Patent ID: 11996680

Abstract:
An antimicrobial switch panel (ASP) system/method allowing for retrofit of existing switch panels with protective antimicrobial covers for toggle switch levers is disclosed. The disclosed system incorporates a toggle switch cover (TSC) formed from a plastic molded extrusion (PME) that is impregnated with an antimicrobial compound (AMC). The PME includes an outer tactile surface (OTS) and an inner capture recess (ICR). The ICR is configured to conform to the outer surface of a toggle switch (TSW) toggle switch lever (TSL) and includes one or surfaces more configured with protrusions and/or indentations that affect mechanical coupling between the TSL and the PME when the ICR is mated with the TSL. The OTS may be configured with a variety of tactile configurations that identify the function of the TSW and/or include a PME colorant that identifies the function of the TSW and/or provide for photoluminescent operation of the PME.