US20180339435A1 - Thin-Walled Elastic Products and Methods and Systems for Manufacturing Same - Google Patents
Thin-Walled Elastic Products and Methods and Systems for Manufacturing Same Download PDFInfo
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- US20180339435A1 US20180339435A1 US15/954,257 US201815954257A US2018339435A1 US 20180339435 A1 US20180339435 A1 US 20180339435A1 US 201815954257 A US201815954257 A US 201815954257A US 2018339435 A1 US2018339435 A1 US 2018339435A1
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- protrusion
- former
- protrusions
- elastic
- elastic compound
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C41/00—Shaping by coating a mould, core or other substrate, i.e. by depositing material and stripping-off the shaped article; Apparatus therefor
- B29C41/02—Shaping by coating a mould, core or other substrate, i.e. by depositing material and stripping-off the shaped article; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
- B29C41/14—Dipping a core
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F6/00—Contraceptive devices; Pessaries; Applicators therefor
- A61F6/02—Contraceptive devices; Pessaries; Applicators therefor for use by males
- A61F6/04—Condoms, sheaths or the like, e.g. combined with devices protecting against contagion
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C41/00—Shaping by coating a mould, core or other substrate, i.e. by depositing material and stripping-off the shaped article; Apparatus therefor
- B29C41/02—Shaping by coating a mould, core or other substrate, i.e. by depositing material and stripping-off the shaped article; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
- B29C41/08—Coating a former, core or other substrate by spraying or fluidisation, e.g. spraying powder
- B29C41/085—Coating a former, core or other substrate by spraying or fluidisation, e.g. spraying powder by rotating the former around its axis of symmetry
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C41/00—Shaping by coating a mould, core or other substrate, i.e. by depositing material and stripping-off the shaped article; Apparatus therefor
- B29C41/02—Shaping by coating a mould, core or other substrate, i.e. by depositing material and stripping-off the shaped article; Apparatus therefor for making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
- B29C41/22—Making multilayered or multicoloured articles
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- B29C47/0026—
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- B29C47/005—
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- B29C47/025—
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- B29C47/786—
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
- B29C48/001—Combinations of extrusion moulding with other shaping operations
- B29C48/0013—Extrusion moulding in several steps, i.e. components merging outside the die
- B29C48/0015—Extrusion moulding in several steps, i.e. components merging outside the die producing hollow articles having components brought in contact outside the extrusion die
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
- B29C48/03—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor characterised by the shape of the extruded material at extrusion
- B29C48/09—Articles with cross-sections having partially or fully enclosed cavities, e.g. pipes or channels
- B29C48/10—Articles with cross-sections having partially or fully enclosed cavities, e.g. pipes or channels flexible, e.g. blown foils
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
- B29C48/15—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor incorporating preformed parts or layers, e.g. extrusion moulding around inserts
- B29C48/154—Coating solid articles, i.e. non-hollow articles
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
- B29C48/00—Extrusion moulding, i.e. expressing the moulding material through a die or nozzle which imparts the desired form; Apparatus therefor
- B29C48/25—Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
- B29C48/78—Thermal treatment of the extrusion moulding material or of preformed parts or layers, e.g. by heating or cooling
- B29C48/793—Thermal treatment of the extrusion moulding material or of preformed parts or layers, e.g. by heating or cooling upstream of the plasticising zone, e.g. heating in the hopper
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D19/00—Gloves
- A41D19/0055—Plastic or rubber gloves
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D19/00—Gloves
- A41D19/0055—Plastic or rubber gloves
- A41D19/0082—Details
- A41D19/0096—Means for resisting mechanical agressions, e.g. cutting or piercing
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A41—WEARING APPAREL
- A41D—OUTERWEAR; PROTECTIVE GARMENTS; ACCESSORIES
- A41D19/00—Gloves
- A41D19/015—Protective gloves
- A41D19/01547—Protective gloves with grip improving means
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61F—FILTERS IMPLANTABLE INTO BLOOD VESSELS; PROSTHESES; DEVICES PROVIDING PATENCY TO, OR PREVENTING COLLAPSING OF, TUBULAR STRUCTURES OF THE BODY, e.g. STENTS; ORTHOPAEDIC, NURSING OR CONTRACEPTIVE DEVICES; FOMENTATION; TREATMENT OR PROTECTION OF EYES OR EARS; BANDAGES, DRESSINGS OR ABSORBENT PADS; FIRST-AID KITS
- A61F6/00—Contraceptive devices; Pessaries; Applicators therefor
- A61F6/02—Contraceptive devices; Pessaries; Applicators therefor for use by males
- A61F6/04—Condoms, sheaths or the like, e.g. combined with devices protecting against contagion
- A61F2006/048—Condoms, sheaths or the like, e.g. combined with devices protecting against contagion with surface protuberances
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
- B29K2105/00—Condition, form or state of moulded material or of the material to be shaped
- B29K2105/0058—Liquid or visquous
- B29K2105/0064—Latex, emulsion or dispersion
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
- B29K2995/00—Properties of moulding materials, reinforcements, fillers, preformed parts or moulds
- B29K2995/0003—Properties of moulding materials, reinforcements, fillers, preformed parts or moulds having particular electrical or magnetic properties, e.g. piezoelectric
- B29K2995/0008—Magnetic or paramagnetic
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/48—Wearing apparel
- B29L2031/4842—Outerwear
- B29L2031/4864—Gloves
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/753—Medical equipment; Accessories therefor
- B29L2031/7538—Condoms
Definitions
- Thin-walled elastic products such as medical gloves and condoms are often constructed of latex or synthetic compounds such materials as polyurethane, polyisoprene, nitrile rubber, polyvinyl chloride, and neoprene. These products are often made by first creating a three-dimensional form (or “former”), generally constructed of ceramic or metal. The former is typically cleaned using various bleaching, rinsing, brushing, and drying processes, and is then dipped into a heated coagulant tank (e.g., consisting of calcium nitrate and calcium carbonate) to allow the latex or synthetic material to adhere—but not bind—to the former.
- a heated coagulant tank e.g., consisting of calcium nitrate and calcium carbonate
- the coagulant may be particularly necessary based on the material used for the former; for example, various latex and synthetic materials may not adhere directly to ceramics.
- the length of exposure in the coagulant tank may directly affect the wall thickness of the manufactured product.
- the dipped former is then heated, dipped into a tank of elastic (e.g., latex or synthetic) compound, and chilled. After or concurrent with being chilled, the former (with the latex or synthetic compound) may be dripped to ensure an even surface. After dripping, the former (again, with the latex or synthetic compound) may be cured in a dryer to further solidify. Proteins and other residuals may then be leached from the cured latex or synthetic material to lower the potential for an allergic reaction, and the finished product may be stripped from the former, tested to ensure compliance with product standards, and packaged.
- elastic e.g., latex or synthetic
- Embodiments of the current invention relate generally to thin-walled elastic products and systems and methods for making such products.
- a method for creating a barrier product.
- the method includes the step: (a) dipping a former into a tank of elastic compound.
- the former has an outer surface and an indentation, and the indentation extends inwardly from the outer surface for creating a first protrusion on a first face of the barrier product.
- the method further includes the steps: (b) removing the former from the tank of elastic compound, whereby some of the elastic compound removably adheres to the former with a portion of the removably adhered elastic compound filling the indentation; (c) applying supplemental material to the elastic compound removably adhered to the former, whereby creating a second protrusion on a second face of the barrier product; and (d) fully drying the supplemental material.
- a method for creating a barrier product.
- the method includes the step: (a) dipping a former into a tank of elastic compound.
- the former has an outer surface and an indentation, and the indentation extends inwardly from the outer surface for creating a first protrusion on a first face of the barrier product.
- the method further includes the steps: (b) removing the former from the tank of elastic compound, whereby some of the elastic compound removably adheres to the former with a portion of the removably adhered elastic compound filling the indentation; (c) producing a second protrusion on a second face of the barrier product; and (d) fully drying the elastic compound.
- Step (a) is performed before step (b), step (b) is performed before step (c), and step (c) is performed before step (d).
- a barrier product includes an elastic wall having opposed first and second faces, a first protrusion extending from the first face, and a second protrusion extending from the second face.
- the first and second protrusions are in cross-sectional alignment whereby rotational input forces on the first protrusion create rotational output forces on the second protrusion.
- Barrier products according to the current invention include, for example, condoms and gloves.
- FIGS. 1 through 5 are flowcharts illustrating methods for creating barrier products according to embodiments of the current invention.
- FIG. 6 is a front view of a former for creating a glove according to an embodiment of the current invention, shown with magnification.
- FIG. 7 is a front view of a former for creating a condom according to an embodiment of the current invention, shown with magnification.
- FIG. 8 is a front view of a glove according to an embodiment of the current invention.
- FIG. 9 is a front view of a condom according to an embodiment of the current invention.
- FIG. 10 a is a perspective view of part of a barrier product according to an embodiment of the current invention.
- FIG. 10 b is a section view taken from FIG. 10 a.
- FIGS. 11 a and 11 b are front and rear views of part of a barrier product according to another embodiment of the current invention.
- FIG. 11 c is a section view taken from FIGS. 11 a and 11 b.
- FIG. 12 a is a section view of part of a barrier product according to still another embodiment of the current invention.
- FIG. 12 b is a section view of part of a barrier product according to yet another embodiment of the current invention.
- FIGS. 1 through 12 b illustrate various methods and systems for manufacturing barrier products according to embodiments of the current invention, as well as barrier products according to embodiments of the current invention.
- FIG. 1 provides a method 1 for creating barrier products 100 (e.g., gloves 100 ′ and condoms 100 ′′, shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 ).
- a three-dimensional former 110 is created having an outer surface 111 and at least one indentation 115 extending inwardly from the outer surface 111 .
- One former 110 ′, for creating a glove 100 ′, is illustrated in FIG. 6 ; another former 110 ′′, for creating a condom 100 ′′, is illustrated in FIG. 7 ; and still other types of barrier products 100 may be constructed using different formers 110 .
- the former 110 may be constructed of ceramic, metal, glass, or any other appropriate material, and the indentations 115 may be generally cylindrical, or of any other desired shape (e.g., rings, waves, ovals, et cetera).
- FIGS. 6 and 7 show some cylindrical indentations 115 a and some indentations 115 b shaped as irregular waves.
- the former 110 is cleaned.
- Debris on the former 110 may result in low-quality products, as is well understood. Cleaning is thus well known in the art, and may for example include various bleaching, rinsing, brushing, and drying processes (whether now existing or later developed).
- the method 1 continues from step 12 to step 14 .
- the former 110 is dipped into a heated coagulant tank.
- a heated coagulant tank It is well known in the art that various elastic compounds do not adhere to some materials which are often used to make formers, such as ceramics, and that coagulant materials may be used to allow elastic materials to adhere—but not bind—to a former. Calcium nitrate, calcium carbonate, and any other appropriate material (whether now existing or later developed) may be used in the coagulant tank. And, in some embodiments, step 14 may be omitted if the selected elastic compound appropriates adheres to the former 110 without coagulant material.
- the method 1 proceeds from step 14 to step 16 .
- the former 110 is dipped into a tank of elastic compound 120 .
- the elastic compound 120 may be any appropriate natural or synthetic compound, whether now existing or later developed.
- Example elastic compounds include latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene, nitrile rubber, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, and neoprene.
- the former 110 is removed from the elastic-compound tank at step 18 .
- Some of the elastic compound 120 removably adheres to the former 110 (via the coagulant material), and a portion of that removably adhered elastic compound 120 fills the indentation 115 to create a first protrusion 130 on one face 102 a of the barrier product 100 (i.e., on face 102 a of elastic wall 102 ).
- many first protrusions 130 may be created, matching the number of indentations 115 in the former 110 , and the first protrusions 130 will be shaped like the indentations 115 . Cylindrical first protrusions 130 a are shown in FIGS.
- FIGS. 11 b and 11 c illustrate other first protrusions 130 having different shapes.
- First protrusion 130 c having a cylindrical portion and a domed tip is shown in FIG. 12 a
- first protrusion 130 d having a cylindrical portion and a conical tip is shown in FIG. 12 b.
- At least one second protrusion 140 is produced on a second face 102 b ( FIGS. 10 b , 11 a , and 11 c ) of the barrier product 100 (i.e., on face 102 b of the elastic wall 102 ). This is illustrated in FIG. 1 at step 20 .
- Production of the second protrusion 140 may be accomplished in various ways and may take various shapes (e.g., cylindrical, rings, waves, ovals, et cetera), as set forth in more detail below. In some embodiments, it may be particularly desirable for the second protrusion 140 to be in cross-sectional alignment with at least one of the first protrusions 130 . For example, FIGS.
- FIGS. 11 a through 11 c show a wave-shaped first protrusion 130 and cylindrical second protrusions 140 in cross-sectional alignment.
- first and second are merely used herein for convenience to discuss the protrusions on the opposed faces of the barrier products 100 .
- step 1 is shown continuing from step 20 to step 30 , where the elastic compound 120 is fully dried on the former 110 . While steps 10 , 12 , 14 , 16 , and 18 remain generally consistent throughout the illustrated methods 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 , the timing of step 30 varies depending on the specific way that the second protrusion 140 is produced. And even in the method 1 , step 30 may occur before, or as part of, step 20 . Again, more information about producing the second protrusion 140 is provided below.
- the barrier product 100 is then stripped from the former 110 , tested, and packaged at steps 40 , 42 , 44 , and 46 . With the barrier product 100 packaged, the method 1 ends. Leaching, stripping, testing, and packaging are well known in the art and remain generally consistent throughout the illustrated methods 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 .
- FIGS. 2 through 5 illustrate more specific methods 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 of creating the barrier product 100 , with each of the methods 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 adding supplemental material 125 to create the second protrusion 140 .
- the supplemental material 125 may be selected to be the same material as the elastic compound 120 .
- the supplemental material 125 may differ, in whole or in part, from the elastic compound 120 .
- the second protrusion 140 may be particularly desirable for the second protrusion 140 to permanently bond to the elastic wall 102 , and for rotational input forces on the first protrusion 130 to create rotational output forces on the second protrusion 140 —as this may enhance the resonance transfer to the user.
- the materials 120 , 125 may be selected to achieve these goals. Steps 10 , 12 , 14 , 16 , 18 , 40 , 42 , 44 , and 46 in the methods 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 are the same as in the method 1 .
- the elastic compound 120 on the former 110 is partly dried at step 21
- the supplemental material 125 is partly dried at step 22
- the partly-dried supplemental material 125 is applied to the partly-dried elastic compound 120 on the former 110 to create the second protrusion 140 at step 23 .
- an applicator may be particularly desirable for an applicator to be used which does not touch the partly-dried elastic compound 120 on the former 110 .
- Appropriate applicators may project (e.g., spray), press, roll, or otherwise apply the supplemental material 125 onto the partly-dried elastic compound 120 on the former 110 to create the second protrusion 140 .
- the supplemental material 125 may be easily formed into and maintain its desired shape (e.g., cylindrical, cylindrical with a domed or conical tip, pyramidal, domed, conical, et cetera).
- the elastic wall 102 may generally maintain its desired shape and thickness by being partly dried before receiving the supplemental material 125 . Nevertheless, in the method 2 , the elastic wall 102 and the second projection 140 are not fully dried (at steps 24 and 25 ) until after the supplemental material 125 is applied at step 23 , allowing the elastic wall 102 and the second projection 140 to meld together. If desired, the elastic wall 102 may be initially formed with an increased thickness to ensure a desired final thickness.
- the elastic wall 102 may have a final thickness of 3.5 mil to 14 mil for the glove 100 ′ or a thickness of 2 mil to 3 mil for the condom 100 ′′. Desirability of increasing the initial wall thickness in this way may depend, for example, on the amount of drying before step 23 , the amount of force received by the elastic wall 102 during step 23 , the materials selected for the elastic compound 120 and the supplemental material 125 , and the alignment of the protrusions 130 , 140 (cross-sectional alignment increases the amount of elastic compound 120 adjacent the supplemental material 125 ).
- an adhesive material may be applied to the elastic wall 102 and/or the second projection 140 before or during step 23 . The addition of adhesive may also depend, for example, on the amount of drying before step 23 , the amount of force received by the elastic wall 102 during step 23 , and the materials selected for the elastic compound 120 and the supplemental material 125 .
- the method 3 primarily differs from the method 2 in the order of step 22 .
- the supplemental material 125 is not partially dried (step 22 ) before being applied to the elastic wall 102 at step 23 —and is instead dried after being applied to the elastic wall 102 at step 23 .
- Applying the supplemental material 125 in this way may for example be useful with some materials 120 , 125 to increase the bonding between the wall 102 and the second protrusion 140 .
- Method 4 ( FIG. 4 ) primarily differs from the method 2 in the order of step 24 .
- the elastic wall 102 is fully dried (step 24 ) before the supplemental material 125 is applied at step 23 .
- Applying the supplemental material 125 in this way may for example be useful with some materials 120 , 125 to ensure the integrity of the elastic wall 102 .
- Method 5 ( FIG. 5 ) primarily differs from the method 2 in the order of step 25 .
- the supplemental material 125 is fully dried (step 25 ) before being applied to the elastic wall 102 at step 23 . Applying the supplemental material 125 in this way (after being fully dried) may for example be useful with some materials 120 , 125 to achieve the desired configuration of the second protrusion 140 .
- the supplemental material 125 in step 23 in cross-sectional alignment with at least one of the indentations 115 such that the resulting first and second protrusions 130 , 140 are in cross-sectional alignment.
- This may be accomplished, for example, by mapping the indentations 115 into computer memory and controlling the applicator to align with the mapped indentations, by sensing the indentations and controlling the applicator to align with the sensed indentations, or by mechanically tuning the applicator to the desired alignment.
- FIGS. 10 a and 10 b show cylindrical first and second protrusions 130 , 140 in cross-sectional (and axial) alignment
- FIGS. 11 a through 11 c show a wave-shaped first protrusion 130 and cylindrical second protrusions 140 in cross-sectional alignment
- the supplemental material 125 may be applied such that an axis 141 or centerline of the second protrusion 140 is generally perpendicular to the second face 102 b
- the supplemental material 125 may in other embodiments be applied in step 23 in cross-sectional misalignment with the former indentations 115 to result in misaligned protrusions 130 , 140 .
- Producing misaligned protrusions 130 , 140 may be less costly due to the reduced precision required in manufacturing compared to manufacturing aligned protrusions 130 , 140 , and may in some embodiments still result in increased resonance transfer relative to the prior art.
- the methods 2 , 3 , 4 , and 5 apply the supplemental material 125 to create the second protrusion 140
- other embodiments may create the second protrusion 140 (step 20 in the method 1 ) through other processes.
- some of the elastic compound 120 removably adhered to the former 110 may be drawn away from the former 110 , such as by using suction, by spinning the former 110 , or by including ferromagnetic particles in the elastic compound 120 and applying targeted magnetic fields (i.e., electromagnetically) to draw the desired amount and configuration of the elastic compound 120 away from the former 110 .
- the elastic compound 120 removably adhered to the former 110 may be stamped to create the protrusion 140 .
- some embodiments may utilize a sheet or particles of elastic compound 120 being heat-shrunk to the former 110 to form the wall 102 and the first protrusions 130 . Then the second protrusions 140 would be created using the supplemental material 125 as described above. Utilizing this heat-shrink method may allow increased protrusion density as the material shrinks (or cures). Increased protrusion density may in some embodiments add sensory and control precision by increasing granularity resolution of motion transfer through the wall 102 .
- This may be particularly beneficial as an improved form of conformal coating for electronic subsystems such as sensors, vibrating subsystems, biocompatibility for delicate integrated circuits that may be mounted on living surfaces or implanted within living creatures, and chemical compatibility to harsh environments for sensors and control actuators in applications such as robotic subsystems.
- the barrier product 100 is worn by a user, for example with the second face 102 b (and thus the second protrusions 140 ) against the user's skin.
- the first protrusion 130 receives a rotational input force and in turn rotates, creating a rotational output force on the second protrusion 140 and enhancing the resonance transfer to the user.
- the user may thus sense the movement of the second protrusion 140 , strengthening the tactile experience.
- the protrusions 130 , 140 may be strategically placed to interact with sensitive areas of the user's skin, and in some embodiments may be placed throughout the faces 102 a , 102 b.
- resonance transfer may be greatest if the protrusions 130 , 140 are in cross-sectional alignment. It may be particularly desirable in some embodiments for resonance transfer to be tuned such that forces are transferred through the first and second protrusions 130 , 140 (and the wall 102 ) with minimal losses.
- ferromagnetic particles may be dispersed in the elastic compound 120 for manufacturing purposes. Yet even if not used for manufacturing purposes, it may be desirable in some embodiments to include ferromagnetic particles (e.g., polymerized fullerene chains and networks) in the elastic compound 120 and/or the supplemental material 125 .
- ferromagnetic particles e.g., polymerized fullerene chains and networks
- Ferromagnetic material in the second protrusions 140 may cause the second protrusions 140 to move relative to the wall 102 when appropriate magnetic fields are induced near the barrier product 100 (e.g., condom 100 ′′); and movement of the second protrusions 140 may create output forces on the first protrusions 130 , causing the first protrusions 130 to rotate and thereby add additional movement and sensation at both sides of the wall 102 .
- the elastic compound 120 Due to the resonance transfer between the first and second protrusions 130 , 140 , the elastic compound 120 need not include the ferromagnetic particles to achieve magnetic reactivity if the supplemental material 125 includes the ferromagnetic material.
- physical and/or electromagnetic waveforms may be transferred through (or along the surface of) a substrate utilizing matched or mating transfer elements (protrusions) to efficiently vibrate (or otherwise move) the transfer elements structured to a wavelength that is naturally optimal for energy transfer at select frequencies.
- This may be referred to as isomorphic planar resonance, and strategic distribution of element patterns may allow discrete selective transfer per element along and through a common plane.
- piezoelectric particles may be included in the elastic compound 120 and/or the supplemental material 125 .
- Piezoelectric particles in the second protrusions 140 may cause the second protrusions 140 to move relative to the wall 102 when appropriate radio frequencies are transmitted to the barrier product 100 (e.g., condom 100 ′′); and movement of the second protrusions 140 may create output forces on the first protrusions 130 , causing the first protrusions 130 to rotate and thereby add additional movement and sensation at both sides of the wall 102 .
- the elastic compound 120 need not include the reactive particles to achieve RF reactivity if the supplemental material 125 includes the reactive particles.
- Targeted radio frequencies can be propagated and therefore directly and/or indirectly conducted through electromagnetic waves, air, liquid, or solid surfaces.
- particles which react to chemical stimuli by moving may be included in the elastic compound 120 and/or the supplemental material 125 .
- These reactive particles in the second protrusions 140 may cause the second protrusions 140 to move relative to the wall 102 when exposed to the chemical stimuli; and movement of the second protrusions 140 may create output forces on the first protrusions 130 , causing the first protrusions 130 to rotate as well. This may provide a tactile indicator, for example, when an undesired chemical stimulus is encountered, or may add movement and sensation when a desired chemical stimulus is encountered. Due to the resonance transfer between the first and second protrusions 130 , 140 , the elastic compound 120 need not include the reactive particles to achieve reactivity if the supplemental material 125 includes the reactive particles.
Abstract
One method for creating barrier products (for example, condoms and gloves) includes: (a) dipping a former into a tank of elastic compound. The former has an indentation extending inwardly from an outer surface for creating a first protrusion on a first face of the barrier product. The method further includes: (b) removing the former from the tank of elastic compound, whereby some of the elastic compound removably adheres to the former and fills the indentation; (c) applying supplemental material to the elastic compound, whereby creating a second protrusion on a second face of the barrier product; and (d) fully drying the supplemental material. One barrier product includes an elastic wall having opposed faces, and first and second protrusions respectively extend from the opposed faces. The first and second protrusions are in cross-sectional alignment whereby rotational input forces on the first protrusion create rotational output forces on the second protrusion.
Description
- This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/604,384, filed May 24, 2017.
- Thin-walled elastic products (or “barrier products”) such as medical gloves and condoms are often constructed of latex or synthetic compounds such materials as polyurethane, polyisoprene, nitrile rubber, polyvinyl chloride, and neoprene. These products are often made by first creating a three-dimensional form (or “former”), generally constructed of ceramic or metal. The former is typically cleaned using various bleaching, rinsing, brushing, and drying processes, and is then dipped into a heated coagulant tank (e.g., consisting of calcium nitrate and calcium carbonate) to allow the latex or synthetic material to adhere—but not bind—to the former. The coagulant may be particularly necessary based on the material used for the former; for example, various latex and synthetic materials may not adhere directly to ceramics. The length of exposure in the coagulant tank may directly affect the wall thickness of the manufactured product. The dipped former is then heated, dipped into a tank of elastic (e.g., latex or synthetic) compound, and chilled. After or concurrent with being chilled, the former (with the latex or synthetic compound) may be dripped to ensure an even surface. After dripping, the former (again, with the latex or synthetic compound) may be cured in a dryer to further solidify. Proteins and other residuals may then be leached from the cured latex or synthetic material to lower the potential for an allergic reaction, and the finished product may be stripped from the former, tested to ensure compliance with product standards, and packaged.
- While such manufacturing methods and systems have proven to be generally effective in creating impenetrable barrier products, these products typically result in substantially decreased tactile stimulation. Prior efforts to overcome this problem have typically focused on decreasing the wall thickness of the barrier product.
- Embodiments of the current invention relate generally to thin-walled elastic products and systems and methods for making such products.
- The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. It is not intended to identify critical elements of the invention or to delineate the scope of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented elsewhere.
- According to one embodiment, a method is provided for creating a barrier product. The method includes the step: (a) dipping a former into a tank of elastic compound. The former has an outer surface and an indentation, and the indentation extends inwardly from the outer surface for creating a first protrusion on a first face of the barrier product. The method further includes the steps: (b) removing the former from the tank of elastic compound, whereby some of the elastic compound removably adheres to the former with a portion of the removably adhered elastic compound filling the indentation; (c) applying supplemental material to the elastic compound removably adhered to the former, whereby creating a second protrusion on a second face of the barrier product; and (d) fully drying the supplemental material.
- According to another embodiment, a method is provided for creating a barrier product. The method includes the step: (a) dipping a former into a tank of elastic compound. The former has an outer surface and an indentation, and the indentation extends inwardly from the outer surface for creating a first protrusion on a first face of the barrier product. The method further includes the steps: (b) removing the former from the tank of elastic compound, whereby some of the elastic compound removably adheres to the former with a portion of the removably adhered elastic compound filling the indentation; (c) producing a second protrusion on a second face of the barrier product; and (d) fully drying the elastic compound. Step (a) is performed before step (b), step (b) is performed before step (c), and step (c) is performed before step (d).
- According to still another embodiment, a barrier product includes an elastic wall having opposed first and second faces, a first protrusion extending from the first face, and a second protrusion extending from the second face. The first and second protrusions are in cross-sectional alignment whereby rotational input forces on the first protrusion create rotational output forces on the second protrusion. Barrier products according to the current invention include, for example, condoms and gloves.
-
FIGS. 1 through 5 are flowcharts illustrating methods for creating barrier products according to embodiments of the current invention. -
FIG. 6 is a front view of a former for creating a glove according to an embodiment of the current invention, shown with magnification. -
FIG. 7 is a front view of a former for creating a condom according to an embodiment of the current invention, shown with magnification. -
FIG. 8 is a front view of a glove according to an embodiment of the current invention. -
FIG. 9 is a front view of a condom according to an embodiment of the current invention. -
FIG. 10a is a perspective view of part of a barrier product according to an embodiment of the current invention. -
FIG. 10b is a section view taken fromFIG. 10 a. -
FIGS. 11a and 11b are front and rear views of part of a barrier product according to another embodiment of the current invention. -
FIG. 11c is a section view taken fromFIGS. 11a and 11 b. -
FIG. 12a is a section view of part of a barrier product according to still another embodiment of the current invention. -
FIG. 12b is a section view of part of a barrier product according to yet another embodiment of the current invention. -
FIGS. 1 through 12 b illustrate various methods and systems for manufacturing barrier products according to embodiments of the current invention, as well as barrier products according to embodiments of the current invention. -
FIG. 1 provides amethod 1 for creating barrier products 100 (e.g.,gloves 100′ andcondoms 100″, shown inFIGS. 8 and 9 ). Atstep 10, a three-dimensional former 110 is created having anouter surface 111 and at least oneindentation 115 extending inwardly from theouter surface 111. One former 110′, for creating aglove 100′, is illustrated inFIG. 6 ; another former 110″, for creating acondom 100″, is illustrated inFIG. 7 ; and still other types ofbarrier products 100 may be constructed usingdifferent formers 110. The former 110 may be constructed of ceramic, metal, glass, or any other appropriate material, and theindentations 115 may be generally cylindrical, or of any other desired shape (e.g., rings, waves, ovals, et cetera).FIGS. 6 and 7 show somecylindrical indentations 115 a and someindentations 115 b shaped as irregular waves. After the desired former 110 is obtained atstep 10, themethod 1 proceeds tostep 12. - At
step 12, the former 110 is cleaned. Debris on the former 110 may result in low-quality products, as is well understood. Cleaning is thus well known in the art, and may for example include various bleaching, rinsing, brushing, and drying processes (whether now existing or later developed). Themethod 1 continues fromstep 12 tostep 14. - At
step 14, the former 110 is dipped into a heated coagulant tank. It is well known in the art that various elastic compounds do not adhere to some materials which are often used to make formers, such as ceramics, and that coagulant materials may be used to allow elastic materials to adhere—but not bind—to a former. Calcium nitrate, calcium carbonate, and any other appropriate material (whether now existing or later developed) may be used in the coagulant tank. And, in some embodiments, step 14 may be omitted if the selected elastic compound appropriates adheres to the former 110 without coagulant material. Themethod 1 proceeds fromstep 14 to step 16. - At
step 16, the former 110 is dipped into a tank ofelastic compound 120. Theelastic compound 120 may be any appropriate natural or synthetic compound, whether now existing or later developed. Example elastic compounds include latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene, nitrile rubber, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, and neoprene. - After the former 110 is dipped at
step 16, the former 110 is removed from the elastic-compound tank atstep 18. Some of theelastic compound 120 removably adheres to the former 110 (via the coagulant material), and a portion of that removably adheredelastic compound 120 fills theindentation 115 to create afirst protrusion 130 on oneface 102 a of the barrier product 100 (i.e., onface 102 a of elastic wall 102). Of course manyfirst protrusions 130 may be created, matching the number ofindentations 115 in the former 110, and thefirst protrusions 130 will be shaped like theindentations 115. Cylindricalfirst protrusions 130 a are shown inFIGS. 10a and 10b , and an irregular wavefirst protrusion 130 b is shown inFIGS. 11b and 11 c.FIGS. 12a and 12b illustrate otherfirst protrusions 130 having different shapes.First protrusion 130 c having a cylindrical portion and a domed tip is shown inFIG. 12a , andfirst protrusion 130 d having a cylindrical portion and a conical tip is shown inFIG. 12 b. - After
step 18, at least onesecond protrusion 140 is produced on asecond face 102 b (FIGS. 10b, 11a, and 11c ) of the barrier product 100 (i.e., onface 102 b of the elastic wall 102). This is illustrated inFIG. 1 atstep 20. Production of thesecond protrusion 140 may be accomplished in various ways and may take various shapes (e.g., cylindrical, rings, waves, ovals, et cetera), as set forth in more detail below. In some embodiments, it may be particularly desirable for thesecond protrusion 140 to be in cross-sectional alignment with at least one of thefirst protrusions 130. For example,FIGS. 10a and 10b show cylindrical first andsecond protrusions FIGS. 11a through 11c show a wave-shapedfirst protrusion 130 and cylindricalsecond protrusions 140 in cross-sectional alignment. The terms “first” and “second” are merely used herein for convenience to discuss the protrusions on the opposed faces of thebarrier products 100. - The
method 1 is shown continuing fromstep 20 to step 30, where theelastic compound 120 is fully dried on the former 110. Whilesteps methods second protrusion 140 is produced. And even in themethod 1, step 30 may occur before, or as part of,step 20. Again, more information about producing thesecond protrusion 140 is provided below. - After the
elastic compound 120 is fully dried on the former 110 and the second protrusion is created, residuals are leached atstep 40. Thebarrier product 100 is then stripped from the former 110, tested, and packaged atsteps barrier product 100 packaged, themethod 1 ends. Leaching, stripping, testing, and packaging are well known in the art and remain generally consistent throughout the illustratedmethods -
FIGS. 2 through 5 illustrate morespecific methods barrier product 100, with each of themethods supplemental material 125 to create thesecond protrusion 140. Of course multiplesecond protrusions 140 may be created, as desired. In some embodiments, thesupplemental material 125 may be selected to be the same material as theelastic compound 120. In other embodiments, thesupplemental material 125 may differ, in whole or in part, from theelastic compound 120. It may be particularly desirable for thesecond protrusion 140 to permanently bond to theelastic wall 102, and for rotational input forces on thefirst protrusion 130 to create rotational output forces on thesecond protrusion 140—as this may enhance the resonance transfer to the user. Thus, in addition to forming and aligning theprotrusions materials 120, 125 (whether the same or different) may be selected to achieve these goals.Steps methods method 1. - In the
method 2, theelastic compound 120 on the former 110 is partly dried atstep 21, thesupplemental material 125 is partly dried atstep 22, and the partly-driedsupplemental material 125 is applied to the partly-driedelastic compound 120 on the former 110 to create thesecond protrusion 140 atstep 23. It may be particularly desirable for an applicator to be used which does not touch the partly-driedelastic compound 120 on the former 110. Appropriate applicators may project (e.g., spray), press, roll, or otherwise apply thesupplemental material 125 onto the partly-driedelastic compound 120 on the former 110 to create thesecond protrusion 140. By being partly dried before being applied, thesupplemental material 125 may be easily formed into and maintain its desired shape (e.g., cylindrical, cylindrical with a domed or conical tip, pyramidal, domed, conical, et cetera). Similarly, theelastic wall 102 may generally maintain its desired shape and thickness by being partly dried before receiving thesupplemental material 125. Nevertheless, in themethod 2, theelastic wall 102 and thesecond projection 140 are not fully dried (atsteps 24 and 25) until after thesupplemental material 125 is applied atstep 23, allowing theelastic wall 102 and thesecond projection 140 to meld together. If desired, theelastic wall 102 may be initially formed with an increased thickness to ensure a desired final thickness. For example, it may be desirable for theelastic wall 102 to have a final thickness of 3.5 mil to 14 mil for theglove 100′ or a thickness of 2 mil to 3 mil for thecondom 100″. Desirability of increasing the initial wall thickness in this way may depend, for example, on the amount of drying beforestep 23, the amount of force received by theelastic wall 102 duringstep 23, the materials selected for theelastic compound 120 and thesupplemental material 125, and the alignment of theprotrusions 130, 140 (cross-sectional alignment increases the amount ofelastic compound 120 adjacent the supplemental material 125). Moreover, an adhesive material may be applied to theelastic wall 102 and/or thesecond projection 140 before or duringstep 23. The addition of adhesive may also depend, for example, on the amount of drying beforestep 23, the amount of force received by theelastic wall 102 duringstep 23, and the materials selected for theelastic compound 120 and thesupplemental material 125. - Turning now to the method 3 (
FIG. 3 ), themethod 3 primarily differs from themethod 2 in the order ofstep 22. In themethod 3, thesupplemental material 125 is not partially dried (step 22) before being applied to theelastic wall 102 atstep 23—and is instead dried after being applied to theelastic wall 102 atstep 23. Applying thesupplemental material 125 in this way (before being partially dried) may for example be useful with somematerials wall 102 and thesecond protrusion 140. - Method 4 (
FIG. 4 ) primarily differs from themethod 2 in the order ofstep 24. In themethod 4, theelastic wall 102 is fully dried (step 24) before thesupplemental material 125 is applied atstep 23. Applying thesupplemental material 125 in this way (after theelastic compound 120 on the former 110 is fully dried) may for example be useful with somematerials elastic wall 102. - Method 5 (
FIG. 5 ) primarily differs from themethod 2 in the order ofstep 25. In themethod 5, thesupplemental material 125 is fully dried (step 25) before being applied to theelastic wall 102 atstep 23. Applying thesupplemental material 125 in this way (after being fully dried) may for example be useful with somematerials second protrusion 140. - In each of the
methods supplemental material 125 instep 23 in cross-sectional alignment with at least one of theindentations 115 such that the resulting first andsecond protrusions indentations 115 into computer memory and controlling the applicator to align with the mapped indentations, by sensing the indentations and controlling the applicator to align with the sensed indentations, or by mechanically tuning the applicator to the desired alignment. As noted above,FIGS. 10a and 10b show cylindrical first andsecond protrusions FIGS. 11a through 11c show a wave-shapedfirst protrusion 130 and cylindricalsecond protrusions 140 in cross-sectional alignment. And, as shown inFIGS. 10b and 11c , thesupplemental material 125 may be applied such that anaxis 141 or centerline of thesecond protrusion 140 is generally perpendicular to thesecond face 102 b. Nevertheless, thesupplemental material 125 may in other embodiments be applied instep 23 in cross-sectional misalignment with theformer indentations 115 to result inmisaligned protrusions misaligned protrusions protrusions - While the
methods supplemental material 125 to create thesecond protrusion 140, other embodiments may create the second protrusion 140 (step 20 in the method 1) through other processes. For example, some of theelastic compound 120 removably adhered to the former 110 may be drawn away from the former 110, such as by using suction, by spinning the former 110, or by including ferromagnetic particles in theelastic compound 120 and applying targeted magnetic fields (i.e., electromagnetically) to draw the desired amount and configuration of theelastic compound 120 away from the former 110. As another example, theelastic compound 120 removably adhered to the former 110 may be stamped to create theprotrusion 140. - And, while the methods discussed above refer to the former 110 being dipped into
elastic compound 120, some embodiments may utilize a sheet or particles ofelastic compound 120 being heat-shrunk to the former 110 to form thewall 102 and thefirst protrusions 130. Then thesecond protrusions 140 would be created using thesupplemental material 125 as described above. Utilizing this heat-shrink method may allow increased protrusion density as the material shrinks (or cures). Increased protrusion density may in some embodiments add sensory and control precision by increasing granularity resolution of motion transfer through thewall 102. This may be particularly beneficial as an improved form of conformal coating for electronic subsystems such as sensors, vibrating subsystems, biocompatibility for delicate integrated circuits that may be mounted on living surfaces or implanted within living creatures, and chemical compatibility to harsh environments for sensors and control actuators in applications such as robotic subsystems. - In use, the
barrier product 100 is worn by a user, for example with thesecond face 102 b (and thus the second protrusions 140) against the user's skin. As theface 102 a contacts an external surface, and especially in a non-perpendicular manner, thefirst protrusion 130 receives a rotational input force and in turn rotates, creating a rotational output force on thesecond protrusion 140 and enhancing the resonance transfer to the user. The user may thus sense the movement of thesecond protrusion 140, strengthening the tactile experience. To maximize the tactile experience, theprotrusions faces protrusions second protrusions 130, 140 (and the wall 102) with minimal losses. - As noted above, ferromagnetic particles may be dispersed in the
elastic compound 120 for manufacturing purposes. Yet even if not used for manufacturing purposes, it may be desirable in some embodiments to include ferromagnetic particles (e.g., polymerized fullerene chains and networks) in theelastic compound 120 and/or thesupplemental material 125. Ferromagnetic material in thesecond protrusions 140, for example, may cause thesecond protrusions 140 to move relative to thewall 102 when appropriate magnetic fields are induced near the barrier product 100 (e.g.,condom 100″); and movement of thesecond protrusions 140 may create output forces on thefirst protrusions 130, causing thefirst protrusions 130 to rotate and thereby add additional movement and sensation at both sides of thewall 102. Due to the resonance transfer between the first andsecond protrusions elastic compound 120 need not include the ferromagnetic particles to achieve magnetic reactivity if thesupplemental material 125 includes the ferromagnetic material. Said differently, in use, physical and/or electromagnetic waveforms may be transferred through (or along the surface of) a substrate utilizing matched or mating transfer elements (protrusions) to efficiently vibrate (or otherwise move) the transfer elements structured to a wavelength that is naturally optimal for energy transfer at select frequencies. This may be referred to as isomorphic planar resonance, and strategic distribution of element patterns may allow discrete selective transfer per element along and through a common plane. - Similarly, piezoelectric particles (or other reactive particles which move when exposed to targeted radio frequencies, whether in audible or inaudible wavelengths) may be included in the
elastic compound 120 and/or thesupplemental material 125. Piezoelectric particles in thesecond protrusions 140, for example, may cause thesecond protrusions 140 to move relative to thewall 102 when appropriate radio frequencies are transmitted to the barrier product 100 (e.g.,condom 100″); and movement of thesecond protrusions 140 may create output forces on thefirst protrusions 130, causing thefirst protrusions 130 to rotate and thereby add additional movement and sensation at both sides of thewall 102. Due to the resonance transfer between the first andsecond protrusions elastic compound 120 need not include the reactive particles to achieve RF reactivity if thesupplemental material 125 includes the reactive particles. Targeted radio frequencies can be propagated and therefore directly and/or indirectly conducted through electromagnetic waves, air, liquid, or solid surfaces. - In some embodiments, particles which react to chemical stimuli by moving may be included in the
elastic compound 120 and/or thesupplemental material 125. These reactive particles in thesecond protrusions 140, for example, may cause thesecond protrusions 140 to move relative to thewall 102 when exposed to the chemical stimuli; and movement of thesecond protrusions 140 may create output forces on thefirst protrusions 130, causing thefirst protrusions 130 to rotate as well. This may provide a tactile indicator, for example, when an undesired chemical stimulus is encountered, or may add movement and sensation when a desired chemical stimulus is encountered. Due to the resonance transfer between the first andsecond protrusions elastic compound 120 need not include the reactive particles to achieve reactivity if thesupplemental material 125 includes the reactive particles. - Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as well as components not shown, are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Embodiments of the present invention have been described with the intent to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art that do not depart from its scope. A skilled artisan may develop alternative means of implementing the aforementioned improvements without departing from the scope of the present invention. It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations and are contemplated within the scope of the claims. The specific configurations and contours set forth in the accompanying drawings are illustrative and not limiting. Some steps may be performed in different orders than described herein.
Claims (5)
1. A barrier product, comprising:
an elastic wall having opposed first and second faces;
a first protrusion extending from the first face; and
a second protrusion extending from the second face, the first and second protrusions being in cross-sectional alignment whereby rotational input forces on the first protrusion create rotational output forces on the second protrusion.
2. The barrier product of claim 1 , wherein the elastic wall includes at least one item selected from the group consisting of latex, polyurethane, polyisoprene, nitrile rubber, polyvinyl chloride, silicone, and neoprene.
3. The barrier product of claim 2 , wherein the composition of the first protrusion and the second protrusion is the same as the composition of the elastic wall.
4. The barrier product of claim 1 , wherein at least part of the second protrusion is cylindrical.
5. The barrier product of claim 1 , wherein the barrier product is a condom.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/954,257 US20180339435A1 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2018-04-16 | Thin-Walled Elastic Products and Methods and Systems for Manufacturing Same |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US15/604,384 US9943995B1 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2017-05-24 | Thin-walled elastic products and methods and systems for manufacturing same |
US15/954,257 US20180339435A1 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2018-04-16 | Thin-Walled Elastic Products and Methods and Systems for Manufacturing Same |
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US15/604,384 Division US9943995B1 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2017-05-24 | Thin-walled elastic products and methods and systems for manufacturing same |
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US20180339435A1 true US20180339435A1 (en) | 2018-11-29 |
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US15/604,384 Expired - Fee Related US9943995B1 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2017-05-24 | Thin-walled elastic products and methods and systems for manufacturing same |
US15/954,257 Abandoned US20180339435A1 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2018-04-16 | Thin-Walled Elastic Products and Methods and Systems for Manufacturing Same |
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US15/604,384 Expired - Fee Related US9943995B1 (en) | 2017-05-24 | 2017-05-24 | Thin-walled elastic products and methods and systems for manufacturing same |
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EP (1) | EP3406410A1 (en) |
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GB9702019D0 (en) * | 1997-01-31 | 1997-03-19 | Lrc Products | Condom |
US6875391B2 (en) * | 2002-06-03 | 2005-04-05 | Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc. | Method of making a glove having improved donning characteristics |
US9492953B2 (en) * | 2005-12-06 | 2016-11-15 | North Safety Products, Inc. | Method for making elongate glove, such as nitrile glove for glove box, on porcelain mold |
US20070254106A1 (en) * | 2006-04-26 | 2007-11-01 | Olson Barry D | Novel aesthetics in surfaces employing deformation and magnetic means |
GB2438930B (en) * | 2006-06-07 | 2011-04-13 | C K Europ Ltd | Apparatus and method for manufacturing a glove containing electro-magnetically detectable particles |
GB201012692D0 (en) * | 2010-07-29 | 2010-09-15 | Bm Polyco Ltd | Forensic glove |
AU2011305248A1 (en) * | 2010-09-23 | 2013-01-24 | Ansell Limited | Stimulating condom |
US8679279B2 (en) * | 2010-11-16 | 2014-03-25 | Allergan, Inc. | Methods for creating foam-like texture |
US20130152943A1 (en) * | 2011-12-19 | 2013-06-20 | Ansell Limited | Condom having a raised contoured surface and method and apparatus for manufacturing |
EP2869799A4 (en) * | 2012-07-03 | 2016-05-11 | Ansell Ltd | Textured condom |
AU2013332249B2 (en) * | 2012-10-18 | 2017-04-13 | Lifestyles Healthcare Pte. Ltd. | Polymeric articles comprising a decoration and method of manufacturing |
WO2015148661A1 (en) * | 2014-03-25 | 2015-10-01 | Varanasi Kripa K | Spray processes and methods for forming liquid-impregnated surfaces |
US20150320586A1 (en) * | 2014-05-07 | 2015-11-12 | Ansell Limited | Condom having a foam tip |
US10154699B2 (en) * | 2015-09-10 | 2018-12-18 | Ansell Limited | Highly chemical resistant glove |
-
2017
- 2017-05-24 US US15/604,384 patent/US9943995B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2018
- 2018-04-12 CA CA3001220A patent/CA3001220C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2018-04-16 US US15/954,257 patent/US20180339435A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2018-05-18 EP EP18173160.5A patent/EP3406410A1/en not_active Withdrawn
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US4852586A (en) * | 1988-02-26 | 1989-08-01 | Haines Bernard M | Sensory transmitting membrane device |
US4977903A (en) * | 1989-09-19 | 1990-12-18 | Jerome F. Schweich | Sensory transmitting membrane device |
US5855206A (en) * | 1993-06-16 | 1999-01-05 | Ireland; Jud | Loose prophylactic sack device having improved closure |
US6569083B1 (en) * | 1996-10-03 | 2003-05-27 | Leon B. Kassman | Male, hermaphroditic, and female condoms exerting lateral pressure on the penis and the vagina |
US8856967B2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-10-14 | Summit Glove Inc. | Glove with improved finger areas |
Also Published As
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EP3406410A1 (en) | 2018-11-28 |
CA3001220A1 (en) | 2018-07-17 |
CA3001220C (en) | 2019-02-26 |
US9943995B1 (en) | 2018-04-17 |
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