Transverse Bristle Patents (Class 206/362.2)
  • Patent number: 11702264
    Abstract: A packaged oral care implement that includes a package and at least one oral care implement. The package may include a blister package having a receiving cavity and a flat panel coupled to the blister package to close an open end of the receiving cavity. The flat panel may include a first window aperture. A transparent film may be placed onto a front surface of the flat panel to cover or otherwise close the first window aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2023
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Maneesh Kumar, Devesh Badola, Swapnil Raut
  • Patent number: 11330899
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for cleaning large numbers of brushes quickly, comfortably and efficiently are disclosed. The apparatus contains a cleaning chamber comprising cleaning elements disposed on a cleaning plate within the chamber that contacts the brushes during cleaning, the cleaning chamber in contact with a drive and a motor that can deliver repetitive motions to the cleaning elements. Further it comprises a lid configured to hold brushes in securement members on the lid, one or more vibratory motors that provides vibratory motions to the cleaning chamber, and a solvent circulation system that is configured to deliver and drain solvents between the reservoir and cleaning chambers and also filter and recirculate them during the cleaning cycles, and drain out used solvents from the cleaner after a cleaning operation. The apparatus also contains means to hasten drying of washed brushes. Some embodiments allow easy transport of the large capacity cleaner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Inventor: Ganeshananda Roshan Premananda
  • Patent number: 11191413
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a method of monitoring, analyzing, and/or validating the lifecycle and maintenance schedule of consumable wear components used in or by a semi-autonomous cleaning device can include scanning a unique identifier associated with a consumable component and receiving, at the cleaning device, data associated with the unique identifier. A signal associated with the data is sent from the cleaning device to a host device. After scanning the unique identifier, the consumable component is installed in or on the cleaning device. During use of the cleaning device, a status of the consumable component is monitored and a signal is sent to the host device in response to one or more characteristics associated with the consumable component meeting a criterion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Assignee: Avidbots Corp
    Inventors: Pablo Roberto Molina Cabrera, Derek Kursikowski
  • Patent number: 10827901
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a method of monitoring, analyzing, and/or validating the lifecycle and maintenance schedule of consumable wear components used in or by a semi-autonomous cleaning device can include scanning a unique identifier associated with a consumable component and receiving, at the cleaning device, data associated with the unique identifier. A signal associated with the data is sent from the cleaning device to a host device. After scanning the unique identifier, the consumable component is installed in or on the cleaning device. During use of the cleaning device, a status of the consumable component is monitored and a signal is sent to the host device in response to one or more characteristics associated with the consumable component meeting a criterion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Avidbots Corp
    Inventors: Pablo Roberto Molina Cabrera, Derek Kursikowski
  • Patent number: 9723901
    Abstract: A self-righting cane is provided that includes a handle portion having a grip and a collar. A shaft extends from the handle portion and is joined to the handle portion at the collar. A base supporting portion includes a weight disposed within the base supporting portion. The weight has an aperture such that the shaft connecting to the base supporting portion through the aperture. The weight disposed within the base supporting portion self-rights the cane and prevents the cane from falling over.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: PT Solutions Today, LLC
    Inventors: Jake Ober, Thomas John Travers
  • Patent number: 9611598
    Abstract: A hollow marker post and a resilient member located therein wherein the resilient member is statically dependent of the hollow marker post with the marker post and the resilient member dynamically dependent of each other to facilitate the return of the marker post to an upright condition when the marker post is impacted by an external force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Inventor: Scott D. Landes
  • Patent number: 9516936
    Abstract: An oral care kit (1000) including an oral care product (200) and a sticker panel (300). In one aspect, the invention may be an oral care kit (1000) comprising: a package (100); a toothbrush (200) disposed within the package (100); and a sticker panel (300) disposed within the package (100), the sticker panel (300) comprising a plurality of detachable stickers (301), the sticker panel (300) forming a sleeve through which a portion of the toothbrush (200) extends, the plurality of stickers (301) visible from outside of the package (100) through a substantially transparent portion of the package (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: David K. Lee, Quang Nguyen
  • Patent number: 9469948
    Abstract: A hollow marker post and a resilient member located therein wherein the resilient member is statically dependent of the hollow marker post with the marker post and the resilient member dynamically dependent of each other to facilitate the return of the marker post to an upright condition when the marker post is impacted by an external force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Scott D. Landes
  • Patent number: 9066583
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to a packaged toothbrush and toothbrush container and methods of making them, wherein the toothbrush container includes a flexible pliable resilient lid securable to a flexible pliable resilient body of the toothbrush container. The packaged toothbrush included a flexible resilient pliable toothbrush adapted to be disposed within toothbrush container and can be manipulated into a flexed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignee: Loops LLC
    Inventor: Steven L. Kayser
  • Patent number: 9016471
    Abstract: A kit for decorating a toothbrush includes the toothbrush having a base portion, and at least one decorative band sized to fit around the outer perimeter of the base portion of the toothbrush. A second embodiment of the kit includes the toothbrush, a writing instrument and an area designated on the base portion for marking with the writing instrument. A third embodiment of the kit includes the toothbrush, a writing instrument, an area designated on the base portion for marking with the writing implement and at least one decorative band sized to fit around the outer perimeter of the base portion of the toothbrush. Any of the kits may include at least one sticker sized to fit on the base portion of the toothbrush. Any of the kits may also include a panel including one or more stickers and/or one or more decorative bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Eduardo Jimenez, David K. Lee, Quang Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8839955
    Abstract: A preferably disposable item protector having a first and second layer, sealed peripheral edges, and an opening to provide access to the interior, formed of material substantially permeable to vapor and substantially impermeable to liquid and microbial contaminants. A method of producing such item protectors comprising the steps of folding a continuous strip of material, bonding the peripheral edges with adhesives, sonic bonding, heat bonding, or other techniques, and cutting the material proximate to the bonded edges to release the item protectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: E4 Technologies Incorporated
    Inventors: Susan Klinsport, John P. Alber, Stanley R. Kellenberger
  • Publication number: 20140150189
    Abstract: A case for a powered toothbrush comprises a housing having an interior for receiving a powered toothbrush, and a cover, wherein the cover substantially obfuscates the interior but is sufficiently light-transmissive to communicate the presence of an indicator from within the interior. Also provided is a powered toothbrush and case system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicants: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd., COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY
    Inventors: Takashi Shigeno, Kazuya Andachi, Tamaki Ito
  • Patent number: 8672128
    Abstract: A container for sanitizing an article includes a case defining a central void sized to accommodate at least a portion of the article, a receptacle in fluid communication with the central void, and a granular, antiseptic media disposed within the receptacle. The granular, antiseptic media includes at least one out-gassing, antimicrobial agent such as, thyme oil or thymol. The granular, antiseptic media may further include a granular, fragrance blended with the granular, out-gassing, antimicrobial agent in a select ratio to remediate an antiseptic odor of the out-gassing, antimicrobial agent. The article may be a toothbrush or other type of brush, a mouth guard, a comb, a sponge, or other article which may be stored in a damp or wet condition after use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Dr. Tung's Products
    Inventor: Colin Davis
  • Patent number: 8651272
    Abstract: An oral care implement demonstration assembly includes a powered oral care implement, a package housing and a plurality of demonstration elements. The oral care implement demonstration assembly is configured to produce a visual demonstration effect when relative movement is provided between a first demonstration element and a second demonstration element. Among the visual effects that may be utilized is a Moiré effect. Additionally, an associated method for demonstrating features of an oral care implement though one or more visual effects is described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Eduardo Jimenez, Alberto Mantilla, Tony Baxter, Pablos Andres Ramirez Lozano, Marisol Rodriguez Perez
  • Publication number: 20140014542
    Abstract: A paint brush storage and protection device includes an open well having an upstanding wall ending in an upper wall, the upper wall being continuous from one side of an opening to another; a top with an open channel extending around the perimeter of the top except at and end of an extension area; a hinge connecting the open well to the top; a seal located in the opening; first and second latching mechanisms associated with the open well and top; and a magnet. A paint brush may be placed within the well and the top closed by deflection of the hinge so the upper wall forms a generally airtight connection with the open channel and the seal closes the opening to secure and protect the paint brush while the magnet holds the paint brush in a fixed position relative to the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: Likwid Concepts L.L.C.
    Inventors: Salvatore DePaola, JR., John Anthony DePaola, Anthony J. Caputo
  • Patent number: 8522973
    Abstract: A toothbrush holder is disclosed. The toothbrush holder includes a tubular body that is sized to contain a toothbrush. The tubular body is formed of a light-transmissive material and has a lower segment and an upper segment that are releasably secured together so that the toothbrush can be positioned inside. A weighted base is affixed to the bottom of the lower segment. A cap is affixed to the top of the upper segment and is formed of a light-transmissive material. A light source is secured within the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Inventor: Dephillia J. McClenon Joseph
  • Patent number: 8397910
    Abstract: An oral care implement demonstration assembly includes a powered oral care implement, a package housing and a plurality of demonstration elements. The oral care implement demonstration assembly is configured to produce a visual demonstration effect when relative movement is provided between a first demonstration element and a second demonstration element. Among the visual effects that may be utilized is a Moiré effect. Additionally, an associated method for demonstrating features of an oral care implement though one or more visual effects is described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Eduardo J. Jimenez, Alberto Mantilla, Tony Baxter, Pablo Andres Ramirez Lozano, Marisol Rodriguez Perez
  • Patent number: 8307979
    Abstract: A sanitary toothbrush storage apparatus is provided, which comprises at least one holding compartment so shaped and dimensioned as to conveniently accommodate a toothbrush. The compartment may be juxtaposed with one or more other compartments disposed in such spaced relationship as to receive a plurality of toothbrushes. The compartments accommodate an aqueous antiseptic solution of an amount sufficient to immerse at least a substantial portion of the toothbrush head such that when awaiting further use, the toothbrush head is hygienically stored in a manner sought to inhibit environmental contamination. Separate holding compartments may be arranged in juxtaposed relationship to house small hygiene implements in hygienic conditions in readiment for further use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Clifford Yuille
  • Patent number: 8251076
    Abstract: Oral hygiene case with dental floss lid compartment, refers to the present invention an improved case with lid compartment to hold dental floss or ribbon, and for keeping a toothbrush or toothpaste in its body that presents constructivity and advanced design with access to the cases body (1) interior concomitant with opening the dental floss lid compartment (2) for use, presents also length and intern volume flexibility, accessories to hang, allowing change of its shape, saving the use of pollutant materials, showing excellent cost-benefit ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Inventor: Nilson Altair de Souza
  • Patent number: 7992710
    Abstract: An oral care implement demonstration assembly includes a powered oral care implement, a package housing and a plurality of demonstration elements. The oral care implement demonstration assembly is configured to produce a visual demonstration effect when relative movement is provided between a first demonstration element and a second demonstration element. Among the visual effects that may be utilized is a Moiré effect. Additionally, an associated method for demonstrating features of an oral care implement though one or more visual effects is described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Eduardo Jimenez, Alberto Mantilla, Tony Baxter, Pablo Andres Ramirez Lozano, Marisol Rodriguez Perez
  • Patent number: 7870955
    Abstract: A horizontal trough for use with a concrete broom is disclosed. The trough can be customized to fit various shapes and widths of concrete brooms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Inventors: Alton Edward Schmitt, Eric Edward Schmitt
  • Publication number: 20100314273
    Abstract: A sanitary toothbrush storage apparatus is provided, which comprises at least one holding compartment so shaped and dimensioned as to conveniently accommodate a toothbrush. The compartment may be juxtaposed with one or more other compartments disposed in such spaced relationship as to receive a plurality of toothbrushes. The compartments accommodate an aqueous antiseptic solution of an amount sufficient to immerse at least a substantial portion of the toothbrush head such that when awaiting further use, the toothbrush head is hygienically stored in a manner sought to inhibit environmental contamination. Separate holding compartments may be arranged in juxtaposed relationship to house small hygiene implements in hygienic conditions in readiment for further use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Clifford Yuille
  • Patent number: 7823727
    Abstract: A system for assisting in communication of the state of a patient's condition is disclosed. In an embodiment, a plastic container of washcloths includes two labels. The first label is mounted on the container and occludes an entry into the container. The second label also is mounted on the container via attachment to the first label. The second label includes a template that is mounted face down. In operation, the second label may be removed and observations regarding the patient's skin condition that are made during use of the washcloth can be marked on the template provided on the second label. The second label then may be communicated from one care provider to another care provider.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Sage Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Ron Chappuis
  • Publication number: 20090200184
    Abstract: A ventilated toothbrush holder having filtered ventilation is provided. The toothbrush holder has a container, or first web, and a re-closable cover, or second web flexibly coupled to the first web. In a first embodiment, the second web has an opening that is covered by a fine-mesh polymeric filter that resists the entry of water and other liquids but allows the flow of air. In a second embodiment, the first web also has an opening covered by the same type of filter to enhance air flow into the first web and out of the second web. An exemplary shape is claimed, but other embodiments are not limited as to shape. An insert for supporting toothbrushes, adapted in shape to the first web, is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 13, 2009
    Inventor: MICHELLE CULLEN
  • Publication number: 20090189084
    Abstract: A toothbrush or the like may be inserted, bristles downward, into an aperture in a cap removably attached to a body of the apparatus. A peg may be inserted into any one of the apertures in order to allow an electric toothbrush head or other non-standard type of toothbrush to be used. An internal ultraviolet (UV) bulb is located in the apparatus to sanitize the toothbrushes. A timer/control circuit may activate the UV bulb for three minutes and then shut off. To prevent the recurrence of bacterial growth over time, the UV bulb may be automatically reactivated by the timer/control circuit after six hours and activated for another 3 minutes or another amount of time, as programmed. A safety mechanism may interact with a spring-loaded microswitch coupled to the timer/control circuit to disable the unit if the cap is removed. The body has a rounded bottom and is weighted such that the sanitizing apparatus sits upright on a flat surface and returns to an upright position if tipped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Joel Pinsky
  • Publication number: 20090184015
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sanitary toothbrush holder that holds toothbrushes in place to hang up right or upside down resulting in a cleaner brush that is air dried. It provides a better, easier and secure method of storing the brush after use. It is especially effective for children to place the brush against the holder with little difficulty.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Richard D. Ruppert
  • Patent number: 7484629
    Abstract: A sanitizing toothbrush holder is described for sanitizing one or more toothbrushes in a household dishwasher. The holder is designed so as to fit in a space in the dishwasher rack used typically for holding a dinner plate, and has one or more holes in a top surface sized so as to pass a toothbrush handle but not a toothbrush head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Inventor: Carolyn Cottrell
  • Patent number: 7475775
    Abstract: A package for displaying certain features of a toothbrush is disclosed. The package includes a movable slider bar as part of the package that can be manipulated by a potential consumer. The slidable bar engages a movable portion of a toothbrush so that a potential customer can observe that movement without opening the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventor: Joseph Fattori
  • Patent number: 7416081
    Abstract: A package that demonstrates a functionality of a contained product that has a demonstration feature distinct from the contained product that changes from a resting state to an active state upon activation of the contained product is described. In at least one configuration the product is a power toothbrush. In various instances the demonstration feature may be a movable medium. Among other things the movable medium may be agitated in the active state or may comprise various substances including one or more of sand, glitter, particles, powder filaments or fiber. A method of demonstrating the aforementioned functionality of a product, such as a toothbrush, is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Alan Sorrentino, Robert Moskovich, Quang Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20080135433
    Abstract: The invention describes a storage receptacle (1) for a cleaning device (4) that features a handle (6) and a cleaning head (5), particularly a toilet brush, wherein the storage receptacle (1) comprises at least a main chamber (3) for inserting and storing the cleaning device (4) as well as a closing and sealing arrangement that is coupled to the outer walls of the storage receptacle (1) in such a way that it can be pivoted from an open position into a closed position. According to the invention, the closing and sealing arrangement is formed by two shell elements (28a, 28b) that can be pivoted relative to one another. The storage receptacle (1) of the invention is characterized by the simple handling of the cleaning device (4) during its insertion and removal as well as by its appealing visual appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Applicant: Carl Freudenberg KG
    Inventors: Norbert Weis, Ralf Juergens, David McKnight
  • Patent number: 7370383
    Abstract: A brush device for cleaning an interior of a bottle includes a shaft being insertable into an interior of a bottle. Each of a plurality of bristle sets is coupled to the shaft and is positioned adjacent an end of the shaft. Each of the bristle sets is insertable into the interior of the bottle to scrub the bottle. A handle is coupled to an end of the shaft distal to the bristle sets. The handle is graspable to facilitate manipulation of the shaft and the bristle sets to scrub the interior of the bottle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Inventor: Debra L. Chinowsky Wink
  • Patent number: 7258229
    Abstract: An actuator assembly and packaging feature for an electric toothbrush is disclosed. The actuator assembly includes a positionable member accessible along the outer surface of the toothbrush body. The actuator assembly further includes a spring member retained within the interior of the toothbrush body which urges a cam member against the underside of the positionable member. The positionable member defines an aperture extending through its midsection within which is disposed a depressible member. The depressible member has an outer end which is also accessible along the outer surface of the toothbrush body. Upon pressing the depressible member, the cam member and spring are urged against an electrical circuit provided within the body of the toothbrush which is used to selectively operate a motor and drive mechanism to move one or more sets of bristles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Church & Dwight Co., Inc.
    Inventor: John G. Chan
  • Publication number: 20070187271
    Abstract: A container has an exterior wall and a interior wall that form a reservoir. A top or lid covers the reservoir. The top of lid has one or more orifices that receive a head of a toothbrush, which is immersed in a sanitizing agent contained in the reservoir. A second container engages the first container within a receptacle formed in the first container. The second container contains mouthwash. The close proximity of the toothbrush to the second container encourages the use of mouthwash at the time of brushing, and improves oral hygiene over brushing alone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Publication date: August 16, 2007
    Inventor: Louis P. Shaw
  • Patent number: 7234192
    Abstract: A compact disposable toothbrush has a flat, elongate bristle-receiving body having bristles extending downward therefrom in the manner of a traditional toothbrush. A finger clip formed by elongate curved elastic portions extends upward along the length of the bristle receiving body. The elastic action of the curved portions secures mounting to varying sizes of finger. The finger clip has side openings in each and inner guide ridges to avoid lateral movement and rotation on the finger. A bristle cover snaps over bristle-receiving body for removal and replacement and seals against the body and the lower wall of the finger. The toothbrush and cover may be supplied as a kit with a single portion of toothpaste provided in the cover as snapped closed over the bristle portion of the toothbrush, the bristles extending into the toothpaste. The kit is supplied in a wrapper for sanitary distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Inventor: Munib Barbar
  • Patent number: 7213709
    Abstract: A thermoformed package can be easily opened when it is comprised of a first enclosing section, an intermediate section, and a second enclosing section. The first enclosing section and second enclosing section are each bonded to the intermediate section about the periphery of the intermediate section to form the package. The package can have a hinge at the base of the first enclosing section and the second enclosing section. The intermediate section can be a plastic, a plastic containing laminate, a paper material such as a paperboard, or a paper containing laminate. The strength of the bond of at least one of the first enclosing section and the second enclosing section to the intermediate section being less than the shear strength of the material of the first enclosing section and the second enclosing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Robert Moskovich, Alan Sorrentino
  • Patent number: 7124894
    Abstract: A multi-purpose toothbrush for promoting oral hygiene includes an elongated shaft having a brushing section that includes a plurality of bristles extending radially outwardly therefrom. The brushing section is coated with a predetermined quantity of a tooth-cleaning agent that is activatable via water. The shaft further includes an accessory dispensing section integral with a gripping section and oppositely spaced from the brushing section for providing dental floss and mouthwash. A plurality of protective wrappers are removably positioned about the toothbrush for maintaining same in a substantially sanitary condition during non-use conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Steven P. Dobos
  • Patent number: 7094981
    Abstract: A powered operating device such as a powered toothbrush includes a test button for momentarily testing the operability of the device. The test button simultaneously presses against both the on portion and the off portion of the switch which controls the operation of the device. While pressure is applied to the test button, the device is placed in its operative condition and when the pressure is released, the geometric structure of the test button held by the package releases the on portion of the switch at the same time or just before the off portion. Thus, assuring that the switch turns off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventors: Alan V. Sorrentino, Robert Moskovich
  • Patent number: 7059471
    Abstract: A package for displaying certain features of a toothbrush is disclosed. The package includes a movable slider bar as part of the package that can be manipulated by a potential consumer. The slidable bar engages a movable portion of a toothbrush so that a potential customer can observe that movement without opening the package.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Colgate-Palmolive Company
    Inventor: Joseph Fattori
  • Patent number: 6994212
    Abstract: An apparatus for storing various items, like toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, razors or other toiletry and non-toiletry items. The apparatus comprises a carrier member adapted to accommodate the said items therein and a support member adapted to support the carrier member. The carrier member is separable from the support member and receivable thereinto. The carrier member is configured as a body of rotation defined by a longitudinal axis, by an upper portion, by an elongated tubular peripheral portion and by a lower portion. The carrier member and the support member are provided with a respective abutment means enabling resting of the carrier member on the support member. At least the carrier member is provided with a ventilation means and with drainage means to enable sanitary storage of the items. Both the carrier member and the support member can be used as a single standalone item suitable for sanitary storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Inventor: Gideon Bar Noy
  • 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: 6966441
    Abstract: Flasks 10, 110, 210 and 310 serve as a storage container for toothbrushes 2, 2A and serve are reservoirs for a treating solution, such as a cleaner, which can be used to clean, deodorize, sanitize, decontaminate or otherwise treat the toothbrush between brushings. Flask 10 has an upper section 14 separated from a lower section 22 by an intermediate section 18, which contains a constricted throat 20. A toothbrush 2 in an inverted position would be supported by an inwardly tapered surface 16 above the constricted throat 20. Toothbrush bristles 6 would be located in the enlarged lower section 22, which serves as a reservoir for the treating solution. The constricted throat 22 can be sealed so that overpressure in the lower section can enhance the action of the treating solution. A covered flask 110 can also be used to store or merchandise the toothbrush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventors: William L. Barham, William B. Barham
  • Patent number: 6945397
    Abstract: A package contains a product and a card. The package includes a window which permits viewing of the card from outside the package. A seller can insert the seller's card into the package through a slot in the package. The package can then be delivered to a recipient who can remove the seller's card and replace it with the recipient's own card. The product can then be delivered to a customer of the recipient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Dr. Fresh, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. Brattesani, Puneet Nanda
  • Patent number: 6932216
    Abstract: An electric toothbrush comprises a body portion and a head including a motor, a moving portion, a handle, and a gear arrangement between the moving portion and the motor. The moving portion rotates, oscillates and/or reciprocates about an axis normal to a longitudinal axis of the head. The moving portion can include stiff bristles and massaging tips and the static portion can include soft bristles and massaging tips. The body portion houses the motor. A switch is operatively connected to the motor to provide momentary or continuous operation of the toothbrush. In one embodiment the gear arrangement includes a shaft, a worm gear and a pair of step gears. In another embodiment the gear arrangement includes a plurality of gears and at least one swivel arm for drive the moving portion in a rotating, oscillating or reciprocating manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Inventors: Lawrence A. Blaustein, John R. Nottingham, John Osher, John W. Spirk, Douglas A. Gall
  • Patent number: 6889829
    Abstract: A motorized electric toothbrush in a display package includes a first switch to facilitate automatic motorized operation of the toothbrush. When the first switch is in one position, applying a force to a brush head portion of the toothbrush actuates a second switch and causes the motor to engage. A package body includes a flexible portion to allow an operator to apply a force to the brush head portion through the package body. The removable brush head portion is easily replaced when the bristles become worn, or to allow use of the toothbrush by another user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: HoMedics, Inc.
    Inventors: Mordechai Lev, Roman S. Ferber, John E. Nemazi
  • Publication number: 20040226842
    Abstract: Packaging for hairbrushes includes a foldable display member having a main panel for mounting a hairbrush and upper and lower flaps extending obliquely and downwardly from an edge of the main panel. The flaps are deflectable into an arcuate configuration in which the flaps overly a portion of a mounted hairbrush. The arcuately-deflected flaps are secured by attachment to the main panel or alternatively by attachment to a mounted hairbrush below a lower edge of the main panel. The flaps may include attachment tabs receivable in openings of the main panel. Alternatively, the flaps may include openings for receiving a flexible connector for securing the flap to the main panel or to the handle of a mounted hairbrush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventor: Lawrence O'Toole
  • Publication number: 20040211683
    Abstract: Flasks 10, 110, 210 and 310 serve as a storage container for toothbrushes 2, 2A and serve are reservoirs for a treating solution, such as a cleaner, which can be used to clean, deodorize, sanitize, decontaminate or otherwise treat the toothbrush between brushings. Flask 10 has an upper section 14 separated from a lower section 22 by an intermediate section 18, which contains a constricted throat 20. A toothbrush 2 in an inverted position would be supported by an inwardly tapered surface 16 above the constricted throat 20. Toothbrush bristles 6 would be located in the enlarged lower section 22, which serves as a reservoir for the treating solution. The constricted throat 22 can be sealed so that overpressure in the lower section can enhance the action of the treating solution. A covered flask 110 can also be used to store or merchandise the toothbrush.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Inventors: William L. Barham, William B. Barham
  • Patent number: 6808068
    Abstract: A portable device for dental hygiene comprising a new configuration of handleless toothbrush, of easy portability, whose body is manufactured of resilient plastic material with the approximate shape of a through thimble on the sides, to be specially fitted of the first phalange of an index finger, which has, incorporated in its lower surface, a plurality of bristle rows radially laid out and, in its upper surface, a set of slots in relief to massage the gums, constituting a small device that can be carried in the pocket or inside a small pouch or handbag, inside a package specially designed for its accommodation, that includes an internal container to store a small quantity of toothpaste, thus permitting that the user has a complete portable kit of dental hygiene at his disposal and comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Eli Eddy Abada
  • Patent number: 6782999
    Abstract: A travel toothbrush system that includes a keychain structure for attaching keys and a toothbrush that is attachable to the keychain structure so that the toothbrush has an enlarged handle for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Inventors: Katrina M. McCoy, James E. Kunkle
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040134816
    Abstract: My invention is designed to house both the antiseptic and the tooth brush to guarantee bacteria free hygiene.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Publication date: July 15, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph N. Smargisso