With Flow-regulator Patents (Class 401/270)
  • Patent number: 6957925
    Abstract: A toothpaste dispensing automatic toothbrush includes a head member mounted atop a body member with a brush head releasably coupled to the head member. A reservoir for containing toothpaste is positioned in the body member along with a pump assembly and first motor. The first motor is connected to a battery and drives the pump assembly when actuated by depression of a first switch whereby to urge toothpaste from the reservoir through a channel and onto bristles of the brush head. The brush head includes a rotor with rotor bristles that is operatively connected to a second motor. The second motor may be energized upon actuation of a second switch to cause movement of the rotor. A recharging base may be included for recharging a rechargeable toothbrush battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Inventors: Erin J. Jacobs, J. Scott McDonald
  • Patent number: 6953299
    Abstract: A system for treating a work surface including a handle portion, a first tool head adapted for use with a removable pad and a second tool head, both connectable to the handle portion, and a first fluid reservoir is disclosed. In some arrangements, the second tool head can be used with a removable pad or can include an electric motor. A controller can be provided for releasing and stopping fluid flow from the first fluid reservoir. An optional second fluid reservoir can also be used. The first tool head and the first fluid reservoir can include a first indicium that can be characterized by a feature such as color, shape, picture, text, or sound. The indicium can signify a work surface, a purpose for surface treatment, a mode of operation or instructions. Surface treatments include applying, cleaning, scrubbing, waxing, polishing, disinfecting, killing mites, killing fleas, detoxifying, neutralizing allergens, painting, removing liquids, and fertilizing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2005
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Marcus Wang, Thomas Silk, Michael J. Hall, Aaron R. London, Kaj Johnson
  • Patent number: 6951430
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for applying flowing media to a surface. Said device comprises a container for the media with at least one opening which is located above the surface and can be deaerated and a mopping or applicator device which is attached to a handle. In addition, the device has a flow-regulating hose which can be shut off, for conveying the media form the container by force of gravity to an outlet on the mopping or applicator device. In addition, the device has a portable unit which is worn on the back, comprising supporting and fixing straps and a mounting plate which is fitted to said unit and which has a rapid-action coupling device. The container has a resealable exit opening at one end with a connecting sleeve and a resealable fill opening at the opposite end, in addition to a hose adapter which can be connected to the connecting sleeve of the exit opening. Said adapter has a shut-off device and a rapid-action coupling for the hose with a drip-protection unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Ecolab GmbH & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Hans-Leo Fernschild, Heiko Faubel, Karl-Heinz Rogmann, Ulrike Scheuvens
  • Patent number: 6918515
    Abstract: In a liquid container, the dimension of inside diameter of a liquid supply portion is not subject to any restriction, and also a liquid leakage suppressing mechanism that is not subject to any restriction by the viscosity of stored liquid is provided. A liquid container includes a body having a tank for storing a liquid; a supply mechanism which is connected to the tip end portion of the body and has a brush for supplying the liquid; and a drive mechanism for pushing out the liquid L in the tank T to the supply mechanism. A valve which is normally closed and can be opened only when the drive mechanism is operated is provided between the tank and the supply mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Kotobuki & Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshio Noguchi
  • Patent number: 6905277
    Abstract: The present invention, there is provided a liquid applicator in which an application member is attached to a mouth portion of a container in order to apply contents such as cosmetics, chemicals or the like. The mouth portion of the container has a barrel part formed with threads. The container mouth portion is fitted therein with an inner plug formed therein with a passage hole communicated with the inside of the container. The application member includes a discharge barrel for opening and closing the passage hole in the inner plug, an application element holder fitted therein with the discharge barrel and holding an application element, and an attachment cap formed with threads adapted to be threadedly engaged with the thread of the barrel part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Yoshino Kogyosho Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takatoshi Saito, Yoshiyuki Murata
  • Patent number: 6902337
    Abstract: A dentifrice dispensing electrical toothbrush using a replaceable dual-channel brush head. The dual-channel brush head has a first channel for housing a drive shaft for bristle oscillation and a second channel for dispensing the dentifrice material. The brush head is mounted on the dual-channel connector of the brush handle which contains a drive mechanism and a pumping mechanism that dispenses dentifrice material from a cartridge in the handle. A manual dispensing configuration uses an external rubber button and an electrical dispensing configuration uses a rotary solenoid for actuating an internal rubber button that applies pumping pressure to the dentifrice material. The latter benefits arthritis sufferers, as no external squeezing action is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Youti Kuo
  • Patent number: 6902339
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser and method for applying a selected fluid to a desired location includes a reservoir containing the fluid, the reservoir includes a resilient body having a first end and a second end, a first end sealing cap, and a second end sealing cap assembly with a penetrable elastomeric member to define a reservoir interior. The body includes bellows oriented to retract or extend the body between the first end and the second end creating a variable reservoir interior volume. Also included is an applicator having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end includes a non coring cannula with a lumen having an insertion end adapted to penetrate through the elastomeric member and protrude into the reservoir interior. This enables fluid communication between the reservoir interior and the lumen; the distal end also includes an application element that is in fluid communication with the lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Patricia Anne King
  • Patent number: 6854914
    Abstract: To form an applicator, at least one container having an open bottom and a closed tubular portion is molded and the at least one tubular portion has a corresponding one of a tubular mandril containing an applicator component inserted into it for permitting the application of fluidic material from its tip. The mandril is removed while leaving the applicator component in position within the tubular portion of the applicator container. To utilize the applicator after filling it with its ingredients, the end of the tube is broken free. A plurality of containers are connected one to the other on a base having an open end with elongated tubular members extending from each of the plurality of containers sealed at its end. A dense bristle is used having Nylon bristles with a diameter of 2 mils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Team Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Keating, Harley H. Mattheis, Helen Marie Melcher, Jerald R. Melcher
  • Publication number: 20040265042
    Abstract: A fluid-dispensing cleaning tool is described comprising a body defining a fluid reservoir within it and a pump assembly carried by the body in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir for dispensing fluid to a cleaning head attached to the body. The pump assembly is operable to control the dispensing of the fluid from the reservoir to the cleaning head. The cleaning head may be releasably attached to the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Applicant: Browne & Co.
    Inventors: David Chan, Matthew Frank
  • Publication number: 20040265037
    Abstract: The present invention relates to mops comprising one or more cleaning members. In select embodiments, the cleaning members are releasably secured to the mop and may be capable of compression. In these embodiments, the different cleaning members enable the mop of the present invention to operate in a plurality of different modes, including a wringing mop mode, a damp mop mode and a dust mop mode. In other embodiments, a portion of the handle of the mop of the present invention is adapted to hold and release a fluid, such as a cleaning solution. In these embodiments, the user may cause release of the fluid through one or more openings associated with the mop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Peter S. Vosbikian, Robert E. Petner
  • Publication number: 20040247370
    Abstract: A mop assembly including a mop head and handle, and a supply of liquid connected to a valve assembly on the handle adjacent the mop head. The valve assembly includes a length of resiliently flexible tubing that has a portion extending transversely through the handle and first and second members on opposite sides of the length of tubing that are relatively movable between a closed position at which the first and second members pinch together opposite sides of the length of tubing to stop the flow of liquid through it, and an open position at which the first and second members are spaced apart to afford flow of liquid through it. Should the tubing become plugged, it can easily be replaced by disconnecting one end from a liquid supply length of tubing, withdrawing the tubing from between the first and second members, and then installing a new length of tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: John J. Dyer, Gary L. Olson, David A. Maurer, Raymond N. Maurer, Joseph J. Fodrocy
  • Patent number: 6817803
    Abstract: A toothbrush structure utilizing a handle having an open chamber and an aperture leading therefrom. The open chamber is sized to accommodate toothpaste and includes a flexible cover. A head portion is removably connected to the handle and possesses a brush structure and a passage for conducting toothpaste from the open chamber. Valve means controls the flow of toothpaste from the open chamber of the handle and the passage through the head portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventors: Patrick L. Ong, Rebecca C. Ong
  • Patent number: 6805512
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser and method for applying a selected fluid to a desired location includes a reservoir containing the fluid, the reservoir includes a resilient body having a first end and a second end, a first end sealing cap, and a second end sealing cap assembly with a penetrable elastomeric member to define a reservoir interior. The body includes bellows oriented to retract or extend the body between the first end and the second end creating a variable reservoir interior volume. Also included is an applicator having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end includes a non coring cannula with a lumen having an insertion end adapted to penetrate through the elastomeric member and protrude into the reservoir interior. This enables fluid communication between the reservoir interior and the lumen; the distal end also includes an application element that is in fluid communication with the lumen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Inventor: Patricia Anne King
  • Patent number: 6799916
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for applying flowing media to a surface. Said device comprises a container for the media with at least one opening which is located above the surface and can be deaerated and a mopping or applicator device which is attached to a handle. In addition, the device has a flow-regulating hose which can be shut off, for conveying the media form the container by force of gravity to an outlet on the mopping or applicator device. In addition, the device has a portable unit which is worn on the back, comprising supporting and fixing straps and a mounting plate which is fitted to said unit and which has a rapid-action coupling device. The container has a resealable exit opening at one end with a connecting sleeve and a resealable fill opening at the opposite end, in addition to a hose adapter which can be connected to the connecting sleeve of the exit opening. Said adapter has a shut-off device and a rapid-action coupling for the hose with a drip-protection unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Ecolab GmbH & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Hans-Leo Fernschild, Heiko Faubel, Karl-Heinz Rogmann, Ulrike Scheuvens
  • Patent number: 6793433
    Abstract: A travel toothbrush through which dental cream may be dispensed one-handed. The toothbrush comprises a hollow, elongated handle; a cartridge in which dental cream is stored, this cartridge being sized to fit within the hollow handle; and a brush head portion having an aperture through which dental cream from the cartridge is dispensed within and beneath its brush head portion, when a pivotable valve in that brush head portion is moved to an open position by the operator's thumb or finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: Juan David Giraldo
  • Patent number: 6793432
    Abstract: A toothbrush and toothpaste tube holder combination includes a container including a first end wall, a second end wall and a peripheral comprising a resiliently elastic material. A threaded depression adapted for receiving a threaded male end of a toothpaste tube is positioned in an inner surface of the first end wall. An elongated and hollow shaft has a first end and a second end. The first end is attached to and outer surface of the first end wall and is fluidly coupled to the threaded depression. The shaft has plurality of openings therein positioned adjacent to the second end. The openings are fluidly coupled to the threaded depression. A plurality of bristles is attached to the shaft and extends away therefrom. The tube may be selectively coupled to the threaded depression such that pressure on the tube forces toothpaste therein through the shaft and outward through the openings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: James S. Kowalewski
  • Publication number: 20040141798
    Abstract: An advanced cleaning system comprising cleaning compositions, pads, and implements provide effective cleaning of soft and hard surfaces. The system includes (a) a handle portion, the handle portion having a proximal end and a distal end, (b) a cleaning head portion that is attached to the distal end of the handle portion and that is adapted for use with a removable cleaning pad; (c) a cradle that is secured to the handle portion, and (d) a detachable cleaning aerosol reservoir for delivering cleaning fluid onto the surface to be cleaned adjacent the cleaning head portion, wherein the reservoir is positioned within the cradle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2003
    Publication date: July 22, 2004
    Inventors: Aram Garabedian, Michael J. Hall, Maria G. Ochomogo, Marcus Wang, Andrew Kilkenny, Kaj A. Johnson, Thomas Silk, Michael H. Robbins, Aaron R. London, Dennis Rich, Doug Walker
  • Patent number: 6752558
    Abstract: A liquid lipstick dispensing device includes a housing to receive liquid or pasty lipstick material, a mouth attached to one end of the housing, a piston slidably received in the housing to force the lipstick material out of the housing, and a duct disposed in the housing. A shank is attached to the piston, to move the piston relative to the housing and to force the lipstick material out of the housing. The shank is threaded to the duct, to move the shank longitudinally along the housing when the shank is rotated relative to the duct and the housing. A device may be used to prevent the shank from rotating reversely relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Kuo Sung Hsu
  • Patent number: 6749356
    Abstract: The invention is a coating applicator assembly for coating a structure. In detail the invention is a spring-loaded a syringe having an outlet port. A semi-flexible tube having first and second ends is coupled by its first end to the outlet port of the syringe. A coating applicator for applying the coating material to the structure in the form of brush or contoured foam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: William T. Mead, Jorge A. Millan, Ralph E. Jaffke, Glen Abad
  • Publication number: 20040101348
    Abstract: A breath freshening apparatus includes a toothbrush and an atomizer. The toothbrush has bristles and a reservoir containing mouthwash. The atomizer is coupled to the reservoir and the bristles, where actuation of the atomizer results in a mist of the mouthwash being applied to the bristles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventors: John J. Porter, Reginald Jarvis, Michael Peters
  • Patent number: 6726389
    Abstract: A paint brush assembly includes a control valve, a first rubber, a control rod, a connecting pipe, and a second rubber. Thus, the paint brush assembly has a two-stage anti-reverse effect, so that the paint contained in the container can be supplied into the barrel conveniently and can be supplied into the connecting pipe conveniently. In addition, the paint brush assembly has a two-stage anti-reverse effect, thereby preventing the paint from leaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Kuo-Jium Lee
  • Patent number: 6719471
    Abstract: A toothbrush incorporating a toothpaste reservoir including a hollow body defining a head member having bristles, the hollow body forming a handle, a toothpaste containing reservoir housed in the handle and a pump arranged in the body to impel toothpaste towards the bristles. The pump is actuated by an outer push slidably mounted on the handle in engagement with the body of the pump. The handle defines an open bottom at a rear end allowing positioning and replacement of the toothpaste reservoir. The reservoir has an open top capped by an open cap extending in form of a cannula towards an inside of the reservoir. A bottom cap caps the open bottom of the handle. Sliding movement of the push toward the head member and relative to the handle causes toothpaste in the reservoir to be drawn out of the reservoir by the pump and directed toward the head member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Instituto de Higiene Y Servicios Dentales, S.A.
    Inventor: Domingo Obradors Giro
  • Publication number: 20040062591
    Abstract: The fluid delivery/refilling system includes a unit-of-use fluid reservoir for dentifrice or medication within a head portion of a power toothbrush, which is removable from the remainder thereof. A pump element is located in the brushhead and is configured so that the back and forth movement of the brushhead in operation results in fluid moving from the reservoir to a dispensing valve located in the brushhead. The dispensing valve has an end portion which is normally closed, opening under pressure of fluid from the pump. The refilling assembly is separate from the toothbrush and is configured to fit over the top of the toothbrush. Upward pressure exerted on the toothbrush when the toothbrush is within the refilling assembly results in movement of a core element in the refilling assembly, which in turn results in a hollow needle in the refilling assembly extending into a refiller valve in the head portion of the toothbrush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventors: Scott E. Hall, James N. Larimer, Kevin Miller, Richard Taylor, Kevin T. Underwood
  • Publication number: 20040057773
    Abstract: The nature of the all in one toothbrush is to create an aesthetic and ergonomically shaped, reusable toothbrush. The all in one toothbrush integrates a refillable reusable toothpaste cartridge that can be dispensed directly onto the toothbrush bristles and a replaceable brush head unit. The all in one toothbrush and toothpaste-dispensing unit conveniently eliminate the need to have both a toothbrush and toothpaste. The toothbrush also incorporates overmolded grip and pad sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventor: Melvin Juuius Gray
  • Publication number: 20040047670
    Abstract: The invention concerns a transparent tube (2) that is filled with a mixture of water and a floor cleaning product. The top part of said tube has a spray gun (1) through which the liquid is sprayed onto the floor. The bottom part of said tube has a base (5) to which a sponge is attached (6). The invention makes it possible to clean all types of floors without having to use a wringer pail. The user can regulate the degree of wetting of the floor. It also makes it possible to clean underneath furniture, beds, etc. The sponge can be detached from the base with the purpose of cleaning said sponge by means of various reusable adherence techniques. In another embodiment, the sponge is glued to a disposable base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventor: Jesus Lasheras Martin
  • Publication number: 20040047675
    Abstract: A kit contains a plurality of cleaning tools selectively attachable to a common tool carrier to form an assembly for cleaning various filtering surfaces of a filter cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: March 11, 2004
    Inventors: Jonathan J. Bonelli, Matt Cowdell, Mitchell Saccoccio
  • Publication number: 20040042841
    Abstract: In a liquid container, the dimension of inside diameter of a liquid supply portion is not subject to any restriction, and also a liquid leakage suppressing mechanism that is not subject to any restriction by the viscosity of stored liquid is provided. A liquid container includes a body having a tank for storing a liquid; a supply mechanism which is connected to the tip end portion of the body and has a brush for supplying the liquid; and a drive mechanism for pushing out the liquid L in the tank T to the supply mechanism. A valve which is normally closed and can be opened only when the drive mechanism is operated is provided between the tank and the supply mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Applicant: Kotobuki & Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshio Noguchi
  • Publication number: 20040037613
    Abstract: A fluid dispenser and method for applying a selected fluid to a desired location includes a reservoir containing the fluid, the reservoir includes a resilient body having a first end and a second end, a first end sealing cap, and a second end sealing cap assembly with a penetrable elastomeric member to define a reservoir interior. The body includes bellows oriented to retract or extend the body between the first end and the second end creating a variable reservoir interior volume. Also included is an applicator having a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end includes a non coring cannula with a lumen having an insertion end adapted to penetrate through the elastomeric member and protrude into the reservoir interior. This enables fluid communication between the reservoir interior and the lumen; the distal end also includes an application element that is in fluid communication with the lumen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Patricia Anne King
  • Publication number: 20040033101
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for applying flowing media to a surface. Said device comprises a container for the media with at least one opening which is located above the surface and can be deaerated and a mopping or applicator device which is attached to a handle. In addition, the device has a flow-regulating hose which can be shut off, for conveying the media form the container by force of gravity to an outlet on the mopping or applicator device. In addition, the device has a portable unit which is worn on the back, comprising supporting and fixing straps and a mounting plate which is fitted to said unit and which has a rapid-action coupling device. The container has a resealable exit opening at one end with a connecting sleeve and a resealable fill opening at the opposite end, in addition to a hose adapter which can be connected to the connecting sleeve of the exit opening. Said adapter has a shut-off device and a rapid-action coupling for the hose with a drip-protection unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Applicant: Ecolab GMBH & Co. OHG
    Inventors: Hans-Leo Fernschild, Heiko Faubel, Karl-Heinz Rogmann, Ulrike Scheuvens
  • Publication number: 20040022575
    Abstract: A method for cleaning a surface using a tool with both a cleaning head and a cleaning fluid reservoir housing coupled to an elongated handle, the method comprising the following steps: attaching a cleaning pad to the cleaning head; inserting a replaceable cleaning fluid reservoir into the housing; fluidically coupling the cleaning fluid reservoir to the cleaning head; dispensing controlled amounts of cleaning fluid from the reservoir onto a surface; and distributing the cleaning fluid evenly over the surface with the cleaning pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventors: Michael J. Hall, James E. Rader, Boli Zhou, Karen S. Hefter, David J. Sayler, Eric Y. Park, Robert W. Flagler, Scott T. Haubrich, Shumanta Mitra, Richard Porticos
  • Patent number: 6685375
    Abstract: A replaceable toothpaste-dispensing toothbrush is a device designed to combine a toothbrush head with a housing for toothpaste. This combination includes a mechanism for passing g the toothpaste from the housing to the bristles on the toothbrush. The user is thus enabled to easily transport all elements of teeth cleaning. A circular spring-loaded snapping mechanism for mounting disposable brush heads. Also incorporated is a toothpaste injector that seals in the unused toothpaste. Finally a cartridge loading, piston driven dispensing mechanism is introduced in the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Inventor: John Crocker
  • Patent number: 6679641
    Abstract: A tooth brush with reservoir having a body that is releasably attached to a head with the bristles. Releasable attachment of the body is accomplished with an aperture that also serves for dispensing tooth paste from a reservoir within the body. A blade within the body is attached to a tab outside the body with a stem that passes through a linear aperture in the body. Pushing the tab toward the aperture, thus, forces the blade toward the aperture. Consequently, when the reservoir contains tooth paste, pushing the tab toward the aperture urges tooth paste toward the aperture, eventually resulting in the dispensing of tooth paste from that aperture. Either a foldable membrane or a central partition impedes the escape of tooth paste through the linear aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Michael J. Allen
  • Publication number: 20040009029
    Abstract: A toothbrush having a water reservoir in the handle and squeezable to force water therefrom through a plurality of spaced apart orifices located at the base of bristles that project from the head of the brush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Publication date: January 15, 2004
    Inventors: John B. Dillingham, Brenda W. Dillingham
  • Publication number: 20040005185
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a cartridge type applicator which can prevent the application liquid from flowing back from the applying portion into the cartridge and which is suitable for use with a high viscosity application liquid. This applicator includes an advancing mechanism or piston mechanism made up of a sealing plug disposed inside a cylindrical cartridge tank for constituting the rear end wall of the tank, and a rod member attached to the sealing plug for causing the sealing plug to move in the axial direction of the tank; and an actuator (actuating member) for causing the rod member to move or advance in the axial direction by rotation thereof, and is constructed such that, when the actuator is turned, the rod member causes the sealing plug to move in the axial direction so as to reduce the volume of the space inside the tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Pencil Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Mitsuru Endo
  • Publication number: 20040005187
    Abstract: Described is a device that is useful for basting food products in the cooking process. More specifically, the device is useful by providing variable fluid flow capabilities to food product basting appliances. The food basting device comprises two separate pieces, a cap piece and a brush piece that work in rotating relationship with each other to prove variable fluid flow through the device. The food basting device preferably works with fluid containers that do not have screw threads for a cap or lid, such as a beer or soda can.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventor: Lori Renee Bertothy
  • Patent number: 6672313
    Abstract: A misting styling brush is provided for use with pressurized and non-pressurized cylindrical aerosol sprayers. The misting styling brush includes a handle similar to that of a standard cylindrical hair brush but having a longitudinal interior chamber disposed therein. The aerosol sprayer fits within the handle with an end cap retaining the aerosol sprayer from longitudinal movement once admitted therein. A trigger assembly slides the aerosol sprayer toward the restrained end cap to actuate the pump of the aerosol sprayer to spray a liquid contained therein through a lateral spray hole through the handle. A plurality of interchangeable cylindrical brush assemblies of various outer bristle diameters each include a plurality of bristle groups that extend outwardly from a tubular bristle support member which slides over a brushing portion of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony Battaglia, Allen E. Edwards, Elissa L. Edwards
  • Patent number: 6669391
    Abstract: The cleaning implement has a handle a mop head attached to the handle and the mop head comprises a plurality of attachment structures formed from a flexible material. The cleaning implement also comprises a liquid delivery system having a container filled with a cleaning solution, fitment which has a fluid transfer check valve communicating with a nozzle and a vent valve. The vent valve has a cracking pressure such that venting occurs in the container when the pressure differential defined by P1−P2 is superior to the cracking pressure, where P1 is the atmospheric pressure and P2 is the pressure inside said container. The cleaning implement also includes a disposable cleaning pad which has an absorbent layer and an attachment layer. The attachment layer has at least one notch located on the leading edge of the attachment layer such that the cleaning solution is dispensed from the nozzle without being obstructed by the attachment layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Nicola John Policicchio, Preston James Rhamy, Michael William Dusing, Kenneth William Willman, Rhonda Jean Jackson
  • Patent number: 6663306
    Abstract: The cleaning implement has a handle a mop head attached to the handle and the mop head comprises a plurality of attachment structures formed from a flexible material. The cleaning implement also comprises a liquid delivery system which has a container filled with a cleaning solution and removably attached to a fitment. The fitment has a fluid transfer check valve which communicates with a nozzle which is adjacent the leading edge of the mop head. A disposable cleaning pad having an absorbent layer and an attachment layer adjacent the absorbent layer can be attached to the mop head. When the cleaning solution is dispensed, it has an average exit velocity of at least 0.009 cm/sec with 95% of the delivered cleaning solution being located within an area defined by an isosceles triangle defined by an apex adjacent the nozzle, a base and a first and second side which intersect at the apex and are equal in length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Nicola John Policicchio, Preston James Rhamy, Michael William Dusing, Kenneth William Willman, Rhonda Jean Jackson
  • Publication number: 20030215282
    Abstract: A combined disposable toothbrush and detachable toothpaste cartridge includes a hollow cylindrical handle portion having opposed proximal and distal bases and a cylindrical sidewall disposed therebetween, the proximal each base having an axial recess, an exterior surface of the proximal base proportioned for engagement between a thumb and a finger of a user, the distal base including an outlet passage, a threaded rod having a proximal end rigidly secured within the recess of the proximal base; a cylindrical push block having a circumferential surface in fluid-tight frictional communication with an inner surface of the cylindrical sidewall and having an axial channel in thread-fit co-action with the threaded rod; and a detachable brush portion having, at a distal end thereof, a head including brushing bristles and an internal channel extending longitudinally and having an outlet in communication with the brushing bristles; and a coupling for selectably attaching and detaching a distal end of the handle portion
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventors: Ramon P. Edwards, Diane J. Semkow
  • Patent number: 6644877
    Abstract: A cleaning tool includes a hollow rod extending through a tank for receiving detergent and connected to a cleaning member at a lower open end of the rod. A detergent feeding mechanism is received in the rod and includes a valve body which has a lower open end sealed by a guide member extending therethrough. The rod has an aperture located in the tank so that the detergent flows into the rod. The guide member is connected to a head which is fixed to a movable member received in the rod. A collar is rotatably connected to the movable member so that when rotating the collar, the movable member together with the head is moved longitudinally in the rod to open the lower open end of the valve body so that detergent is supplied to the cleaning member. The collar is located close to the handle of the rod and is convenient to be accessed by the users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: He-Jin Chen
  • Patent number: 6641320
    Abstract: A liquid applicator device comprising an applicator liquid container and a liquid dispensing mechanism. The device has a valve element movable disposed between an open position and a closed position for controlling the flow of the applicator liquid from the container. The liquid dispensing mechanism has a hollow cylindrical portion for supporting an applicator tip. The inner end of the applicator tip communicates with the valve element. An axial displacement of the applicator tip moves the valve element into the open position for enabling the applicator liquid to migrate through the applicator tip for applying the liquid to a surface. The improvement comprises a recess cooperating with a retainer for preventing the removal of the applicator tip from the liquid applicator device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventors: Richard W. Ballot, Stephan M. Ballot
  • Publication number: 20030198503
    Abstract: A toothbrush assembly includes a canister housing a spring biased piston, a cartridge for storing dentifrice (toothpaste) releasably received in the canister, and a brush head attached to a stem that is connected to the cartridge. A passage extends through the stem and connects an aperture in the brush head with an interior of the cartridge. A normally closed valve controls the flow of the dentifrice through the passage which dentifrice is pressured by the spring biased piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: C. David Gordon
  • Patent number: 6629799
    Abstract: A self-contained soap dispensing apparatus having a hollow body with an inner chamber for retainment of liquid soap, an outer surface, and passages or ducts connecting the inner chamber to the outer surface which has bristles thereon. A pump within the inner chamber allows soap to flow from the inner chamber to the outer surface on demand. The soap dispensing apparatus is readily portable and can be used in a wide variety of locations, such as an automobile, an airplane, an RV, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2003
    Inventor: Eustacio R. Flores, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030185620
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a paste-contained toothbrush. The present invention is directed to providing a paste-contained toothbrush in which there are provided a push apparatus having a brush, toothpaste extruding port and horizontal push button in an upper portion of a toothpaste storing container engaged with a lower cap having a through hole in a lower portion of the same in a state that a piston is installed in the interior of the same, and a pump assembly having a housing wherein a toothbrush is formed of a toothpaste storing container including a gel type paste therein and a toothbrush body for thereby extruding a paste based on a pumping operation, and the toothbrush body which operates a pumping operation based on the push apparatus is assembled. Therefore, in the present invention, it is possible to easily use a toothbrush during a tour or in office or school, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Seol Park
  • Publication number: 20030180083
    Abstract: A cleaning pad for use on a cleaning system in which cleaning fluid or other liquid is dispensed onto a surface in front of a cleaning head portion, the cleaning pad comprising a central absorbent and scrubbing portion, a back edge portion for removably attaching the cleaning pad to the cleaning head portion, and a front edge portion for removably attaching the cleaning pad to the cleaning head portion, the front edge portion having a notch thereon, thereby allowing attachment of the cleaning pad to the cleaning head portion such that cleaning or other fluid can be dispensed from the cleaning head portion onto a surface in front of the cleaning head portion without interference by the cleaning pad.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Michael J. Hall, James E. Rader, Boli Zhou, Karen S. Hefter, David J. Sayler, Eric Y. Park, Robert W. Flagler, Scott T. Haubrich, Shumanta MItra, Richard Porticos, Gene Park
  • Publication number: 20030180086
    Abstract: A grout sealer applicator brush that carries with it a reservoir of grout sealer. The brush includes a handle with a broad concave upper surface used to support and cradle the reservoir. The grout sealer within the reservoir is conducted through a tube that dispenses the fluid directly on the bristles of the brush, ready for application to the grout. The reservoir is placed in proximity to the bristle to reduce the torque of the reservoir on the operator. Holding the reservoir in place is a handle, cradling arrangement that can accommodate different sized reservoirs. To reduce manufacturing costs, the brush and the tube are all formed simultaneously, typically of plastic, in a pressure molding process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Pollock
  • Patent number: 6623201
    Abstract: A cleaning device for cleaning toilets, bathroom fixtures, and other surfaces. The device encloses a reservoir contained in a hollow handle for storing a cleaning solution, with a cap connected to one end of the handle and a base connected to the other end of the handle. A brush, sponge or other scrubber or cleaning surface is preferably attached to the base. A manually operated flow control mechanism opens a valve which seals at least one exit or dispensing orifice at or near the base of the reservoir, and thereby allows volume of cleaning solution to be dispensed at a reasonably fast, controlled rate of flow. In one embodiment, manually operated vacuum pressure release orifices are located at the opposite end of the reservoir from the exit orifice and are normally closed, but may be opened to minimize or eliminate any vacuum (subatmospheric pressure) in the reservoir, thereby aiding the flow of liquid from the reservoir through the exit orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Inventor: John Francois Brumlik
  • Publication number: 20030165351
    Abstract: Brushes specifically hair brushes have been around for several years. However, a brush with the flexibility of moving the bristles inward to help in cleaning is a new invention. Additionally a hair brush capable of delivering hair care products including styling gel into the bristle area so as to allow combing while applying hair care products is a new invention. The manufacture of hair brushes with recyclable and or disposable materials is also an added benefit of the current invention. The said invention describes the make up of such a brush that will be easy to clean, may be made out of recyclable and or disposable material and can be used to deliver hair care products to the scalp (hair) while combing. Such an invention will eliminate the mess encountered while applying hair care products and will also reduce the amount of time needed for the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Sonali Tatapudy
  • Patent number: 6612768
    Abstract: A broom provided with a improved regulator for controlling the flow of floor cleaning and treatment products. This broom has a tubular appendage (29) provided on the bottom of a reservoir (3) for the discharge of liquid and has a removably coupler detachable (31) that is inserted between the tubular appendage (29) and the small flexible tube (5) that transports the liquid to the floor. All these elements are easily cleanable of incrustations and deposits that result from the use of dense or semi-dense fluids, such as floor waxes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Bruno Zorzo
  • Publication number: 20030152411
    Abstract: A nail care accessory which is in a form of a housing with a tight fitting lid which can be pulled off to reveal an applicator to which a nail varnish, nail varnish remover or other substance for treatment of the nails, is conveyed by internal channels from a reservoir inside the housing. The applicator is protruded and retracted by applying pressure to elastic parts of the housing. The reservoir may be replaceable or refillable or the reservoir and applicator as a unit may be exchanged to allow use of different colours. A nail varnish applicator and a nail varnish remover can be incorporated in a single accessory, located end to end so that one is at one end and the other at the other end, of the accessory. A flow control valve may be provided, actuated by pressure on the applicator when substance is being applied to a nail. The walls of eth reservoir can be made compressible to allow pressure to be applied, to place the substance under pressure, to assist in it coming out of the accessory at the applicator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Nicci Prokopos