U.S. patent application number 14/501017 was filed with the patent office on 2016-03-31 for apparatus suspension system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Paul Oravecz. Invention is credited to Paul Oravecz.
Application Number | 20160089561 14/501017 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55583409 |
Filed Date | 2016-03-31 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160089561 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Oravecz; Paul |
March 31, 2016 |
APPARATUS SUSPENSION SYSTEM
Abstract
The disclosed suspension apparatus generally includes a strip of
flexible, nonelastic material adapted to secure a handle of an
implement in a user's hand between the user's finger and thumb; a
first apparatus for coupling a first end of the strip to the user's
thumb; and a second apparatus for coupling a second end of the
strip to the user's finger. The present invention enables a novel
tennis stroke including the steps of: securing an apparatus to a
hand, said apparatus including: a strip of flexible, nonelastic
material adapted to secure a handle of an implement in a user's
hand between the user's finger and thumb; a first strap for
coupling a first end of the strip to the user's thumb; and a second
strap for coupling a second end of the strip to the user's finger;
gripping a tennis racquet between a palm of a hand and the
apparatus; and employing a `square inch` process to hit a tennis
ball with the racquet and apparatus.
Inventors: |
Oravecz; Paul; (Los Angeles,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Oravecz; Paul |
Los Angeles |
CA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
55583409 |
Appl. No.: |
14/501017 |
Filed: |
September 29, 2014 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
473/518 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25G 1/102 20130101;
A63B 2225/09 20130101; A63B 69/0059 20130101; B25G 3/12 20130101;
A63B 69/38 20130101; A63B 21/4019 20151001 |
International
Class: |
A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus consisting essentially of: a strip of flexible,
nonelastic material adapted to secure a handle of an implement in a
user's hand between the user's finger and thumb; first means for
coupling a first end of said strip to said user's thumb; and second
means for coupling a second end of said strip to said user's
finger.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said strip is nylon.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said first means is a first
flat strap.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 wherein said first strap is open with a
first end having holes spaced along a length thereof and a second
end is terminated with a buckle whereby said first strap is
adjustable.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said second means is a second
flat strap.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein said second strap is open with
a first end having holes spaced along a length thereof and a second
end is terminated with a buckle whereby said second strap is
adjustable.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 including first and second grip
enhancing stabilizers mounted on said strip.
8. An apparatus consisting essentially of: a strip of flexible
nylon, nonelastic material adapted to secure a handle of an
implement in a user's hand between the user's finger and thumb; a
flat strap for coupling a first end of said strip to said user's
thumb, said first strap being open with a first end having holes
spaced along a length thereof and a second end being terminated
with a buckle whereby said first strap is adjustable; and a second
flat strap for coupling a second end of said strip to said user's
finger, said second strap being open with a first end having holes
spaced along a length thereof and a second end being terminated
with a buckle whereby said second strap is adjustable.
9. The apparatus of claim 8 wherein said strip is nylon.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 including first and second grip
enhancing stabilizers mounted on said strip.
11. A tennis stroke including the steps of: securing an apparatus
to a hand, said apparatus including: a strip of flexible,
nonelastic material adapted to secure a handle of an implement in a
user's hand between the user's finger and thumb; first means for
coupling a first end of said strip to said user's thumb; and second
means for coupling a second end of said strip to said user's
finger; gripping a tennis racquet between a palm of said hand and
said apparatus; and employing a `square inch` process to hit a
tennis ball with said racquet and apparatus.
12. The method of claim 11 including the step of employing a hinged
wrist swing.
13. The method of claim 12 further including the step of employing
a full swing.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This is a Divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
13/716,144, entitled, "Grip Suspension System," filed by the
present applicant on Dec. 15, 2012, (Attorney Docket No.
Verizer-2), issued ______ as U.S. Pat. No. ______, the teachings of
which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The embodiment relates generally to apparatus suspension
systems and one embodiment more specifically relates to an
apparatus suspension system for eliminating the need to tightly
grasp, grip or clench any apparatus (i.e. sports racket, hammer,
device, instrument, tennis racquet, squash racquet, racquetball
racquet, badminton racquet, lacrosse stick, etc.), by producing an
apparatus suspension mechanism eliminating the need of a grip
required from the hand, wrist and the arm.
[0003] In racket sports for instance, up until now, it has been
required that the user tightly grip the apparatus. With this
embodiment, the user has an added competitive edge, thrill and
mental advantage to game play by not having to clasp the apparatus
and instead, the device clasps the apparatus for them and thus does
the hard work for them.
[0004] This embodiment is classified in a field of prior art, where
the focus has been gripping the apparatus to try to make it easier
to learn to use the device properly, to carry out play or its
intended use and to possibly win more games or more successfully
use the implement.
[0005] The difference in this embodiment, i.e., not gripping the
apparatus, carries great weight. First, this embodiment is contrary
to the teachings and scope of the prior art, where gripping is the
key. This is because the advantage of letting go of an apparatus,
like a racket in tennis for example, while hitting the ball, has
not been possible or implemented in the history of gameplay like in
tennis, racket ball or similar activities. This embodiment solves
many long felt, long-existing and unsolved needs.
[0006] This embodiment successfully solves a problem that has been
heretofore unsolvable which would be to have control of an
apparatus without gripping it and still increase game play or the
use of the device for its intended purposes. This embodiment omits
elements in the prior art, for instance inventions that involve
gripping paraphernalia, gloves and finger-type devices, whose focus
was on helping the user grip the apparatus. This embodiment is
opposite in that its focus is on not having the user grip the
apparatus, but rather on having the user let go of the apparatus
while greatly increasing the capability of the user.
[0007] What has not been achieved in the prior art is the feeling,
knowledge or fact that the user does not have to hold on to the
apparatus. The reason this is important is that it allows the user
to experience new sensations and mental perspectives about
participating in the activity or sport and experience the feeling
of freedom that the user experiences when they understand that they
do not have to do the work to hold the apparatus, driving
unprecedented enthusiasm, excitement, and creativity in the
intended activity or as in tennis, game play. Thus it makes the
user feel differently about the game, i.e., have a more positive
attitude toward the situation.
[0008] This embodiment solves a problem that has never been
recognized before which is gripping the apparatus in any form
produces a more unnatural situation and sensation that actually
results in poorer use of the device or in tennis, game play. This
may seem counter intuitive in that many inventions have focused on
the user "gripping" the apparatus. However, the act of gripping is
what causes the user problem, limiting their use of the apparatus
as well as the quality of the experience when using the apparatus.
Other inventions focused on trying to solve the problem of
"gripping" by modifying the way the user "grips" the device. Other
inventions did not try to resolve the ability to "not" grip the
device, whereas this embodiment specifically uncovers and solves
the notion that not gripping the device actually results in better
use and results in better outcomes when using the apparatus.
[0009] When a user utilizes an apparatus, they would normally be
required to grip the apparatus with their hand. This embodiment
allows the user to use the apparatus without gripping it.
[0010] In particular, but not limited to the field of rackets used
for sports, for instance tennis, racquetball, squash and the like,
the apparatus or the handle is shaped as cylindrical, oval,
rectangular or octagonal member and requires the user to grip the
handle. Other prior art finds fault with the racket handle in that
it does not provide enough tactile indication for the orientation
of the face of the racket. A small error in the angle of the racket
can produce a large error in the trajectory of the ball when struck
by the racket. In addition, other prior art finds fault with how
the user grips the apparatus or handle in that it becomes slippery,
due to perspiration, requiring the user to grip the apparatus or
handle even more tightly during play and this in turn can lead to
fatigue of the hand, arm, shoulder and the player as well as such
things like blisters and the like and possible permanent damage to
the body.
[0011] This embodiment does not find fault with the racket's
ability to provide tactile indication or to solve slipperiness of
the racket handle due to perspiration because the user does not
grip the handle but rather the flexible suspension system secures
the racket handle in place and fingers loosely act as guides. The
issue of perspiration and a slippery racket is solved in this
embodiment, because there is plenty of air surrounding the hand and
the apparatus or racket handle.
[0012] This embodiment also solves the issue of tactile indication
in several ways. In normal play, a racket has a limited, small area
on the racket face called the sweet spot. It is the intention of
players to hit the sweet spot on a regular basis because this is
where the optimal power and control of the racket emanates from.
However, this is difficult for even the most advanced player to do
consistently.
[0013] Every aspect of the game is influenced by what the user is
thinking, feeling or focusing on. Control of the mind and emotions
is critical. One issue, in tennis, is the user's awareness of the
center of the racket or sweet spot. The issue for most players is
that they are not easily and/or repeatedly aware of the sweet spot
and therefore they are not regularly hitting the ball optimally. In
fact, most players rarely hit the "sweet spot." Not only is hitting
the sweet spot necessary for better game play, but it provides the
player with an exaggerated feeling of physical and mental
well-being or euphoria/rapture.
[0014] Other prior art fails to advance the art and address the
issue of consistently hitting the sweet spot of the racket by not
gripping the racket handle. This embodiment makes it easier for the
user to find the sweet spot on a continual basis. Often users are
told to "relax" so that they can play in the "zone" or the ideal
mental performance state. Conventional advice to players consists
of telling them to shut off their minds or tire themselves out so
as to tap into the subconscious mind to play in the "zone." Tapping
into the subconscious mind is difficult when the mind is focused on
gripping and managing an unnatural device in one's hand, such as a
racket and readying themselves to hit the ball as hard as they can,
resulting in a paradox. The placement of a racket handle within the
hand normally requires that the user grip it, but by doing so the
user becomes less aligned with their body and more aligned with
holding onto the racket handle. This shift in focus and physicality
means that the user is now in an unnatural state.
[0015] With this embodiment, the user is in a more natural state
and remains aligned with their body. The racket is secured to the
hand by the suspension system and results in a sensation where the
racket feels like a natural extension of their hand and arm. This
more natural feeling provides the user with a greater degree of
comfort and a new dimension of mental freedom. This mental freedom
allows the user to experience a superior ability to concentrate on
things other than holding the racket, thereby increasing their game
play capabilities. In this embodiment, the user experiences a
liberating sensation that heretofore has not been possible because
they were focusing on and gripping the racket handle; instead with
this embodiment the user increases their awareness, perception,
consciousness and responsiveness to both hitting the ball towards
their opponent as well as responding to the ball hit by the
opponent towards the user and utilizing the sweet spot more
consistently.
[0016] When a user employs this embodiment, they are in a constant
state of relaxation, where they are able tap into the subconscious
mind and hit in the "zone." As a result of this advanced state of
mind, their reactions and accuracy improve allowing them to
consistently hit the "sweet spot." Instead of the user having an
occasional and haphazard strike on the "sweet spot" they are now
able to consistently make this a repeatable action because the user
hits the sweet spot more often, the user is able to get into the
groove, training the mind and this mental memory is engrained to
this new pattern, thus advancing game play.
[0017] Another aspect of this embodiment is its effect on the
affective size of the sweet spot. The softest part of the racket
face, the sweet spot, is the center. When the racket handle is held
rigidly, the sweet spot is in its smallest diameter. When the
racket handle is suspended with a flexible-member suspension system
and the player miss hits the ball, missing the sweet spot, with
this embodiment the shock is not transferred to the player because
the suspension system absorbs the shock and thereby effectively
increases the affective area of the sweet spot of the racket. In
this embodiment, because the user is not gripping the racket
handle, the effective sweet spot area is essentially increased,
increasing the optimal power and control of the racket and advances
the user's game play and euphoric feeling which advances their game
mind and mental state of mind.
[0018] When a user grips the racket handle, and misses the sweet
spot it sends a shocking reverb to the user's hand. If the user
does not have to grip the apparatus and misses the sweet spot, as
in this embodiment, the user experiences less of a shocking reverb,
reducing the exhaustion of the arm, hand, shoulder and body and
reducing the feeling of physical and mental defeat or
discouragement. Because the player hits the sweet spot more often,
they have more control over the gameplay and the user will want to
play more often, resulting in better overall health, fitness,
positive mental state of mind and wellness and could reduce the
level of obesity in the world, where obesity related medical costs
at the time of this writing in the US alone are .about.$160
Billion/year and diseases like diabetes, at a cost to the US at
$174 Billion/year.
[0019] Another aspect of this embodiment is the affect it has on
the mindset of the player. Often times when someone is looking to
pick up the sport, they find it difficult to advance their play.
This embodiment increases the confidence, enthusiasm, pleasure and
desire of the user to continue to play and thus provides the
necessary encouragement for those who would have ordinarily given
up because they could not consistently hit the sweet spot, making
the embodiment a more commercially viable and tennis and the like a
more wide spread activity.
[0020] Another aspect of this embodiment is the effect on the
user's charka system. When the user hits the sweet spot on a
regular basis, that action transfers energy to the body and the
interaction serves to align the body's chakras, so as to result in
better mental centeredness and alignment. Tennis can then become a
method for all levels of players to experience enhanced mental
balance and alignment. The repeated action of Charka alignment
provides the user with a strong sense of well-being such that they
will want to play more often, resulting in enhanced physical
health. In addition, because players will want to play more often,
this increased volume of players and playing will drive economics
by the way of the need for the production of more tennis rackets,
balls, tennis shoes, and the like, making this embodiment an
economically feasible product and this has the effective of
enhancing the economic climate of all countries who deploy this
embodiment.
[0021] A racket handle is designed with a specific shape for a
specific purpose. For instance, octagonal member of a tennis handle
is designed to optimally fit in the palm of the user. The top, the
bottom, and the 3-sided flatten areas of the racket handles are
designed so that there are no sharp edges and so it coincides with
an efficient and comfortable feel. The larger, flatten sides of the
racket handle provides the user knowledge of where the face of the
racket is pointed. The bell part of the racket provides resistance
against the lower palm so as not to leave the user's hand.
[0022] While other prior art seeks to change the shape of the
racket handle, our embodiment allows the user to optimize the
original and perfect design of the racket handle design without
changing it. This embodiment therefore takes advantage of its
specific and perfect shape of the apparatus. The problem is not
with the design of the apparatus or handle, but rather that the
prior art has not figured out how best to provide a system for the
user to hold onto and swing the racket without having to grip it so
as to not loose hold of the racket in the swinging process and/or
control the racket to complete the intended gameplay correctly. The
other prior art tries to change that "perfect" shape of the handle
or apparatus because their focus is on tighter or more effective
apparatus or handle "gripping" by the user. In this embodiment, the
apparatus does the gripping for the user.
[0023] In this embodiment, the users palm and the index finger, the
middle finger, the connector finger and the pinky finger and the
thumb or any combination of fingers can be used by the suspension
system and provides a closed, yet flexible connector or net that
secures the apparatus and as such, allows for the optimal use that
apparatus or handle as it was designed and intended for.
[0024] Attempts have been made in the prior art to modify the
handle of the racket to overcome the problems of excessive
perspiration or grip effectiveness. Those modifications include,
but are not limited to finger grooves which are in the form of a
handle or an apparatus member that receives the fingers and thumbs
of the user. Although the finger grooves may increase frictional
engagement with the hand of the player, they do not necessarily
increase the tactical perception of the angle of the face of the
racket. The finger receiving grooves require custom creation based
on the different sized hands and finger/thumb spacing of each
individual. The multiplicity of size and configuration prevents the
profitable distribution of these forms of the racket and or the
apparatus.
[0025] This embodiment does not require that the user modify the
racket handle, i.e., to take the racket apart, drill holes in the
racket, attach grips or finger groves or the like, but instead
takes advantage of the perfect design of the racket handle "as is"
and uses it to its highest degree by being a ready-to-use product
without any modification to this embodiment or the racket or its
handle.
[0026] In addition, the finger groove apparatuses in the prior art
must be able to receive both the right and left hand, as it is
impossible for the fingers of the left hand to fit into the grooves
for the right hand and vice versa. Thus the users would have to
stop play in the middle of game play and take off the finger groove
and place the correct one for, say the right hand when using for
right-handed swing, and then need to stop game play and put on a
left-handed finger groove when using a left-handed swing. This
makes that prior art impossible to use during ordinary play and
commercially unviable.
[0027] In some sports like tennis, users may change their grip on
the racket for backhand and forehand strokes. Many of the grooved
handles in the prior art are adapted to accommodate such a shift in
the grip of the player. However, in normal use, players change
their grip on the racket more markedly from a western grip to a
continental grip to effect top spin, under spin or the like within
seconds, making the prior art unpractical as it would take longer
to adjust the grip position than allowed in normal game play. A
grooved apparatus or handle construction may actually impede the
user's ability to quickly shift playing style and technique. And as
the market shows, much of the prior art has not been widely adopted
by the tennis community as evidenced by the lack of these products
being commercially available.
[0028] This embodiment, unlike other prior art, fits both right and
left hand equally, meaning one size/shape fits all. This eliminates
the need to have a left-handed version and a right-handed version
and thus makes the device more commercially viable. This embodiment
does not require that a user stop the game play and change the
device depending on whether they want to use their right or left
hand. In addition, it can be instantaneously adjusted when a player
wants to change their grip from say a western grip to a continental
grip, allowing effective top spin, under spin or the like and
therefore not impede the user's ability to shift playing styles and
techniques.
[0029] One of the issues in game play is that when a user swings,
they must retain the racket at the end of the stroke, rendering the
stroke less powerful than it would be if the user could let go of
the racket. The requirement to grip the racket, lest it would fly
out of their hand and across the court, causes the user to devote
their attention and energy into the retention of the racket at the
end of a stroke. This retention of the racket is not something that
users are aware of because there has never been any other option
but to grip the apparatus or racket handle and as a result it is
commonly accepted that you have to grip the apparatus or racket
handle and gripping is "what you have to do" so you don't send the
racket flying across the court.
[0030] Therefore, the user can't take advantage of a full stroke,
of any kind, and instead stops the stroke from going full force
because of this need to grip the racket. In this embodiment,
because the user has the choice to continue gripping the racket as
they always have (old school method) or let go of the racket. With
this choice, they are not encumbered by having to quickly learn
something new (i.e., not gripping) and can ease into learning this
new behavior and stroke at whatever learning pace is comfortable
for them. The user does not have to grip the racket and gains an
advantage in that strokes can be rendered with their full force,
because the user is no longer concerned and preoccupied with the
racket flying out of their hand.
[0031] In gripping the racket tightly so as to not lose a grip on
it, the user loses the finesse of holding the racket correctly for
specific shots, for example, but not limited to wrist pronation on
a serve. Wrist pronation on a serve is when the user uses the wrist
as a hinge point, it keeps the head and body straight in the air,
resulting in a more accurate shot by being able to more accurately
hit the sweet spot.
[0032] The head and body alignment is critical in sports and
directly affects game play. This embodiment allows for the perfect
head-body alignment. In game play, the body follows the positioning
of the head. The position of the head not only guides the rest of
the body weight in an activity, it also determines the most
effective weight distribution of the body when the racket impacts
the ball. It's this weight distribution of the body, in part, which
provides the velocity and power of a shot. So for instance, if one
weighs 180 lbs, with the correct weight distribution, i.e.,
alignment of the head and body, the user has effectively 180 lbs of
body weight for the shot. If the player "clubs" the ball or at
impact, redistributes the body weight or head/body alignment in an
less effective positioning, the result is something less than the
180 lbs of body weight available for the shot and results in a less
powerful, slower shot.
[0033] A human head weighs approximately 11 pounds. If the 11
pounds of the head is motionless during play, then the player will
have full use of the 11 pounds of the head to direct the rest of
the body for full impact when the racket and the ball connect,
which is the desired, maximum efficiency state. For example, in
prior art when the user grips the racket, the natural inclination
is for the user to use their shoulder, arm and chest to forcibly
drive the ball, and whose action pulls the head out of the correct
position and results in a "clubbing" action of the ball and an
inferior shot. With this embodiment the user's need to grip the
racket is gone and uniquely allows the user to use a hinged-wrist
motion when hitting the ball. It's this hinged-wrist motion, which
is difficult to impossible for even the most advanced player to
obtain when gripping the racket, that eliminates the need for the
player to use their shoulder, arm and chest in that clubbing
action. With the clubbing action eliminated, the head-body weight
distribution is more easily aligned and the sweet spot zone affect
ensues and produces superior shots.
[0034] The head and eye coordination in sports is extremely
important in that the eyes must be optimally focused on the ball
upon impact. During a serve or a swing, for more accuracy, to
optimize the shot, the player must keep the head perfectly still or
motionless during the swing so as to keep the eyes focused on the
"square inch of the ball." The "square inch of the ball" is the
area of the ball that the racket contacts during any stroke. So if
the head is not motionless, then when the user is setting up to hit
the sweet spot, the eyes which should be focused on the "square
inch of the ball" are pulled away from that spot and leads to a
less accurate shot. In this embodiment, the head-eye coordination
is more accurate and so is the shot because the user doesn't have
to grip the racket, and this with the combined ability to now use a
hinged-wrist motion and resulting in relaxed overall state of being
and mind eliminates the clubbing action.
[0035] Another object of this embodiment is the ability to provide
the player with an added mental dimension of the game as
experienced by players in football or baseball whereas quarterbacks
or pitchers actually release the ball from their grasp. In this
embodiment the same action, meaning the ability to completely
release the racket can be accomplished. What this provides is a new
perspective on the mental strategy of the game. Without this
embodiment, the player must concentrate on maintaining a tight
grasp of the racket. Maintaining a tight grasp on the racket not
only causes strain on the users muscles, but also joints and can
cause errors in stroke production. The ability to release the
racket provides the user with increased confidence, clarity and
ability to put their mental attention on the accuracy of the stroke
whereas without this embodiment, their attention would go to
keeping the racket from going out of control.
[0036] In gripping the racket so tightly, the user is focused on
the grip and not able to effectively keep their eye on the ball.
Because this embodiment does not require the user to control the
racket, the user, regardless of whether the stroke is an overhead
or a backhand or regular stroke, has one less thing to think about,
leaving their mind and body to focus on the ball. The ability to
focus on the ball means that creativity, accuracy and placement of
the ball and the shot are enhanced. This advances their game play
capabilities so as to be more strategic about where to place the
ball and to challenge the opponent and thus win more points.
[0037] The game of tennis has largely attracted a smaller audience
as compared to other spots, in part, because of the difficulties in
learning to play and to become good at it. This embodiment changes
the "standing" of the game of tennis and the like, from a sport for
the an elite few to a game that is easier to play, less
complicated, more enjoyable, easier to improve one's performance,
easier to win points/game and therefore will drive more players to
play, could increase the fitness of the world and those that embark
on this path because the user does not have to expend mind
concentration or physical energy on gripping the apparatus or
racket handle.
[0038] The exponential increase in mental freedom and the resulting
increased enthusiasm, excitement and creativity allows not only an
experienced user to increase their ability to advance their game
play, but it also and even more so has this effect on inexperienced
players or young children or young adults. Young adults and
children who are first introduced to a sport like tennis will often
find it difficult to hold the racket, or painful because their
young limbs and fingers have not developed the skill or capability
for this activity. What results is that young players give-up
playing the sport prematurely. This embodiment reduces these issues
with young children, young adults or handicap person's in that it
gives them a sense of fun and accomplishment so that they stick
with the sport and don't give up so easily, and instead continue to
play into adulthood.
[0039] In addition, older folks who have lost strength or have
disabilities that impair their range of motion can be discouraged
from playing a racket sport. This embodiment allows older folks to
either pick up the sport at an older age or if they were a player
when they were younger, then they will be able to continue to play
for many more years than without these embodiments. This embodiment
allows those with damaged limbs, like a rotator cuff or shoulder,
wrist, finger injuries to play with less or no pain.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0040] The need in the art is addressed by the suspension apparatus
of the present invention. The disclosed suspension apparatus
generally includes a strip of flexible, nonelastic material adapted
to secure a handle of an implement in a user's hand between the
user's finger and thumb; a first apparatus for coupling a first end
of the strip to the user's thumb; and a second apparatus for
coupling a second end of the strip to the user's finger.
[0041] In the illustrative embodiment, the strip is nylon the first
apparatus is a first flat strap and the second apparatus is a
second flat strap. In the best mode, the first strap is open with a
first end having holes spaced along a length thereof and a second
end is terminated with a buckle whereby the first strap is
adjustable. The second strap is open with a first end having holes
spaced along a length thereof and a second end is terminated with a
buckle whereby the second strap is adjustable. First and second
grip enhancing stabilizers are mounted on the strip.
[0042] The present invention enables a novel tennis stroke
including the steps of: securing an apparatus to a hand, said
apparatus including: a strip of flexible, nonelastic material
adapted to secure a handle of an implement in a user's hand between
the user's finger and thumb; a first strap for coupling a first end
of the strip to the user's thumb; and a second strap for coupling a
second end of the strip to the user's finger; gripping a tennis
racquet between a palm of a hand and the apparatus; and employing a
`square inch` process to hit a tennis ball with the racquet and
apparatus.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] FIG. 10 is a side view of the Flexible Suspension
Connector.
[0044] FIG. 20 is a top view of the Adjustable Index Finger
Connector.
[0045] FIG. 30 is a backside view of the Adjustable Index Finger
Connector.
[0046] FIG. 40 is a top view of the Adjustable Thumb Connector.
[0047] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the inventive Suspension
System fully assembled.
[0048] FIG. 60 is an operational view of the inventive Suspension
System in use.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] Turning now to the drawings, in which similar reference
characters denote similar elements throughout the several views,
the figures illustrate a flexible suspension connector, an
adjustable index finger connector and an adjustable thumb connector
altogether becoming an handle or apparatus suspension system in
accordance with the present teachings.
[0050] Flexible Suspension Connector
[0051] The suspension apparatus of the present invention generally
includes a strip of flexible, nonelastic material adapted to secure
a handle of an implement in a user's hand between the user's finger
and thumb; first means for coupling a first end of said strip to
said user's thumb; and second means for coupling a second end of
said strip to said user's finger.
[0052] In the illustrative embodiment, the strip is nylon, the
first means is a first flat strap, open with a first end having
holes spaced along a length thereof and a second end is terminated
with a buckle whereby said first strap is adjustable, and the
second means is a second flat strap, said second strap being open
with a first end having holes spaced along a length thereof and a
second end is terminated with a buckle whereby said second strap is
adjustable. First and second grip enhancing stabilizers are mounted
on the strip.
[0053] The Flexible Suspension Connector is suspended between the
thumb and the index finger of the hand that holds the implement. In
use with tennis (but not limited to just tennis), the racquet
handle is inserted between the palm of the hand and the Flexible
Suspension Connector. The Flexible Suspension Connector can float
around the racquet handle and varying pressures can be applied to
the racquet handle by the thumb and fingers as needed. The
floating, suspension action of the racket handle allows the user to
position the racquet for all conventional tennis grip positions.
Since the racquet is suspended and held in place by the Flexible
Suspension Connector, the user has the option to apply or not apply
force on the apparatus, yielding performance advantages. The
Flexible Suspension Connector is made of a strong, flexible
material so as to fit any racquet handle or apparatus.
[0054] Referring to the connectors in the Figures, the Flexible
Suspension Connector is shown in sub-figure 10. The Main Suspension
Connector (11) is one of the main sub-elements of the Flexible
Suspension Connector (10). The Main Suspension Connector (11) has
two ends, First-End Suspension Connector (14) and the Second End
Suspension Connector (15). The Main Suspension Connector (11) has
stabilizer, First Suspension Connector Stabilizer (12) and the
Second Suspension Connector Stabilizer (13). The Main Suspension
Connector (11) and Suspension Connector Stabilizer (12) and (13)
may be made of a variety of materials.
[0055] Adjustable Index Finger Connector
[0056] Adjustable Index Finger Connector is attached to the
Flexible Suspension Connector. There is an Adjustable Index Finger
Connector for the index finger and an Adjustable Thumb Connector
for the thumb. The Adjustable Index Finger Connector is made from a
supple material equipped with a small fastener to adjust the Index
Finger Connector for any size finger. The Adjustable Index Finger
Connector is attached to one end of the Flexible Suspension
Connector and the Adjustable Thumb Connector is connected at the
other end of the Flexible Suspension Connector. The Adjustable
Index Finger Connector is approximately one half inch wide and long
enough to circle the index finger and is thin enough to allow
contact of the user's hand to the apparatus.
[0057] Referring to the Figures, the Adjustable Index Finger
Connector is shown in sub-figure 20. The Index Finger Connector
Strap (22) is one of the main sub-elements of the Adjustable Index
Finger Connector (20).
[0058] The Index Finger Connector Strap (22) is of a fixed length.
It has two ends to it. At one end is the Index Finger Connector
Fastener (21) and at the opposite end is the Index Finger Connector
Strap End (24). Nearest to the Index Finger Connector Strap End
(24) is a series of fastener holes drilled into the strap; Index
Finger Connector Fastener Hole One (25), Index Finger Connector
Fastener Hole Two (26), Index Finger Connector Fastener Hole Three
(27), Index Finger Connector Fastener Hole Four (28), Index Finger
Connector Fastener Hole Five (29). An Index Finger Connector (23)
is mounted into the Index Finger Connector Strap (22) at a specific
distance between the Index Finger Connector Fastener (21) and the
Index Finger Connector Fastener Hole Five (29).
[0059] The Adjustable Index Finger Connector Fastener (21) and the
Index Finger Connector Strap (22) may be made of a variety of
materials. Other structural variations to the Adjustable Index
Finger Connector (20) may use other materials such as Velcro-like,
nylon metal, plastic, ceramic connector and fastener materials.
[0060] The Index Finger Connector (23) may be made of a variety of
materials. The Index Finger Connector Strap End (24) may be cut in
the shape of a ">."
[0061] Backside View Of Adjustable Index Finger Connector
[0062] This is the backside view of the Adjustable Index Finger
Connector. A supple material covers the connector backside and
holds the connector that connects to the Flexible Suspension
Connector to the Adjustable Index Finger Connector, as this
backside side comes in contact with the skin on the hand.
[0063] Referring to the Figures, the Backside View of Adjustable
Index Finger Connector is shown in sub-figure 30. The backside of
the Index Finger Connector Strap (32) is a main sub-element and
applies to both the backside of the Adjustable Index Finger
Connector (20) and the backside of the Adjustable Thumb Connector
(40). The Index Finger Connector Fastener Backside (31) depicts a
view of how the Index Finger Connector Fastener (21) is inserted
into the Index Finger Connector Strap (32), and then the Index
Finger Connector Strap (32) is folded and attached to itself to
connect the Index Finger Connector Fastener (21). The Index Finger
Connector Suspension Cover (33) is applied to the Index Finger
Connector Strap--backside (32) in order to cover the backside
attachment area of the Index Finger Connector Suspension Connector
(23). The Index Finger Connector Suspension Connector Cover (33)
may be made of a variety of materials.
[0064] Other structural variations to the Adjustable Index Finger
Connector (20) and/or the Adjustable Thumb Connector (40) may use
other materials such as Velcro-like, nylon metal, plastic, ceramic
connector and fastener materials. The Thumb Connector Strap End
(44) may be cut in the shape of a ">."
[0065] Adjustable Thumb Connector
[0066] Adjustable Thumb Connector is attached to the Flexible
Suspension Connector. The Adjustable Thumb Connector is made from a
supple material equipped with a small connector to adjust the Thumb
Connector for any size thumb. The Adjustable Thumb Connector is
approximately one half inch wide and long enough to circle the
thumb and is thin enough to allow contact of the user's hand to the
apparatus.
[0067] Referring to the Figures, the Adjustable Thumb Connector is
shown in sub-figure 40. The Thumb Connector Strap (42) is one of
the main sub-elements of the Adjustable Thumb Connector (40).
[0068] The Thumb Connector Strap (42) is of a fixed length and has
two ends. At one end is the Thumb Connector Fastener (41) and at
the opposite end is the Thumb
[0069] Connector Strap End (44). Nearest to the Thumb Connector
Strap End (44) is a series of fastener holes drilled into the
strap; Thumb Connector Fastener Hole One (45), Thumb Connector
Fastener Hole Two (46), Thumb Connector Fastener Hole Three (47),
Thumb Connector Fastener Hole Four (48), Thumb Connector Fastener
Hole Five (49). A Thumb Suspension Connector (43) is mounted into
the Thumb Connector Strap (42) at a specific distance between the
Thumb Connector Fastener (41) and the Thumb Connector Fastener Hole
Five (49).
[0070] The Thumb Connector Fastener (41) and the Thumb Connector
Strap (42) may be made of a variety of materials.
[0071] The Thumb Suspension Connector (43) may be made of a variety
of materials. The Thumb Connector Strap End (44) is cut the shape
of a ">."
[0072] Complete View--Apparatus Suspension System
[0073] Referring to the Figures, sub-figure 50 shows a completed
view of apparatus Suspension System in its entirety. It contains
one Flexible Suspension Connector (10), one Adjustable Index Finger
Connector (20) and one Adjustable Thumb Connector (40) at the
opposing end of the Flexible Suspension Connector (10). Connection
points for the main elements are: First-End Suspension Connector
(14) connects to Index Finger Connector Suspension Connector (23).
Second End Suspension Connector (15) connects to Thumb Connector
Suspension Connector (43).
[0074] The apparatus Suspension System (50) may be made of a
variety of materials. Other structural variations to the apparatus
Suspension System (50) may use other main element materials or
other related sub-element materials or other connecting
materials.
[0075] Operational View--Apparatus Suspension System with Hand and
Apparatus
[0076] Referring to the Figures, the apparatus Suspension System
with apparatus and Hand is shown in sub-figure 60 showing the
operational view of apparatus Suspension System in use. This is a
view of the apparatus Suspension System shown in actual use
attached to the hand and the apparatus inserted between the palm of
the hand and the Flexible Suspension Connector. The apparatus
Suspension System contains one Flexible Suspension Connector (10),
one Adjustable Index Finger Connector (20) and one Adjustable Thumb
Connector (40). The top of the apparatus is located at (61). The
bottom of the apparatus is located at (65). The thumb is located at
(62). The entire hand gripping the apparatus is featured at (63).
The index finger is located at (64). The bottom of the apparatus
(65) is inserted between the palm of the hand and the Flexible
Suspension Connector (10) and the apparatus is pushed to the
desired location.
Alternative Embodiments of Embodiment
[0077] The inventive suspension system could be applied to any
handheld tool or object to aid in gripping of the tool or object
such as aiding a disabled person to eat with a spoon or fork,
aiding a dentist or a surgeon in holding a drill or scalpel, aiding
a construction worker in holding a hammer, aiding a hairdresser or
used in any application whereby the user needs assistance in
holding a handheld implement due to loss of strength, a handicap,
or a disability.
Operation of Preferred Embodiment
[0078] The apparatus suspension system eliminates the need to
tightly grasp, grip or clench any sports racquet (i.e. tennis
racquet, squash racquet, racquetball racquet, badminton racquet,
lacrosse stick, etc.), by producing a racquet handle suspension in
the hand eliminating the amount of grip pressure required from the
hand, wrist and the arm and enables the user to release the device
without fear of losing the device from their hand or losing control
of the intended stroke.
[0079] The embodiment when applied to any sports racquet: a)
decreases vibrational force at ball impact thereby reducing force
upon the hand, wrist and arm, b) decreases racquet recoil effect at
ball impact by shifting total mass and moment of inertia away from
the hand, wrist and arm, c) allows for increased rotational torque
of the racquet at ball impact without the need to grip the
apparatus.
[0080] The apparatus suspension system is operated by placing one
end of the embodiment around the index finger or other fingers of
either hand and one end of the embodiment is placed around the
thumb of the same hand. The Flexible Suspension Connector(s) which
is part of the apparatus suspension system is now suspended over
the palm of the hand between the index finger or other fingers and
thumb. A sports racquet handle (but not limited to sports racquets)
can be inserted in the palm of the hand held by the thumb and the
index finger or fingers and behind the Flexible Suspension
Connector(s) allowing the racquet handle to be held normally but
now less tightly to conduct normal strokes or swings at an object
such as a tennis ball. The sports racquet handle can be easily and
instantaneously shifted around or even rocked behind the Flexible
Suspension Connector to allow for backhand strokes, other types of
grips or strokes as the user desires.
[0081] Specifically, the user dons, digit connectors, such as the
first finger connector on a first finger of a user's hand and dons
the thumb connector on a thumb of a user with the main suspension
connector positioned on a palm-side of the user's hand. The digit
connectors can be tightly secured to the user's digits. SPORTING
equipment, such as a racquet, can be inserted in between the main
suspension connector and a palm of the user. The user grips the
sporting equipment in a proper position. The proper position is the
position desired by the user for the intended type of swing. There
are different proper positions known by the users for each type of
swing. For example, in tennis, there is a proper position for a
forehand swing, a different proper position for a backhand swing, a
different proper position for a power serve, and a different proper
position for a spin serve. With the apparatus suspension system
properly donned, the user can swing the sporting equipment at a
target equipment to create an impact between the sporting equipment
and the target equipment. Target equipment is any equipment
intended to be hit by the sporting equipment depending on the
sport. For example, the target equipment in tennis would be the
tennis ball; the target equipment in racquet ball would be the
racquet ball; the target equipment in baseball would be the
baseball; the target equipment in hockey would be the puck; and so
on. Approximately upon impact between the sporting equipment and
the ball, the user can release his/her grip on the sporting
equipment. Surprisingly, the sporting equipment maintains the
proper position it was placed in during impact even though the user
is no longer gripping the sporting equipment. This allows the user
to re-gripping the sporting equipment in the same proper position
without making any adjustments to the sporting equipment, for
example, during a follow-through of the swing. The proper position
is maintained, in part, by the pair of suspension connector
stabilizers connected to the main suspension connector.
[0082] Using the apparatus suspension system involves putting the
Apparatus Suspension System on the hand that holds the racket or
implement, assuring Apparatus Suspension System fits tightly, so as
to not be too loose, taking practice swings without hitting a ball
to familiarize to learn about how to swing without worry about the
implement flying out of your hand and reduce awkwardness. Once the
user is comfortable, the user can find a wall, and stand
approximately 10 feet from the wall, begin by lightly hitting the
ball against the wall using as slow a speed as possible, and using
minimal racket or implement motion so as to familiarize
himself/herself with this new dimension of hitting the ball with a
mechanically hinged wrist motion instead of a full swing. The lack
of a need to grip the implement eliminates the worry of the
implement flying out of the user's hand. The user can continue with
these motions until it becomes natural.
[0083] The player is now in a relaxed state, where the subconscious
can be accessed and aid the game play. The next step of mental
alignment is called the "square inch" process. This step allows the
player to increase hitting the sweet spot on a consistent basis.
The goal is to hit the center of the ball square-on because not
doing so will adversely affect the trajectory of the ball. When the
racket strikes the center of the ball the player has effectively
hit the "square inch." To learn to hit the sweet spot, slowly and
lightly hit the ball against the wall; visually follow the square
inch of the ball as it comes off the wall and hits the ground. As
it hits the ground, visually follow the square inch and say the
word, "square" and as the ball rises, visually following the square
inch to the racket, say the word, "inch." The reason this is done
is that area of the ball that hits the racket is 1 square inch.
Because players are relaxed and because they do not have to worry
about gripping the racket, thy are more easily able to direct their
concentration to the "square inch" process where the subconscious
aids the players by guiding the sweet spot on the racket to hit
square inch of the ball.
[0084] This process can be continued, moving away from the wall in
five feet increments until the user is approximately 39 feet from
the wall. The user moves away only after having been able to
continuously hit without missing the ball in both forehand and
backhand strokes. When this is accomplished the player is in the
"zone."
[0085] The previous steps employed the hinged-wrist process. The
above steps can be repeated using a full swing for both forehand
and back hand strokes. The goal is to familiarize yourself with the
action that is experienced by players in football or baseball
whereas quarterbacks or pitchers actually release the ball from
their grasp. Because of the embodiment the user can completely
release the racket creating a new perspective on the mental
strategy of the game.
[0086] Having accomplished the hinged-wrist stroke and the full
swing separately, the user can now employ them both consistently.
Users will know that they have reached this new mastered capacity
when, on impact, they consistently will be in the zone which is
described as "walking on air" which results from charka
alignment.
[0087] Next is to employ this square inch process with the hinged
wrist to the serve. The user stands on the baseline, tosses the
ball into the air at least double arm's length above his/her head,
watching the "square inch" of the ball and using a tapping approach
with his/her hinged-wrist. He/she impacts the square inch of the
ball as lightly as he/she can using just the wrist, with the racket
arm and wrist remaining above his/her head. In doing this process
point the user points his/her face and eyes skyward without being
concerned with watching the ball after it impacts the racket. This
is the main, fundamental aspects of a flat serve and in doing so
the sweet spot of the racket can deliver maximum power to this
stroke. This should be practiced until the user can achieve this on
an automatic basis. The user's concentration should never follow
the ball down range until this process is complete- i.e., don't
look at where the ball is going until the stroke is completed. The
hinged-wrist stroke must be completed before you move your head to
look down the court to see where the ball went. This works on all
serves, no matter what grip is deployed, i.e., a spin serve, a flat
serve or any combination thereof.
[0088] As the user plays he/she will find that the apparatus
suspension system allows for automatic micro-adjustments and
absorbs the shock of the balls miss hit while on the run.
[0089] What has been described and illustrated herein is a
preferred embodiment of the embodiment along with some of its
variations. The terms, descriptions and figures used herein are set
forth by way of illustration only and are not meant as limitations.
Those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations are
possible within the spirit and scope of the embodiment in which all
terms are meant in their broadest, reasonable sense unless
otherwise indicated. Any headings utilized within the description
are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.
* * * * *