Implements Patents (Class 68/213)
  • Patent number: 11813739
    Abstract: A robotic arm comprising a first arm portion, a second arm portion, the second arm portion moveable between a first axial position, in which the first arm portion and the second arm portion are mutually spaced from each other along said axis, and a second axial position, in which a first end of first arm portion and a second end of the second arm portion are in contact to define a housing, a head rotatable with respect to the first arm portion and around said axis; and a robotic joint. The joint is configured for adopting an operative condition, to make the second arm portion integral with the head. The robotic arm is configured so that said operative condition corresponds to said second axial position and said second angular position and the robotic arm is configured so that, in said operative condition, the joint is located within said housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: SIDEL PARTICIPATIONS
    Inventors: Rossana Borgese, Alessandro Tasora, Dario Fusai, Matteo Pambianchi
  • Patent number: 11660908
    Abstract: A roller-type applicator cleaning apparatus includes a lid, a housing, a water inlet valve, a base, a plurality of radial openings, and a central axis. The base includes a platform and an applicator holder. The lid, the housing, and the base are concentrically positioned along the central axis. The applicator holder is adjacently connected onto the platform and function as a storage space for the roller-type applicator. The plurality of radial openings laterally traverses through the applicator holder so that a flow of water can discharge into the applicator holder as the flow of water is entered into the housing through the water inlet. The lid and the base are oppositely positioned of each other about the housing and threadedly attached to the housing. The applicator holder is encircled by the housing so that the flow of water can fully engaged with the inserted applicator that needs to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2023
    Inventor: Jorge Adrian Villasenor Navarro
  • Patent number: 10780407
    Abstract: To sum up, by using the shaker for mixing liquids (1-7) (e.g. shampoo, soap, etc) with water right before use, an optimal dose of the liquid is used and appropriate solution is used. A dissolved mixture is applied to the hair/body to most significant part immediately—the hair roots and the scalp. It works beneficial for the hair, especially the hair ends, preventing dry and split ends as the e.g. shampoo is not applied directly. The mixture is distributed more evenly throughout the hair, without adding additional water and washing out the unused shampoo. The foam evolves quicker and is greater, which makes the washing easier. The shaker enables the user to use multiple liquids at once if needed. The amount of the liquid used is decreased to an optimal dose for the user and is therefore also eco-friendly, as no excessive amount of liquid is used. The invention enables the user to close tap water/shower during use and therefore uses less water and is eco-friendly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Inventor: Carlota Supan
  • Patent number: 10279944
    Abstract: A fitment mounting apparatus for mounting a hold open fitment to flexible packaging, wherein the hold open fitment has a flexible configuration variable between a first un-distended shape and a second stably distended shape, including a frame forming a holder configured for holding more than one of the hold open fitments within the holder, a flexible packaging positioning system arranged for positioning flexible packaging for mounting the hold open fitment to the flexible packaging, and an applicator coupled to the frame configured to engage at least one edge of the hold open fitment in the holder and bias the at least one edge so that the hold open fitment is singulated, from others of the more than one hold open fitments in the holder, and issued from the holder into the flexible packaging on the flexible packaging positioning system substantially simultaneous with singulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Inventor: Vishaal Boehm Verma
  • Patent number: 10202719
    Abstract: A vertical axis laundry treating appliance including a chassis defining a chassis interior, a tub disposed within the chassis interior and defining a tub interior, and a perforated wash basket disposed for rotation within the tub interior, wherein the tub includes a lower tub portion, an upper tub portion, and a flexible intermediate portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2019
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Benjamin E. Alexander, Prakash S. Amte, Brent M. Burgess, Michael K. Cluskey, Nicholas C. Fugal, Christopher A. Jones, Dale Mueller, Michele A. Paustian, Brenner M. Sharp
  • Patent number: 9051682
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in laundering a garment having cups comprising a flexible panel, a pair of cup supports attached to the flexible panel, and a plurality of retainers attached to the flexible panel to hold each cup of the garment against a corresponding cup support. Each cup support comprises a convex member. Each cup support may include a plurality of apertures formed through the convex member. Each cup may further include a plurality of protrusions to space the cups of the garment away from the convex member. The apparatus includes a water permeable bag extending around the flexible panel. In this case, the flexible panel may be attached to the water permeable bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Inventor: Sandra Allende
  • Patent number: 8844154
    Abstract: A dryer system for a firefighting ensemble comprising a housing having an air intake port and an air outlet port, a forced air assembly including a heater and a blower accommodated within the housing, a plurality of flexible porous hose segments coupled to the air outlet port operable to receive and conduct forced air therefrom, and the plurality of flexible porous hose segments are operable to conduct forced heated air into elements of the firefighting ensemble to speed drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: ROM Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh
  • Patent number: 8407914
    Abstract: A device for refreshing fabrics by reducing malodors and/or wrinkles without requiring that the fabrics to be put through an entire standard laundry process. The device comprises an extractable drawer which is pulled out of the device to allow for loading of a fabric into a receiving region. The extractable drawer can then be closed transporting the fabric into the interior of the device. A fabric treatment composition is sprayed or otherwise dispensed onto the fabrics when the device is operated. The device comprises an air flow path and a heating element which allows for the fabrics to be treated during use and comprises a passive heat management system within the shell to minimize formation of hot spots and direct air flow away from the side walls. The extractable drawer of the present invention can be positioned to extract laterally or vertically out of the shell of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Stefan Hubert Hollinger, Christof Kleemann, Markus Sabisch, Oliver von Sartori-Montecroce, Stephan James Andreas Meschkat, Heiko Ullrich, Robert Hans-Joachim Damaschke, Ulrich Alexander Bublitz, Brian Joseph Roselle
  • Publication number: 20130055509
    Abstract: Kit for tie-dyeing an object includes a utensil that retains the object, at least one container of dyeing material, at least one device for maintaining a gathered portion of the object together, and an optional instruction manual or idea guide. The utensil includes a base that can retain the dye containers and devices and an insert arranged in connection with the base. The insert is used during the tie-dyeing and includes a grate elevated from a bottom of the insert, defined by a bottom part, and having a plurality of apertures. The grate forms a support surface for the object and enables dye to flow through the apertures onto the bottom of the insert. The grate can be separated from the bottom part for cleaning and the bottom part can be removed from the base for cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: Horizon Group USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Roshan Wijerama
  • Patent number: 8312746
    Abstract: The invention relates to a stain-removing machine consisting of two tubes (2 and 3) which are joined to one another by a conventional closure and adjustment mechanism (6) including at least one rubber sealing section (7), the fabric (4) to be cleaned being clamped taut between said tubes with a fluid (5) flowing therebetween. The invention can also include a fill/discharge valve (8) for supplying/releasing the fluid (5) and said valve is moved by propulsion mechanisms or systems, such as mechanically or manually operated pistons (9, 9?). When the machine includes only one piston (9) the other tube (3) is provided with an elastic membrane (10) or a moving part. Optionally, the ends at which the tubes (2, 3) are joined are provided with securing and friction membranes or screens (13) or moving plates. The machine can be coupled to a professional stain-removing table (14) or to a domestic propulsion and suction source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventor: Francisco Javier Perez-Toril Galan
  • Patent number: 8281622
    Abstract: A drum washing machine and a washing method of the drum washing machine wash clothes to be dry-cleaned, without water, using microfiber. The drum washing machine includes a tub; a drum rotatably provided in the tub; and a cleaning member contacting laundry in the drum to perform the dry-cleaning of the laundry. The drum washing machine washes clothes to be dry-cleaned, without water, using a cleaning member made of microfiber, thereby minimizing the deformation or shrinkage of the clothes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sang Yeon Pyo
  • Patent number: 8181494
    Abstract: A stain treatment apparatus uses a transparent plastic bag with a recloseable opening into which a stained garment is placed. A stain treatment compound is contained within the bag, such as within an ampoule or pouch that releases upon compression or that releases upon exposure to water added to the bag. A thermochromatic indicator assists in filling with water of an appropriate temperature. A completion indicator further assists in indicating completion of the stain treatment regimen. A plurality of stain-specific treatment assemblies may be included that are optimized for a category of stains (e.g., protein, tannin, oil, dye/ink).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Cynthia Crider
  • Patent number: 8146390
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a laundry machine, and more particularly, to an apparatus for treating a laundry, by which a laundry can be treated in a manner of hanging the laundry or the like with a cabinet type body. The present invention includes a cabinet comprising an accommodating space and a mechanism compartment partitioned from the accommodating space by a partition, a steam generator configured to generate steam to be supplied to the accommodating space, and a steam supply unit configured to pass through the partition, the steam supply unit comprising a rotating nozzle to supply steam into the accommodating space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Jung Wook Moon, Chang Gyu Choi, Hye Yong Park, Seung Gyu Ryu, Kwang Hee Lee
  • Publication number: 20120023678
    Abstract: Devices for delivering reusable environmentally friendly laundry additives to a plurality of wash cycles and drying cycles are provided. The devices include a container that has an inner chamber and a plurality of apertures and protrusions located on an exterior surface thereof. The apertures are configured to allow the laundry additive to leave the inner chamber and interact with clothing during a plurality of wash cycles and drying cycles. The protrusions are configured to make contact with, and soften, clothing during the drying cycles. The container is configured to receive the laundry additive by a user of the device, prior to placing the device in a first wash or drying cycle, and effectively disperse and administer said additives.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Marc S. Smulowitz
  • Patent number: 7971454
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is a beaker type dyeing machine. One embodiment of an apparatus for dyeing a material in a beaker includes a cylinder body having a first end and a second end, the first end being configured for coupling to the lid of the beaker, a check valve incorporated into the first end of the cylinder body, and a plug incorporated into the second end of the cylinder body, the plug being operable to control opening and closing of the check valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Datacolor Holding AG
    Inventor: Lev Rapoport
  • Patent number: 7971455
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dosing and dispensing device (1) comprising a double wall structure having an inner wall (10) and an outer wall (20), wherein the inner wall (10) defines a dosing chamber (12) with an opening (14) for filling and dispensing, and the outer wall (20) circumscribes the inner wall (10) at a line of intersection (30) so that an upper part of the dosing chamber lies on one side of the line of intersection (30), within the outer wall (20), and a lower part of the dosing chamber lies on the other side of the line of intersection (30), outside of the outer wall (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Ann De Wree, Filip Dominique Hubert Vangeel
  • Patent number: 7900642
    Abstract: A washing apparatus has a housing comprising a spray element such that in use, fluid is forced through at least one aperture creating a substantially elongate spray onto at least one roller wheel or roller sleeve substantially causing the roller wheel to spin and be washed or cleaned. A method of washing a roller in a washing apparatus is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing comprising a spray element such that in use, fluid is forced through at least one aperture creating a substantially elongate spray onto at least one roller wheel or roller sleeve substantially causing the roller wheel to spin and be washed or cleaned wherein the following steps include: inserting roller therein by opening the apparatus or sliding the roller therein; connecting the apparatus to a fluid supply element such as a faucet or hose; and initiating fluid flow to wash or clean the roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Rapcorp Limited
    Inventors: Henry William Raimund Lavender, Johannes Christiaan Bartlema, Philip Jeffrey O'Reilly
  • Patent number: 7832041
    Abstract: A device for applying stain treatment formulation to a garment or article of clothing while it is being worn is disclosed. The device includes a reservoir with an applicator tip for containing the formulation and dispensing the formulation to a stain, spot or mark on the garment. The device also includes a shell connected to the reservoir for housing an absorbent member dispensing mechanism. After the stain removal formulation is applied, the absorbent member is pressed and/or rubbed on the stain to lift and remove the stain and to absorb or wick excess formulation thereby reducing the time needed for the resulting wet spot to dry. Effective stain removing formulations for on-the-go use are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Leland J. Smith, Michael J. Banco, Douglas A. Soller, Roberta A. Wick, Christopher R. Sheridan, Jeanne A. O'Brien
  • Publication number: 20100281928
    Abstract: A laundry ball can be used to accommodate detergent free washing of clothes and other laundry items. To provide a more efficient and more washer friendly laundry ball, the structure is fabricated to have a flexible outer surface. In one embodiment the walls of the laundry ball have only a single layer of flexible material, while another embodiment includes walls having multiple layers with the outer layer being more flexible. The material making up this flexible outer surface is resilient and causes less damage to the interior of the washing machine. Added friction also causes more movement and agitation of the laundry ball when used, thus enhancing its operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: Actervis GmbH
    Inventor: Juan Ramon Torres Martin
  • Patent number: 7640941
    Abstract: A brush and roller cleaner includes a hollow canister to receive a spray wand. A control knob pivots with respect to the canister to direct pressurized liquid from apertures of the spray wand. A top cap assembly mates with the canister in one of two positions, 180 degrees offset from one another. The top cap assembly has a tool holding assembly that is capable of holding a paint tool or roller. The tool holding assembly rotates in response to the liquid output from the spray wand apertures. The top cap assembly is capable of holding a roller in a first or second position. The roller rotates within the canister in response to the liquid output from the spray wand apertures to clean the roller cover. A handle for the cleaner supports a roller frame clip for holding the roller in a first or second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Black & Decker, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Watters, Romeo Graham, Joseph Luc Boucher, Michael G. Sirois, Tracine Andrus
  • Patent number: 7596974
    Abstract: A device for applying stain formulation to a garment or article of clothing while it is being worn is disclosed. The device includes a reservoir with a valve assembly for dispensing an effective stain removal formulation directly to the stain, spot or mark. The device also includes a shell accommodating absorbent pads. After the stain removal formulation is applied, an absorbent pad is pressed and/or rubbed on the stain to lift and remove the stain and to absorb or wick excess fluid thereby reducing the amount of time the resulting wet spot takes to dry. Effective stain removing formulations for on-the-go use are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Leland J. Smith, Michael J. Banco, Douglas A. Soller, Roberta A. Wick, Jeanne A. O'Brien, Christopher R. Sheridan
  • Patent number: 7536745
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing stains from a fabric includes a device configured to draw a stain removal liquid through the fabric. The stain removal liquid may be drawn through the liquid through the use of suction directed by a nozzle. The nozzle may be placed over the fabric, which is placed over a reservoir of stain removal liquid. Thereafter, a pressure is activated and the stain removal liquid is drawn through the fabric, removing the stain. The apparatus may be a hand-held device. The hand-held device comprises two handles and two workpieces. A pressure source is placed in the handle, creating a pressure at a first workpiece. The fabric is placed between the first workpiece and the second workpiece, drawing a stain removal liquid from a reservoir in the second workpiece through the fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: The Dial Corporation
    Inventor: Ben Shenouda
  • Publication number: 20090038082
    Abstract: A device for treating a surface to give a cleaning benefit comprises one or more containers (402) containing cleaning liquid. When the actuator (416) is depressed cleaning liquid is delivered to an outlet zone (406) located over a stain, where it forms a gel patch. Continued depression of the actuator means causes a piston 436 to press the gel patch against the surface, caused improved absorption of the stain, into the patch. The gel patch can then be peeled away, to remove the stain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: RECKITT BENCKISER (UK) LIMITED
    Inventors: Louise Margaret Barlow, Victoria H Cobb, Coreen Iliffe, Jonathan Mark Law
  • Patent number: 7418838
    Abstract: A washer includes an outer cabinet, a washtub disposed in the cabinet, a rotating tub rotating by a driving motor and being disposed in the washtub, a top cover disposed on top of the cabinet, the top cover being provided with an opening for loading and unloading clothes, a control box-receiving portion formed on a portion of the top cover, a control box having a circuit board for controlling the washer, the control box removably received in the control box-receiving portion, and a protecting cover for covering the portion of the top cover where the control box is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Seong Eun Heo, Dong Yoon Kim, Jae Chul Lyu
  • Patent number: 7340792
    Abstract: A sensor for determining the level of the liquid in the lye container for removing foam in the lye container of a drum washing machine with a lye discharge system arranged on the floor of the lye container with a lye pump during a program step, which is provided for dehydrating the lye container. Its sensor signal P is recorded during operation of the lye pump. According to the present invention the sequence p/t of the sensor signal contains a component ?p/?t, whereof the presence indicates the presence of foam in the measuring region. Further, in the presence of the component a foam treatment measure suiting the type of component is introduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Haugeraete GmbH
    Inventors: Gundula Czyzewski, Ingo Schulze
  • Patent number: 7323066
    Abstract: A device and method for cleaning paint accessories and particularly roller covers and/or other paint accessories simultaneously or individually. A spray head has a fluid inlet engageable to a source of fluid and a fluid collection chamber in communication with the fluid inlet. A plurality of spray apertures are radially spaced within the spray head to be adjacent the nap of a roller cover during use. A sealing surface positioned within the radius of the spray apertures seals off an end of the roller cover. A housing having an inner cavity for receiving a roller cover has a diameter sized to create cleansing fluid flow through the nap of a roller cover. A plurality of outlet apertures in communication with the inner cavity are radially spaced to be adjacent a nap portion of a roller cover during use. A plurality of decreased diameter nestable sleeves adapted to fit in the housing are also provided to accommodate variously circumferentially dimensioned paint rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Collin Budron
  • Patent number: 6955067
    Abstract: A portable, self-contained, device for dosing and/or dispensing at least one product into an appliance for treating laundry or dishes is disclosed. The device includes a housing with at least one compartment for containing at least one product. The compartment(s) can be closed by at least one corresponding cover. The device further includes at least one means for storing and releasing energy, so that the product to be dispensed may be released at one or more predetermined point(s) in time during a wash cycle. In one embodiment, the means may be a battery, such as a rechargeable battery. The device may also include at least one sensor and/or at least one actuator for detecting when the wash conditions are optimal and open at least one of the compartments for releasing a product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Dorothee Hélène Davenet, Jean-Luc Azzani, Bradford Scott Barron, Todd Mitchell Day, Luca Diamanti, Christopher Lawrence Smith
  • Patent number: 6883353
    Abstract: A device for spot cleaning a fabric with a liquid cleaning composition, said device comprising i) at least one absorbent means for absorbing at least some of said composition from the fabric; and ii) mesh means for rubbing the fabric so that the liquid absorbed by the absorbent means from the fabric passes through the mesh means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA divison of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Francesca Goldoni, Jan Kevelam, Arinus Frederikus Leerink, Pieter W. Van Reeven, Pieter Van der Vlist, Wendi Hutchinson
  • Patent number: 6874190
    Abstract: A process for washing laundry using a hand-held container having a mixing volume, friction means and dispensing means, the process comprising a first step of preparing a mixture by inserting a detergent composition and water in the mixing volume, a second step of cleaning the laundry by dispensing at least part of the mixture onto the laundry and by scrubbing the laundry with the friction means, the process being characterized in that the second step is directly followed by a rinsing step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Joseph Fernand Deflander, Jacky Pierre Duquet, Kirk Wallace Lake, Greet Renée Els Francine Notele
  • Patent number: 6829913
    Abstract: A device for spot cleaning a fabric with a liquid cleaning composition, said device comprising at least one absorbent means for absorbing at least some of said composition from the fabric wherein the ratio of the working surface and the thickness or height of the absorbent means is preferably lower than 3000 mm. In a method of use, the liquid cleaning composition is applied to the fabric and some of the composition so applied is absorbed into the absorbent means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, a division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Francesca Goldoni, Jan Kevelam, Arinus Frederikus Leerink, Pieter W. van Reeven, Pieter Van der Vlist, Wendi Hutchinson
  • Publication number: 20040237602
    Abstract: A washing machine has a power cable, a structural frame, a tub supported by the frame and a damping system interposed between the tub and the frame. An immobilizing rod interposed between the tub and the frame in order to prevent the tub from moving during the transport of the machine. The immobilizing or security rod includes a hook portion for engaging the power cable in order to prevent the user from connecting the power cable to a power source before the immobilizing rod is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventors: Andreas Lappoehn, Walter Dunst
  • Patent number: 6818071
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning a roller cover of the type used to apply a coating material is disclosed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a body, at least one roller cover engaging element for positioning at least partially within the interior area of a roller cover and engaging the roller cover, and a drive adaptor associated with the body for effectuating rotation of the roller cover engaging element, and thus a roller cover connected thereto, with a drive. In one embodiment, the drive adaptor comprises a shaft connected to the body of the apparatus and extending therefrom, the shaft adapted to be rotated by a drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventor: Ronnald B. King
  • Patent number: 6807700
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for acoustically insulating a washing machine and, specifically, a laundry tub. An acoustical blanket of thermoplastic material extends around and insulates the laundry tub. A wall of the tub has at least one protuberance for mating with a hole of the acoustical blanket. The acoustical blanket may be crimped over a top of the wall. Protuberances include knobs and elongate members. The thermoplastic material is selected from a group consisting of a polyester, polyethylene, polyolefin, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, rayon, nylon, acrylic, hemp, kenaf, cotton and combinations thereof. A facing layer(s) may additionally be provided on the acoustical blanket. The facing layer being selected from a group consisting of polyester, rayon, metallic foil and combinations thereof. The blanket may also mate directly with a cylinder around the tub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglass Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen L. Panther, Phil Johnson
  • Patent number: 6760943
    Abstract: A device having a flexible member with a plurality of pouches. A pair of matched articles are placed in each of the separate pouches. The flexible member is mounted on an agitator in a washing machine and the pairs of articles are washed together with the flexible member. The flexible member containing the pairs of articles are dried. A method of use is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Glenn D. Williams
  • Patent number: 6715326
    Abstract: Dual chamber apparatus including a body providing a first chamber containing liquid, a closure closing the first chamber and a second chamber containing a body of material including a portion extending out of the second chamber, upon the closure being removed and the liquid being discharged from the first chamber the body of material for engaging and reacting with the liquid. The apparatus may be embodied as spot remover apparatus with the liquid being liquid spot remover and with the body of material being absorbent material for absorbing the liquid spot remover upon being discharged and removing a spot. Process of manufacturing such apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Vital Pharma, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Price
  • Publication number: 20040034943
    Abstract: An apparatus for washing at least one item, comprising a frame having a dome shape when viewed from its end, and a generally semicircular shape when viewed from its side; and a flow through mesh on the frame which allows washing fluid (generally water) to freely flow to and from the item being washed; the apparatus having an opening through which the at least one item to be washed can be placed into and removed from the apparatus. The frame may have an endless pocket; and a stiffener disposed within the pocket, the stiffener having a length exceeding that of the endless pocket, so that ends of the stiffener overlap each other within the pocket. A method for using the apparatus includes folding a brassiere so that the cups nest before it is placed in the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: Lawrence Peska
  • Publication number: 20030145634
    Abstract: Dual chamber apparatus including a body providing a first chamber containing liquid, a closure closing the first chamber and a second chamber containing a body of material including a portion extending out of the second chamber, upon the closure being removed and the liquid being discharged from the first chamber the body of material for engaging and reacting with the liquid. The apparatus may be embodied as spot remover apparatus with the liquid being liquid spot remover and with the body of material being absorbent material for absorbing the liquid spot remover upon being discharged and removing a spot. Process of manufacturing such apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Applicant: Vital Signs Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Price
  • Patent number: 6536060
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and monitoring device for monitoring a wash process inside a washing apparatus, the method comprising the steps of introducing into the washing apparatus a monitoring device suitable for measuring physical and/or mechanical parameters of the wash process and recording the measured parameters within the monitoring device. A self-contained and wireless monitoring device is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean Paul Janssens, Henk Leeuwis, John Lloyd, Petrus Jacobus Van Der Mark, Arie Michiel Poos
  • Publication number: 20030010365
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning a roller cover of the type used to apply a coating material is disclosed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a body, at least one roller cover engaging element for positioning at least partially within the interior area of a roller cover and engaging the roller cover, and a drive adaptor associated with the body for effectuating rotation of the roller cover engaging element, and thus a roller cover connected thereto, with a drive. In one embodiment, the drive adaptor comprises a shaft connected to the body of the apparatus and extending therefrom, the shaft adapted to be rotated by a drive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2002
    Publication date: January 16, 2003
    Inventor: Ronnald B. King
  • Publication number: 20020178510
    Abstract: A device for spot cleaning a fabric with a liquid cleaning composition, said device comprising at least one absorbent means for absorbing at least some of said composition from the fabric wherein the ratio of the working surface and the thickness or height of the absorbent means is preferably lower than 3000 mm. In a method of use, the liquid cleaning composition is applied to the fabric and some of the composition so applied is absorbed into the absorbent means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, Division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Francesca Goldoni, Jan Kevelam, Arinus Frederikus Leerink, Pieter W. van Reeven, Pieter van der Vlist, Wendi Hutchinson
  • Publication number: 20020178511
    Abstract: A device for spot cleaning a fabric with a liquid cleaning composition, the device comprising a reservoir for holding the composition, an applicator for applying the composition from the reservoir to the fabric and absorbent means for absorbing at least some of the composition from the fabric. In a method of use, the liquid cleaning composition is applied to the fabric with the applicator and some of the composition so applied is absorbed into the absorbent means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Applicant: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, Division of Conopco, Inc.
    Inventors: Francesca Goldoni, Jan Kevelam, Arinus Frederikus Leerink, Pieter W. van Reeven, Pieter van der Vlist, Wendi Hutchinson
  • Publication number: 20020056165
    Abstract: A process for washing laundry using a hand-held container having a mixing volume, friction means and dispensing means, the process comprising a first step of preparing a mixture by inserting a detergent composition and water in the mixing volume, a second step of cleaning the laundry by dispensing at least part of the mixture onto the laundry and by scrubbing the laundry with the friction means, the process being characterised in that the second step is directly followed by a rinsing step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2002
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Applicant: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Joseph Fernand Deflander, Jacky Pierre Duquet, Kirk Wallace Lake, Greet Renee Els Francine Notele
  • Patent number: 6233771
    Abstract: A cleaning device for spot-cleaning fabrics without causing fiber damage is provided. A hand-held device with a convex face comprises treatment means, such as fibers. In use, the stained fabric is moistened with a cleaning composition and the device is rolled or rocked on the stained area. The fibers mechanically dislodge the stain. The device is especially useful as a pre-spotter in a dry cleaning operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Thomas Charles Hortel, Aram Jesse Irwin, Michael Peter Siklosi, Bruce Albert Yeazell
  • Patent number: 6158258
    Abstract: A container (10) for use in rinsing out dirt from a cleaning cloth comprises a compartment (12) adapted to hold water, means for providing fresh water, a structure (34) adapted to receive the cleaning cloth to be rinsed, and at least one nozzle (32) for supplying water free of dirt onto the cleaning cloth (FIG. 1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: David Alan Bowman
  • Patent number: 6085555
    Abstract: A palm-top fabric leading edge detector adapted to be incorporated in a high temperature or regular temperature, L-configured or U-configured dyeing machine includes a detector body which is releasably connected to a sensor mounted in the dyeing machine via a cable to receive a fabric leading edge detection signal from the sensor when the leading edge of a fabric that is moved through the dyeing machine for dyeing passes through the sensor. The detector processes the fabric leading edge detection signal and provides the detection result on a display on the detector body. The detector is driven by an internal power source which may be primary cells or secondary cells rechargeable by means of external power source. Visual indicator and audio signal generation device are provided to indicate the detection of the fabric leading edge in a visual and audio manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: China Textile Institute
    Inventors: Jong-Fu Wu, Kun-Lin Cheng, Feng Biau Lin, Li-Jen Kuo, Li-Jen Wang, Yu-Cheng Wang, Cheng-Chung Wang
  • Patent number: 5765407
    Abstract: A device and method for respectively providing and using a small, portable, discreet, yet complete on-the-spot stain remover unit. The unit can be activated on-the-spot to remove accidentally spilled food or beverage stains by removing the appropriate modules or body portions to achieve the desired cleaning steps. The stain removing or cleaning unit has a main applicator body, two sub-applicator bodies and two end covers. The modules, when connected together, make up the complete cleaning kit. The unit is designed to enable a user to perform four basic steps for cleaning a stain the instant it occurs, i.e., detergent soak, soiled detergent pickup, rinse and final drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: Dasaver, Inc.
    Inventors: Tat Yin Choo, John A. MacNeill
  • Patent number: 5707163
    Abstract: A stain removal device and process sets forth a device and method which facilitates the removal of stains by employing a number of mutually beneficial structures and processes. A limited area of material is exposed to both the soap or other removal solution by encasing the limited area of material onto a washboard top surrounded by an "o" ring forming the lower portion of a sealing cap. The upper portion of the sealing cap has downward projections which both accommodate and grasp the surrounding material, but which also engage the lower portion of the sealing cap. The upper portion accommodates a downwardly directed and rotatable brush which is brought to bear on the stained area of material when the upper portion is engaged onto the lower portion of the sealing cap. The brush is rotatable to scrub the stained area of material, and has a central bore in fluid communication with the brush bristles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Inventor: Jack Gregory
  • Patent number: 5640859
    Abstract: A composite, ready-to-use, do-it-yourself tie-dyeing kit (10) for producing a washable dyed pattern on an article of clothing (14) so that the user of the kit may learn the art and craft of tie-dyeing without ruining or consuming articles of clothing or fabric in the process and will be able to create designs and redo until satisfied with the results. The kit includes instructions (22), and a plurality of containers (18), each of which contains a liquid washable non-toxic dye (19), which dyes may dye a fabric at room temperature, and which washable dyes may be substantially completely washed out of the fabric by the user. The tie-dyeing kit further includes one or more ready-to-dye fabric garments (14) to which the washable dyes will adhere until the garment is washed out, and a device (20) for tying the garment while it is being dyed. The tying device is preferably a twist tie (20.1) or a clip (20.2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 24, 1997
    Inventor: Wayne G. Fromm
  • Patent number: 5548859
    Abstract: An apparatus for saving soiled clothes from being permanently stained is disclosed. The apparatus includes a resealable bag having an inside portion and an outside portion. A rupturable container is fastened to the inside portion of the resealable bag, and a stain-removing solution is contained inside the rupturable container. The soiled clothes are placed inside the resealable bag, the resealable bag is sealed, and the rupturable container is manually ruptured through the bag. This releases the stain-removing solution onto the soiled clothes, thereby preventing the clothes from being permanently stained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventors: Lorri Oberg, Pamela R. Weiss
  • Patent number: 5167323
    Abstract: A lens treating device for treating a contact lens includes: an outer casing having a cylindrical body which is open at at least one of opposite axial ends, and at least one lid removably attached to the cylindrical body to close the axial end(s) thereof; and a lens storage container which is accommodated in the outer casing such that the container is axially slidingly reciprocable within the outer casing. The lens storage container has at least one cap member removably attached thereto. The lens storage container fluid-tightly receives therein the contact lens and a liquid for treating the contact lens, whereby the liquid is forced to flow within the container so as to clean the contact lens, by a reciprocating movement of the lens storage container when the outer casing is axially shaked or repeatedly inverted. A method of treating a contact lens by using such a lens treating device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1992
    Assignee: Tomei Sangyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kiyohiko Ohta, Kaoru Kamiya, Keiko Watanabe