Elastomeric thimble

• US 6,726,068 B2
• Filed: 03/29/2002
• Issued: 04/27/2004
• Est. Priority Date: 04/09/2001
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: Dennis J. Miller
• Original Assignee: Dennis J. Miller
• Inventors: Miller, Dennis J.
• Primary Examiner(s): Calvert, John J.
• Assistant Examiner(s): Smith, James G
• Application Number:
  US10/113,539
• Publication Number:
  US 20020145017A1
• Time in Patent Office: 760 Days
• Field of Search: 223/101, 602/63, 602/61, 2 2/1, 216/8
• US Class Current: 223/101
• CPC Class Codes: D05B 91/04 Thimbles; Finger shields; Palm protectors

Abstract

A finger protective device constructed from elastomeric materials. A working surface covers the fleshy portion of a finger and is of sufficient strength and hardness to avoid penetration by a needle, yet elastomeric to accommodate large variations in shape. The working surface may be interrupted by ribs or protrusions to prevent needle slippage. A compliant member surrounds the remainder of the finger and is softer in order to comply with the majority of finger shape variations. The thimble thus formed is designed to conform to the shape of a finger and remain adhered by frictional means to provide comfortable protection.

Claims

1. A thimble comprising:

a) a thin film elastomeric compliant member, sized and positioned to substantially cover the fingernail side of a finger,

b) an elastomeric working surface of constant cross section, substantially harder and thicker than said compliant member, contoured, sized and positioned to substantially cover the fingerprint side of a finger, whereby said working surface and said compliant member are joined together, thereby forming a closed tube shape for the purpose of protecting a finger, with said working surface situated to directly engage a needle.