Abstract: An oral care gaming system and methods are provided for promoting and rewarding proper oral care techniques and behaviors and for controlling an electronic and/or video game. The system and methods enable a user to play an electronic and/or video game while performing certain oral care activities. The efficacy of a user's oral care techniques enables the user to improve their game play and to achieve the goals of the game. The system includes an oral care tool configured as a game enabler/controller and a base unit configured as an electronic gaming apparatus. Using the oral care tool, a user performs oral care and interacts with an electronic and/or video game the base unit implements and runs. The base unit includes a video display that displays video outputs of an electronic and/or video game.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for cleaning according to various aspects of the present invention include a cleaner and a lighting system. The cleaner, such as a handheld cleaner like a brush or lint roller, cleans the item or area to be cleaned. The lighting system illuminates the area or item to be cleaned. In one embodiment, the lighting system generates ultraviolet light to illuminate debris having phosphor materials.

Abstract: A grip cleaning and rising devices includes a dual tubular body having a closed lower end for holding separately both soapy and rinsing fluid, and an open upper end for receiving the grips or handles to be cleaned longitudinally therein. Cleaning is effected by a single helical brush with multiple turns that is simply threaded into position in the washing body. A splash guard is also provided as an impinging lip that extends into the receiving orifice. A smaller diameter rinsing tube is in fluid isolation from the cleaning solution. A cap may optionally be provided to close the top of the grip washer when not in use or for transportation from one place to another. The simple tubular construction enables the grip washer adapted for use as a mobile unit, with a laterally extending base to allow the user to stabilize the device by placing his or her feet over the base edge.

Abstract: An implement mounted on a shaft has a device that either collects or has on it during or after use unwanted matter. The implement has a portion that is easily removable from the shaft and has a section creating at least a partial interference fit with the device to remove the unwanted matter therefrom.

Abstract: A sink disposal multipurpose tool is described. Disposals can be damaged by non-food items that are inadvertently dropped therein. A sink disposal multipurpose tool is configured so that it rests within and above a disposal in such a way as to block non-food items from entering a disposal while allowing water and food-waste items entrance. The tool is configured with a plurality of attachments, including a scraper and stuffer blade attachment so that a cook can efficiently scrape food waste materials from dishes, pans, etc. into a sink. The tool can be used to gather the food waste materials from the sink and push them into a disposal. Other attachments include a scrub pad, a brush, and a peeler. The sink disposal multipurpose tool can be returned to its storage position in and above the disposal well where it effectively stops utensils, etc. from entering the disposal unit.

Abstract: A paint remover including a receptacle adapted to hold a hot air gun having a hot air output and an attachment coupled to the receptacle for attaching a blade to the receptacle and for aligning the blade with the hot air output.

Abstract: A caulk working tool for working caulk against first and second surfaces defining an intersection comprising a shaft member and a scraper body. The shaft member is substantially rigid, and scraper body is substantially resilient. The scraper body is molded over the shaft member and comprises a scraper surface defining a point and first and second sides. The scraper body deforms when the first and second sides are held in contact with the first and second surfaces. The caulk working tool is displaced relative to the first and second surfaces while the first and second sides are in contact with the first and second surfaces to cause the scraper surface to work the caulk against the first and second surfaces and form a desired profile in the caulk.

Abstract: The broom having a bottom rod and an offset top rod is provided. Bristles are attached to the bottom of the bottom rod to contact a floor. Connecting the top and bottom rods is a grip rod. The grip rod desirably slants downward toward the floor when the broom bristles contact the floor. Desirably, the grip rod is attached at its bottom end to the bottom rod at an angle ? of from about 100° to about 150° preferably 100° to 140°. The grip rod is attached at its top end to the top rod at an angle ? of about 100° to about 150°, preferably 100° to 140°. As a result, the grip rod slants downward toward the floor when the broom bristles contact the floor. The grip rod is located a predetermined distance above the bristles so the grip bar can be grasped when the bristles contact the floor by the user in a standing position.

Abstract: A hygienic toothbrush comprises a bristle cover movably secured to the elongated body of the toothbrush to protect the bristles of the toothbrush when it is not being used. A storage compartment with a removable lid is provided in the handle of the toothbrush body for storing the cover when not in use.

Abstract: In various exemplary embodiments, the present invention provides a golf club cleaning device that includes a cleaning portion including an upper and lower or concentrically-arranged cleaning surfaces; a flag portion disposed at a top end of the cleaning portion, the flag portion including a gripping means; and a spike portion disposed at a bottom end of the cleaning portion substantially opposite the top end of the cleaning portion, the spike portion including a support means for supporting the device in an upright manner when depressed into the ground. By grasping the flag portion, the spike portion is selectively disposed in the ground at a predetermined location associated with a golf course, practice range, or the like, thereby allowing a player to clean a golf club by selectively running the front face and/or rear face of the golf club horizontally and/or vertically across the one or more cleaning surfaces/materials of the cleaning portion.

Abstract: A single tool functioning as a screwdriver, a socket wrench and a brush. A shaft serves as an element of a screwdriver, the shaft of a socket wrench and a handle and support for a brush; In one embodiment, a tube with sockets at both ends is attached at its center to one end of a shaft that is also slidably disposed within an axial channel through a brush, and the other end of the shaft is shaped as a screwdriver blade.

Abstract: A molded soap bar having a flexible outer shell and a flexible soap reservoir lying within the outer shell and containing liquid soap to be dispensed. The soap reservoir communicates with a button valve by way of a soap emitter that is surrounded by a soap dispensing head which lies outside and below the flexible outer shell. A squeezing force applied to the flexible outer shell of the molded soap bar is transmitted to the flexible soap reservoir to cause soap to be delivered under pressure from the reservoir through a flow path formed in the soap emitter to the button valve. The button valve includes a flexible flap closure that is pivotally connected to the soap dispensing head and a pushing arm that is connected to the flap closure. A pushing force applied to the pushing arm causes the flap closure of the button valve to pivot from a closed position to an open position to create a gap through which a supply of liquid soap from the soap reservoir is dispensed.

Abstract: A convertible implement is provided having a first implement with a first operable head connected to a first handle. The first implement is removably connected to a second implement having a second operable head connected to a second handle.

Abstract: An applicator principally for use in the dental profession, for the placement of different materials as may be required. The applicator includes an elongated handle having an applicating end portion formed at the opposed ends thereof which may be either of like or unlike construction, i.e. formed as a brush and/or a flocked applicating end portion. The flock may extend from the distal end a predetermined longitudinal distance over an extended portion. Intermediate the opposed applicating end portion, the elongated handle is provided with a circumscribing groove to define a frangible area by which the user, at his or her option, can cleanly sever the applicator handle to form two separate and distinct applicators. The applicator is also provided with a hinging arrangement adjacent the opposed applicating end portions whereby the applicating end portions may be angularly bent relative to the elongated handle at the option of the user.

Abstract: A turf cleaning machine includes a bowed plate swept by a cylindrical plate. The bowed plate, when successively swept by a cylindrical brush, catches waste not ejected by the brush into a collecting pan to ensure collection of the waste. The waste is picked up a second time for ejection from the brush into the pan.

Abstract: A multipurpose gardening tool that comprises a broom assembly, a housing assembly for disposable bags, a spike assembly, a rake assembly, and a dustpan assembly. The multipurpose gardening tool can be readily assembled and disassembled into different configurations or can be combined to form one single tool. The multipurpose gardening tool can be utilized in commercial or residential settings for gardening and landscaping, whereby each can detach from each other to utilize each of the above defined in a manner that corresponds with the work to be accomplished.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an eraser for chalkboards, blackboards, markerboards, or whiteboards and the like. The eraser is worn on the hand of a person and at least the palm of the glove/mitten has an eraser surface for erasing. The glove/mitten is especially suitable for use in a classroom.

Abstract: A toothbrush for infants includes an elongate grasping region with a head at one end and a bottom at the other end. The head of the toothbrush includes a plurality of bristles, which may be formed from a soft, resiliently compressible material. The elongate grasping region may have dimensions that enable it to be held by an infant's hand while preventing its insertion and, thus, over-insertion of the toothbrush, into the infant's mouth. Various other features may be included to guide an infant's hand to an appropriate location on the toothbrush, as well as to enable an infant to grip the grasping region, particularly when moisture is present on the surface of the grasping region.

Abstract: A toothbrush includes a storage unit having an input, a memory for storing audio signals received via the input. The unit can have an output for transmitting or playing the stored audio signals. A variety of different constructions of storage unit and toothbrush configurations are described, each creating an environment that makes tooth brushing enjoyable.

Abstract: A surface cleaning pad is provided comprising a pad body including a primary portion and a secondary portion contiguous with the primary portion. An attachment member is coupled to the primary portion of the pad body, whereby the attachment member is configured for releasable attachment to a primary surface of a cleaning implement. An attachment member is coupled to the secondary portion of the pad body, wherein the attachment member is configured for releasable attachment to a secondary surface of a cleaning implement. The primary portion and the secondary portion of the pad body are each configured to be independently positioned against a soiled surface.

Abstract: In various exemplary embodiments, the present invention provides a golf club cleaning device that includes a cleaning portion including an upper and lower cleaning surfaces; a flag portion disposed at a top end of the cleaning portion, the flag portion including a gripping means; and a spike portion disposed at a bottom end of the cleaning portion substantially opposite the top end of the cleaning portion, the spike portion including a support means for supporting the device in an upright manner when depressed into the ground. By grasping the flag portion, the spike portion is selectively disposed in the ground at a predetermined location associated with a golf course, practice range, or the like, thereby allowing a player to clean a golf club by selectively running the front face and/or rear face of the golf club horizontally and/or vertically across the one or more cleaning surfaces/materials of the cleaning portion.

Abstract: An article for personal hygiene is described, having a partly hollow holder part (2), a toothbrush part (6) and a fastening means (5) for a razor head (7). The toothbrush part (6) is arranged to be folded into the holder part (2), as the toothbrush part (6) has a first end with a hinge mechanism (13, 14), in such a way that the toothbrush part (6) is pivotally fastened to the holder part (2). In the partly hollow holder part (2) it is arranged a wall (22), constituting a physical separation between a first room (20) and a second room (21). The end of the toothbrush part (6) having a toothbrush head (23) is arranged to be folded into the first room (20). The wall (22) constitutes at the same time a fastening for a filling device (25), known per se. More air and drain holes (24, 35, 36, 34a, 34b) are preferably arranged on the article.

Abstract: A multi-function tool apparatus and system formed from a handle and a utility blade having a structure that facilitates completion of a plurality of functions, thus, reducing the number of ancillary tools required. The handle may include a butt end with a screwdriver in releasable engagement with the handle. The screwdriver can be removed to expose a shaft and several screwdriver bits. The butt end includes a bolt that can be removed to attach and extension pole to allow the apparatus to reach remote areas. The structure of the utility blade allows functions including but not limited to: scraping; putty spreading; caulk stripping; can opening, can closing; roller wiping; cutting; torquing hex nuts on spray guns; nail pulling, nail driving and the like. In other embodiments, other heads may be substituted for the utility blade.

Abstract: A cleaning device can include a strainer that includes a base including an upper open end and an inner surface having abrasive scouring elements for removing debris from associated articles placed into the strainer. Openings extend through the base to allow liquid to pass through the openings carrying debris away from the associated articles retained in the strainer.

Abstract: This invention presents a unique multi-use kitchen scraper-spatula that has four distinct edges made of three different materials having three different degrees of hardness or rigidity. This design transforms what is a common kitchen bowl scraper into a much more versatile cooking tool that can be used in the mixing, folding, and scraping of runny batter and sticky dough, the cutting and transfer of dough, as well as the removal of hardened food substance inside a bowl or on the counter.

Abstract: A combination tool having utility in tile installation procedures includes a wide blade adapted to remove excess grout and caulk in relatively large quantities, a four-armed cement remover and grout joint spacer, a spherical grout packer and a “V”-shaped grout and caulk profiler adapted to be secured to a hollow handle in varying combinations. In a first embodiment, the wide blade is attached to a first end of the handle and the four-armed cement remover-grout joint spacer and the spherical packer are releasably secured to a second end of the handle. A second embodiment includes the blade at the first end and the “V”-shaped profiler at the second end in lieu of the cement remover and packer. The hollow handle provides a storage compartment for additional packers. The tool may be made of material that floats in water. The handle may also have a non-hollow web construction.

Abstract: The invention is a fun shower brush. The brush has a bubble-making device on its top part. Different kinds of brush can be fitted into the front of the shower brush to meet the needs of the user. This design makes the brush suitable for use by the general public and the bubble-making device makes showering more fun.

Abstract: An oral care implement with an oral care region having cleaning elements for engaging oral tissue and a body for gripping the implement including a handle with a front and a removable faceplate is described. The removable faceplate may be transparent or translucent and may also include design features. The faceplate may provide protection to a user inscription surface on one of the surfaces of the handle which is may be configured to receive user indicia that may later be removed and further indicia provided. A method for marketing the oral care implement and various features of the oral care implement including one or more thematic faceplates is also contemplated and described.

Abstract: A paint remover including a receptacle adapted to hold a hot air gun having a hot air output and an attachment coupled to the receptacle for attaching a blade to the receptacle and for aligning the blade with the hot air output.

Abstract: A cleaning device that includes a first component, a second component and a handle is provided. The first component is configured to hold a first portion of the cleaning device. The second component is configured to hold a second portion of the cleaning device. The first and second components are connected and are configured so that the first portion and the second portion on the respective first and second components are independently replaceable. The handle is coupled to the second component to control an application of at least one of the first portion and the second portion of the cleaning device on a surface to be cleaned.

Abstract: A music-playing toothbrush having a hollow handle housing containing suitable solid state electronic components for selectively playing a musical tune with improved sound quality. The sound quality is expressly addressed in the handle design with an interior sealed speaker enclosure configured to direct the sound toward the listener with little internal leakage and with an undulating violin-like cavity shape that suppresses internal standing waves. Moreover, the handle provides a relatively large, relatively flat, substantially uninterrupted surface for receiving attractive and motivational graphics such as licensed cartoon characters, which may be compatible with the musical selection.

Abstract: A combination cleaning tool and plunger integrates a cleaning tool and plunger in a single shafted tool to save storage space and provide the tools required for non-invasive plumbing maintenance in one convenient tool assembly. The plunger portion of the tool may be attached in a position near the lower end of the shaft for use in plunging a drain, or slidably moved to be attached in a position near the shaft handle at the upper end of the shaft, exposing the cleaning tool at the lower end of the shaft for use. No disassembly of parts or handling of the working parts is required to use either tool.

Abstract: Disclosed is an electric toothbrush for use with wireless devices. A pressure sensor coupled to a wireless transmitting device determines whether the electric toothbrush is being utilized correctly. When the toothbrush is utilized correctly, the wireless transmitter sends a signal to a receiving device which displays an appropriate output. When the toothbrush is not utilized correctly, the transmitter ceases transmitting a signal and the output from the receiver ceases to be displayed.

Abstract: A toothbrush includes a head assembly with bristles, a base assembly, and a connector which connects the two. A battery and light assembly are disposed in the connector and base assembly, and a power button switch turns the power to a light source “ON/OFF”. The base assembly includes a transparent lens portion at the distal end, through which a light beam from the light source shines when the switch is turned ON. The light beam can project a picture or icon on a slide through the lens portion onto a remote surface. The slide can be permanently fixed in the base assembly or interchangeable. A timer is connected to the batteries, light source, and switch, and allows the light source to turn on for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the base assembly contains at least one indicator light which indicates how long the light source has been ON.

Abstract: A smoking article includes identification information encoded on the smoking article. The smoking article can be used with an electrically heated smoking system having a detector for detecting the smoking article and distinguishing the smoking article from other articles based on the identification information. A cleaning article includes identification information encoded on the cleaning article. The cleaning article cleans an electrically heated smoking system having a detector for detecting the cleaning article and distinguishing the cleaning article from other articles based on the identification information.

Abstract: A single piece boat cleaning tool which has a plurality of cleaning surfaces are each cleaning surface designed to be used on a specific component of the boat. These components can be the hull surface, external lights and equipment which require removal of marine organisms, drive shafts, and/or propeller blades. The invention also provides a buoyant handle which floats the scraping/cleaning tool to the surface in the event that it is dropped in the water. A handle also includes a nonslip grip surface and an external protrusion which provides support for the user's thumb when cleaning. A chipping blade extends from the distal end of the handle. The multiservice cleaning blade extends from a proximal end of the handle.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a powered or manual toothbrush having a polymer battery as a power source. The polymer battery contains no heavy metals, making it environmentally safe, and contains no alkaline, making it physically safe. The polymer battery is inexpensive and rechargeable, making it an economical power source for the toothbrush. The small size of the polymer battery saves space in the toothbrush housing, enabling the housing to be smaller and saving on materials of construction. The flexible nature of the polymer battery enables it to be shaped to fit into or around the periphery of the toothbrush housing design.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for cleaning according to various aspects of the present invention include a cleaner and a lighting system. The cleaner, such as a handheld cleaner like a brush or lint roller, cleans the item or area to be cleaned. The lighting system illuminates the area or item to be cleaned. In one embodiment, the lighting system generates ultraviolet light to illuminate debris having phosphor materials.

Abstract: A convenient ticket scraper is comfortable for use in scraping various surfaces and consists of a main body with a guitar pick shape and an arcuate protruding blade. The main body has a banana shaped key ring hole in one end and the arcuate protruding blade with the thickness of a coin in the other end. There is an even beveled area covered by rubber on each side of the main body for a thumb and a forefinger. An appealing version of this scraper is also disclosed.

Abstract: A hand tool used for removing wax from a surfboard incorporating associated accessories. The wax removal element of the present invention constitutes a substantially rectangular scraping panel that can be resiliently flexed along the elongated axis of the panel. One of the elongated edges of the panel is extended into a plurality of uniform gouging members that are adapted to penetrate the wax to prepare the wax mounted on the surfboard to be removed. The edge of the panel opposed to the scraping members is beveled to provide an edge that is adapted to remove the wax from the surfboard. Rotatably coupled to the bottom surface of the scraping panel are one or more accessories and hand tools used for maintenance of the surfboard and for the personal employment of the user.

Abstract: Aspects of the invention generally provide methods and apparatus for cleaning adhesive residual on a photomask substrate. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a processing cell, a support assembly configured to receive a photomask substrate disposed thereon disposed in the processing cell, a protection head assembly disposed above and facing the support assembly, and a head actuator configured to control the elevation of the protection head assembly relative to an upper surface of the support assembly. A cleaning device is provided and positioned to interact with the photomask substrate disposed on the support assembly.

Abstract: An improved combination garbage disposal safety poker and scraper for scraping waste from eating ware and sinks and pushing such materials into the disposal unit so that such wastes are close as possible to the blades of the disposal. The safety poker/scraper has interchangeable tops which may consist of a cup-shaped drain and handle, an elastomeric cap and handle or simply an enlarged handle. The scraper portion is detachable and can be replaced when worn. The scraper portion is curved so that it can fit more easily into the garbage disposal unit.

Abstract: A multi-functional hairbrush with storage compartments for grooming, storing and organizing small beauty accessories, the hairbrush having a hollow brush head and main chamber, a brush lid portion attached hingedly to the hollow brush head, a plurality of spring clips mounted removably therewithin. The hairbrush also has a slot chamber positioned underneath the main chamber and a flat comb portion fitting within the slot chamber and inserted removably therewithin. The hairbrush has a hollow, elongated handle portion and an elongated chamber, with handle lid portion attached hingedly to the handle portion. The elongated chamber also as a plurality of spring clips mounted removably therewithin.

Abstract: A tool is provided for repairing or restoring the surface of a golf ball. A portable, hand-held, lightweight tool comprises one or more abrasive surfaces for repairing or lessening burs, gouges, scratches and other damage from the cover of a golf ball. The tool may be made from a pliable, deformable material, such as foam rubber, to conform to the curved surface of a golf ball. The tool may include a fastener so that the tool may be attached to a belt loop, golf bag, key chain, golf cart, or the like. In other exemplary embodiments, the tool may be an article of clothing or other golf equipment, such as a glove, towel, or golf club cover.

Abstract: An aftermarket attachment designed to retrofit onto 2? ft. standard pushbroom that allows said broom to stand erect and stable in an upright position. Attaches to broom-top (hard surface opposite bristles) with 4 screws and enables the broom to be located, grasped and operated with user ease.

Abstract: An apparatus for stimulation of the body, including sexual stimulation, includes a body, formed by a bathing or showing sponge, with a compartment for holding a stimulating apparatus, such as a vibrator. The compartment with the stimulating apparatus is concealed by the body, from plain view.

Abstract: A moveable portable electronic device display screen or glass cleaning accessory is a hand held multi-functional apparatus with the ability to allow the user to clean the display screen of an electronic device and easily be carried, stored in a pocket, travel bag or hand bag. The invention is outfitted with micro fiber fabrics for cleaning display screens or glass, a small mirror attached for viewing oneself, one or more pockets for storage of small devices, one or more magnets attached to each side of the apparatus are to assist holding currency. The invention demonstrates the ability to be manufactured in multiple shapes, sizes, fabrics, and colors. The multiple congruent sides of the invention demonstrate the ability to either flip open, utilizing a piece of flexible fabric attached to each side of the device, swivel lending to its ability to turn 45, 90, 180 up to 360 degrees, and or slide open by means of each congruent side on an sliding frame and rail device.

Abstract: A caulk tool has a finishing head at one end of a handheld main body, and a cutting mechanism located near the other end. The finishing head can include a bristle structure used for smoothing out caulk and sealants. The cutting mechanism may include a push button blade for cutting tips of caulk and sealant tubes to a desired length and angle.

Abstract: A mechanical energy harvesting toothbrush may employ circuits and devices to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Such conversion can be done using piezoelectric devices to convert stresses and strains from bending of the toothbrush head and/or bristles during use, and can be done using electromagnetic generators involving passing a magnet through a coil to induce current. The resulting electric energy may be rectified, and stored in a storage device, such as a capacitor or rechargeable battery. A switching circuit may be configured to detect the level of energy stored in the storage device, and to close an electrical connection when a predetermined level of energy (e.g., a charge) has been reached. The predetermined level may correspond to a desired amount of brushing (e.g., taking into account stroke length and force, and the number of strokes), and the closing of the electrical connection may be used to power output devices when that desired amount of brushing has been reached.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush and method of use for improving the oral health habits of a child. The toothbrush incorporates a digital training aid that includes a display screen and microprocessor which generates pictorial images on the screen. The microprocessor is programmed to record the actual frequency and duration of brushing over at least a twenty four hour period and to compare the actual figures with pre-programmed desired runtimes and frequencies. The microprocessor changes the images displayed on the screen to reflect the relationship between the actual times and desired times. The microprocessor includes gaming programs that are only accessible should the minimum desired frequency and time of brushing be met.