JP5113246B2 - Clip for mounting fluid ejection device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a clip for attaching a fluid discharge device for spraying fluid (detergent, deodorant, etc.) to the inner surface of an enclosure (toilet bowl, shower enclosure, bathtub enclosure, etc.). Can be rotated relative to the hook of the clip to guide the fluid to the inner surface of the enclosure.

  Toilet bowls require care to prevent the accumulation of unsightly deposits, to reduce odors, and to prevent bacterial growth. Traditionally, toilet cleaning, deodorization, and disinfection have been performed by hand scrubbing with a liquid or powder cleaning disinfectant. This work required laborious labor to keep the toilet bowl clean.

  Various toilet cleaner dispensers have been proposed in order to eliminate this objectionable manual scrubbing. One type of dispenser suspends solid blocks or solid particles of material for cleaning and cleaning from the toilet rim into a container located in the fountain water path. US Pat. No. 4,777,670 (incorporated herein by reference with all other documents cited herein) shows an example of this type of toilet cleaning system. . Typically, each time water is spouted, a portion of the solid block dissolves in the spout water and a certain amount of spout water containing the dissolved product is fed into the toilet bowl for toilet flushing.

  Other toilet bowl cleaning systems use a liquid detergent that is supplied in a fixed amount in the toilet bowl. For example, US Pat. Nos. 6,178,564 and 6,230,334, and PCT International Publications Nos. 99/66139 and 99/66140 all remove liquid agent from the bottle each time the water is blown out. A cleaning and / or cleaning device is disclosed that can be suspended from the rim of a toilet bowl for injection into spout water. In these devices located under the toilet rim, the liquid agent is dispensed downward from the reservoir to a dispenser plate supported by a base suspended from the toilet rim. The device is suspended from the toilet rim so that the flow of squirt water from the toilet bowl strikes the dispenser plate during ejection. The squirt water carries the liquid agent on the dispenser plate into the toilet bowl and cleans and cleans the toilet bowl.

  Other toilet dispensers deliver a certain amount of aerosol deodorant and / or detergent into the toilet bowl through a conduit attached to the toilet rim. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,178,070 discloses an aerosol container attached to a toilet rim with a bracket and having a tube extending over the rim, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,029,286 and 5, 862,532 discloses a toilet dispenser that includes a pressurized reservoir of fluid, a conduit connected to a fluid source, and a spray nozzle attached to the toilet rim.

  One of the weaknesses of these known toilet rim-type dispenser devices is that they remove deodorant and / or detergent in one place of water in the toilet bowl, or in the toilet bowl or the inner surface of the toilet bowl. It is a point that can be applied only to a limited range. As a result, cleaning of the inner surface of the toilet bowl may be limited to the area of the toilet bowl near the device.

  US Patent Application No. 2007/0136937 owned by the owner of the present invention describes, in particular, an automatic or manual toilet cleaning device that cleans the inner surface of the toilet bowl all around the toilet bowl. In one embodiment illustrated in this application, the downstream end of the conduit terminates in a nozzle that allows the fluid to be sprayed outward and applied to the inner surface of the toilet bowl. The nozzle is attached by the toilet rim.

  Several approaches are available for making limited adjustments to the device attached to the toilet rim. The adjustment is mainly of (1) using the ratchet mechanism between the two members of the hook shown in US Pat. No. 6,029,286 to adjust the hook for various rim widths. As such, either to accommodate toilet rims of various widths, or (2) to attempt to accommodate the depth of the rim and toilet shape by adjusting the vertical position of the device under the rim It has been. For example, U.S. Pat. No. Re. 32,017 and U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,898,806 and 7,114,199 incorporate a ratchet mechanism between the hook and the body so that the vertical individual of the device under the rim of the toilet bowl. Allows adjustment. Furthermore, US Pat. No. 6,675,396 uses a friction fit that pushes a flat bar hook into a hollow groove formed in the body to allow continuous adjustment of the body relative to the rim.

  However, if the toilet bowl has an asymmetrical (or elongate) rim / inner surface configuration, the adjustment means described above will properly adjust the nozzle so that a certain amount of fluid is delivered to every corner of the inner surface of the toilet bowl. It cannot be positioned.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,777,670 US Pat. No. 6,178,564 U.S. Pat. No. 6,230,334 U.S. Pat. No. 3,178,070 US Pat. No. 6,029,286 US Pat. No. 5,862,532 US Pat. No. 6,898,806 US Pat. No. 6,675,396

  Thus, there is a need for an improved clip for mounting a nozzle near the toilet rim.

  The aforementioned requirements can be met by a clip according to the invention for mounting a fluid ejection device. This clip is suitable for use in automatic or manual cleaning systems for cleaning enclosures (toilet bowls, shower enclosures, bathtub enclosures, etc.). As used herein, the term “cleaning” also includes sterilization and / or disinfection, the term “deodorizing” also includes cleaning, and the term “fluid” includes cleaning fluid, sterilizing fluid, disinfecting fluid, and the like. Further, the term “fluid” is broadly interpreted to include liquids, gels, free flowing powders, vapors, and the like. The description of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention is made with reference to a toilet bowl, but is not limited thereto.

  The clip helps to ensure that a certain amount of fluid is delivered to the desired enclosure surface by maintaining the stability and orientation of the fluid ejection device in use. Clips are secured to the enclosure to prevent inadvertent or accidental clip movements from generating unwanted signals from the sensor and / or changing the area covered by a certain amount of fluid supplied Is done. In addition, the clip accommodates various toilet bowl sizes and shapes with adjustments to rim height, depth, angle, and curvature. Angle adjustment can occur almost automatically when the clip is attached to the rim. The grip on the hook helps to ensure that the clip orientation once set is reliably maintained. In addition, grooves are present to secure the fluid conduit to the clip and prevent the fluid conduit from being pinched or kinked.

  The present invention provides a clip for attaching a fluid ejection device near the wall of an enclosure. In one embodiment, the clip includes a base, a hook configured to support the base by the wall of the enclosure, means for attaching a fluid ejection device to the base, and a connector that rotatably connects the base and the hook. And including.

  In one aspect, the means for attaching the fluid ejection device to the base can include an arm extending from the body. In addition, the arm can include a support portion to support the fluid ejection device, and can include a barrel at the distal end of the support portion.

  In another aspect, the base can include a fluid inlet and the clip can include a fluid ejection device that includes a nozzle in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The nozzle is located on both sides of the deflection plate, a passage in fluid communication with the fluid inlet at the upper end and extending between the fluid inlet and the deflection plate, a groove in fluid communication with the lower end of the passage. A pair of fins that extend upward from the deflection plate and rotate the nozzle when a fluid strikes it.

  In one configuration, a connector for rotatably connecting the base and the hook includes a rib projecting from the hook, a groove formed in the base for receiving the hook, formed in the groove, an inlet, an outlet, And a slit for receiving a rib with an intermediate position between the inlet and the outlet. Furthermore, the width of the slit narrows from the entrance to the intermediate position and widens from the intermediate position to the exit, thereby allowing the hook and the base to rotate relative to a point near the intermediate position of the slit. . The hook can include ratchet teeth, and the groove can include one or more protrusions that engage the ratchet teeth to reduce sliding movement between the hook and the base.

  In another configuration, the connector for rotatably connecting the base and the hook includes a rib protruding from the hook, a groove formed in the base for receiving the hook, and a recess formed in the groove for receiving the rib of the hook. And including. The recess includes an inlet, an outlet, and an intermediate position between the inlet and the outlet. The width of the recess narrows from the entrance to the intermediate position and widens from the intermediate position to the exit, thereby allowing the hook and base to rotate relative to a point near the intermediate position of the recess. In one form of the connector, the hook can include a protrusion on the surface of the hook opposite the rib, and the base can include at least one arcuate ridge on the inner surface of the base. As the base rotates relative to the hook, at least one protrusion on the hook moves in an arcuate path adjacent to the at least one arcuate ridge. In another form of the connector, the hook includes a protrusion on the surface of the hook opposite the rib, the base includes a plurality of arcuate ridges on the inner surface of the base, and adjacent arcuate ridges are grooves between them. Is defined. As the base rotates relative to the hook, at least one protrusion moves in an arcuate path in the groove. In yet another form of the connector, the hook includes a domed protrusion on the surface of the hook opposite the rib, and the base includes a plurality of arcuate ridges on the inner surface of the base. These ridges can have rounded top surfaces, and adjacent arcuate ridges can define a recessed groove between them. As the base rotates relative to the hook, at least one protrusion moves along an arcuate path in the recessed groove. The protrusion is preferably located in the center of the surface of the hook and arranged in a straight line.

  In another aspect, the hook may comprise means for attaching the fluid conduit to the hook. Further, the means for attaching the fluid conduit to the hook may include a groove. In a further aspect, the fluid conduit extends into a fluid inlet for supplying fluid to the fluid ejection device.

  In another embodiment of the invention, a clip for attaching the fluid ejection device near the wall of the enclosure includes a base, a hook configured to support the base near the wall, and the fluid ejection device on the base. Means for attaching and a sensor attached to the base or hook. In one aspect, the sensor may be a motion sensor, a proximity sensor, or the like.

  In another aspect, the means for attaching the fluid ejection device to the base comprises an arcuate arm extending downwardly from the base and rotatably supporting the fluid ejection device. In yet another aspect, the sensor is attached to the surface of the base opposite the hook.

  In a further embodiment, an apparatus for spraying fluid onto an inner surface of an enclosure is in fluid communication with the fluid container, a fluid ejection device capable of applying fluid to the inner surface of the enclosure, and the container and the fluid ejection device. A fluid conduit, means for supplying fluid from the container via the fluid conduit to the fluid ejection device, and a clip for mounting the fluid ejection device near the inner surface of the enclosure, the clip comprising a base, an inner side A hook configured to support the base by the surface, and a connector rotatably connecting the base and the hook. In one aspect, the enclosure is any of a bathtub, a shower, a toilet bowl, and the like.

  In a further aspect, the clip includes a rib projecting from the hook, a groove formed in the base to receive the hook, formed in the groove, an inlet, an outlet, and an intermediate position between the inlet and the outlet. A slit for receiving the rib, and the width of the slit narrows from the entrance to the middle position and widens from the middle position to the exit, so that the hook and the base are centered around the point near the middle position of the slit. Allows relative rotation.

  In another aspect, the connector for rotatably connecting the base and the hook includes a rib projecting from the hook, a groove formed in the base for receiving the hook, and a recess formed in the groove for receiving the rib of the hook. And including. The recess includes an inlet, an outlet, and an intermediate position between the inlet and the outlet. The width of the recess narrows from the entrance to the intermediate position and widens from the intermediate position to the exit, thereby allowing the hook and base to rotate relative to a point near the intermediate position of the recess.

  In yet another aspect, a sensor is attached to the hook or base. Further, the sensor may be a motion sensor, a proximity sensor, or the like.

  In a further embodiment, a method of attaching a clip for attaching a fluid ejection device to a toilet bowl having a rim including a lower surface is configured to provide a base with a tab and to support the base by the rim. A hook, a means for rotating the base, a step of fixing the hook to the rim, a step of fitting the tab of the base with the lower surface of the rim, and the contact surface; Rotating the base to substantially engage the tab of the base and the lower surface of the rim.

  Accordingly, an advantage of the present invention is to provide a clip for mounting a fluid ejection device, the body of which can be rotated relative to the hook so that a certain amount of fluid is delivered to the inner surface of the enclosure. In addition, in a time period when a fixed amount of fluid is not required, a sensor attached to the hook or base assists in stopping the supply.

  These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood upon review of the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a clip for attaching a fluid ejection device according to the present invention attached to a toilet bowl. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the portion of FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2 of FIG. It is a side view which has a notch which shows a part of inside of the clip of FIG. It is a back perspective view of the clip of FIG. FIG. 2 is a front view of a portion of the clip of FIG. 1 showing a hook of the clip according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a rear view of a portion of the clip of FIG. 1 showing the base of the clip according to one embodiment of the present invention. It is a front view of the clip of FIG. 1 which shows the clip of the direction after rotation (a dashed-dotted line) and the direction which does not rotate (solid line). FIG. 8 is a top view of a portion of the nozzle of the clip taken along line 8-8 of FIG. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a clip for mounting a fluid ejection device according to the present invention. FIG. 10 is a side view of the clip of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a front view of the clip of FIG. 9 with the hook removed. FIG. 10 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the fluid inlet, nozzle, and support arm of the clip of FIG. 9. FIG. 13 is a top view of a portion of a clip nozzle taken along line 13-13 of FIG. FIG. 6 is a front view of yet another nozzle suitable for use in the present invention. It is a side view of the nozzle of FIG. Figure 10 is a side view of another hook suitable for use in the clip of Figure 9; FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the clip of FIG. 9 taken along line 17-17 of FIG. FIG. 10 is a rear view of the clip of FIG. 9 with the hook removed. FIG. 10 is a top view of the clip of FIG. 9 with the hook removed. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the clip housing of FIG. 19 taken along line 20-20 of FIG. It is a perspective view of sectional drawing of the clip housing of FIG.

  In the following description of the drawings, like reference numerals are used for like elements across the drawings.

  The clip according to the present invention for attaching a fluid ejection device can be used in various devices for supplying a certain amount of fluid to the inner surface of an enclosure (toilet bowl, shower enclosure, bathtub enclosure, etc.). Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are illustrated and described for purposes of illustration and are not intended to limit the invention in any way.

  FIGS. 1 and 2 show an exemplary embodiment of a clip 10 for attaching a fluid ejection device to an enclosure (here toilet 12). The clip 10 is fixed to the rim 14 of the toilet 12 by a hook 16. A base 18 is supported by a hook 16 and accommodates a fluid discharge device (here, a nozzle 20). A fluid is supplied from the container 22 via the fluid conduit 24 to the fluid ejection device 20 and is supplied to the inner surface 26 of the toilet 12 in a certain amount. The fluid can be supplied from the container 22 to the fluid ejection device 20 in various ways, for example, the fluid can be moved by high pressure gas, a pump, a syringe, or any other suitable means. Furthermore, the execution of fluid ejection from the container 22 can be controlled by various methods / apparatuses, one of which is a timing circuit that controls the timing of supplying a certain amount of fluid with a predetermined logic.

  With reference to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5, the hook 16 supports the base 18, attaches the clip 10 to the toilet 12, and has three main parts. They are the toilet bowl portion 28, the upper rim portion 30, and the inner rim portion 32. All three portions 28, 30, 32 are preferably integrally formed from plastic (eg, polyethylene or polypropylene) to form the flexible hook 16. Toilet portion 28 has a generally rectangular cross-section and has a flared elastomeric gripping foot 34 at the lower end with elastomeric ribs 37 to assist in securing clip 10 to toilet 12. Suitable elastomeric materials for the gripping foot 34 and rib 37 include, but are not limited to, neoprene, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber and the like. The toilet portion 28 extends upward substantially vertically and is connected to the upper rim portion 30 at the flexible elbow 35. The flexible elbow 35 allows the hook 16 to bend in the FF direction (shown in FIG. 3) to fix the clip 10 to a toilet bowl of various shapes and sizes. The upper rim portion 30 has a substantially rectangular cross section, extends horizontally from end to end of the rim 14 of the toilet 12, and is connected to the inner rim portion 32 by another flexible elbow 36, again a flexible elbow. The hook 16 can be bent by 36. The inner rim portion 32 extends vertically downward from the elbow 36 and is configured to connect and support the base 18.

  The inner rim portion 32 of the hook 16 has a front surface 38 and a back surface 40 connected by two short side surfaces 42. A rib 44 projects from the back surface 40 of the inner rim portion 32 and extends the length of the inner rim portion 32. As will be described in detail later, the rib 44 limits the rotation angle of the base 18 with respect to the hook 16. The ribs 44 of the present exemplary embodiment have a generally rectangular cross section, but the ribs 44 may be curved, square, or composed of two members that are separated from each other. It may be other than that. Further, the ribs 44 may not extend to the length of the inner rim portion 32 as long as the ribs 44 are fitted with the base 18 over the desired adjustable range of the base 18. The short side 42 has ratchet teeth 46 that are connected to the base 18 to limit the vertical movement of the base 18 along the vertical axis 48. Other restrictions are possible, for example, a friction fit between the hook 16 and the base 18.

  Toilet portion 28 and upper rim portion 30 include a series of C-shaped grooves 50 that allow conduit 24 to be routed around the periphery of hook 16 to reach nozzle 20 of base 18. Is restrained. The toilet bowl portion 28 of the present embodiment includes three C-shaped grooves 50 whose openings are staggered. Although the conduit 24 is pushed into the C-shaped groove 50, the groove 50 may be rectangular or any other suitable shape to constrain the conduit 24. In the upper rim portion 30, preferably one groove 50 assists in the routing of the conduit 24, although multiple grooves 50 may be used if desired.

  Referring to FIGS. 3, 4, and 6, the base 18 includes a back surface 52, a pair of side surfaces 54 that extend forward from the back surface 52, a top surface 56 and a front surface 58 that extend between the side surfaces 54, and a side surface. 54, an upper surface 56, and a curved surface 60 extending between the front surface 58. The surfaces 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 define a partial cavity 62 that houses a portion of the nozzle 20. The base 18 has a tab 53 that extends rearward from the back surface 52 of the base 18. The tab 53 assists the orientation of the base 18 with respect to the rim 14 when the clip 10 is attached to the toilet bowl 12, as will be described later. The tab 53 may be a single continuous member as shown in the present exemplary embodiment. Alternatively, the tab 53 may include a plurality of members extending from the base 18. The base 18 is preferably molded from plastic (for example, polyethylene or polypropylene).

  With particular reference to FIG. 6, the base 18 includes a groove 64 that receives the inner rim portion 32 of the hook 16. The groove 64 includes a slit 66 that receives the rib 44, and the slit 66 has an inlet 68, an outlet 70, and an intermediate position 72 (the intermediate position 72 is equidistant from the inlet 68 and the outlet 70. Or not). The width of the slit 66 is narrowed from the inlet 68 to the intermediate position 72 and is widened from the intermediate position 72 to the outlet 70. In one embodiment, the intermediate location 72 is approximately midway between the inlet 68 and outlet 70, but the narrowest point may not be midway between the inlet 68 and outlet 70 and between the ends of the slit 66. It can be anywhere. Further, the maximum width of the slit 66 may vary depending on the desired degree of adjustment of the base 18 relative to the hook 16. If the desired degree of rotational adjustment of the base 18 is greater, it is possible to increase the maximum width of the slit 66 at the inlet 68 and outlet 70, and alternatively or additionally, the width of the rib 44 can be reduced.

  The groove 64 includes a pair of protrusions 74 extending from the wall of the short side 65 of the groove 64 that engage the ratchet teeth 46 of the hook 16 as the inner rim portion 32 slides within the groove 64. The protrusion 74 is configured to prevent the base 18 from sliding in the vertical direction with respect to the hook 16 by meshing with the ratchet teeth 46. The protrusion 74 may be rounded, pointed, or other suitable shape. This desired limitation can be provided by many other structures, for example, spring loaded balls are contained in cavities formed in the groove 64 and the outer shape of the groove 64 (eg, ratchet teeth 46). This is possible with a structure that is extruded against. The engagement between the protrusion 74 and the ratchet teeth 46 is performed so that the base 18 can be rotated as desired (described later) without disengagement between the protrusion 74 and the ratchet teeth 46.

  The base 18 further includes means for attaching a fluid ejection device 20 (eg, nozzle 20). In the exemplary embodiment, nozzle 20 is constrained laterally between fluid inlet 80 and barrel 78. The base 18 includes an arm 76 that extends downward from the base 18. The arm 76 has a flat bar support portion 77 that bends in a J-shape and extends forward, with a barrel 78 at the distal end of the support portion 77. Barrel 78 includes a tubular recess that receives the bottom of nozzle 20. Furthermore, there is a fluid inlet 80 in the curved surface 60 of the base 18, and the fluid inlet 80 is tapered from the opening (shown in FIG. 3). The combination of the fluid inlet 80 and the barrel 78 limits the lateral movement of the nozzle 20, but it is possible for the nozzle 20 to rotate about the nozzle shaft 82.

  A sensor 98 that senses the environment surrounding the clip 10 can be attached to the base 18 or the hook 16. The sensor 98 is preferably attached to the front surface 58 substantially, but the angled surface 60, or any other suitable (e.g., view of the user so that it can be accurately determined whether the user is present). It can be installed in a place that can be provided. The sensor 98 may be a motion sensor, a proximity sensor, or the like. The sensor 98 is preferably electrically connected to the container 22 and / or a control device (not shown) to control the timing of supplying a certain amount of fluid to the toilet 12 based on predetermined logic. . It should be understood that in some embodiments, the sensor can be omitted from the clip 10 if the sensing function is not required.

  With reference to FIG. 8, an embodiment of the fluid ejection device 20 will be described. The fluid discharge device 20 is preferably molded from plastic (for example, polyethylene or polypropylene). The nozzle 20 includes a circular deflection plate 84 and a passage 86 extending upward from the deflection plate 84 and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet 80. A groove 88 extends radially outwardly from a passage 86 near the deflection plate 84, which is bent from the first path of the groove 88 at point A, as shown in FIG. A pair of fins 90 extending upward from the deflection plate 84 are located on both sides of the groove 88. The profile of the grooves 88 and fins 90 may vary depending on the desired rotational speed of the nozzle 20, fluid pressure, and the like.

  3 and 8, the spindle 92 extending from the underside of the deflector plate 84 is inserted into the recess of the barrel 78 of the arm 76 and the tapered end of the fluid inlet 80 is passed through the passage 86. The nozzle 20 is constrained in the lateral direction in the base 18 by being inserted into the base and being applied to the shelf-like protrusion 94 formed in the passage 86. The nozzle 20 rotates freely around the nozzle shaft 82, but the lateral movement is suppressed.

  The means for attaching the fluid ejection device may include suspending the fluid ejection device 20 from the base 18 without using the arm 76. The fluid discharge device (here, the nozzle 20) may be snapped into the base 18, screwed to the base 18, or pushed into the base 18. Furthermore, an arc arm (not shown) may be extended from the base 18 to support the fluid ejection device 20.

  In operation, fluid moves from the container 22 through the conduit 24 routed in the groove 50 along the hook 16 to the fluid inlet 80 of the base 18. The fluid flows into the top of the nozzle 20, descends the passage 86 and is directed radially outward by the groove 88. As the fluid exits the groove 88, the fluid path is altered by angled fins 90 located on either side of the groove 88. The reaction causes the nozzle 20 to rotate counterclockwise as seen in FIG. As a result, fluid is ejected radially outward from the nozzle 20 and strikes the inner surface 26 of the toilet 12.

  Having described the overall structure and operation of the fluid ejection device, attention is now focused on means for adjusting the range covered by the fluid supplied from the nozzle 20 by rotating the base 18. Returning to FIGS. 4 and 6, and with reference to FIG. 7, the base 18 is relative to the hook 16 about a horizontal axis 96 that extends substantially perpendicularly from a plane defined by the vertical axis 48 and the back surface 52 of the base 18. It is possible to rotate. The slit 66 formed in the groove 64 is flared at the inlet 68 and the outlet 70. Thereby, the base 18 can rotate around the horizontal axis 96 in the vicinity of the intermediate position 72 until the rib 44 protruding from the hook 16 hits the slit side surface 45 formed on the back surface 52.

  For example, referring to FIG. 7, if the base 18 is rotated by an angle R1 relative to the vertical axis 48 (as indicated by the dashed line), the relative placement of the nozzles 20 is accordingly angled, thereby The range covered by the fluid supplied from the nozzle 20 by a certain amount changes. Furthermore, when the base 18 rotates in the opposite direction by the angle R2, the range covered by the fluid supplied from the nozzle 20 by a certain amount changes again. As the base 18 rotates, the protrusion 74 slides within each tooth of the ratchet teeth 46. Therefore, the engagement between the protrusion 74 and the ratchet teeth 46 must be such that the base 18 is freely rotated and the vertical movement of the base 18 is suppressed. By adjusting the rotation in this manner, the clip 10 can accommodate various types of toilets and enclosures.

  The means for rotating the base 18 may not include the slit 66 described above. For example, the back surface 52 can include a number of opposing fingers on the surface defined by the back surface 52 to limit the rotation of the ribs 44 of the hook 16. The opening between the pair of opposing fingers near the inlet and the opening between the pair of opposing fingers near the outlet is between the pair of opposing fingers located between the inlet finger and the outlet finger. Larger than the opening. As a result, the base 18 is rotatable until the ribs 44 engage the fingers near the inlet and outlet. In another embodiment, the slit 66 can be V-shaped tapering from the inlet to the outlet (or from the outlet to the inlet). Thus, the rotation point of the base 18 is near the exit of the slit 66 or the smaller of the entrance and exit. Also in this case, the rotation of the base 18 is limited by the meshing between the rib 44 and the slit side surface 45.

  The rotation adjustment of the base 18 may be performed manually by the user of the clip 10 or automatically when the clip 10 is attached to the enclosure (here, the toilet bowl 12). Referring generally to FIGS. 1 to 4, 6, and 7, the attachment method of clip 10 is generally as follows. The clip 10 is fixed to the rim 14 of the toilet 12. For that purpose, the hook 16 is spread in the FF direction so as to be separated from the base 18, and the clip 10 is placed on the rim 14. Once the hook 16 is secured, the base 18 is slid along the vertical axis 48 above the hook 16 and ratchet teeth 46 until the tab 53 engages the underside of the rim 14. Since the tab 53 of the base 18 continues to mate with the lower side of the rim 14, the base 18 rotates about the horizontal axis 96, which causes the nozzle 20 to line up with the lower surface of the rim 14 and from the nozzle 20. To ensure that a certain amount of fluid is delivered to the inner surface 26 of the toilet 12 (assuming that the lower surface of the rim 14 is parallel to the surface defined by the upper side of the rim 14). ). The tab 53 can further include an elastomeric grip 51 that protrudes from the distal end of the tab 53, which assists in securing the base 18 in a mating position on the rim 14. The base 18 may not include the tab 53, and in this embodiment the base 18 is adjustable relative to the hook 16 by manual rotation by the user.

  Next, FIGS. 9-13 and FIGS. 17-21 show, as another exemplary embodiment, a clip 110 for attaching a fluid ejection device to an enclosure (such as a toilet bowl). The clip 110 is secured to the toilet rim with a hook 116 (omitted in FIGS. 11 and 18-21), as in the case of the clip 10 of FIGS. A base 118 is supported by a hook 116 and supports a fluid discharge device (here, nozzle 120). As in the case of the clip 10 of FIGS. 1-8, fluid is supplied from the container via the fluid conduit to the fluid ejection device 120 and supplied to the inner surface of the toilet. The fluid can be supplied from the container to the fluid ejection device 120 in various ways, for example, the fluid can be moved by high pressure gas, a manual or electric pump, a syringe, or any other suitable means. . Furthermore, the execution of fluid ejection from the container can be controlled by various methods / apparatuses, one of which is a timing circuit that controls the timing of supplying a certain amount of fluid with a predetermined logic.

  With further reference to FIGS. 9-13 and FIGS. 17-21, hook 116 supports base 118 and attaches clip 110 to the toilet bowl and has three main parts. They are a toilet portion 128, an upper rim portion 130, and an inner rim portion 132. All three portions 128, 130, 132 are preferably integrally formed from plastic (eg, polyethylene or polypropylene) to form the flexible hook 116. As with the clip 10 of FIGS. 1-8, the toilet bowl portion 128 has a generally rectangular cross-section and is flared with an elastomeric rib 137 to assist in securing the clip 110 to the toilet bowl. An elastomer gripping foot 134 is provided at the lower end. Suitable elastomeric materials for the gripping foot 134 and rib 137 include, but are not limited to, neoprene, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber and the like.

  The toilet portion 128 extends upward substantially vertically and is connected to the upper rim portion 130 at the flexible elbow 135. The flexible elbow 135 allows the hook 116 to bend (similar to the G direction in FIG. 17) to secure the clip 110 to toilets of various shapes and sizes. The upper rim portion 130 has a generally rectangular cross section, extends horizontally from end to end of the toilet rim, and is connected to the inner rim portion 132 by another flexible elbow 136, again by the flexible elbow 136. The hook 116 can be bent. The inner rim portion 132 extends vertically downward from the elbow 136 and is configured to fit and support the base 118. Toilet portion 128 and upper rim portion 130 include a C-shaped groove 150 that restrains the fluid conduit so that the fluid conduit is routed around the periphery of hook 116 to reach nozzle 120 of base 118. is doing. The fluid conduit is pushed into the C-shaped groove 150 as in the case of the clip 10 of FIGS.

  The base 118 has a back surface 152, a pair of side surfaces 154 that extend forward from the back surface 152, and a top surface 156 and a front surface 158 that extend between the side surfaces 154. The surfaces 152, 154, 156, 158 define a cavity. Base 118 is preferably molded from plastic (eg, polyethylene or polypropylene).

  Referring to FIGS. 17, 19, 20, and 21, the centrally aligned and aligned dome-shaped protrusion 173 of the hook 116 and the arcuate ridges 175a, 175b in the center of the inner surface 171 of the rear wall of the base 118 are shown. The base 118 is restrained in the vertical direction on the hook 116 by meshing with 175c, 175d, 175e, and 175f. Base 118 includes a groove 164 that receives an inner rim portion 132 of hook 116. The dimensions of the groove 164 are determined to be complementary to the inner rim portion 132 of the hook 116 so that the inner rim portion 132 of the hook 116 can slide within the groove 164 when a force is applied to the hook 116. . A recess 166 inside the groove 164 receives the rib 144 of the hook 116. The indentation 166 ends in the rear wall 167.

  When the hook 116 is moved downward in the groove 164, the lowermost protrusion of the group of six domed protrusions 173 rides over the round upper surface of the ridge 175a, between the ridge 175a and the ridge 175b. Into the groove 174a. When the hook 116 is moved further downward, the lowermost projection of the group of six dome-shaped projections 173 climbs over the ridge 175b and enters the groove 174b between the ridge 175b and the ridge 175c. The dome-shaped projection adjacent to and above the lowest projection of the dome-shaped projection group 173 overlies the ridge 175a and enters the recessed groove 174a between the ridge 175a and the ridge 175b. As the hook is moved further down, the bottom protrusion of the group of six domed protrusions 173 rides over the round upper surface of the ridges 175c, 175d, 175e, respectively, and the recessed grooves 174c, 174d, Enter 174e. Subsequent dome-shaped protrusions also go over the ridges and enter the groove. When the dome-shaped projection group 173 is in the grooves 174a, 174b, 174c, 174d, 174e, the base 118 can be restrained in the vertical direction on the hook 116, and if a downward force is further applied to the hook 116 therefrom, The dome-shaped projection group 173 rides over the ridge adjacent below.

  The clip 110 includes means for adjusting the range covered by the fluid supplied from the nozzle 120 by rotating the base 118. Referring to FIGS. 17-21, the base 118 can rotate relative to the hook 116 about a horizontal axis 196 that extends substantially perpendicularly from a plane defined by the vertical axis 148 and the back surface 152 of the base 118. is there. The recess 166 formed in the groove 164 is flared at the inlet 168 and the outlet 170. This allows the base 118 to rotate about the horizontal axis 196 in the vicinity of the intermediate position 172 until the rib 144 protruding from the hook 116 abuts the recessed side surface 145 formed in the base 118.

  For example, referring to FIGS. 17 and 20, if the base 118 is rotated by an angle R3 (as indicated by the dashed line) with respect to the vertical axis 148, the relative placement of the nozzles 120 is angled accordingly; As a result, the range covered by the fluid supplied from the nozzle 120 by a certain amount changes. Further, when the base 118 rotates in the opposite direction by an angle R4, the range covered by the fluid supplied from the nozzle 120 by a certain amount changes again. As the base 118 rotates, the dome-shaped protrusions 173 of the hook 116 are arcuate grooves 174a, 174b, formed on the inner surface of the base 118 by arcuate ridges 175a, 175b, 175c, 175d, 175e, 175f that are separated from each other. The arcuate path (X in FIG. 20) in 174c, 174d, 174e is moved. The bumps 175a, 175b, 175c, 175d, 175e, and 175f also restrain the vertical movement of the base 118 as described above. By adjusting the rotation in this manner, the clip 110 can accommodate various shapes of toilets and enclosures. Although six ridges 175a, 175b, 175c, 175d, 175e, 175f are shown here, one or more ridges may be used to adjust the vertical and rotation of the base 118 on the hook 116. It should be understood that this may be preferred.

  The rotation adjustment of the base 118 may be performed manually by the user of the clip 110 or automatically when the clip 110 is attached to an enclosure (eg, a toilet bowl). The clip 110 is fixed to the rim by pushing the hook 116 away from the base 118 in the G direction (see FIG. 17) and placing the clip 110 on the toilet rim. After securing the hook 116, the base 118 is slid along the vertical axis 148 above the hook 116 until the tab 153 mates with the lower surface of the rim. Since the tab 153 of the base 118 continues to be fitted to the lower surface of the rim, the base 118 rotates around the horizontal axis 196 to align the nozzle 120 with the lower surface of the rim, and fluid from the nozzle 120 Helps to ensure that a certain amount is delivered to the inner surface of the toilet bowl. The tab 153 can further include an elastomeric grip 151 protruding from the distal end of the tab 153, which assists in securing the base 118 in a mating position on the rim. The base 118 may not include the tab 153, and in this embodiment, the base 118 is adjustable relative to the hook 116 by manual rotation by the user. Optionally, the hook 116 includes a protruding tab 157 that limits the movement of the end of the hook 116 above the lower surface 159 of the base 118.

  A sensor 198 that senses the environment surrounding the clip 110 can be attached to the base 118. The sensor 198 is preferably attached to substantially the front surface 158, but may also be attached to any other suitable location (eg, providing a user's view so that it can be accurately seen if the user is present). Is possible. The sensor 198 may be a motion sensor, a proximity sensor, or the like. The sensor 198 is preferably electrically connected to a container and / or a control device (not shown) to control the timing of supplying a certain amount of fluid to the toilet based on predetermined logic.

  Referring to FIG. 12, the base 118 further includes means for attaching a fluid ejection device (eg, nozzle 120) to the base 118. In the exemplary embodiment, nozzle 120 is constrained laterally between barrel 178 and fluid inlet 180. Base 118 includes an arm 176 that extends downwardly from base 118. Arm 176 has a curved portion 177 that bends in a J-shape and extends forward toward barrel 178, and barrel 178 is at the distal end of curved portion 177. The combination of the fluid inlet 180 and the barrel 178 limits the lateral movement of the nozzle 120, but it is possible for the nozzle 120 to rotate about the nozzle shaft 182. Tubular fluid inlet 180 defines flow path 181 and extends downwardly from lower base floor 202 attached to base 118. The base floor 202 includes an upwardly extending tubular sleeve 204 that defines a flow path 205. Base 118 is also attached to fluid supply port 208, which defines a flow path 209. The fluid supply port 208 and the tubular sleeve 204 snap together and an O-ring 211 forms a liquid tight seal therebetween. The fluid supply port 208 is located in a recess 213 in the upper surface 156 of the base and can be connected to a fluid conduit (such as conduit 24 in FIG. 3).

  With reference to FIGS. 10, 12 and 13, the nozzle 120 is shown in more detail. The nozzle 120 is preferably molded from plastic (for example, polyethylene or polypropylene). The nozzle 120 includes a circular deflection plate 184. A shaft spindle 192 extends downward from the deflection plate 184. The generally inverted T-shaped walls 190 a and 190 b that are separated from each other extend upward from the deflection plate 184. In the embodiment of FIG. 13, the walls 190 a, 190 b extend from the opposing outer edges of the deflection plate 184 to the entire area of the deflection plate 184. A central fluid deflection peak 191 extends upwardly from the deflection plate 184 between the walls 190a, 190b. The upper part of the wall 190a has a substantially U-shaped recess 193a facing inward (when viewed in a vertical section), and the upper part of the wall 190b has a substantially U-shaped recess facing inward (when viewed in a vertical section). There is 193b. Walls 190a, 190b define a passage 186 that extends upward from deflection plate 184 and is in fluid communication with recesses 193a, 193b. A groove 188L extends radially outward from a passage 186 near the deflection plate 184, and the groove 188L is bent backward from the first path of the groove 188L at point A as shown in FIG. Yes. A groove 188R extends radially outwardly from a passage 186 near the deflector plate 184, and the groove 188R is bent forward from the first path of the groove 188R at point B as shown in FIG. Yes. The contours of the grooves 188L, 188R and the walls 190a, 190b may vary depending on the desired rotational speed of the nozzle 120, fluid pressure, fluid flow speed, and the like.

  As shown most clearly in FIG. 12, by inserting the spindle 192 into the recess 179 of the barrel 178 of the arm 176 and by inserting the end of the fluid inlet 180 between the recesses 193a, 193b, the nozzle 120 is , Restrained laterally. The nozzle 120 rotates freely around the nozzle shaft 182 but the lateral movement is suppressed.

  In operation, fluid moves from the container, through the fluid conduit (see, eg, container 22 and conduit 24 in FIG. 1) to fluid supply port 208. As shown in FIG. 12, fluid flows out of fluid inlet 180 through channels 209, 205, and 181 (the pressure can be determined by the diameter of the outlet of the fluid inlet, and this pressure Can determine the spin speed of the nozzle 120 as well as the distance that the fluid travels from the nozzle 120). The fluid flows to the top of the fluid deflection peak 191, flows down the branched passage 186, and is directed radially outward by the grooves 188L, 188R. As fluid exits the grooves 188L, 188R, the fluid path is altered by angled inner surfaces 197L, 197R located on opposite sides of the grooves 188L, 188R. The reaction causes the nozzle 120 to rotate counterclockwise as seen in FIG. As a result, fluid is ejected radially outward from the nozzle 120 and strikes the inner surface of an enclosure (such as a toilet bowl).

  14 and 15, another embodiment of the nozzle 220 is shown in detail. The nozzle 220 is preferably molded from plastic (for example, polyethylene or polypropylene). The nozzle 220 includes a circular deflection plate 284 (viewed from above). A shaft spindle 292 extends downward from the deflection plate 284. Separated from each other, generally inverted T-shaped walls 290 a, 290 b extend upward from the deflection plate 284. In the embodiment of FIGS. 14 and 15, the walls 290a, 290b extend from a location that enters inward from the outer edge point 277L of the deflector plate 284 to a location that enters inward from the outer edge point 277R of the deflector plate 284. A central fluid deflection peak 291 (similar to the fluid deflection peak 191 of FIGS. 12 and 13) extends upward from the deflection plate 284 between the walls 290a, 290b. At the top of the wall 290a is a generally U-shaped recess facing inward (similar to the recess 193a facing inward in FIGS. 12 and 13) and on the top of the wall 290b (in FIGS. 12 and 13, There is a generally U-shaped recess facing inward (similar to the recess 193b facing inward).

  With further reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, a passage 286 (similar to passage 186 in FIGS. 12 and 13) is defined by walls 290a, 290b, which extend upwardly from deflector plate 284 to provide a wall. 290a, 290b are in fluid communication with the recesses. A groove (similar to groove 188L in FIGS. 12 and 13) extends radially outward from a passage 286 near the deflector 284, which is the first groove as in FIG. It is bent backward from. Groove 288R (similar to groove 188R in FIGS. 12 and 13) extends radially outward from passage 286, and groove 288R is forward from the first path of groove 288R, as shown in FIG. It is bent. The deflecting plate 284 has a dish-like floor 276, and the floor 276 forms a draft angle Z at the upper outer edge of the deflecting plate 284 (see FIG. 14). The outline of draft angle Z, grooves, and walls 290a, 290b may vary depending on the desired rotational speed of nozzle 220, fluid pressure, fluid flow speed, and the like.

  Similar to FIG. 12, the nozzle 220 is inserted by inserting the spindle 292 into the recess 179 of the barrel 178 of the arm 176 and by inserting the end of the fluid inlet 180 between the recesses at the top of the walls 290a, 290b. Can be constrained laterally. The nozzle 220 freely rotates around the nozzle axis, but lateral movement is suppressed. In operation, fluid travels from the container through the fluid conduit (see, eg, container 22 and conduit 24 in FIG. 1) to fluid supply port 208 as shown in FIG. It flows out of fluid inlet 180 through 181. The fluid flows to the top of the fluid deflection peak 291 of the nozzle 220, flows down the branched passage 286, hits the floor 276, and is directed radially outward by the groove. As fluid exits the groove, the fluid path is altered by the angled inner surfaces of the walls 290a, 290b located on either side of the groove. Due to the reaction, the nozzle 220 appropriately rotates in the direction R as shown in FIG. The fluid continues to flow on the floor 276 and forms a slightly upward movement path of the fluid by climbing the draft at the edge of the deflection plate 284. As a result, the fluid is ejected radially outward from the nozzle 220, hits the inner surface of the toilet, and the path of movement of the fluid is slightly upward, so that even after flying more than 18 inches, It is possible for the fluid to hit the inner surface of the toilet bowl.

  Comparing FIGS. 8, 13, and 14, nozzle 20, nozzle 120, and nozzle 220 are different in structure, which can lead to differences in operating characteristics. For example, nozzle 20 has a single groove 88 extending from passage 86, while nozzle 120 and nozzle 220 have two grooves extending from the central passage. The added passage helps to maximize efficiency from the nozzle. The nozzle 120 and the nozzle 220 further have fluid deflection peaks 191 and 291 that can increase efficiency. Comparing the nozzle 120 and the nozzle 220, the walls 190a, 190b of the nozzle 120 extend from the opposite outer edge of the deflection plate 184 to the entire area of the deflection plate 184, whereas the walls 290a, 290b of the nozzle 220 are deflected. It can be seen that the plate 284 is located inside from the opposite outer edge. By providing a gap from the edge of the deflecting plate to the wall, the movement of the fluid discharged from the nozzle 220 can be made more tangential. Due to the centripetal force, the fluid is shaken off and scattered. Further, the draft angle Z of the outer edge of the nozzle 220 allows about 18 inches of spraying without reducing the liquid spray height. This is advantageous in that the spray is prevented from falling below the upper area below the toilet rim.

  Various parameters of the nozzles 20, 120, and 220 may vary depending on the use of the nozzle. For example, in the case of a nozzle suitable for use in a toilet bowl cleaning device, the fluid flow goes down to the deflection plate and becomes a downward spray at a lower speed after leaving the surface of the deflection plate. Nozzle 20, 120, 220 design parameters are low fluid pressure, such as 10-20 psi (69-138 kilopascals), fluid travel path less than 24 inches (0.6096 meters), 10 gallons per hour (37.85 liters) It may be varied to accommodate flow rates less than (hourly). Thus, pressure, volume, and flow velocity operating parameters can be accommodated by changing the design of the nozzles 20, 120, 220. For toilet bowl applications, fluid pressures of 14-15 psi (96-103 kilopascals) and fluid travel paths up to 18 inches (0.4572 meters) are most preferred.

  FIG. 16 is a side view of another hook 216 suitable for use with the clip of FIG. The hook 216 has three main portions: a toilet bowl portion 228, an upper rim portion 230, and an inner rim portion 232. All three portions 228, 230, 232 are preferably molded from plastic (eg, polyethylene or polypropylene). As with the clip 10 of FIGS. 1-8, the toilet bowl portion 128 has a generally rectangular cross-section and is a flare with a rectangular elastomeric rib 237 to assist in securing the hook 216 to the toilet bowl. A shaped elastomeric gripping foot 234 is provided at the lower end. Suitable elastomeric materials for the gripping feet 234 and ribs 237 include, but are not limited to, neoprene, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber and the like. The toilet bowl portion 228 extends upward substantially vertically and is connected to the upper rim portion 230 at the flexible elbow 235. The flexible elbow 235 allows the hook 216 to bend. The upper rim portion 230 has a generally rectangular cross section and extends horizontally across the toilet rim.

  Still referring to FIG. 16, the inner rim portion 232 of the hook 216 is configured to fit and support the base 118 as described above with reference to the embodiment of the clip 110 of FIGS. At the upper end of the inner rim portion 232 is a passage 236 that is generally rectangular in the lateral direction and extends through the inner rim portion 232. The distal end 238 of the upper rim portion 230 is inserted into the passage 236 so that the toilet bowl portion 228 and the inner rim portion 232 can move toward and away from each other. Thus, since the hook 216 can be extended or contracted in the horizontal direction, it can be more widely adapted to various rim width sizes of the toilet bowl. Further, the inner surface of toilet bowl portion 228 includes a suction cup 239 and the inner surface of upper rim portion 230 includes a suction cup 241. The toilet part 228 can be in close contact with the toilet rim 14 by the suction cup 239, and the upper rim part 230 can be in close contact with the toilet rim 14 by the suction cup 241.

  Thus, the present invention provides a clip for mounting a fluid ejection device, the base of this clip being rotatable relative to the hook so that a certain amount of fluid is delivered to the inner surface of the enclosure, Further, the sensor stops the supply in a time zone where a fixed amount of fluid is not required. As a result, it is possible to cover the entire inner surface of the enclosure with fluid during the preferred time period.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to particular embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention can be practiced with embodiments other than those described. The embodiments are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the description of the embodiments included in this specification.
Industrial applicability

  The present invention provides a clip for mounting a fluid ejection device, the base of which is rotatable with respect to the hook such that a certain amount of fluid is supplied to the inner surface of the enclosure, The sensor stops the supply during a time period when a certain amount of supply is not required.

Claims (17)

A clip for attaching the fluid ejection device near the toilet wall,
Base and
A hook configured to support the base by the wall;
Means for attaching a fluid ejection device to the base;
A connector for rotatably connecting the base and the hook, the connector comprising:
A rib protruding from the hook;
A groove formed in the base for receiving the hook;
A recess formed in the groove for receiving the rib, the recess including an inlet, an outlet, and an intermediate position between the inlet and the outlet;
The width of the recess narrows from the entrance to the intermediate position and widens from the intermediate position to the exit, so that the hook and the base are relatively positioned around a point near the intermediate position of the recess. A clip that allows you to rotate. The hook includes a protrusion on a surface of the hook opposite to the rib;
The base includes at least one arcuate ridge on an inner surface of the base;
The clip of claim 1, wherein at least one of the protrusions moves by at least one arcuate ridge as the base rotates relative to the hook. The hook includes a dome-shaped protrusion on a surface of the hook opposite to the rib;
The base includes a plurality of arcuate ridges on an inner surface of the base, the ridges having a rounded upper surface, and adjacent arcuate ridges defining a recessed groove therebetween;
The clip of claim 1, wherein at least one of the protrusions moves in the groove when the base rotates relative to the hook.   The clip according to claim 3, wherein the protrusion is located at a center of the surface of the hook and is linearly arranged. The base comprises a fluid inlet;
The clip of claim 1, wherein the clip includes a fluid ejection device comprising a nozzle in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The nozzle is
A deflection plate;
A fluid path in fluid communication with the fluid inlet at the upper end and extending between the fluid inlet and the deflection plate;
A groove in fluid communication with the lower end of the passage;
The clip according to claim 5, further comprising: a pair of fins that are located on both sides of the groove and extend upward from the deflecting plate and rotate the nozzle when it hits the fluid. The nozzle is
A deflection plate;
A fluid path in fluid communication with the fluid inlet at the upper end and extending between the fluid inlet and the deflection plate;
A pair of grooves in fluid communication with the lower end of the passage;
The clip according to claim 5, further comprising: a pair of fins that are located on both sides of the groove and extend upward from the deflecting plate and rotate the nozzle when it hits the fluid. A device for spraying fluid on the inner surface of a toilet,
Said fluid container;
A fluid ejection device capable of applying the fluid to the inner surface of the toilet;
A fluid conduit in fluid communication with the container and the fluid ejection device;
Means for supplying fluid from the container to the fluid ejection device via the fluid conduit;
A clip for attaching the fluid ejection device by the inner surface of the toilet, the clip comprising:
Base and
A hook configured to support the base by the inner surface of the toilet;
The apparatus wherein the base is configured to rotate relative to the hook.   9. The device of claim 8, wherein the hook comprises an elastomeric grip that mates with a surface of the toilet bowl.   The hook includes side portions facing away from each other, and the side portions facing away from each other may approach or separate from each other so that a distance between the side portions facing away from each other is adjustable. 9. The device according to claim 8, which is possible. A rib protruding from the hook;
A groove formed in the base for receiving the hook;
A slit formed in the groove, including an inlet, an outlet, and an intermediate position between the inlet and the outlet, and receiving the rib;
The width of the slit narrows from the entrance to the intermediate position and widens from the intermediate position to the exit, so that the hook and the base are relatively positioned around a point near the intermediate position of the slit. The device according to claim 8, which enables rotation.   The apparatus of claim 8, further comprising a sensor attached to the hook or the base.   The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the sensor is a motion sensor or a proximity sensor.   9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the base is configured to rotate relative to the hook by a connector that rotatably connects the base and the hook. The hook includes a protrusion on a surface of the hook opposite to the rib;
The base includes at least one arcuate ridge on an inner surface of the base;
The apparatus of claim 11, wherein at least one of the protrusions moves by at least one arcuate ridge as the base rotates relative to the hook. The hook includes a dome-shaped protrusion on a surface of the hook opposite to the rib;
The base includes a plurality of arcuate ridges on an inner surface of the base, the ridges having a rounded upper surface, and adjacent arcuate ridges defining a recessed groove therebetween;
The apparatus of claim 11, wherein at least one of the protrusions moves in the groove as the base rotates relative to the hook.   The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the protrusion is located in the center of the surface of the hook and is aligned linearly.

Images