Abstract: In respect of the problem of indicating a broom head (1) which can be produced such that its individual parts are easy to store, wherein the individual parts are fixed to one another following production of the broom head, said broom head (1) comprising a basic body (2) with a plate (3), from which project first cleaning elements (4) for directing towards a surface which is to be cleaned, wherein the plate (3) also has second cleaning elements (5), which assist the cleaning performance of the first cleaning elements (4), projecting from it, is characterized in that the second cleaning elements (5) are arranged on a module (6) which can be introduced, as a separate individual part, into an aperture (9) of the plate (3) such that the second cleaning elements (5) engage through the plate (3).

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods of using and making apparatuses that may clean concave and convex surfaces are discussed. The apparatus may be capable of substantially contacting and cleaning concave, convex, planar, and non-planar surfaces.

Abstract: An oral care implement comprising tooth cleaning elements and a tissue cleanser. In one aspect, the invention can be an oral care implement comprising: a head and a handle; a plurality of tooth cleaning elements extending from a first face of the head; a receiving cavity formed into a second face of the head opposite the first face; and a soft tissue cleanser formed of an elastomeric material positioned within the receiving cavity, the soft tissue cleanser comprising a base surface that is flush with the second face of the head and a plurality of projections extending beyond the second face of the head.

Abstract: Described in this application is a kit for adapting a paint brush having a handle opening. The kit includes a tool for improving the usefulness of the paint brush; a bushing receivable within the handle opening of the paint brush; a screw for passing through the tool and bushing and joining the tool to the paint brush; and a locking nut for securing the screw to the paint brush.

Abstract: An oral care implement having a head with a soft tissue cleaner disposed on a second side thereof. In one embodiment, the invention can be an oral care implement comprising: a handle; a head attached to the handle and having a first side and a second side; a plurality of tooth cleaning elements attached to the first side of the head; and a soft tissue cleaner disposed on the second side of the head, the soft tissue cleaner including a first portion comprising a plurality of projections and a second portion comprising a plurality of bristles.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention are directed to an apparatus for cleaning electrical terminals. The apparatus comprises a first arm and a second arm. The first arm includes a first cleaning portion with a first upper face and a first lower face. Each of the first upper face and the first lower face are substantially flat and coated with an abrasive. In a similar manner, the second arm includes a second cleaning portion with a second upper face and a second lower face. Here again, each of the second upper face and the second lower face are substantially flat and coated with an abrasive. The second arm is pivotally coupled to the first arm, making the apparatus manually configurable into an aligned configuration in which the first lower face faces the second upper face.

Abstract: A wire brush may have wire type tufts extending from a head and may have a handle with only one finger separator. And/or a wire brush may have a manually detachable scraper that has a pair of tabs received in a pair of grooves formed on the brush body.

Abstract: An oral care apparatus includes: a care member; an orientation detection unit; an area estimation unit; a light source that emits light having a predetermined wavelength to which plaque reacts; a photoelectric conversion unit that receives light and converts the received light into an electric signal; an image capture unit that causes the light source to irradiate the care area with light, and that obtains image data, based on the electric signal of light reflected from the care area that is converted by the photoelectric conversion unit; a plaque detection unit for detecting an amount of plaque in the care area, based on the image data obtained by the image capture unit; and a storage unit for storing, in a memory, the care area estimated by the area estimation unit and the amount of plaque in the care area detected by the plaque detection unit in association with each other.

Abstract: An oral care implement such as a toothbrush includes a head defining a longitudinal axis and a plurality of tooth cleaning elements supported by the toothbrush head. The tooth cleaning elements preferably include at least one tooth polishing unit having a polishing element including a supporting base and a flexible tooth polishing head extending angularly from the base and defining a polishing surface. In a preferred embodiment, the polishing element is made of an elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the polishing element may be comprised of a plurality of individual polishing members.

Abstract: An oral hygiene implement for evaluating applied force is described herein. The oral hygiene implement has a handle region, a head, and a neck extending between the handle region and the head. The head has a plurality of cleaning elements attached to the head. The handle region has a first portion and a second portion and a force sensor pivotally connected to the first portion and the second portion. The force sensor includes the head and the neck and at least a portion of the force sensor is integrally formed with the first portion and/or the second portion.

Abstract: Bowls and methods for scrubbing objects are disclosed. The bowls or optionally removable liners in said bowls include a plethora of bristles or mesh material which provides an abrasive surface against which objects can be scrubbed. The bowls may optionally incorporate extendable sections for the purpose of suspending the bowls from the sides of a sink. In one embodiment, a circular version of the bowl may be configured to double as a spinner bowl inside a salad spinner and in other embodiments apertures with abrasive material inside may be provided for scrubbing narrow items such as carrots. Larger industrial-size versions of the bowl may be constructed for use in restaurants, or for the purpose of scrubbing non-food products, such as mechanical parts. The shape, depth and diameter of the bowls as well as the type of abrasive materials used inside these bowls can vary to suit the application.

Abstract: A garden hose with a nail brush provides a nozzle that receives a nail brush along a top portion. The nail brush can be permanently or removably connected to the nozzle. The nail brush includes a first surface that connects to the nozzle, as well as a second surface which supports a plurality of bristles. In addition, a loop forms a strap or holder for the nail brush, which can be used to hang the nail brush (and attached nozzle) from a nail or other organizer system. The nozzle can be of a variety of nozzle types, which often include a diffuser and pressure regulator. Ergonomic features, such as a contoured grip on the nozzle handle, can also be included.

Abstract: A scoop and gatherer set for picking up small items and debris, such as for use by a child to scoop-up small toys. The scoop comprises a trapezoidal bottom, two triangular side walls, and a rectangular back wall. The back wall also comprises a rectangular hole of sufficient size to insert a user's palm to grasp and lift the scoop without extensive rotation of a user's wrist. The gatherer is of a slightly concave trapezoidal shape comprising a ledge on the top edge inner surface to assist in grasping it. The gatherer bottom edge may further comprise short bristles for brushing items into the scoop, or a smooth fabric to prevent scratching of the floor surface. The set may further comprise a means to quickly attach and detach the gatherer to the scoop for storage as one unit.

Abstract: A device with two or more regions configured to clean or treat a working surface is disclosed. Preferably, the device is an oral-care device with a power cleaning head. The power cleaning head comprises two or more regions, wherein at least one of the regions is configured to move and wherein at least one of the regions comprises a squeegee element. Preferably, the regions are configured to independently rotate, oscillate, vibrate or otherwise move while cleaning teeth and gums and can each include bristles, nodules, squeegee elements, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: A toothbrush includes a head and a plurality of tooth cleaning elements for enhanced cleaning of the teeth. The tooth cleaning elements include cleaning elements that define a radial array arrangement for better retention of the dentifrice. A radial array may be strategically disposed in an off-axis arrangement within other cleaning elements on the head.

Abstract: An insert for an oral hygiene handle having a cavity is described. The insert has a load member capable of pivoting with respect to the housing and an output source disposed in electromagnetic communication with the load member, a power source in electrical communication with the output source having first and second contact areas, and an indication element forming an outer facing surface. When the load member pivots a predetermined amount, a first contact arm makes contact with a first contact area and/or a second contact arm makes contact with the second contact area thereby causing the power source to deliver power to the output source, wherein the output source provides electromagnetic energy to the load member, wherein the load member transmits the electromagnetic energy from the output source to the indication element, and wherein load member, the indication element, and the engagement section are integral with one another.

Abstract: An interchangeable cleaning tool has a pole member and a plurality of tool heads. Each tool had is removably coupled to the pole member. A locking device is attached to one end of the pole member to removably attach one of the plurality of tool heads to the telescoping pole member. The locking device comprises: a locking housing having a tapered interior section; an aperture formed in a side of the locking housing; a lever kingly coupled to the locking housing; and a protrusion formed on the lever, wherein movement of the lever causes the protrusion to move in and out of the aperture causing the locking device to move between a locked and an unlocked position.

Abstract: A combination sticky roller and brush for dislodging and collecting debris from a plurality of different types of surfaces. The present invention utilizes a rubber brush to dislodge debris such as hairs, dusts, or dirt from a surface. The device includes a compartment with a cover lid that conceals a sticky roller. Once the debris is uprooted from a surface, the user is able to roll the sticky roller over the surface to pick up and retain the debris. The present invention can be used on fabrics or other textiles surfaces and is convenient for use anywhere due to its travel sized and unique configuration.

Abstract: A tool for cleaning a personal care applicator, particularly an applicator for a product that is subject to dry out. In some embodiments, the invention is implemented as a reusable cleaning tool. In other embodiments, the invention is implemented as a disposable, single-use or limited use cleaning tool. The tool comprises a relatively flat body having first and second exterior surfaces, and one or more cleaning regions that extend through the body. As an applicator is drawn through the cleaning region, dried out product is scraped off the applicator.

Abstract: A fabric care device comprising a body having first and second ends for attaching respective first and second fabric care attachments, wherein at least one of the first and second ends is adapted to detachably attach one of the first and second fabric care attachments. An attachment for a fabric care device selected from the group consisting of a depiller, a delinter, a fabric pile restorer, and a brush.

Abstract: A device or tool for removing snow and other debris from vehicles, and other surfaces including a handle having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a scraper portion coupled to the first end, and a head coupled to the second end. The head may be a laterally extended foam head that is non-abrasive, freeze resistant, and durable. The handle may include a telescopic extension to allow a reach of a user to be increased or decreased allowing the user to clear away snow and other debris from various sizes of vehicles.

Abstract: An apparatus and method that efficiently scrubs and massages a surface without the need for a washcloth and effectively inhibits growth of mold and bacteria. The apparatus is designed to fit within a human hand to facilitate ease in use. The material that the apparatus is made from can be quick drying and antibacterial. The apparatus can be used on both humans and animals for grooming.

Abstract: A cleaning apparatus includes a handle for holding; a head; a downward facing cleaning element on the head for downward facing cleaning of a surface; and an upward and radial cleaning element about the head of the apparatus. The cleaning element includes at least a brush element for cleaning, the brush element having a substantially upstanding central portion for upward cleaning and radially outwardly projecting side portions for radial cleaning.

Abstract: The collapsible cleaning device includes a broom and a pan. The broom has a brush provided with bristles on the bottom surface thereof and secured by the top surface thereof to the end of a handle. The pan has a plate provided on at least one of the edges thereof with a wall projecting from the top face as well as a gripper secured to the wall. The brush is hinged to pass from a retracted position extending along the handle to an extended position extending orthogonally relative to handle, and vice versa.

Abstract: An adhesive substance removing tool is provided with a cracking tool and a scrapping assembly which are removably coupled to a base. The cracking tool is used to crack the adhesive substance by forming breaking lines on the surface of the adhesive substance, and then the scrapping assembly is used to scrape off the adhesive substance by starting from the breaking lines. The combination of the cracking tool and the scraping assembly allows the user to remove adhesive substance easily and completely. Besides, the cutting assembly of the cracking tool is able to move freely both in straight-line or circular fashion, and the cracking tool can be prevented from rotating or disengaging once it is positioned in place on the base. Hence, convenience and safety of use can both be assured.

Abstract: A toothbrush with a handle having a base and a head and defining a cavity positioned between the base and the head. The toothbrush also includes a plurality of bristles attached to the head of the handle, a green light configured to flash for a first period of time, a yellow light configured to flash for a second period of time, and a red light configured to flash for a third period of time. The toothbrush also includes a switch coupled to the handle for activating the green light, and a circuit for automatically activating the yellow light after expiration of the first period of time and for automatically activating the red light after expiration of the second period of time.

Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring motion parameters of an object are described in the present disclosure. In an embodiment, a sensor, coupled to a housing, senses motion associated with the housing and provides a sensor output based on the sensed motion. A processing device receives the sensor output, accumulates counts associated with the sensor output, and provides an output once a threshold associated with the accumulated counts is reached. A vibrotactile device, that receives the output from the processing device, provides a haptic output in response to the output from the processing device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting and removing small particulate matter fluid and/or contaminants on hard surfaces.

Abstract: A toothbrush can include a handle and a head. At least one bristle can be attached to the head. The toothbrush can also have an illumination member, an illumination circuit and an activation device. A pliant base on the handle can be used to activate the activation device to initiate the illumination circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing caulk from a user's finger(s) and tool(s) (i.e., a caulk finger wiping apparatus) is disclosed. The apparatus is used in combination with a disposable tube-style caulk cartridge and in conjunction with any one of multiple styles of caulking guns. The apparatus includes an upper edge that may have finger receiving notches for removing caulk from a user's finger(s) and tool(s), and an apparatus component for collecting the removed caulk. Methods of making and using the apparatus for removing caulk from a user's finger(s) and tool(s) are also disclosed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a device for cleaning VELCRO® comprising first and second rotating handle assemblies and a compound brush assembly comprising opposite first and second surfaces, the first surface comprising a stiff brush having metallic bristles, the second surface comprising a soft brush having non-metallic bristles. Rotation of the handles 180 degrees exposes the compound brush assembly for use.

Abstract: The dental position tracking system includes a toothbrush (30) which has a system (20) for determining the orientation of the toothbrush in the mouth of a user relative to the earth, based on measured stored information. Information is stored in the toothbrush concerning target ranges of expected measured toothbrush orientations for each of a plurality of dental zones (22). A processor (24) compares the measured toothbrush orientation information with the target orientation ranges, following conversion of both the target orientation information and the measured toothbrush orientation information to the same coordinate system. The processor then determines which if any of the target ranges matches, within a selected tolerance thereof, with the toothbrush orientation information. Any difference between the target range and the measured toothbrush orientation information is then used to partially adjust the target information range, in order to compensate for a change of position of the user's head.

Abstract: A fabric care device comprising a body having first and second ends for attaching respective first and second fabric care attachments, wherein at least one of the first and second ends is adapted to detachably attach one of the first and second fabric care attachments. An attachment for a fabric care device selected from the group consisting of a depiller, a delinter, a fabric pile restorer, and a brush.

Abstract: A device comprising of four components attached to a portable, compact case that is used to clean the soles of shoes. The first component known as the Pick Tang is used to pick out stones, dirt and debris from the cavities of soles. The second component known as the Steelo Brush is used to brush away dirt and debris from the sole of shoes. The third component known as the Scraper is used to scrape off dirt, grime, chewing gum and any other sticky substance from the soles. The fourth component known as the Driver is used to push out dirt, debris, mud, ice, snow and anything else stuck in the narrow grooves of the soles. The four components are attached to the fifth component, the case. The case is comprised of two pieces that are held together by four pairs of male/female connectors. The components are able to retract into the carriage in their closed positions. The components are opened utilizing a fingernail grip found on the shafts of each component.

Abstract: A multiuse cleaning tool is provided that includes a head assembly and a cleaning sleeve removably attached to the head assembly. The cleaning sleeve has a first side and a second side. The first side includes a material sufficient for a first cleaning function and the second side includes a material sufficient for a second cleaning function. The head assembly moves between a first position so as to present the first side to a surface to be cleaned and a second position so as to present the second side to the surface to be cleaned.

Abstract: A combined paint roller and paint roller cleaner quickly and efficiently removes paint from the paint roller cleaner while preventing fluids from splashing outwardly and away from the paint roller cleaner. The paint roller cleaner includes a main chamber having a first slot formed at an outer surface thereof, and an auxiliary chamber statically coupled to the main chamber. Such an auxiliary chamber protrudes outwardly from the outer surface of the main chamber and preferably has an outer surface provided with a second slot formed therein. Notably, the second slot may be offset from the first slot in such a manner that an external fluid stream, after passing through the first and second slots, is caused to enter the main chamber at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the outer surface of the main chamber and thereby rotate a portion of the paint roller located within the paint roller cleaner.

Abstract: A device is described for removing stickers such as cockleburs, burrs, foxtails, etc. from pets, a person's clothing, gear or equipment. The tool is mitten-shaped with an open end into which the person may insert the person's hand. Two embodiments of the device are disclosed. In the first embodiment, both sides of the device have loop-type fastening material thereon. In the second embodiment, only one side of the device has the loop-type fastening material thereon for removing stickers or the like. A protective liner is positioned at the inner surface of the device.

Abstract: A device or tool for removing snow and other debris from vehicles, and other surfaces including a handle having a first end and a second end opposite the first end, a scraper portion coupled to the first end, and a head coupled to the second end. The head may be a laterally extended foam head that is non-abrasive, freeze resistant, and durable. The handle may include a telescopic extension to allow a reach of a user to be increased or decreased allowing the user to clear away snow and other debris from various sizes of vehicles.

Abstract: A dental brush assembly includes an elongate handle having first and second coupling ends sized and shaped to couple with at least a first detachable dental brush. The first coupling end is at a first angle relative to a handle longitudinal axis and the second coupling end is at a second different angle relative to the handle longitudinal axis. The first coupling end includes first and second brush facing surfaces. The second coupling end includes third and fourth brush facing surfaces. The first detachable dental brush includes a directional brush surface and a brush end complementary to the first, second, third and fourth brush facing surfaces. The directional brush surface is directed in first, second, third or fourth non-identical orientations relative to the handle longitudinal axis depending on which brush facing surface the first detachable dental brush is oriented with.

Abstract: An oral care implement is provided with a head platform having an opening extending between first and second faces. A first cavity may be defined between the first face and an upper support ledge and a second cavity may be defined between the second face and a lower support ledge. A channel may be defined between the upper and lower support ledges and an area circumscribed within the upper support ledge may be greater than an area circumscribed within the lower support ledge. First and second plates may be attached to the head platform proximate the first cavity and channel, respectively. A shoulder of the first plate may be received on the upper support ledge such that first cleaning elements extend away from the first face. A shoulder of the second plate may be received on the lower support ledge such that second cleaning elements extend through the second cavity away from the second face.

Abstract: A cleaning system. The system has a floor cleaning device, disposable floor sheet removably attachable to the device and a rotatable beater bar. The device has a single wheel, and moves on the target surface by rolling action of the wheel and gliding of the floor sheet. This arrangement, not having multiple wheels, provides enhanced maneuverability, and improves cleaning performance. The cleaning system may be used to clean hard surfaces, such as a floor.

Abstract: An oral cleaning section is disclosed. The oral cleaning section includes a first carrier having a cleaning side on which at least a first cleaning element is mounted and a second side opposite to the cleaning side, a second carrier having a cleaning side on which at least a second cleaning element is mounted, at least one aperture being formed in the first carrier such that the aperture extends from the cleaning side to the second side, with the second cleaning element extending through the aperture. The second carrier is arranged underneath the first carrier such that the cleaning side of the second carrier is underneath the second side of the first carrier and laterally extends beyond the aperture in at least a first direction. The first carrier and the second carrier are arranged for relative movement to each other.

Abstract: This new foot scrubber is a combination of a foot dead skin and calluses remover and a bristled scrubber for cleaning purpose. The foot scrubber comprises a plastic bath mat of our design with a plurality of suction cups and/or hooks and loops fasteners on the bottom side to secure the mat from moving when use in bathtub or shower. The top side of the mat can be divided into three areas: (1) the left and right areas being both flat and covered with abrasive materials, (2) the front part of the center area having a semi-spherical doom shaped extrusion covered with abrasive materials, and (3) the rear part of the center area having a detachable bristle scrubber pad, wherein the rear part of the center area comprises a plurality of female part locking devices for the use of engaging the male part locking devices on the bottom side of the detachable bristle scrubber pad.

Abstract: An oral care implement, such as a toothbrush (100), comprises a handle (110) and a head (120). A plurality of tooth cleaning elements (130) may be provided on a front surface (121) of the head (120). The head (120) is formed by a plurality of spaced-apart segments (140-145) made of a rigid material. The segments (140-145) are isolated from one another by channels (157-159B) containing an elastomeric material (146) that flexibly connects the segments (140-145) together. The oral care implement further comprises an elastomeric soft tissue cleaner (200) located on a rear surface (122) of the head (120) opposite the front surface (121) of the head (120). Each of the segments (140-145) comprises a protuberance (163-169) made of the rigid material that extends through the elastomeric soft tissue cleaner (200) and is exposed therethrough.

Abstract: A toothbrush can include a handle and a head. At least one bristle can be attached to the head. The toothbrush can also have an illumination member, an illumination circuit and an activation device. A pliant base on the handle can be used to activate the activation device to initiate the illumination circuit.

Abstract: The cleanup system employs an associated clearing component, such as a tool comprised of plate portion and an adjacent squeegee and/or brush element, to close the top opening and entrance to a containment or receptacle unit with which it is pivotably interengageable, to thereby prevent leakage or escape of liquid, semi-liquid, and/or dry matter during transport.

Abstract: An oral care implement, such as a toothbrush. In one embodiment, the invention can be an oral care implement comprising a handle and a head. A plurality of tooth cleaning elements may be provided on a front surface of the head. The head is formed by a plurality of spaced-apart segments formed of a rigid material. The segments are isolated from one another by channels containing an elastomeric material that flexibly connects the segments together. The oral care implement further comprises an elastomeric soft tissue cleaner located on a rear surface of the head opposite the front surface of the head. The elastomeric soft tissue cleaner comprises a plurality of grooves that are aligned with the channels.

Abstract: A folding trowel assembly has multiple trowel blades of assorted types and sizes housed in a casing. The folding trowel assembly allows for different trowel blades to be unfolded and used as needed. A pivot mechanism includes a pivot pin for positioning each of the trowel blades into a working position at an adjustable angle relative to the casing. A release mechanism applies compression to the stacked trowel blades to inhibit rotation of the trowel blades about the pivot pin and relieves compression from the stacked trowel blades to permit rotation of the trowel blades about the pivot pin. An angle between the casing body and the casing neck tab allows trowel blades to be pivoted such that sufficient clearance is provided between the casing body and a work surface to permit the casing body to be used as a handle for each of the trowel blades.

Abstract: An oral care implement such as a toothbrush includes a head and a plurality of tooth cleaning elements supported by the toothbrush head. The tooth cleaning elements preferably include an elastomeric scrubbing element having a base portion and a tooth engaging portion comprising a plurality of cleansing members circumferentially spaced apart on the base portion. In one embodiment, the base portion has a circumferentially continuous sidewall to stiffen the scrubbing element. The cleansing members project outwards and preferably upwards from the base portion in one embodiment to collectively define a central cavity for retaining dentifrice. Embodiments of the oral care implement may include a circular bristle field arranged circumferentially around and associated with the scrubbing element.

Abstract: An oral hygiene implement comprising having a handle, head, and a neck extending between the handle and the head is described. The head has a plurality of cleaning elements and/or massaging elements attached to the head. The oral hygiene implement also has a force sensor and an output source. The output source provides a plurality of output signals which correspond to a plurality of conditions to a user.