Work Supports Patents (Class 15/268)
  • Patent number: 11877644
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the device may be used to clean any brush. The brush bristles carry bacteria, food particles, dust, germs, and other similar residue in tightly packed spaces near where the bristles connect with the head of the brush. In multiple embodiments, the device is a container that is filled with cleaning solution (e.g., mouthwash, cleaning solution, alcohol, etc.), a lid that substantially closes the top opening of the container, and an agitator pad that has a plurality of individual prongs. In various embodiments, the lid mirrors the container shape so that the lid and the container can be operatively connected. In various embodiments, the lid has a cover, so that when the device is not being use, the cover may be put in a closed position so that the cover closes the opening in the lid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Inventor: Mark Altschuler
  • Patent number: 11707178
    Abstract: A shoe cleaning apparatus and method configured for cleaning a user's shoes while the user is wearing said shoes. A cleaning solution can be supplied by the shoe cleaning apparatus and operation of the shoe cleaning apparatus can agitate the surface of the shoe and the cleaning solution. The shoe cleaning apparatus can be provided as part of a decorative or storage unit, entry system, portable system, or built-in system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: BISSELL Inc.
    Inventor: Isaac Busken-Jovanovich
  • Patent number: 10201884
    Abstract: A knife sharpener for the manual sharpening of knives that includes a knife clamp member having first and second clamping members, a guide member that defines upper and lower guide members, and a base member. Each upper and lower guide member includes a plurality of apertures sized and shaped for receiving a guide rod that includes a sharpening stone. The knife clamp member further includes embodiments assuring the knife blade is held securely and positioned between the first and second clamping members in the same position in which the knife blade was installed the last time it was sharpened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Inventor: Michael Sandefur
  • Patent number: 10041249
    Abstract: A wall for partitioning space within a building comprises interconnected barriers. For adjustable height, each barrier comprises a lower panel and a slidable and overlapping upper panel. Barriers are interconnected at vertical edges by a combination of rigid pins and slots or by hinge assemblies. Mating male and female parts of a hinge assembly attach to both panels of adjacent barriers with adjustable heights, and enable selective angling of barriers relative to each other. A filler barrier, for filling a space along a wall that is less or more wide than a standard width barrier, has sliding inter-nested frame parts that attach to the two panels of a standard barrier. A clip secures the top of a barrier to the grid of a suspended ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Inventors: Timothy Hebert, Bruce Bickford
  • Patent number: 9949600
    Abstract: The mini-blind cleaner is an open framework from which a mini-blind to be cleaned may be suspended. Suspending the mini-blind from the mini-bland cleaner allows both sides of the mini-blind to be accessed and allows operation of the mini-blind mechanisms that raise and lower the blind and tilt the slats of the mini-blind. The mini-blind cleaner comprises telescopic upright sides that may be reduced in length. The upright sides are also hinged to the top frame so that the mini-blind cleaner may be folded flat for storage or transportation. Movable blind brackets on the top frame lock into position at spacings corresponding to standard blind lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Inventor: Margaret Dalrymple
  • Patent number: 9889534
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved on-line deburring device of a wheel valve hole, having a frame, electric cylinders, an air cylinder, grinding heads, a motor, guide rails and a transmission shaft. In use, the present invention can meet the requirements for deburring the wheel valve hole; meanwhile, the device has the characteristics of high production efficiency, advanced technique, high automation degree, stable performance, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Assignee: CITIC Dicastal CO., LTD
    Inventors: Bowen Xue, Yacong Zhang, Jiandong Guo, Weidong Liu, Yao Zheng
  • Patent number: 9697742
    Abstract: A maze construction system for fire and rescue training exercises includes a plurality of panels that are tensionably supported between a ceiling and floor. Each panel includes at least one extendable column that terminates with a pad for contact with a ceiling surface. A flange along at least one vertical edge of the panels permits the panels to align at their edges. The panels are quickly assembled and disassembled, and are easily reconfigured to form new maze paths without requiring additional additional tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Inventors: William Lloyd Faver, Glenn D. Larson
  • Patent number: 9598873
    Abstract: A reusable and portable temporary door/frame assembly primarily used in abatement, remediation, demolition, and remodeling applications with a containment enclosure or barrier to allow quick and easy ingress/egress, or restrict movement, to/from a limited access area. The assembly comprises lightweight materials, such as but not limited to plastic or aluminum, and two non-spring-loaded telescopic poles that extend a top bar/piece upwardly for attachment to an overhead door frame, header, or ceiling. The top of the frame is also configured to accept two upwardly extendable spring-loaded/biased poles allowing a containment enclosure or barrier to be built to ceiling heights beyond the reach of the integral telescopic poles. Since the assembly is portable, it can be installed to open inwardly, outwardly, and is reversible, depending on convenience or need. The door is lockable. The door panel's frame includes a seal at the top/bottom to reduce air transmission to/from the limited access area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Inventor: John E. Cali
  • Patent number: 8951361
    Abstract: An apparatus for guiding hydraulic hoses for use in cleaning sewer lines. The claimed hose guide locks the hydraulic hose, near the head of the hose, in a clamp, providing rigidity for an operator trying to locate the opening of a clogged pipeline. Once the hose has been placed at the pipeline opening, the operator releases the hose from the hose guide, pressurizes the hose so as to separate the hose from the hose guide, removes the hose guide from the sewer line, and cleans the pipeline with the hydraulic hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Daniel Sutton
  • Publication number: 20140338700
    Abstract: An apparatus for assisting with wiping a child includes a stabilized base configured to sit on a horizontal surface and a first handle coupled to the stabilized base. The first handle is positioned such that a child bending over and grabbing the first handle with both hands opens the child's anal and/or private areas for wiping clean, such as during a diaper change. The apparatus may also include a second handle extending upwardly from the stabilized base higher than the first handle so that the second handle may be grabbed by the child in a standing position or during movement to and from the bent over position. A method for assisting with wiping a child while using the apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel RICHARDSON
  • Publication number: 20140182631
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of cleaning components of a substrate processing apparatus The components of the substrate processing apparatus are cleaned by using a first cleaning jig including a disk-shaped lower member, and a disk-shaped upper member connected to the lower member and forming a gap between the upper member and the lower member. The lower member of the first cleaning jig is held by the substrate holding unit to rotate the first cleaning jig. The cleaning liquid is ejected toward the first cleaning jig from a bottom side of the first cleaning jig while the first cleaning jig is rotated. The cleaning liquid flows out toward outside of the first cleaning jig via the gap between the upper member and the lower member by a centrifugal force, and the components of the substrate processing apparatus are cleaned by the cleaning liquid that has flowed out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Publication date: July 3, 2014
    Inventor: Hiromitsu Namba
  • Publication number: 20140130732
    Abstract: There are provided a wafer holder cleaning apparatus and a film deposition system including the same, the wafer holder cleaning apparatus including a housing part including an entrance into and out of which a wafer holder is carried, a door part selectively opening and closing the entrance, a support part provided within the housing part and having the wafer holder disposed thereon, the wafer holder being carried into the housing part through the entrance, and a cleaning part cleaning a surface of the wafer holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sang Kyu BANG, Sung Don KWAK, Choo Ho KIM, Won Soo JI
  • Publication number: 20140130296
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning air filters utilizes a pressurized fluid flow, preferably air, to rotate a set of air spraying jets inside a hollow interior of a filter in order to remove particles from the filter. To ensure proper positioning of the jets in relation to the filter the present invention uses a set of plates with slots and pins, wherein the pins secure the apparatus on one end of the filter. The set of plates also at least partially blocks the flow of air out of the ends to more efficiently direct the flow of air from the jets to the filter. The jets then may be moved reciprocated along the length of the filter for cleaning purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Inventor: Dennis Grieve
  • Publication number: 20130318736
    Abstract: A decorating tip cleaning apparatus includes a first frame member having opposed front and rear edges and a second frame member having opposed front and rear edges. The rear edges of the frame members are pivotally coupled together such that the first and the second frame members are movable between a closed configuration at which the front edges, respectively, are generally adjacent one another and an open configuration at which the front edges, respectively, are separated from one another. The first and second frame members include a mesh material extending between respective front and rear edges. The mesh material of the first frame member defines a plurality of apertures spaced apart from one another, each aperture being configured to receive a decorating tip partially therethrough. Each aperture is configured to receive only a portion of a respective decorating tip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventor: James R. Moore
  • Publication number: 20130160229
    Abstract: Disclosed is worktable apparatus on which cleaning can be executed. The worktable apparatus includes a worktable, a washing unit and a supporting unit. The worktable includes a horizontal board supported on posts. The washing unit includes a sink and a valve. The sink includes an opening defined in an upper portion and a drain defined in a lower portion. The valve is connected to the sink so that the drain is in communication with and under control of the valve. The supporting unit includes two rails, a tray and casters. The rails are connected to the worktable under the sink. The tray is placed between the rails. The casters are divided into two groups each connected to a respective one of two lateral edges of the tray and movably supported on a respective one of the rails.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventor: Da-Sen LIN
  • Patent number: 8413284
    Abstract: A dual striker mechanism for a carpet-tapping machine comprises two striker grills which are mounted in a common body opposite one another so as to be pivotable about the longitudinal axis of their retaining rail. The tapping rods of the first striker grill thereby protrude into the gaps between the tapping rods of the second striker grill. The arrangement of the tapping rods of the two striker grills thereby forms a common horizontal plane. The striker grills are coupled to one another such that upon a clockwise pivoting motion of the first striker grill, the opposite one moves counter-clockwise. The drive motor for the striker grills generates an alternating pivoting motion about the longitudinal axis of the striker grills via an eccentric drive. The tapping rods of the two striker grills thereby move toward each other in their common substantially horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas Pfisterer
  • Publication number: 20130007978
    Abstract: A boot and bicycle tire bath and method of using the same for facilitating the removal of undesirable material, such as from rubber or synthetic material, including cleaning snow and ice with grit from the soles of footwear and/or the tires of bicycles. Footwear may be dipped in a fluid in the bath, removing grit and other material, and thereafter left to dry on optional heel and/or toe holds.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Publication date: January 10, 2013
    Inventor: Barry Alan Gore
  • Patent number: 8099815
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a floor covering storage and dispensing rack including a frame equipped with extendable members having castors. Floor lock anchors are also provided on the frame. Upper frame members of the rack support rollers in spaced relation and a crank or motor is provided to rotate the rollers to wind floor covering onto the rollers for storage. Perforated end caps are provided on the rollers to limit access to moving parts. An elongated cleaning head consisting of a pair of brushes is provided on a frame member. Floor covering passes over at least one brush when the floor covering is retrieved or dispensed to remove dirt prior to storage or reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Inventor: John V. Kostigian
  • Patent number: 7712236
    Abstract: An apparatus and method to quickly, easily and temporarily secure fabric to an ironing board or the like to facilitate the removal of hair, lint, or other particulate matter which is adhered to the surface of the fabric. The fabric to be cleaned is positioned on an ironing board in the same manner as placing the fabric on the board for ironing. A pressure applying member is placed over the fabric to be cleaned, most commonly near the longitudinal end of the fabric. Each end of the pressure applying member is connected to a tension mechanism such as a spring or elastomeric cord. The other end of the tension mechanism is connected, in turn, to a connecting means such as a J-hook. When the connecting means are hooked over the far and near edges of the ironing board, the tension mechanism is pulled taut, forcing the pressure member down with sufficient force to hold the fabric in place against the pull of a vacuum or lint brush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Inventors: Charles Peter Ball, Claire Marie Ball
  • Publication number: 20090107856
    Abstract: A unit designed to clean fine jewelry and gemstones in the dishwasher. The unit is manufactured out of a material like plastic to prevent scratching of any metal placed in the unit, to impede tarnishing, and to prevent chipping of any large stones. The unit has holes throughout to allow water to enter the hollow area of the unit and then allowing the water to drain out. The unit has a ring on the top with an opening large enough for a zip tie or other means to attach the unit inside the dishwasher. The unit is threaded around the midway section to allow the unit to twist open, and then closed. The unit is comprised out of a material that can withstand the high temperatures in the dishwasher. The bottom of the unit is concave with grooves that allow the user to attach a rubber band for added security if the user so chooses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Inventor: Jacquelyn Louise Egnatic
  • Publication number: 20070163070
    Abstract: A holding member for facilitating the cleaning of optical components includes two end walls and at least two spaced plates. The two end walls face toward each other. One of the two end walls defines at least one through slot. The at least two spaced plates are held between the two end walls and define at least one pair of respective inner surfaces. Each respective pair of inner surfaces has a pair of corresponding elongated grooves defined therein along a longitudinal direction thereof. Each slot communicates with a respective pair of elongated grooves. In particular, each such through slot and the respective pair of elongated grooves associated therewith are cooperatively aligned with one another in a manner so as to direct the optical components into the respective pair of corresponding elongated grooves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2006
    Publication date: July 19, 2007
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: TAI-CHERNG YU, HSIN-HO LEE, TSAI-SHIH TUNG
  • Patent number: 7059010
    Abstract: A support system for cleaning mini blinds includes a pair of end supports and an intermediate support, each support having a back portion and a lower portion extending at right angles for supporting the spine of the mini blind. A pair of suction cups is affixed to each back portion for securing the back portion to a smooth surface. An alignment indicia is provided on the back portions for aiding in horizontal alignment of the supports. The two end supports each include a side portion and a front portion for restricting movement of the spine of the supported mini blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventor: Karen Heneghan
  • Patent number: 6993806
    Abstract: A shoe cleaning apparatus and method of attaching the same to a vehicle includes a brush assembly having at least one brush unit. A linkage includes a first end selectively coupled to the brush assembly and a second end selectively coupled to a hitch receiver of the vehicle. A hitch sleeve is inserted into the hitch receiver and is secured in an installed position. In an alternate embodiment, a shoe cleaning apparatus and method of attaching the same to a hitch receiver of a vehicle includes a frame having a forward end including a mounting arm and at least one brush unit coupled to the frame. A coupling element couples the mounting arm of the frame to the hitch receiver of the vehicle. A mounting aperture of the frame is aligned with an aperture formed on the hitch receiving portion of the vehicle defining a mounting axis. The mounting arm is secured to the hitch receiving portion at the mounting axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: John P. Finley
  • Patent number: 6845541
    Abstract: A shoe last and a device for detachably mounting the last on a vertical surface that firmly supports the last permitting a user to conveniently polish a shoe mounted on the last. A knob is mounted on the heel section of the last that provides a grip when it is desired to withdraw the last from a shoe. A hinge bar is provided that has one end hinged to a base surface and another end with an aperture into which the knob may be inserted and clamped when it is desired to secure the shoe on the last in a position convenient for polishing. The inclination of the hinge bar may be clamped at an angle selected by the user. When it is desired to store the last (with shoe mounted on the last) the last is attached to any one of numerous locations on a rack by inserting the knob into an aperture ate the selected location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: David Lai
  • Patent number: 6802103
    Abstract: In the broader aspects of the invention, there is provided a cleaning tool for electrically and pneumatically powered surgical instruments having either a pneumatic hose connector or an electrical plug connector thereon comprising a tool body having opposite ends. An instrument connector is at one of the ends. A handle is at the other of the ends. The handle allows positive control of the positioning of the surgical instrument and positive control over both axial movement and rotary movement of the instrument during cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Nuell, Inc.
    Inventor: David C. Holsclaw
  • Patent number: 6540470
    Abstract: The motorcycle wheel washing ramp comprised of a frame including opposing sidewalls and at least one incline wall substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls. The sidewalls have opposing apertures to adjustably receive parallel aligned rollers to permit the motorcycle wheel to advance upward onto the ramp and over the two parallel rollers after which the wheel may be manually turned for washing, cleaning and/or polishing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventors: Gerald F. Smith, Timothy R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6466723
    Abstract: A cleaning tool for cleaning optical fiber connectors exposes a cleaning sheet in a window of the case. A winding pulley is operable to wind the cleaning sheet upon rotation at a constant pitch. A rotation mechanism, that is operated by a lever, rotates the winding pulley. The case is constructed of a first front plate and a second front plate which are closed off by a perimeter wall along their outer circumference. The case has an open portion in a part of the perimeter wall, and the lever is disposed in the open portion in an inclined orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: NTT Advanced Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Taisei Miyake, Ai Fukuhara, Juichi Noda, Etsuji Sugita, Hitoshi Goto, Isao Iwakane, Kou Niida, Yuji Takaoka
  • Publication number: 20020088076
    Abstract: A support system for cleaning mini blinds includes a pair of end supports and an intermediate support, each support having a back portion and a lower portion extending at right angles for supporting the spline of the mini blind. A pair of suction cups is affixed to each back portion for securing the back portion to a smooth surface. An alignment indicia is provided on the back portions for aiding in horizontal alignment of the supports. The two end supports each include a side portion and a front portion for restricting movement of the spline of the supported mini blind.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Karen Heneghan
  • Publication number: 20020078523
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning vehicular floor mats and the like includes a support member in a container having an opening for receiving dirt and other matter that is removed from a floor mat. A generally horizontal screen is positioned above the container such that the dirt and other matter falls into the container. At least one resilient member connects the screen to the support member, such that the screen shifts when a floor mat positioned on the screen is impacted by a user to thereby dislodge dirt and other matter from the floor mat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: Laverne C. Ball
  • Patent number: 6370727
    Abstract: An open frame for supporting a venetian blind facilitating washing the blind. The frame has a pair of spaced apart elongate side members each with a face plate and an end plate and are interconnected by a cross member. The cross member adjustably positions the spacing of the side members to suit blinds of various widths. A pair of saddles are adjustably mounted on the side members for releasibly supporting the top rail of the venetian blind. Pins through the frame are insertable into opposed ends of the bottom rail of the venetian blind.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventors: Wanda M. Yurt, Alvin C. Yurt
  • Publication number: 20020032940
    Abstract: In a method for polishing leads of a semiconductor package, a plurality of semiconductor packages is arranged in a certain manner. Then, the leads are automatically polished. The semiconductor packages may be masked to expose at least a part of the leads to be polished.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Publication date: March 21, 2002
    Applicant: OKI ELECTRIC INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Takeyuki Sato
  • Patent number: 6175987
    Abstract: A paint brush holder is provided which conveniently retains paint brushes, especially during the wire brushing of the paint brushes. The paint brush holder comprises a tray having an upper surface and a lower surface. Disposed upon the upper surface is a plurality of slots, each having a low portion and a raised portion. Such slots can be used to conveniently retain paint brushes disposed upon their edges. The paint brush holder can further comprise a shaped recess having a wide portion and a narrow portion for conveniently retaining a paint brush disposed horizontally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Russell Harvey
  • Patent number: 6129097
    Abstract: A jewelry cleaning device is disclosed comprising a neck portion and a body portion each formed by a wall of fine, flexible mesh material which collectively define a hollow interior having an open top in the neck portion and a closed bottom in the body portion. A support located at the open top of the neck portion is effective to mount the device to the steam pipe of a steam cleaning device so that the nozzle at the end of the steam pipe extends into the hollow interior. The body portion is formed with an access opening fitted with a closure device which is movable between an open position to permit the insert of an item of jewelry within the hollow interior, and a closed position wherein the access opening is substantially closed against the tweezers or other gripping device used to hold the jewelry item during the steam cleaning operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventor: Edward C. Papandrea
  • Patent number: 6112914
    Abstract: The present invention beneficially provides an improved method and apparatus for cleaning window coverings. The apparatus comprises a flexible strip and a hanging unit. The flexible strip engages a portion of a window covering and includes a fastening feature to secure the flexible strip to the portion of the window covering. The hanging unit couples with the flexible strip and a support structure, wherein the hanging unit and the flexible strip can support at least part of the weight of the window covering when hanging from the support structure. The method comprises hanging the window covering from a support structure using the apparatus. In one embodiment, the window covering is removed from a window frame, hung from a support structure using the apparatus, washed, rinsed, allowed to dry, and repositioned in the window frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Anne-Marie Naficy
  • Patent number: 5979849
    Abstract: A cleaning station for cleaning eyeglasses holds a supply of tissue with one at a time dispensing, a spray bottle of lens, cleaning fluid and clips to hold the eyeglasses. The clips hold the eyeglasses in a position such that both sides of the lenses may be sprayed and wiped without wetting the tissue. The bottom of the station may be provided with material that prevents the station from sliding about when in use. The station is arranged so that all operations may be performed with one hand. This enables a person who has the use of only one hand to perform this common task without assistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Inventor: Walter Samuel Williams
  • Patent number: 5863353
    Abstract: A pair of supports with a platform at the top of each support. The platforms hold the top and bottom tilt in type windows so they can be easily cleaned. The top support also has a clamp to make it easier to hold the bottom window while cleaning the top window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Louis Horace Snipe, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5590435
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a floor covering storage and dispensing rack including a frame equipped with castors. Upper frame members of the rack support rollers in parallel spaced relation, and a crank or motor is provided to rotate the rollers to wind the floor covering onto the rollers for storage. An elongated cleaning head or pair of brushes is provided on a frame member so that the floor covering passes over at least one cleaning head or brush when the floor covering is retrieved or dispensed to remove dirt prior to storage or reuse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Galt Display Rack Company Limited
    Inventor: John V. Kostigian
  • Patent number: 5584747
    Abstract: An aluminum wheel having a side on which an annular groove is formed is stably led to a polishing and cleaning station in a compact shot blasting apparatus in which the aluminum wheel is uniformly polished and cleaned, and in which an inlet guide way and an outlet guide way on which the aluminum wheel rolls are provided upstream and downstream of a pair of eccentric rollers, a stopper is provided above the inlet guide way while a kick-out bracket which can ascend and descend passing through a gap between the eccentric rollers is provided so that the aluminum wheel is led onto the eccentric rollers with its rolling speed being controlled by the stopper and the kick-out bracket. Further, the shot blasting zone on the aluminum wheel is extended horizontally in a band-like shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Sintokogio Ltd.
    Inventors: Susum Ikeda, Kyoichi Suzuki, Sinri Inoue
  • Patent number: 5363532
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for cleaning eyeglasses is disclosed in which a holding device is provided with a clamp mechanism for mounting eyeglasses in the holding device in a manner which provides clear access to the lens surfaces of the eyeglasses. A cleaning and drying device is provided with a brush at one end for use in cleaning the lenses with soap while an absorbent material is mounted to the other end to dry the lenses after cleaning. The apparatus aids in cleaning the lenses in a manner that completely removes oil from the lens surfaces and prevents the oil from being smeared over the lenses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Inventor: Charles L. Sargent
  • Patent number: 5220703
    Abstract: To microscopically clean the ferrule end surface of an optical connector simply, uniformly and securely, the optical connector cleaner comprises a cleaning cloth woven with ultrafine fiber less than 0.1 denier; a casing formed with at least one opening for protecting the cleaning cloth from dust; and a mechanism for shifting the cleaning cloth exposed in the opening for cloth renewing, after the ferrule end surface has been rubbed with the cleaning cloth for cleaning. Further, it is preferable to provide an elastic member under the cleaning cloth for applying a constant cleaning pressure against the cloth and a guide member over the cleaning cloth for securely cleaning the ferrule end surface. The cloth shift mechanism is operated manually by the user or automatically by a motor. A holder jig holds the optical connector to facilitate cleaning of the ferrule end surface. The holder jig supports the optical connector such that the ferrule projects from the holder jig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Assignee: Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Co.
    Inventors: Kazunori Kanayama, Etsuji Sugita, Ryo Nagase, Shinichi Iwano
  • Patent number: 5167045
    Abstract: A device is provided for facilitating cleaning a dry mop head which consists of a dry mop assembly with a removable dry mop head and an interlocking holding member which will grip the dry mop head in an inverted stationary position, so that a person using a vacuum cleaner can clean the dry mop head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Inventor: Osualdo Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 5131110
    Abstract: A metal polishing machine includes a rotary wire brush and a fixture for supporting a workpiece during the polishing operation. Also supported on the fixture are a plurality of ring mounted filler pins which extend into apertures in the workpiece and terminate at a surface of the workpiece to be polished. The pins prevent the brush from scouring or otherwise damaging the edges of the apertures during the polishing operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: Areway, Inc.
    Inventor: John S. Hadgis
  • Patent number: 5090078
    Abstract: A book case type optical disk storage container adapted to house a cartridge type optical disk with its shutter opened, the container being characterized in that one storage surface of the container is provided with a shutter stopper for keeping the shutter open, and a projection for supporting an optical disk base rotatably, the other storage surface being provided with a disk rotating jig and a disk base cleaning device. A structure for preventing the dislocation of a spring is provided in the optical disk cartridge wherein a shutter is opened and closed in accordance with a sliding movement of a sliding jig provided in the inner portion of the shutter and joined to the spring contacting portions of cartridge case via a spring. The spring contacting portions of the cases consist of the surfaces of a contacting wall, and upper and lower walls extending from the contacting wall, the lower wall being provided with a spring dislocation preventing projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kunihito Kamakura, Seiichi Ohta, Chihiro Aoki, Seitaro Hamano, Yasushi Hiramatsu
  • Patent number: 5056184
    Abstract: An apparatus is set forth including spaced, vertical support members releasably mounted to a top horizontal frame member. Side vertical frame members include stabilizer legs pivotally mounted thereto to secure the organization in a vertical orientation for support of venetian blinds thereon. The top frame member includes a series of orthogonally and fixedly mounted pegs directed forwardly of the frame member to secure a venetian blind arrangement thereon. Plate bars are scissored and secured between the vertical frame members to enable collapsing of the organization when the top frame member is removed therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Inventor: George H. Pitchford
  • Patent number: 4967517
    Abstract: A polishing method and apparatus is set forth utilizing an elongate stepped base assembly comprising a planar lower surface spaced below a a parallel upper surface. The upper surface includes a FIG. 8 recess therein defined by two overlapping cylindrical recesses. Each of the cylindrical recesses are of a predetermined diameter to receive a polishing rod defined by a diameter less than that of said predetermined diameter to be slidably received within each of said recesses. The polishing rod has secured thereto a first adhesive band adherably mounting a second adhesive strap onto a lowermost end surface of the polishing rod. A workpiece is adherably mounted to the second adhesive strap and directed interiorly of one of said cylindrical recesses subsequent to positioning a fabric polishing sheet containing polishing compound within the one cylindrical recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1990
    Inventor: Harry L. Mitchell
  • Patent number: 4951344
    Abstract: Presented is a device for cleaning dirt and debris from the top surface and side surface portions of a beverage can from which the contents are to be drunk directly by placing the mouth on the end of the can surrounding the opening therein. Included is a flange portion that overlaps the side of the can so that a towel sandwiched between the cleaning device and the can wipes away contaminants. Also included is a bead that projects into the groove found on most cans within the rim to thereby press a layer of paper toweling or facial tissue into the groove so that upon rotation of the cleaning device on the end of the can, any contaminants are wiped away, thus preventing them from being entrained with and consumed with the beverage. A concave surface on the cleaning device presses paper towel or facial tissue against the top of the can in the area surrounding where the opening will be formed when the beverage can is opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1990
    Inventor: Youbert Alkhato
  • Patent number: 4934015
    Abstract: A mini-blind cleaning rack is set forth wherein a downwardly extending "U" shaped frame is provided, including a plurality of telescoping members defining the legs and base of the "U" shaped member. The terminal ends of the legs are further provided with positioning feet slidingly receiving extension legs for effecting stability of the organization. A plurality of upwardly directed clamps are slidably and adjustably positionable upon the overlying base of the "U" shaped framework with a second pair of clamps slidably and fixedly securable and downwardly directed mounted to a cross-bar adjustably positionable upon the spaced parallel legs of the "U" shaped framework. The unit accordingly accommodates and extends a mini-blind work piece between the pairs of clamps wherein the clamps may be extended to accommodate varying lengths and positioned upon the respective base and cross-bar of the apparatus to accommodate varying widths of mini-blinds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1990
    Inventor: Jerry C. Mink
  • Patent number: 4733424
    Abstract: A doormat housing comprising a swingingly retractable doormat tray seated within which is a doormat, is slidably affixed against one side of an entranceway door for use when the door is opened. In use, the doormat housing is slidingly moved to a lowered position whereat, upon the downward and outward swinging of the doormat tray, the tray with mat will seat against the floor or walking surface close to the entranceway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 29, 1988
    Inventor: David E. Gurkin
  • Patent number: 4710997
    Abstract: The present invention provides a last-case for use in cleaning footwear, the last-case comprising a wall cover adapted to be fixed to a wall, and an external cover removably connected to the lower edge of the wall cover, the external cover being movable between a closed and an open position. The wall cover is adapted to hold cleaning accessories and utensils, as well as a last. The last comprises an angular member having a pair of flaps at its one end, the flaps designed to be retained in corresponding flaps on the wall cover. The last further comprises a base piece connected to the angular member, as well as a heel piece which is attached to the end of the angular member remote from the flaps. The angular and base members are pivotally linked together by a pin. A segmented toothed wheel is located interjacent the angular and base members, and is also mounted about the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1987
    Inventor: Felipe U. Hermida
  • Patent number: 4704987
    Abstract: A fixture for supporting and masking a portion of a window assembly during a painting operation includes a lower cover pivotally attached to an upper cover for movement between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, a window assembly can be inserted between the covers and in the closed position the covers mask a glass sheet and expose a gasket of the window assembly for painting. The upper and lower covers can be formed with a generally planar floor surrounded by upstanding walls having recessed portions formed in the sidewalls dimensioned to retain and seal the glass sheet. The lower cover can be hingedly connected to a mounting block for approximately 180.degree. of rotation to expose both sides of the extending gasket to a paint spray apparatus. A latching mechanism can be provided to maintain the upper and lower portions in the closed position during the painting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1987
    Assignee: Libbey-Owens-Ford Co.
    Inventor: Edward W. Curtze