CA2752803A1 - Finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use - Google Patents
Finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2752803A1 CA2752803A1 CA2752803A CA2752803A CA2752803A1 CA 2752803 A1 CA2752803 A1 CA 2752803A1 CA 2752803 A CA2752803 A CA 2752803A CA 2752803 A CA2752803 A CA 2752803A CA 2752803 A1 CA2752803 A1 CA 2752803A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- finger
- sheet material
- touch screen
- flexible sheet
- cover
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
- G06F3/03—Arrangements for converting the position or the displacement of a member into a coded form
- G06F3/033—Pointing devices displaced or positioned by the user, e.g. mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor
- G06F3/039—Accessories therefor, e.g. mouse pads
- G06F3/0393—Accessories for touch pads or touch screens, e.g. mechanical guides added to touch screens for drawing straight lines, hard keys overlaying touch screens or touch pads
Abstract
A finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use is provided. The finger cover comprises a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen with the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen.
The sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The finger cover further comprises a mechanism for removable attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger.
The sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The finger cover further comprises a mechanism for removable attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger.
Description
FINGER COVER FOR PROTECTING A TOUCH SCREEN DURING USE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of protective coverings, and more particularly to a finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Present day mobile devices such as, for example, smart phones and tablet computers, comprise a touch screen as the user interface of choice for providing a simple smooth surface for display and direct interaction absent other hardware such as a keyboard or mouse.
Unfortunately, secretions from the finger surface and other material disposed thereon leave a residue on the touch screen, requiring frequent cleaning of the touch screen surface in order to clearly see details displayed thereon. Furthermore, fingernails can scratch the sensitive surface of touch screens, for example, when playing games.
There are numerous plastic screen covers on the market for protecting touch screens of smart phones. Unfortunately, these covers are tedious to apply and use and, furthermore, while preventing the touch screen from being scratched they become immediately covered in fingerprints during use. Yet further, present day touch screens provide HD
image quality which is substantially reduced after a plastic screen cover has been applied thereto.
On the other hand, there are various products available for cleaning touch screens such as microfiber cloths or soft computer cloths. However, keeping a frequently used touch screen clean still requires frequent and time consuming cleaning in order to be able to make use of the HD
image quality provided.
It is desirable to provide a protective cover that protects the touch screen during use and maintains the image quality of the touch screen.
Page 1 of 13 It is also desirable to provide a protective cover that is easy to apply and to use.
It is also desirable to provide a protective cover that cleans the touch screen during use thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a protective cover that protects the touch screen during use and maintains the image quality of the touch screen.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective cover that is easy to apply and to use.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective cover that cleans the touch screen during use thereof.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use. The finger cover comprises a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen with the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen. The sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The finger cover further comprises a mechanism for removable attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is further provided a finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use. The finger cover comprises a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen with the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen. The sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The finger Page 2 of 13 cover further comprises a layer of a re-usable adhesive disposed on a surface of the flexible sheet material facing the finger.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is further provided a method for protecting a touch screen during use. A piece of flexible sheet material is provided for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen. The flexible sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The piece of flexible sheet material is attached to the finger such that the at least a surface portion of the finger is covered. The user interacts with the touch screen using the covered at least a surface portion of the finger.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides a protective cover that protects the touch screen during use and maintains the image quality of the touch screen.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a protective cover that is easy to apply and to use.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a protective cover that cleans the touch screen during use thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figures la and lb are simplified block diagrams illustrating a perspective view of the use of the finger cover according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 1 c is a simplified block diagram illustrating a perspective view of the storage of the finger cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Page 3 of 13 Figure Id is a simplified block diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of the finger cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure le is a simplified block diagram illustrating a top view of the finger cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2a is a simplified block diagram illustrating a perspective view of the use of the finger cover according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2b is a simplified block diagram illustrating a top view of the finger cover according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2c is a simplified block diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a simplified version of the finger cover according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 3a and 3b are simplified block diagrams illustrating a bottom view and a side view, respectively, of the finger cover according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention; and, Figures 3b and 3c are simplified block diagrams illustrating a bottom view and a side view, respectively, of the finger cover according to a version of the yet other preferred embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.
Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
Page 4 of 13 While embodiments of the invention will be described for protecting the touch screen of a smart phone, it will become evident to those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto, but are applicable for protecting touch screens of various mobile devices such as, for example, tablet computers and personal digital assistants, as well as touch screen monitors.
Referring to Figures 1 a to 1 e, a finger cover 100 for protecting a touch screen during use according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The finger cover 100 comprises a piece of flexible sheet material 102 for covering at least a surface portion of a finger such as, for example, the finger tip of the index finger 14 and thumb 16 of a user of the touch screen 12 of a smart phone 10. Typically, the user holds at smart phone with one hand and operates the touch screen with the finger tips of the index finger and the thumb, i.e. two pieces 102 are used to cover the same. Of course, if it is desired to use more than two fingers more pieces 102 are employed to cover the finger tip of each finger used.
Preferably, the pieces 102 are shaped to approximate the covered surface area of the fingertip using, for example, a curved shape, as illustrated in Figures 1 a to 1 c, or a plurality of linear edges 103, as illustrated in Figure le. Optionally, the pieces 102 cover a larger surface area of each finger than typically used for interacting with the touch screen in order to prevent accidentally touching of the touch screen 12 with an un-covered surface portion of the finger.
The sheet material is chosen such that user interaction with the touch screen 12 is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface such as, for example, sweat, and other material disposed on the finger surface, for example, residue from other surfaces that have been previously touched, is substantially prevented. There are numerous woven and non-woven sheet materials available such as, for example, various types of products for cleaning computer monitors and touch screens, which are sufficiently soft such that scratching of the touch screen is substantially prevented. While there are countless types of soft sheet materials available, the sheet materials for use with the finger cover according to the preferred embodiments of the invention are chosen to be sufficiently thin in order to enable interaction with the touch screen 12. Suitable sheet materials are easily found in an empirical fashion and comprise various types Page 5 of 13 of woven materials such as, for example, cotton fabrics, linen fabrics, or microfiber fabrics, or various types of non-woven materials such as, for example, soft paper materials and plastic materials. Preferably, a microfiber fabric is employed for its durability and reusability.
Alternatively, a soft paper product is applicable for one-time applications such as, for example, for dispense to users of an ATM machine with a touch screen, and disposal thereafter.
The piece of flexible sheet material 102 is attached to the finger 14, 16 via adhesive layer 104 disposed on the piece of flexible sheet material 102, as illustrated in Figure 1 d. A suitable adhesive is, for example, a pressure-sensitive re-usable adhesive as disclosed in US Patent 3,691,140. Pressure-sensitive re-usable adhesives are readily available such as, for example, DOW CORNING MD7-4502 Silicone Adhesive used for adhering dressings and prosthetic devices to the human body. Preferably, a medical grade adhesive that is substantially non-irritating to the user's skin is employed. Use of the pressure-sensitive re-usable adhesive enables multiple use of the finger cover 100, as well as simple storage by adhering the same to the backside 18 of the smart phone 10, as illustrated in Figure 1 c. Optionally, the surface area of the adhesive layer 104 is smaller than the surface area of the piece of flexible sheet material 102, as illustrated in Figure le, in order to reduce the possibility of accidental contact of the adhesive with the touch screen 12 during user interaction therewith.
Preferably, different types for covering different fingers such as, for example, index fingers and thumbs, as well as different sizes are provided. The finger cover 100 is manufactured in a conventional manner comprising, for example, the steps of. cutting the pieces 102 out of a larger sheet of the flexible sheet material; disposing a predetermined amount of the adhesive onto each of the pieces 102 needed to properly cover a predetermined surface area thereof; and, enclosing each finger cover 100 in a protective packaging.
It is noted, that in order to achieve substantial protection during use of the touch screen it is advisable to protect the cover during storage from dust and other materials that are potentially harmful to the touch screen as well as to change the cover regularly when frequently used.
Referring to Figures 2a to 2c, a finger cover 200 for protecting a touch screen during use Page 6 of 13 according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The finger cover 200 comprises a piece of flexible sheet material 202 forming a finger cot shaped structure for enclosing an end portion of the finger. The finger cover 200 is attached to the finger, for example, with the finger cot shaped structure 202 being made of an elastic material or comprising an elastic band 204 surrounding the opening of the finger cot shaped structure 202 such that the elastic material or the elastic band 204 is stretched when in use. The finger cover 200 is, for example, rolled up like a finger cot and applied to the finger in a similar fashion.
Preferably, the finger cover 200 is made of a flexible sheet material as disclosed herein above with respect to the finger cover 100.
The finger cover 200 is manufactured in a conventional manner comprising, for example, the steps of: cutting an appropriate piece of flexible sheet material 202 for forming a finger cot shaped structure - for example, one piece for being folded or two pieces;
sewing or adhesively bonding the edge of the flexible sheet material 202 to form a finger cot shaped structure;
attaching the elastic band, for example, in case the flexible sheet material 202 is a non-elastic material; and, enclosing each finger cover 200 in a protective packaging.
Preferably, the protective packaging is a re-usable packaging for storage of the finger cover 200, for example, in a phone charm attached to the phone 10.
Alternatively, the finger cover 200 is made as a single piece absent sewing or bonding using appropriate materials such as, for example, Latex or Vinyl and standard manufacturing technologies.
Optionally, a piece of flexible sheet material is formed to provide a ring-shaped structure 206 for accommodating an end portion of the finger therein, as illustrated in Figure 2c. Preferably, the sheet material is an elastic material or comprises an elastic band such that the elastic material or elastic band is stretched when in use for attaching the same to a user's finger.
Referring to Figures 3a to 3d, a finger cover 300 for protecting a touch screen during use according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The finger cover 300 comprises a glove shaped structure 302 having a bottom sheet 302A and a top sheet 302B, as Page7of 13 illustrated in Figures 3a and 3b, with the bottom sheet 302A for covering a palmar surface of a user's hand and the top sheet 302B for covering a dorsal surface of the user's hand. The bottom sheet 302A of the finger cover 300 is made of a flexible sheet material as disclosed herein above with respect to the finger cover 100 while the top sheet 302B is made of the same material or a different flexible sheet material, for example, a material that is thicker to facilitate slipping a hand into the glove. Preferably, the finger cover 300 is shaped to tightly enclose the fingers and comprises a fastening mechanism surrounding the opening 306 such as, for example, an elastic band, a Velcro fastener, or a snap fastener. Alternatively, an elastic sheet material 302A and 302B is employed. Optionally, the top sheet 302B covers only the fingers and a portion of the hand in proximity to the fingers.
The finger cover 300 is manufactured in a conventional manner comprising, for example, the steps of. cutting appropriate pieces of flexible sheet material 302A and 302B
for forming a glove shaped structure; sewing or adhesively bonding the edge 304 of the flexible sheet material 302A
and 302B to form a glove shaped structure; attaching the fastening mechanism, for example, in case the flexible sheet material 302A and 302B is a non-elastic material; and, enclosing each finger cover 300 in a protective packaging. Preferably, the protective packaging is a re-usable packaging for storage of the finger cover 300.
Alternatively, the finger cover 300 is made as a single piece absent sewing or bonding using appropriate materials such as, for example, Latex or Vinyl and standard manufacturing technologies.
Further alternatively, the finger cover 300 comprises the flexible sheet material suitable for enabling user interaction with a touch screen only for covering a tip portion 308.1 to 308.5 of the fingers - or only tip portion 308.1 and 308.2 of the thumb and index finger, as illustrated in Figures 3b and 3c. The remaining glove structure is made of a different flexible sheet material, for example, a material that is thicker to facilitate slipping a hand into the glove.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments. However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can Page 8 of 13 be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Page 9 of 13
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to the field of protective coverings, and more particularly to a finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Present day mobile devices such as, for example, smart phones and tablet computers, comprise a touch screen as the user interface of choice for providing a simple smooth surface for display and direct interaction absent other hardware such as a keyboard or mouse.
Unfortunately, secretions from the finger surface and other material disposed thereon leave a residue on the touch screen, requiring frequent cleaning of the touch screen surface in order to clearly see details displayed thereon. Furthermore, fingernails can scratch the sensitive surface of touch screens, for example, when playing games.
There are numerous plastic screen covers on the market for protecting touch screens of smart phones. Unfortunately, these covers are tedious to apply and use and, furthermore, while preventing the touch screen from being scratched they become immediately covered in fingerprints during use. Yet further, present day touch screens provide HD
image quality which is substantially reduced after a plastic screen cover has been applied thereto.
On the other hand, there are various products available for cleaning touch screens such as microfiber cloths or soft computer cloths. However, keeping a frequently used touch screen clean still requires frequent and time consuming cleaning in order to be able to make use of the HD
image quality provided.
It is desirable to provide a protective cover that protects the touch screen during use and maintains the image quality of the touch screen.
Page 1 of 13 It is also desirable to provide a protective cover that is easy to apply and to use.
It is also desirable to provide a protective cover that cleans the touch screen during use thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a protective cover that protects the touch screen during use and maintains the image quality of the touch screen.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective cover that is easy to apply and to use.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a protective cover that cleans the touch screen during use thereof.
According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use. The finger cover comprises a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen with the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen. The sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The finger cover further comprises a mechanism for removable attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger.
According to the aspect of the present invention, there is further provided a finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use. The finger cover comprises a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen with the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen. The sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The finger Page 2 of 13 cover further comprises a layer of a re-usable adhesive disposed on a surface of the flexible sheet material facing the finger.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is further provided a method for protecting a touch screen during use. A piece of flexible sheet material is provided for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen. The flexible sheet material is such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented. The piece of flexible sheet material is attached to the finger such that the at least a surface portion of the finger is covered. The user interacts with the touch screen using the covered at least a surface portion of the finger.
The advantage of the present invention is that it provides a protective cover that protects the touch screen during use and maintains the image quality of the touch screen.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a protective cover that is easy to apply and to use.
A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides a protective cover that cleans the touch screen during use thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A preferred embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figures la and lb are simplified block diagrams illustrating a perspective view of the use of the finger cover according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 1 c is a simplified block diagram illustrating a perspective view of the storage of the finger cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Page 3 of 13 Figure Id is a simplified block diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of the finger cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure le is a simplified block diagram illustrating a top view of the finger cover according to the first preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2a is a simplified block diagram illustrating a perspective view of the use of the finger cover according to another preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2b is a simplified block diagram illustrating a top view of the finger cover according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figure 2c is a simplified block diagram illustrating a cross-sectional view of a simplified version of the finger cover according to the other preferred embodiment of the invention;
Figures 3a and 3b are simplified block diagrams illustrating a bottom view and a side view, respectively, of the finger cover according to yet another preferred embodiment of the invention; and, Figures 3b and 3c are simplified block diagrams illustrating a bottom view and a side view, respectively, of the finger cover according to a version of the yet other preferred embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs.
Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described.
Page 4 of 13 While embodiments of the invention will be described for protecting the touch screen of a smart phone, it will become evident to those skilled in the art that the embodiments of the invention are not limited thereto, but are applicable for protecting touch screens of various mobile devices such as, for example, tablet computers and personal digital assistants, as well as touch screen monitors.
Referring to Figures 1 a to 1 e, a finger cover 100 for protecting a touch screen during use according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The finger cover 100 comprises a piece of flexible sheet material 102 for covering at least a surface portion of a finger such as, for example, the finger tip of the index finger 14 and thumb 16 of a user of the touch screen 12 of a smart phone 10. Typically, the user holds at smart phone with one hand and operates the touch screen with the finger tips of the index finger and the thumb, i.e. two pieces 102 are used to cover the same. Of course, if it is desired to use more than two fingers more pieces 102 are employed to cover the finger tip of each finger used.
Preferably, the pieces 102 are shaped to approximate the covered surface area of the fingertip using, for example, a curved shape, as illustrated in Figures 1 a to 1 c, or a plurality of linear edges 103, as illustrated in Figure le. Optionally, the pieces 102 cover a larger surface area of each finger than typically used for interacting with the touch screen in order to prevent accidentally touching of the touch screen 12 with an un-covered surface portion of the finger.
The sheet material is chosen such that user interaction with the touch screen 12 is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface such as, for example, sweat, and other material disposed on the finger surface, for example, residue from other surfaces that have been previously touched, is substantially prevented. There are numerous woven and non-woven sheet materials available such as, for example, various types of products for cleaning computer monitors and touch screens, which are sufficiently soft such that scratching of the touch screen is substantially prevented. While there are countless types of soft sheet materials available, the sheet materials for use with the finger cover according to the preferred embodiments of the invention are chosen to be sufficiently thin in order to enable interaction with the touch screen 12. Suitable sheet materials are easily found in an empirical fashion and comprise various types Page 5 of 13 of woven materials such as, for example, cotton fabrics, linen fabrics, or microfiber fabrics, or various types of non-woven materials such as, for example, soft paper materials and plastic materials. Preferably, a microfiber fabric is employed for its durability and reusability.
Alternatively, a soft paper product is applicable for one-time applications such as, for example, for dispense to users of an ATM machine with a touch screen, and disposal thereafter.
The piece of flexible sheet material 102 is attached to the finger 14, 16 via adhesive layer 104 disposed on the piece of flexible sheet material 102, as illustrated in Figure 1 d. A suitable adhesive is, for example, a pressure-sensitive re-usable adhesive as disclosed in US Patent 3,691,140. Pressure-sensitive re-usable adhesives are readily available such as, for example, DOW CORNING MD7-4502 Silicone Adhesive used for adhering dressings and prosthetic devices to the human body. Preferably, a medical grade adhesive that is substantially non-irritating to the user's skin is employed. Use of the pressure-sensitive re-usable adhesive enables multiple use of the finger cover 100, as well as simple storage by adhering the same to the backside 18 of the smart phone 10, as illustrated in Figure 1 c. Optionally, the surface area of the adhesive layer 104 is smaller than the surface area of the piece of flexible sheet material 102, as illustrated in Figure le, in order to reduce the possibility of accidental contact of the adhesive with the touch screen 12 during user interaction therewith.
Preferably, different types for covering different fingers such as, for example, index fingers and thumbs, as well as different sizes are provided. The finger cover 100 is manufactured in a conventional manner comprising, for example, the steps of. cutting the pieces 102 out of a larger sheet of the flexible sheet material; disposing a predetermined amount of the adhesive onto each of the pieces 102 needed to properly cover a predetermined surface area thereof; and, enclosing each finger cover 100 in a protective packaging.
It is noted, that in order to achieve substantial protection during use of the touch screen it is advisable to protect the cover during storage from dust and other materials that are potentially harmful to the touch screen as well as to change the cover regularly when frequently used.
Referring to Figures 2a to 2c, a finger cover 200 for protecting a touch screen during use Page 6 of 13 according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The finger cover 200 comprises a piece of flexible sheet material 202 forming a finger cot shaped structure for enclosing an end portion of the finger. The finger cover 200 is attached to the finger, for example, with the finger cot shaped structure 202 being made of an elastic material or comprising an elastic band 204 surrounding the opening of the finger cot shaped structure 202 such that the elastic material or the elastic band 204 is stretched when in use. The finger cover 200 is, for example, rolled up like a finger cot and applied to the finger in a similar fashion.
Preferably, the finger cover 200 is made of a flexible sheet material as disclosed herein above with respect to the finger cover 100.
The finger cover 200 is manufactured in a conventional manner comprising, for example, the steps of: cutting an appropriate piece of flexible sheet material 202 for forming a finger cot shaped structure - for example, one piece for being folded or two pieces;
sewing or adhesively bonding the edge of the flexible sheet material 202 to form a finger cot shaped structure;
attaching the elastic band, for example, in case the flexible sheet material 202 is a non-elastic material; and, enclosing each finger cover 200 in a protective packaging.
Preferably, the protective packaging is a re-usable packaging for storage of the finger cover 200, for example, in a phone charm attached to the phone 10.
Alternatively, the finger cover 200 is made as a single piece absent sewing or bonding using appropriate materials such as, for example, Latex or Vinyl and standard manufacturing technologies.
Optionally, a piece of flexible sheet material is formed to provide a ring-shaped structure 206 for accommodating an end portion of the finger therein, as illustrated in Figure 2c. Preferably, the sheet material is an elastic material or comprises an elastic band such that the elastic material or elastic band is stretched when in use for attaching the same to a user's finger.
Referring to Figures 3a to 3d, a finger cover 300 for protecting a touch screen during use according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is provided. The finger cover 300 comprises a glove shaped structure 302 having a bottom sheet 302A and a top sheet 302B, as Page7of 13 illustrated in Figures 3a and 3b, with the bottom sheet 302A for covering a palmar surface of a user's hand and the top sheet 302B for covering a dorsal surface of the user's hand. The bottom sheet 302A of the finger cover 300 is made of a flexible sheet material as disclosed herein above with respect to the finger cover 100 while the top sheet 302B is made of the same material or a different flexible sheet material, for example, a material that is thicker to facilitate slipping a hand into the glove. Preferably, the finger cover 300 is shaped to tightly enclose the fingers and comprises a fastening mechanism surrounding the opening 306 such as, for example, an elastic band, a Velcro fastener, or a snap fastener. Alternatively, an elastic sheet material 302A and 302B is employed. Optionally, the top sheet 302B covers only the fingers and a portion of the hand in proximity to the fingers.
The finger cover 300 is manufactured in a conventional manner comprising, for example, the steps of. cutting appropriate pieces of flexible sheet material 302A and 302B
for forming a glove shaped structure; sewing or adhesively bonding the edge 304 of the flexible sheet material 302A
and 302B to form a glove shaped structure; attaching the fastening mechanism, for example, in case the flexible sheet material 302A and 302B is a non-elastic material; and, enclosing each finger cover 300 in a protective packaging. Preferably, the protective packaging is a re-usable packaging for storage of the finger cover 300.
Alternatively, the finger cover 300 is made as a single piece absent sewing or bonding using appropriate materials such as, for example, Latex or Vinyl and standard manufacturing technologies.
Further alternatively, the finger cover 300 comprises the flexible sheet material suitable for enabling user interaction with a touch screen only for covering a tip portion 308.1 to 308.5 of the fingers - or only tip portion 308.1 and 308.2 of the thumb and index finger, as illustrated in Figures 3b and 3c. The remaining glove structure is made of a different flexible sheet material, for example, a material that is thicker to facilitate slipping a hand into the glove.
The present invention has been described herein with regard to preferred embodiments. However, it will be obvious to persons skilled in the art that a number of variations and modifications can Page 8 of 13 be made without departing from the scope of the invention as described herein.
Page 9 of 13
Claims (18)
1. A finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use, the finger cover comprising:
a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen, the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen, the sheet material being such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented; and, a mechanism for removable attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger.
a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen, the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen, the sheet material being such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented; and, a mechanism for removable attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger.
2. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 wherein the flexible sheet material is sufficiently soft such that scratching of the touch screen is substantially prevented.
3. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 wherein the flexible sheet material is a microfiber fabric.
4. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 wherein the mechanism for attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger comprises a layer of a re-usable adhesive disposed on a surface of the flexible sheet material facing the finger.
5. A finger cover as defined in claim 4 wherein the adhesive layer covers a surface area that is smaller than the surface area of the piece of flexible sheet material.
6. A finger cover as defined in claim 4 wherein the adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive that is substantially non-irritating to the user's skin.
7. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 wherein the piece of flexible sheet material forms a ring-shaped structure for accommodating an end portion of the finger therein.
8. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 wherein the piece of flexible sheet material forms a finger cot shaped structure for enclosing an end portion of the finger.
9. A finger cover as defined in claim 8 comprising an elastic band surrounding the opening of the finger cot shaped structure.
10. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 wherein the piece of flexible sheet material forms a glove shaped structure.
11. A finger cover as defined in claim 10 wherein the glove shaped structure comprises a bottom sheet and a top sheet, the bottom sheet for covering a palmar surface of a user's hand and the top sheet for covering a dorsal surface of the user's hand.
12. A finger cover as defined in claim 11 wherein the bottom sheet is made of the flexible sheet material determined for enabling user interaction with the touch screen and the top sheet is made of a different sheet material.
13. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 comprising a glove shaped structure having disposed therein the flexible sheet material such that a palmar surface of at least a tip portion of at least an index finger and a thumb is covered therewith.
14. A finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use, the finger cover comprising:
a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen, the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen, the sheet material being such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented; and, a layer of a re-usable adhesive disposed on a surface of the flexible sheet material facing the finger.
a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen, the at least a surface portion being used for interacting with the touch screen, the sheet material being such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented; and, a layer of a re-usable adhesive disposed on a surface of the flexible sheet material facing the finger.
15. A method for protecting a touch screen during use comprising:
providing a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen, the flexible sheet material being such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented;
attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger such that the at least a surface portion of the finger is covered; and, interacting with the touch screen using the covered at least a surface portion of the finger.
providing a piece of flexible sheet material for covering at least a surface portion of a finger of a user of the touch screen, the flexible sheet material being such that user interaction with the touch screen is enabled while transmission of secretions from the finger surface and material disposed on the finger surface is substantially prevented;
attaching the piece of flexible sheet material to the finger such that the at least a surface portion of the finger is covered; and, interacting with the touch screen using the covered at least a surface portion of the finger.
16. A method as defined in claim 15 wherein the piece of flexible sheet material is provided such that it forms a finger cot shaped structure.
17. A method as defined in claim 15 wherein the piece of flexible sheet material is provided such that it forms a glove shaped structure.
18. A finger cover as defined in claim 1 wherein the flexible sheet material is a soft paper material.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2752803A CA2752803A1 (en) | 2011-09-20 | 2011-09-20 | Finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2752803A CA2752803A1 (en) | 2011-09-20 | 2011-09-20 | Finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2752803A1 true CA2752803A1 (en) | 2013-03-20 |
Family
ID=47909444
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2752803A Abandoned CA2752803A1 (en) | 2011-09-20 | 2011-09-20 | Finger cover for protecting a touch screen during use |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2752803A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8803844B1 (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2014-08-12 | DigiPuppets LLC | Capacitive finger puppet for use on touchscreen devices |
-
2011
- 2011-09-20 CA CA2752803A patent/CA2752803A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US8803844B1 (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2014-08-12 | DigiPuppets LLC | Capacitive finger puppet for use on touchscreen devices |
| US9430062B2 (en) | 2013-10-02 | 2016-08-30 | DigiPuppets LLC | Capacitive finger puppet for use on touchscreen devices |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |
Effective date: 20140922 |