Combined Patents (Class 15/4)
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Publication number: 20110030163Abstract: A floor cleaning machine is provided that includes a chassis that supports at least one cleaning element and a fluid collection assembly for pooling and retaining cleaning fluids proximate to the at least one cleaning element. One embodiment of the present disclosure provides a floor cleaning machine that includes cleaning fluid dispension apparatus and a cleaning fluid collection assembly for efficiently dispensing fluid on a surface for cleaning the surface, and collecting the dispensed fluid to maximize the cleaning capacity of the fluid and extend the time of a cleaning cycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2010Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: KARCHER N. AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Steven W. Tucker, Daniel C. Venard
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Patent number: 7884336Abstract: Sponge sanitizing enclosure with a front cover, a rear cover, an inner back plate, a base housing, a push plate, a push button, a UV lamp, electronics to support the UV lamp, a battery power supply, a translucent sponge, and a hinge member. The front and rear cover each being dish shaped and forming a hollow housing and being joined at their base by the hinge member. The inner back plate forms a bisection of the front cover and the rear cover. The UV light is located between the rear cover and the inner back plate. The front cover includes a centrally located aperture that accepts the push button which is fixedly attached to the push plate. The space between the push plate and the inner back plate accommodates the translucent sponge. The base housing encloses the electronics and the battery power supply that support the UV lamp.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2008Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Brent Gibson
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Publication number: 20110023248Abstract: A floor cleaning machine is provided that includes a chassis that supports at least one cleaning element. The chassis is supported by a plurality of wheels, one which is steerable via a steering wheel that is interconnected to a housing also associated with the chassis. The chassis provided includes a plurality of movable housing members, one of which is associated with the steering wheel. To access the internal components of the floor cleaning machine, the front housing is rotated or moved away from the other housings wherein the steering wheel does not require disconnection to allow this movement.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2009Publication date: February 3, 2011Applicant: Karcher North America, Inc.Inventors: Steven W. Tucker, Daniel C. Venard
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Publication number: 20110010873Abstract: A cleaning apparatus including a main body, a dust collection unit detachably installed on the main body and provided with a plurality of inlets, through which foreign substances are introduced into the dust collection unit, and a connection hole, to which an external instrument is connected, a shutter to open and close one inlet, and a cap to open and close the connection hole. The shutter opens and closes the inlet in cooperation with one of whether or not the dust collection unit is attached to or detached from the main body and whether or not the connection hole is opened or closed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2010Publication date: January 20, 2011Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Dong Won Kim, Hwl Chan Jang, Jae Man Joo, Jun Pyo Hong, Jun Hwa Lee, Woo Ram Chung, Jae Young Jung, Kyung Hwan Yoo, Jang Youn Ko, Jeong Gon Song, Sam Jong Jeung
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Publication number: 20110004342Abstract: A floor cleaning device that is manually trainable for subsequent automatic operation. Prior to automatic operation, a user trains the cleaning device by manually manipulating the device through one or more desired cleaning paths. After training of the device, the device is configured to automatically initiate subsequent cleaning operations in accordance with the trained routine(s). Preferably, the training routine includes user specification of one of a number of cleaning modalities that are supported by the flooring cleaning device. In addition to automatic navigation, the floor cleaning device is configured to initiate a desired cleaning modality as a function of the device's position with respect to one or more of the trained routine(s).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2010Publication date: January 6, 2011Inventors: Jeremy F. Knopow, David Curtis, Everett F. Carter, JR., Ted Larson, Bob Allen
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Patent number: 7861347Abstract: A vehicle for removing an accumulation of particles comprises a vehicle body, a system configured to remove the particles in bulk, and an arm coupled to and extending from the vehicle body. The arm comprises a first sweeping element and a second sweeping element. Each sweeping element includes a shaft member rotatable about a longitudinal axis, and a set of bristles projecting away from the axis along the shaft member. The first and second longitudinal axes are a distance apart, and the sweeping elements define a concerted sweeping area. The arm may be movably coupled to the vehicle body and may be configured to move the sweeping element around the vehicle body by rotating the arm about a horizontal axis. When a sweeping element rotates in proximity to the ground, the longitudinal axis is substantially vertical. The vehicle may further include a computer system for tracking the location of an object.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2007Date of Patent: January 4, 2011Assignee: 3rd Millennium Solutions Ltd.Inventors: Stephen Lyle McKeown, Daniel Andrew Faux
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Publication number: 20100325820Abstract: A powered sweeper includes a housing, a brushroll chamber disposed in the housing, a brushroll mounted in a brushroll chamber, a dirt chamber disposed in the housing, a drive motor disposed in the housing, and a driven wheel operatively connected to the drive motor. The brushroll rotates in the brushroll chamber and the dirt chamber communicates with the brushroll chamber such that debris is propelled by the brushroll into the dirt chamber.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2010Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventor: Mark E. Reindle
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Publication number: 20100326468Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning metal debris from a magnetic tool (some tools of which have magnetic properties) is disclosed. For one embodiment, the magnetic cleaner comprises a magnetic element suitably sized to interface with a surface of a tool associated with metal debris. A housing comprising a magnetic interface constructed of magnetically transparent material surrounds the magnetic element wherein the remainder of the housing is optionally constructed from material that forms a magnetic barrier. The magnetic element may be movably associated with the housing allowing the magnetic element to be associated/disassociated with the housing magnetic interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2010Publication date: December 30, 2010Inventors: Earl H. Parris, John Michael Kay
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Publication number: 20100313364Abstract: Disclosed herein are a robot cleaner having an improved travel pattern and a control method thereof. The robot cleaner performs cleaning using zigzag travel as a basic cleaning traveling manner, and then performs cleaning using random travel as a finishing cleaning traveling manner so as to clean areas skipped during the zigzag travel. The robot cleaner performs the zigzag travel while maintaining a designated interval with a travel route proceeding to a wall regardless of a direction proceeding to the wall, and employs an improved zigzag travel method to maintain a zigzag travel pattern, if the robot cleaner senses an obstacle during the zigzag travel.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2010Publication date: December 16, 2010Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Woo Ram Chung, Jae Man Joo, Dong Won Kim, Jun Hwa Lee, Jun Pyo Hong, Jae Young Jung, Kyung Hwan Yoo, Hwi Chan Jang
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Publication number: 20100306933Abstract: A self-rolling cleaning device is generally disclosed comprising a battery operated and remotely controlled electric motor with power supply (3) located inside the hollow spherical body (1) or a hollow cylindrical body (2) and ensuring rotation thereof, and attached litter collector (7) with sticky, bristly, magnetic, or any other surface capable of collecting small-sized litter.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2009Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventors: Bakhytbek Z. Ussen, Zhaniya B. Ussen, Timur B. Ussen
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Publication number: 20100287716Abstract: An upright bare floor cleaner with a handle assembly pivotally mounted to a base assembly. The base assembly has a sweeper that includes a rotatably driven brush adapted to sweep dust and dirt particles into a removable dirt receptacle. The handle includes a water tank to store a quantity of water and a fluid distribution system that includes a heater and a spray nozzle. Steam is generated by the heater and is distributed to a removable mop cloth that applies the steam to the surface to be cleaned.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 12, 2010Publication date: November 18, 2010Applicant: BISSELL HOMECARE, INC.Inventors: Gary A. Kasper, Joseph M. White, John L. Jansen, Aaron P. Griffith
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Publication number: 20100281636Abstract: A personal care system having personal hygiene products and a display for assisting the user is described. The personal care system can include a personal care product (e.g., an electric toothbrush), an interactive display in data communication with the personal care product. The display provides information associated with a plurality of characteristics of a personal care regimen to the user. The display is in data communication with a network and operable to receive information from the network, and the display is operable to run one or more applications to display the information received from the network.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2010Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventors: Marc Philip Ortins, Alexander Timothy Chenvainu, Mark Edward Farrell, Elizabeth Jane Wenzel, Jose Tadeo Vergara Decastro
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Publication number: 20100282272Abstract: The aim of the invention is to provide a method for the treatment of a transport support (1) for the conveyance and storage of semiconductor substrates, with said support (1) possibly having first undergone a cleaning operation using a liquid. The method includes a treatment stage in which the transport support (1) is placed in a sealed chamber (4) connected to a vacuum pump (5) and said transport support (1) is subjected to the combined action of a subatmospheric pressure and infrared radiation to favor the removal of foreign bodies on the walls of the transport support (1). The invention also concerns a treatment station for a transport support (1) for implementation of the method.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2008Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventors: Erwan Godot, Remi Thollot, Amaud Favre
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Publication number: 20100269274Abstract: A washing device has a washing cloth for removing contaminants, ink, etc. from a surface and an ultrasound device for assisting a cleaning operation. The washing device includes one or more ultrasound generators and one or more resonators each in the form of an oscillating flat metal body, from which sound energy is output onto a substantially linear region on the surface to be cleaned.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2010Publication date: October 28, 2010Applicant: HEIDELBERGER DRUCKMASCHINEN AGInventors: Helge Steckmann, Irina Karpel
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Publication number: 20100263141Abstract: The invention relates to a cleaning tool for a cleaning device, the cleaning tool being subject to wear during operation. In order to make it easier to identify wear, the invention proposes that the cleaning tool comprise a sensor device with a sensor element which has a physical characteristic variable which changes as a function of the degree of wear of the cleaning tool. The invention also proposes a cleaning device having such a cleaning tool, the cleaning device having a detector device which is coupled to the sensor device for the purpose of sensing the change in the physical characteristic variable of the sensor element, and having an indicator device which is connected to the detector device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Michael Schuetz, Juergen Walz, Wilhelm Eisenmann, Alexander Fuchs, Markus Duenne, Ruwantha De Silva, Andreas Van De Ven, Rainer Schaefer
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Publication number: 20100242192Abstract: A device for a liquid treatment unit includes a UV generating element, arranged inside a compartment, which compartment is arranged in a liquid treatment enclosure, which enclosure is arrange with an inlet and an outlet, wherein the compartment includes UV light permeable material, and wherein the liquid to be treated surrounds the compartment. The invention is characterised in that the device includes a mechanical cleaning element arranged to and capable of cleaning outer surface of the compartment when the unit is in operation.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2008Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: WALLENIUS WATER AKTIEBOLAGInventors: Lennart Backman, Magnus Carlsson
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Patent number: 7788757Abstract: The invention is a fun shower brush. The brush has a bubble-making device on its top part. Different kinds of brush can be fitted into the front of the shower brush to meet the needs of the user. This design makes the brush suitable for use by the general public and the bubble-making device makes showering more fun.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2007Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Inventor: Chia-Ho Lei
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Publication number: 20100218322Abstract: An oral care implement with an oral care region having cleaning elements for engaging oral tissue and a body for gripping the implement including a handle with a front and a removable faceplate is described. The removable faceplate may be transparent or translucent and may also include design features. The faceplate may provide protection to a user inscription surface on one of the surfaces of the handle which is may be configured to receive user indicia that may later be removed and further indicia provided. A method for marketing the oral care implement and various features of the oral care implement including one or more thematic faceplates is also contemplated and described.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2008Publication date: September 2, 2010Inventors: John Gatzemeyer, Jimenez Eduardo
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Publication number: 20100115717Abstract: A machine for cleaning the soles of shoes, in particular for personnel locks (entries) in hygienic exclusion areas such as clean rooms, includes a wiping grid (4) composed of grate bars (5) as well as a trough (2) which is arranged below the wiping grid (4) and inside which two rotatably driven roller brushes (3) are arranged that reach between the grate bars (5) of the wiping grid (4) with the top circumferential areas (3.1) thereof to wipe the soles of shoes. The machine is equipped with a wetting apparatus (7, 8) in the area of the trough (2) in order to apply water and liquid cleaners in order to clean soles of shoes and is also equipped with a liquid discharging device (15) at the bottom area of the trough (2). A cleaning device (12) for the roller brushes (3) and the interior of the trough is additionally arranged in the area of the trough (2) that automatically cleans the interior of the trough including the roller brushes.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 2, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Applicant: Itec-Ingenieurbüro für Hygiene Und Lebensmitteltechnik GmbHInventor: Hermann Vogt
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Publication number: 20100114372Abstract: A method of cleaning a surface using an automatic cleaning device may include learning, by an automatic cleaning device, one or more cleaning methods. Each cleaning method may be associated with a code corresponding to a radio frequency identification tag positioned in a vicinity of a surface to be cleaned. The method may also include receiving, by the automatic cleaning device, a target code from a target radio frequency identification tag positioned in a vicinity of a target surface to be cleaned, determining the cleaning method associated with the target code and applying the associated cleaning method to the target surface when the target radio frequency identification tag is detected.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2008Publication date: May 6, 2010Applicant: INTELLIBOT ROBOTICS LLCInventors: David M. Knuth, JR., Henry L. Hillman, JR.
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Publication number: 20100062697Abstract: Methods and apparatus for cleaning the peeling section of a roller-type peeling machine. The apparatus includes an x-y robot disposed above the peeling section of the peeling machine. The robot has a cleaning tool, such as a liquid spray nozzle, as an end effector. A controller commands the robot to control the movement of the cleaning tool along a predetermined cleaning path to clean the peeling section. One such cleaning path follows each of the insert rollers in the peeling section of a peeling machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2008Publication date: March 11, 2010Inventors: Lars Vedsted, Soren Vedsted
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Publication number: 20100050364Abstract: A washing device capable of stably washing a substrate is disclosed. The washing device includes a substrate entry guiding unit which guides a substrate supplied from the outside to be entered in a correct direction, a dirt removing unit supplied with the substrate from the substrate entry guiding unit to remove dirt formed on the substrate, a dirt washing unit supplied with the substrate from the dirt removing unit to wash off residual dirt remaining on the substrate, and a position controlling unit controlling position of the substrate being discharged from the dirt washing unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2008Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventors: Tae Young Oh, Hui Jae Lee, Geon Yong Kim, Eun Ha Lee
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Publication number: 20100000034Abstract: A device and method for coupling a floor cleaning implement to a floor cleaning machine. The device and method selectively couple a floor cleaning implement, such as a pad or brush, in manner that can be easily released and connected. In one embodiment the coupling device comprises a plate having a first and second channel coupled to opposite edges of the plate. The channels are dimensioned and configured to receive edges of the cleaning implement. At least one channel has projecting members that selectively prevent the cleaning implement from leaving the channel. In some embodiments, the plate has a plurality of recesses dimensioned and configured to selectively receive projections extending from the cleaning implement. The projections of the cleaning implement only fully engage the recesses of the coupling device when an actuator presses the cleaning implement against a floor.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 1, 2007Publication date: January 7, 2010Applicant: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.Inventors: Heinrich-Tito Mayer, Franz Oberhaensli
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Publication number: 20090260180Abstract: A device for cleaning a chimney preferably includes a cleaning head having a hub with brush arms extending from the hub, a cable assembly connected to the cleaning head and having a flexible cable surrounded by a casing, with the casing being sized to allow the cable to rotate in the casing without rotating the casing, at least one positioning assembly for holding the cleaning head a desired distance from the interior walls of a chimney, a motor attached to one end of the cable, and a positioning rod effective for pushing said cleaning head and cable assembly up a chimney for a distance of at least eight feet. A camera may be attached to the casing to allow observation and/or recording of the chimney while the cleaning head is working. The device may further include an air knife for dislodging debris when the device is used to sweep a chimney, and/or a vacuum for removing waste dislodged by the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2009Publication date: October 22, 2009Inventors: John E. Meredith, Thomas J. Urban
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Patent number: 7599758Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes a housing, a height adjust mechanism disposed on the housing and a height adjust motor, disposed within said housing that controls a height of the height adjust mechanism. A position element is mounted to said housing. A sensor processor, mounted to said housing, is in communication with the position element to provide a signal that relates to a position of the height adjust mechanism based at least in part upon data received from the position element. A controller processor, mounted to said housing, is in communication with the sensor processor for selectively controlling a height of the height adjust mechanism relative to a subjacent surface on which the vacuum cleaner is positioned. A height adjust mechanism height motor controller is in communication with the controller processor, for driving the height adjust motor to locate the height adjust mechanism in an appropriate position relative to the subjacent surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2005Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: Royal Appliance Mfg. Co.Inventors: Mark E. Reindle, Norman Siegel
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Publication number: 20090199355Abstract: An ozone toothbrush is comprised of a main body, a brush head which is provided on one end of the main body and a power connection device which is provided on the other end of the main body. An ozonizer and a gas-pressurized device which can supply ozone generated by the ozonizer to the brush head through a transmission channel are provided in the main body. The brush head can be axially connected to the main body by spiral engagement or insertion, or can be radially connected to the main body by spiral engagement or insertion.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2006Publication date: August 13, 2009Applicant: SHENZHEN JINGRUI INDUSTRY CO., LTDInventor: Jian Yuan
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Publication number: 20090183323Abstract: A device for cleaning an artificial “infill turf” field includes a rotating brush assembly and a basket for receiving waste and infill material. The basket has a bottom with openings that allow infill material to be returned to the field, and a vibrator to promote separation of infill from waste. The device may include wheels connected to the brush assembly in a manner effective to rotate the brush when one or both of the wheels rotate, and a magnet for picking magnetic waste material from the field. The device may include an actuator for adjusting the height of the brushes, and a tow bar that allows the device to be positioned in an “active” orientation to sweep a field, or an “uplifted” orientation to transport the device across curbs or rough terrain. Multiple brushes and/or baskets may be provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Michael E. Davis, John Kitterman
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Publication number: 20090178228Abstract: A floor-cleaning machine comprising a support trolley (2), on which support trolley (2) at least a floor-cleaning group (7) is installed, which floor-cleaning group (7) is provided with at least a flexible blade (70) and is mobile on board the support trolley (2) between a work position, in which the flexible blade (70) is in contact with a floor, and a rest position, in which the flexible blade (70) is distanced from the floor, the floor-cleaning machine comprising magnetic means (26) which are destined to block the floor-cleaning group (7) in the rest position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2009Publication date: July 16, 2009Applicant: IP CLEANING S.P.AInventor: Francesco RECCANELLO
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Publication number: 20090177125Abstract: An apparatus and corresponding method for treatment of skin conditions which includes a brushhead member which comprises a first portion which includes a plurality of rings of bristle tufts, the first portion oscillating in operation through a selected angle at a selected frequency and a second portion which also includes a plurality of rings of bristle tufts concentric with the first portion, the second portion remaining stationary in operation. At least one monochromatic light source is included, providing light directed from the brushhead in a direction substantially the same as the bristle tufts, such that the light impinges on the area of skin of the user acted on by the oscillating brushhead.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2008Publication date: July 9, 2009Applicant: Pacific Bioscience Laboratories, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth A. Pilcher, Robert E. Akridge
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Publication number: 20090007802Abstract: A machine for automating manual labor has a portion to house the motor and at least three interchangeable head fittings for different applications. Applications include cleaning surfaces, cleaning vessels, mixer, blender, chopper, slicer, shredder, vibrator, massager, semi and fully automatic milk cream maker. The machine is driven by an electric motor that can perform different motions and actions, one at a time or simultaneously, depending on the head piece attached to the motor piece. Two such motions are rotary and linear. The machine is powered by battery or mains electricity.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2007Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Isaac Taitler
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Publication number: 20080295265Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to the remote cleaning of outer surfaces of windows or facades of high rise buildings without the need for workers located outside the building wall. In fact, the cleaning operation effectively duplicates the conventional manual cleaning operation, such that a minimum of cleaning liquid is used, and no means is required for removal of excess cleaning liquid. The apparatus comprises a rectangular master frame and a parallelogram sub-frame contained therein, suspended from the top of the building to a position opposite a window to be cleaned. A novel cleaning tool, including mechanical scrubbing means e.g a brush and mechanical scraping means e.g. squeegee and a washing liquid spray means, is carried on an insertion tool attached to the parallelogram sub-frame, and brought to bear against the window outer surface to be cleaned, as required.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2007Publication date: December 4, 2008Inventor: Daniel J. Gorman
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Patent number: 7448106Abstract: A motorized scrubbing implement for cleaning a surface with contours is disclosed. The scrubbing implement includes a resilient base that includes a plurality of resilient fingers, each of which extend radially away from center of the base. A rigid cap comprises an inside upper end and a wider open lower end. The cap preferably includes a handle receiving means pivotally fixed to the cap for receiving a threaded end of an elongated handle. A flexible pad is included that comprises a cleaning surface on a lower side thereof. The pad has a peripheral lip forming an aperture in the pad for receiving the distal ends of each finger of the base. A rotational scrubbing surface driven by a motor projects through a central aperture in the pad.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2007Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Inventor: Sanjay Aiyar
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Publication number: 20080209647Abstract: A cleaning device includes a length adjustable handle with a traditional cleaning device selectively attached to one end and a scuff removal device attached to an opposed end. The traditional cleaning device may be a light or heavy duty broom, wet mop, dust mop, squeegee, or the like. The scuff removal device may include a motor connected to a battery and a scuff removal tip operatively coupled to the motor. When the motor is selectively energized, the tip is caused to vibrate for efficiently removing a scuff mark from a surface. Thus, the cleaning device may be converted from a traditional cleaning tool to a scuff mark removal tool merely by inverting the elongate handle in the user's hands.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2007Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventor: Paul D. Morgan
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Publication number: 20080201877Abstract: In order to provide a hand-held cleaning/polishing machine, comprising a holding device for holding the cleaning/polishing machine, a drive motor, a tool head for one or more cleaning tools and/or polishing tools, which has a tool drive shaft driven by the drive motor, and a transmission device for transmitting torque from the drive motor to the tool drive shaft, which is universally usable, it is provided that at least one coupling for connecting at least one first fluid line is arranged on the holding device and that at least one second fluid line leads to the tool head from the at least one coupling.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2007Publication date: August 28, 2008Applicant: Flex-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbHInventors: Frank Sengewald, Bernd Augustin
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Publication number: 20080178412Abstract: This patent discloses a cleaning system for shopping carts. The cleaning system may include a prewash station, a wash station, a rinse station, a drying station, a physical disinfecting station, a conveyor, and a recovery tank. The wash station may include brushes. The drying station may include a fan configured to blow a thin sheet of air downward and onto the shopping cart. The physical disinfecting station may include an ultraviolet light generator. The conveyor may include a track system having hooks attached to chains that are configured to be moved by a conveyor motor. A frame may surround and support the stations. The cleaning system additionally may include a water recovery/supply system and an external spray wash hose attached to a reservoir to pre-prewash the shopping carts.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2007Publication date: July 31, 2008Inventor: MICHAEL A. KITER
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Publication number: 20080155768Abstract: An autonomous floor cleaning robot includes a transport drive and control system arranged for autonomous movement of the robot over a floor for performing cleaning operations. The robot chassis carries a first cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arranged to suction loose particulates up from the cleaning surface and a second cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arraigned to apply a cleaning fluid onto the surface and to thereafter collect the cleaning fluid up from the surface after it has been used to clean the surface. The robot chassis carries a supply of cleaning fluid and a waste container for storing waste materials collected up from the cleaning surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2007Publication date: July 3, 2008Applicant: iRobot CorporationInventors: Andrew Ziegler, Duane Gilbert, Christopher John Morse, Scott Pratt, Paul Sandin, Nancy Dussault, Andrew Jones
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Publication number: 20080134458Abstract: An autonomous floor cleaning robot includes a transport drive and control system arranged for autonomous movement of the robot over a floor for performing cleaning operations. The robot chassis carries a first cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arranged to suction loose particulates up from the cleaning surface and a second cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arraigned to apply a cleaning fluid onto the surface and to thereafter collect the cleaning fluid up from the surface after it has been used to clean the surface. The robot chassis carries a supply of cleaning fluid and a waste container for storing waste materials collected up from the cleaning surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2007Publication date: June 12, 2008Applicant: iRobot CorporationInventors: Andrew Ziegler, Duane Gilbert, Christopher John Morse, Scott Pratt, Paul Sandin, Nancy Dussault, Andrew Jones
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Publication number: 20080140255Abstract: An autonomous floor cleaning robot includes a transport drive and control system arranged for autonomous movement of the robot over a floor for performing cleaning operations. The robot chassis carries a first cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arranged to suction loose particulates up from the cleaning surface and a second cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arraigned to apply a cleaning fluid onto the surface and to thereafter collect the cleaning fluid up from the surface after it has been used to clean the surface. The robot chassis carries a supply of cleaning fluid and a waste container for storing waste materials collected up from the cleaning surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2007Publication date: June 12, 2008Applicant: iRobot CorporationInventors: Andrew Ziegler, Duane Gilbert, Christopher John Morse, Scott Pratt, Paul Sandin, Nancy Dussault, Andrew Jones
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Publication number: 20080135061Abstract: A system and method for cleaning wooden pallets comprises conveying the pallets through a first stage area having regions for brushing a top exterior, a bottom exterior, all four side exteriors, a top and bottom interior and at least one pair of side interiors. Preferably, these brushes are treated with a non-stick coating and retract into separate ridged chambers when not in use to deter pallet cross-contamination. Each scoured pallet is then conveyed to a second stage area for a non-chemical, germicidal treatment, preferably including ultraviolet light irradiation.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2006Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventor: Adam J. Madgar
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Publication number: 20080127446Abstract: An autonomous floor cleaning robot includes a transport drive and control system arranged for autonomous movement of the robot over a floor for performing cleaning operations. The robot chassis carries a first cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arranged to suction loose particulates up from the cleaning surface and a second cleaning zone comprising cleaning elements arraigned to apply a cleaning fluid onto the surface and to thereafter collect the cleaning fluid up from the surface after it has been used to clean the surface. The robot chassis carries a supply of cleaning fluid and a waste container for storing waste materials collected up from the cleaning surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2007Publication date: June 5, 2008Applicant: iRobot CorporationInventors: Andrew Ziegler, Duane Gilbert, Christopher John Morse, Scott Pratt, Paul Sandin, Nancy Dussault, Andrew Jones
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Publication number: 20080115805Abstract: A device for removing stray fibers from a shade fabric includes a fabric teaser adapted to loosen fibers along an edge of the fabric and fiber cutters adapted to remove stray fibers from the shade fabric. The fabric teaser comprises first and second rotary brushes each having a brush element. The brush elements of the first and second rotary brushes are adapted to receive the edge of the shade fabric between the brush elements and to rotate in opposite rotational directions for loosening the stray fibers along the edge of the shade fabric. According to one embodiment, the fiber cutters include reciprocating cutting elements and the fabric teaser includes rotary brushes having radially-extending bristles arranged to receive the shade fabric between the bristles. The device may include a mounting bracket for adjustably mounting the fabric teaser and fiber cutters on an elongated rail.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 14, 2007Publication date: May 22, 2008Inventor: David A. Kirby
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Patent number: 7373684Abstract: This device is used to clean and dry lens of eyewear. The entire device is contained in one unit and will provide the appropriate motion or movement to accomplish the cleaning of the eyewear using brushes and drying pads.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2005Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Inventor: Warren L. Smith
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Publication number: 20080099043Abstract: A system is provided for providing automated washing for debris removal from the skin of a user's hands. At least some embodiments of the present include a friction enhancing structure such as a brush. In at least one embodiment of the invention, the system includes an RFID capability for identifying when at least one component, such as a removable brush, is due to for replacement for sanitation reasons.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2007Publication date: May 1, 2008Applicant: ICON SYSTEMS, LLCInventors: Paul R. Barnhill, James Glenn, Timothy Prodanovich
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Patent number: 7313838Abstract: A motorized cleaning/polishing device includes a housing and a carrier with a detachable cleaning/polishing attachment. The housing contains a rechargeable battery, motor and flex mount having flexible pillars to which the carrier is mounted. The carrier is also coupled to the motor drive shaft via an eccentric element and bearing. The carrier may have a foam layer with hook fasteners adhered to its underside for removably attaching any one of various attachments to the carrier. Cleanser or polish can be impregnated in the attachment wet or dry, or it can be contained in a perforated or water dissolvable packet sandwiched between the carrier and the attachment. A removable scrub brush can also be attached to the carrier so that its bristle head orbits in front of the device. The device is particularly suited to orbit in the 2,500 to 10,000 OPM range.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2003Date of Patent: January 1, 2008Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: David C. Long, Edward L. Paas, John R. Wietfeldt
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Patent number: 7240396Abstract: A floor cleaner is provided for cleaning a floor, where the floor cleaner has a front and a rear and includes: a sweeper for sweeping the floor; a scrubber, connected to the sweeper and located in the rear of the sweeper, for wetting and cleaning the floor; and a burnisher, connected to the scrubber and located in the rear of the scrubber, for burnishing the floor.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2004Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.Inventors: Victor W. Thomas, Sr., Robert K. Kay, Jayant Sharma, Philip R. Mass, Rosario Robert, Colin Angle, Lee F. Sword, Joseph L. Jones, Paul E. Sandin, John P. O'Brien, Benjamin L. Wirz, Mark Chiappetta, Gideon Coltof
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Patent number: 7060137Abstract: A lane maintenance machine has a cleaning system that includes at least one cleaning liquid dispensing head which reciprocates back and forth transversely of the lane as the machine travels along the length of the lane. In a preferred embodiment the dispensing head emits successive squirts of liquid from a positive displacement pump, such as a peristaltic pump. The positive displacement pump provides accurate, precise metering of the cleaning liquid and affords board-by-board control of the dispensing action. A wiping assembly immediately behind the cleaning liquid dispensing head provides a web of cloth-like material looped under a compressible backup roller to wipe the applied liquid into a thin film and to pick up a measure of the liquid along with oil and dirt.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2005Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Kegel, LLCInventors: John M. Davis, Mark E. Davis
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Patent number: 7013527Abstract: A floor cleaner is provided for cleaning a floor, where the floor cleaner has a front and a rear and includes: a sweeper for sweeping the floor, a scrubber, connected to the sweeper and located in the rear of the sweeper, for wetting and cleaning the floor; and a burnisher, connected to the scrubber and located in the rear of the scrubber, for burnishing the floor.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2004Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.Inventors: Victor W. Thomas, Sr., Robert K. Kay, Jayant Sharma, Phillip R. Mass, Rosario Robert, Colin Angle, Lee F. Sword, Joseph L. Jones, Paul E. Sandin, John P. O'Brien, Benjamin L. Wirz, Selma Slipichevich, Mark Chiappetta, Gideon Coltof
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Patent number: 7013528Abstract: A battery-powered, upright vacuum sweeper comprises a base assembly and a handle pivotably attached thereto. The base assembly comprises a vacuum fan assembly fluidly communicating with an inlet for vacuuming dust and the debris particles from a surface into a removable reservoir. A rotating roller brush attached to the base assembly sweeps the particles into the inlet. A dust pad assembly comprises a disposable dust cloth extending over a portion of the base assembly in contact with the surface to be cleaned for removing dust particles which are not removed by vacuuming.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2002Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Bissell Homecare, Inc.Inventors: Timothy S. Parker, David L. Haan, David E. McDowell
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Patent number: 7007331Abstract: An electric toothbrush is provided. The electric toothbrush includes a handle having a motor disposed therein and a head having one or more moving bristle holders, wherein the one or more moving bristle holders are operatively connected to the motor. A neck disposed is between the handle and the head. The handle has a viewing window and a movable viewing surface disposed there beneath, wherein at least a portion of the viewing surface is visible through the window. The viewing surface is mechanically coupled to the motor so that rotational output of the motor causes movement of the viewing surface. The viewing surface may be directly or indirectly coupled to the motor.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2003Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Nicola Mills Davics, Frank Delmar Macaulay, Douglas A. Gall
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Patent number: RE40761Abstract: An apparatus 10 for compacting and baling leaves, grass clippings, sticks, pine straw and other debris on lawns, yards, or fields is provided. The apparatus 10 may have diagonal brushes 26 to gather debris for processing though a crusher 28, a conveyor belt 30 to transport the crushed debris, and a baler 32 to compact and bale the debris. The baler 32 may compact the debris by rotating the debris in a continuous band 52, into which baling material 72 may be inserted to bale the debris. Alternatively, the debris may be gathered and feed into a crusher 28 that deposits the crushed debris directly into the baler 32 for compacting and baling. Further still, the apparatus 10 may gather the debris with brushes 26 and feed it onto a conveyor mechanism 30 that then introduces it into a crusher 28. The crushed debris may then be feed into a baling mechanism 32 that compacts and bales the debris for easy removal and disposal.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2005Date of Patent: June 23, 2009Inventor: Bobby L. Truitt