AU2005201121B1 - Ergonomic Indoor/Outdoor Tool Handle - Google Patents

Description

15-JUL-2005 01:20 FROM:ACCURATE PRIVATE INV TO:0262837999 P.6'15 I

AUSTRALIA

3 Patents Act 1990 '1 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT \1 (Provisional Patent Application #2004903525) Submitted by and for Stephen Mark Russell 3 Legon Road South Oakleigh, Victoria Australia 3167 ERGONOMIC INDOOR/OUTDOOR TOOL HANDLE The invention described in the following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me: COMS ID No: SBMI-01355065 Received by IP Australia: Time 12:24 Date 2005-07-15 15-JUL-2005 01:20 FROM:ACCURATE PRIVATE INT T0:0262837999 P.7/15 0 2 ci FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to improvements in handles used either as discrete attachmenL for or integral parts of indoor and outdoor -tools with side-to-side anterior lateral operational movements such as brooms, mops, rakes, forks and hoes, among others, Ciq BACKGROUND OF TIE INVENTION oConventional tool handle designs consisting of elongated linear rods of varying crosssection pay little attention to the ergonomiu elfciency and biomechanical operations and side-effects of common mechanical actions used to operate and control the tools to which they are attached or form integral parts. Such conventional tool handles usually require operators to bend, stoop or hunch in order to generate the force required to either pushpull the tool in an anterior forward-backward motion, or to manoeuvre the tool from sideto-side in an anterior lateral motion.

The bent, stooped or hunched operation of tools with such tool handles is a product of the position of the tool head in relation to the natural orientation of the tool handle, whereby the tool handle consists of a straight length of elongated linear rod of varying crosssecion projecting rigidly and often perpendicularly from the tool head. When such a tool is operated in the side-to-side anterior lateral motion in an upright posture or position, the tool handle and therefore tool head is normally held in front of the body at a distance from the body not exceeding the length by which the feet of the operator protrude from the vertical axis of the anterior of the operator's body. Consequently, the tool must be operated in a bent, stooped or hunched posture or position in order to extend the reach of the operator and thereby avoid collision, contact, or interference between the tool head and the feet of the operator, or in the case ofv cy large tool heads, both the feet and legs of the operator, or in some cases the tool handle and the body of the operator.

Such bent, stooped or hunched operation places pressure on the lower, middle and upper back of the operator, as well as on the shoulden-s and all other musclcs assoiatd with such operation. Further, such bent, stooped or hunched operation is biomechanically inefficient as it restricts the natural swivel of the torso that occurs when the side-to-side anterior lateral motion is performied with the body or posture in the upright position by reducing the compounded force, momentum and power gained from the mechanical contributions of the hips. side, upper back, shoulders, arms and wrist and all other contributing physiological elements as they combine sequentially and complementarily to perform this operation. Moreover, the operator usually establishes a grip on such tools with conventional tool handles uonsisting of lungated linear rods of varying crosssection in the upright posture or position prior to assuming a bent, stooped or hunched operating posture or position. It becomes difficult for the operator to adjust this grip once COMS ID No: SBMI-01355065 Received by 1P Australia: Time 12:24 Date 2005-07-15 20-OCT-2005 00:52 FROM:SWEEPSTRAIGT INV TO:0262837999 P.3/1i 004670403 3 0 Sthe latter posture or position is assumed, and subsequently most operators operate the tool with an upright grip when their posture or position is no longer upright. This upright o grip is higher along the handle than is natural in the bent, stooped or hunched posture or Sposition, placing greater downward force on the tool than is necessary in most applications, thereby creating increased frictional inefficiencies and further reducing the operator's ability to employ the natural swivel of the torso.

The physiological side effects of the use of conventional tool handles consisting of elongated linear rods of varying cross-section in a side-to-side anterior lateral motion include physical exhaustion, back, neck and muscle-related stress and fatigue and 0 10 repetitive muscular strain. These side effects may preclude individuals who are injured or Cl of a weakened constitution due to illness or old age from using tools with such tool handles. Moreover, they may contribute to more serious injuries, work-related insurance claims and premium increases, and a general societal increase in both physical and psychological morbidity.

The foregoing prior art discussion is not to be taken as an admission of common general knowledge.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided an elongate handle portion for a tool of the type with a ground engaging operational portion whereby the handle portion is held by a user standing in a normal upright position, the handle portion including; a first end for attachment to the operational portion; a body portion defining a longitudinal axis of the handle portion; a first offset portion intermediate the body portion and the first end, wherein the offset portion offsets the first end from the longitudinal axis and includes at least a first section which extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a second offset portion disposed adjacent to the body portion, remote from the first offset portion.

COMS ID No: SBMI-01787122 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:58 Date 2005-10-20 20-OCT-2005 00:53 FROM:SWEEPSTRRIGT INU TO:0262837999 P.4/iB 004676463 3a 0 o The problems and negative side effects of the use of tools with conventional tool c, handles consisting of elongated linear rods of varying cross-section in a side-to-side O anterior lateral motion by operators in a bent, stooped or hunched posture as described Sabove are addressed by the present invention, The present invention preferably resides in strategically shaped or bent tool handle that can form a discrete attachment for or integral component of many common indoor and outdoor tools, and is designed to be C-i operated ambidextrously [Figs. 2 3] and to suit operators of all heights, weights and body shapes when attached to or extended from a tool head at the most advantageous 0 angle of orientation [Figs. When attached to or extended from a tool head at the n 10 most advantageous angle of orientation the handle portion is preferably strategically o designed to position the head of the tool beyond the feet and body of the operator during use, while still allowing the operator to assume a natural and comfortable grip that acknowledges the natural angles of the gripping action of the hand, the axis of the forearm and the alignment of these with the torso during operation [Figs. 2-4], Furthermore, when attached to or extended from a tool head at the most advantageous angle or orientation, the handle portion preferably enables the operator to assume an ergonomic upright anatomical posture or position, and to benefit from the natural swivel of the torso afforded by this posture or position. Consequently, operators of tools with the handle portion attached to them or incorporated in them or extended from them will preferably be able to perform tasks requiring side-to-side anterior lateral operational movements such as sweeping with greater comfort and less physical duress and exertion than operators of tools with conventional tool handles consisting of elongated linear rods of varying cross-section.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tool including a handle portion as set out above.

As used herein, the term "comprise" and variations of the term, such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised", are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

COMS ID No: SBMI-01787122 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:58 Date 2005-10-20 15-JUL-2005 01:21 FROM:ACCURATE PRIURTE INU TC:0262837999 P.10x15 4 DETAILED DESCRIPTION The present invention can be made of varying substances including wood, rubber, metal, plastic, alloys and the like. It may have any desired cmss-section shape and size and may be of'varying length, strength, gauge, weight and flexibility. It may be solid, hollow, partly solid or partly hollow. It may be covered, coated, filled or decorated in any way.

SIt may attach to any tool by any means known, not known, developed, pending development or otherwise. It may be formed by any fabrication or manufacturing O technique known, not known, developed, pending development or otherwise including Cl moulding or other techniques whereby the tool handle and tool head form a single and tn continuous object It may perform any function or utility known, not known, developed, Spending development or otherwise and be adapted to withstand varying environmental C conditions through any treatments or by the application of any technologies known, not known, developed, pending development or otherwise. It may have grips or handgrips or gripping substances attached or adhered anywhere to it or incorporated within it before, during or after its fabrication or manufacture. It may have written, visual, schematic or audio-visual instructions for gripping, holding or utilizing it in any fashion anywhere on it or in it or included as a supplement, attachment, annexure or accompaniment to it before, during or after its fabrication or manufacture, or before, during or after its sale. It may be manufactured or fabricated as a discrete attachment to or as an integrated part of any indoor or outdoor tool known, not known, developed, pending development or otherwise. It may protrude from a tool head to which it is attached or forms an integrated part at any angle, and may be fixed, fused or attached rigidly, flexibly or adjustably through any technology or attachment device or devices known, not known, developed, pending development or otherwise to the same. It may have telescopic, extendable or adjustable fittings or features or technology added to any section or sections along its length for the whole length or any part thereof The handle shall have two ends and shall extend from the tool head or the end of the handle expected to be fixed, fused or attached to the tool head for a total linear distance of between 120cm and 180cm. If the handle is formed as a discrete attachment, Section 1 shall extend in a straight and linear fashion at an angle of between 0 degrees and 180 degrees for a length of less than 80cm from the end expected to be fixed, fused or attached to the tool head If the handle is formed as an integrated part, Section 1 shall extend in a straight and linear fashion at an angle of between 0 degrees and 180 degrees for a length of less than 80cm from the point of fixture, fusion or attachment to the tool head. Section 2 shall then extend along the same two-dimensional plane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section I at an angle in relation to the angle of Section 1 of between 0 degrees and 90 degrees for a length from the end of Section I of less than 50cm. Section 3 shall then extend along the same two-dimensional plane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section 2 at an angle identical to the angle of Section 1 fora length of less than 70cm. Section 4 shall then extend along the same two-dimensaalane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section 3 at an angle in relation to the angle of Section 1 of between 90 degrees and COMS ID No: SBMI-01355065 Received by IP Australia: Time 12:24 Date 2005-07-15 15-JUL-2005 01:21 FROM:ACCURATE PRIURTE INV TO:026237999 P.11XIS (cN 180 degrees fora length from the end of Section 3 of less than 70cm. Section 5 shall then tl extend along the same two-dimensional plane as Section I in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section 4 at an angle in relation to the angle of Section 1 of between 0 degrees and 90 degrees for a length from the end of Section 4 of less than 30cm. Section 6 shall then extend along the same two-dimensional plane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section 5 at an angle in relation to the angle of Section 1 of C' between 0 degrees and 360 degrees for a length from the end of Section 5 of less than 0Scm, C In order to advantageously utilize the present invention, it is advised that the handle must t) be held in a natural stance such as that stance initially taken by an individual when Sholding a broom in an upright posture or position to be used in a side-to-side lateral O anterior sweeping motion [Figs. Given the ambidexterity of the design, this instruction applies to both left and right-handed operators [Figs. 2-3].

In one embodiment of the present invention, 'Embodiment A' [Fig. 11, a circular aluminium or similar handle of diameterl.Scm 2.0cm and gauge of 0. cm has two ends and extends from the tool head or the end of the handle expected to be fixed, fused, attached to or extended from the tool head for a linear distance of between 140cm and 160cm. Section I extends in a straight and linear fashion at an angle of 90 degrees for a length of between 10cm and 30cm from the end expected to be fixed, fused, attached to or extended from the tool head [Fig. depending on the vertical physical height and or personal idiosyncrasies of the user. Section 2 then extends along the same twodimensional plane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion from te -ed of Section 1 atan angle of 60 degrees for a length from the end of Section I of 30cm [Fig. Section 3 then extends along the same two-dimensional plane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion fruom the end of Scutibui2 ila- ai angl of 90 degrees for a length from the end of Section 2 of40cm [Fig. 11, Section 4 then extends along the same two-dimensional plane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section 3 at an angle of 105 degrees for a length from the end of Section 3 of 35cm [Fig. Section 5 then extends along the same two-dimensional plane as Section I in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section 4 at an angle of 80 degrees for a length from the end of Section 4 of 10cm Fig. Section 6 then extends along the same two-dimensional plane as Section 1 in a straight and linear fashion from the end of Section 5 at an angle of degrees fora length from the end of Section 5 of 20cm [Fig. 1].

In order to advantageously utilize this embodiment of the present invention [Embodiment it is advised that the handle must be held in a natural stance such as that stance initially taken by an individual when holding a broom in an upright posture or position to be used in a side-to-side lateral anterior sweeping motion [Figs. Given the ambidexterity of the design, this instruction applies to both left and right-handed operators [Figs. 2-31.

In practice, the present invention provides operators of tools used in a side-to-side COMS ID No: SBMI-01355065 Received by IP Australia: Time 12:24 Date 2005-07-15 15-JUL-2005 01:22 FROM:RCCURATE PRIVATE INU TO:0262837999 P. 1215 004876483 6 o anterior lateral motion many benefits not afforded by tools with conventional tool handles consisting of elongated linear rods of varying cross-section without a decrease in tool functionality. Such benefits may include but are not limited to reduced physical exhaustion, In reduced back, neck and muscle-related stress and fatigue, reduced repetitive muscular strain, a more efficient use of exerted energy, reduced work-related insurance claims and premium increases, and a general societal decrease in both physical and psychological

CN

morbidity. Furthermore, it provides assistance to individuals with physiological restrictions including but not limited to those who are pregnant or obese, and those suffering from a C< range of medical and post-surgical conditions including illness or injury necessitating O 10 colostomy, ileostomy orjejeunostomy bags, or the like, Illness or injury necessitating tubes LC or external attachments such a peritoneal dialysis and the like, or any illness or injury resulting in insult to the thoracic or abdominal area areas. Additionally, the present invention provides assistance to those with shoulder or elbow-related injuries or conditions, and those with spinal-related injuries or conditions including kyphosis lordosis and scoliosis, and post-operative conditions such as spinal fusion.

While a number of characteristics and benefits of the present invention have been set forth and illustrated in the above description, it should be understood that a range of modifications to the style, design, manufacture, application, organization, details, specifics and the like can be made without departing from the scope, intention and spirit of the invention.

COMS ID No: SBMI-01355065 Received by IP Australia: Time 12:24 Date 2005-07-15

Claims (1)

1. 20-OCT-2005 00:53 FROM:SWEEPSTRFIGT INU TO:0262837999 P.5/10 004670403 7 o THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE ASFOLLOWS: (c O 1. An elongate handle portion for a tool of the type with a ground engaging operational portion whereby the handle portion is held by a user standing in a normal C upright position, the handle portion including: a first end for attachment to the operational portion; a body portion defining a longitudinal axis of the handle portion; Sa first offset portion intermediate the body portion and the first end, wherein the 0 offset portion offsets the first end from the longitudinal axis and includes at least a first section which extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis; and a second offset portion disposed adjacent to the body portion, remote from the first offset portion. 2. The handle portion as claimed in claim 1 wherein the body portion and the first offset lie in the same plane. 3. The handle portion as claimed in claim I or 2 wherein the first offset portion and the second offset portion both extend to the same side of the body portion. 4. The handle portion as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first and second offset portions and the body portion lie in the same plane. The handle portion as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further including one or more grip portions, at least one of which is disposed on the second offset portion. 6. The handle portion as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first offset portion is connected to the body portion and includes the first section towards the first end and a second straight section between the first section and the body portion, wherein the second section extends at an obtuse angle to the body portion. COMS ID No: SBMI-01787122 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:58 Date 2005-10-20 20-OCT-2005 00:53 FROM: SWEEPSTRRIGT INV TO: 0262637999 P.6' iO 0D40704 8B 0 7. The handle portion as claimed in claim 6 wherein the body portion comprises a third section and the second offset portion includes a fourth section extending at an o obtuse angle relative to the body portion, 8- The handle portion as claimed in claim 7 wherein the second offset portion includes an end section which extends substantially parallel to the body portion. 9. A tool including a handle portion as claimed in any one of the preceding claims. A tool as claimed in claim 9 such that when a user positions the handle portion in an inclined anterior position with the operational portion being in an operational position, Cthe first offset portion extends away from the user's body 11. The tool as claimed in claim 9 or 10 wherein the tool is a broom and the operational portion is a broom head. 12. The tool as claimed in claim 9 or 10 wherein the tool is a mop, rack, fork or hoe. 13. A handle portion substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures. 14, A tool substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying Figures. COMS ID No: SBMI-01787122 Received by IP Australia: Time 11:58 Date 2005-10-20