US20070077113A1 - Footwear care system - Google Patents
Footwear care system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070077113A1 US20070077113A1 US11/459,874 US45987406A US2007077113A1 US 20070077113 A1 US20070077113 A1 US 20070077113A1 US 45987406 A US45987406 A US 45987406A US 2007077113 A1 US2007077113 A1 US 2007077113A1
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- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- footwear
- care system
- spreader
- digger
- brush
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L23/00—Cleaning footwear
- A47L23/04—Hand implements for shoe-cleaning, with or without applicators for shoe polish
- A47L23/05—Hand implements for shoe-cleaning, with or without applicators for shoe polish with applicators for shoe polish
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B15/00—Other brushes; Brushes with additional arrangements
- A46B15/0055—Brushes combined with other articles normally separate from the brushing process, e.g. combs, razors, mirrors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B15/00—Other brushes; Brushes with additional arrangements
- A46B15/0055—Brushes combined with other articles normally separate from the brushing process, e.g. combs, razors, mirrors
- A46B15/0081—Brushes with a scraper, e.g. tongue scraper
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B11/00—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water
- A46B11/001—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs
- A46B11/0013—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water with integral reservoirs dispensing by gravity or by shaking
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B11/00—Brushes with reservoir or other means for applying substances, e.g. paints, pastes, water
- A46B11/0072—Details
- A46B11/0079—Arrangements for preventing undesired leakage or dispensing
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
- A46B2200/30—Brushes for cleaning or polishing
- A46B2200/306—Shoe cleaning or polishing brush
Definitions
- the present inventions relate to footwear and, more particularly, relate to footwear care systems.
- a care system can be used to clean and/or apply material to a surface.
- the care system is a wearing apparel care system that is a portable, handheld system that can be used to clean footwear.
- the care system can comprise a brush apparatus, a digger, and an applicator system.
- the applicator system can be configured to apply material, such as a fluid, paste, or gel on a surface.
- a footwear care system comprises a body, a brush apparatus, an applicator system, and a digger.
- the brush apparatus, the applicator system and the digger are mounted to the body.
- the brush apparatus comprises a plurality of bristles that extend outwardly away from a brush head.
- the brush head is mounted to the body.
- the digger is an elongated member that extends outwardly from the body.
- the digger is configured to remove material from the sole of the footwear.
- the applicator system comprises a removable cap attached to the body.
- the applicator system also comprises a spreader and a valve system configured to regulate the flow of material, which is contained within the body to the spreader.
- the applicator system is positioned along the body between the brush apparatus and the digger.
- the spreader can extend outwardly from the body and can surround the valve system.
- the spreader comprises one or more of the following: a sponge, an absorbent member, a pad, or other structure for spreading material.
- a footwear care system comprises a brush apparatus and a digger.
- the brush apparatus includes a plurality of brush elements connected to a brush head.
- the digger is an elongated member that terminates at a tip.
- the digger is dimensioned so as to fit within a feature (e.g., groove) of a sole of footwear.
- the digger is rigid and does not noticeably deflect when scraping off mud that has dried on the sole of the footwear.
- the brush apparatus and the digger are at opposing ends of the footwear care system.
- a footwear care system comprises an elongated body that is connected to a brush apparatus and a digger.
- the body has a generally ellipsoidal shape as viewed from above.
- the brush apparatus has a generally circular body as viewed from above.
- the digger is positioned somewhat along the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. In some embodiments, the digger gradually tapers and terminates at a tip.
- a footwear care system comprises a digger, an applicator system configured to dispense selectively fluid contained within a body, and a brush.
- the digger and the applicator system can be mounted to the body, which comprises a tank suitable for holding fluid.
- the digger can be an elongated pick member sufficiently rigid to dislodge material caught within tread of a shoe.
- the digger is a curved structure that terminates at a somewhat blunt tip.
- the applicator system comprises a valve system and a spreader.
- the valve system can be actuated between a first position and a second position. When the valve system occupies the first position, fluid is not dispensed from the tank. When the valve system occupies the second position, fluid is dispensed from the tank.
- the spreader is attached to a lower portion of the body and comprises an absorbent member. In some embodiments, the spreader surrounds a portion of the valve system such that fluid dispensed from the valve system is absorbed by the spreader when the spreader, is placed upon footwear.
- a brush system comprises a brush apparatus, a pick, and an applicator.
- Each of the brush apparatus, the applicator, and the pick is mounted to a body of the brush system configured to hold fluid.
- the brush apparatus comprises a brush head that extends outwardly from the body.
- a plurality of brushing members is connected to the brush head.
- the applicator can be operated to dispense selectively fluid contained within the body.
- the applicator comprises a spreader that is temporarily or permanently attached to the body.
- the pick is a generally rigid member that extends outwardly from the body.
- an apparatus for leaning and/or applying material to footwear apparel includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end.
- the first end includes a brush and the second end includes a prong.
- An application system is positioned at least partially within the body between the first end and the second end.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a footwear care system.
- FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the footwear care system of FIG. 1 .
- FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate embodiments of diggers for footwear care systems.
- FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the footwear care system of FIG. 1 , a cap for covering an applicator system has been removed.
- FIG. 4 is a top elevational view of the footwear care system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a bottom elevational view of the footwear care system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is a bottom elevational view of the footwear care system of FIG. 1 , a cap for covering an applicator system has been removed.
- FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the footwear care system of FIG. 1 having a cap removed.
- FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the footwear care system of FIG. 1 taken along line 8 - 8 of FIG. 4 .
- FIG. 9 is a side-elevational view of a tank system and a valve system extending therefrom.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a valve system of a footwear care system.
- FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the valve system of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve system of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 1 illustrates a footwear care system 40 that can be used to care for footwear.
- the footwear care system 40 is a portable, handheld system that can be used to clean footwear and/or apply material to footwear.
- footwear is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and includes, without limitation, shoes, boots, sandals, and other wearing apparel for the feet.
- care systems are primarily described as employed for caring for footwear, the care systems can be used in other applications.
- care system similar to the footwear care system 40 can be used on furniture, wearing apparel, automobiles, and the like.
- the footwear care systems can be utilized in various applications.
- the footwear care system 40 comprises an elongated body 46 , a brush apparatus 50 , an applicator system 58 , and a digger 70 .
- the body 46 can form a handle 53 that can be conveniently and comfortably gripped by a user.
- the footwear care system 40 is preferably sized and configured to fit easily into a hand of a user. As such, a user can manually clean footwear with the footwear care system 40 . In some embodiment, the cleaned footwear may then be suitable for wearing indoors.
- One or more of the brush apparatus 50 , the applicator system 58 , and the digger 70 can be coupled permanently or temporarily to the body 46 . In other embodiments, one or more of these components (or portions thereof) can be integrally formed with the body 46 .
- the brush apparatus 50 and the digger 70 can be positioned at opposing ends of the body 46 .
- the applicator system 58 can be positioned at some point along the body 46 , preferably between the brush apparatus 50 and the digger 70 .
- the user can hold the handle 53 to utilize one or more of the brush apparatus 50 , the applicator system 58 , and the digger 70 .
- the footwear care system 40 can be used for one or more of the following treatments: cleaning, applying material to footwear, scraping of material, and combinations thereof.
- the body 46 can be configured to hold material that can be controllably dispensed by the applicator system 58 .
- the body 46 can comprise a reservoir or other storage structure for holding material.
- the material can be treatment materials (such as waterproofing material), conditioner (e.g., footwear conditioner, leather conditioner, etc.), cleaners, polisher, or other footcare products.
- the brush apparatus 50 can comprise a brush head 52 and a plurality of cleaning elements 60 extending from the brush head 52 .
- the brush head 52 can be integrally coupled to the body 46 .
- the brush head 52 can extend laterally from the body 46 .
- the brush head 52 can extend somewhat horizontally from the body 46 .
- the brush head 52 is somewhat angled vertically from a central horizontal plane extending through the elongated body 46 .
- the cleaning elements 60 are directed away from the applicator system 58 .
- the brush apparatus 50 can be used to brush off material without interference from the digger 70 , or the applicator system 58 .
- the orientation and the position of the brush head 52 can be selected depending on the intended use of the footwear care system 40 .
- the brush head 52 can have a somewhat circular shape as viewed from above.
- the brush head 52 can have any shape suitable for holding cleaning elements 60 .
- the brush head 52 can have a generally polygonal, elliptical, or other suitable shape.
- the illustrated brush head 52 is permanently coupled to the body 46 .
- the brush head 52 and the body 46 can be formed monolithically by a molding process (e.g., an injection molding process), machining process, or other manufacturing process.
- the brush head 52 can be removably mounted to the body 46 .
- the brush head 52 can be attached to the body 46 by mechanical fasteners, snap fittings, or the like. As such, the brush head 52 can be removed and/or replaced as desired.
- one or more cleaning elements 60 can be attached to the brush head 52 and can be used to clean footwear.
- the cleaning elements 60 can comprise bristles, hairs, wires, prongs, or other suitable elongated members for brushing.
- the illustrated brush apparatus 50 comprises cleaning elements 60 in the form of bristles that are closely spaced together to form a somewhat densely packed arrangement.
- the bristles can comprise natural (e.g., hair) or synthetic materials (e.g., plastics, polymers, and the like), metal, and the like.
- the upper end 70 of the cleaning elements 60 are preferably permanently mounted to the brushing head 52 .
- Opposing ends 72 of the cleaning elements 60 can be used to brush off material from footwear.
- the digger 70 is configured to clean footwear.
- the digger 70 is configured to clean portions of footwear that may or may not be effectively cleaned with the brush apparatus 50 .
- a user can therefore select and use the digger 70 or the brush apparatus 50 based on the portion of the footwear to be cleaned.
- Exemplary diggers can be used to clean along grooves, channels, projections, recesses, texturing, crevices, small holes, and other structures of footware.
- the digger 70 may be able to clean more effectively these structures as compared to a brush.
- the digger 70 and the brush apparatus 50 can be used in combination to clean, e.g., a sole of footwear.
- the digger 70 has a digger body 80 that extends laterally from the elongated body 46 of the footwear care system 40 .
- the digger body 80 then curves downwardly and terminates at a tip 86 .
- the digger body 80 is preferably rigidly coupled to the body 46 of the footwear care system 40 and can be generally rigid.
- the digger 70 can be sufficiently rigid for scraping dried mud from the soles of a boot.
- the digger 70 can be used to scrap off tar, gum, and the like without appreciably deflecting.
- the stiffness of the digger 70 can selected to minimize or limit bending of the digger 70 .
- the digger 70 can comprise one or more of the following materials: metal (e.g., steel, and its alloys, aluminum), plastics including rigid plastics, polymers, and the like. In some embodiments, a plurality of materials can be used to form the digger.
- the body 80 can comprise plastic (e.g., a plastic having a generally high modulus of elasticity) that surrounds a reinforcing member, preferably made of metal, extending through the body 80 .
- the digger body 80 can gradually taper outwardly from the body 46 to form the tip 86 .
- the tip 86 can be sized and dimensioned to fit into the tread formed by the sole of footwear. In some embodiments, the tip 86 can be inserted into grooves, between projections, along seams, and the like of footwear to dislodge material.
- the tip 86 may or may not be gradually tapered and can form a sharp or blunt tip.
- the illustrated body 80 can form a somewhat hook-shaped pick.
- the footwear care system 40 can have any number of diggers 70 .
- exemplary footwear care systems can comprise a plurality of diggers.
- each digger can have a different size and configuration.
- one digger can be used to clean some portions of a shoe while another digger can be used to clean another portion of the footwear.
- the footwear care system 40 can comprise diggers that are configured to clean different portions of the footwear.
- exemplary footwear care systems can also comprise a plurality of diggers having a similar size and configuration as each other.
- FIGS. 2A through 2C illustrate various types of diggers that can be employed. These diggers are similar to the digger 70 , except as detailed below.
- FIG. 2A illustrates an elongated digger 100 that is generally straight. The digger 100 terminates at a somewhat blunt tip 102 . The blunt tip 102 is generally rounded to minimize damage to footwear. The digger 100 is especially well suited to clean out holes (e.g., lace holes) of footwear.
- FIG. 2B illustrates a digger 106 that is a relatively thin and configured to clean between small features of footwear.
- the digger 106 can comprise a wire made out of metal or plastic, although the digger 106 can comprise other materials.
- the digger 106 can be used for detailed cleaning, digging, prying, and the like.
- FIG. 2C illustrates a digger 108 comprising a body 110 and a brush system 112 .
- the brush system 112 is mounted to the body 110 and can comprise a plurality of bristles.
- the digger 108 can be used to dig out material and can also be used to brush off accumulated material (e.g., dirt) from footwear.
- the digger 108 may be used to brush portions of footwear that may not be adequately cleaned by the brush apparatus 50 .
- the brush 112 of the digger 108 can be used to brush off relatively small features (e.g., narrow grooves, small tread, small protrusions, etc.) of the footwear.
- Exemplary diggers can comprise one or more of the following: a pick, hook, a shaft, and combinations thereof.
- the applicator system 58 can be positioned at a lower portion of the body 46 .
- an applicator cap 110 surrounds and protects the components of the applicator system 58 .
- the applicator cap 110 can be removed from the body 46 (see FIGS. 3, 6 , and 7 ) to expose a spreader 120 .
- the spreader 120 can be conveniently used to apply a coating of material footwear, such as a boot. The material can protect and prolong the life of the footwear, enhance the appearance the footwear, and otherwise treat the footwear as desired.
- the applicator system 58 can comprise a valve system 140 that is at least partially surrounded by the spreader 120 .
- the valve system 140 and the spreader 120 can be used in combination to deliver material held within the body 46 onto footwear.
- the spreader 120 can be used to apply, e.g., waterproofing material, polish, conditioner, cleaners, and other footwear care materials.
- the material applied by the spreader 120 can be a liquid, gel, paste, or other spreadable material that can be stored in the body 46 , although the material may not be stored in the body 46 .
- the spreader can be used to pick up material stored in a separate container.
- the spreader 120 is attached to a bottom mounting structure 140 of the body 46 .
- the mounting structure 140 is configured to hold the spreader 120 .
- the spreader 120 can be a sponge, absorbent member, pad, or other suitable or structure for spreading material, preferably released from the body 46 .
- the spreader 120 is an open-celled foam member that can absorb liquid released from the body 46 .
- the spreaders 120 can have a generally elliptical profile.
- the spreader 120 can have any other suitable shape for engaging footwear.
- any number of spreaders 120 can be positioned along the footwear care system 40 .
- a plurality of spreaders can be mounted to one or more portions of the body 46 .
- the spreader 120 can have one or more holes or passageway 146 for facilitating the delivery material onto a surface.
- the illustrated spreader 120 has a single passageway 146 .
- the passageway 146 can surround at least a portion of the valve assembly 140 .
- An actuator 410 of the valve assembly 140 can be centrally disposed through at least a portion of passage 146 .
- the valve assembly 140 can be operated to dispense selectively material contained within the body 46 into the passageway 146 .
- the material dispensed by the valve system 140 can be captured between the surface of the footwear and the walls of the passageway 146 .
- the spreader 120 can then absorb and spread the material along the surface of the footwear.
- the valve assembly 140 and the spreader 120 can cooperate to apply effectively material in a controlled manner.
- the spreader 120 is spaced from the brush apparatus 50 and the digger 170 , and is positioned on the opposite side of the body 46 as the handle 53 . In the illustrated embodiment, the spreader 120 is medially disposed along the body 46 . As such, a user can use the brush apparatus 50 to clean footwear without contacting the footwear with the spreader 120 , if the cap 110 is removed. Similarly, the digger 70 can be utilized without contacting the footwear with the spreader 120 , if the cap 110 is removed. Of course, the cap 110 can be used to cover the spreader 120 to prevent both the application of material by the spreader 120 to footwear and the contamination of the spreader 120 .
- the spreader 120 is permanently attached to the body 46 .
- Adhesives, glues, and other attachment means can be employed to couple the spreader 120 to a bottom surface 168 ( FIG. 8 ) of the body 46 .
- the spreader 120 can be temporarily coupled to the body 46 .
- hoop and loop type fasteners e.g., VELCRO®
- temporary adhesives e.g., pressure sensitive adhesives
- fasteners e.g., screws or other mechanical fasteners
- other temporary attachment means can be used to couple the spreader 120 to the body 46 .
- the spreader 120 can be removed from the body 46 so that the spreader 120 can absorb or otherwise pick up material contained in the body 46 , a separate container, or excess material disposed on the footwear. The spreader can then be reattached to the body 46 for applying the material to the footwear.
- the footwear care system 40 may not comprise a valve system.
- the spreader 120 can be permanently or temporarily attached to the body 46 depending on the use of the footwear care system 40 .
- the body 46 can have a generally ellipsoidal shape and extends between the brush apparatus 50 and the digger 70 .
- the handle 53 of the body 46 can be designed to fit easily and comfortably in the hand of the user, such that the user can utilize the brush apparatus 50 , the application system 58 , and/or the digger 70 .
- the brush apparatus 50 and/or the digger 70 can be positioned along the sides of the body 46 .
- the brush apparatus 50 is positioned along the lateral side of the body 46 . It is contemplated that the brush apparatus 50 , the digger 70 , and the applicator system 58 be located in other positions. For example, the positions of the brush apparatus, the digger, the applicator system can be switch as desired.
- the body 46 can be attached to the brush apparatus 50 and the digger 70 .
- the illustrated body 46 , the brush apparatus 50 , and the digger 70 have a one-piece construction, although they can have a multi-piece construction as discussed above.
- the body 46 can comprises a tank 180 surrounded by a body housing 184 .
- the tank 180 can define one or more chambers or reservoirs 190 suitable for holding a material (preferably material suitable for use on footwear). The material can be in a liquid state and held in the reservoir 190 for any length of time.
- the valve system 140 is preferably in communication with liquid contained within the reservoir 190 .
- the valve system 140 can be operated to dispense out fluid contained within the reservoir 190 .
- the tank 180 is configured for single use.
- the tank 180 can have a one-piece construction and is generally not suitable for refilling.
- the footwear care system 40 may be disposable.
- the tank 180 is configured to be refilled.
- the tank 180 can comprise a lid or cover 200 that is removably coupled to a body 210 .
- the cover 200 can be attached to the tank body 210 by a frictional coupling, interlocking structures, interference structures, or other suitable structures for temporarily coupling the cover 200 to the body 210 .
- the user can remove the cover 200 to fill the reservoir 190 with the desired amount of fluid.
- the cover 200 can be replaced so that the footwear care system 40 can be used again.
- the material stored within the tank 180 can be replenished any number of times.
- the cover 200 and the body 210 form a generally water tight seal to prevent the leakage of fluid from the reservoir 190 .
- the tank 180 can be configured to hold material (e.g., a shoe polish) that can be applied by a removable spreader.
- the cover 200 can be removed to wipe polish onto the spreader.
- the spreader can then apply the polish to a shoe to improve the appearance and bring new life to the shoe.
- the footwear care system may not have a valve system.
- the valve assembly 140 extends between the reservoir 190 and the passageway 146 .
- the valve system 140 can be disposed in a throughhole 230 formed by the tank 180 .
- the valve system 140 can be moved from a first position to inhibit fluid flow and a second position to dispense fluid.
- the valve system 140 is in the first position (as shown in FIG. 8 )
- the valve system 140 is closed and fluid is retained within the chamber 190 .
- the actuator 110 can be pressed towards the body 146 to move the valve system 140 to the second position to release fluid contained within the reservoir 190 .
- the valve system 140 occupies the second position fluid can flow from the reservoir 190 through and out of the valve system 140 .
- the valve system 140 comprises a housing 240 surrounding an actuating mechanism 244 that includes the actuator 210 .
- the actuating mechanism 244 extends at least partially through the housing 240 .
- the actuating mechanism 244 can be moved to open and close the valve apparatus 140 .
- the actuating mechanism 244 preferably includes the actuator 210 , the plunger 250 , a biasing member 290 , and a stop 300 .
- the housing 240 extends upwardly into the reservoir 190 (see FIG. 8 ) to provide a fluid path through an inner housing chamber 280 .
- the actuating mechanism 244 can be centrally disposed through the chamber 280 .
- the housing 240 defines a throughhole 260 that is configured to cooperate with the plunger 250 to form a seal 270 that prevents fluid from passing between the actuating mechanism 244 and the housing 240 .
- the actuating mechanism 244 is in the illustrated position, the plunger 250 and the throughhole 260 have matched surfaces that cooperate to form a fluid tight seal.
- the plunger 250 is preferably permanently mounted to the actuator 210 .
- the plunger 250 can comprise a somewhat compressible or compliant material, such as foam, rubber, polymers, plastics, and other materials that are suitable for interacting with the housing 240 to form a seal.
- the plunger 250 may not comprise a compressible member.
- the plunger 250 may comprise metal or a hard plastic.
- the plunger 250 has a somewhat frusta-conical shape and is configured to mate with the correspondingly tapered throughhole 260 .
- the actuator 210 can extend on either side of the plunger 250 .
- the plunger 250 can be securely mounted to the actuator 210 .
- the portion of the actuator 210 extending upwardly from the plunger 250 can be surrounded by the biasing member 290 .
- the biasing member 290 can be positioned between the stop 300 and the plunger 250 .
- the biasing member 290 is in the form of a spring (e.g., a helical spring), although the biasing member 290 can be other devices or mechanisms for applying a force.
- the biasing number 290 is interposed and captured between the stop 300 and the plunger 250 .
- the stop 300 can engage a tapered portion 320 of the housing 240 such that the biasing member 290 applies a downwardly force to the plunger 250 to preferably maintain the seal 270 .
- an upwardly directed force 330 sufficient to overcome the downward force applied by the biasing member 290 , is applied to the actuator 210 , the actuator 210 is moved upwardly.
- the plunger 250 can be displaced upwardly towards the stop 300 to break the seal 270 .
- the actuator 210 and the plunger 250 can be moved relative to the stop 300 to compress the biasing member 290 .
- fluid within the reservoir 190 can flow through the chamber 280 , between the plunger 250 and the throughhole 260 , and into the spreader 120 .
- the footwear care system comprises a plurality of valve systems.
- the actuator 210 may be depressed to release fluid out of the reservoir 190 and ultimately into the spreader 120 .
- the spreader 120 can at least partially absorb the fluid and apply the fluid to the surface of the footwear as the user slides the spreader 120 along the footwear.
- the fluid can be any fluid suitable for application to footwear.
- the fluid can comprise waterproofing liquid designed to protect (e.g., waterproof) the footwear.
- the footwear care system 40 can be used to any number of coats of treatment fluid to the footwear.
- the valve system 140 remains closed and does not release material from the reservoir 190 , although the spreader 120 can still be used to spread material.
- the user can repeatedly actuate the actuator 210 to dispense the desired amount of fluid from the reservoir 190 , as desired.
- footwear care systems disclosed herein may be formed through any suitable means.
- the various methods and techniques described above provide a number of ways to carry out the invention.
- it is to be understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages described may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described herein.
- those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods may be performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
Abstract
Disclosed an apparatus cleaning and/or applying material to footwear apparel. The apparatus includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. The first end includes a brush and the second end includes a prong. An application system is positioned at least partially within the body between the first end and the second end.
Description
- This application claims the priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of
Provisional Application 60/702,125 filed Jul. 25, 2005. - 1. Field of the Invention
- The present inventions relate to footwear and, more particularly, relate to footwear care systems.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- A person often wears footwear, such as shoes and boots, when performing various tasks at construction sites, sports fields, farms, and the like. Mud, dirt and other substances may often accumulate on the footwear. To prevent the accumulated substances from being tracked indoors, people often remove or clean dirty footwear whenever entering a building, such as a home or business.
- In one aspect of the present invention, a care system can be used to clean and/or apply material to a surface. In some embodiments, the care system is a wearing apparel care system that is a portable, handheld system that can be used to clean footwear. The care system can comprise a brush apparatus, a digger, and an applicator system. The applicator system can be configured to apply material, such as a fluid, paste, or gel on a surface.
- In another one aspect of the present invention, a footwear care system comprises a body, a brush apparatus, an applicator system, and a digger. The brush apparatus, the applicator system and the digger are mounted to the body. The brush apparatus comprises a plurality of bristles that extend outwardly away from a brush head. The brush head is mounted to the body. The digger is an elongated member that extends outwardly from the body. The digger is configured to remove material from the sole of the footwear. The applicator system comprises a removable cap attached to the body. The applicator system also comprises a spreader and a valve system configured to regulate the flow of material, which is contained within the body to the spreader. In some embodiments, the applicator system is positioned along the body between the brush apparatus and the digger. The spreader can extend outwardly from the body and can surround the valve system. In some embodiments, the spreader comprises one or more of the following: a sponge, an absorbent member, a pad, or other structure for spreading material.
- In another one aspect of the present invention, a footwear care system comprises a brush apparatus and a digger. The brush apparatus includes a plurality of brush elements connected to a brush head. The digger is an elongated member that terminates at a tip. The digger is dimensioned so as to fit within a feature (e.g., groove) of a sole of footwear. In some embodiments, the digger is rigid and does not noticeably deflect when scraping off mud that has dried on the sole of the footwear. In some embodiments, the brush apparatus and the digger are at opposing ends of the footwear care system.
- In another one aspect of the present invention, a footwear care system comprises an elongated body that is connected to a brush apparatus and a digger. In some embodiments, the body has a generally ellipsoidal shape as viewed from above. In some embodiments, the brush apparatus has a generally circular body as viewed from above. In some embodiments, the digger is positioned somewhat along the longitudinal axis of the elongated body. In some embodiments, the digger gradually tapers and terminates at a tip.
- In another one aspect of the present invention, a footwear care system comprises a digger, an applicator system configured to dispense selectively fluid contained within a body, and a brush. The digger and the applicator system can be mounted to the body, which comprises a tank suitable for holding fluid. The digger can be an elongated pick member sufficiently rigid to dislodge material caught within tread of a shoe. In some embodiments, the digger is a curved structure that terminates at a somewhat blunt tip.
- In another one aspect of the present invention, the applicator system comprises a valve system and a spreader. The valve system can be actuated between a first position and a second position. When the valve system occupies the first position, fluid is not dispensed from the tank. When the valve system occupies the second position, fluid is dispensed from the tank. The spreader is attached to a lower portion of the body and comprises an absorbent member. In some embodiments, the spreader surrounds a portion of the valve system such that fluid dispensed from the valve system is absorbed by the spreader when the spreader, is placed upon footwear.
- In another one aspect of the present invention, a brush system comprises a brush apparatus, a pick, and an applicator. Each of the brush apparatus, the applicator, and the pick is mounted to a body of the brush system configured to hold fluid. The brush apparatus comprises a brush head that extends outwardly from the body. A plurality of brushing members is connected to the brush head. The applicator can be operated to dispense selectively fluid contained within the body. The applicator comprises a spreader that is temporarily or permanently attached to the body. The pick is a generally rigid member that extends outwardly from the body.
- In another aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for leaning and/or applying material to footwear apparel includes an elongated body having a first end and a second end. The first end includes a brush and the second end includes a prong. An application system is positioned at least partially within the body between the first end and the second end.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a footwear care system. -
FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the footwear care system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate embodiments of diggers for footwear care systems. -
FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the footwear care system ofFIG. 1 , a cap for covering an applicator system has been removed. -
FIG. 4 is a top elevational view of the footwear care system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a bottom elevational view of the footwear care system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is a bottom elevational view of the footwear care system ofFIG. 1 , a cap for covering an applicator system has been removed. -
FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the footwear care system ofFIG. 1 having a cap removed. -
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the footwear care system ofFIG. 1 taken along line 8-8 ofFIG. 4 . -
FIG. 9 is a side-elevational view of a tank system and a valve system extending therefrom. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a valve system of a footwear care system. -
FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the valve system ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the valve system ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 1 illustrates afootwear care system 40 that can be used to care for footwear. In the illustrated embodiment, thefootwear care system 40 is a portable, handheld system that can be used to clean footwear and/or apply material to footwear. As used herein, the term “footwear” is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and includes, without limitation, shoes, boots, sandals, and other wearing apparel for the feet. While the care systems are primarily described as employed for caring for footwear, the care systems can be used in other applications. For example, care system similar to thefootwear care system 40 can be used on furniture, wearing apparel, automobiles, and the like. Thus, the footwear care systems can be utilized in various applications. - With reference to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , thefootwear care system 40 comprises anelongated body 46, abrush apparatus 50, anapplicator system 58, and adigger 70. Thebody 46 can form ahandle 53 that can be conveniently and comfortably gripped by a user. Thefootwear care system 40 is preferably sized and configured to fit easily into a hand of a user. As such, a user can manually clean footwear with thefootwear care system 40. In some embodiment, the cleaned footwear may then be suitable for wearing indoors. - One or more of the
brush apparatus 50, theapplicator system 58, and thedigger 70 can be coupled permanently or temporarily to thebody 46. In other embodiments, one or more of these components (or portions thereof) can be integrally formed with thebody 46. Thebrush apparatus 50 and thedigger 70 can be positioned at opposing ends of thebody 46. Theapplicator system 58 can be positioned at some point along thebody 46, preferably between thebrush apparatus 50 and thedigger 70. The user can hold thehandle 53 to utilize one or more of thebrush apparatus 50, theapplicator system 58, and thedigger 70. In some non-limiting embodiments, thefootwear care system 40 can be used for one or more of the following treatments: cleaning, applying material to footwear, scraping of material, and combinations thereof. - A user can grip the
handle 53 to hold conveniently and comfortably thefootwear care system 40. In some embodiments, thebody 46 can be configured to hold material that can be controllably dispensed by theapplicator system 58. For example, thebody 46 can comprise a reservoir or other storage structure for holding material. The material can be treatment materials (such as waterproofing material), conditioner (e.g., footwear conditioner, leather conditioner, etc.), cleaners, polisher, or other footcare products. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , thebrush apparatus 50 can comprise abrush head 52 and a plurality of cleaningelements 60 extending from thebrush head 52. Thebrush head 52 can be integrally coupled to thebody 46. Thebrush head 52 can extend laterally from thebody 46. For example, thebrush head 52 can extend somewhat horizontally from thebody 46. In some embodiments, including the illustrated embodiment, thebrush head 52 is somewhat angled vertically from a central horizontal plane extending through theelongated body 46. Thecleaning elements 60 are directed away from theapplicator system 58. As such, thebrush apparatus 50 can be used to brush off material without interference from thedigger 70, or theapplicator system 58. The orientation and the position of thebrush head 52 can be selected depending on the intended use of thefootwear care system 40. As shown onFIG. 4 , thebrush head 52 can have a somewhat circular shape as viewed from above. However, thebrush head 52 can have any shape suitable for holdingcleaning elements 60. For example, thebrush head 52 can have a generally polygonal, elliptical, or other suitable shape. - The illustrated
brush head 52 is permanently coupled to thebody 46. Thebrush head 52 and thebody 46 can be formed monolithically by a molding process (e.g., an injection molding process), machining process, or other manufacturing process. Alternatively, thebrush head 52 can be removably mounted to thebody 46. For example, thebrush head 52 can be attached to thebody 46 by mechanical fasteners, snap fittings, or the like. As such, thebrush head 52 can be removed and/or replaced as desired. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , one ormore cleaning elements 60 can be attached to thebrush head 52 and can be used to clean footwear. In some embodiments, thecleaning elements 60 can comprise bristles, hairs, wires, prongs, or other suitable elongated members for brushing. The illustratedbrush apparatus 50 comprises cleaningelements 60 in the form of bristles that are closely spaced together to form a somewhat densely packed arrangement. The bristles can comprise natural (e.g., hair) or synthetic materials (e.g., plastics, polymers, and the like), metal, and the like. As shown inFIG. 2 , theupper end 70 of thecleaning elements 60 are preferably permanently mounted to the brushinghead 52. Opposing ends 72 of thecleaning elements 60 can be used to brush off material from footwear. - With reference again to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , thedigger 70 is configured to clean footwear. In some embodiments, thedigger 70 is configured to clean portions of footwear that may or may not be effectively cleaned with thebrush apparatus 50. A user can therefore select and use thedigger 70 or thebrush apparatus 50 based on the portion of the footwear to be cleaned. Exemplary diggers can be used to clean along grooves, channels, projections, recesses, texturing, crevices, small holes, and other structures of footware. Thedigger 70 may be able to clean more effectively these structures as compared to a brush. In some cases, thedigger 70 and thebrush apparatus 50 can be used in combination to clean, e.g., a sole of footwear. - With continued reference to
FIG. 2 , thedigger 70 has adigger body 80 that extends laterally from theelongated body 46 of thefootwear care system 40. Thedigger body 80 then curves downwardly and terminates at atip 86. Thedigger body 80 is preferably rigidly coupled to thebody 46 of thefootwear care system 40 and can be generally rigid. For example, thedigger 70 can be sufficiently rigid for scraping dried mud from the soles of a boot. In some embodiments, thedigger 70 can be used to scrap off tar, gum, and the like without appreciably deflecting. The stiffness of thedigger 70 can selected to minimize or limit bending of thedigger 70. Thedigger 70 can comprise one or more of the following materials: metal (e.g., steel, and its alloys, aluminum), plastics including rigid plastics, polymers, and the like. In some embodiments, a plurality of materials can be used to form the digger. For example, thebody 80 can comprise plastic (e.g., a plastic having a generally high modulus of elasticity) that surrounds a reinforcing member, preferably made of metal, extending through thebody 80. - As shown in
FIG. 2 , thedigger body 80 can gradually taper outwardly from thebody 46 to form thetip 86. Thetip 86 can be sized and dimensioned to fit into the tread formed by the sole of footwear. In some embodiments, thetip 86 can be inserted into grooves, between projections, along seams, and the like of footwear to dislodge material. Thetip 86 may or may not be gradually tapered and can form a sharp or blunt tip. The illustratedbody 80 can form a somewhat hook-shaped pick. - The
footwear care system 40 can have any number ofdiggers 70. Although not illustrated, exemplary footwear care systems can comprise a plurality of diggers. In some embodiments, each digger can have a different size and configuration. As such, one digger can be used to clean some portions of a shoe while another digger can be used to clean another portion of the footwear. Thus, thefootwear care system 40 can comprise diggers that are configured to clean different portions of the footwear. However, exemplary footwear care systems can also comprise a plurality of diggers having a similar size and configuration as each other. -
FIGS. 2A through 2C illustrate various types of diggers that can be employed. These diggers are similar to thedigger 70, except as detailed below.FIG. 2A illustrates anelongated digger 100 that is generally straight. Thedigger 100 terminates at a somewhatblunt tip 102. Theblunt tip 102 is generally rounded to minimize damage to footwear. Thedigger 100 is especially well suited to clean out holes (e.g., lace holes) of footwear. -
FIG. 2B illustrates adigger 106 that is a relatively thin and configured to clean between small features of footwear. Thedigger 106 can comprise a wire made out of metal or plastic, although thedigger 106 can comprise other materials. Thedigger 106 can be used for detailed cleaning, digging, prying, and the like. -
FIG. 2C illustrates adigger 108 comprising abody 110 and abrush system 112. Thebrush system 112 is mounted to thebody 110 and can comprise a plurality of bristles. Thedigger 108 can be used to dig out material and can also be used to brush off accumulated material (e.g., dirt) from footwear. Thedigger 108 may be used to brush portions of footwear that may not be adequately cleaned by thebrush apparatus 50. For example, thebrush 112 of thedigger 108 can be used to brush off relatively small features (e.g., narrow grooves, small tread, small protrusions, etc.) of the footwear. Exemplary diggers can comprise one or more of the following: a pick, hook, a shaft, and combinations thereof. - With respect to
FIGS. 1 and 2 , theapplicator system 58 can be positioned at a lower portion of thebody 46. InFIGS. 1 and 2 , anapplicator cap 110 surrounds and protects the components of theapplicator system 58. Theapplicator cap 110 can be removed from the body 46 (seeFIGS. 3, 6 , and 7) to expose aspreader 120. When a user grips thehandle 53, thespreader 120 can be conveniently used to apply a coating of material footwear, such as a boot. The material can protect and prolong the life of the footwear, enhance the appearance the footwear, and otherwise treat the footwear as desired. - With respect to
FIGS. 6 and 7 , theapplicator system 58 can comprise avalve system 140 that is at least partially surrounded by thespreader 120. Thevalve system 140 and thespreader 120 can be used in combination to deliver material held within thebody 46 onto footwear. In some embodiments, thespreader 120 can be used to apply, e.g., waterproofing material, polish, conditioner, cleaners, and other footwear care materials. The material applied by thespreader 120 can be a liquid, gel, paste, or other spreadable material that can be stored in thebody 46, although the material may not be stored in thebody 46. In some embodiments, the spreader can be used to pick up material stored in a separate container. - With reference to
FIGS. 7 and 8 , thespreader 120 is attached to abottom mounting structure 140 of thebody 46. The mountingstructure 140 is configured to hold thespreader 120. Thespreader 120 can be a sponge, absorbent member, pad, or other suitable or structure for spreading material, preferably released from thebody 46. In some embodiments, thespreader 120 is an open-celled foam member that can absorb liquid released from thebody 46. As viewed from below, as shown inFIG. 6 , thespreaders 120 can have a generally elliptical profile. However, thespreader 120 can have any other suitable shape for engaging footwear. Additionally, any number ofspreaders 120 can be positioned along thefootwear care system 40. For example, a plurality of spreaders can be mounted to one or more portions of thebody 46. - With respect to
FIGS. 6-8 , thespreader 120 can have one or more holes orpassageway 146 for facilitating the delivery material onto a surface. The illustratedspreader 120 has asingle passageway 146. Thepassageway 146 can surround at least a portion of thevalve assembly 140. An actuator 410 of thevalve assembly 140 can be centrally disposed through at least a portion ofpassage 146. - The
valve assembly 140 can be operated to dispense selectively material contained within thebody 46 into thepassageway 146. When thespreader 120 is applied to a surface of footwear, the material dispensed by thevalve system 140 can be captured between the surface of the footwear and the walls of thepassageway 146. Thespreader 120 can then absorb and spread the material along the surface of the footwear. Thevalve assembly 140 and thespreader 120 can cooperate to apply effectively material in a controlled manner. - The
spreader 120 is spaced from thebrush apparatus 50 and the digger 170, and is positioned on the opposite side of thebody 46 as thehandle 53. In the illustrated embodiment, thespreader 120 is medially disposed along thebody 46. As such, a user can use thebrush apparatus 50 to clean footwear without contacting the footwear with thespreader 120, if thecap 110 is removed. Similarly, thedigger 70 can be utilized without contacting the footwear with thespreader 120, if thecap 110 is removed. Of course, thecap 110 can be used to cover thespreader 120 to prevent both the application of material by thespreader 120 to footwear and the contamination of thespreader 120. - In some embodiments, the
spreader 120 is permanently attached to thebody 46. Adhesives, glues, and other attachment means can be employed to couple thespreader 120 to a bottom surface 168 (FIG. 8 ) of thebody 46. However, thespreader 120 can be temporarily coupled to thebody 46. For example, hoop and loop type fasteners (e.g., VELCRO®), temporary adhesives (e.g., pressure sensitive adhesives), fasteners (e.g., screws or other mechanical fasteners), and other temporary attachment means can be used to couple thespreader 120 to thebody 46. In some embodiments, thespreader 120 can be removed from thebody 46 so that thespreader 120 can absorb or otherwise pick up material contained in thebody 46, a separate container, or excess material disposed on the footwear. The spreader can then be reattached to thebody 46 for applying the material to the footwear. In this case, thefootwear care system 40 may not comprise a valve system. Thus, thespreader 120 can be permanently or temporarily attached to thebody 46 depending on the use of thefootwear care system 40. - With respect to
FIG. 4 , thebody 46 can have a generally ellipsoidal shape and extends between thebrush apparatus 50 and thedigger 70. Thehandle 53 of thebody 46 can be designed to fit easily and comfortably in the hand of the user, such that the user can utilize thebrush apparatus 50, theapplication system 58, and/or thedigger 70. Although not illustrated, thebrush apparatus 50 and/or thedigger 70 can be positioned along the sides of thebody 46. In some embodiments, thebrush apparatus 50 is positioned along the lateral side of thebody 46. It is contemplated that thebrush apparatus 50, thedigger 70, and theapplicator system 58 be located in other positions. For example, the positions of the brush apparatus, the digger, the applicator system can be switch as desired. - With respect to
FIG. 8 , thebody 46 can be attached to thebrush apparatus 50 and thedigger 70. The illustratedbody 46, thebrush apparatus 50, and thedigger 70 have a one-piece construction, although they can have a multi-piece construction as discussed above. Thebody 46 can comprises atank 180 surrounded by abody housing 184. Thetank 180 can define one or more chambers orreservoirs 190 suitable for holding a material (preferably material suitable for use on footwear). The material can be in a liquid state and held in thereservoir 190 for any length of time. Thevalve system 140 is preferably in communication with liquid contained within thereservoir 190. Thevalve system 140 can be operated to dispense out fluid contained within thereservoir 190. - With reference to
FIG. 9 , in some embodiments, thetank 180 is configured for single use. For example, thetank 180 can have a one-piece construction and is generally not suitable for refilling. In this case, thefootwear care system 40 may be disposable. However, in other embodiments, thetank 180 is configured to be refilled. For example, as shown inFIG. 9 , thetank 180 can comprise a lid or cover 200 that is removably coupled to abody 210. Thecover 200 can be attached to thetank body 210 by a frictional coupling, interlocking structures, interference structures, or other suitable structures for temporarily coupling thecover 200 to thebody 210. The user can remove thecover 200 to fill thereservoir 190 with the desired amount of fluid. After filling thereservoir 190, thecover 200 can be replaced so that thefootwear care system 40 can be used again. The material stored within thetank 180 can be replenished any number of times. Preferably, thecover 200 and thebody 210 form a generally water tight seal to prevent the leakage of fluid from thereservoir 190. Alternatively, thetank 180 can be configured to hold material (e.g., a shoe polish) that can be applied by a removable spreader. Thecover 200 can be removed to wipe polish onto the spreader. The spreader can then apply the polish to a shoe to improve the appearance and bring new life to the shoe. Of course, in this case, the footwear care system may not have a valve system. - With reference again to
FIG. 8 , thevalve assembly 140 extends between thereservoir 190 and thepassageway 146. Thevalve system 140 can be disposed in athroughhole 230 formed by thetank 180. Thevalve system 140 can be moved from a first position to inhibit fluid flow and a second position to dispense fluid. When thevalve system 140 is in the first position (as shown inFIG. 8 ), thevalve system 140 is closed and fluid is retained within thechamber 190. Theactuator 110 can be pressed towards thebody 146 to move thevalve system 140 to the second position to release fluid contained within thereservoir 190. When thevalve system 140 occupies the second position, fluid can flow from thereservoir 190 through and out of thevalve system 140. - With respect to
FIGS. 10-12 , thevalve system 140 comprises ahousing 240 surrounding anactuating mechanism 244 that includes theactuator 210. As shown inFIG. 12 , theactuating mechanism 244 extends at least partially through thehousing 240. Theactuating mechanism 244 can be moved to open and close thevalve apparatus 140. Theactuating mechanism 244 preferably includes theactuator 210, theplunger 250, a biasingmember 290, and astop 300. - The
housing 240 extends upwardly into the reservoir 190 (seeFIG. 8 ) to provide a fluid path through aninner housing chamber 280. Theactuating mechanism 244 can be centrally disposed through thechamber 280. Thehousing 240 defines a throughhole 260 that is configured to cooperate with theplunger 250 to form aseal 270 that prevents fluid from passing between theactuating mechanism 244 and thehousing 240. When theactuating mechanism 244 is in the illustrated position, theplunger 250 and thethroughhole 260 have matched surfaces that cooperate to form a fluid tight seal. - The
plunger 250 is preferably permanently mounted to theactuator 210. Theplunger 250 can comprise a somewhat compressible or compliant material, such as foam, rubber, polymers, plastics, and other materials that are suitable for interacting with thehousing 240 to form a seal. However, theplunger 250 may not comprise a compressible member. For example, theplunger 250 may comprise metal or a hard plastic. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
plunger 250 has a somewhat frusta-conical shape and is configured to mate with the correspondingly taperedthroughhole 260. Theactuator 210 can extend on either side of theplunger 250. Theplunger 250 can be securely mounted to theactuator 210. The portion of theactuator 210 extending upwardly from theplunger 250 can be surrounded by the biasingmember 290. - The biasing
member 290 can be positioned between thestop 300 and theplunger 250. In some embodiments, the biasingmember 290 is in the form of a spring (e.g., a helical spring), although the biasingmember 290 can be other devices or mechanisms for applying a force. As such, the biasingnumber 290 is interposed and captured between thestop 300 and theplunger 250. Thestop 300 can engage a taperedportion 320 of thehousing 240 such that the biasingmember 290 applies a downwardly force to theplunger 250 to preferably maintain theseal 270. However, when an upwardly directedforce 330, sufficient to overcome the downward force applied by the biasingmember 290, is applied to theactuator 210, theactuator 210 is moved upwardly. Theplunger 250 can be displaced upwardly towards thestop 300 to break theseal 270. Thus, theactuator 210 and theplunger 250 can be moved relative to thestop 300 to compress the biasingmember 290. When theplunger 250 is moved upwardly and spaced from the surface of thethroughhole 260, fluid within thereservoir 190 can flow through thechamber 280, between theplunger 250 and thethroughhole 260, and into thespreader 120. - Although not illustrated, it is contemplated that other actuating mechanisms can be used to release selectively fluid contained in the
reservoir 190. In view of the present disclosure, a skilled artisan can select the design and configuration of the valve assembly for different applications. In some embodiments, the footwear care system comprises a plurality of valve systems. - In operation, if a user presses the
spreader 120 against a surface of footwear, theactuator 210 may be depressed to release fluid out of thereservoir 190 and ultimately into thespreader 120. Thespreader 120 can at least partially absorb the fluid and apply the fluid to the surface of the footwear as the user slides thespreader 120 along the footwear. The fluid can be any fluid suitable for application to footwear. For example, the fluid can comprise waterproofing liquid designed to protect (e.g., waterproof) the footwear. Thefootwear care system 40 can be used to any number of coats of treatment fluid to the footwear. Of course, if the user does not apply sufficient force to depress theactuator 210, thevalve system 140 remains closed and does not release material from thereservoir 190, although thespreader 120 can still be used to spread material. The user can repeatedly actuate theactuator 210 to dispense the desired amount of fluid from thereservoir 190, as desired. - The footwear care systems disclosed herein may be formed through any suitable means. The various methods and techniques described above provide a number of ways to carry out the invention. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages described may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods may be performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
- Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments disclosed herein. Similarly, the various features and steps discussed above, as well as other known equivalents for each such feature or step, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to perform methods in accordance with principles described herein. Additionally, the methods which is described and illustrated herein is not limited to the exact sequence of acts described, nor is it necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of events or acts, or less than all of the events, or simultaneous occurrence of the events, may be utilized in practicing the embodiments of the invention.
- Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Accordingly, the invention is not intended to be limited by the specific disclosures of preferred embodiments herein.
Claims (14)
1. A footwear care system comprising:
an elongated body configured to be grasped by a user, the body having a first end and a second opposing end;
a brush coupled to the first end of the body
a prong coupled to the second end of the body; and
an applicator system comprising a reservoir positioned within the elongated body between the first end and the second end.
2. The footwear care system of claim 1 , wherein the brush apparatus comprises a plurality of bristles that extend outwardly away from a brush head that is coupled to the first end of the body.
3. The footwear care system of claim 1 , wherein the prong includes a sharpened distal end configured to remove material from a sole of a piece of footwear.
4. The footwear care system of claim 1 , wherein the applicator system further comprises a removable cap coupled to the body a spreader and a valve positioned between the reservoir and the spreader.
5. The footwear care system of claim 4 , wherein the spreader comprises a sponge.
6. The footwear care system of claim 1 , further comprising within the reservoir a material consisting of a material selected from the group of a waterproofing material, a polish, a conditioner, and a cleaner.
7. An apparatus for cleaning and maintaining footwear, comprising: a housing configured to be grasped by a user, a brush apparatus, a digger, and an applicator system, that is configured to apply a treatment solution to a surface of the footwear, the applicator system positioned at least partially within the housing between the brush apparatus and the digger.
8. The footwear care system of claim 7 , wherein the brush apparatus comprises a plurality of bristles that extend outwardly away from a brush head that is coupled to the housing.
9. The footwear care system of claim 7 , wherein the digger includes a sharpened distal end configured to remove material from a sole of a piece of footwear.
10. The footwear care system of claim 7 , wherein the applicator system further comprises a removable cap coupled to the body a spreader and a valve positioned between a reservoir and the spreader.
11. The footwear care system of claim 10 , wherein the spreader comprises a sponge.
12. The footwear care system of claim 10 , further comprising within the reservoir a material consisting of a material selected from the group of a waterproofing material, a polish, a conditioner, and a cleaner.
13. An apparatus for cleaning and maintaining footwear, comprising:
an elongated body configured to be grasped by a user, the body having a first end and a second opposing end;
means for brushing debris away from an outer surface of the footwear, said means for brushing material debris away from an outer surface of the footwear coupled to the first end of the body;
means for removing debris from grooves in a sole of the footwear coupled to the second end of the body; and
means for applying a material stored within a reservoir positioned with the elongated body between the first end and the second end to the outer surface of the footwear.
14. The footwear care system of claim 13 , further comprising within the reservoir a material consisting of a material selected from the group of a waterproofing material, a polish, a conditioner, and a cleaner.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/459,874 US20070077113A1 (en) | 2005-07-25 | 2006-07-25 | Footwear care system |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
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US70212505P | 2005-07-25 | 2005-07-25 | |
US11/459,874 US20070077113A1 (en) | 2005-07-25 | 2006-07-25 | Footwear care system |
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US20070077113A1 true US20070077113A1 (en) | 2007-04-05 |
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Family Applications (1)
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US11/459,874 Abandoned US20070077113A1 (en) | 2005-07-25 | 2006-07-25 | Footwear care system |
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US20070071533A1 (en) * | 2005-09-29 | 2007-03-29 | Andrea Caserta | Device for the care of footwear |
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CN103781599A (en) * | 2011-08-22 | 2014-05-07 | 宝洁公司 | Device for treating a target surface and having an ergonomically pivoting handle |
EP2861120A1 (en) * | 2012-06-14 | 2015-04-22 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Cleaning device having onboard replaceable cleaning pad and onboard replaceable cleaning solution |
WO2015166206A1 (en) * | 2014-04-28 | 2015-11-05 | Dhillon Rashpal | An improved handheld brush |
US9326655B2 (en) | 2013-04-19 | 2016-05-03 | Karla Call | Multi-function cleaning apparatus |
WO2018069818A1 (en) * | 2016-10-10 | 2018-04-19 | Dosso Mamadou | Portable cleaning device for sports shoes |
IT202100027656A1 (en) * | 2021-10-28 | 2023-04-28 | Luca Musso | DEVICE FOR CLEANING A FOOTWEAR |
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Cited By (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US7581897B2 (en) * | 2005-09-29 | 2009-09-01 | Zobele Espana S.A. | Device for the care of footwear |
US20070071533A1 (en) * | 2005-09-29 | 2007-03-29 | Andrea Caserta | Device for the care of footwear |
US20110225756A1 (en) * | 2010-03-19 | 2011-09-22 | Quickie Manufacturing Corporation | Cleaning tool with multiple cleaning surfaces |
US9044852B2 (en) * | 2010-10-26 | 2015-06-02 | Procter & Gamble | Cleaning device having onboard replaceable cleaning pad and onboard replaceable cleaning solution |
US9974381B2 (en) | 2011-08-22 | 2018-05-22 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Cleaning device having onboard replaceable cleaning pad and onboard replaceable cleaning solution |
CN103781599A (en) * | 2011-08-22 | 2014-05-07 | 宝洁公司 | Device for treating a target surface and having an ergonomically pivoting handle |
EP2861120A1 (en) * | 2012-06-14 | 2015-04-22 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Cleaning device having onboard replaceable cleaning pad and onboard replaceable cleaning solution |
US9326655B2 (en) | 2013-04-19 | 2016-05-03 | Karla Call | Multi-function cleaning apparatus |
WO2015166206A1 (en) * | 2014-04-28 | 2015-11-05 | Dhillon Rashpal | An improved handheld brush |
US20170049297A1 (en) * | 2014-04-28 | 2017-02-23 | Rashpal Dhillon | An improved handheld brush |
US10321799B2 (en) * | 2014-04-28 | 2019-06-18 | Rashpal Dhillon | Handheld brush |
WO2018069818A1 (en) * | 2016-10-10 | 2018-04-19 | Dosso Mamadou | Portable cleaning device for sports shoes |
IT202100027656A1 (en) * | 2021-10-28 | 2023-04-28 | Luca Musso | DEVICE FOR CLEANING A FOOTWEAR |
WO2023073612A1 (en) * | 2021-10-28 | 2023-05-04 | Musso Luca | A device for cleaning footwear |
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Legal Events
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: GROWMAX INVESTMENTS, LIMITED, VIRGIN ISLANDS, BRIT Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:NANDA, PUNEET;REEL/FRAME:020488/0020 Effective date: 20061204 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |