Patent Publication Number: US-10307032-B2

Title: Cleansing apparatus and systems

Description:
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. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order that the advantages of the invention will be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a diagram of one embodiment of a cleansing apparatus; 
         FIG. 2  is a diagram of an embodiment of a cleansing apparatus comprising a spring system; 
         FIG. 3  is a diagram of another embodiment of a cleansing apparatus comprising an attachment/spring system and one or more cavities; 
         FIG. 4  is a diagram of one embodiment of a cleansing apparatus comprising an attachment/spring system and a reservoir for holding a cleansing substance 
         FIG. 5  is a diagram of one embodiment of an attachment/spring system in a disengaged position; and 
         FIG. 6  is a diagram of the embodiment of the attachment/spring system of  FIG. 5  in an engaged position. 
     
    
    
     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. 1  is a diagram of one embodiment of a cleansing apparatus  100 . At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  100  comprises an outer perimeter  105  defining an enclosed area  110  for cleaning various surfaces. 
     Outer perimeter  105 , in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus  100 . In one embodiment, outer perimeter  105  includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus  100 . For example, outer perimeter  105  may 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 perimeter  105  comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter  105  includes 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 perimeter  105  and within enclosed area  110  is a pattern of ribs  115  and ribs  120  that form one or more apertures  125  comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  100  comprises a plurality of ribs  115  forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs  120  forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures  125 . In other embodiments, ribs  115  and ribs  120  are formed to create a plurality of apertures  125  with a honeycomb shape or the like shape. 
     Furthermore, apertures  125  may 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 device  100  when in use. That is, apertures  125  may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures  125  are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures  125  include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures  125  include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture  125  includes a different size. 
     Outer perimeter  105 , in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)  115  and rib(s)  120  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  105  (e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus  100 ). Similarly, aperture(s)  125  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  105 . 
     In the various embodiments, outer perimeter  105  includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus  100 . That is, outer perimeter  105  may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter  105  includes 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 perimeter  105  includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter  105  includes 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 apparatus  100  (e.g., outer perimeter  105 , enclosed area  110 , and/or ribs  115 / 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 apparatus  100  is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus  100  comprises 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 apparatus  100  dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus  100  is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements. 
     Cleansing apparatus  100  may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  100  comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus  100  comprises two or more colors. 
     In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  100  is 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 apparatus  100 . 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 ribs  115 / 120  may 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 apparatus  100 . 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 to  FIG. 2 ,  FIG. 2  is a diagram of another embodiment of a cleansing apparatus  200 . At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  200  comprises an outer perimeter  205  defining an enclosed area  210  similar to outer perimeter  105  and enclosed area  210  in  FIG. 1  and further comprising a spring system  230  and an inner perimeter  250 . 
     Outer perimeter  205 , in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus  200 . In one embodiment, outer perimeter  205  includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus  200 . For example, outer perimeter  205  may 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 perimeter  205  comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter  205  includes 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 perimeter  205  and within enclosed area  210  is a pattern of ribs  215  and ribs that form one or more apertures  225  comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  200  comprises a plurality of ribs  215  forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs  220  forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures  225 . In other embodiments, ribs  215  and ribs  220  are formed to create a plurality of apertures  225  with a honeycomb shape and the like shape. 
     Furthermore, apertures  225  may 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 device  200  when in use. That is, apertures  225  may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures  225  are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures  225  include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures  225  include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture  225  includes a different size. 
     Outer perimeter  205 , in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)  215  and rib(s)  220  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  205  (e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus  200 ). Similarly, aperture(s)  225  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  205 . 
     In the various embodiments, outer perimeter  205  includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus  200 . That is, outer perimeter  205  may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter  205  includes 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 perimeter  205  includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter  205  includes 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 perimeter  205  further comprises a curved portion  228  configured to facilitate the formation and function of spring system  230 . Spring system  230  comprises a platform portion  231 , an aperture  232 , and channels  233 ,  234 , and/or  235 . 
     Platform portion  231  is configured for coupling spring system  230  to the other portions of cleansing apparatus  200  and for providing a stable base upon which to engage spring system  230 . Aperture  232  is configured for coupling an attachment mechanism (e.g., a suction cup, a hook, hook and loop tape, a clip, a fastener, etc.) to spring system  230 . 
     Channels  233 ,  234 , and/or  235  form the loop(s) of a spring and are flexible such that the portions of spring system  230  proximate to channels  233 ,  234 , and/or  235  are able to extend above/beyond platform portion  231  when spring system  230  is engaged and flexibly return substantially flush with platform portion  231  when spring system  230  is not engage or disengaged. While spring system  230  is shown with channels  233 ,  234 , and  235 , spring system  230  is not limited to this configuration. That is, spring system  230  may include any number of channels. In other words, spring system  230  includes one or more channels to create a spring. 
     Spring system  230 , in various embodiments, is formed of the same material as cleansing apparatus  200  such that spring system  230  and the other portions of cleansing apparatus  200  are and/or form a single unit. In other embodiments, spring system  230  may be formed of a different material than cleansing apparatus  200  such that spring system  230  and the other portions of cleansing apparatus  200  are different pieces coupled together to form a single unit. 
     In various embodiments, internal perimeter  250  is coupled to a membrane  241  to 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. Membrane  241  also blocks a portion of aperture(s)  225  to provide a container to help capture dispensed soap. 
     Cleansing apparatus  200  (e.g., outer perimeter  205 , enclosed area  210 , ribs  215 / 220 , spring system  230 , and/or inner perimeter  250 ) comprises any material known in the art or developed in the future that is non-absorbent and/or anti-bacterial. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  200  is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus  200  comprises 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 apparatus  100  dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus  200  is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements. 
     Cleansing apparatus  200  may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  200  comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus  200  comprises two or more colors. 
     In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  200  is 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 apparatus  200 . 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 ribs  215 / 220  may 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 apparatus  200 . 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 to  FIG. 3 ,  FIG. 3  is a diagram of another embodiment of a cleansing apparatus  300 . At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  300  comprises an outer perimeter  305  defining an enclosed area  310 , a spring system  330 , and an inner perimeter  350  similar to outer perimeters  105 / 205  defining enclosed areas  110 / 210 , spring systems  130 / 230 , and inner perimeter  350  in  FIGS. 1 and/or 2 . As further illustrated in  FIG. 3 , cleansing apparatus  300  comprises an attachment mechanism  340  and filled area(s)  345  and  351  coupled to the other portions of cleansing apparatus  300 . 
     Outer perimeter  305 , in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus  300 . In one embodiment, outer perimeter  305  includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus  300 . For example, outer perimeter  305  may 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 perimeter  350 . 
     In various embodiments, outer perimeter  305  comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter  305  includes 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 perimeter  350 . 
     Coupled to outer perimeter  305  and within enclosed area  310  is a pattern of ribs  315  and ribs  320  that form one or more apertures  325  comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  300  comprises a plurality of ribs  315  forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs  320  forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures  325 . In other embodiments, ribs  315  and ribs  320  are formed to create a plurality of apertures  325  with a honeycomb shape and the like shape. 
     Furthermore, apertures  325  may 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 device  300  when in use. That is, apertures  325  may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures  325  are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures  325  include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture  325  includes a different size. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 3 , enclosed area comprises one or more filled areas  345  and  351 . Filled area(s)  345  and  351  may 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)  345  and  351  are formed similar to apertures  345 , but are filled and/or partially filled with the same material and/or a different material as the other portions of cleansing apparatus  300 . 
     In various embodiments, filled area(s)  345  and  351  may form any pattern and/or shape that increases the cleaning surface area of cleansing apparatus  300 . Furthermore, though  FIG. 3  illustrates that filled areas  345  and  351  are all adjacent/proximate to one another and define a single filled and/or partially filled location, other embodiments include filled areas  345  oriented in locations non-adjacent to each other and define multiple filled and/or partially filled locations. 
     In one embodiment, filled areas  345  and  351  are all fully filled. In another embodiment, filled areas  345  and  351  are all partially filled. In yet another embodiment, at least one filled area  345  and  351  are fully filled and at least one filled area  345  is partially filled. 
     Filled area  351  provides 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 areas  345  and  351  also block a portion of apertures  325  to provide a container to help capture dispensed soap. 
     Outer perimeter  305 , in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)  315  and rib(s)  320  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  305  (e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus  300 ). Similarly, aperture(s)  325  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  305 . 
     In the various embodiments, outer perimeter  305  includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus  300 . That is, outer perimeter  305  may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter  305  includes 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 perimeter  305  includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter  305  includes 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 perimeter  305  further comprises a curved portion  325  configured to facilitate the formation and function of a spring system  330 . Spring system  330 , in various embodiments, is formed of the same material as cleansing apparatus  300  such that spring system  330  and the other portions of cleansing apparatus  300  are and/or form a single unit. In other embodiments, spring system  330  may be formed of a different material than cleansing apparatus  300  such that spring system  330  and the other portions of cleansing apparatus  300  are different pieces coupled together to form a single unit. Coupled to spring system  330  is attachment mechanism  340 . 
     Attachment mechanism  340  may 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 apparatus  300  to a foreign surface. 
     Cleansing apparatus  300  (e.g., outer perimeter  305 , enclosed area  310 , ribs  315 / 320 , spring system  330 , filled area(s)  345 / 351  and/or inner perimeter  350 ) comprises any material known in the art or developed in the future that is non-absorbent and/or anti-bacterial. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  300  is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus  300  comprises 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 apparatus  100  dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus  300  is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements. 
     Cleansing apparatus  300  may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  300  comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus  300  comprises two or more colors. 
     In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  300  is 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 apparatus  300 . 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 ribs  315 / 320  may 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 apparatus  300 . 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 to  FIG. 4 ,  FIG. 4  is a diagram of one embodiment of a cleansing apparatus  400 . At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  400  comprises an outer perimeter  405  defining an enclosed area  410 , a spring system  430 , and an attachment mechanism  440  similar to perimeters  105 / 205 / 305  defining enclosed areas  110 / 210 / 310  in  FIGS. 1-3  and spring systems  230 / 330  in  FIGS. 2-3  and attachment mechanism  340  in  FIG. 3 . As further illustrated in  FIG. 4 , cleansing apparatus  400  comprises one or more cavities  450  capable of housing/holding one or more bowled/cupped reservoirs  455  coupled to the other portions of cleansing apparatus  400 . 
     Outer perimeter  405 , in various embodiments, comprises any shape suitable for enabling a user to utilize cleansing apparatus  400 . In one embodiment, outer perimeter  405  includes an ergonomic shape to enable a user to easily grip cleansing apparatus  400 . For example, outer perimeter  405  may 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 perimeter  405  comprises a whimsical shape. That is, outer perimeter  405  includes 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 perimeter  405  and within enclosed area  410  is a pattern of ribs  415  and ribs  420  that form one or more apertures  425  comprising any type of pattern and/or shape known in the art or developed in the future. At least in the illustrated embodiment, cleansing apparatus  400  comprises a plurality of ribs  415  forming a plurality of rows and a plurality of ribs  420  forming a plurality of columns creating a plurality of box-shaped apertures  425 . In other embodiments, ribs  415  and ribs  420  are formed to create a plurality of apertures  425  with a honeycomb shape. 
     Furthermore, apertures  425  may comprise any dimensions that enable material (e.g., a liquid, soap, etc.) to transport from one side to the other side of cleansing device  400  when in use. That is, apertures  425  may be relatively small apertures up to and including large apertures. In various embodiments, apertures  425  are all the same size. In other embodiments, at least two apertures  425  include different sizes. In still other embodiments, three or more apertures include different sizes. In yet other embodiments, each aperture  425  includes a different size. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , enclosed area comprises one or more cavities  450  for housing/holding one or more reservoirs  455  to 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)  455  include a cupped and/or bowled shape to store the cleansing material and/or to dispense the cleansing material during the use of cleansing apparatus  400 . Reservoirs  455 , 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 in  FIG. 4  illustrates reservoir  455  as being a separate entity from cleansing apparatus  400 . Other embodiments include reservoir(s)  455  being fully integrated and/or forming a portion of cleansing apparatus  400  (e.g., enclosed area  410 ) itself. 
     While  FIG. 4  illustrates a single cavity  450  and a single reservoir  455 , cleansing apparatus  400  is not limited to this embodiment. Moreover, while  FIG. 4  illustrates cavity  450  and reservoir  455  in a particular location, cleansing apparatus  400  is not limited to this embodiment. That is, cleansing apparatus  400  may include a plurality of cavities  450  and reservoirs  455  and each cavity  450  and each reservoir  455  may be located anywhere within enclosed area  410 . 
     Outer perimeter  405 , in various embodiments, includes a height/depth in the range of about 0.25 inches to about 1.0 inch. Here, rib(s)  415  and rib(s)  420  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  405  (e.g., from a top side to a bottom side of cleaning apparatus  400 ). Similarly, aperture(s)  425  extend the entire height/depth of outer perimeter  405 . 
     In the various embodiments, outer perimeter  405  includes any size area that is practical enough to enable to human to effectively and/or efficiently utilize cleansing apparatus  400 . That is, outer perimeter  405  may include any practical dimensions formed from any length and width, circumference/diameter/radius, base and height, and the like dimensions. In one embodiment, outer perimeter  405  includes 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 perimeter  405  includes a diameter in the range of about 2.0 inches to about 6.0 inches. In yet another embodiment (e.g., a triangle), outer perimeter  405  includes 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 perimeter  405  further comprises a curved portion  425  configured to facilitate the formation and function of a spring system  430 . Spring system  430 , in various embodiments, is formed of the same material as cleansing apparatus  400  such that spring system  430  and the other portions of cleansing apparatus  400  are and/or form a single unit. In other embodiments, spring system  430  may be formed of a different material than cleansing apparatus  400  such that spring system  430  and the other portions of cleansing apparatus  400  are different pieces coupled together to form a single unit. Coupled to spring system  430  is attachment mechanism  440 . 
     Attachment mechanism  440  may 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 apparatus  400  to a foreign surface. 
     Cleansing apparatus  400  (e.g., outer perimeter  405 , enclosed area  410 , ribs  415 / 420 , spring system  430 , each cavity  450  and/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 apparatus  400  is comprised of silicon. In an aspect of this embodiment, the silicon is flexible and/or substantially non-rigid in nature. In various embodiments, cleansing apparatus  400  comprises 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 apparatus  100  dishwasher and washing machine safe. Cleansing apparatus  400  is also ozone safe and ultra violet safe if left outside and/or exposed to the elements. 
     Cleansing apparatus  400  may include any color known in the art or developed in the future. In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  400  comprises a single color. In other embodiments, cleansing apparatus  400  comprises two or more colors. 
     In one embodiment, cleansing apparatus  400  is 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 apparatus  400 . 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 ribs  415 / 420  may 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 apparatus  400 . 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. 5  is a diagram of one embodiment of spring system  230  with attachment mechanism  340 / 440  in a disengaged position. In this embodiment, attachment mechanism  340 / 440  is a suction cup housed within aperture  232 . In the disengaged position, the top of attachment mechanism  340 / 440  is at or below the plane or level of enclosed area  210  proximate to curved portion  428 . Furthermore, the portions of platform portion  231  forming the coils of the spring are retracted and channels  233 ,  234 , and  235  are substantially uniform in depth. 
       FIG. 6  is a diagram of the embodiment of spring system  230  with attachment mechanism  340 / 440  in an engaged position. Here, the top portion of attachment mechanism  340 / 440  extends beyond the plane of enclosed area  210  and the portions of platform portion  231  forming the coils of the spring are extended and channels  233 ,  234 , and  235  no longer include a uniform depth. Furthermore, the suction force of attachment mechanism  340 / 440  is greater than the spring force of spring system  230  such that cleansing apparatus  200  stays attached to the foreign surface. In this manner, cleansing apparatus  200  (and apparatus  300 / 400 ) is capable of being attached to a foreign surface (e.g., a vertical surface) via attachment mechanism  2340 / 440  so that the cleaning surfaces (e.g., enclosed areas  210 / 310 / 410 ) do not rest on a surface that potentially includes water and/or bacteria when cleansing apparatus  200  is 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.