WORK GLOVES

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
1. Field of the Disclosure

This disclosure relates to a glove, and more particularly to a work glove for production and live event tech professionals.

2. Description of the Related Art

Production and live event tech professionals have to perform varied tasks. Usually they have to use generic work gloves or gloves designed for some other industry when working. Inevitably, in order to do their work they need to remove the gloves every few minutes for various reasons leaving their hands susceptible to injury. Additionally, the gloves they are using may not be protective enough. Furthermore, with many generic work gloves, any protection or reinforcement is not located or arranged in the correct, beneficial, or suitable locations or spots of the hands (and wrists) for the type of tasks that are being performed in the production and live event industries.

Therefore, there is a need for an improved work glove for production and live event tech professionals.

SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure relates to a work glove designed for people working in all the various disciplines of production and live events, such as (but is not limited to) roadies, musicians, DJs, stage crews, theater techs, audio-visual techs, film grips, film gaffers, camera operators, lighting designers lighting riggers and techs, and all other live event and entertainment professionals. The gloves of the present disclosure address problems related to professionals using generic gloves in these industries.

Many industries have purposefully designed work gloves (e.g., gardening gloves, mechanics gloves, carpenters' gloves, construction gloves, etc.) and inevitably people working in the live event and production tend to use a pair of these work gloves designed for a different line of work. Production professionals perform varied tasks that range from having to move and lift very heavy equipment one moment, and then having to manipulate tiny knobs, buttons and/or faders the next moment. This type of work requires a work glove that allows for dexterity, versatility, comfort and breathability for extended use, flexibility, and functionality in a highly technology-enabled world. The gloves of the present disclosure are designed and structured so that the wearer can perform all necessary tasks, without ever having to take the gloves off while working.

Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a glove, comprising a palm-side base material, a backhand-side base material attached to the palm-side base material, and at least one repositionable finger covering operable to selectively cover a finger. A respective repositionable finger covering of the at least one repositionable finger covering is positionable in a finger-covering configuration, in which a finger is not exposed from the glove, and is positionable in a finger-exposed configuration, in which the finger is exposed from the glove while the glove is on a user's hand. When in the finger-covering configuration, a portion of the respective repositionable finger covering is overlapped by the palm-side base material such that the portion of the respective repositionable finger covering is arrangable underneath the palm-side base material.

In embodiments, the glove further comprises at least one non-repositionable finger covering operable to cover a respective finger.

In additional embodiments, the at least one repositionable finger covering comprises three repositionable finger coverings.

In some embodiments, the three repositionable finger coverings are configured for a thumb, an index (or pointing) finger, and a middle finger.

In further embodiments, the at least one non-repositionable finger covering comprises two non-repositionable finger coverings.

In embodiments, the at least one repositionable finger covering and the at least one non-repositionable finger covering comprise a conductive fabric.

In embodiments, the glove further comprises at least one protective layer arranged on the backhand-side base material.

In further embodiments, the at least one protective layer arranged on the backhand-side base material comprises a backhand impact/abrasion protection patch having a plurality of ribs that are structured and arranged to at least roughly correspond with underlying bones of a user's hand.

In some embodiments, the at least one protective layer arranged on the backhand-side base material comprises at least one finger impact/abrasion protection patch arranged on a finger portion of the glove.

In embodiments, an amount of overlap of the palm-side, base material over the respective repositionable finger covering is between about 2-5 mm.

In further embodiments, the glove further comprises a plurality of finger side panels structured and arranged to cover side regions of respective fingers, wherein the plurality of finger side panels are connected between the palm-side base material and the backhand-side base material.

In yet further embodiments, the glove further comprises at least one gripping patch arranged on the palm-side base material.

In further embodiments, the at least one gripping patch arranged on the palm-side base material comprises two gripping patches.

In additional embodiments, the glove further comprises a padding material, wherein the padding material is arranged between the at least one gripping patch and the palm-side base material, and is covered by the at least one gripping patch.

In some embodiments, the glove further comprises a wrist cuff attached to ends of the palm-side base material and the backhand-side base material, an expansion material connected to respective ends of the wrist cuff, and a wrist strap attached to the wrist cuff and operable to securely fasten the wrist cuff around a user's wrist.

In embodiments, when in the finger-exposed configuration, the respective repositionable finger covering is arranged between a backhand-side of the finger and an interior surface of the back-hand side material.

In further embodiments, when in the finger-exposed configuration, the respective repositionable finger covering is arranged to abut the back-hand side material.

In further embodiments, when in the finger-exposed configuration, at least one of the respective repositionable finger covering, the back-hand side material, and a finger impact/abrasion protection patch arranged on a finger portion of the back-hand side material are operable to maintain the finger impact/abrasion protection patch positioned over the respective finger so as to protect a backhand-side of the finger while in the finger-exposed configuration.

In certain embodiments, the glove further comprises an illumination source arranged on a palm-side of the glove.

Additional aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a glove, comprising a palm-side base material, a backhand-side base material attached to the palm-side base material, three repositionable finger coverings operable to selectively cover three respective fingers, and two non-repositionable finger coverings operable to cover another two of the respective fingers. Each respective repositionable finger covering is positionable in a finger-covering configuration, in which a finger is not exposed from the glove, and is positionable in a finger-exposed configuration, in which the finger is exposed from the glove while the glove is on a user's hand. The three repositionable finger coverings and the two non-repositionable finger covering comprise a conductive fabric. When in the finger-covering configuration, a portion of the respective repositionable finger covering is overlapped by the palm-side base material such that the portion of the respective repositionable finger covering is arrangable underneath the palm-side base material.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features which are characteristic of the disclosure, both as to structure and method of operation thereof, together with further aims and advantages thereof, will be understood from the following description, considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated by way of example. It is to be expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only, and they are not intended as a definition of the limits of the disclosure. For a more complete understanding of the disclosure, as well as other aims and further features thereof, reference may be had to the following detailed description of the embodiments of the disclosure in conjunction with the following exemplary and non-limiting drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a palm-side view of an exemplary glove in a finger-exposed configuration with a plurality of fingertips exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a palm-side view of an exemplary glove in a finger-covered configuration with no fingertips exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a backhand-side view of an exemplary glove in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary glove with a plurality of fingertips exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view of a finger portion of a glove with a fingertip covered in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view of a finger portion of a glove with a fingertip exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of a finger portion of a glove with a fingertip exposed and bent in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; and

FIG. 8 is a palm-side view of an exemplary glove in a finger-covered configuration with an attached illumination source in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.

Reference numbers refer to the same or equivalent parts of the present disclosure throughout the various figures of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE

In the following description, the various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with respect to the enclosed drawings. As required, detailed embodiments of the embodiments of the present disclosure are discussed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the embodiments of the disclosure that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the embodiments of the present disclosure.

The particulars shown herein are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the embodiments of the present disclosure only and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the present disclosure. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the present disclosure in more detail than is necessary for the fundamental understanding of the present disclosure, such that the description, taken with the drawings, making apparent to those skilled in the art how the forms of the present disclosure may be embodied in practice.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to “a magnetic material” would also mean that mixtures of one or more magnetic materials can be present unless specifically excluded.

Except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities used in the specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and claims are approximations that may vary depending upon the desired properties sought to be obtained by embodiments of the present disclosure. At the very least, and not to be considered as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical parameter should be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding conventions.

Additionally, the recitation of numerical ranges within this specification is considered to be a disclosure of all numerical values and ranges within that range (unless otherwise explicitly indicated). For example, if a range is from about 1 to about 50, it is deemed to include, for example, 1, 7, 34, 46.1, 23.7, or any other value or range within the range.

As used herein, the indefinite article “a” indicates one as well as more than one and does not necessarily limit its referent noun to the singular.

As used herein, the terms “about” and “approximately” indicate that the amount or value in question may be the specific value designated or some other value in its neighborhood. Generally, the terms “about” and “approximately” denoting a certain value is intended to denote a range within ±5% of the value. As one example, the phrase “about 100” denotes a range of 100±5, i.e. the range from 95 to 105. Generally, when the terms “about” and “approximately” are used, it can be expected that similar results or effects according to the disclosure can be obtained within a range of ±5% of the indicated value.

As used herein, the term “and/or” indicates that either all or only one of the elements of said group may be present. For example, “A and/or B” shall mean “only A, or only B, or both A and B”. In the case of “only A”, the term also covers the possibility that B is absent, i.e. “only A, but not B”.

The term “substantially parallel” refers to deviating less than 20° from parallel alignment and the term “substantially perpendicular” refers to deviating less than 20° from perpendicular alignment. The term “parallel” refers to deviating less than 5° from mathematically exact parallel alignment. Similarly “perpendicular” refers to deviating less than 5° from mathematically exact perpendicular alignment.

The term “at least partially” is intended to denote that the following property is fulfilled to a certain extent or completely. The terms “substantially” and “essentially” are used to denote that the following feature, property or parameter is either completely (entirely) realized or satisfied or to a major degree that does not adversely affect the intended result.

The term “comprising” as used herein is intended to be non-exclusive and open-ended. Thus, for instance a composition comprising a compound A may include other compounds besides A. However, the term “comprising” also covers the more restrictive meanings of “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of”, so that for instance “a composition comprising a compound A” may also (essentially) consist of the compound A.

The various embodiments disclosed herein can be used separately and in various combinations unless specifically stated to the contrary.

The gloves of the present disclosure are designed to be fully protective in the critical areas required for live production and live event work (e.g., such as, the wrist regions, the backhand-side of the hands, knuckle areas, palms, fingers, fingertips, and region between the thumb and index finger) and are also designed to allow the user to perform any and all tasks without having to take the gloves off, ensuring the hands stay protected the entire time.

Most conventional gloves do not offer the choice between open or closed fingertips. That is, they are completely closed. Those gloves that do offer access to the fingers are usually completely fingerless thereby leaving those exposed fingers susceptible to injury. Some work gloves having removable (or re-arrangeable) fingertip portions may not provide complete covering of the finger when closed. For example, the skin is usually exposed. Furthermore, with such designs, the fabric is looser and can potentially catch and tear. Lastly, other gloves with removable (or re-arrangeable) fingertips are designed to bend and flip back (and be out of the way) along an axis on the backhand-side and transverse to the longitudinal axis of the finger. A problem with this design, however, is that when the glove is arranged in a finger-exposed configuration, the fingers that are free (i.e., not arranged in the respective fingertip portions of the glove), are exposed and completely uncovered (and susceptible to danger) from all directions.

When doing laborious work leaving fingers exposed to injury is very dangerous, so fingerless or semi-fingerless gloves are not ideal. At the same time gloves that do not provide a method by which to access the fingers for fine motor tasks usually forces the user to remove the gloves altogether to perform those tasks, thereby creating a potentially even more dangerous situation by leaving the entire hand exposed to injury. And other gloves that might offer removable fingertips are not designed in a way that keeps the fabric of the removable fingertip protected from catching and/or tearing.

Embodiments of the present disclosure, address all of the problems mentioned above. For example, with embodiments of the present disclosure, a user has the option of keeping the fingers covered (e.g., completely within the glove) in a finger-covered orientation, or exposing one or more fingertips (including the thumb) in a finger-exposed configuration, while the gloves remain positioned on the hand. By implementing aspects of the disclosure, the user need not endure the regular cycle experienced with conventional gloves of removing such gloves (e.g., to allow for exposed finger tips) followed by replacing the gloves on the hands, only to again remove the gloves, and subsequently replace the gloves (in a regular inefficient cycle), and the susceptibility to injury when the gloves are removed.

Additionally, with embodiments of the present disclosure, re-arrangeable (or repositionable) fingertip coverings on the glove are configured to permit one or more of the fingertips to be exposed and articulatable in, for example, a grip-closing direction, while a backhand-side portion of the glove remains in place to cover the backhand side of the fingers. For example, when one or more fingers are exposed, the respective protective backside portions of the glove fingertips are structured and configured to remain positioned above the exposed finger portions to provide protection to the fingers from the backhand-side direction even while a user may have one of more fingertips exposed. Thus, by implementing aspects of the disclosure, the gloves offer protection for portions of the fingers even while the glove is in a finger-exposed configuration.

In accordance with further aspects of the disclosure, when in a finger-covered configuration, the repositionable fingertip coverings are structured and arranged to tuck in behind (or underneath) respective “static” fingertip portions of the palm-side base material. As should be understood, the “static” fingertip portions remain in position (e.g., relative to the finger) regardless of whether the glove is in a finger-exposed configuration or a finger-covered configuration. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, as the repositionable (or re-arrangeable) fingertip coverings are arranged underneath respective “static” fingertip portions of the palm side base material when in the finger-covered configuration, the repositionable (or re-arrangeable) fingertip coverings are less susceptible to catching and/or tearing. For example, when performing lifting or pulling actions, the glove fingertips may undergo a pulling force in a direction (e.g., opposite or counter to) the lifting/pulling direction. With embodiments of the present disclosure, because ends of the repositionable fingertip coverings are structured and arranged to tuck behind (or underneath) respective “static” fingertip portions of the palm-side base material, the repositionable fingertip coverings are less likely to snag or tear (and/or unintentionally expose the finger).

FIG. 1 is a palm-side view of an exemplary and non-limiting glove 100 in a finger-exposed configuration with a plurality of fingertips (or finger portions) 110 exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the work glove 100 includes repositionable fingertip coverings 115 on the first three digits (i.e., thumb, index finger and ring finger) that allow the user to have access to his fingers (or finger portions) 110 when necessary or helpful for fine motor tasks. While the exemplary embodiment includes repositionable fingertip coverings 115 on the first three digits, it should be understood that the disclosure contemplates any number (e.g., one, two, three, four, or five) of repositionable fingertip coverings may be utilized in different embodiments. As shown in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, when in the finger-exposed configuration, the fingertip coverings 115 are structured and arranged to be repositioned behind a respective finger 110, in order to allow the actual fingertip to be exposed. In such a manner, implementing this aspect of the disclosure provides the wearer the dexterity in the fingertips that may be necessary for performing fine motor tasks without having to remove the gloves from the user's hand.

As shown in FIG. 1, in embodiments, the location of the opening between the fingertip covering 115 and the palm-side base material 120 is structured and arranged just below the top knuckle of each of the three fingers. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, this ensures that the wearer is able to bend the finger outward (e.g., in a gripping direction) and utilize the finger with full dexterity and maneuverability while still wearing the glove 100.

As shown in FIG. 1, the glove 100 include on the palm side, the palm-side base material 120, which may be a synthetic soft leather, with other materials contemplated by the disclosure. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the glove 100 includes fingertip coverings (including repositionable fingertip coverings 115 and non-repositionable fingertip coverings 155) for each of the five fingertips, wherein the material of the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 and non-repositionable fingertip coverings 155 is a capacitive material (e.g., a capacitive synthetic leather material), which allows the user to interface with a touch screen directly through the fabric (without a need to remove the glove or expose the fingertips through the repositionable fingertip coverings 115).

As further shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the glove 100 may include two palm reinforcement patches 125, 130 with respective pads 127 arranged thereunder so as to provide additional grip and/or protection for the user's palms (e.g., when lifting heavy items). In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, in embodiments, the pads 127 may be polyester-based pads. in further contemplated embodiments, the pads 127 may include a plastic material, a rubber material, and/or a gel. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, at least one palm reinforcement patch 125, 130 is provided with a rough surface to provide added grip when holding and lifting, e.g., heavy items. In embodiments, the pads 127 may be sewn or stitched to the palm-side base material 120 or may be sewn or stitched to a backside of the palm reinforcement patches 125, 130, and the reinforcement patches 125, 130 may be sewn or stitched to the palm-side base material 120. In further contemplated embodiments, an adhesive may be used to attach the patches 125, 130 and/or pads 127 to the palm base material 120.

As further shown in FIG. 1, in embodiments, the glove 100 includes a thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 having a rough surface and arranged in the thumb crotch (i.e., location between the thumb and pointer finger). In embodiments, the thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 may comprise the same material as the palm reinforcement patches 125, 130. In embodiments, the thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 and the palm reinforcement patches 125, 130 comprise synthetic gripping material. In further contemplated embodiments, different materials that are equally (or sufficiently) protective and durable could be used. For example, Kevlar could be used instead of the synthetic grip material. In embodiments, the thumb crotch enforcement patch 135 is non-padded. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 provides additional reinforcement in an area of the glove 100 where much wear and tear may occur when lifting heavy items and/or wrapping cables, for example.

As shown in FIG. 1, the glove 100 includes a wrist cuff 140, e.g., a neoprene wrist cuff, that is closeable/tightenable using an attached closure strap 145. In embodiments, the closure strap 145 may comprise a thermoplastic rubber material. The closure strap 145 includes hook-and-loop fastener on the underside thereof (e.g., stitched and/or attached using an adhesive), which is attachable to a corresponding hook-and-loop fastener patch 150 arranged (e.g., stitched and/or attached using an adhesive) on the wrist cuff 140. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the closeable wrist cuff 140 and closure strap 145 allows the wearer to adjust the fit of the glove 100 over the user's wrist, so as to secure the glove 100 to the hand. While not shown in FIG. 1, in embodiments, the glove 100 also includes an expansion fabric arranged along an edge of the glove near the wrist cuff 140, which is structured and arranged to allow the glove to be opened widely for placement on a hand (or removal from a hand).

As shown in FIG. 1, one glove 100 of each pair of gloves comes with an attached clip 155 and the other of the pair of gloves (not shown) includes a complimentary loop (not shown) in order to attach the gloves together when not in use, so as not to accidentally misplace one glove, for example. The clip 155 also allows the user to attach the gloves 100 to a keychain or carabiner that may be present on a tool belt.

As additionally shown in FIG. 1, the glove 100 includes finger side panels 160. In embodiments, the finger side panels 160 may comprise synthetic soft leather, with other materials contemplated by the disclosure. In embodiments, the finger side panels 160 may comprise the same material as the palm-side base material 120.

As partially shown in FIG. 1, the glove 100 includes a backhand-side base material 170. In embodiments, the backhand-side base material 180 may comprise a polyester mesh that allows for moisture to evaporate out of the glove 100, e.g., during extended use. Additionally, as partially shown in FIG. 1, in embodiments, each fingertip includes a fingertip reinforcement material 170 arranged at the backhand-side fingertip region of each finger. In embodiments, the fingertip reinforcement material 170 may comprise the same material as the thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 and the palm reinforcement patches 125, 130.

FIG. 2 depicts a palm-side view of an exemplary glove 100 with no fingertips exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2, the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are structured and arranged to tuck in behind the palm-side base material 120 when covering the fingers (i.e., when in the closed position) so as not to be susceptible to catching and tearing. As such, the glove 100 is structured such that the palm-side base material 120 overlaps a portion of the repositionable fingertip covering 115 in an overlap region 205. As shown in FIG. 2, when the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are in the closed position (i.e., not opened), the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 naturally tuck back underneath the palm-side base material 120 due to the overlap region 205. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, when the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are in the closed position none of the user's skin is exposed. Moreover, in accordance with further aspects of the disclosure, when the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are in the closed position there is a substantial decrease in the possibility of the fabric on the glove's fingertip catching onto something and/or tearing.

In embodiments, the length of the overlap (in the finger extension direction) of the overlap region 205 is approximately 2 mm-5 mm, with other lengths contemplated by the disclosure. In one exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the length of the overlap (in the finger extension direction) of the overlap region 205 is approximately 4 mm. If the length of overlap is too small, then the finger will not be sufficiently covered when in the closed position. On the other hand, if the length of overlap is too large, then it may be difficult to reposition the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 so expose the finger.

In a work situation, the motions that are typically involved in moving, lifting, gripping and maneuvering equipment include motions where the equipment would be moving in the direction from palm to fingertip. If the repositionable fingertip coverings were to be laying on top of the palm-side base material 120, or in line with the palm-side base material 120, the fingertip coverings would catch and potentially tear very often. By implementing aspects of the disclosure, however, the palm-side base material 120 overlaps a portion of the repositionable fingertip covering 115 in an overlap region 205, ensuring the repositionable fingertip covering 115 tucks underneath the palm-side base material 120 in the closed (or un-exposed) configuration, such that there is a significantly reduced chance that the material of the repositionable fingertip covering 115 would catch and tear, which maintains the gloves intact for a longer duration.

FIG. 3 is a backhand-side view of an exemplary and non-limiting glove 100 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3, the glove 100 includes a backhand-side base material 180. In embodiments, the backhand-side base material 180 may comprise a polyester mesh that allows for moisture to evaporate out of the glove 100, e.g., during extended use. As shown in FIG. 3, the work gloves 100 include respective repositionable fingertip coverings 115 on the first three digits (with only thumb repositionable fingertip covering 115 shown in FIG. 3) that allow the user to have access to his fingers (or finger portions) when necessary and/or helpful for fine motor tasks.

As further shown in FIG. 3, in embodiments, the glove 100 includes a thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 having a rough surface and arranged in the thumb crotch (i.e., location between the thumb and pointer finger). In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 provides additional reinforcement in an area where much wear and tear may occur when lifting heavy items and/or wrapping cables, for example. As also in FIG. 3, the glove 100 includes a wrist cuff 140, e.g., a neoprene wrist cuff, which is closeable/tightenable using the attached closure strap 145. In embodiments, the closure strap 145 may comprise a thermoplastic rubber (TPR) material. The closure strap 145 includes hook-and-loop fastener on the underside thereof (not shown), which is attachable to a corresponding hook-and-loop fastener patch (not shown) arranged on the wrist cuff 140. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the closeable wrist cuff 140 and closure strap 145 allows the wearer to adjust the fit of the glove 100 over the user's wrist, so as to secure the glove 100 to the hand. As shown in FIG. 3, in embodiments, the glove 100 also includes an expansion fabric 315 (e.g., an elastic material) arranged along an edge of the glove near the wrist cuff 140, which is structured and arranged to allow the glove 100 to be opened widely for placement on a hand (or removal from a hand). The closure strap 145 on the wrist cuff 140 (e.g., neoprene) allows for a secure fit around the hand and the wrist cuff 140. The expansion fabric 315 (e.g., elastic material) sewn on the ends of the wrist cuff 140 create a gusset that allows the opening space for the hand to enter the glove 100 to be wider than the glove itself, making it easy to put the glove 100 on and take it off. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the elasticity of the materials of the wrist cuff 140 and/or the expansion fabric 315 are utilized to prevent tearing of the glove 100 while inserting or removing the hand.

As shown in FIG. 3, one glove 100 of each pair of gloves comes with an attached clip 155 and the other of the pair of gloves not shown) includes a complimentary loop (not shown) in order to attach the gloves together when not in use, so as not to accidentally misplace one glove, for example. As additionally shown in FIG. 3, the glove 100 includes finger side panels 160. In embodiments, the finger side panels 160 may comprise synthetic soft leather, with other materials contemplated by the disclosure. In embodiments, the finger side panels 160 may comprise the same material as the palm-side base material 120.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3, in embodiments, each fingertip portion includes a fingertip reinforcement material 170 arranged at the backhand-side fingertip region of each finger. In embodiments, the fingertip reinforcement material 170 may comprise the same material as the thumb crotch reinforcement patch 135 and the palm reinforcement patches 125, 130. In embodiments, the fingertip reinforcement material 170 (which is a tougher and harder material as compared to the backhand-side base material 180) may extend down from the tip of the finger in an exemplary embodiment approximately 2-3 centimeters, to further protect the fingertips from pinching and/or crushing injuries, and/or to increase the durability of the fingertip regions of the glove 100.

In accordance with further aspects of the disclosure, in embodiments, the gloves 100 include a backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305, e.g., formed of thermoplastic rubber (TPR), on the back of the hand. In embodiments, the backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305 may be stitched to the backhand-side base material 180 and/or the backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305 may be attached to the backhand-side base material 180 with an adhesive. As shown in FIG. 3, the backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305 may include a plurality of ribs 320 that are structured and arranged to at least roughly correspond with the underlying bones (e.g., knuckles) of a user's hand (when the glove 100 is on the user's hand). As also shown in FIG. 3, each respective rib 320 is segmented into rib protrusions 325, 325′ and 325″, with valleys 330 there between so that the glove 100 can be articulated more easily.

In accordance with further aspects of the disclosure, in embodiments, the gloves 100 also include finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310, e.g., made of thermoplastic rubber (TPR), on each digit to provide impact and abrasion protection for the user. In embodiments, the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 may be stitched to the backhand-side base material 180 and/or the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 may be attached to the backhand-side base material 180 with an adhesive. As understood by those in the production and live event tech industry, pinching of the fingertips can be a common occurrence with certain equipment. As such, as shown in FIG. 3, the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 are structured and arranged to extend approximately all the way to the fingertips to protect the user's fingertips from such pinching or other potential impacts. As shown in FIG. 3, the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 may each include a plurality of ridge regions 335, 340, and 345 (e.g., having TPR protective ridges or protrusions), which are structured and arranged to at least roughly correspond with the underlying bones of a user's finger (when the glove 100 is on the user's hand). The finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 also include thinner regions 350 and 355 between plurality of ridge regions 335, 340, and 345 so that the glove 100 can be articulated more easily. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305 and the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 sewn (or otherwise attached) onto the back of the glove hand and fingers (as well as the wrist strap 145 on the back of the wrist cuff 140) serve to protect the hand from impacts, cuts, and/or abrasions. As discussed above, the shape of the backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305 and the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 are articulated which, in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, allows them to bend with the hand and fingers so as to reduce fatigue on the hand and fingers when opening and closing the glove 100.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, in some embodiments, the backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305 and the linger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 may be colored, (e.g., brightly colored), and/or may include luminescence materials to enhance a user's visibility of their hands, e.g., in low-light situations. In other contemplated embodiments, the backhand impact/abrasion protection patch 305 and the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 and the other materials of the glove 100 may be black to decrease the visibility of a user's hands, e.g., to remain “invisible” to an audience. With such a glove configuration, there is no need to use a marker (e.g., permanent marker) to cover any brightly colored portions.

In some embodiments, the glove 100 may include an internal layer of fleece inside the glove that covers the hand so as to provide warmth along with the protective and dexterity features, for working in cold environments.

FIG. 4 is a side view of an exemplary and non-limiting glove 100 with a plurality of fingertips 110 exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4, when the fingertips 110 are out and exposed, the glove fingertip portions are still covering the back of the user's finger with the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 that extends approximately to the top of the glove finger. Additionally, whereas other gloves that may have removable (or repositionable) fingertip coverings are designed to fold backwards in order to fully expose all sides of the finger, the gloves 100 of the present disclosure are purposely designed and structured to remain positioned and cover the backhand-side (i.e., fingernail side) of the finger when in a finger-exposed configuration. The finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 covering the glove fingers, as mentioned above, extend approximately all the way to the top of the fingertips. This structural feature ensures that even while the actual fingers 110 are out of the glove 100 there is still substantial protection on the backside of the finger in the event that something shifts, moves or falls on the hand while the wearer is working.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, all of the components of the glove may be sewn together using a thread, for example, nylon thread. With an exemplary and non-limiting assembly process, the patches (e.g., of TPR) 305, 310 may be sewn onto the backhand-side base material 180 (e.g., a breathable fabric) on the back of the glove 100. One patch 305 is structured and arranged to cover the back of the hand and five other patches 310 are structured and arranged to cover each of the fingers, respectively. The backhand-side base material 180 is sewn together to the palm-side base material 120 (e.g., synthetic or natural leather), which covers almost the entire palm side of the glove 100. Capacitive material used for the repositionable finger coverings 115 is sewn together on three sides to cover, for example, the top third of the fingertip, while leaving a slit on the bottom to allow for repositioning of the repositionable finger coverings 115 off of or over the finger. Capacitive material used for the non-repositionable finger coverings 155 is sewn together on four sides to cover, for example, the top third of the fingertips. A patch 135 of synthetic gripping material may also Be sewn over the thumb crotch (area between the thumb and pointer fingers). The sewn together backhand side material, e.g., breathable backhand-side material 180 and palm-side base material 120 (e.g., leather) are sewn at the base of the glove to a wrist cuff 140 (e.g., a neoprene wrist cuff). The ends of the wrist cuff 140 are sewn to an elastic expansion material 315 to allow for wider opening of the glove 100. A wrist strap patch 145 (e.g., of TPR) is sewn to the wrist cuff 140 on the back side of the glove. One component of a hook-and-loop fastener is attached (e.g., sewn) to the underside of the wrist strap patch 145. A loop of material (e.g., leather material) is sewn onto the lateral side of the glove 100 and a hook 155 is attached onto the loop.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the TPR patches may be created using direct injection molding. For example, a TPR is injected into the mold and then the TPR solidifies into the shape of the mold. The solidified TPR patches are then sewn onto the materials of the glove. This process can easily be performed by a manufacturing plant with the appropriate machinery capable of cutting, sewing, and direct injection molding.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the breathable fabric material of the backhand-side base material 180 serves to allow moisture to wick out, keeping the hands from becoming overly sweaty while the user is working. The gloves 100 are designed so they do not need to be removed. As such, the backhand side material 180 is utilized to allow for moisture to evaporate out, which is essential to the longevity of use. On the palm side of the glove, the palm-side base material 120 may be leather, which is very durable and protective for all types of work. The gripping material used for patches 125, 130, 135, and 170 helps to ensure that the user can lift and carry items without worrying that the items slip out even in wet conditions. The padding 127 (e.g., rubber foam) placed between the patches 125 and 130 and the palm-side base material 120 serves to keep the palm side of the hand protected from impacts, pressure and/or blistering, e.g., while lifting and carrying. The capacitive fabric is used for the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 and non-repositionable fingertip coverings 155 is sewn at the top of the fingers serve to allow the user to interface with electronics that have a touchscreen without having to remove the gloves or expose the fingers. In such a manner, contact and interaction with a touchscreen GUI may be accomplished with the capacitive material of the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 and non-repositionable fingertip coverings 155 arranged between the skin and the touchscreen. With the disclosed exemplary embodiment, on the first three digits the capacitive material is sewn on only three sides to form the repositionable fingertip coverings 115. On the bottom end of these first three digits is an opening is provided that allows the user to pull his fingertips of these first three digits out of the glove in order to use them to perform fine motor tasks that would normally not be able to be done with a glove on (e.g., as the glove might be too bulky).

With further contemplated embodiments, different materials may be interchanged on different areas of the glove to allow for a different experience in using the glove and to allow for protection in different areas, depending on the type of work being done. For example, the size and shapes of the TPR patches 305, 310 can be changed to allow for better protection in different areas, and the size and shapes of the gripping material of patches 125, 130 can be changed to cover more or less of the palm and fingers. Additionally, in embodiments, a fleece layer may be added internally to allow the glove to be warmer in cold environments.

In operation, a user would open the neoprene wrist cuff 140, slide his/her hand into the glove 100 and securely fastens the wrist cuff 140 using the wrist strap 145 on the wrist cuff 140 to ensure a secure and good fit. The user would then go about performing all the tasks necessary without having to remove the gloves 100. If the need arises to perform fine motor tasks (such as using a small tool or pressing small buttons, for example) the user need only flip one or more of the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 over the fingers and expose the fingers 110 to perform these tasks. Thus, by implementing aspects of the disclosure, there is no need to remove the gloves 100. If the user needs to interface with an electronic device with a touchscreen the user could do so directly through the capacitive material of the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 and non-repositionable fingertip coverings 155. The user may also choose to remove the fingertips on the first three digits to interface with the touchscreen. Again, in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, there is no need to remove the gloves 100. Additionally, while these gloves 100 are designed specifically for professionals working in live production and live event industries, they could be used by anyone in any industry (e.g., gardening industry, mechanics industry).

FIG. 5 is a schematic sectional view of a finger portion of a glove with a fingertip 110 covered in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5, in the closed configuration, the fingertip 110 is covered by the repositionable fingertip covering 115, the finger side panels 160, the backhand-side base material 180 and the palm side material 120. As shown in FIG. 5, in embodiments, fingertip reinforcement material 170 is arranged at the backhand-side fingertip region of each glove finger. A finger impact/abrasion protection patch 310, e.g., made of thermoplastic rubber (TPR), is attached to (e.g., sewn or glued) the backhand-side base material 180. As shown in 5, the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 are structured and arranged to extend approximately all the way to the fingertips to protect the user's fingertips from such pinching or other potential impacts.

As shown in FIG. 5, the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are structured and arranged to tuck in behind the palm-side base material 120 when covering the finger (i.e., when in the closed position) so as not to be susceptible to catching and tearing. As such, the glove 100 is structured such that the palm-side base material 120 overlaps a portion of the repositionable fingertip covering 115 in an overlap region 205. As shown in FIG. 5, when the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are in the closed position (i.e., not opened), the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 naturally tuck back underneath the palm-side base material 120 due to the overlap region 205. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, when the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are in the closed position none of the user's skin is exposed. Moreover, in accordance with further aspects of the disclosure, when the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are in the closed position there is a substantial decrease in the possibility of the fabric on the glove's fingertip catching onto something and/or tearing.

In embodiments, the length of the overlap (in the finger extension direction) of the overlap region 205 is approximately 2 mm-5 mm, with other lengths contemplated by the disclosure. In one exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the length of the overlap (in the finger extension direction) of the overlap region 205 is approximately 4 mm. If the length of overlap is too small, then the finger will not be sufficiently covered when in the closed position and the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 may not sufficiently tuck back underneath the palm-side base material 120. On the other hand, if the length of overlap is too large, then it may be difficult to reposition the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 so expose the finger.

As shown in FIG. 5, the location of the opening 515 of the repositionable fingertip covering 115 is designed to fall just below the top knuckle 510 of each of the three fingers. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, this ensures that the wearer is able to bend the finger 110 (e.g., in a gripping direction) and make use of the finger with full dexterity and maneuverability while still wearing the gloves 100.

FIG. 6 is a schematic sectional view of a finger portion of a glove with a fingertip exposed in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6, in the open configuration, the fingertip 110 is exposed and the repositionable fingertip covering 115 (and portions of the finger side panels 160) are moved to a backhand side of the finger 110. As shown in FIG. 6, while the glove is in an open (or exposed) configuration, the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310 remain positioned over the backhand side of the finger to protect the user's fingertips from such pinching or other potential impacts. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, the fingertip portion is sufficiently stiff (e.g., not floppy), for example due to the stiffness of the finger impact/abrasion protection patches 310, so that the fingertip portion remains positioned over the finger when in the open configuration.

In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the user has the option of keeping the fingers covered or exposed with the gloves remaining on. As shown in FIG. 5, the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are configured to tuck in when covering the fingers so as not to be susceptible to catching and tearing. As shown in FIG. 6, when the fingers are exposed, the protective backhand-side of the glove fingertip still remains in place above the finger to provide protection to the respective fingers 110 from behind (i.e., from a backhand-side direction).

As shown in FIG. 6, in accordance with aspects of the disclosure, when in the open configuration, the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 are structured and arranged to sit against the backhand-side base material 180 so as to not interfere with articulation of the finger 110. Moreover, due to the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 being attached under (or inside) the palm side material 120, as shown in FIG. 6, when in the open configuration, the repositionable fingertip coverings 115 do not interfere with (e.g., prevent the movement/flexing of) the palm side material 120 when the finger is bent. As shown in FIG. 6, the location of the opening 515 of the repositionable fingertip covering 115 is designed to fall just below the top knuckle 510 of each of the three fingers. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, this ensures that the wearer is able to bend the finger (e.g., in a gripping direction) and utilize the finger with full dexterity and maneuverability while still wearing the gloves 100 with the glove in an open configuration.

FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view of a finger portion of a glove with a fingertip 110 exposed and bent in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7, the location of the opening 515 of the repositionable fingertip covering 115 is designed to fall just below the top knuckle 510 of each of the three fingers (in a finger extension direction). In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, this ensures that the wearer is able to bend the finger 110 inwardly (e.g., in a gripping direction) as shown in FIG. 7, and make use of the finger 110 with full dexterity and maneuverability while still wearing the glove while the glove 100 is in an open configuration.

FIG. 8 is a palm-side view of an exemplary glove 800 in a finger-covered configuration with an attached illumination source 805 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the glove 800 may include an illumination source 805 (e.g., a flashlight) attached on the palm side of the glove 800. In embodiments, the illumination source 805 may be attached to the wrist cuff 140. In embodiments, the illumination source 805 may be releaseably attached (e.g., with hook-and-loop fastener, with a designated illumination source strap (not shown) or with the wrist strap 145). In further contemplated embodiments, the illumination source 805 may be permanently attached (i.e., not configured for releasable attachment) to the wrist cuff 140. In other contemplated embodiments, the glove 800 may include a pouch or holder on the wrist cuff 140 or the palm-side material 120 that is configured to accommodate an illumination source 805. In accordance with aspects of the disclosure, by arranging an illumination source on the palm-side of the glove 800, a user is able to see what his hands are manipulating or operating. As shown in FIG. 8 in dashed lines, in some embodiments, the glove 800 may include an illumination source 805 (e.g., a flashlight) attached above the thumb region. In further contemplated embodiments, the illumination source 805 and glove 800 may be configured such that the illumination source 805 can be releaseably arrangeable on any of the palm-side, above the thumb, or the backhand side of the glove 800.

One or more embodiments of the disclosure may be referred to herein, individually and/or collectively, by the term “invention” merely for convenience and without intending to voluntarily limit the scope of this application to any particular invention or inventive concept. Moreover, although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that any subsequent arrangement designed to achieve the same or similar purpose may be substituted for the specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover any and all subsequent adaptations or variations of various embodiments. Combinations of the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specifically described herein, will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the description.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description of the Embodiments of the Disclosure, various features may be grouped together or described in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter may be directed to less than all of the features of any of the disclosed embodiments. Thus, the following claims are incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as defining separately claimed subject matter.

The above disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present disclosure is to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description.

Accordingly, the novel configuration is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

While the disclosure refers to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the true spirit and scope of the embodiments of the disclosure. While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. In addition, modifications may be made without departing from the essential teachings of the disclosure. Furthermore, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the disclosure.

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