Strap device for use with a video game controller

• US 6,338,485 B1
• Filed: 04/09/2000
• Issued: 01/15/2002
• Est. Priority Date: 04/09/2000
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: John D. Huettlinger
• Original Assignee: John D. Huettlinger
• Inventors: Huettlinger, John D.
• Primary Examiner(s): Chiu, Raleigh W.
• Application Number:
  US09/545,903
• Time in Patent Office: 646 Days
• Field of Search: 273/148.B, 2 2/0, 2 2/1, 216/3, 216/11
• US Class Current: 273/148.00B
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 13/02 Accessories input or output arrangements for electrical digital computers G06F3/00
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 13/20 Input arrangements for video game devices
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 13/24 Constructional details thereof, e.g. game controllers with detachable joystick handles
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 13/98 Accessories, i.e. detachable arrangements optional for the use of the video game device, e.g. grip supports of game controllers
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 2250/492 Thumb
• CPC Class Codes: A63F 2300/1043 being characterized by constructional details

Abstract

A video game controller joystick strap device is provided which fits on the joystick, preferably by an expandable buttonhole. This device is provided with a fastener permitting the strap to fixed around a user'"'"'s thumb or finger. Cushioning is also provided to relieve the stress on the user'"'"'s thumb or finger, thereby avoiding blistering or other injury. In its preferred embodiment, the fastener is a hook and loop device and a the cushioning is provided by either a layer of neoprene rubber or one or more portions of neoprene rubber mounted to a fabric layer.

Claims

1. A video game joystick strap, comprising:

(A) a strap portion, adapted to fit about a user'"'"'s thumb, having a top side, a bottom side, a first end, a second end and a middle region;

(B) a first fastener portion fixed to said first end of said top side of said strap portion;

(C) a second fastener portion fixed to said second end of said bottom side of said strap portion;

(D) a cushion portion fixed to said middle region of said strap portion; and

(E) a joystick receiving opening, for engaging a joystick device, in said bottom of said strap portion.

2. A video game joystick strap, as recited in claim 1, further comprising a joystick receiving cavity defined by said cushion portion and said middle region of said strap portion.

3. A video game joystick strap, as recited in claim 1, further comprising a second cushion fixed to said second end of said top of said strap portion.

4. A video game joystick strap, as recited in claim 1, wherein said strap portion further comprises a fabric layer and a cushioning layer.

5. A video game joystick strap, as recited in claim 1, wherein said first fastener portion and said second fastener portion is a fastener selected from the group consisting of a hook and loop fastener, a snap fastener, a button fastener, and a clip fastener.

6. A video game joystick strap, as recited in claim 2, wherein said cavity is adapted to receive a standard video game controller joystick.