within a common plane that extends
generally throughout the second layer; and a third elastomeric
layer disposed on the second elastomeric layer.
[0014] The tenth material comprises: a first elastomeric layer of
vibration absorbing material which is substantially free of voids
therein; a second layer including high tensile strength fibrous
material and that is disposed on the first elastomeric layer,
wherein the high tensile strength fibrous material distributes
vibration to facilitate vibration dampening, wherein the high
tensile strength fibrous material forms a substantially imperforate
sheet; and a third elastomeric layer disposed on the second
elastomeric layer.
[0015] The eleventh material comprises: first and second elastomer
layers; and] a reinforcement layer disposed between and generally
separating the first and second elastomer layers, the reinforcement
layer comprising a cloth layer formed of a plurality of woven high
tensile fibrous material, the plurality of woven high tensile
fibrous material being connected to the first and second elastomer
layers generally uniformly throughout to provide substantially
complete coverage between the first and second elastomer layers,
the cloth layer being generally compliant only in a direction
generally perpendicular to the first major surface so as to be
generally non energy storing in the direction, wherein the high
tensile fibrous material generally distributes impact energy
parallel to the first major surface and into the first and second
elastomer layers.
[0016] The twelfth material comprises: first and second elastomer
layers; and a reinforcement layer disposed between and generally
separating the first and second elastomer layers, the reinforcement
layer comprising a cloth layer formed of fiberglass, the fiberglass
being connected to the first and second elastomer layers generally
uniformly throughout to provide substantially complete coverage
between the first and second elastomer layers, the cloth layer
being generally compliant only in a direction generally
perpendicular to the first major surface so as to be generally non
energy storing in the direction, wherein the fiberglass generally
distributes impact energy parallel to the first major surface and
into the first and second elastomer layers.
[0017] The thirteenth material comprises: first and second
elastomer layers; and a reinforcement layer disposed between and
generally separating the first and second elastomer layers, the
reinforcement layer comprising a cloth layer formed of a plurality
of woven high tensile fibrous material, the plurality of woven high
tensile fibrous material being connected to the first and second
elastomer layers generally uniformly throughout to provide
substantially complete coverage between the first and second
elastomer layers, the cloth layer being generally compliant only in
a direction generally perpendicular to the first major surface so
as to be generally non energy storing in the direction, the cloth
layer is generally interlocked in and generally held in position by
the first and second elastomer layers, wherein the high tensile
fibrous material generally distributes impact energy parallel to
the first major surface and into the first and second elastomer
layers.
[0018] The fourteenth material comprises: first and second
elastomer layers; and a reinforcement layer disposed between and
generally separating the first and second elastomer layers, the
reinforcement layer comprising a cloth layer formed of a plurality
of woven high tensile fibrous material, the plurality of woven high
tensile fibrous material being connected to the first and second
elastomer layers generally uniformly throughout to provide
substantially complete coverage between the first and second
elastomer layers, the cloth layer being generally compliant only in
a second direction so as to be generally non energy storing in the
second direction, wherein the high tensile fibrous material
generally distributes impact energy parallel to the first direction
and into the first and second elastomer layers.
[0019] The fifteenth material comprises: an elastomer layer having
a first plurality of fibers therein; and [0036] a support structure
penetrated by and embedded on and/or within the elastomer layer,
the support structure being semi-rigid and supporting the elastomer
layer.
[0020] The sixteenth material comprises: an elastomer layer; and a
support structure penetrated by and embedded on and/or within the
elastomer layer, the support structure being formed of a second
elastomer having a higher durometer than the elastomer layer such
that the support structure is semi-rigid and supporting the
elastomer layer.
[0021] The seventeenth material comprises: a first elastomer layer;
and a support structure penetrated by and embedded on and/or within
the elastomer layer, the support structure being semi-rigid or
rigid and supporting the elastomer layer, the support structure
having a first plurality of particles therein.
[0022] The eighteenth material comprises: a first elastomer layer;
and a support structure formed by a second elastomer layer, the
support structure being located and configured to support the first
elastomer layer.
[0023] The nineteenth material comprises: a first elastomer layer;
and a support structure located and configured to support the
elastomer layer, the support structure having a first plurality of
gel particles therein.
[0024] The twentieth material comprises: a tape body being
stretchable along the longitudinal axis from a first position to a
second position, in which the tape body is elongated by a
predetermined amount relative to the first position, the tape body
comprising: a first elastomer layer defining a tape length, as
measured along the longitudinal axis, of the tape body; a support
structure disposed within the elastomer layer generally along the
longitudinal axis in an at least partially non linear fashion while
the tape body is in the first position so that a length of the
support structure, as measured along a surface thereof, is greater
than the tape length of the first elastomer layer; and wherein when
the tape body is stretched into the second position, the support
structure is at least partially straightened so that the support
structure is more linear, relative to when the tape body is in the
first position, the straightening of the support structure causing
energy to be dissipated and generally preventing further elongation
of the elastomer layer along the longitudinal axis past the second
position, the support structure comprising a plurality of
fibers.
[0025] The twenty-first material comprises: a tape body being
stretchable along the longitudinal axis from a first position to a
second position, in which the tape body is elongated by a
predetermined amount relative to the first position, the tape body
comprising: a first elastomer layer defining a tape length, as
measured along the longitudinal axis, of the tape body; a support
structure disposed at least partially within the elastomer layer
generally along the longitudinal axis in an at least partially non
linear fashion while the tape body is in the first position so that
a length of the support structure, as measured along a surface
thereof, is greater than the tape length of the first elastomer
layer; and wherein when the tape body is stretched into the second
position, the support structure is at least partially straightened
so that the support structure is more linear, relative to when the
tape body is in the first position, the straightening of the
support structure causing energy to be dissipated and generally
preventing further elongation of the elastomer layer along the
longitudinal axis past the second position.
[0026] The twenty-second material comprises first and second aramid
material layers, wherein the aramid materials support and contain
the elastomer layer and distribute vibration to facilitate
vibration dampening; and an elastomeric layer configured to absorb
vibration, located substantially between the first and second
aramid material layers.
[0027] The twenty-third material comprises an aramid material
layer, wherein the aramid materials support and contain an
elastomer layer and distribute vibration to facilitate vibration
dampening, and wherein the aramid material layer is shaped as an
open cylinder; and an elastomeric layer located within the open
cylinder, to form a generally cylindrical shape, although other
shapes could also be used.
[0028] The twenty-fourth material comprises a foam material layer;
an aramid material layer that supports and contains an elastomeric
layer and distributes vibration to facilitate vibration dampening;
and the elastomeric material layer configured to absorb
vibration.
[0029] The twenty-fifth material comprises an aramid material
layer, wherein the aramid material supports and contains an
elastomeric layer and distributes vibration to facilitate vibration
dampening; and the elastomeric layer located adjacent to the aramid
material layer.
[0030] Each of these materials could be used alone of in various
combinations to reduce vibrations in the goods described
herein.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention
will be better understood when read in conjunction with the
appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention,
there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently
preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not
limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentality shown. In
the drawings:
[0032] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment
of the material of the present invention; and
[0033] FIG. 2 is perspective view of the material of FIG. 1
configured to form a grip.
[0034] FIG. 3 is an elevational view of a baseball bat having a
cover in the form of a sleeve on the handle area in accordance with
this invention;
[0035] FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmental cross-sectional view of the
bat and sleeve shown in FIG. 3;
[0036] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the results in the
application of shock forces on a cover in accordance with this
invention;
[0037] FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 4 showing an alternative
sleeve mounted on a different implement;
[0038] FIG. 7 is a view similar to FIGS. 4 and 6 showing still yet
another form of sleeve in accordance with this invention;
[0039] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional longitudinal view showing an
alternative cover in accordance with this invention mounted on a
further type of implement;
[0040] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional longitudinal view showing an
alternative cover in accordance with this invention mounted on a
further type of implement;
[0041] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional end view of yet another cover in
accordance with this invention;
[0042] FIG. 10 is an elevational view of a hammer incorporating an
abrasive dampening handle in accordance with this invention; FIG. 8
is an elevational view showing a portion of a handlebar
incorporating a vibration dampening cover in accordance with this
invention;
[0043] FIG. 11 is an elevational view showing a portion of a
handlebar incorporating a vibration dampening cover in accordance
with this invention; the handlebar grip can include an attached
insert (that is also formed of the material of the present
invention) that is located inside of a hollow in the handlebar to
effectively cause the handlebar structure to become another layer
of the material of the present invention (for example, if the
handlebar is formed of a composite, then the composite material
would just form another layer of the material of the present
invention);
[0044] FIG. 12 is a view similar to FIG. 11 of yet another practice
of this invention;
[0045] FIGS. 13-16 are plan views of various forms of the
intermediate force dissipating layer which is used in certain
practices of this invention;
[0046] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a portable electronic
device case having a panel formed from the material of the present
invention; the panel can form the entire case, or just portions of
the case, without departing from the scope of the present
invention; the illustrated case can be used with laptops, cell
phones, GPS devices, portable music playing devices, such as MP3
players, walkie talkies, hand held video games, or the like without
departing from the present invention;
[0047] FIG. 18 is a plan view of a shoe insert formed from the
material of the present invention;
[0048] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a shoe having a panel
formed from the material of the present invention; while the panel
is shown proximate to the heel of the shoe, the panel's size and
placement can vary without departing from the scope of the present
invention; for example, the panel can be positioned along a
sidewall of the shoe, in the sole or mid-sole of the shoe, on the
toe of the shoe, in the tongue of the shoe, or the panel can form
the entire upper portion of the shoe, or the like;
[0049] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a firearm with a grip
having at least a panel formed by the material of the present
invention; the grip can be entirely formed by the material of the
present invention; while the grip is shown on a handgun, those of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the grip can be used
on any rifle, shotgun, paint ball gun, or projectile launching
device without departing from the present invention; the firearm
grip can be a separate wrap around grip or can be a grip attached
and/or molded to the firearm;
[0050] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a sock having panels formed
by the material of the present invention; the panels can be of any
size and configuration; the panels can form the sock itself or be
attached to an underlying fabric, such as a cotton weave;
[0051] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a kneepad having a panel
formed by the material of the present invention; the panel can be
of any size and configuration; the panels that are formed by the
material of the present invention can be integrated in any type of
kneepad or other article of clothing;
[0052] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view illustrating one
embodiment of the material of the present invention that may be
used to form a panel, covering, casing, or container as taken along
the line 23-23 of FIGS. 17-22 and 24-30;
[0053] FIG. 24 is a perspective view illustrating a panel formed by
the material of the present invention used to cover a dashboard,
and/or a floorboard of an automobile; the panel can be used in a
boat, plane, motorcycle, all terrain vehicle, train, racing
vehicle, or the like and can be used in any part of a vehicle, such
as a seat, roll bar, floor panel, speaker insulation, engine
mounts, or the like without departing from the present
invention;
[0054] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a roll bar for use with a
vehicle that incorporates the material of the present invention as
padding thereover; the roll bar padding may include a panel of the
material of the present invention or may be formed entirely of the
material of the present invention;
[0055] FIGS. 26-30 are perspective views of tape or other wrapping
material that may include a panel of or that may be entirely made
of the material of the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a headband formed, at least
in part, by the material of the present invention;
[0057] FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the
headband of FIG. 31 as taken along the line 32-32 in FIG. 31;
[0058] FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of a helmet including
panels formed by the material of the present invention;
[0059] FIG. 34 is a perspective, partially broken away view of a
cycling helmet incorporating the material of the present
invention;
[0060] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a glove suitable for use
with at least one of a baseball and a softball; the glove
incorporates the material of the present invention;
[0061] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a weightlifting glove that
incorporates the material of the present invention;
[0062] FIG. 37 is a front elevation view of a jersey incorporating
the material of the present invention;
[0063] FIG. 38 is an elevational view of athletic shorts
incorporating the material of the present invention;
[0064] FIG. 39 is a elevational view of a golf glove incorporating
the material of the present invention;
[0065] FIG. 40 is a elevational view of a rope handling glove or a
rescue services glove incorporating the material of the present
invention;
[0066] FIG. 41 is a elevational view of a batting glove
incorporating the material of the present invention;
[0067] FIG. 42 is a elevational view of a lady's dress glove
incorporating the material of the present invention;
[0068] FIG. 43 is a elevational view of a ski mitten incorporating
the material of the present invention;
[0069] FIG. 44 is a elevational view of a lacrosse glove
incorporating the material of the present invention;
[0070] FIG. 45 is a elevational view of boxing glove incorporating
the material of the present invention;
[0071] FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention illustrating a single layer
vibration dissipating material with a support structure embedded
therein, the material extends along a longitudinal portion of an
implement and covers a proximal end thereof;
[0072] FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view of the material of FIG. 46
separate from any implement, padding, equipment or the like;
[0073] FIG. 47A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention with the support structure
embedded thereon and the vibration dissipating material penetrating
the support structure;
[0074] FIG. 47B is cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention with the support structure
embedded within the vibration dissipating material and the
vibration dissipating material penetrating the support structure,
the support structure is positioned off center within the vibration
dissipating material;
[0075] FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the
support structure as taken along the lines 48-48 of FIG. 47, the
support structure is formed of polymer and/or elastomer and/or
fibers, either of which may contain fibers, passageways extend
through the support structure allowing the vibration dissipating
material to penetrate the support structure;
[0076] FIG. 49 is cross-sectional view of an alternate embodiment
of the support structure as viewed in a manner similar to that of
FIG. 48 illustrating a support structure formed by woven fibers,
passageways through the woven fibers allow the support structure to
be penetrated by the vibration dissipating material;
[0077] FIG. 50 is cross-sectional view of another alternate support
structure as viewed in a manner similar to that of FIG. 48, the
support structure formed by plurality of fibers, passageways past
the fibers allow the vibration dissipating material to penetrate
the support structure;
[0078] FIG. 51 is a side elevational view of the support structure
of FIG. 48;
[0079] FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention illustrating a single layer
vibration dissipating material with a support structure embedded
therein, the material extends along a longitudinal portion of an
implement and covers a proximal end thereof;
[0080] FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view of the material of FIG. 52
separate from any implement, padding, equipment or the like;
[0081] FIG. 53A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention with the support structure
embedded thereon and the vibration dissipating material penetrating
the support structure;
[0082] FIG. 53B is cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention with the support structure
embedded within the vibration dissipating material and the
vibration dissipating material penetrating the support structure,
the support structure is positioned off center within the vibration
dissipating material;
[0083] FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view of yet another embodiment
of the material of the present invention illustrating a single
layer of vibration dissipating material with a support structure
embedded therein; the support structure is disposed within the
vibration dissipating material generally along a longitudinal axis
in an at least partially non linear fashion so that a length of the
support structure, as measured along a surface thereof, is greater
than the length of the vibration dissipating material as measured
along the longitudinal axis, of the material body;
[0084] FIG. 55 is an enlarged broken away view of the area enclosed
by the dashed lines labeled "FIG. 54" in FIG. 54 and illustrates
that the "overall support structure" can actually be formed by a
plurality of individual stacked support structures (which can be
the same or different from each other) or a successive plurality of
stacked fibers and/or a successive plurality of stacked cloth
layers;
[0085] FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view of the material of FIG. 54
stretched along the longitudinal axis into a second position, in
which the material body is elongated by a predetermined amount
relative to the first position; the straightening of the support
structure causes energy to be dissipated and preferably generally
prevents further elongation of the material along the longitudinal
axis past the second position;
[0086] FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention illustrating a more linear
support structure within the material while the material is in the
first position; the more linear arrangement of the support
structure in the material, relative to that shown in FIG. 54,
reduces the amount of elongation that is possible before the
material stops stretching and effectively forms a brake on further
movement;
[0087] FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view of the material of FIG. 57
stretched along the longitudinal axis into the second position, in
which the material is elongated along the longitudinal axis by a
predetermined amount; because the support structure was more linear
while the material was in the first position, relative to the
material shown in FIG. 56, it is preferred that the amount of
elongation of the material when the material is in the second
position is reduced relative to the material shown in FIGS. 54 and
56;
[0088] FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention illustrating the support
structure with an adhesive layer generally over its major surfaces
to allow the elastomer material to be secured thereto rather than
molded and/or extruded thereover;
[0089] FIG. 60 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention illustrating the support
structure, or ribbon material, positioned between two spaced
elastomer layers with the support structure's peaks molded,
fastened, and/or otherwise affixed to the elastomer layer at a
plurality of locations; air gaps are preferably present about the
support structure to facilitate longitudinal stretching of the
material; alternatively, the support structure can be secured only
at its lateral ends (i.e., the left and right ends of the support
structure viewed in FIG. 60) to the elastomer layers so that the
remainder of the support structure moves freely within an outer
sheath of elastomer material and functions as a spring/elastic
member to limit the elongation of the material;
[0090] FIG. 61 is another embodiment of the vibration dissipating
material of the present invention and is similar to the material
shown in FIG. 60, except that the support structure's peaks are
secured to the elastomer layers via an adhesive layer;
[0091] FIG. 62 is another embodiment of the vibration dissipating
material of the present invention and illustrates the vibration
dissipating material and any accompanying adhesive actually
physically breaking when the support structure is elongated into
the second position; the breaking of the vibration dissipating
material results in further energy dissipation and vibration
absorption in addition to that dissipated by the support
structure;
[0092] FIG. 63 is another embodiment of the vibration dissipating
material of the present invention and illustrates that the support
structure, or ribbon material, can be disposed in any geometry
within the vibration dissipating material; additionally,
individually rigid squares, buttons, or plates (not shown) can be
positioned on one side of the material to further spread impact
force along the surface of the material prior to the dissipation of
vibration by the material in general; additionally, such buttons,
plates, or other rigid surfaces can be attached directly to a mesh
or other flexible layer that is disposed over the material shown in
FIG. 63 so that impact force on one of the rigid members causes
deflection of the entire mesh or other layer for energy absorption
prior to vibration absorption by the material; the section line
labeled 53-53 in this Figure signifies that it is possible that the
support structure shown in FIG. 63 is generally the same as that
illustrated in FIG. 53
[0093] FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the present invention and illustrates that the
support structure can be positioned generally along an outer
surface of the vibration dissipating material without departing
from the scope of the present invention; FIG. 64 also illustrates
that a breakable layer (i.e., a paper layer) or a self fusing
adhesive layer can be located on one surface of the material; when
a self fusing layer is located on one surface of the material, the
material can be wrapped so as to allow multiple adjacent wrappings
of the material to fuse together to form an integral piece; if
desired, the integral piece may be waterproof for use with swimming
or the like;
[0094] FIG. 65 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the vibration dissipating material with a shrinkable layer of
material disposed on a major surface thereof; the shrinkable
material can be a heat shrinkable material or any other type of
shrinking material suitable for use with the present invention;
once the material is properly positioned, the shrinkable layer can
be used to fix the material in position and, preferably, can also
be used as a separate breakable layer to further dissipate
vibration in a fashion similar to the breakable layer described in
connection with FIG. 62;
[0095] FIG. 66 is another embodiment of the vibration dissipating
material of the present invention and illustrates the shrinkable
layer disposed within the vibration dissipating material; the
shrinkable layer can be a solid layer, a perforated layer, a mesh
or netting, or shrinkable fibers;
[0096] FIG. 67 is another embodiment of the vibration absorbing
material of the present invention and illustrates the shrinkable
layer being disposed over peaks of the support structure with an
optional vibration absorbing layer thereover;
[0097] FIG. 68 is a cross-sectional view of the material of FIG. 67
when the shrinkable layer has been shrunk down over the support
structure after the material is placed in a desired configuration;
although the optional additional vibration absorbing material is
not shown in FIG. 68, it can be left in position above the
shrinkable layer to form a protective sheath or also pulled down
into the gaps between the peaks of the support structure;
[0098] FIG. 69 illustrates the material of the present invention
configured as athletic tape with an optional adhesive layer;
[0099] FIG. 70 illustrates the material of the present invention as
a roll of material/padding/wide wrap material or the like with an
optional adhesive layer thereon;
[0100] FIG. 71 illustrates the material of the present invention
configured as a knee bandage;
[0101] FIG. 72 illustrates the material of the present invention
with an optional adhesive layer configured as a finger and/or joint
bandage; while various bandages, wraps, padding, materials, tapes,
or the like are shown, the material of the present invention can be
used for any purpose or application without departing from the
scope of the present invention;
[0102] FIG. 73 illustrates the material of the present invention
used to form a foot brace;
[0103] FIG. 74 illustrates the material of the present invention
wrapped to form a knee supporting brace;
[0104] FIG. 75 illustrates additional layers of material used to
brace the ligaments in a person's leg;
[0105] FIG. 76 illustrates the material of the present invention
used to form a hip support;
[0106] FIG. 77 illustrates the material of the present invention
used to form a shoulder brace;
[0107] FIG. 78 illustrates the material of the present invention
wrapped to form a hand and wrist brace; while the material of the
present invention has been shown in conjunction with various
portions of the person's body, those of ordinary skill in the art
will appreciate from this disclosure that the material of the
present invention can be used as an athletic brace, a medical
support, or a padding for any portion of a person's body without
the departing from the scope of the present invention;
[0108] FIG. 79 is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the invention;
[0109] FIG. 79a is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of
the material of the invention;
[0110] FIG. 80 shows the material of FIG. 80 closed upon itself in
a tube;
[0111] FIG. 81 is a cross section through the lines 81-81 in FIG.
80;
[0112] FIG. 81a is an alternate material cross section through the
lines 81-81 in FIG. 80;
[0113] FIG. 82 is a toroidal shaped embodiment of the
invention;
[0114] FIG. 83 is an open cylinder-shaped embodiment using the
material of the invention;
[0115] FIG. 84 shows the open cylinder embodiment as applied in an
engine mount;
[0116] FIG. 85 shows an open cylinder embodiment as applied as a
shock absorber;
[0117] FIGS. 86 and 87 show variant embodiments of the material of
FIG. 79 as used in a flooring surface;
[0118] FIG. 88 shows a cross section of another material embodiment
of the invention;
[0119] FIG. 89 shows a top view of the material of FIG. 88 with
grooves formed therein;
[0120] FIG. 90 is a cross section of FIG. 89 along the lines
90-90;
[0121] FIG. 91 shows a top view of the material of FIG. 88 with
grooves formed therein;
[0122] FIG. 92 is a cross section of FIG. 91 along the lines 92-92;
and
[0123] FIG. 93 shows the material of FIG. 88 as used with a
protective vest.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0124] Certain terminology is used in the following description for
convenience only and is not limiting. The term "implement," as used
in the specification and in the claims, means "any one of a
baseball bat, racket, hockey stick, softball bat, sporting
equipment, firearm, or the like." The above terminology includes
the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and
words of similar import. Additionally, the words "a" and "one" are
defined as including one or more of the referenced item unless
specifically stated otherwise.
[0125] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, wherein like numerals indicate
like elements throughout, there is shown a preferred embodiment of
a material adapted to regulate vibration according to the present
invention, generally designated 10. Briefly stated, the material 10
of the present invention is formed by at least a first elastomer
layer 12A and a layer of high tensile strength fibrous material 14.
The material 10 can be incorporated into athletic gear, grips for
sports equipment, grips for tools, and protective athletic gear.
The panels 305 of the material 10 can be incorporated into the
various items disclosed in this application. The panel defines an
outer perimeter 314 and may extend throughout the entire item that
is the panel 305 may actually form the entire shoe insert, case, or
other item. Alternatively, multiple panels can be separately
located on an item. More specifically, the material 10 can be used:
to form grips (or to form part of a grip or to form a panel 305
included in a grip) for a tennis racquet, hockey sticks, golf
clubs, baseball bats or the like; to form protective athletic gear
for mitts, headbands, helmets, knee pads 323 (shown in FIG. 22),
umpire padding, shoulder pads, gloves, mouth guards, pads, or the
like; to form seats or handle bar covers for bicycles, motorcycles,
or the like; to form boots for skiing, roller blading or the like;
to form clothing (such as shirts, gloves, pants, etc.) or padded
liners or footwear 311 (shown in FIG. 19), such as shoe soles 313,
shoe uppers 315, shoe lowers, shoe pads, ankle pads, toe pads 317,
shoe inserts, and to provide padding 319 to socks 321 (shown in
FIG. 21), such as sock bottoms; to form padding 307 (shown in FIG.
17) for portable electronics, such as cell phone cases, PDA cases,
laptop cases, gun cases, radio cases, cassette cases, MP3 player
cases, calculator cases; to form padding for speakers; to provide
padding 325 (see FIG. 24) and soundproofing for automobiles 327,
such as providing pole and/or roll bar padding 329 (shown in FIG.
25) in vehicles, such as automobiles, boats, trucks, all terrain
vehicles, etc., providing insulation panels 329 for cars, for use
in engine mounts; to form grips 309 (shown in FIG. 20) for
firearms, hand guns, rifles, shotguns, or the like; to form grips
for tools such as hammers, drills, screw drivers, circular saws,
chisels or the like; and to form part or all of bandages and/or
wraps 331 (shown in FIGS. 26-30). The material of the present
invention 10 can also be used for soundproofing rooms, homes,
airplanes, music studios, or the like.
[0126] The material 10 is preferably generally non elastic in a
direction generally perpendicular "X" to a major material surface
316A (shown in FIG. 23) and thus, does not provide a spring like
effect when experiencing impact force. It is preferred that the
material 10 is generally compliant in the direction "X" which is
perpendicular to the major material surface 316A, 316B so as to be
generally non energy storing in the direction "X". It is preferred
that the reinforcement layer generally distribute impact energy
parallel to the major surfaces 316A, 316B and into the first and
second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. The material 10 is preferably
designed to reduce sensible vibration (and thus generally dampen
and divert energy away from the object or person covered by the
material).
[0127] The first elastomer layer 12A acts a shock absorber by
converting mechanical vibrational energy into heat energy. The high
tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 redirects vibrational
energy and provides increased stiffness to the material 10 to
facilitate a user's ability to control an implement 20 encased, or
partially encased, by the material 10. It is preferred, but not
necessary, that the high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14
be formed of aramid material.
[0128] In one embodiment, the composite material 10 may have three
generally independent and separate layers including the first
elastomer layer 12A and a second elastomer layer 12B. Elastomer
material provides vibration damping by dissipating vibrational
energy. Suitable elastomer materials include, but are not limited
urethane rubbers, silicone rubbers; nitrile rubbers, butyl rubbers,
acrylic rubbers, natural rubbers, styrene-butadiene rubbers, and
the like. In general, any suitable elastomer material can be used
to form the first and second elastomer layers without departing
from the scope of the present invention. For example the elastomer
layers may be thermoset elastomer layers. Alternatively, the
elastomer layers 12A, 12B can be thermoplastic or any material
suitable for thermoforming. For example, when manufacturing some
shaped articles, such as a golf club grip, it may be more efficient
to first form the material 10 as a generally flat piece or sheet of
material 10 which could then be reformed or thermoformed into the
desired shaped article. Additionally, the material 10 may include a
shrink wrap or shrinkable layer therein and/or thereon. The
shrinkable layer can be heat and/or water activated.
[0129] The material 10 can include additional layers thereover,
such as a generally rigid material or the like. For example, one or
more generally rigid plates of rigid material can be positioned
over the material 10 to distribute impact force over an increased
amount of the material. This can be useful when using the material
in umpire vests, bulletproof vests, shoulder pads, shoes, or in any
other application where a generally rigid outer layer is
desired.
[0130] The softness of elastomer materials can be quantified using
Shore A durometer ratings. Generally speaking, the lower the
durometer rating, the softer the material and the more effective an
elastomer layer is at absorbing and dissipating vibration because
less force is channeled through the elastomer. When a soft
elastomer material is squeezed, an individual's fingers are
imbedded in the elastomer which increases the surface area of
contact between the user's hand and creates irregularities in the
outer material surface to allow a user to firmly grasp any
implement 20 covered, or partially covered, by the material.
However, the softer the elastomer layers 12A, 12B, the less control
a user has when manipulating an implement 20 covered by the
elastomer. If the elastomer layer is too soft (i.e., if the
elastomer layer has too low of a Shore A durometer rating), then
the implement 20 may rotate unintentionally relative to a user's
hand or foot. The material 10 of the present invention is
preferably designed to use first and second elastomer layers 12A,
12B having Shore A durometer ratings that provide an optimum
balance between allowing a user to precisely manipulate and control
the implement 20 and effectively damping vibration during use of
the implement 20.
[0131] It is preferable, but not necessary, that the elastomer used
with the material 10 have a Shore A durometer of between
approximately ten (10) and approximately eighty (80). It is
preferred that the first elastomer layer have a Shore A durometer
of between approximately ten (10) and approximately twenty-five
(25) and that the second elastomer layer has a Shore A durometer of
between approximately twenty-five (25) and approximately forty-five
(45).
[0132] The first elastomer layer 12A is preferably used to slow
down impact energy and to absorb vibrational energy and to convert
vibrational energy into heat energy. This preferably, but not
necessarily, allows the first elastomer layer to act as a pad as
well as dissipate vibration. The second elastomer layer 12B is also
used to absorb vibrational energy, but also provides a compliant
and comfortable grip for a user to grasp (or provides a surface for
a portion of a user's body, such as the under sole of a user's foot
when the material 10 is formed as a shoe insert).
[0133] In one embodiment, the first elastomer layer 12A preferably
has Shore A durometer of approximately fifteen (15) and the second
elastomer layer has a Shore A durometer of approximately forty-two
(42). If the first and second elastomer have generally the same
Shore A durometer ratings, then it is preferable, but not
necessary, that the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B have
a Shore A durometer of fifteen (15), thirty-two (32), or forty-two
(42).
[0134] The high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 is
preferably, but not necessarily, formed of aramid fibers. The
fibers can be woven to form a cloth layer 16 that is disposed
between and generally separates the first and second elastomer
layers 12A, 12B. The cloth layer 16 can be formed of aramid fibers,
high tensile strength fibers, fiberglass, or other types of fiber.
It is preferred that the cloth layer 16 does not have suitable
rigidity for use as an open gridwork having any significant energy
storage capability. It is preferred that the material which forms
the reinforcement layer 14 is generally bonded to the elastomer
layers 12A, 12B. The cloth layer 16 preferably generally separates
the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B causing the material
10 to have three generally distinct and separate layers 12A, 12B,
14. The high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 blocks and
redirects vibrational energy that passes through one of the
elastomer layers 12A or 12B to facilitate the dissipation of
vibrations. The high tensile strength fibers 18 redirect
vibrational energy along the length of the fibers 18. Thus, when
the plurality of high tensile strength fibers 18 are woven to form
the cloth layer 16, vibrational energy emanating from the implement
20 that is not absorbed or dissipated by the first elastomer layer
12A is redistributed evenly along the material 10 by the cloth
layer 16 and then further dissipated by the second elastomer layer
12B.
[0135] The cloth layer 16 is preferably generally interlocked in,
generally affixed to, or generally fixed in position by the
elastomer layers 12A, 12B in order for the cloth layer 16 to block
and redirect vibrational energy to facilitate dissipation of
vibrations.
[0136] It is preferable that the high tensile strength fibers 18 be
formed of a suitable polyamide fiber of high tensile strength with
a high resistance to elongation. However, those of ordinary skill
in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that any aramid
fiber suitable to channel vibration can be used to form the high
tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 without departing from
scope of the present invention. Additionally, those of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that loose
fibers or chopped fibers can be used to form the high tensile
strength fibrous material layer 14 without departing from the scope
of the present invention. The high tensile strength fibrous
material may also be formed of fiberglass. The high tensile
strength fibrous material preferably prevents the material 10 from
substantially elongating in a direction parallel to the major
material surfaces 316A, 316B during use. It is preferred that the
amount of elongation is less than ten (10%) percent. It is more
preferred that the amount of elongation is less than four (4%)
percent. It is most preferred that the amount of elongation is less
than one (1%) percent.
[0137] Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this
disclosure that the material 10 can be formed of two independent
layers without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Accordingly, the material 10 can be formed of a first elastomer
layer 12A and a high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14
(which may be woven into a cloth layer 16) that is disposed on the
first elastomer 12A.
[0138] Referring to FIGS. 18 and 23, the material 10 may be
configured and adapted to form an insert 310 for a shoe. When the
material 10 is configured to form a shoe insert 310, the material
10 is preferably adapted to extend along an inner surface of the
shoe from a location proximate to a heel of the shoe to the toe of
the shoe. In addition to forming a shoe insert 310, the material 10
can be located along the sides of a shoe to protect the wearer's
foot from lateral, frontal, and/or rear impact.
[0139] When the material of the present invention forms an insert
310 for a shoe, the insert 310 includes a shoe insert body 312
having a generally elongated shape with an outer perimeter 314
configured to substantially conform to a sole of the shoe so that
the shoe insert body 312 extends along an inner surface of the shoe
from a location proximate to a heel of the shoe to a toe of the
shoe. The shoe insert body 312 is preferably generally planar and
formed by a reinforced elastomer material 10 that regulates and
dissipates vibration. The shoe insert body 312 has first and second
major surfaces 316A, 316B. The reinforced elastomer material 10
preferably includes first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. In
one embodiment it is preferred that the first and second elastomer
layers are generally free of voids therein and/or that the
elastomer layers are formed by thermoset elastomer.
[0140] A reinforcement layer 14 is disposed between and generally
separates the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. The
reinforcement layer 14 may include a layer formed of a plurality of
high tensile strength fibrous material. Alternatively, the
reinforcement layer may be formed of aramid, fiberglass, regular
cloth, or the like. The reinforcement layer may be formed by woven
fibers. In one embodiment, it is preferred that the reinforcement
layer consist of only a single cloth layer of material.
[0141] The woven high tensile strength fibrous material is
preferably connected to the first and second elastomer layers 12A,
12B generally uniformly throughout to provide substantially
complete coverage between the first and second elastomer layers
12A, 12B. The cloth layer is generally compliant only in a
direction "X" generally perpendicular to the first major surface
316A so as to be generally non energy storing in the direction "X".
Wherein the high tensile strength fibrous material 14 generally
distributes impact energy parallel to the first major surface 316A
and into the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. The
reinforcement layer 14 preferably prevents the shoe insert 310 from
substantially elongating during use. The reinforced elastomer 10
can also be used as a sole for footwear or as part of a sole or
insole for footwear. The reinforced elastomer can also be used to
provide padding within or along a side or upper portion of a shoe
or boot.
[0142] Referring to FIGS. 4, 9, 10, and 20, the material 10 may be
configured and adapted to form a grip 22 for an implement such as a
bat, having a handle 24 and a proximal end 26 (i.e., the end
proximal to where the bat is normally gripped). The material 10 is
preferably adapted to enclose a portion of the handle 24 and to
enclose the proximal end 26 of the bat or implement 20. When grip
is used with a firearm the grip can be a wrap around grip or can be
attached and/or molded to the firearm. As best shown in FIG. 2, it
is preferable that the grip 22 be formed as a single body that
completely encloses the proximal end of the implement 20. The
material 10 may be also be configured and adapted to form a grip 22
for a tennis racket or similar implement 20 having a handle 24 and
a proximal end 26.
[0143] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, when the material of the present
invention is directed to one of the types of grips described in
this application (e.g., a gun grip, tool grip, golf club grip,
etc.), the grip 22 includes a grip body 318 having a generally
tubular shape configured to cover a portion of the associated
device. As such, the grip body 318 can have a generally circular,
oval, rectangular, octagonal, polygonal cross-section or the like.
The grip body 318 is formed by a reinforced elastomer material 10
that regulates and dissipates vibration. The grip body 318 defines
a first direction "Y", tangential to an outer surface 320 of the
grip body 318, and a second direction "Z", generally perpendicular
to the outer surface 320 of the grip body 318.
[0144] The reinforced elastomer material 10 includes first and
second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. A reinforcement layer 14 is
disposed between and generally separates the first and second
elastomer layers 12A, 12B. In some embodiments, the elastomer layer
is generally free of voids and/or is a thermoset elastomer. The
reinforcement layer 14 preferably includes a layer of high tensile
strength fibrous material. The high tensile strength fibrous
material can be woven into a cloth, chopped, or otherwise
distributed. Instead of the reinforcement layer 14 being formed by
high tensile strength fibrous material, the reinforcement layer 14
can be formed by a layer of fiberglass, aramid, or any other
suitable material.
[0145] The high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 is
connected to the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B
generally uniformly throughout to provide substantially complete
coverage between the first and second elastomer layers. This
preferably prevents sliding movement between the reinforcement
layer 14 and the elastomer layers 12A, 12B. The cloth layer is
preferably generally compliant only in the second direction "Z" so
as to be generally non energy storing in the second direction "Z".
The high tensile fibrous material generally distributes impact
energy parallel to the first direction "Y" and into the first and
second elastomer layers. This causes vibrational energy to be
reduced and dampened rather than bounced back against the hand
grasping the grip.
[0146] While the grip 22 will be described below in connection with
a baseball or softball bat, those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate that the grip 22 can be used with any of the equipment,
tools, or devices mentioned above without departing from the scope
of the present invention.
[0147] When the grip 22 is used with a baseball or softball bat,
the grip 22 preferably covers approximately seventeen (17) inches
of the handle of the bat as well as covers the knob (i.e., the
proximal end 26 of the implement 20) of the bat. The configuration
of the grip 22 to extend over a significant portion of the bat
length contributes to increase vibrational damping. It is
preferred, but not necessary, that the grip 22 be formed as a
single, contiguous, one-piece member.
[0148] The baseball bat (or implement 20) has a handle 24 including
a handle body 28 having a longitudinal portion 30 and a proximal
end 26. The material 10 preferably encases at least some of the
longitudinal portion 30 and the proximal end 26 of the handle 24.
The material 10 can be produced as a composite having two generally
separate and distinct layers including a first elastomer layer 12A
and a high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 (which may be
a woven cloth layer 16) disposed on the elastomer layer 12A. The
high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 is preferably
formed of woven fibers 18. The second elastomer layer 12B may be
disposed on a major surface of the high tensile strength fibrous
material layer 14 opposite from the first elastomer layer 12A.
[0149] As best shown in FIG. 2, a preferred grip 22 is adapted for
use with an implement 20 having a handle and a proximal handle end.
The grip 22 includes a tubular shell 32 having a distal open end 34
adapted to surround a portion of the handle and a closed proximal
end 36 adapted to enclose the proximal end of the handle. The
tubular shell 32 is preferably formed of the material 10 which
dissipates vibration. The material 10 preferably has at least two
generally separate layers including a first elastomer layer 12A and
a high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 (which fibers 18
may be woven to form a cloth layer 16) disposed on the first
elastomer layer 12A.
[0150] Referring to FIGS. 17-22 and 24-30, when the material of the
present invention is directed to one of the types of padding
described above (e.g., speaker padding and/or insulation, shoe
padding, electronic device cases, mouth guards, umpire protective
gear, car interior padding, rollover bar padding, or the like, tool
grip, golf club grip, etc.), the padding or item may include a
panel 305 formed by a panel body 324 preferably having a generally
planar shape. The panel body is preferably configured for placement
in a particular location or for covering a portion of an associated
device or object. It is preferable that the panel body is flexible
so that shaped objects can be wrapped therein. As such, the panel
body 324 may be bent around a generally circular, oval,
rectangular, octagonal, or polygonal shaped object.
[0151] The panel body 324 is formed by a reinforced elastomer
material that regulates and dissipates vibration. As shown in FIGS.
4 and 20, the panel body 324 defines a first direction "Y",
tangential, or parallel, to an outer surface of the padding body
324, and a second direction "Z", generally perpendicular to the
outer surface of the panel body. The reinforced elastomer material
includes first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. A
reinforcement layer 14 is disposed between and generally separates
the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. In one embodiment
the elastomer layers 12A, 12B are preferably free of voids and/or
formed by a thermoset elastomer. The reinforcement layer 14
preferably includes a layer of high tensile strength fibrous
material. The high tensile strength fibrous material can be woven
into a cloth, chopped, or otherwise distributed. Instead of the
reinforcement layer 14 being formed by high tensile strength
fibrous material, the reinforcement layer 14 can be formed by a
layer of fiberglass, aramid, or any other suitable material. The
high tensile strength fibrous material layer 14 is connected to the
first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B generally uniformly
throughout to provide substantially complete coverage between the
first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. The reinforcement layer
14 is preferably generally compliant only in the second direction
so as to be generally non energy storing in the second direction
"Z". The reinforcement layer 14 generally distributes impact energy
parallel to the first direction "Y" and into the first and second
elastomer layers 12A, 12B. This causes vibrational energy to be
reduced and dampened rather than bounced back. It is preferable
that the reinforcement layer 14 prevents the padding from
elongating during impact. The panel body 324 can form part or all
of a cell phone case, a laptop case, a shoe sidewall, protective
umpire gear, a mouth guard, knee pads, interior panels for
automobiles or the like.
[0152] Multiple methods can be used to produce the composite or
vibration dissipating material 10 of the present invention. One
method is to extrude the material by pulling a high tensile
strength fibrous cloth layer 16 from a supply roll while placing
the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B on both sides of the
woven high tensile strength fibrous cloth 16. A second method of
producing the material 10 of the present invention is to mold the
first elastomer layer 12A onto the implement 20, then to weave an
aramid fiber layer thereover, and then to mold the second elastomer
layer 12B thereover.
[0153] Alternatively, a cloth layer 16 can be pressured fit to an
elastomer layer to form the material 10. Accordingly, the cloth
layer 16 can be generally embedded in or held in place by the
elastomer layer. The pressured fitting of the reinforcement layer,
or fabric layer, 14 to an elastomer preferably results in the
reinforcement layer, or fabric layer, 14 being generally
interlocked in and/or bonded in position by the elastomer. Thus,
the cloth layer can be generally interlocked with the elastomer
layer. It is preferable that the high tensile strength cloth
generally not be able to slide laterally between the first and
second elastomer layers. The cloth layer in the resulting material
would be generally fixed in position. One of ordinary skill in the
art would realize that the cloth layer 14 in the resulting material
would be generally interlocked and/or bonded in position by the
elastomer 12A, 12B. Alternatively, the material 10 can be assembled
by using adhesive or welding to secure the elastomer layer(s) to
the reinforced layer.
[0154] It is preferred that the woven high tensile strength fibers
are connected to the first and second elastomer layers generally
uniformly throughout to provide substantially complete coverage
between the first and second thermoset elastomer layers. The cloth
layer is generally non energy storing in a direction generally
perpendicular to a major material surface. This results in the
vibrational energy being generally evenly redistributed throughout
the material by the cloth layer. This is due to the high tensile
strength fibers transmitting/storing energy unidirectionally along
the length of the fiber and generally not storing energy in a
direction generally perpendicular to the length of the fiber or
perpendicular to a cloth layer formed by the fibers.
[0155] In other words, the cloth layer 16 is preferably compliant
generally only in a direction generally perpendicular to a major
material surface so as to be generally non energy storing in the
direction perpendicular to the major material surface and to
generally distribute energy parallel to the major material surface
and into the first and second elastomer layers. The present
invention preferably generally dissipates vibration throughout the
material to prevent "bounce back" (e.g., to avoid having a runner's
feet absorbed too much vibration during athletics).
[0156] In some cases the high tensile fibrous material can be
pulped to form an imperforate sheet that may be secured in position
between the first and second elastomer layers 12A, 12B. Those of
ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that
any known method of making composite or vibration dissipating
materials can be used to form the material 10.
[0157] The covering of the proximal end of an implement 20 by the
grip 22 results in reduced vibration transmission and in improved
counter balancing of the distal end of the implement 20 by moving
the center of mass of the implement 20 closer to the hand of a user
(i.e., closer to the proximal end 26). This facilitates the
swinging of the implement 20 and can improve sports performance
while reducing the fatigue associated with repetitive motion.
[0158] FIGS. 3-4 illustrate another embodiment of the present
invention. As shown therein a cover in the form of a sleeve 210 is
mounted on the handle or lower portion 218 of a baseball bat 210.
Sleeve 210 is premolded so that it can be fit onto the handle
portion of the bat 212 in a quick and convenient manner. This can
be accomplished by having the sleeve 210 made of a stretchable or
resilient material so that its upper end 214 would be pulled open
and could be stretched to fit over the knob 217 of the bat 212.
Alternatively, or in addition, sleeve 210 may be provided with a
longitudinal slit 16 to permit the sleeve to be pulled at least
partially open and thereby facilitate snapping the sleeve 210 over
the handle 218 of the bat 212. The sleeve would remain mounted in
place due to the tacky nature of the sleeve material and/or by the
application of a suitable adhesive on the inner surface of the
sleeve and/or on the outer surface of handle 218.
[0159] A characterizing feature of sleeve 210, as illustrated in
FIGS. 3-4, is that the lower end of the sleeve includes an
outwardly extending peripheral knob 2220. Knob 220 could be a
separate cap snapped onto or secured in any other manner to the
main portion of sleeve 210. Alternatively, knob 220 could be
integral with and molded as part of the sleeve 210.
[0160] In a broad practice of this invention, sleeve 210 can be a
single layer. The material would have the appropriate hardness and
vibration dampening characteristics. The outer surface of the
material would be tacky having high friction characteristics.
[0161] Alternatively, the sleeve 210 could be formed from a two
layer laminate where the vibration absorbing material forms the
inner layer disposed against the handle, with a separate tacky
outer layer made from any suitable high friction material such as a
thermoplastic material with polyurethane being one example. Thus,
the two layer laminate would have an inner elastomer layer which is
characterized by its vibration dampening ability, while the main
characteristic of the outer elastomer layer is its tackiness to
provide a suitable gripping surface that would resist the tendency
for the user's hand to slide off the handle. The provision of the
knob 220 also functions both as a stop member to minimize the
tendency for the handle to slip from the user's hand and to
cooperate in the vibration dampening affect.
[0162] FIG. 4 illustrates the preferred form of multilayer laminate
which includes the inner vibration absorbing layer 222 and the
outer tacky gripping layer 224 with an intermediate layer 226 made
of a stiffening material which dissipates force. If desired layer
226 could be innermost and layer 224 could be the intermediate
layer. A preferred stiffening material would be aramid fibers which
could be incorporated in the material in any suitable manner as
later described with respect to FIGS. 13-16. However, fiberglass or
any high tensile strength fibrous material can be used as the
stiffening material forming the layer. Additionally, in one
embodiment, the stiffening layer is substantially embedded in or
held in place by the elastomer layer(s).
[0163] FIG. 5 schematically shows what is believed to be the affect
of the shock forces from vibration when the implement makes contact
such as from the bat 212 striking a ball. FIG. 5 shows the force
vectors in accordance with a three layer laminate, such as
illustrated in FIG. 4, wherein elastomeric layers 222,224 are made
of a silicone material. The intermediate layer 226 is an aramid
layer made of aramid fibers. The initial shock or vibration is
shown by the lateral or transverse arrows 228 on each side of the
sleeve laminate 210. This causes the elastomeric layers 222,224 to
be compressed along the arc 230. The inclusion of the intermediate
layer 226 made from a force dissipating material spreads the
vibration longitudinally as shown by the arrows 232. The linear
spread of the vibration causes a rebound effect which totally
dampens the vibration.
[0164] Laboratory tests were carried out at a prominent university
to evaluate various grips mounted on baseball bats. In the testing,
baseball bats with various grips were suspended from the ceiling by
a thin thread; this achieves almost a free boundary condition that
is needed to determine the true characteristics of the bats. Two
standard industrial accelerometers were mounted on a specially
fabricated sleeve roughly in positions where the left hand and the
right hand would grip the bat. A known force was delivered to the
bat with a standard calibrated impact hammer at three positions,
one corresponding to the sweet spot, the other two simulating "miss
hits" located on the mid-point and shaft of the bat. The time
history of the force as well as the accelerations were routed
through a signal conditioning device and were connected to a data
acquisition device. This was connected to a computer which was used
to log the data.
[0165] Two series of tests were conducted. In the first test, a
control bat (with a standard rubber grip, WORTH Bat--model #C405)
was compared to identical bats with several "Sting-Free" grips
representing practices of the invention. These "Sting-Free" grips
were comprised of two layers of pure silicone with various types of
high tensile fibrous material inserted between the two layers of
silicone. The types of KEVLAR, a type of aramid fiber that has high
tensile strength, used in this test were referenced as follows:
"005", "645", "120", "909". Also, a bat with just a thick layer of
silicone but no KEVLAR was tested. With the exception of the thick
silicone (which was deemed impractical because of the excessive
thickness), the "645" bat showed the best reduction in vibration
magnitudes.
[0166] The second series of tests were conducted using EASTON Bats
(model #BK8) with the "645" KEVLAR in different combinations with
silicone layers: The first bat tested was comprised of one bottom
layer of silicone with a middle layer of the "645" KEVLAR and one
top layer of silicone referred to as "111". The second bat test was
comprised of two bottom layers of silicone with a middle layer of
KEVLAR and one top layer of silicone referred to as "211". The
third bat tested was comprised of one bottom layer of silicone with
a middle layer of KEVLAR and two top layers of silicone referred to
as "112". The "645" bat with the "111" configuration showed the
best reduction in vibration magnitudes.
[0167] In order to quantify the effect of this vibration reduction,
two criteria were defined: (I) the time it takes for the vibration
to dissipate to an imperceptible value; and, (2) the magnitude of
vibration in the range of frequencies at which the human hand is
most sensitive.
[0168] The sting-free grips reduced the vibration in the baseball
bats by both quantitative measures. In particular, the "645" KEVLAR
in a "111" configuration was the best in vibration reduction. In
the case of a baseball bat, the "645" reduced the bat's vibration
in about 1/5 the time it took the control rubber grip to do so. The
reduction in peak magnitude of vibration ranged from 60% to 80%,
depending on the impact location and magnitude.
[0169] It was concluded that the "645" KEVLAR grip in a "111"
combination reduces the magnitude of sensible vibration by 80% that
is induced in a baseball bat when a player hits a ball with it.
This was found to be true for a variety of impacts at different
locations along the length of the bat. Hence, a person using the
"Sting-Free" grips of the invention would clearly experience a
considerable reduction in the sting effect (pain) when using the
"Sting-free" grip than one would with a standard grip.
[0170] In view of the above tests a particularly preferred practice
of the invention involves a multilayer laminate having an aramid
such as KEVLAR, sandwiched between layers of pure silicone. The
above indicated tests show dramatic results with this embodiment of
the invention. As also indicated above, however, the laminate could
comprise other combinations of layers such as a plurality of bottom
layers of silicone or a plurality of top layers of silicone. other
variations include a repetitive laminate assembly wherein a
vibration dampening layer is innermost with a force dissipating
layer against the lower vibration dampening layer and then with a
second vibration dampening layer over the force dissipating layer
followed by a second force dissipating layer, etc. with the final
laminate layer being a gripping layer which could also be made of
vibration dampening material. Among the considerations in
determining which laminate should be used would be the thickness
limitations and the desired vibration dampening properties.
[0171] The various layers could have different relative
thicknesses. Preferably, the vibration dampening layer, such as
layer 222, would be the thickest of the layers. The outermost
gripping layer, however, could be of the same thickness as the
vibration dampening layer, such as layer 224 shown in FIG. 4 or
could be a thinner layer since the main function of the outer layer
is to provide sufficient friction to assure a firm gripping action.
A particularly advantageous feature of the invention where a force
dissipating stiffening layer is used is that the force dissipating
layer could be very thin and still achieve its intended results.
Thus, the force dissipating layer would preferably be the thinnest
of the layers, although it might be of generally the same thickness
as the outer gripping layer. If desired the laminate could also
include a plurality of vibration dampening layers (such as thin
layers of gel material) and/or a plurality of stiffening force
dissipating layers. Where such plural layers are used, the various
layers could differ in the thickness from each other.
[0172] FIGS. 3-4 show the use of the invention where the sleeve 210
is mounted over a baseball bat 212 having a knob 217. The same
general type structure could also be used where the implement does
not have a knob similar to a baseball bat knob. FIG. 6, for
example, illustrates a variation of the invention wherein the
sleeve 210A would be mounted on the handle 218A of an implement
that does not terminate in any knob. Such implement could be
various types of athletic equipment, tools, etc. The sleeve 210A,
however, would still have a knob 2220A which would include an outer
gripping layer 224A, an intermediate force dissipating layer 226A
and an inner vibration dampening layer 222A. In the embodiment
shown in FIG. 6, the handle 218A extends into the knob 220A. Thus,
the inner layer 222A would have an accommodating recess 34 for
receiving the handle 218A. The inner layer 222A would also be of
greater thickness in the knob area as illustrated.
[0173] FIG. 7 shows a variation where the sleeve 210B fits over
handle 218B without the handle 218B penetrating the knob 220B. As
illustrated, the outer gripping layer 224B would be of uniform
thickness both in the gripping area and in the knob. Similarly, the
intermediate force dissipating layer 2266 would also be of uniform
thickness. The inner shock absorbing layer 222B, however, would
completely occupy the portion of the knob inwardly of the force
dissipating layer 226B since the handle 218B terminates short of
the knob 2220B.
[0174] FIG. 8 shows a variation of the invention where the gripping
cover 236 does not include a knob. As shown therein, the gripping
cover would be mounted over the gripping area of a handle 238 in
any suitable manner and would be held in place either by a
previously applied adhesive or due to the tacky nature of the
innermost vibration dampening layer 240 or due to resilient
characteristics of the cover 236. Additionally, the cover might be
formed directly on the handle 238. FIG. 10, for example, shows a
cover 236B which is applied in the form of tape.
[0175] As shown in FIG. 8 the cover 236 includes one of the
laminate variations where a force dissipating layer 242 is provided
over the inner vibration dampening layer 240 with a second
vibration dampening layer 244 applied over force dissipating layer
242 and with a final thin gripping layer 246 as the outermost
layer. As illustrated, the two vibration dampening layers 240 and
244 are the thickest layers and may be of the same or differing
thickness from each other. The force dissipating layer 242 and
outer gripping layer 244 are significantly thinner.
[0176] FIG. 9 shows a cover 236A mounted over a hollow handle 238A
which is of non-circular cross-section. Handle 238A may, for
example, have the octagonal shape of a tennis racquet.
[0177] FIG. 10 shows a further cover 236B mounted over the handle
portion of tool such as hammer 248. As illustrated, the cover 236B
is applied in tape form and would conform to the shape of the
handle portion of hammer 248. Other forms of covers could also be
applied rather than using a tape. Similarly, the tape could be used
as a means for applying a cover to other types of implements.
[0178] FIG. 11 illustrates a cover 236C mounted over the end of a
handlebar, such as the handlebar of various types of cycles or any
other device having a handlebar including steering wheels for
vehicles and the like. FIG. 11 also illustrates a variation where
the cover 236C has an outer contour with finger receiving recesses
252. Such recesses could also be utilized for covers of other types
of implements.
[0179] FIG. 12 illustrates a variation of the invention where the
cover 236D is mounted to the handle portion of an implement 254
with the extreme end 256 of the implement being bare. This
illustration is to show that the invention is intended to provide a
vibration dampening gripping cover for the handle of an implement
and that the cover need not extend beyond the gripping area. Thus,
there could be portions of the implement on both ends of the handle
without having the cover applied to those portions.
[0180] In a preferred practice of the invention, as previously
discussed, a force dissipating stiffening layer is provided as an
intermediate layer of a multilayer laminate where there is at least
one inner layer of vibration dampening material and an outer layer
of gripping material with the possibility of additional layers of
vibration dampening material and force dissipating layers of
various thickness. As noted the force dissipating layer could be
innermost. The invention may also be practiced where the laminate
includes one or more layers in addition to the gripping layer and
the stiffening layer and the vibration dampening layer. Such
additional layer(s) could be incorporated at any location in the
laminate, depending on its intended function (e.g., an adhesive
layer, a cushioning layer, etc.).
[0181] The force dissipating layer could be incorporated in the
laminate in various manners. FIG. 13, for example, illustrates a
force dissipating stiffening layer 258 in the form of a generally
imperforate sheet. FIG. 14 illustrates a force dissipating layer
260 in the form of an open mesh sheet. This is a particularly
advantageous manner of forming the force dissipating layer where it
is made of KEVLAR fibers. FIG. 15 illustrates a variation where the
force dissipating layer 262 is formed from a plurality of
individual strips of material 264 which are parallel to each other
and generally identical to each other in length and thickness as
well as spacing. FIG. 16 shows a variation where the force
dissipating layer 266 is made of individual strips 268 of different
sizes and which could be disposed in a more random fashion
regarding their orientation. Although all of the strips 268 are
illustrated in FIG. 14 as being parallel, non-parallel arrangements
could also be used.
[0182] The vibration dampening grip cover of this invention could
be used for a wide number of implements. Examples of such
implements include athletic equipment, hand tools and handlebars.
For example, such athletic equipment includes bats, racquets,
sticks, javelins, etc. Examples of tools include hammers,
screwdrivers, shovels, rakes, brooms, wrenches, pliers, knives,
handguns, air hammers, etc. Examples of handlebars include
motorcycles, bicycles and various types of steering wheels.
[0183] A preferred practice of this invention is to incorporate a
force dissipating layer, particularly an aramid, such as KEVLAR
fiber, into a composite with at least two elastomers. One elastomer
layer would function as a vibration dampening material and the
other outer elastomer layer which would function as a gripping
layer. The outer elastomer layer could also be a vibration
dampening material. Preferably, the outer layer completely covers
the composite.
[0184] There are an almost infinite number of possible uses for the
composite of laminate of this invention. In accordance with the
various uses the elastomer layers may have different degrees of
hardness, coefficient of friction and dampening of vibration.
Similarly, the thicknesses of the various layers could also vary in
accordance with the intended use. Examples of ranges of hardness
for the inner vibration dampening layer and the outer gripping
layer (which may also be a vibration absorbing layer) are 5-70
Durometer Shore A. One of the layers may have a range of 5-20
Durometer Shore A and the other a range of 30-70 Durometer Shore A
for either of these layers. The vibration dampening layer could
have a hardness of less than 5, and could even be a 000 Durometer
reading. The vibration dampening material could be a gel, such as a
silicone gel or a gel of any other suitable material. The
coefficient of friction as determined by conventional measuring
techniques for the tacky and non-porous gripping layer is
preferably at least 0.5 and may be in the range of 0.6-1.5. A more
preferred range is 0.7-1.2 with a still more preferred range being
about 0.8-1. The outer gripping layer, when also used as a
vibration dampening layer, could have the same thickness as the
inner layer. When used solely as a gripping layer the thickness
could be generally the same as the intermediate layer, which might
be about 1/20 to 1/4 of the thickness of the vibration dampening
layer.
[0185] The grip cover of this invention could be used with various
implements as discussed above. Thus, the handle portion of the
implement could be of cylindrical shape with a uniform diameter and
smooth outer surface such as the golf club handle 238 shown in FIG.
6. Alternatively, the handle could taper such as the bat handle
shown in FIGS. 3-4. Other illustrated geometric shapes include the
octagonal tennis racquet handle 238A shown in FIG. 9 or a generally
oval type handle such as the hammer 248 shown in FIG. 10. The
invention is not limited to any particular geometric shape. In
addition, the implement could have an irregular shape such as a
handle bar with finger receiving depressions as shown in FIG. 11.
Where the outer surface of the implement handle is of non-smooth
configuration the inner layer of the cover could press against and
generally conform to the outer surface of the handle and the
outermost gripping layer of the cover could include its own finger
receiving depressions. Alternatively, the cover may be of uniform
thickness of a shape conforming to the irregularities in the outer
surface of the handle.
[0186] Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, the material 10 of the present
invention can be used to form part of a headband 410. The headband
preferably has a peripheral outer fabric layer 412 that forms a
hollow tubular shape in which the material 10 is located. Space 420
represents schematically room for one or more layers of the
material 10. A particular advantage of the headband 410 is that it
lends itself more readily to acceptance by users, such as children,
who prefer not to wear large and cumbersome head protective gear.
Although FIG. 1 shows the headband 410 to be a continuous endless
flexible loop, it is to be understood that the invention could be
incorporated in a headband or visor where the headband or visor
does not extend completely around the head three hundred and sixty
degrees. Instead, the headband or visor could be made of a stiff
springy material having a pair of free ends 428 separated by a gap
426.
[0187] FIG. 33 shows panels 305 of material 10 incorporated into a
helmet 430. The panels include temple and ear covering panels 305A;
forehead covering panels 305B; neck panels 305C; and top panels
305D. FIG. 34 shows a cyclist helmet 432 with air vents 434
therein. A broken away portion of the top of the cyclist helmet
shows the integration of at least one panel 305 with the helmet
432. Although two particular types of helmets are specifically
discussed, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from
this disclosure that the material 10 can be incorporated into any
type of hat (such as a hard hat or a baseball cap), helmet (such as
a paintball helmet, a batting helmet, a motorcycle helmet, or an
army helmet) or the like without departing from the present
invention. The panel 305 can be a lining for hard shell headgear,
for a shell, or for a soft cap.
[0188] FIGS. 37 and 38 illustrate a shirt 440 and pants 444
incorporating panels 305 formed of the material 10 of the present
invention. A preferred cross-section of the panels 305 is shown in
FIG. 23. The shirt panels 305 can vary in number and position as
desired. The pants 444 preferably include multiple panels 305,
including a thigh protection panel 305F; a hip protection panel
305E; and a rear protection panel 305G.
[0189] As detailed above, the material 10 of the present invention
can be used to form gloves or to form panels 305 incorporated into
gloves. The preferred cross-section of the glove panels 305 is also
shown in FIG. 23. FIG. 35 illustrates a glove 436 suitable for both
baseball and softball that uses panels 305 to provide protection to
a palm area 437. FIG. 36 illustrates a weightlifting glove 438
having panels 305 of the material 10 thereon. 9 illustrates a golf
glove 446 having at least one panel 305 thereon. FIG. 40
illustrates the type of glove 448 used for rope work or by rescue
services personnel with panels 305 of the material 10 of the
present invention. FIG. 41 shows a batting glove 450 with panels
305 thereon. The material 10 can also be used to form panels 305
for women's dress gloves 452 or ski mittens 454, as shown in FIGS.
42 and 43. Lacrosse gloves 456 and boxing gloves 458 can also be
formed entirely of the material 10 of the present invention or can
incorporate panels 305 of the material 10. Although specific types
of gloves have been mentioned above, those of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate that the material 10 of the present invention
can be incorporated into any type of gloves, athletic gloves, dress
gloves, or mittens without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0190] With reference to FIGS. 46-51 in particular, it is preferred
that the material 810 have a single contiguous elastomer body 812.
Referring to FIG. 46, the support structure has first and second
major surfaces 823, 825. In one embodiment, the elastomer 812
extends through the support structure 817 so that the portion of
the elastomer 812A contacting the first major support structure
surface 823 (i.e., the top of the support structure 817) and the
portion of the elastomer 812B contacting the second major support
structure surface 825 (i.e., the bottom of the support structure)
form the single contiguous elastomer body 812. Elastomer material
provides vibration damping by dissipating vibrational energy.
Suitable elastomer materials include, but are not limited, urethane
rubbers, silicone rubbers, nitrile rubbers, butyl rubbers, acrylic
rubbers, natural rubbers, styrene-butadiene rubbers, and the like.
In general, any suitable elastomer or polymer material can be used
to form the vibration dissipating layer 812.
[0191] Referring to FIGS. 47-51, the support structure 817 can be
any one (or combination of) of a polymer, an elastomer, a plurality
of fibers, a plurality of woven fibers, and a cloth. If the support
structure 817 and the layer 812 are both polymers or both
elastomers, then they can be the same or different from each other
without departing from the scope of the present invention. If
vibration dissipating material is 812 if formed of the same
material as the support structure 817, then the support structure
817 can be made more rigid than the main layer 812 by embedding
fibers 814 therein. It is preferable that the support structure 817
is generally more rigid than the vibration dissipating material
812.
[0192] Referring specifically to FIG. 48, the support structure 817
may be formed of an elastomer that may but does not necessarily,
also have fibers 814 embedded therein (exemplary woven fibers are
shown throughout portions of FIG. 8). Referring to FIG. 49, the
support structure 817 may be formed by a plurality of woven fibers
818. Referring to FIG. 50, the support structure 817 may be formed
by a plurality of fibers 814. Regardless of the material forming
the support structure 817, it is preferable that passageways 819
extend into the support structure 817 to allow the elastomer 812 to
penetrate and embed the support structure 817. The term "embed," as
used in the claim and in the corresponding portions of the
specification, means "contact sufficiently to secure thereon and/or
therein."
[0193] Accordingly, the support structure 817 shown in FIG. 47A is
embedded by the elastomer 812 even though the elastomer 812 does
not fully enclose the support structure 817. Additionally, as shown
in FIG. 47B, the support structure 817 can be located at any level
or height within the elastomer 812 without departing from the scope
of the present invention. While the passageways 819 are shown as
extending completely through the support structure 817, the
invention includes passageways 819 that extend partially through
the support structure 817.
[0194] Referring again to FIG. 47A, in one embodiment, it is
preferred that the support structure 817 be embedded on the
elastomer 812, with the elastomer penetrating the support structure
817. The support structure 817 being generally along a major
material surface 838 (i.e., the support structure 817 is generally
along the top of the material).
[0195] The fibers 814 are preferably, but not necessarily, formed
of aramid fibers. Referring to FIG. 49, the fibers 814 can be woven
to form a cloth 816 that is disposed on and/or within the elastomer
812. The cloth layer 816 can be formed of woven aramid fibers or
other types of fiber. The aramid fibers 814 block and redirect
vibrational energy that passes through the elastomer 812 to
facilitate the dissipation of vibrations. The aramid fibers 818
redirect vibrational energy along the length of the fibers 818.
Thus, when the plurality of aramid fibers 818 are woven to form the
cloth 816, vibrational energy emanating from the implement 820 that
is not absorbed or dissipated by the elastomer layer 812 is
redistributed evenly along the material 810 by the cloth 816 and
preferably also further dissipated by the cloth 816.
[0196] It is preferable that the aramid fibers 818 are formed of a
suitable polyamide fiber of high tensile strength with a high
resistance to elongation. However, those of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate from this disclosure that any aramid fiber
suitable to channel vibration can be used to form the support
structure 817 without departing from scope of the present
invention. Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will
appreciate from this disclosure that loose aramid fibers or chopped
aramid fibers can be used to form the support structure 817 without
departing from the scope of the present invention. The aramid
fibers may also be formed of fiberglass or the like.
[0197] When the aramid fibers 818 are woven to form the cloth 816,
it is preferable that the cloth 816 include at least some floating
aramid fibers 818. That is, it is preferable that at least some of
the plurality of aramid fibers 818 are able to move relative to the
remaining aramid fibers 818 of the cloth 816. This movement of some
of the aramid fibers 818 relative to the remaining fibers of the
cloth converts vibrational energy to heat energy.
[0198] With reference to FIGS. 52-53, the elastomer layer 912 acts
as a shock absorber by converting mechanical vibrational energy
into heat energy. The embedded support structure 917 redirects
vibrational energy and provides increased stiffness to the material
910 to facilitate a user's ability to control an implement 920
encased, or partially encased, by the material 910. The elastomer
layer 912, 912A, or 912B may include a plurality of fibers 914
(further described below) or a plurality of particles 915 (further
described below). The incorporation of the support structure 917 on
and/or within the material 910 allows the material 910 to be formed
by a single elastomer layer without the material 910 being
unsuitable for at least some of the above-mentioned uses. The
support structure 917 may also include a plurality of fibers 914 or
a plurality of particles 915. However, those of ordinary skill in
the art will appreciate from this disclosure that additional layers
of material can be added to any of the embodiments of the present
invention disclosed below without departing from the scope of the
invention.
[0199] In the situation where the support structure 917 is formed
by a second elastomer layer, the two elastomer layers can be
secured together via an adhesive layer, discreet adhesive
locations, or using any other suitable method to secure the layers
together. Regardless of the material used to, form the support
structure 917, the support structure is preferably located and
configured to support the first elastomer layer (see FIGS.
53-53B).
[0200] It is preferred that the material 910 have a single
contiguous elastomer body 912. Referring to FIG. 52, the support
structure has first and second major surfaces 923, 925. In one
embodiment, the elastomer 912 extends through the support structure
917 so that the portion of the elastomer 912A contacting the first
major support structure surface 923 (i.e., the top of the support
structure 917) and the portion of the elastomer 912B contacting the
second major support structure surface 925 (i.e., the bottom of the
support structure) form the single contiguous elastomer body 912.
Elastomer material provides vibration damping by dissipating
vibrational energy. Suitable elastomer materials include, but are
not limited, urethane rubbers, silicone rubbers, nitrile rubbers,
butyl rubbers, acrylic rubbers, natural rubbers, styrene-butadiene
rubbers, and the like. In general, any suitable elastomer or
polymer material can be used to form the vibration dissipating
layer 912.
[0201] Referring to FIG. 53A, in one embodiment, it is preferred
that the support structure 917 be embedded on the elastomer 912,
with the elastomer penetrating the support structure 917. The
support structure 917 being generally along a major material
surface 938 (i.e., the support structure 917 is generally along the
top of the material).
[0202] The fibers 914 are preferably, but not necessarily, formed
of aramid fibers. However, the fibers can be formed from any one or
combination of the following: bamboo, glass, metal, elastomer,
polymer, ceramics, corn husks, and/or any other renewable resource.
By using fibers from renewable resources, production costs can be
reduced and the environmental friendliness of the present invention
can be increased.
[0203] Particles 915 can be located in either an elastomer layer
912,912A, and/or 912B and/or in the support structure 915. The
particles 915 increase the vibration absorption of the material of
the present invention. The particles 915 can be formed of pieces of
glass, polymer, elastomer, chopped aramid, ceramic, chopped fibers,
sand, gel, foam, metal, mineral, glass beads, or the like. Gel
particles 915 provide excellent vibration dampening due their low
durometer rating. One exemplary gel that is suitable for use the
present invention is silicone gel. However, any suitable gel can be
used without departing from the present invention.
[0204] In addition to use with implements, sleeves, covers, and the
like described above, the material can be used as an athletic tape,
padding, bracing material, or the like (as shown in FIGS. 69-78)
without departing from the scope of the present invention.
Referring to FIGS. 69-78; an athletic tape for wrapping a portion
of a person's body; a material having a stretch axis and being
adapted to regulate energy by disputing and partially dissipating
energy exerted thereon; a padding for covering a portion of a
person's body or an object; and/or a brace for wrapping a portion
of a person's body is shown.
[0205] When the material of the present invention is used to form
athletic tape, that athletic tape provides a controlled support for
a portion of the person's body. The athletic tape includes a tape
body 64 that is preferably stretchable along a longitudinal axis 48
(or stretch axis 50) from a first position to a second position, in
which the tape body 64 is elongated by a predetermined amount
relative to the first position.
[0206] FIGS. 54 and 56 illustrate another embodiment of the
material of the present invention in the first and second
positions, respectively. FIGS. 57 and 58 illustrate an alternative
embodiment of the material of the present invention in the first
and second positions, respectively.
[0207] As described below, the configuration of the support
structure 17 within the vibration absorbing layer 12 allows the
predetermined amount of elongation to be generally fixed so that
the athletic tape provides a controlled support that allows limited
movement before applying a brake on further movement of the wrapped
portion of a person's body. This facilitates movement of a wrapped
joint while simultaneously dissipating and absorbing vibration to
allow superior comfort and performance as compared to that
experienced with conventional athletic tape. While the
predetermined amount of elongation can be set to any value, it is
preferably less than twenty (20%) percent. The predetermined amount
of elongation is more preferably less than two (2%) percent.
However, depending on the application any amount of elongation can
be used with the material 10 of the present invention.
[0208] The tape body 64 preferably includes a first elastomer layer
12 that defines a tape length 66, as measured along the
longitudinal axis 48, of the tape body 64. The support structure 17
is preferably disposed within the elastomer layer 12 generally
along the longitudinal axis 48 in an at least partially non linear
fashion while the tape body is in the first position so that a
length of the support structure 17, as measured along a surface
thereof, is greater than the tape length 66 of the first elastomer
layer 12. It is preferred, by not necessary, that the support
structure 17 (or ribbon material) is positioned in a generally
sinusoidal fashion within the elastomer layer 12 while the tape
body 64 is in the first position. However, the support structure 17
can be positioned in an irregular fashion without departing from
the scope of the present invention. As described above, the support
structure 17 and/or the elastomer layer 12 can include particles,
fibers, or the like (as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13).
[0209] Referring to FIGS. 56 and 58, when the tape body 64 is
stretched into the second position, the support structure 17 is
preferably at least partially straightened so that the support
structure 17 is more linear (or in the case of other materials, the
support structure 17 would likely be thinner), relative to when the
tape body 64 is in the first position. The straightening of the
support structure causes energy to be dissipated and preferably
generally prevents further elongation of the elastomer layer 12
along the longitudinal axis 48 past the second position. Energy
dissipation occurs due to the stretching of the material of the
support structure 17 and can occur due to the separation or partial
pulling away of the support structure 17 from the attached
elastomer layer 12.
[0210] Referring to FIG. 55, the "overall support structure" 17 may
comprise a plurality of stacked support structures, fibers 18,
and/or cloth layers 16. It is preferred that the plurality of
fibers include aramid fibers or other high tensile strength fibrous
material. Alternatively, the plurality of fibers may be formed of
fiberglass material or be woven into a ribbon or cloth. The support
structure can include any one (or combination) of a polymer, an
elastomer, particles; fibers; woven fibers; a cloth; a plurality of
cloth layers; loose fibers, chopped fibers, gel particles,
particles, sand, or the like without departing from the scope of
the present invention.
[0211] As detailed above, the support structure 17 and/or the
elastomer layer 12 may include a plurality of particles therein.
Such particles may include any one or combination of gel particles,
sand particles, glass beads, chopped fibers, metal particles, foam
particles, sand, or any other particle in parting desirable
vibration dissipation characteristics to the material 10.
[0212] Referring to FIGS. 54 and 55, it is preferred that the tape
body 64 have top and bottom surfaces 68A, 68B, respectively. The
bottom surface 68B faces the portion of the person's body when the
athletic tape 710 is wrapped thereover. When the support structure
717 is formed by a plurality of fibers 718, it is preferable that
the plurality of fibers 718 define multiple stacked fiber layers
between the top and bottom surfaces 768A, 768B. It is preferable
that the plurality of fibers 718 are stacked between four (4) and
sixteen (16) times between the top and bottom surfaces 768A, 768B.
It is more preferable still that the plurality of fibers are
stacked ten (10) times. As described above, the plurality of fibers
718 may include metal fibers, high tensile strength fibrous
material, ceramic fibers, polymer fibers, elastomer fibers, or the
like without departing from the scope of the present invention. As
shown in FIG. 764, the support structure 717 may be disposed only
partially within or on the elastomer layer generally along the
longitudinal axis without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0213] Referring again to FIGS. 54-58, the material of the present
invention can be an all purpose material for use as desired by a
person to regulate energy by distributing and partially dissipating
energy exerted thereon. When the material 710 of the present is
used as an all purpose material, the all purpose material 710
includes a material body 770 that is elongateable along the stretch
axis 750 from a first position (shown in FIGS. 54 and 57) to a
second position (shown in FIGS. 55 and 58), in which the material
body 770 is elongated by a predetermined amount relative to the
first position. The stretch axis 750 is preferably determined
during manufacturing by the orientation and geometry of the support
structure 717 which preferably limits the directions in which the
material body 770 can elongate. If multiple separate material
bodies 770 are stacked together, it may be desirable to have the
stretch axis 750 of the individual material bodies 770 oriented
askew from each other.
[0214] The first elastomer layer 712 defines a material length 772,
as measured along the stretch axis 750 of the material body 770.
The support structure 717 is preferably disposed within the
elastomer layer 712 generally along the stretch axis 750 in an at
least partially non linear fashion while the material body 770 is
in the first position so that a length of the support structure, as
measured along the surface thereof, is greater than the material
length 772 of the first elastomer layer. When the material body 770
is elongated into the second position, the support structure 717 is
at least partially straightened so that the support structure is
more linear, relative to when the material body 770 is in the first
position.
[0215] The support structure 717 is preferably positioned in a
sinusoidal fashion within any of the materials 710 of the present
invention. The support structure 717 or ribbon may also be
positioned in the form of a triangular wave, square wave, or an
irregular fashion without departing from the scope of the present
invention.
[0216] Any of the materials of the present invention may be formed
with an elastomer layer 712 formed by silicone or any other
suitable material. Depending upon the application, the vibration
absorbing material 712 may be a thermoset and/or may be free of
voids therein.
[0217] Any of the embodiments of the material 710 can be used as an
implement cover, grip, athletic tape, an all purpose material, a
brace, and/or padding. When the material 710 of the present
invention is used as part of a padding, the padding includes a
padding body 774 that is elongateable along the stretch axis from a
first position to a second position, in which the padding body 774
is elongated by a predetermined amount relative to the first
position. The padding includes a first elastomer layer 712 which
defines a padding length 776, as measured along the stretch axis
750 of the padding body 774.
[0218] The support structure 717 is disposed within the elastomer
layer 712 generally along the stretch axis 750 in an at least
partially non linear fashion while the padding body 774 is in the
first position so that a length of the support structure 717, is
measured along a surface thereof, is greater than the padding
length 776 of the first elastomer layer 712. When the padding body
774 is elongated into the second position, the support structure
717 is at least partially straightened so that the support
structure is more linear, relative to when the padding body 774 is
in the first position. The straightening of the support structure
717 causes energy to be dissipated and generally prevents further
elongation of the elastomer layer along the stretch axis 750 past
the second position.
[0219] When the materials 710 of the present invention are
incorporated as part of a brace, the brace provides a controlled
support for a wrapped portion of a person's body. The brace
includes a brace body 778 that is elongateable along the stretch
axis 750 from a first position to a second position, in which the
brace body 778 is elongated by a predetermined amount relative to
the first position. The brace body includes a first elastomer layer
712 that defines a brace length 780, as measured along the stretch
axis 750, of the brace body 778.
[0220] The support structure 717 is preferably disposed within the
elastomer layer generally along the stretch axis 750 in an at least
partially non linear fashion while the brace body 778 is in the
first position so that a length of the support structure 717, as
measured along a surface thereof, is greater than the brace length
780 of the first elastomer layer 712. When the brace body 778 is
stretched into the second position, the support structure 717 is at
least partially straightened so that the support structure 717 is
more linear, relative to when the brace body 778 is in the first
position. The straightening of the support structure 717 causes
energy to be dissipated and preferably generally prevents further
elongation of the elastomer layer 712 along the stretch axis past
the second position. Those ordinarily skilled in the art will
appreciate that any of the materials 710 of the present invention
may be formed into a one piece brace that provides a controlled
support as described above without departing from the scope of the
present invention.
[0221] Referring to FIGS. 54 and 57, depending upon the geometry of
the support structure 717 when the material 710 is in the first
position, the amount of stretch of the material 710 can be
selected. It is preferred that the percentage increase in the
material length when the body 764, 770, 774, 778 moves from the
first position to the second position is selected based on a
desired range of motion. When the material 710 is configured as an
athletic tape, the athletic tape may be wrapped about a portion of
a person's body multiple times, if necessary, to form a brace.
Alternatively, a single layer of material 710 can be wrapped on a
person and secured in place using conventional athletic tape or the
like. It is preferable that the successive wrappings of athletic
tape are affixed to each other to form a generally one piece brace.
This can be accomplished by using tape that is self fusing to allow
multiple adjacent wrappings of the athletic tape to fuse together
to form an integral piece. One method of fusing wrappings of the
athletic tape is for the elastomer layer of each of the multiple
adjacent wrappings to contact the elastomer layer of the adjacent
wrappings to fuse together to form a single elastomer layer. Self
fusing technology can be used with any of the materials 710 of the
present invention and can be used in any of the applications for
which those materials are suitable. By way of non limiting example,
self fusing material 710 can be used with baseball bats, lacrosse
sticks, tennis rackets, gun covers and wraps, implements, sports
implements, tape, padding, braces, or the like.
[0222] Referring to FIGS. 59, 60, and 62, adhesive 52 may be used
to connect the support structure 717 to the vibration absorbing
material 712. Referring to FIGS. 60-62, air gaps 760 can be present
proximate to the support structure 717 without departing from the
scope of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 60, the material
can be secured at its peak 762 to the vibrating absorbing material
712 or can be secured only at its ends with the vibration absorbing
material 712 forming a protective sheath for the support structure
717 which would act as an elastic member in this instance.
[0223] FIGS. 65-68 illustrate the material 710 of the present
invention incorporating a shrink layer 758 which can be used to
secure the material 710 in position. Additionally, the shrinkable
layer 758 may be configured to break when a certain stress
threshold is reached to provide further energy dissipation.
Referring to FIG. 67, a shrinkable layer 758 is in its pre-shrink
configuration. Referring to FIG. 68, once the shrinkable layer 758
has been activated, the shrinkable layer 758 preferably deforms
about one side of the support structure 717 to hold the material
710 in position. The shrinkable layer 758 can be heat or water
activated. Alternative known activation methods are also suitable
for use with the present invention.
[0224] FIG. 62 illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention in which the vibration absorbing layer 712 is configured
to break apart during the elongation of the support structure 717
to allow for greater energy dissipation.
[0225] Any of the materials 710 of the present invention can be
used in conjunction with additional layers of rigid or flexible
materials without departing from the scope of the present
invention. For example, the materials 710 of the present invention
may be used with a hard shell outer layer which is designed to
dissipate impact energy over the entire material 710 prior to the
material 710 deforming to dissipate energy. One type of rigid
material that can be used in combination with the materials 710 of
the present invention is molded foam. Molded foam layers preferably
include multiple flex seams that allow portions of the foam layer
to at least partially move relative to each other even though the
overall foam layer is a single body of material. This is ideal for
turning an impact force into a more general blunt force that is
spread over a larger area of the material 710. Alternatively,
individual foam pieces, buttons, rigid squares, or the like can be
directly attached to an outer surface of any of the materials 710
of the present invention. Alternatively, such foam pieces, buttons,
rigid squares, or the like can be attached to a flexible layer or
fabric that will dissipate received impact energy over the length
of the fabric fibers prior to the dissipation of energy by the
material 710.
[0226] FIGS. 79, 79a, and 82-86 show yet another embodiment of the
inventive material of the invention, in which the material
comprises two aramid layers 1010, 1012 with an elastomeric layer
1020 therebetween shown in the simpleset configuration in FIG.
19a). The applicant has found that this configuration is an
effective padding for high weight or impact resistant
configurations because the aramid material layers 1010, 1012,
resist impact and discourage displacement of the elastomeric layer
1020. This allows for the use of very low durometer elastomers,
rubbers, and gels, with durometers in the hundred to thousand
ranges while still providing excellent stability.
[0227] Alternately, rather than using aramid layers, other fibers
could be used, including high tensile strength fibers.
[0228] While other high tensile strength materials could be used,
aramids; with a tensile modulus of between 70 and 140 GPa are
preferred, and nylons such as those with a tensile strength of
between 6,000 and 24,000 psi are also preferred. Other material
layers and fibers could substitute for the aramid layers 1010,
1012; in particular, low tensile strength fibers could be combined
with higher tensile strength fibers to yield layers 1010, 1012 that
would be suitable to stabilize and contain the elastomeric layer
1020. For example, cotton, kenaf, hemp, flax, jute, and sisal could
be combined with certain combinations of high tensile strength
fibers to form the supportive layers 1010, 1012
[0229] In use, the first and second aramid material layers 1010,
1012 are preferably coated with a bonding layer 1010a, 1010b,
1012a, 1012b, preferably of the same material as the elastomeric
material that facilitates bonding between the aramid layers 1010,
1012 and the elastomeric layer 1020, although these bonding layers
are not required. Further, although equal amounts of the bonding
layers 1010a, 1010b, 1012a, 1012b are shown on either side of the
aramid layers 1010, 1012, the bonding layers 1010a, 1010b, 1012a,
1012b need not be evenly distributed over the aramid layers 1010,
1012.\
[0230] The applicant has observed that the aramid layers 1010, 1012
distribute impact and vibration over a larger surface area of the
elastomeric layer 1020. This finding has suggested using the
material in heavier impact applications, such as using it as a
motor mount 1030 or flooring 1035, 1037, since the aramid layers
1010, 1012 will discourage displacement of the elastomeric layer
1020, while still absorbing much of the vibration in those
applications. This property could be useful in many of the
above-noted applications, and in particular in impact absorbing
padding, packaging, electronics padding, noise reducing panels,
tape, carpet padding, and floor padding
[0231] FIGS. 80, 81, 81a, and 87 show a variant of the material
shown in FIG. 79, without the second layer of aramid 1012. The
aramid layer 1010 could be coated with the bonding layer 1010a,
1010b or not.
[0232] In use, this material can be used as a flooring 1037, as
shown in FIG. 87, as a spring in FIG. 81a, or also as a motor mount
1050. As a spring, shown in FIGS. 81 and 81a, the aramid layer 1010
contains and stabilizes the elastomeric layer 1020 when the
generally shaped cylinder 1040 is in tension or compression. Such a
spring could be used in any spring application.
[0233] In use as a motor mount, the material is formed as a
cylinder 1040, in which the aramid layer 1010 forms an outer
cylinder with an elastomer 1020 located therebetween. This cylinder
1040 is closed on itself (by gluing or welding) to form the
toroidal shaped shock absorber 1050, which could be used as a motor
mount.
[0234] FIGS. 89-93 show another material for use with the
invention. The cross-section of FIG. 90 shows the layers of the
material, which comprise a foam layer 1110, aramid layer 1112, and
elastomeric layer 1114. The foam layer 1110 is a generally rigid
layer of foam that the applicant has found is particular good at
dissipating a point impact, and thus has been found particular
suited for impact resistance, such as for example, as armor and
protection in the sports of football, baseball, soccer, or
paintball. It should be understood that the elastomeric layer 1114
is generally adjacent to, or substantially adjacent to the body
being protected from impact.
[0235] The foam layer 1110 is preferably rigid and inflexible,
although softer foam layers may be used. The rigid foam layers 1110
present a problem in that many impact-resistant applications
require flexible material, i.e., paintball padding and armor that
can flex around a person's body. The applicant solved this problem
by forming narrow areas of weakness 1111 in the foam layer. These
areas can be formed by cutting, stamping, or forming the area of
predetermined weakness, but in any event, the allow for the foam
layer 1110 to bend at these areas 1111. Various shapes of the areas
of predetermined weakness could be used depending on the needed
flexibility. As shown, parallel, hexagonal, and herringbone
(diamond) areas are presently preferred. FIG. 93 shows an
embodiment in which the paintball armor 1140 has the herringbone
pattern.
[0236] Finally, the applicant has found that a fourth rigid layer
comprising plastic, foam, or metal, could be added over the
foam/aramid/elastomer to further dissipate impact energy.
[0237] It is recognized by those skilled in the art, that changes
may be made to the above-described embodiments of the invention
without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. For
example, the material 10 may include additional layers (e.g., five
or more layers) without departing from the scope of the claimed
present invention. It is understood, therefore, that this invention
is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but is
intended to cover all modifications which are within the spirit and
scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims and/or
shown in the attached drawings.
* * * * *