Accessories Patents (Class 15/257.01)
  • Patent number: 7784144
    Abstract: A system and method for enabling the replacement of electric toothbrush heads on toothbrush models that require users to replace the entire toothbrush head assembly is described. Toothbrush head assemblies typically include much more than a simple toothbrush head, for example, a shank attached to magnets and a housing for coupling the shank to the toothbrush base. The present invention therefore permits the replacement of worn out toothbrush heads instead of entire toothbrush head assembly that includes many parts that have not worn out. The system includes tools for separating an existing toothbrush head from a shank and replacement toothbrush heads having new bristles that couple with the shank or the head assembly of a particular toothbrush model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Greg Renault
  • Patent number: 7766287
    Abstract: A brush holder designed to hold brushes used to apply liquid coverings to surfaces. The holder is securely attached to the brush. The holder allows the brush to then be supported form the top of the liquid container. The holder further allows the distance between the brush and the container surface to be adjusted as required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Linzer Products Corp.
    Inventor: Frank Marino
  • Patent number: 7757339
    Abstract: An apparatus including a first reservoir containing a liquid, a second reservoir configured to receive an element, and user-operable dispensing means configured to dispense a user-selected amount of the liquid from the first reservoir to the second reservoir. The element is configured to absorb the user-selected amount of dispensed liquid and transfer it out of the second reservoir for surface treatment. In operation, a user-selected amount of liquid is dispensed from the first reservoir into the second reservoir, and substantially all of the dispensed liquid is absorbed by placing a mop pad or other liquid transferring element in the second reservoir. Substantially all of the dispensed liquid is then transferred to the surface to be treated by removing the liquid transferring element from the second reservoir and placing the liquid transferring element against the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: TXF Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Terrence Treacy
  • Patent number: 7721378
    Abstract: A combined extendable pole and counterbalance system for washing the windows of a building includes an elongated pole including a handle portion adjacent the lower end thereof and a window cleaning utensil adjacent the upper end. The handle portion is adapted to be grasped by a workman while standing on the ground. An elongated flexible line is suspended from the roof or some other an upper part of the building above the windows to be washed. The line extends downwardly toward the ground and is connected to the pole. A spring driven drum biases the line upwardly thereby lifting part of the weight of the pole. The line is preferably connected to the pole adjacent the handle portion thereof but passes around and is guided by a pulley located adjacent the upper end of the pole so as to stabilize the upper end of the pole to prevent it from falling from side to side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Inventor: Meyer Ostrobrod
  • Publication number: 20100083455
    Abstract: A tool for holding small parts and for immobilizing the parts during cleaning or other treatment with a fluid. The tool includes first and second porous members which encompass the part. At least one of the first and second members is deformable to partially conform to the part. The tool has elements for holding or securing the first and second members together during cleaning. The tool may also have a handle connected to the first and second porous members. The handle may be spring biased so that the first and second members are normally held together to enclose a part. The handle can be manipulated to move the first and second members apart when it is desired to insert or remove a part from between them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: Christian Wolfram Hahn, John Warren Moers
  • Patent number: 7690068
    Abstract: The invention relates a protective structure for brushes of sweeping machines (30) having a frame (31) and at least one cup-shaped brush (20) supported protruding from the frame (31), said structure (1) comprising a flexible membrane (2), positioned near the cup-shaped brush (20) and suitable to prevent the diffusion of dust in the environment, and a supporting system (3) for the flexible membrane (2), the supporting system (3) being movably connected to the sweeping machine and comprising a movable portion (6) which shapes the flexible membrane (2) and elastically deforms near the frame (31) counter to elastic means (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: Dulevo International, S.p.A.
    Inventor: Fabrizio Tagliaferri
  • Patent number: 7657958
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment of a substrate cleaning apparatus includes a hand held hand roller including a roller cleaning member rotationally mounted in a handle and having a tacky peripheral contact surface, the tacky peripheral contact surface adapted to transfer foreign particles during cleaning of substrates. A roller cleaning substrate has opposed first and second surfaces. The first surface is coated with an adhesive adapted to transfer and retain said foreign particles from the surface of the roller for disposal; the second surface is a smooth surface. A mounting pad includes a soft layer of hardness lower than 100 Shore Hardness Scale A adapted to bond or adhere the second surface of the roller cleaning substrate to the mounting pad without the use of adhesives or mechanical clamping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventors: John A. Korbonski, Jon W. Korbonski
  • Patent number: 7653959
    Abstract: An assembly comprising a toothbrush having a first and second 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Inventor: David Catanzaro
  • Patent number: 7627925
    Abstract: A spoiler for a windshield wiper blade having least one retaining tab (16) and at least one detent element, disposed on the retaining tab, that is intended to snap onto a support bracket (10) of the windshield wiper blade, and that has two detent tabs (28), is to be further developed in such a way that reliable positioning on the support bracket is possible. To that end, the detent element (18) has two contact parts (22), which are disposed spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction of the spoiler (14). The two detent tabs (28) are disposed between the contact parts (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Jurgen Roekens
  • Publication number: 20090279938
    Abstract: A universal connector for connecting a mop frame to a fluid source is provided. The universal connector includes an upper connector piece with a proximal end for connection to a mop housing and a distal end with a pair of pivot arms. A fluid distributor having a hollow nipple portion connects to the fluid source and has a pair of pivot plates for pivotal connection to the of upper connection piece for side to side pivot. Fluid distributor also has a pair of opposed elongated hollow arms for coupling to a mop frame. The end of the distributor arms is adapted to slip into a key slot in the mop frame and provide an axis to pivot the joint in an up and down direction. A fluid conduit passing through the upper connector piece from the fluid source and connected to the nipple portion of the distributor for distribution of fluid to the mop frame through the hollow distributor arms. Fabric mop pockets with opening to permit rotation of the mop frame about the distributor are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventors: Maximilian Rosenzweig, Ognjen Vrdoljak
  • Patent number: 7530139
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus is comprised of an elongate handle and a cleaning head at one end of the handle. The cleaning head includes a pair of panels that can be moved relative to each other. The panels support a micro fiber cleaning pad. The cleaning pad can be released from the panels after use without manually touching the pad, thereby enabling disposal of a contaminated cleaning pad while reducing the potential for cross contamination to a user of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Continental Commerical Products LLC
    Inventors: Duane Niemeyer, Tom Dickinson, Harry Haggin, Greg Maes, Jon Akin
  • Patent number: 7516511
    Abstract: A windscreen wiper supporting device comprises a hollow body, an interior of the body being installed with a retaining shaft; a lower side of the retaining shaft having a first magnetic unit; a second magnetic unit being at a lower side of the first magnetic unit and being within the body; the magnetic polarities of the first magnetic unit and second magnetic unit being identical; the body being formed with a through hole and a fixing hole; and an supporting rod having one end passing through the through hole; the retaining shaft and the fixing hole to be connected to the body; and another end of the supporting rod exposed out of the body so as to form as an supporting portion. The body has a cover and is installed with a combining seat which has a U shape or an H shape. The combining seat is installed with a nut and a screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: Jih-Hung Yeh
  • Publication number: 20080209653
    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.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventor: Christopher W. Cieri
  • Publication number: 20080035054
    Abstract: With the use of the “Rim Saver”, you will be able to rapidly shine tires by allowing the user to protect the automobile hubcap from the harsh chemicals used to polish the tire while at the same time, quickly accessing the tire itself. Sizes range from 14? to 24? and can be in metric and English units. Simply place the Rim Saver on the tire rim, spray the tire shine on your tire and the rim will be saved from excess spray. You can also sponge on the tire shine. Either way will eliminate the need to clean the rim after shining the tire.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Billy Norris Dickens
  • Publication number: 20070289083
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning an article includes a cover and a main body defining at least one upper through hole and at least one lower through hole in communication with the at least one upper through hole configured for accommodating the article. The cover defines at least one through hole positioned spatially corresponding to the at least one upper through hole of the main body. The main body and the cover are configured for attachment to each other in a manner such that the at least upper through hole of the main body is aligned with the at least one through hole of the cover. The at least one upper through hole is of such dimensions that the article accommodated therein is held from falling out through the at least one lower through hole and the through hole of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2006
    Publication date: December 20, 2007
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tsai-Shih Tung, Hsin-Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 7290305
    Abstract: A cleaning pad insertion tool for facilitating coupling of disposable cleaning wipes onto a head of an electrostatic mop by inserting a portion of the disposable cleaning wipe into a grip assembly of the electrostatic mop, and method of use therefore. The cleaning pad insertion tool includes an elongate member adapted for pressing a portion of a disposable cleaning wipe into at least one grip assembly on a head of an electrostatic mop; a clip portion operationally couplable to a handle of the electrostatic mop for selectively receiving the elongate member when not in use; and a tether member couplable to the elongate member and the a handle of the electrostatic mop for inhibiting loss of the elongate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Inventor: Doreen M. Auchmoody
  • Publication number: 20070192980
    Abstract: A panel wiper including a wiping member including a baseboard section and a cleaning plate connected under a bottom of the baseboard section. The cleaning plate has at least one acute wiping corner for extending into the respective corners of the panel to reciprocally wipe and clean up the panel. The panel wiper further includes a holder having a bed section and an annular wall section swelling from a circumference of the bed section. The annular wall section is formed with several receptacles adapted to a profile of the baseboard section of the wiping member. The wiping member can be seated in the receptacles and stably rested on the bed section. Multiple supporting stands are arranged under a bottom of the bed section and the bed section is formed with multiple vents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventor: Jean Chin Chu Lee
  • Patent number: 7174599
    Abstract: The invention is a one-piece ergonomic shielding tool that can be held in one hand to define a boundary against which a surface is processed on one side and protected from processing steps on the opposite side. The invention achieves this utility by providing a handle that is ergonomically fitted for the human hand to allow prolonged use without fatigue or injury to the user. The invention includes a straight edge, or guide edge, for dividing a surface into two regions and a curved handle for ergonomic hand-held use. The ergonomic shielding tool and a paint removal apparatus are useful in combination for scraping paint from one section of a surface and leaving another section protected from the paint removal process. The tool is adapted for use in a method of removing dried paint from a surface in a precise manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Ronnie J. Stiles
  • Patent number: 6991200
    Abstract: A holder for supporting a cleaning utensil is disclosed. The holder includes a support platform that is sized and configured to receive and support at least a portion of the cleaning utensil. The holder also includes a drainage conductor that is situated and arranged proximate a front edge of the support platform. A retaining arrangement is provided integral with the support platform. The retaining arrangement is configured to constrain the cleaning utensil within the holder, such that fluid can be readily drained from the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Inventor: Ralph P. Stillman
  • Patent number: 6859973
    Abstract: The instant invention pertains to a squeegee and brush holder in combination with a bucket for holding a liquid consisting of a first portion having a plurality of suction cups for adhering to the inside of the bucket and an outer portion having three openings, the outer portion extending outwardly from the bucket for holding the brushes and squeegees in an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: Maximo E. Oranday
  • Patent number: 6842935
    Abstract: A toilet bowl brush cleaning system enabling a person to have a easy and sanitary way of cleaning and storing the toilet bowl brush between each use. It's a cleaning system for the toilet bowl brush. The toilet bowl brush cleaning system may be provided with a selected color so as to match the users preferred color. It may also be provided in various shapes and sizes or materials to also suit the users preference. The toilet bowl brush cleaning system is designed to allow the user to put the toilet brush in the cleaning system, into a cleaning agent located in the second level, to be cleaned and disinfected and then pulled back up through a ringer that will ring out the remaining liquid. Then the toilet brush will be stored in the first level thus allowing any cleaner that may remain on the brush to drain off into the second level. The toilet bowl brush is now ready for its next use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Tammy Leilani Peterson
  • Patent number: 6836920
    Abstract: A pop-top can lip cleaner is compact in size, the cleaning element being generally “Y”-shaped, having a central portion from which an easily gripped handle extends upward and outward relative to the can top and rim, a generally horizontal inner leg portion having a lower side conforming with the top of and peripheral groove of the can, and a generally vertical depending leg portion extending downward along the outer lip of the can, the inner and vertical legs intersecting at the rim of the can. The inventive lip cleaner is provided with a disposable, pre-moistened towelette dispenser for dispensing towelettes of an appropriate size for use with the cleaning element. The handle may take the general form of a wedge, making it useful for opening the pop-top can.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Timothy P. Scannell
  • Publication number: 20040261819
    Abstract: A brush cleaning and storing apparatus, particularly for storing of paint brushes and coating brushes and brushes of like material, in such Manner that the brush can be introduced into a solvent and then rubbed against a plate having a surface which aids in removal of the paint or similar substance. In addition, the apparatus and the method provide for suspending the brush in a housing of the apparatus. In this way, the solvent is contained within the housing, thereby avoiding environmental nuisance problems associated with the disposing of the solvent, and which also enables the reuse thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Ira Farnoush, Yehuda Sinay
  • Publication number: 20040255975
    Abstract: The invention is a one-piece ergonomic shielding tool that can be held in one hand to define a boundary against which a surface is processed on one side and protected from processing steps on the opposite side. The invention achieves this utility by providing a handle that is ergonomically fitted for the human hand to allow prolonged use without fatigue or injury to the user. The invention includes a straight edge, or guide edge, for dividing a surface into two regions and a curved handle for ergonomic hand-held use. The ergonomic shielding tool and a paint removal apparatus are useful in combination for scraping paint from one section of a surface and leaving another section protected from the paint removal process. The tool is adapted for use in a method of removing dried paint from a surface in a precise manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Ronnie J. Stiles
  • Patent number: 6802103
    Abstract: In the broader aspects of the invention, there is provided a cleaning tool for electrically and pneumatically powered surgical instruments having either a pneumatic hose connector or an electrical plug connector thereon comprising a tool body having opposite ends. An instrument connector is at one of the ends. A handle is at the other of the ends. The handle allows positive control of the positioning of the surgical instrument and positive control over both axial movement and rotary movement of the instrument during cleaning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Nuell, Inc.
    Inventor: David C. Holsclaw
  • Patent number: 6779224
    Abstract: A brush correcting device for toothbrush, comprising a toothbrush support body (2) having a support part (2a) for supporting at least the tip side lower surface of a toothbrush (T) and one of two guide groove parts or guide elongated holes (2e, 2f) formed on the tip upper side of the toothbrush (T) supported by the support part (2a), and a band-shaped convergent body inserted into one or two guide groove parts or guide elongated holes (2e, 2f) and bent in U-shape, V-shape, or channel-shape at the center thereof, whereby the brush correcting device for toothbrush allowing a variety of toothbrushes to be corrected according to the shape of the brush part can be provided at a low production cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Akiko Kiyo Mizukoshi
    Inventor: Mayuki Mizukoshi
  • Patent number: 6725489
    Abstract: Disclosed are a plurality of different fasteners that can connect a vacuum pole 14 to an automatic pool cleaner 12 so that the user can selectively relocate and direct the pool cleaner 12 to locations in a pool 18 that were previously missed or not yet cleaned. The vacuum pole 14 is an extending cylindrical pole having a throughbore 34 wherein a pole attachment 26 having a similar construction may be inserted and secured, being held structurally by a compression clip 44 having securing pins 32 that compress to then extend through securing holes 34, and frictionally by protrusions 38 that align into depressions 40. Secured within, and extending outward from the pole attachments is a universal ball joint 26 connected within a connection member 42 cavity 43 to provide a highly maneuverable surface wherein a selected fastener may be attached. To connect the pole attachment's mating fastener to the automatic pool cleaner, a fastener attachment plate 56 is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Inventor: Lothar J Zell
  • Publication number: 20040060143
    Abstract: Pressurizing structure for windshield wiper, including an enclosing case, an extensible case, decorative boards and pressurizing plate. The enclosing case and the extensible case are telescopically connected for accommodating therein various specifications of wiper arms. The decorative boards are disposed on the surfaces of the enclosing case and the extensible case. A bottom board is disposed under bottom faces of the enclosing case and the extensible case to seal the same. Multiple restricting blocks with different patterns of receiving recesses are inlaid in the enclosing case to truly locate respective portions of the wiper arm. The pressurizing plate is connected with a tip of the enclosing case to keep the scraper of the wiper arm parallel to the windshield so as to truly clean up the same. A locating block is disposed under bottom face of the pressurizing plate, whereby in accordance with the position of the scraper of the wiper arm, the pressurizing plate can be adjusted and truly located.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Applicant: JANCHY ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shun Tian Shuen
  • Patent number: 6681441
    Abstract: This invention is related to the structural improvement of a windshield wiper pressurization plate. Essentially, the improved plate comprises a strip of material with two arc-shaped ends. There is a raised section on the surface of the strip of material. The raised section contains a shallow slot which, in turn, holds a tapered tunnel. There are a L-shaped hook and a stopper beneath the strip of material. Stairs are installed on the surface opposite and above the L-shaped hook. A semi-circular opening is found on the external side of the bending segment of the L-shaped hook. As a result, the arm of the windshield wiper may be positioned and fixed in between the L-shaped hook and the stopper. The raised section and the tapered tunnel of the pressurization plate are designed to help press the windshield wiper against the windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Clearco Product Limited
    Inventor: Sheng Kao Charng
  • Publication number: 20030229962
    Abstract: A convenience-providing truck-windshield cleaning device comprised of a squeegee and a container having interior dimensions only slightly larger than the squeegee for containing a supply of windshield-washing liquid in the lower portions thereof, and a cover for sealing off the interior with the squeegee therewithin, the squeegee having a handle slightly shorter than the depth of the interior of the container to enable same to be completely enclosed within the chamber with the cover of the chamber closed, yet being of sufficient length to enable the truck driver to reach the midsection of the truck's windshield, for cleaning same while standing beside the truck opposite an end of the windshield.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: David M. DeHart
  • Publication number: 20030221710
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for delivering a cleaning and inspection device to an appropriate position on a backplane having an optical connector. A set of tubes corresponding to the number of optical connectors is attached to the rear of a connector assembly or some other similar device capable of being coupled to a connector housing containing the optical connector. The diameter of the hollow tube large enough to accommodate the insertion of several types of cleaning and inspection devices including optical cleaning swabs and scopes. After the connector assembly is mated with the connector housing, the tubes can provide direct access to each optical connector for cleaning and inspection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Marvin R. Young
  • Publication number: 20030221276
    Abstract: A wiper assembly having a wiper frame and a wiper boot is provided. The wiper boot includes an upper wall integrally connected between two side walls. A lower leg is integrally connected to each side wall at an end opposite that of the upper wall. Each lower leg runs transversely and inwardly from the side walls, the lower legs integrally connecting to a u-shaped wall. The upper wall, the side walls, the lower legs, and the u-shaped wall define a cavity that receives the wiper frame. The wiper boot is made from silicone elastomer that preferably includes approximately 30 to 60 weight percent of polyvinylmethylsiloxane, approximately 15 to 40 weight percent of filler, approximately 0.1 to 10 weight percent of pigment, and approximately 0.1 to 10 weight percent of catalyst.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventor: Tibor Siklosi
  • Publication number: 20030209458
    Abstract: A combination toilet bowl cleaning brush and a brush holder includes a toilet bowl cleaning brush with a brush head, a non-flexible shaft and a bulbous handle. The non-flexible shaft extends linearly from the brush head to a positively curved portion and thence to a second linear portion that connects to the bulbous handle. The brush holder includes a circular, flat surface base and a cylindrical wall rising from the base. The cylindrical wall which extends around less than half of a minor circumference of the base rises linearly from the base to a negative curved portion, the upper end of the wall covering a radius of the base. The upper end of the cylindrical wall includes an open groove for receiving the shaft of the cleaning brush. The positive curved shaft and the negative curved wall intersect at the open groove, securing the cleaning brush in the brush holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventor: Bruce Kaminstein
  • Publication number: 20030196291
    Abstract: The invention proposes a motor vehicle windscreen wiper of the type in which a cover (10), intended completely to cover over a drive head, includes two longitudinal lateral flanks (16) joined together by a transverse back (18) which includes an upper longitudinal part (24) and a downwards-curved part (86) at its rear end. The transverse back of the cover (10) includes an aperture (14) giving access to means for fixing the drive head onto the end of an alternating-sweep drive shaft. A cap (12) is provided, the contour (44, 46, 48) of which is complementary to that (30, 32, 34) of the aperture (14), which is mounted articulated (50, 60) on the cover (10) between a service position in which it blocks off the aperture (14) and an open raised position in which the aperture (14) is clear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Pierre Sevellec
  • Patent number: 6615440
    Abstract: A plumbing snake diverting apparatus for deflecting a plumbing snake out of a main stack pipe and into a secondary pipe extending from the main stack pipe. The plumbing snake diverting apparatus includes an tubular extension member which is selectively couplable to any number of curved, tubular diverting members depending on the size of the pipe. The apparatus is then positioned with a leading edge of the diverting member at the intersection of the main stack pipe and the pipe to be cleared. The plumber's snake is then deflected into the secondary pipe upon insertion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Inventor: La Vaughn A. Williams
  • Patent number: 6598260
    Abstract: A liquid barrier system for protecting selected areas of flooring from liquid flow. The liquid barrier system includes a pair of end assemblies adapted for abutting a surface of a floor, and an elongate barrier assembly having two ends, each one of the barrier assembly ends being coupled to an associated one of the end assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Michael D. Sharpe
  • Publication number: 20030098044
    Abstract: A toilet bowl brush cleaning system enabling a person to have a easy and sanitary way of cleaning and storing the toilet bowl brush between each use. It's a cleaning system for the toilet bowl brush. The toilet bowl brush cleaning system may be provided with a selected color so as to match the users preferred color. It may also be provided in various shapes and sizes or materials to also suit the users preference. The toilet bowl brush cleaning system is designed to allow the user to put the toilet brush in the cleaning system, into a cleaning agent located in the second level, to be cleaned and disinfected and then pulled back up through a ringer that will ring out the remaining liquid. Then the toilet brush will be stored in the first level thus allowing any cleaner that may remain on the brush to drain off into the second level. The toilet bowl brush is now ready for its next use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2001
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventor: Tammy Leilani Peterson
  • Publication number: 20030074757
    Abstract: A light-weight mop having a mop head element with gripping means for engaging a planar fibrous sheet obtained from a magazine which maintains the sheet in moist condition until use. Sheets are singly withdrawn from the magazine after disposal of a previously soiled sheet by releasing the gripping means which engages a laterally projecting portion of the sheet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Publication date: April 24, 2003
    Inventor: Jane Brinker
  • Publication number: 20030052465
    Abstract: A cleanup device includes a dolly and a waste container and tools, which provides for storage of the cleaning material therein and a releasable wheel lock to position the dolly, and hence the cleanup device, at a desired site.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Tauqir Ahmed, Richard L. Raz
  • Patent number: 6532617
    Abstract: A device for loading a paintbrush with two colors of paint without mixing the colors together until the artist is ready to blend the colors during the brush strokes. The device includes a base having a pressure sensitive adhesive on one side thereof and a release liner on the adhesive. When the release liner is removed, the center portion of the base is folded together and the remaining portion of the device is applied to a substrate such as a palette or dish. A different color paint is placed on each side of the divider and a paintbrush is loaded with the two paints simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Plaid Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter A. Russo
  • Publication number: 20030037390
    Abstract: A portable window/windshield cleaning device is self contained with washing liquid and a squeegee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2002
    Publication date: February 27, 2003
    Inventor: Gilles Leblanc
  • Patent number: 6523219
    Abstract: A window scraper guide has a base with a first straight edge disposed between an upper surface and an opposing lower surface. A pair of sides extend perpendicularly rearward a first predetermined distance from the first straight edge. The distance between the upper surface and opposing lower surface is a second predetermined distance. A side shield extends upwardly from one side of the pair of sides, and the side shield has a second straight edge aligned with the first straight edge. A handle portion extends at a predetermined angle from the lower surface of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Maryann Helen Anderson
  • Patent number: 6505375
    Abstract: A windshield wiper protector includes a protection actuating assembly connected to the wiper and a stationary lifting arm attached to the windshield. A roller is pivotally mounted on the top of the stationary lifting arm and an inclined drive plate is attached to the protection actuating assembly. The protection actuating assembly and the wiper will be lifted up when the wiper is moved to the original position due to the inclined drive plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Inventors: Hsin-Yi Yang, Sheng-Long Wu
  • Publication number: 20030000900
    Abstract: A brush storage and retrieval apparatus that includes one or more hairbrushes of novel construction, each of which comprises a magnet disposed in the handle portion thereof so that the hairbrush can be releasably secured to the ferrous metal surface of the storage base of the apparatus. Each of the hairbrushes includes a body portion having a plurality of bristles extending outwardly therefrom and a handle portion within which the magnet is mounted in a manner to permit the hairbrush to be positioned on the ferrous metal surface and releasably secured in position thereon until removal by the user of the brush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Jackie Yu
  • Publication number: 20020182318
    Abstract: A hand-held adhesive trough is provided which enables a floor or wall installer to comfortably hold in one hand an adhesive trough while using a bladed tool such as a trowel or tape knife with the other hand to apply adhesive to an underlying surface to which a floor or wall is to be installed. The trough includes a first compartment for fresh adhesive, and a second compartment for contaminated adhesive removed from the blade of the trowel. A trowel blade cleaner is incorporated in a wall of the second compartment to enable the installer to clean the trowel while holding the trough by sliding the blade through a v-shaped slot, with the old, contaminated adhesive falling from the blade into the second compartment. The compartments may include removable, disposable liners to ease clean-up. A comfortable, pistol-grip type handle is provided which may include a two-part adhesive for allowing the installer to form a custom-grip handle which conforms to the installer's grip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen L. Kruskamp
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20020145033
    Abstract: A debris collection tray and method of making and installing of same which comprises an elongated, thin, sheet material member which is constructed of a pliable material so that the lower portion of the member can be bent to a transverse position relative to the upper portion member. An adhesive strip or other form of temporary securement is to be applied on the back surface of the member with adhesive to be applied to a vertical wall surface at a selected location so that the lower portion of the member will function as a trough and catch falling debris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Curtis E. Dakolios
  • Publication number: 20020092106
    Abstract: A cleaning device includes a box having a hole for a board wiper inserted in the box and a plurality of plates are connected between two opposite inner walls of the box. An opening is defined through the box and communicates with an interior of the box. A collection drawer is slidably received in the box via the opening. The board wiper is hit on the plates and chalk powder drop in the collection drawer. Two brushes are connected to one of the inner sides of the box for further cleaning the wipers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Gwo-Liang Fu
  • Publication number: 20020078523
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning vehicular floor mats and the like includes a support member in a container having an opening for receiving dirt and other matter that is removed from a floor mat. A generally horizontal screen is positioned above the container such that the dirt and other matter falls into the container. At least one resilient member connects the screen to the support member, such that the screen shifts when a floor mat positioned on the screen is impacted by a user to thereby dislodge dirt and other matter from the floor mat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: Laverne C. Ball
  • Patent number: 6348235
    Abstract: A design roller sleeve has a plurality of absorbent strips that wrap about the axis of a paint roller in a helical fashion. Each of the strips has an array of flaps, in which large and small flaps are preferably alternated, extending outward from a backing portion of the strip. This roller is intended to be used for applying a visually random pattern to a uniformly colored and relatively wide horizontal surface such as a concrete driveway or patio When used for this purpose the design roller sleeve is loaded with paint and then spun within a spatter-box to remove excess paint before rolling a partly colored swath on the surface. In some cases the spatter-box is made on a job site by tearing away part of a lid of a shipping carton previously used to transport a design roller painting kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Driveway Magic
    Inventors: David P. Cavill, Steven R Canfield