U.S. patent application number 16/329194 was filed with the patent office on 2019-12-19 for double-strap hand wrapping apparatus and method of use.
This patent application is currently assigned to Champ Wraps LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Champ Wraps LLC. Invention is credited to Hector Lombard.
Application Number | 20190380402 16/329194 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 64950387 |
Filed Date | 2019-12-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20190380402 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lombard; Hector |
December 19, 2019 |
DOUBLE-STRAP HAND WRAPPING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USE
Abstract
A padded double-strap hand wrapping apparatus and method of
wrapping the hands prevents injury to the knuckle, hand, and wrist
areas, resulting in a supportive and protective hand wrap which can
be used in conjunction with boxing and bag gloves. The hand
wrapping apparatus is operable along a wrapping path by wrapping
the knuckles inside a resilient wrap body having a padded insert
fabricated from a deformably resilient material. The fingers are
inserted inside a correspondingly sized finger retention members
that couple to the upper end of the wrap body. A left and right
strap, connected at their proximal ends to the wrap body, are
wrapped at a desired tautness to achieve a compression against the
hand. The straps form an orthogonal relationship that reinforces
the wrapping around the wrist, knuckles, and wrap body. Left and
right strap fasteners securely fasten the corresponding strap after
wrapping around the hand.
Inventors: |
Lombard; Hector; (Boca
Raton, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Champ Wraps LLC |
Boca Raton |
FL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Champ Wraps LLC
Boca Raton
FL
|
Family ID: |
64950387 |
Appl. No.: |
16/329194 |
Filed: |
July 9, 2018 |
PCT Filed: |
July 9, 2018 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US18/41323 |
371 Date: |
February 27, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62529987 |
Jul 7, 2017 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2209/00 20130101;
A41D 2600/10 20130101; A63B 2209/14 20130101; A63B 71/145 20130101;
A41D 13/087 20130101; A41D 13/00 20130101; A41D 13/015 20130101;
A63B 2209/10 20130101; A41D 13/088 20130101; A63B 71/14 20130101;
A63B 2244/102 20130101; A41D 13/081 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A41D 13/08 20060101
A41D013/08; A63B 71/14 20060101 A63B071/14 |
Claims
1. A hand wrapping apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a wrap body
sized and shaped to superimpose the knuckles, the wrap body of a
resilient fabric material having an upper surface, a lower surface
opposing the upper surface, the upper and lower surfaces
encapsulating a resilient wrap body cavity with a padded insert
disposed therein, the wrap body having an upper end and a lower end
opposing the upper end of the wrap body; a plurality of finger
retention members directly coupled to the upper end of the wrap
body; a left strap of an elongated shape, having a left proximal
end directly coupled to the wrap body, a left distal free end, a
left bottom surface, a left top surface opposing the left bottom
surface, and a left strap length separating the left proximal end
and the left distal free end of the left strap, the left strap
having a first left strap fastener disposed proximal to the left
distal free end of the left strap and on the left bottom surface,
the left strap fastener further having a second left strap fastener
disposed on the upper surface of the wrap body along the left strap
length and operably configured to directly couple with and retain
the first left strap fastener; a right strap of an elongated shape,
the right strap having a right proximal end directly coupled to the
wrap body, a right distal end, a right bottom surface, a right top
surface opposing the right bottom surface, and a right strap length
separating the right proximal end and the right distal end of the
right strap, the right strap having a first right strap fastener
disposed proximal to the right distal end of the right strap and on
the right bottom surface, the right strap further having a second
right strap fastener disposed on the upper surface of the wrap body
along the right strap length and operably configured to directly
couple with and retain the first right strap fastener; and a flap,
including the upper surface of the resilient wrap body, operably
configured to have a first position along a flap translation path
encapsulating the resilient wrap body cavity and a second position
along the flap translation path defining a resilient wrap body
opening spatially coupled to the resilient wrap body cavity to
enable removal and entry of the padded insert.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the padded insert
comprises a deformably resilient material.
3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: the deformably
resilient material comprises a gel material.
4. (canceled)
5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the left and right
strap fasteners, respectively, are of a hook-and-loop
configuration.
6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the wrap body
further comprises: a left wrap body side and right wrap body side
opposing the left wrap body side, wherein the left proximal end of
the left strap is directly coupled to the left wrap body side, and
the right proximal end of the right strap is directly coupled to
the lower end of the resilient wrap body.
7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the wrap body
further comprises: a wrapped position along a hand wrapping path
with the left and right straps wrapped around the wrist and
fingers, the padded insert aligned with the knuckles, and the
finger retention members receiving a correspondingly sized
finger.
8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the wrap body
further comprises: an unwrapped position along the hand wrapping
path with the left and right straps operably configured to be
disposed in a substantially perpendicular orientation with respect
to one another.
9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: the wrap body and
left and right straps are operably configured to be substantially
planar in the unwrapped position along the hand wrapping path.
10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the left and right
strap lengths are at least 18 inches.
11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the plurality of
finger retention members comprises four finger retention
members.
12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the plurality of
finger retention members form loop shapes with areas of 3 in.sup.2,
2.8 in.sup.2, 2.6 in.sup.2, and 2.4 in.sup.2.
13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the finger
retention members are color-coordinated.
14. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a first
flap fastener extending outwardly away from the upper surface of
the wrap body to surround the padded insert and couple to a second
flap fastener.
15. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the left strap and
the right strap are oriented orthogonally to each other.
16. A hand wrapping apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a
resilient wrap body sized and shaped to superimpose the knuckles,
the resilient wrap body defined by a fabric material having an
upper surface, a lower surface opposing the upper surface, the
upper and lower surfaces encapsulating a resilient wrap body cavity
with a padded insert disposed therein, the wrap body further being
defined by an upper end and a lower end opposing the upper end; a
flap, including the upper surface of the resilient wrap body,
operably configured to have a first position along a flap
translation path encapsulating the resilient wrap body cavity and a
second position along the flap translation path defining a
resilient wrap body opening spatially coupled to the resilient wrap
body cavity to enable removal and entry of the padded insert; a
plurality of finger retention members directly coupled to the upper
end of the wrap body; a left strap of an elongated shape, the left
strap having a left proximal end directly coupled to the wrap body,
a left distal end, a left bottom surface, a left top surface
opposing the left bottom surface, and a left strap length
separating the left proximal end and the left distal end of the
left strap, the left strap having a first left strap fastener
disposed proximal to the left distal end of the left strap and on
the left bottom surface, the left strap fastener further having a
second left strap fastener disposed on the upper surface of the
wrap body and operably configured to directly couple with and
retain the first left strap fastener, the left strap fasteners
comprising a hook-and-loop configuration; a right strap of an
elongated shape disposed orthogonally to the left strap, the right
strap having a right proximal end directly coupled to the wrap
body, a right distal end, a right bottom surface, a right top
surface opposing the right bottom surface, and a right strap length
separating the right proximal end and the right distal end of the
right strap, the right strap having a first right strap fastener
disposed proximal to the right distal end of the right strap and on
the right bottom surface, the right strap further having a second
right strap fastener disposed on the upper surface of the wrap body
and operably configured to directly couple with and retain the
first right strap fastener, the right strap fasteners comprising
the hook-and-loop configuration; whereby the apparatus is operable
in a wrapped position along a hand wrapping path with the left and
right straps wrapped around the wrist and fingers, the padded
insert aligned with the knuckles, and the finger retention members
receiving a correspondingly sized finger; and whereby the apparatus
is stowable in an unwrapped position along the hand wrapping path
with the left and right straps operably configured to be disposed
in a substantially perpendicular orientation with respect to one
another, whereby the wrap body and left and right straps are
operably configured to be substantially planar in the unwrapped
position along the hand wrapping path.
17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein: the left and
right strap lengths are at least 18 inches.
18. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein: the plurality of
finger retention members comprises four finger retention
members.
19. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein: the plurality of
finger retention members form annular shapes with areas of 3
in.sup.2, 2.8 in.sup.2, 2.6 in.sup.2, and 2.4 in.sup.2.
20. (canceled)
Description
CROSS REFERENCE OF RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a national stage filing of International
Application Number PCT/US18/41323, filed Jul. 9, 2018, which claims
the benefits of U.S. provisional application No. 62/529,987, filed
Jul. 7, 2017, and entitled MULTI-FUNCTIONAL DEVICE, which
provisional application is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to hand wrapping
apparatuses and, more particularly, relates to a hand wrapping
apparatus with two straps and finger retention members.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Typically, a hand wrap is a strip of cloth used by boxers to
protect the hand and wrist against injuries induced by punching. It
is wrapped securely around the wrist, the palm, and the base of the
thumb, where it serves to both maintain the alignment of the
joints, and to compress and lend strength to the soft tissues of
the hand during the impact of a punch.
[0004] Often, participants involved in boxing and martial
arts-related sports, wear hand and wrist protection under larger
boxing or bag gloves for additional protection and support. This
protection is commonly called a hand wrap. Traditional hand wraps
are made of cotton or canvas material, and are several feet in
length. The participant will tightly wrap this material around his
or her knuckles, hands, and wrists. Such hand wraps help prevent
serious injury to hands during full contact professional or amateur
fighting if they are administered and used correctly.
[0005] Typically, long cloth hand wrap are worn underneath a glove.
However, the hand wrap can become dirty and discolored almost
immediately when used. Thus, the long cloth wrap requires frequent
cleaning. Further, it is difficult to maintain the hand wrap in its
shape and manageability unless it is tightly rolled when not in
use. Moreover, if the traditional hand wrap is not wrapped about
the hand and wrist properly, it can become loose and unravel. This
loosening lessens, and may even eliminate, the protection to the
hands and wrists.
[0006] It is known in the art that donning the hand wrap on the
hands can be a lengthy process which is cumbersome and time
consuming. Generally, the hand wrap is wrapped between the fingers
maintaining the fingers at an evenly spaced position. The hand wrap
acts to prevents the knuckles from becoming distorted or smashed
and acts as a shock absorber on inconsistent or uneven hits.
However, without adequate finger and knuckle protection, the base
of the fingers become bruised and swollen, even after a light
exercise, potentially resulting in future problems such as
arthritis.
[0007] Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the
prior art as discussed above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The invention provides a padded double-strap hand wrapping
apparatus and method of wrapping the hands that overcomes the
hereinafore-mentioned disadvantages of the heretofore-known hand
wraps and methods of this general type and that helps prevent
injury to the knuckle, hand, and wrist areas, resulting in a
convenient yet supportive and protective hand wrap which can be
used in conjunction with boxing and bag gloves. The hand wrapping
apparatus is operable by wrapping the knuckles inside a resilient
wrap body having a padded insert fabricated from a deformably
resilient material; inserting each finger inside a correspondingly
sized finger retention member; and wrapping the wrist, knuckles,
wrap body, and finger retention members with two independent straps
that attach at their ends to the wrap body.
[0009] In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a resilient
wrap body that is sized and shaped to superimpose the knuckles. The
wrap body is defined by a fabric material having an upper surface,
and a lower surface opposing the upper surface. The upper and lower
surfaces encapsulate a resilient wrap body cavity with a padded
insert disposed therein. The wrap body is further defined by an
upper end and a lower end opposing the upper end.
[0010] In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a plurality of
finger retention members directly coupled to the upper end of the
wrap body. The finger retention members are sized to receive a
corresponding finger.
[0011] In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a left strap of
an elongated shape. The left strap has a left proximal end directly
coupled to the wrap body, a left distal end, a left bottom surface,
a left top surface opposing the left bottom surface, and a left
strap length separating the left proximal end and the left distal
end of the left strap.
[0012] Further, the left strap has a first left strap fastener
disposed proximal to the left distal end of the left strap and on
the left bottom surface of the left strap. The left strap may also
have a second left strap fastener disposed on the upper surface of
the wrap body and operably configured to directly couple with and
retain the first left strap fastener.
[0013] In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a right strap
of an elongated shape. The right strap is disposed orthogonally to
the left strap, such that the straps are oriented 90.degree. apart
in an unwrapped position. The right strap is defined by a right
proximal end directly coupled to the wrap body, a right distal end,
a right bottom surface, a right top surface opposing the right
bottom surface, and a right strap length separating the right
proximal end and the right distal end of the right strap.
[0014] Further, the right strap has a first right strap fastener
disposed proximal to the right distal end of the right strap and on
the right bottom surface. The right strap may also have a second
right strap fastener disposed on the upper surface of the wrap body
and operably configured to directly couple with and retain the
first right strap fastener.
[0015] In accordance with another feature, an embodiment of the
present invention includes a hand wrap that protects the knuckles,
fingers, and wrists from injury; and can be used with boxing
gloves.
[0016] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the padded insert comprises a deformably resilient
material.
[0017] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the deformably resilient material comprises a gel
material.
[0018] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the wrap body further comprises a flap, including the
upper surface of the resilient wrap body, operably configured to
have a first position along a flap translation path encapsulating
the resilient wrap body cavity and a second position along the flap
translation path defining a resilient wrap body opening spatially
coupled to the resilient wrap body cavity to enable removal and
entry of the padded insert.
[0019] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the left and right strap fasteners, respectively, are of
a hook-and-loop configuration.
[0020] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the wrap body further comprises a left wrap body side
and right wrap body side opposing the left wrap body side. Further,
the left proximal end of the left strap is directly coupled to the
left wrap body side, and the right proximal end of the right strap
is directly coupled to the lower end of the resilient wrap
body.
[0021] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the wrap body further comprises an unwrapped position
along a hand wrapping path with the left and right straps operably
configured to be disposed in a substantially perpendicular
orientation with respect to one another.
[0022] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the wrap body and left and right straps are operably
configured to be substantially planar in the unwrapped position
along the hand wrapping path.
[0023] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the left and right strap lengths are at least 18 inches
in length.
[0024] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the plurality of finger retention members comprises four
finger retention members.
[0025] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the plurality of finger retention members have an
annular shape and form loop shapes with areas of 3 in.sup.2, 2.8
in.sup.2, 2.6 in.sup.2, and 2.4 in.sup.2.
[0026] In accordance with a further feature of the present
invention, the finger retention members are color-coordinated.
[0027] In accordance with the present invention, a method for
wrapping the hands with a padded double-strap hand wrapping
apparatus, comprises an initial Step of providing a hand wrapping
apparatus comprising, a resilient wrap body having an upper surface
and a lower surface forming a cavity, and further having a
plurality of finger retention members, and further having a left
and right strap joined to the wrap body in an orthogonal
relationship.
[0028] Another Step comprises inserting a padded insert in the
cavity of the wrap body.
[0029] The method may further comprise a Step of orienting the
upper or lower surface of the wrap body to the dorsum of the
hand.
[0030] A Step includes passing the fingers through the finger
retention members, whereby each finger has a correspondingly sized
retention member.
[0031] In some embodiments, a Step comprises aligning the knuckles
with the padded insert.
[0032] A Step includes wrapping the left strap around the wrist,
whereby the tautness of the left strap is controlled to achieve a
desired compression.
[0033] In some embodiments, a Step may include fastening a first
left strap fastener to a second left strap fastener
[0034] A Step comprises wrapping the right strap between the thumb
and forefinger, and around the left strap and wrap body, whereby
the tautness of the right strap is controlled to achieve a desired
compression.
[0035] A Step may include fastening a first right strap fastener to
a second right strap fastener.
[0036] A final Step includes clenching the fists to strike a target
with the padded insert, such that the padded insert engages the
target.
[0037] One objective of the present invention is to provide a
convenient yet supportive and protective hand wrap which can be
used in conjunction with boxing and bag gloves.
[0038] Another objective is to maintain the alignment of the
joints, and compresses and lends strength to the soft tissues of
the hand during the impact of a punch.
[0039] Another objective is to prevent injury to the knuckle, hand,
and wrist areas during boxing and martial arts related sports.
[0040] Another objective is to provide a padded insert fitted
inside the upper surface of the wrap body to align with the
knuckles.
[0041] Another objective is to provide a padded insert fabricated
from a deformably resilient material, such as a gel, that pads the
knuckles when punching a target.
[0042] Another objective is to provide left and right straps that
can be pulled to a desired tautness, so as to achieve a desired
compression of the wrap body around the hand.
[0043] Another objective is to provide finger retention members
that are sized for a corresponding finger, so as to create a snug
fit.
[0044] Another objective is to provide first and second strap
fasteners that comfortably and detachably retain the wrap body
around the wrist.
[0045] Another objective is to provide a hand wrap better suited
for the consumer involved in combative and recreational forms of
boxing and martial arts which is more convenient and easy to use
than the traditional long cloth hand wrap.
[0046] Another objective is to provide a hand wrap that is easy to
don on the hands.
[0047] Although the invention is illustrated and described herein
as embodied in a Padded Double-Strap Hand Wrapping Apparatus and
Method of Wrapping the Hands, it is, nevertheless, not intended to
be limited to the details shown because various modifications and
structural changes may be made therein without departing from the
spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of
equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of
exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in
detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details
of the invention.
[0048] Other features that are considered as characteristic for the
invention are set forth in the appended claims. As required,
detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein;
however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are
merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various
forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details
disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely
as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for
teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the
present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed
structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not
intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable
description of the invention. While the specification concludes
with claims defining the features of the invention that are
regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better
understood from a consideration of the following description in
conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference
numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings are not
drawn to scale.
[0049] Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it
is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the
purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not
intended to be limiting. The terms "a" or "an," as used herein, are
defined as one or more than one. The term "plurality," as used
herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term "another," as
used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms
"including" and/or "having," as used herein, are defined as
comprising (i.e., open language). The term "coupled," as used
herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly,
and not necessarily mechanically. The term "providing" is defined
herein in its broadest sense, e.g., bringing/coming into physical
existence, making available, and/or supplying to someone or
something, in whole or in multiple parts at once or over a period
of time.
[0050] As used herein, the terms "about" or "approximately" apply
to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These
terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in
the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e.,
having the same function or result). In many instances these terms
may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant
figure. In this document, the term "longitudinal" should be
understood to mean in a direction corresponding to an elongated
direction of the left and right straps.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0051] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals
refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the
separate views and which together with the detailed description
below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve
to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various
principles and advantages all in accordance with the present
invention.
[0052] FIG. 1 is a top surface view of an exemplary padded
double-strap hand wrapping apparatus, in accordance with the
present invention;
[0053] FIG. 2 is a bottom surface view of the padded double-strap
hand wrapping apparatus shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with the
present invention;
[0054] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplary resilient wrap
body receiving a padded insert, and four finger retention members
attached to the wrap body, in accordance with the present
invention;
[0055] FIGS. 4A and 4B are top views of the padded double-strap
hand wrapping apparatus in an unwrapped position, showing the left
and right straps orthogonally disposed to each other, wherein FIG.
4A shows the bottom surface of the straps and wherein FIG. 4B shows
the upper surface of the straps and the bottom surface of one of
the straps in accordance with the present invention;
[0056] FIG. 5 is a top surface view of the distal end of the left
and right straps, showing the respective strap fasteners, in
accordance with the present invention;
[0057] FIG. 6 is a bottom surface view of the distal end of the
left and right straps, showing the respective strap fasteners, in
accordance with the present invention;
[0058] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the padded double-strap hand
wrapping apparatus in a wrapped position, showing the hand open, in
accordance with the present invention;
[0059] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the padded double-strap hand
wrapping apparatus in a wrapped position, showing the fist clenched
to strike a target with the padded insert, in accordance with the
present invention;
[0060] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an exemplary method for wrapping
the hands with a padded double-strap hand wrapping apparatus, in
accordance with the present invention; and
[0061] FIGS. 10A-10F are perspective views of an exemplary hand
wrapping path followed to wrap the hand wrapping apparatus around
the hand, where FIG. 10A shows the dorsal part of the hand oriented
to the upper surface, and the fingers passing through their
respective finger retention members, FIG. 10B shows the left strap
wrapping around the wrist, FIG. 10C shows the right strap wrapping
between the thumb and forefinger, FIG. 10D shows the right strap
wrapping around the wrist, FIG. 10E shows the right strap wrapping
around the left strap, and FIG. 10F shows a user's fist clenched
with the hand wrapping apparatus fully wrapping the hand, in
accordance with the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0062] While the specification concludes with claims defining the
features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is
believed that the invention will be better understood from a
consideration of the following description in conjunction with the
drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried
forward. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are
merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various
forms.
[0063] The attached figures are incorporated in and form part of
the specification, and serve to further illustrate various
embodiments and explain various principles and advantages all in
accordance with the present inventions. Moreover, it is believed
that the inventions will be better understood from a consideration
of the following description in conjunction with the drawing
figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward. For
purposes of description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "left,"
"rear," "right," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives
thereof relate to the invention as oriented in the figures and is
not to be construed as limiting any feature to be a particular
orientation, as said orientation may be changed based on the user's
perspective of the device. Furthermore, there is no intention to be
bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding
technical field, background, brief summary or the following
detailed description.
[0064] With reference to FIGS. 1-10F, one embodiment of a padded
double-strap hand wrapping apparatus 100 and method 900 of wrapping
the hand can be seen depicted. The figures will be described in
conjunction with the process of wrapping and unwrapping the
wrapping apparatus 100, which is also depicted in various figures.
Although the figures show a specific order of executing the process
steps, the order of executing the steps may be changed relative to
the order shown in certain embodiments. Also, the steps shown in
succession may be executed concurrently or with partial concurrence
in some embodiments. Certain steps may also be omitted for the sake
of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all of the process steps
shown can be combined into a single process.
[0065] Referring now to FIG. 1, one embodiment of the present
invention is shown in a top view. FIG. 1 shows several advantageous
features of the present invention, but, as will be described below,
the invention can be provided in several shapes, sizes,
combinations of features and components, and varying numbers and
functions of the components.
[0066] The first example of a double-strap hand wrapping apparatus
100, as shown in the top view of FIG. 1, provides a convenient,
anatomically designed hand wrap and wrist support that helps to
prevent injury to the knuckle, hand, and wrist areas during boxing,
martial arts, and other hand-intensive sports activities. The
apparatus 100 is unique in that the knuckles are snugly padded
inside a resilient wrap body 102 having a padded insert 304.
Further, each finger is inserted, and comfortably retained inside a
correspondingly sized finger retention member 112a-d. In this
manner, the hand wrapping apparatus 100 helps maintain the
alignment of the joints, and compresses and lends strength to the
soft tissues of the hand during the impact of a punch.
[0067] The wrist, knuckles, wrap body 102, and finger retention
members 112a-d are wrapped with a left strap 118 and a right strap
134 that attach at their proximal ends to the wrap body 102. The
left and right straps 118, 134 are disposed in an orthogonal
relationship that allows for different areas of the hand to be
wrapped, so that the wrists, fingers, and palms are wrapped to a
desired compression.
[0068] Thus, the hand wrapping apparatus 100 results in a
supportive and protective hand wrap which can be used in
conjunction with boxing and bag gloves.
[0069] As referenced in FIG. 1, the padded double-strap hand
wrapping apparatus 100, hereafter "apparatus 100", comprises a
resilient wrap body 102 that is sized and shaped to superimpose the
knuckles. The wrap body 102 is defined by a fabric material having
an upper surface 104, and a lower surface 106 opposing the upper
surface 104. The upper surface 104 is considered unitary as it is
one single piece designed to be placed adjacent to the dorsum of
the hand. Though in other embodiments, the lower surface 106 may be
oriented to cover the dorsal of the hand. The upper and lower
surfaces 104, 106 may be formed of one single piece or a
combination of piece that operate as one.
[0070] Continuing with FIG. 2, the wrap body 102 comprises a left
wrap body side 114 and right wrap body side 116 opposing the left
wrap body side 114. As discussed below, the left and right wrap
body sides 114, 116 attach to a corresponding left and right strap
118, 134. The left and right wrap body sides 114, 116, along with
the upper and lower surfaces 104, 106, complete the structure of
the wrap body 102, forming a cavity 302 therein. In some
embodiments, the wrap body 102 is further defined by an upper end
108 and a lower end 110 that opposes the upper end 108. The lower
end 110 is proximal to the wrist, while the upper end 108 is
proximal to the fingers when the apparatus 100 is donned.
[0071] In some embodiments, the wrap body 102 is fabricated from a
partially elastic material, i.e., fully elastic or semi-elastic
material, e.g., natural rubber, cotton, spandex, or a combination.
The wrap body 102 may include a substantially planar configuration,
i.e., a position with minimal raised surfaces (excluding any
padding employed by the wrap body 102 proximal to the plurality of
finger retention members 112a-d).
[0072] In another embodiment of the present invention illustrated
in FIG. 3, the upper and lower surfaces 104, 106 of the wrap body
102 forms a cavity 302. As illustrated in FIG. 7, the cavity 302
may be disposed at the surface of the wrap body 102 outwardly
facing away from the dorsum of the hand. The cavity 302 is shaped
and sized to receive a padded insert 304 of a deformably resilient
material, e.g., gel, foam, having a variety of different
elastomeric properties depending on the activity or purpose of the
wrap.
[0073] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the padded
insert 304 provides a cushion to the knuckles (and the target of
the fist), thereby minimizing the risk of injury to the hand and
the target, for example, in a sparring or training environment. To
retain the padded insert 304 in the cavity 302, the wrap body 102
may include a first flap fastener 310a and a corresponding second
flap fastener 310b.
[0074] In one embodiment, the first flap fastener 310a extends
outwardly away from the upper surface 104 of the wrap body 102. The
first flap fastener 310a is sized and shaped to surround and/or
encapsulate the padded insert 304 and couple to a second flap
fastener 310b of the wrap body 102 using, for example, a
hook-and-loop fastening configuration.
[0075] Looking again at FIG. 3, the wrap body 102 includes a flap
300 that serves as a gateway for the cavity 302 containing the
padded insert 304. The flap 300 comprises an elongated strip of
material, similar to the wrap body 102. The flap 300 follows a flap
translation path 312 to cover and uncover a body opening 306 that
forms in the wrap body 102. The body opening 306 leads to the
cavity 302 of the wrap body 102.
[0076] In one embodiment, the upper surface 104 of the wrap body
102 is operably configured to have a first position 702 along the
flap translation path 312. The first position 702 allows the flap
300 to encapsulate the cavity 302, so as to retain the padded
insert 304 therein. The upper surface 104 of the wrap body 102 also
has a second position 308 along the flap translation path 312
defining the wrap body opening 306 that is spatially coupled to the
resilient cavity 302. The second position 308 enables removal and
entry of the padded insert 304 to the cavity 302. In this manner,
the padded insert 304 can easily be replaced, removed, and
cleaned.
[0077] As FIG. 6 illustrates, the apparatus 100 comprises a
plurality of finger retention members 112a-d that are directly
coupled to the upper end 108 of the wrap body 102. The finger
retention members 112a-d are sized to receive a corresponding
finger. In one embodiment, the plurality of finger retention
members 112a-d comprises four finger retention members--one for
each finger, but not the thumb. The finger retention members 112a-d
are sized to correlate to the differently sized fingers.
[0078] In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 includes four finger
retention members 112a-d configured for comfortable insertion of
four fingers, excluding the thumb, whereby each retention member
defined by an annular shape/loop that reduces in size to effective
and efficiently convey to and guide the fingers to be inserted
within each finger retention member. For example, the index,
middle, ring, and little finger are to be inserted in finger
retention members 112a-d having an aperture with areas of 3
in.sup.2 (112d), 2.8 in.sup.2 (112c), 2.6 in.sup.2 (112b), and 2.4
in.sup.2 (112a), respectively.
[0079] In one alternative embodiment, the finger retention members
112a-d are color-coordinated, with each color associated with a
finger position. This visual aid may be useful for when donning or
the wrap body 102 quickly is required. The finger retention members
112a-d may also be fabricated from the same material as the wrap
body 102 and/or the left and right straps 118, 134. However, in
other embodiments, the finger retention members 112a-d may be
fabricated from an inelastic material. In another alternative
embodiment, the packaging of the apparatus 100 may also include a
cardboard cutout of a reprehensive hand to guide the user where to
place the fingers.
[0080] As depicted in FIG. 1, the finger retention members 112a-d
are directly coupled at their respective ends to the upper or lower
surface 104, 106 of the wrap body 102 using, for example, stitching
or adhesive. After wrapping the wrap body 102 around the fingers,
the finger retention members 112a-d fasten to themselves using,
e.g., a hook-and-loop fastening configuration, thereby stabilizing
a user's finger, e.g., when jammed or injured.
[0081] FIGS. 4A and 4B are top view of another embodiment of the
apparatus 100 in an unwrapped position 600, showing the left strap
118 and the right strap 134 disposed in a substantially orthogonal
configuration and orientation with respect to each other, wherein
FIG. 4A shows the bottom surface 106 of the straps 118, 134, and
FIG. 4B shows the upper and bottom surfaces 104, 106 of the straps
118, 134. As shown, the apparatus 100 comprises a left strap 118 of
an elongated shape. However, it is significant to note that the
straps may also be disposed parallel to each other, as shown in
FIG. 1. In either configuration, the straps 118, 134 are configured
to wrap around the hand in succession, applying a compression force
to a user's hand that protects it from injuries.
[0082] In one embodiment, the left strap 118 is one of two straps
118, 134 that wrap around the hand. The left strap 118 includes a
left proximal end 120 directly coupled to the left wrap body 102
side of the wrap body 102. The left strap 118 also includes a left
distal free end 122, i.e., the end is not permanently coupled to
anything and is operable to freely move. Said another way, the
distal end 122 of the left strap 118 is "free," in that it is able
to move and is uncoupled to another apparatus 100. A left strap
length 602 separates the left proximal end 120 and the left distal
end 122 of the left strap 118. Further, the left strap 118 has a
left bottom surface and a left top surface that opposes the left
bottom surface. As seen in FIGS. 4A and 4B, each of the straps 118,
134 respective include strap fasteners 124, e.g., of a
hook-and-loop configuration, operably configured to directly couple
and retain one another. In one embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 4A and
4B, a first left strap fastener is disposed proximal to the left
distal free end 122 of the left strap and on the left bottom
surface thereof. As best seen in FIG. 4B, a second left strap
fastener is disposed on the upper surface of the wrap body along
the left strap length. In preferred embodiments, the second left
strap fastener is approximately the same length as the first strap
fastener. In other embodiments, the second left strap fastener may
be greater in the length than the first left strap fastener. The
configurations and positions of the strap fasteners 124 in the left
strap 118 may be the same or similar with regard to the right strap
134.
[0083] In some embodiments, the left strap 118 may be of a single
continuous material. However, in other embodiments, the left strap
118 is formed from a combination of pieces of material. In one
non-limiting embodiment, the left strap 118 and/or right strap 134
is resilient and at least approximately 18'' long. In other
embodiments, the strap length may be approximately 12-48 inches,
may be uniform in length, and/or may be outside of said range. The
left strap 118 has a left strap length 602 spanning from the
proximal and distal ends 120, 122. In one embodiment, the left
strap length 602 is at least twice the length of the longitudinal
length of the wrap body 102 spanning from the lower end 110 of the
wrap body 102 to an upper opposing end 108 of the wrap body 102
where the finger retention members 112a-d are coupled.
[0084] That said, the distal end 122 has one or more strap
fasteners 124 disposed at or proximal to the distal end 122 (as
shown in FIGS. 5 and 6) for coupling with one or more strap
fasteners 130 disposed adjacent thereto. Thus, the left strap 118
has a first left strap fastener 128 disposed proximal to the left
distal end 122 of the left strap 118 and on the left bottom surface
of the left strap 118.
[0085] The strap(s), preferably the right strap 134, or the body
102 may also include a thumb strap or loop 126 defining an aperture
for beneficially receiving a user's thumb before the wrapping
process. In other embodiments, the assembly 100 may not utilize the
thumb loop 126. Beneficially, the thumb loop is orientated in the
same elongated direction as the strap and may be approximately 1-3
inches in length. The thumb loop 126, along with other parts of the
body 102, e.g., the insert, may be of an elastic material, e.g.,
neoprene. The thumb loop 126 may also be disposed proximal to the
body 102.
[0086] Looking at FIG. 6, the left strap 118 also has a second left
strap fastener 130 that corresponds to the first left strap
fastener 128 to fasten the left strap 118 around the hand after
wrapping. The second left strap fastener 130 is disposed on the
upper surface 104 of the wrap body 102. In this disposition, the
second left strap fastener 130 is operably configured to directly
couple with and retain the first left strap fastener 128. In one
non-limiting embodiment, the first and second left strap fasteners
128, 130 are of a hook-and-loop configuration. Though in other
embodiments, various types of first and second left strap fasteners
128, 130 may be used, including complimentary snap buttons, a
magnet, a screw, and an adhesive.
[0087] Looking again at FIGS. 5 and 6, the apparatus 100 comprises
a right strap 134 defined by an elongated shape, similar to the
left strap 118. The right strap 134 is disposed orthogonally to the
left strap 118, such that the straps are oriented 90.degree. apart
in an unwrapped position 600. The orthogonal relationship between
the straps 118, 134 allows each strap to wrap around a different
section of the hand, thereby reinforcing each other around the
hand.
[0088] For example, when the upper surface 104 of the wrap body 102
is oriented to the dorsal of the hand, the left strap 118 wraps
around the wrist, and the right strap 134 wraps between the thumb
and fore finger, and also around the left strap 118. Though this
hand wrapping path 1000 is relative, and may be reversed. For
example, the right strap 134 may wrap first, and the left strap 118
wrapping on top of the right strap 134. Also, to unwrap the wrap
body 102, the order of wrapping the wrap body 102 around the
hand/wrist can be reversed, starting with uncoupling the right
strap 134 from itself; and then the left strap 118 is unwrapped
accordingly. However, as discussed above, and shown in FIG. 1, the
straps 118, 134 may be parallel to each other. In either
configuration, the straps 118, 134 wrap around the hand.
[0089] In some embodiments, the right strap 134 is also defined by
a right distal end 138 that is free. A right strap length 604
separates the right proximal end 136 and the right distal end 138
of the right strap 134. Similar to the left strap 118, the right
strap 134 has a right bottom surface 140 and a right top surface
142 opposing the right bottom surface 140.
[0090] As discussed above, the wrap body 102 further includes a
left wrap body side 114 and right wrap body side 116 that opposes
the left wrap body side 114. The left proximal end 120 of the left
strap 118 is directly coupled to the left wrap body side 114, and
the right proximal end 136 of the right strap 134 is directly
coupled to the lower end of the wrap body 102.
[0091] The right strap 134 may be of a single continuous material
or formed from a combination of pieces of material. In one
non-limiting embodiment, the right strap 134 is resilient and at
least 18'' long. Though in some embodiments, the right strap 134
may also be incongruent in length to the left strap 118. The right
strap 134 has a right strap length 604 spanning from the proximal
and distal ends 136, 138, wherein in one embodiment the strap
length 604 is at least twice the length of the longitudinal length
of the wrap body 102 spanning from the lower end 110 to the upper
opposing end 108 of the wrap body 102.
[0092] Further, the right strap 134 has a first right strap
fastener 144 and a corresponding second right strap fastener 146 to
fasten the right strap 134 around the hand after wrapping. The
first right strap fastener 144 is disposed proximal to the right
distal end 138 of the right strap 134 and on the right bottom
surface 140. The right strap 134 may also have a second right strap
fastener 146 disposed on the upper surface 104 of the wrap body 102
and operably configured to directly couple with and retain the
first right strap fastener 144. In one non-limiting embodiment, the
right strap fasteners 144, 146 are of a hook-and-loop
configuration. Though in other embodiments, various types of
fasteners may be used, including complimentary snap buttons, a
magnet, a screw, and an adhesive.
[0093] As shown in the figures, the left and right straps 118, 134
are sewn together along their respective side edges using, for
example, threading to form the wrap body 102. The two independently
mobile straps 118, 134 are joined at their respective proximal ends
120, 136 to the lower end 110 of the wrap body 102. The distal ends
of the straps 118, 134 are considered "mobile" in that they are
free to move or move freely when desired by the user for wrapping
around the hand and/or wrist.
[0094] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the wrap body 102 forms a wrapped
position 700 in which the hand is fully wrapped and covered by the
wrap body 102, the finger retention members 112a-d, and the left
and right straps 118, 134, so as to enable operational activity
with the apparatus 100. The wrapped position 700 forms along a hand
wrapping path 1000 in which the left and right straps 118, 134 wrap
around the wrist and fingers; the padded insert 304 aligns with the
knuckles, and the finger retention members 112a-d receive a
correspondingly sized finger. In the wrapped position 700, the
straps 118, 134 compress the hand, and the fist clenches around the
wrap body 102 with the padded insert 304 oriented towards a target,
and (FIG. 8).
[0095] However in another embodiment shown in FIG. 4A, the wrap
body 102 has an unwrapped position 600; whereby the apparatus 100
is not operational. In the unwrapped position 600, the straps 118,
134 are disposed orthogonally to each other, and form a planar
configuration. The unwrapped position 600 follows along the hand
wrapping path 1000 with the left and right straps 118, 134 operably
configured to be disposed in a substantially perpendicular
orientation with respect to one another.
[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the straps 118, 134 and wrap body
102 are operably configured to be substantially planar when laid
flat on a surface and/or placed in an unflexed/planar configuration
in the unwrapped position 600. Further, the resilient configuration
of the straps 118, 134 allows them to be rolled up for stowage. In
some embodiments, the straps 118, 134 may also define a slit that
spans from the distal ends 122, 138 of the straps to the portion of
wrap body 102 in which lower end 110 of the wrap body 102 are
directly coupled (also referred to as a "joint").
[0097] In one embodiment, the length of the left strap 118 is in
the range of 6-12 feet and the length of the right strap 134 is in
the range of 3-6 feet, as in some embodiments it is preferred to
have additional material to support the wrist. In other embodiments
of the hand wrapping path 1000, shown in FIGS. 10A-10E, the straps
118, 134 have substantially equal lengths. In one exemplary use,
the left strap 118 is beneficially wrapped around the hand or wrist
and then coupled to itself. Thereafter, the right strap 134 is then
wrapped around portions of the hand and/or wrist until a desired
amount of compression is reached.
[0098] To begin the hand wrapping path 1000, the fingers are
inserted through the finger retention members 112a-d and the upper
or lower surfaces 104, 106 of the wrap body 102 are positioned
against the dorsum of the hand (FIG. 10A). In other embodiments,
the upper or lower surfaces 104, 106 of the wrap body 102 may be
placed against the palm. Thereafter, the left and right strap 118,
134 wrap around the wrist/hand as desired (FIG. 10B), forming a
variety of different wrapping configurations as those of skill in
the art will appreciate.
[0099] As discussed above, the orthogonal relationship between the
straps 118, 134 allows each strap 118, 134 to wrap around a
different section of the hand. For example, when the upper surface
104 of the wrap body 102 is oriented to the dorsal of the hand, the
left strap 118 wraps around the wrist (FIG. 10C), and the right
strap 134 wraps between the thumb and forefinger, and around the
left strap 118 (FIGS. 10D and 10E). Though these wrapping orders
are relative, and may be reversed. Once fully wrapped, the fist is
clenched with the padded insert 304 oriented towards a target, such
that the padded insert 304 engages the target (FIG. 10F).
[0100] FIG. 9 will be described in conjunction with the process
images of FIGS. 10A-10F. Although FIG. 9 shows a specific order of
executing the process steps, the order of executing the steps may
be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments.
Also, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed
concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments.
Certain steps may also be omitted for the sake of brevity. In some
embodiments, some or all of the process steps included in FIG. 9
can be combined into a single process.
[0101] In accordance with the present invention, a method 900 for
wrapping the hands with a padded double-strap hand wrapping
apparatus, comprises an initial Step 902 of providing a hand
wrapping apparatus comprising, a resilient wrap body having an
upper surface and a lower surface forming a cavity, and further
having a plurality of finger retention members, and further having
a left and right strap joined to the wrap body in an orthogonal
relationship.
[0102] The method 900 may further comprise a Step 904 of inserting
a padded insert in the cavity of the wrap body. The padded insert
304 provides a cushion to the knuckles (and the target of the
fist), thereby minimizing the risk of injury to the hand and the
target, for example, in a sparring or training environment. To
retain the padded insert 304 in the cavity 302, the wrap body 102
may include a first flap fastener 310a and a corresponding second
flap fastener 310b.
[0103] As referenced in FIG. 10A, a Step 906 may include orienting
the upper or lower surface of the wrap body to the dorsum of the
hand. A Step 908 includes passing the fingers through the finger
retention members, whereby each finger has a correspondingly sized
retention member. Each finger is inserted, and comfortably retained
inside a correspondingly sized finger retention member 112a-d. In
some embodiments, a Step 910 comprises aligning the knuckles with
the padded insert. FIG. 10B shows a Step 912 of wrapping the left
strap around the wrist, whereby the tautness of the left strap is
controlled to achieve a desired compression.
[0104] In some embodiments, a Step 914 may include fastening a
first left strap fastener to a second left strap fastener. The
strap fasteners 128, 130 detachably couple to fasten the left strap
118 around the hand after wrapping. Turning now to FIG. 10C, a Step
916 comprises wrapping the right strap between the thumb and
forefinger, and around the left strap and wrap body, whereby the
tautness of the right strap is controlled to achieve a desired
compression.
[0105] It is significant to note that the orthogonal relationship
between the straps allows each strap to wrap around a different
section of the hand. For example, as FIG. 10D illustrates, when the
upper surface of the wrap body is oriented to the dorsal of the
hand, the right strap wraps between the thumb and fore finger, and
around the left strap. The orthogonal relationship also facilitates
the right strap wrapping around the left strap (FIG. 10E).
[0106] A Step 918 of the method 900 may include fastening a first
right strap fastener to a second right strap fastener. The strap
fasteners 144, 146 detachably couple to fasten the right strap 134
around the hand after wrapping. Turning now to FIG. 10F, a final
Step 920 includes clenching the fists to strike a target with the
padded insert, such that the padded insert engages the target. The
apparatus 100 is unique in that the knuckles are snugly padded
inside a resilient wrap body 102 having a padded insert 304.
[0107] Although the process-flow diagrams show a specific order of
executing the process steps, the order of executing the steps may
be changed relative to the order shown in certain embodiments.
Also, two or more blocks shown in succession may be executed
concurrently or with partial concurrence in some embodiments.
Certain steps may also be omitted from the process-flow diagrams
for the sake of brevity. In some embodiments, some or all the
process steps shown in the process-flow diagrams can be combined
into a single process.
[0108] These and other advantages of the invention will be further
understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference
to the following written specification, claims and appended
drawings.
[0109] Because many modifications, variations, and changes in
detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the
invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing
description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted
as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the
invention should be determined by the appended claims and their
legal equivalence.
* * * * *