Multi-purpose Grooming Tools

Abstract

Grooming tools are provided, including a brush configured for removing debris and hairs, including at least one surfaced body having a first pad, a plurality of first bristles extending from the first pad, one end of each first bristle being connected to the pad, and the bristles being helical in shape. A multi-purpose comb includes a housing having a pair of sidewalls defining a central cavity, and a plurality of foldable combs pivotably mounted at corresponding ends to the housing for insertion into, and withdrawal from the cavity.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 US 120 from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/516,755 filed Oct. 17, 2014, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/893,496, filed Oct. 21, 2013 under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e), which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to animal grooming devices, and more particularly relates to a multi-purpose hand-held animal grooming tool configured for various purposes, such as brushing and carding animal hairs coat or fur.

[0003] Infrequent grooming of a domestic animal causes an unwanted accumulation of loose hairs, dander, and surface debris on the animal's skin or in the fur or coat. When these elements are left uncleaned from the animal, homes of animal owners become filled with the loose hairs and other debris, incurring cleaning and maintenance costs for keeping a home free of these elements. An effective solution is to regularly remove the loose hairs and debris from the animal's coat. For example, conventional hand-held grooming tools, such as brushes and combs, remove the loose hairs as the animal approaches a shed cycle, as well as dander and surface debris.

[0004] While conventional tools are functional and partly effective, they present problems for homeowners and professional groomers because each tool serves only one particular purpose at a time, and the homeowners or groomers must resort to other, separate tools for different grooming purposes. Thus, incorporating a grooming device having multiple purposes is needed to save operating time and related costs.

SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure is directed to a multi-purpose, hand-held animal grooming tool constructed and arranged for attending various grooming needs. As described in further detail below, the present animal grooming tool includes a combo brush having dual bristle beds on a single body having a handle for gripping. Each bristle bed has specially configured bristles and is designed for serving a different purpose. A first bristle bed has a plurality of multiple head pin bristles designed for removing loose hairs. A second bristle bed has a combination of bristles, a first plurality of rounded-end wire bristles designed for gently stimulating an animal skin, and another plurality of ball end or rounded end bristles designed for removing the loose hairs.

[0006] In one embodiment, a brush configured for removing debris and hairs is provided. Included in the brush are at least one surfaced body having a pad, and a plurality of first bristles extending from the pad. One end of each first bristle is connected to the pad, and an opposite free end of each first bristle has a radially extending head portion. At least one additional head portion is disposed in a spaced relationship along a longitudinal axis of the first bristle.

[0007] In another embodiment, a brush configured for removing debris and hairs is provided. Included in the brush are at least one surfaced body having a pad, and a plurality of first bristles and a plurality of second bristles extending from the pad in an alternating pattern. One end of each first bristle is connected to the pad, and an opposite free end of each first bristle has an angled end. One end of each second bristle is connected to the pad, and an opposite free end of each second bristle has a rounded end.

[0008] In yet another embodiment, a brush configured for removing debris and hairs is provided. Included in the brush are at least one surfaced body having a pad, and a plurality of first bristles extending directly uprightly from the pad. One end of each first bristle is connected to the pad, and an opposite free end of each first bristle is constructed and arranged in a corrugated configuration. Each first bristle has a corrugated shape in a longitudinal direction, and the plurality of first bristles extends substantially vertically from the pad.

[0009] A second embodiment of the present grooming tool includes a carding tool having a large brush and a small brush for carding an animal's fur coat. One aspect of the present tool is that a "C"-shaped support member is provided for resting the tool on the animal's fur coat to protect the skin while carding. Another important aspect is that a viewing window is provided for easy monitoring of an accumulation of collected loose hairs in a tool chamber during operation.

[0010] A third embodiment of the present grooming tool includes a multi-purpose comb performing as two combs that are used respectively for flea removal and untangling. This two-in-one comb is provided for transforming one comb into another based on a specific purpose. Another feature is that multiple combs are folded into a single housing having a cavity configured for accommodating the foldable combs such that each comb is selectively unfolded to suit the situation during grooming.

[0011] A fourth embodiment of the present grooming tool includes a multiple-angle nail cutter or clipper for trimming nails of the animal in at least two different positions. As described in further detail below, the present clipper has two different cutting edges and an associated viewing window so that a user can select a comfortable cutting position while viewing the nail being cut. Another distinguishable feature is that each grooming tool described here employs at least one region covered with a soft-touch resilient material for extra comfort and non-slip grip.

[0012] Grooming tools are provided, including a brush configured for removing debris and hairs, including at least one surfaced body having a first pad, a plurality of first bristles extending from the first pad, one end of each first bristle being connected to the pad, and the bristles being helical in shape. A multi-purpose comb includes a housing having a pair of sidewalls defining a central cavity, and a plurality of foldable combs pivotably mounted at corresponding ends to the housing for insertion into, and withdrawal from the cavity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1 is a front view of the present combo brush, featuring a double-sided body having first bristles arranged on a bottom surface, and second and third bristles arranged on an opposite top surface;

[0014] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the combo brush of FIG. 1, showing the second and third bristles;

[0015] FIG. 3 is a left side view of the combo brush of FIG. 1;

[0016] FIG. 4 is a right side view of the combo brush of FIG. 1;

[0017] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the combo brush of FIG. 1, showing the second and third bristles on the top surface;

[0018] FIG. 6 is a partial, enlarged view of a circled portion A of the combo brush of FIG. 5;

[0019] FIG. 6A is an enlarged front elevation view of exemplary second and third bristles of the combo brush of FIG. 6;

[0020] FIG. 6B is an enlarged elevation of exemplary second and third bristles of the combo brush of FIG. 6;

[0021] FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of the combo brush of FIG. 1, showing the first bristles on the bottom surface;

[0022] FIG. 8 is a partial, enlarged view of a circled portion B of the combo brush of FIG. 7;

[0023] FIG. 8A is an enlarged front elevation view of an exemplary first bristle of the combo brush of FIG. 8;

[0024] FIG. 9 is a cross-section of the present combo brush taken along the line 9-9 of FIG. 2 and in the direction generally indicated;

[0025] FIG. 10 is a front view of an alternate embodiment of the present combo brush, featuring a double-sided body having fourth bristles arranged on a bottom surface, and fifth bristles arranged on an opposite top surface;

[0026] FIG. 11 is a plan view of the combo brush of FIG. 10, showing the fifth bristles;

[0027] FIG. 12 is a left side view of the combo brush of FIG. 10;

[0028] FIG. 13 is a right side view of the combo brush of FIG. 10;

[0029] FIG. 14 is a top perspective view of the combo brush of FIG. 10, showing the fifth bristles on the top surface;

[0030] FIG. 15 is a partial, enlarged view of a circled portion C of the combo brush of FIG. 14;

[0031] FIG. 15A is an enlarged front elevation view of an exemplary fifth bristle of the combo brush of FIG. 15;

[0032] FIGS. 16-18 are elevational views of an alternate embodiment of the present brush showing a plurality of spiral, coil-like bristles projecting from the pad;

[0033] FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate an exemplary rotatable bristle pad that can be employed for the combo brush of FIG. 19A;

[0034] FIG. 20A is a plan view of another exemplary embodiment of the combo brush of FIG. 19A, featuring a bristle pad having a irregularly spaced bristle pattern;

[0035] FIG. 20B is an enlarged perspective view of the bristle pad of FIG. 20A having square-shafted bristles;

[0036] FIG. 20C is an enlarged perspective view of the bristle pad of FIG. 20A having slicker bristles;

[0037] FIG. 21A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present combo brush configured for carding;

[0038] FIG. 21B is a plan view of the combo carding brush of FIG. 21A;

[0039] FIG. 21C is a side view of the combo carding brush of FIG. 21A;

[0040] FIG. 21D-21E illustrate another exemplary embodiment of the combo carding brush of FIG. 21A, featuring a "C"-shaped support member and a viewing window;

[0041] FIG. 21F is an enlarged perspective view of the combo carding brush of FIG. 21A, featuring a comb having stepped or grooved teeth;

[0042] FIG. 22A is an enlarged perspective view of the present multi-purpose comb, featuring a pair of slidably connected bars;

[0043] FIG. 22B is a front elevation view of the multi-purpose comb of FIG. 22A in a first position;

[0044] FIG. 22C is a front elevation view of the multi-purpose comb of FIG. 22A in a second position;

[0045] FIGS. 23A-23C illustrate another exemplary multi-purpose comb having a housing configured for accommodating a plurality of foldable combs;

[0046] FIG. 24A is a plan view of the present nail clipper in an open position;

[0047] FIG. 24B is a side view of the nail clipper of FIG. 24A;

[0048] FIG. 24C is a plan view of the nail clipper of FIG. 24A in a closed position;

[0049] FIG. 25A is a plan view of another embodiment of the nail clipper of FIG. 24A, featuring a viewing window and two sets of cutting edges;

[0050] FIG. 25B is a side view of the nail clipper of FIG. 25A; and

[0051] FIGS. 25C-25D illustrate different clipping methods of the nail clipper of FIG. 25A based on a user's cutting position or preference.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 1-4, an exemplary pet or animal combo brush is generally designated 10, and is designed to remove debris while pulling out dead hairs and also gently stimulating a skin of an animal underneath the hairs. Included in the combo brush 10 are an elongated handle 12 and a generally oval-shaped double-sided or double working surfaced body 14. Preferably, the body 14 has a radiused circumferential edge 16. A plurality of first bristles 18 extends directly uprightly from a first pad or working surface 20 of the body 14. One end of each first bristle 18 is connected to the first pad 20, and an opposite free end has a radially extending head portion 22.

[0053] One aspect of the present brush 10 is that a plurality of second bristles 24 and a plurality of third bristles 26 extend directly uprightly from a second pad or working surface 28 of the body 14 in an alternating pattern. Although other arrangements are contemplated, one exemplary pattern is to arrange the second and third bristles 24, 26 in alternating rows extending transverse to the longitudinal axis of the body 14. One end of each second bristle 24 is connected to the second pad 28, and an opposite free end has an angled end 30, preferably right angled (i.e., "L"-shaped), but other orientations are contemplated. While the first pad 20 is located on a bottom of the brush 10 and the second surface or pad 28 is on the top of the brush, it is contemplated that the positions may be reversed.

[0054] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 5-6, groups of various nonlinear angles are contemplated for the angled ends 30 of the second bristles 24, such as 30.degree., 45.degree., and 90.degree. angled ends, but other suitable obtuse or acute angled ends are also contemplated to suit different applications. In practice, acute angled (less than 90.degree.) ends may be suitable for animals coated with a relatively thin layer of hairs or lower hair density, but obtuse angled (between 90.degree. and 180.degree.) ends may be suitable for animals coated with a thick layer of hairs, or greater hair density. As described in greater detail below, regardless of the hair type of the animal, this configuration of the second and third bristles 24, 26 prevents harmful skin damage caused by the sharp, angled end 30 of the second bristle 24 while accomplishing desired grooming purposes.

[0055] It is contemplated that one end of each third bristle 26 is connected to the second pad 28, and an opposite free end has a rounded or looped shape 32. It is preferred that each rounded end 32 is made of or encased by soft materials, such as rubber, bio-plastic, and silicone materials, but other suitable metallic materials, such as stainless, are also contemplated. Alternatively, each end 32 forms an opened loop as an extension of the third bristle 26. An exemplary outer diameter of each end 32 is approximately 1 millimeter or 0.012 inch. Although the rounded or looped ends 32 are shown, other suitable geometric shapes are also contemplated. In a preferred embodiment, the third bristle 26 has a dimension in a longitudinal direction that is longer than the similar dimension of the second bristle 24. Having the rounded ends 32 allows a gentle contact with the animal's skin while grooming. This gentle contact stimulates the animal's skin, and promotes generation of skin oil for rejuvenating healthy skin and hair.

[0056] Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 6A, because the third bristle 26 with the rounded end 32 is taller than the second bristle 24 by a predetermined distance D1, the third bristle 26 contacts the animal's skin before the second bristle 24, thereby reducing a direct skin contact with the sharp, angled end 30 of the second bristle 24. As illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6B, the distance D1 creates or forms a buffer zone between the animal's skin and the sharp, angled end 30 of the second bristle 24. An exemplary distance D1 (FIG. 6A) defined by an outermost end of the second bristle 24 and the outermost end of the third bristle 26 preferably ranges between 1/16 and 1/4 inch, however this dimension may vary to suit the application.

[0057] Further, the second and third bristles 24, 26 in alternating rows are arranged in a spaced relationship with respect to each other, providing a predetermined distance or width between adjacent bristles. An exemplary distance or width D2 (FIG. 6) defined by space between longitudinal axes of the second and third bristles 24, 26 preferably ranges between 0.067 and 0.197 inches. Another predetermined distance or width D3 (FIG. 6) defined by space between two adjacent second bristles 24 (or third bristles 26) preferably ranges between 0.197 and 0.250 inches. These dimensions may vary to suit the application. As a result of this configuration having three different distances D1, D2, D3, the rounded ends 32 of the third bristles 26 operate as a guard or protector for preventing the angled ends 30 of the second bristles 24 from damaging the animal's skin.

[0058] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 6A-6B, another important aspect of the present brush 10 is that the second bristles 24 and the third bristles 26 are attached together at their corresponding lower ends 34, 36 by a bridge 37 located opposite from the free ends of the second and third bristles, forming a "U"-shaped pin. The combined bristles 24, 26 are mounted on, and extend uprightly from, the second pad 28 of the body 14. More specifically, the bridge 37 is maintained on an inside of the pad 28, and the bristles 24, 26 project through corresponding holes in the pad. Attachment of the "U"-shaped pin to the second pad 28 of the body 14 is described in greater detail below in FIG. 9.

[0059] Referring now to FIGS. 7, 8 and 8A, at least one additional head portion 22 is disposed in a spaced relationship along a longitudinal axis of the first bristle 18 in addition to the head portion disposed on the free end of the first bristle. Although only two head portions 22 are disposed on each first bristle 18 (FIG. 8), any number of head portions is contemplated to suit the application. It is preferred that the head portion 22 has a dome-shaped upper region 38 and a flattened lower region 40 (FIG. 8A), but other configurations, such as a round, square, triangle, and other suitable geometric shapes, are also contemplated. As such, this dome shape design of the first bristle 18 provides a gentle stimulation of the animal's skin and an even distribution of natural skin oil throughout an animal's fur or coat as a result of stroking the brush 10 through the animal's fur or coat. As illustrated in FIG. 8A, it is preferred that a lower end 42 of the first bristle 18 includes a securing member 44 having a first predetermined length L1. Included on the securing member 44 is a pair of longitudinally or axially spaced disk formations 45 that sandwich the pad 20 between them to hold the bristle in place as the bristle 18 projects through an opening in the base. An opposite upper end 46 of the first bristle includes a linear section 48 having a second predetermined length L2.

[0060] In one embodiment, best seen in FIG. 8A, the head portions 22 of each first bristle 18 are variably spaced apart along the longitudinal axis of the corresponding first bristle at different heights. Thus, an axial spacing between first two head portions 22a and 22b is different from the axial spacing between head portions 22b and 22c. Similarly, the adjacent first bristles 18 are spaced in a variable distance or width relationship with respect to each other. As a result, the first bristles 18 having variably positioned head portions 22 and/or differently spaced adjacent bristles increase a surface contact area and a number of associated edges. This arrangement creates more than one layer of hair removal, and removes more loose hairs than a conventional brush.

[0061] While the head portions 22 having the identical shape are shown in FIGS. 8 and 8A, it is contemplated that each head portion 22 has a different shape to suit the application. As discussed above, a suitable number of the head portions 22 is determined based on a hair length of the animal. For example, the longer the hair of the animal, the more the head portions 22 are added on the first bristle 18. An angular orientation and spacing of the head portions 22 are variable to suit different applications. It is also contemplated that a distance or width D4 (FIG. 8A) defined by space between adjacent head portions 22 on each first bristle 18 varies depending on different applications. Another predetermined distance or width D5 (FIG. 8) defined by space between two adjacent first bristles 18 preferably ranges between 0.197 and 0.250 inches. These distances are contemplated as varying to suit the application.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 9, each "U"-shaped pin having one second bristle 24 and one third bristle 26 is arranged in the second pad 28, and the lower ends 34, 36 of the second and third bristles 24, 26 are attached to an interior surface 50 of the second pad using an adhesive, a tape, or a mesh-type attachment device, as known in the art. Also, each first bristle 18 is arranged in the first pad 20, and the securing member 44 of the first bristle 18 is attached to an interior surface 52 of the first pad in a similar manner described above. As is known in the art, the bristles 18, 26 project through openings 53 in the pads 20, 28. Also, as seen in FIG. 9, the pads 20, 28 are secured to the body 14 of the brush 10 using adhesive, ultrasonic molding, insert molding, or other conventional fabrication technique.

[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 10-13, in another embodiment, generally designated 10', is depicted. Components shared with the brush 10 are designated with identical reference numbers. In this embodiment, it is contemplated that the first pad 20 optionally has a plurality of bundles of fourth bristles 54 having the shape of straight wires or other filaments, and the second pad 28 has a plurality of fifth bristles 56 constructed and arranged in a corrugated, or zig-zag configuration. As an example, each fourth bristle 54 is made of a bundle of straight wires configured for brushing or styling the animal's hairs, and cleaning or scraping solids from the animal's hairs. Each fifth bristle 56 has a corrugated shape in a longitudinal direction, directly and substantially vertically extending from the second pad 28. This corrugated design of the fifth bristle 56 allows more efficient capturing and collection of loose hairs per stroke than the conventional brush with a straight pin bristle. One end 58 of each fifth bristle 56 is connected to the second pad 28, and an opposite free end optionally has the radially extending head portion 22.

[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 12 and 13, when the brush 10' is viewed from the sides, or from the front and rear (FIG. 10), in a preferred embodiment, it is contemplated that the plurality of fifth bristles 56 define the appearance of an interlocking, three-dimensional braided structure on the second pad 28. A spacing pattern between adjacent fifth bristles 56 is variable to suit the application. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the adjacent fifth bristles 56 are positioned so that the pointed "zig-zag" potions in an overlapping (or alternatively non-overlapping) relationship depending on the hair type of the animal. The overlapping relationship between the fifth bristles 56 is achieved by adjusting the distance between the adjacent fifth bristles relative to each other, such that at least one corrugated portion of a first fifth bristle overlaps with at least one corrugated portion of a second adjacent fifth bristle. As a result, the closer the fifth bristles 56 are, the more surface contact the fifth bristles provide during grooming.

[0065] Referring now to FIGS. 15 and 15A, an enlarged view of the fifth bristle 56 is shown. In a preferred embodiment, as is the case with the first bristle 18 shown in FIG. 8A, the lower end 58 of the fifth bristle 56 includes a securing member 60 having a third predetermined length L3, and an opposite upper end 62 of the fifth bristle includes a non-linear section 64 having a fourth predetermined length L4. As described above, the lower end 58 is connected to the second pad 28 using the disks 45, and the opposite upper end 62 optionally has the radially extending head portion 22. An angular orientation and spacing of the non-linear section 64 of the fifth bristle 56 is variable to suit different applications. Attachment of the fifth bristles 56 to the second pad 28 is achieved in a similar manner described above regarding the first bristles 18 shown in FIG. 9.

[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 16-18, another embodiment of the present brush is generally designated 10''. Components shared with the brushes 10 and 10' are designated with identical reference numbers. A main distinction of the brush 10'' is that the bristles 70 are helical, spiral or coil-like in configuration. The bristles are contemplated as being made of stainless steel, other metal or a suitable plastic. As is the case with the bristles 56, the free ends are optionally provided with enlarged head portion 22, or are alternately pointed (FIG. 17). Also, the bristles 70 are held to the corresponding pad 28 using disks 45 as seen in FIG. 15A).

[0067] Referring now to FIGS. 16-18, it is contemplated that the pad 28 has a plurality of fourth bristles 70 constructed and arranged in a spiral, coil-like configuration. As an example, the fourth bristle 70 has a corkscrew or spiral shape in a longitudinal direction, directly extending from the pad 28. This spiral design allows more efficient capturing and collection of loose hairs per stroke than the conventional brush with a straight pin bristle. One end of each fourth bristle 70 is connected to the pad 28, and an opposite free end optionally has the radially extending head portion 22.

[0068] Returning now to FIGS. 1, 3, 4, 10, 12, and 13, although the double-head combo brush 10 is shown for illustration purposes, a single-head brush is also contemplated, featuring different combination of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth bristles 18, 24, 26, 54, 56 to suit the application. Also, while specific combinations of bristles 18, 24, 26, 54, 56 are shown on each pad 20, 28 of the combo brush 10, other suitable combinations of the bristles 18, 24, 26, 54, 56 are also contemplated on each pad depending on different applications.

[0069] It is preferred that at least one of the first and second pads 20, 28 has a rounded, arched or curved outer surface 66. As a result, the rounded outer surface 66 of the pad 20, 28 has a convex-arc shape protruding from the body 14, so that the bristles 18, 24, 26, 54, 56 attached to the corresponding pad extend outwardly in a flared manner. Although the body 14, and the first and second pads 20, 28 are shown as separate parts, it is contemplated that the body and pads are integrally formed as a single unit. For example, the first and second pads 20, 28 are injection molded, such that the body 14 is integrally embedded within the pads. Other suitable injection or insert molding processes are also contemplated.

[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 19A-19C, it is also contemplated that at least one of the first and second pads 20, 28 is rotatably attached to the body 14. For example, the first or second pad 20, 28 having one or more of the bristles 18, 24, 26, 30 is rotatable approximately 90, 180, 270, 360 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise relative to a longitudinal axis of the body 14. Each stepped rotation of the pad 20, 28 facilitates various differently-angled positions of the first or second pads 20, 28 to suit the situation, e.g., based on a condition of the fur of the animal.

[0071] Referring now to FIGS. 20A-20C, in yet another embodiment, it is contemplated that the first bristles 18 are arranged to be irregularly spaced further apart on two opposite longitudinal sides, generally designated 132, generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the body 14 than a middle or center region 134 of the first pad 20. As an example, the radially extending head portion 22 of the first bristle 18 has a tapered square shape for enhancing collection of the loose hairs by spacing out the first bristles 18 on the sides 132. Also, these bristles 18 preferably have a square-shaft when viewed in horizontal cross-section. In this arrangement, the first bristles 18 are disposed more densely in the middle or center region 134 than on the sides 132, thereby enhancing a stroke resistance force for collecting maximum amount of loose hairs. Although the arrangement of the first bristles 18 is shown in FIG. 20A for illustration purposes, it is also contemplated that other second, third or fourth bristles 24, 26, 130 or a combination of bristles can be arranged in a similar manner.

[0072] Referring again to FIG. 20A, optionally, the handle 12 has an opening, cavity, or slot 136 for releasably storing at least one comb, such as a flea comb 138 or a finish comb 140, using a set of locks 142 disposed on opposite inner surfaces 144 of the handle. Another optional feature of the present brush 10 is that a spiraling thread (not shown) is disposed around an outer longitudinal surface of at least one of the bristles 18, 24, 26, 130, causing an increased surface area and edges of the bristle for collecting loose pet hairs.

[0073] Referring now to FIGS. 21A-21D, an exemplary pet or animal carding brush is generally designated 146, and is designed to simultaneously disentangle hairs and remove loose hair or thin, heavy hair from an animal or a pet 148 (FIG. 21D). Included in the carding brush 146 are an elongated handle 150 and a comb base 152. In a preferred embodiment, the handle 150 is coated with resilient, soft material for a comfortable grip, and allows the user to hold the handle in many orientations. The handle 150 is connected at one end to the comb base 152 and at an opposite end has an optional bore 154, e.g., for hanging up the brush 146.

[0074] A first or large comb 156 for a larger area of the animal 148 (e.g., a body) is fixedly attached to one side of the comb base 152 near an end of the base, and an optional second or small comb 158 for a smaller area of the animal (e.g., a face) is similarly affixed to an opposite side of the comb base closer to the handle 150. For example, the large comb 156 is used for a larger dog or relatively flat areas of a smaller dog, and the small comb 158 is used for a small dog or smaller areas of the larger dog. An important feature of the first and second combs 156, 158 is that both combs have "J"-shaped teeth when viewed from the side (FIG. 21C), where the "J" configuration refers to an inner leading surface 160 of a comb tooth 162 of at least one of the first and second combs 156, 158 that has a rearward facing curvature relative to a linear or straight main portion of the comb. As a result of the "J" configuration, lifting of the hairs away from the skin is readily achieved and improves operational hair removal efficiency.

[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 21D-21E, in another embodiment, the comb base 152 has a "C"-shaped support member 164 behind the first comb 156 for resting on the animal's outer fur coat. As best seen in FIG. 21D, a rear edge 166 of the "C"-shaped support member 164 rests on the animal's back and acts as a guide while carding the fur/coat. By the user setting a proper angle of the handle 150 relative to a fur coat contour while resting the "C"-shaped support member 164 on the fur coat, the comb teeth 162 of the first comb 156 are prevented from directly contacting, and thus irritating the animal's skin.

[0076] In operation, the loose or dead hairs are collected in a chamber 168 defined by an inner surface of the comb base 152 between the first comb 56 and the "C"-shaped support member 164. At least one clear or transparent window region 170 (FIG. 21E), preferably constructed from a plastic material, is disposed near a top portion of the comb base 152 for viewing and monitoring the collection of hairs in the chamber 168 during carding. When the chamber 168 becomes full with the collected hairs, the user stops the carding and removes the collected hairs from the chamber, and then continues carding.

[0077] Referring now to FIGS. 21A, 21E, and 21F, in another embodiment, the leading surface 160 of each comb tooth 162 has a face 172 that is stepped or grooved for increasing a number of edges that help collect and remove the loose hairs more efficiently and quickly than a conventional comb tooth. Although the first comb 156 having the stepped face 172 is shown, it is contemplated that the second comb 158 also has a similar stepped face configuration. At least one stepped or grooved level 174 is formed on the leading surface 160 of each comb tooth 162 at different heights extending generally perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle 150. An angular orientation and a relative spacing of the levels 174 are variable to suit the situation. For example, although a horizontally stepped face is shown, it is also contemplated that the stepped level 174 is diagonal or inclined at an angle relative to an edge line defined by the rear edge 166 of the "C"-shaped support member 164. Such levels 174 help remove the loose hairs from more than one coat (i.e., layer) per stroke than a conventional carding comb.

[0078] Referring now to FIGS. 22A-22C, an exemplary pet or animal multi-purpose comb is generally designated 176, and is designed for both grooming the animal's fur coat and removing fleas from the coat. While a grooming or finish comb generally has loosely-spaced teeth, a flea comb has rather densely-spaced teeth for effectively pulling out the fleas from the animal's coat. An important feature of the present comb 176 is that these two different combs are combined into one multi-purpose comb. Included in the multi-purpose comb 176 is a pair of slidably connected first and second bars 178, 180. The first bar 178 has a plurality of first teeth 182 directly extending transverse to a longitudinal axis of the first bar 178 from one side of the first bar. Similarly, the second bar 180 has a plurality of second teeth 184 directly extending from one side of the second bar. Both first and second teeth 182, 184 extend from the same side of the respective bars 178, 180, and preferably have identical first and second pitch distances or spacing P1, P2, where the first pitch distance P1 is associated with the first teeth 182 and the second pitch distance P2 is associated with the second teeth 184.

[0079] An elongated opening 186 is provided in the first bar 178 and is configured for loosely accommodating a slide button 188 that is attached to the second bar 180 such that the second bar is slidable in a longitudinal direction of the opening 186 relative to the first bar 178. Connection of the bars 178, 180 is achieved by stacking the first bar 178 directly on top of the second bar 180 and inserting the button 188 into the opening 186. The respective configurations of the button 188 and the opening 186 are such that the first and second bars 178, 180 are slidably connected to each other. Because the opening 186 is longitudinally longer than the button 188, the button transitions between a first position and a second position within the opening for varying a pitch distance between the adjacent first and second teeth 182, 184.

[0080] More specifically, when the button 188 is in the first position, the first teeth 182 are aligned directly on top of the second teeth 184 (FIG. 22B), causing a third pitch distance P3 between the adjacent first and second teeth 182, 184 to have a same width as the first or second pitch distance P1, P2 when viewed from above. In contrast, when the button 188 is in the second position, the first and second teeth 182, 184 are positioned in a semi- or half-staggered relationship with each other (FIG. 22C), causing a fourth pitch distance P4 between the adjacent teeth 182, 184 to have a half width of the first or second pitch distance P1, P2 when viewed from above. As a result, when the button 188 is in the first position, the multi-purpose comb 176 is used for regular combing, but when the button is in the second position, the comb is used for the flea removal. Optionally, the button 188 and the bars 178, 180 have at least one resilient, soft coated region 190 on selected outer surfaces. Referring now to FIGS. 23A-23C, in another embodiment, the multi-purpose comb 176 has a housing 192 configured for accommodating a plurality of foldable combs 194, such as a finishing comb, a flea comb, and a detangling comb. Multiple combs 194 are pivotably folded into the housing 192 in a manner similar to a conventional pocket knife. More specifically, the housing 192 has at least two opposite longer sidewalls 196. Both sidewalls 196 are constructed and arranged for defining a central cavity 197 dimensioned for accommodating the plurality of foldable combs 194 inside the housing 192. Each foldable comb 194 is pivotally connected to corresponding ends 198 of the sidewalls 196, and thus rotates in and out of the housing 192 about a pivot point 200 for unfolding and folding at least one of the combs 194 from the housing 192. Optionally, the housing 192 has at least one resilient, soft coated region 202 on an outer surface of the housing, such as a backbone portion of the housing.

[0081] Referring now to FIGS. 24A-24C, an exemplary pet or animal nail clipper is generally designated 204, and is designed for trimming nails of the animal. Included in the present nail clipper 204 are a first cutting member 206 and a second cutting member 208 pivotally connected to the first cutting member 206. A cutter opening 210 is defined by the first and second cutting members 206, 208 for inserting an animal's nail. Both first and second cutting members 206, 208 are pivotally movable about a pivot pin 212 relative to a plane defined by the cutting members 206, 208. During the pivotal movement, the cutting members 206, 208 transition between an open position for receiving the animal's nail in the cutter opening 210, and a closed position for cutting the animal's nail.

[0082] An important aspect of the present clipper 204 is that cutting members 206, 208 have corresponding first and second cutter handles 214, 216 with corresponding first and second finger openings 218, 220 configured for accommodating a hand of the user. Preferably, a scissor-like loop configuration is employed for the handles 214, 216 to provide a better and easier grip and control of the cutting members 206, 208 during use. This configuration allows thumb movement inside either the first or second finger opening 218, 220 while the clipper 204 is held in the user's hand for trimming. Accordingly, the present clipper 204 can be used by both left- and right-handed users.

[0083] Referring now to FIGS. 24B and 24C, another aspect of the present clipper 204 is that a height-adjustable nail guard 222 is releasably attached to one of the first and second cutting members 206, 208 for preventing harm to the animal resulting from inadvertently cutting into a blood-filled portion of the nail. When the nail is inserted into the cutter opening 210 for trimming, the nail only extends to the nail guard 222, thereby providing a consistent depth of cut. Optionally, at least a portion of the handles 214, 216 is covered with a soft-touch resilient material for extra comfort.

[0084] Referring now to FIGS. 25A-25D, in another embodiment, the present nail clipper 204 includes a pair of cutting jaws, namely an upper jaw 224 and a lower jaw 226, disposed at distal ends of the cutting members 206, 208 for creating a nail cutting action in the cutter opening 210. The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used to describe the opposing longitudinal ends of the cutting members 206, 208. The term "proximal" refers to the ends of the cutting members 206, 208 that are closest to the user during use. Conversely, the term "distal" refers to the opposite ends of the cutting members 206, 208 that are farthest during use.

[0085] More specifically, the pair of jaws 124, 126 includes at least two sets of cutting edges. A first set 128 of cutting edges is disposed near the distal ends of the cutting members 106, 108 at a predetermined angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the first or second cutting member. A second set 130 of cutting edges is disposed at the distal ends of the cutting members 106, 108 generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first or second cutting member. Preferably, the first cutting edges 228 are longer than the second cutting edges 230 in a longitudinal direction.

[0086] Either set of cutting edges 228, 230 can be used for trimming the nails depending on a user's cutting position or preference. These multi-angled cutting edges 228, 230 allow the user to cut the animal's nails at an angle or straight. For example, when the animal is positioned directly in front of the user, the second set 230 of cutting edges is used to cut the nails (FIG. 25D). Otherwise, the first set 228 of cutting edges may be used (FIG. 25C).

[0087] Another important aspect of the present clipper 204 is that a transparent viewing window 232 is provided near the distal ends of the first cutting member 206 for allowing observation of the inserted nail in the cutter opening 210. Thus, the user can readily observe the animal's nail inserted into the cutter opening 210 while trimming. It is also contemplated that a plurality of incremental index marks 234 are spaced and positioned along a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the first or second set 228, 230 of cutting edges for nail depth alignment.

[0088] In a preferred embodiment, each cutting member 206, 208 has at least one ergonomically shaped squeeze grip portion 236 for providing better shock absorption, and reducing hand fatigue during use. Specifically, the grip portion 236 has at least three different widths along the longitudinal axis of the corresponding cutting members 206, 208. As for each cutting member 206, 208, its distal end has a first width, its proximal end has a second width, and a middle region near the distal end has a third width. Preferably, the first width is shorter than the second width, and the second width is in turn shorter than the third width.

[0089] While particular embodiments of the present grooming tools have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the present disclosure in its broader aspects and as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A brush configured for removing debris and hairs, the brush comprising: at least one surfaced body having a first pad; a plurality of first bristles extending from the first pad, one end of each first bristle being connected to the pad; said bristles being helical in shape.

2. The brush of claim 1, further including a second pad extending from an opposite side of said body, said second pad including a plurality of second bristles, said first pad and said second pad both being rotatable 90, 180, 270, 360 degrees clockwise or counterclockwise relative to a longitudinal axis of said body.

3. The brush of claim 1, wherein the first bristles are arranged to be irregularly spaced further apart on two opposite longitudinal sides, generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of said body than a middle or center region of the first pad.

4. The brush of claim 2, wherein a radially extending head portion of the bristle has a tapered square shape for enhancing collection of the loose hairs by spacing out the bristles on the sides, and said bristles have a square-shaft when viewed in horizontal cross-section, and the bristles are disposed more densely in the middle or center region of said pad than on the sides of said pad, thereby enhancing a stroke resistance force for collecting maximum amount of loose hairs.

5. The brush of claim 1, wherein said body is provided with a handle, and said handle has an opening, cavity, or slot for releasably storing at least one comb, using a set of locks disposed on opposite inner surfaces of the handle.

6. The brush of claim 1, wherein the bristles are rotatably attached to said body.

7. A multi-purpose comb, comprising: a housing including a pair of sidewalls defining a central cavity; a plurality of foldable combs pivotably mounted at corresponding ends to the housing for insertion into, and withdrawal from said cavity.

8. The comb of claim 7, wherein said plurality of foldable combs include a finishing comb, a flea comb, and a detangling comb.

9. A multi-purpose comb for grooming an animal, comprising: an elongated handle connected at one end to a comb base; first comb constructed and arranged for a larger area of the animal is attached to one side of said comb base near an end of the base; an optional second comb constructed and arranged for a smaller area of the animal is affixed to an opposite side of the comb base closer to said handle.

10. The comb of claim 9, wherein both combs have "J"-shaped teeth when viewed from the side, where the "J" configuration refers to an inner leading surface of a comb tooth of at least one of the first and second combs that has a rearward facing curvature relative to a linear or straight main portion of the comb.

11. The comb of claim 9, further including said comb base having a "C"-shaped support member behind said first comb for resting on a coat of the animal, wherein a rear edge of the "C"-shaped support member rests on the animal's back and acts as a guide while carding the fur/coat.

12. The comb of claim 10, further including a chamber defined by an inner surface of the comb base between the first comb and the "C"-shaped support member, and at least one clear or transparent window region is disposed near a top portion of the comb base for viewing and monitoring the collection of hairs in the chamber during carding.

13. The comb of claim 9, further including a leading surface of each comb tooth has a face that is stepped or grooved for increasing a number of edges that help collect and remove the loose hairs, such that at least one stepped or grooved level is formed on a leading surface of each comb tooth at different heights extending generally perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle.