Water powered brush/sprayer system

Abstract

A water powered brush/sprayer system is described to include a handle section having a first end coupled to a water source and a second end. The system includes a sprayer nozzle attachment removably attached to the second end. The sprayer nozzle attachment is configured to spray water from the handle section into a plurality of streams. The system also includes a brush and sprayer cleaning attachment removable attached to the second end. The brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a spinnable brush and water powered turbine assembly. The brush and sprayer attachment is configured to automatically rotate the spinnable brush while simultaneously spraying water communicated through said handle section in the direction of the spinnable brush.

Description

COPENDING APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority benefit of Provisional Patent Application No. ______ filed Oct. 9, 2008, titled “Watered Powered Brush/Sprayer” having the same inventor.

NOTICE OF COPYRIGHT PROTECTION

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document and its figures contain material subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.

BACKGROUND

I. Field

The invention relates to water sprayers with multiple interchangeable attachments.

II. Background

Sink disposal units have been commonly used in kitchen sinks in homes, restaurants, and the like for elimination of small amounts of waste, generally food or garbage items. The disposal unit is typically mounted beneath the sink basin (or drain opening), and includes a hopper which receives all matter passed thereto through the sink opening. A sink flange is often disposed about the sink opening. Liquids and solid matter (preferably ground by the disposal unit) freely flow from the hopper into outlet plumbing leading away from the sink by virtue of small drainage apertures in the disposal unit hopper. Typically, the garbage disposal becomes dirty, foul and contaminated with food particles. Currently, there is not a good tool in the market to clean the garbage disposal.

Thus, there is a continuing need for a water powered brush/sprayer system that includes interchangeable cleaning attachments wherein at least one attachment includes a brush that rotates and is configured or contoured to clean the garbage disposal. The attachments produce water streams as the brush rotates. The water streams and rotating brush clean the food particles in the disposal.

SUMMARY

The aforementioned problems, and other problems, are reduced, according to exemplary embodiments, by the water brush/sprayer system having interchangeable cleaning attachments.

In an exemplary embodiment, a water powered brush/sprayer system is provided and includes a handle section having a first end coupled to a water source and a second end and a trigger. The system includes a sprayer nozzle attachment removably attached to the second end, the sprayer nozzle attachment configured to spray water from the handle section into a plurality of streams. The system includes a brush and sprayer cleaning attachment removable attached to the second end, the brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a water powered turbine assembly and a spinnable brush, the spinnable brush being rotated by the water powered turbine assembly and the brush and sprayer cleaning attachment simultaneously spraying water communicated through said handle section in the direction of said spinnable brush in response to the trigger.

In an alternate exemplary embodiment, the system includes a plurality of a brush and sprayer cleaning attachments each being interchangeable to clean a variety of items.

Other systems, methods, and/or products according to embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon review of the following drawings, and further description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, and/or products be included within this description, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The exemplary embodiments, objects, uses, advantages, and novel features are more clearly understood by reference to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying figures wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of the water powered brush/sprayer system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the water powered brush/sprayer system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3A illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system with the sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3B illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system with the bottle brush and sprayer cleaning attachment in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3C illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system with the dish brush and sprayer cleaning attachment in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 3D illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system with the disposal brush and sprayer cleaning attachment in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4A illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system with the dish brush and sprayer cleaning attachment in operation in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 4B illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system with the disposal sprayer cleaning attachment in operation in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 5 illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system with the sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment in operation in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6A illustrates a side view of a handle section of the water powered brush/sprayer system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 6B illustrates a rotated view of the handle section shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional view along the plane A-A of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7 illustrates a sprayer elbow connector in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates a sprayer plate in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of the neck in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a turbine housing in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates turbine jet subassembly in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 12A illustrates a first side view of a valve assembly in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 12B illustrates a second side view of the valve assembly with a trigger or button attached in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention;

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate front and back turbine members in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 14 illustrates turbine outlet plate in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention.

DESCRIPTION

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any configuration or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other configurations or designs. Furthermore, use of the words “present invention” is used herein to convey only some of the embodiments of the invention. For example, the word “present invention” would also include alternative embodiments and equivalent systems and components that one of ordinary skill the art understands. An example is that the materials used for the exemplary embodiments may be made out of man-made materials, natural materials, and combinations thereof. A further example is that the apparatus or components of the apparatus may be manufactured by machine(s), human(s) and combinations thereof.

Some of the embodiments of the invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skill in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure).

One of the exemplary embodiments of the invention is directed to a water powered brush/sprayer system that is a versatile kitchen tool powered by water and used to selectively clean a garbage disposal, sink, dishes, etc., via interchangeable cleaning attachments. The water powered brush/sprayer system includes a plurality of cleaning attachments configured to provide a powerful spray of water for spraying dishes and washing scraps down the drain. The cleaning attachments include one or more of a bottle brush and sprayer cleaning attachment, a dish brush and sprayer cleaning attachment, a disposal brush and sprayer cleaning attachment and a sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment.

According to another exemplary embodiment, a bottle brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a water powered attachment powered by water flowing from the plumbing and is used to clean the inside of bottles. The dish brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a water powered brush contoured for cleaning dishes, pots and pans. The disposal brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a water powered brush contoured to effectively clean the inside of a garbage disposal and removing decaying food matter stuck to the interior walls of the disposal.

According to some embodiments, the water powered brush/sprayer system is configured to allow water to flow to an outlet end of a handle section by activation of a trigger (button). One or more of the cleaning attachments includes a turbine configured to be rotated under the power of the water. The turbine drives a brush drive shaft to rotate a brush on an end of the shaft while simultaneously spraying water from the attachment.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate exploded and cross-sectional views of the water powered brush/sprayer system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The water powered brush/sprayer system 100 of the invention includes a handle section 120 having a water inlet end 122 coupled to a water delivery hose H (FIGS. 3A-3D). The water delivery hose H is coupled to a water source WS (FIG. 4B). The water source WS may include a water source at a kitchen sink KS (FIG. 4B). The handle section 120 further includes an outlet end 124 configured to have removably coupled thereto an interchangeable cleaning attachment 190. In FIG. 1, the interchangeable cleaning attachment 190 is a bottle brush and sprayer cleaning attachment.

The cleaning attachment 190 is intended to be interchangeable and may be any one of the cleaning attachments described herein. However, for the purposes of illustration and description, the bottle brush and sprayer cleaning attachments is shown attached. As will be described in more detail in relation to FIGS. 3A-3D, the cleaning attachment 190 may be replaced with a water sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment 390A or any one of brush and sprayer cleaning attachments 390B, 390C and 390D.

The handle section 120 includes a body 126 having a longitudinal axis (FIG. 6A). Water is communicated in the handle section 120 and flows generally parallel to the longitudinal axis from the water source WS (FIG. 4B) to the water inlet end 122 via hose H and out through the outlet end 124. The handle section 120 is configured to be easily grasped by a user's hand and includes aperture 127. Aperture 127 receives and supports an activation trigger or button 130. The aperture 127 and activation trigger or button 130 may be located so that the trigger or button 130 can be easily activated (pressed) by the user's thumb or other finger.

The body 126 of the handle section 120 is configured to be generally hollow and contains various internal elements of the system 100, as will be described in detail below. The overall length of the handle section 120 is approximately 3.5 inches. The handle section 120 is configured to be held in a user's hand. Thus, the length of the handle section 120 may be longer or shorter than 3.5 inches.

A base 110 is coupled, affixed or connected to the water inlet end 122 the handle section 120. The base 110 is configured to couple directly to the water delivery hose H through a center thereof, as best seen in FIG. 2, and may be cradled in a seat (NOT SHOWN) mounted to the kitchen sink. The water delivery hose H may be a braided reinforced hose. The base 110 and water inlet end 122 have threaded ends for attachment to the water inlet end 122 of the handle section 120. Thus, the base 110 is removable. However, the base 110 may be affixed with glue or other means to permanently affix the base 110 to the water inlet end 122.

The system 100 may further include a seat configured to be installed at the kitchen sink KS (FIG. 4B) so that the base 110 of the handle section 120 may be seated or cradled therein. If system 100 is installed without a prior sprayer existing, the kitchen sink KS would require a hole and seat for attaching the water delivery hose H from under the kitchen sink KS, in a known matter. A hose ferrule 102 and hose barb 104 are also provided. The hose barb 104 is configured to attach a distal end of the hose H to the water source WS. Hose ferrules 102 and 131 may be provided (coupled) at each end of the hose H.

The internal elements within the handle section 120 include a valve assembly 135 configured to open and close in response to activation of the activation trigger or button 130. A spring-biased plunger 132 (FIG. 2) (also known as a valve stem) is actuated by the activation trigger or button 130. Activation of the trigger or button 130 is also spring biased via spring 112. The plunger 132 is spring biased using the same spring 112. The trigger or button 130 when pressed moves or pushes the plunger 132 to an open position to allow water to flow through the valve assembly 135.

The valve assembly 135 includes a valve body 136 having a valve inlet 137A, a valve outlet 137B and valve end cap 133. The valve assembly 135 will be described in detail in relation to FIGS. 12A-12D. The valve inlet 137A is oriented in the direction of the water inlet end 122. The valve outlet 137B is oriented in the direction of the outlet end 124. The valve body 136 includes a valve channel 138 (FIG. 2) configured to receive an elongated shaft 132A of the plunge 132. The valve channel 138 is an internal conduit configured to receive the plunger 132. The plunger 132 is coupled in the valve channel 138 via one or more O-rings 139A and seals the valve channel 138. An O-ring 139B is coupled to a head (flared end) 132B of the plunger 132.

In operation, the plunger 132 is configured to open and close the valve body 136 in response to pressing or depressing the trigger or button 130. The plunger 132 is thus seated in a cavity 136A (FIG. 2) of the valve body 136 when the trigger or button 130 is pressed. When the trigger or button 130 is released or depressed, the spring lifts the head (flared end) 132B of the plunger 132 so that the O-ring 139B seals the fluid path to the valve outlet 137B. Therefore, water flow through the valve body 136 is prevented. When the valve body 136 is closed, water is stopped from flowing out through the valve body 136.

A portion of the water delivery hose H is received within the handle section 120, as best seen in FIG. 2, such that the proximal end of the water delivery hose H is in proximity to the valve assembly 135. Specifically, the valve inlet 137A includes a valve nipple configured to be received and sealed in said proximal end of the water delivery hose H located in proximity of the valve assembly 135. Thus, the water is communicated into the valve assembly 135. Water does not exit the valve assembly 135 unless, activation of the activation trigger or button 130 takes place, such as by pressing the trigger or button 130 with a thumb or other finger.

The valve outlet 137B is coupled to a turbine housing 140. The turbine assembly includes a turbine housing 140, turbine water jet subassembly 150 and turbine impeller subassembly 160. The turbine housing 140 houses therein the turbine water jet subassembly 150. The housing 140 is constructed and arranged to receive the turbine impeller subassembly 160 when the cleaning attachment is a brush and sprayer cleaning attachment. The turbine impeller subassembly 160 is affixed to and remains with the cleaning attachment 190 of the brush type.

In the exemplary embodiment, the water jet subassembly 150 produces, when water flows out through the valve assembly 135, at least one water jet directed toward impellers of the turbine impeller subassembly 160 so as to cause rotation of turbine impeller subassembly 160. Thus, the rotation of the turbine impeller subassembly 160 is configured to be water powered.

The turbine housing 140 includes a plurality of housing sections 142 and 143. The housing section 142 has a reduced diameter and is configured to be recessed within the handle section 120 in proximity to the outlet end 124. The housing section 142 is configured to be cradled in and attached to the outlet end 124 of the outlet end 124. The turbine housing 140 is in fluid communication with the valve outlet 137B. In the exemplary embodiment, the turbine housing 140 is a cavity constructed to receive and recess the turbine impeller subassembly 160. When the cleaning attachment is a sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment (see, FIG. 3 reference numeral 390A), the turbine housing 140 collects water so that it may be sprayed.

The turbine water jet subassembly 150 is recessed within the turbine housing 140. In the exemplary embodiment, the turbine water jet subassembly 150 may be permanently affixed in the turbine housing 140. A rolling bearing 152 is affixed to the turbine water jet subassembly 150 and the turbine impeller subassembly 160.

The turbine impeller subassembly 160 is coupled to a turbine outlet plate 148 via a rolling bearing 154. The turbine outlet plate 148 is apertured so as to permit water to flow out therefrom, as will be described in relation to FIG. 14. The turbine impeller subassembly 160 includes two parts, as will be described in relation to FIGS. 13A and 13B. The two parts include front and back parts 164 and 162 each with impeller blades to form a turbine. In the exemplary embodiment, the turbine is a turgo turbine. A key 166 may be provided. For ease of manufacturing, the turgo turbine is split into two parts. However, the turbine may be made as a single part or two or more parts.

The brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 190 will now be described in detail. The cleaning attachment 190 includes the turbine impeller subassembly 160 and a rotatable brush assembly 192 coupled to a neck 194. The neck 194 has a hollow center or through hole. The base 196 of the neck 194 is configured to be attached to the turbine housing 140 such as by threads. In the exemplary embodiment, the base 196 of the neck 194 is threaded so that the brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 190 may be removed by screwing off at the neck 194. The base 196 of the neck, at one end, which has a dome shape configured to house therein the turbine impeller subassembly 160 and turbine outlet plate 148.

The rotatable brush assembly 192 includes brush bristles 193 coupled to one end of a brush drive shaft 198. The opposite end 191 of the neck 194 is configured to receive therethrough the brush drive shaft 198 such that a second end of the brush drive shaft 198 is coupled to the turbine outlet plate 148 via rolling bearing 197. The rolling bearing 197 is coupled to the turbine outlet plate 148 in the center thereof. The opposite end 191 of neck 194 includes apertures, as will be describe in more detail in relation to FIG. 9, to pass streams of water therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, water channeled through the neck 194 is sprayed out through the neck (at opposite end 191) in the direction of the brush bristles 193. When the turbine impeller subassembly 160 rotates via the water jets, the brush drive shaft 198 rotates or spins.

In a further exemplary embodiment, water flows around the brush drive shaft 198 and out through the opposite end 191 of the neck 194. In an alternate embodiment, the drive shaft 198 may be hollow to communicate water therethrough up to the brush bristles 193. In such an arrangement, the apertures would be dispersed within the brush bristles 193 so that water may be sprayed through the brush bristles.

The water powered brush/sprayer system 100 is configured to allow water to flow to an outlet end of a handle section by activation of a trigger or button. One or more of the cleaning attachments includes a turbine assembly configured to be rotated under the power of the water. The turbine assembly drives a brush drive shaft to rotate brush bristles coupled to the drive shaft while simultaneously spraying water from the attachment.

The handle section 120 has a first end (water inlet end 122) coupled to a water source WS and a second end (outlet end 124). The brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 190 is removable attached to the second end (outlet end 124). The brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 190 includes a spinnable brush (brush bristles 193), the brush and sprayer attachment is configured to automatically rotate said spinnable brush while simultaneously spraying water communicated through said handle section in the direction of said spinnable brush. It should be noted, that the brush type cleaning attachments include the turbine impeller subassembly 160. Thus, when the brush type cleaning attachments are interchanged, as the brush type cleaning attachment is installed (e.g., screwed on, a locking snap fit or other means of attachment), the turbine impeller subassembly 160 is automatically placed in the area of the water jets. The drive shaft is connected to the turbine assembly so that the drive shaft rotates or spins as the turbine assembly rotates.

The system 100 is configured to be used with at least one cleaning attachment 190. Various exemplary cleaning attachments will now be described.

In view of the foregoing, the water powered brush/sprayer system 100 is configured to easily replace any existing kitchen sink sprayer. The hose and sprayer of the existing sprayer is removed from the water source WS. The hose H of system 100 is configured to attach with a fitting to a water source on the end of the hose H. The fitting on the hose of the existing sprayer is unscrewed under the sink and the hose H of system 100 is attached, coupled, affixed or screw to the water source WS.

The hose H would be channeled through an opening in the kitchen sink and seated in a cradle until the system 100 is ready for use. Depending on the item to be cleaned. The cleaning attachment 190 is interchanged with other cleaning attachments of the system. As can be appreciated, the system 100 may also be used with only one cleaning attachment 190.

FIG. 3A illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system 300A with the sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment 390A attached in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The system 300A includes a handle section 320 having a hose H coupled thereto. The system 300A differs from system 100 in that a sprayer cleaning attachment 390A is installed at the outlet end of handle section 320. The sprayer cleaning attachment 390A includes an elbow connector 392 configured to divert the flow of water at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle section 320. The angle may be 30-90 degrees. Other angles may be used. The spray of water may be sprayed approximately 60-90 degrees or at other degrees with respect to the flow of water through the handle section 320.

In operation, pressing trigger or button 330 moves the plunger so that the valve assembly (see, FIG. 1 reference numeral 135) is open to permit the flow of water through the valve assembly (see, FIG. 1 reference numeral 135) and out through sprayer plate 394, as will be described in more detail in relation to FIG. 8.

FIG. 3B illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system 300B with the bottle brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 390B in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The bottle brush and sprayer attachment 390B is similar to the attachment 190 described above in relation to FIG. 1. The brush bristles 393B are arranged to produce an elongated brush. The bottle brush and sprayer attachment 390B includes an elongated neck 394B with brush bristles 393B configured to reach in and clean the inside of bottles, glasses, the container of blenders, vases, etc. where a long neck allows the (bottle) brush bristles 3938 to reach deep into the item (e.g., bottle, glass, vase, container of a blender and other deep items). The (bottle) brush bristles 393B may be nylon bristles for use on a baby bottle, glass, etc. The nylon bristles are rigid to the extent that the nylon bristles radiate from the drive shaft but are easily bent when engaging the surfaces of the bottle, glass, or other item so as minimize the creation of scratches. The housing section 343 corresponds to a portion of the turbine housing (e.g., 140).

In operation, pressing button 330 rotates the drive shaft and thus the (bottle) brush bristles 393B and, simultaneously, allows water to be sprayed out through the neck 394B.

FIG. 3C illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system 300C with the dish brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 390C in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The dish brush and sprayer attachment 390C is similar to the attachment 190 described above in relation to FIG. 1. The brush bristles 393C are arranged to produce a dome-shaped brush or semi-circular brush. The dish brush and sprayer attachment 390C includes a short neck 394C with brush bristles 393C configured to clean pots, pans, dishes and other items or surfaces where a shorter neck is suitable. In operation, pressing button 330 rotates the dish brush and sprayer attachment 390B and allows water to be sprayed out through the neck 394B.

The dish brush and sprayer attachment 390C includes a water powered brush configured to clean dishes, pots and pans. The (dish/pan) brush bristles for the dish brush and sprayer attachment 390C may be a stiff nylon or plastic as compared to the stiffness of the bottle bristles. Nonetheless, the brush bristles may have another stiffness and/or use other components (e.g., manmade materials, natural materials and combinations thereof).

FIG. 3D illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system 300D with the disposal brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 390D in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The disposal brush and sprayer attachment 390D is similar to the attachment 190 described above in relation to FIG. 1. The brush bristles 393D are arranged to produce a short brush that allows the brush bristles 393D to reach into various places in a garbage disposal. The disposal brush and sprayer attachment 390d includes a long neck 394D with brush bristles 393D configured to clean a garbage disposal where a longer neck with a shorter brush is suitable. In operation pressing button 330 rotates the dish brush and sprayer attachment 390B and allows water to be sprayed out through the neck 394B.

The disposal brush and sprayer attachment 390D includes a water powered brush designed to effectively clean the inside of a garbage disposal and removing decaying food matter stuck to the interior walls of the disposal.

The (disposal) brush bristles 393D for the disposal brush and sprayer attachment 390D may be stiffer and more durable than the bottle brush bristles and the dish/pan brush bristles so that the disposal brush bristles are more durable and stronger for scrubbing down in the garbage disposal. The bristles may be made of a metal, plastic or nylon.

In the exemplary embodiment, the (disposal) brush bristles 393D includes bottom bristles to clean the bottom (inside) of a flange in the garbage disposal GD; top bristles which clean the bottom of the disposal GD; and side bristles to scrub the sides of the disposal GD. The bottom bristles face up when in the disposal GD to clean the bottom of the garbage disposal flange. (The term facing up represents a direction which is toward the elongated neck 494B.) In other words, the brush bristles 393D in the exemplary embodiment may be arranged in almost a circular pattern such that bristles radiate out approximately 360 degrees.

In each of FIGS. 3B-3D, the section denoted as 343 represents a portion of the turbine housing. The neck of each attachment 390B, 390C and 390D connects to the turbine housing at section 343 recessed in housing section 320.

FIG. 4A illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system 400A with the dish brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 490A in operation in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The dashed lines represent the spray of water out through neck 494A. The lines with arrows represent in general the direction of the flow of water through hose H from a water source WS (FIG. 4B). The system 400A is configured to brush, scrub and clean pots P. The system 400A may be used with dishes, pans, bowls and other items. The dish brush and sprayer cleaning attachment 490A is removable. Thus, the attachment 490A can be cleaned in a dishwasher or sink. Cleaning is enhanced the spinning brush bristles when trigger or button 430 is pressed or actuated.

FIG. 4B illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system 400B with the disposal sprayer cleaning attachment 490B in operation in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The dashed lines represent the spray of water out through long neck 494B. The lines with arrows represent in general the direction of the flow of water from a water source WS through hose H from under the sink KS. The system 400B is configured to reach into and brush, scrub and clean a garbage disposal GD, wherein the (disposal) bristles 493B are configured to be very stiff The system 400B may be used with other items that require strong and stiff bristles. For example, the system 400B could be used to clean barbeque racks, oven racks, etc. The disposal sprayer cleaning attachment 490B is removable. Thus, the attachment 490B can be cleaned in a dishwasher or sink.

In FIG. 4B, the garbage disposal GD is mounted under a kitchen sink KS as is well known. The long neck 494B allows the bristles 493B to reach deep into the garbage disposal GD so that cleaning can take place without the need of the user to place a hand in to the garbage disposal. The long neck 494 is journalled down through the drain of the kitchen sink KS deep into the garbage disposal GD. The unique contour of the bristles 393B allow a flange or underside of the top of the disposal GD to be cleaned by brushing.

FIG. 5 illustrates the water powered brush/sprayer system 500 with the sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment 590 in operation in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The sprayer cleaning attachment 590 in operation sprays water on an item or surface. In the exemplary embodiment, the sprayer cleaning attachment 590 is shown spraying a cup C via a spray from sprayer plate 594. The elbow connector 592 is configured to divert water in a direction at an angle to the direction of the water flowing through the handle section 520. The direction is at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle section 520. The angle may be 60-90 degrees. The angle may be 30-90 degrees. Nonetheless, other angles may be used including 0. However, the exemplary embodiment places the spray direction at an angle from the path taken through the handle section 520.

The sprayer plate 594 is positioned at an angle with respect to the path of water flowing into the elbow connector 592 to create a plurality streams of water (spray).

FIG. 6A illustrates a side view of a handle section 620 of the water powered brush/sprayer system in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. FIG. 6B illustrates a rotated view of the handle section 620 shown in FIG. 6A. FIG. 6C illustrates a cross-sectional view along the plane A-A of FIG. 6A. The handle section 620 includes a body 626 having a longitudinal axis LA. Water is communicated in the handle section 620 and flows generally parallel to the longitudinal axis LA from the water source WS (FIG. 4B) from the water inlet end 622 to the outlet end 624. The handle section 620 is configured to be easily grasped by a user's hand and includes aperture 627. Aperture 627 receives and supports an activation trigger or button (e.g., trigger or button 130 of FIG. 1). The water inlet end 622 is threaded. The outlet end 624 is configured to house therein a portion of the turbine housing 140 (FIG. 1).

The handle section 620 may be constructed of a rigid plastic using any acceptable molding process. The handle section 620 may be constructed of other rigid and durable materials such as plastic, metal, titanium, stainless steel, man-made materials, natural materials, or a combination of natural and man-made materials.

FIG. 7 illustrates a sprayer elbow connector 792 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The elbow connector 792 is a hollow member that is curved to divert water in a direction that is at an angle to the direction of the water flowing through the handle section. The direction is at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle section. The angle may be 60-90 degrees or 30-90 degrees. The elbow connector 792 has a first end 795 configured to be attached to the outlet end of the handle section. The elbow connector 792 has a second end 796 which is angled with respect to the first end 795. The second end 796 is configured to have attached thereto the sprayer plate 894, as best seen in FIG. 8.

FIG. 8 illustrates a sprayer plate 894 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The sprayer plate 894 is a circular plate with a plurality of apertures 899 formed therein to create a plurality of streams of water. The streams of water produce a spray. While not shown, the sprayer plate 894 may be arranged to change the streams of water to create different sprays. In an exemplary embodiment, the sprayer plate 894 may be rotated to change the stream of spray. Multiple positions may be provided to produce a different stream of spray at each one position.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of a neck 994 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The opposite end 991 of the neck 994 is configured to receive therethrough the brush drive shaft 198 (FIG. 1). The opposite end 991 of neck 994 includes apertures 984 to pass streams of water therethrough. In an exemplary embodiment, water channeled through the neck 994 is sprayed out through the apertures 984 in the direction of the brush bristles 193 (FIG. 1).

The base 996 of the neck 994 has a generally dome shape. Other configurations may be used but the size of the base should house therein the turbine assembly. The opposite end 991 include a center ring 982 to support the drive shaft and a plurality of radiating members 980 to divide the opening at the opposite end 991 into the apertures 984.

FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of a turbine housing 1040 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The turbine housing 1040 includes a plurality of housing sections 1042 and 1043. The housing section 1042 has a reduced diameter and is configured to be recessed within the handle section (e.g., handle section 120 of FIG. 1) in proximity to the outlet end. The housing section 1042 is configured to be cradled in and attached to the outlet end. The turbine housing 1040 is in fluid communication with the valve outlet 137B (see, FIG. 1 or 2). In the exemplary embodiment, the turbine housing 1040 is a cavity constructed to receive and recess the turbine impeller subassembly 160 (see, FIG. 1 or 2). When the cleaning attachment is a sprayer nozzle cleaning attachment (e.g., 390A), the turbine housing 1040 collects water so that it may be sprayed. However, when a brush type cleaning attachment is connected to the handle section, the turbine housing 1040 receives the turbine assembly 160 (FIG. 1) attached to the neck.

The turbine housing 1040 also includes and inlet port 1048 to receive water from the valve assembly. The inlet port 1048 is formed in another housing section 1046 which is an elongated cavity.

FIG. 11 illustrates turbine jet subassembly 1150 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The turbine water jet subassembly 1150 is recessed within the turbine housing 1040. In the exemplary embodiment, the turbine water jet subassembly 150 may be permanently affixed in housing section 1042 of the turbine housing 1040.

The turbine jet subassembly 1150 includes an elongated plate 1152 having coupled in a center thereof an inlet port 1154 to receive water entering from the valve assembly. The plate 1152 includes first and second water jets conduits 1156A and 1156B on each side of the inlet port 1154. The first and second water jets conduits 1156A and 1156B are narrow chambers that produce a water jet. The first and second water jets conduits 1156A and 1156B are constructed and arranged to produce a jet at an angle so as to propel the turbine blades.

FIG. 12A illustrates a first side view of a valve assembly 1235 in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. FIG. 12B illustrates a second side view of the valve assembly 1235 with the trigger or button attached in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The valve assembly 1235 is configured to open and close in response to activation of the activation trigger or button 1230. A spring-biased plunger 1232 (only a portion of the plunger shaft shown) is coupled in the valve assembly 1235 and the activation trigger or button 1230.

The valve assembly 1235 includes a valve body 1236 having a valve inlet 1237A and a valve outlet 1237B. The valve inlet 1237A and valve outlet 1237B are offset. The valve body 1236 includes a valve channel 1238 configured to receive an elongated shaft of the plunger 1232. The valve body 1236 includes an end cap 1233 which. When the end cap 1233 is removed, the (valve stem) plunger 1232 may be inserted.

The valve body 1236 includes a cavity 1236A to recess the plunger head therein. The valve inlet 1237A is shown as a valve nipple.

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate front and back turbine members 1360A and 1360B in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The front member 1360A includes a wheel 1366A with a plurality of impeller blades 1362A having a curved profile. The front member 1360A has a through hole 1364A in the center thereof. The impeller blades 1362A radiate from the center of the wheel 1366A out to a wheel rim.

The back member 1360B includes a plurality of impeller blades 1362B having a curved profile that is the same as the curved profile of impeller blades 1362A The back member 1360B has a key slot 1368B in the center thereof. The impeller blades 1362B radiate from the center 1364B. The turbine members 1360A and 1360B are configured to be affixed together to form a turgo turbine. However, other blades or turbines may be used. Instead of a two part turbine, a one piece turbine may be used. The blades 1362A and 1362B form a blade pair having the same curvature so that when affixed, each blade pair becomes one blade.

FIG. 14 illustrates turbine outlet plate in accordance with some exemplary embodiments of the invention. The turbine outlet plate 1448 resembles a wheel 1470 with a plurality of spokes 1474. The center of the wheel 1470 has a through hole 1472 for receipt of the drive shaft 198 (FIG. 1). The spokes 1474 create a plurality of opening 1476 for the passage of water therethrough.

While the description above is directed to cleaning kitchens, the system may be used in restaurants, automotive cleaning brushes, animal cleaning brushes, agriculture brushes, etc.

The handle section, valve assembly, turbine assembly, neck, turbine housing, etc. of the water powered brush/sprayer systems described above are made of molded plastic. The drive shaft may be made of non-corrosive metal. The brush bristles may be made of nylon, plastic or metal.

While the present invention has been described with respect to various features, aspects, and embodiments, those skilled and unskilled in the art will recognize the invention is not so limited. Other variations, modifications, and alternative embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A water sprayer assembly comprising:

a handle section having a first end coupleable to a water source and a second end and a trigger;

a sprayer nozzle attachment removably attached to the second end, the sprayer nozzle attachment configured to spray water from the handle section into a plurality of streams; and

a brush and sprayer cleaning attachment removable attached to the second end, the brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a water powered turbine assembly and a spinnable brush, the spinnable brush being rotated by the water powered turbine assembly and the brush and sprayer cleaning attachment simultaneously spraying water communicated through said handle section in the direction of said spinnable brush in response to the trigger.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein said handle section includes a water communication channel configured to communicate water from said first end to said second end, the water communication channel being aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle section.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein said sprayer nozzle attachment includes:

a elbow conduit configured to direct the water in a direction which is at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle section, the elbow conduit includes a first end removable coupled to the second end of the handle section and an outlet end; and

a sprayer plate coupled to the outlet end, the plate having a plurality of apertures formed therein to create the plurality of streams.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the brush and sprayer attachment includes a first end and an outlet end, the first end being removable coupled to the second end of the handle section; and the brush include bristles, a shaft to which the bristles are attached to the outlet end.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a neck, a brush drive shaft and a brush with a plurality of brush bristles, wherein the neck includes a base configured to house therein at least a portion of the water powered turbine assembly and the neck configured to attach to the handle section.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the neck is an elongated neck and the plurality of brush bristles are configured to clean a garbage disposal.

7. The system according to claim 5, wherein the neck is an elongated neck and the plurality of brush bristles are configured to clean a bottle, glass, or vase.

8. The system according to claim 5, wherein the neck is a short neck and the plurality of brush bristles are configured to clean a dishes, pots or other items.

9. The system according to claim 5, wherein the handle section includes a turbine housing having water jet conduits configured to produce jetted streams of water in the direction of blades of the turbine assembly to rotate the turbine assembly and the drive shaft connected to the turbine assembly.

10. The system according to claim 5, further comprising a plurality of brush and sprayer cleaning attachments each attachment configured with a different bristle configurations.

11. A water sprayer assembly comprising:

a handle section having a first end coupleable to a water source and a second end and a trigger;

a sprayer nozzle attachment removably attached to the second end, the sprayer nozzle attachment configured to spray water from the handle section into a plurality of streams; and

a plurality of brush and sprayer cleaning attachments, each brush and sprayer cleaning attachment is removable attached to the second end and includes a water powered turbine assembly and a spinnable brush, the spinnable brush being rotated by the water powered turbine assembly and the brush and sprayer cleaning attachment simultaneously spraying water communicated through said handle section in the direction of said spinnable brush in response to the trigger.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein said handle section includes a water communication channel configured to communicate water from said first end to said second end, the water communication channel being aligned with a longitudinal axis of the handle section.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein said sprayer nozzle attachment includes:

a elbow conduit configured to direct the water in a direction which is at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle section, the elbow conduit includes a first end removable coupled to the second end of the handle section and an outlet end; and

a sprayer plate coupled to the outlet end, the plate having a plurality of apertures formed therein to create the plurality of streams.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein said each brush and sprayer attachment includes a first end and an outlet end, the first end being removable coupled to the second end of the handle section; and the brush include bristles, a shaft to which the bristles are attached to the outlet end.

15. The system according to claim 11, wherein said each brush and sprayer cleaning attachment includes a neck, a brush drive shaft and a brush with a plurality of brush bristles, wherein the neck includes a base configured to house therein at least a portion of the water powered turbine assembly and the neck configured to attach to the handle section.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein the neck is an elongated neck and the plurality of brush bristles are configured to clean a garbage disposal.

17. The system according to claim 15, wherein the neck is an elongated neck and the plurality of brush bristles are configured to clean a bottle, glass, or vase.

18. The system according to claim 15, wherein the neck is a short neck and the plurality of brush bristles are configured to clean a dishes, pots or other items.

19. The system according to claim 15, wherein the handle section includes a turbine housing having water jet conduits configured to produce jetted streams of water in the direction of blades of the turbine assembly to rotate the turbine assembly and the drive shaft connected to the turbine assembly.