US20060191051A1 - Thigh protector for use with a pneumatic tool - Google Patents
Thigh protector for use with a pneumatic tool Download PDFInfo
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- US20060191051A1 US20060191051A1 US11/252,996 US25299605A US2006191051A1 US 20060191051 A1 US20060191051 A1 US 20060191051A1 US 25299605 A US25299605 A US 25299605A US 2006191051 A1 US2006191051 A1 US 2006191051A1
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- Prior art keywords
- impact resistant
- thigh protector
- thigh
- resistant material
- attached
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D13/00—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches
- A41D13/05—Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches protecting only a particular body part
- A41D13/0543—Legs
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a thigh protector, and more particularly to a thigh protector having a vibration resistance layer and an impact resistance layer.
- the present invention also relates to a thigh protector connected to a waist supported structure having at least one band for attachment of a tool carrier.
- a pneumatic tool is a pneumatic hammer (sometimes referred to as a jack hammer), a tool typically used to break apart concrete surfaces. Often when a user operates a pneumatic hammer, the tool repeatedly impacts and/or vibrates against the user's thighs, typically against an inner portion of the thighs. Hence, a need exists for a thigh protector to be worn for protection when operating a pneumatic tool.
- a pneumatic hammer sometimes referred to as a jack hammer
- the tool repeatedly impacts and/or vibrates against the user's thighs, typically against an inner portion of the thighs.
- a known method for protecting a user against the impact and vibration of a pneumatic hammer is to wrap a soft material, such as a T-shirt around the pneumatic hammer and taping the soft material thereto. Accordingly, a need also exists for an improved protection device for attachment to a pneumatic hammer.
- Some waist supported structures include police belts, military belts and construction utility belts. These belts include attachment means such as eyelets, hooks, and/or pockets for the attachment of tools or tool carriers.
- attachment means such as eyelets, hooks, and/or pockets for the attachment of tools or tool carriers.
- these attachment means often cause the belt to torque or sag from the wearer's waist when a heavy tool is attached to them. Accordingly, an improved waist supported structure is needed for the attachment of tool carriers and having thigh protectors attached thereto for protection during operation of pneumatic tools.
- the present invention is a thigh protector that includes a reinforcement material; a vibration resistant material attached to a first side of the reinforcement material; and a impact resistant material attached to a second side of the reinforcing member.
- the impact resistant material of the above described thigh protector includes an impact resistant component that is formed to a preformed curvature to support the remainder of the thigh protector in the preformed curvature; and an outer surface of the vibration resistant material includes a plurality of strips and a plurality of grooves, forming a plurality of air pockets therebetween for increases vibration resistance.
- the present invention is a waist supported structure for mounting a tool carrier to carry tools at the waist of a wearer that includes an upper portion having an outwardly directed surface adjacent the waist of a wearer and at least one band portion attached at its opposite ends to the outwardly directed surface, such that the band is disposed substantially parallel to and facing the outwardly directed surface to define a slot therebetween.
- the waist supported structure also includes a tool carrier extending through the slot and releasably attached to the at least one band portion; a lower portion having an outwardly directed surface and an inwardly directed surface adjacent the thigh of a wearer; and at least one thigh protector attached to the lower portion.
- the thigh protector includes a vibration resistant material attached to the outwardly directed surface of the lower portion; and an impact resistant material attached to the inwardly directed surface of the lower portion.
- the present invention is a protective boot for attachment to a pneumatic tool.
- the boot includes a body movable from an open position to a closed position to removably secure the boot in surrounding relation to a portion of a pneumatic tool; and a fastener connected to the body for securing the body in the closed position; wherein the body includes protective outer and inner covers disposed in surrounding relation to a cushioning material.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a thigh protector according to one embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 2 shows a front view of the thigh protector of FIG. 1 being worn by a user
- FIG. 3 is front view of the thigh protector of FIG. 1 , showing a vibration resistant material
- FIG. 4 is a back view of the thigh protector of FIG. 1 , showing a impact resistant material
- FIG. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the thigh protector of FIG. 1 taken from line 5 - 5 of FIG. 3 ;
- FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the impact resistant material of FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 7 is a back view of an impact resistant component of the impact resistant material of FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 8 is a front view of a thigh protector according to another embodiment of the present invention being worn by a user;
- FIG. 9 is a front view of a waist supported structure
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a tool carrier for attachment to the waist supported structure of FIG. 9 , where the tool carrier is shown in an open position;
- FIG. 11 is a front view of a tool carrier for attachment to the waist supported structure of FIG. 9 , where the tool carrier is shown in an closed position;
- FIG. 12 is a front view of a pneumatic hammer having a protective boot attached thereto;
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the protective boot of FIG. 12 shown in an open position
- FIG. 14 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the protective boot of FIG. 12 taken from line 14 - 14 of FIG. 12 showing the boot disposed in surrounding relation to an exhaust of a pneumatic hammer;
- FIG. 15 is another longitudinal cross-sectional view of the protective boot of FIG. 12 taken from line 15 - 15 of FIG. 13 ;
- FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a protective boot for attachment to a pneumatic tool according to another embodiment of the invention, showing the boot in an open position;
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the protective boot of FIG. 16 , showing the boot in a closed position;
- FIG. 18 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the protective-boot of FIG. 16 taken from line 18 - 18 of FIG. 17 ;
- the present invention is directed to a thigh protector.
- the thigh protector is particularly useful when worn as protection during operation of a pneumatic tool, such as a pneumatic hammer, a paving breaker, a chipping hammer, a concrete vibrator, a rivet buster or a trench digger.
- the thigh protector includes a vibration resistance layer and an impact resistance layer.
- the thigh protector is connected to a waist supported structure having at least one band for attachment of a tool carrier. Such a waist supported structure is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/456,878, which is herein incorporated by reference.
- the present invention is directed to a user protection device for attachment to a pneumatic tool, such as a pneumatic hammer.
- FIG. 1 shows a thigh protector 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- the thigh protector 10 includes a vibration resistant material 12 and an impact resistant material 14 .
- the vibration resistant material 12 and the impact resistant material 14 are attached to a reinforcing member 16 .
- the reinforcing member 16 is disposed between the vibration resistant material 12 and the impact resistant material 14 .
- a belt loop 18 is attached to the reinforcing member 16 .
- the belt loop 18 allows the thigh protector 10 to be suspended from a user's belt 21 (as shown in FIG. 2 .)
- a first adjustment strap 19 and a second adjustment strap 20 are each attached to the reinforcing member 16 .
- the first adjustment strap 19 has a buckle 22 and the second adjustment strap 20 has a buckle receiver 24 that forms a removable inter-locking connection with the buckle 22 .
- the thigh protector 10 is curved to approximate the curvature of a typical user's thigh.
- the belt loop 18 of the thigh protector 10 is suspended from the belt 21 (as shown in FIG. 2 ) of the user such that the impact resistant material 14 faces towards the user's thigh.
- the belt loop 18 is attached to the reinforcing member 16 by one or more rivets 30 . Although in other embodiments other appropriate attachment means may be used. When so attached, the belt loop 18 forms an opening 32 for receiving a user's belt.
- the belt loop 18 is composed of a strong, durable material, such as leather, for example vegetable tanned leather, also known as vege-tanned leather.
- the attachment straps 19 and 20 are wrapped around the user's leg, such that the impact resistant material 14 contacts the user's thigh.
- the vibration resistant material 12 covers the user's thigh and faces outwardly so that when a pneumatic tool is contacted thereagainst, the user's leg is protected.
- the longitudinal axis 23 of the vibration resistant material 12 forms an acute angel a with the belt loop 18 .
- This angular arrangement of the longitudinal axis 23 of the vibration resistant material 12 with respect to the belt loop 18 urges the vibration resistant material 12 towards the inner thigh of the user. This is particularly helpful when the thigh protector 10 is worn during the operation of a pneumatic hammer, since it is natural to many user's to allow a large portion of the pneumatic hammer's weight to bear against the user's inner thighs while operating the pneumatic hammer.
- FIG. 3 shows the vibration resistant material 12 attached to the reinforcing member 16 .
- the vibration resistant material 12 is attached to the reinforcing member 16 by a stitching 34 .
- the vibration resistant material 12 includes an indention 15 the follows the periphery of the vibration resistant material 12 . Pacing the stitching 34 in the indention 15 protects the stitching 34 against snagging and therefore protects the attachment of the vibration resistant material 12 to the reinforcing member 16 .
- the vibration resistant material 12 protects a user's thigh when a pneumatic tool is contacted thereagainst.
- a pneumatic tool such as a pneumatic hammer imparts a large amount of vibration on the user. Bearing the pneumatic hammer against the vibration resistant material 12 lessens the vibration that is transferred or felt by the user.
- the vibration resistant material 12 is composed of a flexible, compressible material, such as a rubber material.
- the vibration resistant material 12 is formed by an injection molding processes.
- the vibration resistant material 12 also includes a plurality of protruding strips 38 .
- the protruding strips 38 define a corresponding plurality of grooves 40 .
- the protruding strips 38 and grooves 40 together form a plurality of air pockets. The air pockets aid the vibration resistant material 12 in reducing the vibration that is felt by the user when the pneumatic tool is in contact with the vibration resistant material 12 .
- At least some of the protruding strips 38 are oriented at an angle with respect to the horizontal position, such as an angle of approximately forty five degrees. Such an angled orientation lessens the likelihood of the pneumatic tool repeatedly catching a leading edge of the protruding strips 38 and instead urges the pneumatic tool to slide relative to the protruding strips 38 .
- the reinforcing member 16 is composed of a leather material such as vegetable tanned leather.
- the vibration resistant material 12 is attached directly to the impact resistant material 14 without the intervening reinforcing member 16 .
- reinforcement members such as metal bars and/or wires, are integrally formed with the vibration resistant material 12 .
- FIG. 4 shows the impact resistant material 14 attached to the reinforcing member 16 .
- the impact resistant material 14 is attached to the reinforcing member 16 by one or more rivets 42 .
- the rivet(s) 42 also connects the first adjustment strap 19 (shown) and the second adjustment strap 20 (not shown) to the reinforcing member 16 .
- the vibration resistant material 12 is shown as having openings that allow the rivet(s) 42 to extend through the vibration resistant material 12 without securing the vibration resistant material 12 to the reinforcing member 16 .
- the vibration resistant material 12 Since the vibration resistant material 12 is not attached to the rivet(s) 42 , and the rivet(s) 42 are surrounded by the vibration resistant material 12 adjacent to the vibration resistant material openings, the vibration resistant material 12 protects the rivet(s) 42 against being snagged or otherwise dislodged.
- the impact resistant material 14 is a multi-layered component.
- the impact resistant material 14 includes a high strength, durable, impact resistant component 44 ; a first cushioning component 46 ; and a second cushioning component 48 that is sweat resistant and breathable; and a covering 43 .
- the first and second cushioning components 46 and 48 are omitted.
- the covering 43 is composed of a nylon fabric, such as cordura;
- the impact resistant component 44 is composed of a polycarbonate material;
- the first cushioning component 46 is composed of a high density foam material or a high density bubble wrap material;
- the second cushioning component 48 is composed of a meshed foam material, such as Dri-Lex® 1013, manufactured by the Faytex Corporation located in Weymouth, Mass.
- the covering 43 warps around the impact resistant component 44 ; the first cushioning component 46 ; and the second cushioning component 48 and binds the components 44 , 46 and 48 together by a stitching 54 that extends around a periphery of the second cushioning material 48 (see for example, the stitching 54 in FIG. 4 .)
- the impact resistant component 44 preferably is formed to a predetermined curvature.
- the impact resistant component 44 is formed from a polycarbonate material in a heat forming process to a predetermined curvature.
- Polycarbonate is a particularly useful material for use as the impact resistant component 44 because of its excellent shape memory properties. This property allows the material to return to its original shape when an external force displaces the material from its original shape. This property is advantageous because it is desirable for the thigh protector 10 to have the previously described curvature to approximate the curvature of a typical user's thigh.
- the polycarbonate material is formed to the desired curvature to approximate the shape of a typical user's thigh and supports the remainder of the thigh protector 10 in that shape as well.
- the shape memory of the polycarbonate material allows the remainder of the thigh protector 10 to return to its original curvature.
- reinforcement ribs can be used to help maintain the original curvature of the high strength component 44 .
- the impact resistant component 44 is formed from a high density polyethylene material having reinforcement ribs 50 protruding therefrom.
- the reinforcement ribs 50 help prevent the material from departing from its original curvature.
- the thigh protector 10 includes the first adjustment strap 19 and the second adjustment strap 20 .
- Each strap 19 and 20 is attached to the reinforcing member 16 by one or more rivets 42 as described above.
- the first adjustment strap 19 includes the buckle 22 that forms the removable inter-locking connection with the buckle receiver 24 of the second adjustment strap 20 .
- the buckle 22 includes outwardly elastic arms 56 , each having an angled ramp section 57 and a catch section 59 inset from the ramp section 57 .
- the ramp sections 57 guide the arms 56 into an end opening of the buckle receiver 24 , which compresses the arms 56 until the ramp sections 57 extend past side openings 60 in the buckle receiver 24 allowing the catch sections 59 to lockingly engage the side openings 60 .
- the arms 56 can be disengaged by depressing the ramp sections 57 and pulling the arms 56 away from the buckle receiver 24 .
- the buckle 22 also includes a slot that receives the first adjustment strap 19 and allows a slack between the first adjustment strap 19 and the second adjustment strap 20 to be loosened or tightened, respectively, by pushing the first adjustment strap 19 through the slot or pulling the first adjustment strap 19 through the slot.
- FIG. 8 shows an alternative thigh protector 10 ′.
- the thigh protector 10 ′ contains that same components and/or alternatives as the thigh protector 10 described above, a difference being that the thigh protector 10 ′ of FIG. 8 includes a belt loop 18 ′ which contains a slot 25 for receiving a belt loop 27 from the pants of the user. This facilitates attachment of the thigh protector 10 ′ onto a user's belt 29 since the slot 25 prevents the belt loop 18 ′ of the thigh protector 10 ′ from overlapping any of the belt loops 27 from the user's pants. Thus, it is less likely that the user will inadvertently skip or not thread the belt 29 through each of the belt loops 27 from the pants of the user.
- the reinforcing member 16 ′ is composed of a very flexible and thin split or soft leather material, such as latigo leather.
- a very flexible and thin split or soft leather material such as latigo leather.
- FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a waist supported structure 100 for carrying tools at the waist of a wearer 101 , as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/456,878, which is herein incorporated by reference.
- the waist supported structure 100 includes an upper portion 102 having an outwardly directed surface 103 adjacent the waist of a wearer 101 and at least one band portion 104 attached at its opposite ends to the outwardly directed surface 103 .
- the attachment of the band 104 to the outwardly directed surface 103 forms a slot 106 .
- the band 104 is tightly attached to the outwardly directed surface 103 such that even when the band 104 is pulled in a direction away from the outwardly directed surface 103 , the band 104 is substantially parallel to and facing the outwardly directed surface 103 .
- the slot 106 allows for a tool carrier 108 A (shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 ) to be removably attached to the band 104 .
- the waist supported structure 100 may additionally include a first thigh protector 110 A and a second thigh protector 110 B, each of which extend from the waist of the wearer 101 to a position just above the knee 113 of the wearer 101 .
- the tool carrier 108 may be removably attached to the band 104 as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 .
- the band 104 is tightly attached to the waist supported structure 100 such that even when the band 104 is pulled in a direction away from the outer surface 114 of the waist supported structure 100 , the band 104 is substantially parallel to and facing the outer surface 114 of the waist supported structure 100 . As a result, the tool carrier 108 that is attached to the band 104 is tightly held thereon.
- FIGS. 10 and 11 show an exemplary tool carrier 108 A being attached to the band 104 .
- the tool carrier 108 A is composed of a flexible material, such as leather.
- the tool carrier 108 A includes a main portion 186 and an upper portion 190 .
- the main portion 186 may carry any one of a variety of tool carrying means 188 .
- the tool carrying means 188 includes pockets of various sizes that are secured to the main portion 186 by rivets 185 . Some of the pockets additionally contain clamps.
- the pockets and clamps may be used to carry any one of a variety of tools, such as side-cutters, chalk, or sticks among other appropriate tools.
- the tool carrying means 188 include pockets, clamps, eyelets, hooks, straps or any combination thereof, among other appropriate tool carrying means.
- the tool carrier 108 A may be removably attached to the band 104 .
- an outwardly facing flap 192 is coupled to the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A.
- the flap 192 is composed of a flexible material such as leather.
- the flap 192 may be attached to the upper portion 190 in a manner that allows the flap 192 to be rotated away from the upper portion as shown in FIG. 10 .
- an upper end 192 A of the flap 192 is rigidly affixed to a top marginal portion 190 A of the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A, forming a rigidly attached juncture 220 between the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A and the flap 192 ; and a lower end 192 B of the flap 192 contains a coupling means 196 that forms a releasable interlocking connection with a coupling means 198 on a bottom marginal portion 190 B of the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A.
- the rigidly attached juncture 220 of the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A and the flap 192 may be formed by stitching 194 A and/or rivets 194 B, and the releasable interlocking connection may be formed by buttons 196 on the flap 192 that snap fit onto corresponding button receiving members 198 on the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A.
- the tool carrier 108 A is releasably attached to the band 104 by inserting the tool carrier 108 A into the slot 106 formed by the band 104 and the outer surface 114 of the waist supported structure 100 (see FIGS. 10 and 11 ); rotating the flap 192 away from the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A to allow the band 104 to be positioned adjacent to the rigidly attached juncture 220 between the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A and the flap 192 ; extending the flap 192 over the band 104 ; and depressing the buttons 196 of the lower portion 192 B of the flap 192 to from the releasable interlocking connection with the button receiving members 198 of the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A.
- the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A is disposed adjacent to an inner surface of the band 104
- the flap 192 is disposed adjacent to an outer surface of the band 104 , such that the band 104 is confined between the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A and the flap 192 .
- a top edge of the band 104 is disposed adjacent to the rigidly attached juncture 220 of the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A and the flap 192
- a bottom edge of the band 104 is disposed adjacent to the interlocking connection between the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A and the flap 192 , such that the band 104 is also confined between the rigidly attached juncture 220 and the releasable interlocking connection of the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A and the flap 192 .
- the band 104 presses against the outer surface of the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A to secure the tool carrier 108 A to the waist supported structure 100 .
- the flap 192 and/or the upper portion 190 of the tool carrier 108 A may include a reinforcing material, such as plastic, to increase the structural stability of the tool carrier 108 A.
- the first and second thigh protectors 110 A and 110 B may each be replaced by any embodiment of the thigh protectors described above with respect to FIGS. 1-8 .
- FIG. 12 shows an exemplary pneumatic hammer 61 having a protective boot 72 , according to one aspect of the invention, attached thereto.
- the boot 72 can be adapted to any appropriate pneumatic hammer
- the depicted pneumatic hammer 61 includes handles 62 ; a throttle 64 ; an air hose connector 66 ; an exhaust 68 ; and a connector 70 that removably receives a chisel (not shown.)
- the exhaust 68 can become very hot after extended use of the pneumatic hammer 61 and consequently can cause injury to a user if contacted by the user.
- the boot 72 attaches in surrounding relation to the exhaust to protect the user from the heat of the exhaust and to reduce the vibration and impact that is felt by the user when the user contacts or bears against the boot 72 .
- the boot 72 is movable between an open position, as shown in FIG. 13 ; and a closed position as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 12 , where the boot 72 is attached to the pneumatic hammer 61 in FIG. 12 (see also FIG. 14 where the boot 72 is attached to the pneumatic hammer 61 .)
- the boot 72 may be secured in the closed position by a snap 74 and button 76 arrangement as shown in FIG. 13 . Although in other embodiments any appropriate fastener may be used.
- the boot 72 is substantially cylindrical having an opening 73 defined by an inner surface 75 .
- the inner surface 75 of the boot 72 closely approximates the size and shape of the external surface of the exhaust 68 .
- the inner surface 75 of the boot 72 may have any appropriate configuration that approximates the external surface of the exhaust 68 and/or facilitates attachment to the pneumatic hammer 61 in surrounding relation to the exhaust 68 .
- the exhaust 68 includes exhaust ports 77 that flare outwardly and expel exhaust air downwardly as shown by arrow 78 .
- the boot 72 forms around the exhaust ports 77 and further facilitates the downward flow of the exhaust air.
- the boot 72 includes an outside covering 79 , such as a nylon covering for example cordura, a first cushioning layer 81 , such as a high density sound proof foam material, a second cushioning layer 83 , such as a high density felt material, and a impact resistant component 85 , such as a polycarbonate or polyethylene material.
- the cover 79 is stitched to the remaining layers in substantially the same manner as is described above with respect to the covering 43 of the impact resistant material 14 .
- FIGS. 16-18 show a protective boot 72 , according to another embodiment of the invention.
- the boot is movable from an open position ( FIG. 16 ) to a closed position ( FIG. 17 ) to removably secure the boot 72 ′ in surrounding relation to an exhaust 68 of a pneumatic hammer 61 as shown and described with respect to the boot 72 of FIGS. 12-15 .
- the boot 72 ′ is substantially cylindrical having an opening 73 ′ defined by an inner surface 75 ′ for covering the external surface of the exhaust of a pneumatic tool.
- the boot 72 ′ as an open lower end 87 and a partially enclosed upper end 89 defining an upper opening 91 , concentric with but smaller than the opening 73 ′ formed by the inner surface 75 ′ of the boot 72 .
- the boot 72 ′ also includes a buckle 80 and strap 82 arrangement for securing the boot 72 ′ in the closed position.
- the strap 82 includes spaced apart openings 84 such that the diameter or size of the inner surface 75 ′ and the upper opening 91 of the boot 72 ′ are adjustable, enabling the boot 72 ′ to be secured to pneumatic tools of varying sizes. In one embodiment, it is the sidewalls of the upper opening 91 that frictionally engage a portion of a pneumatic tool, such as the exhaust, to secure the boot 72 ′ thereto.
- the boot 72 includes an outside covering 79 ′, such as a leather covering, for example vegetable tanned leather, at least one cushioning layer 81 ′, such as a high density sound proof foam material or a high density felt material, and an inner covering 93 , such as a leather covering, for example vegetable tanned leather.
- the covers 79 ′ and 93 , and the cushioning layer(s) 81 ′ are attached by rivets 95 .
- the cushioning layer 81 / 81 ′ of the boot 72 / 72 ′ functions to absorb heat and/or muffle the sound from the pneumatic tool.
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- Professional, Industrial, Or Sporting Protective Garments (AREA)
Abstract
A thigh protector is provided that includes a reinforcement material; a vibration resistant material attached to a first side of the reinforcement material; and a impact resistant material attached to a second side of the reinforcing member.
Description
- This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 11/060,635, filed Feb. 17, 2005, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/545,421, filed Feb. 17, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates to a thigh protector, and more particularly to a thigh protector having a vibration resistance layer and an impact resistance layer. The present invention also relates to a thigh protector connected to a waist supported structure having at least one band for attachment of a tool carrier.
- User's of pneumatic tools often experience repeated impacts and vibrations from the tools. In some cases these impacts and/or vibrations can cause serious injury to the user. One example of a pneumatic tool is a pneumatic hammer (sometimes referred to as a jack hammer), a tool typically used to break apart concrete surfaces. Often when a user operates a pneumatic hammer, the tool repeatedly impacts and/or vibrates against the user's thighs, typically against an inner portion of the thighs. Hence, a need exists for a thigh protector to be worn for protection when operating a pneumatic tool.
- A known method for protecting a user against the impact and vibration of a pneumatic hammer is to wrap a soft material, such as a T-shirt around the pneumatic hammer and taping the soft material thereto. Accordingly, a need also exists for an improved protection device for attachment to a pneumatic hammer.
- User's of pneumatic tools often carry other tools on a waist supported structure. Some waist supported structures include police belts, military belts and construction utility belts. These belts include attachment means such as eyelets, hooks, and/or pockets for the attachment of tools or tool carriers. However, these attachment means often cause the belt to torque or sag from the wearer's waist when a heavy tool is attached to them. Accordingly, an improved waist supported structure is needed for the attachment of tool carriers and having thigh protectors attached thereto for protection during operation of pneumatic tools.
- In one embodiment, the present invention is a thigh protector that includes a reinforcement material; a vibration resistant material attached to a first side of the reinforcement material; and a impact resistant material attached to a second side of the reinforcing member.
- In another embodiment, the impact resistant material of the above described thigh protector includes an impact resistant component that is formed to a preformed curvature to support the remainder of the thigh protector in the preformed curvature; and an outer surface of the vibration resistant material includes a plurality of strips and a plurality of grooves, forming a plurality of air pockets therebetween for increases vibration resistance.
- In yet another embodiment, the present invention is a waist supported structure for mounting a tool carrier to carry tools at the waist of a wearer that includes an upper portion having an outwardly directed surface adjacent the waist of a wearer and at least one band portion attached at its opposite ends to the outwardly directed surface, such that the band is disposed substantially parallel to and facing the outwardly directed surface to define a slot therebetween. The waist supported structure also includes a tool carrier extending through the slot and releasably attached to the at least one band portion; a lower portion having an outwardly directed surface and an inwardly directed surface adjacent the thigh of a wearer; and at least one thigh protector attached to the lower portion. The thigh protector includes a vibration resistant material attached to the outwardly directed surface of the lower portion; and an impact resistant material attached to the inwardly directed surface of the lower portion.
- In still another embodiment, the present invention is a protective boot for attachment to a pneumatic tool. The boot includes a body movable from an open position to a closed position to removably secure the boot in surrounding relation to a portion of a pneumatic tool; and a fastener connected to the body for securing the body in the closed position; wherein the body includes protective outer and inner covers disposed in surrounding relation to a cushioning material.
- These and other features and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a thigh protector according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 shows a front view of the thigh protector ofFIG. 1 being worn by a user; -
FIG. 3 is front view of the thigh protector ofFIG. 1 , showing a vibration resistant material; -
FIG. 4 is a back view of the thigh protector ofFIG. 1 , showing a impact resistant material; -
FIG. 5 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the thigh protector ofFIG. 1 taken from line 5-5 ofFIG. 3 ; -
FIG. 6 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the impact resistant material ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 7 is a back view of an impact resistant component of the impact resistant material ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 8 is a front view of a thigh protector according to another embodiment of the present invention being worn by a user; -
FIG. 9 is a front view of a waist supported structure; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a tool carrier for attachment to the waist supported structure ofFIG. 9 , where the tool carrier is shown in an open position; -
FIG. 11 is a front view of a tool carrier for attachment to the waist supported structure ofFIG. 9 , where the tool carrier is shown in an closed position; -
FIG. 12 is a front view of a pneumatic hammer having a protective boot attached thereto; -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the protective boot ofFIG. 12 shown in an open position; -
FIG. 14 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the protective boot ofFIG. 12 taken from line 14-14 ofFIG. 12 showing the boot disposed in surrounding relation to an exhaust of a pneumatic hammer; -
FIG. 15 is another longitudinal cross-sectional view of the protective boot ofFIG. 12 taken from line 15-15 ofFIG. 13 ; -
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a protective boot for attachment to a pneumatic tool according to another embodiment of the invention, showing the boot in an open position; -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the protective boot ofFIG. 16 , showing the boot in a closed position; and -
FIG. 18 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the protective-boot ofFIG. 16 taken from line 18-18 ofFIG. 17 ; - In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a thigh protector. The thigh protector is particularly useful when worn as protection during operation of a pneumatic tool, such as a pneumatic hammer, a paving breaker, a chipping hammer, a concrete vibrator, a rivet buster or a trench digger. In one embodiment, the thigh protector includes a vibration resistance layer and an impact resistance layer. In another embodiment, the thigh protector is connected to a waist supported structure having at least one band for attachment of a tool carrier. Such a waist supported structure is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/456,878, which is herein incorporated by reference. In yet another embodiment of the invention, the present invention is directed to a user protection device for attachment to a pneumatic tool, such as a pneumatic hammer.
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FIG. 1 shows athigh protector 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the depicted embodiment, thethigh protector 10 includes a vibrationresistant material 12 and an impactresistant material 14. The vibrationresistant material 12 and the impactresistant material 14 are attached to a reinforcingmember 16. As shown, the reinforcingmember 16 is disposed between the vibrationresistant material 12 and the impactresistant material 14. - A
belt loop 18 is attached to the reinforcingmember 16. Thebelt loop 18 allows thethigh protector 10 to be suspended from a user's belt 21 (as shown inFIG. 2 .) Afirst adjustment strap 19 and asecond adjustment strap 20 are each attached to the reinforcingmember 16. Thefirst adjustment strap 19 has abuckle 22 and thesecond adjustment strap 20 has abuckle receiver 24 that forms a removable inter-locking connection with thebuckle 22. - In one embodiment, the
thigh protector 10 is curved to approximate the curvature of a typical user's thigh. In one embodiment, when thethigh protector 10 is worn by a user, thebelt loop 18 of thethigh protector 10 is suspended from the belt 21 (as shown inFIG. 2 ) of the user such that the impactresistant material 14 faces towards the user's thigh. In one embodiment, thebelt loop 18 is attached to the reinforcingmember 16 by one ormore rivets 30. Although in other embodiments other appropriate attachment means may be used. When so attached, thebelt loop 18 forms anopening 32 for receiving a user's belt. Preferably, thebelt loop 18 is composed of a strong, durable material, such as leather, for example vegetable tanned leather, also known as vege-tanned leather. - To secure the
thigh protector 10 to the user's leg (as shown inFIG. 2 ), the attachment straps 19 and 20 are wrapped around the user's leg, such that the impactresistant material 14 contacts the user's thigh. As shown inFIG. 2 , when thethigh protector 10 is so attached the vibrationresistant material 12 covers the user's thigh and faces outwardly so that when a pneumatic tool is contacted thereagainst, the user's leg is protected. - In one embodiment, the
longitudinal axis 23 of the vibrationresistant material 12 forms an acute angel a with thebelt loop 18. This angular arrangement of thelongitudinal axis 23 of the vibrationresistant material 12 with respect to thebelt loop 18 urges the vibrationresistant material 12 towards the inner thigh of the user. This is particularly helpful when thethigh protector 10 is worn during the operation of a pneumatic hammer, since it is natural to many user's to allow a large portion of the pneumatic hammer's weight to bear against the user's inner thighs while operating the pneumatic hammer. -
FIG. 3 shows the vibrationresistant material 12 attached to the reinforcingmember 16. In this embodiment, the vibrationresistant material 12 is attached to the reinforcingmember 16 by astitching 34. Although in other embodiments other appropriate attachment means may be used. In the embodiment ofFIG. 3 , the vibrationresistant material 12 includes anindention 15 the follows the periphery of the vibrationresistant material 12. Pacing thestitching 34 in theindention 15 protects thestitching 34 against snagging and therefore protects the attachment of the vibrationresistant material 12 to the reinforcingmember 16. - As mentioned above, in use the vibration
resistant material 12 protects a user's thigh when a pneumatic tool is contacted thereagainst. A pneumatic tool, such as a pneumatic hammer imparts a large amount of vibration on the user. Bearing the pneumatic hammer against the vibrationresistant material 12 lessens the vibration that is transferred or felt by the user. In one embodiment, the vibrationresistant material 12 is composed of a flexible, compressible material, such as a rubber material. Preferably, the vibrationresistant material 12 is formed by an injection molding processes. - As shown in
FIG. 3 , the vibrationresistant material 12 also includes a plurality of protruding strips 38. The protruding strips 38 define a corresponding plurality ofgrooves 40. The protruding strips 38 andgrooves 40 together form a plurality of air pockets. The air pockets aid the vibrationresistant material 12 in reducing the vibration that is felt by the user when the pneumatic tool is in contact with the vibrationresistant material 12. - In one embodiment, at least some of the protruding strips 38 are oriented at an angle with respect to the horizontal position, such as an angle of approximately forty five degrees. Such an angled orientation lessens the likelihood of the pneumatic tool repeatedly catching a leading edge of the protruding strips 38 and instead urges the pneumatic tool to slide relative to the protruding strips 38.
- Repeated vibration by the pneumatic tool against the vibration
resistant material 12 imparts shearing forces on the vibrationresistant material 12 that tend to tear the vibrationresistant material 12. Attaching the vibrationresistant material 12 to the reinforcingmember 16 reinforces the vibrationresistant material 12 and lessens the likelihood of tearing of the vibrationresistant material 12. In one embodiment the reinforcingmember 16 is composed of a leather material such as vegetable tanned leather. - In one embodiment, the vibration
resistant material 12 is attached directly to the impactresistant material 14 without theintervening reinforcing member 16. In such an embodiment, to add structural strength the to vibrationresistant material 12 and to avoid tearing of the vibrationresistant material 12, reinforcement members, such as metal bars and/or wires, are integrally formed with the vibrationresistant material 12. -
FIG. 4 shows the impactresistant material 14 attached to the reinforcingmember 16. In this embodiment, the impactresistant material 14 is attached to the reinforcingmember 16 by one ormore rivets 42. Although in other embodiments other appropriate attachment means may be used. In the depicted embodiment, the rivet(s) 42 also connects the first adjustment strap 19 (shown) and the second adjustment strap 20 (not shown) to the reinforcingmember 16. The vibrationresistant material 12 is shown as having openings that allow the rivet(s) 42 to extend through the vibrationresistant material 12 without securing the vibrationresistant material 12 to the reinforcingmember 16. Since the vibrationresistant material 12 is not attached to the rivet(s) 42, and the rivet(s) 42 are surrounded by the vibrationresistant material 12 adjacent to the vibration resistant material openings, the vibrationresistant material 12 protects the rivet(s) 42 against being snagged or otherwise dislodged. - In one embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 6 , the impactresistant material 14 is a multi-layered component. In the depicted embodiment, the impactresistant material 14 includes a high strength, durable, impactresistant component 44; afirst cushioning component 46; and asecond cushioning component 48 that is sweat resistant and breathable; and acovering 43. In another embodiment, the first andsecond cushioning components - In one embodiment, the covering 43 is composed of a nylon fabric, such as cordura; the impact
resistant component 44 is composed of a polycarbonate material; thefirst cushioning component 46 is composed of a high density foam material or a high density bubble wrap material; and thesecond cushioning component 48 is composed of a meshed foam material, such as Dri-Lex® 1013, manufactured by the Faytex Corporation located in Weymouth, Mass. - In the depicted embodiment, the covering 43 warps around the impact
resistant component 44; thefirst cushioning component 46; and thesecond cushioning component 48 and binds thecomponents stitching 54 that extends around a periphery of the second cushioning material 48 (see for example, thestitching 54 inFIG. 4 .) - The impact
resistant component 44 preferably is formed to a predetermined curvature. For example, in one embodiment, the impactresistant component 44 is formed from a polycarbonate material in a heat forming process to a predetermined curvature. Polycarbonate is a particularly useful material for use as the impactresistant component 44 because of its excellent shape memory properties. This property allows the material to return to its original shape when an external force displaces the material from its original shape. This property is advantageous because it is desirable for thethigh protector 10 to have the previously described curvature to approximate the curvature of a typical user's thigh. - The polycarbonate material is formed to the desired curvature to approximate the shape of a typical user's thigh and supports the remainder of the
thigh protector 10 in that shape as well. In addition, when thethigh protector 10 is displaced out of its curvature, the shape memory of the polycarbonate material allows the remainder of thethigh protector 10 to return to its original curvature. - In embodiments where the impact
resistant component 44 has poor or no shape memory, reinforcement ribs can be used to help maintain the original curvature of thehigh strength component 44. For example, in one embodiment as shown inFIG. 7 , the impactresistant component 44 is formed from a high density polyethylene material havingreinforcement ribs 50 protruding therefrom. Thereinforcement ribs 50 help prevent the material from departing from its original curvature. - As shown in
FIGS. 1 and 4 , thethigh protector 10 includes thefirst adjustment strap 19 and thesecond adjustment strap 20. Eachstrap member 16 by one ormore rivets 42 as described above. Thefirst adjustment strap 19 includes thebuckle 22 that forms the removable inter-locking connection with thebuckle receiver 24 of thesecond adjustment strap 20. In one embodiment, thebuckle 22 includes outwardlyelastic arms 56, each having anangled ramp section 57 and acatch section 59 inset from theramp section 57. Theramp sections 57 guide thearms 56 into an end opening of thebuckle receiver 24, which compresses thearms 56 until theramp sections 57 extendpast side openings 60 in thebuckle receiver 24 allowing thecatch sections 59 to lockingly engage theside openings 60. Thearms 56 can be disengaged by depressing theramp sections 57 and pulling thearms 56 away from thebuckle receiver 24. - The
buckle 22 also includes a slot that receives thefirst adjustment strap 19 and allows a slack between thefirst adjustment strap 19 and thesecond adjustment strap 20 to be loosened or tightened, respectively, by pushing thefirst adjustment strap 19 through the slot or pulling thefirst adjustment strap 19 through the slot. -
FIG. 8 shows analternative thigh protector 10′. Thethigh protector 10′ contains that same components and/or alternatives as thethigh protector 10 described above, a difference being that thethigh protector 10′ ofFIG. 8 includes abelt loop 18′ which contains aslot 25 for receiving abelt loop 27 from the pants of the user. This facilitates attachment of thethigh protector 10′ onto a user'sbelt 29 since theslot 25 prevents thebelt loop 18′ of thethigh protector 10′ from overlapping any of thebelt loops 27 from the user's pants. Thus, it is less likely that the user will inadvertently skip or not thread thebelt 29 through each of thebelt loops 27 from the pants of the user. - Also, in the embodiment of
FIG. 8 the reinforcingmember 16′ is composed of a very flexible and thin split or soft leather material, such as latigo leather. Thus increasing the comfort to the user since the overall flexibility of thethigh protector 10′ is increased. This material also facilitates manufacturing of thethigh protector 10′ since a light duty sewing machine may be used to thread a stitching into this material. -
FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of a waist supportedstructure 100 for carrying tools at the waist of awearer 101, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/456,878, which is herein incorporated by reference. As shown inFIG. 9 and described in more detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/456,878, the waist supportedstructure 100 includes anupper portion 102 having an outwardly directedsurface 103 adjacent the waist of awearer 101 and at least oneband portion 104 attached at its opposite ends to the outwardly directedsurface 103. The attachment of theband 104 to the outwardly directedsurface 103 forms aslot 106. Theband 104 is tightly attached to the outwardly directedsurface 103 such that even when theband 104 is pulled in a direction away from the outwardly directedsurface 103, theband 104 is substantially parallel to and facing the outwardly directedsurface 103. Theslot 106 allows for atool carrier 108A (shown inFIGS. 10 and 11 ) to be removably attached to theband 104. - As shown in
FIG. 9 , the waist supportedstructure 100 may additionally include afirst thigh protector 110A and asecond thigh protector 110B, each of which extend from the waist of thewearer 101 to a position just above theknee 113 of thewearer 101. - The tool carrier 108 may be removably attached to the
band 104 as illustrated inFIGS. 10 and 11 . Theband 104 is tightly attached to the waist supportedstructure 100 such that even when theband 104 is pulled in a direction away from theouter surface 114 of the waist supportedstructure 100, theband 104 is substantially parallel to and facing theouter surface 114 of the waist supportedstructure 100. As a result, the tool carrier 108 that is attached to theband 104 is tightly held thereon. -
FIGS. 10 and 11 show anexemplary tool carrier 108A being attached to theband 104. Preferably, thetool carrier 108A is composed of a flexible material, such as leather. Thetool carrier 108A includes amain portion 186 and anupper portion 190. Themain portion 186 may carry any one of a variety of tool carrying means 188. In the depicted embodiment, the tool carrying means 188 includes pockets of various sizes that are secured to themain portion 186 byrivets 185. Some of the pockets additionally contain clamps. The pockets and clamps may be used to carry any one of a variety of tools, such as side-cutters, chalk, or sticks among other appropriate tools. In other embodiments, the tool carrying means 188 include pockets, clamps, eyelets, hooks, straps or any combination thereof, among other appropriate tool carrying means. - The
tool carrier 108A may be removably attached to theband 104. For example, in one embodiment an outwardly facingflap 192 is coupled to theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A. Preferably, theflap 192 is composed of a flexible material such as leather. Theflap 192 may be attached to theupper portion 190 in a manner that allows theflap 192 to be rotated away from the upper portion as shown inFIG. 10 . Preferably, anupper end 192A of theflap 192 is rigidly affixed to a top marginal portion 190A of theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A, forming a rigidly attachedjuncture 220 between theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A and theflap 192; and alower end 192B of theflap 192 contains a coupling means 196 that forms a releasable interlocking connection with a coupling means 198 on a bottommarginal portion 190B of theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A. For example, the rigidly attachedjuncture 220 of theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A and theflap 192 may be formed by stitching 194A and/or rivets 194B, and the releasable interlocking connection may be formed bybuttons 196 on theflap 192 that snap fit onto correspondingbutton receiving members 198 on theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A. - As such, in one embodiment, the
tool carrier 108A is releasably attached to theband 104 by inserting thetool carrier 108A into theslot 106 formed by theband 104 and theouter surface 114 of the waist supported structure 100 (seeFIGS. 10 and 11 ); rotating theflap 192 away from theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A to allow theband 104 to be positioned adjacent to the rigidly attachedjuncture 220 between theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A and theflap 192; extending theflap 192 over theband 104; and depressing thebuttons 196 of thelower portion 192B of theflap 192 to from the releasable interlocking connection with thebutton receiving members 198 of theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A. - When so connected, the
upper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A is disposed adjacent to an inner surface of theband 104, and theflap 192 is disposed adjacent to an outer surface of theband 104, such that theband 104 is confined between theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A and theflap 192. In addition, a top edge of theband 104 is disposed adjacent to the rigidly attachedjuncture 220 of theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A and theflap 192, and a bottom edge of theband 104 is disposed adjacent to the interlocking connection between theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A and theflap 192, such that theband 104 is also confined between the rigidly attachedjuncture 220 and the releasable interlocking connection of theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A and theflap 192. In this position, theband 104 presses against the outer surface of theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A to secure thetool carrier 108A to the waist supportedstructure 100. Theflap 192 and/or theupper portion 190 of thetool carrier 108A may include a reinforcing material, such as plastic, to increase the structural stability of thetool carrier 108A. - In the waist supported
structure 100 ofFIG. 9 , the first andsecond thigh protectors FIGS. 1-8 . -
FIG. 12 shows an exemplarypneumatic hammer 61 having aprotective boot 72, according to one aspect of the invention, attached thereto. Although theboot 72 can be adapted to any appropriate pneumatic hammer, the depictedpneumatic hammer 61 includeshandles 62; athrottle 64; anair hose connector 66; anexhaust 68; and aconnector 70 that removably receives a chisel (not shown.) Theexhaust 68 can become very hot after extended use of thepneumatic hammer 61 and consequently can cause injury to a user if contacted by the user. As such, theboot 72 attaches in surrounding relation to the exhaust to protect the user from the heat of the exhaust and to reduce the vibration and impact that is felt by the user when the user contacts or bears against theboot 72. - The
boot 72 is movable between an open position, as shown inFIG. 13 ; and a closed position as shown in dashed lines inFIG. 12 , where theboot 72 is attached to thepneumatic hammer 61 inFIG. 12 (see alsoFIG. 14 where theboot 72 is attached to thepneumatic hammer 61.) Theboot 72 may be secured in the closed position by asnap 74 andbutton 76 arrangement as shown inFIG. 13 . Although in other embodiments any appropriate fastener may be used. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 12-15 , theboot 72 is substantially cylindrical having anopening 73 defined by aninner surface 75. Theinner surface 75 of theboot 72 closely approximates the size and shape of the external surface of theexhaust 68. As such, theinner surface 75 of theboot 72 may have any appropriate configuration that approximates the external surface of theexhaust 68 and/or facilitates attachment to thepneumatic hammer 61 in surrounding relation to theexhaust 68. In the embodiment ofFIG. 14 , theexhaust 68 includesexhaust ports 77 that flare outwardly and expel exhaust air downwardly as shown byarrow 78. In this embodiment, theboot 72 forms around theexhaust ports 77 and further facilitates the downward flow of the exhaust air. - As shown schematically in
FIG. 15 , theboot 72 includes anoutside covering 79, such as a nylon covering for example cordura, afirst cushioning layer 81, such as a high density sound proof foam material, asecond cushioning layer 83, such as a high density felt material, and a impactresistant component 85, such as a polycarbonate or polyethylene material. Thecover 79 is stitched to the remaining layers in substantially the same manner as is described above with respect to the covering 43 of the impactresistant material 14. -
FIGS. 16-18 show aprotective boot 72, according to another embodiment of the invention. As shown inFIGS. 16 and 17 , the boot is movable from an open position (FIG. 16 ) to a closed position (FIG. 17 ) to removably secure theboot 72′ in surrounding relation to anexhaust 68 of apneumatic hammer 61 as shown and described with respect to theboot 72 ofFIGS. 12-15 . - As shown in
FIGS. 16 and 17 , theboot 72′ is substantially cylindrical having anopening 73′ defined by aninner surface 75′ for covering the external surface of the exhaust of a pneumatic tool. As shown inFIGS. 17 and 18 , theboot 72′ as an openlower end 87 and a partially enclosedupper end 89 defining anupper opening 91, concentric with but smaller than theopening 73′ formed by theinner surface 75′ of theboot 72. Theboot 72′ also includes abuckle 80 andstrap 82 arrangement for securing theboot 72′ in the closed position. Thestrap 82 includes spaced apartopenings 84 such that the diameter or size of theinner surface 75′ and theupper opening 91 of theboot 72′ are adjustable, enabling theboot 72′ to be secured to pneumatic tools of varying sizes. In one embodiment, it is the sidewalls of theupper opening 91 that frictionally engage a portion of a pneumatic tool, such as the exhaust, to secure theboot 72′ thereto. - As shown schematically in
FIG. 18 , theboot 72 includes anoutside covering 79′, such as a leather covering, for example vegetable tanned leather, at least onecushioning layer 81′, such as a high density sound proof foam material or a high density felt material, and aninner covering 93, such as a leather covering, for example vegetable tanned leather. Thecovers 79′ and 93, and the cushioning layer(s) 81′ are attached byrivets 95. Although in other embodiments other appropriate fastening means may be used. In one embodiment, thecushioning layer 81/81′ of theboot 72/72′ functions to absorb heat and/or muffle the sound from the pneumatic tool. - Although the foregoing invention has been described in terms of certain embodiments, other embodiments will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, in view of the disclosure herein. Accordingly the present invention is not intended to be limited by the recitation of the preferred embodiments, but is instead intended to be defined solely by reference to the appended claims.
Claims (21)
1. A thigh protector comprising:
a reinforcement material;
a vibration resistant material attached to a first side of the reinforcement material; and
a impact resistant material attached to a second side of the reinforcing member.
2. The thigh protector of claim 1 , wherein the impact resistant material comprises an impact resistant component that is formed to a preformed curvature to support the remainder of the thigh protector in the preformed curvature.
3. The thigh protector of claim 2 , wherein the impact resistant component has a shape memory property that allows it to return to the preformed curvature after an external force has moved the impact resistant component out of the preformed curvature.
4. The thigh protector of claim 2 , wherein the impact resistant component comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs that tend to return the impact resistant component to the preformed curvature after an external force has moved the impact resistant component out of the preformed curvature.
5. The thigh protector of claim 3 , wherein the impact resistant component comprises a polycarbonate material.
6. The thigh protector of claim 2 , wherein the impact resistant material further comprises at least one cushioning material.
7. The thigh protector of claim 2 , wherein the impact resistant material further comprises a first cushioning material and a second cushioning material different from the first cushioning material, and wherein the impact resistant component is disposed between the first and second cushioning materials.
8. The thigh protector of claim 7 , wherein the second cushioning material is a sweat resistant breathable material.
9. The thigh protector of claim 1 , further comprising a belt loop connected to the reinforcing member and forming an acute angel with a longitudinal axis of the vibration resistant material.
10. The thigh protector of claim 1 , further comprising a belt loop connected to the reinforcing member and having a slot for receiving a belt loop from a user's pants.
11. The thigh protector of claim 1 , wherein an outer surface of the vibration resistant material includes a plurality of strips and a plurality of grooves, forming a plurality of air pockets therebetween for increases vibration resistance.
12. The thigh protector of claim 1 , wherein the vibration resistant material is composed of a rubber material.
13. The thigh protector of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcing member is composed of a hard leather material.
14. The thigh protector of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcing member is composed of a soft leather material.
15. A thigh protector comprising:
a reinforcement material;
a vibration resistant material attached to a first side of the reinforcement material;
a impact resistant material attached to a second side of the reinforcing member;
wherein the impact resistant material comprises an impact resistant component that is formed to a preformed curvature to support the remainder of the thigh protector in the preformed curvature; and
wherein an outer surface of the vibration resistant material includes a plurality of strips and a plurality of grooves, forming a plurality of air pockets therebetween for increases vibration resistance.
16. The thigh protector of claim 15 , wherein the impact resistant component has a shape memory property that allows it to return to the preformed curvature after an external force has moved the impact resistant component out of the preformed curvature.
17. The thigh protector of claim 15 , wherein the impact resistant component comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs that tend to return the impact resistant component to the preformed curvature after an external force has moved the impact resistant component out of the preformed curvature.
18. The thigh protector of claim 15 , wherein the impact resistant material further comprises a first cushioning material and a second cushioning material different from the first cushioning material, and wherein the impact resistant component is disposed between the first and second cushioning materials.
19. A waist supported structure for mounting a tool carrier to carry tools at the waist of a wearer comprising:
an upper portion having an outwardly directed surface adjacent the waist of a wearer;
at least one band portion attached at its opposite ends to the outwardly directed surface, wherein the band is substantially parallel to and facing the outwardly directed surface to define a slot therebetween;
a tool carrier extending through the slot and releasably attached to the at least one band portion;
a lower portion having an outwardly directed surface and an inwardly directed surface adjacent the thigh of a wearer;
at least one thigh protector attached to the lower portion and comprising:
a vibration resistant material attached to the outwardly directed surface of the lower portion; and
an impact resistant material attached to the inwardly directed surface of the lower portion.
20. The waist supported structure claim 19 , wherein the impact resistant material comprises an impact resistant component that is formed to a preformed curvature to support the remainder of the thigh protector in the preformed curvature.
21. A protective boot for attachment to a pneumatic tool comprising:
a body movable from an open position to a closed position to removably secure the boot in surrounding relation to a portion of a pneumatic tool; and
a fastener connected to the body for securing the body in the closed position;
wherein the body includes protective outer and inner covers disposed in surrounding relation to a cushioning material.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/252,996 US20060191051A1 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2005-10-17 | Thigh protector for use with a pneumatic tool |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US54542104P | 2004-02-17 | 2004-02-17 | |
US6063505A | 2005-02-17 | 2005-02-17 | |
US11/252,996 US20060191051A1 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2005-10-17 | Thigh protector for use with a pneumatic tool |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US6063505A Continuation | 2004-02-17 | 2005-02-17 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060191051A1 true US20060191051A1 (en) | 2006-08-31 |
Family
ID=36930696
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/252,996 Abandoned US20060191051A1 (en) | 2004-02-17 | 2005-10-17 | Thigh protector for use with a pneumatic tool |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20060191051A1 (en) |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070050876A1 (en) * | 2005-09-07 | 2007-03-08 | Whitmire Fred M | Masonry leg guard |
US20100281592A1 (en) * | 2009-05-08 | 2010-11-11 | Henry Tae Joon Lee | Leg protector and protective skirt including a leg protector |
FR2949298A1 (en) * | 2009-08-31 | 2011-03-04 | Arnaud Fabrice Gidel | Shock absorbing physiological apron for blacksmith, has synthetic type elastomer damping plate attached on leather or fabric frame, where damping plate is incorporated between leather or fabric frame and leather reinforcement |
US20120158041A1 (en) * | 2010-12-15 | 2012-06-21 | Richard Gene Craig | Tactical pants |
US20120204432A1 (en) * | 2009-10-23 | 2012-08-16 | Husqvarna Ab | Handle Part for a Motorized Handheld Tool |
WO2012054857A3 (en) * | 2010-10-22 | 2012-12-27 | Nike International Ltd. | Shin guard strap |
KR101412931B1 (en) | 2013-02-20 | 2014-07-01 | 중앙대학교 산학협력단 | Thigh protector |
US20180055106A1 (en) * | 2016-08-26 | 2018-03-01 | Gerardo S. Garcia | Padding device system |
USD827246S1 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-09-04 | Bsn Sports, Llc | Pad for a girdle |
USD847457S1 (en) * | 2018-04-23 | 2019-05-07 | Bsn Sports, Llc | Pads set for a girdle |
US20220355184A1 (en) * | 2018-09-20 | 2022-11-10 | Heidi Specht | Softball pitching thigh pad |
-
2005
- 2005-10-17 US US11/252,996 patent/US20060191051A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7360255B2 (en) * | 2005-09-07 | 2008-04-22 | Whitmire Fred M | Masonry leg guard |
US20070050876A1 (en) * | 2005-09-07 | 2007-03-08 | Whitmire Fred M | Masonry leg guard |
US20100281592A1 (en) * | 2009-05-08 | 2010-11-11 | Henry Tae Joon Lee | Leg protector and protective skirt including a leg protector |
US8201270B2 (en) * | 2009-05-08 | 2012-06-19 | Henry Tae Joon Lee | Leg protector and protective skirt including a leg protector |
FR2949298A1 (en) * | 2009-08-31 | 2011-03-04 | Arnaud Fabrice Gidel | Shock absorbing physiological apron for blacksmith, has synthetic type elastomer damping plate attached on leather or fabric frame, where damping plate is incorporated between leather or fabric frame and leather reinforcement |
US20120204432A1 (en) * | 2009-10-23 | 2012-08-16 | Husqvarna Ab | Handle Part for a Motorized Handheld Tool |
CN103442606A (en) * | 2010-10-22 | 2013-12-11 | 耐克国际有限公司 | Shin guard strap |
WO2012054857A3 (en) * | 2010-10-22 | 2012-12-27 | Nike International Ltd. | Shin guard strap |
US9056238B2 (en) | 2010-10-22 | 2015-06-16 | Nike, Inc. | Shin guard strap |
US20120158041A1 (en) * | 2010-12-15 | 2012-06-21 | Richard Gene Craig | Tactical pants |
KR101412931B1 (en) | 2013-02-20 | 2014-07-01 | 중앙대학교 산학협력단 | Thigh protector |
US20180055106A1 (en) * | 2016-08-26 | 2018-03-01 | Gerardo S. Garcia | Padding device system |
USD827246S1 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2018-09-04 | Bsn Sports, Llc | Pad for a girdle |
USD860584S1 (en) * | 2016-10-07 | 2019-09-24 | Bsn Sports, Llc | Pad for a girdle |
USD847457S1 (en) * | 2018-04-23 | 2019-05-07 | Bsn Sports, Llc | Pads set for a girdle |
US20220355184A1 (en) * | 2018-09-20 | 2022-11-10 | Heidi Specht | Softball pitching thigh pad |
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Legal Events
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