Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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HANDLE FOR FORCEPS/TWEEZERS AND METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR
DESIGNING THE LIKE
CLAIM FOR PRIORITY
[001] This application claims the benefit of and is a Continuation-In-Part of
U.S.
Application Serial No. 10/279,111 filed on October 24, 2002, the entire
disclosure of which is
incorporated herein by reference; this application also claims the benefit of
and is a
Continuation-In-Part of International Application No. PCT/LJS02/33956, filed
on October 24,
2002, published in English under PCT Article 21(2), the entire disclosure of
which is
incorporated herein by reference; this application claims the benefit of and
is a Continuation-
In-Part of U.S. Application Serial No. 10/420,872 filed on April 23, 2003, the
entire
disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; this application also
claims the
benefit of and is a Continuation-In-Part of International Application No.
PCT/LTS03/12648,
filed on April 23, 2003, believed not to be published in English under PCT
Article 21(2), the
entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference; and this
application further
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No.
60/330,527 filed on
October 24, 2001, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by
reference.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[002] The present invention provides for forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus
and method
and apparatus for designing such forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus. The
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus are desirably designed to comfortably
fit the hand
when used. The present invention provides a forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus that
desirably includes two mirror image blades, which meet or connect at one end.
Forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention can be used as
a handle to
assist the hand in pinching, gripping, holding, cutting and other functions.
Forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus of the present invention can be used for a variety of
surgical forceps, a
variety of tweezers and a variety of tools and instruments.
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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
(003] Forceps and tweezers are common tools made in the shape of a stylus
having mirror
image blades connected at one end and open at the working end. Typically,
forceps and
tweezers are held close to their working ends by the thumb, index finger and
middle forger
like a pencil and rest on the fleshy space between the base of the thumb and
the index finger.
As used herein, as in anatomy, the term proximal is nearer and distal is
further away on an
extremity in relation to the torso. Similarly, in relation to the hand,
typically the part of a
forceps or tweezers resting on the portion of the hand between the base of the
thumb and
index forger is the proximal end, whereas the tips, or working ends, of
forceps or tweezers
can be referred to as the distal end.
[004] Forceps and tweezers have blades or members enabling their tips to move
closer for
grasping and holding parts of various objects. This is done with a range of
grip intensity by
the opposing action of the thumb and the long fingers which manipulate the
blades to move
the tips of forceps or tweezers together. Fine, or light, pinch is produced by
contracting the
opponens muscle of the thumb and contracting the lumbrical muscles of the long
forgers
when the long forgers are extended. Contracting the short opponens muscle of
the hand pulls
the base of the thumb and contracting the small lumbrical muscles, located in
the palm of the
hand, pulls the bases of the long fingers. However, the function of gross
pinch of forceps or
tweezers is performed by the flexed thumb and long fingers under control of
the long
opponens muscle of the forearm and the deep flexor muscles of the forearm,
which
respectively pull the distal segment of the thumb and the distal segments of
the long fingers.
[005] Various factors can strain the muscles and joints of the hand and wrist
when forceps
and tweezers are used. Some factors causing strain include blade size and
material.
Typically, wider blades are easier to hold than narrow blades and generally
require less
muscle tension for pinching. The material used in fabricating and the method
for connecting
blades can affect spring-like properties of forceps or tweezers and can also
affect the muscle
force required to close them.
[006] Another factor affecting muscle strain is the position of the hand when
supporting
forceps or tweezers. Typically, at rest a hand supports forceps or tweezers by
the middle
finger crossing underneath the blades and the fleshy portion of the hand
located between the
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thumb and index finger. However, when forceps or tweezers are squeezed the
opposing
muscles of the thumb and the index finger contribute support, and these
muscles must work
harder.
[007] Joint strain from grasping or pinching with forceps or tweezers can be
related to the
range and direction of motion in a joint and the anatomical position assumed
by a hand and
wrist. Some joints move mostly in one direction and have limited side to side
motion. Other
joints can move in more than one direction. In the latter type, for example,
where the base of
the thumb articulates with the wrist, the contact surface area is larger at
the center of the joint
than at the periphery. Therefore, greater surface area in the joint is
available for contact when
the thumb opposes the center of the tips of the long fingers than when the
thumb opposes the
index forger or small finger. However, when forceps or tweezers are squeezed
between the
index forger and thumb, contact is limited to the periphery of the joint at
the base of the
thumb and wrist and the joint can be strained.
[008] Muscle strain is also affected whether the thumb opposes the index and
middle forgers
or the index finger alone, because the difference in the position of the thumb
determines
which portion, and which fascicles, of the opponens muscle contract. Muscles
are built of
groups of fascicles which are made up of groups of fibers. Force for pinching
is greater when
more muscle fascicles are available to contract. Likewise, more opponens
fascicles are
available when the thumb opposes the index and middle forgers than when the
thumb opposes
the index forger. This is because fewer fascicles are used in the radial side,
compared to the
center, of the opponens muscle to pinch common forceps or tweezers between the
thumb and
index forger. Also, strain and fatigue increase in the part of the muscle
where fewer muscle
fascicles are used for pinch. Therefore, a forceps or tweezers utilizing more
muscle fascicles
can desirably increase pinch strength and reduce muscle fatigue and stress.
[009] Furthermore, using a greater number of muscles to perform a function
produces
greater strength. Pinching with the thumb opposing the space between the index
finger and
middle finger uses three muscles, one to pull the index finger, one to pull
the middle finger
and one muscle to pull the thumb. Pinching with the thumb against the index
finger uses two
muscles, one to pull the index finger and one to pull the thumb. Therefore,
pinch forces are
potentially greater when the thumb opposes both the index finger and the
middle finger than
when the thumb opposes the index finger alone because more muscle fascicles
are potentially
available for pinch strength.
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[0010] Strain to the ligaments and joints in the hand can also occur from
using a common
forceps or tweezers because, like holding a stylus, the thumb and index finger
tend to
advance toward the tip of the common forceps or tweezers. As this happens,
flexion becomes
exaggerated at the distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) of the thumb and the
middle
interphalangeal (MIP) joint of the index finger, while the DIf joint of the
index finger
extends. Maintaining this position requires the forearm muscles to squeeze the
ends of the
forgers against the blades of the forceps or tweezers. This awkward position
can strain finger
and wrist joints and ligaments, especially if these joints have pre-existing
damage.
Furthermore, the tightened tendons from the forearm muscles holding such
awkward position
can transmit pressure within the carpal tunnel (CT) to the transverse carpal
ligament (TCL)
and to the median nerve, resulting in strain which can lead to median nerve
irritation and
carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Furthermore, this position can strain the
muscles in the hand
and forearm which can lead to repetitive strain syndrome.
(0011] Thus, frequent use of common forceps and tweezers often force hands
into
uncomfortable positions that can typically cause hand, wrist and forearm pain
and lead to
CTS. These problems have not been solved because common forceps or tweezers
generally
pinch with a stylus-type tool held between the thumb and index forger. A goal
in designing
forceps or tweezers handles or apparatus, as well as an objective of the
method and apparatus
of the present invention, is to promote the parts of the hand to work in
harmony in performing
a task, by maintaining the hand in a comfortable position while facilitating
the hand and
forearm muscles to work in concert. In addition, a goal in designing forceps
or tweezers
handles or apparatus, as well as an objective of the method and apparatus of
the present
invention, is promoting a reduction of the pinch strength typically required
for holding an
object. Furthermore, another goal in designing forceps or tweezers handles or
apparatus, as
well as an objective of the method and apparatus of the present invention, is
to separate the
functions of pinch and support performed while using forceps or tweezers.
Thus, developing
forceps or tweezers that position the thumb to oppose the space between the
index finger and
the middle forger can reduce the pinch strength required to hold objects,
decrease muscle
fatigue, reduce strain to joints and ligaments in the hand and wrist, and
reduce hand pain.
[0012] Forceps and tweezers, such as surgical forceps and tweezers, generally
fall into three
common types. The first type has two side by side blade members hinged at one
end and free
working ends or tips at the other respective end. The working ends of blade
members move
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toward each other and the tips come together to grasp and hold. The working
ends of blade
members of this first type of forceps and tweezers can cross distally at a
hinge and close
similar to scissors. The blade members of the second type of forceps and
tweezers are
oriented one on top of the other instead of side by side. In the second type,
the handles of the
forceps or tweezers extend perpendicular to the orientation of the blade
members and
typically have rings to engage the forgers. The blade members in the second,
type meet the
handles at a hinge. Moving the rings on the handles moves a pivoting member to
open or
close for grasping or cutting tissue. A third type of forceps and tweezers
uses a lever or slide
to actuate a mechanism that opens and closes the jaws of an instrument.
(0013] The first type of forceps having side-by-side blades is of interest
relating to the
proposed handles or apparatus for forceps and tweezers of the present
invention. Examples
of the side-by-side blades of the first type of forceps or tweezers include
those in U.S. Patent
Nos. 288,096, 987,095 and 2,540,255, which are fruit pickers. U.S. Patent No.
5,893,877
illustrates a forceps or tweezers which is a microsurgical cup forceps. U.S.
Patent No.
5,002,561 illustrates a protective hand forceps. Further, U.S. Patent No.
5,176,696 is related
to handles for microsurgical instruments, with the handles in U.S. Patent No.
5,176,696
opposing the thumb to the index finger and middle finger.
[0014] The problem with many of the above examples of common forceps or
tweezers is that
their design and operation does not take advantage of the greater pinch
strength available
from opposing the thumb to the index finger and middle finger, instead of
opposing the
thumb to the index finger, as well as not efficiently utilizing the palm of
the hand to support
the handle. In addition, the handles for common forceps and tweezers do not
efficiently
utilize the ring finger with or without the small finger to further hold and
stabilize the handle
of the forceps or tweezers. Therefore, what is needed is a forceps or tweezers
that allows the
hand to pinch with greater efficiency, improved stability and reduced joint
and muscle strain.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] The present invention provides handles for forceps/tweezers and method
and
apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus.
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[0016] Also, the design method and apparatus for forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus of
the present invention includes embodiments and methods based on measurements
made of
the hand in a functional pinching position or Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
[0017] A method and apparatus for designing forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus and
method and apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of the present
invention is
provided and takes into consideration defined anatomical positions derived
from the
functional anatomy of a pinching hand. The methods of the present invention
use lines with
respect to measurements made in relation to the hand when the thumb opposes
the space
between the index and middle fingers. Apparatus, such as forceps and tweezers,
produced
from this method make efficient use of the hand.
[0018] An advantage of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method and
apparatus for
designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention is that it
promotes avoiding
placing undue or substantial pressure on, or desirably avoids contact with,
the area of the
hand over the TCL. Therefore, the TCL is not compressed and substantial
pressure is not
transmitted to the contents of the CT region during pinching or using
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus of such design of the present invention.
[0019] Another advantage of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method
and
apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention is
that the natural
arcs of the fingers and palm are maintained providing a handle or apparatus
that is more
comfortable to hold.
[0020] Another advantage of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method
and
apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention is
that more
segments of the hand contact the handle providing a greater hand area to
contact a handle or
apparatus.
[0021] Another advantage of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method
and
apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention is
that the arteries
supplying the muscles in the hand are not compromised or distorted.
[0022] Another advantage of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method
and
apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention is
that they do not
compromise, compress or distort the nerves that go to the hand.
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(0023] Another advantage of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method
and
apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention is
that there is less
compression, distortion or irritation of the median nerve by the superficial
flexor tendons,
which are closer to the TCL and the median nerve in the CT.
[0024] A significant advantage of the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus
and method and
apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention is
that acute and
chronic irntation, trauma and strain to the tendons, bursa, joints, hand
muscles and median
nerve are reduced.
[0025] It is an objective of the present invention to provide forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of
the present
invention having greater contact with the supportive areas of the hand.
[0026] It is an objective of the present invention to provide forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of
the present
invention to optimize use of the flexor hand muscles for the thumb and long
fingers.
(0027] It is still another objective of the present invention to provide
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or
apparatus of the
present invention that utilize reduced grip effort as compared to a common
forceps/tweezers.
[0028] It is still another objective of the present invention to provide
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or
apparatus of the
present invention of various sizes and shapes for various applications.
(0029] It is still another objective of the present invention to provide
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or
apparatus of the
present invention related to various hand sizes to accomplish the above and
other objectives
of the present invention.
[0030] According to another aspect of the present invention, forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of
the present
invention can include those desirably having a curved shape, generally
suggestive of a curved
line similar to an arc, extending horizontally with the concave portion of the
curved arc shape
on the upper side of the handle or apparatus. Furthermore, such an arc-shape
has a branching
section near the middle of the arc extending from the convex side of the arc.
The arc-shape
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for such a forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus includes duplicated sections
each having
three ends with the proximal ends of the respective duplicated sections being
connected. The
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus including such features of the present
invention will
generally have the two arc-shaped portions joined or meeting at their proximal
end to perform
a forceps/tweezers open and close pinching function. However, in other
embodiments of the
handle or apparatus for the forceps or tweezers of the present invention can
also include a
single arc-shape with a branching section, such as can be adapted for various
mechanisms
and implements. The proximal section or sections of the arc-shaped apparatus
or handle in
embodiments of the present invention can meet and touch areas on the radial
side of the palm
of the hand. The extended or branching section or sections of the arc-shaped
handle or
apparatus of the present invention can meet and touch areas on the radial side
and the palmar
side of the ring finger of the hand, as well. The distal section or sections
of the arc-shaped
handle or apparatus of he present invention can extend from the connection of
the proximal
sections or sections of such arc-shaped handle or apparatus to a location near
the tips of the
thumb, index finger and middle finger when extended. In embodiments of the
handle or
apparatus of the present invention having two arc-shaped portions, the distal
ends of each arc-
shaped portion move toward the other and are brought into opposing relation by
the
movement of the thumb on one arc-shaped portion and the movement of the index
finger and
middle forger on the other arc-shaped portion. A variety of working ends can
be attached to
the distal members of such arc-shaped handles or apparatus of the present
invention by
various means and can be used to perform various functions, such as grasping,
biting or
cutting various objects. Also, a variety of mechanical or electronic
implements can be
attached to the arc-shaped handles or apparatus or the present invention.
[0031] It is another objective of the present invention to desirably provide
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or
apparatus of the
present invention of a curved arc shape that use a flexed ring finger to pull
the handle or
apparatus of the present invention toward the radial side of the palm of the
hand when the
hand is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
[0032] According to another aspect of the present invention, forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of
the present
invention can include those desirably having a generally "jogged" shape
similar to a road that
is offset to one side to avoid an obstruction and then continues in another
straight path.
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Furthermore, such a "jogged" shape for such forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus can
include duplicated sections with the proximal ends of the respective
duplicated sections being
connected. While embodiments of such forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of
the present
invention including the feature of the two "jogged" shaped portions joined or
meeting at their
proximal end to enable a pinching function, such handle or apparatus for the
forceps or
tweezers can also be of a single "jogged" shape, that can be adapted for
various mechanisms
and implements. In such "jogged" shape embodiments, the proximal section or
sections of
each "jogged" shape can meet and touch at an area on the ulnar side of the
palm of the hand.
An offset or extended portion of such "jogged" shape embodiments of the handle
or
apparatus is generally located at the middle section or sections of each
"jogged" shape for
meeting and touching areas on the radial side and palmar side of the ring
finger and areas on
the palmar side of the small finger of the hand. The distal section or
sections of such
"jogged" shape embodiments of the handle or apparatus can extend from the
offset or
extended portion of the middle section or sections of the "jogged" shape
handle or apparatus
to a location near the tips of the thumb, index forger and middle finger.
Also, the distal
section or sections of such "jogged" shape embodiments of the handle or
apparatus can
contact the distal part of the thumb, index forger and middle finger of the
hand. In
embodiments of the handle or apparatus of the present invention having two, or
a pair of,
"jogged" shaped portions, the distal ends of each "jogged" shaped portion move
toward the
other and are brought into opposing relation by the movement of the thumb on
one "jogged"
shaped portion and the movement of at least one of the index finger and middle
forger on the
other "jogged" shaped portion. A variety of working ends can be attached to
the distal
members of such "jogged" shaped handles or apparatus of the present invention
by various
means and can be used to perform various functions, such as grasping, biting
or cutting
various objects. Also, a variety of mechanical or electronic implements can be
attached to the
"jogged" shaped handles or apparatus or the present invention.
[0033] An additional objective of the present invention is to desirably
provide
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing
such handles
or apparatus of the present invention of a curved "jogged" shape that can
contact the
hypothenar muscle area between the horizontal crease on the ulnar side of the
hand and the
pisiform bone on the ulnar side of the hand.
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[0034] It is an objective of the present invention to desirably provide
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or
apparatus of the
present invention of a curved "jogged" shape that position the handle or
apparatus in the hand
by having the ring and small forgers wrap around the middle section member or
members of
the handle or apparatus.
[0035] It is another objective of the present invention to desirably provide
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or
apparatus of the
present invention of a curved "jogged" shape that use either the flexed ring
finger and small
forger or the flexed middle finger, ring finger and small forger to pull the
handle or apparatus
of the present invention toward the ulnar side of the palm of the hand when
the hand is in the
' Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention, forceps/tweezers
handles or
t' apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus
of the present
invention desirably provide for the thumb to oppose either or both the index
and middle
fingers.
[0037] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
forcepsltweezers handles or
apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or apparatus of
the present
invention desirably provide greater stabilization when used with a hand.
[0038] Furthermore, forcepsltweezers handles or apparatus and method and
apparatus for
designing such handles or apparatus of the present invention desirably
optimize the position
for the joints of the thumb and either or both of the index finger and middle
forger so the
respective M1P and DIP joints cannot flex excessively.
[0039] Moreover, it is an objective of the present invention to desirably
provide
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing
such handles
or apparatus of the present invention that prevent the handle or apparatus
from slipping
within the hand.
[0040] Also, an objective of the present invention is to desirably provide
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus and method and apparatus for designing such handles or
apparatus of the
present invention that use the flexed ring forger to lift the handle or
apparatus as the flexed
ring finger contacts the proximal portion of the distal section or sections of
the handle or
apparatus.
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[0041] Therefore, the present invention desirably provides forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus for use with a hand, which include a proximal section, a middle
section and a distal
section. The proximal section is for engaging one of a portion of radial side
of the palmar
surface of the hand or the ulnar side of the palmar surface of the hand
without placing
substantial pressure on a surface of the hand located over the carpal tunnel.
The middle
section connects with the proximal section and with the distal section, with
the middle section
for engaging at least one of the middle finger, ring finger or small finger of
the hand. The
distal section extends from the middle section for receiving the thumb and at
least one of the
index finger or middle finger of the hand. Also, the distal section can
include a working end,
such as can be used for grasping, pinching or cutting. Further, an implement
can be attached
to the working end of the distal end of the distal section.
[0042] Additionally, a forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present
invention is
desirably positioned within the hand without engaging a surface of the hand
located over the
carpal tunnel.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] The foregoing and additional features and characteristics of the
present invention will
become more apparent from the following detailed description considered with
reference to
the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals designate like
elements and
wherein:
[0044] Figure 1A and Figure 1B are views of the hand in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP).
Figure 1A illustrates the palmar surface view with the thumb, index finger and
middle finger
ending in the same plane. The tips of the ring forger and small forger also
end on the same
line. Figure 1B is a view of the hand in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP) from
the
perspective of the radial side of the hand. Figure 1B also illustrates the
thumb, index finger
and ring finger ending at the same plane and a centerline C1 extending along
another plane
from the horizontal crease to bisect the distance between the opposing thumb,
index finger
and ring finger.
(0045] Figure 2 is a radial view of the hand in the Forceps Hand Position
(FHP) illustrating
Plane C. Plane C includes the centerline Cl of Figure 1B and passes through
the horizontal
line on the radial side of the hand and through area M on the ulnar side of
the hand.
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(0046] Figure 3A and Figure 3B are views illustrating the first of two styles
of
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention. Figure 3A is
three-
dimensional view and Figure 3B is a side or profile view.
[0047] Figure 4A and Figure 4B are views illustrating the second of two styles
of
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention. Figure 4A is
three-
dimensional view and Figure 4B is a side or profile view.
[0048] Figure SA and Figure SB are views illustrating a hand in the Forceps
Hand Position
(FHP) with the hand holding forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the
present invention.
Figure SA is a palmar view of the hand holding the arc-shaped type of
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus and Figure SB is a palmar view of the hand holding a
"jogged" shaped
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus.
[0049] Figure 6A and Figure 6B are radial views illustrating a hand in the
Forceps Hand
Position (FHP) with the hand holding the corresponding forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus of the present invention. Figure 6A is a radial view of the hand
holding an arc-
shaped forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus illustrating the centerline C1 in
Plane C of the
arc-shaped forceps/tweezers or apparatus in relation to the horizontal crease
on the radial side
of the hand. Figure 6B is a radial view of the hand holding a "jogged" shaped
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus illustrating the centerline C1 in Plane C
of the arc-
shaped forceps/tweezers or apparatus in relation to an area on the ulnar side
of the hand.
[0050] Figure 7A and Figure 7B illustrate a rectangular measuring device used
to measure
the hand for determining measurements and locations of lines related to the
measurements for
producing sizes for a forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present
invention. Figures
7C and 7C1 illustrate an imaging system with a hand in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP) on
a grid system for the purpose of making digital measurements for producing
sizes for a
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present invention. Figure 7D and
Figure 7E
illustrate the arrangement, measurements and locations of such lines and
sections used to
produce a handle or apparatus of the present invention. Specifically, Figure
7F illustrates the
lines and sections that can be used to produce an arc-shaped forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus and Figure 7G illustrates the lines and sections that can be used to
produce a
"jogged" shape forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present invention.
12
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[0051] Figures 8A, 8B and 8C illustrate variations of forceps/tweezers handles
or apparatus
of the present invention where the distal end is related to either the thumb
opposing at least
one of the index forger or the middle finger. Figure 8A illustrates a
variation at the distal end
of the arc-shaped forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus. Figure 8B illustrates
a variation
where the middle forger, ring forger and small finger hold the middle sections
of the "jogged"
shape forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus. Figure 8C illustrates a variation
where the ring
finger and small finger hold the middle sections of the "jogged" shape
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus.
[0052] Figures 9A, 9B and 9C illustrate palmar views of a hand holding
variations of the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present invention illustrated in
Figures 8A, 8B
and 8C.
[0053] Figures 10A through 10E illustrate additions, offsets or extensions in
the
corresponding middle sections to augment holding of forceps/tweezers handles
or apparatus
of the present invention. Figures 10A and lOD illustrate scalloped distal
surfaces of the
middle sections. Figures lOB and 10E illustrate generally flat distal surfaces
and Figure lOC
illustrates rings at the middle sections.
[0054] Figures 11A and 11B illustrate extenders added to the arc-shaped and
"jogged" shape
embodiments of forcepsltweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention
to adjust
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention for a plurality
of hand sizes.
[0055] Figures 12A through 12D illustrate an elastic means, such as a spring,
to keep the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus in an open position.
[0056] Figures 13A through 13C illustrate additions to forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus
of the present invention near the distal end of a handle or apparatus. Figure
13A illustrates a
clamp to maintain a handle or apparatus in a range from a fully open position
to a fully closed
position. Figure 13B and 13C illustrates finger guide members to receive the
ends of
corresponding fingers in a handle or apparatus.
[0057] Figure 14 illustrates a connection means at the distal end of a handle
or apparatus of
the present invention for connecting various implements to the handle or
apparatus.
[0058] Figures 15A through 15D illustrate working ends or implements attached
to
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention, with Figures
15A and 15C
13
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
being a microscissors respectively attached to an arc-shaped and "jogged"
shape forceps/
tweezers handle or apparatus and with Figure 15B and 15D being a reverse
tweezers
respectively attached to an arc-shaped and "jogged" shape forceps/ tweezers
handle or
apparatus.
[0059] Figures 16A, 16B, 16C and 16D illustrate various embodiments of handles
or
apparatus of the present invention that can have devices connecting or
integrated with a
handle or apparatus. Figure 16A illustrates an arc-shape unitary handle or
apparatus of the
present invention. Figure 16B illustrates an "jogged" shape unitary handle or
apparatus of
the present invention. Figure 16C illustrates an embodiment of a generally
unitary arc-
shaped handle or apparatus of the present invention that incorporates a motor
driving means
for rotation or movement of a working end or an implement. Figure 16D
illustrates an
embodiment of a generally unitary "jogged" shape handle or apparatus of the
present
invention that incorporates a motor driving means for rotation or movement of
a working end
or an implement.
[0060] Figures 17A and 17B illustrate embodiments of implements with an arc-
shaped
unitary handle or apparatus and a "jogged" shape unitary handle or apparatus
of the present
invention with an attachment mechanism, with the attachment mechanism
illustrated in
Figures 17A and 17B being a hinge member arranged to allow angular movement of
the
working implement in relation to the handle or apparatus or allow angular
movement of the
handle or apparatus in relation to the working implement.
[0061] Figures 18A through 18E illustrate embodiments of mechanisms to change
the
direction and orientation of pinch with respect to a handle or apparatus of
the present
invention, such as from a side-to-side horizontal direction to an up and dov~m
vertical
direction in relation to a handle.
[0062] Figures 19A, 19B, 19C and 19D illustrate a spring loaded mechanism,
such as for a
surgical scalpel guard, integrated with a handle or apparatus of the present
invention to
provide for retraction and extension of an implement for use with a handle.
14
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0063] In order to more clearly and concisely describe the subject matter of
the present
invention, the following definition for the Forceps Hand Position (FHP) is
intended to
provide guidance as to the meanings of specific terms used in the following
written
description. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology or
terminology employed
herein is for the purpose of description and not to be construed in a limiting
sense. The
following discussion relates to areas of the hand in relation to the present
invention with
reference to Figures lthrough 6B.
FORCEPS HAND POSITION (FHP)
[0064] Figure 1A and Figure 1B illustrate a hand 100 in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP).
In the Forceps Hand Position (FHP) the thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle
finger 203
are partially extended and the tip 201a of the thumb 201 opposes the space 320
between the
tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the tip 200a of the middle finger 203.
Furthermore, as
shown by the dashed line 305, when the hand is in the Forceps Hand Position
(FHP) the tip
ZOla of the thumb 201 is in substantial alignment with the tip 200a of the
index finger 202
and the tip 200a of the middle finger 203. In addition, when the hand is in
the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP), the tip 200a of the ring forger 204 and the tip 200a of the
small finger 205 are
adjacent to each other and end at line 340.
[0065] Continuing with reference to Figures 1A, the horizontal crease 108
crosses the palm
102 of the hand 100 and is hidden by the base 201d of the thumb 201 until the
horizontal
crease 108 reaches the radial side 110 of the hand 100. The location of the
horizontal crease
108 at the radial side 110 of the hand 100 is also illustrated in Figure 1B.
Furthermore, as
illustrated in Figure 1A, when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position
(FHP) the palmar
arch 104 is concave and maintains an arcuate shape thereby preserving the
neutral or resting
position of the palm 102 of the hand 100.
[0066] Figures 1B, 2, 6A and 6B illustrate Plane C, which bisects the space
made between
the thumb 201 and the index finger 202 and middle finger 203 of a hand 100 in
the Forceps
Hand Position (FHP). Plane C passes through the radial side 110 of the hand
100 and the
ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 at the horizontal crease 108 on the radial side
110 of the hand
100 and area M on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100, which is approximately
half way
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between the horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform bone 126 of the wrist 120.
Plane C also
passes through the DIP joints 252 of the ring finger 204 and small finger 205.
Furthermore, as
illustrated in Figure 2, the radial edge R of Plane C slants toward the radial
side 110 of a hand
100 and the ulnar edge U of Plane C slants away from the ulnar side 111 of a
hand when the
hand is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP) and viewed from the distal
direction, i.e. facing
the space between the thumb and index forger. Plane C, as illustrated in
Figures 6A and 6B,
substantially concurs, or is in substantial alignment, with the centerline C 1
of a handle or
apparatus of the present invention
[0067] Figures 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, SA and SB illustrate two embodiments of the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a, 400b of the present invention.
Embodiments of
the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present
invention have
respective proximal sections 410a, 410b, middle sections 420a, 420b and distal
sections 430a,
430b. The proximal sections 410a, 410b and the middle sections 420a, 420b of
the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present invention
are supported
by the hand 100. The distal sections 430a, 430b of the forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus
400a and 400b of the present invention are typically not supported by the hand
100. The
embodiments of the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the
present
invention have two opposing blades 440a and 440b. The opposing blades 440a,
440b of the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present invention
can be mirror
images of the other. The opposing blades 440a, 440b have corresponding
proximal sections
410a, 410b, middle sections 420a; 420b and distal sections 430a, 430b. The
distal sections
430a, 430b of the opposing blades 440a, 440b can perform grasp, pinch and
other mechanical
actions related to the opposing movement of the distal pad 201b of the thumb
201 toward the
distal pad 202b of the index finger 202 and the distal pad 203b of the middle
forger 203. As
illustrated in Figures 14, 15A, 15B, 16C, 16D, 17A and 17B, the distal ends
432a, 432b of the
distal sections 430a, 430b of each opposing blades 440a, 440b of the
forceps/tweezers
handles 400a and 400b can have working ends 470 that are integrated or that
include various
connecting means 460 to allow multiple, varied implements to performing
various suitable
tasks or functions, such as grasping, pinching, cutting, rotating or other
electrical or
mechanical functions.
[0068] The forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present invention
illustrated in
Figures 3A and 3B has an arc shape with the concave side 402a at the top and
an extension
16
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
from the convex side 401 at the bottom. Each opposing blade 440a of the
forceps/tweezers
handle 400a has a corresponding proximal section 410a, middle section 420a and
distal
section 430a. The proximal sections 410a of each blade 440a meet and are
connected by a
radial hinge 403a at the proximal end 413a of the forceps/tweezers handle
400a. The convex
sides 401a have a corresponding extension 422a from a corresponding middle
section 420a of
the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a. The distal sections 430a each
continue from
the corresponding middle section 420a of the forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400a of
the present invention. Also, each distal section 430a has a corresponding
distal end 432a.
[0069] As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B the forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400b of
the present invention forms a shape of a configuration similar to a jog in the
road with a
straight entrance and a straight exit. Each opposing blade 440b of the
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400b has a corresponding proximal section 410b, middle
section 420b
and distal section 430b. The opposing blades 440b meet and connect at an ulnar
hinge 405b
at the proximal end 413b of the proximal sections 410b of the forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus 400b. The proximal sections 410b each meet tile corresponding middle
section
420b at a corresponding proximal curve 406b. The middle sections 420b each
then
respectively continue into the corresponding distal section 430b at the
corresponding distal
curve 407b. The distal sections 430b each respectively continue from the
corresponding
distal curve 407b of the corresponding middle sections 420b of the
forceps/tweezers handle
or apparatus 400b of the present invention. The distal sections 430b have
corresponding
distal ends 432b.
[0070] The hinges 403a and 405b at the respective proximal ends 413a, 413b of
the
respective forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b can be made
such that one
opposing blade ~440a, 440b is continuous or integrally formed into the other
opposing blade
440a, 440b. Hinges 403a, 405b can also be made of a mechanical connection
means, such as
a hinge arrangement. The widths Wap, Wbp of the proximal ends 413a, 413b of
the proximal
sections 410a 410b of the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b
approximate
the width of base 202d of the index finger 202. The width Wad, Wbd of the
distal ends 432a,
432b of the distal sections 430a, 430b approximate the combined width of the
distal pad 202b
of the index forger 202 and the distal pad 203b of the middle finger 203.
[0071] As illustrated in Figure SA, the proximal end 413a of the proximal
sections 410a of
the forcepsltweezers handle or apparatus 400a can be consistent with the
corresponding
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
surface of the palm 102 in the area near the horizontal line 108 at the radial
side 110 of the
hand 100. As illustrated in Figure SB, The proximal end 413b of the proximal
sections 410b
of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b can be consistent with the
corresponding
surface of the palm 102 in area M at the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. The
shape of the
proximal ends 413a, 413b of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a and 400b
can be of a
suitable shape, such as flat, rounded or angled.
[0072] Figures SA, SB, 6A, and 6B illustrate a hand 100 in the Forceps Hand
Position (FHP)
with the hand 100 holding forcepsltweezers handles or apparatus of the present
invention.
Figures SA and SB are palmar views of the hand 100 respectively holding
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus 400a and 400b. Figure 6A is a radial view of the hand 100
holding
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a, and Figure 6B is a radial view of
the hand 100
holding forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b.
[0073] With reference to Figures 1A, 1B, 2B, SA and 6A, desirably the
horizontal crease 108
on the radial side 110 of the hand 100 contacts the proximal end 413a of each
opposing blade
440a of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present
invention. Continuing
with reference to Figure SA and 6A, the palmar surface 210 of the middle
phalange 215 of
the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 210 of the distal phalange 216 of
the ring forger
204 contact the distal surface 423a of the corresponding extension 422a of the
middle
sections 420a of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present
invention. In
addition, the radial side 217 of the middle phalange 215 of the ring finger
204 and the radial
side 217 of the distal phalange 216 of the ring forger 204 contact an inferior
surface 434a the
corresponding proximal area 433a of the distal sections 430a of'the
forceps/tweezers handle
or apparatus 400a. Furthermore, the distal pad 201b of the thumb 201 contacts
the distal end
432a of the distal section 430a of one opposing blade 440a of the
forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400a of the present invention, and at least one of the distal pad
202b of the index
finger 202 and the distal pad 203b of the middle finger 203 contacts the
distal section 430a of
the mirror image other opposing blade 440a of the forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400a
of the present invention.
[0074] In addition, with reference to Figures 1A, 1B, SB and 6B, the proximal
end 413b of
the corresponding proximal section 410b of each opposing blade 440b of the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the present invention contacts
the ulnar side
111 of the palm 102 of the hand 100 at area M between the horizontal crease
108 and, the
1~
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
pisiform bone 126 of the wrist 120. Further, the palmar surface 210 of the
middle phalange
215 of the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 210 of the distal phalange
216 of the ring
finger 204 contact the corresponding distal surface 423b of the middle
sections 420b of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400b of the present invention. In addition, the radial
side 110 of the
middle phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and the radial side 217 of the
distal phalange 216
of the ring forger 204 contact an inferior surface 434b of the corresponding
proximal area
433b of the distal sections 430b of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus
400b.
Furthermore, the palmar surface 220 of the middle phalange 225 of the small
Fnger 205 and
the palmar surface 220 of the distal phalange 226 of the small finger 205
contact the
corresponding distal surface 423b of the middle sections 420b of the opposing
blades 440b of
the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the present invention.
[0075] Figures 6A and 6B are radial views of a hand 100 holding a
forceps/tweezers handle
or apparatus of the present invention when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand
Position
(FHP) as viewed along Plane C. Figure 6A is a radial view of a hand 100
holding
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present invention, whereas
Figure 6B is a
radial view of a hand 100 holding forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of
the present
invention. Figures 6A and 6B illustrate superimposed views of forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus 400a and forcepsltweezers handle or apparatus 400b in relation to a
hand.
However, as illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B, Plane C, as discussed in
relation to Figure 1B
and 2B, slants toward the radial side 110 of the hand 100. The
forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a and 400b appear to be a superimposed because the position of
the hand 100 as
illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B is pronated, i.e. the thumb and forearm
rotate toward the
body, to bring area M into view on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. Such
rotation gives
greater exposure to the dorsal (outer) side 113 of the middle finger 203 as
illustrated in
Figures 6A and 6B. Furthermore, the views illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B
show the length
L1 of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a is less than the length L2 of
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b in relation to the thumb 201, index
forger 202 and
middle finger 203 of the hand 100 in an extended position, such as in the
Forceps Hand
Position (FHP).
[0076] As illustrated in Figures SA and 6A, a hand 100 desirably supports the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present invention, at three
contact locations.
The first support location is where the radial side 110 of the horizontal
crease 108 of the hand
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
100 contacts the proximal end 413a of the proximal section 410a of each
opposing blade
440a of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present invention. The
second
support location is where the palmar surface 210 of the middle phalange 215 of
the ring
forger 204 and the palmar surface 210 of the distal phalange 216 of the ring
finger contact the
corresponding distal surfaces 423a of the extensions 422a of the respective
middle sections
420a of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present
invention. The third
support location is where the radial side 217 of the middle phalange 215 of
the ring forger
204 and the radial side 217 of the distal phalange 216 of the ring finger 204
contact the
corresponding inferior surfaces 434a of the proximal areas 433a of the
respective distal
sections 430a of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a.
[0077] Alternately, as illustrated in Figures SB and 6B, a hand 100 desirably
supports the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the present invention at four
contact locations.
The first support location can be where the ulnar side 111 of the horizontal
crease 108 of the
hand 100 contacts the corresponding proximal end 413b of the proximal section
410b of each
opposing blade 440b of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the
present
invention. However, the optimal second support location, as illustrated in
Figure SB, is where
the proximal end 413b of the proximal section 410b of each opposing blade 440a
of the
forceps/tweezers handle 400 of the present invention contacts area M located
between the
ulnar side 111 of the horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform bone 126 of the
wrist 120 on the
ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. The second support location is where the
palmar surface 210
of the middle phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 210
of the distal
phalange 216 of the ring forger respectively contact the corresponding distal
surface 423b of
the middle sections 420b of the opposing blades 440b of the forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus 400b of the present invention. The third support location is on the
radial side 217
of the middle phalange 215 of the ring finger 204 and on the radial side 217
of the distal
phalange 216 of the ring finger 204 which respectively contact the
corresponding inferior
surface 434b of the proximal areas 433b of the distal sections 430b of the
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400b. The fourth support location is where the palmar
surface 220 of the
middle phalange 225 of the small forger 205 and the palmar surface 220 of the
distal
phalange 226 of the small finger 205 respectively contact the corresponding
distal surface
423b of the middle sections 420b of the respective opposing blades 440b of the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the present invention.
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[0078] As illustrated in Figures SA and 6A, support and stabilization within
the hand 100 for
a handle or apparatus of the present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus 400a of the present invention, is enhanced by the deep flexor
forearm muscle
contracting the distal phalange 216 of the ring finger 204 and the superficial
flexor forearm
muscle contracting the middle phalange 215 of the ring finger 204. Such
contraction pulls
the proximal end 413a of the proximal sections 410a of the forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus 400a of the present invention against the horizontal crease 108 of
the palm 102 at
the radial side 110 of the hand 100. Support for lifting objects held by a
handle or apparatus
of the present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus
400a of the present
invention, by the hand 100 is enhanced by contact at the radial side 217 of
the ring finger 204
with the corresponding inferior surface 434a of the proximal areas 433a of the
respective
distal sections 430a of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a.
[0079] As illustrated in Figures SB and 6B, support and stabilization within
the hand 100 for
the forcepsltweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the present invention, is
enhanced by the
deep flexor forearm muscle contracting the distal phalange 216 of the ring
forger 204, and by
the superficial flexor forearm muscle contracting the middle phalange 215 of
.the ring finger
204, and by the deep flexor forearm muscle contracting the distal phalange 226
of the small
finger 205, and by the superficial flexor forearm muscle contracting the
middle phalange 225
of the small finger 205 on the corresponding distal surface 423b of the middle
sections 420b
of the respective opposing blades 440b. Such contraction pulls the
forceps/tweezers handle
or apparatus 400b of the present invention against a location within area M of
the palm 102 at
the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. Support for lifting objects held by a
handle or apparatus
of the present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus
400b of the present
invention, by the hand 100 is enhanced by contact at the radial side 217 of
the ring finger 204
with the corresponding distal surface 423b of the middle sections 420b of the
respective
opposing blades 440b of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the
present
invention.
[0080] In reference to Figures SA and 6A, pinch, as a function of a forceps or
tweezers, is
performed when the distal ends 432a, 432b of the distal sections 430a, 430b of
the opposing
blades 440a 440b of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b occurs
by the
opposing movement of the thumb 201 and at least one of the index finger and
middle finger.
However, when closing a common forceps or tweezers, the thumb 201 and index
finger 202
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contribute to its support while simultaneously opposing each other, which can
lead to strain
and fatigue. On the other hand, when using the forcepsltweezers handles or
apparatus 400a
and 400b of the present invention, the thumb 201, index forger 202 and middle
forger 203 are
primarily involved with pinch and not support. Therefore, use of the
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present invention can reduce strain
on the muscles
flexing the thumb 201, index forger 202 and middle finger 203 when they are
used to perform
fore or gross pinch. Furthermore, as illustrated in Figures SA through 6B, the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b promote the thumb 201,
index finger
202 and middle forger 203 to be placed in a relaxed extended position, which
also reduces
tension on the joints of the hand 100. In addition, as illustrated in Figures
SA and SB, the
proximal ends 413a, 413b of the proximal sections 410a, 410b of
forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a and 400b touch the palm 102 of the hand 100 in such a way as to
not place
substantial or undue pressure on the contents of the CT area 124, the TCL 122
or the nerves
or blood vessels supplying the hand 100. Also, another feature of
forceps/tweezers handles
or apparatus 400a and 400b is that such forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus
can be used
with a right hand 100 or a left hand 100.
HAND MEASUREMENTS
[0081] A goal in developing the proposed forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus
of present
invention, such as forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b, is to
produce
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus that fit hands. It is possible to
develop one size for
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention, such as
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus 400a and 400b, to span many hands. However, holding
either
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a or 400b of the present invention
will be more
comfortable, require less muscular effort and have greater stability if made
in multiple sizes.
The shoe industry recognizes that feet have a range of lengths and widths. The
same is true
of hands. The length from wrist 120 to the tips 200a of the long fingers 200
and width from
the radial side 110 of the hand 100 to the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 vary
such that hands
can be short and long, short and narrow, long and wide and long and narrow. In
general,
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male hands are longer and wider than female hands. Therefore, sizes for
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus of the present invention, such as forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus
400a and 400b, can be determined and can desirably be based upon measurements
taken with
the hand in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP) as illustrated in Figure 1A and
Figure 1B.
[0082] A rectangular measuring device 800 for measuring the hand 100, such as
illustrated in
Figure 7A, can be used for determining sizes and shapes of handles or
apparatus of the
present invention, such as the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a,
400b. The
rectangular measuring device 800 is desirably made of measuring members, such
as four
rulers, that can be used when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position
(FHP) to measure
sizes for the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention,
such as
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b. The rulers or measuring
members are
respectively indicated by the letters DD, EE, FF and GG, with ruler DD as a
first measuring
member, with ruler EE as a second measuring member, with ruler FF as a third
measuring
member and ruler GG as a fourth measuring member. Each ruler DD, EE, FF, GG is
set at
right angles to each other. Ruler DD and ruler EE are generally parallel and
in the X-axis
direction, as illustrated in Figure 7A. Ruler FF and GG are generally parallel
and in the Y-
axis direction, as illustrated in Figure 7A. Each ruler DD, EE, FF, GG has a
corresponding
slot 806, 807, 808, 809 along the center of its length and has corresponding
gradation marks
805. The rulers DD, EE, FF and GG are connected by fastening members, such as
rivets
801,802,803,804, or other desirable fasteners, such that the rulers DD, EE, FF
and GG are
loosely connected within the rectangular measuring device 800. The loose
connection at
rivets 801,802,803,804 allows each ruler DD, EE, FF, GG to slide along in the
X-axis
direction and/or the Y-axis direction. The dimensions, length and width, of
Rulers DD, EE,
and FF can generally be the same, whereas ruler GG can generally have a wider
portion, such
as a five millimeter wide segment 810, starting at elevation 812 at
approximately half the
length of ruler GG. The other half of ruler GG can be a standard ruler or
other suitable
measuring device and is identified as the narrow segment 811 of ruler GG. The
wide
segment 810 desirably has a wider width than the width of the narrow segment
811.
Measurements start at the right end of ruler DD and EE indicated by RHT in
Figure 7A.
Measurements start near ruler DD for ruler FF. Measurements start near ruler
EE for ruler
GG. The wide segment of Ruler GG faces the inside INS of the rectangular
measuring
device 800.
23
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[0083] Referring to Figures 7A and 7B, the rectangular measuring device 800 is
positioned
along Plane C (see Figures 1 B, 2, 6A and 6B) to measure a hand 100 in the
Forceps Hand
Position (FHP). The right end side RHT of ruler DD touches the horizontal
crease 108 on the
radial side 110 of the palm 102 of the hand 100. The right end side RHT of
ruler EE is placed
at point P 1 in Area M of the palm 102 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100.
As illustrated in
Figure 7A and Figure 7B, ruler FF moves in the X-axis direction along ruler DD
and in the
X-axis direction along ruler EE until the outside edge FOUT of ruler FF is at
the Plane B (see
Figures 1A and 7B), where the tip 201a of the thumb 201 opposes the space 320
between the
tip 200a of the index forger 202 and the tip 200a of the middle finger 203 on
line 305. Ruler
GG is moved in the X-axis direction along ruler DD and ruler EE until the
narrow segment
811 of ruler GG touches the palmar surface 220 at the DIP joint 252 of the
small finger 205.
Ruler GG is then moved in the Y-axis direction until the elevation 812 on
ruler GG contacts
the radial side 110 of the DIP joint 252 of the small finger 205. The wide
segment 810 now
touches the palmar surface 210 of the ring finger 204. This completes
positioning of rulers
DD, EE, FF and GG for measuring a hand size.
[0084] Continuing with reference to Figures 7A, 7B, 7D and 7E, measurements
are taken
along measurement distances D, E, F, F', G and H. Measurement distance D, as a
first
measurement distance, is measured on the outer side DOUT from the right end
side RHT of
ruler DD of the rectangular measuring device 800 from the horizontal crease
108 on the
radial side 110 of the hand 100 to the outer side FOUT of ruler FF of the
rectangular
measuring device 800. Measurement distance E, as a second measurement
distance, is
measured along the inner side EIN of ruler EE on the rectangular measuring
device 800 from
the point P1 in area M on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 to the palmar
surface 220 of the
small finger 205, when the small finger 205 is touching the narrow segment 811
of ruler GG
and the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). Measurement distance
F, as a third
measurement distance, is measured along the outer side FOUT of ruler FF on the
rectangular
measuring device 800 from the outer side DOUT of ruler DD to the ulnar side
203c of the
middle finger 203 when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
Measurement
distance F', as a fourth measurement distance, is measured along the outer
side FOUT of
ruler FF from the radial side 202c of the index finger 202 to the ulnar side
203c of the middle
finger 203. Measurement distance G, as a fifth measurement distance, is
measured along
ruler GG on the inner side INS of the rectangular measuring device 800 from
the inner side
EIN of ruler EE to the radial side 217 of the ring finger 204 when the hand
100 is in the
24
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
Forceps Hand Position (FHP). Measurement distance H, as a sixth measurement
distance, is
measured along ruler DD from the outer side FOUT of ruler FF to the wide
segment 810 on
the inner side GIN of ruler GG on the rectangular measuring device 800.
[0085] Continuing with reference to Figures 1A, 7A, 7B, 7D and 7E, measurement
lines
oriented and arranged to correspond to a hand in the Forceps Hand Position
(FHP) are drawn
from the corresponding first through sixth measurement distances D, E, F, F',
G and H and
are desirably recorded on a medium such as on grid paper. These measurement
lines are
used to produce corresponding outline lines to outline a handle shape, with
the outline formed
by these outline lines for a handle shape being illustrated in Figures 7D and
7E, and also
being indicated in Figure 7B, such as for forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a and
400b, of the present invention. First, a first measurement line corresponding
to the second
measurement distance E is drawn in the X-axis direction. Then, a second
measurement line
corresponding to the fifth measurement distance G is drawn in the Y-axis
direction starting at
a preselected distance, typically five millimeters (consistent with the
elevation 812), to the
left of the line drawn corresponding to the second measurement distance E.
Next, a third
measurement line corresponding to the sixth measurement distance H is drawn in
the X-axis
direction starting at the top GTOP of the second measurement line drawn for
the fifth
measurement distance G. Then a fourth measurement line corresponding to the
third
measurement distance F is drawn in the Y-axis direction. A fifth measurement
line
corresponding to the fourth measurement distance F' is then drawn on the same
fourth
measurement line as the third measurement distance F. Next, a sixth
measurement line
corresponding to the first measurement distance D is drawn in the X-axis
direction, and an
end of the sixth measurement line for the first measurement distance D is on
the same Y-axis
direction line as the left end HLFT of the third measurement line for the
sixth measurement
distance H. Furthermore, the fourth measurement line for the third measurement
distance F is
drawn in the Y-axis direction with an end of the fourth measurement line
starting at the left
end DLFT of the sixth measurement line for the first measurement distance D.
[0086] As discussed above, a handle or apparatus, such as the forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus 400a and 400b, of the present invention can come in a plurality of
sizes. The sizes
of forceps/tweezers handles 400 of the present invention can be compiled by
drawing point to
point outline lines Z, Y, X, W, V and U to connect end points D1, F1', F1, G1,
E1 and E2 on
the measurement lines corresponding to measurement distances D, E, F, F', G
and H as
CA 02520965 2005-09-30
WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
illustrated in Figures 7B, 7D and 7E. As illustrated in Figures 7A, 7B, 7D and
7E, the first
point to point outline line is line Z, which connects end point D 1 on the
sixth measurement
line corresponding to the first measurement distance D to end point F1' on the
fifth
measurement line corresponding to the fourth measurement distance F'. The
second point to
point outline line is line Y connecting end point Fl' on the fifth measurement
line
corresponding to the fourth measurement distance F' to end point F1 on the
fourth
measurement line corresponding to the third measurement distance F with the
end point F1
also corresponding to the same end point on the third measurement line
corresponding to the
sixth measurement distance H. Then the third point to point outline line X
connects end point
Fl on the fourth measurement line corresponding to the third measurement
distance F, which
also corresponds to the same end point on the third measurement line
corresponding to the
sixth measurement distance H, to end point Gl on the second measurement line
corresponding to the fifth measurement distance G, which is followed by the
fourth point to
point outline line W connecting end point Gl on the second measurement line
corresponding
to the fifth measurement distance G to end point E 1 on the first measurement
line
corresponding to the second measurement distance E. The fifth point to point
outline line V
next connects end point E1 on the first measurement line corresponding to the
second
measurement distance E to end point E2 on the first measurement line
corresponding to the
second measurement distance E. Finally, the sixth point to point outline line
U is drawn from
end point D1 on the sixth measurement line corresponding to the first
measurement distance
D to end point E2 on the first measurement line corresponding to the second
measurement
distance E to complete the perimeter PER incorporating the outline lines Z, Y,
X, W and V
for measurements for handles or apparatus, such as the forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus
400a and 400b of the present invention. Perimeters PER for various hand sizes
are compared
to produce a range of sizes for handles of the present invention. As discussed
above, the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present invention
can contact the
hand 100 at the following locations: at the horizontal crease 108 of the palm
102 on the ulnar
side 111 of the hand 100, at a location in area M of the palm 102 on the ulnar
side 111 of the
hand 100, the palmar surface 210 of the ring finger 204 with the palmar
surface 220 of the
small finger 205, at the radial side 110 of the ring finger 204, at the distal
pad 201b of the
thumb 201, at the distal pad 202b of the index finger 202 and at the distal
pad 203c of the
middle finger 203.
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
[0087] The sizes of the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus, such as
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus 400a and 400b, of the present invention are determined by
plotting or
recording measurements of the perimeter PER. However, the shapes of the
forcepsltweezers
handles or apparatus, such as forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and
400b, of the
present invention are related to those areas on the perimeter PER which
potentially touch, or
contact, the hand 100 at certain areas, dependent upon the particular use or
application of the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus, such as forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a
and 400b, of the present invention. Referring to Figures 7D through 7G,
sections of various
outline lines of the perimeter PER forming potential contact areas for handle
or apparatus
measurements are indicated by double-arrowed lines for corresponding contact
areas with a
hand 100.
[0088] Continuing with reference to Figures 7E through 7G, a first section N
on the sixth
outline line U extends approximately within a range from the point D1 to the
point Kl on the
sixth outline line U and is a first potential limited contact area on the
perimeter PER for
contacting an, area of the hand related to the horizontal crease 108 of the
palm 102 on the
radial side 110 of the hand 100. A second section O on the sixth outline line
U extends
approximately within a range from the point E2 to the point K2 on the sixth
outline line U
and is a second limited potential contact area on the perimeter PER for
contacting an area of
the hand related to area M of the palm 102 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand
100. A third
section R on the fourth outline line W extends approximately within a range
from the point
G1 to the point K3 on the fourth outline line W and is a third limited
potential contact area on
the perimeter PER for contacting an area of the hand related to the palmar
surface 210 of the
ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 220 of the small finger 205. A fourth
section P on the
third outline line X extends approximately within a range from the point G1 to
the point K4
on the third outline line X and is a fourth limited potential contact area on
the perimeter PER
for contacting an area of the hand related to the radial side 217 of the ring
finger 204.
[0089] A fifth section Q on the third outline line X extends approximately
within a range
from the point KS to the point K6 on the third outline line X. A sixth section
S on the second
outline line Y extends approximately within a range from the point K7 to the
point K8 on the
second outline line Y. A seventh section T on the first outline line Z extends
approximately
within a range from the point K9 to the point K10 on the first outline line Z.
The
combination of a fifth section Q on the third outline line X, a sixth section
S on the second
27
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
outline line Y and a seventh section T on the first outline line Z are
respectively fifth, sixth
and seventh limited potential contact areas on the perimeter PER for
contacting areas of the
hand related to the distal pad 202b of the index finger 202 and the distal pad
203b of the
middle finger 203. The combination of the fifth section Q on the third outline
line X, the
sixth section S on the second outline line Y and the seventh section T on the
first outline line
Z is duplicated on the distal ends 435a of the opposing blades 440 of a handle
or apparatus,
such as forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b, of the present
invention and
can relate to an area for the distal pad 201b of the thumb 201.
[0090] Segments or sections of the respective sixth through first outline
lines U, V, W, X, Y
and Z that are not on the first section N on the sixth outline line U, the
second section O on
the sixth outline line U, the fourth section P on the third outline line X,
the fifth section Q on
the third outline line X, the third section R on the fourth outline line W,
the sixth section S on
the second outline line Y and the seventh section T on the first outline line
Z on the perimeter
PER can have any curve or shape because those areas generally do not contact
parts of the
hand 100 on a handle or apparatus, such as the forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a
and 400b, of the present invention, as long as the shape produced does not
place pressure on
the CT area.
[0091] Common contact sections on the perimeter PER for forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus of the present invention, such as forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a and
400b, as discussed in reference to Figure 7E, can include the fourth section P
on the third
outline line X, the fifth section Q on the third outline line X, the sixth
section S on the second
outline line Y and the seventh section T on the first outline line Z.
Furthermore,
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention, such as
forceps/tweezers
handles or apparatus 400a and 400b, can also share a portion of the third
section R on the
fourth outline line W. As illustrated in Figure 7F, forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400a
incorporates the section R1, which is a subsection of the section R, with the
section R1 on the
fourth outline line W extending approximately in a range from the point G1 to
the point Kl 1
on the fourth outline line W and the section R1 is a portion of the third
limited potential
contact area on the perimeter PER for contacting an area of the hand related
to the palmar
surface 210 of the ring finger 204. Whereas, as illustrated in Figure 7G, the
third limited
potential contact area for forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b extends
approximately
within the range of the entire length of the third section R on the fourth
outline line W.
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
[0092] As evident from Figures 7E through 7G, forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a
and 400b do not share the same contact areas on the palm 102 of the hand 100.
In the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a, the palmar contact area for
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400a is approximately located at the horizontal crease 108
at the radial
side 110 of the palm 102 of the hand 100, which corresponds to the first
section N on the
sixth outline line U. Whereas in the forcepsltweezers handle or apparatus
400b, the palmar
contact area for forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b is approximately
located at area
M on the palm 102 on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100, area M being
approximately half
the distance between the horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform bone 126,
which corresponds
to the second section O on outline line U.
[0093] As also illustrated in Figures 7F and 7G, the above described palmar
contact areas
determine a general shape of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a and a
general shape
of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b. As illustrated in Figure 7F, as
previously
discussed, the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present
invention can be
generally formed in the shape of an arc with extensions 422a near the middle
of its convex
sides 401. Whereas, as illustrated in Figure 7G, the forcepsltweezers handle
or apparatus
400b of the present invention can form a shape similar to a jog in the road
with an entrance
and an exit, with the road corresponding the outline shape of the handle or
apparatus 400b
and with the entrance and exit respectively corresponding to the sections N,
O, and S on the
perimeter PER of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b.
[0094] Further, as illustrated in Figures 6A, 6B and 7B, the length L1 for
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400a is related to the linear distance from the proximal
end 413a to the
distal end 432a of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a with the hand 100
in the
Forceps Hand Position (FHP). Length Ll can be measured along the x-axis in
relation to the
distance from point D1 at the right side RHT of ruler DD to line 305 where the
tip 201a of the
thumb 201 opposes the space 320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202
and the tip
200a of the middle finger 203 on Plane B at the outer side FOUT of ruler FF of
the
rectangular measuring device 800. Furthermore, length Ll also relates to the
distance from
the horizontal crease 108 of radial side 110 of the hand 100 to tip 200a of
the index finger
202 and tip 200a of the middle finger 203 taken with the hand 100 in the
Forceps Hand
Position (FHP). In addition, the length L2 for forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400b is
in relation to the linear distance from the proximal end 413b to the distal
end 432b of,
29
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b. Length L2 can be measured along the
x-axis in
relation to the distance from point E1 at the right side RHT of ruler EE to
line 305 where the
tip 201 a of the thumb 201 opposes the space 320 between the tip 200a of the
index finger 202
and the tip 200a of the middle finger 203 on Plane B at the outer side FOUT of
ruler FF of
the rectangular measuring device 800. Length L2 also relates to the linear
distance from port
E2 in area M on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100 to the index finger 202 and
tip 200a of the
middle forger taken with the hand in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP).
[0095] With reference to Figure 7C, digital imaging can also be used as a
medium for
measuring a hand 100 to determine the length, slope, location and shape of the
above
described outline lines and sections on the perimeter PER and the
configuration of the
perimeter PER, such as when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position
(FHP), to develop
sizes for forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus, such as forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus 400a and 400b, of the present invention, similar to the sizes for
handles for a
apparatus developed by using the rectangular measuring device 800 of Figures
7A and 7B.
As illustrated in Figure 7C, such an image I can be produced by digital
imaging of a hand 100
by an imaging system 700. The imaging system 700 can include a grid measuring
system
701, a digital imaging apparatus 702, a processor 703, a display device 704
and a point
indicator 705. The digital image I can be produced by the digital imaging
apparatus 702,
such as a digital image scanner or digital camera, that produces the digital
image I which can
be transferred by the processor 703, such as a computer, to the grid measuring
device or grid
measuring system 701, as can be displayed on the display device 704, such as a
computer
monitor, or printed by printer using a known computer or processing program,
such as a
Photoshop or other suitable imaging or graphics design program.
[0096] Similar to the discussion of Figures 7B and 7D through 7G, an imaging
system, such
as imaging system 700 of Figure 7C, can be used to determine the locations of
points D1,
F1', F1, G1, E1 and E2 and the length, slope, location, shape and
configuration of sections N,
0, R, R1, P, Q, S and T on the perimeter PER, as well as the configuration of
the perimeter
PER, corresponding to similar locations and areas on the hand 100 used for
determining sizes
for the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention. These
points D1, F1',
F1, G1, E1 and E2 and the sections N, 0, R, R1, P, Q, S and T can be
determined from the
image I on the grid measuring system 701 plotted using the processor 703 and
the point
indicator 705. The points and sections are selectively indicated on the grid
measuring system
CA 02520965 2005-09-30
WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
701 utilizing a point indicator 705, such as a computer mouse, in conjunction
with a suitable
processing program, typically with the hand 100 in Forceps Hand Position
(FHP). Plotting of
the points D1, Fl', F1, G1, E1 and E2 and the points corresponding to the
sections N, 0, R,
Rl, P, Q, S and T on the perimeter PER determines the coordinates, such as X
and Y axes
coordinates (xn,yn) for the points Dl, Fl', F1, G1, E1 and E2 and for the
sections N, 0, R,
Rl, P, Q, S and T on the perimeter PER. Also, plotting of the points D1, F1',
F1, G1, E1 and
E2 indicated by their corresponding coordinates generates the above described
outline lines
Z, Y, X, W, V and U, and determines the location, slope, length and
configuration of these
outline lines Z, Y, X, W, V and U, and connects these outline lines to form
the Perimeter
PER of a specific configuration for corresponding sizes of forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus of the present invention, such as forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a and
400b.
[00971 As illustrated in Figure 7C, as well as in Figures 7D and 7E, the point
D1 (xl,yl) is
consistent with the location of the radial side 110 of the horizontal crease
108 of the palm 102
of the hand 100. The point F1' (x2,y2) is consistent with the location where
the radial side
110 of the index forger 202 meets Plane B on line 305 where the tip 201a of
the thumb 201
opposes the space 320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the tip
200a of the
middle finger 203. The point F1 (x3,y3) is consistent with the location where
the ulnar side
111 of the middle finger 203 meets Plane B on line 305 where the tip 201a of
the thumb 201
opposes the space 320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the tip
200a of the
middle finger 203. The point G1 (x4,y4) is consistent with and is the junction
of the radial
side 217 of the ring forger 204 with the palmar side 210 of the ring finger
204. The point El
(x5,y5) is consistent with and is the junction of the palmar side 220 of the
small finger 205
and the ulnar side 111 of the small finger 205. Finally, point E2 (x6,y6) is
consistent with the
location of point P1 in Area M on the ulnar side 111 of the palm 102 of the
hand 100, point
P1 being located on the ulnar 111 side of the palm 102 of the hand 100
approximately half
way between the horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform bone 126 of the wrist
120. The
coordinates of the points D1(xl,yl), Fl'(x2,y2), F1(x3,y3), G1(x4,y4),
E1(x5,y5) and
E2(x6,y6) can then be sequentially connected, as illustrated in Figure 7C
through 7G, to form
the outline lines Z, Y, X, W, V and U, as also illustrated in Figures 7B,
which in turn form
the Perimeter PER for a forcepsltweezers handle or apparatus of the present
invention, such
as forcepsitweezers handle or apparatus 400a, 400b.
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[0098] As illustrated in Figure 7C, the coordinates assigned to points on the
perimeter PER
using the image system 700 are consistent with the corresponding points in
Figures 7D
through 7G. The first section N on the sixth outline line U extends
approximately within a
range from the point Dl (xl,yl) to the point K1 (x7,y7) on the sixth outline
line U. The
second section O on the sixth outline line U extends approximately within a
range from the
point E2 (x6,y6) to the point K2 (x8,y8) on the sixth outline line U. The
third section R on
the fourth outline line W extends approximately within a range from the point
.G1 (x4,y4) to
the point K3 (x9,y9) on the fourth outline line W; and the section R1 on the
fourth outline
line W extends approximately in a range from the point G1 (x4,y4) to the point
K11
(x17,y17) on the fourth outline line W. The fourth section P on the third
outline line X
extends approximately within a range from the point G1 (x4,y4) to the point K4
(x10,y10) on
the third outline line X. The fifth section Q on the third outline line X
extends approximately
within a range from the point KS (x1 1,y1 l) to the point K6 (xl2,yl2) on the
third outline line
X. The sixth section S on the second outline line Y extends approximately
within a range
from the point K7 (xl3,yl3) to the point K8 (x14,y14) on the second outline
line Y. The
seventh section T on the first outline line Z extends approximately within a
range from the
point K9 (x15,y15) to the point K10 (x16,y16) on the first outline line Z.
[0099] Further, as an alternative measuring method and with reference to
Figure 7C1, digital
imaging can also be used as a medium for measuring a hand 100 to determine the
lengths Ll
and L2 when the hand 100 is in the Forceps Hand Position (FHP). Such lengths
L1 and L2
determined by digital imaging are similar to lengths L1 and L2 determined by
using the
rectangular measuring device 800 of Figures 7A and 7B. Such an image I can be
produced
by digital imaging of a hand 100 by the imaging system 700 including the
display device 704.
The digital image can be transferred to the grid measuring device or grid
measuring system
701, as can be displayed on the display device 704, such as a computer
monitor, or printed by
printer using a suitable imaging or graphics design program.
[00100] Points D1, LL1, E2 and LL2, as illustrated in Figure 7C1, can be
placed on such
an image I to determine lengths L1 and L2 for the forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus of
the present invention. The point D1 (xl,yl) being consistent with the location
of the radial
side 110 of the horizontal crease 108 of the palm 102 of the hand 100. The
point LL1
(x20,y20) being consistent with a position on line 305 on Plane B where the
tip 201 a of the
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thumb 201 opposes the space 320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202
and the tip
200a of the middle finger 203, with the points LLl(x20,y20) and D1(xl,yl)
being on a line
Lnl with the line Lnl desirably being substantially parallel to the x-axis of
the grid
measuring system 701. The point E2 (x6,y6) being consistent with the location
of point Pl in
area M on the ulnar side 111 of the palm 102 of the hand 100, point P 1 being
located on the
ulnar side 111 of the palm 102 of the hand 100 approximately half way between
the
horizontal crease 108 and the pisiform bone 126 of the wrist 120. The point
LL2 (x21,y21)
being consistent with a position on line 305 on Plane B where the tip 201a of
the thumb 201
opposes the space 320 between the tip 200a of the index finger 202 and the tip
200a of the
middle forger 203, with the points LL2(x21,y21) and E2(x6,y6) being on a line
Ln2 with the
line Ln2 also desirably being substantially parallel to the x-axis of the grid
measuring system
701.
[00101] The distance of length L1 is then determined from measuring the
distance on the
plotted line Ln1 from point Dl(xl,yl) to point LL1(x20,y20). Similarly the
distance of
length L2 is determined from measuring the distance on the plotted line Ln2
from point
E2(x6,y6) to point LL2(x21,y21). Therefore, as illustrated in Figure 7C1, the
coordinates of
the points D 1 (x 1,y1 ) and LLl (x20,y20) are connected to measure the length
L1 and the
coordinates of the points E2(x6,y6), and LL2(x21,y21) are also connected to
measure the
length L2 for a forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present invention,
such as
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a, 400b.
VARIATIONS OF THE FORCEPS/TWEEZERS HANDLE OR APPARATUS
[00102] The forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present
invention can have multiple variations. As illustrated in Figures 3A through
4B, distal ends
432a, 432b of the distal sections 430a, 430b of the preferred designs for
forceps/tweezers
handle 400a or forceps/tweezers handle 400b typically have adequate surface
area to enable
the thumb 201 to oppose the index forger 202 and the middle forger 203.
Closing the wide
distal ends 432a, 432b of the distal sections 430a, 440b of forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus 400a and 400b requires less effort to maintain pinch at the working
ends of such a
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus when the thumb 201 opposes the index
finger 202 and
middle finger 203 than when the thumb 201 individually opposes either the
index finger 202
or 203 middle finger. However, there can be circumstances when opposing the
thumb 201 to
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either the index finger 202 or the middle finger 203 can be desirable while
using a
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus of the present design. This condition is
illustrated in the
embodiments of Figures 8A, 8B and 8C of the present invention where the width
of the distal
ends 432c, 432d and 432e of the corresponding distal sections 430c, 430d and
430e of
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400c, 400d and 400e are less than the
width Wad, Wbd
of the corresponding distal ends 432a, 432b of the distal sections 430a, 430b
of
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b.
[00103] Figure 8A illustrates a forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400c,
which is
similar to forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a. The convex sides 401 a,
401 c of
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400c are arc shaped and share
corresponding
extensions 422a, 422c attached to their respective middle sections 420a, 420c.
Forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400c can be formed by blades 440c or can
have a
unitary body, or an integrally formed body. As illustrated in Figure 9A, the
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400c is supported and stabilized by contact and pull of
the palmar surface
210 of the middle phalange 215 of the middle finger 203 on the distal surface
423c of the
corresponding extensions 422c of the respective middle sections 420c of
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400c toward the radial side 110 of the horizontal crease
108 of the palm
102 of the hand 100. The forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400c also can be
supported
and stabilized by contact of the palmar surface 210 of the middle phalange 215
of the ring
finger 204 at the distal surface 423c of the corresponding extensions 422c of
the respective
middle sections 420c to pull the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400c
toward the radial
side 110 of the horizontal crease 108 of the palm 102 of the hand 100. Support
with the ring
finger 204 allows the index finger 202 to be free to manipulate a control
mechanism for an
implement that can be attached to forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400c.
In contrast,
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a has wide distal ends 432a instead of
the narrow
distal ends 432c of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400c. The distal ends
432c of the
distal sections 430c of the of the respective opposing blades 440c of the
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400c are closed by the opposing movement of the thumb 201
and the
index finger 202 or by the opposing movement of the thumb 201 and the middle
finger 203.
[00104] Figures 8B and 8C illustrates forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus
400d and
400e of the present invention which are similar to forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400b.
Forceps/tweezers tweezers handles or apparatus 400b, 400d and 400e share a
similar jogged
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shape configuration. The proximal sections 410b, 410d, 410e of
forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400b, 400d and 400e have proximal curves 406b, 406d, 406e
respectively leading
into the middle sections 420b, 420d, 420e. The middle sections 420b, 420d,
420e of
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400b, 400d and 400e have distal curves
407b, 407d,
407e respectively extending into the distal sections 430b, 430d, 430e.
However,
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400d and 400e can be formed by blades
440d, 440e or
can have a unitary body, or integrally formed body. Also, in contrast, the
distal ends 432b of
the distal sections 430b of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b are
relatively wide,
whereas the distal ends 432d, 432e of the corresponding distal sections 430d,
430e of the
respective forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400d and 400e are relatively
narrow.
[00105] Figure 9B illustrates a hand holding forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400d
with the thumb 201 opposing the index finger 202, while the palmar surface 210
of the
middle phalange 215 of the middle forger 203, the palmar surface 210 of the
middle
phalange 216 the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 220 of the middle
phalange 225 of
the small finger 205 contact the corresponding distal surface 423d of the
respective middle
sections 420d for support and stabilization, while also pulling the proximal
end 413d of the
proximal section 410d of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400d toward
Area M on
the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100.
[00106] Figure 9C illustrates a hand holding forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400e
with the thumb 201 opposing the middle finger 203 and with the palmar surfaces
210 of the
middle phalange 216 of the ring finger 204 and the palmar surface 220 of the
middle
phalange 225 of the small finger 205 contacting the corresponding distal
surfaces 423e of the
respective middle sections 420e for support and stabilization, while pulling
the proximal end
413e of the proximal end 410e of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400e
toward area
M on the ulnar side 111 of the hand 100. Furthermore, in the embodiment of the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400e, support with the ring finger 204
and small finger
205 allows the index finger 202 to be free to manipulate a control mechanism
for an
implement that can be attached to forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400e.
[00107] Figures 10A, lOB and lOC illustrate variations to forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus 400a and 400c where the distal surfaces 423a, 423c of the middle
sections 420a,
420c meet the palmar surface 210 of the middle phalange 215 of the ring forger
205. Figure
10A illustrate scalloped distal surface 424a, 424c, Figure lOB illustrates a
generally flat distal
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surface 425a, 425c, and Figure lOC illustrates a ringed distal surface 426a,
426c of the
corresponding extensions 422a, 422c of the respective middle sections 420a,
420c. Figures
lOD and 10E illustrate variations to the corresponding distal surfaces 423b,
423d, 423e of the
middle sections 420b, 420d, 420e of the respective forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus
400b, 400d and 400e, with Figure lOD showing scalloped variations 424b, 424d,
424e and
including a step portion 427b, 427d 427e for positioning the ring finger 204
and small forger
205, and with Figure 10E showing a flat distal surface 425b, 425d, 425e of the
middle
sections 420b, 420d, 420e of the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400b,
400d, 400e of
the present invention. As illustrated in Figure 10C, rings, or other suitable
positioning
devices, can be employed to position a corresponding long finger that is used
in supporting
the tweezers/forceps handles or apparatus 400b, 400d and 400e.
[00108] Handles or apparatus, such as the forcepsltweezers handles or
apparatus 400a,
400b, 400c, 400d and 400e, of the present invention can be made in one size or
various sizes
based on above described measurements with reference to Figures 7A through 7G.
As
illustrated in Figures 11A and 11B, an alternative to making multiple sizes of
the various
embodiments of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus of the present invention,
such as
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b, is to add extensions
490a, 490b to
adapt the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present
invention to a
range of hand sizes. As shown in Figure 1 1A, for example, an extender 490a
can be added to
the proximal end 413a of the proximal section 410a of the forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus 400a. Likewise, as illustrated in Figure 11B, an extender 490b can
be added to the
proximal end 413b of the proximal section 410b of the forceps/tweezers handle
400b of the
present invention.
[00109] It can be desirable when pinch is relaxed to maintain a resting
distance at the
opposing blades 440a, 440b between the distal ends 432a, 432b of the distal
sections 430a,
430b of forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b. Figures 12A, 12B,
12C and
Figure 12D illustrate a flat spring member 450a, 450b and a coiled spring
member 455a,
455b inserted between distal ends 432a, 432b of the corresponding distal
sections 430x, 430b
of the respective opposing blades 440a, 440b to maintain a resting position
RES for the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present invention.
The flat
spring member 450a, 450b as shown in Figures 12A and 12C can also maintain
alignment of
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
the distal ends 432a, 432b of the distal sections 430a, 430b to limit drift of
integrated or
attached working ends 470 with respect to each other as illustrate in Figures
14 through 15D.
(00110] Figures 13A illustrates a clamping mechanism 475a, 475b inserted
between distal
ends 432a, 432b of the distal sections 430a, 430b of the opposing blades 440a,
440b to
maintain a closed or partially closed position for a handle or apparatus, such
as
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b, of the present invention.
[00111] In another variation, as shown in Figures 13B and 13C, finger guide
members
495a 495b for the thumb 201, index finger 202 and middle forger 203 can be
attached to the
distal ends 432a, 432b of the distal sections 430a, 430b of the respective
opposing blades
440a, 440b of a handle or apparatus, such as the forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus 400a
and 400b of the present invention, to spread the distal ends 432a, 432b of the
forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present invention.
[00112] Figures 14 illustrates a connection means 460 which can be placed to
join or
integrate a working end 470.at the distal ends 432a, 432b of the corresponding
distal sections
430a, 430b of the respective opposing blades 440a, 440b of forceps/tweezers
handles or
apparatus 400a and 400b of the present invention. The connection means 460
illustrated in
Figure 14 has a guide sleeve 462 to assist engaging and removing the attaching
part 464 of
the working end 470 in a spring-like mechanism 466 in order to fix or hold the
attaching part
464 of the working end 470 to the distal ends 432a, 432b of the corresponding
distal sections
430a, 430b of the respective forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and
400b of the
present invention. Such a connection means 460 can maintain the position of
the working
end 470 in forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus 400a and 400b of the present
invention so
as to allow the tips 472 of two similar working ends 470 to meet without
drift. Furthermore,
such a connecting means 460 can allow the exchange of various types of working
ends 470 in
handles or apparatus of the present invention.
[00113] Figures 15A and 15B illustrate working ends 470 attached to a
forceps/tweezers
handle or apparatus 400a of the present invention, with the working end 470 of
Figure 15A
being a microscissors and the working end 470 of Figure 15B being a reverse
tweezers, and
with each corresponding working end 470 being connected by a suitable
connection means
460 to a forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a. Figures 15C and 15D
illustrate working
ends 470 attached to a forceps/tweezers handle 400b of the present invention,
with the
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
working end 470 of Figure 12C being a microscissors and the working end 470 of
Figure 12D
being a reverse tweezers, and with each corresponding working end 470 being
connected by a
suitable connection means 460 to a forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b.
[00114] Figures 16A and 16B illustrate unitary handle or apparatus embodiments
400f
and 400g of the present invention. Unitary handle or apparatus 400f has a
unitary blade 490f
in a single arc shape configuration with an extension 422f at the middle
section 420f, similar
to forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a, and unitary handle 400g has a
unitary blade
4908 in a shape similar to a jog in the road shape, or "jogged" shaped,
similar to
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b. However, unitary handles or
apparatus 400f and
400g, respectively, have the unitary blade 490f and the unitary blade 490g
instead of~a pair of
opposing blades 440a and 440b as illustrated for forceps/tweezers handles or
apparatus in
Figures 3A through 4B. The unitary handle or apparatus 400f engages the
corresponding
portions of the hand 100 as previously described relating to Figures SA and 6A
for the
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400a of the present invention.
Furthermore, the unitary
handle 400g engages corresponding portions of the hand 100 as previously
described relating
to Figures SB and 6B for the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400b of the
present
invention.
[00115] In reference to Figures 16A, 16B, 17A and 17B unitary handles 400f and
400g of
the present invention can have various attached replaceable or integrated
devices and
implements. Examples of attached replaceable or integrated devices and
implements can
include embodiments of the unitary handles 400f and 400g that incorporate a
motor driving
means 480 for rotation or movement of a working end 470 or an implement 485,
such as an
attachable drill bit or screwdriver, as illustrated in Figures 16C and 16D.
[00116] Further, Figures 17A and 17B illustrate an implement 495 attached to
unitary
handles or apparatus 400f andlor 400g of the present invention. A source for
power can be
included or attached by cable 486 to conduct power to the implement 495.
Controlling
devices 487, as illustrated in Figures 16C and 16D, can be integrated with
implement 495 or
with the distal ends 432f, 432g of respective unitary handles or apparatus
400f and 4008. The
controlling devices 487 can be manipulated, such as by the thumb, index finger
or middle
finger or by the combined action of the thumb opposing the index or middle
finger, so that
the thumb side and long finger side can oppose each other and squeeze a switch
or controlling
device. In addition, a plurality of different types of controlling devices 487
can be attached at
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WO 2004/093939 PCT/US2004/012656
multiple areas on and in relation to the forceps/tweezers handles or apparatus
400c, 400d and
400e of the present invention illustrated in Figures 8A through 9C.
[00117] As illustrated in Figures 17A and 17B, the implement 495, such as a
dental drill,
can be incorporated with corresponding unitary handles 400f and/or 400g of the
present
invention at hinge member 496. Such hinge member 496 can rotate about shaft
497 for
changing the angle of working end 470 of the implement 495 relative to the
position of the
hand 100 holding unitary handles or apparatus 400f or 400g of the present
invention. Also,
examples of implements that can be attached to the unitary handles or
apparatus 400f and
400g can include small power drills, paint brushes, glue guns and other
implements that act
like a stylus to score or mark a surface.
[00118] Forceps/tweezers apparatus 400h, as illustrated in Figure 18A, Figure
18B,
Figure 18C, Figure 18D, Figure 18E, Figure 19A and Figure 19B is a variation
of the
forceps/tweezers handle and apparatus 400a of the present invention that
changes the
direction of motion at the working ends 470 of forceps/tweezers handle and
apparatus 400a of
the present invention. Usually, the direction of movement at the tips of a
common forceps is
generally parallel to the opposing motion of the thumb 201 to the index finger
202 and
middle forger 203. A pituitary rongeur is a common example of a surgical
instrument, for
cutting or biopsy of tissue, used with an up and down, instead of a side-to-
side opening and
closing motion. Opening and closing the ring handles of the pituitary rongeur
position the
thumb 201 and index finger 202 or middle finger 203 of the hand 100 in a
proximal and distal
relationship to each other. Proximal-distal motion activates a sliding member
to move or
activate the working members to open and close. Using such an instrument in
which the
thumb 201 and a long finger 200 of the hand 100 move in a proximal/distal
direction
typically is not as comfortable for the hand 100 as using the side-to-side
opposing motion
utilized in common forceps or tweezers.
[00119] However, the working ends 470 of forceps/tweezers handle and apparatus
400h
of the present invention, as illustrated in Figure 18A, Figure 18B, Figure
18C, and Figure
19B, can convert the opposing (side-to-side) motion of the thumb 201 to the
index finger 202
and the middle finger 203 to a slanted or vertical motion in relation to
opposing thumb 201,
index finger 202 and middle finger 203 of the hand 100. The forceps/tweezers
handle or
apparatus 400h has a fixed member 500 attached to the inside 516b of the
radial hinge 516 of
the proximal section 410h of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400h of
the present
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invention. Above the fixed member 500 is a sliding member 501 that activates
the working
ends 470 to open and close as illustrated in Figure 18E. Brace members 502
connect the
sliding member 501 to the inside aspect 435h of the distal ends 432h of the
distal sections
430h. Sliding member hinges 503 attach the ends 503a of the brace members 502
to the
sliding members 501 and distal end hinges 504a attach to the inner aspect 435h
of the distal
ends 432h of the distal sections 430h of variation holder 400h of the present
invention.
Pinching the distal ends 432h of the distal sections 430h of the
forceps/tweezers handle and
apparatus 400h of the present invention moves the braces 502 at the hinges
503, 504 to move
the sliding member 501. In addition, the fixed member 500 can have a rotating
mechanism at
the inside 516b of the radial hinge 516 for rotation of the working ends 470.
[00120] As illustrated in Figures 18A and 18B, squeezing the distal ends 432h
of the
distal sections 430h of the forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400h of the
present
invention, when the sliding member hinges 503 of the braces 502 are placed
distal to hinges
504, the sliding member SOl moves away from the hand 100. Furthermore, as
illustrated in
Figures 19B and 19C, squeezing the distal ends 432h of the distal sections
430h of
forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400h of the present invention, when the
sliding member
hinges 504 of the braces 502 are placed proximal to hinges 503b on sliding
member 501,
moves the sliding member 501 toward the hand 100. Moving the sliding member
SOl can
actuate any of a variety of mechanisms attached to the end of the sliding
member 501, such as
to close a fine scissors, other implement or working ends 470, such as
illustrated in Figure
18E. In addition, with reference to Figures 18A through 18E, the
forceps/tweezers handle or
apparatus 400h of the present invention can also be utilized in conjunction
with various
endoscopic or surgical tools, as well as other types of working tools that
work at a distance
from the operator.
[00121] Continuing with reference to Figures 19A through 19D, the standard
scalpel
1020, illustrated in Figure 19A, is in the shape of a stylus and is a fixture
in surgery. During
the course of surgery, a scalpel blade 1021 can contact pathogens harboring in
the patient's
serum. One problem associated with the standard scalpel handle 1022 is
penetrating wounds
to operating room personnel. Inadvertent sharp wounds can transmit diseases to
the assisting
personnel. An automatic retractable blade guard could prevent sharp wounds.
[00122] As previously discussed, forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400h of
the
present invention can move a sliding member 501 in relation to a fixed member
500. Figure
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19B illustrates a retractable scalpel 1000 with a retractable sliding guard
1005 that surrounds
a fixed scalpel member 1006 attached to scalpel blade 1021. Figure 19C
illustrates a flat
spring member 1010 attached to the opposing blades 440h and the retractable
sliding guard
1005. Alternately, a coil spring member 1011 can be attached to the fixed
scalpel member
1006 and the retractable sliding guard 1005 as shown in Figure 19D. When the
distal ends
432h of the distal sections 430h of the opposing blades 440h of the fixed
scalpel member
1006 of forceps/tweezers handle or apparatus 400h of the present invention are
squeezed, the
brace members 502 move the proximal hinges 503 to direct the retractable
sliding guard 1005
toward the hand of an operator to expose the scalpel blade 1021. When the
distal ends 432h
of the distal sections 430h are released, the retractable sliding guard 1005
automatically
covers the scalpel blade 1201.
[00123] One advantage of the retractable scalpel 1000 with the
forceps/tweezers handle
variation handle 400h of the present invention is promoting protection from
sharp injury in
the operating room. Another advantage is that the retractable scalpel 1000 is
based on the
anatomic Forceps Hand Position (FHP), which can make the retractable scalpel
1000 more
comfortable for the hand 100 to hold and manipulate.
[00124] In summary, handles or apparatus of a design according to the present
invention
can be molded or formed into and contiguous with any of many types of
equipment
commonly held by a hand. Furthermore, handles or apparatus based on the design
method of
the present invention can be attached to or integrated into objects that can
be lifted, rotated,
moved, carried, etc. Such handles or apparatus of the present invention can
advantageously
be attached or integrated into or with an object or working end. Additionally,
such handles or
apparatus of the present invention can be designed to swivel and/or rotate on
various axes at a
location of attachment. For example, the handle or apparatus can be attached
to a shaft by an
extension member, such as for turning.
[00125] Also, in the handles or apparatus of the present invention, various
materials can
be used for fabrication of the handles or apparatus as, for example, various
woods, metals,
plastics, composites, rubber compounds, latex's and organic or inorganic
materials, suitable
for the particular application of a handle or apparatus of the present
invention. Further,
various materials can be added to augment and personalize the fit of a handle
or apparatus of
the present invention.
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[00126] The principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation of the
present
invention have been described in the foregoing specification. However, the
invention which
is intended to be protected is not limited to the particular embodiments
disclosed. The
embodiments described herein are illustrative rather than restrictive.
Variations and changes
may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the
spirit of the
present invention. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such
variations, changes and
equivalents which fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as
defined in the
claims, be embraced thereby.
42
