Apparatus for protecting finger, thumb, and hand

A finger brace device is disclosed herein. The finger brace device can comprise a first hinge component configured to connect a proximal component configured to fit around at least a first portion of a finger near a wrist, to an intermediate component located at a central portion of the apparatus, wherein the proximal component is located at a lateral portion of the apparatus. Also disclosed is a second hinge component configured to connect the intermediate component of the apparatus to a distal component configured to fit around at least a second portion of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component is located at a distal portion of the apparatus.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to finger brace devices and methods for protecting a finger and/or hand from injury.

BACKGROUND

Currently, participants of contact sports (e.g., football, soccer, basketball, etc) or people belonging to professions that require the performance of strenuous activities, (e.g., law enforcement, construction, or military deployment), capable of potentially injuring the participant of such activities. In an instance, some of these injuries can occur to hands and/or fingers of the participants, such injuries including hyperextension and/or contusions of the fingers. In some instances, participants of such activities use gloves with padding materials and/or athletic tape to cover and protect the fingers and hand from high-impact injuries. Although gloves can protect the hand and fingers from contusions, the protective padding associated with the gloves are unable to prevent respective fingers from hyperextending and incurring torsion at the phalangeal joints. Also, many gloves attempting to protect fingers and/or hands from hyperextension requires the participant to sacrifice mobility and natural movement capabilities of the hand and fingers due to the bulkiness and fitting impediments associated with the glove with respect to the hand and fingers, in order to provide some protection against injuries.

Athletic tape is used as a means to tightly wrap fingers to secure movement, at the phalangeal joints, to the wrist and hand. This method allows for the fingers to remain in a fixed position to impede hyperextension, however, in some instances, athletic tape is made of materials that inadequately guard against high-impact forces thus allowing for a practitioner to still incur bruising and swelling to the fingers and hand. Similar to current protective gloves, using athletic tape to wrap and protect the fingers and hand does not allow for natural movement of the fingers and hand. Furthermore, the process of taping a hand and fingers requires much time, burden, and effort prior to performing a potentially injurious activity. Furthermore, in an aspect, applying athletic tape to hand and fingers is not as intuitive as sliding protective gloves onto a hand, since each finger must be wrapped in a unique manner to provide adequate protection from injury. As such, there are numerous problems and inefficiencies associated with existing mechanisms to protect a hand and fingers from injury. Thus, new devices, systems, and methods are required to overcome such issues related to the protection of hands and/or fingers.

SUMMARY

According to one embodiment, an apparatus is disclosed comprising a first hinge component configured to connect a proximal component configured to fit around at least a first portion of a finger near a wrist, to an intermediate component located at a central portion of the apparatus, wherein the proximal component is located at a lateral portion of the apparatus. In an aspect, the apparatus can further comprise a second hinge component configured to connect the intermediate component of the apparatus to a distal component configured to fit around at least a second portion of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component is located at a distal portion of the apparatus.

According to another embodiment, a method is disclosed comprising connecting a proximal component of a finger brace apparatus, configured to fit around at least a first portion of a finger near a wrist, to an intermediate component located at a central portion of the finger brace apparatus, wherein the proximal component is located at a lateral portion of the finger brace apparatus. In another aspect, the method can further comprise connecting the intermediate component to a distal component of the finger brace apparatus configured to fit around at least a second portion of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component is located at a distal portion of the apparatus.

The following description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative aspects of this disclosure. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of this disclosure may be employed. This disclosure intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and distinctive features of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of this disclosure when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The subject disclosure is directed to a protective gear apparatus. Protective gear is described herein with reference to a “finger guard”.

As used herein, the term “finger guard” means an apparatus for protecting a finger or a thumb of a hand to help protect the finger or thumb against injury and, in particular, impact and hyperextension injuries of the finger and thumb.

As used herein, the term “clothing” defines any article which is fitted over or attached to a portion of a body including appendages of the body, including protective gear and sports equipment.

As used herein, the term “proximal” when used to describe the finger guard defines an end of the finger guard which in use is closest to the wrist.

As used herein, the term “distal” when used to describe the finger guard defines an end of the finger guard opposite of the proximal end, or in other words, the end of the finger guard which in use is closest to the nail of the fingers and thumb.

As used herein, the term “lateral” when used to describe the finger guard defines the sides of the finger guard which in use extend parallel to the joints of the finger or thumb between and interconnecting the proximal end and distal end of the finger guard.

By way of introduction, the subject disclosure is related to apparatuses and methods for assembling apparatuses related to protecting fingers, thumbs, and/or hands from injuries including, but not limited to, hyperextension and other injuries resulting from impact collisions to the finger, thumb, and/or hand. In an aspect, an apparatus is provided that protects fingers by providing an exoskeleton like structure to the finger and also allowing the finger the ability to move according to the typical range of motion (e.g., bending, curling, stretching, etc.) associated with a finger and its respective joints.

Furthermore, in an aspect, the apparatus comprises a series of hinges that allow for the free and natural movement (e.g., bending) of fingers while wearing the apparatus. The hinges are strategically positioned at regions of the apparatus that facilitate natural movement of finger joints (e.g., allowing for bending, flexing, and extending) and corresponding finger segments. Also, in an aspect, the apparatus can both allow the finger to perform a range of movements and motions typical of a finger, while also providing a protective shield to the exterior of the finger to defend against damage from high-impact collisions. Furthermore, in an aspect, the apparatus comprises a hinge mechanism that can act as a governor that locks the apparatus from bending past a maximum degree of bend. In an aspect, the facility of the apparatus to limit bending of a finger past a particular point protects against an occurrence of injuries related to unnatural finger bending movements such as hyperextension and other bending-related injuries.

Referring now toFIG. 1illustrated is a non-limiting high-level diagram of a perspective view of an example apparatus (e.g., referred to as finger brace10) configured to protect a finger and/or thumb, wherein the apparatus is positioned in a first position in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. In an aspect, the reference numerals are used to identify similar elements throughout the several views of a finger guard apparatus shown inFIG. 1and generally designated at reference numeral10.

In an aspect,FIG. 1illustrates a perspective view of finger guard10. In an aspect, the various elements and components of finger guard10shown inFIG. 1include, but are not limited to, proximal component12, intermediate component14, distal component16, first hinge component18, second hinge component20, first set of openings22, and/or plate component24. In an aspect,FIG. 1illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of finger guard10that can include all the components and elements described in other embodiments described herein.

In an aspect, finger guard10can comprise a first hinge component18configured to connect a proximal component12configured to fit around at least a first portion (e.g., finger segment such as a proximal phalanx) of a finger near a wrist to an intermediate component14located at a central portion of the apparatus (e.g., finger guard10), wherein the proximal component12is located at a lateral portion of the apparatus. In an aspect, the first hinge component18can comprise an integration between a peg receiving portion191that extends from an end portion of the proximal component12and a first peg protruding from the intermediate component14. Furthermore, the peg receiving portion191can be configured with a rounded semicircle outer edge193that forms an outer boundary of the peg receiving portion191. Also, the rounded semi-circle outer edge193of the peg receiving portion191can circumscribe the first peg193to facilitate a pivoting movement of the proximal component12and the intermediate component14around the first hinge component18. As such, the peg receiving portion191is configured to act as a first pivot element and the first peg is configured to act as a second pivot element of the first hinge component18. In another aspect, finger guard10can comprise a second hinge component20configured to connect the intermediate component14(e.g., configured to fit around a finger segment such as a middle phalanx) of the apparatus to a distal component16configured to fit around at least a second portion (e.g., finger segment such as a distal phalanx) of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component16is located at a distal portion of the apparatus. In an aspect, the second hinge component20can comprise an integration between another peg receiving portion that extends from an end portion of the intermediate component14and a second peg protruding from the distal component16.

In an aspect, finger guard10can be an elongated apparatus substantially symmetric about its longitudinal axis, meaning that, in a non-limiting embodiment, the configuration of the right side and left side of finger guard10can be identical. The finger guard10can comprise three individual components, a proximal component12, an intermediate component14and a distal component16. In an aspect, the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16of finger guard10can be connected by two hinge systems, each respective hinge system comprising a pair of hinges18(e.g., also referred to as first hinge component18or proximal hinge system18) and20(e.g., also referred to as second hinge component20or distal hinge system20). In an aspect, proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16, respectively exhibit significant dome-like curvatures in traverse cross-section (i.e., curvature which is curved in more than one direction).

In an aspect, the proximal component12can comprise a first dome-shaped curvature and a first set of openings. In another aspect, the distal component16comprises a second dome-shaped curvature and a second opening, and wherein a connection between the intermediate component14and the distal component16form a third opening. In an aspect, the dome-like curvature of the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16of finger guard10allows for the finger or thumb to fit comfortably within the confines of the finger guard10casing. As such, the dome-like curvature of respective finger guard10components align to the curvature of respective fingers on a hand.

In another aspect, one or more embodiment can provide an adjusted curvature of proximal component12, intermediate component14, and/or distal component16to fit the profile of a user finger. As such, a customized finger guard10can be provided for a range of users having fingers of differing curvatures, thickness, and width. In another non-limiting embodiment, finger guard10can be formed out of a material (e.g., plastic) that can be molded into the shape of a user finger. For instance, a user can receive a version of the finger guard that comprises the framework component parts of finger guard10such as the proximal component10, intermediate component14, distal component16, first hinge component18, and second hinge component20. In an aspect, a user can utilize a box encasing comprising a material formed as a hand shape and capable of receiving a user hand. As heat is applied to the material (e.g., through the box, on the outside of the box), the material molds to the user hand and can form the finger brace customized to such user's fingers.

However, in such non-limiting embodiment, the finger guard can be loose fitting until a customized fitting process occurs to adjust the finger guard to the contours of the user. For instance, the loose fitting finger guard and its compositional material (e.g., plastic) can be warmed and heated until soft. Furthermore, the soft plastic finger guard can be vacuum formed over the user hand or a model of the user hand to fit in a customized manner to the contours and specifications of the user finger. In another aspect, the finger guard10that is not customized to fit the target user fingers in a snug manner can be hardened using a drying process.

In another non-limiting embodiment, a user can provide a model of his/her hand and utilize thermal pressure, high temperature heating, and/or other customization techniques to adjust the fit of the finger guard to a user's specifications. In yet another non-limiting embodiment, finger guard10can be comprised of different sized component parts available to mix and match to form the correct fitted size per a target user. As such, a proximal component12segment of a first size, an intermediate component14of a second size, and a distal component16of a third size can be varied and such sizes can be interchanged based on the needs of a user.

Furthermore, in an aspect, pre-sized standardized finger guard10can be manufactured and provided in a fully assembled format as well. Accordingly, in an aspect, the proximal components12, intermediate component14and distal component16of finger guard10(and other embodiments) are structured and designed to fit the natural contours of one or more finger. In another aspect, the lengths of the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16respectively can vary in size, and be sized to fit various finger or thumb sizes of a user. For instance, the proximal component12can have a first length that is greater than the intermediate component14, and wherein the intermediate component14can have a second length that is greater than the distal component16.

As such, in an instance, a user with a longer distal phalanges portion can utilize a finger guard10with a longer distal component16. In another aspect, a user having a shorter middle phalanges may utilize a finger guard10with a shorter intermediate component14. Furthermore, in an aspect, a user having a longer proximal phalanges can utilize a finger guard10with a longer proximal component12. In another aspect, finger guard10can include customized size settings to allow for variations in finger circumferences at various regions of the finger. For instance, if a user has a finger with a greater circumference, then a wider dome-like curvature of proximal component12, intermediate component14, and/or distal component16can be available for use.

In a non-limiting embodiment, proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16can correspond to the natural structure of anatomical segments of the finger or thumb, wherein the proximal component12can be the longest in length, followed by the intermediate component14(e.g., length shorter than proximal component12and longer than distal component16), and then the distal component16(e.g., shortest in length). In an aspect, a non-limiting embodiment of finger guard10following this anatomical pattern, can enable the finger guard hinge systems (e.g., proximal hinge system18distal hinge system20) to align with a finger or thumb joint, such that the finger guard10mimics the natural movement of the finger or thumb.

In another aspect, the proximal component12and the intermediate component14of the finger guard10have cut-out elliptical openings (e.g., referred to as openings22) to allow for the movement of air through the finger guard10. In an aspect, such movement of air through the finger guard10can give an inserted individual finger or thumb breathability and reduce risks of a finger or thumb overheating. In other embodiments, the openings22can include shapes other than an elliptical (e.g., rectangles, diamonds, etc.) or comprise one or more elliptical of various dimensions (e.g., wider, longer, narrower, etc.). Also, in a non-limiting embodiment, the openings can be of different sizes such that an opening (E.g., referred to as second opening) between and formed from the interlocking arrangement of proximal component12and intermediate component14can be larger than the opening (e.g., referred to as third opening) between and formed by the integration of intermediate component14and distal component16.

In an aspect, the size of the openings can be varied to accommodate the size and shape of respective finger knuckles. Furthermore, the openings allow the knuckles to carry out its typical movement (e.g., bending) patterns by providing enough room for such knuckles to fold and extend. Accordingly, in an instance, the second opening can accommodate the motion of a proximal interphalangeal joint (e.g., middle knuckle) and the third opening can accommodate the motion of a distal interphalangeal joint (e.g., top knuckle). Furthermore, in an aspect, finger guard10and the proximal component12leaves space for the base knuckle to carry on its typical range of motion. As such, in an instance, a third opening can be larger than a second opening.

In another aspect, finger guard10can comprise a first set of openings22. In an aspect, these openings can be shape as oval openings along the top of proximal component12and/or intermediate component14to allow for air circulation and flow to the finger while wearing finger guard10. It is also possible to modify the function of the finger guard10by selectively arranging the first set of openings22in defined spacing arrangements of finger guard10. In another aspect, first set of openings22can also influence the bending properties of finger guard10. For instance, a greater number of openings or greater size of such openings can facilitate greater malleability of such portions of finger guard10. In an aspect, an optimal arrangement of openings22can be determined, as an efficacious determination of materials, and shape of finger guard10and its components can be determined using a finite-element-analysis. For instance, finger guard10and its various dimensions and compositions in respective embodiments can undergo an analysis to predict the behavior of finger guard10under duress imposed by various impacts (e.g., mechanical stress, heat transfer, mechanical vibrations, structural analysis, injection molding, etc.)

In another aspect, as briefly described above, finger guard10can comprise two pairs of revolute joints (e.g., proximal hinge system18distal hinge system20), wherein each joint attaches to the ends of two of the finger guard components (e.g., proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16). In a non-limiting embodiment, the distal end of the proximal component12and the proximal end of intermediate component14may be formed to be of a thicker composition and flared outward at the revolute joints (e.g., proximal hinge system18and distal hinge system20) so that the finger guard10provides space for the joints of the finger or thumb in the finger guard10.

For instance, a finger can be anatomically wider at the joints or locations where finger segments meet. Furthermore, in an aspect, the shape of the finger may contort (e.g., get wider) as a joint performs a bending operation. As such, first hinge component18and second hinge component20can be located at a wider portion of finger guard10components in order to accommodate such bending motions of a finger joint. In addition to being thicker, the distal ends of the proximal component12and the intermediate component14of the finger guard10may be rounded, or circular, to provide flexibility and durability against high forces and stresses experienced near the joints of the finger or thumb.

In an aspect, first hinge component18and second hinge component20of finger guard10allow for a finger or thumb to conduct its natural movement respectively. Thus the hinge systems mimic the bending motion of such appendages by allowing the components (proximal component12, intermediate component14, distal component16) to swing freely in accordance with finger bending motions. In other non-limiting embodiments, finger guard10can utilize a range of suitable hinge systems, which allow the finger guard10to move freely about the joints of the finger and thumb, include, but not limited to, prismatic joints, screws, rivets, and spherical joints. In an aspect, a suitable hinge system can provide a sufficient range of motion to the fingers and provide different options of movement, while still protecting the fingers and thumb from impact related injuries and over extension such as hyperextension. In an aspect, first hinge component18and second hinge component20comprise hinges that allow for the finger to endure a wide range of motions, however, a plate component24working in connection with each respective hinge system can stop the finger guard from undergoing potentially injurious ranges of motion.

In an aspect, plate component24protrudes from the periphery of the intermediate component14of the finger guard10. The plate component24can function to define a locked position of the finger guard10when the finger or thumb is being moved towards the dorsal aspect of the hand (or for movement towards other positions). In many cases with hyperextension, the fingers usually are moved beyond the range of motion towards the dorsal aspect of the hand. The plate component24can help to prevent hyperextension of the finger or thumb because it can limit bending of the intermediate component14of the finger guard10in the proximal direction.

In an aspect, plate component24can be adjusted to allow for stoppage of bending of apparatus10components to occur at varying degrees of motion. For instance, a user desiring a finger to endure a greater range of motion (e.g., 70 degree angle) of the finger can adjust the plate component24to stop the movement of the finger guard components after reaching a greater bending threshold. Accordingly, a finger guard10customized to each finger on a hand can be adjusted to have different bending restrictions for each such finger by adjusting the constraints and limitations imposed by plate component24on respective hinge systems.

In another aspect, plate component24can be fitted to accommodate various friction metrics along with the associated hinge system to limit the possibility of hyperextension. In an aspect, plate component24may be a triangular shape or shape other than a triangle, such as, for example, a rectangle, hexagon, pentagon, or other shape that functions to create a stopper to the finger brace after bending beyond a target angle. In some embodiments, plate component24can have at least three sides and at least three angles (e.g., triangle). In addition, a plurality of plates may be used adjacent to the hinge systems to prevent the fingers and thumb from hyperextending in the dorsal direction. In other embodiments, plate component24can be fitted to work in connection with either or both of hinge component18and/or hinge component20. Furthermore, in other embodiments, plate component24can be employed on either one or both sides of finger guard10. In a non-limiting embodiment, plate component24can be employed on both sides of only first hinge component18.

Turning now toFIG. 2, illustrated is a non-limiting high-level diagram of a perspective view of an example apparatus configured to protect a finger and/or thumb, wherein the apparatus components are detached into segmented parts in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity.

In an aspect,FIG. 2illustrates a perspective exploded view of finger guard10with the components broken into several segments. In an aspect, the various elements and components of finger guard10shown inFIG. 2include, but are not limited to, proximal component12, intermediate component14, distal component16, first hinge component18, second hinge component20, first set of openings22, and/or plate component24.

In an aspect, the exploded view of the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16illustrated as separate segments demonstrates the ability to vary the size and/or shape of each component part of finger guard10. Accordingly, the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16can be of different sizes to provide a customized fit to a user. Furthermore, the components can be interchanged such that a new individual part can be integrated with older existing component parts to provide a functional finger guard10without the need to obtain an entirely new set of components. In another aspect, the hinge mechanisms of first hinge component18and second hinge component20are illustrated. For instance the male hinge components (first hinge component18and second hinge component20) can be fitted within the female openings in intermediate component14and proximal component12respectively to create a bendable and pivotable hinge mechanism.

Turning now toFIG. 3, illustrated is a non-limiting high-level diagram of a perspective view of an example apparatus configured to protect a finger and/or thumb, wherein the apparatus is positioned in a second position in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity.

In an aspect,FIG. 3illustrates a perspective view of finger guard10adjusted into a second position. In an aspect, the various elements and components of finger guard10shown inFIG. 3include, but are not limited to, proximal component12, intermediate component14, distal component16, first hinge component18, second hinge component20, first set of openings22, and/or plate component24.

In an aspect,FIG. 3shows finger guard10bending along the first hinge component18and the second hinge component20. In an aspect, each pair of hinges (e.g., proximal hinge system18and distal hinge system20) allows the associated proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16to bend at least 90 degrees along the axis of rotation of a finger joint, and to bend independently of one another, ultimately allowing for the finger to achieve natural bending movement. In addition, the hinge systems of the finger guard10provide the joints of the finger and thumb with protection against high impact forces experienced on the lateral sides of the finger and thumb. For instance, football players experience high impact forces from shoulder pads and helmets on the joints of the fingers and thumb. Thus, the hinge system can offer a noteworthy degree of protection of the finger and thumb joints. In an aspect, finger guard10can protect fingers and thumbs from contusions, hyperextensions, finger jamming, finger torsion, finger compression, and other such impact-related finger injuries.

Turning now toFIG. 4, illustrated is a non-limiting high-level diagram of a perspective view of an example apparatus configured to protect a finger and/or thumb, wherein the apparatus is positioned in a second position and shown to be worn on a pointer finger and positioned in a first position and shown to be worn on a ring finger of a left hand in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity.

In an aspect,FIG. 4illustrates a perspective view of finger guard10adjusted into a second position and worn on an index finger (second position) and ring finger (first position). In an aspect, the various elements and components of finger guard10shown inFIG. 4include, but are not limited to, proximal component12, intermediate component14, distal component16, first hinge component18, second hinge component20, first set of openings22, and/or plate component24.

In an aspect,FIG. 4shows the bending nature of the finger guard10wherein all three of proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16of the finger guard10are capable of bending about the pairs of hinges (e.g., proximal hinge system18and distal hinge system20) in accordance with natural bending motions of respective fingers.

For instance, the proximal hinge system18can restrict an over bending from occurring at the proximal interphalangeal joint (PIP) in the middle of the finger by locking the finger brace10and/or30in place after a certain amount of bending has occurred. As such, the locking mechanisms of proximal hinge system18prevents over extension of a finger and can prevent injuries associated with such finger over extension. In an aspect, the proximal hinge system18can be symmetrically situated on either side of an overlapping region between the proximal component12and the intermediate component14. In another aspect, the distal hinge system20comprises two hinges symmetrically situated on either side of an overlapping region between the intermediate component14and the distal component16.

Again, the distal hinge system20like the proximal hinge system18can restrict a bending motion of finger guard10and/or30after a certain degree of bending has occurred in order to prevent finger injuries associated with a finger over extension. For instance, distal hinge system20(comprising a pair of hinges) can restrict the finger form over-extending at a distal interphalangeal joint of a finger, by restricting the hinge from bending after a maximum degree of bending has occurred. In an aspect, the hinge mechanism of distal hinge system20comprises a plate that interfaces with the hinge, such that after a certain degree of bending has occurred at the hinge or joint, the plate is positioned in a manner that blocks the hinge from bending any further. In an aspect, the plate can be a triangle where a first side is flush with a curved portion of the distal hinge system20, a second side is perpendicular to the first side. As such, upon a bending of distal hinge system20to a maximum level, the second side of plate24becomes flush with the distal hinge system20to prevent any further bending of the intermediate component14of finger guard10.

Turning now toFIG. 5, illustrated is a non-limiting high-level diagram of a top left perspective view of an example apparatus configured to protect a finger and/or a thumb, wherein the apparatus is positioned in a second position and shown to be worn on a pointer finger and positioned in a first position and shown to be worn on a ring finger of a left hand in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity.

In an aspect,FIG. 5illustrates a perspective view of finger guard10adjusted into a second position. In an aspect, the various elements and components of finger guard10shown inFIG. 5include, but are not limited to, proximal component12, intermediate component14, distal component16, first hinge component18, second hinge component20, first set of openings22, and/or plate component24.

Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity. In an aspect,FIG. 5shows the bending nature of the finger guard10wherein all three components proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16of the finger guard are able to bend about the pairs of hinges (e.g., proximal hinge system18and distal hinge system20) in accordance with natural bending motions of respective fingers.

FIG. 6illustrates a non-limiting high-level diagram of a right side perspective view of an example apparatus configured to protect a finger and/or a thumb, wherein the apparatus is positioned in a third position and shown to be worn on a thumb of a left hand in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity. In an aspect,FIG. 6shows an embodiment of a finger guard on a thumb of a user, generally designated at reference numeral30. The finger guard30in this embodiment comprises two components, a proximal thumb component32and a distal thumb component34, connected by a hinge system (e.g., pair of revolute joints36).

In an aspect, the hinge system can comprise a pair of revolute joints36. If needed (not shown), a protruding second plate38may be provided to the hinge system for protection against hyperextension as in the previous embodiment. In an aspect, proximal thumb component32and distal thumb component34of the finger guard30each have elliptical thumb openings40(e.g., can be other non-elliptical shapes as well) to allow the thumb to breath and be exposed to circulating fresh air. In an aspect, the length of the proximal thumb component32and distal thumb component34can vary in size as well, as described above.

In an aspect, finger guards10and/or30respectively can be inserted onto a finger or a thumb. The components of the finger guards10and/or30respectively, can be secured to corresponding portions of a finger or thumb with a wrapping material such as athletic tape. In an aspect, finger guards10and/or30can protect a finger and/or thumb from impact related injuries and hyperextension, while allowing for the natural bending of the fingers and thumb about the joints. In another embodiment, a connective band (not shown) may be placed around one or more of the finger guard components. The connective band can be attached to the finger guard10and/or30respectively by clipping, screwing, lateral insertion, or other releasable or non-releasable mounting techniques. The connective band keeps the finger guard10and/or30attached to the finger or thumb, while also protecting against the parts of the hand not covered by the finger guard, including the palm and opisthenar. In an aspect, the connective band may be comprised of one or more of a combination of polymer materials, such a polyurethanes (PU), polyurea (PEUU), Latex, or rubber.

In another embodiment, a glove (not shown) can be worn over the hand including the finger guard10and/or30. Accordingly, a finger guard10and/or30may be provided for each finger of the hand, as well as the thumb. The finger guard10and/or30can be inserted into the gloves or clothing to protect a finger from injury in a variety of sports. In an aspect, the glove can enhance and facilitate the ability of multiple finger guards10on multiple fingers to stay together such that the hand and fingers can better work as a cohesive unit. In an aspect, the glove can comprise padding on the exterior. Furthermore, in an aspect, the finger guard10can be fitted into standard gloves (e.g., brand name and existing gloves on the market) and/or the fitted gloves with pockets (e.g., specialty glove such as a glove with pockets customized to specially integrate finger guard10).

Furthermore, in an aspect, finger guard10and/or30can be inserted into any one or more glove customized for use in any of several sports, including, but not limited to; football, lacrosse, boxing, motocross, rugby, cricket, skiing, snowboarding, soccer, and baseball. In an aspect, the finger guard10and/or30can also be inserted into the gloves or clothing of future sports that have impact related injuries. The finger guard10and/or30can also be used in connection with (e.g., inserted within) work-related gloves or clothing during activities configured to mitigate injury from potential injuries from impact in performing work. An example of this type of activity is construction work or other such labor intensive professions that require use of hands and fingers throughout the day. Since the finger guard10and/or30can be separated from the glove, the user may replace damaged or insufficiently stiff finger guard10and/or30components, for example, during practice, games, and work. For instance, a user can disassemble finger guard10components, replace intermediate component14, and reintegrate the existing components (e.g., proximal component12and distal component16) with a new intermediate component14.

In an aspect, finger guard10and/or30may be manufactured using an injection molding technique, which is cost effective and efficacious. In another aspect, finger guard10and/or30can be manufactured using an extrusion of plastic material technique. In an aspect, both manufacturing methods require low manufacturing costs, low product weight and allow for the apparatus to be produced in different sizes using molds that vary in sizes and/or shapes for injection molding manufacturing purposes.

In an aspect, any of several suitable plastic materials can be used as a compositional material for finger guard10and/or30. In an aspect, some such plastics can include thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) or polypropylene (PP). In another embodiment, finger guard10can be comprised of a carbon fiber to facilitate durability and scale down the size of the apparatus to fit inside a customized glove without noticing the presence of the apparatus. In another aspect, finger guard10and/or30can be composed of impact protection materials, such as a foam material (e.g., fine pitch open cell urethane foam) that can possess water sealing properties.

Furthermore, in an aspect, a glove that houses finger guard10and/or30can comprise a cushion, impact force materials (e.g., an outer fabric layer, an inner lining, a shock absorption layer) that facilitate shock absorbing properties, and/or a textile that incorporates silicone and provides impact protection (e.g., a layered material that provides padding that can be built up in various areas) within the finger guard or glove. Finger guard10and/or30, can be comprised of any of the described materials herein and such materials are non-exhaustive of the materials for use in some embodiments of finger guard10and/or30. Furthermore, the use of shape memory-materials is plausible, which can be brought back into the initial state by applying heat or the like, if the supporting function decreases after some time of use.

The finger guard10and/or30can also be manufactured by utilizing a multi-component injection molding technique to integrate more than one plastic material. For example, a harder plastic material can be used near the interconnecting areas of the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16to provide the hinge systems with more protection against lateral impact forces. Alternatively, a soft or elastic plastic material can be used for the bending areas of the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16adjacent the hinge systems to provide a lower bending resistance, especially for children's use.

Accordingly, finger guard10and/or30can comprise different material strengths, elasticity's, and hardness at different regions of the finger guard10and/or30. As such, the use of different plastics and other materials at various regions of finger guard10and/or30facilitates the replication of natural movements of a finger as well as providing a restraint and/or restriction on movements of a finger that can cause injury or harm. Furthermore, in an aspect, by using a multi-component injection molding process to manufacture finger guard10and/or30, numerous finger guards may be manufactured simultaneously and/or sequentially, using one or more nozzles.

Alternatively, the plastic material can be injected around separately pre-manufactured components of the finger guard10and/or30. For example the interconnecting areas of the proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16made from a sufficiently hard material (for example a metal or a composite material including carbon fiber) may be surrounded by a soft plastic material forming the bending area above the hinge systems of the finger guard. For example, stiffer finger guard elements can be exchanged against softer finger guard elements if a user requires less bending resistance to perform various desired activities. As such, finger guard10and/or30can be manufactured to have customized bending and stiffness features at various regions of the apparatus based on a preference of a user or the type of activity a user seeks to perform.

In addition, the finger guard10and/or30can be manufactured from a material that enhances the efficacy of the apparatus when inserted within or inside a glove or other such apparel item providing a pocket-like cavity for fitting the apparatus. For example, the finger guard10and/or30or the receptacle inside the glove can be coated with a friction-reducing material, such as a PTFE material. As such, PTFE can ensure that a glove and finger guard10move in a fluid and free-flowing manner as a single unit. Furthermore, the coating of such material on the finger guard10and/or30or within one or more cavity of a glove can enhance the protective characteristics of the glove and stabilizing characteristics of the finger guard10and/or30when used in combination with one another.

In another non-limiting embodiment, finger guard10can be utilized in a series of locked finger guards10to correct an injured finger. For instance, a finger that needs to be re-set after being broken can be set in a brace, where finger guard10acts as the brace. Furthermore, the finger guard10can be slowly adjusted over time to allow the finger to set in different angles until the finger has obtained its optimal functionality. Thus, the finger guard10can be utilized in a series of adjusted steps to properly correct an injured finger as well as protect a finger from injury. In a non-limiting embodiment, a user can purchase a set of finger braces, with each respective finger brace configured with slight adjustments to the device. For instance, a first finger brace can be utilized for a first period of time (e.g., week 1 through 6) and is configured to commence a first corrective aspect of the finger. In an aspect, a second finger brace configured to commence a second corrective aspect of the finger can be utilized for a second period of time (e.g., week 7 through week 12).

Furthermore, there can be numerous corrective braces configured to correct several incremental aspects of an injured finger for numerous periods of times. For instance, a finger brace can adjust the width of the hinges located on intermediate component14or the width of intermediate component14such that the manner in which proximal component12, intermediate component14, and distal component16are positioned and integrated with one another can be adjusted and configured to cause corrective changes to a finger over a period of time while simultaneously protecting the finger in its capacity as a finger brace (e.g., finger guard10).

FIG. 7illustrates a flow diagram of an example, non-limiting method700that facilitates an assembly of a finger brace apparatus in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity. In some implementations, at reference numeral702, a proximal component of an apparatus (e.g., apparatus100) can be connected to a proximal component of a finger brace apparatus, configured to fit around at least a first portion of a finger near a wrist, to an intermediate component located at a central portion of the finger brace apparatus, wherein the proximal component is located at a lateral portion of the finger brace apparatus. At704, the intermediate component can be connected to a distal component of the finger brace apparatus configured to fit around at least a second portion of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component is located at a distal portion of the apparatus.

FIG. 8illustrates a flow diagram of an example, non-limiting assembly method800that facilitates an assembly of a finger brace apparatus in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity. In some implementations, at reference numeral802, a proximal component of an apparatus (e.g., apparatus100) can be connected to a proximal component of a finger brace apparatus, configured to fit around at least a first portion of a finger near a wrist, to an intermediate component located at a central portion of the finger brace apparatus, wherein the proximal component is located at a lateral portion of the finger brace apparatus.

At804, the intermediate component can be connected to a distal component of the finger brace apparatus configured to fit around at least a second portion of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component is located at a distal portion of the apparatus. At806, the finger brace apparatus can be locked, using a plate component24located adjacent to a first hinge of the finger brace apparatus, to preclude a bending of the finger brace apparatus beyond a target angle.

FIG. 9illustrates a flow diagram of an example, non-limiting assembly method900that facilitates an assembly of a finger brace apparatus in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity. In some implementations, at reference numeral902, a proximal component of an apparatus (e.g., apparatus100) can be connected to a proximal component of a finger brace apparatus, configured to fit around at least a first portion of a finger near a wrist, to an intermediate component located at a central portion of the finger brace apparatus, wherein the proximal component is located at a lateral portion of the finger brace apparatus.

At904, the intermediate component can be connected to a distal component of the finger brace apparatus configured to fit around at least a second portion of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component is located at a distal portion of the apparatus. At906, the finger brace apparatus can be locked, using a plate component24located adjacent to a first hinge of the finger brace apparatus, to preclude a bending of the finger brace apparatus beyond a target angle. At908, the finger brace apparatus can be connected with another finger brace apparatus via a band.

FIG. 10illustrates a flow diagram of an example, non-limiting assembly method1000that facilitates an assembly of a finger brace apparatus in accordance with one or more embodiments described herein. Repetitive description of like elements employed in other embodiments described herein is omitted for sake of brevity. In some implementations, at reference numeral1002, a proximal component of an apparatus (e.g., apparatus100) can be connected to a proximal component of a finger brace apparatus, configured to fit around at least a first portion of a finger near a wrist, to an intermediate component located at a central portion of the finger brace apparatus, wherein the proximal component is located at a lateral portion of the finger brace apparatus.

At1004, the intermediate component can be connected to a distal component of the finger brace apparatus configured to fit around at least a second portion of the finger near a finger nail, wherein the distal component is located at a distal portion of the apparatus. At1006, the finger brace apparatus can be locked, using a plate component24located adjacent to a first hinge of the finger brace apparatus, to preclude a bending of the finger brace apparatus beyond a target angle. At1008, the finger brace apparatus can be embedded within a glove component.

It will be appreciated that the finger brace apparatus described herein are illustrative and that variations and modifications are possible. For instance, the apparatuses may employ one or more adaptations to increase comfort and/or effectiveness. For example, the apparatuses may have portions comprising a gel, a viscoelastic material, cushioning, foam or other variations in materials. In addition, one or more glove coverings may be employed on all or portions of the apparatus such as nylon, cotton, silk or felt.

In the description, various embodiments have been described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. It will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention can be practiced without the specific details described herein. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.

Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to hinge finger brace apparatus's. In another embodiment, the finger brace may employ one or more sensors to retrieve data associated with use of the finger guard10and/or any of the embodiments disclosed herein. In an aspect, finger guard10can include a processor that can execute components and/or computer instructions. Furthermore, finger guard10can include a memory that can store computer executable components and/or instructions. In an aspect, finger guard10can retrieve data associated with the use of finger guard10. In another aspect, the received data can represent metrics associated with finger movements to evaluate motor functions of a hand and fingers. In an aspect, finger movement data can be retrieved from sensors such as accelerometers, dynamometer, piezoelectric buttons, signal to noise ration detecting devices, load cells, optical switches, and other such electronics that can be integrated into the finger guard10(and/or finger guard30) and/or a glove that is capable of integrating a finger guard10. Other data representations include compression force measurements, pressure change metrics, force exerted by a finger metric, base line data, rest data, and other such finger and hand use data.

In an aspect, one or more sensor can include a bending sensors that receive sensory data from use or activity of the finger brace apparatus. For instance, a rotation sensor can detect data associated with positions of a finger brace user wrist at various times during gameplay or activities performed during use of the apparatus. Furthermore, motion sensors and/or pressure sensors/force sensors can be mounted to the apparatus to receive data associated with pressures exerted on any given finger and wrist while using the brace.

Furthermore, the data can include time period data representing a period of time in which pressure is applied to fingers, thumbs, and wrists protected by the brace (e.g., continuous pressure is applied to particular areas of the hand, intermittent pressure is applied, uniform vs uneven pressure being applied to areas of the hand, identify target pressure sites/localized areas of pressure receiving various forces of pressure and potentially limiting a vascular flow path throughout the hand or fingers, etc.). The sensors can be embedded within or mounted upon the finger brace apparatus, within the glove or within any padding associated with the glove and/or finger brace apparatus. In yet another aspect, the motion sensor can receive data representing sensed movement (e.g., velocity of finger motion measurements, range of motion of each finger digit, etc.) and positions of the fingers or hand while using the finger brace apparatus.

In another aspect, a sensor component can be embedded in a glove or finger cover that fits over a finger brace apparatus. The glove can utilize infrared light to measure changes in the amount of light received by a sensor fixed across from the infrared light source. Accordingly, the sensor can record metrics such as blood density, heart beat, and other heart health metrics using the infrared light source mechanism. In another aspect, one or more pulse oximetry sensor can be mounted to the finger brace apparatus (any of the several embodiments).

While the present invention can be useful to produce finger braces for a wide variety of uses, some embodiments of the invention are may be used for producing finger braces for applications such as construction activities, athletic activities (e.g., football, basketball, etc.). In the foregoing specification, embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to numerous specific details that may vary from implementation to implementation. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

In order to provide a context for the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter,FIG. 11as well as the following discussion is intended to provide a general description of a suitable environment in which the various aspects of the disclosed subject matter can be implemented.FIG. 11illustrates a block diagram of an example, non-limiting operating environment in which one or more embodiments described herein can be facilitated. With reference toFIG. 11, a suitable operating environment1100for implementing various aspects of this disclosure can also include a computer1112. The computer1112can also include a processing unit1114, a system memory1116, and a system bus1118. The system bus1118couples system components including, but not limited to, the system memory1116to the processing unit1114. The processing unit1114can be any of various available processors. Dual microprocessors and other multiprocessor architectures also can be employed as the processing unit1114. The system bus1118can be any of several types of bus structure(s) including the memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus or external bus, and/or a local bus using any variety of available bus architectures including, but not limited to, Industrial Standard Architecture (ISA), Micro-Channel Architecture (MSA), Extended ISA (EISA), Intelligent Drive Electronics (IDE), VESA Local Bus (VLB), Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI), Card Bus, Universal Serial Bus (USB), Advanced Graphics Port (AGP), Firewire (IEEE 1394), and Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI).

The system memory1116can also include volatile memory1120and nonvolatile memory1122. The basic input/output system (BIOS), containing the basic routines to transfer information between elements within the computer1112, such as during start-up, is stored in nonvolatile memory1122. By way of illustration, and not limitation, nonvolatile memory1122can include read only memory (ROM), programmable ROM (PROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or nonvolatile random access memory (RAM) (e.g., ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM). Volatile memory1120can also include random access memory (RAM), which acts as external cache memory. By way of illustration and not limitation, RAM is available in many forms such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced SDRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), direct Rambus RAM (DRRAM), direct Rambus dynamic RAM (DRDRAM), and Rambus dynamic RAM.

Computer1112can also include removable/non-removable, volatile/nonvolatile computer storage media.FIG. 11illustrates, for example, a disk storage1124. Disk storage1124can also include, but is not limited to, devices like a magnetic disk drive, floppy disk drive, tape drive, Jaz drive, Zip drive, LS-100 drive, flash memory card, or memory stick. The disk storage1124also can include storage media separately or in combination with other storage media including, but not limited to, an optical disk drive such as a compact disk ROM device (CD-ROM), CD recordable drive (CD-R Drive), CD rewritable drive (CD-RW Drive) or a digital versatile disk ROM drive (DVD-ROM). To facilitate connection of the disk storage1124to the system bus1118, a removable or non-removable interface is typically used, such as interface1126.FIG. 11also depicts software that acts as an intermediary between users and the basic computer resources described in the suitable operating environment1100. Such software can also include, for example, an operating system1128. Operating system1128, which can be stored on disk storage1124, acts to control and allocate resources of the computer1112.

System applications1130take advantage of the management of resources by operating system1128through program modules1132and program data1134, e.g., stored either in system memory1116or on disk storage1124. It is to be appreciated that this disclosure can be implemented with various operating systems or combinations of operating systems. A user enters commands or information into the computer1112through input device(s)1136. Input devices1136include, but are not limited to, a pointing device such as a mouse, trackball, stylus, touch pad, keyboard, microphone, joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, TV tuner card, digital camera, digital video camera, web camera, and the like. These and other input devices connect to the processing unit1114through the system bus1118via interface port(s)1138. Interface port(s)1138include, for example, a serial port, a parallel port, a game port, and a universal serial bus (USB). Output device(s)1140use some of the same type of ports as input device(s)1136. Thus, for example, a USB port can be used to provide input to computer1112, and to output information from computer1112to an output device1140. Output adapter1242is provided to illustrate that there are some output device1140like monitors, speakers, and printers, among other such output device1140, which require special adapters. The output adapters1142include, by way of illustration and not limitation, video and sound cards that provide a means of connection between the output device1140and the system bus1118. It should be noted that other devices and/or systems of devices provide both input and output capabilities such as remote computer(s)1144.

Computer1112can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers, such as remote computer(s)1144. The remote computer(s)1144can be a computer, a server, a router, a network PC, a workstation, a microprocessor based appliance, a peer device or other common network node and the like, and typically can also include many or all of the elements described relative to computer1112. For purposes of brevity, only a memory storage device1146is illustrated with remote computer(s)1144. Remote computer(s)1144is logically connected to computer1112through a network interface1148and then physically connected via communication connection1150. Network interface1148encompasses wire and/or wireless communication networks such as local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), cellular networks, etc. LAN technologies include Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), Copper Distributed Data Interface (CDDI), Ethernet, Token Ring and the like. WAN technologies include, but are not limited to, point-to-point links, circuit switching networks like Integrated Services Digital Networks (ISDN) and variations thereon, packet switching networks, and Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL). Communication connection(s)1150refers to the hardware/software employed to connect the network interface1148to the system bus1118. While communication connection1150is shown for illustrative clarity inside computer1112, it can also be external to computer1112. The hardware/software for connection to the network interface1148can also include, for exemplary purposes only, internal and external technologies such as, modems including regular telephone grade modems, cable modems and DSL modems, ISDN adapters, and Ethernet cards.

Referring now toFIG. 12, there is illustrated a schematic block diagram of a computing environment1200in accordance with this disclosure. The system1200includes one or more client(s)1202(e.g., laptops, smart phones, PDAs, media players, computers, portable electronic devices, tablets, and the like). The client(s)1202can be hardware and/or software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The system1200also includes one or more server(s)1204. The server(s)1204can also be hardware or hardware in combination with software (e.g., threads, processes, computing devices). The servers1204can house threads to perform transformations by employing aspects of this disclosure, for example. One possible communication between a client1202and a server1204can be in the form of a data packet transmitted between two or more computer processes wherein the data packet may include video data. The data packet can include a metadata, e.g., associated contextual information, for example. The system1200includes a communication framework1206(e.g., a global communication network such as the Internet, or mobile network(s)) that can be employed to facilitate communications between the client(s)1202and the server(s)1204.

Communications can be facilitated via a wired (including optical fiber) and/or wireless technology. The client(s)1202include or are operatively connected to one or more client data store(s)1208that can be employed to store information local to the client(s)1202(e.g., associated contextual information). Similarly, the server(s)1204are operatively include or are operatively connected to one or more server data store(s)1210that can be employed to store information local to the servers1204. In one embodiment, a client1202can transfer an encoded file, in accordance with the disclosed subject matter, to server1204. Server1204can store the file, decode the file, or transmit the file to another client1202. It is to be appreciated, that a client1202can also transfer uncompressed file to a server1204and server1204can compress the file in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. Likewise, server1204can encode video information and transmit the information via communication framework1206to one or more clients1202.