PADDED GLOVE
A glove that includes at least one layer and one or more pads coupled with the at least one layer is disclosed. The one or more pads may be secured to the at least one layer using an adhesive, integrated with the at least one layer, etc. The one or more pads may be positioned such that the one or more pads are disposed between the user's hand and a laparoscopic instrument when in use. In this manner, the one or more pads may reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or other types of instruments.
The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/498,618, filed Jun. 20, 2011, entitled “PRESSURE ALLEVIATING COMPONENT,” naming Marc M. Zare as the inventor, and having attorney docket number ZARE0001.B. The present application also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/376,087, filed Aug. 23, 2010, entitled “PRESSURE ALLEVIATING COMPONENT,” naming Marc M. Zare as the inventor, and having attorney docket number ZARE0001.A. Those applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety and for all purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONIn recent years, the popularity of laparoscopic or minimally invasive surgery has increased. Laparoscopic surgery typically involves using laparoscopic instruments (e.g., 100 of
Laparoscopic instruments are generally composed of several members. For example, handles 102 and 104 may be held similar to a pair of scissors (e.g., by inserting a thumb into ring 103 and the ring finger or other finger into ring 105) and used to articulate component 106. A linkage inside shaft 108 may connect component 106 to handles 102 and 104. Component 102 may be configured similar to a pair of pliers (e.g., to clamp, pull, etc.), a pair of scissors (e.g., to cut), or some other instrument. As such, component 106 may be used to perform surgical procedures inside the abdomen or another part of the body while manipulated outside the abdomen using handles 102 and 104.
Although laparoscopic instruments can be used to perform surgical procedures, the forces required to manipulate the handles can cause discomfort or injury to the hands. For example, typical laparoscopic surgeries require repeated manipulations of the handles of laparoscopic instruments. Each movement of the handles applies relatively high, localized pressure to the digits and/or other portions of the hand. Accordingly, the repeated manipulations of the laparoscopic instruments over an extended duration during surgery can cause injury to nerves, ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones, cartilage and other tissues of the digits and/or hands.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONAccordingly, a need exists to reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or other types of instruments. A need also exists to reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or other types of instruments while maintaining adequate tactile sensation and/or adequate dexterity. Additionally, a need exists to reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or other types of instruments while reducing the likelihood of infection. Embodiments of the present invention provide novel solutions to these needs and others as described below.
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a glove that includes at least one layer and one or more pads coupled with the at least one layer. The one or more pads may be secured to the at least one layer using an adhesive, integrated with the at least one layer, etc. The one or more pads may be positioned such that the one or more pads are disposed between the user's hand and a laparoscopic instrument (e.g., rings 103 and/or ring 105 of laparoscopic instrument 100) when in use. In this manner, the one or more pads may reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits (e.g., thumb, at least one finger, etc.) and/or hands resulting from use of laparoscopic instruments or other types of instruments.
In one embodiment, the one or more pads may be configured to maintain adequate tactile sensation (e.g., by using a relatively elastic and/or flexible material, by limiting the thickness of the pad, by positioning the one or more pads away from volar or palmar side of the hand, by positioning the one or more pads away from a tip of a digit, by positioning the one or more pads away from a pulp or pad of a digit, etc.). The one or more pads may be configured to maintain adequate dexterity (e.g., by locating the pad such that it does not overlap one or more joints of a digit, by reducing at least one dimension of the pad around a joint of the digit, by using a relatively elastic and/or flexible material, etc.). In one embodiment, the at least one layer may reduce or inhibit permeation of one or more materials (e.g., water, other fluids, organisms, etc.), thereby reducing the risk of infection to the user.
In one embodiment, a glove includes at least one layer operable to at least partially cover a digit, wherein the at least one layer is watertight. The glove also includes a pad coupled with the at least one layer, wherein the pad is positioned away from a tip section of at least one layer, wherein the pad is operable to reduce pressure on the digit responsive to a force applied thereto.
In another embodiment, a surgical glove includes a first section having a first thickness. The surgical glove also includes a second section coupled with the first section and having a second thickness, wherein the second thickness is larger than the first thickness. The first and second sections are operable to at least partially cover a digit, wherein the first and second sections are watertight, and wherein the second section is operable to reduce pressure on the digit responsive to a force applied thereto by a surgical instrument.
In yet another embodiment, an apparatus includes a glove. The glove includes at least one layer operable to at least partially cover a digit, wherein the at least one layer is watertight. The glove also includes a pad coupled with the at least one layer, wherein the pad is positioned away from a tip section of at least one layer, and wherein the pad is operable to reduce pressure on the digit responsive to a force applied thereto. The apparatus also includes packaging operable to accept the glove.
The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements.
Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the present invention will be discussed in conjunction with the following embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the present invention to these embodiments alone. On the contrary, the present invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents which may be included with the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the present invention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the present invention.
Embodiments of the InventionGlove 200 may be used with one or more types of instruments. For example, glove 200 may be used with laparoscopic instruments (e.g., to perform laparoscopic surgery), other surgical instruments (e.g., to perform other types of surgery such as arthroscopic surgery, neurosurgery, open surgery, other types of surgery, etc.), etc. As another example, glove 200 may be used with dental instruments (e.g., to perform dentistry), instruments used by paramedics, instruments used by nurses, instruments used by beauticians, etc. And as yet another example, glove 200 may be used with ringed instruments (e.g., laparoscopic instrument 100, scissors, etc.), other types of instruments (e.g., rongeurs, dissectors, gouges, scalpels, scissors, pliers, etc.), etc. As such, although one or more embodiments of the present invention may be described with respect to laparoscopic instruments and/or laparoscopic surgery, it should be appreciated that such description is exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
As shown in
In one embodiment, glove 200 may be specific to a left hand or a right hand. For example, glove 200 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, where glove 200 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 200 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 200 may not fit on the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's right hand. Alternatively, glove 200 may be configured to fit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, glove 200 may be disposable (e.g., intended for a single use). Alternatively, glove 200 may be reusable (e.g., intended for a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/or sterilized).
As shown in
In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting the thickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10 mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, less than approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, between approximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.) and/or the at least one layer (e.g., to less than approximately 0.4 mm, less than approximately 0.3 mm, less than approximately 0.25 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more pads away from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, or perform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of the hand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away from the pulp or pad of a digit, etc.
As shown in
In one embodiment, the one or more pads (e.g., 211, 212, 213, 214, etc.) may be located such that the one or more pads do not overlap one or more joints of a digit (e.g., as shown in
Digital section 300A may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 310 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 211 and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 213, pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in one embodiment.
Pad 310 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 310 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
In one embodiment, pad 340 may be located on digital section 300B so that overlap of one or more other joints of the digit is reduced. For example, pad 340 may be located on digital section 300B so that it does not overlap one or more other joints of the digit (e.g., represented by dashed line 360). As another example, pad 340 may be located on digital section 300B so that it partially overlaps (e.g., does not completely overlap) one or more other joints of the digit (e.g., represented by dashed line 360). And in one embodiment, pad 340 may be located on digital section 300B so that it does not span one or more other joints of the digit (e.g., represented by dashed line 360). Since the overlap of one or more other joints by pad 340 is reduced as shown in
As shown in
Pad 340 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 340 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
As shown in
Pad 370 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 370 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
As shown in
Pad 310D may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 310D may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Turning back to
Although
Although
As shown in
Digital section 400A may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 410 and/or pad 420 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 211 and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 213, pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in one embodiment.
Pad 410 and/or 420 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 410 and/or 420 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
As shown in
Digital section 400B may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 460 and/or pad 470 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 211 and/or pad 212) or a pad coupled with a finger section (e.g., pad 213, pad 214, a pad coupled with another finger section, etc.) in one embodiment.
Pad 460 and/or 470 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 460 and/or 470 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
In one embodiment, glove 500 may include at least one pad (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medial section, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsal section, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned on or overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of the digital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit. And in one embodiment, pad 510 and/or pad 520 may be “U”-shaped. For example, bridge section 513 and side sections 511 and 512 may form a “U” shape in one embodiment. As another example, bridge section 523 and side sections 521 and 522 may form a “U” shape in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 513, 523, etc.) of a pad (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist in manufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 513, 523, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections (e.g., 511 and 512, 521 and 522, etc.), control the relative positioning of the side sections (e.g., 511 and 512, 521 and 522, etc.), etc. As another example, the bridged section may reduce the cost of manufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections that may otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a single piece).
In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on a dorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 500 (e.g., similar to bridge sections 614 and 624 of
As shown in
The one or more pads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may be configured to maintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may be made from a material that is relatively elastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pads 510 and/or 520 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pads 510 and/or 520 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting the thickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10 mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, less than approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, between approximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more pads away from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, or perform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 510, 520, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of the hand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away from the pulp or pad of a digit, etc.
As shown in
And as yet another example, glove 500 may be used with ringed instruments (e.g., laparoscopic instrument 100, scissors, etc.), other types of instruments (e.g., rongeurs, dissectors, gouges, scalpels, scissors, pliers, etc.), etc. As such, although one or more embodiments of the present invention may be described with respect to laparoscopic instruments and/or laparoscopic surgery, it should be appreciated that such description is exemplary and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.
In one embodiment, glove 500 may be specific to a left hand or a right hand. For example, glove 500 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, where glove 500 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 500 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 500 may not fit on the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's right hand. Alternatively, glove 500 may be configured to fit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, glove 500 may be disposable (e.g., intended for a single use). Alternatively, glove 500 may be reusable (e.g., intended for a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/or sterilized).
Although
In one embodiment, glove 600 may include at least one pad (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medial section, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsal section, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned on or overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of the digital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit. And in one embodiment, pad 610 and/or pad 620 may be “U”-shaped. For example, bridge section 613 and side sections 611 and 612 may form a “U” shape in one embodiment. As another example, bridge section 623 and side sections 621 and 622 may form a “U” shape in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 613, 623, etc.) of a pad (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist in manufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 613, 623, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections (e.g., 611 and 612, 621 and 622, etc.), control the relative positioning of the side sections (e.g., 611 and 612, 621 and 622, etc.), etc. As another example, the bridged section may reduce the cost of manufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections that may otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a single piece).
In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on a dorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 600 (e.g., similar to bridge sections 514 and 524 of
As shown in
The one or more pads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may be configured to maintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may be made from a material that is relatively elastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pads 610 and/or 620 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 610 and/or 620 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting the thickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10 mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, less than approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, between approximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more pads away from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, or perform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 610, 620, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of the hand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away from the pulp or pad of a digit, etc.
As shown in
In one embodiment, glove 600 may be specific to a left hand or a right hand. For example, glove 600 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, where glove 600 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 600 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 600 may not fit on the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's right hand. Alternatively, glove 600 may be configured to fit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, glove 600 may be disposable (e.g., intended for a single use). Alternatively, glove 600 may be reusable (e.g., intended for a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/or sterilized).
Although
As shown in
Digital section 700A may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 710 may be a bridged pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 510, pad 610, pad 810 of
Pad 710 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 710 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
As shown in
Digital section 700B may be a thumb section (e.g., 230) or a finger section (e.g., 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) in one embodiment. Pad 760 may be a pad coupled with a thumb section (e.g., pad 510, pad 610, pad 810 of
Pad 720 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 720 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
In one embodiment, glove 800 may include at least one pad (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medial section, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsal section, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned on or overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of the digital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit.
In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 813, 823, etc.) of a pad (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist in manufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 813, 823, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections (e.g., 811 and 812, 821 and 822, etc.), control the relative positioning of the side sections (e.g., 811 and 812, 821 and 822, etc.), etc. As another example, the bridged section may reduce the cost of manufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections that may otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a single piece).
In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on a dorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 800 (e.g., similar to bridge sections 914 and 924 of
As shown in
The one or more pads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may be configured to maintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may be made from a material that is relatively elastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pad 810 and/or 820 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 810 and/or 820 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting the thickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10 mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, less than approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, between approximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more pads away from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, or perform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 810, 820, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of the hand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away from a pulp or pad of a digit, etc.
As shown in
In one embodiment, glove 800 may be specific to a left hand or a right hand. For example, glove 800 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, where glove 800 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 800 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 800 may not fit on the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's right hand. Alternatively, glove 800 may be configured to fit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, glove 800 may be disposable (e.g., intended for a single use). Alternatively, glove 800 may be reusable (e.g., intended for a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/or sterilized).
Although
In one embodiment, glove 900 may include at least one pad (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) that is positioned on or overlapping a side (e.g., a medial section, a lateral section, a volar or palmar section, or a dorsal section, some combination thereof) of a digital section (e.g., 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, etc.) and positioned away from (e.g., not positioned on or overlapping) a tip of the digital section and/or a portion of the digital section covering a pulp or pad of a digit.
In one embodiment, the bridge section (e.g., 913, 923, etc.) of a pad (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may reduce cost or otherwise assist in manufacturing the glove. For example, the bridge section (e.g., 913, 923, etc.) may help control the distance between the side sections (e.g., 911 and 912, 921 and 922, etc.), control the relative positioning of the side sections (e.g., 911 and 912, 921 and 922, etc.), etc. As another example, the bridged section may reduce the cost of manufacturing one or more pads (e.g., by enabling the side sections that may otherwise be two separate pads to be manufactured as a single piece).
In one embodiment, one or more of the bridged pads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may include a second bridge section (e.g., not shown) located on a dorsal side of one or more digital sections of glove 900 (e.g., similar to bridge sections 814 and 824 of
As shown in
The one or more pads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may be configured to maintain adequate tactile sensation. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may be made from a material that is relatively elastic and flexible. In one embodiment, pad 910 and/or 920 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 910 and/or 920 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
In one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by limiting the thickness of the one or more pads (e.g., to less than approximately 10 mm, less than approximately 7 mm, less than approximately 6 mm, less than approximately 2 mm, less than approximately 1 mm, between approximately 1 mm and approximately 2 mm, etc.). And in one embodiment, tactile sensation may be maintained by positioning the one or more pads away from areas of the digits and/or hand used to feel, grasp, or perform other operations. For example, the one or more pads (e.g., 910, 920, etc.) may be positioned away from the volar or palmar side of the hand and/or digits, away from the tip of one or more digits, away from the pulp or pad of a digit, etc.
As shown in
In one embodiment, glove 900 may be specific to a left hand or a right hand. For example, glove 900 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, where glove 900 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 900 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 900 may not fit on the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's right hand. Alternatively, glove 900 may be configured to fit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, glove 900 may be disposable (e.g., intended for a single use). Alternatively, glove 900 may be reusable (e.g., intended for a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/or sterilized).
Although
As shown in
Pad 1010 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1010 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
As shown in
Pad 1020 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1020 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
Pad 1110 may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in one embodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1110 may be disposed on the outside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad 1110 may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 1110 may be secured or held in place by another glove worn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1110.
As shown in
In one embodiment, glove 1100 may be specific to a left hand or a right hand. For example, glove 1100 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, where glove 1100 may not fit on the user's left hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's left hand. As another example, glove 1100 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand, where glove 1100 may not fit on the user's right hand or may not fit comfortably on the user's right hand. Alternatively, glove 1100 may be configured to fit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, glove 1100 may be disposable (e.g., intended for a single use). Alternatively, glove 1100 may be reusable (e.g., intended for a multiple uses and/or capable of being sanitized and/or sterilized).
Although
Pad 1200 may be used to implement one or more of the other pads described herein. For example, one or more of the other pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1300A of
A beveled edge on pad 1400 may provide one or more advantages. For example, a beveled surface may increase the surface area of the top side of pad 1200 (e.g., the top surface defined by surface 1230 and beveled surfaces 1210 and/or 1220 is larger than a flat surface such as surface 1240), thereby providing better adhesion to at least one layer 220. As another example, where surface 1240 is disposed on or coupled with at least one layer 220, beveling of one or more edges of pad 1400 may reduce the risk of delamination of pad 1400 from at least one layer 220 caused by interference (e.g., catching, snagging, etc.) with other objects.
Pad 1200 may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in one embodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1200 may be disposed on the outside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad 1200 may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 1200 may be secured or held in place by another glove worn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1200.
Pad 1200 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1200 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
Pad 1300A may be used to implement one or more of the other pads described herein. For example, one or more of the other pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300B of
Pad 1300A may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in one embodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1300A may be disposed on the outside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad 1300A may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 1300A may be secured or held in place by another glove worn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1300A.
Pad 1300A may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1300A may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
Pad 1300B may be used to implement one or more of the other pads described herein. For example, one or more of the other pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A, pad 1410 of
Pad 1300B may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in one embodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1300B may be disposed on the outside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad 1300B may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 1300B may be secured or held in place by another glove worn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1300B.
Pad 1300B may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1300B may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
Pad assembly 1400 may be used to implement one or more of the other pads described herein. For example, one or more of the other pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A, pad 13008, pad 1500 of
In one embodiment, pad assembly 1400 may be manufactured and/or sold separately from a glove (e.g., 200, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1100, etc.). In this manner, a user may apply one or more pads to a glove (e.g., an inside surface of at least one layer 220, an outside surface of at least one layer 220, etc.), thereby enabling a user to customize a glove to suit specific needs of that user.
Pad 1410 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1410 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
Pad 1500 may be used to implement one or more of the other pads described herein. For example, one or more of the other pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A, pad 1300B, pad 1410, etc.) may include one or more beveled edges as discussed with respect to
Pad 1500 may be disposed on the inside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 facing the palm of the hand) in one embodiment. In one embodiment, pad 1500 may be disposed on the outside of at least one layer 220 (e.g., the side of at least one layer 220 opposite the side facing the palm of the hand). In one embodiment, pad 1500 may be integrated with (e.g., co-molded, volcanically fused, manufactured as a single piece, etc.) at least one layer 220. And in one embodiment, pad 1500 may be secured or held in place by another glove worn inside and/or outside of at least one layer 220 and pad 1500.
Pad 1500 may be made from a polymer or elastomer such as Medalist® 447 (e.g., from Teknor Apex), Elastocon® 2810 (e.g., from Elastocon TPE Technologies, Inc.), Dynaflex® G6703 (e.g., from GLS Corporation), latex, silicone, silicone gel, air-filled silicone gel, acrylic gel (e.g., from 3M Corporation), another polymer gel, foam, another polymer, etc. In one embodiment, pad 1500 may be made from a material with a hardness ranging from approximately 10 Shore OO to approximately 15 Shore A, ranging from approximately 25 Shore OO to approximately 10 Shore A, ranging from approximately zero Shore A to approximately 10 Shore A, etc. It should be appreciated that materials in one or more of these hardness ranges may provide adequate pressure distribution and/or reduction properties while also providing adequate tactile sensation, dexterity or providing other benefits and/or advantages.
Although
As described herein, one or more of the pads (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A, pad 1300B, pad 1410, pad 1500, etc.) may protect against non-penetrating injury. For example, one or more of the pads may reduce and/or distribute the pressure on the digits (e.g., thumb, at least one finger, etc.) and/or hands resulting from an instrument (e.g., a laparoscopic instrument, another surgical instrument, a dental instrument, an instrument used by paramedics, an instrument used by nurses, an instrument used by beauticians, a ringed instrument, other types of instruments, etc.), thereby reducing risk of injury (e.g., non-penetrating injury) to the nerves (e.g., digital nerves, etc.), ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones, cartilage and other tissues of the digits and/or hands.
Glove 1615 may be implemented in accordance with any of the gloves described herein (e.g., 200, 500, 600, 800, 900, 1100, etc.) and/or include one or more of the pads described herein (e.g., pad 211, pad 212, pad 213, pad 214, pad 310, pad 340, pad 370, pad 310D, pad 410, pad 420, pad 460, pad 470, pad 510, pad 520, pad 610, pad 620, pad 710, pad 760, pad 810, pad 820, pad 910, pad 920, pad 1010, pad 1060, pad 1100, pad 1200, pad 1300A of
In one embodiment, glove 1615 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, whereas glove 1625 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand. In one embodiment, glove 1625 may be configured to fit on a user's right hand, whereas glove 1615 may be configured to fit on a user's left hand. And in one embodiment, glove 1615 and/or glove 1625 may be configured to fit both a right hand and a left hand in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, each packaging (e.g., 1610 and 1620) may contain only a single glove. In other embodiments, a packaging (e.g., 1610 and 1620) may contain more than one glove. Where a packaging contains more than one glove, a layer (e.g., a paper layer or layer of another material) may be used to wrap the gloves before insertion into the packaging (e.g., 1610, 1620, etc.).
Although
Although
In the foregoing specification, embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to numerous specific details that may vary from implementation to implementation. Thus, the sole and exclusive indicator of what is, and is intended by the applicant to be, the invention is the set of claims that issue from this application, in the specific form in which such claims issue, including any subsequent correction. Hence, no limitation, element, property, feature, advantage, or attribute that is not expressly recited in a claim should limit the scope of such claim in any way. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.
Claims
1. A glove comprising:
- at least one layer operable to at least partially cover a digit, wherein said at least one layer is watertight; and
- a pad coupled with said at least one layer, wherein said pad is positioned away from a tip section of said at least one layer, and wherein said pad is operable to reduce pressure on said digit responsive to a force applied thereto.
2. The glove of claim 1, wherein said digit is selected from a group consisting of a thumb and a finger.
3. The glove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer comprises at least one section, and wherein each section of said at least one section is selected from a group consisting of a medial section, lateral section, volar section, a dorsal section and said tip section.
4. The glove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer comprises a plurality of sections, wherein a first portion of said pad is positioned at a first section of said plurality of sections, and wherein a second portion of said pad is positioned at a second section of said plurality of sections.
5. The glove of claim 4, wherein said first and second portions of said pad are connected by a third portion of said pad.
6. The glove of claim 1, wherein said pad is shaped to overlap at least one joint of said digit.
7. The glove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer and said pad are integrated.
8. The glove of claim 1, wherein said pad is coupled with said at least one layer using an adhesive.
9. The glove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer defines an opening operable to accept said digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on a side of said at least one layer facing said opening.
10. The glove of claim 1, wherein said at least one layer defines an opening operable to accept said digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on a side of said at least one layer opposite said opening.
11. The glove of claim 1, wherein said pad is removable.
12. The glove of claim 1, wherein said pad circumscribes said digit.
13. A surgical glove comprising:
- a first section having a first thickness; and
- a second section coupled with said first section and having a second thickness, wherein said second thickness is larger than said first thickness, and
- wherein said first and second sections are operable to at least partially cover a digit, wherein said first and second sections are watertight, and wherein said second section is operable to reduce pressure on said digit responsive to a force applied thereto by a surgical instrument.
14. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said digit is selected from a group consisting of a thumb and a finger.
15. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said first and second sections are each selected from a group consisting of a medial section, lateral section, volar section and a dorsal section.
16. The surgical glove of claim 13 further comprising:
- a third section coupled with said first section and having a third thickness, wherein said third thickness is greater than said first thickness.
17. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said second portion extends around said digit for at least 90 degrees.
18. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said second section comprises a material selected from a group consisting of a polymer, an elastomer, an elastomeric gel, a silicone gel, an air-filled silicone gel, an acrylic gel, a polymer gel, latex, and a foam.
19. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said second section comprises a pad and at least one layer.
20. The surgical glove of claim 19, wherein said pad is coupled with said at least one layer using an adhesive.
21. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said at least one layer defines an opening operable to accept said digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on a side of said at least one layer facing said opening.
22. The surgical glove of claim 13, wherein said at least one layer defines an opening operable to accept said digit, and wherein said pad is disposed on a side of said at least one layer opposite said opening.
23. An apparatus comprising:
- a glove comprising: at least one layer operable to at least partially cover a digit, wherein said at least one layer is watertight; and a pad coupled with said at least one layer, wherein said pad is positioned away from a tip section of said at least one layer, and wherein said pad is operable to reduce pressure on said digit responsive to a force applied thereto; and
- packaging operable to accept said glove.
24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said packaging is airtight.
25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said packaging comprises a first portion operable to accept said glove and further comprises a second portion operable to accept at least one other glove.
26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said first and second portions are joined at a seam, and wherein said seam is operable to form a hinge to allow said first and second portions to be folded on one another.
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 23, 2011
Publication Date: Feb 23, 2012
Inventor: Marc M. Zare (Palo Alto, CA)
Application Number: 13/215,582
International Classification: A41D 13/08 (20060101); A41D 19/00 (20060101);
