U.S. patent application number 14/198488 was filed with the patent office on 2015-09-10 for compressible hand exerciser adapted to contain an article.
The applicant listed for this patent is Danial Zaker. Invention is credited to Danial Zaker.
Application Number | 20150251052 14/198488 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 54016361 |
Filed Date | 2015-09-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150251052 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zaker; Danial |
September 10, 2015 |
COMPRESSIBLE HAND EXERCISER ADAPTED TO CONTAIN AN ARTICLE
Abstract
Various exemplary embodiments of the present invention describe
and disclose compressible hand exercisers (hand exercisers) which
may be adapted to contain an article, where the article may be a
container. In other exemplary embodiments, a hand exerciser may
comprise a container located within the hand exerciser. In further
exemplary embodiments, said container may further comprise a lip
balm. In still further exemplary embodiments, said lip balm may
comprise a curved outer surface. In yet still further exemplary
embodiments, said lip balm may occupy substantially all of an
interior volume of said container.
Inventors: |
Zaker; Danial; (Laguna
Niguel, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Zaker; Danial |
Laguna Niguel |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
54016361 |
Appl. No.: |
14/198488 |
Filed: |
March 5, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/49 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/028 20130101;
A63B 23/16 20130101; A45D 40/18 20130101; A63B 2225/68 20130101;
A45D 40/00 20130101; A45D 40/16 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 23/16 20060101
A63B023/16; B65D 41/04 20060101 B65D041/04; A45D 40/18 20060101
A45D040/18; B65D 41/16 20060101 B65D041/16 |
Claims
1. A compressible hand exerciser adapted to contain an article,
comprising: a compressible covering further comprising: a first
compressible covering further comprising: a first exterior surface;
and a first inner surface which is in communication with and
opposes the first exterior surface; a second compressible covering
further comprising: a second exterior surface; and a second inner
surface which is in communication with and opposes the second
exterior surface; wherein the first inner surface and the second
inner surface together circumscribe an inner volume adapted to
contain the article; wherein the first compressible covering is
detachable from the second compressible covering along a seam, such
that the article has access to the inner volume; and wherein the
first exterior surface and the second exterior surface together
form an exterior surface which fits into a hand of a user with
fingers of the hand also circumscribing the exterior surface.
2. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 1, wherein
the compressible covering is constructed of a compressible material
selected from a solid foam material or a non-foam elastomeric
material.
3. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 2, wherein
the solid foam material is a low density polyethylene foam, a high
density polyethylene foam or a polyurethane foam.
4. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 2, wherein
the non-foam elastomeric material is a silicone compound or a
rubber compound.
5. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 1, wherein
the exterior surface of the compressible covering comprises a
substantially ovoid shape.
6. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 1, wherein
the exterior surface of the compressible covering further comprises
a region adapted to be frictionally engaged by the user, such that
removably detaching the first compressible covering from the second
compressible covering along the seam is facilitated.
7. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 1, wherein
the exterior surface comprises a flat portion adapted to permit the
compressible hand exerciser to remain in a stationary position upon
a flat surface.
8. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 1, wherein
the article is a container.
9. A compressible hand exerciser adapted to contain an article,
comprising: a compressible covering further comprising: a first
compressible covering further comprising: a first exterior surface;
and a first inner surface which is in communication with and
opposes the first exterior surface; a second compressible covering
further comprising: a second exterior surface; and a second inner
surface which is in communication with and opposes the second
exterior surface; wherein the first inner surface and the second
inner surface together circumscribe an inner volume adapted to
contain a container, the container comprises: a lid with a first
outer surface; and a bottom with a second outer surface, such that
the lid is removably attachable to the bottom, and when the lid is
removably attached to the bottom a coupled assembly is formed,
wherein the first compressible covering substantially covers the
first outer surface, and the second compressible covering
substantially covers the second outer surface, such that the first
compressible covering with the first outer surface is removably
detachable from the second compressible covering with the second
outer surface along the seam.
10. The hand exerciser according to claim 9, wherein the lid and
the bottom are removably attached to each other via compatible
mating threads, such that when the container is closed, the lid is
screwed to the bottom.
11. The hand exerciser according to claim 9, wherein the lid and
the bottom are removably attached to each other via a snap
geometry, such that when the container is closed, the lid is
snapped to the bottom.
12. The hand exerciser according to claim 9, wherein the lid and
the bottom are removably attached to each other via compatible
mating geometry, such that when the container is closed, the lid is
frictionally gripped by the bottom.
13. The hand exerciser according to claim 9, wherein the lid and
the bottom are removably attached to each other via compatible
mating attractable magnets or magnets and a magnetically
attractable material.
14. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 9, wherein
the container further comprises: a first interior surface opposing
the first outer surface and in communication with the first outer
surface; and a second interior surface opposing the second outer
surface and in communication with the first outer surface; wherein
the first interior surface and the second interior surface together
circumscribe an interior volume when the lid is removably attached
to the bottom, such that the article may occupy a portion of the
interior volume.
15. A compressible hand exerciser adapted to contain an article,
comprising: a compressible outer housing; a rigid inner housing
contained within the compressible outer housing, wherein the rigid
inner housing includes a volume for storing the article.
16. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 15, wherein
the compressible outer housing is constructed of a compressible
material selected from a solid foam material or a non-foam
elastomeric material.
17. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 16, wherein
the solid foam material is a low density polyethylene foam, a high
density polyethylene foam or a polyurethane foam.
18. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 17, wherein
the non-foam elastomeric material is a silicone compound or a
rubber compound.
19. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 18, wherein
an exterior surface of the compressible outer housing comprises a
substantially ovoid shape.
20. The compressible hand exerciser according to claim 19, wherein
the rigid inner housing further comprises: a first interior surface
opposing a first outer surface and in communication with the first
outer surface; and a second interior surface opposing the second
outer surface and in communication with the first outer surface;
wherein the first interior surface and the second interior surface
together circumscribe an interior volume when the lid is removably
attached to the bottom, such that the article may occupy a portion
of the interior volume.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates in general to compressible
hand exercisers also commonly known as stress balls and more
specifically to a compressible hand exerciser which may be adapted
to contain an article, where the article may be a container, the
hand exerciser may comprise a hand-held container, and the
container may comprise lip balm.
COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may
contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The owner
has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the
patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise
reserves all copyrights whatsoever.
[0003] Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or
registered trademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated
with the applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of
example and should not be construed as descriptive or to limit the
scope of this invention to material associated only with such
marks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Hand exercisers, which are also commonly known as "stress
balls," are known in the art. Such hand exercisers are often
spherical in geometry, which explains why such devices are
typically known as "balls." Additionally, such hand exercisers
generally fit within an enclosed hand, i.e. within a palm with
fingers of the hand wrapping around the hand exerciser.
[0005] The "stress" aspect of the name derives from the benefit
that may be received when a user repeatedly squeezes such a hand
exerciser. The stress release benefit derives from the exercisable
aspect of hand exercisers. This benefit may be achieved because
such hand exercisers may be compressible, in the sense the hand
exerciser is constructed of a resilient material of construction
which resists applied compression forces to the hand exerciser (to
a certain degree as defined by the geometry and material of
construction) and tends to return to an uncompressed geometry once
the applied compression force is removed. Hence, such hand
exercisers may be repeatedly squeezed and then relaxed, offering
resistive forces against the user's applied compression force,
which allows the hand exerciser to exercise the hand, fingers, and
arm of the user, and where such motion tends to release stress in
the user.
[0006] In terms of interior geometry, such hand exercisers are
generally of a solid and single material of construction, such as a
polyurethane foam. Other hand exercisers may be of two materials, a
surface or covering material and an interior material, such as a
gel, where the density of the gel may be varied to achieve varying
resistive strengths. Additionally, other hand exercisers may be
filled with fine particulates, such as powders or sands.
[0007] However, the art does not teach solid-cored hand exercisers,
i.e. a hand exerciser which encloses a solid object, such as a
single hard object. Thus, the art does not teach a hand exerciser
which encapsulates a container where the container is hard and
would act as a solid core within such a hand exerciser.
[0008] Nor does the art teach hollow-cored hand exercisers, where
the exterior surface is continuous. But the art does teach stress
balls with an external lattice structure, approximating the shape
of a "bocky ball" which, due to the external lattice structure,
forms a hollow core. However, such external lattice-structured
stress balls would be of limited use in containing articles, as
many such articles would fall out (such as articles smaller than
the lattice openings, liquid articles, gas articles, etc.) from the
openings in the lattice structure. Additionally, such articles
which could be held within an external lattice structured stress
ball would tend to rattle around within the hollow core (i.e.
cavity), which may present problems depending on the article.
[0009] Additionally, hand-held containers which may fit entirely
within an enclosed hand are also known in the art. For example,
such hand-held containers may contain such articles as: lip balm,
lipstick, makeup, deodorant, sunscreen and sunblock, medications,
vitamins, gels, and the like.
[0010] In another example, the art does teach a generally
ovoid-shaped container which contains a lip balm with a curved
outer surface. However, in such art, the ovoid-shaped container
contains only a limited amount of lip balm which occupies
approximately just the top hemisphere of such a container, leaving
the bottom hemisphere of such a container largely devoid of the lip
balm. Thus, for a lip balm container that contains lip balm with a
curved outer surface, it would be desirable to have that lip balm
substantially fill the interior of such a container, so that both
hemispheres would be substantially filled with the lip balm.
[0011] Furthermore, what is currently lacking in the art is a hand
exerciser which may contain an article, where the article may
repeatedly be removably inserted and withdrawn from within the hand
exerciser. It would be desirable if there were a hand exerciser
which included the dual functions of a compressible hand exercising
device and the ability to store, hold, and contain various articles
which may fit within the hand.
[0012] Additionally, it would be desirable if such a hand exerciser
that was adapted to contain an article also held the article in a
desired conformation, such that the article is not permitted to
freely roll around a cavity within the hand exerciser.
[0013] Further, it would be desirable if a hand exerciser also
comprised a container, such that the hand exerciser and the
container were integral with respect to each other.
[0014] Therefore, there is a need in the art for a hand exerciser
which may be adapted to contain an article, where the article may
be a container, the hand exerciser may comprise a hand held
container, and the container may comprise lip balm. Additionally,
there is a need for a lip balm container, wherein the contained lip
balm has a curved outer surface, and wherein the interior volume of
the lip balm container is able to be substantially filled with the
lip balm. It is to these ends that the present invention has been
developed.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to
minimize other limitations that will be apparent upon reading and
understanding the present specification, the present invention
describes a compressible hand exerciser (hand exerciser), which may
be adapted to contain an article, where the article may be a
container for limp balm.
[0016] In exemplary embodiments, a hand exerciser may comprise a
container located within the hand exerciser. In further exemplary
embodiments, said container may further comprise a lip balm. In
still further exemplary embodiments, said lip balm may comprise a
curved outer surface. In yet still further exemplary embodiments,
said lip balm may occupy substantially all of an interior volume of
said container.
[0017] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a
hand exerciser which is adapted to contain an article, where the
article and the hand exerciser are each capable of fitting within a
user's hand.
[0018] It is another objective of the present invention to provide
a hand exerciser which is adapted to hold a container, where the
container may hold various articles.
[0019] It is another objective of the present invention to provide
a hand exerciser which is adapted to hold a container, where the
container and the hand exerciser are integral with respect to each
other, i.e. the hand exercise comprises the container.
[0020] It is another objective of the present invention to provide
a hand exerciser which comprises a container and where said
container further comprises a lip balm.
[0021] It is another objective of the present invention to provide
a hand exerciser which comprises a container, where said container
further comprises a lip balm, and where said lip balm further
comprises an outer curved surface.
[0022] It is yet another objective of the present invention to
provide a hand exerciser which comprises a container, where said
container further comprises a lip balm, where said lip balm further
comprises an outer curved surface, and where the method of forming
the curved outer surface allows an interior volume of the container
to be filled substantially with said lip balm.
[0023] These and other advantages and features of the present
invention are described herein with specificity so as to make the
present invention understandable to one of ordinary skill in the
art, both with respect to how to practice the present invention and
how to make the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to
scale in order to enhance their clarity and improve understanding
of these various elements and embodiments of the invention.
Furthermore, elements that are known to be common and well
understood to those in the industry are not depicted in order to
provide a clear view of the various embodiments of the
invention.
[0025] FIG. 1(a) depicts a user's hand holding an exemplary
compressible hand exerciser (hand exerciser) adapted to contain an
article, while the hand is in a relaxed position, and shown from a
perspective view.
[0026] FIG. 1(b) depicts the user's hand holding the exemplary hand
exerciser from FIG. 1(a), but while the hand is in a flexed
position compressing the hand exerciser, and shown from a
perspective view.
[0027] FIG. 1(c) depicts the user's hand while holding an exemplary
hand exerciser, containing lip balm with a curved outer surface,
while the lip balm is being applied to the user's lips, and shown
from a perspective view.
[0028] FIG. 2(a) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a hand
exerciser where a lid is removed from a bottom, shown from a
perspective view.
[0029] FIG. 2(b) depicts an exemplary embodiment of the hand
exerciser from FIG. 2(a), shown from an exploded cross-sectional
view taken along the line 2A.
[0030] FIG. 2(c) depicts the exemplary embodiment of the hand
exerciser from FIG. 2(b), shown in the same cross-sectional view,
but depicting the device assembled together with the lid or cover
open to expose the lip balm.
[0031] FIG. 2(d) depicts the exemplary embodiment hand exerciser
from FIG. 2(c), but where the lid may be removably attached to the
bottom.
[0032] FIG. 2(e) depicts exemplary methods for forming a curved
outer surface of lip balm which may utilize the exemplary hand
exerciser depicted in FIGS. 2(a), (b), (c) and (d).
[0033] FIG. 3(a) depicts another exemplary embodiment of a hand
exerciser, shown from an exploded cross-sectional side view.
[0034] FIG. 3(b) depicts exemplary methods for forming curved outer
surface of lip balm which may utilize the exemplary hand exerciser
depicted in FIG. 3(a).
[0035] FIG. 4(a) depicts another exemplary embodiment of a hand
exerciser, shown from an exploded cross-sectional side view.
[0036] FIG. 4(b) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a polygonal
lattice, which may be a component of the hand exerciser of FIG.
4(a), shown from a perspective view.
[0037] FIG. 4(c) depicts exemplary methods for forming a lip balm
with curved outer surface which may utilize the exemplary hand
exerciser depicted in FIG. 4(a) and the polygonal lattice of FIG.
4(b).
[0038] FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a hand exerciser
which may comprise a plurality of raised ridges along the hand
exerciser's exterior surface, shown from a perspective view.
[0039] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a hand exerciser
which may comprise a region for placing a finger or thumb in order
facilitate opening the device.
[0040] FIG. 7 depicts yet another embodiment of the present
invention, wherein a compressible hand exerciser includes a
receptacle for housing an article or item.
[0041] FIG. 8 depicts yet another embodiment of the present
invention, wherein a compressible hand exerciser includes a
rectangular shaped receptacle for housing an article or item.
[0042] FIG. 9 depicts yet another embodiment of the present
invention, wherein a compressible hand exerciser includes a cover
adapted to receive one or more keychain rings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] A compressible hand exerciser (hand exerciser) adapted to
contain an article is disclosed and described. Thus at the most
basic level, the hand exerciser comprises two functions: (1) a hand
exercising property; and (2) a storage property containing an
article within the hand exerciser. Each of these two fundamental
properties is discussed briefly below and then the discussion turns
to detailing the various features of the exemplary embodiments
depicted in the figures.
[0044] In various exemplary embodiments, such a hand exercising
property functions because the hand exerciser comprises a
compressible covering, which exerts a resistive force opposing a
compression force applied by a user to the hand exerciser. The
compressible covering's ability to generate a resistive force may
be a byproduct of the compressible covering's materials of
construction, as well as the compressible covering's geometry. In
various exemplary embodiments, when the user exerts a compression
force against the compressible covering by squeezing the fingers of
the hand towards each other, muscles of the user's hand and arm are
exercised by the compressible covering exerting a resistive force
against the user's hand and fingers.
[0045] Additionally, the compressible covering's material of
construction may comprise a resilient property, such that the
compressible covering may be compressed when squeezed by the user's
hand, but then return to an uncompressed state when the user
relaxes the squeezing.
[0046] Hence, such a hand exerciser may also function as what is
commonly called a "stress ball," which helps to alleviate overall
stress in a user when the user repeatedly squeezes and relaxes the
compressible covering of the hand exerciser.
[0047] Turning now to the hand exerciser's other fundamental
property, in various exemplary embodiments, the hand exerciser may
also be adapted to contain or hold an article. Such a storage
function of a hand exerciser may take on at least five exemplary
embodiments: (1) a hand exerciser with an inner volume capable of
holding the article; (2) a hand exerciser which further comprises a
container configured to fit into the inner volume; (3) a hand
exerciser which comprises a container and where the container
further comprises a lip balm; (4) a hand exerciser with comprised
container, where the container further comprises a lip balm, and
where the lip balm comprises a curved outer surface; and (5) a hand
exerciser with comprised container, where the container further
comprises a lip balm, where the lip balm further comprises a curved
outer surface, and where substantially all of an interior volume of
the container may be filled with the lip balm.
[0048] Note, in each of these five exemplary embodiments, each hand
exerciser embodiment retains its fundamental property as a hand
exerciser, which further implies that in each of these five
exemplary embodiments, the hand exerciser fits within the palm of
the user's hand, with the user's fingers capable of at least
partially enclosing the hand exerciser. Thus, with respect to the
article or articles which may be held, contained, or stored within
a given hand exerciser, such articles are typically of sufficiently
small size to fit within both the hand exerciser and then within
the palm of the user. Thus, there is a limit as to what articles
may be contained within the hand exerciser. This same limitation
applies equally to the size of containers which may be held within
a given hand exerciser.
[0049] In the following discussion that addresses a number of
embodiments and applications of the present invention, reference is
made to the accompanying drawings that form a part thereof, where
depictions are made, by way of illustration, of specific
embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may
be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0050] FIG. 1(a) depicts an exemplary embodiment of compressible
hand exerciser (hand exerciser 200), while hand exerciser 200 may
be in a relaxed position, and shown from a perspective view.
[0051] FIG. 1(b) depicts user's hand 901 holding the exemplary hand
exerciser 200 from FIG. 1(a), in a flexed position compressing hand
exerciser 200, shown from a perspective view.
[0052] Thus, the contrast between FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 1(b)
demonstrates how hand exerciser 200 may function as a hand
exerciser by hand exerciser 200 exerting a resistive force against
a compression force applied by the user against hand exerciser 200.
For example, when the user exerts the compression force against
hand exerciser 200 by squeezing the fingers of hand 901 towards
each other, the muscles of hand 901 and the user's arm may be
exercised by hand exerciser 200 exerting the resistive force
against hand 901 and its fingers.
[0053] Hand exerciser 200's ability to generate such a resistive
force may be a byproduct of the hand exerciser 200's materials of
construction, as well as the hand exerciser 200's geometry. In
various exemplary embodiments, hand exerciser 200 may comprise
compressible covering 206, which may be the component of hand
exerciser 200 that provides the resistive force opposing a user
supplied compression force.
[0054] In various exemplary embodiments, compressible covering 206
may be constructed of a compressible yet resilient material such as
a solid foam material, a non-foam elastomeric material, and the
like.
[0055] Such applicable foam materials may be compressible foams
such as low density polyethylene foam, high density polyethylene
(HDPE) foam, polyurethane foam, and the like. The foam material
utilized for compressible covering 206 may be capable of being
repeatedly compressed by a single user's hand, with the ability to
return to an uncompressed geometry when the user relaxes their
hand, i.e. the chosen material may not only be compressible but
also may be resilient.
[0056] In alternative exemplary embodiments, instead of using the
compressible foam as noted above for compressible covering 206,
other non-foam materials may be used, such as silicones, rubbers,
and the like. When a rubber compound is selected, it may be a
natural rubber with latex or a synthetic rubber without latex.
Likewise, the non-foam elastomeric material utilized for
compressible covering 206 may be capable of being repeatedly
compressed by a user's hand, with the ability to return to an
uncompressed geometry when the user relaxes their hand.
[0057] Additionally, in other embodiments the compressible and
resilient properties may be achieved by utilizing filler materials
within compressible covering 206, such as gels or a plurality of
fine particulates such as sands or powders. In such embodiments,
exterior surface 209 acts to contain the filler materials with the
compressible and resilient properties.
[0058] Note with respect to the materials of construction, it is
not desired nor intended to unnecessarily limit the present
invention by reason of such restricted disclosure.
[0059] In terms of exterior geometry, in various exemplary
embodiments, hand exerciser 200 may be a "substantially" "ovoid
shape." Depending upon the embodiment, it should be understood that
an "ovoid shape" includes both three dimensional ellipse shapes
(e.g. ellipsoids, which includes egg-like shapes), as well as three
dimensional spherical shapes. Hand exerciser 200's exterior shape
may be "substantially" ovoid, where substantially is used to note
the exterior shape may not be strictly ovoid, as various
embodiments may comprise specific surface geometry to aid the user
in gripping hand exerciser 200, such a plurality of raised ridges
or a plurality of raised protrusions. (Note, such a plurality of
raised ridges is not depicted in FIG. 1(a) nor FIG. 1(b), instead
see FIG. 5 and its corresponding discussion below for such a
depiction.). Additionally, hand exerciser 200 may not be strictly
ovoid because of the various mechanisms which may be used to
removably seal seam 220 which may permit first compressible
covering 207 to be removably attached to second compressible
covering 208, along seam 220. Thus, because there may be need for
seam 220 to be openable, a region along seam 220 may not be
strictly ovoid. Note, first compressible covering 207 and second
compressible covering 208 may each be distinct sub-components of
compressible covering 206, i.e. compressible covering 206 may
comprise first compressible covering 207 and second compressible
covering 208.
[0060] Further, while the above discussion regarding exterior
shapes was in specific reference to exemplary embodiment hand
exerciser 200, this exterior shape discussion applies to each of
the exemplary embodiments of hand exercisers depicted in the
figures. That is each of the exemplary embodiments of hand
exercisers depicted in the figures may be of substantially an ovoid
shape as discussed in the preceding paragraph.
[0061] But other exterior three dimensional shapes may also be
employed other than substantially void shapes without departing
from the scope of the present invention. For example, a hand
exerciser may have a substantially cylindrical shape or a
substantially cubical shape. Many different three dimensional
shapes may fit into the hand of the user. However, such other
embodiments are not depicted within the figures for the sake of
brevity.
[0062] Also depicted in both FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 1(b) are a
plurality of raised protrusions 275 substantially covering hand
exerciser 200's exterior 209. Such regions of raised geometry, such
as plurality of raised protrusions 275, may provide areas of
frictional engagement with the user's hand and fingers.
Additionally such regions of raised geometry may comprise surface
texturing of the exterior surface other than use of ridges and
raised protrusions, for example a plurality of dimples
(indentations).
[0063] Additionally, such regions of exterior raised geometry may
also permit the compressible hand exerciser to remain in a
stationary position upon a flat surface, i.e. provide an
anti-rolling feature, which may be desirable in embodiments where
the overall exterior shape may be substantially ovoid.
[0064] Note, while the plurality of raised protrusions 275 depicted
in FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 1(b) substantially covers exterior 209, in
other exemplary embodiments, such regions may be smaller, but
generally with at least one region located per the exterior of each
compressible covering hemisphere (e.g. 207 and 208).
[0065] Lastly, both FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 1(b) depict first
compressible covering 207 meeting second compressible covering 208
at seam 220. As noted above, first compressible covering 207 and
second compressible covering 208 may each be distinct
sub-components of compressible covering 206. As shown in both FIG.
1(a) and FIG. 1(b), seam 220 may circumscribe the entirety of hand
exerciser 200's exterior such that both first compressible covering
207 and second compressible covering 208 each make up a separate
hemisphere of hand exerciser 200.
[0066] Whereas in other exemplary embodiments, the seam may be
shorter and not circumscribe the entirety of a hand exerciser's
exterior. But regardless of the length of the seam, in various
embodiments the seam is important because it may provide an access
point for the article to enter and exit an inner volume of the hand
exerciser. In various exemplary embodiments, the first compressible
covering (e.g. 207) may comprise a first inner surface (e.g. 207b)
and the second compressible covering (e.g. 208) may comprise a
second inner surface (e.g. 208b), such that the first inner surface
and the second inner surface circumscribe the inner volume (e.g.
214a), which may be capable of holding the article. And it may be
via the seam that such an article enters and exits the inner
volume.
[0067] In various exemplary embodiments, the seam is then openable
to allow the article to enter and exit the inner volume. In such
embodiments, two opposing seam surfaces may be removably sealable
by various means, such as with a zipper, Velcro.RTM., magnets, and
the like. Whereas in other embodiments the seam may be merely
openable and not removably sealable because the inner volume may
contain a container which further comprises a lid and a bottom,
where the lid is removably attachable to the bottom, i.e. the
sealable function is provided by the container's lid and bottom and
thus a seam need not be additionally sealable.
[0068] Now turning to FIG. 1(c), the figure depicts hand 901 while
holding an exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser 200, which may
comprise lip balm 150 shown with a curved outer surface 151,
wherein lip balm 150 may be applied to the user's lips, and shown
from a perspective view. In this particular embodiment, hand
exerciser 200 may further comprise container 201, which may further
comprise lip balm 150, which may possess curved outer surface 151.
The steps for forming curved outer surface 151 are shown in FIG.
2(e) and discussed below under the FIG. 2(e) discussion.
[0069] Also note in hand exerciser 200, once curved outer surface
151 has worn down, the user may use a finger to apply remaining lip
balm 150 which may reside in bottom 204. Thus, hand exerciser 200
demonstrates an advantage over certain related art lip balm
products. For instance, after such related art lip balm products
have their curved surface wear down, very little lip balm remains
in the container because the lip balm does not substantially fill
the product container. By contrast, hand exerciser 200, once curved
outer surface 151 is worn down, there may still be remaining lip
balm 150 within hand exerciser 200.
[0070] FIG. 2(a) depicts exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser 200
where lid 202 may be separated from bottom 204, shown from a
perspective view and FIG. 2(b) depicts the same exemplary
embodiment of hand exerciser 200 shown from an exploded
cross-sectional side view along line 2A. FIG. 2(c) depicts the
exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser 200 from FIG. 2(a), again
where lid 202 may be separated from bottom 204, shown from a
cross-sectional side view. And FIG. 2(d) depicts the exemplary hand
exerciser 200 from FIG. 2(c), but where lid 202 may be removably
attached to bottom 204.
[0071] In the series of figures making up FIG. 2, an exemplary
embodiment of hand exerciser 200 may comprise compressible covering
206, which may further comprise first compressible covering 207 and
second compressible covering 208. Hand exerciser 200 may also
comprise container 201. Container 201 may comprise lid 202 and
bottom 204, such that that lid 202 is removably attachable to
bottom 204, and when lid 202 is removably attached to bottom 204,
the coupled assembly of container 201 is formed. Lid 202 may
comprise first outer surface 203 and bottom 204 may comprise second
outer surface 205. With respect to the relationship between
compressible covering 206 and container 201, first compressible
covering 207 may substantially cover first outer surface 203, and
second compressible covering 208 may substantially cover second
outer surface 205, such that first compressible covering 207 with
first outer surface 203 is detachable from second compressible
covering 208 with second outer surface 205 along seam 220.
Furthermore, when lid 202 is removably attached to bottom 204, hand
exerciser 200 may fit into hand 901, as depicted in FIG. (1) and
FIG. 1(b).
[0072] With respect to use of "substantially" in the preceding
paragraph, each respective compressible covering (first and second)
may substantially cover each respective outer surface (first and
second) because there may be regions of each respective outer
surface that are not covered by a respective compressible covering.
For example, and without limiting the scope of the present
invention, along seam 220, there may be gap where each respective
compressible covering does not cover each respective outer surface,
such that a gap along seam 220 facilitates opening of container
201.
[0073] Also note in other exemplary embodiments, container 201 may
be a subcomponent of compressible covering 206, i.e. compressible
covering may comprise container 201; whereas in the immediately
preceding discussion, container 201 may be a subcomponent of hand
exerciser 200.
[0074] Container 201 may be constructed from a material suitable
for injection molding in which, when the material is cured (i.e. in
a solid state), it becomes suitable for containing the article. In
various exemplary embodiments, such as in hand exercisers 200, 300,
and 400, which all may comprise a container, the lid of such
containers may be used as a mold cavity to form curved outer
surface 151 of lip balm 150. In such embodiments, it is desirable
for the first interior surface (i.e. the interior surface of the
lid) to be non-tactile with respect to the lip balm being molded in
the lid, such that when the lip balm solidifies, it does not adhere
to the first interior surface, i.e. the first interior surface may
act as a mold release for the lip balm poured into the lid when the
lid is acting as a mold cavity.
[0075] For example, with respect to hand exerciser 200, lid 202 may
comprise first interior surface 212, and it may be desirable for
curved outer surface 151 of lip balm 150, formed by first interior
surface 212 and acting as a mold, to not adhere to first interior
surface 212. For example, HDPE is generally known in the art to be
a "slippery" material that some lip balm formulations would not
adhere to once cured and solidified and thus could act as a mold
release for first interior surface 212.
[0076] Note with respect to the materials of construction, it is
not desired nor intended to unnecessarily limit the present
invention by reason of such restricted disclosure.
[0077] In some exemplary embodiments, such as exemplary embodiment
of hand exerciser 200, first compressible covering 207 may be
permanently attached to first outer surface 203, and second
compressible covering 208 may be permanently attached to second
outer surface 205. Thus in such embodiments, lid 202 with first
compressible covering 207 may operate as a single article of
manufacture, and bottom 204 with second compressible covering 208
may operate as a single article of manufacture. In further detail,
in such embodiments, first inner surface 207b (a component of first
compressible covering 207) may be in communication, via direct
physical contact, with first outer surface 203 (a component of lid
202). And second inner surface 208b (a component of second
compressible covering 208) may be in communication, via direct
physical contact, with second outer surface 205 (a component of
bottom 204).
[0078] Various methods may be used to accomplish such a permanent
attachment, such as, and without limiting the scope of the present
invention, adhesive bonding, solvent bonding, ultra-sonic bonding,
and the like. Additionally, each of the two compressible coverings
(e.g. 207 and 208) may be molded directly to each respective outer
surface (e.g. 203 and 205), such that when the compressible
covering materials cool down from the injection molding process,
such that the compressible covering material naturally contracts
and adheres to the respective outer surface (e.g. 203 and 205).
Thus, in such embodiments, each respective outer surface may be
acting as a mold insert that the each respective compressible
covering is molded around. Further, in some exemplary embodiments,
the surface of each respective outer surface may comprise further
geometry to provide anchor points that the compressible covering
material may attach to during the injection molding process.
[0079] Note, in embodiments where each respective compressible
covering (such as first compressible covering 207 and second
compressible covering 208) may be permanently attached to each
respective outer surface (such as first outer surface 203 and
second outer surface 205), such permanent attachment may aid in the
opening of a container (such as container 201) that may reside
within the compressible covering, as any opening motion by the user
which is directed to exterior surfaces of the compressible covering
(such as exterior surface 209) are thus communicated to opening the
lid from the bottom.
[0080] With respect to opening the container (e.g. 201), i.e.
removably separating the lid from the bottom, various methods may
be utilized, such as, and without limiting the scope of the present
invention, complimentary mating threads, frictional gripping, snap
connectors, magnets, and the like. Additionally, in some
embodiments, the lid and the bottom may be in further communication
via a hinge.
[0081] For example, in the exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser
200 which is depicted in the FIG. 2 series of figures, lid 202 and
bottom 204 may be removably attached to each other via compatible
complimentary mating threads, such that when container 201 is
closed, lid 202 may be screwed to bottom 204. In some embodiments,
the lid may have inside threads, while the bottom has complimentary
outside threads; whereas in other embodiments, the lid may have the
outside threads and the bottom may have the complimentary inside
threads.
[0082] Further, in the embodiments where the lid may be acting as a
mold cavity for forming curved outer surface 151 of lip balm 150,
an exemplary arrangement of threads may be one in which the outside
threads circumscribe the lid opening and the complimentary mating
inside threads then circumscribe the bottom's top opening, as such
an arrangement minimizes lip balm 150 from getting into such
threads.
[0083] Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser
200 which is depicted in the FIG. 2 series of figures, hand
exerciser 200 may further comprise interior volume 214, such that
the article may occupy a portion of said interior volume 214.
Interior volume 214 may be formed by first interior surface 207b
and second interior surface 208b together circumscribing 214b.
First interior surface 207b may be in communication with first
outer surface 203 and oppose first outer surface 203. Likewise,
second interior surface 213 may be in communication with second
outer surface 205 and oppose second outer surface 205. That is,
container 201 may comprise lid 202 and bottom 204 as noted above.
And lid 202 may comprise first outer surface 203 and first interior
surface 207b, where first outer surface 203 opposes and is in
communication with first interior surface 207b. And bottom 204 may
comprise second outer surface 205 and second interior surface 213,
where second outer surface 205 opposes and is in communication with
first interior surface 208b. In each case, for both the lid and the
bottom, the manner of communication may be via a thickness of the
lid and a thickness of the bottom. In various embodiments, the
thickness of the lid and the thickness of the bottom may be the
same or they may be different.
[0084] Also note, this specification has referred to an inner
volume 214- as used in this specification, volume is the broader
term and encompasses the interior volume because the inner volume
may circumscribe the volume immediately circumscribed by the inner
surfaces of the compressible covering, while interior volume refers
to the volume within the container, where the container fits into
the inner volume.
[0085] Note, in hand exerciser 200, hand exerciser 200 may further
comprise the article and the article may further comprise lip balm
150, such that lip balm 150 is the article which container 201
contains. In other embodiments, it may be the container which
comprises the article, where the article is lip balm 150. Further,
in hand exerciser 200, lip balm 150 may comprise curved outer
surface 151, such that curved outer surface 151 protrudes above top
opening 214 of bottom 204, when curved outer surface 151 is first
formed. This geometry of lip balm 150 allows the user to apply lip
balm 150 directly to one or both lips simultaneously by uncapping
lid 202 from bottom 204 and holding bottom 204, with lip balm 150
imbedded in bottom 204, up to the lips for application. Upon such
repeated method of application, curved outer surface 151 will
become worn down until the curved outer surface geometry is no
longer present, upon which the user may then use a finger to apply
remaining lip balm 150 from bottom 204 onto the user's lips. As in
various exemplary embodiments, bottom (e.g. 204) may be filled with
lip balm 150 when curved outer surface 151 is first formed.
[0086] In hand exerciser 200, additional geometry and components
may be necessary to form curved outer surface 151 of lip balm 150.
Bottom 204 may further comprise bottom opening 216 located at a
bottom end of bottom 204. Additionally, bottom end cap 217, which
is adapted to seal the bottom opening 216, may comprise at least
one protrusion 218 which extends partially into interior volume
214b when the bottom end cap 217 seals the opening 216.
[0087] FIG. 2(e) depicts exemplary methods for forming curved outer
surface 151 that may utilize the exemplary hand exerciser 200
depicted in FIG. 2(a), (b), and (c), where the exemplary steps may
be:
[0088] Step 1: Removably attaching bottom 204 to lid 202 to form a
coupled assembly, but where bottom end cap 217 is not attached to
bottom 202. Turning this coupled assembly upside down, so the lid
is now on the bottom, with respect to a gravitational pull.
[0089] Step 2: Pouring liquid lip balm 152 into the upside down
coupled assembly, such that first interior surface 212 acts a mold
cavity for lip balm 150. Additionally, pour liquid lip balm 152
into the upside down assembly to a liquid fill level on bottom 204.
In various exemplary embodiments, the liquid fill level may be at
or below bottom opening 216, which minimizes loss of liquid lip
balm 152 due to spillage when bottom end cap 217 with the at least
one protrusion 218 is inserted into bottom opening 216. (Generally,
lip balms may be liquefied by heating the lip balm to a melting
point. Obviously it is desirable if the lip balm's melting point is
a temperature which does not melt or materially distort first
interior surface 212, nor second interior surface 213.)
[0090] Step 3: While lip balm 152 is still in liquid form, insert
bottom end cap 217 into bottom opening 216 such that the at least
one protrusion 218 immerses in liquid lip balm 152 and where bottom
end cap 217 completely seals bottom opening 216. While the coupled
assembly is still in the upside down position, and with bottom end
cap 217 sealing bottom opening 216, allow lip balm 150 to solidify
and anchor onto the at least one protrusion 218. Once lip balm 150
has solidified, it may be anchored onto the least one protrusion
218.
[0091] Step 4: Turn coupled assembly right side up and open lid 202
from bottom 204. Curved outer surface 151 of lip balm 150 may now
be formed and lip balm will typically be solidified and anchored to
bottom 204 by virtue of the at least one protrusion 218.
[0092] Note, bottom end cap 217 may seal bottom opening 216 using
various exemplary mechanisms. The FIG. 2 series depicts bottom end
cap 217 with a plurality of snaps 219 along an outside peripheral
edge of bottom end cap 217 where the outside peripheral edge
complimentarily mates with an edge circumscribing bottom opening
216. In other exemplary embodiments, the sealing means may be via
use of adhesives, solvent bonding, ultrasonic welding,
complimentary mating threads (e.g. locking threads), and the like.
Additionally, in exemplary embodiments, the bottom end cap sealing
bottom opening may be permanent and not intended to be reversible
once the seal has been made.
[0093] Additionally, note, the at least one protrusion 218 in
exemplary embodiments may be integral with bottom end cap 217, such
that the at least one protrusion 218 and bottom end cap are
manufactured as one component.
[0094] Turning to the exemplary hand exerciser 300 depicted in the
FIG. 3, FIG. 3(a) depicts an exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser
300, shown from an exploded side view. And FIG. 3(b) depicts
exemplary methods for forming curved outer surface 151 of lip balm
150 which may utilize exemplary hand exerciser 300 depicted in FIG.
3(a).
[0095] A primary difference between hand exerciser 300 and hand
exerciser 200 may be in the manner of how curved outer surface 151
of lip balm 150 is formed. For example, the main five steps for
forming curved outer surface 151 as disclosed above regarding FIG.
2(e) may be the same for hand exerciser 300, with the exception
that bottom end cap 317 of hand exerciser 300 no longer includes
the at least one protrusion 218 which may be found in hand
exerciser 200. Instead in exemplary embodiment hand exerciser 300
there may be plurality of flange protrusions 318, which may extend
into interior volume 214b and which may point towards bottom end
cap 317, when bottom end cap 317 seals bottom opening 316. Here in
hand exerciser 300, the plurality of flange protrusions 318 may
originate from the second interior surface 313; whereas in hand
exerciser 200 the at least one protrusion 218 may originate from
bottom end cap 217. However, functionally, the plurality of flange
protrusions 318 may serve the same lip balm 150 anchoring function
as the at least one protrusion 218. Thus, in both hand exerciser
200 and in hand exerciser 300, each utilizes the same lid 202, but
each uses a different bottom, bottom 204 for hand exerciser 200 and
bottom 304 for hand exerciser 300.
[0096] Likewise, as in hand exerciser 200, hand exerciser 300 may
have lip balm 150 completely fill bottom 304 when curved outer
surface 151 is first formed. And thus the user may still utilize
lip balm 150 in container 301 once curved outer surface 151 has
worn down.
[0097] Now turning to hand exerciser 400 depicted in the FIG. 4
series of figures, which demonstrates another method for forming
curved outer surface 151 of lip balm 150, by virtue of hand
exerciser 400's componentry and geometry. FIG. 4(a) depicts
exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser 400, shown from an exploded
side view. And FIG. 4(b) depicts exemplary embodiment of polygonal
lattice 416, which may be a component of hand exerciser 400 of FIG.
4(a), shown from a perspective view.
[0098] Container 401 may further comprise polygonal lattice 416
that attaches to an inside of bottom 404. Polygonal lattice 416 may
be a generally planar polygon which comprises outer edge 421, such
that a plane of the generally planar polygon may be parallel with
top opening 415 of bottom 404. Additionally, polygonal lattice 416
may further comprise internal lattice structure 422, such that
internal lattice structure 422 is within outer edge 421 and in the
plane as the generally planar polygon. Further, polygonal lattice
416 may further comprise a plurality of locking protrusions 417,
which may extend from outer edge 421, extending towards bottom 404.
Each locking protrusion 417 may further comprise a tab 418 located
on a terminal end of each protrusion 417.
[0099] As shown in FIG. 4(b), polygonal lattice 416 may have four
outer edges defining the polygon. In other exemplary embodiments,
the polygon may be defined by three sides, five sides, six sides,
seven sides, or eight sides.
[0100] Container 401's bottom 404 may then further comprise locking
ridge 420 which circumscribes second interior surface 413, such
that locking ridge 420 provides an edge for the tabs 418 to lock
onto when the plurality of locking protrusions 417 are inserted
into the inside of bottom 404. Additionally, container 401's lid
402 may further comprise barrier shelf 419 which circumscribes
first interior surface 412, such that polygonal lattice 416 may not
be permitted beyond barrier shelf 419. The purpose of polygonal
lattice 416 may be to function as an anchor for lip balm 150 to
adhere to, such that lip balm 150 is secured to bottom 404.
[0101] FIG. 4(c) depicts exemplary methods for forming curved outer
surface 151 of lip balm 150 which may utilize exemplary hand
exerciser 400 depicted in FIG. 4(a) and polygonal lattice 416
depicted in FIG. 4(b), where the exemplary steps may be as
follows:
[0102] Step 1: Place lid 402 upside down with respect to a
gravitational pull, so that first interior surface 412 may act as a
mold cavity for liquid lip balm 152.
[0103] Step 2: Pour liquid lip balm 152 into upside down lid 402 up
to a liquid fill level within lid 402.
[0104] Step 3: Place polygonal lattice 416 into lid 402 such that
the plurality of locking protrusions 417 point away from lid 402
and where polygonal lattice 416 abuts against barrier shelf
419.
[0105] Step 4: While lip balm 152 is still in liquid form and while
lid 402 is still upside down, place bottom 404 over and onto the
plurality of locking protrusions 417, such that tabs 418 engage and
lock with locking ridge 420 of bottom 404.
[0106] Step 5: While lip balm 152 is still in liquid form and while
lid 402 is still upside down, secure bottom 404 to lid 402.
[0107] Step 6: Once lip balm 150 has solidified, turn container 401
right-side up and open lid 402 from bottom 404, curved outer
surface 151 of lip balm 150 may now be formed and lip balm 150 may
be anchored to bottom 404 by virtue of polygonal lattice 416.
[0108] With respect to securing bottom 404 to lid 402, in hand
exerciser 400 as depicted in the FIG. 4 series of figures, bottom
404 may be removably attached to lid 402 using complimentary mating
threads 411a and 411b. In other exemplary embodiments, other
removable attachment mechanisms may be used without deviating from
the scope of the present invention, such as snaps, frictional
gripping, magnets, and the like.
[0109] Note, the above sequence may also proceed by Step 1, Step 3,
Step 2, Step 4, Step 5, and Step 6, without deviating from the
scope of the present invention, i.e. Step 2 and Step 3 may be
interchangeable.
[0110] Additionally note, in exemplary embodiment hand exerciser
400, lip balm 150 may generally not fill bottom 404, as lip balm
150 may do with the embodiments of hand exerciser 200 and 300.
[0111] Turning to hand exerciser 500 as depicted in FIG. 5, the
illustrated exemplary embodiment focuses on varying exterior
surface geometry of the hand exerciser for the purpose of providing
regions of the hand exerciser's exterior which may be more easily
gripped by the user for facilitating detachment of the first
compressible covering, with lid, from the second compressible
covering, with bottom.
[0112] FIG. 5 depicts exemplary embodiment of hand exerciser 500
which may comprise a plurality of raised ridges 575 along the hand
exerciser's exterior surface 509, shown from a perspective view.
Such a plurality of raised ridges 575 may serve the same purpose as
the plurality of raised protrusions 275 in hand exerciser 200, i.e.
to aid the user in opening and closing the container within the
hand exerciser or to aid the user in inserting and taking out an
article from the inner volume of the hand exerciser.
[0113] Additionally, the plurality of raised ridges 575 may also
permit compressible hand exerciser 500 to remain in a stationary
position upon a flat surface, i.e. provide an anti-rolling feature,
and which may also be a desirable embodiment where the overall
exterior shape of a hand exerciser is substantially ovoid.
[0114] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a hand exerciser
which may comprise a region for placing a finger or thumb in order
facilitate opening the device. Such a region may also be utilized
for displaying logos, trademarks, slogans, and other marketing and
promotional materials which may aid in the sales and distribution
of hand exerciser 600. Additionally hand exerciser embodiments 200,
300, 400, 500, 700, and other exemplary embodiments may all also
utilize a region upon the exterior surface for displaying such
graphics.
[0115] FIG. 7 depicts yet another embodiment of the present
invention, wherein a compressible hand exerciser includes a
receptacle for housing an article or item. Compressible hand
exerciser 700 comprises covering 706. Rather than housing lip balm,
covering 706 houses container 701 for storing any number of
articles. For example, and without limiting the scope of the
present invention, container 706 may be used for housing jewelry or
similarly small items that a user may desire to carry around.
[0116] FIG. 8 depicts yet another embodiment of the present
invention, wherein a compressible hand exerciser includes a
rectangular shaped receptacle for housing an article or item.
Compressible hand exerciser 800 comprises covering 806. Rather than
housing lip balm, covering 806 houses container 801 for storing any
number of articles. For example, and without limiting the scope of
the present invention, container 806 may be used for housing a
cylindrically shaped lip balm stick. Alternatively, other similarly
small items that a user may desire to carry around, may be placed
inside container 801.
[0117] Turning to the last figure, FIG. 9 depicts yet another
embodiment of the present invention, wherein a compressible hand
exerciser includes a cover adapted to receive one or more keychain
rings. For example, compressible hand exerciser 900 may comprise
covering 909, which implements a protrusion 935 adapted to hold a
key ring. In this embodiment, the device may be a smaller device so
that it easily fits into a user's pocket. Of course, the device's
size may be altered without deviating from the scope of the present
invention. As with the device shown in FIG. 6, compressible hand
exerciser 900 may further include a region for aiding with opening
and closing the covering. Such a region may also be utilized for
displaying logos, trademarks, slogans, and other marketing and
promotional materials which may aid in the sales and distribution
of hand exerciser 900.
[0118] A compressible hand exerciser adapted to contain an article
has been described and disclosed. The foregoing description of the
various exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented
for the purposes of illustration and disclosure. It is not intended
to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form
disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light
of the above teaching without departing from the spirit of the
invention.
[0119] While the invention has been described in connection with
what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred
embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be
limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is
intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements
included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *