DEVICE AND A SYSTEM FOR USING A ROTARY BRUSH TO CLEAN A SURFACE

Abstract

A rotary brush cleaning device including a wheel configured to rotate in a direction based on a direction the rotary brush cleaning device is propelled, a brush element configured to rotate in an opposite direction of the wheel when the rotary brush cleaning device is propelled, a cover configured to enclose a top part of the wheel and the brush element, and a handle that is configured to provide a location for a user to propel the rotary brush cleaning device. A rotary brush cleaning system is also disclosed.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit from and is based on U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/886,160 filed Jan. 23, 2007, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a cleaning apparatus and, more specifically to a rotary brush cleaning device and a rotary brush cleaning system that may function when submerged in water and/or on a dry surface.

The use of cleaning devices are well known in the prior art. For example, brush cleaning devices are known in the art. Most brush cleaning devices employ a brush element that also functions as a wheel device to assist with moving the brush cleaning device. Such brush elements though rotate in the direction that the brush cleaning device is propelled. For example, if the brush cleaning device is propelled in a forward direction away from a user, the brush element/wheel would rotate in a counter-clockwise direction.

Though conventional brush cleaning devices may have a brush/wheel element that rotates in a direction naturally determined by a direction the brush cleaning device is propelled, there are uses for such devices where users would benefit from where the brush element rotates in an opposite direction. Such uses may provide for debris freed by the brush element to then be more effectively captured for removal from an area being cleaned.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A rotary brush cleaning device and a rotary brush cleaning system that may function when submerged in water and/or on a dry surface is disclosed. The rotary brush cleaning device includes a wheel configured to rotate in a direction based on a direction the device is propelled. A brush element is configured to rotate in an opposite direction of the wheel when the rotary brush cleaning device is propelled. A cover is configured to enclose a top part of the wheel and the brush element. A handle is configured to provide a location for a user to propel the rotary brush cleaning device.

In another exemplary embodiment the rotary brush cleaning system includes a rotary brush device. The rotary brush device includes a wheel configured to rotate in a direction based on a direction the rotary brush device is propelled, a brush element configured to rotate in an opposite direction of the wheel when the rotary brush device is propelled, a cover that encloses a top part of the wheel and the brush element, a vacuum connection element formed therethrough the cover, and a handle that is configured to provide a location for a user to propel the rotary brush device. A vacuum generating device is configured to connect to the vacuum connection element. A pole is configured to connect to the handle. The vacuum generating device is connected to the vacuum connection element through at least one of the pole and through a vacuum hose.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A more particular description of an exemplary embodiment of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 discloses a perspective view of an exemplary illustration of a rotary brush cleaning device;

FIG. 2 discloses a side view of an exemplary illustration of the rotary brush cleaning device;

FIG. 3 discloses a side view of an exemplary illustration of the rotary brush cleaning device with the handle in an opposite direction;

FIG. 4 discloses an exemplary illustration of the elements under the cover;

FIG. 5 discloses a side view of an exemplary illustration of the rotary brush cleaning device with a vacuum connection element; and

FIG. 6 discloses an exemplary illustration of the rotary brush cleaning system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

With reference to the figures, exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described. The scope of the invention disclosed is applicable to a plurality of uses. Thus, even though embodiments are described specifically to uses in swimming pools, embodiments of the present invention are applicable to other uses or applications where a surface is being cleaned. For example, though a rotary brush cleaning device is described below primarily with respect to cleaning a swimming pool, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the brush system may be used to clean other surfaces as well. For example, the brush system may be used on a deck, patio, garaged, in a house, to clean a fence, other large containers holding water (or any other liquid), etc.

FIG. 1 discloses a perspective view of a rotary brush cleaning device. As illustrated, the rotary brush cleaning device 10 has a handle 12 and a cover 14. The cover 14 may have a plurality of configurations. The current illustration of the cover 14 is of a configuration for use when the rotary brush cleaning device 10 is used to clean sides, including a bottom, of a swimming pool, where algae may have grown, or where other debris is present. The configuration of the cover 14 illustrated is provided so that as the rotary brush cleaning device 10 is propelled through the water, in either a forward or a backward direction, the water pressure naturally applied to the cover 14 causes the rotary brush cleaning device 10 to be pressed against the swimming pool surface. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize other configurations that the cover 14 may have so that the rotary brush cleaning device 10 is pressed against the swimming pool surface. For example, the cover 14 may be configured so that the rotary brush cleaning device 10 is only pressed against the swimming pool surface when propelled in a first direction, such as but not limited to the forward direction. When then propelled in a second, such as but not limited to the backward direction, the configuration of the cover 14 does not result in the water pressing the rotary brush cleaning device 10 against the surface of the swimming pool.

As disclosed above the handle 12, or a device where a user may propel the rotary brush cleaning device 10, is provided. The handle 12 has a connection part 16 and an extension part 18. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle 12 is detachable from the rotary brush cleaning device 10. The handle 12 may be attached to the cover 14, a first attachment location 20, or another (second) attachment location on the rotary brush cleaning device 10 by way of the connection part 16. In an exemplary embodiment the connection part 16 has a first leg 22 and a second leg 24 that extend to opposite sides of the rotary brush cleaning device 10. Connection elements, such as but not limited to detents are provided that insert within an opening at the attachment location 20. In another exemplary embodiment, detents extend from the attachment location 20 and openings are provided in the legs 22, 24, through which the detents are inserted. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that a plurality of ways is available for connecting the handle 12 to the rest of the rotary brush cleaning device 10. As further illustrated in FIG. 1, the attachment location 20 is a rod that extends between a wheel 30 and a rotary brush element, on each side of the rotary brush cleaning device 10.

The extension part 18 of the handle 12 is configured for a pole 60, as illustrated in FIG. 6, to be attached to the handle 12. In another exemplary embodiment, not shown, the extension part 18 may have a permanent pole that extends from it. The handle 12 may be configured to attach and function as a handle for other pool cleaning devices that are also used for maintaining a swimming pool. Specifically the distance between a legs 22, 24 of the connection part 16, are of a distance that allow the handle 12 to attach to another pool cleaning devices where such devices requires a handle so that a user may use these other devices.

FIG. 2 discloses a side view of the rotary brush cleaning device. With respect to the wheel 30 disclosed above in an exemplary embodiment a plurality of wheels, such as but not limited to two, extend from a first side of the rotary brush cleaning device 10 to a second side of the rotary brush cleaning device, and which is further illustrated in FIG. 4. In another exemplary embodiment, a single wheel 30 is provided that either extends the complete distance between both sides of the rotary brush cleaning device 10 or extends part of the distance between both sides. Connected to the wheel 30 by way of a gear system 35, further illustrated in FIG. 4, is a brush element 32. The brush element 32 extends between the two sides of the rotary brush cleaning device 10. The brush element 32 may also have a plurality of configurations. For example, the brush element 32 may have a plurality of surfaces, such as but not limited to bristles. Bristles may be configured in a plurality of configurations. Furthermore, though the brush element 32 is illustrated as extending between both sides of the rotary brush cleaning device 10, a plurality of shorter brush elements 32 may be used or a shortened brush element 32 may be used that does not extend completely between the two sides.

With respect to the handle 12, a stopper element 40 is further disclosed in FIG. 2. In an exemplary embodiment, the handle 12 is rotatable about its connection to the rest of the rotary brush cleaning device 10. Therefore, instead of the wheel 30 being positioned behind the brush element 32 as the rotary brush cleaning device 10 is propelled, the wheel 30 can be in front of the brush element 32 as well, as illustrated in FIG. 3. The stopper element 40 is utilized to prevent the handle 12 from rotating too far in a direction where the stopper element 40 is located. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the stopper element 40 may prevent the handle 12 from being rotated too far in either direction that the handle 12 may rotate.

FIG. 4 discloses the elements under the cover. In the embodiment illustrated, two wheels 30 are provided at both sides of the rotary brush cleaning device 10. The brush element 32 also extends between both sides. The attachment location 20 is further disclosed. Though the attachment location 20 is a rod that extends between the wheel 30 and the brush element 32, with a detent 21 extending from the attachment location 20, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that other configurations for the attachment location 20 are possible.

The gear system 35 is further illustrated. A first gear 45 rotates based on movement of the wheels 30. A second gear 47 rotates the brush element 32 in response to the rotation of the first gear 45. As the first gear 45 rotates in a given direction, such as a counter-clockwise direction, the second gear 47 rotates in a second direction, such as a clockwise direction. Though the gear system 35 disclosed is a mechanical gear system, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that an electrical system may be used to rotate the brush element 32 in an opposite direction of the movement of the wheel 30. When the rotary brush cleaning device 10 is used in water, the electrical system is enclosed in a water-proof casing or enclosure.

FIG. 5 discloses a side view of the rotary brush cleaning device with a vacuum connection element. As illustrated the vacuum connection element 50 is extends from the cover 14. A vacuum hose 52 is attachable to the vacuum connection element 50. In operation, such as with respect to a swimming pool and removing algae, as the brush element 32 frees the algae from the pool walls, the continual rotation of the brush element 32 will cause the water current to flow into the area between the brush element 32 and the cover 14. A vacuum device 54, connected to the vacuum connection element 50 by way of the vacuum hose 52, can then suck up the algae. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the vacuum connection element 50 may be placed at a plurality of locations on the cover.

In another exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the vacuum hose 52 is part of the pole 60 that connects to the handle 12. In other words instead of using the handle 12 as described above, the handle 12 may have a hollow opening therethrough the handle 12. A mini hose 62, generally a flexible hose that extends from the handle 12 to the vacuum connection element 50. The mini hose 62 is configured to ensure connection between the handle 12 and the vacuum connection element 50 so that a vacuum continues to exist even as the handle 12 is rotated. The pole 60 that may attach to the handle 12 has a vacuum hose 52 or another vacuum device 54 attached at a distance end away from the rotary brush cleaning device 10. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that other ways are possible for connecting the vacuum device 54 through the handle 12 to the rotary brush cleaning device 10. For example, the handle attachment 18 may extend directly into the cover 14 where the cover 14 includes a slot 65 which the pole 60, or mini hose 62, may move within as the handle 12 is rotated. A sealing element 66, such as a flexible seal, may be provided to close off the part of the slot 65 where the handle 12 is not currently occupying.

While exemplary embodiment of the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, omissions and/or additions may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, unless specifically stated any use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another.

Claims

1. A rotary brush cleaning device comprising:

a wheel configured to rotate in a direction based on a direction the rotary brush cleaning device is propelled;

a brush element configured to rotate in an opposite direction of the wheel when the rotary brush cleaning device is propelled;

a cover configured to enclose a top part of the wheel and the brush element; and

a handle that is configured to provide a location for a user to propel the rotary brush cleaning device.

2. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising a vacuum connection element formed therethrough the cover configured to provide a connection for a vacuum device.

3. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprises a gear system configured to rotate the brush element in an opposite direction of the wheel when the rotary brush cleaning device is propelled.

4. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the handle is detachable from the rotary brush cleaning device and is attachable to another cleaning device.

5. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the handle attached to the rotary brush cleaning device on opposite sides of the rotary brush cleaning device at an attachment location.

6. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 5, wherein the handle is rotatable about the attachment location.

7. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 6, further comprising a stopper element configured to prevent the handle from rotating beyond a predetermined location.

8. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 3, wherein the gear system is at least one of a mechanical gear system and an electrical gear system.

9. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising a pole configured to at least one of attach to and extend from the handle.

10. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the cover is further configured to provide an opening between the cover and at least one of the brush element and wheel so that debris may pass therebetween.

11. The rotary brush cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the cover is further configured to direct the rotary brush cleaning device to remain in contact with a surface when the rotary brush cleaning device is submerged in a liquid and is propelled.

12. A rotary brush cleaning system, the system comprising:

a rotary brush device including a wheel configured to rotate in a direction based on a direction the rotary brush device is propelled, a brush element configured to rotate in an opposite direction of the wheel when the rotary brush device is propelled, a cover that encloses a top part of the wheel and the brush element, a vacuum connection element formed therethrough the cover, and a handle that is configured to provide a location for a user to propel the rotary brush device;

a vacuum generating device configured to connect to the vacuum connection element;

a pole configured to connect to the handle; and

wherein the vacuum generating device is connected to the vacuum connection element through at least one of the pole and through a vacuum hose.

13. The system according to claim 12, further comprises a mini-vacuum hose configured to extend between the handle and the vacuum connection element.

14. The system according to claim 12, wherein the cover is further configured to provide an opening between the cover and at least one of the brush element and wheel so that debris may pass therebetween.

15. The system according to claim 12, wherein the cover is further configured to direct the rotary brush device to remain in contact with a surface when the rotary brush device is submerged in a liquid and is propelled.

16. The system according to claim 12, further comprises a gear system configured to rotate the brush element in an opposite direction of the wheel when the rotary brush device is propelled.

17. The system according to claim 16, wherein the gear system is at least one of a mechanical gear system and an electrical gear system.

18. The system according to claim 17, wherein the electrical gear system is located within a water-proof enclosure.

19. The system according to claim 1, wherein the handle is rotatable about an attachment location on the rotary brush device.

20. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a stopper element on the rotary brush device configured to prevent the handle from rotating beyond a predefined position.