U.S. patent application number 14/708413 was filed with the patent office on 2015-08-27 for dissolvable bathroom plunger.
The applicant listed for this patent is Larry D. Schultz. Invention is credited to Larry D. Schultz.
Application Number | 20150240466 14/708413 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45465738 |
Filed Date | 2015-08-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150240466 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Schultz; Larry D. |
August 27, 2015 |
DISSOLVABLE BATHROOM PLUNGER
Abstract
A bathroom device with a single use dissolvable functional head
with a plunger head or a cleaning head is described. The bathroom
device may include an elongated handle coupled at a first end to
the to the single use dissolvable functional head. The device may
also include a single use dissolvable sleeve covering a portion of
the elongated handle and a release mechanism for releasing the
single use dissolvable functional head from the first end of the
elongated handle. The single use dissolvable sleeve may be
configured to slide off the elongated handle when the single use
dissolvable functional head has been released. A method of using
the bathroom device is also described.
Inventors: |
Schultz; Larry D.; (Odenton,
MD) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Schultz; Larry D. |
Odenton |
MD |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
45465738 |
Appl. No.: |
14/708413 |
Filed: |
May 11, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12986748 |
Jan 7, 2011 |
9068330 |
|
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14708413 |
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61338552 |
Feb 22, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
4/255.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 11/10 20130101;
E03C 1/308 20130101; E03D 9/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
E03C 1/308 20060101
E03C001/308 |
Claims
1. A bathroom apparatus comprising: a single use dissolvable
functional head comprising one of a plunger head and a cleaning
head; an elongated handle coupled at a first end to the single use
dissolvable functional head; a single use dissolvable sleeve
covering a portion of the elongated handle; a release mechanism for
releasing the single use dissolvable functional head from the first
end of the elongated handle, wherein the single use dissolvable
sleeve is configured to slide off the elongated handle when the
single use dissolvable functional head has been released.
2. The bathroom apparatus of claim 1, wherein the single use
dissolvable functional head is a plunger head.
3. The bathroom apparatus of claim 1 assembled in a kit, further
comprising: a plurality of replacement single use dissolvable
functional heads and a plurality of replacement single use
dissolvable sleeves.
4. The bathroom apparatus of claim 2 assembled in a kit, further
comprising: a plurality of replacement single use dissolvable
plunger heads and a plurality of replacement single use dissolvable
sleeves.
5. The bathroom apparatus of claim 4, wherein the single use
dissolvable plunger heads and the single use dissolvable sleeves
are composed of polyvinyl alcohol.
6. The bathroom apparatus of claim 5, wherein the single use
dissolvable heads and the single use dissolvable sleeves are water
soluble and are configured to dissolve within twenty minutes of
being placed in water.
7. The bathroom apparatus of claim 6, wherein the single use
dissolvable heads and the single use dissolvable sleeves are
configured to dissolve in two to fifteen minutes of being placed in
water.
8. The bathroom apparatus of claim 7, wherein the single use
dissolvable heads and the single use dissolvable sleeves are
configured to dissolve in three to ten minutes of being placed in
water.
9. A plunger comprising: a dissolvable plunger head; an elongated
handle coupled at a first end to the dissolvable plunger head; and
a release mechanism configured for releasing the dissolvable
plunger head from the first end of the elongated handle.
10. The plunger of claim 9, further comprising a dissolvable sleeve
configured to be housed on a portion of the elongated handle and to
slide off the elongated handle when the single use dissolvable
functional head has been released.
11. The plunger of claim 10, wherein the dissolvable sleeve is
configured to cover a portion of the handle adjacent to the
dissolvable plunger head.
12. The plunger of claim 11, wherein the dissolvable plunger head
and the dissolvable sleeve are formed as a single piece
component.
13. The plunger of claim 11, wherein the dissolvable plunger head
and the dissolvable sleeve are both composed of poly vinyl
alcohol.
14. The plunger of claim 9, wherein the dissolvable plunger head is
soluble in water.
15. The plunger of claim 14, wherein the dissolvable plunger head
is configured to dissolve within twenty minutes of being placed in
water.
16. The plunger of claim 14, wherein the dissolvable plunger head
is configured to dissolve within two to fifteen minutes of being
placed in water.
17. The plunger of claim 14, wherein the dissolvable plunger head
is configured to dissolve within three to ten minutes of being
placed in water.
18. The plunger of claim 14, wherein the dissolvable plunger head
is composed of a biodegradable water soluble polymer.
19. The plunger of claim 10, wherein the dissolvable plunger head
and the dissolvable sleeve are composed of a biodegradable water
soluble polymer.
20. The plunger of claim 9, wherein the release mechanism includes
a socket configured for securing the handle to the dissolvable
plunger head in an engaged position.
21. The plunger of claim 20, wherein the elongated handle is
T-shaped with a cross-member of the T for gripping the plunger at a
first end and an engaging mechanism for engaging the dissolvable
plunger head at an opposing second end opposite the
cross-member.
22. The plunger of claim 21, further comprising a cable operably
coupled to a release activator at the first end and the engaging
mechanism at the opposing second end, the release trigger being
configured to cause the release mechanism to release engagement of
the elongated handle with the dissolvable plunger head when a force
is applied to the release trigger.
23. The plunger of claim 22, wherein the release mechanism is
configured such that application of a force to the release actuator
causes a spacer holding a pair of bearings in an outward projected
engaging position to be withdrawn.
24. The plunger of claim 23, further comprising a biasing spring
configured to hold the spacer in a position so as to hold the pair
of bearings in the outward projected engaging position.
25. The plunger of claim 9, wherein sides of the dissolvable
plunger head are bellowed with an accordion profile.
26. The plunger of claim 9, wherein the plunger is an air
pressurized plunger.
27. The plunger of claim 9, wherein the release mechanism utilizes
one of pressurized air and CO.sub.2 that is housed in a
container.
28. A method of disposing of a plunger head in a toilet comprising
the steps of: providing air pressure to a drain to release a drain
clog with an apparatus including a plunger head; causing a release
mechanism to release a plunger head coupled to one end of an
elongated handle; and causing the plunger head to contact water in
a toilet for a period of time sufficient in length to cause at
least a portion of the plunger head to dissolve.
29. The method of disposing of a plunger head in a toilet of claim
28, further comprising the step causing the plunger head to contact
water in a toilet for a period of time sufficient in length to
cause the entire plunger head to dissolve.
30. The method of disposing of a plunger head in a toilet of claim
28, further comprising the step of flushing the toilet to evacuate
the plunger head from the bowl of the toilet.
31. The method of disposing of a plunger head of claim 28, wherein
the step of causing a release mechanism to release a plunger
includes activating a user input.
32. The method of disposing of a plunger head of claim 31, wherein
the activating a user input includes one of pressing a depressible
button and pulling a trigger.
33. The method of disposing of a plunger head of claim 28, further
comprising the steps of: dissolving the plunger head in a
sufficient manner such that the plunger head is configured to be
flushable down a toilet, the plunger head being composed of a
biodegradable water soluble polymer.
Description
[0001] This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 12/986,748, filed Jan. 7, 2011, which claims priority to
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/338,552, filed Feb.
22, 2010, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is generally directed to home
products. More particularly, aspects of the invention pertain to
bathroom products including plungers.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Most people find toilets to be unsanitary and unpleasant to
handle. Toilets are typically one of the regions of the home people
least like to clean or service because of the nature of their use
for human excrement including feces and urine. Further, cleaning or
servicing tools used on toilet bowls spread dirt, contaminants, and
other unsanitary material throughout the room containing the toilet
and the remainder of the home or commercial space depending on
where these tools are stored. In some instances a toilet brush may
be housed in the bathroom, often next to the toilet or in a
cabinet. The toilet brush may be housed in a holding or disguising
container. While perhaps an improved appearance over a toilet
brush, the disguising container when in open sight, still is
unsightly.
[0004] It may also be extremely difficult to not distribute
contaminated water or fluids from the bowl after cleaning or
otherwise servicing a toilet bowl as the servicing end of a toilet
brush, plunger, or other device is placed in the interior of the
toilet bowl. The interior is often filled with water and other
liquids and may even be filled with excrement or other material in
the instance of a clogged toilet. After use of the toilet servicing
tool a user removes the servicing tool for storage. Inherently the
tool will drip or otherwise disperse the contaminants from the
interior of the toilet to the exterior of the toilet and the
remainder of the bathroom, home, office, or building depending on
where the toilet servicing tool might be stored. Also after using a
toilet servicing device a user may attempt to rinse the brush in
the toilet. While rinsing may remove some of the contaminates,
cleaning chemicals or the like, some of these materials will remain
on the servicing device after use and the servicing device can
develop an unpleasant odor. It is also common for clogs, backups or
obstructions to occur in the plumbing of various buildings
including spaces like bathrooms, kitchens and other spaces in which
plumbing is utilized. Plungers are known and are useful for
removing clogs that occur in plumbing including the plumbing of
toilets, sinks, tubs and showers. They are often kept in the corner
of bathrooms, behind or adjacent to the toilet or under a sink or
in a cabinet.
[0005] Various configurations of plungers are available, however,
most have substantially similar features. Known plungers typically
have a plunger head with a domed shape attached to an elongated
stick or handle that a user is able to hold and use to manipulate
the plunger. A user places the domed plunger head over plumbing in
which there is a clog, backup or obstruction. The user pushes the
plunger head downward to compress the plunger head and form a seal
over a temporary seal on the plumbing. After compressing the
plunger head and forming a temporary seal, a user pulls up on the
plunger and, because of the force applied by a user on the handle,
the space within the sealed plunger head expands creating a suction
force which loosens a clog, backup, or obstruction to facilitate
further passage of liquids and other materials through the
plumbing. Once the plunger has been used it may be returned to the
location it is stored. Because the clog likely caused a backup, the
plunger especially the plunger head and the portions of the handle
near where the handle is fixed to the plunger head may get wet and
dirty.
[0006] Removal of the plunger from the location of the clog often
creates unsanitary conditions in which dirt, contaminates, and
other unsanitary material is spread or inadvertently dripped
throughout bathrooms and other rooms in which the clog occurred.
This phenomenon is especially true in bathrooms with toilets in
which human excrement including urine and/or fecal matter may be in
the water of the toilet bowl when the clog occurs. While disposable
brush heads are known, these devices suffer drawbacks in that they
become trash and/or they fall apart during the cleaning process as
their designs disintegrate easily and they cannot withstand
vigorous scrubbing or pressure application such as forces required
in plunging a toilet. Also, while disposable brush heads may reduce
the extent of contamination to some degree, they still provide
contamination since the head is removed from the toilet. The
remainder of the toilet servicing device including the elongated
bar or handle to which the disposable brush is attached also will
be contaminated in known toilet servicing devices, thereby limiting
the effectiveness of the disposable brush head to improve
sanitation. Further improving the sanitary conditions of bathrooms
and limiting spread of contamination or odor is desirable.
SUMMARY
[0007] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of
concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in
the Detailed Description. The Summary is not intended to identify
key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter,
nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed
subject matter.
[0008] A first aspect of the invention provides for a bathroom
apparatus with a single use dissolvable functional head. The
functional head in varied configurations may be a plunger head, a
cleaning head and/or other varied functional heads. The single use
dissolvable functional head may be releasably coupled to an
elongated handle at a first end. A release mechanism which may
include a release activator and male and female components housed
on the elongated handle and the functional head respectively or
vice versa may take a variety of configurations. The bathroom
apparatus may also include a single use dissolvable sleeve covering
a portion of the elongated handle. The single use dissolvable
sleeve may be configured to slide off the elongated handle when the
single use dissolvable functional head is released, for example
into a toilet bowl or other disposal location. The dissolvable
functional head and/or dissolvable sleeve may be composed of a
dissolvable material configured to provide desired functional
attributes and also to dissolve in part of completely such as when
placed in water of a toilet bowl or tub. As such, the functional
head may be soluble in water or other substances and the
dissolvable functional head and/or dissolvable sleeve may dissolve
at varied rates as desired. As such, the material is strong enough
to withstand hydraulic loads from plunging yet still be dissolvable
in cold water typically found in toilets.
[0009] Another aspect of the invention provides for a plunger with
a dissolvable plunger head, an elongated handle coupled at a first
end to the dissolvable plunger head, and a release mechanism
configured for releasing the dissolvable plunger head from the
first end of the elongated handle. The release mechanism may have
male and female components and a release activator of varied
configurations. The plunger may be bellowed or have varied shapes
to facilitate functionality or solubility. The plunger may also be
pressurized or may include CO.sub.2 or air canisters to facilitate
plunging or drain cleaning.
[0010] A further aspect of the invention provides for a bathroom
apparatus, dissolvable functional heads, and/or dissolvable sleeve
configured as part of a kit. The kit may include one or more
bathroom apparatus, one or more dissolvable functional heads and/or
one or more dissolvable sleeves as well as other features and
mechanisms as described herein.
[0011] In yet another aspect of the invention, a method of
disposing of a functional head such as a plunger head in a toilet
is provided. The method may include the steps of causing a release
mechanism to release the plunger head coupled to an elongated
handle and causing at least a portion of the plunger head to
dissolve. The plunger head may dissolve at varied rates. In certain
configurations, the rate may be determined by the material
composition of the plunger head. The plunger head may be released
as a result of activation of a user input such as an activator. The
plunge head may be caused to dissolve completely in a fluid such as
water in a toilet bowl or a tub and the toilet may be flushed to
discard the plunger head.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] A more complete understanding of the present invention and
the advantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the
following description in consideration of the accompanying
drawings, in which like reference numbers indicate like features,
and wherein:
[0013] FIG. 1 is an illustrative perspective view of a first
configuration of a bathroom apparatus.
[0014] FIG. 2 is an illustrative exploded view of the bathroom
apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0015] FIG. 3 is an illustrative cross section view of the bathroom
apparatus of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIGS. 4 and 5 are illustrative perspective views of the
bathroom apparatus of FIG. 1 with a removable sleeve.
[0017] FIGS. 6 and 7 are illustrative perspective views of another
configuration of a bathroom apparatus in an engaged and released
orientation respectively.
[0018] FIGS. 8 and 9 are illustrative enlarged views of an
alternate configuration of a securing mechanism for a bathroom
apparatus in an engaged and released configuration respectively
[0019] FIG. 10 is an illustrative enlarged view of a hinged lid and
internal compartment on the handle of a bathroom apparatus similar
to the configuration shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.
[0020] FIGS. 11A-11E are schematic views of illustrative functional
head configurations.
[0021] FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative kit including a bathroom
apparatus, replacement functional heads, replacement protective
sleeves, and a release facilitating member.
[0022] FIG. 13 is an illustrative view of an air powered bathroom
apparatus in use in a toilet.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] In the following description of the various embodiments,
reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part
hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration various
embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be
understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural
and functional modifications may be made without departing from the
scope of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 1 is an illustrative perspective view of a first
configuration of a bathroom apparatus. The bathroom apparatus 100
may generally be described as having a functional head 110, an
elongated handle 120, and a release mechanism 130. As is apparent
from FIG. 1, the bathroom apparatus may in some instances have a
generally linear alignment in which the functional head 110 is
releasably coupled to a first end of the elongated handle 120 and a
release activator 131 is coupled to a second end opposite from the
functional head 110.
[0025] The elongated handle 120 may have a variety of particular
configurations including varied cross-section, length,
cross-sectional shape, and material to name just a few. Also, the
elongated handle 120 may be formed as a single piece or a multiple
piece member coupled together. The elongated handle 120 may be made
of wood, plastics, metals, or a variety of other polymers or
materials conventional used for toilet servicing devices. Depending
on the particular configuration, the elongated handle 120 may be
hollow and may contain components of the release mechanism 130 or
other features. In some instances, more durable and/or more
expensive materials may be used with the elongated handle 120
having an extended life especially since the functional head 110
may be replaceable thereby allowing the bathroom apparatus 100 to
have an extended life compared to conventional toilet servicing
apparatus. Varied cross-sectional shapes may be utilized including
round, ovular, rectangular and triangular to name a few. Others may
also be used. A particular cross-sectional shape may be utilized in
some configurations to facilitate the releasable connection between
the elongated handle 120 and the functional head 110. Likewise,
particular cross-section shape of the elongated handle 120 may
facilitate expulsion of a sleeve housed on and covering a portion
of the elongated handle 120.
[0026] The elongated handle 120 may also include a grip 125. The
grip 125 may be housed on an end opposing the functional head 110
to provide increased mechanical advantage and directional control
abilities. Also, placement of the grip 125 at an increased distance
from the functional head 110 further facilities prevention of the
user's hands from being contaminated from use of the bathroom
apparatus 100 when the bathroom apparatus is put into service in a
toilet bowl 701 or other environments. As shown in FIG. 1, the grip
125 may be configured in complimentary shape to a human hand
including cutouts for fingers to wrap around the grip 125. The grip
125 may be integrally formed with the elongated handle 120 or may
be attached to the elongated handle 120 as a slide on, snap on, or
pinch over component, or any other manner of fastening a grip onto
a bar as is well known in the art. The grip 125 may be made of
rubber, plastic, foam or a variety of other materials commonly
known for grips. These materials may have enhanced cushion or grip
capabilities and may even include grip enhancing features such as
treads to facilitate the user's grip on the device.
[0027] Here, the elongated handle 120 houses the release mechanism
130 for the bathroom apparatus as is illustratively shown in the
exploded view in FIG. 2. While the term release mechanism is used
throughout for ease of explanation and understanding, it should be
understood that the release mechanism 130 may be the same mechanism
used for attachment of the functional head 110 to the remainder of
the bathroom apparatus as well as release from the elongated
handle. For example, the release mechanism in FIGS. 1-9 facilitates
attachment and removal of functional head 110. It should also be
understood that a compressed air container may also be utilized as
a release mechanism. In such an instance the compressed air is
released and in escaping from its container forces the functional
head 110 off of the elongated handle 120.
[0028] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the bathroom apparatus of FIG.
1 and illustratively depicts the components of one configuration of
the release mechanism 130. In this configuration, a push rod 230 is
housed within the elongated handle 120 and extending the length of
the elongated handle 120. Near the grip end or top 231 of the push
rod 230 is housed the push rod shoulder 233. The push rod shoulder
233 may be formed to facilitate alignment of the push rod 230
within the elongated handle 120. For example, the push rod shoulder
233 may help secure the position and alignment of the push rod 230
within the internal cavity 139 of the elongated handle. On the
opposing functional head end or bottom 232 of the push rod 230 is
an ejector plate 234 for facilitating ejection or release of the
functional head 110. The elongated handle 120 also includes a male
ball socket connector 233 while the functional head 110 includes a
complimentary shaped female connector 234 that acts as a sleeve
with a complimentary squeeze fit over the male socket connector.
The illustrative alignment of certain features of the release
mechanism 130 may be further apparent in the illustrative cross
section diagram of the bathroom apparatus of FIG. 1 shown in FIG.
3. The bathroom apparatus is shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 as being in an
engaged, secured and/or non-released state in which the functional
head 110 is coupled to the elongated handle 120 and the bathroom
apparatus 100, here a plunger, may be used to service a toilet,
drain or other plumbing.
[0029] In the engaged state depicted in FIGS. 1 and 3, the release
mechanism 130 is configured such that the top 231 of push rod 230
sits flush with top 231 of the elongated handle 120. The end of the
push rod 230 is housed in orifice 132 and acts as a release
activator 131. A user, when wishing to release the functional head
110 can push or press release activator 132. In doing so, the push
rod 230 is moved downward within the elongated handle 120. With the
push rod 230, ejector plate 234 in particular, abutted against a
top surface 111 of the functional head 110, the force applied to
the press release activator 132 is transferred to the functional
head 110. When the force applied through the push rod 230 is
sufficient to overcome the frictional engagement forces between
male ball and female socket connectors 233, 234, the male ball
connector 233 will slide relative to the female socket or sleeve
connector 234 and will thereby released. In a similar but converse
fashion, a functional head 110 may be attached to the remainder of
the bathroom apparatus 100 by sliding the female socket connector
234 over the male ball connector 233 such that these complimentary
connectors are engaged and hold the functional head 110, such as a
plunger head as depicted in FIGS. 1-5, securely to the elongated
handle 120. As seen in FIG. 2, a release facilitating member 150
may also be used in conjunction with the bathroom apparatus 100 and
may include a protrusion 155 sized and shaped to fit in orifice 132
and facilitate activation of the release mechanism in
configurations in which the push rod 230 sits flush. As such, the
release facilitating member 150 acts as a punch to activate the
release mechanism 130. In other contemplated configurations of a
release mechanism a portion of the push rod 230 may extend beyond a
flush position within the top of the grip 125. In such a
configuration, the push rod 230 would be further accessible for
depression and activation, however, it could also be inadvertently
depressed during use of the bathroom apparatus 100 such that a more
flush configuration of the actuator 132 may be preferable to
prevent inadvertent release of the functional head 110. As is
understood by those skilled in the art, the connectors 233, 234 are
formed to have both material rigidity and flexibility so as provide
a securing function while still enabling sufficient flexibility
such that when the release mechanism 130 is activated the
functional head 110 is released from being coupled to the remainder
of the bathroom apparatus 100.
[0030] Additionally, the release mechanism 130 may alternatively be
a pressurized air or CO.sub.2 release mechanism 130 as is known in
the art. The pressurized air or CO.sub.2 may be housed in a
container as is known in the art and may be housed in the apparatus
100 in variety of locations including internal compartment 1010
where it may be operably coupled to the internal cavity 139 so as
to provide pressurized force for releasing a functional head 110.
(See FIG. 10) For example, a user may press a release actuator 132
such as a user input in the form of a depressible button which
causes pressurized air to be released and pressed against the top
111 of the functional head 110 and overcome the connective
frictional force coupling the functional head 110 to the elongated
handle 120. In other configurations the released pressurized air
will push on a member such as a push rod 230 that in turn pushes
downward on the top 111 of the functional head to force it off so
that it can be disposed of as described herein. Since the
pressurized air or CO.sub.2 is provided in a burst, a new
functional head 110 may then later be attached to the remainder of
the bathroom apparatus 100 so as to provide replacement head
functionality.
[0031] One example of material contemplated is poly vinyl alcohol
(PVOH). PVOH may be manufactured in a certain manner so as to
provide requisite rigidity and structural integrity to withstand
functional needs such as withstanding the forces applied to a
toilet bowl plunger while also permitting sufficient flexibility
for use in female socket connector 234. PVOH is among the materials
strong enough to withstand hydraulic loads from plunging yet still
be dissolvable in cold water typically found in toilets. Likewise,
the desired resiliency characteristics and the desired dissolution
may be accomplished with a functional head with a particular grade
of PVOH. Using materials such as PVOH for the plunger head
including the connector component 234 thereby permits the entire
functional head 110 to be disposable in a toilet bowl as the entire
functional head 110 can be dissolved and flushed and disposed of
without removing the functional head 110 from the toilet bowl
region. Accordingly, improved sanitation is improved as the
contents of the toilet will not be spread throughout the bathroom
or the remainder of the building when transporting a bathroom
apparatus including the functional head 100.
[0032] PVOH is a readily biodegradable water soluble polymer. It
has no harmful residues and can be ultimately biodegraded to common
naturally occurring substances of carbon dioxide, water, and
biomass. PVOH can be degraded using any of a number of varied
processes that include mechanical, thermal, photochemical,
ultraviolet, biological and chemical processes. For example,
micro-organisms, moulds or yeasts may be used to degrade PVOH
including a functional head such as a plunger head. In one
instance, micro-organisms biodegrade the functional head as they
use PVOH as a food source by producing a variety of enzymes that
react with PVOH producing end by-products of only naturally
occurring substances. PVOH can be formed and worked into certain
desirable configurations. Also certain PVOH grades can be
engineered to dissolve according to desired characteristics that
may include a desired time frame, a desired temperature, and
desired activators. As such, the functional head may be
substantially diffused in a variety of ways and thereby can be
flushed or disposed in other fashion. Increased decomposition and
water solvency can accordingly be achieved. Also, through selection
of particular PVOH grades the correct dissolution characteristics
may be achieved including a clear water appearance without
discoloration in order to provide a preferred aesthetic appearance
in a toiler bowl. With increased focus on providing products with
minimal to no effects on the environment, dissolvable plungers,
cleaning products, and other devices utilizing the PVOH material
that dissolves down to natural occurring or biodegradable and
bio-friendly products are continually creasing in popularity and
marketability.
[0033] In certain configurations, various agents including cleaning
agents or sanitizing agents may be integrated into the material
composition of the functional head such that further cleaning or
sanitizing functions may be accomplished as the functional head
dissolves such as in the water in a toilet. For example, a toilet
cleaning agent may be integrated into the PVOH material formed into
a dissolvable plunger head such that when the plunger head is
disposed of in the toilet and dissolves the cleaning agent is
released and the toilet bowl may also be cleaned coincident with or
after the plunging process has occurred. The agents may also be
used as a trigger to control or facilitate dissolution at a desired
rate including an increased dissolution rate. As is known in the
art, the rate of dissolution can be controlled by varied pH
activators. In at least one configuration, a sachet is incorporated
into the functional head during manufacturing and is later used to
expedite dissolution of the functional head. The functional head
may begin dissolving and the material of the sachet released and
will act as a catalyst to speed up the rate at which the PVOH of
the functional head dissolves.
[0034] It is desirable for dissolution of the functional head to be
fairly rapid as users will want the functional head to be dissolved
and be able to be flushed away so that the toilet may be returned
to its normal operating appearance. However, if the functional head
is configured to dissolve too rapidly the function for which it is
designed such as plunging, cleaning, or scraping may not be fully
completed by time the functional head has dissolved completely or
in sufficient manner such that the head is not longer effective for
its intended purpose. For example, a dissolvable plunger head may
be manufactured from certain grades of PVOH such that is dissolves
in under twenty (20) minutes of interaction with the activator
which in many instances may be water at room temperature in a
toilet bowl. Certain configurations are also formed such that the
time frame of dissolution is between two (2) and fifteen (15)
minutes or even more particularly three (3) to ten (10) minutes.
Varied environmental conditions may cause some variations to the
expected dissolution time period. For example, varied parameters
such as pH, temperature, or amount or percentage of chorine
residuals may affect the reaction to dissolve the functional head
and thereby may vary the reaction time.
[0035] Varied grades of PVOH are examples of an illustrative
material that is suitable material for a dissolvable functional
head for varied household products such as dissolvable plungers and
dissolvable cleaning devices. A rigid PVOH may be manufactured to
particular specifications as the functional heads may be
manufactured using blow molding or extrusion of the PVOH. Again
other materials with similar properties of dissolvability,
sufficient rigidity to withstand forces involved in plunging or
cleaning process, and ease of manufacturing as PVOH as are known in
the art may also be utilized.
[0036] Another illustrative example of materials that the
dissolvable functional heads 110 including plunger heads may be
formed from may be plastic substitutes. One example of such a
plastic substitute may be by-products from animals including
livestock or farm animals. For example various compositions may be
formed from proteins such as protein and clay combinations. It is
well understood that approximately 80% of the proteins in a cow's
milk may be formed of casein, a substance known to be used in
adhesives and paper coatings. In a similar manner casein may be
used in combination with other substances to boost cohesiveness.
Casein may be combined with glyceraldehyde of the clay to enhance
the cohesive attributes of the protein molecules in casein further
linking these protein molecules together. Resulting compositions
may be treated including temperature treatments such as chilling,
freezing or heating or other treatments to enhance the
characteristics of the material. The resulting material may have
sufficient strength characteristics to withstand the forces applied
to a plunger head or other functional head during use and will
dissolve and/or biodegrade in a short period of time upon
disposal.
[0037] Alternatively plants and their extracts or processed
components may also be used as a potential material for a
biodegradable dissolvable functional head. Plants and their
extracts are biodegradable and can often be ground, mixed and
treated and processed so that they may be used as a biodegradable
material for a variety of products exhibiting varied
characteristics. Accordingly, functional heads may be formed in a
like fashion.
[0038] In certain configurations, the bathroom apparatus 100 may
also be configured to have a removable sleeve 235, which among
other things, may help prevent the remainder of the bathroom
apparatus from being contaminated with contents from a toilet bowl
during use of a functional head 110 such as plunger head. Similar
to the dissolvable functional head 110 described herein, the sleeve
235 may be formed of like material (e.g. PVOH or other materials
described above) to facilitate use and discarding, dissolving and
flushing of the sleeve 235 so as to prevent removal of any
contaminate from a toilet bowl.
[0039] FIGS. 4 and 5 are illustrative perspective views of the
bathroom apparatus of FIG. 1 with a removable sleeve 235. The
sleeve 235 may be sized and shaped to be housed in the elongated
handle 120 and fit over at least a portion of the middle region
135, the region between the grip 135 and male ball connector 233.
In order to prevent the elongated handle 120 from being
contaminated by fluids and material from a toilet bowl when the
bathroom apparatus 100 is used, for example to plunger a toilet
bowl, the sleeve 235 may be complimentary shaped to wrap around the
outer surface of the elongated handle 120 and thereby provide a
protective barrier for the elongated handle 120 preventing the
toilet fluids from contacting the handle itself. In some
configurations the sleeve 235 may have a particular length to
complimentary fit between grip stop 136 at the bottom end of the
grip and the female socket connector 234. In such a configuration,
the sleeve 235 may completely cover the elongated handle 120
between the grip 135 and the female socket connector 234. As such,
if desired, the sleeve 235 can be sized to form a seal to prevent
contamination of the elongated handle 120 in that region as well.
It also contemplated that the sleeve 235 may be formed by multiple
components attached together and not just by a single body or
unibody component if desired. The sleeve 235 may also have a fairly
close or snug fit in certain configurations. On a snug fit
configuration the sleeve 235 may need to be peeled from the
elongated handle 120 rather than merely being slid off or allowed
to fall off as a result of gravity.
[0040] Because the sleeve 235 is dissolvable, it can be discarded
and another sleeve 235 may be placed on the bathroom apparatus 100
when a new functional head 110 is placed on the bathroom apparatus
100. In particular, a user may plunger a toilet using the bathroom
apparatus 100 with the configuration shown in FIG. 4. Then when the
user is finished plunging the toilet, the user may depress the
actuator 132 which causes the plunger head 110 to be released into
the toilet (see FIG. 7). The female socket connector 234 and its
raised edge 237 may serve as a point of abutment 710 with the
sleeve 235 preventing the sleeve 235 from sliding down the
elongated handle 120 when held such that gravity was pulling on it.
Likewise a raised edge 236 may be located on the grip stop 136 and
may also serve as a similar point of abutment 710. However, with
the plunger head 110 discarded, the sleeve 135 may slide on its own
or can easily be forced with the assistance of the user's hand to
slide off the elongated handle 120. As such, the plunger head 100
and the protective sleeve 235 may be discarded in unison into the
toilet bowl such that the remainder of the bathroom or other
surrounding rooms are contaminated with drippings or spray from the
interior of the toilet, as shown in FIG. 7.
[0041] FIGS. 6 and 7 are illustrative perspective views of another
configuration of a bathroom apparatus 100 in an engaged and
released orientation respectively. The bathroom apparatus 100 shown
here has a varied shape to the elongated handle 120 as well as a
varied release mechanism 130. However, the general operation is
substantially similar to that of the bathroom apparatus
configuration of FIGS. 1-5. Like the previous described
configuration, the bathroom apparatus illustratively depicted in
FIGS. 6-7 utilizes male and female socket connectors 233 and 234 to
engage and disengage one another when in use and when the
functional heads are to be removed and disposed of or when a new
functional head is to be put in place for use on the bathroom
apparatus 100. Additionally, in each of the previous configurations
illustratively shown above as well as the configurations described
otherwise herein, the male and female connector positions may be
reversed. For example, the male connector may be housed on either
elongated handle 120 or on the functional head 130 and the opposing
female connector can be housed on either as well, as long as one
male connector is on either the elongated handle 120 or the
functional head 130 and a complimentary female connector is on the
other component. This concept and interplay between "male" and
"female" connectors is well known in the art.
[0042] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustratively depicts a bathroom apparatus
100 with a T-shaped profile in an engaged and released position
respectively, with a plunger head 110. A handle grip 135 may again
be housed on the elongated handle 120. In particular, in the shown
T-shaped configuration, the grip 135 may preferably be placed on
the cross member 127. The cross member 127 may allow for improved
leverage especially if the functional head is a plunger head 110
and plunging is needed. Likewise, use of the T-shaped bathroom
apparatus may be preferable in difficult cleaning jobs to allow
more force to be applied downward on a cleaning type functional
head 110. It may also allow further motion and rotational aspects,
including twisting. Further, the release mechanism 130 has a varied
configuration including the male and female connectors 233, 234.
Here male connector 233 is housed on the elongated handle 120 and
includes a pair of cantilevered members 220 with domed protrusions
239. In complimentary fashion, the functional head 110 has housed
internally in a bottom cavity of a complimentary socket connector
234 which includes two depressions 238 positioned complimentary to
the protrusions 239. Also, a biasing member 640 is also housed in
the bottom cavity to facilitate connection of the functional head
110 to the elongated handle 120. The biasing member 640 may have a
rounded, inclined or other shape or virtually any shape as long as
it is shaped to force the cantilevered members 220 part when a user
pushes a functional head 110 upward to secure the functional head
110 to the elongated handle 120. As such, the biasing member 640
must be configured to thereby fostering a secure connect by forcing
the cantilevered members 220 apart into the complimentary
depressions 238 to provide a snug fit.
[0043] In order to release the functional head 110, the biasing
member 640 is withdrawn such that the connection is released. Here,
as show in FIGS. 6 and 7, the biasing member 640 is abutted in a
top end by a compression spring 641 wound around a cable 645
running from the biasing member 640 upward through the elongated
handle up to a release actuator 132 housed on an under side of the
cross member 127. To release the functional head 110, a user pulls
the release actuator 132 which pulls the cable 645 upward and
thereby pulls on the biasing member 640 compressing the compression
spring 641 against backstop 643 and releasing the connectors 233
and 234. When the user releases the release actuator 132 the
physical properties of the compression spring 641 cause it to
extend, pushing the biasing member 640 downward such that is
positioned in its pre-engagement position and ready to receive
another functional head 110 for future use of the bathroom
apparatus 100.
[0044] FIGS. 8 and 9 are illustrative enlarged views of an
alternate configuration of a securing and release mechanism 130 for
a bathroom apparatus 100 in an engaged and released configuration
respectively. The securing mechanism 130 in the bathroom apparatus
100 configuration illustratively shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 is similar
to that described with respect to FIGS. 6 and 7 with some
modifications. For example, here the male connector 233 is again
housed on the elongated handle 120 and the female connector is
housed on the functional head 110. However, as described the
location of the male and female connectors 233 and 234 are
generally interchangeable depending on particular preference. Again
a biasing member 640 is coupled to a cable that runs the release
actuator 132 and is held in place by a compression spring 641
housed against backstop 643. However, here ball bearings 837
internally housed within the end of the elongated handle 120 are
pushed outward by the biasing member 640 to provide engaging force
to allow for engagement and release with respect to depressions
838.
[0045] It is contemplated that the bathroom apparatus may also
contain various optional features. It may be desirable to have
further useful attributes to enhance the smell or sanitation in the
bathroom when using the bathroom apparatus 100 regardless of
whether using it a plunger configuration, cleaning device
configuration or other contemplated configurations. FIG. 10 is an
illustrative enlarged view of a hinged lid and internal compartment
on the handle of the bathroom apparatus of FIGS. 6 and 7. As shown
the internal compartment 1010 may house air fresheners, drying
cloths, sponges, cleaning fluids, antibacterial or disinfecting
sprays and other bathroom products. As shown, depending on desired
use the internal compartment may be sized and configured
accordingly. When the bathroom apparatus is in use, the lid 1011
may be closed, and in some configurations secured with a securing
component such as a latch or lock to prevent unintentional opening.
Should a user desire use of the contents of the internal
compartment, the user may open the lid and remove the contents. The
bathroom apparatus is able to thereby keep desired air fresheners,
drying cloths, sponges, cleaning fluids, antibacterial or
disinfecting sprays and other bathroom products in an accessible
location should a user desire to use it in conjunction with the
bathroom apparatus.
[0046] The bathroom apparatus has been illustratively shown with an
illustrative example of a functional head 110. For example, the
apparatus of FIGS. 1-10 may be characterized as having a plunger
head 110. The plunger head 110 of FIG. 1 is hollow with a cavity
119 and has a top 111 and bottom 112, with the bottom being an
orifice 113 to facilitate creation of suction as is well known in
the art. Additionally, the plunger head 110 may be described as
bellowed or as having an accordion profile or shape. The bellows
115, like that of an accordion, facilitate movement of air and
pressurization so as to facilitate the suction effect of a plunger
and enhance the functionality and ease of use of a plunger
configured to have bellows. FIGS. 11A-B illustratively depict other
variations of functional heads 110, plunger heads in particular.
FIG. 11A illustratively shows a conventional plunger head while
FIG. 11B illustratively depicts another configuration of a bellowed
plunger head.
[0047] Various other functional heads 110 including cleaning heads,
brushes, pipe cleaners and scrapers may be utilized as part of the
bathroom apparatus as shown and described. FIGS. 11C-E
illustratively depict more configurations of exemplary functional
head configurations including two toilet brushes and a pipe
cleaning head, respectively. Various other configurations are
contemplated and may include a variety of functional heads 110 as
are known to those skilled in the art.
[0048] It is also contemplated that the various configurations of
the bathroom apparatus 100 and/or its components may be packaged
and sold in a kit 199. For example, as illustratively depicted in
FIG. 12, the bathroom apparatus 100, replacement functional heads
110, and replacement protective sleeves 235 as described herein may
be sold in kit 199. Additionally, a release facilitating member 150
may also be included as part of kit 199 as desired. Likewise
replacement functional heads 110 and replacement protective sleeves
235 may be packaged and sold individually or together. For example,
a package of dissolvable plunger or toilet brush heads 110 may be
sold individually or with dissolvable sleeves 235. Accordingly, a
product and replacement functional heads is contemplated for sale
as a kit.
[0049] FIG. 13 illustratively depicts another illustrative
configuration of a bathroom apparatus, an air powered plunger 100.
The plunger 100 has a plunger head 110 at one end and an elongated
handle 1320 formed in two sections in an angled elbow. The lower
section 1321 is cylindrical in shape or in some configurations may
be bellowed with an accordion-like appearance while the upper
portion is an elongated tube 1325 with a release actuator or
trigger 132 housed on the outer surface and a piston 1399 housed
within the cylinder and extending out the rear of the cylinder.
While conventional plungers rely on physical movement of the
plunger handle up and down to compress and expand the plunger head,
air powered plungers or drain cleaners such as the one
illustratively shown in FIG. 13 rely upon pressurized gas including
air or CO.sub.2 to provide a force to suction or plunger the drain
to remove a clog in a toilet, shower, or sink. In order to supply
an air burst the air powered plunger 100 is locked or suctioned
into place and the piston is pulled rearward to create a further
suction akin to a conventional plunger however without having to
move the plunger or drain cleaner 100 and instead merely by
creating air pressure by pulling the piston 1399 through the
cylinder. As was described previously, the functional plunger head
in the configuration shown in FIG. 13 can be released in the toilet
701 by depressing the release mechanism and release button 1331.
The biodegradable dissolvable plunger 110 thereby will be left in
the toilet to dissolve and be flushed away and the remainder of the
air powered plunger will be removed in a more sanitary fashion for
use again at a later time with a new dissolvable biodegradable head
110. While one configuration of air powered or pressurized air
plunger or drain cleaner has been shown and described with regard
to FIG. 13, it is well understood that various particular
configurations of air powered or pressurized air plungers or drain
cleaners are contemplated consistent with that described here
including those having varied arrangements of components and varied
manners of forming the pressurized air.
[0050] While the invention has been described with respect to
specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying
out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
there are numerous variations and permutations of the above
described systems and techniques. Thus, the spirit and scope of the
invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended
claims.
* * * * *