Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-functional hand wearable device that is capable of facilitating securely holding support of a gadget on forearm portion of a user, offering adjustable configurations to accommodate various gadget sizes, along with providing a facility to allow the user to perform grip strength tests as needed, depending on individual requirements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The requirement for a hand wearable device to hold gadgets during mobility has become increasingly important due to the growing need for convenience, functionality, and multitasking in modern lifestyles. As technology evolves, individuals often find themselves carrying multiple gadgets such as smartphones, tablets, or wearable devices, which can become cumbersome when on the move. Holding or managing these devices manually while performing other tasks can be inefficient, uncomfortable, or even unsafe, especially in dynamic environments like walking, cycling, or working in physically demanding jobs.

[0003] The hand-wearable equipment designed to hold gadgets during mobility offers a practical solution for users who need to keep their devices accessible while on the move. Typically, these wearables come in the form of a glove with a gadget holder that can accommodate various device sizes. The holder is adjustable, featuring sliding units that ensure a secure fit, and it is equipped with sensors to detect grip strength and provide feedback on user performance. Additionally, the glove may include features like inflatable cushions for enhanced grip, a microphone for voice commands, and sensors for monitoring hand pressure or muscle strain. These devices aim to improve user convenience, providing easy access to gadgets and promoting better ergonomics during use. However, the drawback of such equipment lies in its complexity and potential for discomfort or inconvenience. The motorized components, while offering convenience, can increase the weight and bulk of the wearable, making it less comfortable for extended use. Additionally, if the sensors or inflatable cushions malfunction, the device may fail to function properly, compromising its intended purpose. The reliance on electronic components and connectivity can also lead to issues such as battery depletion, connectivity failures, or inaccurate readings, which may hinder the effectiveness of the equipment during mobility.

[0004] KR101962624B1 discloses a neck-worn mobile phone holder according to the present invention comprises a first strap that can be hung around the neck, a U-shaped second strap arranged to face the first strap, a metal core inserted into the interior of the second strap for adjusting the shape of the second strap, a clip member that connects an end of the first strap to an end facing the second strap, and a mobile phone holder means provided at the center of the second strap.

[0005] CN204481901U discloses a wearable mobile phone comprises hook&loops, wherein a fixing device is mounted on the hook&loops, and the fixing device is used for fixing a mobile phone. The wearable mobile phone solves the problems that a person cannot use the mobile phone to provide navigation for himself, make calls or watch videos since the person is inconvenient to use hands when on a trip or during mountain climbing process, and the mobile phone can be fixed on an arm of the person through arranging the fixing devices on the hook&loops, thus the user can provide navigation for himself, make or receive calls or watch videos through the mobile phone without the aid of hands, thereby greatly facilitating the user.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed in order to hold assist user in holding gadget, however the devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to allows user to perform grip strength tests as needed, depending on individual requirements for improving grip strength along with providing massaging function.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is required to be capable of providing a wearable support for securely holding a gadget on forearm portion of a user, with an adjustable mechanism that accommodates different device sizes. In addition to providing a firm hold, the device also enables user to conduct grip strength tests as required, offering a flexible solution for various needs.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a wearable support configuration to enable user to hold gadget over forearm portion in a secured manner.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of being adjusted in accordance to dimensions of the gadget for accommodating the gadget securely.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing a massaging function to relax fatigue muscles of the user’s hand.

[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enabling user to perform grip strength test as per requirement.

[0013] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention relates to a multi-functional hand wearable device that aids to provide a secure and adjustable wearable configuration allowing user to hold a gadget on the forearm portion, with the flexibility to fit gadgets of varied dimensions. In addition, the device is also equipped to support grip strength tests, making a versatile facility for user to monitor and enhance grip strength as necessary.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a multi-functional hand wearable device comprises of a wearable glove of a cushioned construction adapted to be worn over hand and forearm portion of a user, a plurality of straps disposed along forearm portion of the glove, each configured with a motorised roller for a tightening and loosening of the glove, a gadget holder installed over a forearm portion of the glove, for holding a gadget, the gadget holder comprising a rectangular base attached over the forearm portion by means of a ball and socket joint, and a pair of U-shaped members attached over the base in an opposing manner, by means of a pair of sliding units, for accommodating gadgets of varying dimensions.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed invention further comprises of a microphone installed on the glove for enabling user to input a type of gadget to be held in the holder, to actuate a microcontroller to actuate the sliding unit to translate the members to accommodate the gadget in accordance with dimensions of the gadget fetched from a database linked with the microcontroller, an spherical inflatable cushion embedded in a palm region of the glove, connected with an inflation unit provided in the glove, to inflate against palm of the user to enable the user to grip the cushion, a pressure sensor embedded in the cushion to detect a pressure applied by the user while gripping the cushion, to determine a grip strength of the user, and a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit to enable the computing unit to connect with a communication unit linked with the microcontroller, to display the determined grip strength for reference of the user.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a multi-functional hand wearable device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a multi-functional hand wearable device that is capable of providing a wearable support ensuring to securely hold a gadget on the forearm, with an adjustable setup to fit gadget of different dimension. Along with facilitates grip strength testing, enabling user to assess grip strength as per specific requirements to improve grip strength.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a multi-functional hand wearable device is illustrated, comprises of a wearable glove 101 having plurality of straps 102 102 disposed along forearm portion of the glove 101, each strap 102 is configured with a motorized roller 103, a gadget holder 104 installed over a forearm portion of the glove 101, gadget holder 104 comprising a rectangular base 105 attached over the forearm portion by means of a ball and socket joint 106, a spherical inflatable cushion 107 embedded in a palm region of the glove 101, a pressure sensor 108 embedded in the cushion 107, an EMG (electromyography) sensor 109 embedded in the glove 101, plurality of vibration units 110 installed in the glove 101, and a touch interactive display panel 111 mounted on the glove 101, the glove 101 is embedded with an ultrasonic sensor 112, a microphone 113 installed on the glove 101, the base 105 is mounted with a pair of U-shaped members 114 in an opposing manner, by means of a pair of sliding units 115, and an inflation unit 116 provided in the glove 101.

[0024] The proposed invention includes a wearable glove 101 incorporating various components associated with the device, developed to be worn over hand and forearm portion of a user. The glove 101 is made up of a cushioned construction that ensures comfortability to the user in wearing.

[0025] During the wearing of the glove 101, the user is required to access and presses a push button arranged on the glove 101 to activate the device for associated processes of the device. The push button when pressed by the user, closes an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow for powering an associated microcontroller of the device for operating of all the linked components for performing their respective functions upon actuation. The microcontroller, mentioned herein, is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used herein controls the overall functionality of the linked components.

[0026] The forearm portion of the glove 101 are integrated with plurality of straps 102. Each of the straps 102 are configured with a motorised roller 103. Post wearing of the glove 101, the straps 102 are required to be loosen or tighten up for providing better fir of the glove 101 over the user’s hand.

[0027] After the activation of the device, the user is enabled to provide voice command via a microphone 113 mounted on the glove 101 regarding accommodation of hand and forearm portion of a user with the glove 101. The microphone 113 turns the sound energy emitted by the user into electrical energy. The sound waves created by the user carry energy towards the microphone 113. Inside the microphone 113, a diaphragm, made of plastic, is present and moves back and forth when the sound wave hits the diaphragm. The coil attached to the diaphragm also moves in same way. The magnetic field produced by the permanent magnet cuts through the coil. As the coil moves, the electric current flows. The electric current from coil flows to an amplifier which convert the sound into electrical signal. The microcontroller linked to the microphone 113 recognize the voice and perform the operations according to the command given by the user regarding wearing of the glove 101 over hand and forearm portion of a user.

[0028] The glove 101 is embedded with an ultrasonic sensor 112 to detect dimensions of user’s hand. The ultrasonic sensor 112 disclosed herein, consists of an emitter and a receiver that acts as a transducer. The emitter emits ultrasonic sound waves towards the user’s hand. Then, the waves strike to the user’s hand and reflect back which are captured by the receiver. The signal is sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received signal from the ultrasonic sensor 112 and on the basis of time lapse in between the sent and received waves, the microcontroller determines the dimensions of the user’s hand.

[0029] In accordance to the user input to accommodate the user’s hand and forearm portion, the microcontroller actuates a direct current (DC) motor associated with the roller 103 such that rotates an integrated hub of the roller 103. The rotation of the hub of the roller 103 consequently results in rotation of the roller 103 for coil or uncoil the straps 102. The tightening and loosening of the straps 102 provide a snug fit of the glove 101 over the hand.

[0030] The forearm portion of the glove 101 is installed with a gadget holder 104. The user is required to access the gadget holder 104 for holding of gadget with the glove 101. The gadget holder 104 comprising a rectangular base 105 attached over the forearm portion by means of a ball and socket joint 106. The gadget holder 104 holds the gadget securely for enabling comfortable usage by the user. The articulated movement of the gadget holder 104 in positioning the gadget for effective usage is provided by the ball and socket joint 106.

[0031] The base 105 is mounted with a pair of U-shaped members 114 in an opposing manner, by means of a pair of sliding units 115. The members 114 are provided to accommodate gadgets of varying dimensions. The user is required to access the microphone 113 to provide input regarding a type of gadget to be held in the holder 104. In accordance to the user input of type of gadget, the microcontroller fetches the linked database to determine dimensions of the gadget. Synchronously, the microcontroller actuates the sliding unit 115 to adjust the space between the members 114.

[0032] The sliding unit 115 consists of a sliding rail fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of a slider is positioned that is further connected with a bi-directional motor via a shaft. The microcontroller actuates the bi-directional motor to rotate in a clockwise and anti-clockwise direction that aids in the rotation of the shaft, wherein the shaft converts the electrical energy into rotational energy for allowing movement of the wheel to translate over the sliding rail by a firm grip on the grooves. The movement of the sliding unit 115 results in the translation of the members 114 to change the distance between the members 114 according to the dimensions of the gadget.

[0033] The user is required to position the gadget in between the members 114 for holding the gadget. A proximity sensor is embedded in the base 105 for determining placement of the gadget over the base 105. The proximity sensor emits infrared rays towards the gadget and receives the bounced back rays from the gadget and convert the detected data into an electric signal that is sent to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received signal from the proximity sensor in order to monitor placement of the gadget over the base 105. As soon as, the microcontroller assesses the placement of the gadget via the proximity sensor, the microcontroller re-actuates the sliding unit 115 to translate the members 114 as per the detected dimensions of the gadget for securing the gadget with the gadget holder 104 tightly.

[0034] The user accesses a touch interactive display panel 111 installed over the glove 101 for providing input regarding requirement of initiation of grip strength test and massaging functions. When the user touches the surface of the touch interactive display panel 111 to enter the input details, then an internal circuitry of the touch interactive display panel 111 senses the touches of the displayed option and synchronically, the internal circuitry converts the physical touch into the form of electric signal. The microcontroller processes the received signal from the display panel 111 in order to process the signal and determine the user selection and store the user response to a linked database for further associated functions related to the user input.

[0035] A spherical inflatable cushion 107 is embedded in a palm region of the glove 101. The cushion 107 is powered by a connected inflation unit 116 provided in the glove 101, to inflate against palm of the user. In accordance to the user’s requirement of grip strength, the microcontroller actuates the inflation unit 116, consist of an air compressor that provides the required air towards the cushion 107 via a pipe for inflating the cushion 107, as commanded by the microcontroller. The user is required to grip the cushion 107 for grip strength test.

[0036] The cushion 107 is embedded with a pressure sensor 108 to detect a pressure applied by the user while gripping the cushion 107. The pressure sensor 108 comprises of a sensing element known as diaphragm that experiences a force exerted by the user’s finger’s grip over the cushion 107. This force leads to deflection in the diaphragm that is measured and converted into an electrical signal which is sent to the microcontroller for evaluating the applied pressure to determine a grip strength of the user.

[0037] The user is required to access a user interface which is installed in a computing unit linked with the microcontroller wirelessly by means of a communication module. The user interface enables the user to provide input regarding applied grip strength. The communication module includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module. The Wi-Fi module contains transmitters and receivers that use radio frequency signals to transmit data wirelessly to the microcontroller. The wireless module typically includes components such as antennas, amplifiers, and processors to facilitate communication and further connected to networks such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks, allowing devices to exchange information over short or long distances for communication of wireless commands to facilitate operations of the device.

[0038] Based upon the user requirement to know the applied grip strength, the microcontroller directs the display panel 111 to display the applied pressure by the user in gripping of the cushion 107 on real time basis.

[0039] Based upon the detected grip strength, a suggestion module is linked with the microcontroller, suggests exercises for the user to improve grip strength. The microcontroller directs the display panel 111 to display the suggestions to the user for improving the grip strength.

[0040] During the grip strength test, any muscular strain in the user’s hand is detected by an EMG (electromyography) sensor 109 embedded in the glove 101. The EMG (Electromyography) sensor 109 monitors the electrical activity of the muscles of the user’s hand, when the user moves hand for operating gadget such that muscle contractions generate electrical signals, which the EMG sensor 109 detects. These signals are then converted into data that is transmitted to the microcontroller for processing to assess muscle activity, strength, and coordination.

[0041] The EMG sensor 109 continuously monitors and records these electrical impulses, providing real-time feedback on the user’s hand movement and muscle performance. This information is used by the microcontroller to track fatigue level of the user’s hand muscles and accordingly send a push notification through the user interface of the computing unit regarding muscle fatigue. The user is required to restrict gadget usage whether in handheld position or with the gadget holder 104 in order to relax the fatigue muscles.

[0042] Based upon detection of muscular strain by the EMG sensor 109, the microcontroller actuates multiple vibration units 110 installed in the glove 101 to provide massage to the user’s hand. Each of the vibrating unit subjects the glove 101 to the action of moving or causing to move back and forth or from side to side very quickly leading to controlled and reproducible mechanical vibration. The produced vibrations result in providing massaging sensation to the user’s hand. In addition, the glove 101 is provided with a layer of insulation to prevent a radiation from the gadget to penetrate into arm of the user.

[0043] The end technical effect of the device is related to provide an ease of comfort to the user in using the gadget. The application of the device relies to enable the user to use gadget in various circumstances such as during performing exercise, driving, shopping, travelling etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the user needs to use gadget i.e., mobile phone during walk over treadmill exercise, the user mounts the gadget over the device and enjoys using phone during walking over the treadmill.

[0044] A battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.

[0045] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the proposed invention includes the wearable glove 101 made of cushioned material, designed to be worn over the hand and forearm of the user. The glove 101 features multiple straps 102 along the forearm, each with the integrated motorized roller 103 that adjusts the glove’s 101 fit by tightening or loosening as needed. the gadget holder 104 is mounted on the forearm, with the rectangular base 105 attached to the glove 101 via the ball and socket joint 106, allowing flexibility. U-shaped members 114, affixed to the base 105 with sliding units 115, hold gadgets of various sizes, and these members 114 adjust in response to commands from the microphone 113 embedded in the glove 101. The microphone 113 allows the user to input the gadget's type, triggering the microcontroller to activate the sliding units 115, adjusting the holder 104 s to fit the gadget’s dimensions. The spherical inflatable cushion 107 embedded in the palm inflates through the integrated inflation unit 116, providing the gripping surface for the user. the pressure sensor 108 in the cushion 107 measures the grip strength, which is relayed to the user interface linked to the computing unit to display the user's grip strength. Additionally, sensors such as ultrasonic for hand measurements, EMG sensor 109 for detecting muscle strain, and vibration units 110 for massage provide feedback and support, enhancing the glove’s 101 functionality for grip strength improvement and gadget handling.

[0046] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) A multi-functional hand wearable device, comprising:

a) a wearable glove 101 of a cushioned construction adapted to be worn over hand and forearm portion of a user;

b) a plurality of straps 102 disposed along forearm portion of said glove 101, each configured with a motorised roller 103 for a tightening and loosening of said glove 101;

c) a gadget holder 104 installed over a forearm portion of said glove 101, for holding a gadget, said gadget holder 104 comprising a rectangular base 105 attached over said forearm portion by means of a ball and socket joint 106, a pair of U-shaped members 114 attached over said base 105 in an opposing manner, by means of a pair of sliding units 115, for accommodating gadgets of varying dimensions;

d) a microphone 113 installed on said glove 101 for enabling user to input a type of gadget to be held in said holder 104, to actuate a microcontroller to actuate said sliding unit 115 to translate said members 114 to accommodate said gadget in accordance with dimensions of said gadget fetched from a database linked with said microcontroller;

e) an spherical inflatable cushion 107 embedded in a palm region of said glove 101, connected with an inflation unit 116 provided in said glove 101, to inflate against palm of said user to enable said user to grip said cushion 107;

f) a pressure sensor 108 embedded in said cushion 107 to detect a pressure applied by said user while gripping said cushion 107, to determine a grip strength of said user; and
g) a user interface adapted to be installed with a computing unit to enable said computing unit to connect with a communication unit linked with said microcontroller, to display said determined grip strength for reference of said user.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an ultrasonic sensor 112 is embedded in said glove 101 to detect dimensions of user’s hand to accordingly actuate said roller 103 s to coil or uncoil said straps 102 for a snug fit of said glove 101 over said hand.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a layer of insulation is lined along said glove 101 to prevent a radiation from said gadget to penetrate into arm of said user.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an EMG (electromyography) sensor 109 is embedded in said glove 101 to detect a muscular strain in said user’s hand to trigger said microcontroller to actuate said user interface to push a notification to said computing unit regarding avoiding further gadget usage.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of vibration units 110 is installed in said glove 101 to provide massage to said user’s hand upon detection of muscular strain by said EMG sensor 109.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a touch interactive display panel 111 is mounted on said glove 101 to display said grip strength of said user and enable said user to input touch commands regarding initiation of grip strength test and massaging functions.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a suggestion module is linked with said microcontroller, suggests exercises for said user to improve grip strength, based on detected grip strength, wherein said display panel 111 is actuating to display said suggestions.