Philip W Fentress

US Patent:

54958563, Mar 5, 1996

Filed:

Nov 23, 1993

Appl. No.:

8/142373

Inventors:

Philip W. Fentress - Memphis TN

Assignee:

Tabex Industries, Inc. - Memphis TN

International Classification:

A61F 537
A61M 500

US Classification:

128846

Abstract:

A moisture barrier includes inner and outer moisture resistant layers. A moisture absorbing material occupies the region between the two layers. The peripheral edges of the inner and outer layers adhere to the intended surface surrounding the protected area. The adhered edge of the outer layer is spaced from the adhered edge of the inner layer, forming a gap between them. The gap communicates with the open region that contains the moisture absorbing material. The gap presents a path that diverts moisture away from adjoining portions of the seal and toward the moisture absorbing material. Preferably, the moisture absorbing material displays different visible characteristics, depending upon the presence or absence of moisture. The moisture sensing material is positioned for viewing through a light-transmissive portion of the outer barrier layer. The moisture barrier serves to affirmatively keep moisture away from a protected area.