BACKGROUND Technical Field [0002] The present disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for winding and re- winding reusable bandages such as gauze, elastic compression bandages and cotton bandages and, more particularly, to machines, device and apparatus and methods for re-winding elongated leg wraps (i. e. , polo-wraps, etc. ) commonly used for wrapping the legs and/or ankles of horses.

Background of Related Art [0003] It has been a long standing practice for handlers of horses to use elongated bandages or the like to wrap the legs of horses in order to protect the horse's legs during <BR> <BR> certain activities. The bandages or"wraps" (i. e. , polo-wraps) typically used for this purpose are relatively long strips of cloth material which may have a certain amount of resiliency, yieldability or stretch so that the bandage may be wrapped, in a spiral fashion, around a leg of a horse to fit snuggly over the irregular leg contour. Bandages used for this purpose are <BR> <BR> often about a few inches wide (e. g. , 4 or 5 inches) and may be about several feet long (e. g. , 8 feet) so as to furnish enough length for wrapping an adequate distance along the leg of the horse.

[0004] These bandages are reused many times. Accordingly, in order to properly and easily wrap a horses leg with these bandages it is preferred that the bandages be in a rolled

condition (i. e. , in a relatively uniformly wound cylindrical shape or roll). These bandages are applied to the horse's legs when the horse is standing. Thus, it is more practical and easier for the bandages to be in a rolled condition when they are wrapped on to the horse's leg.

[0005] Since it is preferred and practical for the bandages to be wrapped onto the horse's legs while initially in a rolled condition, a great deal of time and effort is devoted to the task of winding the bandages into a roll following each use thereof.

[0006] Typically and in practicality, bandages of this type may not be and are not wound into a cylindrical roll at a designated location or site. These bandages are usually kept in relatively close proximity to the stall where the particular horse with which they are used is stabled. Additionally, it is impractical to carry the bandages to a designated location for winding, especially when the bandages are applied to the horse's legs immediately before the horse is to be exercised in an integral step of the grooming sequence which must be carried out in the stall location.

[0007] Accordingly, a need exists for a winding device which overcomes the drawbacks mentioned above and which accomplishes the objects detailed herein.

[0008] It is, therefore, a primary object of the present disclosure to provide machines, device and/or apparatus for re-rolling relatively long, narrow bandages such as leg wraps or polo-wraps which overcomes the foregoing noted drawbacks.

[0009] In the achievement of this objective, the present disclosure provides a winding apparatus requiring no fixed installation or no attachment to a fixed structure, wherein the winding apparatus may be readily used at any location.

[0010] The present disclosure further provides a winding apparatus which may be operated with a single hand.

[0011] The present disclosure further provides a winding device which utilizes a winding peg which remains in the wound bandage following winding thereof and which facilitates application of the bandage to a horse's leg.

[0012] Additional objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will become apparent from the description or can be learned by practice of the present disclosure. The advantages of the present disclosure can be realized and obtained by the apparatus particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

SUMMARY [0013] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a portable, hand held winding apparatus, for rolling up or winding elongate bandages and the like, is provided.

The winding apparatus includes a hand held rotary drive device having a motor-driven rotatable connector that is adapted to operatively engage a connecting member, the rotatable connector defining an axis of rotation. The winding device further includes a tensioning member supportable on the rotary drive device, the tensioning member including a tensioning arm extending in a direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis of the rotatable connector of the rotary drive device, the tensioning arm defining a slot therein. The winding apparatus also includes a winding peg defining a slot therein and including a connecting member extending axially therefrom, the connecting member being operatively engagable with the rotatable connector of the rotary drive device.

[0014] Desirably, the slot formed in the tensioning arm defines a plane which is oriented substantially tangential to the rotational axis. It is further desired that the slot formed in the tensioning arm is closed at a distal end and at a proximal end thereof and that the slot formed in the winding peg is closed at a distal end and a proximal end thereof.

[0015] In one embodiment, the tensioning member includes a cuff configured and dimensioned to be connected on the rotary drive device, and a leg extending from the cuff, the tensioning arm being connected to an end of the leg. The cuff includes an open distal end for accessing the chuck when the cuff is connected to the rotary drive device.

[0016] The connecting member of the winding peg may include a rotation transmitting surface configured to cooperate with a complementary rotation transmitting surface of the rotatable connector of the rotary drive device. It is envisioned that the

rotatable connector of the rotary drive device is a chuck and the connecting member of the winding peg is a stem.

[0017] It is envisioned that the slot formed in the tensioning arm has a length of approximately 4.0 inches (10.16 cm) to approximately 7.0 inches (17. 78 cm). The slot formed in the tensioning member has a height of approximately 0.25 inches (0.635 cm).

[0018] In one embodiment, it is envisioned that the tensioning member may include a pair of rollers rotatably supported on the leg thereof. The rollers each have an axis of rotation which is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the connector. Desirably, a plane defined by the axes of rotation of the rollers is either substantially perpendicular to a radial plane extending through the axis of rotation of the connector and/or substantially co- planar with the axis of rotation of the connector.

[0019] In another embodiment, it is envisioned that the tensioning arm may include a pair of parallel spaced apart fingers extending from the leg, the fingers defining the slot of the tensioning member therebetween. The tensioning arm also includes a locking element for selectively maintaining a distal end of a first finger of the pair of fingers connected to a distal end of a second finger of the pair of fingers. The tensioning member includes a hinge provided along a length of at least one of the pair of fingers. The hinge allows the distal end of the first finger to be separated from the distal end of the second finger. The tensioning member may include a biasing element operatively disposed between the pair of fingers for biasing the pair of fingers apart from one another.

[0020] It is envisioned that the tensioning member is modular. Accordingly, the tensioning arm may be configured for selective connection to the leg of the tensioning member. Additionally, the leg of the tensioning member may be configured for selective connection with the cuff of the tensioning member and/or a housing of the rotary drive device.

[0021] It is envisioned that an elongate bandage is windable on the winding peg by threading a leading edge of the bandage through the slot formed in the tensioning member and into the slot formed in the winding peg. Thereafter the rotary drive device is operated to

rotate the connector and the winding peg, wherein the tensioning arm of the tensioning member maintains the bandage in tension during the winding process. Desirably, the rotary drive device is electrically powered.

[0022] It is envisioned that the winding apparatus further includes a tie-down element including a first ring, a second ring, and a strap extending between the first and second rings.

Accordingly, following winding of a bandage onto the winding peg, the first ring is slipped over a distal end of the winding peg and the second ring is slipped over the proximal end of the winding peg. The strap may be made from an elastic material. The winding peg may include an annular groove formed near a distal end thereof, wherein the distal annular groove is configured to selectively receive the first ring of the tie-down element. The winding peg may also include an annular groove formed near a proximal end thereof, wherein the proximal annular groove is configured to selectively receive the second ring of the tie-down element.

[0023] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit for winding an elongate bandage. The kit includes a hand held rotary drive device having a motor-driven rotatable connector that is adapted to operatively engage a connecting member, the rotatable connector defining an axis of rotation. The kit includes a tensioning member supportable on the rotary drive device, the tensioning member including a tensioning arm extending in a direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis of the rotatable connector of the rotary drive device, the tensioning arm defining a slot therein. The kit also includes at least one winding peg defining a slot therein and including a connecting member extending axially therefrom, the connecting member being operatively engagable with the rotatable connector of the rotary drive device. The kit further includes at least one of an electrical charger and adapted connectable to the rotary drive device. The kit still further includes a case configured to retain the rotary drive device, the tensioning member, the at least one winding peg, and the at least one of an electrical charger and adapted therein.

[0024] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a method of winding an elongate bandage. The method includes the step of providing a winding apparatus. The winding apparatus including a hand held rotary drive device having

a motor-driven rotatable connector that is adapted to operatively engage a connecting member, the rotatable connector defining an axis of rotation, a tensioning member supportable on the rotary drive device, the tensioning member including a tensioning arm extending in a direction substantially parallel to the rotational axis of the rotatable connector of the rotary drive device, the tensioning arm defining a slot therein, and a winding peg defining a slot therein and including a connecting member extending axially therefrom, the connecting member being operatively engagable with the rotatable connector of the rotary drive device.

[0025] The method further includes the steps of connecting the tensioning arm to the rotary drive device, connecting the winding peg to the connector of the rotary drive device, threading a free end of a bandage through the slot formed in the tensioning arm of the tensioning member, inserting the free end of the bandage into the slot formed in the winding peg, and actuating the rotary drive device to rotate the winding peg and wind the elongate bandage onto the winding peg. During winding the elongate bandage is pulled through the slot formed in the tensioning arm. As such, the tensioning arm of the tensioning member maintains the elongate bandage straight and taut during the winding process.

[0026] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a kit for facilitating the use of a bandage winding apparatus, is provided. The kit includes a plurality of winding pegs. Each winding peg defines a slot therein and includes a connecting member extending axially therefrom. The connecting member of each winding peg including a rotation transmitting surface configured to cooperate with a complementary rotation transmitting surface of a rotatable connector of a rotary drive device. The kit further includes a case including a bottom case portion configured to retain the plurality of winding pegs, and a top case portion hingedly connected to the bottom case portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0027] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended figures. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, a preferred embodiment is shown. It is understood,

however, that the present disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangement and instrumentalities shown.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the winding apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating feeding of a bandage (shown in phantom) through a tension arm and onto a winding peg thereof ; [0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of the winding apparatus of FIG. 1; [0030] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of the winding apparatus of FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrating internal components thereof ; [0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the tension arm of FIGS. 1-3; [0032] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the tension arm of FIGS. 1-4; [0033] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the winding peg of FIGS. 1-3; [0034] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the winding peg of FIG. 6 including a bandage wound thereon; [0035] FIG. 8 is a plan view of a one illustrative embodiment of a kit including the winding apparatus of FIGS. 1-3; [0036] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a tensioning member according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; [0037] FIG. 10 is a front elevational view of a tensioning member according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure, shown in a closed condition; [0038] FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of the tensioning member of FIG. 10 shown in an open condition; [0039] FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of a tensioning member according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, shown in an open condition;

[0040] FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of the tensioning member of FIG. 12 shown in a closed condition; [0041] FIG. 14 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a tensioning member according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure; [0042] FIG. 15 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a tensioning member according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure; [0043] FIG. 16 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a tensioning member according to still another embodiment of the present disclosure; [0044] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of one illustrative embodiment of a kit including a plurality of winding pegs of FIG. 6; [0045] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a winding peg according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, and a tie-down element for use therewith; and [0046] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the winding peg of FIG. 18 including a bandage wound thereon and the tie-down element extending thereacross.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0047] Preferred embodiments of winding apparatus and methods in accordance with the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the drawing figures wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical structural elements. As shown in the drawings and described throughout the following description, as is traditional when referring to relative positioning on an object, the term"proximal"refers to the end of the apparatus which is closer to the user and the term"distal"refers to the end of the apparatus which is further from the user.

[0048] The various winding apparatus disclosed herein may be used to wind bandages for a myriad of reasons. For example, the winding apparatus may be used to wind bandages used in connection with the treatment of lymphedema and the like, as discussed in U. S. Patent 6,286, 779, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in its

entirety. However, in the interest of clarity and for illustrative purposes only, the winding apparatus disclosed herein will relate to its use in winding polo-wraps or bandages and the like.

[0049] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, an illustrative embodiment of the presently disclosed winding apparatus is illustrated therein and generally designated as winding apparatus 100.

Winding apparatus 100 includes a motorized or electric, hand-held, rotary drive device 110, such as for example, a powered screw driver tool or drill;, a tensioning member 120 selectively connectable to a distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110; and at least one winding peg 130 selectively connectable to a rotatably connector 114, here shown as a receptacle or chuck, provided at distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110.

[0050] As seen in FIGS. 1-3, rotary drive device 110 includes a housing 112 that contains the internal components of rotary drive device 110. Housing 112 may be constructed with a variety of materials including and not limited to, metal, plastics and the like. Housing 112 may be rigid and non-porous. Desirably, housing 112 may take the form of a baton and the like, however, other configurations are envisioned, such as, for example, a pistol-grip configuration. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, rotary drive device 110 may have a housing 112 having a substantially cylindrical body defining a proximal end gripping portion 110b formed into a shape that fits a user's hand, and a distal end portion 110a, axially aligned with proximal end portion 1 lOb, and configured to selectively receive tensioning arm 120 and winding peg 130.

[0051] It is envisioned that distal end portion 11 Oa may be angled with respect to proximal end portion 1 lOb, for example, distal end portion 1 lia may be angled at approximately 60° or 90° with respect to proximal end portion 110b. It is further envisioned that distal end portion 1 l0a may be pivotally connected to proximal end portion 110b and include a locking element for fixing the angular position of distal end portion 110a relative to proximal end portion 11 Ob.

[0052] It is contemplated that housing 112 may include a grip (e. g., ridges formed in the surface of housing 112, a rubber sleeve or pads provided on or around at least portions of housing 112) to aid the user in gripping rotary drive device 110. Additionally, it may be

necessary to access the internal components of rotary drive device 110. Accordingly, housing 112 may be constructing in two halves which may be joined together by snap-fit engagements, screws and the like.

[0053] As seen in FIG. 3, contained within housing 112 of rotary drive device 110 are the internal components thereof, which may include and are not limited to, a self-contained power supply 116 (e. g. , batteries, either replaceable or rechargeable), a drive motor 118, preferably reversible, electrically connected to power supply 116, a chuck 114 rotatably supported in distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110 and operatively connected to the drive motor, and an actuation switch 119 electrically connected between the drive motor 118 and the power supply 116 to complete or interrupt a circuit therebetween. Desirably, drive motor 118 defines an axis of rotation"X"which extends substantially longitudinally along rotary drive device 110.

[0054] Chuck 114 is a generally rigid hollow cylinder including at least one planar surface 114a formed therein for engaging a complementary planar surface 136a formed in stem 136 of winding peg 130 to thereby transmit rotation to winding peg 130. In this manner, when the stem of winding peg 130 is inserted into chuck 114, the planar surface of the stem engages planar surface 114a of chuck 114. In use, with winding peg 130 connected to chuck 114, rotation of chuck 114 results in corresponding rotation of winding peg 130. It is envisioned that chuck 114 may include any number of planar surfaces, including and not limited to two, three, four, five, six, etc.

[0055] As seen in FIGS. 1-5, tensioning member 120 includes a cuff 122 preferably configured and adapted to selectively engage distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110. Cuff 122 defines a longitudinal axis"X1"extending therethrough. Tensioning member 120 further includes a tensioning arm 124 extending from cuff 122. Preferably, tensioning arm 124 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal"X1"axis of cuff 122.

Desirably, tensioning arm 124 may be offset from cuff 122 by a leg 126 extending radially from cuff 122.

[0056] As will be discussed in greater detail below, the length of leg 126 (i. e. , the radial distance between the longitudinal"X1"axis of cuff 122 and that of tensioning arm

126) may be selected and/or varied depending on the length of bandage"B"to be wound on winding peg 130. For example, if a relatively shorter bandage"B"is to be wound on winding peg 130, then the length of leg 126 may be relatively smaller than the length of leg 126 if a relatively longer bandage"B"was to be wound on winding peg 130. Accordingly, the length of leg 126 should be selected such that as bandage"B"is being wound onto winding peg 130, the radius of the rolled-up bandage is less than the length of leg 126. It is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure that leg 126 may telescope. Thus, the length of leg 126 may be adjusted as needed for the particular length of bandage being rolled-up. By way of example only, a typical bandage"B"or polo-wrap used to wrap a horse's leg is approximately 6.0 feet (1.83 meters) to approximately 9.0 feet (2.74 meters) in length. As such, leg 126 may have a length approximately equal to 1.25 (3.18 cm) inches to thereby provide a sufficient distance between tensioning arm 124 and winding peg 130 to accommodate the size of the rolled-up bandage on winding peg 130.

[0057] As seen in FIGS. 1-5, tensioning arm 126 of tensioning member 120 includes an elongated slot 128 formed therein. Preferably, slot 128 is bounded at a distal end 128a and at a proximal end 128b thereof. In this manner, when bandage"B"is positioned therein, bandage"B"may not slide out of either distal end 128a or proximal end 128b of slot 128. In accordance with the present disclosure, slot 128 defines a plane which is substantially tangentially oriented with respect to the longitudinal"XI"axis of cuff 122 (i. e. , perpendicular to a plane defines by the longitudinal"X1"axis of cuff 122 and the rotation "X"axis of drive motor 118).

[0058] As will be described in greater detail below, the orientation of slot 128 provides a degree of tensioning on bandage"B"as bandage"B"is being wound onto winding peg 130. The degree of tension transmitted to bandage"B"may be increased or decreased depending on several factors. For example, the tension transmitted to bandage"B" during winding may be decreased by widening or increasing a height of slot 128. Also, the tension transmitted to bandage"B"during winding may by decreased by angling the orientation of slot 128 relative to the plane defined by the longitudinal"XI"axis of cuff 122 and the rotation"X"axis of drive motor 118.

[0059] By way of example only, slot 128 of tensioning arm 124 may have an overall length of approximately 4.0 inches (10.16 cm) to approximately 7.0 inches (17. 78 cm), and preferably, between approximately 5.25 inches (13.34 cm) to approximately 6.25 inches (15. 88 cm). Slot 128 may also have a height of approximately 0.25 inches (0.64 cm), although other heights are envisioned, contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0060] Desirably, cuff 122 of tensioning member 120 includes an open proximal end 122b for receiving distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110 therein, and an aperture 122a formed in a distal end thereof through which chuck 114 of rotary drive device 110 may be accessed when tensioning member 120 is connected to rotary drive device 110. As seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, cuff 122 of tensioning member 120 further includes at least one projection 122c extending from an inner surface thereof. Preferably, projection 122c snap-fit engages corresponding complementary recesses 112a (see FIG. 2), here shown as an annular groove, formed in housing 112 of rotary drive device 110.

[0061] It is envisioned that the projection may be formed on the outer surface of housing 112 of rotary drive device 110 while the complementary recess may be formed in the inner surface of cuff 122 of tensioning member 120. It is further envisioned that cuff 122 of tensioning member 120 and distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110 may be configured and dimensioned such that cuff 122 of tensioning member 120 engages distal end portion 1 l0a of rotary drive device 110 in a friction fit engagement. Additionally, cuff 122 of tensioning member 120 may be connected to distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110 by a bayonet-type inter-engaging structure (not shown), a screw-type engaging structure (not shown), or any other manner known by one having ordinary skill in the art.

[0062] Turning now to FIGS. 1-3,6 and 7, winding peg 130 includes an elongate body portion 132 having a distal end portion 132a and a proximal end portion 132b.

Winding peg 130 includes a slot 134 formed therein. Preferably, slot 134 is bounded or defined by a closed distal end 134a and a closed proximal end 134b. In this manner, when bandage"B"is positioned within slot 134 of winding peg 130, bandage"B"may not slide out of either distal end 132a or proximal end 132b of body portion 132.

[0063] Winding peg 130 includes a connecting member or stem 136 extending axially from proximal end portion 132b of body portion 132. Stem 136 is configured and adapted to be inserted into and/or be matingly received in chuck 114 of rotary drive device 110. In particular, stem 136 includes at least one planar surface 136a configured to operatively engage complementary planar surface 114a of chuck 114 and thereby receive the rotational forces created by chuck 114. In this manner, rotation of chuck 114 is a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction (as indicated by arrow"A"in FIG. 1).

[0064] While winding apparatus 100 has been shown as including a chuck 114 of rotary drive device 110 configured and adapted to receive stem 136 of winding peg 130 therein, it is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure for rotary drive device 110 to include a rotating stem (not shown) operatively connected to drive motor 118 and extending therefrom, and a winging peg 130 including a recess formed therein for engaging the stem of rotary drive device 110.

[0065] As seen in FIG. 1, when winding peg 130 is connected to rotary drive device 110, winding peg 130 is substantially aligned with the rotational"X"axis. Additionally, when winding peg 130 and tensioning member 120 are connected to rotary drive device 110, as seen in FIG. 1, winding peg 130 is substantially parallel with tensioning arm 124 of tensioning member 120.

[0066] By way of example only, slot 134 of winding peg 130 may have an overall length of approximately 1 inch (2.54 cm) to approximately 7.0 inches (17.78 cm), preferably between approximately 1.75 inches (4.45 cm) to approximately 5.25 inches (13.34 cm), and most preferably, approximately 2.25 inches (5.72 cm). Slot 134 of winding peg 130 may also have a height of approximately 0.125 inches (0.32 cm), although other heights are envisioned, contemplated and within the scope of the present disclosure. Slot 134 of winding peg 130 is dimensioned to receive a tab"T" (see FIG. 7) formed at one end of bandage"B", therein.

[0067] As seen in FIG. 7, with tab"T"of bandage"B"inserted into slot 134 of winding peg 130, winding peg 130 has been wound in order to roll-up bandage"B"thereon and to thereby form bandage"B"into a cylinder, drum or the like. In accordance with the

present disclosure, since slot 134 is bound between closed distal end 134a and closed proximal end 134b of winding peg 130, bandage"B"may not slide out of either distal end 132a or proximal end 132b of body portion 132.

[0068] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 7, a method of using winding apparatus 100, according to the present disclosure, is shown and described. Initially, tensioning member 120 and winding peg 130 are connected to rotary drive device 110 in the manner described above. In particular, distal end portion 110a of rotary drive device 110 is inserted into open proximal end 122b, preferably until projection 122c extending from the inner surface of cuff 122 snap-fit engages complementary recess 112a formed in the outer surface of housing 112.

Also, stem 136 of winding peg 130 is inserted, through aperture 122a formed in the distal end of cuff 122 of tensioning member 120, and into chuck 114 of rotary drive device 110.

Preferably, planar surface 136a of stem 136 engages complementary planar surface 114a of chuck 114. In this manner, as will be described in greater detail below, rotation of chuck 114 results in corresponding rotation of winding peg 130.

[0069] With tensioning member 120 and winding peg 130 connected to rotary drive device 110, an end (e. g., tab"T") of a polo-wrap or bandage"B"is threaded through slot 128 of tensioning member 120 and through or into slot 134 of winding peg 130 (see FIG. 1).

With tab"T"of bandage"B"inserted through slot 128 of tensioning member 120 and into slot 134 of winding peg 130, the operator may hold winding apparatus 100 in one hand and depresses switch 119 to energize drive motor 118. Drive motor 118 rotates chuck 114 which, in turn, rotates winding peg 130 in the direction of arrow"A".

[0070] As winding peg 130 is rotated, bandage"B"is pulled through slot 128 of tensioning member 120 and wound onto winding peg 130. During winding of bandage"B" onto winding peg 130, tensioning arm 124 of tensioning member 120 maintains bandage"B" straight and taut or in tension. Rotary drive device 110 of winding apparatus 100 is operated until bandage"B"is entirely wound onto winding peg 130 (see FIG. 7). If needed, rotation of chuck 114 of rotary drive device 110 may be reversed so as to unwind a portion of bandage"B"which may contain dirt/debris or the like in order to remove the dirt/debris therefrom.

[0071] In operation, since slot 128 of tensioning arm 124 and slot 134 of winding peg 130 are closed at their respective distal end proximal ends, bandage"B"is prevented from sliding out of slot 128 of tensioning arm 124 and slot 134 of winding peg 130, as bandage "B"is being wound onto winding peg 130. Following winding of bandage"B"onto winding peg 130, the user removes (i. e. , disconnects or uncouples) winding peg 130, including the rolled-up bandage"B", from rotary drive device 110.

[0072] Desirably, the free end of rolled-up bandage"B"is held against the remainder of rolled-up bandage"B"by any number of methods, including, and not limited to, tucking the free end of bandage"B"between adjacent layers of rolled bandage"B" ; pinning the free end of bandage"B"against the rolled-up portion of bandage"B" ; using a tie or elastic band around rolled-up bandage"B" ; and stretching an elastic band from stem 136 of winding peg 130, across rolled-up bandage"B", and onto distal end portion 132a.

[0073] With reference to FIG. 7, since distal end 134a of slot 134 of winding peg 130 is closed, rolled-up bandage"B"may not be removed from winding peg 130 without un- rolling bandage"B"from winding peg 130. In other words, it is intended that winding peg 130 remains at the center of rolled-up bandage"B"until it is removed at the time bandage "B"is wrapped around the horse's leg.

[0074] Following removal of the rolled-up bandage"B"and winding peg 130, the rolled-up bandage"B"may be neatly stored on a shelf, in a basket, box or bin, in a bag, in a drawer, or on a peg board including a plurality of holes formed therein for receiving stem 136 of winding peg 130. Winding peg 130 may be used repeatedly as needed.

[0075] Following winding of a first bandage"B"onto a first winding peg 130, a second winding peg may be attached to rotary drive device 110 and a second bandage may be wound onto the second winding peg in the same manner as discussed above for the winding of the first bandage"B".

[0076] Desirably, tensioning member 120 and/or winding peg 130 are fabricated from a plastic or resin material. However, it is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure that tensioning member 120 and/or winding peg 130 may be fabricated from any

material suitable for accomplishing the operations described above, such as, for example, metal (e. g. , stainless steel, aluminum, etc. ), wood, and the like.

[0077] Turning now to FIG. 8, winding apparatus 100 may be included in a polo- wrap or bandage rolling kit 200. Kit 200 may include a case 202 having a bottom case portion 202a and a lid or top case portion 202b hingedly connected to bottom case portion 202a. Desirably, case 202 may include a handle 204 provided or formed therewith.

[0078] Case 202 of kit 200 is configured and adapted to contain at least some of the following components or elements therein, including and not limited to: a rotary drive device 110, a tensioning member 120, and a plurality of winding pegs 130. Additionally, kit 200 may include instructions 210 describing and illustrating methods of using winding apparatus 100.

[0079] It is envisioned that rotary drive device 110 may be rechargeable.

Accordingly, kit 200 may include a re-charger 140 which may be electrically connected to power supply 116 of rotary drive device 110 or to which power supply 116 may be electrically connected following removal of power supply 116 from housing 112 of rotary drive device 110. Alternatively, kit 200 may include a power adapter which may be electrically connected to rotary drive device 110 and provide power to drive motor 118.

[0080] Case 202 may be fabricated from molded plastic and the like and include designated regions configured and dimensioned to receive the specific components or elements of kit 200 identified above. Preferably, these designated regions may be configured to snap-fit engage the specific components of kit 200 identified above.

[0081] While several particular embodiments of winding apparatus 100 have been illustrated and described, it will also be apparent that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0082] For example, it is envisioned that leg 126 may be fixedly attached to and/or integrally formed with or extending from housing 112 of rotary drive device 110.

Accordingly, leg 126 and tensioning arm 124 may be formed as part of housing 112. In this manner, rotary drive device 110 may be constructed as a unitary element with leg 126 and

tensioning arm 124 extending from housing 112 of rotary drive device. Alternatively, as will be described in greater detail below, tensioning member 120 may be modular, including a discrete tensioning arm 124, a discrete leg 126, and optionally a discrete cuff 122. It is also envisioned that leg 126 of tensioning member 120 may include a coupling element for engagement with a complimentary coupling element formed in housing 112 of rotary drive device 110 or in cuff 122.

[0083] It is further envisioned that tensioning arms 124 may be selectively connectable to leg 126 and that leg 126 may be selectively connectable to cuff 122 or housing 112. Accordingly, legs of varying length may be connected to cuff 122 or housing 112 depending on the length of polo-wrap or bandage"B"that is to be wound onto winding peg 130.

[0084] It is envisioned that winding peg 130 has a diameter of approximately 0.75 inches (1.91 cm). However, it is envisioned that winding peg 130 may have a larger or smaller diameter depending on the particular material of construction of winding peg 130, and depending on the particular winding characteristics desired for bandage"B".

[0085] Additionally, it is envisioned that drive motor 118 may be powered by power supply 116 and/or by an external power adapter such as an AC adapter, a DC power jack, a vehicle cigarette lighter adapter, and the like. It is envisioned that power supply 116 may be replaceable (i. e. , power supply 116 may be removed from housing 112 of rotary drive device 110 and replaced with another power supply).

[0086] Turning now to FIG. 9, an alternate embodiment of a tensioning member for use with rotary drive device 110 is generally designated as 220. Tensioning member 220 is substantially similar to tensioning member 120 and will only be discussed in detail to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation.

[0087] As seen in FIG. 9, tensioning member 220 includes a tensioning arm 224 operatively connected to leg 126. Tensioning arm 224 includes a pair of parallel spaced apart rollers 224a, 224b defining slot 128 therebetween. A distal end of rollers 224a, 224b are

connected to one another by a bracket 229, which also functions to close off slot 128 and thereby prevent bandage"B"from escaping or sliding out of slot 128.

[0088] Desirably, it is envisioned that rollers 224a, 224b may be separated and approximated relative to one another, as indicated by arrow"C", in order to adjust the size or height of slot 128. For example, the height of slot 128 may be increased or decreased in order to increase or decrease the tension exerted on bandage"B"which is being fed therethrough.

[0089] Rollers 224a, 224b tend to reduce the wear and sliding friction on bandage "B"as bandage"B"is being pulled through slot 128. It is envisioned that rollers 224a, 224b may be fabricated from metal and/or plastic.

[0090] Rollers 224a, 224b define respective rotational axes"X2a, X2b". As mentioned above, the rotational"X2a, X2b"axes of rollers 224a, 224b are preferably parallel to the longitudinal"X1"axis of cuff 122. Desirably, rollers 224a, 224b are oriented such that the rotational"X2a, X2b"axes thereof are in a plane extending radially through the longitudinal"X1"axis of cuff 122. If is envisioned that rollers 224a, 224b may be oriented such that the rotational"X2a, X2b"axes thereof are in a plane which is angled with respect to the plane extending radially through the longitudinal"Xl"axis of cuff 122, such as, for example, in a plane which is perpendicular to the plane extending radially through the longitudinal"X1"axis of cuff 122.

[0091] Turning now to FIGS. 10 and 11, an alternate embodiment of a tensioning member for use with rotary drive device 110 is generally designated as 320. Tensioning member 320 is substantially similar to tensioning member 120 and will only be discussed in detail to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation.

[0092] As seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, tensioning member 320 includes a tensioning arm 324 operatively connected to leg 126. Tensioning arm 324 includes a pair of parallel spaced apart fingers 324a, 324b defining a slot 128 therebetween when in the closed position. Each finger 324a, 324b includes a hinge 325a, 325b formed or provided at or near a proximal end thereof. Preferably, hinges 325a, 325b are living hinges, however, other hinges known by

one skilled in the art may be used. Hinges 325a, 325b enable fingers 324a, 324b to move from a closed condition shown in FIG. 10, wherein fingers 324a, 324b are substantially parallel to one another and slot 128 is closed, to an open condition shown in FIG. 11, wherein fingers 324a, 324b are angularly spaced from one another and slot 128 is open.

[0093] Tensioning member 320 further includes a locking element 327a configured and adapted to selectively secure or lock distal end 323a of finger 324a with distal end 323b of finger 324b. Locking element 327a further maintains slot 128 closed during winding of bandage"B"onto winding peg 130. Desirably, locking element 137a extends from distal end 323a of finger 324a and snap-fit engages a recess or aperture 137b (shown in phantom in FIG. 11) formed in distal end 323b of finger 324b.

[0094] Having a tensioning arm 324 which is capable of being opened enables bandage"B"to be more easily inserted into slot 128. For example, with tensioning arm 324 open, bandage"B"may be inserted into slot 128 by sliding bandage"B"side ways into slot 128 through open end 128c (see FIG. 11). With bandage"B"positioned in slot 128, first and second fingers 324a, 324b are approximated and distal ends 323a, 323b locked closed thereby preventing bandage"B"from sliding out of the end of tensioning arm during winding of bandage"B"onto winding peg 130.

[0095] Locking element 137a in combination with aperture 137b may be replaced by any element or feature which allows selective opening and closing of tensioning arm 324.

For example, such features may include and are not limited to, a latch formed on one finger and a button formed on the other finger, a tie, a snap, etc.

[0096] Turning now to FIGS. 12 and 13, an alternate embodiment of a tensioning member for use with rotary drive device 110 is generally designated as 420. Tensioning member 420 is substantially similar to tensioning member 320 and will only be discussed in detail to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation.

[0097] As seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, tensioning member 320 includes a biasing element 340 disposed between fingers 324a, 324b. Desirably, biasing element 340 is located near a proximal end of slot 128, however, it is envisioned that biasing member 340 may be

located near a distal end of slot 128. As seen in FIG. 12, biasing element 340 functions to maintain fingers 324a, 324b spaced apart from one another (i. e., in an open condition).

[0098] Each finger 324a, 324b includes a series of through-holes formed therein.

Desirably, finger 324a includes a series of through-holes 326a1-326a3 formed near a distal end thereof, and finger 324b includes a series of through-holes 326b1-326b3 formed near a distal end thereof and in registration with through-holes 326a1-326a3 of finger 324a when fingers 324a, 324b are in a closed condition.

[0099] It is contemplated that first through-holes 326al, 326bu are spaced approximately 4.5 inches (11.43 cm) from a proximal-most end of slot 128, second through- holes 326a2,326b2 are spaced approximately 5.5 inches (13.97 cm) from the proximal-most end of slot 128, and third through-holes 326a3-326b3 are spaced approximately 6.5 inches (16.51 cm) from the proximal-most end of slot 128.

[00100] A locking element or pin 350 (e. g., an L-pin, a cotter pin, etc. ) is provided and is configured and dimensioned for insertion into respective through-holes 326a1-326a3 and 326b1-326b3 in order to maintain fingers 324a, 324b closed. Depending of the size or width of bandage"B"being wound by apparatus 100, pin 350 is inserted into particular through- holes 326a1-326a3 and 326b1-326b3 in order to set the width of slot 128. For example, for bandages"B"having a width less than approximately 4.5 inches, it is desirable to insert pin 350 into first through-holes 326al, 326bu, for bandages"B"having a width less than approximately 5.5 inches, it is desirable to insert pin 350 into second through-holes 326a2, 326b2, and for bandages"B"having a width less than approximately 6.5 inches, it is desirable to insert pin 350 into second through-holes 326a3,326b3.

[00101] Essentially, pin 350 functions to close the distal end of slot 128 and prevent bandage"B"from sliding out of the distal end of slot 128 during the winding procedure.

Desirably, pin 350 may be tethered to tensioning member 320. Pin 350 may include a distal end which is slightly larger than the dimension of through-holes 326a1-326a3 and 326bu- 326b3 thereby allowing pin 350 to snap-fit engage 326a1-326a3 and 326bl-326b3.

[00102] It is contemplated that through-holes 326al-326a3 and 326b1-326b3 may be replaced with grooves or the like (not shown) formed in the outer surfaces of fingers 324a, 324b. The grooves may be configured and dimensioned to selectively receive a C-clamp or the like.

[00103] Turning now to FIG. 14, an alternate embodiment of a tensioning member for use with rotary drive device 110 is generally designated as 420. Tensioning member 420 is substantially similar to tensioning member 120 and will only be discussed in detail to the extent necessary to identify differences in construction and operation.

[00104] As seen in FIG. 14, tensioning member 420 includes a tensioning arm 224 operatively connectable to leg 126. Desirably, leg 126 includes an elbow such that a distal end portion 126a thereof is oriented in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal "axis of cuff 122. Desirably, distal end portion 126a of leg 126 defines an opening 127 therein for receiving a proximal end 424a of tensioning arm 424 therein.

[00105] Desirably, tensioning arm 424 includes a connecting member 425 extending axially from proximal end 424a thereof. Preferably, connecting member 425 includes a thread configured and dimensioned to engage a complementary thread formed within opening 127 of leg 126. It is envisioned that connecting member 425 may also include and is not limited to a bayonet-type connection for engaging a complementary member provided within opening 127, or proximal end 424a of tensioning arm 424 may be configured and dimensioned to friction fit within opening 127 of leg 126.

[00106] In this manner, tensioning arms 424 of various dimensions and/or materials may be selectively connected to leg 126 of cuff 122 and ultimately to rotary drive device 110. For example, a tensioning arm 424, specific to a particular bandage to be wrapped (e. g., a polo-wrap, a standing wrap, a tail wrap, etc. ) may be attached to cuff 122 as needed.

[00107] In an alternate embodiment, as seen in FIG. 15, a distal end portion 126b of leg 126 is oriented in a direction which is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal"X1" axis of cuff 122. Desirably, distal end portion 126b of leg 126 defines an opening 127 therein for receiving a proximal end 424a of tensioning arm 424 therein.

[00108] Desirably, proximal end 424a of tensioning arm 424 is oriented orthogonally to a longitudinal axis of tensioning arm 424. Tensioning arm 424 includes a connecting member 425 extending axially from proximal end 424a. Preferably, connecting member 425 includes a thread configured and dimensioned to engage a complementary thread formed within opening 127 of leg 126. It is envisioned that connecting member 425 may also include and is not limited to a bayonet-type connection for engaging a complementary member provided within opening 127, or proximal end 424a of tensioning arm 424 may be configured and dimensioned to friction fit within opening 127 of leg 126. It is further envisioned that proximal end 424a of various tensioning arms 424 may have varying lengths.

In this manner, a particular tensioning arm 424 having a particular length proximal end 424a is selected depending on the type and/or length of bandage to be wound onto winding peg 130. For example, for relatively longer bandages, tensioning arms 424 having relatively longer proximal ends 424a may be attached to leg 126 of cuff 122. In this manner, the distance between tensioning arm 424 and winding peg 130 is increased in order to accommodate a longer bandage when wound thereon.

[00109] As seen in FIG. 16, tensioning member 420 may be entirely modular, including a cuff 422, a leg 426 selectively connectable to cuff 422 and/or housing 112 of rotary drive device 110, and a tensioning arm 424 selectively connectable to leg 426.

Desirably, a plurality of legs 426 may be provided (not shown), each having a different length. In this manner, depending of the length of bandage"B"to be wound onto winding peg 130 (i. e. , the prospective diameter of the wound bandage"B"), the leg 426 to be used in tensioning member 420 is selected based on its length. Accordingly, for relatively longer bandages"B", a relatively longer leg 426 may be selected and for relatively shorter bandages "B", a relatively shorter leg 426 may be selected. In this manner, tensioning member 420 may be configured as needed to accommodate the winding of bandages"B"of any length.

[00110] In particular, as seen in FIG. 16, cuff 422 includes a threaded opening 423 formed in the side thereof for selectively receiving a threaded connecting member 429 extending from a proximal end 426a of leg 426. Leg 426 includes a threaded opening 427 formed in a distal end 426b thereof for selectively receiving a threaded connecting member 425 extending from proximal end 424a of tensioning arm 424. A plurality of legs 426, each

having a different length may be selectively connected to cuff 422. Accordingly, in use, depending of the length of bandage"B"to be wound onto winding peg 130 a leg 426 having a length sufficient to space tensioning arm 424 from winding peg 130 in order to accommodate the diameter of a wound bandage therebetween is connected to cuff 422.

[00111] In accordance with the present disclosure, it is envisioned that kit 200 may be configured and adapted to retain or house tensioning member 420, including cuff 422, tensioning arm 424 and a series of legs 426 of varying length.

[00112] Turning now to FIG. 17, a kit 250, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, including a plurality of winding pegs 130 is shown. Kit 250 includes a case 252 having a bottom case portion 252a, and a lid or top case portion 252b hingedly connected (e. g., via a living hinge) to bottom case portion 252a.

[00113] Case 252 of kit 250 is configured and adapted to contain a plurality of winding pegs 130. Case 252 may be fabricated from molded plastic and the like configured and dimensioned to accommodate the plurality of winding pegs 130 ina snap-fit engagement.

[00114] Turning now to FIGS. 18 and 19, an alternate embodiment of winding peg 130, in accordance with the present disclosure, is shown and described. As seen in FIG. 18, winding peg 130 further includes an annular distal groove 138a formed in body portion 132 provided at a location distal of slot 134. Desirably, winding peg 130 may also include an annular proximal groove 138b provided at a location proximal of slot 134.

[00115] As seen in FIG. 18, a tie-down element 140 for extending between a distal end of winding peg 130 and a proximal end of winding peg 130, desirably across a rolled-up bandage"B", is provided. Tie-down element 140 include a first ring 142a, a second ring 142b, and a band or strap 144 extending between first ring 142a and second ring 142b. Rings 142a, 142b are configured and dimensioned to slide over a respective one of the distal end of winding peg 130 and stem 136 of winding peg 130. Additionally, ring 142a is configured <BR> <BR> and dimensioned to operatively engage (e. g., be received in, be seated in, etc. ) annular distal groove 138a of winding peg 130 and ring 142 is configured and dimensioned to operatively engage annular proximal groove 138b or stem 136 of winding peg 130. Rings 142a, 142b

may be fabricated from a rigid material, such as, for example, plastic, metal and the like. It is also envisioned and contemplated that rings 142a, 142b may be loops or eye-lets formed at either end of strap 144 from the same material as strap 144. Strap 144 is desirably made from an elastic material or the like. In this manner, band 144 may stretch and/or elongate as needed in order to extend across rolled-up bandages of varying diameters.

[00116] As seen in FIG. 19, with bandage"B"wound onto winding peg 130, tie-down element 140 is used to keep bandage"B"from un-winding. In particular, first ring 142a may be slipped over the distal end of winding peg 130 and slid down body portion 132 until first ring 142a engages annular distal groove 138a, band 144 stretched across bandage"B", and second ring 142b slipped over stem 136 of winding peg 130 and slid up body portion 132 until second ring 142b engages annular proximal groove 138b. It is further envisioned that second ring 142b may be positioned on stem 136. Desirably, band 144 is positioned in close proximity to a free end"B 1"of bandage"B".

[00117] While tie-down element 140 has been shown and described as being used with a winding peg 130 having an annular distal groove 138a and possibly an annular proximal groove 138b, it is envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure for tie-down element 140 to be used with a winding peg 130 having no annular grooves formed therein in substantially the same manner as with winding peg 130 having annualr grooves 138a, 138b.

[00118] Thus, it should be understood that various changes in form, detail and operation of the winding apparatus of the present disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.