BRUSH CLEANING DEVICE

Abstract

A self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device, having a top cover and a bottom cover; a support plate; a clean water reservoir pump; a dirty water reservoir pump; a microprocessor with a storage; a motor; a clean and a dirty water reservoir; one or more than one brush holder support; a carrier plate; a motor wheel; a working tank; a bristle pad; a carrier beam; and one or more than one brush holder. The device is used to automatically clean the cosmetic brush using a preset or random pattern set by a user either wired or wirelessly.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to cosmetic brushes and more specifically to is a self-cleaning, table-top, brush cleaning device, that simulates hand washing providing a gentle way to clean the brushes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The beauty industry has current annual sales of over $55 billion. The average purchaser spends over $15,000 on beauty products in a lifetime. A large portion of this expenditure is for cosmetic/makeup brushes. However, brush users have not been educated on the importance of and the benefits to cleaning their brushes. Many users rarely clean their brushes, to the detriment of their own skin, and appearance. As cosmetic/makeup users use the products they purchase to improve their appearance, the demand for makeup and different tools to apply makeup has exploded on the market. Some uses include covering blemishes, evening skin tone, volumnizing eyelashes, glossing lips, and each of these applications use a different type of brush.

An average user that wears makeup uses about 4 different brush applicators per day. Most users, over 72%, do not wash these brushes between applications. This leads to an accumulation of bacteria on the brush. Bacteria can accumulate from the cosmetic product itself, oils from skin, dirt from hands, and depending on how one stores them, the built-up toxins from the surrounding area. For example, most makeup and brushes are stored in a bathroom where bacteria and other potentially harmful substances can easily collect on the brushes.

A recent single month long study tested the accumulation of bacteria found on makeup brushes. By the end of the one-month study, the bacteria count on the brushes tested had increased to a number that was too high to be measured. Therefore, it is essential to regularly remove as much of the germs and bacteria from the brushes as possible to avoid problems like persistent irritation and sparse eyelashes.

There have been attempts to provide a way to clean these brushes. For example, the Lilumia Makeup Brush Cleaner uses a plastic tray that vibrates back and forth to clean the brush bristles. However, the machine is extremely large, cumbersome, expensive and is not user friendly. The Brush Medic and Brush Medic Pro comprise a makeup brush drier and sanitizer, that holds 6-24 brushes and uses wipes to clean the brushes. Disadvantageously, the wipes will tend to move the bacteria and germs around the brush while only removing a minimal amount of the harmful substances. It is known that brushes require saturation with a solution to effectively dissolve product, built up makeup and to effectively disinfect the brush. Additionally, the cost of the Brush Medic devices is prohibitive to a majority of users. The Brush Pearl is a small size automatic washing machine for makeup brushes. However, the device is a sonic jewelry cleaning machine with added plastic pieces to hold brushes. Although useful for the jewelry it was meant to clean, it can damage the brushes due to the rapid vibrations of the water, reducing the useful life of the brush and therefore costing the user more money for replacement brushes. All of these products fall short of an effective, gentle, thorough way to clean and sanitize cosmetic/makeup brush applicators.

Therefore, there is a need for a self-cleaning, table-top, brush cleaning device, that simulates hand washing providing a gentle way to clean the brushes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes the limitations of the prior art by providing a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device. The device comprises a top cover and a bottom cover, a support plate, a clean water reservoir pump, a dirty water reservoir pump, a microprocessor with a storage, a motor, a clean water reservoir, a dirty water reservoir, one or more than one brush holder support, a carrier plate, a motor wheel is connected to the motor and operably connected to the carrier plate, a working tank, a bristle pad, a carrier beam and one or more than one brush holder. The top cover also has an access opening for inserting brushes to be cleaned. The support plate also comprises a clean water reservoir pocket, one or more than one attachment point for connecting the one or more than one brush holder support, a working tank pocket and a dirty water reservoir pocket where each one is integrated in the support plate. The carrier plate has a clean water inlet, a dirty water outlet and one or more than one orbit mechanism bearing attachment point attached to the carrier plate. The orbit wheel has a connection to the carrier plate and a connection to the support plate. The bristle pad comprises one or more than one bristle made of anti-bacterial material, such as, for example, silicone, copper, silver, peptides, chitosan, titanium, photoactive pigments, and anti-fouling coatings or other similar materials and coatings that inhibit the growth of bacteria in and out of water. Additionally, the bristle pad can be made with anti-bacterial material with a pattern for simulating hand washing. The working tank has a clean water inlet and a dirty water outlet. Each outlet in the working tank is connected to a clean water pump and a dirty water pump using a nipple and a check valve. The carrier beam has one or more than one brush holder slot for attaching one or more than one brush holder. The brush holder support beam also has a carrier beam attachment slot for attaching the carrier beam. The brush holder comprise a T-connector for connecting the one or more than one brush holder to the carrier beam, a flexible member and an upper brush holder support and a lower brush holder support, where each support has an indent for holding a brush handle. Additionally, there is a second brush holder support, where the second brush holder support has a T-slot connector, a support arm, a first flexible lateral support and a second flexible lateral support for holding the handle of the brush.

There is also provided a method for using the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device. First, brush holders are placed into the device by sliding them onto the holder rack. Then, the brushes are placed in brush holders by squeezing the upper and lower brush holder support together and then releasing the upper and lower brush holder support. Next, the brush holder rack is inserted into the support where brush bristles rest on the bristle pad. Then, clean water is added to the clean water reservoir. Next, the dirty water reservoir is emptied and cleaned. Then, cleaning solution is added to the working tank. Next, the lid is placed on the device. Then, a start button is pressed. Next, the lid is removed after a cleaning cycle. Then, the entire brush holder rack is removed by pulling it upward. Next, the brush holder is placed into the brush holder rack letting the brushes air dry. Then, the dirty water reservoir is removed. Next, the dirty water is dumped into a drain. Then, the working tank and the bristle pad are removed. Next, the working tank, bristle pad and dirty water reservoir are washed. Finally, the device is reassembled for another use.

There is also provided, a method for operating a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device, by first providing the device comprising a processor and executing code stored on a storage device on the processor. The code comprises instructions for 1) starting the device operation with a cleaning pattern; 2) cleaning the brushes for a first time period; 3) automatically pumping dirty water out of the working tank into dirty water reservoir; 4) automatically pumping clean water into the working tank from the clean water reservoir; 5) rinsing the brushes for a second time period; 6) automatically pumping dirty water out of the working tank into the dirty water reservoir; and 7) stopping the orbit motion. The executed code further comprises instructions for receiving wired, wireless or both wired and wireless commands to set the orbit motion to a preset cleaning pattern optimized for cleaning a specific brush type or a random pattern for cleaning the brushes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying figures where:

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 2 is a diagram of a top view of the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 3 is a diagram of an exploded perspective view of the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 4 is a diagram of a front exploded view of the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a perspective view of the support plate useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 6 is a diagram of a perspective view of a carrier plate useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 7 is a diagram of an orbit wheel useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 8 is a diagram of a bristle pad useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 9 is a diagram of a second bristle pad with a pattern useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 10 is a diagram of a working tank useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 11 is a diagram of a perspective view of a clean water tank;

FIG. 12 is a diagram of a top view of the clean water tank of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a diagram of a perspective view of a dirty water tank;

FIG. 14 is a diagram of a top view of the dirty water tank of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a diagram of a carrier beam useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device;

FIG. 16 is a diagram of a beam support;

FIG. 17 is a diagram of a close up view of one or more than one brush holder;

FIG. 18 is a diagram of a second brush holder support;

FIG. 19 is a flowchart diagram of some steps of a method for using a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device; and

FIG. 20 is a flowchart diagram of some steps of a method for operating a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention overcomes the limitations of the current art by providing a self-cleaning, table-top, brush cleaning device, that simulates hand washing providing a gentle way to clean the brushes. As can be appreciated, having clean brushes will help keep skin break-out free, allow more color pay off with cosmetics, make the hefty investment price tag of brushes go further, reduce skin irritation, stave off harmful eye and skin infections, keep pores clean and many other health benefits. The average woman owns 8-10 brushes, having spent an average of $13 on each. $150 for a set of 10 brushes that generally last one to two years. The present invention will not only extend the life of brushes, but will result in immediate benefits to skin and appearance. Using this device to clean brushes will save consumers money on skin care products and procedures necessitated by the use of unclean brushes.

Cosmetic and makeup professionals that use the device will be confident that their tools are safe and sanitized for each and every one of their clients. They will know that they are providing the cleanest brushes possible for the best application and results for the client. Additionally, the pain-staking, time-consuming process of cleaning each individual brush by hand is eliminated. By using this device, time and money are saved, clients are better served, and the process is automated.

Additionally, it is contemplated that the device can be operated remotely using a remote control, or a smart phone, tablet or computer. This allows professionals and non-professionals alike to operate multiple devices in different locations, or to check the status or a cleaning cycle. The device can send alerts, such as an audible alert, a visual alert or a message to let a user know that the cleaning is complete.

All dimensions specified in this disclosure are by way of example only and are not intended to be limiting. Further, the proportions shown in these Figures are not necessarily to scale. As will be understood by those with skill in the art with reference to this disclosure, the actual dimensions and proportions of any system, any device or part of a system or device disclosed in this disclosure will be determined by its intended use.

Systems, methods and devices that implement the embodiments of the various features of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings and the associated descriptions are provided to illustrate embodiments of the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention. Reference in the specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” is intended to indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least an embodiment of the invention. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” or “an embodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Throughout the drawings, reference numbers are re-used to indicate correspondence between referenced elements. In addition, the first digit of each reference number indicates the figure where the element first appears.

As used in this disclosure, except where the context requires otherwise, the term “comprise” and variations of the term, such as “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised” are not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers or steps.

In the following description, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific detail. Well-known circuits, structures and techniques may not be shown in detail in order not to obscure the embodiments. For example, circuits may be shown in block diagrams in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail.

Also, it is noted that the embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. The flowcharts and block diagrams in the figures can illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer programs according to various embodiments disclosed. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of code that can comprise one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the figures. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination corresponds to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function. Additionally, each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

Moreover, a storage may represent one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk storage mediums, optical storage mediums, flash memory devices and/or other non-transitory machine readable mediums for storing information. The term “machine readable medium” includes, but is not limited to portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, wireless channels and various other non-transitory mediums capable of storing, comprising, containing, executing or carrying instruction(s) and/or data.

Furthermore, embodiments may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, middleware, microcode, or a combination thereof. When implemented in software, firmware, middleware or microcode, the program code or code segments to perform the necessary tasks may be stored in a machine-readable medium such as a storage medium or other storage(s). One or more than one processor may perform the necessary tasks in series, distributed, concurrently or in parallel. A code segment may represent a procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a subroutine, a module, a software package, a class, or a combination of instructions, data structures, or program statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or transmitted through a suitable means including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc. and are also referred to as an interface, where the interface is the point of interaction with software, or computer hardware, or with peripheral devices.

In the following description, certain terminology is used to describe certain features of one or more embodiments of the invention.

The term “cosmetic brush” refers to any type of makeup, cosmetic or beauty brush used to apply makeup or other medical or nonmedical substances or products used to enhance appearance. As will be understood by those with skill in the art, the brushes are not limited to human use.

Various embodiments provide a self-cleaning, table-top, brush cleaning device, that simulates hand washing providing a gentle way to clean the brushes. One embodiment of the present invention provides a self-cleaning, table-top, brush cleaning device, that simulates hand washing providing a gentle way to clean the brushes. In another embodiment, there is provided a method for using the device. The device and method will now be disclosed in detail.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a diagram of a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. As can be seen, the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100 comprises a top cover 102 and a bottom cover 104.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a diagram of a top view 200 of the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device. Additionally, the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100 has an access opening 202 in the top cover 102 so that brushes can be inserted into the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100 for cleaning.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, there is shown a diagram of an exploded perspective view 300 and a front exploded view 400 of the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device. The self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100 comprises many parts inside the top cover 102 and the bottom cover 104. Attached to the bottom cover 104 there is a support plate 310. Attached to the support plate 310 are a clean water reservoir pump 312 and a dirty water reservoir pump 314. A microprocessor 416 and a motor 414 are also attached to the support plate 310. A clean water reservoir 306 and a dirty water reservoir 308 are located on top of the support plate 310. Additionally, one or more than one brush holder support 304 are connected to the support plate 310. A motor wheel 412 is connected to the motor 414 and operably connected to the carrier plate 406. A working tank 404 sits on top of the carrier plate 406. A bristle pad 402 is attached to the carrier plate 406 through the working tank 404. A carrier beam 401 is attached to the one or more than one brush holder support 304. Finally, One or more than one brush holder 302 are supported by the one or more than one brush holder support 304.

The support plate 310 is used to mount the other components of the device 100. Each of the components can be easily removed from the support plate 310 and the device 100 for cleaning, or in case of damage, replacement with a new component. The clean water reservoir pump 312 and the dirty water reservoir pump 314 are attached onto the support plate 310 to the clean water reservoir 306 and dirty water reservoir 308 respectively. The clean water reservoir 306 and dirty water reservoir 308 are removable, so there are specific quick release hose attachments that are known in the art to connect the pumps 312 and 314 to the reservoirs 306 and 308. The microprocessor 416 and the motor 414 are also connected to the support plate 310. The microprocessor 416 controls the motor 414 and the microprocessor 416 can be programmed to provide a variety of motor speeds and time to better simulate hand washing the brushes. The motor wheel 412 is attached to the motor 414 and comprises various connectors that will move the carrier plate 406 to clean the brushes. The working tank 404 is connected to the carrier plate 406 and is removable for cleaning or replacement as needed. The bristle pad 402 is attached to the bottom of the working tank 404 to provide the agitation for cleaning the brushes. The one or more than one brush holder support 304 is also attached to the support plate 310

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a diagram of a perspective view 500 of the support plate useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device. The support plate 310 comprises a clean water reservoir pocket 502, one or more than one attachment point for the one or more than one brush holder support 504, a working tank pocket 506 and a dirty water reservoir pocket 508. As described above, the support plate 310 is the base connecting support for the remaining components of the device 100 except for the top cover 102 and the bottom cover 104. The support plate 310 provides all the indents and holds

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a diagram of a perspective view 600 of a carrier plate 406 useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. The carrier plate 406 comprises a clean water inlet 602, a dirty water outlet 604 and one or more than one orbit mechanism bearing attachment point 606, 608 and 610. The clean water inlet 602 and the dirty water outlet 604 are used to pass tubes for the clean water reservoir pump 312 and the dirty water reservoir pump 314 from the clean water reservoir 306 and dirty water reservoir 308. The one or more than one orbit mechanism bearing attachment point 606, 608 and 610 are the points where the motor wheel 412 connects the motor 414 to the remaining movable components 404 and 402.

Referring now to FIG. 7, there is shown a diagram of an orbit wheel 700 useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. The orbit wheel 700 comprises a connection to the carrier plate 702 and a connection to the support plate 704. The orbit wheel 700 is used to provide a hand-wash movement for the attached bristle pad by moving the bristle pad 402 in a hand washing motion. By offsetting the connection to the carrier plate 702, the carrier plate 406 is moved in a pattern that simulates hand washing. As will be understood by those will skill in the art with reference to this disclosure, varying the distance of the connection to the carrier plate 702 from the connection to the support plate 704 and the location of the motor wheel 412 will determine the motion and pattern of the carrier plate 406. It is contemplated that a variety of different attachment points 606, 608 and 610 can be configured either by switching out the carrier plate 406, the motor wheel 412 or both. Alternatively, it is contemplated that additional motion control devices can be used to change the pattern of the carrier plate 406 and/or the motor wheel 412 to create different patterns of motion.

Referring now to FIG. 8, there is shown a diagram 800 of the bristle pad 402 useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. There are two openings in the bristle pad 402. A clean water inlet 802 and a dirty water outlet 804 for the bristle pad 402. The clean water inlet 802 for the bristle pad 402 allows clean water from the clean water reservoir 306 to enter into the working tank 404 to clean the one or more than one brush. Once the cleaning is complete, the dirty water outlet 804 allows the unclean water and any cleaning solution used to be automatically extracted from the working tank 404 and stored in the dirty water reservoir 308 for later disposal. In this example one or more than one bristle 806 is shown, however, as will be understood by those will skill in the art with reference to this disclosure, more than bristle is preferable.

Referring now to FIG. 9, there is shown a diagram of a second bristle pad 900 with a pattern useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. As can be seen in this example, a plurality of bristles is arranged in a pattern to clean the one or more than one brush. The pattern can be altered to a variety of styles to provide different clean styles, from a gentle hand wash to a more vigorous cleaning. The height, depth and spacing of the plurality of bristles can also be changed depending upon the cleaning mode desired. Additionally, the bristles can be selected from the group consisting of silicone, rubber, or metal. Preferably, the bristles are silicone.

Referring now to FIG. 10, there is shown a diagram of a working tank 1000 useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. The working tank 1000 has the clean water inlet 1002 and the dirty water outlet 1004. These two inlets 1002 and 1004 are the termination point for hoses that attach the reservoir tanks 306 and 306 to the pumps 312 and 314. The working tank 404 holds water and the optional cleaning solution while the brushes are cleaned. The clean water reservoir pump 312 automatically pumps an amount of clean water into the tank. As multiple cleaning cycles can be programmed into the device 100, the dirty water outlet 1004 that is connected to the dirty water reservoir pump 314 provides the means for the working tank 404 to be automatically emptied into the dirty water reservoir 308 for another round of either rinsing or cleaning the brushes.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, there is shown a diagram of a perspective view 1100 and a top view 1200 of the clean water tank 306. The clean water reservoir 306 comprises a clean water pump connection 1202 that has a quick connect mechanism (not shown) that is known in the art. The clean water reservoir 306 can be easily be removed from the device 100 and filled with water or a water/cleaning solution mixture and placed back on the support plate 310.

Referring now to FIG. 13, there is shown a diagram of a perspective view 1300 and a top view 1400 of the dirty water tank 308. The dirty water reservoir 308 also comprises a quick connect mechanism (not shown), so that the reservoir 308 can be removed and the dirty water disposed of, for example, dumping the dirty water down a drain. Additionally, to prevent any dirty water from contaminating the working tank 404, a check valve 1402 is used so that when the dirty water reservoir pump 314 removes the water from the working tank 404, the dirty water cannot re-enter the cleaning chamber of the working tank 404.

Referring now to FIG. 15, there is shown a diagram 1500 of a carrier beam 401 useful for the self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. As can be seen, the carrier beam 401 comprises one or more than one brush holder slot 1502, 1504, 1506 and 1508. The one or more than one brush holder slot 1502, 1504, 1506 and 1508 are configures so that an opening on a distal end is large enough to fit the T-connector 1702 of the one or more than one brush holder 302. The one or more than one brush holder 302 can then be moved into a secure location on the one or more than one brush holder slot 1502, 1504, 1506 and 1508 so that the T-connector 1702 locks the one or more than one brush holder 302 into place, thus securing the brush into position for cleaning.

Referring now to FIG. 16, there is shown a diagram 1600 of the one or more than one brush holder support 304. The one or more than one brush holder support 304 has a carrier beam 1500 attachment slot 1602 so that the carrier beam 401 can be easily inserted and removed from the device 100. The one or more than one brush holder support 304 is flexible and can be made of durable plastic so that the carrier beam 401 can be readily inserted and removed from the device 100. The support plate 410 attachment clips 1604 and 1606 are used to secure the carrier beam 401 to the support plate 310. In this embodiment, the support plate 410 attachment clips 1604 and 1606 are spring loaded to maintain a secure, rigid connection to the support plate 410 while being easy to remove and/or replace as necessary.

Referring now to FIG. 17, there is shown a diagram of a close up view 1700 of the one or more than one brush holder 302. The one or more than one brush holder 302 comprises a T-connector 1702 connected to a flexible spring member 1704 and a plurality of brush holder supports 1706 and 1708. The flexible spring member 1704 is made of a durable material that provides many uses without losing the ability to hold the brush in place. The plurality of brush holder supports 1706 and 1708 also comprise brush indents that are sized to hold the most common brushes in place. The upper brush holder support 1706 and the lower brush holder support 1708 are moved closer together to insert a brush into the upper brush indent 1710 and the lower brush indent 1712. Once the brush is in place, the user releases the brush older supports 1706 and 1708 causing the flexible spring member 1704 to snap back into its original a non-tensioned position capturing the brush handle in the indents 1710 and 1712. The brush handle can be moved up or down relative to the T-connector 1702 to achieve the proper distance so that the bristles of the brush are in contact with the bristle pad 402. As will be understood by those will skill in the art with reference to this disclosure, many other methods of securing brushes into the device 100 can be constructed.

Referring now to FIG. 18, there is shown a diagram of a second brush holder 1800. In this example, the one or more than one brush holder 302 comprises a different shape and structure for holding the brushes in place for cleaning. The second brush holder support 1800 comprises a T-slot connector 1802 connected to a rigid support arm 1804 and a first flexible lateral support 1806 and a second flexible lateral support 1808. The lateral supports 1806 and 1808 are less flexible than the flexible spring member 1704 contemplated above. The spacing between the lateral supports 1806 and 1808 are slightly smaller than the handle of the brush that it is designed to hold. The user pushes the brush into the second brush holder support 1800 and the lateral supports 1806 and 1808 open just wide enough to allow the brush handle to be placed into position before returning to their original state. Additionally, many brushes have pear shaped handles, where the handle most distal from the bristles is larger than the shaft. The second brush holder support 1800 can also be used to prevent the pear shaped handle from sliding through the lateral supports 1806 and 1808 and dropping into the working tank 404.

The preceding descriptions of the brush holders is not meant to be limiting, but only an exemplar of what can be developed. Other methods and structures for securing the brushes in place for cleaning are contemplated and anticipated by this disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 19, there is shown some steps of a method for using a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device. The method comprises the steps of first, placing brush holders into device 1902 by sliding them onto the holder rack. Then, placing brushes in the brush holders 1904 by squeezing the upper and lower brush holder support together and then releasing them, thereby locking the brush in place using resistance pressure from the upper and lower brush holder support. Next, inserting the brush holder rack into the support 1906 where brush bristles rest on the bristle pad. Then, clean water is added 1908 to the clean water reservoir. Next, the dirty water reservoir is emptied and cleaned 1912. Then, optionally adding 1901 a cleaning solution to the working tank. Next, placing the lid 1914 on the device. Then, a start button is pressed 1916. Next, the lid is removed 1920 after a cleaning cycle. Then, the entire brush holder rack is removed 1922 by pulling it upward. Next, the brush holder is placed 1924 into the brush holder rack to let the brushes air dry. Then, the dirty water reservoir is removed 1926. Next, the dirty water in the dirty water reservoir is dumped 1928 into a drain. Then, the working tank and the bristle pad are removed 1930 from the device. Next, the working tank, bristle pad and dirty water reservoir are washed 1932. Finally, the device is reassembled 1934 for another use.

Referring now to FIG. 20, there is shown a flowchart diagram of some steps of a method for operating a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device 100. The method comprising the steps of first, providing 2002 the device 100. Then, executing code 2004 stored on a storage device on the processor for cleaning the brushes. The code comprises instructions for first starting 2006 the device operation with a cleaning pattern. Then, cleaning 2008 the brushes for a first time period. Next, automatically pumping 2010 dirty water out of the working tank into dirty water reservoir. Then, automatically pumping 2012 clean water into the working tank from the clean water reservoir. Next, rinsing 2014 the brushes for a second time period to remove any remaining debris and cleaning solution, if used. Then, automatically pumping 2016 the dirty water out of the working tank and into the dirty water reservoir away from the brushes. Finally, the orbital motion is stopped 2018 so as not to damage the bristles. Alternatively, the device can be configured to receive wired, wireless or both wired and wireless commands that can be used to execute instructions for to set the orbit motion to a preset cleaning pattern optimized for cleaning a specific brush type, or to a random pattern to better simulate hand washing.

What has been described is a new and improved self-cleaning, table-top, brush cleaning device, that simulates hand washing providing a gentle way to clean the brushes, overcoming the limitations and disadvantages inherent in the related art.

Although the present invention has been described with a degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made by way of example and that other versions are possible. As various changes could be made in the above description without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be illustrative and not used in a limiting sense. The spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained in this disclosure.

All features disclosed in the specification, including the claims, abstracts, and drawings, and all the steps in any method or process disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in the specification, including the claims, abstract, and drawings, can be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means” for performing a specified function or “step” for performing a specified function should not be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. § 112.

Claims

1. A self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device, the device comprising:

a) a top cover;

b) a bottom cover attached to the top cover;

c) a support plate attached to the bottom cover;

d) a clean water reservoir pump attached to the support plate;

e) a dirty water reservoir pump attached to the support plate;

f) a microprocessor with a storage attached to the support plate;

g) a motor attached to the support plate;

h) a clean water reservoir attached to the support plate;

i) dirty water reservoir attached to the support plate;

j) one or more than one brush holder support is connected to the support plate;

k) a carrier plate is connected to the support plate;

l) a motor wheel is connected to the motor and operably connected to the carrier plate;

m) a working tank is operably connected to the carrier plate;

n) a bristle pad is attached to the carrier plate;

o) a carrier beam is attached to the one or more than one brush holder support; and

p) one or more than one brush holder is connected to the carrier beam.

2. The device of claim 1, where the top cover further comprises an access opening for inserting brushes to be cleaned.

3. The device of claim 1, where the support plate comprises:

a) a clean water reservoir pocket;

b) one or more than one attachment point for connecting the one or more than one brush holder support integrated in the support plate;

c) a working tank pocket integrated in the support plate; and

d) a dirty water reservoir pocket integrated in the support plate.

4. The device of claim 1, where the carrier plate comprises:

a) a clean water inlet attached to the carrier plate;

b) a dirty water outlet attached to the carrier plate; and

c) one or more than one orbit mechanism bearing attachment point attached to the carrier plate.

5. The device of claim 1, where the orbit wheel comprises a connection to the carrier plate and a connection to the support plate.

6. The device of claim 1, where the bristle pad comprises one or more than one bristle made of anti-bacterial material.

7. The device of claim 1, where the bristle pad comprises one or more than one bristle consisting of anti-bacterial coating material selected from the group consisting of silicone, copper, silver, peptides, chitosan, titanium, photoactive pigments, and anti-fouling coatings.

8. The device of claim 1, where the bristle pad comprises one or more than one bristle made of consisting of anti-bacterial material with a pattern for simulating hand washing.

9. The device of claim 1, where the working tank comprises a clean water inlet for the working tank and a dirty water outlet for the working tank.

10. The device of claim 1, where the clean water tank further comprises a clean water pump connection.

11. The device of claim 1, where the dirty water tank comprises a dirty water pump connection nipple and a check valve.

12. The device of claim 1, where a carrier beam comprises one or more than one brush holder slot for attaching one or more than one brush holder.

13. The device of claim 1, where the one or more than one brush holder support beam support further comprises a carrier beam attachment slot for attaching the carrier beam.

14. The device of claim 1, where the one or more than one brush holder comprises:

a) a T-connector for connecting the one or more than one brush holder to the carrier beam;

b) a flexible member connected to the T-connector; and

c) an upper brush holder support and a lower brush holder support connected to the T-connector, where the upper brush holder support and the lower brush holder support each comprise an indent for holding a brush handle.

15. The device of claim 1 further comprising a second brush holder support.

16. The device of claim 15, where the second brush holder support comprises:

a) a T-slot connector connectable to the carrier beam;

b) a support arm connected to the T-slot connector;

c) a first flexible lateral support connected to the support arm; and

d) a second flexible lateral support connected to the support arm;

17. A method for using a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device, the method comprising the steps of:

a) Placing brush holders into a device by sliding them onto the holder rack;

b) Placing brushes in brush holders by squeezing the upper and lower brush holder support together and then releasing the upper and lower brush holder support;

c) inserting the brush holder rack into the support where brush bristles rest on the bristle pad;

d) adding clean water to the clean water reservoir;

e) emptying and cleaning the dirty water reservoir;

f) adding cleaning solution to the working tank;

g) placing the lid on the device;

h) pressing a start button;

i) removing the lid after a cleaning cycle;

j) removing the entire brush holder rack by pulling it upward;

k) placing the brush holder into the brush holder rack letting the brushes air dry;

l) removing the dirty water reservoir;

m) dumping the dirty water into a drain;

n) removing the working tank and the bristle pad;

o) washing the working tank, bristle pad and dirty water reservoir; and

p) reassembling the device for another use.

18. A method for operating a self-contained cosmetic brush cleaning device, the method comprising the steps of:

a) providing the device of claim 1; and

b) executing code stored on a storage device on the processor, where the code comprises instructions for: 1) starting the device operation with a cleaning pattern; 2) cleaning the brushes for a first time period; 3) automatically pumping dirty water out of the working tank into dirty water reservoir; 4) automatically pumping clean water into the working tank from the clean water reservoir; 5) rinsing the brushes for a second time period; 6) automatically pumping dirty water out of the working tank into the dirty water reservoir; and 7) stopping the orbit motion.

19. The method of claim 18, where the step of executing code further comprises instructions for receiving wired, wireless or both wired and wireless commands to set the orbit motion to a preset cleaning pattern optimized for cleaning a specific brush type.

20. The method of claim 18, where the step of executing code further comprises instructions for receiving wired, wireless or both wired and wireless commands to set the orbit motion to a random pattern.