Abstract: An optical skin germicidal device and method that uses germicidal ultraviolet light to treat local infections. The device includes a germicidal light source connected to a flexible optical fiber and a hollow needle designed to receive the optical fiber. The optical fiber, which is designed to slide freely inside the needle, is covered with cladding except for the distal end or section that slides into the needle. Formed on the inside surface of the needle is an elongated slot that allows rays of optical light to exit the needle. The slot is sufficient in width so that the optical fiber remains at all times inside the curved needle. By moving the optical fiber along the needle, the tissue surround the inside surface of the needle adjacent to the slot may be treated with germicidal light. Using the device, a method of treatment is also provided.

Abstract: A germicidal brush cleaner that uses a germicidal light source to disinfect the individual bristles on a plurality of toothbrushes and a hairbrush. Each toothbrush and hairbrush includes bristles made of optical fibers capable of transmitting ultraviolet light. There is also a special method of attachment of the toothbrush inside the cleaner that secures the toothbrushes in a set position in the holder. The germicidal light source may be a germicidal fluorescent ultraviolet lamp. The light rays from the germicidal light source are directed at the opposite ends of the bristle at the critical angle, or slightly greater than the critical angle, in order to attain total internal reflection of the light down the bristles of the toothbrushes.

Abstract: A germicidal toothbrush and cleaner that uses a germicidal light source to disinfect the individual bristles on the toothbrush. The toothbrush includes bristles made of optical fibers capable of transmitting ultraviolet light. There is also a special method of attachment of the toothbrush inside the cleaner that secures the toothbrushes in a set position in the holder. The germicidal light source may be a germicidal fluorescent ultraviolet lamp. The light rays from the germicidal light source are directed at the opposite ends of the bristle at the critical angle, or slightly greater than the critical angle, in order to attain total internal reflection of the light down the bristles of the toothbrushes.

Abstract: A removable filter compartment is filled with coffee grounds, tea, or other espresso particulate substance and mounted within a water reservoir. Water is placed in the water reservoir. A bottom cover is connected to the water reservoir to hold the filter compartment in place. Lower and upper filters are formed into the filter compartment. The lower filter may include a slotted flow distribution port extending into the interior of the filter compartment to improve the distribution of water flow. A cup-like filtrate reservoir is integrally molded to the water reservoir. A filtrate passage forms a fluid path between the filter compartment and the filtrate reservoir. A resilient gasket or valve is positioned between the filter compartment and filtrate passage. A filtrate splash cover may be attached to the upper edges of the filtrate reservoir. The assembled beverage maker is placed into a microwave oven.