Multi-Layer Latex Glove Structure for Reliable Breach Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing gloves with a breach-indicator function are complex, expensive, and potentially harmful, and they fail to provide a reliable and cost-effective way to separate latex layers while ensuring durability and safety.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the use of chemically functionalized silica particles with hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups to separate and anchor latex layers, creating a durable and cost-effective glove with a breach-indicator function.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple dipping processes are used to create separate layers for breach indication, then the breach-indicator function is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediate layer containing particles (such as gentian violet, zinc stearate, or other safe substances) as a mediator between the inner and outer latex layers. This intermediate layer enables the breach-indicator function by providing visual indication when the outer layer is compromised, while being integrated into a single-dipping manufacturing process rather than requiring multiple separate dipping steps
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the breach-indicator function with the glove structure itself by integrating the indicator particles into an intermediate layer that is formed during the same dipping process as the latex layers. This merging eliminates the need for separate manufacturing steps and integrates the safety function directly into the glove construction
2Stability of the object's composition
If harmful substances like gentian violet or zinc stearate are used in the intermediate layer, then layer separation is achieved, but health safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable indicator particles in the intermediate layer that are designed to be safe for contact with skin and bodily fluids. These particles (such as colored pigments or safe coatings) provide the necessary layer separation and breach indication functionality without posing health risks, replacing harmful substances like gentian violet with safer alternatives
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the potential harm of using indicator substances into a benefit by selecting particles and coatings that are inherently safe for medical use. The intermediate layer substances, while necessary for layer separation and breach indication, are specifically chosen to be non-toxic and safe for contact with patients and healthcare workers, turning a potential hazard into a safe functional component
3Reliability
If two gloves are worn one above the other to increase safety, then breach detection is improved, but slippage and sagging occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single glove structure into multiple functional layers (inner latex layer, intermediate layer with particles, outer latex layer) that are integrated into one cohesive unit. This segmentation provides the breach-detection functionality of double-gloving while maintaining the structural integrity and grip stability of a single glove, eliminating slippage and sagging issues
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite glove structure where the intermediate layer containing particles is integrated between two latex layers. This composite construction combines the protective and functional benefits of multiple layers while maintaining the mechanical properties of a single glove, preventing the slippage and sagging that occur when wearing two separate gloves
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method produces gloves with a reliable breach-indicator function, ensuring separation of latex layers, enhancing durability and safety, while being cost-effective and avoiding health risks from harmful substances.
Implementation Method 1
The particles are chemically functionalized with a compound comprising hydrophobic groups
Implementation Method 2
chemically functionalized particles with hydrophobic and hydrophilic groups
Implementation Method 3
The particles are chemically functionalized with a compound comprising hydrophobic groups
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a multi-layered latex cover, particularly a glove, comprising a main body and a rim. The main body comprises an outer latex layer, an inner latex layer and an intermediate layer comprising particles. The rim essentially consists of the agglutinated outer and inner latex layer. The particles in the intermediate layer are chemically functionalized with a compound comprising hydrophobic groups. Prior to functionalization, the particles are characterized by a mean diameter of ≤100 μm and a surface comprising exposed OH groups. The invention further relates to a method of producing the multi-layered cover, comprising the steps of providing a former and sequentially immersing it in a first coagulator solution, a first latex dispersion, a particle suspension and a second latex dispersion.