Polymeric gloves having embedded surgical support systems and discrete elements

Abstract

A proximity switch system that includes a self-contained power consuming device and a power source in electrical communication with the power consuming element across a magnetic proximity switch is disclosed. The proximity switch system includes an external magnet removably coupled to the magnetic proximity switch. A method of storing and / or transporting a proximity switch system is also disclosed. The method includes providing the proximity switch system and removably coupling an external magnet to the magnetic proximity switch in a position to prevent the magnetic proximity switch from inadvertently switching on.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 151,151, filed May 10, 2016, which claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 331,203, filed May 3, 2016, and the '151 application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 988,464, filed Jan. 5, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 626,771, filed Sep. 25, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,241,764, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 539,350, filed Sep. 26, 2011, the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention is directed generally to a method of manufacturing surgical gloves including integral surgical systems for use by a surgeon during surgery.BACKGROUND[0003]U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,931,648, 7,951,145 and 8,182,479 to Schneider (“Schneider patents”) disclosed surgical systems that include a glove with multiple surgical support sys...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a way to store and transport a magnetic proximity switch system. It includes a device that consumes power and has a switch that can be accidentally activated. To prevent this, an external magnet is attached to the switch to keep it closed. The device can be shipped to a remote location. The technical effect of this is that it provides a safer and more reliable way to control the operation of a magnetic proximity switch system.

Problems solved by technology

However, these techniques are not sufficient for manufacturing the multi-functional surgical gloves described in the Schneider patents, as they do not allow for the integral inclusion of embedded surgical support systems or other elements at the time of glove formation.

Adapting commercial products to include surgical support systems would require post-formation processes that would not be cost effective and could compromise the gloves barrier properties.

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