Tool handle system and assembly

Abstract

An improved tool handle is shown and described. A tool may include an elongated body portion, a working end interface, and a dual grip handle. Typically, the dual grip handle includes a first concave surface portion; a first distal periphery portion; a second concave surface portion; and a second distal periphery portion.

Description

[0001] TOOL HANDLE SYSTEM and ASSEMBLY

[0002] This application claims the benefit US provisional application number 63 / 685473, filed August 21, 2024, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Field of Disclosure

[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to tools, and more particularly to improved handle gripping of a striking tool.

[0005] Brief Overview

[0006] This brief overview is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Summary and Detailed Description. This brief overview is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter. Nor is this brief overview intended to be used to limit the claimed subject matter’s scope.

[0007] Various embodiments of the inventions provide systems and methods for improved tool and / or handle systems and device efficiency, without the drawbacks presented by the traditional systems and methods.

[0008] As non-limiting examples, a tool has an elongated body with a distal segment and a proximate segment; a working structure assembly secured at the distal segment; and a dual grip handle assembly secured at the proximate segment and adapted to be gripped by a user in a plurality of distinct positions for enhanced retaining capacity.

[0009] In another non-limiting example, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion; a first distal periphery portion adjacent the first concave surface portion; a second concave surface portion; and a second distal periphery portion aligned between the first distal periphery portion and the second concave surface portion.

[0010] In further non-limiting examples, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion; a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion; a second concave surface portion; and an offset lower projection comer, wherein

[0011] 389924.doc 1 the offset lower projection corner being spaced offset about the raised outer projection corner.

[0012] In another non-limiting example, a hand tool comprises an elongated body having a distal segment and a proximate segment; a working structure assembly secured at the distal segment, the working structure assembly including a striking head; and a dual grip handle assembly secured at the proximate segment, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly comprises a first concave surface portion positioned to receive a forward palm grip, a second concave surface portion positioned rearwardly of the first and offset in orientation, a raised outer projection corner positioned about a distal end of the first concave surface portion, and an offset lower projection corner positioned below and laterally spaced from the raised outer projection corner, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly adapted to facilitate distinct forward and reverse grip positions with corresponding ergonomic resistance to slippage and rotational torque, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly adapted to provide a transition interface between the grip positions for limited translational adjustment without hand release.

[0013] In further non-limiting examples, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion shaped to receive a forward palm grip; a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion and extending laterally outward to form a thumb brace; a second concave surface portion spaced rearward from the first concave surface portion and configured to receive a rear palm grip; and an offset lower projection corner spaced downward and laterally from the raised outer projection corner, the offset lower projection comer forming a pinky retention stop, and wherein the handle adapted to permit a user to switch between forward and rearward grip positions while maintaining ergonomic contact and rotational control.

[0014] In yet another non-limiting example, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion extending longitudinally along a central axis of the hand; a first distal periphery portion adjacent the first concave surface portion and oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of an elongated tool body; a second concave surface portion spaced from the first concave surface portion; and a second distal

[0015] 389924.doc 2 periphery portion aligned between the first distal periphery portion and the second concave surface portion and oriented at an acute angle with respect to the first distal periphery portion, and wherein the first and second concave surface portions are configured to define separate grip zones, and the angularly transitioning distal periphery portions form a geometric junction that encourages sequential grip movement during a dynamic work motion.

[0016] The foregoing brief overview, along with the following summary and detailed description provide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly, the foregoing brief overview and the following summary and detailed description should not be considered to be restrictive. Further, features or variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, embodiments may be directed to various feature combinations and sub-combinations described in the summary and detailed description.

[0017] 389924.doc 3 Summary

[0018] In accordance with the present disclosure, a handle is provided for tools and the like. This disclosure provides an improved handle that is convenient, efficient, and safe for the user, particularly when used for striking an object to increase a user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions.

[0019] In one embodiment, a hand tool comprises an elongated body having a distal segment and a proximate segment; a working structure assembly secured at the distal segment, the working structure assembly including a striking head; and a dual grip handle assembly secured at the proximate segment, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly comprises a first concave surface portion positioned to receive a forward palm grip, a second concave surface portion positioned rearwardly of the first and offset in orientation, a raised outer projection corner positioned about a distal end of the first concave surface portion, and an offset lower projection corner positioned below and laterally spaced from the raised outer projection corner, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly adapted to facilitate distinct forward and reverse grip positions with corresponding ergonomic resistance to slippage and rotational torque, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly adapted to provide a transition interface between the grip positions for limited translational adjustment without hand release.

[0020] In certain examples, the elongated body comprises a plurality of lengths. The tool may be a substantially thirty-two inch length. The working structure assembly may include a non-axe head. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first proximate edge and an opposing second proximate edge. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first distal periphery portion. The first distal periphery portion may include a substantially perpendicular portion with respect to the elongated body. The dual grip handle assembly may include a second distal periphery portion. The second distal periphery portion may be substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion. The dual grip handle assembly may allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position. The dual grip handle

[0021] 389924.doc 4 assembly may utilize materials and surfaces to increase the user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions.

[0022] In one embodiment, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion shaped to receive a forward palm grip; a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion and extending laterally outward to form a thumb brace; a second concave surface portion spaced rearward from the first concave surface portion and configured to receive a rear palm grip; and an offset lower projection corner spaced downward and laterally from the raised outer projection corner, the offset lower projection comer forming a pinky retention stop, and wherein the handle adapted to permit a user to switch between forward and rearward grip positions while maintaining ergonomic contact and rotational control.

[0023] In certain examples, the first concave surface portion may extend beyond the second concave surface portion. The device may include a first distal periphery portion having a substantially perpendicular portion. The device may include a second distal periphery portion being substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion. The device may include a junction between a second distal periphery portion and a first distal periphery portion. The handle may provide enhanced ergonomic impact efficiency with reduced user fatigue. The handle may allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position.

[0024] In one embodiment, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion extending longitudinally along a central axis of the hand; a first distal periphery portion adjacent the first concave surface portion and oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of an elongated tool body; a second concave surface portion spaced from the first concave surface portion; and a second distal periphery portion aligned between the first distal periphery portion and the second concave surface portion and oriented at an acute angle with respect to the first distal periphery portion, and wherein the first and second concave surface portions are configured to define separate grip zones, and the angularly transitioning distal periphery portions form a geometric junction that encourages sequential grip movement during a dynamic work motion.

[0025] 389924.doc 5 In certain examples, the device may include a junction between the first distal periphery portion and the second distal periphery portion and a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion.

[0026] In one embodiment, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion; a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion; a second concave surface portion; and an offset lower projection corner, wherein the offset lower projection corner is spaced offset about the raised outer projection corner.

[0027] In certain examples, the first concave surface portion extends beyond the second concave surface portion. The device may include a first distal periphery portion. The first distal periphery portion may include a substantially perpendicular portion. The device may include a second distal periphery portion. The second distal periphery portion may be substantially angled about the first distal periphery portion. The device may include a junction between a second distal periphery portion and a first distal periphery portion. The handle may provide enhanced ergonomic impact efficiency with reduced user fatigue. The handle may allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position. The device handle may utilize materials and surfaces to increase a user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions.

[0028] In one embodiment, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion; a first distal periphery portion adjacent the first concave surface portion; a second concave surface portion; and a second distal periphery portion aligned between the first distal periphery portion and the second concave surface portion.

[0029] In certain examples, the device may include a junction between the first distal periphery portion and the second distal periphery portion. The device may include a raised outer projection comer aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion. The device may include an offset lower projection comer. The offset lower projection corner may be offset about a raised outer projection comer. The handle may provide enhanced ergonomic impact efficiency with reduced user fatigue. The handle may allow

[0030] 389924.doc 6 limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position. The handle may utilize materials and surfaces to increase the user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions. The first concave surface portion may extend beyond the second concave surface portion.

[0031] In one embodiment, a tool comprises an elongated body having a distal segment and a proximate segment; a working structure assembly secured at the distal segment; and a dual grip handle assembly secured at the proximate segment and adapted to be gripped by a user in a plurality of distinct positions for enhanced retaining capacity.

[0032] In certain examples, the elongated body may include a plurality of lengths. The tool may include a substantially thirty-two inch length. The working structure assembly may include an axe head adapted to perform a striking work function. The working structure assembly may include a non-axe head. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first proximate edge. The dual grip handle assembly may include a second proximate edge. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first concave surface portion. The dual grip handle assembly may include a second concave surface portion. The dual grip handle assembly may include a raised outer projection corner.

[0033] In particular examples, the dual grip handle assembly may include an offset lower projection comer. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first distal periphery portion. The first distal periphery portion may include a substantially perpendicular portion with respect to the elongated body. The dual grip handle assembly may include a second distal periphery portion. The second distal periphery portion may be substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion. The dual grip handle assembly may provide enhanced ergonomic impact efficiency with reduced user fatigue. The dual grip handle assembly may allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position. The dual grip handle assembly may utilize materials and surfaces to increase the user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions.

[0034] In one embodiment, a method of assembling a tool comprises securing a dual grip handle assembly about an elongated body.

[0035] 389924.doc 7 In one embodiment, a method of assembling a dual grip handle assembly comprises preparing a first concave surface portion; preparing a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion; preparing a second concave surface portion; and preparing an offset lower projection corner, wherein the offset lower projection corner being offset about the raised outer projection corner.

[0036] In one embodiment, a method of assembling a dual grip handle assembly comprises preparing a first concave surface portion; preparing a first distal periphery portion adjacent the first concave surface portion; preparing a second concave surface portion; and preparing a second distal periphery portion aligned between the first distal periphery portion and the second concave surface portion.

[0037] The above summary was intended to summarize certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Embodiments will be set forth in more detail in the figures and description of embodiments below. It will be apparent, however, that the description of embodiments is not intended to limit the present inventions, the scope of which should be properly determined by the appended claims.

[0038] 389924.doc 8 Brief Description of the Drawings

[0039] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure. All rights to various, and potential, trademarks and copyrights represented herein, except those belonging to their respective owners, are vested in and the property of the Applicant. The Applicant retains and reserves all rights in its trademarks and copyrights included herein, and grants permission to reproduce the material only in connection with reproduction of the granted patent and for no other purpose.

[0040] The drawings, photographs, pictures, and the like may contain text or captions that may explain certain embodiments of the present disclosure. This text is included for illustrative, non-limiting, explanatory purposes of certain examples and elements detailed in the present disclosure.

[0041] Embodiments of the disclosure will be better understood by a reading of the Description of Embodiments along with a review of the drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure l is a side perspective view of a tool assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed for clarity;

[0043] Figure la is a side perspective view of a tool assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed for clarity;

[0044] Figure 2 is a side perspective view of a tool assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed for clarity;

[0045] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of an isolated handle grip assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0046] Figure 4 is a bottom perspective view of an isolated handle grip assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0047] Figure 5 is a side perspective view of an isolated handle grip assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0048] Figure 6 is a side perspective view of an isolated handle grip assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0049] 389924.doc 9 Figure 7 is a side perspective view of a tool assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure, with elements removed for clarity.

[0050] 389924.doc 10 Description of Embodiments

[0051] In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views. Also in the following description, it is to be understood that such terms as "forward," "rearward," "left," "right," "upwardly," "downwardly," and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0052] It will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art that the present disclosure has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the disclosure and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified may be considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the embodiments of the present disclosure. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0053] Certain examples and elements are described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present disclosure and are made merely to provide a full and enabling disclosure. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded in any claim of a patent issuing here from, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

[0054] The terms “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of

[0055] 389924.doc 11 items of the list. Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.”

[0056] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, photographs, pictures, and the like. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following description to refer to the same or similar elements. While many embodiments of the disclosure may be described, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings, and the methods described herein may be modified by substituting, reordering, or adding stages to the disclosed methods. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the disclosure. Instead, the proper scope of the disclosure is defined by the appended claims. The present disclosure contains headers. It should be understood that these headers are used as references and are not to be construed as limiting upon the subject matter disclosed under the header.

[0057] Referring now to the drawings in general and Figures 1 and la in particular, it will be understood that the illustrations are for the purpose of describing embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the disclosure or any invention thereto.

[0058] Embodiments of the present disclosure may comprise methods, systems, devices, assemblies, and the like comprising, but not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0059] • A tool assembly

[0060] • A handle assembly

[0061] • A grip assembly

[0062] Details with regards to example and modules are provided below. Although examples and modules are disclosed with specific functionality, it should be understood that functionality may be shared between examples and modules, with some functions split between examples and modules, while other functions duplicated by the examples and modules. Furthermore, the name of each example and module should not be construed as limiting upon the functionality of the example and module. Moreover, each component disclosed within each example and module can be considered independently,

[0063] 389924.doc 12 without the context of the other components within the same module or different examples and modules. Each component may contain functionality defined in other portions of this specification. Each component disclosed for one example and module may be mixed with the functionality of other examples and modules. In the present disclosure, each component can be claimed on its own and / or interchangeably with other components of other examples and modules.

[0064] The following may depict an example of a method of a plurality of methods that may be performed by at least one of the aforementioned modules, or components thereof. Further, although the stages here may be disclosed in a particular order, it should be understood that the order is disclosed for illustrative purposes only. Stages may be combined, separated, reordered, and various intermediary stages may exist. Accordingly, it should be understood that the various stages, in various embodiments, may be performed in orders that differ from the ones disclosed below. Moreover, various stages may be added or removed without altering or departing from the fundamental scope of the depicted methods and systems disclosed herein.

[0065] The foregoing overview, summary, and the following detailed description provide examples and are explanatory only. Accordingly, the foregoing overview and the following detailed description should not be considered to be restrictive. Further, features or variations may be provided in addition to those set forth herein. For example, embodiments may be directed to various feature combinations and sub-combinations described in the summary and detailed description.

[0066] As shown in Figures 1-7, certain embodiments include a tool 10 having an elongated body portion 16, a working end interface 14, and a dual grip handle 12. As illustrated, a neck 18 may support a working end assembly 20 between the elongated body portion 16. The elongated body portion 16 may comprise any variety of configurations, including, but not limited to, any structural support or uniform elements.

[0067] The elongated body may have a distal segment 26 and a proximate segment 24. Any of the working structure assemblies 20 shown and described herein may be secured at the distal segment 26. The dual grip handle assembly 12 is typically secured at the

[0068] 389924.doc 13 handle support segment 22 to be gripped by a user in a plurality of distinct positions for enhanced retaining capacity.

[0069] As illustrated, the elongated body 16 may include a plurality of lengths. The working unit assembly may include any working structure, unit, element, or the like, including, but not limited to, an axe head adapted to perform any striking work function shown and described herein. The working structure assembly may include a non-axe head. The dual grip handle assembly 12 may include a first proximate edge 30. The dual grip handle assembly 12 may include a second proximate edge 32. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first concave surface portion 34. The dual grip handle assembly 12 may include a second concave surface portion 36. The dual grip handle assembly 12 may include a raised outer projection comer 44 as oriented as shown and described herein.

[0070] In particular examples, the dual grip handle assembly 12 may include an offset lower projection comer 36. The dual grip handle assembly 12 may include a first distal periphery portion 42. The first distal periphery portion 42 may include a substantially perpendicular portion with respect to the elongated body 16. The dual grip handle assembly 12 may include a second distal periphery portion 40. The second distal periphery portion 40 may be substantially angled about the first distal periphery portion 42. Unexpectantly, the Applicant has discovered the dual grip handle assembly 12 may provide enhanced ergonomic impact efficiency with reduced user fatigue. The dual grip handle assembly 12 may allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position. The dual grip handle assembly may utilize materials and surfaces to increase the user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions.

[0071] As shown, in certain embodiments, a handle 12 comprises a first concave surface portion 34; a raised outer projection comer 44 that is generally aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion 44; a second concave surface portion 36; and an offset lower projection comer 38, wherein the offset lower projection corner 38 is generally

[0072] 389924.doc 14 spaced offset about the raised outer projection corner 44. Those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will recognize additional variations and orientations.

[0073] In certain examples, the first concave surface portion 34 extends beyond the second concave surface portion 36. The device 12 may include a first distal periphery portion 42. The first distal periphery portion 42 may include a substantially perpendicular portion. The device 12 may include a second distal periphery portion 40. The second distal periphery portion 40 may be substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion 42. The device 12 may include ajunction 46 between second distal periphery portion 42 and a first distal periphery portion 40. Those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will recognize additional variations and orientations.

[0074] As shown, in one embodiment, a handle 12 comprises a first concave surface portion 32; a first distal periphery portion 42 that is generally adjacent the first concave surface portion 32; a second concave surface portion 36; and a second distal periphery portion 40 that is generally aligned between the first distal periphery 42 and the second concave surface portion 36. Those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will recognize additional variations and orientations.

[0075] In one embodiment, a hand tool comprises an elongated body having a distal segment and a proximate segment; a working structure assembly secured at the distal segment, the working structure assembly including a striking head; and a dual grip handle assembly secured at the proximate segment, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly comprises a first concave surface portion positioned to receive a forward palm grip, a second concave surface portion positioned rearwardly of the first and offset in orientation, a raised outer projection corner positioned about a distal end of the first concave surface portion, and an offset lower projection corner positioned below and laterally spaced from the raised outer projection corner, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly adapted to facilitate distinct forward and reverse grip positions with corresponding ergonomic resistance to slippage and rotational torque, and wherein the dual grip handle assembly adapted to provide a transition interface between the grip positions for limited translational adjustment without hand release.

[0076] 389924.doc 15 In certain examples, the elongated body comprises a plurality of lengths. The tool may be a substantially thirty -two inch length. The working structure assembly may include a non-axe head. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first proximate edge and an opposing second proximate edge. The dual grip handle assembly may include a first distal periphery portion. The first distal periphery portion may include a substantially perpendicular portion with respect to the elongated body. The dual grip handle assembly may include a second distal periphery portion. The second distal periphery portion may be substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion. The dual grip handle assembly may allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position. The dual grip handle assembly may utilize materials and surfaces to increase the user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions.

[0077] In one embodiment, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion shaped to receive a forward palm grip; a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion and extending laterally outward to form a thumb brace; a second concave surface portion spaced rearward from the first concave surface portion and configured to receive a rear palm grip; and an offset lower projection corner spaced downward and laterally from the raised outer projection corner, the offset lower projection comer forming a pinky retention stop, and wherein the handle adapted to permit a user to switch between forward and rearward grip positions while maintaining ergonomic contact and rotational control.

[0078] In certain examples, the first concave surface portion may extend beyond the second concave surface portion. The device may include a first distal periphery portion having a substantially perpendicular portion. The device may include a second distal periphery portion being substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion. The device may include a junction between a second distal periphery portion and a first distal periphery portion. The handle may provide enhanced ergonomic impact efficiency with reduced user fatigue. The handle may allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position.

[0079] 389924.doc 16 In one embodiment, in a tool system, a handle comprises a first concave surface portion extending longitudinally along a central axis of the hand; a first distal periphery portion adjacent the first concave surface portion and oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of an elongated tool body; a second concave surface portion spaced from the first concave surface portion; and a second distal periphery portion aligned between the first distal periphery portion and the second concave surface portion and oriented at an acute angle with respect to the first distal periphery portion, and wherein the first and second concave surface portions are configured to define separate grip zones, and the angularly transitioning distal periphery portions form a geometric junction that encourages sequential grip movement during a dynamic work motion.

[0080] In certain examples, the device may include a junction between the first distal periphery portion and the second distal periphery portion and a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of the first concave surface portion.

[0081] In other embodiments, the disclosure includes a tool kit. In this embodiment, the kit may comprise an elongated portion or similar tool foundation support, e.g. any of the elongated body elements previously shown or described, and a handle assembly, e.g. any of the dual grip handle elements previously shown or described.

[0082] Numerous characteristics and advantages have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of structure and function. Many of the novel features are pointed out in the appended claims. The disclosure, however, is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size, and arrangement of parts, within the principle of the disclosure, to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the general claims are expressed. It is further noted that, as used in this application, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless expressly and unequivocally limited to one referent.

[0083] Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found

[0084] 389924.doc 17 in their respective testing measurements. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all subranges subsumed therein, and every number between the end points. For example, a stated range of “1 to 10” should be considered to include any and all subranges between (and inclusive of) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10; that is, all subranges beginning with a minimum value of 1 or more, e.g. 1 to 6.1, and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less, e.g., 5.5 to 10, as well as all ranges beginning and ending within the end points, e.g. 2 to 9, 3 to 8, 3 to 9, 4 to 7, and finally to each number 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 contained within the range.

[0085] Any sequence(s) and / or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection is to be defined by the issued claim(s) rather than the description set forth herein.

[0086] Elements and terms used herein refer to that which an ordinary artisan would understand such a term to mean based on the contextual use of the term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein — as understood by the ordinary artisan based on the contextual use of such term — differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the ordinary artisan should prevail.

[0087] Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112, 1J6, no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element.

[0088] All rights, including copyrights herein, are vested in and the property of the Applicant. The Applicant retains and reserves all rights in the code included herein, and

[0089] 389924.doc 18 grants permission to reproduce the material only in connection with the reproduction of the granted patent and for no other purpose.

[0090] The specification includes examples, the disclosure’s scope is indicated by the following claims. Furthermore, while the specification has been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, the claims are not limited to the features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as examples for embodiments of the disclosure. Insofar as the summary and description above and the accompanying drawing disclose any additional subject matter that is not within the scope of the claims below, the disclosures are not dedicated to the public and the right to file one or more applications to claims such additional disclosures is reserved.

[0091] 389924.doc 19

Claims

We Claim:What is claimed is:

1. A hand tool comprising: a. an elongated body having a distal segment and a proximate segment; b. a working structure assembly secured at said distal segment, said working structure assembly including a striking head; and c. a dual grip handle assembly secured at said proximate segment, and wherein said dual grip handle assembly comprises a first concave surface portion positioned to receive a forward palm grip, a second concave surface portion positioned rearwardly of said first and offset in orientation, a raised outer projection corner positioned about a distal end of said first concave surface portion, and an offset lower projection corner positioned below and laterally spaced from said raised outer projection corner, and wherein said dual grip handle assembly adapted to facilitate distinct forward and reverse grip positions with corresponding ergonomic resistance to slippage and rotational torque, and wherein said dual grip handle assembly adapted to provide a transition interface between said grip positions for limited translational adjustment without hand release.

2. The tool of Claim 1, wherein said elongated body comprises a plurality of lengths.

3. The tool of Claim 1, wherein said tool comprises a substantially thirty -two inch length.

4. The tool of Claim 1, wherein said working structure assembly includes a non-axe head.389924.doc 205. The tool of Claim 1, wherein said dual grip handle assembly includes a first proximate edge and an opposing second proximate edge.

6. The tool of Claim 1, wherein said dual grip handle assembly includes a first distal periphery portion.

7. The tool of Claim 6, wherein said first distal periphery portion comprises a substantially perpendicular portion with respect to said elongated body.

8. The tool of Claim 1, wherein said dual grip handle assembly includes a second distal periphery portion.

9. The tool of Claim 8, wherein said second distal periphery portion being substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion.

10. The tool of Claim 1, wherein said dual grip handle assembly adapted to allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position.

11. The assembly of Claim 1, wherein said dual grip handle assembly utilizes materials and surfaces to increase said user's gripping capability and comfort in a plurality of gripping positions.

12. In a tool system, a handle comprising: a. a first concave surface portion shaped to receive a forward palm grip; b. a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of said first concave surface portion and extending laterally outward to form a thumb brace; c. a second concave surface portion spaced rearward from said first concave surface portion and configured to receive a rear palm grip; and389924.doc 21d. an offset lower projection corner spaced downward and laterally from said raised outer projection comer, said offset lower projection corner forming a pinky retention stop, and wherein said handle adapted to permit a user to switch between forward and rearward grip positions while maintaining ergonomic contact and rotational control.

13. The device of Claim 12, wherein said first concave surface portion extending beyond said second concave surface portion.

14. The device of Claim 12, including a first distal periphery portion having a substantially perpendicular portion.

15. The device of Claim 12, including a second distal periphery portion being substantially angled about a first distal periphery portion.

16. The device of Claim 12, including a junction between a second distal periphery portion and a first distal periphery portion.

17. The device of Claim 12, wherein said handle adapted to provide enhanced ergonomic impact efficiency with reduced user fatigue.

18. The device of Claim 12, wherein said handle adapted to allow limited translational movement at a first position and a distinct limited translational movement at a second position.

19. In a tool system, a handle comprising: a. a first concave surface portion extending longitudinally along a central axis of said hand;389924.doc 22b. a first distal periphery portion adjacent said first concave surface portion and oriented substantially perpendicular to said axis of an elongated tool body; c. a second concave surface portion spaced from said first concave surface portion; and d. a second distal periphery portion aligned between said first distal periphery portion and said second concave surface portion and oriented at an acute angle with respect to said first distal periphery portion, and wherein said first and second concave surface portions are configured to define separate grip zones, and said angularly transitioning distal periphery portions form a geometric junction that encourages sequential grip movement during a dynamic work motion.

20. The device of Claim 19, including a junction between said first distal periphery portion and said second distal periphery portion and a raised outer projection corner aligned about an end of said first concave surface portion.389924.doc 23

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