Method for forming air flow control orifice in an inflated blanket
US5246656A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 20, 1992 |
| Grant date | Sep 21, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 20, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T83/9314
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The invention pertains to the method for forming air flow control orifices in a patient body temperature regulating blanket consisting of an inflated envelope defined by thin plastic film wherein temperature controlled air flows through the blanket orifices upon the patient's body. The blanket side disposed toward the patient is pierced by a sharp pointed punch having a plurality of intersecting facets defining sharpened intersecting edges. The punch apex and facet intersecting edges are related to the moving film in such a manner that the penetration of the punch forms a plurality of flexible valve flaps, and the valve flaps engaging the patient's body will be retained in a closed condition to restrain air flow through those orifices engaging the body to prevent exposure to excessive air temperatures.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.