Fabric Patents (Class 15/208)
  • Publication number: 20040163674
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cleaning sheet for cleaning a surface which includes an additive applied on at least one of the outer surfaces of the sheet. The additive can have a penetration value at 25° C. between 20 dmm and about 100 dmm. The additive can have a “relative tack” between 55% and 94%. The additive can be applied at a level between 0.1 g/m2 and about 2.3 g/m2. The cleaning sheet leaves low levels of residue on the surface which is cleaned with the sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Nicola John Policicchio, Richard Joseph Sunberg, Vincenzo Catalfamo
  • Patent number: 6777064
    Abstract: An article of manufacture useful for removing allergens from surfaces comprises (a) a package; (b) cleaning sheet capable of removing allergens from surfaces; and (c) information to communicate the allergen removal ability of the cleaning sheet to consumers. A method of promoting the sale of cleaning sheets useful for removing allergens from surfaces comprises a variety of steps to inform a consumer of the allergen removal ability of the present cleaning sheets, implements, and articles and encourage the consumer to use them to remove allergens from a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Laura Krebs Brown, Jennifer Lee Counts, David Charles Bernens, Paul Joseph Russo
  • Patent number: 6740608
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a polyester textile fabric having a relatively low level of particulate contaminates and high absorbency is provided by heatsetting the fabric at a temperature of 300° F. or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: Milliken Research Corporation
    Inventors: Brian G. Morin, Daniel T. McBride, Loren W. Chambers
  • Publication number: 20040078915
    Abstract: A cloth comprises a carrier web (10) carrying a multiplicity of loops (12) of yarn, the carrier web being formed at least in part from yarn which exhibits an anti-bacterial and/or anti-fungal property. The loops are preferably sub-divided into a multiplicity of filaments or microfibres.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Publication date: April 29, 2004
    Inventors: William Hockey-Smith, Alexander Maurice Hilltout
  • Patent number: 6716805
    Abstract: The present invention provides preferred, preferably liquid, hard surface cleaning compositions, compositions with cleaning liquid composition on a substrate, compositions used with absorbent pads and implements and devices for making the process of cleaning hard surfaces and/or maintaining their appearance and hygiene easier and more effective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Alan Edward Sherry, Nicola John Policicchio, Cynthia Elaine Cella, Jeffrey Lawrence Flora, Toan Trinh, Joseph Paul Morelli
  • Publication number: 20040040107
    Abstract: A dual functional sheet-like cleaning article having a first layer made of at least one non-woven material and a second layer made of at least one different non-woven material in which the first layer provides a water absorbing capability wherein the second layer provides an abrasive capability to the cleaning article.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Applicant: Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Bolkan, Gregory Alan Ornoski, James S. Mandle
  • Publication number: 20040040109
    Abstract: Tearing cleaning cloth structure composed of multiple sheets of cleaning cloths which are overlapped with each other to form a cleaning cloth. The peripheral of the cleaning cloth is formed with several through holes. The circumference of each through hole is formed with a connecting edge between each upper sheet and each lower sheet of cleaning cloths. After used, the outermost upper and lower cleaning cloths can be entirely torn away. Therefore, in next wipe, the cleaning cloth keeps having an entirely clean surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Applicant: Chien-Chang Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Pk Lee
  • Patent number: 6694563
    Abstract: A soft soothing bath scrub is formed of a scrubbing layer, such as a a sponge layer, and a wash cloth layer. A stabilizing layer may be interposed, preferably by first attaching it to the underside of the sponge layer, and attaching the sponge layer to the wash cloth layer by intermittent fastening such as by stitches, through the wash cloth layer and into side edge of the sponge layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Reuben Onwugbonu
  • Patent number: 6684445
    Abstract: A one-piece mop swab, and method of manufacture thereof, is disclosed. The one-piece mop swab comprises at least one generally planar sheet of absorbent material, the sheet having a plurality of bounded openings therein which are arranged discontinuously in at least first and second directions to define an absorbent surface characterized by a network of seamlessly interconnected absorbent regions of the material sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Multi-Reach, Inc.
    Inventors: Esteban Rios, Jaime Topete, William Joseph Mayville
  • Publication number: 20040016444
    Abstract: A cleaning cloth for household and industrial use having a plurality of rubber yarns knitted therein and secured in a lock-stitch pattern. The plurality of rubber yarns formed as an integral part of the knitted fabric extend generally parallel to each other across the fabric and are of sufficient relative diameter to form spaced-apart rib elements and the rib elements are of sufficient size so as to serve as wiper blades to provide a squeegee effect during use of the cleaning cloth to remove dirt and debris from a hard surface being cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Larry T. Mitchell, William Martin
  • Publication number: 20040011733
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for the production of liquid cleaners, consisting of a cleaner housing with a cleaning chamber exhibiting an inner and an outer end, and a cleaning insert arranged inside the cleaning chamber. The cleaner housing is given a conical shape such that the cleaning chamber receives a smaller lateral dimension at its inner end than at its outer end, said outer end being openable. The cleaning insert is manufactured from a fluid-permeable, compressible cleaning material with a lateral dimension that in an initial state, outside the cleaner housing, exceeds the smaller lateral dimension of the cleaning chamber. The other end of the cleaner housing is kept open, and the cleaning insert is inserted into said other end having the larger lateral dimension, and is pressed into the cleaning chamber towards the end having the smaller lateral dimension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventor: Aegir Bjornsson
  • Publication number: 20030236045
    Abstract: Crimped bath scrubber including at least one blank material extending in a predetermined direction. The blank material is made of multiple first yarns and second yarns by a non-weaving measure. The blank material includes a substrate layer formed of the first yarns and a top layer overlaid on the substrate layer and formed of the second yarns. Corresponding portions of the first and second yarns are connected. The extending direction of the second yarns and the extending direction of the first yarns and the extending direction of the blank material respectively contains predetermined angles. The blank material is formed with multiple upward or downward bent crimped sections. The contained angle of each bent crimped section is less than 90 degrees, whereby the blank material is formed with multiple triangular solid spaces and the blank material is more spongy and fluffy so as to contain more water and bubble therein. The angles of the crimped sections provide better cleaning effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventor: Chen Ching-Chen
  • Publication number: 20030211802
    Abstract: A tufted coform nonwoven web prepared from meltblown filaments and at least one secondary material is disclosed. The tufted coform nonwoven web is useful as cleaning pads, wipes, mops, among other articles of manufacture. One surface of the tufted coform nonwoven web has projections which increase the bulk of the nonwoven web. The projections also aid in the scrubbing and cleaning ability of the coform nonwoven web. Also disclosed is the process of producing the tufted coform nonwoven web, method of using the tufted coform nonwoven web as a wipe, mop, and the like, along with cleaning kits containing the coform nonwoven web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Laura Elizabeth Keck, Charlene Bendu Harris, Nina Frazier
  • Patent number: 6644881
    Abstract: A soap dispensing washcloth system and method where an elastic tulle pocket is attached to a washcloth to dispense soap through cellular holes. The pocket is made by folding a flat piece of tulle into two overlapping flaps which are then stitched perpendicularly to the folds forming a pocket that supports soap in four directions. This pocket is then attached to any washcloth to form a soap dispensing system from which the soap cannot become dislodged accidentally, but can be easily removed. Because elastic tulle material is water permeable, water flows freely in and out of the pocket to dispense soap. The soap can be removed for a soap-free rinse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Ouadir N. Dawan
  • Patent number: 6645604
    Abstract: Disclosed are cleaning sheets having at least two regions, where the regions are distinguished by basis weight. In particular, the cleaning sheet comprises one or more high basis weight regions having a basis weight of from about 30 to about 120 g/m2 and one or more low basis weight regions, wherein the low basis weight region(s) have a basis weight that is not more than about 80% of the basis weight of the high basis weight region(s). Also disclosed are cleaning sheets having substantial macroscopic three-dimensionality, in addition to having multiple basis weights. Optionally, the macroscopically three-dimensional cleaning sheets can comprise a scrim material, which when heated and then cooled, contracts so as to provide a macroscopic three-dimensional structure. Macroscopic three-dimensionality is described in terms of “average height differential”, as well as the “average peak-to-peak” distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Saeed Fereshtehkhou, Paul Joseph Russo, Wilbur Cecil Strickland, Jr., Nicola John Policicchio
  • Publication number: 20030200991
    Abstract: A dual texture coform nonwoven web prepared from meltblown filaments and at least one secondary material is disclosed. The dual texture coform nonwoven web is useful as cleaning pads, wipes, mops, among other articles of manufacture. One surface of the dual texture coform nonwoven web contains coarse filaments, which impart an abrasive characteristic to this surface of the nonwoven web and the other surface contains fine filaments, which impart a non-abrasive or soft surface to the nonwoven web. Also disclosed is the process of producing the dual texture coform nonwoven web, method of using the dual texture coform nonwoven web as a wipe, mop, and the like, along with cleaning kits containing the coform nonwoven web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Laura Elizabeth Keck, Charlene Bendu Harris
  • Publication number: 20030106568
    Abstract: The present invention provides a cleaning sheet that has an enhanced dirt, dust and/or debris pick-up and retention characteristics, which can be used in dry applications and/or wet applications. The cleaning sheet is prepared from a nonwoven web containing plurality of multicomponent multilobal filaments, wherein the multicomponent multilobal filaments have a plurality of raised lobal regions separated by depressed regions. The cleaning sheet also has voids between the plurality of multicomponent multilobal filaments which allow for enhanced dirt, dust and/or debris pick-up and retention. The nonwoven web can be a single layer or a layer of a multilayer laminate. The nonwoven web is optionally electret treated. Also disclosed is a cleaning implement and cleaning kit containing the cleaning sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Laura Elizabeth Keck, Billy Dean Arnold
  • Publication number: 20030097725
    Abstract: A disposable dual sided cleaning cloth is in the form of a laminate having outer layers which are preferably made of non-woven material. The outer layers are secured together by an intermediate hydrophilic polyurethane absorbent foam coating which contains at least one cleaning ingredient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: James A. Smith
  • Publication number: 20030063946
    Abstract: A disposable lotion applicator having a generally flat, elongated body member made out of an absorbent, flexible material that is suitable for receiving and retaining lotion. Lotion can be pre-applied to the applicator or the user of the applicator can apply lotion of their choice. The user of the applicator grasps the ends thereof to rub lotion across the hard-to-reach areas of their body. The applicator can be provided with handles at the ends of the body member that are integral to the body member for grasping the applicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Janet Williams, Betty J. Middleton, Winona H. Ennis, Elsie Hope Brockman
  • Patent number: 6537190
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for mechanically and/or chemical-mechanically planarizing microelectronic substrates. In one embodiment in accordance with the principles of the present invention, a microelectronic substrate is planarized or polished on a planarizing medium having a thin film and a plurality of micro-features on the film. The film may be an incompressible sheet or web substantially impervious to a planarizing solution, and the micro-features may be configured in a selected pattern on the film to restrain fluid flow of the planarizing solution across the surface of the film under the substrate. The micro-features, for example, may be configured in a selected pattern that has a plurality of support points and at least one cavity to entrap a substantially contiguous, uniform distribution of the solution under the substrate during planarization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott E. Moore
  • Publication number: 20030049407
    Abstract: Disposable cleaning sheets for removing debris from a surface comprise a substrate and a plurality of protrusions affixed to the substrate, wherein the cleaning sheet is removably attachable to a cleaning implement. The protrusions are preferably hook-shaped. The preferred hook-shaped protrusions can be made of certain thermoplastic resins and can have certain geometric configurations. The protrusions can be affixed to the substrate via a variety of process and are preferably affixed to the substrate in one or more zones of the substrate. Methods of removing debris from a surface comprise contacting the surface with a cleaning sheet of the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Publication date: March 13, 2003
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Mark Leslie Kacher, Michael Stephen Maile, Andrea Pfarr Switzer, Arthur Wong, Laura Krebs Brown, Preston James Rhamy
  • Publication number: 20030044569
    Abstract: Disposable cleaning sheets for removing debris from a surface comprise a substrate and a plurality of protrusions affixed to the substrate. The cleaning sheets of the present invention have one or more of the following characteristics: (a) “Protrusion Flexibility” of at least about 0.5 grams, preferably from about 1 to about 200 grams, and more preferably from about 5 to about 70 grams; (b) “Glide Resistance” of less than about 1200 grams, preferably from about 25 to about 950 grams, and more preferably from about 200 to about 750 grams; (c) “Hair Capture Efficiency” of at least about 10%, preferably at least about 30%, and more preferably at least about 60%; and/or (d) “Sheet Capacity” of from about 0.2 to about 20 grams, preferably from about 0.5 to about 10 grams, and more preferably from about 0.75 to about 5 grams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: The Proctor & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Mark Leslie Kacher, Michael Stephen Maile, Andrea Pfarr Switzer, Arthur Wong, Preston James Rhamy
  • Publication number: 20030008588
    Abstract: The invention relates to a skin cleaning device that consists of a textile structure and that has lipophobic fibers or lipophobically finished fibers. Due to the lipophobic fibers and/or lipophobically finished fibers contained in it the inventive skin cleaning device is especially adapted to the cleaning requirements of dry skin since the fat absorption capacity of the skin cleaning device is limited by to the fibers. As a result, less fat is removed from the skin during the cleaning process as compared to conventional textile cleaning devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Gregor Kohlruss, Hubert Wiesner, Oliver Griebe
  • Publication number: 20030005534
    Abstract: A damp-wiping cloth (e.g., a sponge or the like) from a foam body of flexible foam material, the foam body (2) being interspersed with foam strips (3) whose hardness is greater than the hardness of the foam body (2).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Applicant: Carl Freudenberg KG
    Inventors: Heike Nowottnick, Dirk Schubert, Jochen Wirjching, Hans-Jurgen Wendelken
  • Publication number: 20030003832
    Abstract: A cleaning sheet for removing particulate matter from a surface comprises a substrate comprising a first fibrous web comprising carded staple fibers and a reinforcing fibrous web comprising fibers selected from the group consisting of thermal bonded fibers, meltblown fibers, hydroentangled fibers, and spunbonded fibers. The first fibrous web is hydroentangled with the reinforcing fibrous web to form the substrate. The resulting cleaning sheet has a CD elongation of less than about 100% at a load of 500 grams. The cleaning sheet is preferably free of a scrim material and can further comprise an optional additive material. A method of removing particulate matter from a surface comprises contacting the surface with a cleaning sheet of the present invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Stephen Lee Childs, Jodi Lynn Russell, Patrick Anthony Palumbo
  • Patent number: 6499901
    Abstract: A hand-held washcloth of balloon like fabric, for washing and scrubbing a body part and for capturing a washing article, such as a bar of soap, other washing and cleaning agents, or a combination thereof. The device is inflated by mouth, and tied at the neck by a closing attachment, such as, a string, clipping device or both. The washcloth device has a balloon like body, that could have any shape, but must includes a neck for holding and inserting the cleaning article and blowing air into the body. By pushing on the body of the device, bubbles come out from the surface. The body also includes a pair of handles for holding and washing body parts, and can be used for hanging during storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Shahrokh Rabbani
  • Publication number: 20020184723
    Abstract: A cleaning and polishing pad including densely packed fibrillated face yarns on one side and an opposite polishing side, which alternatively may be a resilient, textured surface, or an open-celled sponge. The pad is constructed of all synthetic materials using conventional carpet manufacturing techniques. Synthetic fibrillated face yarns are tufted into a primary back which may be a woven polypropylene product, scrim, sponge or other sheet material. The face yarns include yarns of at least two (2) deniers, tightly packed, to provide both a soft and hard bristle face with the yarns cooperating to produce a non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Optionally, a secondary synthetic substrate, such as, for example, a latex substrate, applied to the backside of the tufted product provides a secondary back and a means of locking the yarns into place in the primary backing. Either the secondary back or a separate polishing substrate adhered to the secondary back also forms a polishing or non-abrasive cleaning surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: DeForest Bishop
  • Patent number: 6491998
    Abstract: A wet cleaning cloth for cleaning stoneware areas has a textile carrier, with individual unbundled elastic fibres in a range from 1,000 to 2,000 per square centimeter extend from one side of said textile carrier. Said individual fibres are arranged at a certain distance from each other and extend with a length range of 2 to 12 mm from said carrier, said fibres having a free end with a sharp edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Pathol Limited
    Inventor: Rosita Heitz
  • Patent number: 6464815
    Abstract: A laminated pad and method of manufacturing such pad wherein the laminated pad includes a grip portion and a work surface. The work surface may be comprised of any of a variety of substances including absorbent material, abrasive material, or polishing material. The grip portion may be upstanding for facile gripping with one's fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Wallace J. Beaudry
  • Publication number: 20020144368
    Abstract: A soft soothing bath scrub is formed of a scrubbing layer, such as a a sponge layer, and a wash cloth layer. A stabilizing layer may be interposed, preferably by first attaching it to the underside of the sponge layer, and attaching the sponge layer to the wash cloth layer by intermittent fastening such as by stitches, through the wash cloth layer and into side edge of the sponge layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Reuben Onwugbonu
  • Patent number: 6453502
    Abstract: A cleaning and polishing pad including densely packed fibrillated face yarns on one side and an opposite polishing side, which alternatively may be a resilient, textured surface, or an open-celled sponge. The pad is constructed of all synthetic materials using conventional carpet manufacturing techniques. Synthetic fibrillated face yarns are tufted into a primary back which may be a woven polypropylene product, scrim, sponge or other sheet material. The face yarns include yarns of at least two (2) deniers, tightly packed, to provide both a soft and hard bristle face with the yarns cooperating to produce a non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Optionally, a secondary synthetic substrate, such as, for example, a latex substrate, applied to the backside of the tufted product provides a secondary back and a means of locking the yarns into place in the primary backing. Either the secondary back or a separate polishing substrate adhered to the secondary back also forms a polishing or non-abrasive cleaning surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: DeForest Bishop
  • Publication number: 20020127937
    Abstract: The present invention provides a wet-wipe comprising a non-woven composite elastic material comprising a non-woven elastic layer; and a non-woven gatherable layer. The gatherable layer is bonded to the elastic layer at at least two points; and is gathered between the bonded points. These wet-wipes have a softer more cloth like feel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventors: Scott R. Lange, Kenneth B. Close, David J. Baer, Charles A. Smith, Richard C. Beck
  • Publication number: 20020100494
    Abstract: Methods and systems for inducing an electric charge in a cleaning sheet for cleaning and removing particles from a surface are disclosed. The systems include a cleaning sheet for collecting and retaining the particles and a charging surface configured to frictionally engage the sheet. The cleaning sheets typically have a basis weight of at least about 30 g/m2. The system may include a container for housing and dispensing the cleaning sheet. When the sheet is passed across the charging surface, the electrical charge in the sheet is generally increased by at least about 500 V. Methods of and kits for cleaning surfaces and collecting and retaining debris are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventors: Colin W. Brown, Robert D. Iverson
  • Publication number: 20020065012
    Abstract: A cleaning sheet having a cleaning surface comprising a cleaning area for cleaning a piled surface and a low-friction area which adjoins the cleaning area. The cleaning area has a coefficient of static friction of 0.1 to 4.0 against wool press felt (JIS L3201 R33W). The low-friction area comprises a film or nonwoven fabric and has a coefficient of static friction of 0.01 to 1.0 against wool press felt (JIS L3201 R33W).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Publication date: May 30, 2002
    Inventors: Keima Takabayashi, Kazuo Mori, Akihito Shizuno
  • Patent number: 6385817
    Abstract: A drying sleeve is provided for a handle, such as a sports equipment handle. The drying sleeve has an open end, a closed end and an inner surface that define a cavity. An absorbent material and a containment material cover the majority of the inner surface to permit insertion and drying of the handle. A substantially moisture-proof outer cover covers the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Ron D. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20020050016
    Abstract: Cleaning sheets comprise an additive that is selected to enhance the pick up and retention of particulate material from surfaces, while minimizing the amount of residue left on the surface being cleaned. If the type of additive and level of additive on the cleaning sheet are not carefully selected, the sheet will leave a residue on the surface being cleaned resulting in filming and streaking of the surface that is unacceptable to consumers. The additive is preferably selected from the group consisting of a wax, an oil, and mixtures thereof. Cleaning implements comprise a mop head having a resilient bottom surface, a portion of which preferably has a substantially smooth curved profile or crown which engages a removable cleaning sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth William Willman, Michael Stephen Maile, Mark Leslie Kacher, Marty Allen Vanderstelt, Laura Krebs Brown, Benjamin Jacob Clare, Nicola John Policicchio
  • Patent number: 6378161
    Abstract: A cleaning element (1) for use in the fuser section of electrostatographic reproduction or printing apparatus. The element includes projections projecting from an outer surface to form a pile (5). The cross section of each projection has a cross section having a peripheral dimension and an area. The ratio of the peripheral dimension and area is greater than the same ratio for a projection of circular or substantially circular and equal area of cross section. The projections may be formed by tri-lobal fibres.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: BMP Europe Limited
    Inventor: Steve Parry
  • Publication number: 20020042962
    Abstract: Cleaning sheets comprise an additive that is selected to enhance the pick up and retention of particulate material from surfaces, while minimizing the amount of residue left on the surface being cleaned. If the type of additive and level of additive on the cleaning sheet are not carefully selected, the sheet will leave a residue on the surface being cleaned resulting in filming and streaking of the surface that is unacceptable to consumers. The additive is preferably selected from the group consisting of a wax, an oil, and mixtures thereof. Cleaning implements comprise a mop head having a resilient bottom surface, a portion of which preferably has a substantially smooth curved profile or crown which engages a removable cleaning sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventors: Kenneth William Willman, Michael Stephen Maile, Mark Leslie Kacher, Marty Allen Vanderstelt, Laura Krebs Brown, Benjamin Jacob Clare, Nicola John Policicchio, Nirav Satish Shah
  • Publication number: 20010051479
    Abstract: Disclosed are cleaning sheets having substantial macroscopic three-dimensionality. Optionally, the macroscopically three-dimensional cleaning sheets can comprise a contractable material (e.g., a scrim material), which when heated and then cooled contracts so as to provide a macroscopic, three-dimensional structure. Macroscopic three-dimensionality is described in terms of “average peak-to-peak distance” and “surface topography index”, as well in terms of “average height differential”. Also disclosed are cleaning implements comprising a handle and the described cleaning sheets. Processes for the sheets, benefits of the processes, and articles of manufacture are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Saeed Fereshtehkhou, Paul Joseph Russo, Wilbur Cecil Strickland, Nicola John Policicchio
  • Publication number: 20010029966
    Abstract: Disclosed are woven or hydroentangled non-apertured cleaning sheets having non-random recessed and raised regions. Optionally, the sheets can comprise a scrim material or additives to improve adhesion. Also disclosed are cleaning implements comprising a handle and the described non-apertured cleaning sheets. Methods of using the sheets, articles of manufacture having instructions to the product benefits of the non-apertured cleaning sheets, and process of making the sheets are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventors: Arthur Wong, Saeed Fereshtehkhou
  • Publication number: 20010007162
    Abstract: A cleaning article comprising an elastomer sheet having a synthetic elastomer disposed on the surface thereof as a cleaning surface, wherein the elastomer sheet has a maximum static frictional force of 9.8 to 29 N. With the cleaning article, a carpet, etc. can easily be cleared of pet hair, etc. clinging thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Publication date: July 12, 2001
    Inventors: Kazuya Otsuji, Nobuya Sato
  • Patent number: 6227742
    Abstract: A device for use in washing the back of a person having an elongate sheet of flexible material folded such that the edges are secured together to form a sleeve; a pocket is formed intermediate the sleeve for holding a bar of soap. The pocket is formed by securing opposing internal faces of the sleeve along stitch lines forming a perimeter of the pocket. The pocket further has an opening for inserting the bar of soap into the pocket; the opening in the pocket has hook and loop fasteners for releasably securing the bar of soap within the pocket. Handles in the form of endless rings are provided at each end of the sleeve. Each handle is slidingly engaged in a loop formed at each end of the sleeve wherein each end is wrapped around a portion of the handle means and secured onto itself to form a loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventors: John F. Corn, Gwendolyn P. Corn
  • Patent number: 6189189
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a polyester textile fabric having a relatively low level of particulate contaminates and high absorbency is provided by heatsetting the fabric at a temperature of 300° F. or less.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Brian G. Morin, Daniel T. McBride, Loren W. Chambers
  • Patent number: 6165603
    Abstract: An improved washing implement which exhibits superior softness, while also retaining good resiliency and durability, is made from at least one piece of open cell polymer mesh. To achieve the improved softness, resiliency, and durability of the improved washing implement an improved open cell mesh is provided which is softer and sufficiently resilient as a result of its controlled material and cell structure parameters. In preferred embodiments, the controlled physical parameters of the open cell mesh include basis weight, cell count, node count, node length and node diameter. Optimizing the physical parameters of the mesh also results in a washing implement that absorbs and delivers increased amounts of water and cleansing product to the surface being cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Richard M. Girardot, Gene M. Altonen, Lyle B. Tuthill
  • Patent number: 6156418
    Abstract: An improved washing implement which exhibits superior softness, while also retaining good resiliency, is made from at least one piece of open cell polymer mesh. To achieve the improved softness and resiliency of the improved washing implement an improved open cell mesh is provided which is softer and sufficiently resilient as a result of its controlled cell structure parameters. In preferred embodiments, the controlled physical parameters of the open cell mesh include basis weight, cell count, node count, node length and node diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Richard M. Girardot, Gene M. Altonen, Lyle B. Tuthill
  • Patent number: 6148468
    Abstract: Disclosed is a luminous material formed from artificial fibers containing luminous powder for making bathing scrubbers. The artificial fibers are compressed into wide and long strips that are suitable for forming into artificial fiber ring members. A plurality of such ring members can be densely tied together to form a ball-shaped bathing scrubber or be braided together to form a long braid-shaped bathing scrubber. The luminous powder is blended into raw material of artificial fibers during manufacture of the fibers to give the artificial fibers a luminous surface with suitable roughness and friction. Therefore, bathing scrubbers made with the artificial fibers containing luminous powder not only give out bright and attractive light but also thoroughly remove dust and callus from a user's skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Inventor: Kuo-Chin Chen
  • Patent number: 6146745
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved open cell mesh which exhibits superior softness, while also retaining acceptable resiliency, as a result of controlling cell structure parameters. In preferred embodiments, physically measurable parameters of the open cell mesh, and more particularly the cell structure, are controlled within pre-defined ranges. The controlled physical parameters of the subject open cell mesh include basis weight, cell count, node count, node length, node thickness, and node width. Additionally, there is provided a method of testing the mesh's resistance to an applied load, which is a predictive indicator of softness and resiliency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Gene M. Altonen, Richard M. Girardot, Lyle B. Tuthill
  • Patent number: 6143393
    Abstract: A cleaning product comprises a base sheet and at least one layer of filaments or split yarns oriented in one direction, the base sheet and the layer are stacked and bonded together at a plurality of bonding lines extending in a direction intersecting with the one direction, and the base sheet is cut together with the layer intermittently in the intersecting direction between adjacent bonding lines to form cutting portions, thereby forming brushing portions with the layer. The cleaning product can be produced simply and conveniently at small cost. Further, it also has an excellent dust collecting effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Uni-Charm Corporation
    Inventors: Kouzou Abe, Yasuhiko Kenmochi, Masatoshi Fujiwara, Yoshinori Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6108855
    Abstract: A hand towel adapted for attachment to users's body, as by attachment to a belt worn about the waist, or to a stanchion, railing, pipe, or other support as is commonly found on fishing boats. The towel is made from two layers of terry cloth cut into the shape of a fish, the edge of each layer being doubled over and the edge of one layer being joined to the edge of the other layer by sewing a seam about the border of the fish. The towel has loop made from an elastic strap or band. The loop has two free ends which may be releasably fastened together in order to attach the towel to a belt of other support. The loop preferably has an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the diameter of the loop. In a first embodiment, the loop has an end sewn into the border of the towel. In a second embodiment, the towel has a grommet defining an eye of the fish, the loop being inserted through the grommet. In the second embodiment, a metal ring having a resilient, flexible tang may be substituted for the elastic loop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventor: Yvonne DeLeon
  • Patent number: 6087279
    Abstract: A textile surface-area material used for cleaning, having a non-woven material and structures raised over the non-woven material. The structures are on both sides of the surface-area material. The structures can be full-surface or partial surfaces, and the base non-woven material can have structures, staggered on both sides, formed by structure needling. Spacings can be maintained between the structures which corresponds at least to a dimension of the structure on the opposite side. The non-woven can have at least two layers, laminated together, of a non-woven material provided on one side with structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Firma Carl Freudenberg
    Inventor: Heinrich Hans Laun