Patent Publication Number: US-2023133687-A1

Title: Foot Scrubber Device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/275,617, which was filed on Nov. 4, 2021, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to the field of foot scrubber devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to an improved foot scrubber device that provides users with a scrubbing system for the bottom of feet allowing users to apply the scrubbing pads to an oscillating power tool for easy filing. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture. 
     BACKGROUND 
     By way of background, this invention relates to improvements in foot scrubber devices. Generally, people may develop hard calluses and dead skin on the bottom of their feet. Manually applying a foot file can be a frustrating and difficult process, especially for those with physical limitations. However, without filing the bottom of the feet, people can develop unwanted odor and require treatments. 
     Furthermore, prior art scrubbers seem cumbersome, inflexible, and hard to manipulate. Safety should be the primary concern and therefore, the device should not present any new or increase already present dangers resulting from this type of scrubbing movement. Accordingly, there is a need for a device that will allow a user to easily and safely scrub their feet to remove hard calluses and dead skin from the bottom. 
     Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that provides users with a scrubbing system for the bottom of feet allowing users to apply the scrubbing pads to an oscillating power tool for easy filing. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that allows users to attach the triangular scrubbing pads to the tool head via hook and loop fasteners. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that enables users to activate the tool head and apply the scrubbing pad to feet, automatically filing and sanding the bottom of feet with minimal physical effort required. Moreover, there is a long-felt need in the art for a device that features several adjustable speeds for the tool and different sizes of scrubbing pads to accommodate all user needs and preferences. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that maintains clean, smooth, and healthy feet without having to manually file and apply scrubbers. Finally, there is a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubbing device that minimizes the effort required to maintain clean and healthy feet. 
     The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a foot scrubber device. The device is a multipurpose foot scrubber tool that can be adapted to a power tool sander or isolator tool. The device comprises a domed, triangular-shaped head component with a hook and loop fastener component on its rear side, which allows the device to stick to a tool head. The tool can be a power sander tool or isolator tool, or any other suitable tool. The device can have adjustable speeds based on the tool used. Further, the head components can vary in size for different size feet. 
     In use, users would choose the size of the head component needed and would secure it to a tool head. Users would then activate the tool at a desired speed for scrubbing and filing the bottom of feet. Thus, the device replaces standard manual scrubbers or loofas, minimizing the effort required to maintain clean and healthy feet. 
     In this manner, the foot scrubber device of the present invention accomplishes all of the foregoing objectives and provides users with a device that effectively removes hard calluses and dead skin from the bottom of feet. The device maintains clean, smooth, and healthy feet without having to manually file and apply scrubbers/loofas. The device fits most standard sander tools or isolator tools and can be manufactured in different sizes and shapes based on a user&#39;s preferences and needs. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The following presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. 
     The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a foot scrubber device. The device is a multipurpose foot scrubber tool that can be adapted to an oscillating power tool. The device comprises a domed, triangular-shaped head component with a hook and loop fastener component on its rear side, which allows the device to stick to a power tool head during use. 
     The foot scrubber device disclosed herein is designed to be placed upon an oscillating power tool and to be used primarily by users having difficulty manually applying a foot file to exfoliate, file, and loofah their feet. Once the foot scrubber device is securely placed on the oscillating power tool head, a user can sit and easily and quickly remove hard calluses and dead skin from the bottoms of their feet by rubbing their feet over a multiplicity of perforations on the outer surface of the head component of the foot scrubber device. 
     In one embodiment, the foot scrubber device comprises a head component comprising an outer surface, a rear surface, and side edges. Additionally, the head component can be triangular-shaped, or any other suitable shape as is known in the art. Further, the outer surface can be domed and/or contoured to substantially conform to the contour of a person&#39;s foot. The head component is also designed and dimensioned to accommodate either foot, the right foot or the left foot, of a user. Further, the head component can be manufactured in various sizes for different size feet, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. 
     The head component preferably constructed of a resilient material such as stainless steel, however, other suitable materials can be used as well, such as aluminum, rubber, or a rigid material such as a plastic or a polycarbonate may also be used. 
     In one embodiment, the head component on its outer surface, incorporates a plurality of perforations or through-holes. In this embodiment, the perforations or through-holes comprise a sharp edge around a periphery of each through hole. In one embodiment, the plurality of perforations are formed at the same time the head component is molded. In another embodiment, the head component can include a plurality of perforations which are typically formed by a drilling tool or other device after the head component is formed. 
     In one embodiment, the head component is formed via die stamping or other die manufacturing, molding, etc. In this embodiment, the foot scrubber device can also be manufactured such that the head component is hollow. Further, because of the one-piece seamless construction, the device is less likely than other loofa/filing brushes to mold/mildew or break. The seamless construction also eliminates bonds and glues that can separate and deteriorate. Further, the seamless construction allows for quick draining and drying after cleaning. Additionally, the size, weight and material allow for cleaning in the dishwasher or hand washing if necessary. 
     In one embodiment, the rear surface of the head component comprises a securing means which secures to a head of an oscillating power tool. The securing means can be any suitable securing means as is known in the art, such as hook and loop fasteners, screws, bolts, snaps, etc., or any other suitable securing means as is known in the art to prevent the device from slipping from the oscillating power tool. 
     In one embodiment, the oscillating power tool can be a power sander tool or isolator tool, or any other suitable tool as is known in the art. Additionally, the device can have adjustable speeds, based on the power tool used. Generally, the device is secured to a head of the oscillating power tool, but can be secured to any suitable part of the oscillating power tool as is known in the art. 
     In one embodiment, the head component of the device includes a detachable resilient section that has an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface includes a plurality of perforations, and the lower surface includes an attachment means that allows the resilient section to be easily and periodically removed from the head component for cleaning. 
     Furthermore, in order to facilitate greater ease of use and to assist in cleaning the foot scrubber device, the lower surface of the head component is removably attached, by an attachment means to the upper surface of the head component. The attachment means can consist of an adhesive or a combination of male and female detents. When the lower surface is detached, both the resilient section and the head component can be individually washed. 
     In one embodiment, the head component is lightweight and un-flexible so the plurality of perforations on the outer surface can be washed and dried. Further, the rear surface can be affixed to a suitable surface for quick drying and storage. In use, the rear surface can be held in a hand and/or affixed to an oscillating power tool, and the outer surface with its perforations can be manipulated around and across feet and other body parts and other accepting even or uneven surfaces. 
     In one embodiment, the un-flexibility and weight (lb. per device) allows for mountability and portability. The foot scrubber device, via the securing means on the rear surface, can adhere to any oscillating power tool head. Thus, once in place, almost anything can be rubbed against the plurality of perforations for filing, cleaning, and exfoliating. This allows for easier use than typical manual manipulation. 
     In another embodiment, the foot scrubber device, due to its size and weight, can be easily relocated and even traveled with. Further, the foot scrubber device can be manufactured in multiple sizes and shapes depending on the needs and/or wants of a user and depending on the different size feet being cleaned/exfoliated. 
     In use, users would choose the size of head component needed and would secure it to an oscillating power tool head. Users would then activate the power tool at a desired speed for scrubbing and filing the bottom of feet. Thus, the device replaces standard manual scrubbers or loofas, minimizing the effort required to maintain clean and healthy feet. 
     In yet another embodiment, the foot scrubber device comprises a plurality of indicia. 
     In yet another embodiment, a method of scrubbing hard calluses and dead skin off the bottom of feet is described. The method includes the steps of providing a foot scrubber device comprising a head component with a securing means attached to a rear side. The method also comprises choosing a specific shape and size of the head component, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Further, the method comprises positioning the head component on a head of an oscillating power tool via the securing means. Finally, the method comprises turning on the power tool and using the device to scrub hard calluses and dead skin off the bottom of feet. 
     Numerous benefits and advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which it pertains, upon reading and understanding the following detailed specification. 
     To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which: 
         FIG.  1    illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the foot scrubber device of the present invention in use in accordance with the disclosed architecture; 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the foot scrubber device of the present invention showing multiple sizes of head components in accordance with the disclosed architecture; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates a close-up perspective view of one potential embodiment of the foot scrubber device of the present invention showing the head component in accordance with the disclosed architecture; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a cross-sectional view of one potential embodiment of the head component of the foot scrubber device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the foot scrubber device of the present invention showing the head components in use with a power sander tool in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and 
         FIG.  6    illustrates a flowchart showing the method of scrubbing hard calluses and dead skin off the bottom of feet using one potential embodiment of the foot scrubber device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION 
     The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined. 
     As noted above, there is a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that provides users with a scrubbing system for the bottom of feet, allowing users to apply the scrubbing pads to an oscillating power tool for easy filing. There is also a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that allows users to attach the triangular scrubbing pads to the tool head via hook and loop fasteners. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that enables users to activate the tool head and apply the scrubbing pad to feet, automatically filing and sanding the bottom of feet with minimal physical effort required. Moreover, there is a long-felt need in the art for a device that features several adjustable speeds for the tool and different sizes of scrubbing pads to accommodate all user needs and preferences. Further, there is a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubber device that maintains clean, smooth, and healthy feet without having to manually file and apply scrubbers. Finally, there is a long-felt need in the art for a foot scrubbing device that minimizes the effort required to maintain clean and healthy feet. 
     The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is a novel foot scrubber device. The device is a multipurpose foot scrubber tool that can be adapted to an oscillating power tool. The device comprises a domed, triangular-shaped head component with a hook and loop fastener component on its rear side, which allows the device to stick to a power tool head. The device can have adjustable speeds based on the power tool used. Further, the head components can vary in size for different size feet. The present invention also includes a novel method of scrubbing hard calluses and dead skin off the bottom of feet. The method includes the steps of providing a foot scrubber device comprising a head component with a securing means attached to a rear side. The method also comprises choosing a specific shape and size of the head component, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Further, the method comprises positioning the head component on a head of an oscillating power tool via the securing means. Finally, the method comprises turning on the power tool and using the device to scrub hard calluses and dead skin off the bottom of feet. 
     Referring initially to the drawings,  FIG.  1    illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the foot scrubber device  100  of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the foot scrubber device  100  is an improved foot scrubber device  100  that is effective at scrubbing hard calluses and dead skin on the bottom of feet. Specifically, the device  100  comprises a head component  102  adapted to be secured to an oscillating power tool  104  during use. 
     In use, the foot scrubber device  100  disclosed herein is designed to be placed upon an oscillating power tool  104  and to be used primarily by users having difficulty manually applying a foot file to exfoliate, file, and loofah their feet  108 . Users  106  would choose the size of head component  102  needed and would secure it to an oscillating power tool head  104 . Users  106  would then activate the power tool  104  at a desired speed for scrubbing and filing the bottom of feet  108 . Once the foot scrubber device  100  is securely placed on the oscillating power tool head  104 , a user  106  can sit and easily and quickly remove hard calluses and dead skin from the bottoms of their feet  108  by rubbing their feet  108  over a plurality of perforations  110  on the outer surface  112  of the head component  102  of the foot scrubber device  100 . Thus, the device  100  replaces standard manual scrubbers or loofas, minimizing the effort required to maintain clean and healthy feet  108 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  2 - 3   , the foot scrubber device  100  comprises a head component  102  comprising an outer surface  112 , a rear surface  200 , and side edges  202 . Additionally, the head component  102  can be triangular-shaped or any other suitable shape as is known in the art, such as square, rectangular, oval, or circular, etc., depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Further, the outer surface  112  can be domed  204  and/or contoured to substantially conform to the contour of a person&#39;s foot  108 . The head component  102  is also designed and dimensioned to accommodate either foot  108 , the right foot or the left foot, of a user  106 . Further, the head component  102  can be manufactured in various sizes for different size feet  108 , depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. 
     Further, the head component  102  is preferably constructed of a resilient material such as stainless steel, however, other suitable materials can be used as well, such as synthetic materials, including, but not limited to, polycarbonate, polyethylene, ABS, PVC, etc., or any other suitable materials as is known in the art. 
     Additionally, the head component  102  on its outer surface  112 , incorporates a plurality of perforations  110  or through-holes. In this embodiment, the perforations  110  or through-holes comprise a sharp edge  206  around a periphery  208  of each through-hole or perforation  110 . In one embodiment, the plurality of perforations  110  are formed at the same time the head component  102  is molded. In another embodiment, the head component  102  can include a plurality of perforations  110  which are typically formed by a drilling tool or other device after the head component  102  is formed. 
     In one embodiment, the head component  102  is formed via die stamping or other die manufacturing, molding, etc. In this embodiment, the foot scrubber device  100  can also be manufactured such that the head component  102  is hollow. Further, because of the one-piece seamless construction, the device  100  is less likely than other loofa/filing brushes to mold/mildew or break. The seamless construction also eliminates bonds and glues that can separate and deteriorate. Further, the seamless construction allows for quick draining and drying after cleaning. Additionally, the sizes, weight, and material of the device  100  allow for cleaning in the dishwasher or hand washing if necessary. 
     Further, the rear surface  200  of the head component  102  comprises a securing means  210  which secures to a head of an oscillating power tool  104 . The securing means  210  can be any suitable securing means as is known in the art, such as hook and loop fasteners  212 , screws, bolts, snaps, etc., or any other suitable securing means as is known in the art, to prevent the device  100  from slipping from the oscillating power tool  104  during use. 
     In one embodiment, the oscillating power tool  104  can be a power sander tool or isolator tool, or any other suitable tool as is known in the art, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Additionally, the device  100  can have adjustable speeds, based on the power tool  104  used. Generally, the device  100  is secured to a head of the oscillating power tool  104  but can be secured to any suitable part of the oscillating power tool  104  as is known in the art, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. 
     Furthermore, the head component  102  is lightweight and un-flexible so the plurality of perforations  110  on the outer surface  112  can be washed and dried. Further, the rear surface  200  can be affixed to a suitable surface for quick drying and storage. In use, the rear surface  200  can be held in a hand and/or affixed to an oscillating power tool  104 , and the outer surface  112 , with its perforations  110 , can be manipulated around and across the feet  108 , other body parts and other accepting even or uneven surfaces. 
     As shown in  FIG.  4   , the head component  102  of the device  100  includes a detachable resilient section  400  that has an upper surface  402  and a lower surface  404 . The upper surface  402  includes a plurality of perforations  110  and the lower surface  404  includes an attachment means  406  that allows the resilient section  400  to be easily and periodically removed from the head component  102  for cleaning. 
     Furthermore, in order to facilitate greater ease of use and to assist in cleaning the foot scrubber device  100 , the lower surface  404  of the head component  102  is removably attached by an attachment means  406  to the upper surface  402  of the head component  102 . The attachment means  406  can consist of an adhesive or a combination of male and female detents, or any other suitable attachment means as is known in the art, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. When the lower surface  404  is detached, both the resilient section  400  and the head component  102  can be individually washed as needed. 
     As shown in  FIG.  5   , the un-flexibility and weight (lb. per device  100 ) allows for mountability and portability. The foot scrubber device  100 , via the securing means  210  on the rear surface  200 , can adhere to any oscillating power tool head  104 . Thus, once in place, almost anything can be rubbed against the plurality of perforations  110  for filing, cleaning, and exfoliating. This allows for easier use than typical manual manipulation. 
     Further, the foot scrubber device  100 , due to its size and weight, can be easily relocated and even traveled with. Further, the foot scrubber device  100  can be manufactured in multiple sizes and shapes depending on the needs and/or wants of a user and depending on the different size feet  108  being cleaned/exfoliated. 
     Additionally, the foot scrubber device  100  comprises a plurality of indicia  500 . The head component  102  of the device  100  may include advertising, trademark, or other letters, designs, or characters, printed, painted, stamped, or integrated into the head component  102 , or any other indicia  500  as is known in the art. Specifically, any suitable indicia  500  as is known in the art can be included, such as, but not limited to, patterns, logos, emblems, images, symbols, designs, letters, words, characters, animals, advertisements, brands, etc., that may or may not be foot, scrubbing/filing, or brand related. 
       FIG.  6    illustrates a flowchart of the method of scrubbing hard calluses and dead skin off the bottom of feet. The method includes the steps of at  600 , providing a foot scrubber device comprising a head component with a securing means attached to a rear side. The method also comprises at  602 , choosing a specific shape and size of the head component, depending on the needs and/or wants of a user. Further, the method comprises at  604 , positioning the head component on a head of an oscillating power tool via the securing means. Finally, the method comprises at  606 , turning on the power tool and using the device to scrub hard calluses and dead skin off the bottom of feet. 
     Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different users may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “foot scrubber device”, “scrubber device”, “foot device”, and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the foot scrubber device  100  of the present invention. 
     Notwithstanding the foregoing, the foot scrubber device  100  of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the foot scrubber device  100  as shown in  FIGS.  1 - 6    are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the foot scrubber device  100  are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the foot scrubber device  100  are important design parameters for user convenience, the foot scrubber device  100  may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user&#39;s needs and/or preferences. 
     Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof. 
     What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.