Oil leak diaper

The Oil leak diaper is an excellent way to protect the environment because it prevents the dirty oil from reaching the ground. It is an economic way to keep clean floor surfaces such as driveways, parking lots, roads etc. The Oil leak diaper also helps to stop the deterioration of asphalt surfaces because it is well known that oil chemically attacks the asphalt. It is an excellent way to save money when engines of vehicles are leaking oil; instead of doing an expensive engine repair the solution is to install an inexpensive Oil leak diaper. It is also an excellent way to save time: Instead of spending several days doing an engine repair, the installation of an Oil leak diaper takes only a few minutes. The Oil leak diaper is a flattened, rectangular semi flexible assemblage containing oil absorbent material (1A) having several tension-adjustable series of connectors. The diaper is located under the oil-leaking site where the oil is received, absorbed and retained within the diaper itself. The diaper is easily removed and quickly replaced. The Oil leak diaper is a new application of materials already existing in the market so its manufacture only requires a few low-cost tools.

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Description
BACKGROUND

1. Field of Invention

This invention relates to the environment protection and to a new economical and convenient method for absorbing leaking oil from engines stopping the oil from reaching the ground.

2. Discussion of Prior Art

My car is a model 1993 Toyota Corolla, and already passed over 140,000 miles.

Approximately, six months ago I started noticing the driveway in front of my house soiled with dark spots in the area where I park my car. I realized that leaking oil from my car's engine produced those dark spots.

After inspecting the source of the leaking oil I found that it was leaking from three different places: From the top of the engine by the valve cover, from the side by the shaft seal, and from underneath by the oil pan. I fixed the leak from the top replacing the valve cover's gasket. But still is leaking from the other two places.

I am not financially able to afford a new car, so I asked for repair estimates in different auto repair shops. The average cost of labor only was $350.00 and it was necessary to leave my vehicle about 2 days in the shop. Besides that, I needed to rent a car for two days to go to work. So, the total cost was more than $400.00 and with no guaranty.

Then I thought about installing one or two oil leak diapers under the oil dripping spots under my car's engine.

As far as I know there is no product in the market made specifically to stop leaking oil from reaching the ground. I know that there are oil absorbent materials to pick up oil from the surface of racetracks, but once the oil reaches the asphalt the damage was already done; the asphalt is damaged and the dirty oil already is contaminating the rainy water and consequently the underground water.

I believe that this idea is good to keep the environment clean and the solution to preserve the asphalt in all the parking lots.

Search for Patents:

The last Apr. 26, 2005, I entered the web site: www.uspto.gov and did a quick search and using different searching terms I got the following results:

  • Term 1: Oil leak diaper (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Oil leak absorber “ “ “
  • Result: 0 Patents.
  • Term 1: Auto oil leak trap (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Car oil leak trap “ “ “
  • Result: 0 Patents.
  • Term 1: Engine oil leak collector (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Motor oil leak collector “ “ “
  • Result: 0 Patents.
  • Term 1: Oil leak stop (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Oil leak solution “ “ “
  • Result: 0 Patents.
  • Term 1: Oil absorber (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Oil capture “ “ “
  • Result: 0 Patents.
  • Term 1: Vehicle diaper (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Auto diaper “ “ “
  • Result: 0 Patents.
  • Term 1: Oil leak pit (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Oil leak catch “ “ “
  • Result: 0Patents.
  • Term 1: Automobile oil leak diaper (all fields) 1976 to present.
  • Term 2: Automobile oil leak receiver “ “ “
  • Result: 0 Patents.

I also did the advanced search with the following terms: Auto oil leak diaper and the result were also negative.

For this reason I am motivated to continue with this application.

Objects and Advantages.

Accordingly, several objects and advantages of my invention are:

    • The oil leak diaper protects the environment keeping the city water free of oil. Oil in general float on the water surface. A few drops of oil extend over a considerable area. The oil is difficult to separate from water at the water treatment plants.
    • The oil leak diaper avoids dark spots on the driveways or in the parking areas.
    • The oil leak diaper helps to maintain nice, and friendly human relations because avoids to soil friend's driveway when you park your car in front of his house.
    • The oil leak diaper protects the asphalt on the parking lots. Because the used oil chemically attacks the asphalt damaging its surface.
    • The oil leak diaper is good to postpone costly engine repairs. When your vehicle has this problem and you can not afford the cost of repairs and you do not want to leave your vehicle for two or three days in the maintenance shop because you need it to go to work, or you can not afford the cost of a new vehicle, a quick solution and at the same time a low cost solution is to install the oil leak diaper.
    • The installation, the removal and the replacement of the oil leak diaper are easy and can be done quickly.
    • The oil leak diaper offers a safe, and no mess disposal because the dirty oil is already retained or absorbed in the absorbent material.
    • The refills of the oil leak diaper come with the same dimensions making the replacement easy and quick.
    • Another advantage is that the oil leak diaper is good for about 12,000 miles under normal oil leaks.
    • Another advantage is that if it is raining and the oil leak diaper get soaked in water, very soon is coming back to the dry condition due to the fact that it is exposed to a source of heat and strong wind.
    • Another advantage is that it is made out of rust resistant materials.

Further objects, advantages and additional uses of the Oil leak diaper will become apparent from a consideration of the drawings and ensuing description. The Oil leak diaper is a revolutionary new concept in environment protection exhibiting a convenient design.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING FIGURES

FIG. 1 shows a view in perspective of a section of wire cloth, or mosquito screen called the oil absorbent holder 2R partially folded in half.

FIG. 2 shows a view in perspective of multiple layers of paper and cotton towels called the oil absorbent material 1A.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of the oil leak diaper with the oil absorbent holder 2R totally folded, with the oil absorbent material 1A inside and the staples 8T ready to be placed, to close the diaper all around.

FIG. 4 shows a top view of the oil leak diaper with the holes 7H or eyelets/grommets 10E and the attachment members.

FIG.5 shows a view in perspective of a section of wire cloth or top member of the oil absorbent holder 2R

FIG. 6 shows a view in perspective of a pack of absorbent material 1A having multiple layers of paper and cotton towels.

FIG. 7 shows a view in perspective of the metallic sheet 9M or the bottom member of the oil absorbent holder 2R with eyelets/grommets 10E on the corners.

FIG. 8 shows a top view of an embodiment of the oil leak diaper with the attachment members.

FIG. 9 shows a view in perspective of a flattened fabric bag 1B with an open side.

FIG. 10 shows a certain amount of Fuller's earth called oil absorbent material 1A

FIG. 11 shows a view in perspective of two straight sections of wire 2X with loops at one end.

FIG. 12 shows a side view of the fabric bag 1B closed, with the oil absorbent material 1A inside and the two wires 2X in place having the loops made at all its ends.

FIG. 13 shows a top view of an embodiment of the oil leak diaper with the attachment members.

FIG. 14 shows a view in perspective of a fabric bag 1B with an open end, with eyelets/grommets 10E on the corners.

FIG.15 shows a certain amount of small pieces of cotton scrap, or fabric scrap called oil absorbent material 1A.

FIG. 16 shows a side view of the fabric bag 1B closed, with the oil absorbent material 1A inside.

FIG. 17 shows a side view of the staples 8T ready to close the open end of the fabric bag 1B.

FIG. 18 shows a top view of an embodiment of the oil leak diaper with the attachment members.

FIG. 19 shows one type of extension spring 5S with hooks on both ends.

FIG. 20 shows another type of extension spring 5S with hook oil one end and loop on the other end.

FIG. 21 shows another type of extension spring 5S with loops on both ends a part of wire section 4C and an oblong link 6L.

FIG. 22 shows a top view of the preferred embodiment using the type of extension spring 5S shown in FIG. 21, with loops on both ends and the oblong link 6L.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

  • 1A- Oil absorbent material
  • 2R- Oil absorbent holder.
  • 3W- Two-hole washers.
  • 4C- Wire sections.
  • 5S- Extension springs.
  • 6L- Oblong link.
  • 7H- Holes on the corners.
  • 8T- Staples
  • 9M- Metallic sheet
  • 10E- Eyelets/grommets
  • 1B- Bag
  • 2X- Wires in “x”

SUMMARY

All the components of this invention are made of materials already existing in the market. This invention represents a new application of these materials. This invention is a new method to protect the water from pollution stopping the leaking oil from reaching the ground; also represents a new way to protect the asphalt on parking lots, racetracks and roads retaining in it the oil leaking from engines. This invention helps to keep floor surfaces clean and neat specially the driveways in front of your friends' houses, your relatives' houses or your own house, helping to keep good relationships with all people. The manufacturing of this invention is very simple and do not involve the use of equipment. Only a few instruments or tools are required for its assembly. The removal of the oil leak diaper is simple and quick and so is the replacement of a new one.

Description of the Preferred Embodiment

The preferred embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 3, FIG. 4 and FIG. 22 and it comprises;

  • a- Oil absorbent holder 2R
  • b- Oil absorbent material 1A
  • c- Two-hole washers 3W
  • d- Wire sections 4C
  • e- Extension springs 5S
  • f- Holes 7H/eyelets 10E
  • g- Staples 8T
  • h- Oblong link 6L

a- The oil absorbent holder 2R, is made out of hardware wire cloth, mosquito screen or the like; it should be able to allow oil to go through and should be resistant to the temperature under the engine; the oil absorbent holder 2R should hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart and should exhibit holes or eyelets at the corners for attachment to the wire sections 4C or to the oblong links 6L depending of the type of extension springs 5S used. The oil absorbent holder 2R should be able to resist the increased tension from the springs 5S when for any reason these are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the oil absorbent holder 2R are modifiable and the dimensions may change depending of the requirements. In this embodiment the oil absorbent holder 2R is made of wire cloth mesh ¼″ (6.35 mm) or mosquito screen. The wire cloth is made out of wire 23 gauge (0.023″, 0.58 mm.) or similar. The shape of the absorbent holder 2R is rectangular; it is flat before folding and is approximately 26″×12″ (66 cm.×30.48 cm.) but modifiable. The oil absorbent holder 2R is then folded in half to an approximately final dimension of 13″×12″ (33 cm.×30.48 cm.). About ¾′ (19 mm.) of the borders of the oil absorbent holder 2R when mosquito screen is used, are folded inwards in order to increase the tension strength.

b- The oil absorbent material 1A is made out of a lightweight material being able to absorb oil such as: cotton towels, paper towels, fabric, natural or artificial fiber or the like. The dimensions of the absorbent material 1A are modifiable and may be approximately the same than the oil absorbent holder 2R. The preferred embodiment uses one paper towel on top and another paper towel at the bottom. Between the paper towels there are three cotton towels. In this embodiment it is used paper towels and cotton towels having approximately these dimensions: 11″×10.4″ (279 mm.×264 mm.) The number of paper towels or cotton towels is modifiable. The oil absorbent material 1A is packed inside the oil absorbent holder 2R. Staples 8T are placed around de pack to close and to hold tight the sides of the oil absorbent holder 2R with the oil absorbent material 1A inside.

c- The two-hole washers 3W for attachment with screws or bolts are made of a flat material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metal. The two-hole washers 3W should be able to resist the increased tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the two-hole washers 3W are predetermined and may vary according with the requirements but in this embodiment the dimensions are approximately 1½″×¾″ (38.1 mm.×19 mm.) and the thickness is approximately 0.63 (1 mm.). The shape of the two-hole washers 3W is not critical; may be rectangular, oblong, square or similar. The two-hole washers 3W should have two holes: One hole is for attachment to the bottom of the machine with self-drilling screws or normal screws and the other hole for attachment to the wire sections 4C or to the extension springs 5S. The quantity of two-hole washers 3W used may vary and depends of the option for attachment used. Please refer to the operation of the preferred embodiment where multiple options for attachment are described.

d- The Wire sections 4C are made of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metallic wire, rope or the like. The wire sections 4C should be able to resist the increase of tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The length, gage or diameter are predetermined and may vary but in this embodiment it is used wire 20 gauge, 0.020″ (0.5 mm.). The amount of wire sections 4C used may vary and depends on the type of extension spring 5S used and depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W. E.g. If it is used the type of extension spring 5S with a loop in one end and a hook in the other end described in the FIG. 20 it is necessary to use four wire sections 4C; if it is used the extension spring 5S having hooks on both ends then it is used only two wire sections 4C but of course again this depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W.

e- The extension springs 5S have the purpose of holding the diaper tight and close to the bottom of the machine. The oil leak diaper may not use extension springs 5S or may use one or multiple springs. The dimensions and specifications of the extension springs 5S may vary. The extension springs 5S may be made out of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without losing tension, without breaking apart, such as musical wire, carbon steel wire, galvanized wire, rubber or the like. The extension springs 5S should be made of a material strong enough to resist the increased tension when for any reason they are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the extension spring 5S such as: length, diameter etc., are predetermined and may vary. The construction material of the extension springs 5S should be able to resist the temperature underneath the machine. The extension springs 5S should have attachment means at both ends such as loop or hook for removable attachment to the wire sections 4C or to the netting member 2R or to the oblong wire links 6L or to the two-hole washers 3W depending of the type of extension spring 5S used. There are three types of extension spring 5S that may be used and they are described in the FIGS. 19, 20 and 21. The caliper of wire used to make the extension springs 5S may vary and is approximately 0.039″ to 0.047″ (1.0 to 1.2 mm). The outside diameter of the extension springs 5S also varies and is approximately ½″ to ⅝″ (12.7 mm. to 15.87 mm) the length of its coil also varies and is approximately 2″ (50.8 mm.). The total length varies depending of the type of extension spring 5S used.

f- The holes 7H already exist in the oil absorbent holder 2R if hardware wire cloth is used, but if mosquito screen is used, the holes at the corners are to be reinforced with eyelets/grommets 10E. The size of the eyelets/grommets 10E is modifiable but in this embodiment it is used with ⅛″ (3.17 mm) in diameter. The construction material of the eyelets/grommets 10E is aluminum but may be brass or other. The four holes 7H, eyelets or grommets 10E should exhibit easy attachment to the links 6L or to the wire sections 4C or to the extension springs 5S. The construction material of the four holes 7H, eyelets or grommets 10E should be able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart and should resist the increased tension when for any reason the extension springs 5S are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc.

g- The staples 8T are the heavy-duty type, ⅜″ (9.52 mm.) or similar, made out of steel. This embodiment uses multiple staples enough to hold together the sides of the oil absorbent holder 2R around the edge of the same.

h- The oblong wire links 6L may be used or not, depending on the type of extension springs 5S used. If the extension springs 5S have loop ends, the oblong wire links 6L are used for easy installation or removal. The oblong wire links 6L may be made out of metallic wire, such as a chain's link or the like. The oblong wire links 6L may be made of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as steel, brass, or the like. The oblong wire links 6L should be made of a material strong enough to resist the increase of tension when for any reason the extension springs 5S are expanded, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the oblong wire links 6L such as: length, diameter etc., are predetermined and may vary.

Operation of the Preferred Embodiment

The oil leaking machine or vehicle should be lifted with a powered equipment for easy access to its bottom and should be safely locked. This can be done in an auto repair shop. The site (or sites) where the oil is dripping should be found. If the oil is dripping from two sites next to each other, locate the diaper in such a way to receive the drops of oil from both sites. If the oil is dripping from more than one site far away from each other, consider using two or more diapers.

There are several options for the diaper attachment:

  • Option A- Locate the points where the ends of the wire sections go. With a hand drill attach a two-hole washer 3W to the machine's bottom using a self-drilling screw. A knowledgeable person or licensed auto mechanic should do this step.
  • Option B- Find an already existing hole close to the chosen point where it is possible to hook the end of the wire section 4C.
  • Option C- Find an already existing screw or bolt close to the chosen point where it is possible to attach a two-hole washer 3W.
  • Option D- Find a way to wrap one end of the wire section 4C to a rod or similar close to the chosen point.

Forming the shape of an X, the ends of the wire sections 4C are to be connected to the two-hole washers 3W where they are, or to other attachment means according to the previous options. The wire sections 4C are to be cut to the proper length, the ends are to be folded making a hook. At the back of the diaper, one hooked end of the wire sections 4C is attached to the machine's bottom according to any of the previous options. The extension springs 5S should go at the front of the diaper, which should go towards the front of the machine or vehicle. If the type of extension spring 5S with the loops at both ends is used see FIG. 21, then the oblong links 6L are attached to the holes 7H or to the eyelets/grommets 10E at the front of the diaper; the other end of the oblong links 6L are to be attached to one loop of the extension spring 5S and the other end of the extension spring 5S is to be attached to the hooked end of the wire section 4C. When attaching the extension springs 5S to the wire sections 4C the springs 5S are to be stretched about ⅓ of their original length to obtain a close, flat and tight connection to the machine's bottom exactly where the oil is dripping. The purpose of the hooks on the extension springs 5S or in the oblong link 6L or in the wire sections 4C is to allow a quick diaper connection and a quick diaper removal.

When the vehicle is moving the leaking oil is soaked and retained into the diaper because this is close together to the leaking site. When the vehicle or machine is still the diaper is receiving freely the drops of oil. This way the oil does not reach the ground, the environment is protected, and the parking area is kept oil free.

Description of the Second Embodiment

The second embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and FIG. 8 and it comprises;

  • a- Wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R.
  • b- The oil absorbent material 1A
  • c- Metallic sheet 9M/Oil absorbent holder 2R
  • d- Wire sections 4C
  • e- The extension springs 5S
  • f- Eyelets/grommets 10E
  • g- Staples 8T
  • h- Two-hole washers 3W

a- The wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R, is made out of hardware wire cloth, mosquito screen or the like; in this embodiment the wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R, comprises two members: The wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R is the top member and the metallic sheet 9M/oil absorbent holder 2R, is the bottom member; both of them are going to be attached together with the oil absorbent material 1A in between by means of staples 8T. The wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R, should be able to allow oil to go through and should be resistant to the temperature under the engine. The dimensions of the wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R may change depending of the requirements. In this embodiment the wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R is made of hardware wire cloth mesh ¼″ (6.35 mm) wire 23 gauge (0.023″, 0.58 mm.) or mosquito screen. The shape of the absorbent holder 2R is rectangular; it is flat and is approximately 13″×12″ (33 cm.×30.48 cm.) but its dimensions are modifiable.

b- The oil absorbent material 1A is made out of a lightweight material capable of absorbing oil such as: cotton towels, paper towels, fabric, natural or artificial fiber or the like. The dimensions of the absorbent material 1A are modifiable and may be approximately the same than the oil absorbent holder 2R. This embodiment uses one paper towel on top and another paper towel at the bottom. Between the paper towels there are three cotton towels. The number of paper towels or cotton towels is modifiable. The oil absorbent material 1A is packed inside between the wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R and the metallic sheet 9M/oil absorbent holder 2R. Staples 8T are placed around de pack to hold it together, and to close tight the two members of the oil absorbent holder 2R with the oil absorbent material 1A inside.

c- The metallic sheet 9M/Oil absorbent holder 2R is the second member of the oil absorbent holder 2R that goes on the bottom side of the diaper. The metallic sheet 9M/Oil absorbent holder 2R is made out of aluminum, galvanized carbon steel or similar material, it is flat and has rectangular shape; its dimensions may change according to the requirements; but in this embodiment the dimensions are approximately 10″×14″ (254 mm.×355.6 mm.) and its thickness is approximately 0.0092″ (0.23 mm.) gauge. The metallic sheet 9M/Oil absorbent holder 2R has holes 7H or eyelets/grommets 10E by the corners for attachment to the wire sections 4C, to the springs 5S or to the oblong links 6L if the extension springs 5S used correspond to the type described on FIG. 21 with loops in both ends.

d- The wire sections 4C are made of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metallic wire, rope or the like. The wire sections 4C should be able to resist the increase of tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The length, gage or diameter are predetermined and may vary; but in this embodiment it is used wire 20 gauge, 0.020″ (0.5 mm.). The amount of wire sections 4C used may vary and depends on the type of extension spring 5S used and this depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W. E.g. If it is used the type of extension spring 5S with a loop in one end and a hook in the other end described in the FIG. 20 it is necessary to use four wire sections 4C; if it is used the extension spring 5S having hooks on both ends then it is used only two wire sections 4C but of course again this depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W.

e- The extension springs 5S have the purpose of holding the diaper tight and close to the bottom of the machine. The oil leak diaper may not use extension springs 5S or may use one or multiple springs. The dimensions and specifications of the extension springs 5S may vary, The extension springs 5S may be made out of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without losing tension, without breaking apart, such as metallic wire, musical wire, carbon steel wire, galvanized wire, rubber or the like. The extension springs 5S should be made of a material strong enough to resist the increase of tension when for any reason they are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the extension spring 5S such as: length, diameter etc., are predetermined and may vary. The construction material of the extension springs 5S should be able to resist the temperature underneath the machine. The extension springs 5S should have attachment means at both ends such as loop or hook for removable attachment to the wire sections 4C to the netting member 2R to the oblong wire links 6L or to the two-hole washers 3W depending of the type of extension spring 5S used. There are three types of extension springs 5S that may be used and they are described in the FIGS. 19, 20 and 21. The caliper of the wire used to make the extension springs 5S may vary and is approximately 0.039″ to 0.047″ (1.0 to 1.2 mm). The outside diameter of the extension springs 5S also varies and is approximately ½″ to ⅝″ (12.7 mm. to 15.87 mm) The length of the coil also varies and is approximately 2″ (50.8 mm.). The total length also varies depending of the type of extension spring 5S used.

f- Eyelets/grommets 10E are to be installed at the corners of the metallic sheet 9M; the size of the eyelets/grommets 10E is modifiable but in this embodiment it is used with ⅛″ (3.17 mm) in diameter. The construction material of the eyelets/grommets 10E is aluminum but may be brass or other. The eyelets or grommets 10E should exhibit easy attachment to the links 6L or to the wire sections 4C or to the extension springs 5S. The construction material of the eyelets or grommets 10E should be able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart and should resist the increase of tension when for any reason the extension springs 5S are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc.

g- Staples 8T are the heavy-duty type, ⅜″ (9.52 mm.) or similar, made out of steel. This embodiment uses multiple staples enough to hold together the two members: The wire cloth/oil absorbent holder 2R on top and the metallic sheet 9M/oil absorbent holder 2R on the bottom; the staples 8T are placed around the edge of the two members.

h- The two-hole washers 3W for attachment with screws or bolts are made of a flat material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metal. The two-hole washers 3W should be able to resist the increase of tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the two-hole washers 3W are predetermined and may vary according with the requirements but in this embodiment the dimensions are approximately 1½″×¾″ (38.1 mm.×19 mm.) and the thickness is approximately 0.63 (1 mm.). The shape of the two-hole washers 3W is not critical; may be rectangular, oblong, square or similar. The two-hole washers 3W should have two holes: One hole is for attachment to the bottom of the machine with self-drilling screws or normal screws and the other hole for attachment to the wire sections 4C or to the extension springs 5S. The quantity of two-hole washers 3W used may vary and depends of the method of attachment used. Please refer to the operation of the preferred embodiment where multiple options for attachment are described.

Operation of the Second Embodiment

The operation of the second embodiment is the same as the operation of the preferred embodiment

Description of the Third Embodiment

The third embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 9, FIG. 10, FIG. 11, FIG. 12 and

FIG. 13 and it comprises;

  • a- A bag 1B.
  • b- Oil absorbent material 1A
  • c- Wires in “x” 2X
  • d- Two-hole washers 3W
  • e- Wire sections 4C
  • f- Extension springs 5S
  • g- Staples 8T

a- The bag 1B may be made out of oil absorbent material such as fabric, natural or synthetic fiber cloth, burlap, fiberglass, cotton fabric or the like. The shape when empty is flat, rectangular. The dimensions may vary but in this embodiment are approximately 13″×12″ (330 mm.×304.8 mm.). When empty, the bag 1B has three sides closed, sewed. One end is open to place the oil absorbent material 1A inside.

b- Oil absorbent material 1A used in this embodiment is Fuller's earth, (tidy cat litter), and also called Hi-Dri; the amount may vary but in this embodiment it is used approximately between ½ to ¾ pound. The absorbent material 1A is placed inside the bag 1B.

c- The wires in “x”2X are placed inside the bag 1B as shown in FIG. 13. The wires 2X are straight and loops are made at both ends of them. The wires in “x” 2X are made of carbon steel, galvanized, brass or the like. The gauge or diameter may vary but in this embodiment is used wire 18 gauge. The length of the wires in “x” 2X should be enough to allow the forming of loops at the ends.

d- The two-hole washers 3W for attachment with screws or bolts are made of a flat material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metal. The two-hole washers 3W should be able to resist the increase of tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the two-hole washers 3W are predetermined and may vary according with the requirements but in this embodiment the dimensions are approximately 1½″×¾″ (38.1 mm,×19 mm.) and the thickness is approximately 0.63 (1 mm.). The shape of the two-hole washers 3W is not critical; may be rectangular, oblong, square or similar. The two-hole washers 3W should have two holes: One hole is for attachment to tile bottom of the machine with self-drilling screws or normal screws and the other hole for attachment to the wire sections 4C or to the extension springs 5S. The quantity of two-hole washers 3W used may vary and depends of the method of attachment used. Please refer to the operation of the preferred embodiment where multiple options for attachment are described.

e- Wire sections 4C are made of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metallic wire, rope or the like. The wire sections 4C should be able to resist the increase of tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The length, gage or diameter are predetermined and may vary; but in this embodiment it is used wire 20 gauge, 0.020″ (0.5 mm.). The amount of wire sections 4C used may vary and depends on the type of extension spring 5S used and this depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W. E.g. If it is used the type of extension spring 5S with a loop in one end and a hook in the other end described in the FIG. 20 it is necessary to use four wire sections 4C; if it is used the extension spring 5S having hooks on both ends then it is used only two wire sections 4C but of course again this depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W.

f- The extension springs 5S have the purpose of holding the diaper tight and close to the bottom of the machine. The oil leak diaper may not use extension springs 5S at all or may use one or multiple springs. The dimensions and specifications of the extension springs 5S may vary. The extension springs 5S may be made out of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without losing tension, without breaking apart, such as musical wire, carbon steel wire, galvanized wire, rubber or the like. The extension springs 5S should be made of a material strong enough to resist the increase of tension when for any reason they are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the extension spring 5S such as: length, diameter etc., are predetermined and may vary. The construction material of the extension springs 5S should be able to resist the temperature underneath the machine. The extension springs 5S should have attachment means at both ends such as loop or hook for removable attachment to the wire sections 4C to the netting member 2R to the oblong wire links 6L or to the two-hole washers 3W depending of the type of extension spring 5S used. There are three types of extension springs 5S that may be used and they are described in the FIGS. 19, 20 and 21. The diameter of the wire used to make the extension springs 5S may vary and is approximately 0.039″ to 0.047″ gauge (1.0 to 1.2 mm). The outside diameter of the extension springs 5S also varies and is approximately ½″ to ⅝″ (12.7 mm. to 15.87 mm) The length of the coil also varies and is approximately 2″ (50.8 mm.). The total length also varies depending of the type of extension spring 5S used.

g- Staples 8T are the heavy-duty type, ⅜″ (9.52 mm.) or similar, made out of steel. This embodiment uses multiple staples enough to close tight the open end of the bag 1B.

Operation of the Third Embodiment

The operation of the third embodiment is the same as the operation of the preferred embodiment

Description of the Fourth Embodiment

The fourth embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 14, FIG. 15, FIG. 16, FIG. 17 and FIG. 18 and it comprises:

  • a- A bag 1B.
  • b- Oil absorbent material 1A
  • c- Two-hole washers 3W
  • d- Wire sections 4C
  • e- Extension springs 5S
  • f- Staples 8T
  • g- Eyelets/grommets 10E

a- The bag 1B may be made out of oil absorbent material such as fabric, natural or synthetic fiber cloth, burlap, fiberglass, cotton fabric or the like. The shape when empty is flat, and rectangular. The dimensions may vary but in this embodiment are approximately 13″×12″ (330 mm.×304.8 mm.). When empty, the bag 1B has three sides closed, sewed. One end is open to place the oil absorbent material 1A inside.

b- The oil absorbent material 1A used in this embodiment may be small pieces of cotton scrap, cotton puffs, cotton fabric, sawdust or similar. The amount of oil absorbent material 1A to be placed inside the bag 1B should be controlled in order to obtain a final flattened shape as shown in FIG. 16.

c- The two-hole washers 3W for attachment with screws or bolts are made of a flat material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metal. The two-hole washers 3W should be able to resist the increase of tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the two-hole washers 3W are predetermined and may vary according to the requirements but in this embodiment the dimensions are approximately 1½″×¾″ (38.1 mm.×19 mm.) and the thickness is approximately 0.63 (1 mm.). The shape of the two-hole washers 3W is not critical; may be rectangular, oblong, square or similar. The two-hole washers 3W should have two holes: One hole is for attachment to the bottom of the machine with self-drilling screws or normal screws and the other hole for attachment to the wire sections 4C or to the extension springs 5S. The quantity of two-hole washers 3W used may vary and depends of the method of attachment used. Please refer to the operation of the preferred embodiment where multiple options for attachment are described.

d- The wire sections 4C are made of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart, such as metallic wire, rope or the like. The wire sections 4C should be able to resist the increase of tension from the springs when for any reason the springs are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc, The length, gage or diameter are predetermined and may vary; but in this embodiment it is used wire 20 gauge, 0.020″ (0.5 mm.). The amount of wire sections 4C used may vary and depends on the type of extension spring 5S used and this depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W. E.g. If it is used the type of extension spring 5S with a loop in one end and a hook in the other end described in the FIG. 20 it is necessary to use four wire sections 4C; if it is used the extension spring 5S having hooks on both ends then it is used only two wire sections 4C but of course again this depends also of the distance between the eyelet/grommet 10E to the two-hole washer 3W.

e- The extension springs 5S have the purpose of holding the diaper tight and close to the bottom of the machine. The oil leak diaper may not use extension springs 5S at all or may use one or multiple springs. The dimensions and specifications of the extension springs 5S may vary. The extension springs 5S may be made out of a material able to hold the weight of the diaper without losing tension, without breaking apart, such as musical wire, carbon steel wire, galvanized wire, rubber or the like. The extension springs 5S should be made of a material strong enough to resist the increase of tension when for any reason they are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc. The dimensions of the extension spring 5S such as: length, diameter etc., are predetermined and may vary. The construction material of the extension springs 5S should be able to resist the temperature underneath the machine. The extension springs 5S should have attachment means at both ends such as loop or hook for removable attachment to the wire sections 4C to the netting member 2R to the oblong wire links 6L or to the two-hole washers 3W depending of the type of extension spring 5S used. There are three types of extension springs 5S that may be used and they are described in the FIGS. 19, 20 and 21. The diameter of the wire used to make the extension springs 5S may vary and is approximately 0.039″ to 0.047″ gauge (1.0 to 1.2 mm). The outside diameter of the extension springs 5S also varies and is approximately ½″ to ⅝″ (12.7 mm. to 15.87 mm) The length of the coil also varies and is approximately 2″ (50.8 mm.). The total length also varies depending of the type of extension spring 5S used.

f- Staples 8T are the heavy-duty type, ⅜″ (9.52 mm.) or similar, made out of steel. This embodiment uses multiple staples enough to close tight the open end of the bag 1B.

g- Eyelets/grommets 10E are to be installed at the corners of the bag 1B the size of the eyelets/grommets 10E is modifiable but in this embodiment it is used with ⅛″ (3.17 mm) in diameter. The construction material of the eyelets/grommets 10E is aluminum but may be brass or other. The eyelets or grommets 10E should exhibit easy attachment to the links 6L or to the wire sections 4C or to the extension springs 5S. The construction material of the four eyelets or grommets 10E should be able to hold the weight of the diaper without breaking apart and should resist the increase of tension when for any reason the extension springs 5S are extended, e.g., strong wind, impact of debris on the road, etc.

Operation of the Fourth Embodiment

The operation of the fourth embodiment is the same as the operation of the preferred embodiment

Conclusions, Ramifications and Scope of Invention

While the above description contains many specificities, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention but rather as an exemplification of one preferred embodiment thereof. Many other variations are possible.

The manufacturing of the Oil leak diaper involves the use of low cost tools and inexpensive materials; its manufacture is simple. Furthermore, the construction materials are readily available almost anywhere.

Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not by the embodiments illustrated, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1- An assemblage of members made with the purpose of helping to protect the environment, presented in multiple models, and comprising in combination:

(a) an oil leak diaper, having shape, structure and dimensions predetermined, including a predetermined quantity of oil absorbent material, including an absorbent material holder, having mechanical means to stay together, having a predetermined amount of attachment means, having means for diaper replacement, whereby when placed close and under an engine leaking oil, said diaper receives and absorb said leaking oil,
(b) a predetermined number of connectors having structure and dimensions predetermined such as two hole washers, having means for attachment at both sides,
(c) a predetermined number of connectors having structure and dimensions predetermined such as wire sections having means for length adjustment having means for attachment at both ends,
(d) a predetermined number of extendable and tensioning means having structure and dimensions predetermined, such as extension springs, having means for attachment at both ends,
(e) a predetermined number of connectors having structure and dimensions predetermined such as oblong links having means for attachment at both ends.

2- The diaper of claim 1, wherein said diaper includes:

an oil absorbent holder made of metallic cloth, bent in half, having a plurality of paper towels placed inside, having a plurality of cotton towels, placed inside of said oil absorbent holder, having a plurality of mechanical closing means such as staples located around the edges closing said diaper all around, and having a plurality of holes for attachment.

3- The diaper of claim 1, wherein said diaper includes:

an oil absorbent holder having two members: a top member made of metallic cloth and a bottom member made of metallic sheet, both of them having shape, structure and dimensions predetermined, said metallic sheet having a plurality of attachment means by the corners such as eyelets, said diaper having a plurality of mechanical closing means such as staples located around the edges holding together said diaper.

4- The diaper of claim 1, wherein said diaper includes:

an oil absorbent holder such as a bag, having shape, structure and dimensions predetermined, said bag having means to transfer oil inwards, said bag having inside an oil absorbent material such as Fuller's earth, said bag having inside attachment means such as wires in “x” with mechanical attachment means such as loops at the corners and outside the bag, said diaper having a plurality of mechanical closing means such as staples located at the edge of the open side to close it.

5- The diaper of claim 1, wherein said diaper includes:

an oil absorbent holder such as a bag, having shape, structure and dimensions predetermined, said bag having means to transfer oil inwards, said bag having inside an oil absorbent material such as cotton scrap, said bag having attachment means such as eyelets by the corners, said diaper having a plurality of mechanical closing means such as staples located by the edge of the open side to close it.

6- The diaper of claim 1, wherein said diaper includes:

an oil absorbent holder such as a bag, having shape, structure and dimensions predetermined, said bag having means to transfer oil inwards, said bag having inside an oil absorbent material such as wood particles like saw dust, said bag having attachment means such as eyelets by the corners, said diaper having a plurality of mechanical closing means such as staples located by the edge of the open side to close it.

7- The diaper of claim 1, wherein said diaper includes:

an oil absorbent holder such as a bag, having shape, structure and dimensions predetermined, said bag having means to transfer oil inwards, said bag having inside an oil absorbent material such as fabric scrap, said bag having attachment means such as eyelets by the corners, said diaper having a plurality of mechanical closing means such as staples located by the edge of the open side to close it.
Patent History
Publication number: 20070029336
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 6, 2005
Publication Date: Feb 8, 2007
Inventor: Julio Posada (Clearwater, FL)
Application Number: 11/199,595
Classifications
Current U.S. Class: 220/755.000; 220/573.000
International Classification: B65D 1/34 (20060101);