HIGH IMPACT-RESISTIVE PROTECTIVE GLOVE

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to hand protection, and more specifically to hand protection in a sports environment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Without limiting the scope of the invention, its background is described in connection with existing hand protection gloves. Playing sports risks many injuries. While helmets protect brains and mouth guards protect teeth, very little protective gear exists to adequately protect the hands in racquet sports and sports that involve clubs or bats, such as tennis, baseball, softball, cricket, and golf.

Injuries to the hands of ball players including baseball (and softball) players are occasioned in batters by wild pitches, player contact, and dives. Impact injuries to the hands result in broken, dislocated and bruised bones in the hands and wrists as well as ligament and tendon sprains and contusions. Such injuries may result in inability to properly grip the bat through the swing range. In addition to injuries to the phalanges and metacarpals, injuries to the hamate bone frequently occur. The hamate bone has a hook-like projection sitting near the surface of the palm and it can develop fractures directly due to contact with the bat and indirectly due to shearing of tendons passing over the hamate. Typically in baseball, batters may experience acute fractures or chronic stress injuries secondary to impingement of the bat against the hook of the hamate during a batting swing. Fractures of the hamate hook have been reported to comprise 2 to 4% of all carpal fractures and occur most frequently among individuals playing racquet sports and sports that involve clubs or bats. Treatment typically requires surgery to internally fix the fracture or excision of the hook of the hamate and necessarily requires extended time out of play. Most gloves provide inadequate support and protection to the fingers and wrists, while others are too cumbersome and batters are unwilling to use them.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an embodiment provided herein, a glove for protection of a hand and wrist during sports activities is described wherein the glove includes a dorsal glove base connected to a palmar glove base to form a glove that covers the hand, the dorsal glove base comprising a metacarpal impact protector that extends across a metacarpal region of the hand and bending around to cover at least a portion of an ulnar side of the hand, wherein the metacarpal impact protector includes a thermoplastic shield that is molded to the metacarpal region and ulnar side of the hand, and a wrist cuff assembly affixed to the glove. In particular embodiments the metacarpal impact protector further comprises an energy absorbing material disposed on an underside of the metacarpal impact protector. The energy absorbing material disposed on an underside of the metacarpal impact protector is selected in certain embodiments from one or more of ethylene vinyl acetate foam (EVA), polyurethane gel, polyurethane gel foam, silicone gel, and neoprene. In certain embodiments the metacarpal impact protector is disposed in a metacarpal impact protector pocket affixed to the dorsal glove base. The metacarpal impact protector pocket may include a folded-over lip along an entrance to the metacarpal impact protector pocket. Further in particular embodiments, the wrist cuff assembly affixed to the glove comprises an energy absorbing material disposed over at least a dorsal wrist region of the wrist cuff assembly. The energy absorbing material disposed over at least a dorsal wrist region of the wrist cuff assembly may be one or more of ethylene vinyl acetate foam (EVA), polyurethane gel, polyurethane gel foam, silicone gel, and neoprene. In particular embodiments the wrist cuff assembly includes an outer layer of loop neoprene. In certain embodiments the dorsal glove base of the glove is connected to the palmar glove base via a fourchette material disposed in at least a finger region of the glove.

In some embodiments, a glove for protection of a hand and wrist during sports activities is described wherein the glove includes a dorsal glove base connected to a palmar glove base to form a glove that covers the hand, the palmar glove base including a hamate protector disposed on the palmar glove base over a location of a hamate bone in the hand. In particular embodiments the hamate protector disposed on the palmar glove base over a location of a hamate bone in the hand includes a central depression or hole over a location of a hamulus in the hand.

In some embodiments, a glove for protection of a hand and wrist during sports activities is described wherein the glove includes a dorsal glove base connected to a palmar glove base to form a glove that covers the hand, the dorsal glove base including an energy absorbing material affixed to the dorsal glove base over a knuckle region of the glove. In particular embodiments the energy absorbing material is a polyurethane gel or polyurethane gel foam.

In a particular embodiment a glove for protection of a hand and wrist during sports activities is provided that includes a dorsal glove base connected to a palmar glove base to form a glove that covers the hand, the dorsal glove base comprising a metacarpal impact protector that extends across a metacarpal region of the hand and bending around to cover at least a portion of an ulnar side of the hand, wherein the metacarpal impact protector comprises a thermoplastic shield that is moldable to the metacarpal and portion of the ulnar side of the hand, a wrist cuff assembly affixed to the glove, a hamate protector disposed on the palmar glove base over a location of a hamate bone in the hand, an energy absorbing material affixed to the dorsal glove base over a knuckle region of the glove, and a dorsal cross-over stabilizer that inserts on the dorsal side of the glove along a thumb sleeve attachment and is adapted and dimensioned to wrap around a back of the hand, stabilize placement of the metacarpal impact protector, and affix to the wrist cuff assembly.

In certain embodiments provided herein are hand and wrist protection gloves and have been developed, tested and shown to protect against impact injuries. In certain embodiments of this disclosure, one or more systems are provided for protecting the hands and wrists. In one embodiment, a glove is provided that includes inner and outer glove aspects wherein the inner glove includes an impact-absorbing material conforming to the central portion of the hand, the fingers, and the thumb, extending from the carpal bones to cover the proximal phalanges up to the proximal interphalangeal joint. The inner glove is covered by the outer glove that includes one or more abrasion-resistant materials. The outer glove conforms to the central portion of the hand, the fingers, and the thumb as well, extending from the carpal bones to cover the entire fingers including the distal phalanges. A first wrist strap surrounds the wrist to protect and support the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints. A second wrist strap attaches to the base of the thumb on the back of the metacarpal bones and extends diagonally across the back of the hand and around the wrist over the first wrist strap.

In another embodiments, one or more systems are provided for protecting the hands and wrists. In one embodiment, a glove is provided that includes an inner and outer glove aspects wherein the inner glove includes impact-absorbing materials conforming to the central portion of the hand, the fingers, and the thumb, extending from the carpal bones to cover the proximal phalanges up to the proximal interphalangeal joints. These impact-absorbing materials are sandwiched in an abrasion-resistant material. The outer glove conforms to the central portion of the hand, the fingers, and the thumb as well, extending from the carpal bones to cover the entire fingers including the distal phalanges. In particular embodiments, a thermoplastic plate backed with thin padding inserts extend across the body of the metacarpal bones. A wrist strap partially or completely surrounds the wrist to protect and support the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints with two different impact-absorbing materials placed on top of the metacarpophalangeal joints and the hamate bone. An elastic wrist strap attaches to the base of the thumb on the back of the metacarpal bones and extends diagonally across the back of the hand and around the wrist over the first wrist strap.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purpose of illustration, there are shown in the drawings certain embodiments described in the present disclosure. In the drawings, like numerals indicate like elements throughout. It should be understood that the full scope of the inventions disclosed herein are not limited to the precise arrangements, dimensions, and instruments shown. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows an anatomical model of the back of a right hand, showing muscles, tendons, bones, nerves, and the like;

FIG. 2A shows an anatomical model of the pinky side of a right hand, showing muscles, tendons, bones, nerves, and the like;

FIG. 2B shows an anatomical model of the thumb side of a right hand, showing muscles, tendons, bones, nerves, and the like;

FIG. 3 shows an anatomical model of the palm of a right hand, showing muscles, tendons, bones, nerves, and the like;

FIG. 4 shows an anatomical model of the back of a right hand with protective impact-absorbing gel placed over the back of the hand and knuckles;

FIG. 5A shows a schematic of a back view of an embodiment of a protective glove.

FIG. 5B shows a schematic of a palm view of the glove of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A shows a schematic of a back view of an embodiment of a protective glove.

FIG. 6B shows a schematic of a palm view of the glove of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A shows a schematic of a back view of an embodiment of a protective glove.

FIG. 7B shows a schematic of a palm view of the glove of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8A shows a schematic of a back view of an embodiment of a protective glove.

FIG. 8B shows a schematic of a palm view of the glove of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 shows a working embodiment of a palm view of one embodiment of a protective glove;

FIG. 10 shows a palm view of an embodiment of a protective glove including wrist and wrap straps open;

FIG. 11 shows a dorsal view of the embodiment of FIG. 10 with wrist and wrap straps closed;

FIG. 12 shows a dorsal view of the embodiment of a protective glove of FIG. 12 including wrist and wrap straps closed;

FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B show an embodiment of a protective glove with further inside wrist protection;

FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B show an embodiment of a protective glove with perforated palmar surface for ventilation in dorsal view (FIG. 14A) and palmar view (FIG. 14B);

FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B show an embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view (FIG. 15A) and palmar view (FIG. 15B);

FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B show an embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view (FIG. 16B) and palmar view (FIG. 16A);

FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B show an embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view (FIG. 17B) and palmar view (FIG. 17A);

FIG. 18A through FIG. 18C show an embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view (FIG. 18B) and palmar view (FIG. 18A) showing one or more locations of gel padding;

FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B show another embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view (FIG. 19A) and palmar view (FIG. 19B);

FIG. 20A shows another embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view while FIG. 20B shows an A-A cross-section;

FIG. 21A shows another embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view while FIG. 21B shows an A-A cross-section;

FIG. 22A shows another embodiment of a protective glove in dorsal view while FIG. 22B shows an A-A cross-section.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed herein are protective gloves for use in racquet sports and sports that involve clubs or bats, such as tennis, baseball, softball, cricket, and golf. In embodiments provided herein protections are provided for one or more of the metacarpals, hamate and the ligaments of the wrist while maintaining a flexible glove that enhances rather inhibits performance of the player.

While the making and using of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts which can be employed in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiment discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention and do not delimit the scope of the invention.

To facilitate the understanding of this invention, and for the avoidance of doubt in construing the claims herein, a number of terms are defined below. Terms defined herein have meanings as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the areas relevant to the present invention. The terminology used to describe specific embodiments of the invention does not delimit the invention, except as outlined in the claims.

The terms such as “a,” “an,” and “the” are not intended to refer to a singular entity unless explicitly so defined, but include the general class of which a specific example may be used for illustration. The use of the terms “a” or “an” when used in conjunction with “comprising” in the claims and/or the specification may mean “one” but may also be consistent with “one or more,” “at least one,” and/or “one or more than one.”

The use of the term “or” in the claims is used to mean “and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives as mutually exclusive. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the term “or” in a group of alternatives means “any one or combination of” the members of the group. Further, unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives as mutually exclusive, the phrase “A, B, and/or C” means embodiments having element A alone, element B alone, element C alone, or any combination of A, B, and C taken together.

Similarly, for the avoidance of doubt and unless otherwise explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives as mutually exclusive, the phrase “at least one of” when combined with a list of items, means a single item from the list or any combination of items in the list. For example, and unless otherwise defined, the phrase “at least one of A, B and C,” means “at least one from the group A, B, C, or any combination of A, B and C.” Thus, unless otherwise defined, the phrase requires one or more, and not necessarily not all, of the listed items.

The terms “comprising” (and any form thereof such as “comprise” and “comprises”), “having” (and any form thereof such as “have” and “has”), “including” (and any form thereof such as “includes” and “include”) or “containing” (and any form thereof such as “contains” and “contain”) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

The term “effective” as used in the specification and claims, means adequate to provide or accomplish a desired, expected, or intended result.

The terms “about” or “approximately” are defined as being close to as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, and in one non-limiting embodiment the terms are defined to be within 10%, within 5%, within 1%, and in certain aspects within 0.5%.

As used herein the term “energy absorbing materials” include ethylene vinyl acetate foam (“EVA”), polyurethane gel, polyurethane gel foam, silicone gel, and neoprene. In certain embodiments the energy absorbing material is preformed and sewn or glued onto or into the glove. In other embodiments, the energy absorbing material has an initial fluid state that may be cured, from a fluid to a semi-solid/solid substance, on a glove substrate or foundation material. In an certain embodiments the glove substrate or foundation material is a malleable, fibrous or woven textile. In certain embodiments the energy absorbing material is a hybrid polyurethane elastomer gel. In one particular embodiment the hybrid polyurethane elastomer gel is available from Kemmler under the tradename SHOCKTEC® and has a bulk density of about 65 lbs/ft³. In another embodiment the energy absorbing material is an air foamed hybrid polyurethane elastomer gel. In one particular embodiment the air foamed hybrid polyurethane elastomer is available from Kemmler under the tradename SHOCKTEC® Air2Gel and has a bulk density of about 15-18 lbs/ft³. SHOCKTEC® hybrid polyurethane elastomer gels and air foamed gels are commercially available at thicknesses of ⅛″, ¼″, and ⅜″. In another embodiment the energy absorbing material is an EVA foam having a bulk density of about 2 lb/ft³.

In exemplary embodiments, certain aspects of the exterior material of the protective glove have an gripping material having a greater coefficient of friction than underlying substrate materials. For example, certain aspects of the exterior materials of the glove utilize materials selected from silicone, polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU), rubber, synthetic and/or natural leather including lamb and goat skin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), acrylic, and thermoplastic elastomers (TPE).

In certain embodiments, protective gloves are provided that include a pocket on the dorsum of the glove that opens toward the thumb and extends around an outer ulnar border of the glove. The pocket is adapted and dimensioned to accommodate a moldable thermoplastic insert that is insertable into the pocket. The thermoplastic insert is fitted to the hand of a ball player and allowed to cool and conform to player's hand. Thus, the thermoplastic insert once fitted is cupped on its ulnar aspect to fit against the outer ulnar border of the hand, extending to cup slightly around to the palmar side of the hand while covering at least the fourth and fifth metacarpals on the dorsum of the hand. In certain embodiments the thermoplastic insert extends to cover at least the third metacarpal in addition to the fourth and fifth metacarpals. In particular embodiments, the thermoplastic inserts extends to cover the second metacarpal as well. One example of a suitable thermoplastic is a ⅛″ thickness KYDEX® brand thermoplastic acrylic-polyvinyl chloride material manufactured by Sekisui SPI. A similar acrylic polyvinyl chloride material is available from Emco Plastics and Interstate Plastics.

Reference will now be made in detail to implementations of the technology. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the technology only, not as a limitation of the technology. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present technology. For instance, features described as part of one implementation of the technology can be used on another implementation to yield a still further implementation. Thus, it is intended that the present encompass such modifications and variations.

Turning now to the figures, in which like numerals represent like elements throughout the several views, embodiments of the present disclosure are described. For convenience, only some elements of the same group may be labeled with numerals. The purpose of the drawings is to describe embodiments and not for production. Therefore, features shown in the figures are chosen for convenience and clarity of presentation only. Moreover, the language used in this disclosure has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter, resort to the claims being necessary to determine such inventive subject matter.

Each example is provided by way of explanation of the technology only, not as a limitation of the technology. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present technology. For instance, features described as part of one implementation of the technology can be used on another implementation to yield a still further implementation. Thus, it is intended that the present technology cover such modifications and variations that come within the scope of the technology.

FIG. 1-FIG. 3 show several views of an anatomical model of a right hand, showing muscles, tendons, bones, nerves, and the like. The metacarpals 8 are located in the body 10 of the hand and terminate at the phalanges 12. The hamate bone is one of the carpal bones of the outer base of the hand. The location 14 of the hamate bone 14 underlying the tendons and muscle in the anatomical model is shown. The hamate does not directly touch the bones of wrist 16. The hook of the hamate (also known as the hamulus) is a long, thin structure that projects toward the palmar surface of the hand (not shown). The hamulus is an attachment site for ligaments including the transverse carpal ligament, pisohamate ligament, flexor digiti minimi, and opponens digiti minimi. Due to its anatomic proximity, acute or chronically non-united displaced hamulus fractures cause impingement on the adjacent branch of the ulnar nerve or tendons.

FIG. 4 shows an anatomical model of the back of a right hand with relative positions of protective impact-absorbing knuckle protective gel 20 and impact-absorbing metacarpal protective gel 18 placed over the back of the hand. The placement of the protective impact-absorbing gels 18 and 20 is an example of the inner protective glove material. FIG. 4 shows use of a gel as the impact-absorbing material according to one embodiment. In certain embodiments the gel is an protective impact-absorbing material at a thickness of 0.1245 inches. Thinner materials may allow a user better freedom of motion and dexterity than thicker materials. However, thinner materials may not absorb impact as well as thicker materials. In other embodiments the protective impact-absorbing gel for use in a protective glove is at a thickness of ⅛ to ¼ inches. The thickness of the impact-absorbing material may be chosen based on the sport's requirements for dexterity and impact absorption.

FIG. 5A shows a schematic of an embodiment of a foundational layer 22 of the dorsal side of an embodiment of a protective glove including depiction of wrist sleeve 24. FIG. 5B shows a schematic of the dorsal side of the protective glove of FIG. 5A showing further elements layered over foundation layer 22. Foundational layer 22 is overlaid by protective gel or EVA foam layer 26 protecting the knuckles and extension out from the knuckles to the proximal phalanges and extension inward over distal portions of the metacarpals. Further dorsal region layer 32 and trapezium region layer 30 are provided for additional wear resistance. Reinforced outer side element 36 provides protection to the fifth metacarpal.

FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B show schematics of the dorsal back and palm sides of another embodiment of a protective glove. FIG. 6B shows wrist cuff 24 including a wrist cuff strap 46 undone. In the depicted embodiment, a loop and hook closure is employed and wrist cuff 24 includes loop material 50 while wrist cuff strap 46 includes hook material 48. The relative placements of the hook and loop materials maybe reversed if desired. The palm side depicted in FIG. 6B includes a palm grip 54, which may be a pad of material providing grip or may be formed of a plurality of dots such as for example silicone dots that in certain embodiments are also placed on ventral aspects of the fingers and thumb to increase grip of the glove. In the depicted embodiment, an inner glove covers the entire hand as a foundation material to which other elements are overlaid. The inner glove 56 is formed of a material such as an elastic fabric, neoprene, leather or synthetic leather. Vents 52 are provided on the fingers and thumb. Foundational inner glove 56 is overlaid by protective gel or EVA foam layer 26 protecting the knuckles and extension out from the knuckles to the proximal phalanges and extension inward over distal portions of the metacarpals. Protective polyurethane gel, polyurethane foam or EVA foam layer 27 may be provided over an outer aspect of the thumb to provide protection from impact with errant balls thrown at a batter wearing the glove. Further dorsal region layer 32 and trapezium region layer 30 are provided for additional wear resistance. The embodiment depicted in FIG. 6A further includes dorsal crossover stabilizer 70 that crosses the back of the hand from the thumb around the ulnar edge of the hand and covers the radiocarpal and distal radioulnar joints. Dorsal crossover stabilizer 70 is attached at the inner side of the thumb and extends diagonally across the metacarpal bones of the back of hand and around wrist over the wrist cuff and is secured with hook and loop material on wrist cuff 24.

FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B shows another schematic of the back and palm of an embodiment of a protective glove. FIGS. 7A and 7B show an example of placements for different kinds of abrasion-resistant material. In the depicted embodiments, a single abrasion-resistant material is used for palm 57 and fingers 56 and extends partly around to the back of the hand along outer side 36. On the back of the hand, another abrasion-resistant material is used over the distal phalanges 42. In this example, seams 27 across the back of the hand may provide additional support and protection to the hand. In the depicted embodiment, knuckle pad 60 and outer pad 44 of the thumb may be provided with EVA foam, gel or neoprene padding to provide protection from impact with errant balls thrown at a batter wearing the glove. provides impact protection.

FIGS. 8A and 8B shows another schematic of the back and palm of an embodiment of a protective glove. FIGS. 8A and 8B also show the wrist cuff strap 46 placed such that it will support the wrist and tightly secure the glove on wrist cuff 24. In the depicted embodiment, knuckle pad 60 extends from one side of the dorsum of the hand to the other side thus completely covering the knuckle region.

In certain embodiments the foundation material for use on a palm or ventral side of a protective glove is an abrasion-resistant material natural or synthetic leather. In one embodiment the leather has a thickness of approximately 0.02 to 0.04 inches. In particular embodiments the foundation material for use on a palm or ventral side of a protective glove is about 0.025 to 0.030 inches. One non-limiting example of a suitable leather is sheep leather available from PITTARDS®, Somerset England. In certain embodiments the natural or synthetic leather utilized on the palm side of the glove and is embossed to provide better grip. Thinner materials may allow a user better freedom of motion and dexterity than thicker materials. However, thinner materials may be less durable than thicker materials, and so wear out faster. In other embodiments, the foundation material for use in a protective glove is an abrasion-resistant material such as neoprene at a thickness of 0.0510 inches. The thickness of the abrasion-resistant material may be chosen based on the sport's requirements for dexterity and hardiness.

FIG. 9 shows a palm view of one prototype of an embodiment of a protective left glove. In this embodiment, a lamb leather has been chosen as the abrasion-resistant material on palm side 57 while dorsal side 71 is neoprene. Dorsal crossover stabilizer 70 that inserts at the base of the thumb on the dorsal side of the clove (not shown) is shown wrapping around the wrist.

FIG. 10 shows another palm view of one prototype of an embodiment of a protective left glove. Dorsal crossover stabilizer 70 that inserts at the base of the thumb on the dorsal side of the clove (not shown) is shown undone and loose. The distal removable attachment end 68 of stabilizer 70 includes loop material for fastening to hook material 64 disposed on wrist cuff 24. FIG. 10 shows wrist cuff 24 including a wrist cuff strap 46 undone. In the depicted embodiment, a loop and hook closure is employed and wrist cuff 24 includes loop material 50 while wrist cuff strap 46 includes hook material 48.

FIG. 11 shows a view of the back of the protective left glove embodiments of FIG. 9 and FIG. 10. This view shows dorsal crossover stabilizer 70 closed. In this embodiment, neoprene has been chosen as a second abrasion-resistant material. In the depicted embodiment knuckle pad 60 extends from one side of the dorsum of the hand to the other side thus completely covering the knuckle region. The location for a rigid hand protector opening pocket 62 is depicted.

FIG. 12 shows another view of the back of an embodiment of a protective right glove. In this view, dorsal crossover stabilizer 70 and wrist cuff strap 46 are closed.

FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B show views of the palm of an embodiment of a protective right glove including inner wrist pad 72. Also shown in FIG. 13A is terminal wrist cuff binding 38.

FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B depict embodiments where the palm side of the glove is a perforated material 57 that wraps around the pinky side area 36 to the dorsal side shown in FIG. 14A. In this embodiment, three abrasion-resistant materials are used: the perforated material 57 of the palm side, a non-perforated dorsal side material including covering knuckle pad 60 and a connecting fourchette material 59.

FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B depict another embodiment of a protective glove. As depicted in FIG. 15A, the dorsal cross-over stabilizer 100 inserts on the dorsal side of the glove along thumb attachment 121 and is employed to reinforce the dorsal ligaments of the wrist and act to decrease hyper extension of wrist ligaments and prevent wrist strains. In certain embodiments dorsal cross-over stabilizer 100 is formed of a heavy duty elastic strap that has a dorsal cross-over stabilizer hook pad 112 on the glove facing side of its distal terminus. Dorsal cross-over stabilizer loop pad 114 is located affixed to wrist cuff assembly 140. When dorsal cross-over stabilizer 100 is wrapped around the back of the hand and affixed via hook assembly 112 to wrist cuff assembly 140, the dorsal cross-over stabilizer acts to secure to metacarpal impact protector 120 from slippage.

Wrist cuff assembly 140 includes wrist cuff strap 118. In certain embodiments, the outer fabric of the wrist cuff assembly 140 is a loop neoprene material. Neoprene is a closed cell foam made with synthetic rubber material and is flexible, soft, and water resistant. Neoprene is generally available a number of thicknesses including in 1.5 mm, 2 mm and 3 mm thicknesses. Loop neoprene is a laminate where one side is laminated with a flexible nylon fabric and the other side is nylon low pile soft loop fabric 114 that is compatible with VELCRO® type hook fasteners. In the depicted wrist cuff assembly the outer surface of the wrist cuff assembly is the loop side of loop neoprene and acts as an attachment for wrist cuff hook pad 138 and dorsal cross-over stabilizer hook pad 112. In the depicted wrist cuff embodiment, wrist cuff assembly has a slit 144 that enables the hand to be inserted into the glove when open but provides for snug closure of the wrist cuff around the wrist when closed with by the action of wrist cuff strap 118 against loop fabric 114. In preferred embodiments, the dorsal wrist side of the wrist cuff assembly includes a pad 152 (as shown in FIG. 18B) of an energy absorbing material such as EVA foam or polyurethane foam that provides protection against impact injuries to the wrist. Optional top stitching 116 can be employed to affix hook and loop materials although they can be alternatively affixed by gluing.

In the depicted embodiment, two-way stretch fourchettes 128 provide a union between materials forming the dorsal side 141 of the glove and those forming the palmar side 142 of the glove. Metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 is disposed on dorsum of the glove over the region of the metacarpals and is accessed through opening 122 for insertion of metacarpal impact protector 120. In certain embodiments metacarpal impact protector 120 is a semi-rigid thermoplastic material. In certain embodiments the metacarpal impact protector pocket is a flexible fabric such as for example neoprene or a two-way stretch elastic polyurethane fiber such as LYCRA® brand fabric.

In certain embodiments, fingertips 124 are provided that have a greater coefficient of friction than underlying substrate materials. For example, fourchettes 128 may be of two-way stretch elastic polyurethane fiber such as LYCRA® brand fabric while fingertips 124 are suede or ULTRASUEDE® type synthetic suede composed of non-woven polyester and non-fibrous polyurethane. Likewise thumb tip 130 and thumb grip 126 may have a greater coefficient of friction than underlying substrate materials or may provide greater wear resistance. As depicted in FIG. 15B, the plamar side of the glove may include a plurality of vents 134. Thumb crotch 136 is preferably a two-way stretch elastic polyurethane fiber such as LYCRA® brand fabric. The extension of metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 around the ulnar side of the hand is shown together with internal metacarpal impact protector 120. A hamate protector 123 is provided and located over the hamate. In certain embodiments hamate protector 123 includes a polyurethane gel or EVA foam. In other embodiments the hamate protector is formed of layers of material such as neoprene, EVA foam or polyurethane gel together with leather formed with a central hamate hole 125 to accommodate the projection of the hamulus. Wrist cuff hook pad 138 provides for closure when attached to loop material 114.

FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B depict another embodiment of a protective glove. The depicted embodiment includes metacarpal protector pocket 141 that covers the metacarpals on the dorsum of the hand wraps around the ulnar side of the hand. The depicted embodiment also includes hamate protector 123. The depicted embodiment includes fingertip protectors 124 that extend past the distal phalanges of each finger.

FIG. 17A and FIG. 17B depict another embodiment of a protective glove. The depicted embodiment includes metacarpal protector pocket 141 that covers the metacarpals on the dorsum of the hand and wraps around slightly to the ulnar side of the hand. The depicted embodiment also includes hamate protector 123. Dorsal cross-over stabilizer 100 is depicted wrapped around the back of the hand and affixed to wrist cuff loop pad 114. When dorsal cross-over stabilizer 100 is wrapped across the wrist and affixed, the dorsal cross-over stabilizer acts to secure part of opening 122 of metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 and prevent an inserted metacarpal impact protector (not shown) from slippage.

FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B depict one or more placement locations for energy absorbing gels or foams in a protective glove. In a particular embodiment, knuckle pad 150 is placed inside of an outer glove fabric to protect the knuckle and proximal phalanges. In certain embodiments, wrist pad 152 includes a layer of an energy absorbing material such as EVA foam or polyurethane foam that provides protection against impact injuries to the dorsum of the wrist. Also in certain embodiments, the hamate is cushioned by protective materials 154 such as neoprene, EVA foam or polyurethane gel or foam formed with a central hamate hole or depression 125 to accommodate the projection of the hamulus.

FIG. 19A and FIG. 19B depict an embodiment of a protective glove. In the depicted embodiment, knuckle pad 150 is placed inside of an outer glove fabric to protect the knuckles and proximal phalanges. Knuckle pad 150 abuts the location of metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 disposed on the dorsum of the glove over the region of the metacarpals. The metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 is accessed through opening 122 for insertion of metacarpal impact protector 120. The metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 extends around the ulnar side of the hand as does the metacarpal impact protector metacarpal impact protector 120.

In certain embodiments metacarpal impact protector 120 (shown as crosshatching) is inserted into pocket 141 through opening 122. In preferred embodiments metacarpal impact protector 120 is a semi-rigid thermoplastic material that is fitted to the hand of the player by heating, molding to the top and ulnar side of the hand and cooling to fix its fitted shape prior to insertion into the pocket. Because metacarpal impact protector bends to hug the ulnar side of the hand, it is in a very stable position that is further secured by dorsal cross-over stabilizer 100 when wrapped around the back of the hand and affixed to the loop neoprene of the wrist cuff assembly. In certain embodiments the metacarpal impact protector pocket is a flexible fabric such as for example neoprene or a two-way stretch elastic polyurethane fiber such as LYCRA® brand fabric. The depicted wrist cuff assembly 140 includes wrist cuff strap 118. In certain embodiments, the outer fabric of the wrist cuff assembly 140 is a loop neoprene material. In preferred embodiments, the dorsal wrist side of the wrist cuff assembly includes a layer of an energy absorbing material such as pad 152 formed of EVA foam or polyurethane foam that provides protection against impact injuries to the wrist. Also as depicted in FIG. 20B, the hamate is cushioned by protective materials 154 such as neoprene, EVA foam or polyurethane gel or foam formed with a central hamate hole or depression 125 to accommodate the projection of the hamulus.

FIG. 20A and FIG. 20B depict an embodiment of a protective glove showing in FIG. 20B, a cross section through the dashed line of the wrist assembly 140 of FIG. 20A. In FIG. 20B, the wrist 170 of the player is shown. The wrist assembly includes an inner wrist cuff layer 160 of base fabric and an outer layer wrist cuff layer 162 of loop neoprene. Sandwiched between the inner and outer layers is a layer of energy impact absorbing material 164 is adhered. The energy absorbing material is disposed over the dorsum of the wrist with extension around the pisiform bone. Hook material 138 is disposed on an underside of wrist cuff strap 118.

FIG. 21A and FIG. 21B depict an embodiment of a protective glove showing in FIG. 21B a cross section through the dashed line of the hand of FIG. 21A. In FIG. 21B, a cross-section of the hand 180 of the player is shown at a carpal region that includes the hamate 14. The relative positions of thumb cover attachment 121 and the attachment site of cross-over stabilizer 100 are shown. The metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 is depicted as covering the dorsum 184 of the hand and extending around to cover the ulnar side 182 of the hand. Metacarpal impact protector 120 is inserted into metacarpal impact protector pocket 141 through opening 122. On the underside of metacarpal impact protector 120, a layer of energy absorbing material 186 such as EVA foam or polyurethane gel foam is applied. A folded-over lip 188 is formed on the entrance to metacarpal impact protector pocket 141. After the metacarpal impact protector 120 and its adhered energy absorbing material 188 is pushed past the folded-over lip 188, it is allowed or urged to slide back into lip pocket 192, which helps keep the metacarpal impact protector 120 within pocket 141. On the palmer side of the cross-section, hamate protector 123 is provided and located over the hamate 14. In the depicted embodiment, hamate protector 123 is a sandwich of inner and outer layers of a material such as natural or synthetic leather 194 with an internal layer 196 of energy absorbing materials such as polyurethane gel or EVA foam. In other embodiments the hamate protector is formed of layers of material such as neoprene, EVA foam or polyurethane gel together with leather formed with a central hamate hole 125 to accommodate the projection of the hamulus.

FIG. 22A and FIG. 22B depict an embodiment of a protective glove showing in FIG. 22B a cross section through the dashed line of the fingers of FIG. 22A. In FIG. 22B, a cross-section of the fingers 200 of the player is shown at a proximal phalanges region. In certain embodiments a ventral base layer 210, preferably of natural or synthetic leather, is connected to a dorsal base layer 220, preferably of a synthetic two-way stretch fabric such as LYCRA, via fourchettes 128. Energy absorbing material 150 is disposed over the knuckles and proximal phalanges regions and enclosed in outer fabric layer 240.

Example 1: Impact Testing

An objective was to assess design and material options to produce a superior batting glove at impact loads typical in a major league baseball (MLB) game. Testing was done to compare performance at typical injury sites, including the dorsal area of the hand when hit by a pitched ball, and the hamate area from bat impacts. An objective was to conduct testing using an accurate physical model of the human hand with its bones and soft tissue. Further testing was conducted with accurate input loads through drop impact using equivalent energy to MLB level pitched balls, and equivalent speed/mass of pitched balls using a ball cannon. In certain instances comparisons were made with the commercially available EVOSHIELD™ batting hand shield, which is a rectangular moldable gel to rigid rectangular pad encased in neoprene and adapted to fit across the distal half of the metacarpals without side extension.

Test Strategy—A hand model was constructed using a purchased skeletal hand, and then built up with various substances to model soft tissues. The intent was to first use this as a drop-impact test using actual baseballs, to permit a dorsal (anterior) area pressure comparison. A ball cannon was used to shoot baseballs accurately at several dorsal areas of the hand model, to simulate loads from pitched baseballs, using impact speeds typical of the major league game. Impact locations were taken from several known injuries, and applied to the most injury-prone areas of the hand. This included the fourth and fifth metacarpals on the dorsal hand. The second strategy was to compare forces on the Hamate loads from the bat knob on the hamate, on the palmar (posterior) side.

Limitations—Due to variations in human hand and bone strength, a model was sought that was typical in contour to mirror relative pressures at each bone. This permitted a relative comparison between various glove designs at each area to assess the relative pressure between them. Breakage in the bones of the model hand was encountered at speeds that also break human hands in the field, indicating that test parameters were in the right range.

Initial Drop Tests on the Dorsal Hand: The drop test fixture was constructed with the hand model gripping a bat handle. Drop impact impulse is calibrated by drop height and measured mass. The drop weight impact location was initially between the fourth and fifth metacarpals.

Data—Initial drop weight data is shown in Table 1, which was used to validate the test. Our initial drop testing indicated that a composed of ⅛″ SHOCKTEC® gel+0.036″ flexible insert was a frontrunner as the material of choice for use as a protective shield for the dorsal side of a hand in the case of a hit-by-pitch injury. This data tells us that this particular sample was much better at spreading the load of the impact over an area than a standalone glove and the EVOSHIELD. It also reduced the peak pressure significantly more than either of them. Further testing was done to verify these initial conclusions about this sample.

TABLE 1

Drop Impact Test of Initial Samples

Conditions

1.275 kg drop weight, 1 meter drop height

23° C at 52% humidity, low-range pressure sensitive Fuji film

Calc. momentum as a 87 mph pitched baseball

Peak

Percent
Color
pressure
Percent

Area (in²)
increase
scale
(psi)
decrease

No protection -glove only
0.674
0.0%
1.1
1408
0%

⅛″ SHOCKTEC ® gel +
0.701
−4.0%
0.7
782
44%

0.036″ thermoplastic insert

EVOSHIELD
0.432
35.9%
1
1195
15%

Results, Drop testing, Palmar are shown in Table 2—Sample 4A was most effective at protecting the hamate in the event that a batter mishits a ball. This sample was a made with a combination of gel and a hard but flexible plate.

The data also shows that all of our samples offer some increased protection of the lambskin glove alone, so batter comfort and feel should be taken into account. Based on player preference, certain samples would be too thick and stiff.

TABLE 2

Drop Impact Test of Hamate

area ratio, A

Insert
Total

Area
EVOSHIELD/
Normalized to
thickness
thickness

Sample
(in²)
A test
EVOSHIELD
(m)
(m)

EVOSHIELD
0.123
1.00
100%
0
0.3

Single Lambskin
0.151
1.23
123%
0
0

Sheep leather single
0.139
1.13
113%

0.55 mm

Sheep leather double
0.138
1.12
112%

(1.1 mm)

Sheep leather -
0.132
1.07
107%

double + wrist band

¼″ SHOCKTEC ® gel
0.040
0.33
33%
0
0.25

⅛″ SHOCKTEC ® gel
0.097
0.79
79%
0
0.125

⅛″ SHOCKTEC ® gel +
0.060
0.49
49%
0.0285
0.1535

0.028″ thermoplastic

insert

⅛″ SHOCKTEC ® gel +
0.032
0.26
26%
0.0365
0.1615

0.036″ thermoplastic

insert

⅛″ SHOCKTEC ® +
0.098
0.80
80%
0.0465
0.1715

.046″rigid nylon 6/6

insert

⅛″ SHOCKTEC ®
0.064
0.52
52%
0.0295
0.1545

Gel + 0.029″ rigid

fiberglass insert

⅛″ SHOCKTEC ®
0.069
0.56
56%
0.0365
0.1615

Gel + .036″ Garolite ®

rigid insert*

*Garolite ® is a cotton fabric-impregnated phenolic resin

Drop Test, Accurate Adult Hand—Model 2: Test fixture—The second drop test used the same structure as initial testing, but used a more accurate adult hand model. The hand was mounted to mimic gripping a real bat with a baseball resting on top of the sample being tested. A thin layer of neoprene was used to mimic skin and a single layer of SHOCKTEC® gel was placed on the palmar side to represent the tissue in the palm as well as the presence of grip tape on the bat (no actual tape was used). FujiFilm was placed on the fourth and fifth metacarpals as these were deemed the most vulnerable.

Data—A steel mass was raised to a height such that it had potential energy equal to the kinetic energy of a 90 mph ball being fired from the cannon. Cannon Energy: Mass of Ball (m): 0.142 kg, Speed of Ball (v): 40.23 m/s; Kinetic Energy (K): K=½ mv²=114.7 J.

Drop Energy: Mass of Steel (m): 6.04 kg; Acceleration of Gravity (g): 9.81 m/s²; Potential Energy (U): U=mgh=114.7 J 114.7.

Height of Drop (h): h=U/mg=1.94 m

The mass struck the ball, transferring momentum to the hand model. This was done to provide a hardness profile that mimics that of a pitched ball impact. The Fujifilm samples were analyzed to determine the peak pressure intensity during the impact. In this series of tests, we created more samples from KYDEX®, EVA foam, and SHOCKTEC® gel. KYDEX® is an acrylic-PVC material that was heat formed to the contour of a human hand gripping a baseball bat. EVA foam is a type of foam that is extremely flexible and light. This flexibility allows it to mimic the hands contours without needing to heat it up. In our tests we used a single layer of 1/16-inch foam. SHOCKTEC® Gel is a commercially available hybrid polyurethane elastomer impact gel that is very flexible and adhesive so nothing extra was required to secure it to substrates. Polyurethane foams are also available. Polyurethane foams are thermoset materials polyurethane polymers that may be air frothed. An example is SHOCKTEC® AIR2Gel. When force hits the polyurethane gels or foams the impact is dissipated throughout the entire material thus resulting in minimal relative force at the impact point. After impact the polyurethane gels or foams return to their original shape.

Our tests used a single ⅛-inch layer of gel. Flexible inserts can bend and shape to the user's hand without any kind of forming, while the rigid inserts need to be formed to the desired shape (i.e. heat formed).

Results—Following the same data analysis process used for the drop tests, the results of the cannon tests again show that the ⅛″ SHOCKTEC® gel+0.036″ flexible insert outperformed the EVOSHIELD. Consistent with the drop test, looking at the results indicates that the ⅛″ SHOCKTEC® gel+0.036″ flexible insert was able to spread out the impact while with the EVOSHIELD it was concentrated on the metacarpals. Combining the information gathered from all the testing methods, the combination of SHOCKTEC® gel with either flexible or rigid inserts gives the best solution. Occasionally the rigid plates cracked on impact. Thus, the design of glove with a pocket for replacement of the rigid plate would allow for ready replacement in the event of cracking.

Although rigid inserts were not found to be quite as effective at reducing peak load as rigid inserts, the rigid thermoplastic inserts proved to be more durable and had the considerable advantage of being contourable to an individual's hand shape by placing in boiling water until malleable.

Hamate area Test Fixture: A hamate model was constructed using a steel bolt ground to resemble the shape of the bone. This bolt was covered with a 0.093″ thick piece of neoprene to represent the tissue between the hamate and the surface. To represent the impact load from a typical mis-hit ball (3 ft·lb of energy), a 1.375-pound weight was dropped from a height of 26 inches. A load cell was placed between the sample being tested and the neoprene sheet to provide an image of the force over the impact duration.

Data—Table 3 below shows the data from the hamate load cell drop test. Using the EVOSHIELD as a baseline we directly compared each of the other samples to it. These samples were chosen to be tested as they provided similar or better protection while minimizing the discomfort of added material while gripping a bat. Below Table 3 are waveforms generated by the load cell during each of the impacts. They have been cropped to more clearly show the profile of the impacts.

TABLE 3

Impact
Impact
Impact
Peak
Area
Normalized to

Start
End
Duration
Voltage
Under
EVOSHIELD

Sample
(ms)
(ms)
(ms)
(Volts)
the Curve
(%)

EVOSHIELD
6274.70
6281.88
7.18
5.74
17.32
100.00

Single Layer
4709.62
4712.36
2.74
5.67
6.71
38.74

leather

Double Layer
5451.46
5460.14
8.68
5.30
18.18
104.97

Leather

Leather Double
6681.74
6691.36
9.62
4.78
19.17
110.68

Layer, EVA Foam

Results—Analyzing the load cell data from each of the drop tests in Table 3, we can determine the magnitude of each impact. Comparing the area under the curve from each of the tests, we see total energy absorbed, compared to the EVOSHIELD as a baseline. By comparing peak voltage (representing force) we see each design's potential for bone breakage, again relative to the EVOSHIELD. Our data shows that on for both energy and peak force, the double layer of leather with the EVA foam between was the best at protecting the hamate. Compared to the EVOSHIELD it performed 10.68% better in energy absorption and 9.8% better in peak force.

The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only, and should not be construed so as to limit the scope of the disclosure. Various modifications and changes can be made to the principles and embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure and without departing from the claims which follow. Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function, or “step for” performing a specific function, is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C § 112, sixth paragraph.

All publications, patents and patent applications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein. While this invention has been described with reference to illustrative embodiments, this description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications and combinations of illustrative embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the invention, will be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description. It is therefore intended that the appended claims encompass such modifications and enhancements.

HIGH IMPACT-RESISTIVE PROTECTIVE GLOVE

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