U.S. patent application number 11/696692 was filed with the patent office on 2008-04-03 for applicator for distributing a substance onto a target surface.
Invention is credited to Debra Reed.
Application Number | 20080078046 11/696692 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39259741 |
Filed Date | 2008-04-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080078046 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Reed; Debra |
April 3, 2008 |
APPLICATOR FOR DISTRIBUTING A SUBSTANCE ONTO A TARGET SURFACE
Abstract
A mitt applicator, such as a mitt, for distributing a substance
onto a target surface in the preferred form of a mitt. The mitt is
composed of two panels, each panel consisting of at least one
layer. The mitt's panels are in face-to-face contact with each
other. At least one panel is configured to form an external pocket
to be used as a product-dispensing reservoir. The inner layer of
each panel can form the inside layer of the mitt and can be
impervious to liquid or gel substances in order to protect the
user's hand. The outer layer of the two panels can be made from
materials with different properties. Also included, is a method for
construction and method for using the above applicator.
Additionally, a mitt with an optional reservoir is disclosed with a
radial end shape and an elongated body to protect the user against
substances applied to said mitt.
Inventors: |
Reed; Debra; (Chehalis,
WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Merchant & Gould PC
PO Box 2903
Minneapolis
MN
55402
US
|
Family ID: |
39259741 |
Appl. No.: |
11/696692 |
Filed: |
April 4, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60827844 |
Oct 2, 2006 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/227 ;
2/16 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A41D 19/015 20130101;
A47L 13/19 20130101; A41D 2600/20 20130101; A41D 19/01
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/227 ;
2/16 |
International
Class: |
A47K 7/03 20060101
A47K007/03; A41D 13/08 20060101 A41D013/08 |
Claims
1. A mitt applicator for distributing a substance onto a target
surface, said applicator comprising: a. a substantially planar
applicator body having two panels of material, each composed of at
least one layer of material, in which the panels are disposed in a
generally opposing manner about a central plane and are joined as
to define a single cavity between the panels of sufficient shape
and size to accommodate either a right human hand or left human
hand or two human hands simultaneously; and b. a reservoir formed
in at least one of the panels to receive substances to be
distributed.
2. The applicator of claim 1, wherein said panels each have one or
more layers and at least one layer of both panels is comprised of a
substantially impervious material to protect said human hand
against substances applied to said mitt.
3. The applicator of claim 1, wherein said body extends at least
past the midpoint of a user's forearm, a. whereby the body aids in
securing the applicator to the user and protecting the user.
4. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the end distal of the body
further comprises a radial shape to accommodate the shape of the
user's hand when the user's fingers are spaced fully apart.
5. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the outer most layer of one
of the panels is comprised of a different material than the outer
most layer of material of the other panel.
6. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the mitt uses a method of
labeling such as color coding to determine what substances the mitt
is designed for or has been in contact with.
7. The applicator of claim 1, wherein said layer of material can be
comprised of different pieces of material.
8. The applicator of claim 1, wherein said cavity is open for
insertion of said human hand and has a means to aid in retention of
the said applicator.
9. The applicator of claim 8, wherein the means of retention is an
elastic cuff.
10. The applicator of claim 1, wherein a mitt liner is configured
to fit into the cavity of the mitt said mitt liner having a
substantially planar body having two liner panels of material, each
composed of at least one layer of material, in which the liner
panels are disposed in a generally opposing manner about a central
plane and are joined as to define a single liner cavity between the
panels of sufficient shape and size to accommodate either a right
or left human hand or two human hands simultaneously.
11. The applicator of claim 10, wherein the mitt liner is made from
vinyl.
12. The applicator of claim 10, wherein the mitt liner has an
elastic cuff to aid in retention of the applicator.
13. A mitt applicator for distributing a substance onto a target
surface, said applicator comprising: a. a substantially planar
applicator body having two panels of material, each composed of at
least one layer of material, in which the panels are disposed in a
generally opposing manner about a central plane and are joined as
to define a single cavity between the panels of sufficient shape
and size to accommodate either a right or left human hand or two
human hands simultaneously; b. said body extending at least past
the midpoint of a user's forearm, i. whereby the body aids in
securing the applicator to the user and protecting the user; and c.
the distal end of said body having a radial shape to accommodate
the shape of the user's hand when the user's fingers are spaced
fully apart.
14. The applicator of claim 13, wherein said cavity is open for
insertion of said human hand and has a means to aid in retention of
the said applicator.
15. The applicator of claim 14, wherein the means of retention is
at least one elastic cuff.
16. The applicator of claim 13, wherein the mitt has a plurality of
elastic cuffs configured to aid in retention to the user.
17. The applicator of claim 13, wherein the said panels have at
least one layer comprised of a substantially impervious material to
protect said human hand against substances applied to said
mitt.
18. The applicator of claim 13, wherein a reservoir is formed in at
least one of the panels to receive substances to be
distributed.
19. The applicator of claim 13, wherein the outer most layer of one
of the panels is comprised of a different of material than the
outer most layer of material of the other panel.
20. The applicator of claim 13, wherein the mitt uses a method of
labeling such as color coding to determine what substances the mitt
is designed for or has been in contact with.
21. The applicator of claim 13, wherein said layer is comprised of
different pieces of material whereby the material form a single
layer.
22. The applicator of claim 13, wherein a mitt liner can be
inserted, said mitt liner configured to fit into the cavity of the
mitt said mitt liner having a substantially planar body having two
liner panels of material, each composed of at least one layer of
material, in which the liner panels are disposed in a generally
opposing manner about a central plane and are joined as to define a
single liner cavity between the panels of sufficient shape and size
to accommodate either a right or left human hand or two human hands
simultaneously.
23. The applicator of claim 22, wherein the mitt liner is made from
vinyl.
24. The applicator of claim 22, wherein the mitt liner has at least
one elastic cuff to aid in retention of the applicator.
25. A method of making an applicator mitt comprising the steps of:
a. providing a front panel and a back panel, each composed of at
least one layer generally opposed about a central plane; b.
providing a pocket from one or both of the said front panel or said
back panel to form a reservoir; c. cutting said front panel and
said back panel into a desired shape to define said applicator; and
d. joining said front panel and said back panel near their
periphery so as to define said single cavity there between of
sufficient shape and size to accommodate a right human hand or left
human hand or two human hands simultaneously.
26. The method of claim 25, wherein a method of retention is
attached at the opening of said cavity to aid in retention of the
said applicator.
27. The method of claim 25, wherein a labeling system such as color
coding to determine what substances the mitt is designed for or has
been in contact with is indicated on said mitt.
28. The applicator of claim 25, wherein said layer of material can
be comprised of different pieces of material.
29. A method of applying a liquid or gel to a surface using a mitt
applicator comprising the steps of: a. inserting at least one human
hand in a mitt applicator such as a mitt; b. dipping said
applicator in a liquid or gel or using a similar delivery method
which fills a reservoir on the mitt; c. rubbing the coated surfaces
of said applicator to the target surface; d. using uncoated
surfaces of said applicator to apply another liquid or gel or to
polish or dry the target surface; and e. turning the mitt inside
out for disposal.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein said dipping comprises filling
a pocket on said applicator with said liquid or gel using said palm
of a human hand.
31. A method of providing treatment to a patient and disposing of
the mitt, by a caregiver using a mitt applicator comprising the
steps of: a. inserting at least one human hand into the mitt
applicator such as a mitt; b. dipping said applicator in a liquid
or gel which fills a reservoir on the mitt; c. filling a pocket on
said applicator with said liquid or gel using said palm of a human
hand; d. rubbing said mitt on the patient's wound, thereby treating
the patient; e. using uncoated surfaces of said applicator to apply
another liquid or gel or to dry the patient; f. removing the one
hand of the caregiver while the mitt maintains contact with the
patient's wound; and g. turning the mitt inside out for disposal.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/827,844, entitled "APPLICATOR FOR DISTRIBUTING A
SUBSTANCE ONTO A TARGET SURFACE," filed Oct. 2, 2006.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention relates generally to liquid or gel
application equipment. More specifically, it relates to implements
for applying a liquid or gel to a target surface.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] In the art of distributing substances to target surfaces,
hand held articles have been developed that apply substances such
as paint directly to a target surface. These include articles such
as brushes and rollers. These common approaches involve dispensing
the substance from a bucket or other vessel onto the target
surface, then utilizing a rag, sponge, towel, brush, or other
implement to distribute the product on a target surface.
[0004] However, the use of such articles to manually apply a
substance to a surface of an object frequently results in exposure
of the users hands to potentially harmful, toxic, or otherwise
undesirable substances.
[0005] These common approaches are also not ideally suited for
applying substances to curved or discontinuous surfaces requiring
protection of the user's hand. In addition, the prior devices are
inadequate to cover difficult to reach areas. Moreover, these
common approaches frequently require multiple devices to perform
complementary tasks such as cleaning, polishing, drying, coloring,
and/or buffing surfaces. Such a combination of benefits is lacking
in present day application systems.
[0006] Various attempts have been made to create an applicator for
applying a substance to a target surface. For instance, U.S. Pat.
No. 3,883,897, issued to Lefkowitz, discloses a glove to apply
substances. However, use of this device does not provide multiple
surfaces to dry or polish the surface after application of the
substance. Specifically, the user would need a separate device to
dry or polish the surface after the substance has been applied.
Moreover, the relatively complex tube distribution system would
male this device relatively expensive to produce. This device also
does not seem to protect a user's forearm and does not have an
optimal shape for applying substances to a target surface.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 6,145,155, issued to James, discloses a mitt
with pads to absorb substances. However, the amount of substance
this device can apply is limited to the absorption qualities of the
pads. This would be limiting when using substances such as very
thick paint that is not easily absorbed. This device also does not
seem to protect a user's forearm and does not have an optimal shape
for applying substances to a target surface.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,961, issued to Lafosse-Marin, discloses
a mitt with a reservoir to dispense substances. However, the
reservoir is limited to the substance contained in the "sealed,
fully-enclosed reservoir" that ruptures upon application and the
absorption qualities of the material used to construct the device.
This device also does not seem to protect a user's forearm and does
not have an optimal shape for applying substances to a target
surface.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,008,969, issued to Jarrett discloses a
multi-layered cloth mitten for wiping surfaces. However, the amount
of substance this device can apply to a target surface is limited
to the absorption qualities of the material used. This device also
does not seem to protect a user's forearm and does not have an
optimal shape for applying substances to a target surface.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 6,192,543 B1, issued to Lee discloses a mitt
with a mild cleaning surface and a more abrasive cleaning surface.
However, the amount of substance this device can apply to a target
surface is limited to the absorption qualities of the material
used. This device also does not seem to protect a user's forearm
and does not have an optimal shape for applying substances to a
target surface.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 5,732,716 issued to Utecht discloses a
personal protection apparatus that is used for placing over the
hands of the user to provide medical treatment while protecting the
user from infectious disease, bacteria, microorganisms, viruses,
spores and other hazardous contaminants. However, the amount of
substance this device can apply to a target surface is limited to
the absorption qualities of the material used. This device also
does not seem to protect a user's forearm and does not have an
optimal shape for applying substances to a target surface.
[0012] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an applicator
for applying variable amounts of substance to an irregularly shaped
target surface. It would also be desirable to provide such an
applicator that permits the user to apply a substance to a target
surface, and also to dry or polish the surface with the same
applicator. Additionally, it would be desirable to provide such an
applicator that has a cost low enough that it would be disposable
to enable easy clean up. Finally, it would be desirable to have an
applicator in a shape that promotes the efficient use of a user's
hand to apply substances to a target surface. Moreover, it would be
desirable to have an applicator that provides protection to more
body parts than the user's hand.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] A mitt applicator is provided for the distribution of a
substance onto a target surface. The applicator comprises a
substantially planar applicator body having a front panel and back
panel joined near their periphery as to define a cavity for either
a right or left human hand. Each panel can be composed of multiple
layers. A reservoir for variable amounts of substances is formed by
a pocket formed by at least one of the panels.
[0014] The outer most layer of the mitt is composed of the outer
most layer of both the front panel and back panel. Each panel of
this outer layer can be composed of different materials, which
would give added functionality to the mitt. If desired, the mitt
can have a single layer or multiple layers. The inner most layer of
the mitt is composed of the inner most layer of both the front
panel and back panel. These inner panels can be composed of the
same material. This inner layer of the mitt forms the inside of the
mitt. The inner layer can be impervious to liquid or gel substances
in order to protect the user's hand.
[0015] A method for making the above applicator is provided by
first, creating the front and back panels. In the preferred
embodiment, each panel is created by layering at least two sheets
of the desired material together. In other embodiments, a single
sheet or multiple sheets can be used to create each panel. Second,
a dimple can be formed from the outer layer, which serves as a
reservoir. Alternatively the reservoir can be enhanced by adding a
piece of semi-rigid plastic or other similar material to form a
pocket. Moreover, multiple layers can have dimples to form a
reservoir. Third, the front and back panels are disposed in a
generally opposing manner and the panels are cut into the desired
shape. Finally, the front and back panels are joined near their
periphery so as to define a single cavity there between of
sufficient shape and size to accommodate either a right or left
human hand. The resulting mitt is then turned inside out and in
order to hide the seam and the mitt is then ready for use.
[0016] A method for applying a liquid or gel to a target surface
using the above applicator is provided. Specifically, the user's
palm scoops the liquid or gel using the applicator's reservoir. The
user then directly applies the liquid or gel onto the target
surface. The user may also use uncoated surfaces of the mitt to
clean, polish or dry the target surface before or after the liquid
or gel is applied.
[0017] Another disclosure is a method for applying a liquid or gel
to a patient by a caregiver using the above applicator. The
applicator would be dipped in a liquid or gel and then rub the
patient with the mitt. The caregiver would be able to remove her
hand from the mitt while keeping pressure on the patient. This
would be accomplished by inserting her other hand into the mitt or
another caregiver would be able to insert her hand into the
mitt.
[0018] Also disclosed is a mitt that has a radial shape on the
mitt's distal end to accommodate the user's hand. This radial shape
at the distal end is designed to fit the shape of a user's hand
when the user spreads her fingers apart to the maximum extent. This
provides a mitt that is efficient in applying or wiping substances
on a target surface. Yet another disclosure is a mitt that has an
elongated body that extends at least to the midpoint of a user's
forearm. This elongated body provides protection for more than just
the user's hand and wrist.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the top of a preferred embodiment,
in the form of a mitt.
[0020] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the bottom of a preferred
embodiment, in the form of a mitt.
[0021] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment,
which is a view of FIG. 2 about the line a-a. Line b-b illustrates
the front panel 48 and back panel 44 about that line.
[0022] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment, in
the form of a mitt.
[0023] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the preferred embodiment, in
the form of a mitt rubbing against a surface.
[0024] FIG. 6 is a side view of the preferred embodiment, which is
a view of FIG. 2 about line a-a.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0025] The industrial applicability of this patent may be to paint
fences.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0026] As used herein, the term "mitt" refers to a covering for the
user's hand and arm up to at least the midpoint of the user's
forearm. As used herein, the term "absorb" refers to the
penetration of one substance into the mass of another. ASTM
standard test method D2654-89a "Standard Test Methods for Moisture
in Textiles," should be used to determine the percentage of a
liquid, such as water, absorbed and retained. An absorbent material
for the purposes of the present invention has a moisture regain
according to the ASTM standard test method D2654-89a of greater
than about 5% (e.g., a cellulose acetate fiber having a moisture
regain of about 6.5%). A non-absorbent fiber for the purposes of
the present invention, however, has a moisture regain of less than
about 5% (e.g., a polyester fiber having a moisture regain of about
4%). As used herein the term "substantially non-absorbent" is
defined as a material composed of a majority of non-absorbent
fibers or webs. As used herein the term "substantially absorbent"
is defined as a material composed of a majority of absorbent fibers
or webs.
[0027] Referring now to the drawings, the invention will be
described in a preferred embodiment by reference to the numbers of
the drawing figures wherein like numbers indicate like parts.
Applicator Construction and Operation
[0028] A representative embodiment of a mitt applicator of the
present invention in the form of a hand article is the disposable
mitt 20 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a top plan view of the mitt in
its flat-out state illustrating the cuff 24.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view of the mitt in its flat-out
state. FIG. 2 illustrates the seam 32, the reservoir 28 and the
cuff 24. Mitt 20 has an internal cavity for the user that is
accessible through an opening in the cuff portion and that extends
inwardly toward the end of mitt 20 that is sealed.
[0030] FIG. 3 shows the construction details of an embodiment of
mitt 20, more specifically via a view taken along line a-a. FIG. 3
shows mitt 20 with the front and back panels already connected. The
front panel 48 and back panel 44 are connected about line b-b which
is seam 32. FIG. 3. also shows that front panel 48 and back panel
44 are connected together to define a cavity into which a hand may
be inserted through an opening in cuff 24. These panels consist of
at least one layer of material, but in this embodiment, there are
two layers of material that compose each panel. When the panels are
joined on seam 32, reference to the outer layer of the mitt will be
outer layer 40. Outer layer 40 will refer to the outer layer on
both front panel 48 and back panel 44. Also, when the panels are
joined on seam 32, reference to the inner layer of the mitt will be
inner layer 36. Inner layer 36 will likewise refer to the inner
layers of both the front panel 48 and the back panel 44.
[0031] Outer most panel 37 will refer to the outer most layer of
front panel 48 and outer most panel 38 will refer to the outer most
layer of the back panel 44. These two panels can be made of
different material to suite the nature of the desired use.
[0032] Each layer can also be made from different pieces of fabric
joined together to form a panel. For instance, outer most panel 37
would be formed from one piece of material that is smooth and
another that is rough. These materials would be joined and would
form a single panel so that the surface of front panel 48 has both
a smooth and rough surface.
[0033] FIG. 3 also illustrates Reservoir 28, which is also
illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4 and FIG. 6. Reservoir 28 is formed
by creating a pocket with extra material from at least one of the
panels so the user can scoop variable amounts of liquids or gels
with her palm. This pocket can be formed by leaving excess material
in the desired position of the dimple before the sheets are cut.
Specifically, in this embodiment, outer layer 36 and inner layer 40
or whatever number of layers is decided to be appropriate, can be
pinched in the desired position of the reservoir, thus an excess
amount of material would be available to form a pocket once the
layers are cut and joined. Besides pinching the material, this
pocket may be formed in any other way known to those skilled in the
art. Additionally, the reservoir's shape can be enhanced by
insertion of a rigid or semi-rigid piece of material such as a
plastic cup shaped to conform to the user's palm. Once the dimple
is formed, the layers are then cut into the desired shape. Back
panel 44 and front panel 48 are then connected along their
periphery on seam 32. This connection can be done by stitching or
other bonding methods. Back panel 44 is created in a similar manner
and can also include a reservoir.
[0034] An alternate method of forming the reservoir may be to use
materials that may be molded or otherwise changes shape when heat
is applied to them. Specifically, the layer may be made of a heat
moldable material and cut and bonded together. Then heat may be
applied to the area the reservoir is desired in and then shaped
appropriately.
[0035] An elastic cuff 24 may be attached to the mitt to help
increase retention to the user's hand. In addition, other adhesives
or other mechanical fastener tapes, such as a hook and loop system
can be used to secure the mitt 20 to the user's hand. Also, elastic
or fasteners can be attached to different points of the mitt to aid
in retention about a wearer's hand and/or wrist and/or forearm. For
instance a mitt that extends to the midpoint of a user's forearm
and has an elastic cuff at the wrist and at the midpoint of the
user's forearm. Once the retention mechanism is attached, the mitt
is turned inside out in order to hide the seam and the mitt is
ready for use.
[0036] In use, a user of the mitt 20 inserts a hand into the hollow
interior through the provided opening at cuff 24 wherein back panel
44 covers the back of the user's hand and front panel 48 covers the
user's palm. As the construction of the mitt 20 is more generic
than a glove with defined anatomically conforming geometry, the
mitt may be used with either hand. The mitt may even be constructed
so that two hands may be inserted in order for the user to apply
additional pressure to the target surface. Additionally, an added
benefit from this generic design is that the user can reverse the
mitt without taking the mitt off of her hand. Specifically, back
panel 44 would now cover the user's palm while front panel 48 would
cover the back of the user's hand. This would be advantageous when
the front and back panels are made from different materials which
would enable the mitt to accomplish different tasks while remaining
on user's predominate hand.
[0037] The mitt can have a radial shape at the distal end. This
radial shape provides a shape to accommodate the user's hand when
the user's fingers are spread apart. This provides a large surface
area for applying substances to the target surface. However, any
shape can be used that is known to those skilled in the art.
[0038] Also, the mitt can also have an elongated body. In one
embodiment, the body extends to at least the midpoint of the user's
elbow. This would protect a large part of the user's forearm from
substances and not just her hand and wrist. In one embodiment,
elastic cuffs are be provided at different areas of the body to
secure the mitt to the user's hand, wrist and forearm. For
instance, one cuff may be placed at the opening of the cavity which
would contact the user's forearm, and another may be placed at the
user's wrist to enhance the mitt's retention to the user.
[0039] One use for the mitt is painting an irregular surface like a
chain link fence or a fence composed of round fence posts with
checkered surfaces. Once the user puts the mitt on by inserting one
or both of her hands in the mitt, the user would insert the mitt in
a bucket of paint. As the user pulls her hand out of the paint, she
uses her palm to form a scoop. This scoop shape of the user's hand
would conform to the reservoir 28 and would allow a relatively
large amount of paint to be held by the mitt. Alternately, instead
of a bucket, a squirt bottle or other delivery system can be used
to deliver the paint to the reservoir. Once the reservoir has the
desired amount of paint, the user would then rub it directly to the
target surface. The mitt's flexible construction and relatively
large amount of paint that could be carried by the reservoir would
enable the user to paint irregularly shaped surfaces efficiently as
illustrated in FIG. 5. Once the mitt has touched the target
surface, the user then uses her hand to rub the paint in the
desired manner. This method of application has several advantages
over traditional application methods such as a brush. For instance,
since the mitt is made from flexible materials, the user's hand can
apply pressure so the mitt conforms to the irregularly shaped
target surface. In turn, the irregularly shaped target surface is
then coated in the desired manner with the paint. This method of
application can also deliver more paint to a target surface then
traditional methods via use of the reservoir. Moreover, the
application method is intuitive as the user uses her hands to apply
the paint instead of a traditional roller or brush. This would make
application of paint to an irregularly shaped surface more
efficient for a novice user. Additionally, the mitt provides
protection to at least the user's hand and forearm from the
potentially harmful paint that is being applied. Additionally, in
another embodiment, the distal end of the mitt has a radial shape
which maximizes the surface area a user can apply the paint to. For
instance, the radial shape accommodates a user's hand when the user
spreads her fingers out to the maximum extent. This maximizes the
surface area that the user would be able to apply pressure to and
create a more efficient surface in which the user can apply
paint.
[0040] The mitt also facilitates clean and easy disposal of itself.
Specifically, at the end of its use, the mitt can be inverted by
making a fist with the mitt-hand, pulling the mitt over the fist
from the cuff 24 of the mitt 20. Thus the layers are transposed,
and the inner surface of the front panel 48 and the inner surface
of the back panel 44 become the outer surfaces of the now waste
article. More simply stated, the mitt is turned inside out after
its use and then thrown away. That is, the wearer makes a fist, and
with his or her other hand, grasps a point on the cuff region and
carefully pulls the fisted hand toward the open mouth of the mitt,
until the entire end of the mitt is pulled through the cuff. Unlike
traditional paint application methods in which the applicator
requires cleaning, the mitt in this embodiment is can be used once,
and then disposed of in a clean and fast method.
[0041] A mitt applicator of the present invention may be
constructed for many different uses. One such use is to apply gels
or liquids to irregularly shaped surfaces where conventional
applicators like rollers are ineffective. As an added result of the
present invention, the applicator provides convenience not only
because it may coat multiple irregularly shaped surfaces with
liquids or gels, but it can also perform complementary tasks such
as cleaning, polishing, drying, coloring, and/or buffing surfaces.
These additional functions are accomplished by using uncoated
surfaces of the mitt such as the side opposite the reservoir. This
functionality is enabled by the mitt's ability to be worn by the
user's predominant hand with either the front panel or back panel
being exposed to the target surface. Specifically, the mitt is
constructed so that unlike a glove, which requires the user to wear
it on either a left or right hand, the mitt has no limitations on
which hand it can be worn on. Moreover, once one side of the mitt
is soiled, the mitt can be flipped over without removing one's hand
from the mitt so that the opposite can be used for another task.
Being able to flip the mitt over in this manner enhances the
cleanliness of use and reduces the number of implements needed for
a particular task. Another advantage of being able to flip the mitt
over, is that the front and back panels could be made from
different material. For instance, the outer most panel 37 could be
made from material specially adapted to spread the liquid or gel
and the outer most panel 38 would be made from material specially
adapted to absorb excess liquid or gel.
[0042] Another advantage of the present invention is that it can be
stored individually, or placed and stacked in containers, folded or
unfolded. As such, they occupy little space and can be stored in
small areas, which improves convenience for the users. Such a
combination of benefits is lacking in present day application
systems. The combination of easy storage and ability to apply
liquids and gels on irregular shaped surfaces such as chain linked
fences makes this invention ideal for use where conventional
applicators are ineffective, inconvenient and relatively
expensive.
Reservoir
[0043] In one embodiment, reservoir 28 is composed from outer layer
36 and also inner layer 40 but in another embodiment, reservoir 28
is composed from only the outer layer 36. Reservoir 28 forms a
pocket by adding extra cloth to form a dimple during the
manufacturing process before outer layer 36 and inner layer 40 are
cut and bonded at scam 32. Additionally, a rigid or semi-rigid
piece of material can be added to enhance the reservoir's shape.
Reservoir 28 is intended to be in a position on mitt 20, which
allows a user's palm to conform to the reservoir 28. Reservoir 28
allows a user's palm to scoop liquids or gels in variable amounts
before application to the target surface Reservoir 28 may be of any
suitable size, configuration, and composition for the intended
liquid or gel to applied to the target surface. The substance that
could be applied by reservoir 28 is not limited to just liquids or
gels, but lotions, creams, medications, powders or even solids. For
instance, a solid substance such as a wax, for example may be
heated to provide a flowable product that may be dispensed by
reservoir 28. Moreover, in a medical context, the reservoir may be
used to hold large amounts of gauze or other medical object to
treat wounds.
[0044] In one embodiment, reservoir 28 can improve the overall
functionality of mitt 20 through the increased amount of product
that can be applied by using the reservoir. For example, the user
would insert her hand into mitt 20 and scoop the desired amount of
product by placing the palm of her hand so that it conforms to the
inside of the dimple that forms reservoir 28. Reservoir 28 thus
allows mitt 20 to apply more liquid or gel to the target surface
than a mitt without a reservoir.
[0045] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, reservoir 28 is positioned in a
central position of mitt 20. This central location of reservoir 28
allows for an omnidirectional dispensing or application of the
liquid or gel. In this location, the product scooped in reservoir
28 by the user's hand can be forcibly applied by pressing the palm
of her hand against the target surface and then rubbing to coat the
target surface in the desired manner. This location of reservoir 28
is convenient for applications where it is desired for the product
to be dispensed in large qualities because the central location of
the reservoir permits a large volume of liquid or gel to be held by
the mitt. It may also be desired to have the reservoir located in a
portion of the applicator that is spaced or remote from a location
where forces are applied during cleaning or rubbing. This may be
the case for tasks that require intense rubbing and less liquid or
gel needs to be applied. For example, an alternative embodiment of
mitt 20 wherein the reservoir 28 can be positioned closer to cuff
24. In this location, the reservoir 28 is not located in a region
of the mitt that would typically encounter forces in use. A liquid
or gel would be introduced into the reservoir by squirt bottle or
similar delivery system. The liquid or gel would then be dispensed
from reservoir 28 by the user moving her hand within the mitt to
specifically applying force to the cuff region. Such an embodiment
may be particularly advantageous where progressive dispensing of
discrete quantities of the product is desired rather than an "all
at once" dispensing upon application of an initial force.
The Outer Layer
[0046] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,
outer layer 36 forms the outermost layer of the mitt. In this
embodiment, the outer layer is composed of the outermost layers of
front panel 48, and back panel 44. The outermost layer of the front
panel 48 will be called outer most panel 37 and the outer most
layer of the back panel will be called outer most panel 38. Here,
the panels may be made from different materials. This would allow
multiple uses of mitt 20. For instance, use of a relatively
non-absorbent material on outer most panel 37 to contain a liquid
or gel allows the applicator's reservoir to efficiently spread
liquid or gel and not retain an excess quality, while the material
on outer most panel 38 would remain available to dry, polish or
buff or do any other task that would be used by a person skilled in
the art to the surface because it is composed of a relatively
absorbent material. In addition to drying, the outermost surface of
the opposite side of the mitt can remain unsoiled and be used to
for many purposes such as cleaning the target surface before or
after product is applied by outer most panel 37. Thus, a single
device can be used for multiple uses known to those skilled in the
art.
[0047] For example, outer most panel 37 should be made from
material that is preferably comprised of a material that is
substantially non absorbent of the liquid or gel, on which the
product is placed in reservoir 28 and then dispensed. After the
product has been dispensed and dispersed onto the target surface,
for example, it is sometimes desirable to absorb and remove excess
product, contaminates and/or particles from the target surface
while minimizing filming, streaking and/or residuals. Accordingly,
outer most panel 38 can be made from a material that is different
than outer most panel 37. Specifically, it may be desired that
outer most panel 38 be made from material that is substantially
absorbent for the product of interest. For example, outer most
panel 38 may be constructed of absorbent fibers that swell when
exposed to the liquid or gel. Examples of absorbent fibers include
man-made fibers derived from cellulose (e.g., rayon, cellulose
acetate, cellulose triacetate) and natural cellulose fibers (e.g.,
from trees). Other examples of absorbent materials include
particles and fibers made from super-absorbent polymers (e.g.,
cross-linked copolymers of acrylic acid) that can be incorporated
into the outer most panel 38. Additionally, or in the alternative,
outer most panel 38 may be constructed of non-woven, apertured
films, absorbent or fibrous absorbent materials, super absorbent
polymer fibers or powders, laminates, a selectively apertured
composite material and/or combinations thereof. Absorbent
non-wovens may be made by methods such as spunlace, spunbound,
meltblown, carded, air-laid, and hydroentangled.
[0048] As described above, one side of the applicator may be
designed with a majority of non-absorbent fibers (termed
"substantially non-absorbent") and the other side may be designed
with a majority of absorbent fibers (termed "substantially
absorbent"), or a film. In the context of the invention, these
terms are relative to one another. Depending upon the specific
application, the product to be spread, the environmental
conditions, and the benefits sought, the amount of product that the
substantially absorbent side absorbs and the amount of product the
substantially non-absorbent side absorbs will not be constant.
Rather, the substantially absorbent side will have a relatively
higher absorbent capacity than the substantially non-absorbent side
for the particular product. The ratio of the absorbent capacity of
the substantially absorbent side to the absorbent capacity of the
substantially non-absorbent side is greater than one, preferably
greater than two, and more preferably greater than four.
[0049] In some embodiments, the mitt 20 can have multiple layers on
the front panel 48 and the back panel 44 to provide additional
application and/or polishing surfaces. Preferably, additional
layers can be heat sealed only to the perimeter and sealed in such
a way that the layer is peelable. However, layers may be attached
and removed by other methods such as perforations, peelable
adhesives, and the like. The additional layers are intended to be
removed without tearing of the applicator. The layers can be
slightly offset at the cuff region 24, or additional material such
as tabs may protrude from the layer, making it easier for the user
to remove one layer at a time. Peelable heat seals may be
accomplished by heat sealing the individual layers at a lower
temperature or with less seal time such that a peelable seal
occurs. An example of how peelable layers can be used, is when a
user applies shoe polish. During application of the polish, front
panel 48 can become soiled to an undesirable level after the polish
is applied. To overcome this, an extra layer(s) of a non-woven
material, could be used under the front panel 48 allowing the user
to peel off the soiled layer, delivering a new, clean polishing
layer allowing the user to continue polishing to the desired sheen.
Similarly, the absorbent back panel 44 could have multiple layers
of an absorbent paper towel such as Bounty.RTM. Towel made by The
Procter & Gamble Company. When this outer layer becomes
unusable, the outer layer also could be peeled away, exposing a new
clean layer to buff the shoe.
[0050] In another embodiment, the outer layer may be the only
layer. For example a mitt is be formed that was created from a
single layer of material. Alternately, in another embodiment, a
single layer of material could be initially formed into a mitt.
Then the inside or outside of the mitt would be sprayed with
different substances such as a plastic to give the mitt different
properties. Thus, this mitt would be created from a single piece of
fabric but would have different layers of materials on that initial
single layer of fabric. This technique could also be applied to
multiple layers of material.
Between the First and Inner Layers
[0051] The outer surface of the inner layer 50 (FIG. 3) and the
inner surface of the outer layer 51 may be optionally provided with
friction-enhancing elements or coatings to prevent slippage between
the outer layer 36 and inner layer 40 when the user applies
pressure to the target surface. The friction-enhancing elements or
coatings on the outer surface of the inner layer 50, for example,
may reduce the likelihood of the mitt rolling or rotating of the
mitt upon the hand when the frictional forces between outer layer
36 and the increasingly dry target surface escalate. The coating
can also be applied in a foamed state such as by the addition of
physical blowing agents such as nitrogen and/or carbon dioxide. In
addition to slot coating, suitable materials can be applied (foamed
or unfoamed) in one or more of an array of lines, spirals, spots
and/or any other patterned network, by spraying, printing, or by
adhesively or otherwise securing separate preformed elements. In
addition, tape or mechanical fasteners may also be used to prevent
unwanted slippage. This technique could also be applied in a
similar manner to mitt created from more than two layers of
material.
Between the User's Hand and the Inner Layer
[0052] In one embodiment, an inner surface, such as the inner
surface of inner layer 40, may have a friction-enhancing element
that has a higher coefficient of friction between its surface and
the wearer's hand than the coefficient of friction between the
outer surface of the outer layer 36 and the target surface. A
friction-enhancing element in this embodiment would preferably be a
coating that delivers a high coefficient of friction between a
wearer's hand and the inner surface of inner layer 40 of the mitt
20 such that the mitt 20 does not slip or rotate on the hand when
contacting the target surface.
The Inner Layer
[0053] In order to protect the hand of the user from contact with
the liquid or gel during the dispensing and/or dispersing
operation, the mitts of the present invention can include an inner
layer 40 to server as a barrier layer, the interior of which
defines the surface that faces the user's hand during use. Inner
layer 40 is preferably impervious to the product contained in
reservoir 28. Suitable barrier materials include polymer films,
such as polyethylene, polypropylene, EVA, and polymer blends or
co-extrusions. Materials that are embossed, whether or not
extensible, provide improved tactile properties and greater control
over the applicator in terms of contact and coefficient of friction
with the hand. Preferably, the material and the surface are made
such that the coefficient of friction between the inner surface of
inner layer 40 and a user's hand is greater than the coefficient of
friction between the outer surface of outer layer 36 and the target
surface. This reduces the likelihood that the mitt 20 may slip or
rotate inadvertently in use. Inner layer 40 can also be combined
with a "softness enhancing" material that provides additional
comfort, softness and tactile feel to the user's hand. Such
materials can include, but are not limited to, fibrous (natural,
synthetic or combinations thereof) and/or foamed materials.
EXAMPLE 1
[0054] A painting mitt used to paint a chain link fence or a fence
made of round posts with checkered surfaces may be made in
accordance with the present invention. The painting mitt can
consist of a multiple layer mitt. The inner layer, which is
composed of inner layer 40 is the only layer in contact with a
user's hand or fingers during use and in this embodiment is
impermeable to the substance being applied. An outer layer 36 is
also provided in this embodiment.
[0055] Outer most panel 37 is provided as a non-woven embossed
substrate with specific properties for enhanced use as the external
layer of the delivery system. Properties of the non-woven substrate
for the delivery system side could be a) hydrophobic, b) or
sufficient strength for durability during scrubbing c) sufficient
space within the embossed pattern to allow proper substance
delivery onto the surface. The reservoir 28 on the surface of outer
most panel 37, would be used by the user's palm to scoop the
appropriate amount of paint.
[0056] Having the panels made of different material would provide
different material qualities for the appropriate task. For
instance, outer most panel 37 is composed of material that is
non-absorbent to the paint. This would allow a relatively large
amount of paint to be scooped and applied with a minimal amount
wasted in excess paint being absorbed by the surfaces exposed to
the paint. Outer most panel 38 is then composed of material that is
absorbent to paint. This would allow a user to use that portion of
the mitt for a task other than apply paint such as absorbing excess
paint off the target surface.
[0057] Additionally, the inner surface of outer layer 51 and outer
surface of inner layer 50 could be coated with a surface to
increase friction between the two surfaces. This would help the
mitt 20 in retaining its integrity during paint application or pain
drying. Also, the inner surface of inner layer 40 could be coated
with a softness enhancing material to enhance comfort.
[0058] The use of the mitt to paint the chain link fence or rounded
post fence with checked surfaces would be as follows. First, the
user would put her hand in the glove and cup the reservoir side
with her hand. Second, the user would either dip her hand in paint
and scoop the paint out using the reservoir, or use another
delivery system such as a squirt bottle to load the reservoir with
paint. At this stage, the user's hand is protected from the
potentially harmful paint by inner layer 40 while the material
composing the reservoir contains the paint without absorbing an
excess amount of paint to prevent waste. Third, the user would then
use the mitt to contact the target surface. Fourth, the user would
then rub to coat the target surface in the desired manner. Rubbing
the irregularly shaped surface with the mitt has several advantages
over traditional applicators. First, the method is intuitive even
to the novice user as all the user must do is rub the surface
wearing the mitt on her hand as if she were rubbing the surface
with her had alone. The flexible nature of the mitt allows the
paint-coated mitt to conform to the irregularly shaped surface,
which ensures coating on all surfaces. Moreover, the reservoir
allows the user to apply large amounts of paint very efficiently
and quickly.
[0059] Fifth, the user may flip over to use the side of the mitt
that has not been exposed to the paint in order to accomplish
another task. Such a task may be to absorb excess paint from the
target surface. Other tasks may be to spread the paint with the
clean surface of the side opposite the reservoir or other tasks
known to those skilled in the art. Finally, in order to dispose of
the mitt, the user does not have to clean the mitt. The user simply
has to make a fist while grasping inner layer 40 and pull the cuff
off her hand. This turns the mitt inside out without the user
having to make contact with a soiled surface of the mitt. The mitt
can now be handled with the user's bare hands and disposed of
without contact to the potentially harmful paint.
EXAMPLE 2
[0060] Another example of an applicator made in accordance with the
present invention is a mitt provided for cleaning, and shining
liquids or gels onto a target surface such as applying polish and
buffing a leather shoe. The application of liquids or gels for
these purposes would be enhanced by reservoir 28 to enable the
user's palm to scoop and apply variable amounts of gels or liquids.
Outer most panel 37 may be comprised of a synthetic woven,
synthetic knit, non-woven, apertured film, macroscopically expanded
three-dimensional formed film, absorbent or fibrous absorbent
material, foam, or laminates and/or combinations thereof. The
non-wovens may be made by, but not limited to, one of the following
methods: spunlace, spunbound, meltblown, carded, air-laid, and
hydroentangled. One such material sufficient in durability and
strength to provide a cleaning surface is a spunbound polypropylene
non-woven such as from BBA Non-woven of Simpsonville, S.C. Other
structures such as hydroentangled materials comprising cellulose,
rayon and polyester may also be used. One such set of materials are
made by Dexter Corporation of Windsor Locks, Conn. and sold under
the trade name Hydraspun.RTM. One skilled in the art will
understand that a wide range of materials can be used as long as
the material of interest provides the required durability to
complete the cleaning task.
[0061] Once, the user has put the mitt on by inserting her hand
with the reservoir cupped in her palm, the user will scoop the
desired amount of liquid or gel into the reservoir or use an
alternate delivery method. The user should then directly apply the
liquid or gel to the target surface. Once the liquid or gel is
applied, the user can then rub the product in the desired fashion
to ensure even coating. An advantage of this embodiment is that the
mitt's flexible structure coupled with the user's hand can conform
to coat irregularly shaped surfaces quickly and efficiently.
Moreover, the direct pressure of the hand on the mitt applied to
the target surface ensures that the user can apply variable amounts
of pressure to coat hard to reach surfaces as desired. Moreover,
the use of the mitt is more intuitive than traditional application
devices since the method of application is similar to rubbing the
target surface with one's hand.
[0062] The barrier layer composed of inner layer 40 can be textured
by any means known in the art, including but not limited to,
embossing, ring-rolling, and incremental staining, and may also be
rendered extensible. The barrier layer can be combined with another
"softness enhancing" material that provides additional comfort,
softness and tactile feel to the user's hand on the inner surface
of the mitt. Such materials can include, but are not limited to,
fibrous (natural, synthetic, or combination thereof) or foamed
materials.
[0063] Outer most panel 38, could be composed of a substantially
absorbent material. Outer most panel 38 might be utilized to
provide a distinct surface for removing and absorbing residual
product and dirt left on the plastic, vinyl, or rubber after
cleaning with outer most panel 37. As described above for the
barrier layer, this material can also be textured by any method
known in the art and/or rendered extensible. For instance, once the
user has applied the liquid or gel using outer most panel 37, the
user may wish to buff or polish the target surface. This can be
accomplished without taking the user's hand out of the mitt by
simply flipping mitt 20 over and buffing or polishing the target
surface with outer most panel 38 which is unsoiled. Outer most
panel 38 could be made of a material particularly designed for
buffing or polishing instead of a material designed for efficient
application of liquids or gels.
[0064] Like in Example 1, when the user is finished with the mitt,
disposal is clean and easy. First, the user grasps the inner layer
of the mitt by making a fist and then pulls cuff 24 away from her.
This turns the mitt inside out and the mitt is now ready for
disposal. At this stage, the potentially harmful substances applied
are safely separated by inner layer 40 and the mitt is ready to be
disposed of.
[0065] The mitt can be used for polishing or cleaning surfaces
including but not limited to, vinyl and other plastic car interior
surfaces (i.e. dashboards, door panels, trim, consoles, plastic
seats, etc.), and vinyl and other plastic car exterior surfaces
(i.e. bumpers, trim, vinyl tops, moldings, etc.), rubber automobile
tires, as well as, other vinyl and plastic surfaces such as indoor
and outdoor furniture, luggage, and the like. The mitts are ideally
suited for cleaning curved or other surfaces with jagged edges or
tough to reach areas and can be stored individually, or placed and
stacked in containers, folded or unfolded. The combination of easy
storage and ability to polish tough to reach areas such as car
dashboards, consoles, and trim, makes them ideal for use.
EXAMPLE 3
[0066] Yet another example of an applicator made in accordance with
the present invention is a mitt provided for a caregiver to provide
medical care to a patient while being protected from potentially
harmful substances like the patient's blood. The method may include
the steps of; 1) the caregiver inserting one or both hands in the
mitt; 2) applying a medication and/or gauze to the mitt using the
reservoir; 3) placing the mitt on the patient; 4) the caregiver
removing one hand while maintaining the mitt's contact with the
patient with her other hand in the mitt; and 5) turning the mitt
inside out to enclose the surface of the mitt that was in contact
with the patient for safe disposal. A step that might also be
included are inserting a second caregiver's hand or even the
patient's hand into the mitt which releases the first caregiver to
do other tasks while keeping the mitt in contact with the patient.
Another step that may also be included is the first caregiver
reinserting her hand into the mitt after completing the other
tasks.
[0067] In this particular embodiment, the mitt's inner layer 40 is
constructed from a thin film of microporous material that prohibits
the passage of contaminants including blood-born pathogens,
micro-organisms, bacteria, viruses, spores and other hazardous
contaminants. This protects the caregiver from these potentially
harmful substances. The film may be devoid of pores. The film may
be of any suitable polymer that will provide the necessary barrier.
The thermoplastic rubber medical polymers marketed by Shell
Chemical Company under the name KRATON THERMOPLASTIC RUBBER
thermoplastic rubber medical polymer are suitable. These may
include unsaturated mid block styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymers
as well as styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene copolymers. The
polymers identified as KRATON G polymer are preferred. If a seam is
present the seam should be of a similar barrier nature. In the
medical context, the entirely of the mitt should be sterile.
[0068] Outer layer 36, of the mitt, should have appropriate
properties to apply the desired liquid, gel, medication or other
desired substance using the reservoir. The mitt could comprise a
plurality of discrete layers of material superimposed over one
another. The individual layers may exhibit various special
characteristics depending upon the use that is to be made of the
mitt. For example, some layers may comprise an absorbent material
that may be a gel, a hydrogel, a hydrophobic web or a natural or
synthetic fibrous material. For instance, in addition to a first
layer which provides appropriate properties to apply the desired
liquid or gel, there may be a second layer to contact the patient
composed of may be a puncture-resistant, protective padding
material, such as an elastomer, which is adapted to protect the
user's hands from puncture by sharp articles such as bits of glass
and the like. Moreover, under that layer, there may be a third
layer which would be composed of the thin film of microporous
material that prohibits the passage of contaminants including
blood-born pathogens, micro-organisms, bacteria, viruses, spores
and other hazardous contaminants. This last layer would be inner
layer 40.
[0069] In this particular embodiment, the outer layer 36 may be
made of a wide variety of different types of material so that the
mitt may be used to serve as an applicator of topical medications,
to clean up numerous types of contaminated materials and to
retrieve and safely dispose of various kinds of contaminated
articles. Moreover, outer layer 36 may be constructed and arranged
to safely deal with a number of different types of contaminants in
differing media, including liquids, solids, semi-solids, pastes,
micro-organisms, bacteria, viruses, tissue samples and the
like.
[0070] Like outer layer 36, inner layer 40 may also be constructed
in a number of different ways using a number of different types of
materials. For example, inner layer 40 may comprise a single layer
of film or a combination of one or more layers of film individually
layered or bonded together by heat, adhesive, chemical reaction, or
numerous other attachment methods.
[0071] The film of inner layer 40 itself may be of various
thickness and may be of metallic origin, polymeric origin, or it
may be nylon, latex, rubber, polyethylene, urethane, natural or
synthetic composites or any combination of these materials
including materials such as Shell Oil's Kraton and any grades and
derivatives thereof. This may include blends and may be of one or
more layers. In summary, the materials used to construct the inner
layer 40 may be any material or combination of materials that has
the property to substantially limit permeability of liquids,
viruses, spores, bacteria, or micro-organisms, so long as it is
acceptable for human use and preferably is lint-free and flexible
under extreme temperature variations.
[0072] An example of one type of film material suitable for use in
constructing inner layer 40, is a material made by E. I. duPont de
Nemours and Company, and sold under the name and style HYTREL
polymer. Another suitable material is a material manufactured and
sold by Exxon under the name and style of TPE polymer. Other basic
materials acceptable for use in construction of inner layer 40 for
certain applications include neoprene, polyethylene, polystyrenes,
polysophones, polyisopene, polyvinyl, polyamide and numerous
polymers including biodegradable polymers such as MYLAR polymer,
latex, nylon, butyl, silicone and acetate. Materials of the
character identified should preferably be of a character to provide
resistance to penetration and tearing, flexibility in extreme
temperature regimes, and, as previously discussed, be
micro-organism impermeable. The material should malleable and
stretch at cold temperatures. The mitt could be constructed of
multiple layers of material instead of a single layer. Two or more
layers or materials could be combined to produce different
features. The layers can be sealed by electronic stitching
mechanism without pinholes. The seal should be able withstand an
extreme temperature range without pinholes. Additionally, for
certain applications, it is preferable that the material be
transparent or translucent and be substantially resistant to
ultraviolet radiation.
[0073] It is also understood that the films used to construct inner
layer 40 or outer layer 36 may be films or components that are
coated, or impregnated with one or more chemical or pharmaceutical
agents or substances capable of neutralizing or adjusting the acid
or pH levels, disinfecting, deodorizing and delivering a
pharmaceutical agent to the patient.
[0074] A unique feature of the device of this embodiment is the
fact that the interior chamber of the device is sufficiently large
to accommodate a second hand, whether it be the second hand of the
caregiver, the hand of the patient, or the hand of a third party
bystander. When necessary, the caregiver may later reinsert his
hand into the device and the patient or third party bystander may
remove his or her hand therefrom. This highly important aspect of
the invention permits the device to always remain with the patient
rather than with the caregiver, thereby effectively preventing
spread of contamination.
[0075] Using the device in the right hand, the care giver may
provide treatment to the patient, perform clean up of a
contaminated surface, or retrieve a contaminated article using the
reservoir as either a scoop or a grasping surface. Like in Examples
1 and 2, the reservoir can be filled with the desired substance
such as a medication and applied efficiently and quickly to a
patient. The reservoir can be filled by the user conforming her
palm to the reservoir and scooping the desired substance or an
alternate delivery method such as a squirt bottle can be used.
Additionally, the reservoir may be an appropriate place to mix
medications to be applied. Specifically, one medication can be
added to the reservoir and other medications can be included and
mixed as desired and then applied to the patient. This provides a
convenient place to mix the medications for immediate patient use.
The substances can then be applied by rubbing the mitt with the
target surface in the desired fashion. Since the mitt conforms to
the user's hands, the mitt can quickly and efficiently coat the
patent with the substances in hard to reach places.
[0076] Disposal of the mitt can be done like in Examples 1 and 2.
Specifically, when the user is finished with the mitt, disposal is
clean and easy. First, the user grasps the inner layer of the mitt
by making a fist and then pulls cuff 24 away from her. This turns
the mitt inside out and the mitt is now ready for disposal. At this
stage, the potentially harmful substances applied are safely
separated by inner layer 40 and the mitt is ready to be disposed
of. This last feature is of particular importance in the medical
context as to provide protection for the caregiver from potentially
harmful bodily fluids and the like as the substances are not
encapsulated with the mitt.
It is to be appreciated that at no time during the process
described has the hands of the caregiver come in contact with the
contaminates carried by the mitt.
[0077] The mitt may have a laminate construction made up of a layer
of sponge, a layer of gauze and a layer of absorbent material. Each
side of the mitt may have different properties to suit the desired
tasks. For instance, one side of outer layer 36 may be composed of
material that is highly absorbent to enable it to readily absorb
liquids and semi-solids. Specifically, the side may be constructed
of an absorbent material such as a sponge or foam. The opposite
side may be composed of the same or different material, depending
on the desired use.
[0078] In practice, the device may be provided with a wide variety
of identification indicia such as color coding, bar coding and like
coding to identify the intended uses of the particular device and
to designate the types of medicaments and pharmaceuticals contained
within the engaging mechanism. Other medical coding of the devices
may be accomplished through the use of various schemes well known
in the art such as striping and other marking indicia which are
preferably correctable with use instructions and content labels
provided on packaging containers used to package the device of the
invention.
EXAMPLE 4
[0079] Another example of the applicator made in accordance with
the present invention is a mitt with an elongated body and a
radially shaped application surface. The elongated body is formed
by using longer panels of material to form the mitt. In this
embodiment, the elongated body provides protection for the user's
arm up to at least the midpoint of the user's forearm. This will
provide enhanced protection to the user, as it is likely that the
substances being applied will drip or otherwise come in contact
with the user's forearm. In addition the longer body helps the user
in retaining the mitt. In other embodiments, the length of the
panels can be varied to cover different portions of the user's
hand, wrist, forearm or even upper arm.
[0080] Also included is a radially shaped application surface. This
surface is roughly at the center of the reservoir. It is a circular
surface which accommodates the user's hand when the user's fingers
are spread out. This maximizes the amount of useable surface area
when the user has the mitt on.
[0081] Yet another disclosure is a mitt without a reservoir, but
with the elongated body and the radial application surface. This
provides a mitt that has a smoother surface which will both be
ergonomic in that it accommodates the user's hand when her fingers
are spread apart and will protect more than the user's hand and
wrist from harmful substances.
EXAMPLE 5
[0082] Another example of the applicator made in accordance with
the present invention is a mitt with removable liners. The liners
are made to line the inside of the mitt to protect the user's
hands. Preferably, the liners are made from a substance which
protects the user's hands from a harmful substances such as vinyl,
plastic or other similar materials. The liners would be in the same
general shape as the mitt and share the same construction. This
would permit a user to simply slip a liner into a mitt before use.
In one embodiment, the mitt liner can have a reservoir which
conforms to the outer layer's reservoir.
[0083] After use, the mitt would be washed and used again. The
liner could then be washed or disposed of after a single use. In
one embodiment, a hook-and-loop fastener could be attached to both
the inside of the mitt and the liner. When the liner is inserted
into the mitt, the fastener on the mitt and the fastener on the
liner would engage. This would help prevent the liner from slipping
within the mitt, which would help the user in the retention of the
mitt.
[0084] The foregoing examples and descriptions of the preferred
embodiments of the invention have been presented for purposes of
illustration and description only. They are not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms
disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible and
contemplated in light of the above teachings. While a number of
preferred and alternate embodiments, systems, configurations,
methods, and potential applications have been described, it should
be understood that many variations and alternatives could be
utilized without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0085] Thus, it should be understood that the embodiments and
examples have been chosen and described in order to best illustrate
the principles of the invention and its practical applications to
thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to best utilize the
invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as
are suited for particular uses contemplated. Accordingly, it is
intended that such modifications fall within the scope of the
invention as defined by the claims appended hereto.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0086] The disclosure herein has applicability to the field of
mitts for applying substances to target surfaces.
[0087] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been
described in language more or less specific as to structural
features. It is to be understood, however, that the invention is
not limited to the specific features shown or described, since the
means and construction shown or described comprise preferred forms
of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore,
claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the legitimate
and valid scope of the appended claims, appropriately interpreted
in accordance with the doctrine of equivalents.
* * * * *