Hollow-ware Cleaners Patents (Class 15/211)
  • Patent number: 10051951
    Abstract: A bottle brush cleaning implement that uses a crochet scrubber component and an integrated handle and its method of assembly. The preferred embodiment of the crochet component has four brushes that are constructed out of one piece of crochet material that is attached and is held in place with a pronged holder with resistance barbs. The crochet component is additionally held in place by extra yarn that is attached to the bottom of the crochet scrubber and tied to the handle. The preferred embodiment's handle has a grip area with a series of round protrusions to improve handling. The bottle brush may be produced on a wide variety of shapes, colors, sizes and configurations to meet specific needs or individual preferences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: Open Arms Holding
    Inventor: Hanna Jun
  • Patent number: 9364135
    Abstract: A cleaning wand and cloth system includes a wand having a first end and a second end. The first end of the wand has a handle, and the second end of the wand has a tip including an opening. The tip may be coiled shaped. A cloth, such as a washing cloth, a drying cloth, and the like, may be removably attached to the tip of the wand one at a time. The washing cloth and the drying cloth may each have an attachable loop that may removably attach to the tip of the wand. The tip of the wand and the removably attached cloth may be placed within a narrow hollow object to clean the interior surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Jackie M. Lee
  • Patent number: 9038230
    Abstract: A cleaning device for a safety razor having single or multiple parallel blades is disclosed. A hollow connector is affixed to a water tap of a bathroom sink allowing water to flow therethrough into a body depending from the connector, rotating a brush held in the body and exiting through a slot in the body. The shaving head of the razor is positioned with the slot such that the blades within the head are embedded within the bristles of the brush. As the brush rotates, its bristles remove shaving debris from between the blades and immediate surrounds. After use, the device can easily be disassembled to facilitate cleaning of all components thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventor: Luke O'Neill
  • Publication number: 20150020336
    Abstract: My invention the metal scrubbing bead chain, a device, that relate to an earlier invention, associated to a bead chain, of the type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 1,270,143. Patented Jun. 18, 1918. In order to serve as a multipurpose cleaning device, my invention will incorporate a clasp, particularly relating to a prior invention as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 1,103,760. Patented Jul. 14, 1914.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Domenica Gambino
  • Patent number: 8925138
    Abstract: An improved brush assembly is presented herein comprising a first shaft receiving a second shaft having an outer diameter, creating a shaft assembly. A slot is cut into the second shaft from an outer end to a point proximate the first shaft. A jacket is fitted over a portion of the second shaft, and a cleaning assembly is inserted into and retained in the slot of the shaft assembly. The cleaning assembly comprises a bottom cleaning member and a side cleaning member, wherein the bottom cleaning member comprises a retainer and a cleaning pad extending beyond the end of the second shaft, and the side cleaning member comprises a side cleaning paddle extending beyond an outer diameter of the hollow shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Joseph Kluge, Jr., Casey Hayes Kluge
  • Patent number: 8732888
    Abstract: A brush including a gripping handle combined with a cleaning head, wherein the cleaning head has a base forming an extension of the handle, including a peripheral wall and an end wall. The latter is located opposite the handle. Cleaning elements in the form of hairs are attached to the base. The base is, for example, substantially planar and has a rectangular cross-section. The hairs are arranged on two opposite sides of the base and at the end thereof, i.e. in the same plane as the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Duwa Brosses
    Inventor: Jean-Pierre Duwa
  • Patent number: 8714162
    Abstract: A portable pipe bowl cleaner may include a poker for cleaning pipe bowls. The poker may generally extend linearly and have a top portion that is used to perform the cleaning. The portable pipe bowl cleaner may also include a base and a suction cup. One side of the base may be coupled with a bottom portion of the poker. Another side of the base may be coupled with the suction cup. The suction may have an internal cup surface that is capable of being removably affixed to a smooth, non-porous surface. A method of using a portable pipe bowl cleaner may include holding the base over a smooth, non-porous surface, with the suction cup facing toward the surface. By momentarily pressing the base toward the surface, the suction cup is pressed against and removably affixed to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Brett Johnson
  • Patent number: 8480699
    Abstract: A system for absorbing fluid material on trocar surfaces is provided. The system comprises a trocar and a cleaning instrument having at least two ends with an absorbent area at one end of the cleaning instrument. The absorbent area has a first outer diameter at a first part of the absorbent area and a second smaller outer diameter at a second part of the absorbent area, such that at least a portion of the absorbent area has an outer diameter larger than an inner diameter of the trocar. When the absorbent area is inserted inside the trocar, the absorbent area comes into contact with an inner wall of the trocar and absorbs fluid along the inner wall. Furthermore, when a part of the absorbent area is passed through a tip at the distal end of the trocar, the absorbent area absorbs fluid along an outer wall of the tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Glenn M. Ihde, II
  • Patent number: 8443480
    Abstract: A hand tool and related method is provided for cleaning the discharge opening of an ostomy pouch. The hand tool includes a handle with a handgrip, a swab holder, and a bore extending through the handle; and a swab plunger having a telescoping shaft with proximal and distal ends extending though the bore, a gripping member attached to the proximal end of the shaft, and a swab engagement cap attached to the distal end of the shaft, the plunger having retracted and extended positions. A closed-end tubular swab is inserted over the distal end of the swab holder to wipe waste material from the ostomy pouch discharge opening. The plunger is then extended and pushed forward to detach the swab from the hand tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Inventor: George R. Zaytoun, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8387200
    Abstract: A flexible cleaning apparatus including a cleaning mechanism manipulated by expanding and stretching into an elongated narrow form for insertion into a small or narrow opening of a container, and once inserted, the flexible cleaning mechanism can be manipulated further, external the opening, by contracting and scrunching into various condensed mass forms for concentrated cleaning of the interior of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventor: Sharyn Amii Woodhouse
  • Patent number: 8336156
    Abstract: A device to aid in drying baby bottles after washing is herein disclosed, comprising a plastic handle, a flexible “wand”, and a drying head having a plurality of absorbent cloth strips. In use, the cloth end of the device is reciprocated therewithin a baby bottle after it has been washed and rinsed. The cloth strips and drying head are removably attached thereto the handle assembly and may be released for washing, drying, or and/or replacement purposes. In such a manner the highly absorbent cloth strips will absorb any excess moisture in a bottle, thereby leaving the bottle clean and dry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Nicole Shimazu
  • Patent number: 7988019
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a beverage tap plug for occupying and disinfecting, cleaning, or sanitizing a faucet opening of a beverage tap. The beverage tap plug comprises a support member supporting a resilient absorbent member. The absorbent member comprises a generally cylindrical column of absorbent material. The support member of the beverage tap plug comprises a relatively flat, disk-shaped base supporting a thin post in which the post defines a longitudinal axis with a first base end and second distal end. The post protrudes outwardly from the center of the base at the base end. Additionally, the outside diameter of the absorbent member is larger than the diameter of the diameter of the outer rim of the faucet opening. The absorbent member of the beverage tap plug is impregnated with a disinfectant, sanitizer or cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Banner Beverage Systems Company
    Inventor: James K. Groh
  • Patent number: 7752700
    Abstract: A cleaning bullet for use in a pipe or track includes a compressible body. In one embodiment, a sheet draped over the body is engageable with interior walls of the pipe or track to clean small contaminants. In another embodiment, the body is formed from an absorbent material that absorbs a fluid, such as a cleaning solution, that can clean and/or disinfect the interior walls of the pipe or track. In yet another embodiment, an alignment key extends radially from a body axis for guiding the cleaning bullet in an air conveyor track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Diversey, Inc.
    Inventors: Carol A. Rouillard, James M. Scolaro, Ronald Rhea Dir
  • Patent number: 7650662
    Abstract: A brush using water alone to clean up toilets, baths, kitchens, tableware, kitchen utensils or the like. Phosphate ingredients contained in the higher alcoholic type detergents and nonionic detergents currently in use do enhance the cleansing effect, but are nutritive substances to plankton and the cause of its abnormal propagation. Resulting pollution of rivers, lakes and marshes, in particular their coasts, has been a social problem to be solved as soon as possible. The present cleaning brush can remove ordinary dirt, stains or the like, without using such pollution-causing detergents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Sanko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masayoshi Kakutani
  • Publication number: 20090194136
    Abstract: A hollow ware scrubber comprised of an elongated tube of material having weighted balls or objects, the tube sealed on its' ends. The scrubber can be easily passed through the narrow opening of jars, bottles, wine decanters, vases, or other hollow ware. When the scrubber is inside of hollow ware, and the hollow ware is shaken or agitated, the scrubber comes into contact with the inside surfaces of the hollow ware and cleaning or polishing of the surfaces occurs. The scrubber may also be furnished with a cleaning solution inside the tube or infused in the tube. When scrubber is inserted into an object to be cleaned, cleaning solution is released from the scrubber and facilitates cleaning. A scrubber can be made in decorative shapes and various thicknesses and lengths, as long as the scrubber is conformable and adapts to the inside of the object to be cleaned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventors: David Tsutoma Yamashiro, JR., Bradly James Edgerton, Rae Packer
  • Patent number: 7386912
    Abstract: A cleaning and scouring brush generally made from a pair of twisted wire arms, each arm having a cleaning portion shaped to conform to the interior profile of an article to be cleaned. The portions are provided with a cleaning or scouring device such as a sponge, scrubber or bristles intended to clean or scour the interior surface of the article to be cleaned. The brush is also provided with a handle which rotates the cleaning portions with respect to one another about an axis in order to facilitate the entry and removal of the device from the article to be cleaned which generally has a relatively small opening into a relatively large interior volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Rodney Horton
  • Publication number: 20070226936
    Abstract: The cleaning device for hollow objects includes a rigid rod, a cleaning sleeve, and a handle. The rigid rod forms the frame of the cleaning device and has a first end and a second end. The cleaning sleeve is provided for contacting the cleaning surface of the hollow object and encases a portion of the rigid rod adjacent the second end. The cleaning sleeve is made from a material that fully protects the surface of the hollow object being cleaned and may be replaceable. The handle my be a telescoping handle and extends from the first end of the rigid rod to increase the overall length of the device. The telescoping handle allows the cleaning device to be used on a variety of different sized hollow objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Publication date: October 4, 2007
    Inventor: Karen C. Harrison
  • Patent number: 7044560
    Abstract: A non-abrasive scrubbing pad is a scrubbing pad used for cleaning projects. The net scrubbing pad is made from tulle netting fabric, which is fine in nature and virtually incapable of causing damage. The non-abrasive scrubbing pad is sewn together using thread in a chain-stitch pattern, which is extremely durable and long lasting. The non-abrasive scrubbing pad is available in one-ply designs, which would be used for light-duty cleaning tasks, and a two-ply design, which would be used for tougher cleaning jobs. It is envisioned that the non-abrasive scrubbing pad would be available in multiple sizes for all types of cleaning jobs, such as kitchen cleaning, floor cleaning, automobile cleaning ad the like. The use of the non-abrasive scrubbing pad provides users the ability to safely and quickly clean all types of fine finished surfaces without the danger of scratching or damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventors: Julie L. Miller, James Miller
  • Patent number: 7017222
    Abstract: A brush assembly for scrubbing an article such as a baby bottle includes a bottle brush that has a recess defined in its handle and a nipple brush that has a scrubbing end that is sized and shaped to at least partially fit within the recess in a storage position. A second end of the nipple brush is provided with a suction cup that permits the nipple brush to be mounted to a fixed surface, such as a sink. Retention structure is provided for retaining the nipple brush in the storage position with respect to the bottle brush, so that the bottle brush may be used to scrub bottles while the nipple brush, and hence the bottle brush, remains affixed to the fixed surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Munchkin, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven B. Dunn
  • Patent number: 6978507
    Abstract: A bottle washing and drying implement has a handle with two ends, the ends being provided with removable washing and drying attachments, respectively. In particular, the drying attachment has a plurality of looped strips of drying material, such as natural or artificial chamois, fastened to a holder. The holder is fastened to the handle by a threaded stud and a corresponding threaded opening; the stud can protrude from the end of the handle to fit securely into a corresponding aperture in the attachment, or the stud can protrude from the attachment to fit into a corresponding aperture in the end of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Jennifer L. Spaulding
  • Patent number: 6883527
    Abstract: The compressor cleaning system includes a track mounted about the inlet of the compressor. A circumferential position assembly mounts an insertion drive assembly which is driven about the track into selected circumferential positions. The insertion drive assembly carries a manipulator arm assembly mounting at its distal end a cleaning head. By using pairs of control cables, the proximal yaw, pitch and distal yaw sections of the manipulator arm can be moved to weave the cleaning head past the multiple stages of blading to locate the cleaning head adjacent a selected blade. By repeated extension and retraction of the cleaning head relative to the compressor inlet and about the compressor blades, each blade can be cleaned without disassembly of the compressor casing or removal of the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Andrew Joseph Travaly, William Francis Lopes, Kathleen Lynne Bentzel
  • Patent number: 6857157
    Abstract: An all-in-one fitting brush system that is adapted for use in cleaning the ends of pipes and pipe fittings so that proper joints may be made between the pipes and the fittings. The all-in-one fitting brush system includes a handle, a dog leg shaped shank, and a number of detachable brushes and a cleaning element holding shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Inventor: Fred C. Hoyle
  • Publication number: 20040187241
    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: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: September 30, 2004
    Inventors: Susan Katz, Cheryl Bersano
  • Publication number: 20040177864
    Abstract: A brush for cleaning a carboy includes a flexible substrate, e.g., a chamois attached to a first end portion of a shaft. The chamois has opposed major surfaces lying in an imaginary plane that is parallel to the long axis of the shaft. Cleaning fluid, e.g., soap and water, is applied to the chamois and the first end of the shaft is inserted into the carboy. The opposite end of the shaft rotated, e.g., by a hand-held drill, and centrifugal force moves the edges of the chamois against the interior walls of the carboy cleaning it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Inventor: Angelo Segalla
  • Publication number: 20040177863
    Abstract: A cleaning system includes a cleaning head with a generally spherical outer contour formed of a deformable and resilient foam-like material. A handle extends from the head. A plurality of disposable cleaning covers each have an inward face and an opposed outer face. Each cover has an installed position, wherein the inward face is disposed against the outer contour of the cleaning head and the cover is wrapped about the cleaning head. A retaining device selectively retains one of the sheets in the installed position, such that the cleanable surface may be cleaned with the outer face of the sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: Rapid Brands Corporation
    Inventor: William D. McKay
  • Patent number: 6790654
    Abstract: A scraper for scraping live cells from a substrate. The scraper comprises a magnetic core and an elastomeric housing surrounding at least a portion of the magnetic core and defining at least one scraping blade. A method of scraping and a system for scraping are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: The Automation Partnership (Cambridge) Ltd.
    Inventor: David Serge Malinge
  • Patent number: 6775874
    Abstract: A cleaning and scouring brush generally made from a pair of twisted wire arms, each arm having a cleaning portion shaped to conform to the interior profile of an article to be cleaned. The portions are provided with a cleaning or scouring device such as a sponge, scrubber or bristles intended to clean or scour the interior surface of the article to be cleaned. The brush is also provided with a handle which rotates the cleaning portions with respect to one another about an axis in order to facilitate the entry and removal of the device from the article to be cleaned which generally has a relatively small opening into a relatively large interior volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventor: Rodney Horton
  • Publication number: 20040148721
    Abstract: A bottle washing and drying implement has a handle with two ends, the ends being provided with removable washing and drying attachments, respectively. In particular, the drying attachment has a plurality of looped strips of drying material, such as natural or artificial chamois, fastened to a holder. The holder is fastened to the handle by a threaded stud and a corresponding threaded opening; the stud can protrude from the end of the handle to fit securely into a corresponding aperture in the attachment, or the stud can protrude from the attachment to fit into a corresponding aperture in the end of the handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: Jennifer L. Spaulding
  • Publication number: 20040060577
    Abstract: A brush assembly for scrubbing an article such as a baby bottle includes a bottle brush that has a recess defined in its handle and a nipple brush that has a scrubbing end that is sized and shaped to at least partially fit within the recess in a storage position. A second end of the nipple brush is provided with a suction cup that permits the nipple brush to be mounted to a fixed surface, such as a sink. Retention structure is provided for retaining the nipple brush in the storage position with respect to the bottle brush, so that the bottle brush may be used to scrub bottles while the nipple brush, and hence the bottle brush, remains affixed to the fixed surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Steven B. Dunn
  • Publication number: 20030159227
    Abstract: A cleaning device with a liquid absorbing member mounted on a handle, with two layers of netting over the sponge, each layer of netting having a node of netting internally situated and the two nodes of netting being located over one another at the center point of the end of the liquid absorbing member opposite from the handle, the netting being secured on the handle adjacent the liquid absorbing member, the nets and their nodes being able to move in relation to one another and to the liquid absorbing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Colleen E. Marsh
  • Publication number: 20030131434
    Abstract: A food preparation utensil has a body, a flexible wiper and a handle. The body has a food-contacting surface bounded by a peripheral edge. The flexible wiper extends outwardly from at least a portion of the peripheral edge. The handle is coupled to the body and extends from the body in a direction that is opposite the food-contacting surface. The body can be inserted into an opening of a container and into contact with a food product in the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 17, 2003
    Inventor: Lonnette Susan Parks
  • Publication number: 20030056809
    Abstract: A cleaning and scouring brush generally made from a pair of twisted wire arms, each arm having a cleaning portion shaped to conform to the interior profile of an article to be cleaned. The portions are provided with a cleaning or scouring device such as a sponge, scrubber or bristles intended to clean or scour the interior surface of the article to be cleaned. The brush is also provided with a handle which rotates the cleaning portions with respect to one another about an axis in order to facilitate the entry and removal of the device from the article to be cleaned which generally has a relatively small opening into a relatively large interior volume.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Inventor: Rodney Horton
  • Patent number: 6473930
    Abstract: A scrubber for cleaning a baby bottle nipple is comprised of a handle and a rod rotatably and removably attached to said handle. The rod is attached to a clip having tangs, removably attached to each other and securing a conical scrubbing material therebetween. The tangs and the scrubbing material are received within a baby bottle nipple for scrub cleaning the baby bottle nipple as the handle of the scrubber apparatus is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Inventor: Alberto F. Ortega
  • Publication number: 20020092112
    Abstract: A wheel cleaning device formed with an elongated handle and projecting stem. A resilient pad on such stem formed with segments stepped down in transverse cross section toward the distal end of such stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Charles Fredrick Large
  • Patent number: 6349443
    Abstract: A cleaning device has a handle. The handle has a wall with a distal end with a recess extending axially into the handle, and an elongated nipple brush secured in the recess, such that the distal end of the brush extends axially beyond the distal end of the handle. The nipple brush can be housed in a core having a main body with a sponge secured thereto and an extension with opposed depressible tabs that can be inserted into the recess of the handle. Each tab has one or more protuberances that are biased to seat in opposed apertures in the wall of the handle. The core has an axial channel. When the extension of the core is inserted in the recess and attached to the handle, there is provided a cleaning device with a sponge at one end of the handle and a nipple brush housed in the channel of the core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: Playtex Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ross Steven Randolph, Francis X Manganiello
  • Publication number: 20010044980
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus includes an elongate handle and a hollow cleaning head connected to the handle. The cleaning head has a slotted opening on the periphery thereof. A blade is securable to the handle in the interior of the cleaning head and the blade is movable under axial rotation of the handle relative to the cleaning head, between an extended position in which the blade projects outwardly from the cleaning head, and a retracted position in which the blade is contained within the cleaning head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Mariha M. Duplessis
  • Patent number: 6298515
    Abstract: The invention is a multi-purpose scrubbing sponge having a central rigid rod with a brush on one end, a widened base on the other, the rod surrounded by compressible foam and covered in a mild abrasive flexible mesh and a scrubbing mesh skirt, such compressible foam conforming to the interior of a glass or other hollow container, the brush and mesh assisting in removal of debris from the interior of such glass or hollow container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Bessie Jane Robinson
  • Patent number: 6298514
    Abstract: This Cleaning Tool for Electronic and Computer Equipment relates to a stick-like device with hook and loop fastener means on one or more of said device's two terminal ends. The Cleaning Tool may be used for removing grease, grime, lint, dust, dirt and the like from electronic and computer equipment. The Cleaning Tool has particular utility as a cleaner of electromechanical mouse devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventors: Matthew H. Lazich, Rodolfo Gastelum, Sean Lee
  • Patent number: 6202247
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a baby bottle and an artificial nipple includes a handle, a bottle brush head and a nipple brush head. The bottle brush head made of materials creating a multi-action cleansing ability is attached to the handle at a flexible neck for ease of cleaning the interior of a bottle. The bottle brush head may be replaced when worn. The nipple brush head, made of a spongy material, is attached such that it may be moved into a chamber within the handle when not in use, protecting it from contact with foreign surface. The nipple brush head may also be replaced when worn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: The First Years Inc.
    Inventor: Michael A. Lorenz, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6151744
    Abstract: A method of and apparatus for cleaning a substrate which require shorter processing time with high processing efficiency are disclosed. A cleaning brush pivots about a pivot axis between two positions. An ultrasonic cleaning nozzle pivots about a pivot axis between two positions. To perform a cleaning process, the cleaning brush and the ultrasonic cleaning nozzle are driven in accordance with a processing pattern previously produced by an operator. The processing pattern is produced so that the movement of the cleaning brush between two positions and the movement of the ultrasonic cleaning nozzle between two positions are not caused simultaneously. Any processing pattern desired by the operator may be produced if this requirement is satisfied. Execution of the cleaning process in accordance with the processing pattern allows cleaning of a substrate using the cleaning brush and the ultrasonic cleaning nozzle at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masami Ohtani, Masahide Ikeda, Mitsuhiro Fujita, Joichi Nishimura
  • Patent number: 6148463
    Abstract: The cleaning apparatus of the present invention comprises a cleaning member 105 adapted to be rotated while maintaining contact with a surface of a semiconductor wafer W, to thereby clean the surface of the semiconductor wafer W, and a drive motor 50 for rotating the cleaning member 105. A linear bushing 75 and coil springs 81 are provided between the cleaning member 105 and the drive motor 50. The linear bushing 75 ensures that the cleaning member 105 is capable of slidably moving in a direction of an axis of rotation. The coil springs 81 ensure that the cleaning member 105 applies a predetermined pressure to the semiconductor wafer W. A pressure in a casing 1 [(1-1), (1-2) and (1-3)] is set to a negative pressure relative to an outside air pressure by suction through a pipe 111.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Noburu Shimizu, Koji Ato
  • Patent number: 6141816
    Abstract: A device for cleaning dishes comprising a support having an elongated base horizontally disposed at its lower extent with an outboard end and an inboard end. A connector is essentially vertically disposed between a central extent of the base and one end of the support. The connector has a region at its upper extent with a hole therethrough. Angled fingers extend upwardly at an angle from adjacent the outboard end of the base and angled away from the inboard end of the base to define slots with open upper ends therebetween. The slots have interior surfaces with bristles formed therein extending toward the vertical centers of the slots for receiving dishes to be cleaned therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: John M. Burnett
  • Patent number: 6141811
    Abstract: An automatic hand washer apparatus comprised of a housing capable of holding a supply of cleaning fluid. A pair of hand access openings are provided in the housing to receive hands and arms to be cleaned. The openings define axes along which the arms and hands can be inserted into the housing. A pair of opposed horizontal brushes are provided adjacent to the openings and are mounted for reciprocal movement such that they move perpendicular to the opening axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Eddy Nakamura
  • Patent number: 6131230
    Abstract: A device for easily and quickly cleaning safety razors is provided with a housing having a top portion with an elongated slot having a brush adjacent thereto and a hollow bottom portion having a fluid reservoir formed therein. A cleaning wall may be formed in the fluid reservoir over which the brush may be passed for cleaning thereof, by actuation of an external handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Gregorio S. Manabat
  • Patent number: 6126530
    Abstract: To provide a cleaning apparatus capable of easily and positively washing off attachments from a dresser (6) for dressing a lap in a plane polishing apparatus. An air nozzle (15) for bubbling, a first bottom surface brush (18) that comes in slidable contact with a dressing member (9), and second bottom surface brushes (22a and 22b) that come in slidable contact with a portion (6a) other than the dressing member (9) are provided in a cleaning tank (11) for accommodating the dresser (6), which is provided with the dressing member (9) on its bottom surface, in a state where the dresser (6) is immersed in a cleaning solution. Furthermore, a side surface brush (25) that comes in contact with an outer side surface of the dresser (6) is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Assignee: Speedfam Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuhiko Hirata
  • Patent number: 6119295
    Abstract: A semiconductor processing system, such as a system for scrubbing both sides of a wafer at the same time, that includes a brush box containment apparatus for use with highly-acidic or other volatile chemical solutions, a roller positioning apparatus and a (brush) placement device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Lam Research Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas R. Gockel, Lorin Olson, Lynn Ryle, Brett A. Whitelaw
  • Patent number: 6115865
    Abstract: A device for cleaning the heads of golf clubs includes a wash housing containing one or more motor driven brushes and a reservoir for containing a wash solution. Access ports are provided through a front wall of the wash housing to permit passage of the head of a wood, iron or putter therethrough so that the golf club head is positioned within the wash solution in the reservoir and in contact with the brushes. A control housing includes a currency receiving device, a control unit, and a change dispenser. Upon depositing a predetermined value of currency in the currency receiving device, the control unit activates an indicator light and a motor which moves the brushes within the wash housing throughout a timed wash cycle, thereby cleaning the golf club heads. At the expiration of the wash cycle, a timer alerts the control unit which deactivates the motor, thereby completing operation of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Joel Fado
  • Patent number: 6115866
    Abstract: A portable golf club head cleaning device comprised of a contoured housing allowing it to be easily held in the hand that has a plurality of brushes operated by a micro-motor and rechargeable batteries. The portable golf club head cleaner has an insertion slot for receiving a golf club head and either a manually operated or automatically operated switch for activating the system to rotate the brushes for cleaning debris from the face of the club. An exit port at the rear of the portable golf club head cleaning module discharges debris cleaned from the club face. Optional features include a circuit that permits boosting the speed of the brushes for club head cleaning and a method for moistening club head for cleaning stains from the club face. The golf club head cleaning module has a series of vertical and horizontal brushes forming a cavity for receiving a golf club head to simultaneously clean the face, the top, and the bottom of the club.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventor: Marcus A. Trummer
  • Patent number: 6098229
    Abstract: A grill cleaning apparatus is disclosed for cleaning a grill, the apparatus comprising: a container for storing and soaking the grill in a cleaning solution, the container having an openable top, a pair of side walls, a bottom extending between the side walls and a pair of end walls extending between and interconnecting the side walls; motor mounts within the container for removably receiving and holding a motor for circulating a cleaning solution within the container; a brush having a head with bristles and a handle; and a slide arrangement for sliding the brush along one side of the container and over the grill when stored within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: William Kevin Ward
  • Patent number: 6098232
    Abstract: A hand and finger nail wash unit for all types of workplace environments. The hand and finger nail wash unit includes a housing having a front side, a back side, a top side, a first opposing wall, a second opposing wall, and a bottom portion. A compartment in the housing holds a water pump and is formed by a vertical wall within an interior of the housing and the first opposing wall. An aperture is in the front side for access to an interior of the housing. A brush for cleaning nails is mounted on an inside surface of the bottom portion of the housing. A water pump is in the compartment. The water pump has an intake pump for receiving water from the housing. The intake pipe is fluidly connected with a first bore in the vertical wall. The water pump has and outlet pipe for directing water from the pump into the housing. The outlet pipe is fluidly connected to a second bore in the vertical wall. A pipe for delivering water into the housing is fluidly connected to the second bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Marvin E. Sasnett, Sr.