Sanitary handle-cover systems
A sanitary cover for handles, particularly those used on toilets and adjacent bathrooms that has integral anti-microbial properties and also has at least one evaporating insert. The insert may include a scent, a disinfectant, etc. The sanitary cover system has a color-indicator that shows a different color when the sanitary cover system needs replacement. The sanitary cover may be custom sized or an adjustable sized cover is provided.
This invention relates to providing sanitary handle-cover systems. More particularly, this invention relates to disinfecting of handles, such as those in or adjacent restrooms, typically recognized as a source for transmission of germs such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other such microorganisms.
Typically, handles in places accessible to the public or those in areas where germs are most likely to proliferate are generally a permanent source of transmission of such germs, especially those that are transmitted by direct contact. These areas, both public and private (i.e., commercial and residential) have traditionally been lacking in adequate protection against germs and permit germ transmission to others from contact with such handles.
Prior methods of disinfecting such handles, such as more frequent cleaning, have not solved this problem. One of the reasons for this failure is that heretofore no product has provided a practical arrangement for furnishing prolonged and efficient disinfecting of such handles. And no product has provided a means for easy recognition that a handle disinfectant has become ineffective and/or needs to be replenished.
There are several styles and sizes of handles, particularly those used in restrooms areas such as toilets, doors and sinks. Therefore, a need exists for a means for attaching a sanitary handle cover to such areas that is able to attach to multiple sized handles. Furthermore, such restroom areas are often both unclean and smell poorly. Therefore, a need exists for a means for providing a more sanitary handle and also providing a pleasant scent, or unpleasant odor neutralization.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTIONA primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide a system for furnishing adequate disinfecting of handles and also to provide a means for easy recognition that the disinfectant has become ineffective and the sanitary handlecover needs to be replaced or replenished.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that provides a pleasant scent, and/or unpleasant odor neutralization.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide a sanitary handle system wherein the sanitizing agent is in the form of a liquid sealed within either a hydrophobic or oleophobic membrane.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide a sanitizing agent that is in the form of a glycol base with either a colorant or fragrance mixed in with the base such that the colorant or fragrance may evaporate from the base.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention that when the colorant and/or fragrance evaporates from the glycol base that a colored indicator is revealed.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that provides for adjustable attachment to fit a plurality of handle dimensions. It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system that provides a childproof attachment system.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide a system for indicating the lack of a sanitizing agent being present within the handle.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention that the handlecover may be comprised of an anti-bacterial plastic or anti-bacterial metallic material.
It is a further object and feature of the present invention to provide a regulated delivery of either a fragrance or sanitizer to the sanitary handlecover.
A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent with reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONIn accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a sanitary cover system, for assisting sanitary use of at least one portion of at least one restroom handle, comprising, in combination: an evaporative-ingredient for supplying at least one evaporative ingredient to assist restroom environments; a holder for holding the evaporative-ingredient; a removable attachment for removably attaching the holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle; and a color-indicator for providing at least one color indication of timeliness for replacing such sanitary cover system.
Moreover, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the holder comprises an anti-microbial agent for assisting reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom-handle user. Additionally, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the evaporative-ingredient comprises a scented ingredient for scenting the surrounding environment. Also, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the evaporative ingredient provides a disinfectant ingredient to assist disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle. In addition, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the removable attachment comprises a clamp attachment for clamp-attaching the holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle.
And, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the holder comprises a method for dispersing the evaporative ingredient. Further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the method of dispersal comprises a perforated holder. Even further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the method of dispersal comprises a permeable holder.
Moreover, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the color-indicator comprises: a first color for indicating the presence of the evaporative-ingredient; and a second color which noticeably differs from the first color, for indicating timeliness for replacing the sanitary cover system; wherein the second color is viewable through the perforations when it is timely to replace the sanitary cover system. Additionally, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein: the evaporative-ingredient comprises at least one evaporative gel; the first color comprises a first coloring of the evaporative gel for indicating the presence of the at least one evaporative gel; and the second color is viewable through the perforations in the handle when it is timely to replace the sanitary cover system.
Also, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein the holder comprises a disperser for dispersing the evaporative ingredient. In addition, it provides a sanitary cover system, wherein the disperser comprises at least one perforation in the holder. And, it provides a sanitary cover system, wherein the disperser comprises at least one permeable material.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a sanitary cover system, for assisting sanitary use of at least one portion of at least one restroom handle, comprising, in combination: at least one evaporative ingredient adapted to assist restroom environments; at least one holder adapted to hold such at least one evaporative ingredient; at least one attacher adapted to removably attach such at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle; and at least one color-indicator adapted to provide at least one color indication of timeliness for replacing such sanitary cover system.
Further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one holder comprises at least one anti-microbial agent adapted to assist reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom-handle user. Even further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one scented ingredient. Moreover, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one disinfectant ingredient to assist disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle. Additionally, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one attacher comprises at least one clamp adapted to clamp such at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle.
Also, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one holder comprises at least one disperser to disperse such at least one evaporative ingredient. In addition, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one disperser comprises at least one perforation. And, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one disperser comprises at least one permeable material.
Further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one color-indicator comprises: at least one first color for indicating presence of such at least one evaporative ingredient; and at least one second color, noticeably differing from such first color, for indicating timeliness for replacing such at least one evaporative ingredient; wherein such at least one second color is viewable through such plurality of perforations when it is timely to replace such sanitary cover system. Even further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein: such at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one evaporative gel; such at least one first color comprises first coloring of such at least one evaporative gel to indicate presence of such at least one evaporative gel; and such at least one second color is viewable through such plurality of perforations to indicate when it is timely to replace such sanitary cover system.
Moreover, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one holder comprises at least one anti-microbial agent adapted to assist reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom-handle user. Additionally, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one scented ingredient. Also, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one disinfectant ingredient to assist disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle. In addition, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one attacher comprises at least one clamp adapted to clamp such at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle. And, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one holder is adapted to replaceably hold such at least one evaporative ingredient.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides a sanitary cover system, for assisting sanitary use of at least one portion of at least one restroom handle, comprising, in combination: at least one evaporative ingredient adapted to assist restroom environments; at least one holder adapted to hold such at least one evaporative ingredient; at least one attacher adapted to removably attach such at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle; and at least one indicator adapted to provide at least one indication of timeliness for replacing such sanitary cover system; wherein such at least one holder comprises at least one anti-microbial agent adapted to assist reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom-handle user; and wherein such at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one scented ingredient.
Further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one disinfectant ingredient to assist disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle. Even further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one attacher comprises at least one clamp adapted to clamp such at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle. Even further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one holder comprises a plurality of perforations adapted to assist passage of the at least one evaporative ingredient.
Even further, it provides such a sanitary cover system, wherein such at least one holder comprises at least one permeable material adapted to assist passage of the at least one evaporative ingredient. In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this invention provides each and every novel feature, element, combination, step and/or method disclosed or suggested by this patent application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Appendix A shows the function of the ridges in the V-shaped portion, according to
Most preferably, the sanitary handle system 100 provides one or more styles of sanitary handle cover assemblies such as sanitary handle cover assembly 106 and flush-valve handle cover assembly 250 (illustrated in
Preferably, such germ protecting systems comprise one or more anti-microbial plastics, germicidal coatings, and/or disinfecting agents. Most preferably, the additives used in anti-microbial plastics are such additives as, for example, Tributyl tin, Triclosan, 10′,10′-oxybisphenox arsine (OBPA), 2-n-octyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (OIT), dichloro-2-n-octyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (DCOIT), tributyl tin, zinc omadine, n-butyl-1,2-benzisothiazolin (BBIT), 3-iodo-2-propynyl butyl carbamate (IPBC), diiodomethyl-p-tolylsulfone, or Silver (Silver is also especially useful when using Stainless steel outer portions as opposed to plastic). Preferably, germicidal coatings and/or disinfecting agents comprise such chemicals as, for example, silane quaternary ammonium salts, poly(vinyl-N-hexylpyridinium 17 bromide), n-halamines, silver, ethanol, almond glycerides, titanium dioxide, triisopropanolamine, etc. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, economics and desired germ-fighting ingredients, etc., other antimicrobial additives and/or coatings, combinations of such anti-microbial plastics, germicidal coatings and disinfecting agents, etc., may suffice to be used within and as part of the sanitary handle system 100.
Preferably, the sanitary handle cover assembly 106 comprises colored indicators 140 (at least embodying herein a color-indicator for providing a color indication of need for replacing such sanitary handle cover assembly; and at least embodying herein at least one color-indicator structured and arranged to provide at least one color indication of need for replacing such sanitary handle cover assembly), preferably embedded into an evaporating composition 142 (i.e., comprising at least one evaporating ingredient). The evaporative ingredient can consist of varying compositions. For instance, the sanitizing agent can consist of either an evaporative gel, a liquid base, or a glycol-based gel which contains a liquid sanitizing or fragrance agent. Both the evaporative gel and the liquid base simply transmit the sanitizing agent to the surface of the handle by simple evaporation. When the liquid sanitizing or fragrance agent is embedded within the glycol-based gel, only the liquid sanitizing or fragrance agent will evaporate from the glycol base leaving the gel behind. This is especially useful for enabling a first color indicator to reside below the liquid or gel (the liquid or gel being of a second color) so that when the liquid or gel evaporates, the first color indicator will be revealed. In the case of the glycol-based gel, the glycol-based gel would be clear, while the sanitizing or fragrance agent would contain a second color indicator such that when the sanitizing or fragrance evaporates from the glycol gel, the first color indicator would be revealed below the glycol gel. In an alternate embodiment, another form of indicating that the evaporative gel is nearly depleted is to incorporate a color changing ink, and in particular, an oxidizing ink encompassed by the evaporative gel. An oxidizing ink has the ability to change from a first color to a second color as the ink is exposed to air. As the evaporative gel disintegrates over time, the ink is exposed and changes to a new color thereby indicating that it is time to replace the evaporative gel. This system also can be employed in many fragrances embedded within evaporative gels. When the fragrance and evaporative gel disintegrates over time, the oxidizing ink can indicate to a consumer that it is time to replace the fragrance. The rate of evaporation can also be regulated by enclosing the evaporative gel with a container that includes small openings that allow the evaporative gel to escape into the surrounding atmosphere much in the same way that many commercial air fresheners deliver a regulated amount of freshener to the surrounding area. The rate of evaporation can also be regulated by heating the evaporative gel.
Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, manufacturing and economics, etc., other methods of color indication, such as colored plastic inserts and integral colored portions of the sanitary handle cover assembly, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the evaporating composition 142 comprises a gel compound such as, for example, a gelled hydrocarbon or an aqueous based gel (which emits vapor to the extent desired for each embodiment to result in a vapor pressure sufficient to permeate vapor adjacent one or more appropriate external surfaces of the handle, through such surfaces, sufficient for disinfectant action). Preferably, the evaporating composition 142 includes a scent 130 (at least embodying herein wherein the evaporative gel comprises a scent; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one evaporative gel comprises at least one scent adapted to provide at least one scent) or disinfectant 132 (at least embodying herein wherein the evaporative gel provides a disinfectant vapor for assisting disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one evaporative gel provides at least one disinfectant vapor to assist disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle), or both, that is preferably mounted within, or integral to, the sanitary handle cover assembly 106 and preferably viewable through the perforations 128, as shown.
Further, the evaporating ingredients of evaporating composition 142 preferably evaporate through (as one preferred example of vapor permeation to an external handle surface) the perforations 128 (at least embodying herein wherein such at least one holder comprises a plurality of perforations structured and arranged to assist evaporation of such at least one evaporative gel onto the at least one restroom handle; and at least embodying herein wherein the holder is perforated for assisting evaporation of the evaporative gel onto the at least one restroom handle) and coat the sanitary handle cover assembly 106 with disinfectant 132, and preferably scent 130, as shown.
Preferably, the color-indicators 140 comprise a first color-indicator 146 and a second color-indicator 144, as shown. Preferably, the first color-indicator 146 (for example, blue) shows a different color than the second color-indicator 144 (for example, red). Preferably, the first color-indicator 146 indicates (visually, preferably through the perforations 128) the evaporating composition 142 is present in the sanitary handle cover assembly 106. Preferably, when the evaporating composition 142 is near depletion, the second color indicator 144 (at least embodying herein at least one indicator structured and arranged to provide at least one indication of need for replacing such sanitary handle cover assembly) can be seen (visually, preferably through the perforations 128), thereby indicating the evaporating composition 142 is near depletion and should be replaced. Preferred embodiments of the color indicators 146 and 144 are further detailed below (see
Reference is now made to
Preferably, sanitary handle cover assembly 106 comprises an outer portion 126 and an inner portion 156, as shown.
Preferably, the outer portion 126 comprises an anti-microbial agent, preferably integral to the outer portion 126 (at least embodying herein wherein the holder comprises an antimicrobial agent for assisting reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom handle user; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one holder comprises at least one anti-microbial agent adapted to assist reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom handle user), as shown, such as previously described above (preferably, OBPA, Tributyl tin and/or Triclosan) that assists reduced transfer of live microbes from the outer portion 126 to a user.
Preferably, the outer portion further comprises a face 162 and a perforated perimeter cover 164, as shown. Preferably, the perforated perimeter cover 164 is visible adjacent the perimeter 166 of the face 162, as shown. Preferably, the inner portion 156 comprises one or more holders 158 (at least embodying herein holder means for holding the gel or liquid; and at least embodying herein at least one holder to hold the at least one evaporative ingredient) sized to receive an evaporating composition 142 (at least embodying herein an evaporative-ingredient for supplying at least one evaporative ingredient to assist restroom environments; and at least embodying herein at least one evaporative gel structured and arranged to supply evaporative ingredients to assist restroom environments), as shown.
Preferably, the remaining portion of the inner portion comprises opening 160 that is preferably contoured to allow a flush-tank handle 110 to fit within such opening 160, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, economics, different-sized handles, ease of manufacturing, etc., other dimensions and arrangements for the inner portion 156, may suffice.
Preferably, the perimeter cover 164 comprises a removable attachment system 170 for attaching the sanitary handle cover assembly 106 to the flush-tank handle 110 (at least embodying herein a removable attachment for removably attaching the holder to the at least one restroom handle; and at least embodying herein at least one removable attachment structured and arranged to removably attach such at least one holder to the at least one restroom handle), as shown. Preferably, the attachment system 170 comprises a hinged piece 172 and one or more snap-lock tabs 174, 176 and 178, as shown. Preferably, the hinged piece 172 comprises a holder 158 sized to receive an evaporating composition 142, as shown. Preferably, the holder 158 comprises a flexible hinge 182, preferably plastic, more preferably a plastic “living” hinge, most preferably integral to the perimeter cover 164, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, economics, artistic style, etc., other methods of hinging, such as mechanical hinges, and other methods of attaching, such as removable adhesive, hook and loop fabric, etc., may suffice.
In operation, the sanitary handle cover assembly 106 preferably attaches to a flush-tank handle 110 by opening the attached hinged piece 172, with holder 158, and fitting the sanitary handle cover assembly 106 over the flush-tank handle 110 until the tabs 174, 176 and 178 hook onto the back of the rounded end 121 of the flush-tank handle 110, as shown. Next, the holder 158 is preferably closed and pressed tightly against the elongated handle portion 120 of the flush-tank handle 110 to clamp the hinged piece 172 onto the flush-tank handle 110, as shown. Preferably, the hinged piece 172 comprises a set of locking grooves 186 that will grab onto a matching set of locking tabs 190 on the inner portion 192 of the perimeter end 194, as shown. Preferably, the locking tabs 190 and locking grooves 186 further provide for an adjustable clamping mechanism to vertically clamp the holder 158 onto the flush-tank handle 110 (at least embodying herein wherein the removable attachment comprises a clamp attacher for clamp attaching the holder to the at least one restroom handle; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one removable attachment comprises at least one clamp attacher structured and arranged to clamp attach such at least one holder to the at least one restroom handle), as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, economics, etc., other methods of attaching the sanitary handle cover assembly 106 to flush-tank handle 110, such as adhesive, other clamping mechanisms, etc., may suffice.
Reference is now made to
Preferably, the sanitary handle cover assembly 200 comprises a first portion 206 and a second portion 208, as shown. Preferably, first portion 206 and second portion 208 comprise attachment system 210, as shown. Preferably, the first portion 206 comprises an evaporating composition holder 212, as shown. Preferably, the evaporating composition holder 212 comprises an evaporating composition 214, preferably an evaporating semi-solid gel comprising a disinfectant 132 and/or a scent 130 as previously described above, as shown. Most preferably, the evaporating semi-solid gel comprises disinfectants such as, for example, alcohols, phenolic compounds, and/or quanternary ammonium compounds, as previously described.
Most preferably, the evaporating composition 214 comprises two differently colored evaporative gels. Preferably, a first colored gel 240 (at least embodying herein first color means for indicating presence of evaporative gel; and at least embodying herein at least one first color to indicate presence of such at least one evaporative gel; and further embodying herein wherein such first color means comprises first colored evaporative gel means for indicating presence of evaporative gel; and at least embodying herein wherein such at least one first color comprises at least one first colored evaporative gel adapted to indicate presence of such at least one evaporative gel) and a second colored gel 242 are used, as shown especially in
Another form of indicating that the evaporative gel is nearly depleted is to incorporate an oxidizing ink encompassed by the evaporative gel. An oxidizing ink has the ability to change from a first color to a second color as the ink is exposed to air. As the evaporative gel disintegrates over time, the ink is exposed and changes to a new color thereby indicating that it is time to replace the evaporative gel. This system also can be employed in many fragrances embedded within evaporative gels. When the fragrance and evaporative gel disintegrates over time, the oxidizing ink can indicate to a consumer that it is time to replace the fragrance.
Preferably, the entire sanitary handle cover assembly 200 is replaced when the color-indicators 140 indicate that the evaporating composition 214 is near depletion. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, etc., other methods of replenishing the evaporative composition 214, such as only replacing the evaporative composition 214 and not the entire sanitary handle cover assembly, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, in operation, the first portion 206 is placed over a flush-tank handle 110 wherein the elongated end 120 fits tightly within V-shaped portion 216 of the first portion 206. Preferably, the second portion 208 slidably fits over the first portion 206 such that the sanitary handle cover assembly 200 is tightly held to the flush-tank handle 110. Preferably, the first portion 206 has a set of angled grooves 220 along the outer leading edge 222 of each of the ends 224 of the V-shaped portion 216, as shown. Preferably, the second portion 208 comprises a set of oppositely angled barbs 226 arranged to catch and hold onto the set of angled grooves 220, as shown. This arrangement provides an attachment system 210 that horizontally clamps the sanitary handle cover assembly 200 to the flush-tank handle 110. Also, preferably, the second portion 208 comprises a set of tabs 230 to assist grabbing and attaching onto the back of the rounded end 121 of the flush-tank handle 110, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, physical limitations of the device and users, etc., other methods of attachment of the sanitary handle cover assembly 200 to the flush-tank handle 110, such as adhesive, other clamping means, etc., may suffice. Preferably, the second portion 208 comprises a face 232 and a perimeter cover 234, as shown. As described above, the face 232 comprises perforations 128 to allow the disinfectant/scent to evaporate through to the outer portion of the sanitary handle cover assembly 200, as shown. Preferably, the face 232 also comprises indicia 236, such as, for example, a company logo or trademark. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, desired evaporation coverage (of the disinfectant), economical advantages, etc., other quantities, locations, shapes, and sizes for the perforations, such as all around the sanitary handle cover assembly, linear slits, pores, etc., may suffice.
Preferably, the flush-valve handle cover assembly 250 comprises an outer portion 254, preferably comprising a sleeve 260 (preferably comprising an integral anti-microbial plastic), disperser 150 (preferably comprising a plurality of perforations 248 in flush-valve handle cover assembly 250), and an inner portion 258, as shown. Most preferably, the anti-microbial plastic outer portion 254 embodiment comprises an inner portion 258 comprising at least one evaporative gel insert 256, as shown.
Preferably, disperser 150 comprises scent holder 731 and ports 732, as shown, and preferably disperses scent 130 (preferably contained in evaporating composition 142) from inside scent holder 731, through ports 732 on perimeter cover 764, into the air adjacent sanitary handle cover assembly 706. Preferably, colored indicators 140 comprise first color indicator 146 (preferably contained in evaporating composition 142), second color-indicator 144, ports 732, and scent holder 731. Preferably, second color-indicator 144 comprises a color on the bottom surface of scent holder 731, as shown, that becomes visible through ports 732 when scent 130 (which preferably comprises first color-indicator 146, which is preferably contained in evaporating composition 142) is depleted. When using either a hydrophobic or oleophobic porous membrane in combination with a liquid based sanitizing or fragrance agent, it is understood that the ports 732 must be sealed through the use of a clear plastic window to prevent the liquid from spilling through the ports 732 thereby allowing the color indicator 144 to be seen through the ports 732.
Preferably, removable attachment system 170 comprises first portion 707 and second portion 708, as shown. Preferably, second portion 708 comprises V-shaped portion 716, as shown. Preferably, the second portion 708 slidably and lockably fits into the first portion 707, as shown, such that the sanitary handle cover assembly 706 is tightly held to the flush-tank handle 110. Preferably, the first portion 707 has an angled barb 720 along the top side of locking flap 723, as shown. Preferably, the second portion 708 comprises a set of oppositely angled barbs 726 arranged to catch and hold onto angled barb 720, as shown. This arrangement provides an attachment system 710 that horizontally clamps the sanitary handle cover assembly 706 to the flush-tank handle 110, as shown. Also, preferably, the first portion 707 comprises a set of tabs 230 to assist grabbing and attaching onto the back of the rounded end 121 of the flush-tank handle 110, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference, advances in technology, intended use, physical limitations of the device and users, etc., other methods of attachment of the sanitary handle cover assembly 706 to the flush-tank handle 110, such as adhesive, other clamping means, etc., may suffice.
As shown in
As shown in
Appendix A shows the function of the ridges in V-shaped portion 716, according to
It is noted that the above-described systems comprise essentially similar functioning devices, each having an exterior sleeve having anti-microbial properties, at least one inner disinfectant insert placed within such exterior sleeve, a first color indicator, a second color-indicator that shows though a set of perforations (or a perforation) on the exterior of the sleeve when the insert needs replacing, and a means for attaching the sanitary handle-cover assembly to a normally functioning device handle.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the below claims.
Claims
1) A sanitary cover system, relating to assisting sanitary use of at least one portion of at least one restroom handle, comprising, in combination:
- a) An evaporative-ingredient;
- b) A holder; said holder adapted to hold said evaporative ingredient; and
- c) A removable attachment said removable attachment coupled to said holder.
2) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 1, wherein said holder comprises an anti-microbial agent.
3) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 1, wherein said evaporative-ingredient further comprises a scented ingredient.
4) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 1, wherein said evaporative-ingredient provides a disinfectant to assist disinfecting of a restroom handle.
5) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 1, wherein said removable attachment further comprises a clamp attachment whereby said clamp attachment is coupled to a portion of the at least one restroom handle.
6) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 1, wherein said holder further comprises a dispersal apparatus for dispersing said evaporative ingredient.
7) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 6, wherein said dispersal apparatus further comprises at least one perforation on said holder.
8) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 6, wherein said dispersal apparatus further comprises at least one permeation within said holder.
9) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 6, wherein said color-indicator comprises:
- a) Said evaporative ingredient wherein said evaporative ingredient is comprised of a first color, said first color indicating presence of said evaporative-ingredient; and
- b) A second color such that when said evaporative ingredient is no longer present, said second color indicating timeliness for replacing said sanitary cover system;
- c) said second color is viewable when it is timely to replace said sanitary cover system.
10) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 9, wherein said evaporative-ingredient comprises at least one evaporative gel.
11) A sanitary cover system, relating to assisting sanitary use of at least one portion of at least one restroom handle, comprising, in combination:
- a) at least one evaporative ingredient;
- b) at least one holder adapted to hold said at least one evaporative ingredient; and
- c) at least one removable attachment adapted to removably attach said at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle.
12) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 11, wherein said at least one holder comprises at least one antimicrobial agent adapted to assist reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom-handle user.
13) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 11, wherein said at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one scented ingredient.
14) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 11, wherein said at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one disinfectant ingredient to assist disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle.
15) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 11, wherein said at least one attacher comprises at least one clamp adapted to clamp said at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle.
16) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 11, wherein said at least one holder comprises at least one disperser to disperse said at least one evaporative ingredient.
17) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 16, wherein said at least one disperser comprises at least one perforation.
18) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 16, wherein said at least one disperser comprises at least one permeable material.
19) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 11, wherein said at least one color-indicator comprises:
- a) at least one first color for indicating presence of said at least one evaporative ingredient; and
- b) at least one second color, noticeably differing from such first color, for indicating timeliness for replacing said at least one evaporative ingredient;
- c) wherein said at least one second color is viewable through said plurality of perforations when it is timely to replace said sanitary cover system.
20) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 17, wherein:
- a) said at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one evaporative gel;
- b) said at least one first color comprises first coloring of said at least one evaporative gel to indicate presence of said at least one evaporative gel; and
- c) said at least one second color is viewable through said plurality of perforations to indicate when it is timely to replace said sanitary cover system.
21) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 11, wherein said at least one holder is adapted to replaceably hold said at least one evaporative ingredient.
22) A sanitary cover system, relating to assisting sanitary use of at least one portion of at least one restroom handle, comprising, in combination:
- a) at least one evaporative ingredient adapted to assist restroom environments;
- b) at least one holder adapted to hold said at least one evaporative ingredient;
- c) at least one attacher adapted to removably attach said at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle; and
- d) at least one indicator adapted to provide at least one indication of timeliness for replacing said sanitary cover system;
- e) wherein said at least one holder comprises at least one anti-microbial agent adapted to assist reduced transfer of live microbes from the at least one restroom handle to at least one restroom-handle user; and
- f) wherein said at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one scented ingredient.
23) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 22, wherein said at least one evaporative ingredient comprises at least one disinfectant ingredient to assist disinfecting of the at least one restroom handle.
24) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 22, wherein said at least one attacher comprises at least one clamp adapted to clamp said at least one holder to the at least one portion of the at least one restroom handle.
25) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 22, wherein said at least one holder comprises a plurality of perforations adapted to assist passage of the at least one evaporative ingredient.
26) The sanitary cover system, according to claim 22, wherein said at least one holder comprises at least one permeable material adapted to assist passage of the at least one evaporative ingredient.
27) The sanitary cover system of claim 1 further comprising:
- a) a cover;
- b) a retaining wall; i. said retaining wall extending perpendicularly forming a first chamber and a second chamber;
- c) an opening fixed directly above said first chamber.
28) The sanitary cover system of claim 27 further comprising:
- a) a liquid wherein said liquid is inserted into said second chamber
- b) an absorbent substance wherein said absorbent substance is enclosed within said first chamber such that when said cover is displaced so that said second chamber rests above said first chamber, said liquid crosses into said first chamber and is absorbed by said absorbent substance so that said liquid may evaporate through said opening.
29) The sanitary cover system of claim 1 or claim 27 wherein said cover is comprised of a plastic or metallic material.
30) The sanitary cover system of claim 29 wherein said plastic material is further comprised of an anti-bacterial agent.
31) The sanitary cover system of claim 27 wherein a fragrant substance is enclosed by said second chamber.
32) The sanitary cover system of claim 11 further comprising:
- a) a chamber i. said chamber further comprising of at least two sides wherein one of said at least two sides further comprises a flexible membrane; ii. said flexible membrane further comprising an outer surface and at least one opening.
33) The sanitary cover system of claim 32 wherein said chamber further comprises an evaporative substance, such that when said flexible membrane is depressed, a portion of said evaporative substance is forced out of said opening so that it can collect on the outer surface of said flexible membrane.
34) The sanitary cover system of claim 1 wherein said evaporative ingredient comprises a liquid sanitizing agent;
- a) Said sanitizing agent
35) The sanitary cover system of claim 11 wherein said color indicator further comprises:
- a) A color changing ink wherein when said color changing ink is stored beneath a gel, said color changing ink changes from a first color to a second color upon evaporation of said gel.
36) The sanitary cover system of claim 35 wherein said gel is a sanitizing gel.
37) The color indicator of claim 35 wherein said color changing ink changes from a first color to a second color upon evaporation of a fragrance gel.
38) The sanitary cover system of claim 16 wherein said permeable material further comprises a hydrophobic membrane.
39) The sanitary cover system of claim 16 wherein said permeable material further comprises an oleophobic membrane.
40) The sanitary cover system of claim 11 wherein said color indicator is enclosed by a clear plastic material such that said color indicator can be viewed through said clear plastic material.
41) The sanitary cover system of claim 11 wherein said evaporative ingredient is mixed in a glycol based material.
42) The sanitary cover system of claim 40 wherein said evaporative ingredient further comprises a second color indicator such that when said evaporative ingredient evaporates from said glycol based material, said at least one color indicator adapted to provide at least one color indication of timeliness for replacing said sanitary cover system is revealed.
43) A fragrance delivery system comprising:
- a) a fragrance; said fragrance is mixed within an evaporative gel;
- b) a color changing ink; said color changing ink is stored beneath said evaporative gel such that when said evaporative gel evaporates into the surrounding atmosphere, said color changing ink changes from a first color to a second color thereby indicating that none of said evaporative gel remains.
44) The fragrance delivery system of claim 43 wherein the rate of evaporation of said evaporative gel is regulated.
45) The Sanitary Cover System of claim 1 wherein said Sanitary Cover System further comprises a color-indicator; said color indicator located within said holder such that said color indicator is exposed upon the evaporation of said evaporative ingredient thereby providing an indication of timeliness for replacing said sanitary cover system.
46) The sanitary cover system of claim 11 wherein said sanitary cover system further comprises at least one color-indicator adapted to provide at least one color indication of timeliness for replacing said sanitary cover system.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 13, 2005
Publication Date: Oct 19, 2006
Inventor: Shawn Meine (Phoenix, AZ)
Application Number: 11/105,023
International Classification: A47B 95/02 (20060101);