Housings Patents (Class 15/184)
  • Publication number: 20030019059
    Abstract: A system for the cleaning of male and female terminals comprised within electrical connectors. The system is a small, compact, portable system that comprises at least one cleaning element wherein the cleaning element may be a brush cleaning element, or alternatively may be a helical cleaning element, and wherein the cleaning element may be used for the cleaning of female electrical terminals. Further, the system may comprise an additional helical cleaning element that may be used for the cleaning of male electrical terminals. The system further comprises enclosing structure that isolates the cleaning element, or elements, from the environment to prevent the dropping of debris from the cleaning elements into the pocket of a user carrying the cleaning system. The system further comprises a pocket clip for the carrying of the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Craig T. Rooke
  • Publication number: 20030019063
    Abstract: A toothbrush is provided that includes a toothbrush body having a toothbrush handle and a brush head. A display window is selectively attachable to and detachable from the toothbrush body. A photograph can be placed behind the translucent display window to cover, and yet provide visual access to, the photograph. Different photographs can be chosen for different toothbrushes such that each toothbrush is customized for a particular user. This provides for easy identification of different toothbrushes, and provides each user with a uniquely customized toothbrush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventor: Paulette Abraham
  • Publication number: 20030019062
    Abstract: The present invention, in one aspect is directed to a toothbrush comprising an elongate handle and a brushing head. The elongate handle has first and second portions. The first portion includes a generally rectangular shaped body with grip means for facilitating holding the toothbrush during use. The second portion includes an elongate body having a securing means for retaining the brushing head in a fixed position relative to the elongate handle. An axis extends between the first and second portions of the elongate handle such that the brushing head is angularly tilted relative to the axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2001
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Inventor: Ira Florence
  • Publication number: 20020166186
    Abstract: A broom for cleaning surfaces or floors is designed with a device having a plurality of narrow slots through which the bristles of the broom are threaded. The device is able to slide along the handle of the broom such that the span of the bristles projected from the slots of the device can be increase or decrease. When the span of the bristles increases, the bristles are less stiff and the broom is suitable for gentle brushing action. As the span of the bristles decreases, the bristles stiffen, allowing the broom to be used for heavier brushing action. The device can also be set in a position such that the working ends or free ends of the bristles are completely sunk inside the slots. At this position, any dirt and dust that is trapped between the bristles will be pushed away from the bristles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Juan Fernandez
  • Publication number: 20020162186
    Abstract: A brush reforming apparatus for reforming a toothbrush includes a toothbrush supporting body 2 having a supporting portion 2a for supporting at least a bottom surface of a distal end of a toothbrush T, and one or two guiding groove portion(s) or one or two guiding elongated slot portion(s) 2e, 2f formed above the distal end of the toothbrush T supported by the supporting portion 2a, and a belt-like binding body having a middle portion bent in a shape of a letter “U”, a letter “V” or a rectangular shaped letter “C” for being inserted into the one or two guiding groove portion(s) or the one or two guiding elongated slot portion(s) 2e, 2f. The brush reforming apparatus for reforming a toothbrush enables reform in correspondence with shapes of brush portions of various toothbrushes at an inexpensive manufacturing cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventor: Mayuki Mizukoshi
  • Patent number: 6418939
    Abstract: A cosmetic brush is provided to carry a cosmetic powder therein to, protect the brush from the contamination or the wear-down, and prevent the discharge of the powder while the brush is not in use. The cosmetic brush comprises a cylinder containing the cosmetic powder and having discharge holes on one end; a connect cap being coupled with the cylinder and guiding the discharge of the cosmetic powder through the discharge holes; a pressure pump being screw-coupled with the cylinder to make the cosmetic powder move into the brush by its pumping; a guide tube being coupled with the cylinder, the brush moving therein; a sliding tube having the brush inserted therein and being free to rotate with fitting into the guide tube; a discharge pipe being placed into the brush to uniformly supply the cosmetic powder; and a covering cap for detachably covering the sliding tube to protect the brush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: Young Kwang Byun
  • Patent number: 6405402
    Abstract: A cosmetic brush assembly includes a first cylindrical member holding bristles, a second cylindrical member, and a protecting cap protecting the bristles. The assembly further includes a brush member, a cylindrical catch member, and a length variable member. The brush member is slidably inserted in the first cylindrical member when it is not used or after use, and can be exposed to the outside of the first cylindrical member by a simple manipulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: Man Soo Choi
  • Patent number: 6393646
    Abstract: A golf green brush assembly (10) comprises a tubular first handle portion (20) having an inner end portion (30, 46) adapted to be manually gripped by the hand of a person and having an opposite outer end portion (34). The first handle portion (20) has an elongate central passage (28) terminating in a terminal opening (36) in the outer end portion (34) of the first handle portion. The brush assembly (10) also includes a second handle portion (50, 70) having opposite inner and outer end portions (58, 80). The second handle portion (48) extends through the terminal opening (36) in the outer end portion (34) of the first handle to portion (20). The inner end portion (58) of the second handle portion is telescopically received in the central passage (28) in the first handle portion (20). The brush assembly (10) further includes a brush (90) for sweeping engagement with the golf green. The brush (90) is disposed on the outer end portion (80) of the second handle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventors: Wilson Beers, Jr., Wilson Beers, Sr., William F. Anderson
  • Patent number: 6345405
    Abstract: The two-in-one toothbrush provides for dual sets of brushing bristles facing in opposing directions to allow the toothbrush to clean both the upper and lower teeth simultaneously. Another form of the toothbrush design allows for the movement of at least one set of brushing bristles between extended and retracted positions, for use and hygienic storage of the brushing bristles. In another form, the toothbrush design allows for the independent movement of dual sets of brushing bristles between extended and retracted positions, for use and hygienic storage of the brushing bristles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2002
    Inventor: Rickie Brackin
  • Publication number: 20010054211
    Abstract: A toothbrush that provides, besides the conventional bristles for brushing the teeth, other basic periodontal components recommended by dentists for perfect cleaning, massaging and stimulating of the gum tissue, all in one single, convenient artifact. The brush component is molded into one end of the handle, and the opposite end of the handle contains tubular recesses for holding two other dental tools. The invention includes four embodiments for holding, storing and ready retrieval of those tools. Two embodiments utilize a sliding button that extends the components out of internal recess chambers in the body of the toothbrush handle, the first one extends the components out of each end of the toothbrush handle, and the second one extends the tools out of the opposite end of the toothbrush, from the brush end. A third embodiment rotates the tools out of a covered recess chamber in the toothbrush handle and the fourth embodiment utilizes a knurled sleeve to extend the components out of the toothbrush handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Inventors: Maria R. Cabedo-Deslierres, John M. Deslierres
  • Publication number: 20010045369
    Abstract: A pop-out toothbrush having a toothbrush that is movable between (i) a retracted position in which the toothbrush bristle head and toothbrush handle are substantially enclosed within a housing and one or more cover portions and (ii) an extracted or extended position in which the toothbrush bristle head and toothbrush handle extend out of the housing to facilitate practical use by a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventors: Jay C. Pearlman, Douglas R. Russell
  • Patent number: 6279188
    Abstract: A liquid dispenser and applicator is provided having a reservoir for holding a liquid such as a liquid foundation and having a spout through which the liquid may be dispensed. An applicator is attached to the reservoir and is detachable therefrom. The liquid maybe dispensed through the spout onto the applicator for application to a user's skin. The applicator slides into a track provided on the reservoir and is held in the track by a friction fit. A pump may be provided on the reservoir for dispensing the liquid foundation. The user may pump liquid foundation onto the applicator and remove the applicator from the reservoir and apply the liquid foundation onto the user's skin using the applicator. A lid attachable to the reservoir and enclosing the pump and applicator protects the applicator from dirt and other substances and allows the dispenser and applicator to become portable in a handbag or purse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventors: Robyn Barwin, Sidney Barwin
  • Patent number: 6269515
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cleaning electrodes of an optical fiber splicing apparatus is disclosed. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning apparatus includes a plurality of tungsten wires and a support member. The plurality of tungsten wires are coupled to the support member at a first end of the support member. The cleaning apparatus may also include a cover that is slidably disposed on the support member. The cover is slidable between a first position where the cover is disposed away from the plurality of tungsten wires and a second position where the plurality of tungsten wires are received within the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: TyCom (US) Inc.
    Inventor: Ramesh Varma
  • Patent number: 6226828
    Abstract: A brush for wiping out dust is formed of a hollow main body and a slide seat having a seat body and bristles attached to the front end of the seat body. The main body is provided in the wall thereof with a through slot extending the longitudinal direction of the main body. The through slot is provided at the front end thereof with a receiving slot. The seat body is provided at the rear end thereof with a protrusion which is retained in the receiving slot of the through slot of the main body at the time when the slide seat is detachably fastened with the main body. The slide seat is entirely drawn into the hollow main body when the protrusion of the seat body of the slide seat is moved along the through slot to arrive at the rear end of the through slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Cee Lin
  • Patent number: 6185778
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a computer mouse having a cavity for housing a sphere and a plurality of internal components is disclosed. The apparatus includes a body having a first end and a second end, the body having a handle portion disposed proximate the first end and a cleaning portion disposed proximate the second end, the cleaning portion having a width dimension which is slightly larger than the diameter of the computer mouse sphere and having a surface which includes a number of resilient, deformable hooks. The cleaning portion is inserted into the cavity of the computer mouse and rotated, thereby causing the number of hooks to remove debris from the internal components of the computer mouse. The apparatus further includes a retaining ring removal device which facilitates the removal of a retaining ring of the computer mouse, the retaining ring removal device being disposed at the first end of the body, and an interior cavity which facilitates the storage of accessories within the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventor: Brian Ornstedt
  • Patent number: 6129090
    Abstract: A reuseable toothbrush cap assembly which defines a first compartment dimensioned and arranged to substantially enclose and protect the bristle portion of a toothbrush while allowing the graspable handle portion of the toothbrush to extend outside the compartment such that the toothbrush may continue to be stored in a conventional toothbrush holder. The toothbrush cap assembly further defines a second compartment dimensioned and arranged to receive a spool of dental floss, and a cutter dimensioned and arranged proximate an opening in the second compartment through which dental floss may be withdrawn to thereby allow cutting of the same into a segment of desired length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Inventors: Charles Jay Pillar, Laura Ann Pillar
  • Patent number: 6070594
    Abstract: A retractable brush for brushing, cleaning and curling hair comprises an outer tubular member having a pattern of bristle apertures, and an inner tubular member extending lengthwise within the outer tubular member and being mounted to undergo angular displacement in opposite directions within the outer tubular member. A plurality of bristle supports each extend lengthwise within the outer tubular member and support a series of bristles. The bristle supports have opposite end portions turnably mounted on flanges on the inner tubular member to undergo angular displacement in forward and reverse directions to effect extension and retraction of the bristles through the bristle apertures of the outer tubular member in response to angular displacement of the inner tubular member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Arich, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Mears
  • Patent number: 6038709
    Abstract: A toilet plunger holder and cover including a cylindrical base coextensive in height with the plunger elastomeric head and a cover for the base with a narrow tubular portion that covers and is coextensive in length with the plunger handle. Partitions and a deodorizing substance holder are molded integrally with the base bottom wall, and these partitions hold the plunger head above the bottom wall for drying. The entire holder receives a rigid decorative overlay that is connected to the holder cover so the overlay and cover are removed as a unit from the base. In one embodiment, the holder cover is made of a ceramic material with an elastomeric bumper that prevents damage to the ceramic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Dorothy M. Kent
  • Patent number: 6026532
    Abstract: A toothbrush assembly comprising a toothbrush having a first and second end, and a bristle head being positioned on the first side of the first end. A stand in the shape of a pair of feet retains the brush in a vertical position when the stand is placed on a horizontal surface. For additional support, a base may be incorporated with the stand. In preferred form, the handle is in the shape of an animate object conforming with the shape of the foot stand. A cover is provided having the shape of a head conforming with the shape of the handle and foot stand, for selectively covering the bristle head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: David Catanzaro
  • Patent number: 6012576
    Abstract: A brush used for scrubbing is stored in a container, when not being used, in a wet state. The brush to be stored may be dipped in a bactericidal liquid which may be filled in a container with a removable top. The container is constructed such that the sponge or fibrous member of the brush is supported, so as not to experience any deforming stress. Before storage, the brush and the container may be subjected to bactericidal heating. Materials of the container and top are selected taking into account the chemical stability of the materials with respect to the liquid used, and the heat resistance of the material with respect to bactericidal heating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Naoko Onodera
  • Patent number: 5974618
    Abstract: In an interdental cleaning device comprising a brush and a holder, the brush being pivotably and replaceably disposed on the free end of the holder, and the holder consisting of two shells, it is provided with a view to advantageous pivotablility of the brush and defined stop positions being attained, accompanied with simple implementation in terms of plastics technology, that the brush comprises a ball of a ball and socket joint and that a socket of a ball and socket joint is formed by two socket members to be assembled and disassembled, one socket member at a time being formed on an end of a shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Georg Karl geka-brush GmbH
    Inventor: Norbert Dumler
  • Patent number: 5970561
    Abstract: An improved golf bag with a built-in golf shoe cleaning device, which includes a base with a storage cavity therein, having a mouth exterior to the bag. A cleaning brush is mounted on a generally rectangular drawer member which is slidably inserted into mouth and fully retractable into the cavity in a closed condition, and, which is slidably extended in an open position. The drawer is biased toward an open position by a spring assembly that is mounted inside the cavity. The drawer is maintained in a closed position by a catch that may be released by the users's foot. When released, the drawer is biased outward automatically to a fully extended open position. An internal stop is attached to the rear of the drawer to prevent the drawer from completely exiting the cavity by engaging the base proximate the mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: John S. Archibeque
  • Patent number: 5915435
    Abstract: An improved dusting device includes a handle, a bristle head, bristles extending transversely from the bristle head, and a cover for radially collapsing the bristles during shipping and retail display. The bristle head receives and supports a plurality of bristles, wherein each bristle includes a first end attached to the handle first end and a terminal second end for engaging particles. Each bristle is capable of retaining its original shape after prolonged deformation, as they are comprised of elongated strands of polyvinyl chloride. The invention includes a bristle cover adapted for use with the dust mop during storage, shipping and retail display. After assembly of the mop, the cover slides over the bristle head and bristles, and compresses the bristles into a compact formation, which reduces the effective shipping and storage volume of the device, and allows a greater number of dusting devices to be stored in a standard sized shipping box than prior art dusting devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Wilen Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph M. Wilen, James F. Sloan
  • Patent number: 5906022
    Abstract: A remote control apparatus with a cleaning mechanism comprises a controller accommodated in a housing and a cleaning device assembled to the housing. The user holds the apparatus and makes a selection so as to remotely control the electric appliance. The cleaning device outwardly extends from the housing. The user rubs the surface of the electric appliance with the cleaning device pressed against the electric appliance, thereby cleaning the surface of the electric appliance. The cleaning device includes a cleaning element and an extend-retract mechanism. The cleaning element may be a brush, a sheet of cloth, or belt of cloth. The extend-retract mechanism causes the cleaning element to move to an operative position where the cleaning element is extended for cleaning the electric appliance and to a non-operative position where the cleaning element is retracted into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takashi Ohkawa, Akio Kirimura, Mitsue Takamori
  • Patent number: 5901404
    Abstract: Brushes held in a container includes a plurality of brushes, and a container storing the brushes in its interior. A spring for pushing up brushes to let one of them positioned in an upper end of the interior half pushed out of an outlet. Each brush has bristles is sealed in a housing, with their roots clamped firmly in a rear portion of the housing, which has a thin neck between a front portion and the rear portion. The neck is easily broken, letting the front portion removed to let the bristles expose out for use, with the container able to serve as a grip. After an uppermost brush in the container is used, the next one is pushed out of an outlet of the container to be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Inventor: Chung Sing Lin
  • Patent number: 5878459
    Abstract: A toilet brush having a handle portion and a scrubbing portion is provided. A flexible connection is provided between the handle portion and the scrubbing portion. A deflection limiter is located in proximity to the connection which limits deflection of the scrubbing portion in a first direction relative to the handle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Kelly McParland
  • Patent number: 5878881
    Abstract: A storage saver system (22) comprising a storage container (24) which includes a generally cylindrical shaped base (26) having a compartment (28) to hold at least one article (30) therein. A cover (32) extends over the compartment (28) of the base (26). A hinge (34) attaches the cover (32) to a top edge of the base (26). A structure (36) is for retaining the cover (32) in a closed position over the compartment (28), to keep the at least one article (30) within the compartment (28) of the base (26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Ricardo Hunt
  • Patent number: 5862563
    Abstract: A self-cleaning brush having a brush body with a pair of sides, a back and a top, a backing member mounted within the brush body, the backing member having an arcuate upper surface, a flexible membrane extending between the sides of the brush body, a plurality of bristles attached to the flexible membrane, a component to urge arcuate upper surface of the backing member into contact with the flexible membrane such that the bristles will assume a convex configuration extending from one of the sides to the other of the sides, and a cleaning plate adapted to lie in juxtaposition to the flexible membrane, the cleaning plate having apertures therein through which the bristles extend. The arrangement provides for a self-cleaning brush wherein the cleaning plate is retained in position by the bristles and permits one to have a convex brushing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Eric Hartmann
  • Patent number: 5771521
    Abstract: A sanitary brush cover system (10) for breathably isolating the bristled portion (2) of a brush (1) from contaminant particles and organisms is provided. The sanitary brush cover system (10) comprises a shroud member (20) which substantially enshrouds the bristled portion (2) of a given brush (1). The shroud member (20) includes a flexible body portion (25) formed of an air-permeable composition which is substantially impermeable to the contaminant atmospheric particles and organisms from which the bristled portion (2) is to be protected. The shroud member (20) also includes an inlet portion (30) through which bristled portion (2) of brush (1) is received. The shroud member (20) has coupled thereto adjacent the inlet portion (30) a closure mechanism (40) for selectively closing and opening the inlet portion (30) to, thereby, substantially enclose the bristled portion (2) therewithin. In one embodiment, the air-permeable composition is a fibrous fabric typically employed in forming surgical masks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Brian J. McNamee
  • Patent number: 5699574
    Abstract: An applicator having an extendible handle including a lower handle section having a tubular configuration and an upper handle section being extendible from the lower tubular handle section with the upper handle section having a pad or attached thereto for application of oils, lotions and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventor: Jeffrey J. Oviatt
  • Patent number: 5661868
    Abstract: A portable, collapsible broom is provided. The broom has a telescoping handle that is movable between a fully extended position and a collapsed position. A mechanism is provided for maintaining the handle in the fully extended position thereof as well as in the collapsed position thereof. A brush portion is disposed at one end of the handle, and a dust pan is detachably carried by the handle. A flap is hingedly connected to the dust pan such that in a closed position the dust pan and the flap cover the brush portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventors: D'Ann S. Panagakos, Jo Beth Aldrich, Peter E. Panagakos
  • Patent number: 5622195
    Abstract: A travelling toothbrush is combined with a razor head disclosed. In the travelling toothbrush with a handle and brush part, a first longitudinal recess is formed on one side of the handle and receives a toothpaste tube therein. A second longitudinal recess is formed on the other side of the handle and receives a disposable razor head therein. The second recess includes a dovetail for holding the razor head therein. A razor head mounting protrusion is provided on the rear portion of the other side of the handle and mounts the razor head to the handle when using the toothbrush as a razor. A handle case is detachably fitted over the handle, while a cap is detachably fitted over the brush part to protect the brush part. The cap has a clip and forms a configuration of a conventional fountain pen in cooperation with the handle case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Inventor: Jong C. Lee
  • Patent number: 5519912
    Abstract: Hairbrushes are disclosed having an array of bristles for grooming either humans or animals. Loose strands of hair that become trapped among the bristles during the brushing strokes are collected and relocated for quick and easy removal from the brush. The foregoing is achieved by either sliding a hair collecting plate axially along the bristles or by moving a bristle carrying plate to which the bristles are connected through a hollow brush head so that the bristles slide axially through holes formed in the top of the brush head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: Shigemasa Kawamura
  • Patent number: 5513411
    Abstract: A battery contact cleaning tool which comprises a top portion, including a brush for cleaning the battery contact; a bottom portion for reaming and/or smoothing a battery contact; and an intermediate portion connecting the top portion and bottom portion. The present invention additionally provides for a cap to cover the brush located on the top portion of the battery cleaning tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventor: Douglas Simon
  • Patent number: 5509168
    Abstract: A dental oral hygiene device for extending the useful lifetime of a toothbrush having a handle and a plurality of longitudinal bristles, the bristles having a defined length and being attached generally normal to the handle and forming a generally rectilinear array, each of the bristles having a proximal end attached to the handle and a distal end forming a tip, the device including a structure for applying pressure to the bristles at at least two points along the bristle length, preferably approximately at the bristle tip and at a point between the bristle tip and the proximal end of the bristle, a receptacle structure supporting the structure for applying pressure and for containing at least a portion of the toothbrush including the bristles, wherein the bristles are forced generally inwardly such that the rectilinear array is generally maintained and the bristles are prevented from splaying outwardly relative to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Inventors: C. P. Butler, F. M. Butler
  • Patent number: 5504962
    Abstract: Holders for cosmetic or hygienic items such as brushes and lipsticks which include a sleeve which is manually moved in telescoping fashion from a base of the holder outwardly to enclose the item before the cap is applied to the holder to facilitate applying the cap and to prevent damaging the item when the cap is applied. In the preferred embodiment, the sleeve remains retracted in the base when the cap is removed from the holder thereby presenting the item exposed and ready for use upon removal of the cap. The sleeve is manually pulled out of the base to an advanced position prior to applying the cap. The cap is applied to and engages the sleeve so that pushing the cap towards the base retracts the sleeve into the base. Rotation is not required to expose the item, and the shape of the item and the holder need not be tubular. In one embodiment, the item and holder are generally elliptical in cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Assignee: Cosmetech International Inc.
    Inventor: Y. K. Byun
  • Patent number: 5493749
    Abstract: A device for applying and removing topical compositions to or from the skin of either a man or woman which comprises a handle, a handle base, a sponge, and a cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventor: Margarita Zayas
  • Patent number: 5491863
    Abstract: A utensil that is configured for scrubbing both baby bottles and nursing nipples for such bottles includes a handle that has a recess defined therein, a bottle brush operatively connected to the handle which is sized so as to be able to efficiently scrub an inside of a baby bottle, and a nipple brush assembly. The nipple brush assembly includes a nipple brush portion that is sized so as to be able to efficiently scrub an inside of a nursing nipple and a grip portion. It is releaseably attached to the handle so that said brush portion is positioned in the handle recess and the grip portion is grippable externally of the recess by a user, whereby said utensil can be used to conveniently scrub both baby bottles and nursing nipples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Assignee: Munchkin Bottling, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven B. Dunn
  • Patent number: 5488751
    Abstract: An interdental handle having a molded-in-place twisted wire brush that includes a handle having a generally tapered first portion of reduced cross-section at one end with a flexing and substantially resilient capability, and a second portion of a larger cross-section at an opposite end which is relatively rigid. A brush with a twisted wire stem includes a distal end embedded in at least the first portion of the handle and a proximal end projecting from the first portion of the handle. At least one concentric groove is adjacent the distal end of the twisted wire stem for preventing protrusion of the twisted wire stem from the first portion during the manufacturing process. The concentric groove includes a diameter which is substantially larger than the diameter of the twisted wire stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Assignee: John O. Butler Company
    Inventors: Vladimir Gekhter, John Shimkus
  • Patent number: 5485649
    Abstract: The invention relates to a brush capable of brushing off sand and dirt from humans or animals and remain in a good, clean condition. The novelty resides in the use of an adjustable handle and cover that can vary the length of the bristles that are exposed. This in turn cause the bristles to change in flexibility so that the brush can be put to various uses that require differing degrees of stiffness of the brush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventor: Gary L. Miceli
  • Patent number: 5475891
    Abstract: An applicator for depositing a protective silicone coating onto a plastic eyeglass lens includes a plurality of soft bristles mounted on a gripping element, and the bristles hold the silicone. Preferably, the silicone is a mixture of two polydimethylsiloxane polymers which has about the same index of refraction as the lens. When the bristles are moved against the lens, the polydimethylsiloxane mixture is deposited onto the lens to coat the lens with a protective silicone coating, and to fill in minor imperfections on the surface of the lens. Also, the coating inhibits dust from adhering to the lens, and reduces smudging of the lens. The gripping element is reciprocatingly engaged with a moving member that has an open end. The moving member can be manipulated to move the gripping element between an extended position, wherein the bristles protrude beyond the open end of the moving member, and a retracted position, wherein the bristles do not protrude beyond the open end of the moving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Ronald P. Rickey
  • Patent number: 5431098
    Abstract: An apparatus for applying ink to an image on an ink stamp. The apparatus comprises an ink-impregnated sponge having side walls that intersect at a first end, where an angle between the side walls is acute at the first end. The side walls are so curved that: (a) a user can see the first end while bringing the sponges into contact with the image; and (b) the likelihood that ink will be applied to an undesired portion of the image is decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 11, 1995
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Winston
  • Patent number: 5377377
    Abstract: An interproximal brush for carrying on the person has an elongated one piece body member of elastomeric material forming a planar surface disposed between two leg members from which a substantially rigid boss extends for supporting a brush member. A plurality of hinges are formed in the body member at either side of the boss and the oppositely extending leg members are folded one adjacent the other and attached for slidable movement relative to one another. The planar surface is disposed transverse to the direction of relative movement of the leg members and rotates to move the brush from a position in alignment with the direction of movement of the leg members to a position forming an angle with the direction of movement of the leg members, when the leg members are moved relative to one another. The one piece body member may also be made foldable in the opposite direction to encase the brush within the leg members, or a bumper may be provided for supporting the planar surface when the brush is so rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Gillette Canada Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Bredall, Graham J. Simms
  • Patent number: 5369835
    Abstract: A toothbrush assembly having a handle component and a brush component which in the storage mode of the assembly is housed within the handle component. In the brushing mode, the brush component is attached to the handle component and projects therefrom. The brush component is formed by a shank having a brush head anchored thereon, the shank terminating in a mounting plug. The handle component is formed by a hollow body having an elongated belly section in whose cavity the brush component is storable, the belly section flowing into an enlarged annular shoulder leading to a neck section adapted to socket the plug of the brush component. The handle body is contoured to define a concave fore depression at the junction of the shoulder and the neck section, and a concave aft depression at the junction of the shoulder and the belly section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1994
    Assignee: Delphic Inc
    Inventor: A. R. Hyde Clarke
  • Patent number: 5350248
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a toothbrush having a handle portion including a first end and a second end. The toothbrush further includes a hollow forward portion, an aperture formed through the hollow forward portion, and a spring element having a first end and a second end. The first end of the spring element is secured to the hollow forward portion, and the second end of the spring element is positioned adjacent the aperture of the hollow forward portion. A bristled element is positioned within the aperture of the hollow forward portion, with the bristled element being connected to the second end of the spring element. An actuation element is included within the forward portion of the toothbrush. The actuation element has a first end and a second end, and a finger engaging surface positioned at the first end of the actuation element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Inventor: Anselm V. K. Chen
  • Patent number: 5339483
    Abstract: Holders for cosmetic or hygienic items such as brushes and lipsticks which include a sleeve which is manually moved in telescoping fashion from a base of the holder outwardly to enclose the item before the cap is applied to the holder to facilitate applying the cap and to prevent damaging the item when the cap is applied. In the preferred embodiment, the sleeve remains retracted in the base when the cap is removed from the holder thereby presenting the item exposed and ready for use upon removal of the cap. The sleeve is manually pulled out of the base to an advanced position prior to applying the cap. The cap is applied to and engages the sleeve so that pushing the cap towards the base retracts the sleeve into the base. Rotation is not required to expose the item, and the shape of the item and the holder need not be tubular. In one embodiment, a spring urges the sleeve out of the base and stops are provided holding the sleeve in the retracted and in an intermediate position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Cosmetech International Inc.
    Inventor: Y. K. Byun
  • Patent number: 5333343
    Abstract: A double brush mechanism for cleaning the grooves of the striking faces of wood and iron golf clubs comprises a housing having oppositely directed brush openings and forming an actuator slot having locking openings. A brush carrier is movable within the housing and has opposed brushes capable of being selectively projected from the housing for use. A brush carrier actuator is received in movable relation by the carrier and is urged in a locking direction by a compression spring. The actuator incorporates a manual manipulator button that is engaged and moved by the user and incorporates an actuator stem that is movable within the carrier actuator slot. The carrier is lockable at either of three positions along the length of the actuator slot to permit either of the brushes to be selectively exposed for use or locked within the housing for protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Assignee: No No, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Nichols, Philip Dunn
  • Patent number: 5309591
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an electric toothbrush provided with a protective cover which is adapted to be pushed onto the handle section of the toothbrush. The protective cover protects in particular the drive shaft of the toothbrush extending from the handle section from contaminants, liquids as well as the impact of forces. The protective cover is further provided with a safety interlock preventing an accidental operation of the electric toothbrush when the protective cover is seated in place. A notch already provided is used for accomplishing a firm locking engagement of the protective cover with the handle section. The embodiments described cover both an integral and a two-part structure of the protective cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Braun Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Walter Hagele, Peter Hartwein
  • Patent number: 5305882
    Abstract: A self-storing collapsible implement includes: a collapsible handle; a grip at the proximal end of the handle; a tool at the distal end of the handle; and a cover, attached to the handle proximate the junction of the grip and the handle for covering and concealing the tool when the handle is collapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventors: Alan F. Kaplan, Saul H. Garlick
  • Patent number: 5299341
    Abstract: A rotating keyboard cleaner includes a container having openings at the top and at the bottom, and a removable cap that fits frictionally over the top opening. Inside the container is a plurality of units, each unit including a capsule with a cleaning head member fixedly joined to and projecting from the capsule. These units fit frictionally atop one another in a nesting relationship inside the container with the cleaning head member of one unit being received within a hollow opening in another unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Inventor: Hiroshi Wakao