Including Means For Manual Manipulation Of Implement Patents (Class 15/104.94)
  • Publication number: 20090038092
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a cleaning implement for use in household cleaning applications. In accordance with the present invention, the cleaning implement comprises a base, a handle extending from said base and a cleaning pad, which is attached to the base. The cleaning pad of the present invention contains two separate cleaning surfaces that optionally can act on two separate planes, simultaneously. In one embodiment, the cleaning pad is removable and disposable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Inventors: Brook S. Kennedy, Kristin E. Buentello, Burton M. Like, Yvonne Lin, Anton Ljunggren, Dean M. Mohamed, Richard Whitehall
  • Patent number: 7484261
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spot cleaner that includes a first absorbent pad and a second absorbent pad. The first absorbent pad includes a cleaner. The spot cleaner further includes a moisture proof barrier that is between the first absorbent pad and the second absorbent pad. The moisture proof barrier encloses the first absorbent pad to keep the cleaner inside the moisture proof barrier. In some embodiments, the moisture proof barrier has a first layer that is attached to the first absorbent pad and a second layer that is attached to the second absorbent pad. The first and second layers of the moisture proof barrier may be separable to allow a hand to be inserted between the first and second layers so that the hand is able to manipulate the spot cleaner without any portion of the spot or cleaner contacting the hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne C. Sigl, Amanda O'Connor, James McManus, Diane Luxhoj, Linda L. Bartelt
  • Patent number: 7458128
    Abstract: Various forms of cleaning attachments are described for converting a cleaning implement to a mop. In one form the attachment is a combination wipe and attachment wherein at least a portion of the attachment is made of an absorbent material so that the attachment itself can function as a wipe. In another form of the invention a wipe is detachably mounted to the cover portion of the attachment by reusable mounting structure located on at least one of the side walls of the cover. Various forms of pouches or containers are also described for containing a cleaning solution or other added ingredients which may form part of the attachment by the container of pouch being secured to the attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Watch Hill Harbor Technologies
    Inventors: James A. Smith, Betty J. Murphy
  • Publication number: 20080289128
    Abstract: A cleaning implement is disclosed which is of the all-in-one type. It has a substrate structure that delivers impregnated cleaning liquid to the window being cleaned, a squeegee to drive used cleaning liquid off the window, and an absorbent to collect the used liquid. A single block of substrate structure can provide the applicator, scrubbing, and collecting functions, as well as filter and reprocess used cleaning liquid for further use. The substrate may be replaced separately from the squeegee, or may be replaced as a unit with the squeegee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventors: Jason C. Billig, Stuart M. Leslie, Steven A. Zach, Jose De Jesus Castillo Higareda, Loretta G. Lynch, Jacqueline V. Lepow, Charles A. Curtiss, David Mallard
  • Publication number: 20080282487
    Abstract: A disposable, dispensable oral hygiene applicator attachable to the ball of the user's fingertip whose finger then functions as a tactile-sensitive, articulated handle by which the applicator may be inserted in the oral cavity and applied omnidirectionally to the teeth, the interproximal areas and the gingival tissues, to clean the teeth and massage the gums. The applicator includes a circular flexible base dimensioned to cover the round ball of the fingertip, the underside of the base having a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive. Projecting upwardly therefrom is an array of soft, flexible, cut, end-rounded bristles, arranged individually or as tufts, that form a miniature circular brush, its crowned face forming a significantly improved surface for better interproximal access, and a charge of dentifrice is adhered to the bristles. The applicator to be used is peeled and lifted from the aluminum foil backing of the supply package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventor: V. Lorenzo Porcelli
  • Publication number: 20080244846
    Abstract: A cleaning device including an elongate wand, a cleaning cartridge with an attachment portion, and means for releasably attaching and detaching the cleaning cartridge to the opposite end of the wand. The attachment and detachment means has an ejector collar slidably fixed to the second end of the wand and movable between extended and retracted positions. The collar includes a pair of collar jaws. The attachment and detachment means also has a pair of clamp jaws on the second end of the wand lying within the ejector collar. The clamp jaws are in near abutment with an inside surface of the collar when the collar is in the retracted position. The cartridge is attached to the wand by inserting the attachment portion between the clamp jaws and clamping the clamp jaws on the attachment portion. The cartridge is detached from the wand by pushing the ejector collar along the wand body away from the second end of the wand and against the cartridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2007
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Applicant: MagnaWand Inc.
    Inventors: F. Antonio Bayon, Jess W. Roche, Albert Esing, Vince Juliana
  • Publication number: 20080235888
    Abstract: The microbial scrub brush employs an insert of foam material that is impregnated with an anti-bacterial disinfectant that is housed within a housing of alcohol compatible material and sealed over by a removable lid. The insert is maintained in sterile condition until ready for use. After the removal of the lid, the insert of foam material is moved over the end of a female luer and rotated in order to clean the outer surface of the luer as well as the interior of the luer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventors: Michael J. Vaillancourt, Marshall Kerr
  • Patent number: 7410318
    Abstract: A back applicator enables a user to apply lotion to his own back or multiple users to apply lotion in succession in a sanitary manner. The back applicator includes a base plate and first and second straps coupled to opposed sides thereof and extending in opposed directions. At least one of the straps is length adjustable such that the length of the applicator device may be selectively changed. The back applicator also includes an applier that is selectively and removably coupled to the base plate. The applier may be a sponge to which a lotion may be applied or that may be pro-loaded with lotion. The applier may include a clip having resilient members complementary to an opening defined by the base plate such that the applier may be attached to the base plate, used, and then disposed of after lotion has been applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventors: Griselda E. Chambers, Robert E. Chambers
  • Patent number: 7401376
    Abstract: A disposable nonwoven cleansing mitt adapted to be retained on a user's hand during use is provided. The disposable nonwoven cleansing mitt is releasably carrying a personal care composition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Joyce Marie Benjamin, Suzanne Marie Thomas, Wilfried Horst Fenske
  • Publication number: 20080148504
    Abstract: A hair brush with hair conditioning oil absorbing device on brush bristles embedding part; the hair conditioning oil absorbing device of the hair brush adopts multiple separate granules or lumps design, and there is a space between each pouring body of the hair conditioning oil absorbing device; since the space is part of the hair brush, strength of brush will not be affected; furthermore, brush bristles can be placed on the spaces; therefore, distribution of brush bristles will not be affected by locations of hair conditioning oil absorbing devices and it will not create a big area without brush bristles in the center to damage its hair-combing function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Publication date: June 26, 2008
    Inventor: Lio Kuo
  • Patent number: 7390368
    Abstract: Fiber optic connector end faces are cleaned effectively by exposing the fiber optic connector end face to the disclosed predominantly aqueous solution and wiping the fiber optic end face dry. The predominantly water-based cleaning solution contains water, water soluble organic solvents, propylene glycol ethers and isopropanol. Also disclosed is a method for cleaning a fiber optic end face using an aqueous solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Paul M. Blair
  • Publication number: 20080127994
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device including a base layer; a wipe layer attached to the base layer to define an interior space between the wipe and base layers; a plurality of blisters positioned within the interior space, each blister having a blister volume, wherein the sum of the blister volumes is a total blister volume; and an indication disposed on the wipe layer or the base layer corresponding to a single blister or a group of blisters indicating the ratio of the blister volume of that single blister or the sum of the blister volumes of that group of blisters to the total blister volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventors: Carl G. Rippl, Chi Hao P. Duong
  • Publication number: 20080115302
    Abstract: A cleaning tool with a handle having a manual release device actuator and a removable cleaning head having a cleaning substrate can be used to effectively clean surfaces. The cleaning substrate can have a fitment for attachment to the handle. The cleaning substrate can be impregnated with a cleaning composition having a solid inorganic acid, such as sulfamic acid. The cleaning substrate can be water-soluble or water-dispersible. Examples of suitable cleaning tools include a hard surface floor mop, a carpet mop, an auto cleaning device, a toilet cleaning device, a bathroom cleaning device, and a shower cleaning device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Inventors: Andrew Kilkenny, Douglas J. Minkler, Russell E. Bell, Lafayette D. Foland, Sara Morales
  • Publication number: 20080098545
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to devices and methods for cleaning, dusting or applying disinfectants to a surface. The device features a sheath having a first surface and a second surface. The sheath is capable of assuming two positions. In said first position the first surface faces inward toward itself defining a first opening and a first chamber. In the second position the second surfaces faces inward towards itself defining a second opening and a second chamber and the first surfaces faces outward. At least one pad element is affixed to the first surface for cleaning, dusting or applying disinfectants as said sheath assumes the second position. A seal is associated with at least one of the first and second surfaces to close said first chamber for storing the pad element before use and after use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas Clyde Hatch
  • Publication number: 20080098546
    Abstract: The disclosed cleaning tool assembly for cleaning a hard kitchen surface includes a cleaning tool and a wiping substrate. The cleaning tool is a unitary cleaning tool having a base portion, a handle portion, and a neck portion connecting the base portion to the handle portion. The base portion includes a planar, rigid working surface. The handle portion includes an upper convex surface that forms an upper portion of the cleaning tool whereby the upper convex surface engages with the palm of a hand. The neck portion is recessed from both the base portion and the handle portion. The neck portion engages with the fingers of a hand. The wiping substrate is removably attached to the working surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Publication date: May 1, 2008
    Inventors: Bridget K. Warmka, Bobbi L. Pinnow, Arthur V. Lang, Perry S. Dotterman, Thomas G. Skulley
  • Patent number: 7363674
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fan blade cleaning tool having a box-shaped housing. The housing has first and second openings on opposing sides, with a passage extending therebetween for receiving a fan blade. A dust gutter extends outwardly from, and adjacent to, the first opening. A method of cleaning a fan blade using the disclosed tool is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventor: John C. Marshall
  • Publication number: 20080087568
    Abstract: A dental hygiene kit is disclosed which is particularly useful for small children and traveling adults, and which includes a package having one large initially-sealed compartment for storing a handle and a plurality of smaller, initially-sealed compartments for storing disposable pre-pasted brush heads. The compartments are sterile in the initially seated condition. The handle comprises a fork and with two spaced-apart shaped prongs. Each brush head comprises a plurality of bristles connected to a body. The bristles are coated with toothpaste thereby avoiding wasted toothpaste and mess. Each brush head body comprises a shaped hole with sidewalls for frictionally and releasably receiving the prongs of the handle. After each use, the brush heads are discarded. The disclosed kit helps children learn good brushing habits while avoiding wasted and swallowed toothpaste.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2006
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Inventor: S. Jabri
  • Patent number: 7350257
    Abstract: A refill is designed for use with a cleaning tool, such as a mop or a cleaning mitt. The refill includes a mopping sheet, formed from a water absorbing material, and a dusting sheet. In one example, the dusting sheet is removed from the refill after dusting a surface to expose the mopping sheet. A single refill allows a surface to be dusted and then mopped using the same cleaning tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Rapid Brands Corporation
    Inventor: William D. McKay
  • Patent number: 7350256
    Abstract: A disposable child sized cleaning implement is provided. The disposable child sized cleaning implement is releasably carrying a personal care composition which comprises an aromatherapy adjuvant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Joyce Marie Benjamin, Michael Wayne Mason, Jenna Mason
  • Patent number: 7346955
    Abstract: A device that can be used, for example, for application or use with hair care products. The device includes two sheets connected to one another by a connecting region which defines a cavity on a first side of the connecting region, such that a user's hand can be inserted into the cavity. A flexible strip preferably cut into fringes and flaps, is provided on a second side of the connecting region. A method for manufacturing a device of this kind is also provided in which two webs of strip material are unrolled simultaneously, connected, and then cut. Parts of the webs, including both the connecting region and the cut fringes and flaps, are then separated. The device can optionally be impregnated with a product, for example, a hair care product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: L'Oreal
    Inventor: Vincent De Laforcade
  • Publication number: 20080066247
    Abstract: A holder for a toilet cleaning tool and an improved toilet cleaning tool has a removable drip liner within a housing. The cover of the housing pivots at the base to an opened position to provide access to allow the head of the cleaning tool to be received in the liner. The toilet cleaning tool comprises a curved handle, and a removable cleaning head. The cleaning head may be one of a brush or a sponge. A set of brushes and sponges of different shapes, sizes and configurations may be provided for interchangeably attached to the handle, depending on the intended cleaning applications. Different brushes and sponges may be impregnated with a different cleaning agent, depending on the intended cleaning applications. The handle of the toilet cleaning tool may be provided with a non-slip finish.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2007
    Publication date: March 20, 2008
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Joseph Sandor, Ian Fettes
  • Publication number: 20080028552
    Abstract: A single-use applicator for amorphous substances comprising a base panel impermeable to the amorphous substance, a retentive layer secured to the base panel, an amorphous substance suffused throughout the retentive layer, and a thin, flexible cover that is unaffected by the amorphous substance and secured to the base panel to seal the retentive layer in an enclosed space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2005
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventors: Nicholas Powley, Tara Einis
  • Patent number: 7310847
    Abstract: A dual functional sheet-like cleaning article having a first layer made of at least one non-woven material and a second layer made of at least one different non-woven material in which the first layer provides a water absorbing capability wherein the second layer provides an abrasive capability to the cleaning article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Steven A. Bolkan, Gregory Alan Ornoski, James S. Mandle
  • Publication number: 20070283515
    Abstract: A disposable finger mounted instrument cleaner (2) of the type having a semi-circumferential protective body (4) with a swiping expanse (6) to generously occlude lateral and extensor aspects of a finger and a tapered gripping coil (10) to wrap around the flexor aspects of a finger. Attached to the swiping expanse is an adherent foam body (14) with a number of pressure sensitive grooves (18) and debris traps (16) so that an instrument can be inserted into the pressure grooves to deposit debris in the debris traps. In Addition, the foam body has a pocket (20) for thorough instrument immersion and for holding desired medicaments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: December 13, 2007
    Inventors: Brian D. Viscomi, Dominic Anthony Viscomi, Julie Glazer
  • Patent number: 7284293
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to an article for cleaning uneven, variable geometry surfaces of electronic devices, internal electronic assemblies, or the like. The article comprises a housing having opposing faces with a support mounted to a first of the faces and a cleaning surface mounted to a second and opposite face of the housing. The cleaning surface includes a substantially flexible material formed in multiple, alternating patterns comprising at least one row of non-continuous, relatively tall triangular-like spikes separated by a plurality of rows of continuous, relatively short triangular-like spikes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Helen A. Holder, Sandra G. Goebel, William H. Leong
  • Patent number: 7284294
    Abstract: A disposable toilet bowl cleaning implement for discarding after one use, towards eliminating problems associated with the sanitary storage of toilet bowl cleaning products, the implement having a handle in the form of an elongated member with a reinforcement ridge extending along at least a substantial portion of the length of handle projecting in the direction transverse to the width of the handle. A scrubbing element is folded at least once upon itself to create a juxtaposed surface to surface contact over a substantial portion thereof to which the adhesive may be applied. A fastener further attaches the handle and the scrubbing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Inventor: Andrew Kozakow
  • Patent number: 7275276
    Abstract: A cleaning head with a cleaning substrate, a cleaning composition and a fitment can used to clean hard surfaces, including toilets, showers, and bathrooms. The fitment can be attached to a cleaning tool. The cleaning face of the cleaning substrate can be in the shape of a polygon. The fitment can be attached to the cleaning substrate by melting the fitment above its softening temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Agnes Jaszenovics, Douglas J. Minkler, Kaitlin Roach
  • Publication number: 20070220693
    Abstract: A cleaning implement is disclosed that provides multiple functions useful in cleaning windows and similar surfaces. There is a support head that has three sides, one being a cleaning liquid applicator side and two presenting an absorbent sheet. The liquid applicator side can apply a cleaning liquid to a surface to be cleaned and optionally can provide scrubbing to the surface. The sheet can perform rough drying followed by finish drying, and/or other functions. Replacement liquid applicator cartridges and replacement sheets, or stacks of sheets, are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventors: Jason C. Billig, Stuart M. Leslie, Charles A. Curtiss, David Mallard
  • Publication number: 20070192980
    Abstract: A panel wiper including a wiping member including a baseboard section and a cleaning plate connected under a bottom of the baseboard section. The cleaning plate has at least one acute wiping corner for extending into the respective corners of the panel to reciprocally wipe and clean up the panel. The panel wiper further includes a holder having a bed section and an annular wall section swelling from a circumference of the bed section. The annular wall section is formed with several receptacles adapted to a profile of the baseboard section of the wiping member. The wiping member can be seated in the receptacles and stably rested on the bed section. Multiple supporting stands are arranged under a bottom of the bed section and the bed section is formed with multiple vents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventor: Jean Chin Chu Lee
  • Patent number: 7240391
    Abstract: A wipe, comprising a hollow shell formed of a flexible sheet, having a first end and a second end having a cuff; and at least one side port, the side port being formed in a wall of the shell at a distance from the sealed first end, the hollow shell being adapted for at least one of cleaning, wiping, polishing, applying a liquid to a surface, and treating a surface, the cuff being adapted to retain the hollow shell about the wrist of a human wearer, and the at least one side port being adapted for insertion of a human thumb therethrough when the hollow absorbent fabric shell is placed over a human hand. The hollow shell is preferably an absorbent fabric.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventors: James C. Boze, Manfred K. Lenz
  • Patent number: 7159265
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cleaning brush for cleaning toilet bowls and the like. The brush has a permanent handle and replaceable/disposable brush heads that are flushable after each cleaning. The brush is a stack of sheets of water-dissolvable and/or agitation-dissolvable material. The sheets can be attached together at an end by pressure bonding or by a water-soluble adhesive and formed with bristles at an opposite end. The wand provides a remote system for clamping and unclamping the brush head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas A. Soller, Simon M. Conway, Kenneth W. Michaels, Elias H. Shaer, Michael J. Banco, Terra J. Morgan, James S. Marschalek
  • Patent number: 7132377
    Abstract: A disposable dish care and hard surface cleaning wipe is disclosed. In one embodiment, the wipe is comprised of a water insoluble substrate that includes a partially hydrophobic nonwoven first layer, and a low density nonwoven second layer that is adjacent to the said first layer and has melded onto the side facing away from the said first layer an abrasive coating of thermoplastic material nubs or hooks, and a cleaning paste containing a surfactant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Patrice Mar Luc Borgonjon, Jeffrey Lee Butterbaugh, Edward Paul Fitch, Peter Robert Foley, Francis Cornelio Ford, Brian Jeffreys
  • Patent number: 7127768
    Abstract: A disposable cleaning head comprising a sponge, scrim and a one-piece flexible fitment having an engagement member adapted to removably engage a handle. Preferably, the scrim includes a cleaning composition having at least one surfactant. The cleaning composition can optionally include one or more bactericidal agents, bleaching agents, chelants, salts, coloring agents, fragrances and preservatives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: The Clorox Company
    Inventors: Lisa Blum, Russell Bell, Layfayette Foland, George Katsigras, Douglas Minkler, Sara Morales
  • Patent number: 7127771
    Abstract: An oral cleaning device that can fit onto a human finger is provided. The oral cleaning device, or dental wipe, is at least partially made from an elastomeric material, such as an elastomeric nonwoven, so that the wipe can more aptly fit onto a finger. Furthermore, the wipe, in some instances, can possess a barrier that is liquid-impervious, but vapor-permeable so that the finger of a user is more comfortable during cleaning. Various additives can be applied to the wipe to aid in the cleaning process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason P. McDevitt, Michael S. Brunner, Jark C. Lau, Jaeho Kim
  • Patent number: 7048728
    Abstract: A noninvasive medical instrument having a core and a flexible outer coil surrounding about the core to form an elongated body. The elongated body has a rounded tip portion, which is preferably burrless, to prevent the noninvasive medical instrument from penetrating or entering a skin surface of a patient. The noninvasive medical instrument of this invention can be used to scratch an irritated skin surface that is otherwise inaccessible due to interference caused by a cast, a prosthetic device or another structural obstruction. If the core is hollow, the noninvasive medical instrument of this invention can be used to deliver fluidic medicine to a likewise inaccessible skin area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Richard N. Witham
  • Patent number: 7032270
    Abstract: A toilet cleaning apparatus and caddy is provided which includes a tool which may be held in a user's hand. A swab, which is flushable down the toilet after the cleaning process is complete, is provided which is easily attached and detached from the tool. The tool is movable to a number of operative positions which assist in the loading, holding, or removal of the swab. A caddy is also provided which can hold the tool as well as unused swabs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Novalabs, LLC
    Inventors: Marc. L. Vitantonio, Renard J. Passerell, Robert Soreo, Daniel J. Wanhainen, John R. Nottingham, John W. Spirk
  • Patent number: 6983866
    Abstract: The invention provides a soap dispenser. In general, the soap dispenser includes a handle having a hollow interior, and a coupling on a first end of the handle. The first end of the handle also has a fluid passage for transferring a fluid from the hollow interior to outside the hollow interior. The coupling is adapted to receive a soft attachment having a coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventors: Tracy Smart, Chris Sticht
  • Patent number: 6981293
    Abstract: A device for providing self-assisting hygienic activity to individuals of limited dexterity, the device including an elongated body constructed of first and second telescoping portions and terminating at a first end in an ergonomically configured handle. A hygienic related accessory is secured to the other end of the elongated body, which includes a repositionable goose neck portion. The accessory capable of being manipulated relative to the elongated body in at least one of axially extending and angularly configurable fashions and the accessory is further capable of being releasably engageable to the associated end of the elongated body and substituted by at least one alternately configured accessory drawn from at least one of a sponge attachment, lotion dispensing attachment, disposable sheet attachment, scrub brush attachment and powder applicator attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Rochelle Steinberg
  • Patent number: 6944903
    Abstract: An applicator with squeegee configurations is disclosed. The applicator has a removable cover. In accordance with the embodiments of the invention, the removable cover is sealed through a squeegee edge using a suitable adhesive. The removable cover can be formed from foil, plastic or any combination of suitable materials. In use, the removable cover is removed and the squeegee configuration is used to treat, clean and/or wipe a surface. In further embodiments of the invention, a medication, a cleaning agent or other surface treating substance is seal between the removable cover and the squeegee configuration. Preferably, the device is an oral-care device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Inventor: James A. Gavney, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6925672
    Abstract: A lotion application tool includes a plate having a first side, a second side and a peripheral edge extending between the first and second sides. An elongated handle has a first end that is attached to the peripheral edge. A plurality of balls is extended into and rotatably coupled to the first side. The balls are spaced from each other. A panel has a top surface and a bottom surface. The panel has generally the same size and shape as the first side of the plate. The panel has a plurality of apertures extending therethrough that are each positioned for lining up with and receiving one of the balls when the bottom surface is positioned adjacent to the first side. A fastening member removably fastens the top surface to the first side. Lotion may be positioned on the panel and thereafter applied to a body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Darryl L. Bromley
  • Patent number: 6916382
    Abstract: A wipe pad (10) for cleaning debris from cooking grate (24) while preparing the cooking grate for use in cooking foods, in which the wipe pad has a sheet of an absorbent fire retardant material with a cooking agent (18) received by the sheet. The sheet, being attached to a grill brush (26) by a plurality of bristles (32) extending therefrom and partially penetrating the sheet, clings to the grill brush (26) for wiping contact of the sheet against the grate (24) upon movement of the grill brush to clean cooking debris from the cooking grate while communicating a film of the cooking agent from the sheet to prepare the cooking grate for use. A method of preparing a cooking grate for cooking is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Grate Chef, LLC
    Inventor: W. Keith Aldredge
  • Patent number: 6908247
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a golf ball cleaning apparatus that is adapted to be worn on the belt of a user. The apparatus permits its wearer to easily clean a golf ball at any point during a round of golf. The apparatus includes a water tight container with a slidable tray storing a sponge. A serrated edge is also included upon the tray to remove build-up upon a golf ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: David P. Gomez
  • Patent number: 6905553
    Abstract: The present invention involves a solvent vapor transfer device for holding an absorbent pad, which receives and disperses solvent vapors over a lacquer-based residue on a textile. A solvent is poured or dripped into an absorbent pad portion of the vapor transfer box, from which solvent vapors are released. The solvent vapors pass through the vapor transfer box and concentrate in a vapor chamber over the lacquer-based residue and textile. As the solvent vapors come into continuous contact with the lacquer-based residue, the residue begins to dissolve and soften. Upon sufficient dissolution, minute quantities of the liquid solvent may be applied directly to the partially dissolved residue and quickly suctioned into an extraction vacuum. This process may be repeated as necessary to achieve complete removal of the residue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Harris Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn T. Rodeback, Edward E. Durrant
  • Patent number: 6898819
    Abstract: The disposable tooth cleaning article for manually cleaning tooth surfaces is disclosed. The disposable tooth cleaning article extends in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction, and has a wearer's finger faced surface and an outer surface. The disposable tooth cleaning article comprises a first sheet and a second sheet. The first sheet and the second sheet form a pouch with an opening. The disposable tooth cleaning article has a distal portion extending opposite to the pouch beyond the opening in the longitudinal direction. The distal portion is wound about the wearer's finger when the disposable tooth cleaning article is used. The finger faced surface is provided with a first attachment means and a second attachment means. The first attachment means is located on the finger faced surface of the distal portion adjacent to one transverse edge of the opening to maintain the wound configuration of the distal portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Yuko Tanaka, Masato Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6880197
    Abstract: A disposable toilet cleaning device is provided to clean the surfaces of a toilet which includes a handle and a telescoping arm which extends from the handle for cleaning a toilet. A cleaning head is secured to the free end of the telescoping arm and may include a cleaning chemical to effectuate cleaning of the toilet. The telescoping arm may include a flexible neck for positioning the brush head for cleaning the toilet. The components of the toilet brush may be made of a paper product and/or plastic material suitable for one use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventors: Susan Katz, Cheryl Bersano
  • Patent number: 6865772
    Abstract: An applicator used to evenly apply liquid tire dressing to the entire outer sidewall of a tire. The applicator includes a pad that includes an elongated, concave, curved lower surface that is complementary in shape with a portion of the sidewall. The pad includes at least one beveled, concave lateral edge that enable the tire dressing to be applied evenly to the areas of the sidewall adjacent to the wheel hub and to the compressed shoulder area of the tire adjacent to the ground. The pad is attached to a rigid base that includes a rigid handle aligned parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pad and rigid base and that allows the user to easily hold the applicator perpendicular to the sidewall and move the applicator in long broad strokes in a circular pattern around the sidewall of a tire. An optional holding tray is also provided that temporarily stores the applicator and prevents the tire dressing from drying out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Randolph L. Risch
  • Patent number: 6866722
    Abstract: A screen cleaning tool including a thin sheet of fiberous material made by a process that includes the steps forming fibers into a lacy pattern, compressing the pattern into a thin sheet, applying a curable adhesive to the fibers, and curing the adhesive and pre-moistening said thin sheet with an aqueous solution of materials selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol, polysorbate, aloe extract, 2-phenoxyethanol, methyl paraben, butyl paraben, ethyl paraben, propyl paraben, isobutyl paraben, and DL-alpha-tocopheryl acetate in order to make it available to be wiped over the surface of a screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Mark A. Snaza
  • Patent number: 6854153
    Abstract: The keyboard cleaner 10 is provided including a plate 22, a plurality of projections 24 that protrude from the plate, and a cleaning pad 30 overlaying the projections. The cleaner is maneuvered manually by a handle 12 fixedly attached to the back side 20 of the plate 22. In operation, the cleaning pad 30 engages the surface of the keyboard 14 keys to remove moisture, dirt and debris. The cleaning pad 30 may be removed to permit the cleaning or replacement of the cleaning pad 30. Additionally, the projections 24 may be impermanently attached to the front side 26 of the plate 22 so that the keyboard cleaner 10 may be modified to match the configuration of virtually any keyboard's surface 14.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Mueller
  • Patent number: 6854152
    Abstract: An article and process for cleaning relatively inaccessible and recessed surfaces, including a shaft having a first end opposite a second end with a cleaning head assembly, including a movable strip of buffing material, at the first end of the shaft. The article has an actuator at the second end of the shaft; and a connector coupling the cleaning head assembly to the actuator to move the movable strip during positional change of the actuator. Repeated positional change of the actuator produces reciprocatory movement in the movable strip of buffing material to produce a rubbing, cleaning action of the material against a recessed surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Harry A. Loder, Curtis L. Shoemaker
  • Patent number: RE39185
    Abstract: An all-sided mouthbrush A device for cleaning a the mouth of a user. The all-sided mouthbrush device includes a handle including a first end having first and second sides, bristles extending from the first side, and an alternate cleaning device connected to on the second side, wherein the bristles clean teeth of the user and the alternate cleaning device cleans a the tongue and inner side of the mouth of the user. The alternate cleaning device may be in the form of one of a plurality of parallel ridges, a plurality of columns of tuft-shaped bristles, a plurality of spade headed bristles, a scouring pad-like surface or a plurality or off set rows of bristle-like structures made of soluble crystals for scraping the tongue and inner side of the mouth of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventors: Dennis W. Noe, Chris M. Sold