Thomas E Ford

US Patent:

6793617, Sep 21, 2004

Filed:

Feb 12, 2003

Appl. No.:

10/364389

Inventors:

Thomas E. Ford - Lancaster PA 17601
Michael T. Ford - Lancaster PA 17601
Douglas F. Ford - Lancaster PA 17601

International Classification:

A61G 1002

US Classification:

600 21, 128847, 312 1

Abstract:

An examination unit having walls of substantially transparent plastic material coupled to an air tube frame that, when inflated, supports the walls to define an enclosed chamber. Access to the chamber is gained through a resealable port that facilitates easy entry and exit, as well as good sealing of the air within the chamber. Built into at least one wall of the chamber is a pair of sleeved-gloves that allow: a user of the examination unit to insert his or her hands into the chamber to handle an object therein without skin contact. The examination unit may be collapsed for space-saving storage and transport, and then readily inflated to provide a suitable environment for any number of treatments or investigations requiring that an object remain isolated from the user.