US20220225855A1 - Cleaning instrument - Google Patents
Cleaning instrument Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20220225855A1 US20220225855A1 US17/570,380 US202217570380A US2022225855A1 US 20220225855 A1 US20220225855 A1 US 20220225855A1 US 202217570380 A US202217570380 A US 202217570380A US 2022225855 A1 US2022225855 A1 US 2022225855A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- shape
- cleaning instrument
- component
- cleaning
- inner component
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
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- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 129
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 54
- 239000000344 soap Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 20
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 241000894006 Bacteria Species 0.000 claims description 9
- 229920000459 Nitrile rubber Polymers 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000004677 Nylon Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920000704 biodegradable plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920001778 nylon Polymers 0.000 claims description 6
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920003048 styrene butadiene rubber Polymers 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000742 Cotton Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920000297 Rayon Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000002657 fibrous material Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 210000002268 wool Anatomy 0.000 claims description 3
- 244000280244 Luffa acutangula Species 0.000 description 6
- 235000009814 Luffa aegyptiaca Nutrition 0.000 description 6
- KAKZBPTYRLMSJV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Butadiene Chemical compound C=CC=C KAKZBPTYRLMSJV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 4
- 238000003287 bathing Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000006260 foam Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000002993 sponge (artificial) Substances 0.000 description 3
- NLHHRLWOUZZQLW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Acrylonitrile Chemical compound C=CC#N NLHHRLWOUZZQLW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Glycerine Chemical compound OCC(O)CO PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- PPBRXRYQALVLMV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Styrene Chemical compound C=CC1=CC=CC=C1 PPBRXRYQALVLMV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000009991 scouring Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005201 scrubbing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920003051 synthetic elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000005061 synthetic rubber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 244000132059 Carica parviflora Species 0.000 description 1
- 235000014653 Carica parviflora Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000002174 Styrene-butadiene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009825 accumulation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000654 additive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920002678 cellulose Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000001913 cellulose Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002537 cosmetic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 1
- KPUWHANPEXNPJT-UHFFFAOYSA-N disiloxane Chemical class [SiH3]O[SiH3] KPUWHANPEXNPJT-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010410 dusting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000013013 elastic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000006261 foam material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005498 polishing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000728 polyester Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- -1 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920002635 polyurethane Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004814 polyurethane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229940095696 soap product Drugs 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
- A47K7/00—Body washing or cleaning implements
- A47K7/02—Bathing sponges, brushes, gloves, or similar cleaning or rubbing implements
- A47K7/03—Bathing sponges, brushes, gloves, or similar cleaning or rubbing implements containing soap or other cleaning ingredients, e.g. impregnated
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/12—Implements with several different treating devices
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/16—Cloths; Pads; Sponges
- A47L13/17—Cloths; Pads; Sponges containing cleaning agents
Definitions
- Embodiments generally relate to an improved cleaning instrument.
- an artificial sponge is made from various foamable plastics and has been on the market for many years.
- synthetic sponges are made of polyester, polyurethane, or vegetal cellulose.
- artificial sponges have been used as cleaning devices for cleaning dishes or tables.
- another such device, a loofah is a popular shower accessories used for cleaning and exfoliating ones skin. Natural loofahs are made of sea sponges or dried coral. Synthetic loofahs are typically made of nylon and have dense layers of mesh in a given pattern.
- US20160213221A1 describes a scrubbing or scouring pad.
- the pad includes an artificial sponge made from a foam material that changes firmness or rigidity based on the temperature thereof.
- the foam sponge is then covered with a plastic mesh to increase the scouring power thereof.
- the foam may also include thermochromic additives therein that change the color of the foam based on the temperature.
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,257,854 describes a reversible cleaning bonnet that has a unitary central body member with first and second face surfaces.
- the body is encompassed by a cover which has two cleaning surfaces, i.e. either two scrubbing, polishing, dusting, mopping, etc. surfaces, or any combination of these surfaces
- the cover also has an elastic band which permits the bonnet to be attached to the cleaning head of a cleaning implement.
- the elastic band also permits the cover to be changed from one position in which one of the cleaning surfaces is exposed for use, to a second position which permits the second cleaning surface of the cover to be exposed and used.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,053,960A describes an improved back scrubber device adapted to be removably secured to a wall.
- the scrubber includes a base portion including a plurality of suction devices adapted to removably secure the base portion to the wall and a cover adapted to enclose an opening on the base portion.
- the cover includes a porous portion which is adapted to permit the passage therethrough of a soap and water solution upon the introduction of external pressure against the cover in a direction toward the back of the base portion.
- An access opening is provided on one of the side walls for the introduction of a soap and water solution to the base portion.
- a drying element and means for securing the drying element to the base portion and cover are further provided.
- US20070067934A1 describes a multi-use bathing implement for use in cleansing and exfoliating skin and as a toy, a holder of soap or like products, and a decoration.
- the bathing implement includes a toroidal sponge component and can also have a removable attachment component.
- the donut-shaped sponge component is preferably made of mesh sponge material and is concentrically disposed about an inner ring-shaped component defining a central opening in which the attachment component can be removably secured.
- the inner ring-shaped component provides a ready gripping area which can be held for manipulating the bathing implement.
- the attachment component can be, for instance, a toy, a solid soap product, a container of a bath/cosmetic product or the like, a mesh netting pocket, or a knob-shaped hanging device having a suction cup.
- the implement can have a drawstring for converting the toroid shape sponge into a ball shaped sponge.
- WO2006025785A1 describes a system.
- the system comprises a sponge element and a first and a second care composition.
- the sponge element comprises a first portion comprising the first care composition, and a second portion comprising the second care composition, and a wrapping unit, such as a bag, extractably arranged in a cavity in the sponge unit.
- the present invention and its embodiments relate to an improved cleaning instrument.
- the improved cleaning instrument includes an inner component and an outer component.
- the improved cleaning instrument may include a fixation means and/or a handle component.
- the inner component may be received by the outer component.
- the inner component may include a material, such as: silicone, nitrile rubber (NBR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), a biodegradable plastic, or a compostable plastic, among others not explicitly listed herein.
- the material does not harbor bacteria.
- the inner component may be reusable and may be configured for multiple uses.
- the surface of the inner component comprises a raised pattern configured to provide coarseness.
- the surface of the inner component fails to include any sort of raised pattern and the coarseness of the surface of the inner component is based on the material chosen for the inner component.
- the inner component is configured to receive water, soap, a cleaning solution, etc. therein.
- the inner component is a solid component incapable of receiving any water, soap, or cleaning solution, etc. therein.
- the outer component may comprise a mesh material, a solid viscose material, a natural fiber material, a cotton material, a steel wool material, a fabric material, a woven material, a non-woven material, or an elasticized nylon material, among other materials not explicitly listed herein.
- the mesh material is a nylon material.
- the outer component comprises layers of mesh in a circular (or another) pattern. The outer component is disposable after one or a few uses. Further, in some examples, the outer component is eco-friendly and biodegradable or recyclable.
- the fixation means is configured to secure the inner component within the outer component.
- the fixation means may include a string or a thread that may use one or more attachment means, such as Velcro, securing ties, snaps, hooks, clasps, etc. to secure the inner component within the outer component.
- the outer component comprises a material elastic enough to receive and stay on the inner component.
- a handle component is also affixed to the cleaning instrument.
- the cleaning instrument may then be hung on a faucet or other object.
- the cleaning instrument may be held from afar to complete a cleaning job.
- a length of the cleaning instrument is approximately 5 inches
- a width of the cleaning instrument is approximately 3 inches
- a height of the cleaning instrument is approximately 1 inch.
- the cleaning instrument is also dishwasher safe in some examples. In other examples, the cleaning instrument may also withstand use of cleaning chemicals.
- the cleaning instrument includes a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, a nonagonal shape, or a decagonal shape.
- the cleaning instrument comprises a composite shape made from at least two of the aforementioned shapes.
- the composite shape may include a star shape, a letter shape, a number shape, a heart shape, a sun shape, a moon shape, a baseball shape, a basketball shape, etc., among other shapes not explicitly listed herein.
- FIG. 1 depicts an inner component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 2 depicts an inner component received by an outer component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 3 depicts an inner component received by an outer component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 4 depicts an inner component received by an outer component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 5 depicts a large outer component of an improved cleaning instrument prior to cutting the large outer component into smaller outer components, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 6 depicts a cleaning product used with an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 7 depicts an improved cleaning instrument that does not receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein and an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 8 depicts a side view of an improved cleaning instrument that does not receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein and an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 9 depicts an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, the improved cleaning instrument comprising a fine woven outer material, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 10 depicts another image of an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, the improved cleaning instrument comprising a fine woven outer material, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- FIG. 11 depicts a further image of an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, the improved cleaning instrument comprising a fine woven outer material, according to at least some embodiments described herein.
- the improved cleaning instrument 110 includes at least an inner component 102 (of FIG. 1 , FIG. 2 , FIG. 3 , FIG. 4 , FIG. 10 , and FIG. 11 ) and an outer component 106 (of FIG. 2 , FIG. 3 , FIG. 4 , FIG. 5 , FIG. 6 , FIG. 10 , and FIG. 11 ).
- the inner component 102 does not harbor bacteria and may be reusable in some examples.
- the outer component 106 may be disposable and may comprise different materials and/or coarseness to complete different cleaning tasks.
- the improved cleaning instrument 110 additionally includes a fixation means 114 (of FIG. 3 ) and/or a handle component 108 .
- the inner component 102 of the improved cleaning instrument 110 may be received by the outer component 106 .
- the inner component 102 may include a material, such as: silicone, nitrile rubber (NBR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), a biodegradable plastic, and/or a compostable plastic, among others.
- the inner component 102 may include a material that does not harbor bacteria.
- a silicone or polysiloxane are polymers made up of siloxane and are typically colorless, oils or rubber-like substances.
- NBR is a synthetic rubber derived from acrylonitrile (ACN) and butadiene.
- SBR is a family of synthetic rubbers derived from styrene and butadiene.
- the inner component 102 may be reusable and may be configured for multiple uses.
- a surface of the inner component 102 comprises a raised pattern 104 configured to provide coarseness, as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 .
- the raised pattern 104 may include a randomized pattern or may be an ordered pattern.
- the surface of the inner component 102 fails to include any sort of raised pattern and the coarseness of the surface of the inner component 102 is based on the material chosen for the inner component 102 .
- each component of the raised pattern 104 may be a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, a nonagonal shape, or a decagonal shape.
- each component of the raised pattern 104 may share the same shape.
- one or more components of the raised pattern 104 may differ in shape.
- a height and configuration of the raised pattern 104 is not limited to any particular configuration. It should be appreciated that the raised pattern 104 of the inner component 102 is not limited to the examples provided herein.
- the inner component 102 is a solid component incapable of receiving any water, soap, or cleaning solution, etc. therein.
- Such cleaning instrument is depicted as a cleaning instrument 110 A in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 .
- the inner component 102 is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution, etc. therein.
- Such cleaning instrument is depicted as a cleaning instrument 110 B in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 .
- the water, the soap, or the cleaning solution may be received in a cavity (not shown) in the inner component 102 of the cleaning instrument 110 B of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 .
- the cavity may be any shape and comprise any dimensions.
- FIG. 9 depicts the cleaning instrument 110 B comprising a fine woven outer material (e.g., the outer component 106 ).
- the outer component 106 of the improved cleaning instrument 110 comprises a mesh material, a solid viscose material, a natural fiber material, a cotton material, a steel wool material, a fabric material, a woven material, a non-woven material, and/or an elasticized nylon material, among other materials not explicitly listed herein.
- the mesh material is a nylon material.
- the outer component 106 comprises layers of mesh in a circular (or another) pattern. The outer component 106 is disposable after one or a few uses to avoid build-up of bacteria. Further, in some examples, the outer component 106 is eco-friendly and biodegradable or recyclable.
- the fixation means 114 is configured to secure the inner component 102 within the outer component 106 .
- the fixation means 114 may include a string or a thread and may be adjustable in size.
- the material comprising the fixation means 114 may be any material.
- the fixation means 114 may additionally use one or more attachment means, such as Velcro, securing ties, snaps, hooks, clasps, etc. to secure the inner component 102 within the outer component 106 .
- the outer component 106 comprises a material elastic enough to receive and stay on the inner component 102 .
- a handle component 108 is also affixed to the cleaning instrument 110 , as depicted in FIG. 7 and FIG. 9 .
- the handle component 108 may comprise an elastic material.
- the handle component 108 is adjustable in size.
- the cleaning instrument 110 may be hung on a faucet or other object.
- the cleaning instrument 110 may be held from afar to complete a cleaning job.
- a length of the cleaning instrument 110 is approximately 5 inches
- a width of the cleaning instrument 110 is approximately 3 inches
- a height of the cleaning instrument 110 is approximately 1 inch. It should be appreciated that the dimension of the cleaning instrument 110 are provided for illustrative purposes only and other dimensions are contemplated.
- the outer component 106 of the improved cleaning instrument 110 may be configured as a sack, satchel, or bag that houses the inner component 102 .
- the outer component 106 of the improved cleaning instrument 110 may have a body portion disposed between an opening 116 and a secured portion 118 .
- the secured portion 118 may be affixed closed by any means or method known to those having ordinary skill in the art, such as an adhesive, stitching, fasteners, etc.
- the opening 116 is configured to receive the inner component 102 of the improved cleaning instrument 110 therein or allows the user to remove the inner component 102 of the improved cleaning instrument 110 .
- the opening 116 may be secured by any fastening system known to those having ordinary skill in the art (such as the fixation means 114 ). As shown in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 , the fixation means 114 comprises a drawstring system.
- the cleaning instrument 110 is also dishwasher safe in some examples. In other examples, the cleaning instrument may also withstand use of cleaning chemicals. Further, the cleaning instrument 110 is circular, oval, rectangular, square, triangular, quadrilateral, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, nonagonal, or decagonal in shape. In other examples, the cleaning instrument comprises a composite shape made from two or more of the aforementioned shapes. The composite shape may include a star shape, a letter shape, a number shape, a heart shape, a sun shape, a moon shape, a baseball shape, a basketball shape, etc., among other shapes not explicitly listed herein.
- the shape of the cleaning instrument 110 is fluid and changes frequently, such that the cleaning instrument 110 may be used to clean various surfaces.
- the cleaning instrument 110 is square in shape, when the user squeezes the cleaning instrument 110 while cleaning dishes, the shape of the cleaning instrument 110 may become oblong.
- the cleaning instrument 110 described herein may be used as a kitchen sponge or may be used in the shower as an exfoliant (e.g., in the place of a loofah, shower glove, or wash cloth).
- a cleaning product 112 such as a dishwasher soap or a shower gel, may be applied to the cleaning instrument 110 .
- the cleaning instrument 110 described herein eliminates the accumulation of and the spread of bacteria found in traditional sponges and loofahs.
- the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements.
- the adjective “another,” when used to introduce an element, is intended to mean one or more elements.
- the terms “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive such that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Cleaning Implements For Floors, Carpets, Furniture, Walls, And The Like (AREA)
Abstract
An improved cleaning instrument is described herein. The improved cleaning instrument includes at least a reusable inner component comprising a material and an outer component having a coarseness needed to complete a cleaning task. The outer component is configured to receive the reusable inner component therein. The inner component is reusable and configured for multiple uses. In some examples, the inner component comprises a cavity configured to receive water, soap, and/or a cleaning solution therein. In other examples, the inner component is a solid component. The outer component is biodegradable, recyclable, or eco-friendly. Optionally, the improved cleaning instrument includes a fixation means configured to secure the inner component within the outer component and/or a handle component.
Description
- This application is a U.S. Non-Provisional Patent application that claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. 63/139,632 filed on Jan. 20, 2021, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
- Embodiments generally relate to an improved cleaning instrument.
- A multitude of cleaning implements exist that may be used to dust, wipe, scrub, polish, clean, etc. a wide variety of surfaces. One such example, an artificial sponge, is made from various foamable plastics and has been on the market for many years. Typically, synthetic sponges are made of polyester, polyurethane, or vegetal cellulose. In particular, artificial sponges have been used as cleaning devices for cleaning dishes or tables. Moreover, another such device, a loofah, is a popular shower accessories used for cleaning and exfoliating ones skin. Natural loofahs are made of sea sponges or dried coral. Synthetic loofahs are typically made of nylon and have dense layers of mesh in a given pattern.
- However, it has been found that kitchen sponges may have just as high of a concentration of bacteria as in a toilet. Similarly, shower loofahs have been well-documented as reservoirs of bacteria. Thus, what is needed is an improved cleaning instrument whose design eliminates the ability for bacteria to grow. Such is provided by Applicants invention.
- US20160213221A1 describes a scrubbing or scouring pad. The pad includes an artificial sponge made from a foam material that changes firmness or rigidity based on the temperature thereof. The foam sponge is then covered with a plastic mesh to increase the scouring power thereof. If desired, the foam may also include thermochromic additives therein that change the color of the foam based on the temperature.
- U.S. Pat. No. 7,257,854 describes a reversible cleaning bonnet that has a unitary central body member with first and second face surfaces. The body is encompassed by a cover which has two cleaning surfaces, i.e. either two scrubbing, polishing, dusting, mopping, etc. surfaces, or any combination of these surfaces The cover also has an elastic band which permits the bonnet to be attached to the cleaning head of a cleaning implement. The elastic band also permits the cover to be changed from one position in which one of the cleaning surfaces is exposed for use, to a second position which permits the second cleaning surface of the cover to be exposed and used.
- U.S. Pat. No. 4,053,960A describes an improved back scrubber device adapted to be removably secured to a wall. The scrubber includes a base portion including a plurality of suction devices adapted to removably secure the base portion to the wall and a cover adapted to enclose an opening on the base portion. The cover includes a porous portion which is adapted to permit the passage therethrough of a soap and water solution upon the introduction of external pressure against the cover in a direction toward the back of the base portion. An access opening is provided on one of the side walls for the introduction of a soap and water solution to the base portion. A drying element and means for securing the drying element to the base portion and cover are further provided.
- US20070067934A1 describes a multi-use bathing implement for use in cleansing and exfoliating skin and as a toy, a holder of soap or like products, and a decoration. The bathing implement includes a toroidal sponge component and can also have a removable attachment component. The donut-shaped sponge component is preferably made of mesh sponge material and is concentrically disposed about an inner ring-shaped component defining a central opening in which the attachment component can be removably secured. The inner ring-shaped component provides a ready gripping area which can be held for manipulating the bathing implement. The attachment component can be, for instance, a toy, a solid soap product, a container of a bath/cosmetic product or the like, a mesh netting pocket, or a knob-shaped hanging device having a suction cup. In addition, the implement can have a drawstring for converting the toroid shape sponge into a ball shaped sponge.
- WO2006025785A1 describes a system. The system comprises a sponge element and a first and a second care composition. The sponge element comprises a first portion comprising the first care composition, and a second portion comprising the second care composition, and a wrapping unit, such as a bag, extractably arranged in a cavity in the sponge unit.
- The present invention and its embodiments relate to an improved cleaning instrument. The improved cleaning instrument includes an inner component and an outer component. Optionally, the improved cleaning instrument may include a fixation means and/or a handle component. In particular, the inner component may be received by the outer component. The inner component may include a material, such as: silicone, nitrile rubber (NBR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), a biodegradable plastic, or a compostable plastic, among others not explicitly listed herein. In some embodiments, the material does not harbor bacteria.
- The inner component may be reusable and may be configured for multiple uses. In some examples, the surface of the inner component comprises a raised pattern configured to provide coarseness. However, in other examples, the surface of the inner component fails to include any sort of raised pattern and the coarseness of the surface of the inner component is based on the material chosen for the inner component. Moreover in some examples, during use, the inner component is configured to receive water, soap, a cleaning solution, etc. therein. In other examples, the inner component is a solid component incapable of receiving any water, soap, or cleaning solution, etc. therein.
- The outer component may comprise a mesh material, a solid viscose material, a natural fiber material, a cotton material, a steel wool material, a fabric material, a woven material, a non-woven material, or an elasticized nylon material, among other materials not explicitly listed herein. In some examples, the mesh material is a nylon material. In other examples, the outer component comprises layers of mesh in a circular (or another) pattern. The outer component is disposable after one or a few uses. Further, in some examples, the outer component is eco-friendly and biodegradable or recyclable.
- In some examples, once the inner component is filled with water, soap, the cleaning solution, etc., the inner component is received by the outer component. In other examples where the inner component is solid, the inner component is received by the outer component. In examples utilizing the fixation means, the fixation means is configured to secure the inner component within the outer component. The fixation means may include a string or a thread that may use one or more attachment means, such as Velcro, securing ties, snaps, hooks, clasps, etc. to secure the inner component within the outer component. In other examples that do not require use of the fixation means, the outer component comprises a material elastic enough to receive and stay on the inner component.
- A handle component is also affixed to the cleaning instrument. The cleaning instrument may then be hung on a faucet or other object. In some examples, the cleaning instrument may be held from afar to complete a cleaning job. In examples, a length of the cleaning instrument is approximately 5 inches, a width of the cleaning instrument is approximately 3 inches, and a height of the cleaning instrument is approximately 1 inch. The cleaning instrument is also dishwasher safe in some examples. In other examples, the cleaning instrument may also withstand use of cleaning chemicals. Further, the cleaning instrument includes a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, a nonagonal shape, or a decagonal shape. In other examples, the cleaning instrument comprises a composite shape made from at least two of the aforementioned shapes. The composite shape may include a star shape, a letter shape, a number shape, a heart shape, a sun shape, a moon shape, a baseball shape, a basketball shape, etc., among other shapes not explicitly listed herein.
-
FIG. 1 depicts an inner component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 2 depicts an inner component received by an outer component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 3 depicts an inner component received by an outer component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 4 depicts an inner component received by an outer component of an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 5 depicts a large outer component of an improved cleaning instrument prior to cutting the large outer component into smaller outer components, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 6 depicts a cleaning product used with an improved cleaning instrument, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 7 depicts an improved cleaning instrument that does not receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein and an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 8 depicts a side view of an improved cleaning instrument that does not receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein and an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 9 depicts an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, the improved cleaning instrument comprising a fine woven outer material, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 10 depicts another image of an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, the improved cleaning instrument comprising a fine woven outer material, according to at least some embodiments described herein. -
FIG. 11 depicts a further image of an improved cleaning instrument that is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution therein, the improved cleaning instrument comprising a fine woven outer material, according to at least some embodiments described herein. - The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. Identical elements in the various figures are identified with the same reference numerals.
- Reference will now be made in detail to each embodiment of the present invention. Such embodiments are provided by way of explanation of the present invention, which is not intended to be limited thereto. In fact, those of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate upon reading the present specification and viewing the present drawings that various modifications and variations can be made thereto.
- An
improved cleaning instrument 110 is described and depicted herein. Theimproved cleaning instrument 110 includes at least an inner component 102 (ofFIG. 1 ,FIG. 2 ,FIG. 3 ,FIG. 4 ,FIG. 10 , andFIG. 11 ) and an outer component 106 (ofFIG. 2 ,FIG. 3 ,FIG. 4 ,FIG. 5 ,FIG. 6 ,FIG. 10 , andFIG. 11 ). Theinner component 102 does not harbor bacteria and may be reusable in some examples. Theouter component 106 may be disposable and may comprise different materials and/or coarseness to complete different cleaning tasks. In some examples, theimproved cleaning instrument 110 additionally includes a fixation means 114 (ofFIG. 3 ) and/or ahandle component 108. In particular, theinner component 102 of theimproved cleaning instrument 110 may be received by theouter component 106. - In some examples, the
inner component 102 may include a material, such as: silicone, nitrile rubber (NBR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), a biodegradable plastic, and/or a compostable plastic, among others. In some embodiments, theinner component 102 may include a material that does not harbor bacteria. A silicone or polysiloxane are polymers made up of siloxane and are typically colorless, oils or rubber-like substances. NBR is a synthetic rubber derived from acrylonitrile (ACN) and butadiene. Moreover, SBR is a family of synthetic rubbers derived from styrene and butadiene. - The
inner component 102 may be reusable and may be configured for multiple uses. In some examples, a surface of theinner component 102 comprises a raisedpattern 104 configured to provide coarseness, as shown inFIG. 1 andFIG. 2 . The raisedpattern 104 may include a randomized pattern or may be an ordered pattern. However, in other examples, the surface of theinner component 102 fails to include any sort of raised pattern and the coarseness of the surface of theinner component 102 is based on the material chosen for theinner component 102. - Moreover, the shape of each component of the raised
pattern 104 may be a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, a nonagonal shape, or a decagonal shape. In some examples, each component of the raisedpattern 104 may share the same shape. In other examples, one or more components of the raisedpattern 104 may differ in shape. Furthermore, a height and configuration of the raisedpattern 104 is not limited to any particular configuration. It should be appreciated that the raisedpattern 104 of theinner component 102 is not limited to the examples provided herein. - In other examples, the
inner component 102 is a solid component incapable of receiving any water, soap, or cleaning solution, etc. therein. Such cleaning instrument is depicted as acleaning instrument 110A inFIG. 7 andFIG. 8 . Moreover in some examples and during use, theinner component 102 is configured to receive water, soap, or a cleaning solution, etc. therein. Such cleaning instrument is depicted as acleaning instrument 110B inFIG. 7 andFIG. 8 . It should be appreciated that the water, the soap, or the cleaning solution may be received in a cavity (not shown) in theinner component 102 of thecleaning instrument 110B ofFIG. 7 andFIG. 8 . The cavity may be any shape and comprise any dimensions. Also,FIG. 9 depicts thecleaning instrument 110B comprising a fine woven outer material (e.g., the outer component 106). - The
outer component 106 of theimproved cleaning instrument 110 comprises a mesh material, a solid viscose material, a natural fiber material, a cotton material, a steel wool material, a fabric material, a woven material, a non-woven material, and/or an elasticized nylon material, among other materials not explicitly listed herein. In some examples, the mesh material is a nylon material. In other examples, theouter component 106 comprises layers of mesh in a circular (or another) pattern. Theouter component 106 is disposable after one or a few uses to avoid build-up of bacteria. Further, in some examples, theouter component 106 is eco-friendly and biodegradable or recyclable. - In some examples, once the
inner component 102 is filled with the water, the soap, or the cleaning solution, theinner component 102 is received by theouter component 106. In other examples where theinner component 102 is solid, theinner component 102 is received by theouter component 106. Then, in some examples, the fixation means 114 is configured to secure theinner component 102 within theouter component 106. The fixation means 114 may include a string or a thread and may be adjustable in size. The material comprising the fixation means 114 may be any material. Moreover, the fixation means 114 may additionally use one or more attachment means, such as Velcro, securing ties, snaps, hooks, clasps, etc. to secure theinner component 102 within theouter component 106. In other examples that do not require use of the fixation means 114, theouter component 106 comprises a material elastic enough to receive and stay on theinner component 102. - A
handle component 108 is also affixed to thecleaning instrument 110, as depicted inFIG. 7 andFIG. 9 . In some examples, thehandle component 108 may comprise an elastic material. In other examples, thehandle component 108 is adjustable in size. Thecleaning instrument 110 may be hung on a faucet or other object. In some examples, thecleaning instrument 110 may be held from afar to complete a cleaning job. In examples, a length of thecleaning instrument 110 is approximately 5 inches, a width of thecleaning instrument 110 is approximately 3 inches, and a height of thecleaning instrument 110 is approximately 1 inch. It should be appreciated that the dimension of thecleaning instrument 110 are provided for illustrative purposes only and other dimensions are contemplated. - In some embodiments, and as shown in
FIG. 10 andFIG. 11 , theouter component 106 of theimproved cleaning instrument 110 may be configured as a sack, satchel, or bag that houses theinner component 102. In this embodiment, theouter component 106 of theimproved cleaning instrument 110 may have a body portion disposed between anopening 116 and asecured portion 118. Thesecured portion 118 may be affixed closed by any means or method known to those having ordinary skill in the art, such as an adhesive, stitching, fasteners, etc. Theopening 116 is configured to receive theinner component 102 of theimproved cleaning instrument 110 therein or allows the user to remove theinner component 102 of theimproved cleaning instrument 110. Theopening 116 may be secured by any fastening system known to those having ordinary skill in the art (such as the fixation means 114). As shown inFIG. 10 andFIG. 11 , the fixation means 114 comprises a drawstring system. - The
cleaning instrument 110 is also dishwasher safe in some examples. In other examples, the cleaning instrument may also withstand use of cleaning chemicals. Further, thecleaning instrument 110 is circular, oval, rectangular, square, triangular, quadrilateral, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, nonagonal, or decagonal in shape. In other examples, the cleaning instrument comprises a composite shape made from two or more of the aforementioned shapes. The composite shape may include a star shape, a letter shape, a number shape, a heart shape, a sun shape, a moon shape, a baseball shape, a basketball shape, etc., among other shapes not explicitly listed herein. It should be appreciated that the shape of thecleaning instrument 110 is fluid and changes frequently, such that thecleaning instrument 110 may be used to clean various surfaces. In an example where thecleaning instrument 110 is square in shape, when the user squeezes thecleaning instrument 110 while cleaning dishes, the shape of thecleaning instrument 110 may become oblong. - The
cleaning instrument 110 described herein may be used as a kitchen sponge or may be used in the shower as an exfoliant (e.g., in the place of a loofah, shower glove, or wash cloth). Once assembled as depicted inFIG. 6 , a cleaningproduct 112, such as a dishwasher soap or a shower gel, may be applied to thecleaning instrument 110. Thecleaning instrument 110 described herein eliminates the accumulation of and the spread of bacteria found in traditional sponges and loofahs. - The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others or ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein.
- When introducing elements of the present disclosure or the embodiments thereof, the articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. Similarly, the adjective “another,” when used to introduce an element, is intended to mean one or more elements. The terms “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive such that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.
- Although this invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the present disclosure has been made only by way of illustration and that numerous changes in the details of construction and arrangement of parts may be resorted to without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention.
Claims (20)
1. A cleaning instrument comprising:
a reusable inner component comprising a material; and
an outer component having a coarseness needed to complete a cleaning task, the outer component being configured to receive the reusable inner component therein.
2. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , further comprising:
a fixation means configured to secure the reusable inner component within the outer component.
3. The cleaning instrument of claim 2 , further comprising:
a handle component.
4. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the material does not harbor bacteria.
5. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the material is selected from the group consisting of: silicone, nitrile rubber (NBR), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), a biodegradable plastic, and a compostable plastic.
6. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the outer component comprises a material elastic enough to receive and stay on the reusable inner component.
7. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the reusable inner component is configured for multiple uses.
8. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the reusable inner component comprises a cavity configured to receive water, soap, and/or a cleaning solution therein.
9. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the reusable inner component is a solid component.
10. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein a surface of the reusable inner component comprises a raised pattern configured to provide coarseness.
11. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein a material of the reusable inner component provides coarseness.
12. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the outer component comprises a material selected from the group consisting of: a mesh material, a solid viscose material, a natural fiber material, a cotton material, a steel wool material, a fabric material, a woven material, a non-woven material, and an elasticized nylon material.
13. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the outer component comprises layers of mesh in a circular pattern.
14. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the outer component is biodegradable.
15. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the outer component is recyclable.
16. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the outer component is eco-friendly.
17. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the outer component is disposable after one or a few uses.
18. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the cleaning instrument is dishwasher safe.
19. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 , wherein the cleaning instrument comprises materials that can withstand cleaning chemicals.
20. The cleaning instrument of claim 1 ,
wherein a shape of the cleaning instrument is selected from the group consisting of: a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, a nonagonal shape, a decagonal shape, and a composite shape, and
wherein the composite shape is made from at least two shapes selected from the group consisting of: a circular shape, an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a square shape, a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, a heptagonal shape, an octagonal shape, a nonagonal shape, and a decagonal shape.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US17/570,380 US20220225855A1 (en) | 2021-01-20 | 2022-01-06 | Cleaning instrument |
PCT/US2022/011743 WO2022159293A1 (en) | 2021-01-20 | 2022-01-10 | Improved cleaning instrument |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US202163139632P | 2021-01-20 | 2021-01-20 | |
US17/570,380 US20220225855A1 (en) | 2021-01-20 | 2022-01-06 | Cleaning instrument |
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US20220225855A1 true US20220225855A1 (en) | 2022-07-21 |
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ID=82405746
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US17/570,380 Pending US20220225855A1 (en) | 2021-01-20 | 2022-01-06 | Cleaning instrument |
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US (1) | US20220225855A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022159293A1 (en) |
Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5465452A (en) * | 1994-03-31 | 1995-11-14 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Implement for personal cleansing made from extruded plastic scrim |
US5857794A (en) * | 1998-03-02 | 1999-01-12 | Chien; Kuo-Ching | Structure of bathing container |
US20160073835A1 (en) * | 2014-08-25 | 2016-03-17 | Allenson Dewon Burrell | Soap saver |
US10736472B1 (en) * | 2016-04-09 | 2020-08-11 | Helen Thomasina Gardner | Soap-filled disposable and reusable bath sponge and method of manufacture |
MX2020007843A (en) * | 2018-12-16 | 2021-03-09 | Shimon Avshalom | Washing sponge with inner soap capsule. |
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2022
- 2022-01-06 US US17/570,380 patent/US20220225855A1/en active Pending
- 2022-01-10 WO PCT/US2022/011743 patent/WO2022159293A1/en active Application Filing
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