GB2444318A

GB2444318A - A Grip Device

Info

Publication number: GB2444318A
Application number: GB0623864A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Graham Michael Cridland
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-11-29
Filing date: 2006-11-29
Publication date: 2008-06-04
Also published as: GB0623864D0

Abstract

A grip device 1 includes a support or cradle 3 which extends along a portion of a limb inserted in the support in use. The support is formed from a rigid material and can act as a brace or splint against the limb. The grip device 1 is provided with attachment means 11 for releasable attachment to the limb. There are preferably a pair of attachment means 11 which are longitudinally spaced from one another along the length of the support, and are preferably in the form of flexible straps which extends around the outer surface of the support and defines free ends 13, 15 which may be fastened together around a limb. The support is further provided with a second attachment means 21 for attaching the support 3 to an object 2. In the preferred embodiment the second attachment means comprise a pair of releasable and adjustable clamping means 21 which may be clamped around an object, such as a fishing rod. A further embodiment includes a hinge (220; fig 7) between a longitudinal end (226; fig 7) of the support (212; fig 7) and the attachment means (222; fig 7) for attaching the support to an object.

Description

Grip Device The present invention relates to a grip device.

The present is particularly applicable to a grip device which helps a manually disabled person to "grip" an object, by securing the object to a limb of the person, e.g. a forearm. The device is generally of a type which includes a portion which extends over a limb of a user in use, and is attachable to the limb on the one hand, and an object to be gripped on the other, to thereby secure the object to the limb.

The device may be used, for example, by persons with any kind of impairment of the ability to grip, e.g. a hand disability, such as arthritis, amputation of fingers, or of the entire hand. However, while the device of the present invention is particularly applicable to enabling disabled persons to grip an object, it has been found that the device is more widely applicable, and may also be used by able-bodied persons, for example in sports where it is desired to reinforce or teach the person a particular aspect of their technique, in relation to the way in which they grip an item of sporting equipment.

The present invention is particularly, although not exclusively, directed to a device which aids gripping of elongate objects, such as a handle. The device may be used in conjunction with an object which may be a piece of sporting e9uipment, such as a racquet, golf club, fishing rod, or snooker cue, or, may be the handle of a household object, such as a broom, or garden fork or spade, for example.

The applicant has realised that there is a need for an improved grip device.

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided: a grip device; the device comprising; a support for extending along a limb of a user in use; means for attaching the support to a limb; and means for attaching the support to an object to thereby secure the object to a limb in use; wherein the support comprises a longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion for extending along a limb inserted in the support in use.

In accordance with the present invention, the grip device therefore includes a support, and both means for attaching the support to a user's limb, and means for attaching the support to an object to be gnpped. In this way the device may therefore secure the limb to an object to be gnpped with the support lying between the object and the limb in use. The support includes a substantially rigid longitudinally extending portion which extends along the limb in use.

It has been found that by providing a grip aid of this form, the user's limb may be more securely attached to the object to be gripped. The substantially rigid portion of the support effectively acts as a "splint", constraining movement of the limb relative to the object when the device is attached to the limb and object in use. In particular, the substantially rigid portion of the support may reduce the possibility of lateral relative motion, or twisting, between the limb and object. This can be advantageous in providing the user with a greater level of control over the object to which the device is connected in use, particularly where the user has limited dexterity or control over their own limb. The device may be readily used by single person, without aid from another, and allows effective single limbed operation of an object.

The device is configured to permit attachment of the limb to an object, so as to "grip" the object, without direct contact between the limb and the object, i.e. avoiding the need for the user to "grip" the object in a conventional manner at all.

It has been found that this may overcome the problems of certain prior art grip devices which use a holster, glove or similar formed of flexible material to attach an object to a limb, in which there is resilience in the connection between the limb and the object in use. Such devices may allow the object to uncontrollably move or wobble in various directions, making controlled movement difficult, and causing the user to have to intervene with their other limb or hand, or for another person to do so if the user's other limb is impaired or absent, to correct movement, and steady the object. In contrast to some conventional devices to aid disabled persons which may include a glove, the grip device of the present invention does not require the user to directly grip the object using their fingers. Instead the device indirectly attaches the limb to the object, such that it is not necessary for the user to extend their fingers around the object, or directly contact it in any way. This allows users with even severe levels of impairment to their ability to grip to be confident that they can control an object attached to their limb by the device of the invention.

The device of the present invention may also force the user to control the object using their limb as a whole, with the splint-like rigid portion acting to prevent relative movement between sections of the limb at a joint, such as the wrist. This may help a user control even a relatively long objects, such as a fishing rod or cue more reliably. By constraining the movement of the user's limb, the device may also be helpful in training the user to carry out a movement in a particular way. For example, in a sport such as golf, where it is not desirable for the user to move their arm relative to a wrist when swinging the club, or when fishing when the correct technique involves moving the rod using the arm as a whole, the device may correct incorrect technique, by preventing the user from moving their wrist relative to the arm, and thus help to establish the correct technique over repeated repetition. The device is configured to try to minimise, or eliminate relative movement between the support and hence limb and object to be gripped in use in a direction along or around the longitudinal axis of the object, or an axis parallel thereto.

By "substantially rigid", it is meant that the substantially rigid portion of the support prevents any substantial flexing of the support at least about a transverse axis of the support in the region of the substantially rigid portion, i.e. perpendicular to the longitudinal axis along which the limb will lie in use, and preferably also prevents any substantial flexing of the support about a longitudinal axis of the support in the region of the substantially rigid portion. The substantially rigid portion may be rigid, or only substantially rigid.

The support is that part of the device which is intended to extend along and over, or to at least partially cover, a user's limb in use. Preferably the support has a longitudinally extending limb facing surface and a longitudinally extending object facing surface, The longitudinal direction of the support is that direction which extends along the length of the limb in use. The longitudinally extending object facing surface and longitudinally extending limb facing surface are preferably opposite longitudinal surfaces of the support. It will be appreciated that in certain embodiments discussed below, where the support is indirectly attached to an object by attaching means provided on a connecting member which extends beyond the longitudinal end of the support, the object may not extend to longitudinally overlap a part, or indeed, any of the support in use. In such cases, the object facing surface of the support is that surface which faces the plane in which a longitudinal extension of the object would extend.

The device thus comprises separate means for attaching the support to a limb and means for attaching the support to an object in use. Preferably the means for attaching the support to a limb and means for attachrng the support to an object extend from opposite sides of the support. It will be appreciated that in use the device may be attached with any orientation relative to a limb. Preferably the means for attaching the support to a limb and means for attaching the support to an object extend respectively from opposite longitudinal surfaces of the support. Preferably the device is configured such that it may maintain a limb and object to be gripped one above the other in use.

In preferred embodiments, while the device will most commonly be attached such that the support underlies the limb, with the limb facing surface lying above the object facing surface of the support to attach the object under the limb, in other arrangements, the support may overlie a limb of a user, such that the limb facing surface lies below the object facing surface of the support, to attach the object over the limb. The device may also be attached in any intermediate position, such that the limb and object will lie side by side in use. The common aspect is that in any of these methods of use, at least a portion of the support lies between the limb of the user and the object to be gripped such that one surface of the support faces towards the limb, and an opposite surface towards the object. The opposite surfaces are opposite longitudinal surfaces. This portion of the support which lies between the object and limb in use comprises the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion. Where the object does not extend to overlap any or all of the support in use along the longitudinal direction, the object facing surface is that which faces the plane in which a longitudinal extension of the object would extend as mentioned above. Thus, while the support may define a limb facing surface upon which the limb rests in use, in other embodiments, the support may rest on top of the limb, but still acts as a support due to the restraining action of its rigid portion acting as a splint to the limb. The device is thus configured such that it may maintain the longitudinal axes of the limb and object to be gripped parallel to one another in use.

The support may be configured to extend over any portion of the limb. The support defines a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction. The longitudinal direction is that direction which extends along a limb in use. The support has a length along the longitudinal direction, and a width in the transverse direction. As discussed above, the support defines opposite longitudinally extending surfaces extending between the longitudinal ends of the support. The support has a pair of transversely extending end edges and a pair of longitudinally extending end edges extending along the longitudinal sides thereof.

Preferably the support is an elongate support having a length greater than its width. It will be appreciated that this will allow the support to more effectively constrain the limb in use. Preferably the length of the support is at least 1.5 times, and more preferably at least twice its width. Preferably the length of the support is less than seven times its width, more preferably less than five times its width, and most preferably less than three times its width. The length and width may have a relationship selected from any combination of the above ranges.

The length of the support may be chosen as appropriate having regard to factors such as the intended application of the device, the level of constraint required to allow suitable control to be achieved when attached to an object in use, the age/size of the intended user or range of users, and the nature of their disability, if any. Preferably the support has a length of at least 15 cm, and preferably at least 20 cm. Preferably the length of the support is less than 50 cm, and preferably less than 30cm. Preferably the length of the support lies in the range of from 20 cm to 30 cm. Preferably the longitudinally extending surfaces of the support are continuous along their length, and preferably across the width. Preferably the support does not include any discontinuities in its limb facing surface.

The width of the support may similarly be selected as desired having regard to the above factors. Where the support is curved, the width is taken to be the greatest diameter of the support. The support may be configured to extend across the entire width, or only a part of the width of a limb. While it is important that the support extend a length sufficient for the rigid portion to provide a splinting effect, it has been found that the width of the device is less important in providing an effective level of constraint. In some embodiments, the support may be in the form of a strip which extends along a limb in use. The transverse width may then be less than 10 cm or even less than 5 cm. Preferably, however, the width of the support is at least 5 cm, and preferably is in the range of from 5 cm to 10 cm. A wider support may provide a greater level of comfort to a user. Preferably the width of the support is less than 15 cm.

Preferably the support is configured to receive the forearm of a user. For example, the support may be configured to extend any distance along the forearm of a person from the elbow to the wrist or beyond, or a lesser distance, e.g. if a user may have a portion of their forearm missing due to amputation. The support may be in the shape of an open cuff.

In some embodiments, the support is substantially planar. For example, the support may be in the form of a plate or strip which extends along a limb in use.

However, to provide a greater level of comfort, and constraint, in preferred embodiments the support is contoured, being curved or shaped to extend around at least a portion of the circumference of a limb in use.

Preferably the support has a central portion including said longitudinally extending rigid portion and side portions upstanding therefrom. The central portion is a transversely central portion. The side portions preferably extend in a direction which is away from the object in use such that they may extend around the edges of a limb. Such side portions may provide a device which is more comfortable to wear, preventing the longitudinal edges of the support from chafing against the wearer's skin in use. The side portions may be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal edges of the central portion, or, preferably are inclined thereto.

The side portions may be separately formed and attached to the central portion, such that they comprise longitudinally extending edges extending along the longitudinal edges of the central portion. Preferably the side portions are then upstanding from the longitudinally extending edges of the longitudinally extending limb facing surface of the support.

However, preferably the side portions are integrally formed with the central portion. In these embodiments, the side portions are upstanding from the longitudinal edges of the region encompassing a central part of the support. For example, the central portion may be integrally moulded with the side portions.

Preferably the side portions are curved. In preferred embodiments, the support is curved in transverse cross section. Preferably the support then defines an arc of a circle in transverse cross section, and in some preferred embodiments, the support is semi-circular or C-shaped in transverse cross-section. Preferably the support is configured to not completely surround the limb in use. Preferably the support is open along at least part, and preferably all of its limb facing side, and closable only when an attachment means for attaching the support to a limb is closed around a limb in use. This may facilitate insertion of the limb into the device and attachment thereto in use.

The longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support extends along at least a part of the length of the device in the region which will lie along the limb, and preferably between the limb and the object in use. The extent of the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support is such that it may act as a splint when located adjacent a limb in use. Preferably the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support extends over at least the central part of the support. The central part of the support is the transversely and preferably also longitudinally central portion of the support.

The entire support may be substantially rigid to thereby define the longitudinally extending rigid portion, or the substantially rigid portion of the support may only be a part thereof. In particularly preferred embodiments, preferably the entire support is substantially rigid. The support may thus have the same dimensions and configuration as the substantially rigid portion of the support.

Preferably the substantially rigid portion of the support has an extent and configuration as described above in relation to "the support". Preferably the substantially rigid portion has a length and/or width in the ranges described above for the support. For example, preferably the length of the substantially rigid portion of the support is greater than its width. In preferred embodiments, the "support" referred to above is thus a substantially rigid support.

The substantially rigid portion is preferably a longitudinally, and preferably transversely, continuous portion of the support.

In other embodiments, the support may comprise a substantially rigid portion or portions and another non-substantially rigid portion or portions. In such embodiments, preferably at least the central portion of the support is substantially rigid. Preferably the substantially rigid portion of the support extends along the entire length of the support. Preferably the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support has a width of at least 2cm, and more preferably at least 5cm. Preferably the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support extends across at least 25%, more preferably at least 50%, and most preferably at least 75% of the width of the support. In particularly preferred embodiments, the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support extends across the entire width of the support.

Where side portions are provided, preferably the side portions are substantially rigid. These arrangements have been found to be particularly advantageous in further constraining the lateral movement of the limb. The side portions may be formed from separate substantially rigid sections, or more preferably are integral with a central longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support.

The substantially rigid portion of the support may provided in any suitable manner. In some embodiments, the substantially rigid portion is provided by forming at least a portion of the support from an inherently substantially rigid material. In these embodiments, the entire support may be formed from an inherently substantially rigid material, or other non rigid materials may be used in the other parts of the support. In other embodiments, the substantially ngid portion of the support may be provided by joining a reinforcing member to a portion of the support to render that portion substantially rigid. it will be appreciated that even when the relevant portion of the support is formed from a substantially rigid material, the rigidity of the support may be enhanced in the relevant area by Joining a reinforcing member to the support in that region Preferably in accordance with the invention in any of its embodiments the support comprises a reinforcing member joined thereto in the region of said substantially rigid portion. Thus, the reinforcing member may render the support substantially rigid in the selected region, or, in embodiments where the support is already substantially rigid in the relevant region, may further increase the rigidity of the support in the region. The reinforcing member is preferably attached to the object facing surface of the support to provide a more comfortable arrangement. However, it could be located within the body of the support, or on the limb facing surface.

Suitable rigid materials for forming the support and/or reinforcing member include plastics materials, or metal. In some preferred embodiments, the support is formed from a plastics material and, where a reinforcing member is provided, preferably the reinforcing member is a metal reinforcing member. Preferably the plastics material is then inherently substantially rigid, with the reinforcing member further increasing its rigidity in a selected region thereof.

In some embodiments, the support may be provided with a covering to render it more comfortable to the touch and to reduce any harshness in use. Such a covering vill not interfere with the action of the longitudinally extending ngid portion of the device to provide a splint like action in use. For example, if the limb contacting surface of the support is cushioned, the surface covering may initially provide a small level of resilience in the surface of the support lying between the support and the limb in the transverse direction i e. into the depth of the device, but any such resilience will be limited by the presence of the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support, which will prevent further movement of the limb towards the object, or any flexing of the support about a transverse axis in that region. Thus, there may be minor surface flexing or settling of the limb contacting surface, but no macroscopic flexing of the support as a whole. In some preferred embodiments, the limb facing surface of the support is substantially rigid.

The means for attaching the support to the limb in use may be of any suitable form which permits the support to be removed from the limb after use. The means for attaching the support to the limb preferably extends from a limb facing longitudinal surface of the support, or at least the longitudinal edges thereof.

Preferably the attachment means closes at least a part of the top of the support to encircle a limb in a selected region. Preferably the attachment means closes only a part of the top of the support. Preferably a longitudinally adjacent part of the support remains open on at least one, and preferably both sides of the attachment means when closed around the limb of a user.

Preferably the device comprises a plurality of attachment means for attaching the device to a limb. Preferably the plurality of attachment means are longitudinally spaced from one another. Preferably an attachment means is provided at each longitudinal end of the support. Preferably only a pair of attachment means are provided. Where plural attachment means are provided along the length of the support, preferably each attachment means closes only a part of the top of the support, and preferably at least a part of the support along its length remains open when each attachment means is closed around the limb of a user in use, such that the device does not completely surround the limb of a user along its entire length.

Where a plurality of separate attachment means are provided, the attachment means may be of the same or different construction. Thus, an attachment means in accordance with one embodiment described below may be provided in combination with an attachment means in accordance with a different embodiment. References to "the" attachment means below, should be-understood to refer to the or each attachment means where multiple attachment means are present.

Preferably the attachment means is flexible attachment means. In contrast to certain conventional arrangements where a flexible sleeve is used to secure an object to a limb, the present invention may provide an arrangement which offers greater control as well as comfort and conformance with the user, by combining the support having its rigid region with flexible attachment means. However, in other embodiments the or an attachment means is rigid.

Preferably the attachment means comprises one or more attachment members.

The attachment means may not be releasable or adjustable. In some embodiments, the attachment means comprises a loop through which the limb may inserted in use to secure the support to the limb. In these embodiments, the loop is preferably not adjustable or releasable. Thus, in this simple arrangement, the device may be provided with a ioop of sufficient diameter to retain the device attached to a user's limb while still permitting the limb to be slid out of the loop without needing to adjust or loosen it. The loop may extend along any portion of the length of the device. Preferably the loop extends less than 50%, and preferably less than 25% of -ii -the length of the device. In these embodiments, the attachment means may then be rigid, for example a plastic loop.

Preferably the means for attaching the support to the limb comprises means for releasably attaching the support to a user's limb. Preferably the attachment means may be converted from an open to a closed form thereby cooperating with the support to encircle the limb in the region of the attachment means. Preferably the attachment means allows the support to be adjustably attached to a limb. Preferably the attachment means is tightenable around the limb to provide an adjustable attachment.

Preferably the or each attachment member is a flexible attachment member.

Preferably the or each attachment member is in the form of a strap.

Preferably the attachment means comprises opposed cooperating parts which are fastened to one another in use to close the attachment member. The parts may be provided on or by parts of a single attachment member, or by cooperating ones of a pair of attachment members. It will be appreciated that a part of the attachment means may be provided directly by a part or surface of the support, such that an attachment member may cooperate directly with the support to provide a closure rather than with itself or another attachment member. Preferably the attachment means does not include a part of the support. Preferably the attachment means extends from the longitudinal sides of the support.

Preferably the attachment means comprises cooperating parts which may be fastened to one another in a plurality of different positions to provide an adjustable attachment. The positions may be discrete from one another, or may be continuous with one another. In the first case, a plurality of distinct fastener parts may need to be provided on one of the parts for cooperating with the opposed part.

The fastening may be a mechanical and/or adhesive fastening. The cooperating parts may be a buckle and an end of the member. Preferably the cooperating parts are mating parts of a fastener. Preferably the mating parts are hook and loop substrates. Preferably the attachment means thus comprises a hook and loop fastening system. This may allow a user to quickly and easily fasten the device to their limb without needing to have a high level of manual dexterity. -12-

Where the cooperating parts of a fastener are provided on or by parts of a single attachment member, at least one part is preferably provided on or by an end of the attachment member. The other part may be provided on or by the other end of the member, or, preferably one an intermediate portion of the member. In one preferred embodiment, the attachment means comprises a single attachment member having a hook fastener disposed on one end thereof, which cooperates with a loop panel provided on an opposite surface of the same attachment member. The opposite surfaces are opposite longitudinal surfaces of the member. The end of the attachment member may then be doubled back on itself to engage the hook fastener with the loop panel. The loop panel may be separately formed and joined to the attachment member, or more preferably by a loop material forming at least a part of one surface of the attachment member. Of course, the hook and loop fastening elements could be interchanged. In these preferred embodiments, the attachment may be provided using a conventional Velcro fastening system. These embodiments 1 5 are advantageous in providing a simple and easily closed adjustable fastener, which a disabled person can use without needing to have a high level of dexterity, and which can be repeatedly fastened and unfastened.

Preferably the attachment means comprises means for adjusting the length of the attachment member. Preferably the adjusting means comprises buckling means. In other arrangements, adjustability may be provided by the inherent

properties of the attachment member or members of the attachment means. For example, the attachment means may comprise a stretchable or elastomeric attachment member.

Preferably the attachment members are not stretchable.

The most suitable form of attachment will depend upon the intended use of the device. The device may comprise only rigid attachment means for attaching the support to a limb, only flexible attachment means, or a combination thereof. For example, for use with a float fishing rod, it has been found that a combination of an attachment means in the form of a non adjustable or releasable loop at one end of the support and an adjustable, releasable strap fastener at the other longitudinal end is suitable. A pair of adjustable straps may be used for fly or boat rods, while a pair of non adjustable loops may be used for fishing rods of the feeder, carp rod of beach castor types.

-13 -The attachment means for attaching the device to the object to be gripped is configured to secure the device to the object, such that the longitudinal axes of the support and the object are parallel with one another. Preferably the means for attaching the support to an object is configured such that when secured to an object in use in use, the object will longitudinally overlap at least an end of the support, and preferably overlaps at least 50% of the length of the support in use.

Preferably the device comprises means for rigidly attaching the support to an object to be gripped, or for providing a rigid attachment between the support and the object to be gripped. Preferably the device is configured to attach the support to an object to be gripped such that there is no resilience between the support, or at least the object facing surface thereof, and the object in use.

In accordance with a further aspect, the present invention provides a grip device; the device comprising; a support for extending over a limb of a user in use; means for attaching the support to a limb; and means for rigidly attaching the support to an object to be gripped, or for providing a rigid connection between the support and object to be gripped, to thereby secure the limb to the object in use.

The present invention in accordance with this further aspect may include any or all of the features described with reference to the other aspects of the invention above and below.

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects, the means for attaching the support to the object to be gripped may extend directly from a surface of the support, preferably a longitudinally extending surface opposite to a longitudinally extending surface of the support which faces the limb in use i.e. from the opposite side of the support to that of the means for attaching the device to the limb. Thus in some embodiments a longitudinally extending object facing surface of the support may comprise the means for attaching the support to an object.

Preferably the attaching means is configured to provide a rigid attachment between the support and an object, and the device thus preferably comprises ngid attachment means rigidly joined to the object facing surface of the support. -14-

In these embodiments where the attaching means extends directly from the support, the attachment means may be joined to the support in any suitable manner.

For example, the attachment means may be integrally formed e.g. moulded with the support. In other embodiments, the attachment means is separately formed and mounted to the support. Preferably the attachment means is then rigidly mounted to the support. The attachment means is mounted to the object facing surface of the support, and may therefore be mounted to the same component of the support which provides the limb facing surface, or may be mounted to the reinforcing member of the support where provided.

Preferably a plurality of sets of attachment means are provided for attaching the device to a limb, each being mounted to the support. Preferably the attachment means are longitudinally spaced from one another along the length of the support.

Preferably a pair of attachment means are provided. The separation of the attachment means, and their spacing from the ends of the support may be selected as desired to provide a suitably secure attachment for a given application. Preferably the attachment means closest to one longitudinal end of the support is located longitudinally further from that end than is the attachment means closest to the other longitudinal end of the support. In this way, the device may be attached to an object such that at least an end portion of the support does not overlap the end of the object.

This may allow a normal grip of the object to be more closely replicated, with the attachment means being closer to the region where the hand would normally lie relative to the object.

Preferably the substantially rigid portion of the support extends over the region where at least one, and preferably each of the attachment means for attaching the support to an object is joined to the support, and preferably in embodiments including a plurality of attachment means, the substantially rigid portion extends longitudinally between, and preferably over, the location of each attachment means.

Preferably the device comprises mounting means mounting the or each attachment means to the support. The mounting means may be separately formed from and attached to the attaching means andlor support, or may be integrally formed therewith. The or each attachment means may be mounted directly to the support, e.g. using screw fastenings or similar. Preferably the mounting means -15-comprises a mounting plate, preferably an elongate mounting plate. Preferably the mounting plate is rigid. Preferably the mounting plate extends at least 2 cm, and preferably at least 4 cm along the support in the longitudinal direction, and preferably along a part of the support including the longitudinal axis thereof. In these embodiments, the mounting means may reinforce a portion of the support to provide, or contribute to providing the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion.

Where a plurality of attachment means are provided, separate mounting means may be provided associated with each attachment means, or a single mounting element may be provided for mounting a plurality of attachment means.

Thus the attachment means may thus be mounted to the same or different mounting plates. A single mounting plate may be provided for commonly mounting a plurality of attachment means to the support, the mounting plate extending between the attachment means. In some preferred embodiments, where a reinforcing member is provided, the reinforcing member may act both as a mounting plate and to provide or contribute to providing the longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion of the support.

In other embodiments, the means for attaching the support to an object may be located longitudinally beyond a longitudinal end of the support, there being a connector extending between the longitudinal end of the support and the attachment means. In these embodiments, the connector thus provides a longitudinal extension beyond one end of the support i.e. beyond the part of the device intended to extend over a limb in use. The attachment means may then be joined to the connector directly adjacent and contiguous with a longitudinal end of the support, or more preferably may be longitudinally spaced from the end of the support by the connecting means Preferably the connecting means is then rigid connecting means.

In these embodiments, the means for attaching the support to a limb and the means for attaching the support to an object preferably extend respectively from opposite longitudinal surfaces of the connecting means.

The connecting means is preferably separately formed from the support and attached thereto. Where the connecting means is attached to the end of the support, it may be attached in any suitable manner, for example using screw fastenings. The -16-device may comprise mounting means extending between the connector and the support in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support.

Preferably the connecting means has a width less than the width of the support.

Preferably the connecting means extends in a direction aligned with the longitudinal axis of the support. Preferably the connecting means overlaps at least a longitudinal end portion of the support. Preferably the connecting means extends along and covers at least a portion of the longitudinal axis of the support. In these embodiments, the connecting means may provide, or contribute to providing the substantially rigid portion of the support. Preferably the connecting means overlaps less than 50% of the length of the support. Preferably the connecting means is substantially planar. Preferably the connecting means is in the form of a rigid bar.

The connecting means may be formed by an extension of a reinforcing member where present.

The connecting means may be a single piece connecting member, or may comprise a plurality of sections joined to one another to provide the connecting member i.e. end to end. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the connecting means is rigid connecting means having a bending line permitting bending of the connecting means about a transverse axis located between the longitudinal ends of the connector, and longitudinally between the longitudinal end of the support and portion of the connector to which the means for attaching the support to an object is joined. Preferably the bending line is provided by a hinge, and the connecting means comprises a hinge located between the longitudinal end of the support and the means for attaching the support to an object and configured to permit bending of the connecting means about a transverse axis. The transverse axis is the axis parallel to the width of the connecting means, i.e. in a direction perpendicular to that along which it extends between the support and attachment means. Preferably the connecting means thus comprises a first section and a second section hingeably connected thereto between its longitudinal ends. In these embodiments, the device is still configured to minimise or eliminate relative movement between the support and attachment means for attaching the support to an object, and hence the object and limb in use, at least in a direction around the longitudinal axis or an axis parallel thereto i.e. twisting motion. -17-

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided; a grip device; the device comprising; a support for extending along a limb of a user in use; means for attaching the support to a limb; and means for attaching the support to an object to secure the limb to an object in use; wherein the device comprises a connector extending beyond a longitudinal end of the support and having the means for attaching the support to the object thereon, the connector having a hinge between the longitudinal end of the support and said attachment means for attaching the support to an object to permit relative movement between the support and the attachment means about a transverse axis in use.

The present invention in this further aspect may include any or all of the features described in connection with the other aspects of the invention.

In this further aspect, or in preferred embodiments of the invention having the hinged connector in accordance with any aspect of the invention, it will be understood that the device thus allows the support to hinge or pivot relative to the means for attaching the support to an object, and hence the object, so as to permit rotation of the support relative to the plane in which the longitudinal axis of the object lies in use, while still constraining lateral movement between the limb and object, thus reducing the problem of twisting of the arm relative to the object in use.

This may provide a device more suitable for use where some such movement is required between the user's limb and the object for successful operation of the object in use, for example where the object is a golf club, or snooker cue.

In accordance with the invention in any of the aspects or embodiments having a connecting means, preferably the connecting means extends a distance of at least 10cm, and preferably at least 15cm beyond a longitudinal end of the support closest to the means for attaching the support to an object. Preferably the connecting means does not extend more than 40 cm, and preferably not more than cm beyond the longitudinal end of the support closest to the means for attaching the support to an object. However, the length of the connecting means may be chosen as desired to provide a suitable joint where hinged for a given application, or to accommodate the attachment means and be securely attached to the support. -18-

In accordance with the invention in any of its aspects and embodiments, i.e. whether the means for attaching the support to an object is mounted directly to the support, or via connecting means, the means for attaching the support to an object may be of any suitable form. As discussed above, the device preferably includes a plurality of attachment means for attaching the support to an object. Where a plurality of sets of attachment means are provided, any or all of the attachment means may incorporate any or all of the preferred features discussed below, and the attachment means may be of the same or different construction. Preferably each set of attachment means is of the same construction. Preferably the device comprises a pair of attachment means of identical construction. Any reference below or above to "the" attachment means should be understood to refer to the, each or a attachment means where not specifically stated.

Preferably the attachment means is releasable attachment means.

Preferably the or each attachment means is adapted for securely gripping an elongate object, and preferably a tubular object.

The or each attachment means is preferably adjustable attachment means.

This may allow adjustment to provide a closer fit to a given type of object in use, while allowing removal of the device from the object after use, andlor, adjustment to allow fitting of the device to a range of different sized objects. In this way, the device may be attached to a wide range of different objects. Preferably the attachment means is configured for attaching the device to objects of different diameters. For example, the device may be attached to handles of objects of differing diameters, such as golf clubs, badminton racquet or tennis racquet handles, or snooker cues to provide a more adaptable device. Preferably the or each attachment means is tightenable around an object to be gripped. In other arrangements, the attaching means may not necessarily be adjustable. For example, a simple snap-fit or screw-type fit arrangement may be used to secure the device to an object.

Preferably the attachment means is adapted to extend around the entire circumference of the portion of the object to which the device is attached in use, i.e. around the entire circumference of a handle of device. Preferably the attachment means is adapted to securely grip objects having a diameter of around 35 mm, and -19-.

preferably for gripping objects having a range of diameters of from 25 mm to 40 mm. Preferably the attachment means defines an opening through which an elongate may extend having a diameter of from 15 mm to 40 mm when in its securing configuration.

Preferably the attachment means comprises at least one attachment member.

Preferably the attachment member is a rigid attachment member. Preferably the device is configured to be clainpable around an object to be gripped. Preferably the attachment means comprises clamping means for gripping the object. Preferably the clamping means comprises a plurality of clamping members, and preferably a pair of clamping members and means for securing the clamping members together. The clamping members may be secured together in any suitable manner, e.g. using a snap fit arrangement, or using one or more fasteners, such as screws. The clamping members may be permanently connected together where they meet at one end, and may be releasably connected at the other of their ends. The permanent connection may be a hinge or other such joint allowing movement of the members towards or away from each other. The clamping means may simply be movable between an open and closed position to grip a certain size of object. Preferably the clamping members are tightenable together for adjustably gripping an object. In these embodiments, adjustability may be achieved using appropriately sized clamps, or, by using a standard clamp with a seal, or, rubber brushes, for example to provide a secure fit to differing diameter objects. The clamping means may only be attachable using screws or other fasteners, or may be configured to be a quick release type clamp.

While in the preferred embodiments of the invention, the means for securing the support to the object comprises one or more attachment means for clamping around an object to be gripped, it will be appreciated that the attachment means may not necessarily be of such a form, and any conventional means may be used to secure the support to the object in a manner which eliminates, or at least attempts to eliminate relative movement between the object and support in use. By this it is meant that the attachment means is not intended to allow movement between the device and object, although there may be some inadvertent and insubstantial movement which may occur as a result of the attachment means to operate perfectly.

Preferably the attachment means provides a rigid connection between the support and object.

Preferably the device is configured such that the object facing surface of the support is maintained spaced from the object to be gripped in use, preferably by a predetermined distance. Preferably the object is maintained spaced from a surface of the support opposite to the limb facing surface thereof in use. This may help to isolate the limb and support from the forces exerted on or by the object in use, further reducing the possibility of twisting between the object and limb in use.

Thus, in use, the support preferably does not directly contact the object to be gripped. Preferably the device comprises a spacer element associated with the or each attachment means. Preferably the spacer element has a length of at least 1 cm, and preferably at least 2 cm. Preferably the length of the spacer is less than 5 cm, and preferably lies in the range of from Ito 3 cm. The length of the spacer element is the distance that it projects from the object facing surface of the support or connector in embodiments where the support is connected to the attachment means via a connector, in a transverse direction. Preferably the spacer is a rigid spacer element.

The spacer may be formed integrally with attachment means and/or support or connector, or may be an element which has been separately formed and attached to either or both the attachment means andlor support or connector. In the latter case, the spacer element may be mounted to the support in any desired manner, e.g. mechanically and/or adhesively. In simple embodiments, for example, one or more screws may be used. Preferably the spacer element is integrally formed with the attachment means. For example, the spacer element may be provided by elongating the neck of the attachment means in the region where it joins the support or connector. Where mounting means is provided, preferably the spacer element is integrally formed with the mounting means.

The present invention extends to the use of a device in accordance with the invention in any of the aspects or embodiments of the invention described above to grip an object, and a method of using the device comprising the steps of attaching the limb facing surface of the support to a limb of a user such that it extends over the -21 -limb, and attaching the object facing surface of the support to an object to be gripped.

The device may be used with any elongate object to which it is intended to be gripped. Preferably the object is the handle of a device. The object may be an item of sporting equipment, or a household item, for example. The device has been found to be particularly suitable for use with sports racquets, golf clubs, billiard cues, snooker cues, or fishing rods. However, the device may also be used with the handles of household devices, such as brooms, or garden equipment etc. While the device is particularly useful for allowing a disabled person with impaired grip ability to be able to use such objects, the device is also useful in helping to develop correct technique in certain sports. For example, by eliminating twisting or lateral movement between the limb and object, the device may help to develop correct techniques in sports such as golf, or fishing, where it is desirable not to use the wrist.

While the invention has been described with respect to a device which is secured around the forearm of a user, it is envisaged that the device could be used on other limbs, or portions of limbs. The limb may be a hand, such that the device extends over a hand, rather than, or in addition to the forearm.

The present invention extends to a grip device in accordance with any of the aspects or embodiments described above in combination with an object being gripped, and/or with a limb.

Some preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:-Figure 1 is a schematic view of a grip device in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention viewed from one side, with the device attached to a fishing rod; Figure 2 is a transverse cross sectional view of the device of Figure 1 taken along the line 2-2 in Figure 1 schematically illustrating a limb within the support; Figure 3A is an end on view of an attachment means having clamping means for clamping the support to an object in accordance with the present invention; Figure 3B is an end on view of an attachment means suitable for use in accordance with the present invention, and which is identical to that of Figure 3A except that the spacing element is shorter; -22 -Figure 3C is another view of the attachment means of Figure 3B taken from the end to the right of Figure 3B; Figure 3D is an end on view of another attachment means suitable for use in accordance with the present invention, having a snap closure between the clamping members; Figure 3E is an end on view of the attachment means of Figure 3D taken from the right hand side of Figure 3D; Figure 3F is a top end view of a mounting plate for the attachment means in accordance with any of Figures 3 A to E; Figure 3G is another view of the mounting means taken from one side; Figure 4 illustrates a device in accordance with another embodiment of the invention secured to an object from one side, illustrating a further form of attachment means for attaching the device to a limb; Figure 5 is a side view of a device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention attached to an object, illustrating another form of attachment means for attaching the device to a limb; Figures 6A to 6C illustrate the application of the device of Figures 1 to 3D to different types of fishing rod; Figure 6D illustrates the application of the device of Figure 5 to a fishing rod; Figure 7 illustrates a device in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention having a hinged connecting means for extending between the support and the attachment means for attaching the device to an object in use.

Figure 1 illustrates a grip device I in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention attached to the handle 2 of a fishing rod. The fishing rod schematically illustrated in this diagram may be any type of fishing rod as described later. However, by way of example, Figure 1 illustrates a portion of fly rod. Figure 2 is a transverse cross-sectional view along the line 2-2 of Figure 1 illustrating the configuration of the support and the way in which it is joined to the rod 2 in more detail.

The grip device I includes a support 3 which extends over a portion of a limb inserted in the support in use.

-23 -The support 3 has a longitudinally extending limb facing surface 7 and an opposite longitudinally extending object facing surface 5. The grip device I is provided with a pair of attachment means 11 for releasably attaching the support to a limb in use. The attachment means 11 are longitudinally spaced from one another along the length of the support, being located towards each longitudinal end thereof.

The support is provided with a pair of attachment means 13 for attaching the support 3 to the object 2. The attachment means are longitudinally spaced from one another along the length of the support, being located towards each longitudinal end thereof.

The support is formed from a ngid material. In preferred embodiments, the support is a plastic support, and, may be formed from plastic of a stiffness typically used in guttering, for example. The support extends in a longitudinal direction a distance L. In use, a limb of a user is inserted in the support such that the longitudinal direction of the limb is parallel with this direction L. The support is 1 5 arc-shaped in transverse cross-section, and, in preferred embodiments is approximately semi-circular. In the embodiment illustrated, the surface 5 of the support provides a surface upon which the limb rests in use.

In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 1, the support 3 defines a longitudinally central section 4 and side sections 6. In this embodiment,' the side portions 6 are formed by the curved portions extending upwardly (or downwardly depending upon the orientation of the device) away from the central longitudinally extending section 4. In these embodiments, the support is thus shaped so as to define a half of a cuff. While the side portions 6 are integrally formed with the central portion 4 in the illustrated embodiments, it will be appreciated that side sections could be formed by a different element joined to the longitudinally extending central portion 4, and, the side portions may or may not be rigid. In the preferred embodiment, the side sections are rigid so as to provide a further constraint against lateral movement of the limb relative to the device in use.

While in the illustrated preferred embodiment, the entire support is rigid, in accordance with the invention, at least a portion of the central longitudinally extending section 4 of the support is rigid.

-24 -The support has a width suitable to accommodate a limb of the intended user.

In the preferred embodiment this is the forearm of a user. It will be appreciated that the dimensions of the support may be varied depending upon the likely age or size of the user.

The support 3 is open at its end opposite to that which is joined to the object 2 in use i.e. the upper end as illustrated, and is only partially closed on fastening of the attachment means 11. This allows the user to readily insert their limb into the support 3.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support 3 is clamped over the object 2 such that it lies above the object, and thus between the limb of a user and the object in use. In this case, the object-facing surface 5 is the lower surface of the support, and the limb-facing surface 7 the upper surface. However, it will be appreciated that in other arrangements, the support might be attached to the limb of a user in a different orientation, i.e. such that the object is clamped above the limb, with the support 3 extending over an upper surface of a limb. Any references to "upper" or "lower" surface of the support, or the support lying "over" the object are therefore merely illustrative, and, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the particular orientation shown, or implied by such references. The attachment means 11 in the embodiment of Figure 1 each comprises an

attachment member in the form of a flexible strap which extends around the outer surface of the support, and defines free ends 13 and 15. One of the free ends 13 is provided with a buckle through which the opposite free end 15 may be introduced in use to close the support around the limb of a user. The outer surface of the free end is provided with a plurality of hook fastener members which may cooperate with an intermediate portion 1 7 of the outer surface of the strap 11, which is a loop material, to allow the belt to be doubled back through the buckle 13 and securely fastened by cooperation between the hook members and the loop material of the intermediate portion of the fastener to secure the belt around a user's limb to a desired degree of tightness. For example, the free end 15 of the belt 11 may be provided with a hook fastener member, such as VELCRO , or other commonly known fasteners. While in some preferred embodiments the outer surface of the belt is formed from a loose the woven structure defining a plurality of loop member to -25 -which the hook members may be engaged to provide a closure, it will be appreciated that instead, a loop panel may be attached to a portion or portions of the belt to allow a fastening of desired tightness to be obtained.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, a pair of such fastening members 11 are provided at each of the longitudinal ends of the support 5. The fastening members 1 5 are identical to one another. In this way, the fastening members 11 provide an adjustable and releasable fastening of the support to a user's limb.

It will be appreciated that rather than the belt and mechanical fastening arrangement illustrated in Figure 1, any suitable means may be used to fasten the support releasably around the user's arm in use. Some alternative arrangements will be described in more detail below. For example, releasable adhesive may be used, or, rather than using hook and loop as well as buckling members, only buckling members may be used. Any form of attachment may be used provided that it allows the support to be releasably fastened to a user's limb, and preferably in a manner which is adjustable, to allow the tightness of fit to be varied to accommodate different activities or sizes of user.

In the embodiment of Figure 1, a reinforcing member 19 extends longitudinally along the limb facing surface 7 of the support in its central region 4.

This member 19 is in the form of a beam, and further stiffens the central portion of the support which lies between the user's limb and the object in use, providing it with a greater level of rigidity, and also facilitates mounting of the support 3 to the object. In preferred embodiments the reinforcing beam is in the form of a planar metal strip which may be attached to the support in any suitable manner, e.g. using screws. However, it will be appreciated that it is not necessary for a separate reinforcing beam to be provided, provided the matenal of the longitudinally extending central portion of the support is sufficiently ngid in its own right to act as a splint, it will also be appreciated that the reinforcing/mounting member 17 may be attached to the object facing surface 5 of the support rather than the limb facing surface.

In the embodiment of Figure 1, each attachment means 1 3 for attaching the support 3 to the object 2 is releasable and adjustable, and comprises clamping means 21 including a pair of clamping members. The configuration of the clamping means -26 -is described in greater detail with respect to Figures 3 A to G. While in the illustrated embodiment, the clamping means is provided by a pair of clamping members which are tightenable together by means of screws 21, it will be appreciated that any suitable clamping means may be used, and the clamping elements may be joined together in any manner, e.g. by a snap-fit arrangement, and may be permanently joined together at one of their contacting ends. In the preferred embodiment of Figure 1, the tightness with which the clamping members are engaged to one another may be varied to provide an adjustable attachment to the object 2 by tightening or loosening screws 23. However, it will be appreciated that the engagement between the object and the support need not be adjustable, or, indeed releasable.

The attachment means 13 includes an integrally formed mounting plate 29 for mounting the attachment means to the support 3 at its end furthest from the object. The mounting plate 29 is mounted to the object-facing surface 9 of the support 5 by means of screw fasteners 31. The mounting plate 29 extends a distance along the longitudinal axis of the support 3 on either side of the attachment means 13 to further reinforce the longitudinal axis of the support 3.

The portion of the attachment means intermediate the clamping means 21 and mounting plate 29 provides a spacer element 33 extending between the object-facing surface of the support 3 and the object 2, such that the support 5 does not directly contact the object 2 in use. In the illustrated embodiment, the clamping means, spacing means and mounting means of the attachment means are integrally formed. The clamping means, mounting means and spacing means are all rigid, and configured to provide a rigid attachment between the support 3 and the object 2 in use. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the distance S by which the spacer elements 33 extend from the object-facing surface 5 of the support in the transverse direction is in the range of from I to 4 cm, and, in a preferred embodiment around 2.5 cm. The spacer elements help to isolate the support and limb from forces arising in the object in use.

The length of the support L may be chosen as appropriate with reference to the intended application of the grip device, and, the likely size and age of a wearer, or range of wearers. In embodiments suitable for attachment to the forearm of adults, L may be in the range of from 15 to 25 cm, and preferably around 20 cm.

Figures 3A to 30 illustrate various alternative forms for the clamping attachment means of the type used in Figure 1 or 2, and illustrating the mounting plate and spacer in more detail.

While Figure 1 illustrates clamping means 21 in the form of a pair of clamping members which are tightenable together by means of a pair of diametrically opposed screws, it will be appreciate that any suitable form of clamping means may be used. For example, the clamping members may snap-fit together, or may be permanently connected to one another at one of their contacting pairs of ends, while being releasably and tightenably fastenable to one another at their other ends. Such an arrangement is shown in Figure 3A. The attachment means 30 includes clamping means 32 having clamping members 34 and 36 which are pivotally connected to one another at hinge 38 at one of their ends. At the other of their ends, the clamping members are securable together by means of screw fastening 40 in a maimer which allows their tightness, and hence the diameter of the area defined between the clamping members to be vaned. In this way, the clamping means may attach the support to objects of various dimensions. For example, it has been found that common diameters of fishing rods in the region to which the grip device is attached may be 16 mm, 22 mm, 28 mm or 34 mm. Thus, to allow the gnp aid to be used with such fishing rods, the internal diameter of the clamp D should be chosen as appropriate. It will be appreciated that a larger diameter clamp, such as a 34 mm clamp may be used together with sealing means, such as rubber brushes to allow it to be adjusted to fit to smaller diameter rods, rather than using different size clamps for each type of rod.

The construction of the clamping members may be selected as desired to ensure that they are able to support the object to be clamped, and withstand the likely forces to be encountered in use. When used to clamp a fishing rod, it has been found that the clamp should be able to withstand up to 300 lbs of tension force. It has been found that a suitable diameter (d) for the clamp may be of around 5 mm for use in this context.

-28 -It will be seen that the attachment means 30 has an integrally formed spacing element 42 extending from a surface thereof towards mounting plate 44. The spacing element 42 has a length in the range of 25 to 30 mm in the embodiment of Figure 3A.

Figure 3B illustrates a similar clamping arrangement to that of Figure 5A.

However, in this case, the integrally formed spacing element 42' is somewhat shorter in length, in the order of around 12 mm.

Figure 3C is an end-on view of the attachment means shown in Figure 3B, taken from the right-hand side thereof.

Figure 3D is yet another embodiment of an attachment means including clamping members suitable for use in accordance with the present invention. This clamping means is similar to that of Figures 3A to 3C, except that rather than being fastened together using screws, the clamping members 50,52 are securable together using the pivoting fastening member 54. The pivoting member 54 is movable between an upper open position, and the closed position shown in Figure 3D, where it holds the clamping members 50,52 securely together.

Figure 3E is an end-on view of the clamping means shown in Figure 3D, taken from the right-hand side. The dimensions of the clamping means may be similar to that shown in Figure 3B. Thus, integrally formed spacing elements 58 may have a height of around 12 mm, the clamping members 50,52 may have a diameter of around 5 mm, and define an internal space between the clamping members of diameter about 34 mm.

Figures 3F and 3G illustrate the mounting means for the attachment members in more detail. Figure 3F shows a mounting plate 60 which may be mounted to the object-facing surface 5 of the support 3 along the longitudinal centreline thereof. For example, this mounting means may be attached to the reinforcing beam 17 in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2. Figure 3F is a top plan view of the attachment means shown in any of the embodiments of Figures 3A to 3E. As it will be seen, connecting flanges 62,64 extend on either side of the spacer element 66 The mounting flanges 62,64 may then be attached to the support 3 by inserting suitable fasteners, e.g. screws through the apertures 68,70 to rigidly fix the mounting plate, and thus spacer member and clamping members to the support.

-29 -Figure 3G is a transverse cross-sectional view through the attachment element of Figures 3 A-F in the region of the mounting plate, showing the mounting plate in more detail. Figure 30 is taken along a line at 900 to the section shown in Figures 3A,B and 3D, i.e. along a plane into the page in those Figures.

Use of the grip device in accordance with the embodiments shown in Figures I to 30 will now be described. In use, the handle of an object to be gripped, such as the fishing rod 2 shown in Figure 1 is inserted such that it extends through the clamping means 21 of the attachment means at each end of the grip aid. The screws 23 on each side of each clamping means are then tightened so as to securely fasten the grip device to the handle of the device. The longitudinal axis of the support thus lies parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle of the object 2, but, with its object-facing surface 5 spaced from the object 2 by the spacing elements 33.

A user then rests their forearm within the support 3, such that the arm engages against the surface 7 of the support 3 opposite that which faces the object.

The support therefore extends over the forearm of the user. The user then secures the support to the arm by inserting free ends 1 5 of the strap of each attachment means 11 through the respective buckles 13, folding the strap back on itself and engaging the hook members of the free end 15 of the strap to a loop material on the intermediate portion of the outer surface of the strap to provide a releasable attachment of the support around their arm.

In this way, the rigid support 3 including the rigid longitudinally extending central portion 2 engages against the wearer's arm, acting as a splint, and cooperates with the rigid attachment means 13 provided by the mounting means, spacer and clamping members to provide a rigid attachment between the arm and the object 2.

The object 2 is therefore securely clamped to the user's arm in a manner which substantially eliminates twisting or lateral movement between the arm and the object 2.

Figure 4 illustrates another embodiment of the invention, which corresponds to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, other than the means for releasably fastening the support 3' to the user's limb. We will described only those features of this further embodiment which differ significantly from those of the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2. Rather than having attachment means in the form of releasable fasteners at each end of the support as in Figure 1, in the embodiment of Figure 4, there is one attachment means II in the form of releasably fastenable strap 11 at one end of the support 3, but, at the other longitudinal end, a different form of attachment 70 is provided. This attachment is in the form of a rigid plastic ring.

This attachment means is not adjustable or releasable. It has been found that a combination of adjustable and non adjustable/releasable attachment means or flexible/rigid attachment means in this way may be advantageous in certain contexts for example where the aid is to be used to attach the limb of a user to a float rod type of fishing rod.

Figure 5 illustrates yet another embodiment of the invention, which differs from the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 in the configuration of the support, and its attachment to the user's limb in use. Rather than being arc-shaped in cross-section, the support 90 in the embodiment of Figure 5 is a rigid planar strip-like element which defines a limb-facing surface 92 and object-facing surface 94. In this embodiment, the support is more of a strip-like splint which extends over the limb in use, but does not extend upwardly to provide side portions.

In this arrangement, the support 90 is removably secured to the user's limb in by means of a pair of like attachment means 96. Each attachment means 96 is similar to the attachment means 70 of Figure 4, and is in the form of a rigid ring which extends around the limb. In the embodiment illustrated, a pair of such members 96 are provided at the respective longitudinal ends of the support 90. It will be appreciated that in this further embodiment, the object is not adjustably secured to the user. The diameter of one attachment means 96 may be greater than the diameter of the attachment means at the other end of the device, rather than being similar as illustrated in Figure 5. This may help to accommodate clothing of the wearer, where the device is intended for outdoor use, e.g. fishing. The diameter might be from 5-30cm.

This further embodiment has been found to be particularly suitable for use with feeder/carp rod or beach caster type fishing rods.

By way of example, each ring 96 may extend a distance (I) of around 5 cm along the length of the support 40. It has been found that such a length of the rings may be suitable for a support of a length around 23 cm. -31 -

In the further embodiments of Figures 4 arid 5, other elements, e.g. attachment to the object, may be identical to the preferred embodiments described with reference to Figures 1 to 3D.

Figures 6A to 6D illustrate schematically the application of the various grip devices illustrated in the embodiments of Figures 1 to 2 in a variety of different types of fishing rod. Figures 6A, 6B, and 6C illustrate a grip device of the type illustrated in the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2 applied respectively to a float rod, boat rod or fly rod. Figure 6D illustrates the application of a grip aid of the embodiment shown in Figure 5 to a fishing rod of the feeder, carp rod or beach caster type. It will be seen that the most suitable position of the grip aid relative to the fishing rod, and the form of attachment to the user's limb may be selected as appropriate with respect to the configuration of the fishing rod, e.g. position of reel, and likely forces to be encountered in use.

Operation of the further embodiments illustrated in Figure 4 and 5 is the same as that illustrated in Figure 1, except that the user slides their arm into the ring or rings to attach the support to their arm. Again, the rigid longitudinally extending portion of the support which overlies the object 2 acts as a splint to constrain relative movement between the arm and object.

It will be appreciated that when secured to the arm of a user, the constraint provided by the rigid support will cause any movement of the object to follow that of the arm of a user, and will eliminate any action ofajoint, such as a wrist in moving the device.

Figure 7 illustrates yet another embodiment in accordance with the present invention. The grip device 200 is generally similar in construction to that shown in Figures 1 and 2, and, corresponding elements will not be described again. The grip device 200 has a support 202, with releasable attachment means in the form of releasable fasteners 204 and 206 at each end thereof for attaching the support to the limb of a user in use. The support 202 has a limb facing surface 210, and longitudinally extending central rigid portion 208. The support is formed from a rigid material, and includes a longitudinally extending reinforcing element 214, in the form of a metal strip attached to the object-facing surface 212 of the support 202 along the longitudinal centreline thereof, by means of screw fasteners 216.

However, rather than having means for attaching the support to an object extending from the object-facing surface of the support, the support is provided with a rigid attachment via hinge 220 to a rigid member 222 which has attachment means in the form of a pair of attachment means 224 of the same construction as the attachment means described in respect of Figures 1 and 2 extending from its surface opposite to that which faces the support to attach the support to the object.

The connection between the support 202 and the rigid member 222 is provided by a rigid extension 226 of the support provided by an end of the reinforcing member 214 which extends beyond a longitudinal end of the support 202. The end of the extension 226 is connected via hinge 220 to a longitudinal end of the rigid member 222. Thus, the extension of the reinforcing member 214 and rigid member 222 together provide the connecting member connecting support 202 to the attachment means 224. It will be appreciated that such a hinged connection might be provided a different manner, for example by attaching an end of the support directly at the hinge 220 to a rigid connecting member. In this way, the support 202 may pivot about the hinge 220 about a transverse axis, i.e. in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the object in use, to allow pivoting of the user's limb relative to the longitudinal axis of the object. The rigid connecting member is hinged in the region between the end of the support and the means for attaching the support to an object.

Thus, in these embodiments, rather than being connected directly to an object in use, the support is connected by a rigid connecting member to such attachment means, the connecting member including a hinge. This arrangement is particularly advantageous in the context of a device for gripping a snooker or billiard cue, or golf club where some relative movement between the user's limb and the object may be necessary for operation of the object. By providing a support with the longitudinally extending rigid portion, this preferred embodiment has the advantages described above in respect of the other embodiments, in that the support constrains movement of the limb at least in the lateral direction, and eliminates resilience in the connection between the limb and the object in use, thus effectively acting as a splint. This may afford a greater level of control than conventional grip aids.

-33 -Operation this further embodiment is similar to that described in respect of Figures 1 to 6. In use, the user inserts their limb in the support 202, and fastens belts 204, 206 to secure the limb to the support. The attachment members 224 on the rigid attachment member 222 are clamped around the object to be gripped using the clamping members or similar provided on the attachment means 224. In this way, the support is provided with a rigid attachment to the object.

It will be appreciated that this further embodiment may include any or all of the features described in respect of the other embodiments of the invention, for example in relation to the construction of the support, attachment means, securing means to the wearer, clamping means, spacing means and mounting means etc. While the invention has been illustrated with reference to gripping objects such as fishing rods or snooker cues, it will be appreciated that the grip aid of the present invention may be applied to any "stick-like" objects, particularly sporting equipment, such as racquets, but also may be more widely applied to household items having a handle. The only modification which may need to be made for application of the device to different types of object may be to select a suitable type and dimension of attachment means i.e. diameter for any clamping members or similar.

It will also be appreciated that while not illustrated, the various components of the grip aid may be integrally formed or moulded with one another. Thus, a support may be formed with integral spacing members and attachment members protruding from one surface thereof. The means for securing the support to the wearer may alternatively or additionally be formed integrally with the support. It will be appreciated that not all of the components need to be formed integrally, and, it may be contemplated that any or all of the various components, or combinations thereof may be integrally formed, or formed by components separately formed and attached to one another. The present invention may provide a more readily adaptable device to aid gripping of objects, which can be repeatedly attached to and released from different objects of different dimensions, to provide secure attachment of such objects to a user's limb. The device may securely attach an object to a user's limb without their needing to have any ability to grip. In embodiments of the invention, the use of releasable flexible straps to attach the support to a user's limb, -34 -may provide a conformable, comfortable device, but with the rigid portion still providing the splint" effect, to provide secure attachment of the limb to the object, even under the forces which may arise in use, e.g. where the object is a fishing rod, those caused by movement of a fish which has been caught.

Claims

-35 -Claims: A grip device, the device comprising: a support for

extending along a limb of a user in use; means for attaching the support to a limb; and means for attaching the support to an object to thereby secure the object to a limb in use; wherein the support comprises a longitudinally extending substantially rigid portion for extending along a limb inserted in the support in use.
2. The grip device of claim 1, wherein the means for attaching the support to a limb and means for attaching the support to an object extend from opposite sides of the support, the support defining a longitudinally extending limb facing surface and a longitudinally extending object facing surface.
3. The grip device of claim I or claim 2, wherein the length of the support is at least 1.5 times, and more preferably at least twice its width.
4. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the support comprises a reinforcing member joined thereto in the region of said substantially rigid portion.
5. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the device comprises a plurality of attachment means for attaching the support to a limb, the attachment means being longitudinally spaced from one another.
6. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the attachment means for attaching the support to a limb comprises one or more flexible attachment members.
7. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the means for attaching the support to the limb comprises means for releasably attaching the support to a user's limb.

-36 -
8. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the device comprises means for rigidly attaching the support to the object to be gripped, or for providing a rigid attachment between the support and the object to be gripped.
9. A grip device, the grip device comprising a support for extending over a limb of a user in use; means for attaching the support to a limb; and means for rigidly attaching the support to an object to be gripped, or for providing a rigid connection between the support and object to be gripped, to thereby secure the limb to the object in use.
10. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein a longitudinally extending object facing surface of the support comprises the means for attaching the support to an object.
11. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the means for attaching the support to an object is located longitudinally beyond a longitudinal end of the support, there being a connector extending between the longitudinal end of the support and the attachment means.
12. The grip device of claim 11, wherein the connecting means is rigid connecting means having a bending line permitting bending of the connecting means about a transverse axis located between the longitudinal ends of the connector, and longitudinally between the longitudinal end of the support and portion of the connector to which the means for attaching the support to an object is joined.
13. The grip device of claim 12, wherein the bending line is provided by a hinge.
14. A grip device, the device comprising: a support for extending along a limb of a user in use; means for attaching the support to a limb; and -37 -means for attaching the support to an object to secure the limb to an object in use, wherein the device comprises a connector extending beyond a longitudinal end of the support and having the means for attaching the support to the object thereon, the connector having a hinge between the longitudinal end of the support and said attachment means for attaching the support to an object to permit relative movement between the support and the attachment means about a transverse axis in use.
15. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the attachment means for attaching the support to an object is releasable attachment means.
16. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the attachment means for attaching the support to an object is adapted fbr securely gripping an elongate object, and preferably a tubular object.
17. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the attachment means for attaching the support to an object comprises at least one rigid attachment member.
18. The grip device of claim 1 7, wherein the attachment means for attaching the support to an object comprises clamping means for gripping the object.
19. The grip device of any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured such that the object facing surface of the support is maintained spaced from the object to he gripped in use
20. A method of using the grip device of any preceding claim, comprising the steps of attaching the limb facing surface of the support to a limb of a user such that it extends over the limb, and attaching the object facing surface of the support to an object to be gripped.
21. A grip device or method of using a grip device substantiafly as herein described with reference to any one of the accompanying drawings.