Brush (e.g., Swab, Sponge) Patents (Class 206/361)
  • Patent number: 6248085
    Abstract: An apparatus or kit for applying a predictable amount of liquid such as a surgical prepping solution to an applicator having a resilient, porous pad. The apparatus includes a receptacle having an internal space such that when the pad is placed within the space, the pad is compressed to a predetermined degree. The receptacle is attached to a bottle or other container holding surgical prepping solution. In one embodiment, a dip tube extends from an inlet near the bottom of the bottle to an outlet positioned within the internal space of the receptacle. Most preferably, the outlet extends into the internal space of the receptacle. Pressurizing the bottle dispenses liquid through the dip tube onto the applicator. A method of use of the kit or apparatus is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Matthew T. Scholz, Dennis L. Baker, Robert P. Zaspel, Jon A. Kirschhoffer, Maurice H. Kuypers
  • Patent number: 6237180
    Abstract: A dental oral hygiene device for extending the useful lifetime of replaceable electric or battery operated toothbrush heads having a stem attached to a handle on one end and to a rotating disk at the other end, whose center of rotation is perpendicular to the stem, with a plurality of bristles attached to it. The bristles having a defined length are attached to the disk surface in a round array perpendicular to the stem. Each of the bristles having a proximal end attached to the disk surface and a distal end forming a tip. The device forces the bristles into proper alignment by applying pressure to the bristles along the bristle length, approximately from the bristle tip to a point between the bristle tip and the proximal end of the bristle. The bristles are forced generally inwardly by the device such that the round array is generally maintained and the bristles are prevented from splaying outwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Virginia Serafina Viego
  • Patent number: 6213329
    Abstract: A container lid including for holding a painting implement suspended above or in a liquid such as paint. The container lid includes a container engaging periphery for engaging the periphery of the container. A lid web extends between the container engaging periphery and an handle receiving aperture which passes through the lid web. The handle of the painting implement is gripped from above the handle receiving aperture. The handle of the painting implement is gripped between two opposed walls extending upwardly of the lid web which are held in a substantially fixed position relative to one another by sides, the opposed walls are spaced apart to an extent that they exert a clamping effect on the handle of the painting implement when inserted therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Inventor: Mark Dobson
  • Patent number: 6199694
    Abstract: A paint brush protection device in the form of a sheath is configured for containing the bristles and the ferrule portion of a paint brush, for keeping the bristles in proper shape and alignment. The sheath has a bristle-holding portion with an expansible bottom opening for receiving a paint brush in a handle-first orientation, and a ferrule-holding portion with an expansible top opening for allowing the handle to extend outwardly from the sheath, and for allowing the paint brush positioned within the sheath to be removed therefrom. The sheath includes front and rear sheath halves that are joined together along their sides for a portion of the length below the top opening. The part of the sheath where the sheath halves are joined together forms the ferrule-holding portion of the sheath. Between the ferrule-holding portion and the bottom opening, the sheath halves are unjoined and are resiliently separable from each other to allow the expansion of the bottom opening to receive a paint brush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Inventors: David Albert Van Diest, Darrell Greenland
  • Patent number: 6193059
    Abstract: Outside and inside cylindrical containers store a toilet plunger and multiple rows of toilet paper. The outside container has a base with side vent holes and a cap with vent holes. A toilet plunger resides vertically in the container. The inside container has a central bore in a base plate through to a tube through which the handle of the plunger protrudes upwardly. Multiple rolls of toilet paper are mounted axially on the tube within the inside container. A pull rod on the outside of the inner container tube is used to lift the toilet rolls from the inner container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Frank Massaro
  • Patent number: 6183457
    Abstract: A tampon has a cylindrical base body having a rounded or conical leading end and a rearward end having an end face. A string having one end fastened within the cylindrical base body and having a main string portion protruding from the end face is provided. A removable protective sleeve encloses the cylindrical base body and the main string portion and has an end portion covering the end face. The main string portion is arranged completely at the end face when the protective sleeve encloses the cylindrical base body and the string. The main string portion has a string end resting at the end portion of the sleeve, wherein the string end is materially connected to the sleeve end portion. A method for packaging the inventive tampon is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Ruggli Projects AG
    Inventor: Kurt Kuhn
  • Patent number: 6116255
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus whereby a paint roller can quickly be cleaned, fluffed, and rendered damp-dry with the operator and cleaning area completely shielded from the splatter of solvent and paint. The washing and spin drying actions are produced by a high velocity single jet of water or other solvent delivered through a hand-held spray wand within the confines of a hand-held, tapered cylindrical enclosure.The enclosure is open at the top for insertion of both the paint laden roller and the spray wand, and for visual access into the cleaning process. It's in-rolled upper rim eliminates egress of random splatter. It's open bottom affords rapid exhaust, and being tapered throughout, permits enclosure elements to be nested for efficient quantity packaging. The detachable handle, when affixed to the enclosure and properly adjusted, accommodates nearly any paint roller handle design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: The Walter Trust
    Inventor: William R. Walter
  • Patent number: 6076662
    Abstract: The packaging (420) for sponge or porous polymeric devices, e.g., scrubbing brush. The packaging includes a sponge or porous polymeric device (425) therein. A preservative is included in the packaging to prevent bacterial growth on the sponge device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Rippey Corporation
    Inventor: Kristan G. Bahten
  • Patent number: 6059106
    Abstract: A plastic blister package for display and storage of a toothbrush has a base member and a closure member connected to one another by an integrally molded hinge. The base member and closure member have a pair of flanges, one overlying the other with package in the closed position, and a lip is provided on flange edge of the base member for receiving the edge of the closure member to seal the cavity formed by the two members. A pair of protuberances extend from the base flange and are received in interfitting engagement with a pair of openings found in the closure flange to substantially lock the package in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Gillette Canada Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley William Baker, Joseph Michael Kornick, Jose Tirso Olivares
  • Patent number: 6050401
    Abstract: A storage assembly is provided for convenient concealment of a toilet bowl brush and rolls of toilet tissue. The assembly includes a bowl brush removably supported in a bowl brush with the brush handle extending vertically upwardly. A toilet tissue holder is provided with a flat annular bottom wall and at least a hollow spindle extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The spindle is telescoped over the brush handle and is dimensiond to have rolls of toilet tissue telescoped thereon. A cover is provided for covering at least the top end of the toilet tissue stacked on the tissue holder. A sidewall surrounds the stacked rolls of toilet tissue and is connected to either the cover or the bottom wall of the tissue holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Creative Bath Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Ward Michaelson
  • Patent number: 6050408
    Abstract: A paint brush storage device comprising a vessel whose top portion is circular and whose bottom portion tapers inwardly on two sides to conform to the rectangular cross section of a conventional house painting brush. A removable and replaceable water tight closure secures to the top portion of the vessel by mating male and female threads. An integral hook emanates from the top edge of the closure cap and a gasket is located between the interior of the closure cap and an upper lip of the vessel. A preferred embodiment further comprises a separate base plate having peripheral holding tabs capable of receiving the bottom portion of the paint brush storage vessel in an upright position. A flexible clip is affixed to the outside wall of the vessel so that the storage device may be attached to a belt. A further alternate embodiment includes a base plate integral with the bottom portion of the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventor: Serge Testa
  • Patent number: 6019241
    Abstract: A paint tray having storable carrying handles. The paint tray is of generally standard configuration, having a ramped bottom surface leading toward a more rectangular reservoir area. The non-uniform distribution of paint in the tray typically makes it difficult to carry or maneuver. Accordingly, a pair of handles is pivotally mounted to the paint tray, one near the front end and another near the rear end of the tray. The handles may be rotated into interlocking engagement above the paint tray in a transporting position, or may be rotated and slid into engagement with respective ends of the tray in a storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Inventor: Kyle S. Burns
  • 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: 5992617
    Abstract: Storage devices for paint rollers, paint roller covers, and paint brushes. The storage devices for the paint rollers and paint roller covers are cylindrical containers, having a lid, which are flared outwardly at their upper portions and have a foam insert at the bottom for forming a spongy seal with the painting implement. The container for the cover has a core in it over and around which the roller cover fits. The paint implement holder may be a foam insert which is sized to fit inside of a paint can, e.g. a one or a five gallon can. The foam inserts have openings for receiving one or more paint implements. Alternatively, the paint brush holder is a rectangular-shaped container having a foam insert fitted to its upper portion. The exterior of the insert is sized to fit the container. The insert has an opening for holding a paint brush collar to allow the bristles to be in the container without touching the bottom. The insert keeps the brush wet and from drying out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventors: Robert Lincoln Couch, Ronald Norman Couch
  • Patent number: 5971141
    Abstract: A toilet accessory kit includes a holder with receptacles at opposite ends receiving and holding a toilet brush and a toilet plunger, respectively. A divider extends across the holder to separate the receptacles from one another, and a handle extends from the divider for lifting and carrying the holder and also for storing extra rolls of toilet paper. The brush includes bristles and an elongate narrow pick, with the pick insertable into the jets beneath the rim of a toilet bowl to clean the jets. The plunger has a spherical member with a concavo-convex open end that fits various sizes of drain openings. A depending cylindrical skirt surrounds the concavo-convex open end and acts as a shield to prevent splashing and also forms a secondary seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Aasef M. Shafik
  • Patent number: 5966902
    Abstract: A paint roller cover for protecting a wet paint roller element from drying out when not in use includes upper and lower half sections joined along a common edge by a hinge and each formed with a corresponding depression that, when the halves are closed upon one another, defines an enclosed elongate chamber between the halves of such size and shape to accommodate a roller element. At one end of the chamber, the mating walls of the half sections are formed with opposed semicircular recesses that, when the half sections are brought together, align to form an opening of such size and position to accept the rod of the roller handle. The cover is further provided with a means of locking the half sections securely but releasably in the closed position once installed about the roller. The half sections may be conveniently molded as one piece from plastics materials, joined across a living hinge and carrying interlocking formations that engage when the halves are brought together to lock the cover closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: Rodney J. Korycki
  • Patent number: 5958150
    Abstract: A device for storing and cleaning a toilet plunger includes an open-topped container and a lid having two lid-halves with each lid-half having an interior surface and an exterior surface. An internal closure mechanism having two closure members is disposed within the lid with one closure member projecting from the interior surface in each lid-half. Each closure member has at least one bumper/lever member. Each bumper/lever member has a curved member having a curved portion for engaging a side wall of a toilet plunger cup and a linear member having a linear portion for engaging a toilet plunger cup end wall. Preferably each closure member has a pair of bumper/lever members with a cross member joining them. The container has a base having upstanding walls, a base top having base raised portions and base lowered portions, a base top surface and an opposing bottom surface. A counterweight is preferably disposed under the bottom surface. The container walls have a portion defining a pour spout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventors: Nancy G. Borger, Gary A. Borger
  • Patent number: 5941379
    Abstract: A toilet rim cleaning apparatus and method. The toilet rim cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning head which soaks in cleaning solution while not in use. This cleaning head includes material which is substantially absorbent. When utilized to clean the rim of a toilet bowl, the absorbent nature of the cleaning head permits excess fluid to be removed from the cleaned surfaces. The shape of the cleaning head is configured to conform to the shape of at least a portion of the rim of a toilet bowl, which facilitates the cleaning motion around the rim and allows a significant amount of the rim to be efficiently and effectively cleaned. One preferred embodiment of the shape of the cleaning head resembles an "L" shape. Another embodiment resembles a "U" shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Steven Barardo
  • Patent number: 5924566
    Abstract: A decorative and functional plunger caddy device for storing a toilet plunger in the bathroom. The caddy device is transported by opening the door of the caddy device, inserting a toilet plunger into the caddy device and securing the door of the device so that the user may lift and carry the caddy device by holding the exposed handle of the toilet plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: Paul Stephen Gibbs
  • Patent number: 5915552
    Abstract: A paint roller protective device for a paint roller including a roller portion having a diameter, a handle and a shaft having an inner end connected to the handle and an outer end, the roller portion rotatably mounted on the shaft. The paint roller protective device includes (a) an elongated shell including an end wall, side walls extending from the end wall, an open end for receiving said roller portion, and an inner diameter selected to provide a clearance between the roller portion and the walls of the shell when the roller portion is inserted in the shell; (b) a cap for covering at least a portion of the open end of the shell, the cap including holder means for engaging and holding a portion of said handle when the roller portion is inserted in the shell and the cap is placed over said open end, such that the roller portion remains substantially free of the walls of the shell; and (c) attachment means for detachably attaching the cap to the shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Inventors: Min J. Kim, Do N. You
  • Patent number: 5909739
    Abstract: The invention's toothbrush comprises an open end which is rolled up and placed in a small and convenient package. The closed end of the disposable toothbrush supports a number of clusters of bristles. The toothbrush is placed onto the user's index finger and is held tight by a small rolled up (i.e. unopened) portion near the base of the individual's index finger. The material near the tip (i.e. the closed end) of the toothbrush is thicker than the remainder of the toothbrush. The thicker material supports the bristles and permits a strong brushing action by the user. The toothbrush is carried along with toothpaste in a small package. In other embodiments of the invention, the disposable toothbrush can have ribs for massaging the gums and the package can contain some dental floss.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Inventor: Morad Masrour-Rad
  • Patent number: 5881876
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for storing a brush body, made of a hydrophilic sponge-like porous material in a readily usable condition employs a substrate cleaning brush stored in a vessel, which vessel is filled with liquid such that the brush body is submerged in the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiro Nonomura, Akihiko Morita, Naoko Onodera, Fumitake Mieno
  • 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: 5860522
    Abstract: A portable toothbrush case, suitable for use away from home, contains separate compartments for storage of a toothbrush and toothpaste. The compartments are separated by a central partition with a hole that allows toothpaste to flow from its storage space onto the bristles of the toothbrush. Pressing on a portion of the wall of the toothpaste storage compartment squeezes the toothpaste through the hole, onto the toothbrush. Another hole on the outside wall of the toothpaste storage compartment allows refilling from a conventionally designed tube of toothpaste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1999
    Inventor: Jae Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 5836322
    Abstract: A device for storing and cleaning a toilet plunger includes an open-topped container and a lid having two lid-halves with each lid-half having an interior surface and an exterior surface. An internal closure mechanism having two closure members is disposed within the lid with one closure member projecting from the interior surface in each lid-half. Each closure member has a curved member for engaging a side wall of a toilet plunger cup and a linear member for engaging a toilet plunger cup end wall. The container has a base having upstanding walls, a base top having grooves, a base top surface and an opposing bottom surface. A counterweight is preferably disposed under the base top surface. The container walls have a portion defining a pour spout. The container and the lid are dimensioned for enclosing both the toilet plunger cup and a portion of the toilet plunger handle. The remainder of the toilet plunger handle protrudes through a hole in the lid when the toilet plunger is in the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventors: Nancy G. Borger, Gary A. Borger
  • Patent number: 5833061
    Abstract: This applicator mitt includes an inner pouch and an outer pouch providing a cover for the inner pouch. The inner pouch includes an outer face receiving a treating substance and is formed from a pair of panels, attached on two sides and one end and having separable margins on the other end to receive the hand portion of the user. The outer pouch can be a simple envelope or can be formed from a pair of panels attached to each other and to the inner pouch, said panels being removable to expose the inner pouch treating substance but remaining attached to the inner pouch during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Duane L. Storandt
  • Patent number: 5797410
    Abstract: A new clear view wash shield for washing a paint roller and permitting viewing of the washing operation. The inventive device includes first and second transparent shield halves, with each half having a generally flat portion and a semi-cylindrical raised portion within each flat portion. The raised portions form a cylindrical housing for a paint roller when the shield halves are connected together. One of the semi-cylindrical raised portions includes a flexible water inlet flap thereon through which water from a spray nozzle is introduced into the cylindrical housing. The shield halves include interfitting projections and grooves for connecting the shield halves together, and each shield half includes a semi-cylindrical handle portion. The handle portions form a handle housing for enclosing the handle of the paint roller when the shield halves are connected together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 25, 1998
    Inventor: Steven C. Gates
  • Patent number: 5785063
    Abstract: A combination toothbrush and drinking cup (10) comprising a toothbrush segment (12). An enlarged hollow handle segment (14) is also provided. A facility (16) is for attaching the toothbrush segment (12) to the enlarged hollow handle segment (14) for better gripping by a hand (18) when brushing teeth (20). When inverted the enlarged hollow handle segment (14) can become a water receiving receptacle to drink from.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: John DePinto
  • Patent number: 5749465
    Abstract: A container accommodating a rodlike object (6) is comprising of a cylinder body (1), a shutter portion (2), and a cap (3). A retrieving port (10) for taking out the rodlike object 6 by holding the middle portion of the rodlike object 6 by fingers (7) and a through-hole for the head portion (11) for passing the head portion of the rodlike object are formed on the circumference wall of the cylinder body, in which a neck portion (12) having a clearance (12a) formed to have a smaller width than the thickness of the middle portion of the rodlike object is formed between the retrieving port and the through-hole for the head portion. The cylinder body is unitedly assembled thereon with the shutter portion and the cap in order, in which a shutter is opened by operating the rotation of the cap. According to the aforementioned structure, production of each part is easier, fewer numbers of parts, and further simplified assembly are possible, resulting in a small cost of production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Kabushikigaisha Daiwa Riken Kogyo
    Inventor: Kimio Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 5745949
    Abstract: This apparatus includes a sponge-like material approximately 2.times.3.times.0.5 inches, impregnated with a lotion, such as sun-tan lotion, in the middle of a length of cloth-like material of about 4 ft. by 2 inches in width. This comes in a leak proof container and is used to apply said lotion to the part of ones back difficult to reach by oneself. One grasps each end, flips it over the head and rubs in a side-to-side buffing motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: Eli S. Pine
  • Patent number: 5709301
    Abstract: Storage devices for paint rollers, paint roller covers, and paint brushes. The storage devices for the paint rollers and paint roller covers are cylindrical containers, having a lid, which are flared outwardly at their upper portions and have a foam insert at the bottom for forming a spongy seal with the painting implement. The container for the cover has a core in it around which the roller cover fits. The lid, which can be either a screw down or a friction fit lid, has a foam insert on its underside to form a spongy seal with the upper part of the roller cover. The container for the roller and the lid, which must be a friction fit lid, each have a semicircular opening lined with a gasket. The mating of the container and the lid result in the formation of a circular opening through which the handle of a roller frame can extend. The paint brush holder is a rectangular-shaped container having a foam insert fitted to its upper portion. The exterior of the insert is sized to fit the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Inventors: Robert Lincoln Couch, Ronald Norman Couch
  • Patent number: 5661865
    Abstract: A cleaner for cleaning the compressible media portion of a fluid transfer member including an apertured liquid holding receptacle, the aperture of which is provided with a flexible rim adapted to compress the media portion therefrom when passed therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventor: Glyn W. Humphrey
  • Patent number: 5660273
    Abstract: A tray having wells or depressions therein for holding a medicament or material and an applicator for applying the medicament or material. The applicator well has one open end from which a portion of the applicator extends. A cover seals the medicament or material well and the applicator well and a portion of the applicator. In one embodiment, the cover is a thin sheet or film that adheres or is heat sealed to substantially the entire surface of the tray. The portion of the applicator extending beyond the applicator well is used to facilitate the removal of the cover whereby the extended portion of the applicator acts as a lever to pry the cover form the body of the tray. Additionally, packaging material required to form the tray can be substantially lessened in those cases where the applicator that is relatively large in comparison with the amount of material to be packaged. Therefore, a larger applicator that is easy to use is associated with the material without unnecessary packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Assignee: Centrix, Inc.
    Inventor: John J. Discko, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5645167
    Abstract: A paint brush container with improved fastener means comprises a pair of tray-shaped members connected together by a hinge. A fastener means for the trays comprises protrusions on one of them and mating openings provided through the other tray, where the length of the openings is longer than the width of the protrusions. As the hinge may wear and develop play, the trays may become out of their initial alignment. However, the extended length of the fastener openings easily receives the protrusions to provide a snap latch that maintains the container in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Keith Conrad
  • Patent number: 5546628
    Abstract: A versatile paint carrier comprising a box-shaped paint receptacle having an open top for holding paint therein. A first perforated basket is mounted in a vertical position to an inner surface of a side wall of the paint receptacle, so that paint can drip from bristles of paint brushes stored in the first perforated basket back into the paint receptacle. A second perforated basket is mounted in a vertical position to an inner surface of a rear wall of the paint receptacle, so that paint can drip from a roller of a paint roller stored in the second perforated basket back into the paint receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Rudolph Silvera
  • Patent number: 5540363
    Abstract: A container for temporarily holding and storing a wet paintbrush will maintain the paintbrush in a useful condition for a limited period of time up to several days. The container has the shape of a hollow, substantially rectangular box. The container is formed from two shallow, rectangular members that are hingedly attached to each other along respective longitudinal edges of the rectangular members. The two shallow members open so as to allow positioning a paintbrush therein, and the shallow members can be closed upon each in clam shell fashion to close the container. An opening is provided in the top wall of the container to allow the handle of a paintbrush to extend from the container. Each shallow member has a layer of closed cell foam material positioned along the inside of the upper wall of the shallow member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Inventor: Ronald W. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5533617
    Abstract: A storage container, for a paint roller sleeve, has a flexible resilient tubular housing for removably storing the sleeve therein. The tubular housing has a sealed end and an open end distal the sealed end. A chamber is located in the tubular housing to receive the sleeve. There is an inner wall, surrounding the chamber, in the tubular housing. A plurality of sleeve retaining bosses are attached to the inner wall at preselected points. At least one circumferential paint wiping ridge is formed on the inner wall. There is an outer wall on the tubular housing. At least one anti-rotational stacking member is attached to the outer wall. The anti-rotational stacking member has a rectangular circumferential outer surface. A sealing cap is removably attached to the open end of the tubular housing and there is an indicia surface on a top surface of the sealing cap. The sealing cap may be threadingly attached to or snapped onto the open end of the tubular housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventor: Valerie R. Von Flatern
  • Patent number: 5511654
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a swab and swab shield assembly which is especially useful for applying cosmetics. The assembly is seen to comprise a swab having a wad at one end and preferably a protective cover or shield for the wad which can be removeably sealed to the swab so that the shield protectively enshrouds the wad. The swab, which is particularly useful as a cosmetic article is seen to comprise an elongate rod with a relatively smooth surfaced wad secured at one end, which wad is preferably a wax-coated, fibrous material onto which is applied a daubable material such as a sample of a cosmetic, such as for example a shade of lipstick, blush and/or eye shadow. The shield for the wad is annular and is preferably slidably moveable along the elongate rod between a first position protectively enshrouding the wad and an axially displaced position along the swab handle wherein the wad can be exposed for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: Calis Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel de la Rocha
  • Patent number: 5501340
    Abstract: A non-spillable liquid toothpaste dispenser which stands upright for normal use, but can be used in any orientation. The dispenser is made of rigid plastic and comprises a case, a cap and a cartridge containing liquid toothpaste inside the case. Inside the top of the cartridge is a sliding valve having semicircular doors at its top. In use, a toothbrush head is pushed through a flanged hole in the top of the case, through the valve semicircular doors and into the liquid toothpaste. When the toothbrush is withdrawn, excess toothpaste is wiped off by the doors and the doors return to their normal closed position. The valve doors will also be made to close if any liquid toothpaste flows toward and impinges on the valve. In addition, a tight plug is provided in the cap to ensure no leakage of liquid when the dispenser is packed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Inventor: Bryan W. Stafford
  • 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: 5489051
    Abstract: A gravity responsive apparatus for the carriage of paint and paint application related tools suspended upon the hip of a painter which consists of a hip-supported, belt-attached base member which is flexibly attached by means of a separable ball and socket joint to a freely swinging sealable paint container and fitted tool carrier. Use of the device allows a painter to easily and safely scale ladders and scaffolds without danger of paint spillage and upon arrival at the place of application of paint to simply flip open and fold back the hinged, gasketed cover for access to the paint supply. A variety of painters preparation and application tools may be carried in the integral tool rack which is a part of the apparatus. The freely swinging construction allows the painter to assume almost any position without the probability of paint spillage or tool droppage and being fabricated of a smooth, seamless material, is readily cleanable and requires little care or maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Carl D. Robinson
  • Patent number: 5487932
    Abstract: A combined fluid storage container and applicator device for viscous fluids comprising a sheet-like impermeable material having overlying symmetrical or asymmetrical portions with a fold line and a temporary seal around the remaining periphery of the device forming a cavity for the fluid, a pad within the cavity and adhered to the sheet, and a separation mechanism for simultaneously applying continuous separating force in multiple directions to open the cavity and expose the pad. Methods of using the device are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Wayne K. Dunshee
  • Patent number: 5487201
    Abstract: An oral wipe comprised of a sleeve, the sleeve being comprised of interwoven material, the sleeve having a closed end extending to at least one corner at the closed end, a pick element comprised of a heat sealable component, and a piece of dental floss, the piece of floss having one floss end embedded and retainingly secured in the heat sealable component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventors: Bryan C. Hansen, Sharon A. Hansen
  • Patent number: 5465453
    Abstract: A paint brush protective cover for protecting the bristles of a paint brush comprising a flexible cover and a hard cover. The flexible cover further comprising a plurality of flaps that are wrapped around the bristles of the paint brush and secured together. The flexible cover further comprising a plurality of vent openings and a handle opening to allow a paint brush handle to be inserted therein. After the flexible cover is installed over the bristles of the paint brush, a hard cover is slipped over the flexible cover and locked in place by a top lid to complete the task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventor: Robert F. Landmeier
  • Patent number: 5419434
    Abstract: The invention relates to a packaged stipple brush and its method of construction. The stipple brush is constructed of brush receptacles retaining brush elements for transferring a generally radial pattern to topping compound applied to a surface. The brush receptacles are acutely angled with respect to the centerline of the brush which predisposes the brush elements to lie in a flattened manner, thus eliminating the need for the craftsman or other user to train the stipple brush prior to its use. The brush elements are further trained to lie flat by the method in which a fully assembled brush is removably captively retained against a flat surface, such as a point of sale display, during it shipping, storage, and display. In this manner the package becomes part of the manufacturing process for the stipple brush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Inventor: John S. Capoccia
  • Patent number: 5407685
    Abstract: A film for releasing at least one of an anti-microbial agent, oxygen, and a medicament includes a flexible, porous layer (18) such as a woven, non-woven, or knitted cloth or a layer of open cell foam. A first dry reagent (12) and a second dry reagent (14) which react in the presence of a dilutant to form the anti-microbial agent, oxygen, or medicament attached to the flexible, porous layer. In one preferred embodiment, the two dry reagents are disposed on opposite sides of the flexible, porous layer such that the flexible porous layer keeps the two apart and prevents a premature reaction. Porous outer layers (20, 22) prevent the powdered reagents from being wiped off while permitting dilutant access. In a preferred embodiment, the powdered reagents include acetylsalicylic acid and a perborate which react in the presence of water to generate peracetic acid (an antimicrobial agent which breaks down in a matter of minutes to hours into oxygen) and salicylic acid (a topical keratotic).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Assignee: Steris Corporation
    Inventors: Paul S. Malchesky, Raymond C. Kralovic
  • Patent number: 5377842
    Abstract: The container comprises a box-shaped base for housing a device for cosmetic and personal hygiene purposes and a cover for closing said base. The cover is translatably and rotatably coupled to the base so as to be movable by translation, subsequent rotation through 180.degree. and further translation from a position of closure of said base to a position of opening and support of the base itself for working access to the aforesaid device. Support means for the device are provided and inserted in said base in a longitudinally sliding manner and are coupled to said cover so that the movement of opening of the latter is automatically accompanied by a translation of the device from a rest position wherein it is completely withdrawn inside said base to a working position wherein it is partially extracted from the aforesaid base. (FIG. 9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Sorini & Migliavacca S.p.A.
    Inventor: Paolo Sorini
  • Patent number: 5375711
    Abstract: A new and improved bent toothbrush holder apparatus is provided for a bent toothbrush having a straight handle, a brush holder portion, and an obtuse angular bend between the handle and the brush holder portion. The apparatus includes a straight cylindrical first holder portion which includes a first ventilation aperture and a first connector for connecting to a second holder portion. The first holder portion receives the handle of the bent toothbrush. The apparatus also includes a second holder portion which includes a first straight segment which includes a second ventilation aperture. The second holder portion also includes a second straight segment and an obtusely angled third segment connected between the first straight segment and the second straight segment. The second straight segment includes a second connector for connecting the second holder portion to the first connector on the first holder portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Inventors: Lorraine Bree, Avery Bree
  • Patent number: 5360111
    Abstract: A compact applicator for tanning lotions and the like reattachably disassembles. A telescoping handle removably attaches to an applicator base. When disassembled from the applicator base, the telescoping handle collapses and with the applicator base, fits within a closable compact for easy carrying and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1994
    Inventor: Steven E. Arispe
  • Patent number: 5357861
    Abstract: A medical stamp system and method of use, the system comprising, in combination, a stamp having a lower portion and an upper portion, the lower portion terminating in a planar surface, a dye on the lower surface with indicia indicative of an intended course of medical action; and a box having a first region for receipt of the stamp and a minor region coupled to and offset from the major region, the minor region having a recess and ink pad within the recess for the receipt of indelible ink, the recess and pad being of the size to receive the planar surface and dye of the stamp, the box also having a lid to cover the first and second regions of the box with indicia of the responsible position on the exterior surface of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Inventors: Rodolfo d'Arbelles, Maryann d'Arbelles