Adjustable Patents (Class 15/144.1)
  • Patent number: 8091169
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile floor-cleaning appliance having a housing in which a cleaning tool is mounted, and having a handle holder which is mounted on the housing and is adapted to be connected to a handle in order to guide the appliance along a floor surface which is to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Roland Jeutter, Rainer Engelhardt
  • Patent number: 8091606
    Abstract: An operating wand has a handle, an upper rod connected by an intermediate rod having one end pivotably attached to the upper end of the handle and the opposite end pivotably attached to the lower end of the upper rod. A sleeve slides along the upper rod between a first position and a second position. When in the first position the sleeve covers a portion of the upper rod, the handle, and the intermediate rod, keeping the handle, intermediate rod and upper rod in a co-linear alignment. When the sleeve is in the second position, the handle and intermediate rod are fully exposed allowing the intermediate rod to be moved relative to the handle and the upper rod so that the intermediate rod is normal to the handle and normal to the upper rod. With the sleeve in the second position the wand can be operated like a crank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ming Nien, Yu-Che Wen
  • Patent number: 8079151
    Abstract: A pruning hook includes a handle unit, an adjusting unit mounted on the handle unit and a cutting unit mounted on the adjusting unit. The adjusting unit includes a support member mounted on the handle unit, a fastening member releasably mounted on the support member and an adjusting member having a first end provided with an adjusting ball rotatably mounted between the support member and the fastening member and a second end provided with a locking tube connected with the cutting unit. Thus, the adjusting ball of the adjusting member is rotatable and movable between the support member and the fastening member so as to adjust the angle and position of the cutting unit relative to the handle unit in a spherical and three-dimensional manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Chi-Tung Chen
  • Patent number: 8074319
    Abstract: A foldable toothbrush has a shell, a cover, a mounting sleeve, a handle and multiple bristles. The cover is mounted pivotally to the shell and selectively covers the top opening and part of the front opening of the shell. The mounting sleeve is mounted pivotally to the shell and is selectively pivoted into the shell. The handle is mounted in the mounting sleeve and is selectively rotatable and slidable in the mounting sleeve. The bristles are attached to the handle. With the handle being rotatable and slidable in the mounting sleeve, the whole length of the toothbrush is adjustable to selectively adapt for using or stowing. Furthermore, the cover keeps the handle and the bristles clean when stowing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventor: Hung-Yu Huang
  • Patent number: 8065774
    Abstract: A paint brush has a handle and a paint brush head. The paint brush head is detachable from the paint brush handle. The paint brush head may be rotatable to a number of positions relative to the paint brush handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Margco International, LLC
    Inventors: Louis B. Schiesz, Christopher E. Haigh, Matthew Scott Graham, Troy Daniel Mason
  • Patent number: 8046864
    Abstract: The toothbrush body according to the invention has on its top side a hand-supporting section with at least one longitudinal support strip which extends along the longitudinal axis of a handle part and next to which is located at least one recess which extends laterally from the top side to a bottom side. The recesses can take the form of holes located between two longitudinal support strips or of open lateral recesses formed in the broad sides of the toothbrush body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Trisa Holding AG
    Inventors: Armin Baertschi, Beat Huber
  • Mop
    Patent number: 8032975
    Abstract: A mop includes a handle comprising a plastic end joint comprising a downward protrusion and two shoulders; a rotatable cover comprising an annular trough, a central hole, and bottom latches; a hinge comprising a disc, a yoke, and a circular plate having slits wherein the yoke loosely passes the hole to pivotably secure to the joint with the latches contacting the disc and inserting through the slits to secure the circular plate, the disc, and the cover together, and the joint being disposed in the channel; and a strand mounting assembly comprising arcuate sections comprising two cross-shaped apertures having four sharp protuberance, and sets of strands. Each set of strands has one end fastened in the arcuate section after inserting through the aperture to be retained by the sharp protuberances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Hsiao-Hung Chiang
  • Patent number: 8020243
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, this invention provides an easy-to-use, adjustable-head toothbrush that provides two or more locking angles for brushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Michael J. Hupence
  • Publication number: 20110219557
    Abstract: A floor cleaning device includes a floor cleaning head and a pole directly or indirectly connectable to the floor cleaning head. The pole includes two sections, and a joint for lockably positioning the two pole sections in at least two different angular orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: Euro-Pro Operating, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Rosenzweig, Stephen Gatchell
  • Patent number: 7987816
    Abstract: The dual function bowl lifting and filling apparatus of the present invention allows a user to clean or fill a surface laying bowl with fluid or food, or to lift or move the apparatus without bending. Specific designs are utilized to enable the dual function bowl lifting and filling apparatus to be used by people with special needs. The bowl-filling apparatus also allows excess fluid to be stored in the apparatus. A method of filling a surface-laying bowl is disclosed as well as a method for storing excess fluid in a bowl-filling apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Marjorie S. Walsh
  • Patent number: 7987658
    Abstract: A multi-purpose tool includes, in one embodiment, an elongated pole and a head that are pivotally joined by a coupling mechanism. The head is a unitary member that includes a semi-circular edger plate and a comb-like rake. The coupling mechanism includes a pivot screw pivotally connecting the pole to the gardening head, a lock rod extending longitudinally through the elongated pole, and a pull cam mounted within one end of the hollow pole, the pull cam being threadingly coupled to one end of the lock rod. By disposing the gardening head in a variety of fixed positions relative to the pole, a plurality of distinct gardening instruments can be created. Locking the position of the gardening head relative to the elongated pole is achieved through rotation of a handle that is mounted onto the free end of the pole, the handle being connected to the free end the lock rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Inventor: Frank Fragale
  • Patent number: 7921505
    Abstract: A collapsible broom and dustpan provide convenient, compact storage for use in RVs, mobile homes, efficiency apartments and the like with limited closet and storage space. The broom includes a standard telescoping handle which is affixed to a pivot joint on the broom head. The handle can be extended and rotated to a variety of selected angles. Tabs on the locking member within the pivot joint engage the handle girdle which surrounds the locking member. The locking member is spring loaded to maintain the handle at a desired position. The dustpan includes a handgrip which will accommodate the broom handle while the dustpan tray receives the broom head for compact storage. C-shaped clamps within the grip and a catch within the dustpan tray hold the broom within the dustpan until manually released therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Moore, Bruce A. Angel
  • Patent number: 7913347
    Abstract: A toothbrush which head can be rotated to form different angle with the handle. This action of rotation can be done while brushing the teeth, once the handle leaves out the slot at the head, the handle can be moved to another slot, the angle of the head and the handle is changed from 180 degree to 90 degree and then from 90 to 180 degree again. The handle also can be free rotated without fixing to the slot at the head. A T-shape shaft is inserted between two covers at the head of the toothbrush, a connector is connected between the T-shape shaft and the handle of the toothbrush, so that the head and handle can be rotated freely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Hing Wing Wong
  • Publication number: 20110056035
    Abstract: An adjustable pole comprising two housings and an adjustable joint that allows for the housings to be oriented at any desired angle. Optionally, the housings can be telescopic. The second housing is capable of receiving an attachment piece such as a fork or attachment head. Preferably, there is an inner tube that is completely housed within the housings and adjustable joint, allowing for fluid to be transported from an attached fluid bottle to the second housing where the fluid is ejected from the pole. The inner tube is arranged in circular loops within the adjustable joint. Preferably there is a handle attached to the first housing that can receive the fluid bottle, and which contains a fluid ejector button that when pressed activates an internal pump to cause fluid to be transported. The user can select a desired angle, housing length, and attachment head to suit the particular cleaning endeavor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Simona Burbacki
  • Patent number: 7895697
    Abstract: An adjoined flexible two-piece swivel joint type floor cleaning attachment in which either upper or lower and/or both sections are made from a unitary flexible elastomer material allowing for a unitary quick release clamp mechanism that adjoins to a cleaning head apparatuses. The combination of the quick release unitary flexible clamp mechanism adjoined to a jam/stop swivel mechanism allows for small cleaning devices, such as scrub brushes, wall washers, abrasive pad holders, etc. to be easily engaged and disengaged allowing the cleaning device to also be used as a hand held device. Furthermore, swivel type floor cleaning devices will no longer need their own swivel type connector affixed onto the cleaning head thus making the cleaning products more cost efficient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Simon Ralph Cassar
  • Patent number: 7886396
    Abstract: A cleaning tool 210 designed to be used with at least one cleaning implement/replaceable dusting sleeve/cleaning mitt or cleaning pad 11 is disclosed. The cleaning tool 210 includes a telescoping support 209 comprised of a plurality of telescopingly received shafts or sections (212, 213, 214, 215). The shafts 212, 213, 214 and 215 may be freely extended into a locked fully extended position 201 and released via depression of a first engaging projection 239. A primary support head 216 and secondary support head 218 are pivotally mounted to the forward mount 240 on a single gear 274 and releasbly locked together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Yan Gracindo, Craig F. Shiesley, Benn Beagan Miller, Matthew Charles White, Simon Roderick Grover, Lawrence J. Fenske, David A. Hoadley
  • Publication number: 20110016650
    Abstract: A cleaning tool includes an arcuate handle member connected to a cleaning member. The handle member includes an outer tube having opposite first and second end portions, and an inner tube having opposite first and second end parts. The inner tube has the first end portion sleeved thereon. The second end part is extended movably into the outer tube. The inner tube has a plurality of engaging holes between the first and second end parts. An engaging component is disposed pivotably on the first end portion and is movable relative to the handle member between an engaging position, where the engaging component engages removably one of the engaging holes so as to secure the second end part inside the outer tube, and a free position, where the engaging component is disengaged from the engaging holes to permit movement of the second end part inside and along the outer tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Jack K. H. Wang
  • Patent number: 7870634
    Abstract: The dust mop with multiple handle holders is a dust mop having a handle, a dust mop frame, and a dust mop head. The frame has multiple handle holders, including a central handle holder in the center of the fame and another handle holder at one or both ends of the frame so that the handle can be attached to the central handle holder for general use, and may optionally be attached to a handle holder at the end of the frame to dust under objects raised above the floor and in areas too narrow to accommodate a conventional dust mop. The dust mop head is a fabric cover supported on the frame, and has an opening through which the handle can be connected to the handle holders. The handle may have a quick connect, clip-type fitting at one end for attachment to the handle holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Inventors: Brian D. Warning, Margaret J. Warning
  • Publication number: 20110000039
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a manually-operated household cleaning tool, and more particularly to household cleaning tool having optimum geometry for cleaning of bathroom, kitchen, floor, wall, ceiling, and other surfaces in the home. The shape of the tool head is designed to provide contiguous surface contact on a variety of concave basin surfaces while the angle and length of the handle attached thereto facilitates reach and leverage of the operator in potentially confined environments. The multiplicity of contact material and stiffness of said material further enhances the utility of the tool under any household condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: January 6, 2011
    Inventor: Amparo Del Carmen Perez
  • Patent number: 7856691
    Abstract: A painting system is provided and the system comprises: a first application device comprising opposing sides, the first application device comprises a pole adaptor directly and pivotably attached to the first side of the first application device, and the second side of the first application device is adaptable to receive a paint pad; and a second application device comprising opposing sides, the second application device comprises a handle situated on the first side of the second application device, and the second side of the second application device has a cavity for receiving the pole adaptor when the second application device is attached to the first application device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Eclipse Home Decor, LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Viggiani
  • Patent number: 7854039
    Abstract: A cleaner having a handle assembly rotatable in all directions is disclosed, the handle assembly including a housing; a handle which is capable of being gripped by a user; a connection unit which connects the handle with the housing to rotate in all directions; and an elastic unit which elastically biases the handle to a neutral position. As the handle is capable of rotating in all directions, a user can clean a surface without feeling strain in his or her joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hyun-ju Lee, Hwa-gyu Song, Jea-won Lee, Jeoung-kyo Jeoung, Hee-cheon You, Ki-hyo Jung, Joon-ho Chang, Won-sup Lee
  • Patent number: 7849550
    Abstract: A swivel paint roller apparatus is arranged for mounting on an extension pole member and arranged to provide for rotation of the roller frame about a pivot axis oriented angularly in the range of 20 degrees to 80 degrees relative to the axis of a longitudinal extension of the base mount supporting the roller frame member, for swiveling, rotating movement of the roller frame and paint roller cage and cover supported thereon by rotation of the extension pole member held in the hands of a user during painting operations, thereby providing for the variation of the angular orientation and corresponding direction of travel of the paint roller during painting operations while permitting the paint roller to remain continuously in contact with the surface being painted, whereby to enhance and simplify painting operations when using an extension pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventors: Donald D. Lanz, Scott M. Lanz
  • Patent number: 7827649
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus includes an elongate rod defined by a proximal end portion having a first linkage member and an opposed distal end portion. The first linkage member is pivotally coupled to a second linkage member of a cleaning head. There is a biasing assembly that is coupled to the elongate rod and to the cleaning head, which tensions the cleaning head to a maximum pivotal excursion relative to the cleaning rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: James G. Horian
  • Patent number: 7823593
    Abstract: An applicator includes a base portion carrying an applicator element, and a handle portion rotably mounted on the base portion to turn about a fixed axis of rotation. The handle portion may have a longitudinal axis. The axis of rotation and the longitudinal axis of the handle portion may not be mutually perpendicular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Gueret
  • Publication number: 20100257682
    Abstract: A foldable toothbrush has a shell, a cover, a mounting sleeve, a handle and multiple bristles. The cover is mounted pivotally to the shell and selectively covers the top opening and part of the front opening of the shell. The mounting sleeve is mounted pivotally to the shell and is selectively pivoted into the shell. The handle is mounted in the mounting sleeve and is selectively rotatable and slidable in the mounting sleeve. The bristles are attached to the handle. With the handle being rotatable and slidable in the mounting sleeve, the whole length of the toothbrush is adjustable to selectively adapt for using or stowing. Furthermore, the cover keeps the handle and the bristles clean when stowing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventor: Hung-Yu Huang
  • Patent number: 7802340
    Abstract: A cleaning tool 410 designed to be used with at least one cleaning implement/replaceable dusting sleeve/cleaning mitt or cleaning pad 11 is disclosed. The cleaning tool 410 includes a telescoping support 409 comprised of a plurality of telescopingly received shafts or sections (412, 413, 414, 415) wherein one of the shafts is an I-beam 415. The shafts 412, 413, 414 and 415 may be freely extended into a locked fully extended position 401 and released via depression of a first engaging projection 439. A primary support head 416 and secondary support head 418 are pivotally mounted to a forward mount 440 and releasably locked together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy F. Knopow, Rob Martineau, David A. Hoadley, Lawrence J. Fenske, Yan Gracindo, Craig F. Shiesley, Paul Simpson, Benn Beagan Miller, Milt Erickson, Scott A. Olson, Micah L. Maraia, Christopher Peterson
  • Publication number: 20100229315
    Abstract: A handle for a surface cleaning apparatus comprises a lower handle portion, and an upper handle portion. A first pivoting lockable joint is provided between the lower handle portion and the upper handle portion. A second pivoting lockable joint is provided between the lower handle portion and the upper handle portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: Euro-Pro Operating LLC
    Inventor: Mark Rosenzweig
  • Patent number: 7770252
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a multi-adjustable paint applicator assembly including an elongated handle with a first adjustment assembly that provides angular movement of an upper handle portion with respect to a lower handle portion. A base is rotatably connected to the handle by a second adjustment assembly that provides rotational movement of the base with respect to the handle. The base also has an upper portion with a receiver that slidingly engages a projection extending from a paint applicator. The paint applicator may be a paint brush, roller or pad with an applicator surface. The first and second adjustment assemblies each include a fastener and an arrangement of mating members that intermesh with another arrangement of mating members, wherein the fastener provides tension between the arrangements to releasably secure the angular or rotational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventors: Dominic R. Errichiello, Jeffrey L. Franklin
  • Publication number: 20100186181
    Abstract: In a cleaning tool 1, a lock piece 50 provided to the other of a handle 10 and a main body 20 can be switched between a lock position and a lock release position, the lock piece 50 positioned in the lock position butts against a stopper face 41D of an engagement member 41 to retain the engagement member 41 in a position of engagement with the recessed face 36, and the lock piece 50 positioned in the lock release position separates from the stopper face 41D of the engagement member 41 to allow the engagement member 41 to resiliently move forward and backward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: KAO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hirotoshi Tawara
  • Patent number: 7761951
    Abstract: An paint roller assembly having a paint roller and an elongated extension pole. The paint roller is coupled to the extension pole by a pivoting head that is selectively lockable at various user-selected angles. The pivoting head and paint roller include complementary seat and recess sections that always position the roller either parallel or perpendicular to the pivot head's axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Kirk J. O'Neal, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7761949
    Abstract: The brush and handle assembly described herein are specifically designed to scrub and clean all interior surfaces of a bathtub. The elongated handle and brush-head are designed and constructed to permit pivoting the brush-head relative to the handle, but the pivoting movement is confined to a range of 0° to less than 180°. In the preferred embodiment of the disclosed brush, the range of pivoting movement is about 135°. Limiting the pivotal movement of the brush-head relative to the handle enables the user of the disclosed bathtub brush to scrub and clean, easily and efficiently, all interior surfaces, including the interior far-side, the interior near-side, the interior ends and the bottom surface of the typical bathtub without uncomfortable body contortions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Inventor: Taylor Hughes, IV
  • Patent number: 7743458
    Abstract: A collapsible broom and dustpan provide convenient, compact storage for use in RVs, mobile homes, efficiency apartments and the like with limited closet and storage space. The broom includes a standard telescoping handle which is affixed to a pivot joint on the broom head. The handle can be extended and rotated to a variety of selected angles. Tabs on the locking member within the pivot joint engage the handle girdle which surrounds the locking member. The locking member is spring loaded to maintain the handle at a desired position. The dustpan includes a handgrip which will accommodate the broom handle while the dustpan tray receives the broom head for compact storage. C-shaped clamps within the grip and a catch within the dustpan tray hold the broom within the dustpan until manually released therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Moore, Bruce A. Angel
  • Patent number: 7740193
    Abstract: A trigger actuated aerosol spray cleaning device has a cleaning head that swivel or be locked in different preset discrete angular positions relative to the device. The cleaning head pivotally mounts onto a swivel part of a coupler at and end of the device. In one position, a sliding swivel lock permits rotation of the swivel and in a locking position it prevents relative rotation by engaging one of several slots in the swivel. The slots are located so that the cleaning head can be centered (perpendicular) relative to the device or held at an oblique angle as may be desired for cleaning corners or other tight spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Soller, Cathal L. Fahy
  • Patent number: 7721377
    Abstract: An extendable handle for a drywall tool having a pair of telescoping tubes that are reversibly locked in place relative to each other by a locking assembly comprising a lever, a pin and a yoke that are mounted on a base positioned on a first tube. The pin is actuated by the lever and engages an opening on the second tube to lock the tubes in place. The pin and lever are spaced apart circumferentially on the handle and are connected by the yoke. The yoke is received in a slot in the base and does not extend beyond the surface of base during operation of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Axia Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: Matt Jungklaus, David J. Castagnetta, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100107348
    Abstract: A cleaning device includes an elongated u-shaped handle terminating with a mounting neck at a distal end. A handgrip engages the handle at the proximal end. A support strap may attached to the handgrip. A cleaning head is releasably attached to the mounting neck. The cleaning head is configured to releasably engage the mounting neck. The handle is u-shaped and resilient to generate a biasing force that facilitates use and cleaning contact. The cleaning head is opposite and in direct alignment with the handgrip, so that a user may determine the exact position of the cleaning head against the user's back by observing the position of the handgrip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Gerald C. Steedley
  • Patent number: 7698773
    Abstract: A holder for hygienic wipes and the like includes triangular-shaped a base member that is suitable sized and shaped for securing a wiping sheet thereto. An adjustable handle is removably attached to the base member. The base member is also configured as a wedge for allowing a user to comfortably position the apparatus between the buttocks. Gripping members are positioned on the base member bottom surface on either side thereof for securing the wiping sheet to the top surface of the base member. Each gripping member includes raised teeth for securing the wipe in place. The handle is substantially cylindrically-shaped and is telescopically extendable, allowing the apparatus to be used by larger individuals. The handle is hingedly connected to the base member, enabling the user to angle the base member for optimal contact and comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: Helen Sotelo
  • Patent number: 7690070
    Abstract: A bi-pole cleaning handle device for universal use with conventional cleaning instruments is provided. The device has a first side pole and a second side pole pivoted by swivel connectors side supports, respectively. Extending from the side supports is a base generally shaped as a rectangular shell to hold a cleaner head, which may be selected from a sponge block, brush, scrub head, squeegee, cleaning pad and any other suitable cleaning material. The fist side pole has a handle at its top and the second side pole has a similar handle. Each handle is angled with respect to the axis of its pole and has a grip on one side. This angle is set for the converging function of the bi-pole handle of the present invention as well as ergonomics in holdings by the user. The cross section of the grip is semicircular. The side poles and the handles can be either manipulated by left and right hands independently or by both hands simultaneously with the handle in unity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Man-Young Jung
  • Patent number: 7673365
    Abstract: A tool assembly includes a handle section including operably connected linear sections. A proximal section has a handle portion and a distal section has a fixed longitudinal length protruding away from the proximal section. A float is included having planar top and bottom surfaces. The assembly also includes mechanisms for pivotally connecting the float to the handle section, for pivotally attaching the proximal section to the distal section, and for rotatably connecting the proximal section to the distal section. A mechanism is also included for telescopically adjusting a length of the proximal section. A carrying case is included for housing the float and the handle section therein, and is provided with an articulated lid attached thereto. The pivotally connecting mechanism, the pivotally attaching mechanism, the rotatably connecting mechanism, and the telescopically adjusting mechanism are independently and simultaneously operable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Douglas A. Griffin, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20100050353
    Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, this invention provides an easy-to-use, adjustable-head toothbrush that provides two or more locking angles for brushing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Michael J. Hupence
  • Publication number: 20100017984
    Abstract: A multi-positionable manual toothbrush includes a toothbrush body, a toothbrush head, and a spring capable of engaging the toothbrush head at a plurality of angles with respect to the toothbrush body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Todd H. YAMADA, Gregg M. Yamada
  • Patent number: 7640617
    Abstract: A cleaning device including a cleaning member and a handle connected to the cleaning member. The handle includes a first member and a second member. The first member includes a ball member and the second member includes a socket. The ball member being disposed in the socket to couple the first member and the second member and enable the second member to pivot with respect to the first member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Helen of Troy Limited
    Inventors: Brook Kennedy, Richard Whitehall, Davin Stowell, Boris Kontorvich
  • Publication number: 20090313780
    Abstract: A hand tool with a handle that is configurable for free rotation or adjustable to multiple locking rotation positions. The handle includes a cylindrical bore and a faceted bore, each of which is configured to separately receive a faceted stem on a shaft of the tool. The cylindrical bore permits free rotation of the handle about the shaft. The faceted bore permits selectively adjustable locking rotation of the handle about the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: John Martin
  • Patent number: 7631389
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a handle having a first end and a second end; an actuator attached to the handle; a tool plate for receiving a tool; a connector attached to the second end of the handle for pivotally connecting the handle to the tool plate; a hydraulic hose; and a hydraulically actuated brake assembly which is in communication with the actuator by the hydraulic hose. The brake assembly is preferably operable to releasably hold the tool plate at a position relative to the connector and the handle on operation of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Columbia Taping Tools Ltd.
    Inventors: Elliot St. James, Melbourne Edmond St. James, Tyson St. James
  • Patent number: 7622003
    Abstract: An improved paint edger is provided having a laterally elongated edger head supported by a perpendicularly affixed handle. The blade itself is formed integrally to the frame, but demarcated by a joint aligning the tapered upper surface. Opposite the tapered upper surface, a flat lower surface is recessed by an offset of a specific dimension to receive an absorbent tape. The tape is affixed to the flat lower surface by an adhesive, and provides an absorbent material to provide a wicking action for paint that may pass the outer edge. Finally, the tape is provided with a non-porous barrier film that prevents passage of fluid (paint) and allows the paint to be retained within the tape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Marie Heysek
  • Patent number: 7621023
    Abstract: An adjustable handle and method of adjusting the cross-sectional shape of a handle is disclosed. The handle comprises a central core having a plurality of axially extending grooves each having at least two radially extending ramps as well as a sleeve having a plurality of flexible expandable members with a plurality of fins in sliding relationship with the axially extending grooves and ramps. When a user turns a knob of the handle, the sleeve is directed to slide axially within the groove such that the fins of the flexible expandable members contact the ramps thereby altering the cross sectional shape of the handle over an axial distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Marshalltown Company
    Inventor: Georgia A. Pyatt
  • Patent number: 7617560
    Abstract: A compact collapsible squeegee for wiping fluids from smooth surfaces including a telescoping handle having a hinged joint at one end and a wiper support attached to the hinged joint to pivot from a closed position with the wiper support substantially parallel to the telescoping handle to an open position with the wiper support substantially perpendicular to the telescoping handle. Latches may be used to secure both the telescoping handle and the wiper support in the open position such that the squeegee is substantially rigid in use. Both the telescoping handle and the hinged joint may be spring-loaded to automate deployment of the squeegee to the open position. The telescoping handle and wiper support may be stored in the closed position within a hollow grip attached to the telescoping handle and including ventilation for drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventors: Randy Argo, Michael Clifford
  • Patent number: 7617559
    Abstract: A stem structure of a cleaning brush has a stem including a first segment having a threaded hole and at least two tabs all provided on the front end thereof, and a brush element including a body. Predetermined positions of the intermediate section of the body are provided with a through opening for receiving a threaded section of a fixing element and provided with at least two bores corresponding to the tabs. The threaded hole of the first segment of the stem is provided to screw with the threaded section of the fixing element, and the tabs of the first segment of the stem are inserted into the bores of the body. The fixing element is integrally made of plastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignees: Ningeo Xianghua Automobile accessories Manufacturer Co.,Ltd.
    Inventor: Chung-Yuan Jiang
  • Publication number: 20090265872
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cleaning device such as a vacuum, hand sweeper, mop, broom, or the like, with a pivoting joint on the arm and having a wheel rotatably secured to the joint. The pivoting joint and overall low profile design allows the cleaning device to clean surfaces under low objects which would otherwise require repositioning of the object. There is also provided a wheel on the pivoting joint which both assists in using the cleaning device, and protects the integrity of the pivoting joint and the floor. A telescoping arm may be provided to assist the user in cleaning when the cleaning device is configured for cleaning under low objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventor: Ali W. Eldessouky
  • Patent number: 7600287
    Abstract: A collapsible broom and dustpan provide convenient, compact storage for use in RVs, mobile homes, efficiency apartments and the like with limited closet and storage space. The broom includes a standard telescoping handle which is affixed to a pivot joint on the broom head. The handle can be extended and rotated to a variety of selected angles. Tabs on the locking member within the pivot joint engage the handle girdle which surrounds the locking member. The locking member is spring loaded to maintain the handle at a desired position. The dustpan includes a handgrip which will accommodate the broom handle while the dustpan tray receives the broom head for compact storage. C-shaped clamps within the grip and a catch within the dustpan tray hold the broom within the dustpan until manually released therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Camco Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony D. Moore, Bruce A. Angel
  • Publication number: 20090235471
    Abstract: A multi-positionable electronic toothbrush includes a toothbrush body, and a brush head capable of operating at a plurality of angles with respect to said toothbrush body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Todd H. YAMADA, Gregg M. YAMADA