Two Handed Nail Cleaner
A hand and nail cleaning device, comprising a base and a body mounted on the base. The body comprises a plurality of bristles that are accessible to both hands of a user during use. The base has a footprint or span greater than a footprint or span of the body in at least one dimension. One or more fixing means are disposed on the base to attach the device to a surface.
This invention relates to a two handed nail cleaner.
BACKGROUNDPersonal hygiene is an essential part of one's daily routine that has been made easier by the many different cleaning products available today. Hands and fingers are particularly important where hygiene is concerned as they are frequently in contact with food, mobile phones, computers and anything else one touches, making them prone to gathering and spreading germs. Fingernail ends especially, harbour bacteria, debris and dirt which is difficult to clean unless using a nail brush.
Existing nail cleaning means such as nail brushes can typically only be used on one hand at a time, as the other hand is used to hold the brush itself. Nail cleaning using existing means is laborious and time consuming.
The present invention has been devised with the foregoing in mind.
SUMMARYAccording to a first aspect, there is provided a hand and nail cleaning device. The device comprises a base. The device also comprises a body or brush portion mounted on the base. The body or brush portion comprises a plurality of bristles that are accessible to both hands of a user during use. The base has a footprint or span greater than a footprint or span of the body or brush portion in at least one dimension. One or more fixing means are disposed on the base to attach the device to a surface.
Advantageously, the base may enable the device to be secured in place to a surface while supporting the body to enable the bristles to be accessed by both hands of a user simultaneously. That may improve efficiency and reduce a time for a user to clean both hands, by enabling a user to clean both hands simultaneously without needing to hold the device. In addition, the greater footprint or span of the base may enable the device to remain stable during use, by preventing or minimising lateral movement of the body in response to forces applied by a user during cleaning, to improve ease of cleaning of a user's hands and nails. The fixing means may also enable the device to be mounted or secured to a surface in any suitable orientation for use, for example horizontally, vertically or diagonally. The fixing means may enable the device to be mounted on any suitable surface including but not limited to a sink, hand washbasin, bath, shower wall or shower screen.
The footprint or span of the body or brush portion may not include the bristles. The body or brush portion may comprise a core from which the bristles extend. The footprint or span of the body or brush portion may be a footprint or span of the core.
The base may be configured to elevate or spatially separate the body or brush portion from the surface on which the fixing means are attached. That may allow access for the fingers and thumbs of both hands simultaneously whilst minimising contact of a user's hands with the surface the device is attached to (for example a sink, hand washbasin, bath, shower wall, shower screen) where a user's hands would otherwise make unnecessary contact. That may also improve hygiene by reducing or preventing contact with potentially unsanitary surfaces during cleaning.
The base may have a footprint or span greater than a footprint or span of the body or brush portion in a direction substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of body or brush portion or a primary direction of movement of a user's hands during cleaning (for example, a width greater than a width of the body or brush portion). That may provide increased stability to the device during use.
The base may also have a footprint or span smaller than a footprint or span of the body or brush portion in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the body or brush portion or a primary direction of movement of a user's hands during cleaning (for example, a length smaller than a length of the body or brush portion). That may enable the device to be compact and easily attached to surfaces in smaller spaces (for example, smaller sinks or hand washbasins) in any suitable position or orientation, without impacting on a stability of the device during use. The compact size of the base aligns with current hygiene guidelines which state that in commercial kitchens or environments, hands and fingernails must only be cleaned in hand washbasins which are generally small in size.
The body or brush portion may comprise two surfaces. Each surface may comprise a plurality of bristles. The two surfaces may be substantially opposite one another, for example such that the bristles of the respective surfaces extend outward in substantially opposite directions away from one another.
The body or brush portion may comprise at least one substantially cylindrical brush. The at least one substantially cylindrical brush may fully or partially be or comprise a curved, tapered, tiered, stepped or conical shape. The at least one substantially cylindrical brush may be configured to rotate, for example about a central or longitudinal axis. The at least one substantially cylindrical brush may be configured to freely rotate, or may be configured to rotate through only part of a full rotation (for example, configured to rotate less than 360°). That may enable substantially all of the bristles to be used, preventing wear and increasing longevity of the device. The at least one substantially cylindrical brush may be configured to rotate passively (such as in response to manual interaction of a user with the brush), for example the brush may comprise a bearing mechanism enabling rotation.
Alternatively, the at least one substantially cylindrical brush may be configured to be driven by a mechanism. The device may comprise any suitable mechanism for causing rotation, for example, a motor configured to drive spindle or axle, one or more cogs, gears, belts etc.
The body or brush portion may comprise a pair of substantially cylindrical brushes. The substantially cylindrical brushes may be configured to contra-rotate (rotate in opposite directions to one another). That may ensure any splash, spray or debris is dispersed in substantially one or the same direction (for example, downwards or towards a plug hole or drain) to minimise mess during use.
The device may be configured to cause the body or brush portion, or the bristles of the body or brush portion, to oscillate, vibrate, rotate or agitate in use. That may enable the hands and nails of a user to be cleaned with no or minimal hand movement, further improving efficiency of cleaning, and may be particularly useful for a user suffering from restricted dexterity (for example, due to arthritis, neurological disorders or impairments, or a hand injury/condition). The device may comprise or be connectable to a power source configured to provide power to cause the bristles to move. The power source may be or comprise any suitable power source, for example a battery, mains or USB electrical connection, a spring or winding element, a hydraulic connection (for example, connecting to a mains water supply via a tap). The power source may be disposed within the base. The device may further comprise a switch or sensor configured to activate the power source.
The one or more fixing means may comprise suction cups. The suction cup(s) may have or comprise a stabilizer to prevent or reduce movement of the suction cup during cleaning. The stabilizer may be or comprise a rigid element, for example a rigid ring or washer). The rigid element may be positioned at or near a neck of the suction cup.
Alternatively, or additionally, the one more fixing means may comprise any suitable fixing means, for example magnets, clamps, adhesive, ties, screw and/or hooks. The fixing means may be integral to the base, or may releasably attachable to the base. The one or more fixing means may be disposed on an outer portion or adjacent an outer edge of the base. That may further improve stability during use.
The one or more fixing means may be configured to attach into or around an aperture or recess such as a drain, plug hole, overflow hole, tap, spout, drain pipe etc. Most plugholes comprise a disc plate with a series of holes through which water drains. It may be on or through such a disc plate that the fixing means may be fixed to attach the device whilst still allowing water to drain through. The one or more fixing means may comprise a plurality of arms, legs, prongs or claws configured to be inserted into or gripped or clamped around an aperture or recess to attach the device to a surface. The one or more fixing means may be or comprise a clamp mechanism. The one or more fixing means may be adjustable to secure or release the fixing means to or from the aperture or recess. For example, the one or more fixing means may each comprise a screw collar to adjust (for example, tighten or loosen) the fixing means. One or more of the arms, legs, prongs or claws may comprise a resilient material, for example rubber or another polymeric or elastomeric material. The resilient material may be configured to grip onto the aperture or recess to improve attachment of the one or more fixing means to the aperture or recess.
The base may comprise one or more struts or legs on which the one or more fixing means are disposed. The one or more struts or legs may be connected to the body or brush portion. The struts or legs may act to elevate the body or brush portion for easier access whilst retaining the stability of the device provided by the base. That may also provide an increased span or footprint of the base whilst minimising an amount of material needed. The device may further comprise a supporting rib connecting the struts or legs. The supporting rib may further improve the stability of the device during use. The supporting rib may also act to prevent distortion of the device, particularly the struts, during a post-moulding or cooling process (for example, if the device is formed by a moulding process such as injection moulding).
The base may comprise a substantially planar structure (for example a plate). The planar base may comprise one or more extended sections or protrusions in a plan of the planar structure. That may also provide an increased span or footprint of the base whilst minimising an amount of material needed. The one or more fixing means may be disposed on the one or more protrusions.
The device may comprise one or more struts or legs connecting the base and the body or brush portion. The strut or leg may have a smaller span than the base and/or the body or brush portion. The strut or leg may be disposed substantially centrally on one or both of the base and the body or brush portion. That may enable a user to easily grip around the strut or leg to handle the device (for example, to attach or remove the device from a surface) while still enabling the base to have a greater span or footprint to provide stability during use.
The one or more fixing means may be secured to the base, for example using a nut and a bolt, and optionally a washer. Alternatively, the one or more fixing means and the base may comprise complementary engaging features configured to secure the fixing means to the base. The one or more fixing means may comprise a shaped portion configured to be received by a recess or aperture in the base. The shaped portion may comprise a flared or cone shaped portion. The flared or cone shaped portion may permit the shaped portion to pass into the recess or through the aperture in one direction to secure the one or more fixing means to the base, but may substantially prevent or resist travel in the opposite direction to ensure the one or more fixing means are secured to the base. The shaped portion may be made from or comprise a resilient material. The resilient material may be configured to deform to enable the flared or cone shaped portion to pass into the recess or through the aperture in the base. The recess or aperture may be configured to assist or ease travel of the shaped portion in one direction but prevent or resist travel of the shaped portion through the recess or aperture in the opposite direction. For example, the recess or aperture may comprise an angled wall on a first side of the recess or aperture, configured to ease passage of the flared or cone shaped portion in one direction.
The plurality of bristles may comprise bristles of varying diameter and/or stiffness and/or length and/or angle. That may enable the device to provide ergonomic and efficient means for cleaning fingers and thumbs and nails of a user.
The base may be configured to be used as a handle such that the user can grip the base. That may enable the device to be used as a conventional one handed nail brush if necessary. For example, the base may comprise a space or gap, such as between one or more struts, legs or protrusions of the base, in which a user's hand may be received to grasp the base.
The device may comprise one or more pointed ridges or nail picks. The one or more ridges or nail picks may extend or protrude from the body or brush portion and/or the base. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more ridges or nail picks may be disposed or embedded in a recess in the device such that the ridges or nail picks are accessible but do not protrude or extend from the device. That may improve ease of use and avoid discomfort when handling the device. A ridge or nail pick may be disposed on opposing ends of the body or brush portion. Additionally or alternatively, a ridge or nail pick may be disposed or positioned on a surface of the body or brush portion comprising the bristles.
The device may comprise an internal hollow or void to receive liquid. The device may further comprise at least one opening (for example, a hole or channel) through which the liquid in the void can be dispensed to the hands of a user. That may enable the brush to provide soap, sanitiser, detergent, water etc. to a user while cleaning. That may improve cleaning and hygiene for a user and also may enable the bristles or the device to be cleaned simultaneously.
The device may comprise a spray guard. The spray guard may be configured to shield a user from spray, splash and debris during use. The spray guard may be positioned such that the plurality of bristles can still be accessed by the user. If the body or brush portion and/or the bristles are configured to rotate, the body or brush portion and/or the bristles may be configured to rotate relative to the spray guard such that any spray is directed away from a user. The spray guard may also be configured to act as a soap dish or storage shelf or cradle, for example to receive soap, shower gel or other products. The spray guard may be configured to act as a soap dish or storage shelf or cradle when the device is oriented substantially vertically in use (for example, the one or fixing means are attached to a substantially vertical surface such as a shower wall or screen). One or more parts of the device may be made from or comprise natural and/or biodegradable and/or compostable and/or recyclable materials. The material may be or comprise wood.
At least one of the base and the body or brush portion may be weighted (for example, relative to the remainder of the device). That may provide additional stability during use.
The body or brush portion may be releasably attachable to the base. That may enable the body or brush portion to be removed and replaced when worn. The body or brush portion may be releasably attachable to the base via any suitable mechanism, for example a sprung catch, complimentary screw threads, tongue and groove etc. Alternatively, the body or brush portion may be integral with the base.
According to a second aspect, there is provided a base for supporting or mounting a brush. The base is configured to receive or have mounted on it at least one brush, for example a two-sided brush, such that bristles of the at least one brush are accessible to both hands of a user during use. The base has a footprint or span greater than a footprint or span of the brush in at least one dimension. One or more fixing means are disposed on the base to attach the base to a surface. The base may be the base of the device of the first aspect.
The base may act as a substantially universal bracket for holding one or more standard nail brushes (for example two standard nail brushes).
The base may comprise a first portion configured to receive or have mounted on it at least one brush. The base may comprise a second portion on which the one or more fixing means are disposed. The second portion may have a footprint or span greater than a footprint or span of the first portion in at least one dimension.
The base may comprise a releasable attachment or locking mechanism to allow the at least one brush to be secured to and released from the base.
Features which are described in the context of separate aspects and embodiments of the present invention may be used together and/or be interchangeable wherever possible. Similarly, where features are described in the context of a single embodiment for brevity, those features may also be provided separately or in any sub-combination. Features described in connection with the device of the first aspect may have corresponding features definable with respect to the base of the second aspect, and vice versa, and those embodiments are specifically envisaged.
The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the following drawings, in which:
A two handed nail cleaner is a device comprising a brush that is elevated by an extended base with fixing means located at the lower base for attaching the device securely to any surface or object and where the device provides cleaning means for finger and thumb nails of both hands simultaneously thus saving time and improving efficiency. The extended base elevates the brush that a minimum brush area is provided to minimise material usage and cost whilst still providing ample brush area and unrestricted access for cleaning finger and thumb nails effectively. Unrestricted access relates to potential contact of hands with any surface or part of a sink or shower. In the main example, a two handed nail cleaner is a device comprising a double sided brush that is elevated by an extended base with fixing means in the form of four suction cups, one positioned at each corner of the lower base, where the lower base width is of a span that provides stability of the device during use. The lower base can also be termed the outer base depending on the orientation of the device when used vertically, horizontally or diagonally on or in a shower wall/screen, hand washbasin, sink or bath. The legs, walls or struts that elevate the brush head and/or extend the base, are positioned beneath and within the ends of the brush head and extend to the base which is compact to allow the device to be attached to and used in any small sink or hand basin and of any shape including curved, angled or flat. The elevated brush allows access to and free movement of both hands when finger and thumb nails are scrubbed against the brush and without any obstruction or unnecessary contact with the sink bowl, bath or shower wall/screen surface or any parts of the sink, bath or shower. The hands and fingers are usually bent during cleaning and therefore the knuckles and/or other parts of the fingers and thumbs would otherwise make contact with the shower wall, bath or sink bowl surface if the brush head is not elevated.
The compact size of the base and of the device itself, corresponds to current hygiene guidelines which state that in commercial kitchens or environments, hands and fingernails must only be cleaned in hand wash basins which are generally small in size. A two handed nail cleaner and particularly its base is therefore small or compact to allow use in small sinks or basins as well as in large basins or sinks, baths or on shower walls/screens and when used in small sinks, the device can be attached to any part of the sink/bowl whilst still providing access for hands and fingernails for cleaning and in any orientation. A two handed nail cleaner in the main example as previously described is a device where the extended base has a space in between the base end struts or legs that allows fingers, mainly finger ends, access for gripping or holding around the device when handling, attaching or removing the device to/from any sink, hand basin, shower wall/screen or object.
With the main example being injection moulded, a supporting rib is incorporated that connects the struts or legs to prevent distortion of the device and mainly the struts, during the post-moulding cooling process or stage. The extended base can alternatively extend from the middle underside of the brush head where a central strut or leg extends to the lower/outer base which is spread to the required span for lateral stability forming a lower base plate, frame and/or feet onto which suction cups are attached at each corner. The central leg part of the base allows fingers to grip either side and around for handling, attaching or removing the device to/from any surface. The lower or outer base of a two handed nail cleaner with either end struts or middle strut, consists of a base span that provides stability and prevents lateral movement of the device during use.
Any fixing means can be used that are connected to any part of the device and for attaching the device to any surface or object. Fixing means can be suction cups/pads, micro suction cups/pads, magnet(s), magnetic suction cups/pads, clamps, adhesive, ties, screws and/or hooks and furthermore, any fixing means can be built-in or attachable to the device. A two handed nail cleaner in one example consists of a lower or outer base with suction cups of any size and number over-moulded to the base or base outer surface during production and therefore built-in rather than being a separate component that is attached or connected to the device.
Based on standard suction cups having a cup, neck and shaped head, a two handed nail cleaner in the main example consists of an extended base where the feet or part(s) of the base accommodating the suctions cups have a material thickness that provides strength against breaking unintentionally or accidentally and with holes where the neck of the suction cup is slightly longer than the depth of the hole and the neck thickness or diameter slightly smaller than the diameter of the hole, to minimise movement of the suction cup neck within the hole/shaft and to hold the suction cups securely. A two handed nail cleaner in the main example has fixing means of suction cups that are attached to the device through holes which are shaped to widen part of the hole/diameter slightly so that the suction cup head can be inserted more easily for assembly of the device during manufacture. This allows each suction cup to be pushed, rotated and/or twisted through the hole efficiently during assembly and then holding the suction cup securely to the base. Any holes, slots, channels or chambers of any shape as well as screw/thread and/or part(s) can be used to accommodate and hold any type of suction cup(s) securely to the device or base and in one or more positions or dimensions. For example, the foot part of the base accommodating the suction cups can be curved or cornered to allow a suction cup to be positioned horizontally, vertically and/or at any angle through one or more holes within the foot part of the base. In a further example, two holes can be used, one positioned horizontally and the other vertically that are connected by a narrow channel which allows the suction cup to be squeezed from one hole through the channel to another hole or multiple holes and positions can be provided this way. Alternatively, the foot part of the base can be moveable or adjustable to allow the fixing means or suction cups to be oriented horizontally, vertically or in any angle, dimension or plane. Struts, stabilizers, extended base or any means can be used to elevate the brush or cleaning body of the device to enable free movement of the hands/fingers during cleaning or for additional support to fix the device securely onto the surface or object it is attached to. In one example, the suction cups have stabilizers in the form of a rigid washer or disc positioned at or near the neck section of the suction cup to further prevent unnecessary movement during use and in a further example, struts and/or any additional components are positioned at the holes or in/on/at any part(s) of the device to further stabilise the device and prevent unnecessary lateral or other movement. Alternatively, struts, springs and/or any additional components can be incorporated or attached to any part(s) of the device that enable movement or vibration during cleaning should this improve the nail cleaning process.
A two handed nail cleaner can also be partly or fully attached or connected to an overflow aperture, plughole or drain hole, tap(s), spout(s), shower and/or any other object and using any fixing means. A two handed nail cleaner in one instance comprises a brush head and extended base with universal fixing means of any type that secure the device to any drain hole or plughole. The universal fixing means in one example consist of a number of arms, claws, prongs or legs that are inserted, gripped or clamped into/around the drain/plughole to secure the device. The fixing means and/or device can be adjustable to provide a varying grip and/or to position the brush relative to the type of sink, drain/plughole and orientation of the hands and further comprise any additional components that attach the device or base securely to the plughole and/or sink.
Adjustable fixing means can incorporate a twist lock that secures the fixing means to the drain/plughole by a quarter turn or any degree of rotation. Alternatively, fixing means consist of clamping arms that clutch through the holes within, or on to the plughole disc or plate and/or within or to the inner wall of the drain/plughole and/or to the waste pipe beneath, thus fixing the device securely. In a further example, expansion fixing means are used to secure the device to the drain/plughole, drain pipe and/or to any part of the sink, basin, bath or object. Most drain/plugholes have a disc or plate with a number of smaller holes that vary in shape, where universal or adjustable fixing means are used that provide in-line or the required orientation when fixed or securely attached to the drain/plughole. Any part(s) of the device can be adjustable to position the brush or device relative to the hands or fingers/thumbs of the person using it and where the extended base ensures that there is adequate space to allow movement of the hands during cleaning. In one example, the brush or cleaning part of the device can be rotated incrementally to provide the required positioning.
A two handed nail cleaner as previously described and in a further instance is a device having a bracket or frame that is connected to the holes accommodating the suction cups, with suction cups removed, where grips, arms, struts or any fixing means are used or incorporated that attach into/onto the drain/plughole. Universal fixing means can also be in the form of a clamp that is attached to the supporting rib and/or any part of the device and base, as an attachable accessory. Alternatively, a two handed nail cleaner is a device with inter-changeable, extended base where one base is for attaching the device to a drain/plughole and another base is for attaching the device to a sink or hand basin bowl or to a shower wall or screen. This also relates to the subsequent example of a two handed nail cleaner with replaceable brush head. In a further example, a two handed nail cleaner has universal fixing means that allow the device to be attached to both the plughole and/or any parts of a sink, bath, shower or object.
A two handed nail cleaner as previously and subsequently specified is positioned to allow finger and thumb nails of both hands to be cleaned simultaneously via any action, motion or movement of the hands including up-and-down, alternating, forward and backward and in any direction or orientation including horizontal, vertical or diagonal. A two handed nail cleaner consists of bristles, filaments or tufts arranged to provide ample brush area for thumbs and fingers where in the main example having a rounded or curved shaped brush head, the smaller brush section/area is provided or used for thumbs and the main or larger brush area for fingers. The bristles or filaments can be of any and/or varying diameter, stiffness, length and angle to provide ergonomic and efficient cleaning means for finger and thumb nails and in a further example, the bristles and/or tufts are of greater length to clean fingers and/or hands as well as finger and thumb nails.
A two handed nail cleaner in one instance is a device comprising a universal bracket, housing or frame that holds one or two standard nail brushes securely to provide cleaning means for both hands at the same time. Some standard nail brushes consist of a two sided brush where one side has a bigger brush area/surface than the other therefore when two standard nail brushes are used in the universal bracket, the bigger brush area is exposed outwardly on each side of the bracket or housing on which thumb/fingernails are cleaned and the smaller area of each standard nail brush is concealed and sandwiched in between. A similar device with bracket holding one standard nail brush would require the nail brush to be double-sided with equal and ample brush areas/surfaces on both sides. The universal bracket has fastening means that are released to allow standard nail brushes to be inserted or removed/replaced and secured or locked to hold the brush head(s) in position, leaving the brush surface on each side fully exposed so that finger and thumb nails of both hands can be cleaned simultaneously. The universal bracket has an extended base to elevate the housed brush head(s) and fixing means of any type to attach the device to any surface and in a further example, fixing means can be screws that secure the universal bracket more permanently to any surface or object.
Additional features can include a universal bracket or housing where the device is used in vertical orientation that can also have a soap dish, shelf or cradle at the top of the device for storing or holding soap, sanitizer, water and/or any accessories or objects and where the soap dish has a solid or partly solid surface above the main brush/brush head housing that can act as a spray guard to prevent upward spray, splashing or mess during use. The universal bracket or housing can be adjustable to allow use in any orientation and/or extendable to elevate or extend the exposed brush(es) for access of finger and thumb nails in any basin, sink, bath or shower.
A two handed nail cleaner in the main example as previously and subsequently described, alternatively consists of a replaceable brush head so that the brush head of the device can be replaced when worn and the rest of the device is retained. The main body of the device has a mechanism to attach, hold and/or release the brush head. In one example the brush head is attached to the upper part of the extended base or to the top of the legs or struts using any connection or locking means including twist-lock, retaining pin and/or push-fit/lock. A two handed nail cleaner with replaceable brush/brush head is environmentally friendly and economic where the base is retained and where the base can also be more permanently attached to any surface or object, as previously described.
A two handed nail cleaner is a device as previously and subsequently described with extended base, for cleaning finger and thumb nails of both hands simultaneously that can be manual or powered. The powered or automatic device can be battery or electrically powered, rechargeable, USB chargeable, water propelled, spring, wind-up, hydraulic and/or powered by any means. A powered two handed nail cleaner consists of a device as described previously with bristle tufts, brush head(s), base and/or bracket that oscillate(s), agitate(s), vibrate(s) or rotate(s) to provide automatic cleaning means allowing finger and thumb nails to be cleaned without having to move the hands or with minimal hand movement. In one example, a powered two handed nail cleaner consists of a cylindrical brush that rotates to provide cleaning means without having to move the hands and where finger and thumb nail ends need only to be applied or pressed on to the rotating brush. This is particularly useful for individuals suffering with arthritis, hand problems/illness or restricted dexterity. One or more cylindrical brushes can be used and in any configuration, assembly or shape. A two handed nail cleaner in a further example consists of device with extended base and two cylindrical brushes that both rotate in opposite outer-downward direction ensuring that any splash, spray or debris is dispersed in one or the same direction to minimise mess during use. In this example, the direction of spray is determined by the positioning or orientation of the device to the object or surface it is used in/on. When used vertically on a shower wall, the spray is directed downwards or when used in a sink whether vertically, horizontally or diagonally, the spray is directed towards the plug hole. In the two cylindrical brushes example, a motor with spindle and/or cog(s) is used to rotate both cylinders in the required direction. Any components and/or additional or alternative means for driving or rotating the brush cylinders can be used including belt, gears, cogs and multiple spindles/axles. The cylindrical brush(es) can be of any shape including curved, tiered or conical. A two handed nail cleaner as described in the above that is powered, can be used for cleaning finger and thumb nails of both hands simultaneously or just for one hand at a time. In one example, a powered two handed nail cleaner is a device comprising a single cylindrical brush where the motor is housed in the handle which is handheld to clean thumb and fingernails of one hand and where fixing means can also be used to allow the device to be attached to any surface. Any switch, sensor or component(s) can be used to activate or switch off the powered device.
A two handed nail cleaner in a further example is a manual device using one or more brush cylinders elevated by an extended base where the hands are moved in any direction or orientation to clean or scrub finger and thumb nails and where the brush cylinder(s) partly rotate(s) so that the whole circumference of the cylindrical brush(es) is used rather than just a limited section of bristles. Part-rotation is achieved manually and/or by using ratchet or any other mechanism to rotate the cylindrical brush(es).
A two handed nail cleaner as described previously and subsequently, additionally incorporates a spray guard to shield any spray, splash or debris. The spray guard is located at any position or parts of the device, without obstructing or restricting access or movement of fingers, thumbs or hands during cleaning and for use in any orientation. A two handed nail cleaner in a further instance is a manual or powered device for cleaning finger and thumb nails of both hands simultaneously that is attached to a shower wall or screen and is positioned vertically where a soap dish, shelf, storage cradle, soap/sanitizer dispenser and/or spray guard is located above the main device.
A two handed nail cleaner as described in the above alternatively comprises a powered brush with any fixing means that hold the device securely in any position or orientation, where the hands do not need to move and finger and thumb nails are pressed against the brush for cleaning.
A two handed nail cleaner is a device as previously and subsequently described having any parts or components that can be folded or collapsed for ease of storage and that easily reassemble the device for use. In a further example, the device comprises smaller parts or sections that inter-connect or assemble to form the complete device. This is for ease of production or manufacture enabling a two handed nail cleaner to be made by limited manufacturing capability or facilities. For example in some brush manufacturing facilities, the filament trimming process cannot be obstructed by any parts or protruding parts of the device otherwise the blade or trimmer is unable to cut the filaments at the required length. A two handed nail cleaner in the main example alternatively has a base width span for providing stability against lateral movement, that is wider than the bristle/tuft trimming line and therefore the device can only be made by manufacturing facilities that do not have this trimming restriction. Alternatively and in a further instance, the brush head or brush block is made as one part and the extended base provides the other part which are both connected or assembled to form the whole device. This also liaises with the previously described device with a replaceable brush head in how this can be made and/or assembled.
Further to the manufacture or production of a two handed nail cleaner as previously described, the device in the main example is injection moulded as one body where the extended base with a leg or strut at each end beneath the brush head has a supporting bottom rib that connects the two legs/struts to prevent distortion of the legs during cooling. This refers to the injection moulding process and immediate cooling after the device or product has been moulded where smaller parts are prone to distortion at or during the cooling stage.
A two handed nail cleaner as previously and subsequently described can be made of any material(s) and using any manufacturing process(es). A two handed nail cleaner as previously described can also incorporate a pointed ridge or pick which provides additional means for cleaning, scraping or removing any stubborn debris or dirt trapped or lodged in the nail ends. Any number of nail picks or pointed ridges can be used and each nail pick can protrude from any part of the device that is accessible to the nail ends of fingers and thumbs. Alternatively the nail pick(s) and immediate surrounding area can be partly or fully embedded so that the nail pick(s) does not protrude from the profile or edge(s) of the device to avoid discomfort when handling the device, whilst still enabling access to and cleaning of finger/thumb nails. In one example, a nail pick is positioned on each end of the brush head and provides access to thumb and finger nails in any orientation. The nail picks can additionally or alternatively be positioned within the outer bristle area of the brush head and in a further example the nail picks consist of one, two or more rigid filaments or bristles.
A two handed nail cleaner as previously and subsequently described comprises an extended base that can alternatively be used as a handle where in this instance, the device is used as a conventional nail brush for cleaning finger and thumb nails of just one hand.
In a further instance, a two handed nail cleaner is a device for cleaning finger and thumb nails of both hands, that can be attached or connected to any powered or automatic hand washing machine. A two handed nail cleaner as previously described has an inner void or chamber where soap, sanitiser, detergent and/or water is dispersed/dispensed during cleaning via holes or channels positioned around or within the brush head. The inner void or chamber can be used to disperse or distribute water, sanitiser and/or soap for cleaning finger/thumb nails as well as for cleansing the bristles and/or brush head or device itself. Alternatively, soap, sanitiser and/or water can be dispersed, dispensed or applied by using any accessory or external means.
A two handed nail cleaner as previously described and in a further example is a device using any means including ultrasonic and/or cavitation for cleaning hands, fingers and/or fingernails and/or for cleaning the device itself.
A two handed nail cleaner as described in any of the above where any part(s) of the device including the filaments or bristles are made of any natural, organic and/or synthetic material(s) including biodegradable, compostable, recycled and/or recyclable.
From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to the skilled person. Such variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art of hand or nail cleaning devices, in particular hand or nail cleaning brushes, and which may be used instead of, or in addition to, features already described herein.
Although the appended claims are directed to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as presently claimed in any claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the present invention.
Features which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination. The applicant hereby gives notice that new claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of such features during the prosecution of the present application or of any further application derived therefrom.
For the sake of completeness, it is also stated that the term “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, the term “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality, a single element may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the claims and any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A hand and nail cleaning device, comprising:
- a base;
- a body mounted on the base, the body comprising a plurality of bristles that are accessible to both hands of a user during use;
- wherein the base has a footprint or span greater than a footprint or span of the body in at least one dimension; and
- wherein one or more fixing means are disposed on the base to attach the device to a surface.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the base is configured to elevate or spatially separate the body from a surface on which the fixing means are attached in use, to allow substantially unrestricted or unobstructed access for fingers and thumbs of both hands of a user to access the bristles simultaneously.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the body comprises two surfaces each comprising a plurality of bristles, optionally wherein the two surfaces are substantially opposite one another.
4. The device of claim 1 wherein the one or more fixing means comprise suction cups.
5. The device of claim 1 wherein the base comprises one or more struts or legs on which the one or more fixing means are disposed.
6. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more struts or legs are connected to the body.
7. The device of claim 1, further comprising a supporting rib connecting the struts or legs.
8. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more fixing means and the base comprise complementary engaging features to secure the fixing means to the base.
9. The device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of bristles comprises bristles of varying diameter and/or stiffness and/or length and/or angle.
10. The device of claim 1, wherein the base is configured to be used as a handle such that the user can grip the base.
11. The device of claim 1, comprising one or more pointed ridges or nail picks, optionally wherein at least one of the ridges or nail picks is disposed or embedded in a recess in the device.
12. The device of claim 1, comprising an internal hollow or void to receive liquid, and at least one opening through which the liquid from the hollow or void can be dispensed to the hands of the user.
13. The device of claim 1, comprising a spray guard.
14. The device of claim 1, wherein the body comprises at least one substantially cylindrical brush; and optionally or preferably, wherein the at least one substantially cylindrical brush is configured to rotate.
15. (canceled)
16. The device of claim 14, wherein the body comprises a pair of substantially cylindrical brushes, and optionally wherein the substantially cylindrical brushes are configured to contra-rate.
17. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to cause the body or the bristles to oscillate, vibrate, rotate or agitate in use; and optionally or preferably, further comprising a power source, and optionally wherein the power source is disposed within the base.
18. (canceled)
19. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more fixing means is configured to attach into or around an aperture or a recess such as a drain a plug hole, an overflow hole, a spout, a drain pipe, and optionally wherein the one or more fixing means comprises a clamp mechanism and/or a plurality of arms, legs, prongs or claws configured to be inserted into or gripped or clamped around the aperture or recess.
20. The device of claim 1, wherein the body is releasably attachable to the base.
21. The device of claim 1, wherein one or more parts of the device are made of or comprise natural and/or biodegradable and/or compostable and/or recyclable materials.
22. A base for supporting or mounting a hand or nail cleaning brush, wherein:
- the base is configured to receive, or have mounted on it, at least one hand or nail cleaning brush;
- the base comprises a footprint or span greater than a footprint or span of the brush in at least one dimensions; and
- the base comprises one or more fixing means disposed on the base to attach the base to a surface.
Type: Application
Filed: Mar 8, 2024
Publication Date: Sep 3, 2026
Inventor: Chris Piponides (Birmingham)
Application Number: 19/163,159
