Abstract: A paint roller housing having a chamber. The chamber of the housing has a first end located opposite a second end. The first end has a first opening configured to receive at least a portion of both a paint roller frame and a paint roller cover. The second end of the housing has a port. The housing has a substantially planar wall that is perpendicular to the first end and the second end of the housing. The substantially planar wall has a second opening that abuts the first opening of the first end of the housing. The second opening is configured for the paint roller frame to slidably traverse the length of the second opening to orient the paint roller cover within the chamber of the housing. The housing has a radial wall having a third opening and a guide ramp located within the chamber of the housing.

Abstract: A paint roller cover cleaner for cleaning a paint roller cover. The paint roller cover cleaner has one or more nozzles that spray the cover and that may each produce a fan-shaped jet in a plane that is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the roller cover. The paint roller cover cleaner may also have a clamp for clamping a handle of the paint roller, another nozzle for cleaning an enclosure of the paint roller cover cleaner, a lid for the enclosure that drips within the mouth of the enclosure and does not move laterally across the roller cover to open. A system including a paint roller cover cleaner and a fluid supply that can contain the paint roller cover cleaner is also provided.

Abstract: A drying station for a vehicle wash facility includes at least one rotatable drying wheel positioned adjacent a vehicle treatment area. The at least one rotatable drying wheel has a drying material disposed thereon and is configured to engage an exterior of the vehicle to remove water accumulated thereon. The drying station includes a beater device disposed adjacent the at least one rotatable drying wheel with the beater device and the drying wheel being engageable as the at least one rotatable drying wheel rotates. As the rotatable drying wheel spins, the drying material contacts the beater device to help minimize its level of saturation.

Abstract: A paint roller enclosure and cleaning device is disclosed that eliminates the need for a user to manually clean a roller tool after its use. The device comprises an enclosure with an interior volume wherein a used paint roller is secured. A spray pipe with a plurality of apertures directs fluid directly onto the roller. Feed for the spray pipe is controllable by a ball valve that regulates the flow of fluid, updating the intensity and volume of fluid being entered into the enclosure. When flowing, the fluid sprays from the spray pipe within the enclosure directed at a paint roller and handle. The roller is forcibly rotated by the spray fluid and cleaned of residual paint and debris without requiring the user to do so by hand. Fluid then drains through a drainage hole at the base of the enclosure, into a flex pipe and into a drain or appropriate container.

Abstract: A combined paint roller and paint roller cleaner quickly and efficiently removes paint from the paint roller cleaner while preventing fluids from splashing outwardly and away from the paint roller cleaner. The paint roller cleaner includes a main chamber having a first slot formed at an outer surface thereof, and an auxiliary chamber statically coupled to the main chamber. Such an auxiliary chamber protrudes outwardly from the outer surface of the main chamber and preferably has an outer surface provided with a second slot formed therein. Notably, the second slot may be offset from the first slot in such a manner that an external fluid stream, after passing through the first and second slots, is caused to enter the main chamber at a non-perpendicular angle relative to the outer surface of the main chamber and thereby rotate a portion of the paint roller located within the paint roller cleaner.

Abstract: Filter Flosser is a tool designed for cleaning cartridge filters that are used in pools, spas and industrial filtration systems. There is an ergonomically designed handle with an on/off ball valve switch to turn water flow on or off. There is a nozzle portion that is curved to wrap partially around the shape of a cartridge filter. There are holes in the nozzle portion which are evenly spaced that spray water into the cartridge filter elements to get between the pleats and remove dirt deposits.

Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems are provided for efficiently reclaiming solvents used to clean surfaces of semiconductor wafers, etc. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention provide an in-situ reclaim approach that utilizes condensing mechanisms to reclaim evaporated solvent components. In these embodiments, the condensing can occur within a proximity head itself and/or along a vacuum line running from the proximity head to a vacuum tank. Other embodiments of the present invention provide an in-situ reclaim approach that prevents the evaporation of solvents at the onset by maintaining appropriate equilibrium gas phase concentrations between the liquid chemistries and gases used to process wafer surfaces.

Abstract: A device (11) for cleaning a pleated filter element, the device having; a body, a fluid inlet (13), a work face (14) having at least one pleat separating projection (19) and at least one fluid outlet (22) for directing fluid between pleats separated thereby.

Abstract: A washing apparatus has a housing comprising a spray element such that in use, fluid is forced through at least one aperture creating a substantially elongate spray onto at least one roller wheel or roller sleeve substantially causing the roller wheel to spin and be washed or cleaned. A method of washing a roller in a washing apparatus is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing comprising a spray element such that in use, fluid is forced through at least one aperture creating a substantially elongate spray onto at least one roller wheel or roller sleeve substantially causing the roller wheel to spin and be washed or cleaned wherein the following steps include: inserting roller therein by opening the apparatus or sliding the roller therein; connecting the apparatus to a fluid supply element such as a faucet or hose; and initiating fluid flow to wash or clean the roller.

Abstract: A roller cleaning apparatus for cleaning and/or drying a roller such as a paint roller by directing jets of solvent against the surface of the roller—to spin the roller to expel liquid from the roller by centrifugal force. A jet spray manifold with a riser conduit connector for connection to a source of pressure fluid is mounted on the bottom side of a lid structure. A roller to be cleaned is also mounted to the bottom side of the lid structure in position for spinning and cleaning. The lid structure may be mounted on a standard paint bucket or other support.

Abstract: A paint roller cleaner (10) characterized in that it includes a housing (12) adapted to hold a paint roller (24) therein said housing (12) being a close fit around a paint roller (24); said housing (12) having an opening (16) adapted to receive a paint roller (24) said opening also serving to collect excess paint from the roller (24) for reuse in a first cleaning action; and external locking means (28) for securing said roller (24) in said housing (12) said locking means (28) attaching to a handle (32) of said paint roller whereby said paint roller (24) is restrained from movement relative to the housing (12) by the locking means (28); and whereby cleaning fluid under pressure is introduced into the housing under pressure to thereby effect a second cleaning action on said paint roller (24).

Abstract: The present invention is a device for cleaning a soiled paint roller. The device comprises a housing supported by at least two leg members. The housing includes an opened top, a plurality of sidewalls and a bottom wall. A spindle is interiorly mounted to the bottom wall of the container at a predetermined height, the spindle having means for circumferentially engaging the paint roller. An inlet port is mounted to a side wall and in fluid communication with a cleaning fluid source. At least one stationary sprayer is interiorly mounted to the bottom wall at a predetermined height and a predetermined distance from an end of the spindle. The at least one stationary sprayer is operationally coupled to the inlet port and is in fluid communication with the inlet port for providing a continuous stream of water directly onto the paint roller. At least one pivoting sprayer is interiorly mounted to the bottom portion at a predetermined height and a predetermined distance from the spindle.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a paint brush and preventing a discharge of harmful and flammable vapors. In a first embodiment, a housing has vertical front, side and rear walls that have upper edge portions in a common horizontal plane for providing a seat for a seal. The common upper of the housing are sealed by a soft resilient cellular seal and a cover that engages the housing. The cover and resilient cellular seal have aligned apertures for receiving in a pass through sealing relationship a handle of a paint brush. In a second embodiment, a cylindrical housing has an open top portion which is sealed by threadably engaging a cover with a resilient cellular seal therebetween. The cover and resilient cellular seal cover have aligned apertures for receiving in a pass through sealing relationship a handle of a paint brush.

Abstract: A brush and roller cleaner includes a hollow canister to receive a spray wand. A control knob pivots with respect to the canister to direct pressurized liquid from apertures of the spray wand. A top cap assembly mates with the canister in one of two positions, 180 degrees offset from one another. The top cap assembly has a tool holding assembly that is capable of holding a paint tool or roller. The tool holding assembly rotates in response to the liquid output from the spray wand apertures. The top cap assembly is capable of holding a roller in a first or second position. The roller rotates within the canister in response to the liquid output from the spray wand apertures to clean the roller cover. A handle for the cleaner supports a roller frame clip for holding the roller in a first or second position.

Abstract: A paint implement cleaning system consists of a basic container having at least three water pressure nozzles located therein. There is at least one at the bottom of the container and others are located midway within the container and diametrically opposite from each other. The basic container has a closure cap therein which suspends cleaning implements therefrom. One implement can be a paint laden paint brush which is cleaning by way of the nozzles located within the container. A paint roller can be rotatably supported on a threaded spindle which in turn is suspended from the closure cap. A jet pipe is located adjacent to the paint roller and has a multiple of nozzles thereon which direct pressurized water streams tangentially against the circumference of the paint roller to cause the paint roller to spin while being cleaned.

Abstract: A paint roller includes a spindle adapted to hold a rotatable cylindrical paint pad, and an arm connecting the spindle to a handle. A semi-cylindrical cover curves about the roller's spindle. A liquid manifold is integral with the cover to deliver a curtain of liquid to the paint roller for washing the cylindrical pad. The liquid manifold is made up of a tubular section having a hollow interior, a closed lower end and an open upper end adapted for attachment to a hose, the section including a plurality of spaced, longitudinally aligned holes in communication with the interior, whereby liquid is capable of flowing from the tubular section upper end through the hollow interior for discharge through the holes. An adapter plate for adapting the paint roller cover, to cover all types of rollers including different length spindles or roller cages, is slidably attachable to the cover outer surface.

Abstract: This invention has two components, a side delivery spray wand and a transparent plastic package with two compartments. One compartment serves for storage and display of the spray wand, and for guiding and limiting the wand's use in delivering the spray to the paint roller surface. The other compartment serves for storage and display of a paint roller, and is the protective chamber within which a roller is cleaned and spin-dried. The enclosure possesses a small top opening for insertion of the spray wand, and a bottom opening for rapid exhaust of paint-laden solvent. Its two halves are hinged, book-like. When open multiple units nest conveniently. When closed, the compartments are completed, a segment of a paint roller handle is captured, and the seam seals to force all of the paint laden solvent to vent at the exit port.

Abstract: The present invention sets forth an implement which enables the user to mix paint, clean the can and can lip, and to clean conventional paint rollers utilizing a hand drill. The implement is selectively adjustable to be configured to mix paint in large and small containers and to support a paint roller for cleaning, thereby being capable of providing several functions. The implement is provided with a paddle member that is perforated and of a geometric form to enhance mixing. A paint can remover and a paint can rim cleaning device are also incorporated into the implement. A single implement serves the six functions of opening paint cans, stirring paint in large or small containers, cleaning the groove around the lip of a paint can, cleaning a paint roller, and as a spatula to aid in removing paint from a can.

Abstract: A device for cleaning roller covers. A spray head has a fluid inlet with a fastener collar and a fluid collection chamber in communication with the fluid inlet defined by a retention wall. A plurality of spray apertures are radially spaced within the retention wall to be adjacent the nap of a roller cover during use. A sealing surface positioned within the radius of the spray apertures seals off an end of the roller cover. A housing having an inner cavity for receiving roller covers has a diameter sized to create cleansing fluid flow through the nap of a roller cover. A plurality of outlet apertures in communication with the inner cavity are radially spaced to be adjacent fibrous portions of a roller cover during use. A drain outlet in communication with the outlet apertures drains fluid from the housing. An outwardly protruding flange about the housing coacts with a fastening ring to tighten the housing against the spray head.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning a roller cover of the type used to apply a coating material is disclosed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a body, at least one roller cover engaging element for positioning at least partially within the interior area of a roller cover and engaging the roller cover, and a drive adaptor associated with the body for effectuating rotation of the roller cover engaging element, and thus a roller cover connected thereto, with a drive. In one embodiment, the drive adaptor comprises a shaft connected to the body of the apparatus and extending therefrom, the shaft adapted to be rotated by a drive.

Abstract: A paint roller includes a spindle adapted to hold a rotatable cylindrical paint pad, and an arm connecting the spindle to a handle. A semi-cylindrical cover curves about the roller's spindle. A liquid manifold is integral with the cover to deliver a curtain of liquid to the paint roller for washing the cylindrical pad. The liquid manifold is made up of a tubular section having a hollow interior, a closed lower end and an open upper end adapted for attachment to a hose, the section including a plurality of spaced, longitudinally aligned holes in communication with the interior, whereby liquid is capable of flowing from the tubular section upper end through the hollow interior for discharge through the holes. An adapter plate for adapting the paint roller cover, to cover all types of rollers including different length spindles or roller cages, is slidably attachable to the cover outer surface.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for removing a roller paint brush cover from a handle framework and cleaning the roller paint brush cover, having a gripping device for gripping the roller paint brush cover, a holding device for receiving the roller paint brush cover from the gripping device and for holding the roller paint brush cover while the roller paint brush cover is being cleaned, a motion imparting device for imparting rotational motion to the holding device and the roller paint brush cover, and a mounting device for mounting the holding device on the motion imparting device.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are novel devices and methods for cleaning filters, preferably pool filters. The subject device and methods provide the advantages of cleaning the entire circumference of a cylindrical pool filter while minimizing the spray of water and debris onto the operator.

Abstract: A machine for washing paint tools based on a vertically elongated square box of rigid transparent plastic comprising a housing (10) and a gasketed housing lid (12). Housing (10) is about sixty centimeters high at the back and about forty-two centimeters high at the front. The other two sides are about forty-two centimeters high for about half their distance from front to back then rise sharply to meet the back at its top. Bottom of lid (12) conforms to top contour of housing (10). Lid (12) is hinged at the top of the back side of housing (10), and has a handle (18) and seat (20) on its front side. On the front of housing (10) is a vertically adjustable roller handle seat (22) held perpendicular to the side of housing (10) by two seat guides (24) each in the shape of a square tube with two adjacent sides missing and closed ends.

Abstract: A kit for use in cleaning paintbrushes and paint rollers includes a paintbrush cleaning tool having a hollow, elongated handle, a closed proximal end, an open distal end adapted for attachment of a hose, and a plurality of teeth extending transversely from the handle adjacent the handle distal end, the teeth having base ends attached to the handle and outer ends, and holes at the base of the teeth extending into the interior of the handle; and a paint roller cleaning tool having a tubular section with a hollow interior, a closed lower end, an open upper end adapted for attachment of a hose, a plurality of spaced, longitudinally aligned holes in communication with the hollow interior, and a clip extending outwardly from the tubular section. The kit can also include a container, such as a bucket, and a hose, with the tools and hose being stored in the container.

Abstract: A filter cleaning and rinsing device for spas, pools, and Jacuzzi's that attaches to a garden hose for cleaning or rinsing a cartridge type spa filter by placing the filter on an inclining armature of the device. The armature sprays water inside the filter cartridge and is the centrifugally forced out through the fabric elements of the filter by high pressure spray jets trained on the exterior of the filter cartridge which simultaneously clean the exterior and spin the filter around the armature at a high speed creating the centrifugal force. The device may be molded and assembled using the same manufacturing processes as those used to make the spas which utilize cartridge type filters.

Abstract: A kit of painting accessories enabling a user to clean paint rollers and brushes by spinning them with a hand drill, and to mix paint utilizing a hand drill. The kit includes an element for grasping paint brushes, a paint roller holder, a drive adapter enabling the aforementioned kit components to be mounted on a hand drill and rotatably driven thereby, and a paint mixer having a shaft insertable into the chuck of the hand drill. The paddle of the paint mixer can be adjusted between two positions selectively enabling the mixer to mix paint and to receive a paint roller for cleaning by spinning.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning a roller cover of the type used to apply a coating material is disclosed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a body, at least one roller cover engaging element for positioning at least partially within the interior area of a roller cover and engaging the roller cover, and a drive adaptor associated with the body for effectuating rotation of the roller cover engaging element, and thus a roller cover connected thereto, with a drive. In one embodiment, the drive adaptor comprises a shaft connected to the body of the apparatus and extending therefrom, the shaft adapted to be rotated by a drive.

Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a device for cleaning and sanitizing objects such as food products 86, cartridge filter elements 64 and other such objects that could benefit from the advantages of being circumferentially sprayed with a fluid or a cleaning solution 119 or preferably a combination thereof. The present invention 10 comprises an inner and outer housing body 24, 44, a cover 26 for the housing body, a rotative central member such as a base, axle or shaft 42, a rotative drive means 60 for selectively rotating the rotative member 42, intake means 16 to introduce one or more fluids 119 or solutions individually or in combination into the interior of the housing body 24 including a means for further pressurizing and peripherally directing the resulting spray 130 towards a central point in a specific array, a containment means 66 for placement of such items therein, and an outlet means 18 to provide for the removal of fluid from the housing.

Abstract: A swimming pool filter cleaning device including a cylindrical ring-like housing having an upper end, a lower end, an inner surface and an outer surface defining a central opening. The housing has a hollow interior. The housing is dimensioned for receiving a cylindrical pool filter within the central opening thereof. The housing has a water hose connector extending outwardly from the inner surface thereof. The water hose connector is in communication with the hollow interior. The water hose connector has an open outer end adapted for coupling with a standard water hose. A first set of spray nozzles are disposed within the upper end of the housing in a spaced relationship. The first set of spray nozzles are in communication with the hollow interior of the housing.

Abstract: A roller cover washer is provided, including a hollow pipe handle connected by a swivel-type adaptor to a water supply. The handle terminates in a water outlet end including a threaded end coupled to a T-connector and having pipe extensions perpendicular to the handle and capped at their ends. The water outlet end is covered by a cylindrical housing partly closed at each end by semicircular splash shields. Each pipe extension includes a plurality of apertures adapted to direct a fanned spray of water at an angle onto the roller's circumference. A roller cover on a roller assembly can be inserted into the housing pipe through either of the openings at the ends. When in use, the roller spins rapidly as paint is diluted and forced from the cover both by the water spray and by the centrifugal force induced from the spinning roller. Paint and water are ejected from the cover and drain into the housing and out the open ends of the housing.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning a roller cover of the type used to apply a coating material is disclosed. In one embodiment the apparatus includes a body, at least one roller cover engaging element for positioning at least partially within the interior area of a roller cover and engaging the roller cover, and a drive adaptor associated with the body for effectuating rotation of the roller cover engaging element, and thus a roller cover connected thereto, with a drive. In one embodiment, the drive adaptor comprises a shaft connected to the body of the apparatus and extending therefrom, the shaft adapted to be rotated by a drive.

Abstract: A centrifugal paint roller cleaner is provided wherein a used paint roller brush with fresh paint on it is rotatably secured within a cylindrical housing member and liquid is introduced into the housing member as a high energy single jet spray via an injector assembly that slides within an aperture that runs longitudinally along the length of the aforementioned housing member. The injector assembly swivels radially within the guiding passage to adjust the angle at which the high energy single jet single spray strikes the roller brush thus allowing the operator to regulate the axial rotation of the roller brush and the impact of the jet spray striking the paint absorbed to the nap of the roller brush. The axial rotation of the roller brush creates centrifugal force that serves to expel the loosened paint and water from the nap of the brush and into the fluid traveling within the area between the outer surface of the brush and the interior wall of the housing.

Abstract: A cleaning device for cleaning a paint roller cover with a cleaning liquid emanating from a liquid pressure supply line. The cleaning device includes a generally elongated casing for receiving the paint roller cover. The casing is provided with a casing slot extending through the casing peripheral. A roller cover support assembly is mounted within the casing for rotatably supporting the paint roller. A liquid discharge assembly is attached to the casing for discharging the cleaning liquid into the casing along a path lying on a chord either of the paint roller cover of a turbine component mounted on a spindle shaft. Support structure is attached to the casing for supporting the latter on a supporting surface in a generally horizontal orientation.

Abstract: A roller cover washer for removing paint from a paint roller cover. The roller cover washer includes a roller housing having a front portion and a rear portion. The front portion has a front wall, a rear wall and a bottom wall for defining an interior space therebetween. The interior space is for receiving a paint roller cover. At least one of a fluid inlet apertures are in fluid communication with the interior space. A plurality of fluid outlet apertures through the front wall. The rear portion is coupled to the rear wall. A fluid connector is in fluid communication with the fluid inlet apertures. A motor housing is releasably coupled along a top edge of the roller housing. The motor housing has a motor. A switch is operationally coupled to the motor for controlling the motor. A cover retainer is for securing the roller cover within the inner space of the roller housing. The cover retainer is operationally coupled to the motor. A bracket is coupled to the rear wall of the roller housing.

Abstract: A cleaning device for cleaning a paint roller cover with a cleaning liquid emanating from a liquid pressure supply line. The cleaning device includes a generally elongated casing for receiving the paint roller cover. The casing is provided with a casing slot extending through the casing peripheral. A roller cover support assembly is mounted within the casing for rotatably supporting the paint roller. A liquid discharge assembly is attached to the casing for discharging the cleaning liquid into the casing along a path lying on a chord either of the paint roller cover of a turbine component mounted on a spindle shaft. pport structure is attached to the casing for supporting the latter on a supporting surface in a generally horizontal orientation.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus whereby a paint roller can quickly be cleaned, fluffed, and rendered damp-dry with the operator and cleaning area completely shielded from the splatter of solvent and paint. The washing and spin drying actions are produced by a high velocity single jet of water or other solvent delivered through a hand-held spray wand within the confines of a hand-held, tapered cylindrical enclosure.The enclosure is open at the top for insertion of both the paint laden roller and the spray wand, and for visual access into the cleaning process. It's in-rolled upper rim eliminates egress of random splatter. It's open bottom affords rapid exhaust, and being tapered throughout, permits enclosure elements to be nested for efficient quantity packaging. The detachable handle, when affixed to the enclosure and properly adjusted, accommodates nearly any paint roller handle design.

Abstract: A paint roller cleaner includes a generally tubular housing having one end open and the other end tapered to join a faucet coupling adapted to be releasably secured to a water source. The diameter of the housing is dimensioned to receive the roller with minimum clearance therebetween for pressurized water flow. The length of the housing is slightly greater than the roller. Adjacent to the open end of the housing, a pair of holes are disposed to removably secure a retaining pin. A roller cap includes one end adapted to be removably secured in an open end of the paint roller, and the other end of the cap includes an outwardly protruding, concentrically disposed cone. To use the paint roller cleaner, the roller cap is inserted in one open end of the paint roller The paint roller is placed into the open end of the housing with the capped end thereof extending innermost. Thereafter, a pin is extended through the opposed holes near the open end to retain the paint roller.

Abstract: The disclosed invention is an improved means of cleaning paint brushes and paint rollers. The device consists of a base with at least two pliable longitudinal extensions which are held together by a series of ring segments. This combination of extensions and ring segments define a cavity that is capable of receiving and releasably securing the handle of a paint brush. The base is capable of receiving a paint roller, the roller fitting over the longitudinal extensions. An attachment rod extends from the base, opposite to the extensions. The attachment rod can be received by a drill chuck, or other rotary device and thereby rotated, including the brush received therein. As the brush rotates the flexible nature of the extensions allow the brush to orbit about the axis of rotation imparted by the drill. This allows rotation and translation of the brush so that no bristles of the brush are consistently in line with the center of rotation.

Abstract: A paint roller cleaning system for cleaning a paint roller in a confined and controlled environment thereby preventing outside contamination. The inventive device includes a housing, a first cover attached to a portion of the open end, a second cover pivotally attached to the housing opposite of the first cover, a centrally positioned notch within the first cover and the second cover, a dispensing tube having a plurality of nozzles slidably extending through the first cover through an aperture, an elbow member attached to the dispensing tube, a compression spring secured about the dispensing tube between the first cover and the elbow member, an entry tube attached to the elbow member, and a hose coupler secured to the entry tube for threadably attaching to a conventional garden hose. Water supplied to the hose coupler is dispensed through the nozzles within the dispensing tube toward the sleeve of the conventional paint roller.

Abstract: A fluid mixer and roller cleaner is described. The device comprises a frame that can be sized to receive and retain rollers. The frame is operably, and perhaps removably, coupled to an elongated, power-driven shaft. The device further includes at least one mixing vane operably coupled to the elongated shaft. Typically, the frame is flexible in a spring-like manner to help retain the roller in a desired position about the frame. The diameter of the frame, as well as its length can be adjusted to accommodate rollers of different sizes. And, the frame members can be oriented so that the major planar surfaces thereof are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft, or at least one of the frame members can have its major planar surfaces canted relative to the major longitudinal axis of the elongated shaft. The frame, whether formed from plural frame members or a continuous sheath, may be of virtually any geometric shape. A currently preferred shape for the frame is substantially cylindrical.

Abstract: A method for rinsing a synthetic sponge material, the synthetic sponge material being formed through a process which leaves residue or particulate matter in pores of the synthetic sponge material, the method includes the steps of:a) contacting a rinsing solution with the synthetic sponge material; b) centrifuging the sponge material containing the rinsing solution; c) changing the hydrostatic pressure of the rinsing solution during said centrifuging step to expand and relax the pores of the synthetic sponge material to effectively pump the rinsing solution into and out of the pores, wherein the residue or the particulate matter in the pores of the synthetic sponge material are removed. The hydrostatic pressure can be changed by varying fluid supply pressure or varying centrifugal force.

Abstract: A paint roller cleaner consists of a tubular body holding a paint roller covered, with a traversing nozzle spraying a liquid whereby the roller is cleaned after use.

Abstract: A paint roller cleaner assembly includes a clear cylindrical tube having a cap on one end for receiving a fluid supply line. Located at the other end of the tube is a connection means for detachably connecting a base having a plurality of legs for maintaining the paint roller cleaning assembly in an upright position. A spacer offsets the end of the paint roller from the inlet and outlet ports to ensure proper cleaning of the roller. The legs can be moved to accommodate the user to maintain the paint roller cleaner in an upright position.

Abstract: Disclosed is an artists' easel which has a pivotally adjustable frame which carries the artists' canvas. A bag retaining assembly attached to the easel frame is adapted for a bag, e.g., a plastic garbage bag, to fit thereover with a apertured splatter panel covering the mouth of the bag. A beater bar inside the bag frame permits the artist to beat the paintbrush on the beater bar while the bag traps the solvent inside. The easel also is adjustable in height, and has provision for a tray, a paper towel holder, and a container holder (e.g., for solvent). Provision for holding the bag in place is provided also.

Abstract: A paint roller cleaning apparatus includes a hollow pipe with notches formed at the lower end to permit fluid to escape from the interior of the pipe. A tubular spray arm is rotatably mounted within the pipe and has a plurality of vertically aligned and spaced apart apertures to spray cleaning fluid along the length of a paint roller positioned within the pipe. An elbow at the top of the paint arm projects out from the pipe and is connected by a flexible hose to a source of water or other cleaning fluid. A clip on the exterior of the pipe will grip the support rod of a paint roller, and a slot in the upper edge of the pipe will receive the support rod so that the paint roller will be journaled in a vertical orientation with the roller longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the spray arm.

Abstract: A hydraulically powered cleaner for cleaning a paint roller. The cleaner comprises a housing and removable cover which closes and a cleaning chamber within. Water pressure rotates a turbine mounted inside the housing, which turbine in turn rotates the paint roller element. Water is also conducted to a spray manifold which directs jets of water against the roller element at a directly impinging angle. Two valves are disposed within the hydraulic system for individually controlling the turbine and spray manifold. The water system accepts a threaded hose connection for the water supply. Alternatively, an adapting hose is connected, which adapting hose terminates in a flexible, resilient funnel for conducting water from a faucet to the water system of the cleaner. Preferably, hydraulic conduits and components are formed as part of the removable cover.

Abstract: A new clear view wash shield for washing a paint roller and permitting viewing of the washing operation. The inventive device includes first and second transparent shield halves, with each half having a generally flat portion and a semi-cylindrical raised portion within each flat portion. The raised portions form a cylindrical housing for a paint roller when the shield halves are connected together. One of the semi-cylindrical raised portions includes a flexible water inlet flap thereon through which water from a spray nozzle is introduced into the cylindrical housing. The shield halves include interfitting projections and grooves for connecting the shield halves together, and each shield half includes a semi-cylindrical handle portion. The handle portions form a handle housing for enclosing the handle of the paint roller when the shield halves are connected together.

Abstract: A cleaner for cleaning the compressible media portion of a fluid transfer member including an apertured liquid holding receptacle, the aperture of which is provided with a flexible rim adapted to compress the media portion therefrom when passed therethrough.

Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for a paint roller assembly having a roller applicator, the apparatus having a housing assembly forming a cleaning cavity and forming a longitudinal input slot, support apparatus removably supporting the paint roller assembly to dispose the roller applicator within the cleaning cavity for free rotation about the center axis thereof, and a nozzle and sealing assembly supported on the housing assembly having a nozzle having fluid communication with the cleaning cavity through the input slot and closure assembly which movably supports the nozzle for travel along the length of the input slot, the nozzle attachable to a high pressure supply of cleaning fluid, the nozzle supported to direct cleaning fluid against the roller applicator to impart rotation thereof during cleaning.