Foot Care Apparatus

Abstract

A foot care apparatus for efficiently cleaning, applying substances, and inspecting an individual's foot including the toes. The foot care apparatus generally includes a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, an attachment assembly extending from the shaft opposite the handle, wherein the attachment assembly is comprised of a threadable structure and an implement attachment for cleaning the foot of an individual and extending from the attachment assembly. The implement attachment is threadably connected to the shaft via the attachment assembly. The implement attachment may be comprised of various configurations, such as an inter digital absorbent member, a filing structure for corns and calluses, a louffa foot scrub, a sulcus cleaner, or a magnifying mirror. An extension may also be used with the shaft or the shaft may be comprised of a short structure and integral with the handle.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable to this application.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable to this application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to foot care and more specifically it relates to a foot care apparatus for efficiently cleaning, applying substances, and inspecting an individual's foot including the toes.

2. Description of the Related Art

Any discussion of the related art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such related art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

Foot cleaning apparatuses and products have been in use for years. Typically, to clean ones foot, an individual must either bend down or move their foot towards the rest of their body to access the foot and toes. This can be very difficult, especially for people not having sufficient flexibility, such as older, obese, and arthritic individuals.

Because of the difficulty associated with maintaining ones foot, the foot including the toes are often left uncleaned for substantial durations of time thus leading to fungus built up upon the foot and between toes as wells as an accumulation of dead skin, which can be hazardous to the health of the individual. Because of the inherent problems with the related art, there is a need for a new and improved foot care apparatus for efficiently cleaning, applying substances, and inspecting an individual's foot including the toes.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A system for efficiently cleaning, applying substances, and inspecting an individual's foot including the toes. The invention generally relates to a foot maintenance apparatus which includes a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, an attachment assembly extending from the shaft opposite the handle, wherein the attachment assembly is comprised of a threadable structure and an implement attachment for cleaning the foot of an individual and extending from the attachment assembly. The implement attachment is threadably connected to the shaft via the attachment assembly. The implement attachment may be comprised of various configurations, such as an inter digital absorbent member, a filing structure for corns and calluses, a louffa foot scrub, a sulcus cleaner, or a magnifying mirror. An extension may also be used with the shaft or the shaft may be comprised of a short structure and integral with the handle.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the features of the invention in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional features of the invention that will be described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein:

FIG. 1 is an upper perspective view of the present invention with the implement attachment comprised of the absorbent member.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in use.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 in use.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the absorbent member.

FIG. 6 is a lengthwise sectional member of the absorbent member showing the attachment assembly.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the present invention being used with the extension member.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the present invention being used with as shortened structure.

FIG. 9 is a side view of the absorbent member comprised implement attachment angled in a manner to clean underneath the foot and toes.

FIG. 10 is a first side view of the filing structure embodiment comprised implement attachment illustrating the abrasive structure.

FIG. 11 is a second side view of the filing structure embodiment comprised implement attachment illustrating the moleskin structure.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the first embodiment of the first louffa scrub comprised implement attachment without the widened support plate.

FIG. 13 is a side view of the second embodiment of the first louffa scrub comprised implement attachment with the widened support plate.

FIG. 14 is a side view of the second louffa scrub comprised implement attachment.

FIG. 15 is an upper perspective view of the magnifying mirror embodiment comprised implement attachment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A. Overview

Turning now descriptively to the drawings, in which similar reference characters denote similar elements throughout the several views, FIGS. 1 through 15 illustrate a foot care apparatus 10, which comprises a handle 20, a shaft 30 extending from the handle 20, an attachment assembly 40 extending from the shaft 30 opposite the handle 20, wherein the attachment assembly 40 is comprised of a threadable structure and an implement attachment 50 for cleaning the foot 12 of an individual and extending from the attachment assembly 40.

The implement attachment 50 is threadably connected to the shaft 30 via the attachment assembly 40. The implement attachment 50 may be comprised of various configurations, such as an inter digital absorbent member, a filing structure for corns and calluses, a louffa foot scrub, a sulcus cleaner, or a magnifying mirror. An extension member 34 may also be used with the shaft 30 or the shaft 30 may be comprised of a short structure and integral with the handle 20. The apparatus 10 is generally waterproof to be submergible in the tub, shower, etc.

B. Handle

The sanitzable handle 20 is comprised of an ergonomic structure to allow for ease of gripping for the operator of the apparatus 10. The handle 20 may be comprised of a soft material. The handle 2013 also generally comprised of an elongated structure and has a larger diameter than the shaft 30.

The shaft 30 generally extends directly from one end of the handle 20 and is concentric with the handle 20. In alternate embodiments, it is appreciated that the handle 20 and shaft 30 may be substantially integral to provide for a much shorter apparatus 10 that may be used in beauty salons, by nurses on patients, etc.

C. Shaft

The shaft 30 is generally comprised of an elongated structure to allow an individual to clean their feet 12 including their toes 13 from a sitting or standing position without substantially bending over. The shaft 30 is generally comprised of a rigid material, such as wood, metal, or plastic. The shaft 30 also generally employs a circular cross-sectional shape and may be solid or hollow. In a preferred embodiment, the shaft 30 is generally 2 feet in length; however various lengths may be appreciated.

For extended reach, an extension member 34 may be used as illustrated in FIG. 7. The extension member 34 is comprised of a similar cross-sectional shape as the shaft 30. The extension member 34 generally includes an attachment assembly 40′, similar to the attachment assembly 40 connecting the shaft 30 to the implement attachment 50. Both attachment assemblies 40, 40′ will be described in a subsequent section. The added extension member 34 can be used to further assist individuals by limiting the need for bending over. In a preferred embodiment, the extension member 34 is generally 1.5 feet in length; however various lengths may be appreciated.

It is appreciated, that the shaft 30 may be comprised of a shortened structure as such as for use by caretakers (e.g. beauty salon professionals, nurses, etc.). The shaft 30 and extension member 34 are generally reusable. The shaft 30 may also be integral with the handle 20 or omitted completely. One embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 8, shows the handle 20 directly connected to the attachment assembly 40 which is attached to the absorbent member 51. The preferred maximum length of this embodiment is 6 inches to allow for a caretaker to clean another's foot or toes.

D. Attachment Assembly

The apparatus 10 generally includes at least one attachment assembly 40 for removably connecting the implement attachment 50 to the shaft 30 or integrated handle 20. The attachment assembly 40 preferably allows for a quick connect and disconnect attachment between the shaft 30 and the implement attachment 50 for individuals to quickly and easily interchange the implement attachments 50.

The attachment assembly 40 may employ various functionally different means for connecting the shaft 30 and the implement attachment 50. In one embodiment, the attachment assembly 40 employs a threadable structure. In another embodiment, the attachment assembly 40 may employ a clip structure. It is appreciated that various other structures may be used.

To employ the functional structure, the attachment assembly 40 generally includes at least a first connector 41 connected to the end of the shaft 30 opposite the handle 20 and a second connector 42 connected to the implement attachment 50. The first connector 41 thus connects to the second connector 42 in a threadable, etc. manner to connect the implement attachment 50 to the shaft 30. Additional supports, such as shown by reference numeral 43 may also be used to secure the second connector 44 to the implement attachment 50.

A swivel structure 44 may also be employed with the first connector 41 or the second connector 42 for allowing the implement attachment 50 to swivel with respect to the shaft 30. The swivel structure 44 is generally used with the magnifying mirror embodiment of the implement attachment 50 which will be described in the subsequent section.

It is appreciated that the second connector 42 may extend from various locations of the implement attachment 50, but is generally centrally located upon an end opposite the working end of the implement attachment 50. Even though the attachment assembly 40 is described as a separate structure, it is appreciated that the attachment assembly 40 may be integrally formed or fixedly connected with the shaft 30 and the implement attachment 50, such as the first connector 41 being fixedly attached to the end of the shaft 30 and the second connector 42 being fixedly attached to the implement attachment 50.

In alternate embodiments, such as including the extension member 34, a second attachment assembly 40′ may be employed with the extension member 34 to easily interconnect the extension member 34 between the shaft 30 and the implement attachment 50. The second attachment assembly 40′ is generally similar in structure to the first attachment assembly 40 thus includes a first connector and a second connector that preferably attach in a threadable manner.

In an alternate embodiment of the attachment assembly 40, as shown in FIG. 17, the first connector includes a curved L-shaped slot 46 and the second connector includes a pin 47. The pin 47 is insertable within the slot 46 and moves from the vertical portion of the slot 46 to the horizontal portion of the slot 46 via twisting either the first connector 41 or the second connector 42 to securely attach the first connector 41 to the second connector 42.

E. Implement Attachment

The implement attachment 50 is used to clean, inspect, perform maintenance upon, or provide general care to the foot 12 including the toes 13 of an individual. The implement attachment 50 may be shaped in various structures to perform various different tasks. The implement attachment 50 may further be comprised of a disposable structure to prevent contamination between several users.

Some configurations of the implement attachment 50 include an inter digital absorbent member, a louffa foot scrubber, medication applicator, corn and callus file, under toe cleaner, and foot 12 inspector generally comprised of a mirror. It is appreciated that other similar attachments may be realized.

i. Absorbent Member

In one embodiment the absorbent member 51 is employed as the implement attachment 50 as illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 8. The absorbent member 51 is generally used for inter digital cleaning, such as cleaning between the toes 13 of the individual. Thus the absorbent member 51 generally includes a pair of first sides 52 each comprised of a first length and a pair of second sides 53 each comprised of a second length, wherein the pair of first sides 52 are connected between the pair of second sides 53 and wherein the first length is substantially longer than the second length for efficiently reaching all the way between each toe. The absorbent member 51 further generally takes the form of an ovular shape in cross-section.

The absorbent member 51 is further generally elongated in structure as illustrated. The absorbent member 51 is further preferably comprised of a soft absorbent material, such as tightly wound cotton and includes no external rigid metal, or plastic components to prevent scratching or hurting the feet or toes 13 of the individuals. The absorbent member 51 may also be comprised of a conventional sponge material. The absorbent member 51 does however include an internal support member 55 for maintaining the shape of the absorbent member 51. The internal support member 55 may be comprised of wood, metal, or plastic. FIG. 16 exemplifies an alternate embodiment of the absorbent member 51 showing a pointed structure on one end and a dull rounded structure on the other end.

In one manner of use, a liquid substance (e.g. medication, cleaner, soothing substance, etc.) may be absorbed by the absorbent member 51 and the substance may be applied between the toes 13 of the individual via employing an up and down motion of the absorbent member between the toes 13. After use, the absorbent member 51 may be cleaned or simply disposed of. The absorbent member 51 may alternately be simply used to clean between the toes 13 by employing the up and down motion and not applying liquid substance to the absorbent member 51.

In an embodiment to use the absorbent member 51 between the toes 13 of the individual, the absorbent member 51 is generally concentric with the shaft 30, thus forming a linear apparatus. In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 9, where the absorbent member 51 is used to clean underneath the foot 12 or toes 13, the absorbent member generally forms a traverse angle with the shaft 30. The traverse angle is approximately 70 degrees; however other angles may be appreciated. The traverse embodiment is generally referred to as a sulcus cleaner for individuals with contracted toes or hammer toes and is used in a side to side motion to remove dead skin and debris or apply medication.

The absorbent member 51 further preferably includes a stopper plate 54 laterally extending outwardly near the upper end of the absorbent member 51 to prevent the individual from sliding the absorbent member 51 too far and engaging the attachment assembly 40 with their foot 12 or between their toes 13. The stopper plate 54 may extend directly from the absorbent member 51 or from the bottom end of the attachment assembly 40.

ii. File

Another embodiment employs the filing structure 56 as the implement attachment 50 as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11. The filing structure 56 is generally used for corns and calluses on the foot 12. The filing structure 56 is generally comprised of an elongated structure. The filing structure 56 generally includes a first side 57 having an abrasive structure thereon and a second side 58 opposite the first side 57 having a soft cotton material thereon. The soft cotton material is further preferably comprised of moleskin.

iii. First Louffa Scrub

Another embodiment employs a first louffa scrub 60 as the implement attachment 50 as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13. The first louffa scrub 60 is generally used to remove dead skin and debris from the top and bottom surfaces of the foot 12 and may be comprised of a material common with conventional cleaning louffa sponges or scrubbers. The first louffa scrub 60 may include a plastic scrubber for additional scrubbing force.

The first louffa scrub 60 further also may include a widened support plate 61 defining an upper end and attached to the attachment assembly 40. The support plate 61 is used to equalize the pressure to the first louffa scrub 60 thus increasing the surface area of the louffa scrub 60 to allow for a more efficient cleaning of the foot 12. The first louffa scrub 60 may be comprised of various materials, such as biodegradable corn starch.

iv. Second Louffa Scrub

Another embodiment employs a second louffa scrub 63 as the implement attachment 50 as illustrated in FIG. 14. The second louffa scrub 63 is generally used to remove dead skin and debris from between the toes 13 and may be comprised of a material common with conventional cleaning louffa sponges or scrubbers. The second louffa scrub 63 is generally comprised of an elongated shape similar to the shape of the absorbent member.

The second louffa scrub 63 includes a rigid internal support rod 64 for holding the form of the second louffa scrub. The internal rod 64 may be comprised of metal, plastic, or various other rigid materials. The second louffa scrub 63 may also include the stopper plate 54 if desired. The second louffa scrub 63 may be comprised of various materials, such as biodegradable corn starch.

v. Mirror

Another embodiment employs a mirror 66 as the implement attachment 50 as illustrated in FIG. 15. The swivel structure 44 is used with the mirror to allow the mirror 66 to be moved to see the desired portion of the foot 12 or toes 13. The mirror 66 is generally comprised of a magnifying mirror to further assist individuals in viewing their foot 12 or toes 13.

F. Operation of Preferred Embodiment

In use, the desired implement attachment 50 is threadably attached to the shaft 30 via the attachment assembly 40. If desired, the extension member 34 may also be attached. The individual proceeds to clean, inspect, perform maintenance upon, or generally care for their foot 12 including their toes 13. If desired, a different implement attachment 50 may be used. The implement attachments 50 may be disposed of after use or may be cleaned and reused as desired.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods and materials are described above. All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to the extent allowed by applicable law and regulations. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof, and it is therefore desired that the present embodiment be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. Any headings utilized within the description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

Claims

1. A foot care apparatus, comprising:

a handle;

a shaft extending from said handle;

an attachment assembly extending from said shaft opposite said handle; and

an absorbent member for cleaning between and around toes and extending from said attachment assembly, wherein said absorbent member is removably connected to said shaft via said attachment assembly.

2. The foot care apparatus of claim 1, wherein said absorbent member includes a pair of first sides each comprised of a first length and a pair of second sides each comprised of a second length, wherein said pair of first sides are connected between said pair of second sides and wherein said first length is substantially longer than said second length.

3. The foot care apparatus of claim 2, wherein said absorbent member is comprised of a cotton material.

4. The foot care apparatus of claim 1, wherein said absorbent member is comprised of an elongated structure.

5. The foot care apparatus of claim 1, wherein said absorbent member is comprised of a disposable structure.

6. The foot care apparatus of claim 1, wherein said absorbent member is comprised of a uniform thickness along a longitudinal axis of said absorbent member.

7. The foot care apparatus of claim 1, wherein a longitudinal axis of said absorbent member is concentric with a longitudinal axis of said shaft.

8. The foot care apparatus of claim 1, wherein a longitudinal axis of said absorbent member is traverse with a longitudinal axis of said shaft.

9. The foot care apparatus of claim 1, including a stopper plate extending laterally outward at an upper end of said absorbent member adjacent said attachment assembly.

10. A foot care apparatus, comprising:

a handle;

a shaft extending from said handle;

an attachment assembly extending from said shaft opposite said handle, wherein said attachment assembly is comprised of a threadable structure; and

an implement attachment for cleaning the foot of an individual and extending from said attachment assembly, wherein said implement attachment is threadably connected to said shaft via said attachment assembly.

11. The foot care apparatus of claim 10, wherein said implement attachment is comprised of an absorbent member.

12. The foot care apparatus of claim 10, wherein said implement attachment is comprised of a magnifying mirror.

13. The foot care apparatus of claim 12, wherein said attachment assembly includes a swivel structure for said magnifying mirror to swivel about said shaft.

14. The foot care apparatus of claim 10, wherein said implement attachment is comprised of a filing structure.

15. The foot care apparatus of claim 14, wherein said filing structure has a first side comprised of an abrasive structure and a second side comprised of a cotton material.

16. The foot care apparatus of claim 10, wherein said implement attachment is comprised of a louffa scrubber.

17. The foot care apparatus of claim 16, wherein said louffa scrubber includes a widened support plate to secure an upper end of said louffa scrubber.

18. The foot care apparatus of claim 16, wherein said louffa scrubber includes an internal support rod.

19. The foot care apparatus of claim 10, including an extension member removably connected to said shaft.

20. A short-length foot care apparatus, comprising:

a handle;

an attachment assembly extending from said handle; and

an absorbent member for cleaning between and around toes and extending from said attachment assembly, wherein said absorbent member is removably connected to said handle via said attachment assembly;

wherein a maximum length of connected said handle, said attachment assembly, and said absorbent member is 6 inches.