Cleansing apparatus and systems

Cleansing apparatus and systems are provided. One cleansing apparatus includes a perimeter surface defining an enclosed area, a first surface defining a first side and including a first plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface and defining a second side including a second plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface. The enclosed area includes a spring connected to the perimeter surface, wherein the spring is engageable on one of the first side and the second side and extends beyond the one of the first plane and the second plane when engaged, the spring is defined and resides within the enclosed area when disengaged, and the spring is retractable within the one of the first plane and the second plane when disengaged. A system includes the above spring and an attachment mechanism for attaching the cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to cleansing apparatus and systems.

Description of the Related Art

Presently, there are numerous devices for cleaning various types of surfaces. Some examples of such cleaning devices include: a sponge, scrubbing pad, wired pad, and the like cleaning devices. While these devices are simple and effective, there are several drawbacks to these devices.

One drawback of these cleaning devices is that they typically absorb water, which encourages the growth and spread of harmful bacteria, especially at the next use of the cleaning devices. Furthermore, the material used to construct these cleaning devices are not anti-bacterial, which only adds to and/or further encourages the growth of bacteria on these cleaning devices. In addition, the configuration of these cleaning devices encourages the user to leave these in a sink or on another surface that is exposed to water and/or bacteria, which further encourages the growth and spread of harmful bacteria. Therefore, a cleansing apparatus and/or system to address these drawbacks is needed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments provide cleansing apparatus and systems. One cleansing apparatus comprises a perimeter surface defining an enclosed area, a first surface defining a first side and including a first plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface and defining a second side including a second plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface. In one embodiment, the enclosed area comprises a spring coupled to the perimeter surface, wherein: the spring is engageable on one of the first side and the second side and extends beyond the one of the first plane and the second plane when engaged, the spring is defined and resides within the enclosed area when disengaged, and the spring is retractable within the first plane or the second plane when disengaged. In various embodiments, the cleansing apparatus further comprises an attachment mechanism coupled to the spring, the attachment mechanism configured for attaching the cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface.

Another cleansing apparatus, comprises a perimeter surface defining an enclosed area, a first surface defining a first side and including a first plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface and defining a second side including a second plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface. In various embodiments, the enclosed area comprises a spring coupled to the perimeter surface, wherein: the spring is engageable on the first side extends beyond the first plane when engaged, the spring is defined and resides within the enclosed area when disengaged, and the spring is retractable within the first plane when disengaged. In one embodiment, the perimeter surface, the first surface, the second surface, and the spring are each comprised of silicon and are formed as a single unit. The cleansing apparatus, in various embodiments, further comprises a suction cup coupled to the spring and configured for attaching the cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface, wherein: the suction cup comprises a suction force, the spring comprises a spring force, and the suction force is greater than the spring force when the suction cup is attached to the foreign surface and the spring is engaged.

One system comprises a spring formed on a cleansing apparatus. The spring is defined and resides within a side of the cleansing apparatus when disengaged, is engageable on the side and extends beyond a plane of the side when engaged, and is retractable within the plane when disengaged. The system further comprises an attachment mechanism coupled to the spring and configured for attaching the cleansing apparatus to the foreign surface.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments disclosed below provide a cleansing apparatus. Various other embodiments provide systems for attaching the cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface.

Turning now to the figures,FIG. 1is a diagram of one embodiment of a cleansing apparatus100. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus100comprises an outer perimeter105defining an enclosed area110for cleaning various surfaces.

Outer perimeter105, in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus100. In one embodiment, outer perimeter105includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus100. For example, outer perimeter105may include a round shape (e.g., a circle, oval, etc.), a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an hourglass shape, a shape that includes more than four sides (e.g., a pentagon, a hexagon, etc.), or the like shapes.

In various embodiments, outer perimeter105comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter105includes a shape that makes cleansing apparatus more enjoyable to use. Examples of whimsical shapes include, but are not limited to, vehicles (e.g., an automobile, a truck, a train, an airplane, a helicopter, a ship/boat, a submarine, a spacecraft, a bicycle, and the like vehicles), animals, birds, sea creatures, humans (e.g., a police officer, a firefighter, etc.), caricatures, cartoon characters, plants/trees/flowers, symbols (e.g., a four leaf clover, a dollar sign, etc.), inanimate objects (e.g., a building, a rock formation, a historic monument, a good luck charm, etc.), and the like whimsical shapes.

Coupled to outer perimeter105and within enclosed area110is a pattern of ribs115and ribs120that form one or more apertures125comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus100comprises a plurality of ribs115forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs120forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures125. In other embodiments, ribs115and ribs120are formed to create a plurality of apertures125with a honeycomb shape or the like shape.

Furthermore, apertures125may comprise any dimensions that enable material (e.g., a liquid, soap, particles, debris, etc.) to transport from one side to the other side of cleansing device100when in use. That is, apertures125may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures125are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures125include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures125include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture125includes a different size.

Outer perimeter105, in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)115and rib(s)120extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter105(e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus100). Similarly, aperture(s)125extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter105.

In the various embodiments, outer perimeter105includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus100. That is, outer perimeter105may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter105includes a length in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a width in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In another embodiment, outer perimeter105includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter105includes base in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a height in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches.

Cleansing apparatus100(e.g., outer perimeter105, enclosed area110, and/or ribs115/120) comprises any material known in the art or developed in the future that is non-absorbent and/or anti-bacterial. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus100is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus100comprises a hardness range of about 10 to about 80 durometer Shore A.

In another aspect, the silicon is an elastomer (e.g., a rubber-like material) composed of silicone, itself a polymer, comprising silicon together with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. This material is substantially odorless, tasteless, hypoallergenic, and includes an inorganic backbone. This material is hygienic and is resistant to bacteria and/or mold growth and includes a large range of resistance to harsh chemicals. The silicon comprises a high biocompatibility, is thermally stable with temperature range performances that may be obtained between about −148° F. and about 572° F. This large thermal range makes cleansing apparatus100dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus100is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements.

Cleansing apparatus100may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus100comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus100comprises two or more colors.

In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus100is fabricated via a Liquid Injection Molding (LIM) technique using a Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR). LIM with LSR provides a cycle time of about 5 seconds to about 6 seconds per cavity per machine, which enables the mass production of cleansing apparatus100. Standard mold draft angles of about 5 degrees and/or greater may also be used, but are not necessary with LSR. Multi-part injection or over molding may also be utilized to provide various durometers with multiple colors within the same product. Deep thin walled ribs115/120may also be created with this process.

One process includes a part A component (e.g., silicon) and a part B component (e.g., carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen) that are mixed prior to the injection process. Another process includes a one-part silicone material being injection molded.

Various mold design techniques may be used to create cleansing apparatus100. Examples of mold design techniques include, but are not limited to: cold runners, ejector pins, and ejector plates. Other variables that may be controlled to obtain fast cycle times with consistent product quality are silicone and mold injection temperatures, pressures, injection velocities, hold times, mold cooling, and the like techniques that are known in the art or developed in the future.

With reference toFIG. 2,FIG. 2is a diagram of another embodiment of a cleansing apparatus200. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus200comprises an outer perimeter205defining an enclosed area210similar to outer perimeter105and enclosed area210inFIG. 1and further comprising a spring system230and an inner perimeter250.

Outer perimeter205, in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus200. In one embodiment, outer perimeter205includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus200. For example, outer perimeter205may include a round shape (e.g., a circle, oval, etc.), a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an hourglass shape, a shape that includes more than four sides, or the like shapes.

In various embodiments, outer perimeter205comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter205includes a shape that makes cleansing apparatus more enjoyable to use. Examples of whimsical shapes include, but are not limited to, vehicles (e.g., an automobile, a truck, a train, an airplane, a helicopter, a ship/boat, a submarine, a spacecraft, a bicycle, and the like vehicles), animals, birds, sea creatures, humans (e.g., a police officer, a firefighter, etc.), caricatures, cartoon characters, plants/trees/flowers, symbols (e.g., a four leaf clover, a dollar sign, etc.), inanimate objects (e.g., a building, a rock formation, a historic monument, a good luck charm, etc.), and the like whimsical shapes.

Coupled to outer perimeter205and within enclosed area210is a pattern of ribs215and ribs that form one or more apertures225comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus200comprises a plurality of ribs215forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs220forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures225. In other embodiments, ribs215and ribs220are formed to create a plurality of apertures225with a honeycomb shape and the like shape.

Furthermore, apertures225may comprise any dimensions that enable material (e.g., a liquid, soap, particles, debris, etc.) to transport from one side to the other side of cleansing device200when in use. That is, apertures225may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures225are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures225include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures225include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture225includes a different size.

Outer perimeter205, in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)215and rib(s)220extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter205(e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus200). Similarly, aperture(s)225extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter205.

In the various embodiments, outer perimeter205includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus200. That is, outer perimeter205may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter205includes a length in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a width in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In another embodiment, outer perimeter205includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter205includes base in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a height in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches.

Outer perimeter205further comprises a curved portion228configured to facilitate the formation and function of spring system230. Spring system230comprises a platform portion231, an aperture232, and channels233,234, and/or235.

Platform portion231is configured for coupling spring system230to the other portions of cleansing apparatus200and for providing a stable base upon which to engage spring system230. Aperture232is configured for coupling an attachment mechanism (e.g., a suction cup, a hook, hook and loop tape, a clip, a fastener, etc.) to spring system230.

Channels233,234, and/or235form the loop(s) of a spring and are flexible such that the portions of spring system230proximate to channels233,234, and/or235are able to extend above/beyond platform portion231when spring system230is engaged and flexibly return substantially flush with platform portion231when spring system230is not engage or disengaged. While spring system230is shown with channels233,234, and235, spring system230is not limited to this configuration. That is, spring system230may include any number of channels. In other words, spring system230includes one or more channels to create a spring.

Spring system230, in various embodiments, is formed of the same material as cleansing apparatus200such that spring system230and the other portions of cleansing apparatus200are and/or form a single unit. In other embodiments, spring system230may be formed of a different material than cleansing apparatus200such that spring system230and the other portions of cleansing apparatus200are different pieces coupled together to form a single unit.

In various embodiments, internal perimeter250is coupled to a membrane241to provide a platform without ribs creating space for text, logos or images that may be embossed, engraved, painted, or stamped to provide the product name and/or company branding/advertising. Membrane241also blocks a portion of aperture(s)225to provide a container to help capture dispensed soap.

Cleansing apparatus200(e.g., outer perimeter205, enclosed area210, ribs215/220, spring system230, and/or inner perimeter250) comprises any material known in the art or developed in the future that is non-absorbent and/or anti-bacterial. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus200is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus200comprises a hardness range of about 10 to about 80 durometer Shore A.

In another aspect, the silicon is an elastomer (e.g., a rubber-like material) composed of silicone, itself a polymer, comprising silicon together with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. This material is substantially odorless, tasteless, hypoallergenic, and includes an inorganic backbone. This material is hygienic and is resistant to bacteria and/or mold growth and includes a large range of resistance to harsh chemicals. The silicon comprises a high biocompatibility, is thermally stable with temperature range performances that may be obtained between about −148° F. and about 572° F. This large thermal range makes cleansing apparatus100dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus200is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements.

Cleansing apparatus200may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus200comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus200comprises two or more colors.

In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus200is fabricated via a Liquid Injection Molding (LIM) technique using a Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR). LIM with LSR provides a cycle time of about 5 seconds to about 6 seconds per cavity per machine, which enables the mass production of cleansing apparatus200. Standard mold draft angles of about 5 degrees and/or greater may also be used, but are not necessary with LSR. Multi-part injection or over molding may also be utilized to provide various durometers with multiple colors within the same product. Deep thin walled ribs215/220may also be created with this process.

One process includes a part A component (e.g., silicon) and a part B component (e.g., carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen) that are mixed prior to the injection process. Another process includes a one-part silicone material being injection molded.

Various mold design techniques may be used to create cleansing apparatus200. Examples of mold design techniques include, but are not limited to: cold runners, ejector pins, and ejector plates. Other variables that may be controlled to obtain fast cycle times with consistent product quality are silicone and mold injection temperatures, pressures, injection velocities, hold times, mold cooling, and the like techniques that are known in the art or developed in the future.

Turning now toFIG. 3,FIG. 3is a diagram of another embodiment of a cleansing apparatus300. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus300comprises an outer perimeter305defining an enclosed area310, a spring system330, and an inner perimeter350similar to outer perimeters105/205defining enclosed areas110/210, spring systems130/230, and inner perimeter350inFIGS. 1 and/or 2. As further illustrated inFIG. 3, cleansing apparatus300comprises an attachment mechanism340and filled area(s)345and351coupled to the other portions of cleansing apparatus300.

Outer perimeter305, in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus300. In one embodiment, outer perimeter305includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus300. For example, outer perimeter305may include a round shape (e.g., a circle, oval, etc.), a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an hourglass shape, a shape that includes more than four sides, or the like shapes and similar shapes may be included with inner perimeter350.

In various embodiments, outer perimeter305comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter305includes a shape that makes cleansing apparatus more enjoyable to use. Examples of whimsical shapes include, but are not limited to, vehicles (e.g., an automobile, a truck, a train, an airplane, a helicopter, a ship/boat, a submarine, a spacecraft, a bicycle, and the like vehicles), animals, birds, sea creatures, humans (e.g., a police officer, a firefighter, etc.), caricatures, cartoon characters, plants/trees/flowers, symbols (e.g., a four leaf clover, a dollar sign, etc.), inanimate objects (e.g., a building, a rock formation, a historic monument, a good luck charm, etc.), and the like whimsical shapes and similar shapes may be included with inner perimeter350.

Coupled to outer perimeter305and within enclosed area310is a pattern of ribs315and ribs320that form one or more apertures325comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus300comprises a plurality of ribs315forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs320forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures325. In other embodiments, ribs315and ribs320are formed to create a plurality of apertures325with a honeycomb shape and the like shape.

Furthermore, apertures325may comprise any dimensions that enable material (e.g., a liquid, soap, particles, debris, etc.) to transport from one side to the other side of cleansing device300when in use. That is, apertures325may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures325are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures325include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture325includes a different size.

As illustrated inFIG. 3, enclosed area comprises one or more filled areas345and351. Filled area(s)345and351may be fully filled and/or partially filled to create a greater surface area for cleaning a foreign surface. In at least some embodiments, filled area(s)345and351are formed similar to apertures345, but are filled and/or partially filled with the same material and/or a different material as the other portions of cleansing apparatus300.

In various embodiments, filled area(s)345and351may form any pattern and/or shape that increases the cleaning surface area of cleansing apparatus300. Furthermore, thoughFIG. 3illustrates that filled areas345and351are all adjacent/proximate to one another and define a single filled and/or partially filled location, other embodiments include filled areas345oriented in locations non-adjacent to each other and define multiple filled and/or partially filled locations.

In one embodiment, filled areas345and351are all fully filled. In another embodiment, filled areas345and351are all partially filled. In yet another embodiment, at least one filled area345and351are fully filled and at least one filled area345is partially filled.

Filled area351provides a platform without ribs which creates space for text, logos or images that may be embossed, engraved, painted, or stamped to provide the product name or company branding/advertising. Filled areas345and351also block a portion of apertures325to provide a container to help capture dispensed soap.

Outer perimeter305, in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)315and rib(s)320extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter305(e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus300). Similarly, aperture(s)325extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter305.

In the various embodiments, outer perimeter305includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus300. That is, outer perimeter305may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter305includes a length in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a width in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In another embodiment, outer perimeter305includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter305includes base in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a height in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches.

Outer perimeter305further comprises a curved portion325configured to facilitate the formation and function of a spring system330. Spring system330, in various embodiments, is formed of the same material as cleansing apparatus300such that spring system330and the other portions of cleansing apparatus300are and/or form a single unit. In other embodiments, spring system330may be formed of a different material than cleansing apparatus300such that spring system330and the other portions of cleansing apparatus300are different pieces coupled together to form a single unit. Coupled to spring system330is attachment mechanism340.

Attachment mechanism340may be any device and/or system capable of attaching cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface. Examples of attachment mechanism include, but are not limited to, a suction cup, a hook, hook and loop tape, a clip, a fastener, and the like devices/systems for attaching cleansing apparatus300to a foreign surface.

Cleansing apparatus300(e.g., outer perimeter305, enclosed area310, ribs315/320, spring system330, filled area(s)345/351and/or inner perimeter350) comprises any material known in the art or developed in the future that is non-absorbent and/or anti-bacterial. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus300is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus300comprises a hardness range of about 10 to about 80 durometer Shore A.

In another aspect, the silicon is an elastomer (e.g., a rubber-like material) composed of silicone, itself a polymer, comprising silicon together with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. This material is substantially odorless, tasteless, hypoallergenic, and includes an inorganic backbone. This material is hygienic and is resistant to bacteria and/or mold growth and includes a large range of resistance to harsh chemicals. The silicon comprises a high biocompatibility, is thermally stable with temperature range performances that may be obtained between about −148° F. and about 572° F. This large thermal range makes cleansing apparatus100dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus300is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements.

Cleansing apparatus300may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus300comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus300comprises two or more colors.

In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus300is fabricated via a Liquid Injection Molding (LIM) technique using a Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR). LIM with LSR provides a cycle time of about 5 seconds to about 6 seconds per cavity per machine, which enables the mass production of cleansing apparatus300. Standard mold draft angles of about 5 degrees and/or greater may also be used, but are not necessary with LSR. Multi-part injection or over molding may also be utilized to provide various durometers with multiple colors within the same product. Deep thin walled ribs315/320may also be created with this process.

One process includes a part A component (e.g., silicon) and a part B component (e.g., carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen) that are mixed prior to the injection process. Another process includes a one-part silicone material being injection molded.

Various mold design techniques may be used to create cleansing apparatus300. Examples of mold design techniques include, but are not limited to: cold runners, ejector pins, and ejector plates. Other variables that may be controlled to obtain fast cycle times with consistent product quality are silicone and mold injection temperatures, pressures, injection velocities, hold times, mold cooling, and the like techniques that are known in the art or developed in the future.

With reference toFIG. 4,FIG. 4is a diagram of one embodiment of a cleansing apparatus400. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus400comprises an outer perimeter405defining an enclosed area410, a spring system430, and an attachment mechanism440similar to perimeters105/205/305defining enclosed areas110/210/310inFIGS. 1-3and spring systems230/330inFIGS. 2-3and attachment mechanism340inFIG. 3. As further illustrated inFIG. 4, cleansing apparatus400comprises one or more cavities450capable of housing/holding one or more bowled/cupped reservoirs455coupled to the other portions of cleansing apparatus400.

Outer perimeter405, in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus400. In one embodiment, outer perimeter405includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus400. For example, outer perimeter405may include a round shape (e.g., a circle, oval, etc.), a triangular shape, a quadrilateral shape, an hourglass shape, a shape that includes more than four sides, or the like shapes.

In various embodiments, outer perimeter405comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter405includes a shape that makes cleansing apparatus more enjoyable to use. Examples of whimsical shapes include, but are not limited to, vehicles (e.g., an automobile, a truck, a train, an airplane, a helicopter, a ship/boat, a submarine, a spacecraft, a bicycle, and the like vehicles), animals, birds, sea creatures, humans (e.g., a police officer, a firefighter, etc.), caricatures, cartoon characters, plants/trees/flowers, symbols (e.g., a four leaf clover, a dollar sign, etc.), inanimate objects (e.g., a building, a rock formation, a historic monument, a good luck charm, etc.), and the like whimsical shapes.

Coupled to outer perimeter405and within enclosed area410is a pattern of ribs415and ribs420that form one or more apertures425comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus400comprises a plurality of ribs415forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs420forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures425. In other embodiments, ribs415and ribs420are formed to create a plurality of apertures425with a honeycomb shape.

Furthermore, apertures425may comprise any dimensions that enable material (e.g., a liquid, soap, etc.) to transport from one side to the other side of cleansing device400when in use. That is, apertures425may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures425are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures425include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture425includes a different size.

As illustrated inFIG. 4, enclosed area comprises one or more cavities450for housing/holding one or more reservoirs455to hold a cleansing material (e.g., powered soap, liquid soap, etc.). Reservoir(s)455, in various embodiments, may include any shape and/or dimensions suitable for storing and/or dispensing the cleansing material. In one embodiment, reservoir(s)455include a cupped and/or bowled shape to store the cleansing material and/or to dispense the cleansing material during the use of cleansing apparatus400. Reservoirs455, in various embodiments, may be a removable and/or replaceable pads that may be made from a material such as foam, steel wool, silk, sand paper, buffing cloth, or any substance known in the art or developed in the future for cleaning, scrubbing, sanding, polishing, or the like purposes.

The embodiment illustrated inFIG. 4illustrates reservoir455as being a separate entity from cleansing apparatus400. Other embodiments include reservoir(s)455being fully integrated and/or forming a portion of cleansing apparatus400(e.g., enclosed area410) itself.

WhileFIG. 4illustrates a single cavity450and a single reservoir455, cleansing apparatus400is not limited to this embodiment. Moreover, whileFIG. 4illustrates cavity450and reservoir455in a particular location, cleansing apparatus400is not limited to this embodiment. That is, cleansing apparatus400may include a plurality of cavities450and reservoirs455and each cavity450and each reservoir455may be located anywhere within enclosed area410.

Outer perimeter405, in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)415and rib(s)420extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter405(e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus400). Similarly, aperture(s)425extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter405.

In the various embodiments, outer perimeter405includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus400. That is, outer perimeter405may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter405includes a length in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a width in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In another embodiment, outer perimeter405includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter405includes base in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches and a height in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches.

Outer perimeter405further comprises a curved portion425configured to facilitate the formation and function of a spring system430. Spring system430, in various embodiments, is formed of the same material as cleansing apparatus400such that spring system430and the other portions of cleansing apparatus400are and/or form a single unit. In other embodiments, spring system430may be formed of a different material than cleansing apparatus400such that spring system430and the other portions of cleansing apparatus400are different pieces coupled together to form a single unit. Coupled to spring system430is attachment mechanism440.

Attachment mechanism440may be any device and/or system capable of attaching cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface. Examples of attachment mechanism include, but are not limited to, a suction cup, a hook, hook and loop tape, a clip, a fastener, and the like devices/systems for attaching cleansing apparatus400to a foreign surface.

Cleansing apparatus400(e.g., outer perimeter405, enclosed area410, ribs415/420, spring system430, each cavity450and/or reservoir(s)455) comprises any material known in the art or developed in the future that is non-absorbent and/or anti-bacterial. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus400is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus400comprises a hardness range of about 10 to about 80 durometer Shore A.

In another aspect, the silicon is an elastomer (e.g., a rubber-like material) composed of silicone, itself a polymer, comprising silicon together with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. This material is substantially odorless, tasteless, hypoallergenic, and includes an inorganic backbone. This material is hygienic and is resistant to bacteria and/or mold growth and includes a large range of resistance to harsh chemicals. The silicon comprises a high biocompatibility, is thermally stable with temperature range performances that may be obtained between about −148° F. and about 572° F. This large thermal range makes cleansing apparatus100dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus400is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements.

Cleansing apparatus400may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus400comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus400comprises two or more colors.

In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus400is fabricated via a Liquid Injection Molding (LIM) technique using a Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR). LIM with LSR provides a cycle time of about 5 seconds to about 6 seconds per cavity per machine, which enables the mass production of cleansing apparatus400. Standard mold draft angles of about 5 degrees and/or greater may also be used, but are not necessary with LSR. Multi-part injection or over molding may also be utilized to provide various durometers with multiple colors within the same product. Deep thin walled ribs415/420may also be created with this process.

One process includes a part A component (e.g., silicon) and a part B component (e.g., carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen) that are mixed prior to the injection process. Another process includes a one-part silicone material being injection molded.

Various mold design techniques may be used to create cleansing apparatus400. Examples of mold design techniques include, but are not limited to: cold runners, ejector pins, and ejector plates. Other variables that may be controlled to obtain fast cycle times with consistent product quality are silicone and mold injection temperatures, pressures, injection velocities, hold times, mold cooling, and the like techniques that are known in the art or developed in the future.

FIG. 5is a diagram of one embodiment of spring system230with attachment mechanism340/440in a disengaged position. In this embodiment, attachment mechanism340/440is a suction cup housed within aperture232. In the disengaged position, the top of attachment mechanism340/440is at or below the plane or level of enclosed area210proximate to curved portion428. Furthermore, the portions of platform portion231forming the coils of the spring are retracted and channels233,234, and235are substantially uniform in depth.

FIG. 6is a diagram of the embodiment of spring system230with attachment mechanism340/440in an engaged position. Here, the top portion of attachment mechanism340/440extends beyond the plane of enclosed area210and the portions of platform portion231forming the coils of the spring are extended and channels233,234, and235no longer include a uniform depth. Furthermore, the suction force of attachment mechanism340/440is greater than the spring force of spring system230such that cleansing apparatus200stays attached to the foreign surface. In this manner, cleansing apparatus200(and apparatus300/400) is capable of being attached to a foreign surface (e.g., a vertical surface) via attachment mechanism2340/440so that the cleaning surfaces (e.g., enclosed areas210/310/410) do not rest on a surface that potentially includes water and/or bacteria when cleansing apparatus200is not in use or is being stored, which further limits cleansing apparatus from encouraging the growth of bacteria.

In summary, various embodiments provide cleansing apparatus and systems. One cleansing apparatus comprises a perimeter surface defining an enclosed area, a first surface defining a first side and including a first plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface and defining a second side including a second plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface. In one embodiment, the enclosed area comprises a spring coupled to the perimeter surface, wherein: the spring is engageable on one of the first side and the second side and extends beyond the one of the first plane and the second plane when engaged, the spring is defined and resides within the enclosed area when disengaged, and the spring is retractable within the one of the first plane and the second plane when disengaged. In various embodiments, the cleansing apparatus further comprises an attachment mechanism coupled to the spring, the attachment mechanism configured for attaching the cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface. In an embodiment, the attachment mechanism is a suction cup comprising a suction force, the spring comprises a spring force, and the suction force is greater than the spring force when the suction cup is attached to the foreign surface and the spring is engaged.

In one embodiment, the perimeter surface, the first surface, the second surface, and the spring are each formed from the same material. In one aspect, the material is an anti-bacterial and non-absorbent material. In a further aspect, the material is silicon.

In further embodiments, the first surface and/or the second surface comprises a reservoir structure formed from the same material and configured for holding and dispensing a cleansing material. In another embodiment, the perimeter surface comprises an ergonomic shape or a whimsical shape.

In various embodiments the material forming the cleansing apparatus extends from the first surface to the second surface through the enclosed area and the enclosed area comprises an aperture extending from the first surface to the second surface through the enclosed area such that liquid is capable of flowing through the aperture. In an aspect of this embodiment, the enclosed area comprises a plurality of apertures extending from the first surface to the second surface through the enclosed area such that liquid is capable of flowing through the plurality of apertures. In another aspect, each of the plurality of apertures comprises a shape. In various aspects, the shape is a circle, an oval, a triangle, a quadrilateral, a pentagon, or a hexagon. In a particular aspect, the shape is a hexagon and the plurality of apertures define a honeycomb structure or the like structure.

Another cleansing apparatus, comprises a perimeter surface defining an enclosed area, a first surface defining a first side and including a first plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface and defining a second side including a second plane coupled to and adjacent the perimeter surface. In various embodiments, the enclosed area comprises a spring coupled to the perimeter surface, wherein: the spring is engageable on the first side extends beyond the first plane when engaged, the spring is defined and resides within the enclosed area when disengaged, and the spring is retractable within the first plane when disengaged. In one embodiment, the perimeter surface, the first surface, the second surface, and the spring are each comprised of silicon and are formed as a single unit. The cleansing apparatus, in various embodiments, further comprises a suction cup coupled to the spring and configured for attaching the cleansing apparatus to a foreign surface, wherein: the suction cup comprises a suction force, the spring comprises a spring force, and the suction force is greater than the spring force when the suction cup is attached to the foreign surface and the spring is engaged.

One system comprises a spring formed on a cleansing apparatus. The spring is defined and resides within a side of the cleansing apparatus when disengaged, is engageable on the side and extends beyond a plane of the side when engaged, and is retractable within the plane when disengaged. The system further comprises an attachment mechanism coupled to the spring and configured for attaching the cleansing apparatus to the foreign surface.

In one embodiment, the spring and the cleansing apparatus are both formed from the same material and are formed as a single unit. In one aspect, the same material is an anti-bacterial and non-absorbent material. In another aspect, the anti-bacterial and non-absorbent material is silicon.

In another embodiment, the attachment mechanism is a suction cup comprising a suction force, the spring comprises a spring force, and the suction force is greater than the spring force when the suction cup is attached to the foreign surface and the spring is engaged. In still another embodiment, the attachment mechanism is one of a hook, hook and loop tape, a clip, and a fastener.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, aspects of the present invention may be embodied as an apparatus, system, or method. The flowcharts and/or block diagrams in the above figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of apparatus, systems, and methods according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of the apparatus, systems, and methods. It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the figures.

Although the invention has been described with respect to particular embodiments, such embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and should not be considered to limit the invention. Various alternatives and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this Application.