Ring brush for cat grooming, or the like

Abstract

Portions of the bristles of a ring brush can extend obliquely to the axis of the ring brush. The bristles can include proximal and distal sections with angles respectively therebetween. The distal sections can be inclined relative to the axis so that lengths of the distal sections extend along the length of the axis. An asymmetrical extension can extend along the axis so that the extension is configured to inhibit relative rotation between the axis and a user's phalange extending through the ring opening when the ring brush is worn by the user and used to brush a workpiece. The size of the ring opening(s) can be adjustable by way of a variety of features.

Description

RING BRUSH FOR CAT GROOMING, OR THE LIKECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 633,960, filed April 15, 2024. The entire disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 633,960, filed April 15, 2024, is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, the entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application No. 29 / 944,393, filed May 28, 2024, is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Whereas ring brushes are known, there is a desire for ring brushes that provide a new balance of properties.SUMMARY

[0003] An aspect of this disclosure is the provision of ring brushes that provide a new balance of properties. The ring brushes may, for example, be well suited for use in cat grooming, or the like.

[0004] As an example, a ring brush can include at least one body (e.g., band) extending at least partially around an opening configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user, and a plurality of bristles mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body. The at least one body typically extends at least partially around an axis of the opening. The plurality of bristles can collectively extend at least partially around the axis. Portions of the bristles can extend obliquely to the axis.

[0005] A wide variety of different types and configurations of bristles are within the scope of this disclosure. As one of numerous examples, the bristles can be wire bristles (e.g., relatively rigid, solid, slender metallic rods). For each of multiple or all of the wire bristles, the wire bristle can include a distal section and a proximal section positioned between the distal section and the at least one body. An angle can be defined between the proximal and distal sections. The distal section can be inclined relative to the axis so that a length of the distal section extends along a length of the axis. A length of the proximal section can extend about perpendicular to the axis, or in any other suitable configuration.

[0006] As another example, a ring brush can include at least one body (e.g., band) extending at least partially around an opening configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user; and a bristle assembly mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body. The bristle assembly can include a mounting structure mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body, and a plurality of bristles connected to the mounting structure for moving with the mounting structure. Alternatively, the mounting structure may be omitted and the bristles can be directly connected to the at least one body.

[0007] As a further example, a ring brush can include at least one body extending at least partially around both an opening and an axis of the opening, a plurality of bristles mounted to the at least one body for moving with the ring brush, and an asymmetrical extension extending from the at least one body. The extension can extend along the axis so that the extension is configured to inhibit relative rotation between the axis and a lengthwise axis of a user’s phalange extending through the opening when the ring brush is worn by the user and used for brushing.

[0008] In another example, a ring brush includes at least one body extending at least partially around an opening configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein a first portion of the at least one body is stiffer than a second portion of the at least one body, and wherein at least a portion of the second portion is elastic so that the ring brush is configured to be transitioned between first and second configurations in response to the ring brush being worn on differently sized phalanges. The size of the opening in the second configuration can be larger than the size of the opening in the first configuration.

[0009] A ring brush can include at least one body comprising a medial portion between opposite end portions, wherein the opposite end portions can be a first strap part extending from one side of the medial portion, and a second strap part extending from another side of the medial portion. A strap fastener can be operatively associated with the first and second strap parts, and configured to be closed so that the at least one body extends at least partially around an opening configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user. The strap fastener together with the first and second strap parts can be adjustable, for adjusting the size of the ring brush.

[0010] A ring brush can include at least one adjustable connection between at least two bodies, wherein the at least one adjustable connection is configured to adjustably connect the at least two bodies, for adjusting the size of the ring brush.

[0011] Another aspect of this disclosure is the provision of a method of using a ring brush. A user can wear the ring brush on at least one finger of a hand of the user so that bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate a back side of the at least one finger. The user can inwardly curl at least a distal end portion of the at least one finger toward a palm of the hand while the ring brush is worn on the at least one finger, so that that bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one curved finger. Brushing an animal with the ring brush can include engaging distal ends of the bristles against the animal while the ring brush is worn on the at least one curved finger and bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one curved finger, and causing relative movement between the ring brush and the animal while the distal ends of the bristles remain engaged against the animal and the ring brush is worn on the at least one curved finger and bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one curved finger.

[0012] The foregoing summary provides a few brief examples and is not exhaustive, and the present invention is not limited to the foregoing examples. The foregoing examples, as well as other examples, are further explained in the following detailed description with reference to accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The drawings of this disclosure are provided as examples. The present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples depicted in the drawings. Many of the drawings may be at least partially schematic.

[0014] Fig. 1 is a top, rear-right pictorial view of a ring brush (e.g., a first embodiment of this disclosure), wherein the ring brush may be used for brushing, grooming, styling, petting, stimulating, massaging, and / or the like (e.g., while cuddling a pet).

[0015] Fig. 2 is a right elevation view, which is also representative of a left elevation view, of the ring brush.

[0016] Fig. 3 depicts the ring brush in a partially-exploded configuration (e.g., a bristle assembly is separated from a band).

[0017] Fig. 4 is an isolated bottom view of the bristle assembly.

[0018] Fig. 5 depicts an example of the ring brush being worn on a finger of a user.

[0019] Fig. 6 depicts an example of a cat being scratched with fingertips and / or fingernails of the user wearing the ring brush.

[0020] Fig. 7 depicts an example of the cat being brushed with bristles of the ring brush worn by the user.

[0021] Fig. 8 depicts a ring brush in accordance with a second embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 9 depicts the ring brush of Fig. 8 in a partially-exploded configuration.

[0023] Fig. 10 is a schematic view of a ring brush in accordance with a variation of the second embodiment and / or a third embodiment.

[0024] Fig. 11 is a schematic front elevation view of a ring brush in accordance with a fourth embodiment, and Fig. 11 is a mirror image of a rear elevation view of the fourth embodiment ring brush.

[0025] Fig. 12 is a schematic front elevation view of a ring brush in accordance with a fifth embodiment, and Fig. 12 is a mirror image of a rear elevation view of the fifth embodiment ring brush.

[0026] Fig. 13 is a is a top, rear-right pictorial view of a ring brush in accordance with a sixth embodiment.

[0027] Fig. 14 is a bottom, rear-right pictorial view of the ring brush of Fig. 13.

[0028] Fig. 15 is a partially exploded view of the ring brush of Fig. 13, wherein the ring brush is being worn on a finger of a user (schematically depicted with dashed lines).

[0029] Fig. 16 is a schematic isolated view of a composite band that may be part of at least one of the ring brushes of this disclosure.

[0030] Fig. 17 is an isolated pictorial view of a portion of a bristle apparatus that may be part of ring brushes of this disclosure.

[0031] Fig. 18 is portion of a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of Fig. 17 in accordance with an implementation of this disclosure.

[0032] Fig. 19 is portion of a cross-sectional view taken along line 18-18 of Fig. 17 in accordance with another implementation.

[0033] Fig. 20 is a top, rear-right pictorial view of a ring brush in accordance with a seventh embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 21 is a schematic front elevation view of the ring brush of Fig. 20 being worn on a relatively small finger / phalange depicted by a dashed line.

[0035] Fig. 22 is a schematic front elevation view of the ring brush of Fig. 20 being worn on a relatively large finger / phalange depicted by a dashed line.

[0036] Fig. 23 is a top, rear-right pictorial view of an alternative version of the ring brush of Fig. 20.

[0037] Fig. 24 is a top, rear-right pictorial view of a ring brush in accordance with an eighth embodiment.

[0038] Fig. 25 is a schematic front elevation view of the ring brush of Fig. 24 being worn on a relatively small finger / phalange depicted by a dashed line.

[0039] Fig. 26 is a schematic front elevation view of the ring brush of Fig. 24 being worn on a relatively large finger / phalange depicted by a dashed line.

[0040] Fig. 27 is a top, rear-right pictorial view of a ring brush in accordance with a variation of the eighth embodiment and / or a ninth embodiment.

[0041] Fig. 28 is a schematic front elevation view of the ring brush of Fig. 27 being worn on a relatively small finger / phalange depicted by a dashed line.

[0042] Fig. 29 is a schematic front elevation view of the ring brush of Fig. 27 being worn on a relatively large finger / phalange depicted by a dashed line.

[0043] Fig. 30 is a pictorial view of an alternative version of the ring brush of Fig. 27.

[0044] Fig. 31 is a top, rear-right pictorial view of an alternative version of the ring brush ofFig. 24.

[0045] Fig. 32 is a top, rear-right pictorial view of an alternative version of the ring brush of Fig. 27.

[0046] Fig. 33 is a top pictorial view of a ring brush in an open flat configuration, in accordance with a tenth embodiment.

[0047] Fig. 34 is a bottom pictorial view of the open flat ring brush of Fig. 33.

[0048] Fig. 35 is a pictorial view of the ring brush of Fig. 33 in a closed configuration.

[0049] Fig. 36 is a schematic, top pictorial view of a variation of the ring brush of Fig. 33 in the closed configuration, and being worn on a finger.

[0050] Fig. 37 is a schematic, front elevation view, which is also representative of a rear elevation view, of a ring brush in its relaxed configuration, in accordance with another embodiment of this disclosure.

[0051] Fig. 38 is a schematic, front elevation view, which is also representative of a rear elevation view, of a ring brush in its relaxed configuration, in accordance with another embodiment of this disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Examples of embodiments are disclosed in the following. The present invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. For example, features disclosed as part of one embodiment or example can be used in the context of another embodiment or example to yield a further embodiment or example. As another example of the breadth of this disclosure, it is within the scope of this disclosure for one or more of the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and / or the like, to qualify each of the adjectives and adverbs of the Detailed Description section of this disclosure, as discussed in greater detail below.

[0053] A first embodiment of a ring brush 10 (e.g., “pin brush”) is depicted in Figs. 1-7. As best understood with reference to Figs. 1-3, the ring brush 10 includes angled bristles 12 (e.g., “pins”) mounted directly or indirectly to at least one body (e.g., a band 13 or partial band). Alternatively the bristles 12 can be straight or in any other suitable configuration, as discussed further below.

[0054] The band 13 can include or comprise (e.g., can be referred to as) a body (e.g., band body) that extends at least partially around at least one opening 14 (Fig. 1, e.g., band opening). The band opening 14 is configured to receive at least one finger 15 (Figs. 5-7) of a user and, thus, the band opening 14 may be referred to as a finger opening, finger hole, ring opening, band opening, band hole, and / or the like. As best understood with reference to Figs. 5-7, the band 13 can be configured to be worn on at least one finger 15 (Figs. 5-7) of a user, so that the ring brush 10 can be used for brushing, grooming, styling, petting, stimulating, massaging, cleaning, applying product(s) (e.g., paint, cosmetics, etc.), surface finishing, and / or the like. The brushing that is performed using the ring brush 10 can be grooming or otherwise engaging a “workpiece” such as an animal (e.g., a human, pet (e.g., cat)) with the distal ends of the bristles 12, and thering brush 10 can include multiple finger openings 14. The one or more finger openings 14 may be adjustable in size, for example as discussed further below. In the example depicted in Figs. 5- 7, the conventional finger 15 on which the ring brush 10 is being worn includes proximal, intermediate, and distal phalanges, and the ring brush is being worn upon the intermediate phalange. In Figs. 5-7, the intermediate phalange extends through the finger opening 14 and the lengthwise axis of the intermediate flange is coaxial, about coaxial, and / or substantially coaxial with the band axis 22 (Figs. 1-3), although the ring brush may be worn differently, as discussed further below. The plurality of bristles 12 collectively extend partially around, or at least partially around, the axis 22.

[0055] Referring to the partially exploded view of the ring brush 10 depicted in Fig. 3, the first embodiment band 13 (e.g., body) has inner and outer surfaces 18, 20 (e.g. cylindrical surfaces), and front and rear flat or rounded annular surfaces or edges 19, 21, that each extend around the axis 22 of the band 13 and / or band opening 14. Each of the front and rear edges 19, 21 can be substantially planar, or in another suitable shape (e.g., at least partially uneven or undulating) so that the band 13 is asymmetrical (e.g., does not have a uniform width and / or length). Other differently configured bands 13 are within the scope of this disclosure, as discussed further below.

[0056] In the first embodiment, the bristles 12 are segments of metallic (e.g., stainless steel) wire (or any other suitable material and / or combination of materials), and the group (e.g., one or more rows) of the bristles 12 extends partially around the band axis 22 (e.g., the bristles follow the curvature of the band 13), although differently configured bristles are within the scope of this disclosure, as discussed further below.

[0057] Optionally, at least a portion of the band inner surface 18 can comprise or be at least partially covered with (e.g., via coating, over-molding, stickers, or other suitable mounting) cushion(s) and / or anti-slip feature(s) (e.g., gripping features), structure(s) and / or coating(s) that extend continuously or in a wide variety of different patterns. In this regard and as an option, Fig. 3 schematically depicts a representative few of an example of such gripping features in the form of radially inwardly protruding gripping dots 23 that are fixedly mounted to the band inner surface 18 and may optionally be formed of a material with a relatively high coefficient of friction (e.g., higher than the coefficient of friction of the band inner surface 18). The pattern ofgripping dots 23 can extend across the entirety of the band inner surface 18 or only cover predetermined portion(s) thereof.

[0058] As best understood with reference to Figs. 1 and 3 for the first embodiment, the bristles 12 are part of a bristle assembly 16 that includes an arcuate three-dimensional mounting structure 24 (e.g., base, body, outer band, and / or outer partial band) to which the bristles are mounted, wherein the mounting structure 24 follows the curvature of, and is fixedly mounted to, the band outer surface 20. Alternatively the mounting structure 24 can be a relatively flat area, a flat plate, a flat bar, slab, or in any other suitable configuration; and / or the bristles 12 can be more closely connected to (e.g., directly connected to (e.g., embedded in)) the band 13. The separately formed mounting structure 24 can be omitted and the band 13 and / or respective portions of the finger ring 10 can function as the mounting structure to which the bristles 12 are mounted, as discussed further below.

[0059] Referring to Figs. 3 and 4, the mounting structure 24 (e.g., body) of the bristle assembly 16 can be in the form of, or include, at least one flexible strip of material (e.g., a flexible support strip) to which the bristles 12 are mounted. The mounting structure 24 can be flexible so that it is bent to follow the contour of the portion of the band 13 to which the mounting structure is mounted. Referring to Fig. 3, the mounting structure 24 can include one or more layers in the form of an inner strip 26 of textile material (e.g., fabric), an outer strip 28 of extruded polymeric foam, and / or other suitable layer(s). The inner and outer strips 26, 28 can be fixedly connected (e.g., laminated) directly or indirectly to one another by way of adhesive material (e.g., epoxy), pressure-sensitive adhesive material, hot-melt adhesion (e.g., hot-melt adhesive material), and / or in any other suitable manner. The bristle assembly 16 can mounted to the band by adhesive material 42 and / or in other suitable manner, as discussed further below. The adhesive material 42 is schematically represented by stippling in Fig. 3.

[0060] Alternatively the mounting structure 24 can be relatively rigid (e.g., a rigid plate that is flat, curved, or in any suitable shape). The mounting structure 24 can be more generally referred to as at least one structure (of the ring brush 10) to which the bristles 12 are mounted. As another example, the mounting structure 24 can be an injection-molded part formed of polymeric material, and the proximal ends of the bristles 12 can be fixedly attached to the mounting structure by way of insert molding and / or in any other suitable manner.

[0061] A variety of straight and non-straight bristles 12 are within the scope of this disclosure, as discussed further below. In the specific example referred to herein as the first embodiment, and as best understood with reference to Fig. 3, each bristle 12 can be part of a bristle apparatus 30 that is a generally u-shaped piece of wire. Each first embodiment bristle apparatus 30 includes a spanning section or span 32 connected between proximal ends of a pair of the bristles 12. For each bristle apparatus 30, the bristles 12 (e.g., protruding sections of the wire) respectively extend outwardly from (e.g., perpendicularly away from) opposite ends of the span 32 (e.g., spanning section of the wire). For at least some of, a majority of, and / or each of the spans 32, the span 32 extends crosswise, or more specifically about perpendicular to, the band axis 22.

[0062] For at least some of, a majority of, and / or each of the bristles 12: elongate proximal and distal sections 34, 36 of the bristle 12 converge at an angle 38 (Fig. 2) of about one hundred and thirty-five degrees (e.g., extend divergently away from one another at the angle 38); the angle 38 lies in a plane that contains and / or at least partially contains the band axis 22; the bristle proximal section 34 and / or bristle distal section 36 lies in a plane that contains and / or at least partially contains the band axis 22; the length of the bristle proximal section 34 and / or the length of the bristle distal section 36 extends obliquely to the band axis 22; the bristle proximal section 34 and / or bristle distal section 36 is inclined toward the band axis 22; and the distal end of the bristle 12 can optionally be covered by a tip cover 40 (e.g., a coating, ball, and / or a polymeric bead of thermoplastic material mounted to the distal end of the bristle via insert molding, dipping, and / or in any other suitable manner). The distal end of the bristle 12 together with the respective tip cover 40, if present, can be collectively referred to as the distal end of the bristle 12. The distal end of a wire bristle 12 that is not covered by a tip cover 40 can be rounded or smoothed by grinding, filing, and / or other suitable techniques.

[0063] In examples depicted in the drawings, the proximal ends of the wire bristles 12 extend at an oblique angle relative to the band axis 22, and the angles 38 (Fig. 2) defined between the proximal and distal sections of the bristles is about one hundred and thirty-five degrees. These angles can vary. For example, the angles 38 can be in a range of from about ninety degrees to about one hundred and thirty -five degrees, or values or subranges therebetween, inclusive. As another example, one or more of, a majority of, or each of the proximal ends of the wire bristles 12 can extend about perpendicular relative to the band axis 22, and the angles 38 can be aboutone hundred and thirty-five degrees, in a range of from about from about one hundred and seventy -five degrees to about ninety-five degrees, or values or subranges therebetween, inclusive.

[0064] When the bristles 12 are segments of wire, the wire segments can be relatively rigid, solid, slender metal rods, or the like. Such wire bristles 12 can have predetermined properties (e.g., flexibility / stiffness) such that (i) during manufacture of the wire bristles and / or ring brush 10, the wire bristles are sufficiently flexible so that they can be bent (e.g., with hand tools and / or machinery) to provide the above-described configurations (e.g., angles 38 in Fig. 2), and (ii) during use of the ring brush, the wire bristles are sufficiently rigid (e.g., sufficiently inflexible) to remain, substantially remain, or mostly retain in the above-described configurations during normal use of the ring brush (e.g., for grooming a cat, or the like). More generally, a wide variety of differently configured bristles 12 are within the scope of this disclosure. In some examples, the bristles 12 can be of types conventionally used in hair brushes for humans, brushes for cats and / or dogs, tooth brushes, and / or other suitable types of conventional brushes.

[0065] For at least some of, a majority of, and / or each of the bristle apparatuses 30, the bristle apparatus can be fixedly connected to the mounting structure 24 of the bristle apparatus 30. For an example of this mounting, the span 32 can be in opposing face-to-face contact with one or more of the mounting structure 24, the inner side of the mounting structure 24, the inner side of the inner (e.g., textile or fabric) strip 26, and / or other suitable structure. The proximal end portions of the bristles 12 can respectively extend through relatively small holes in the mounting structure 24 so that there is an interference fit, or the like, therebetween. Alternatively or additionally, the bristle apparatuses 30 can be connected to the mounting structure 24 at least partially by way of adhesive material (e.g., epoxy), one or more fasteners (e.g., staples), and / or other suitable fastening (e.g., binding) features.

[0066] Referring to Fig. 3, the bristle assembly 16 can be fixedly, releasably, and / or movably connected to the band 13 with one or more adhesive materials 42, mechanical fastener(s), clips(s), magnet(s), and / or other suitable fastening features that may also at least partially connect the bristle apparatuses 30 to the mounting structure 24. For example and as best understood with reference to Figs. 3 and 4, the lower or inner surface (Fig. 4) of the mounting structure 24 can be fixedly connected to the band outer surface 20 with adhesive material 42(Fig. 3) so that the spans 32 are fixedly mounted between the band 13 and the mounting structure 24. The adhesive material 42 is schematically represented by stippling in Fig. 3.

[0067] When the bristle assembly 16 is releasably connected to the band 13, differently sized bands may be interchanged for resizing for differently sized fingers / phalanges, or the like. As another example, it is believed that an alternative mounting structure 24 can include a passageway extending therethrough or another suitable guideway through which a section of the band 13 extends so that there can be relative movement between the mounting structure and the band while they remain connected to one another (e.g., the mounting structure may be hollow and capable of sliding circumferentially around on the band 13 while remaining attached to the band, or the like). Alternatively, the mounting structure 24 may be omitted and the proximal ends of the bristles 12 can be directly fixedly connected to (e.g., embedded in and / or otherwise suitably mounted to) the band 13, as discussed further below.

[0068] Figs. 5-7 depict examples of the ring brush 10 being worn on a finger 15 of a user. The ring brush 10 is being used for brushing, or the like, in Fig. 7, whereas the ring brush is not being used for brushing, or the like, in Figs. 5-6, as discussed further below.

[0069] The ring brush 10 can be worn halfway up the length of the finger 15 (e.g., on the medial phalanx or intermediate phalange, distally to the proximal interphalangeal joint), as discussed further below. In Fig. 6, the user is using his or her fingertips and / or finger nails (e.g., distal end portion(s) of finger(s) and / or distal phalanges, or the like) to scratch the neck of a pet cat, such that the bristles 12 of the ring brush 10 project away from and are not engaged against the pet. In contrast, Fig. 7 depicts the ring brush 10 being worn on the finger 15 of the user, and distal ends of the bristles 12 being engaged against and drawn along the neck of the pet by way of the user moving their hand or at least the finger 15 upon which the ring brush 10 is being worn.

[0070] An example of a method of using the ring brush 10 of the first embodiment is described in the following. Referring to Fig. 5, a user can wear the ring brush 10 on at least one finger 15 so that bristles 12 of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate a back side of the finger. Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, the finger 15 can be extended, and the animal can be scratched with at least the fingertip and / or finger nail of the extended finger on which the ring brush 10 is being worn. In the examples depicted in the drawings, the ring brush 10 is worn on the intermediate phalange of the index finger 15. Alternatively, the ring brush 10 may be wornon any of the fingers and any of the phalanges, or it may be configured to worn on multiple fingers / phalanges, as discussed further below. As another example, multiple ring brushes 10 can be worn on the same hand, on respective fingers and / or phalanges. As a more specific example, two more ring brushes 10 can be coaxially arranged with one another (e.g., front edge 19 of one ring brush engaged against rear edge 21 of another ring brush) and optionally be releasably connected to one another (e.g., by magnet(s) and / or other suitable fastener(s)) in order to use two or more ring brushes simultaneously on the same finger 15.

[0071] Referring to Fig. 7 and further regarding an example of using the ring brush 10, the user can inwardly curl at least a distal end portion of their fingers (e.g., at least the finger 15 wearing the ring brush 10) toward the palm of their hand, so that that bristles 12 of the ring brush 10 extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the curved finger wearing the ring brush. Then, the animal can be brushed with the ring brush 10. For example, distal ends of the bristles 12 can be engaged against the animal while the ring brush is worn on the curved finger 15, and there can be relative movement between the ring brush and the animal while the distal ends of the bristles remain engaged against the animal for brushing, or the like.

[0072] The band 13 can be round, cylindrical, or in any other suitable shape or configuration, as discussed further below. The band 13 can be constructed of polymeric material, metallic material, and / or any other suitable material(s) either individually or in combination. A variety of differently configured bands 13 are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the inner surface 18 of the band 13 can be curved in a direction extending along the band axis 22, so that the band 13 is a “comfort-fit band,” as will be understood by the those of ordinary skill in the art. The band 13 may be a single-piece component (e.g., a unitary structure) or may be a multi -piece component (e.g., formed of multiple components, articles, or the like). For each of the embodiments of this disclosure, the inner diameter of the band 13 and / or the outer diameter of the finger opening 14, can conform to any of the following ring sizes, or any ranges including or between any of the following ring sizes:

[0073] Alternatively, it is believed that the band 13 and finger opening 14 may be larger than indicated above, for example, for simultaneously being in receipt of multiple fingers and / or phalanges (e.g., the ring brush 10 and / or the band 13 can be configured as a multi-finger ring / band for being simultaneously worn on the index and middle fingers). As another example, the band 13 or other structure(s) that at least partially define the finger opening 14 can be configured to be adjustable so that the size of the finger opening is adjustable (e.g., has an adjustable ring size), for example as a result of the band being made of flexible material and being in the form of an open or slit hoop (e.g., split ring and / or partial band) that includes a gap or other suitable “allowance feature” that allows for size adjustment (e.g., resizable gap). As a result of the resizable gap, at least a portion of the resizable band and / or other suitable structure of the ring brush 10 can be generally shaped like the letter C, and size of the band 13 and associated finger opening 14 can be adjusted by adjusting the size of the gap. As a more general example, as a result of the gap, the inner and outer surfaces 18, 20 may extend partially around the finger opening 14 and band axis 22. Optionally, it is believed that at least some of, and perhaps each of, the bands 13 of this disclosure may include such a gap and be configured to allow the size of the gap to be adjusted as part of adjusting the size of the finger opening 14, as discussed further below. As another more general example, the band 13 and / or other suitable structure of the ring brush 10 can include at least one adjustable portion that can be moved and / or bent to adjust the size of the band.

[0074] The ring brush 10 can include more than one band 13, partial band, and / or other finger opening-defining structure, for example as a result of the ring brush being in the form of a multi or dual ring that includes two or more bands 13 and / or other suitable structures (e.g., discussed further below). The band 13 can support one or more of the bristle assemblies 16. The bristles 12 can be mounted relatively more directly to (e.g., can be directly mounted to) the band 13 and / or other suitable structure of the ring brush 10, without there being an at least initiallyseparate mounting structure 24, as discussed further below. For example, the mounting structure 24 may be omitted and the proximal ends of the bristles 12 can be directly fixedly connected to (e.g., embedded in) the band 13. The band 13 can be circular or in any other suitable shape, for example, at least partially rectangular or square, oblong, undulating, a combination of multiple parts, a combination of different materials (e.g., polymeric and / or other suitable materials), and / or the like.

[0075] Regarding a further example of the size of the finger opening 14 being adjustable, the band 13 can be formed of, or at least partially formed of, elastic material (e.g., rubber, silicon, and / or or other suitable elastic material). As a more specific example regarding the size of the finger opening 14 being adjustable, the band 13 (e.g., at least a portion thereof) can comprise or be formed of (e.g., by injection molding) relatively highly elastic material (e.g., as compared to the bristle mounting structure 24) so that the band (e.g., at least a portion thereof) can stretch in response to a finger, (or fingers collectively) which has a larger diameter than the at-rest diameter of the finger opening, being inserted into the finger opening. In this example, it is believed the band 13 can be formed of, for example, relatively highly elastic polymeric material, silicone, latex, polyvinyl chloride with plasticizers, natural rubber, and / or other suitable materials. In this example, the bristle mounting structure 24 can at least partially function as a fortifying (e.g., reinforcing and / or stiffening) element or feature. The mounting structure 24 can be formed of a material that is more rigid and / or stiffer than (e.g., has a higher modulus of elasticity than) the elastomeric material of the band 13. In this example, it is believed the mounting structure 24 can be formed of, for example, relatively highly rigid polymeric material, high-density polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and / or other suitable materials. The relatively increased rigidness and / or stiffness of the mounting structure 24 can provide a portion or zone of increased stiffness to the ring brush 10. Alternatively, or in addition, the increased rigidness and / or stiffness can be attributed to the increased thickness of the portion of the ring brush 10 including both the band 13 and the mounting structure 24. As another example, the mounting structure 24 can be formed of a material that is less rigid and / or less stiff (e.g., has a lower modulus of elasticity) as compared to the material of the band 13.

[0076] Alternatively, the band 13 (e.g., at least a portion thereof) can comprise or be formed of (e.g., by injection molding) relatively highly rigid material so that any stretching of the band is restricted. In this example, it is believed the band 13 can be formed of, for example, relativelyhighly rigid polymeric material, high-density polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and / or other suitable materials.

[0077] As further examples, for providing different balances of properties, the band 13 can include different parts, portions, sections, or zones constructed of materials with different properties (e.g., different moduli of elasticity), and / or it can include variety of differently configured and located types of fortifying structures, reinforcements, stiffeners, stiffening materials, stays, inserts, or the like that can be relatively rigid and / or stiff and be at least partially embedded in or otherwise associated with the band 13. Throughout this disclosure, it is believed that the relatively rigid and / or stiff parts or portions can be made of high-density polyethylene, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, and / or other suitable materials; and relatively less rigid and / or less stiff parts can be made of relatively highly elastic polymeric material, silicone, latex, polyvinyl chloride with plasticizers, natural rubber, and / or other suitable materials. As a further example applicable throughout this disclosure, it is believed that both (i) the relatively rigid and / or stiff parts or portions and (ii) the relatively less rigid and / or less stiff parts can be made of silicone including one or more crosslinking (curing) agents and / or one or more other materials (e.g., fdlers and / or additives), wherein the amounts and / or types of agents, additives, and / or fillers may respectively vary between the portions in a manner that causes the properties of the portions to vary as discussed herein. Similarly, it is believed that other suitable polymeric materials that are elastomeric (e.g., rubber) may be used, with the amounts and / or types of agents, additives, and / or fillers respectively varying between the portions in a manner that causes the properties of the portions to vary as discussed herein. More generally, it is believed variations in rigidity can be accomplished by way of variations in thickness and / or variations in material properties. As another example, it is believed that in at least some situations the disclosed variations in rigidity may be omitted.

[0078] The bristles 12 can be any suitable bristles that are connected to the mounting structure 24, band 13, and / or other suitable structure of the ring brush 10 in any suitable manner. For example, the bristles 12 can be metallic bristles (e.g., segments of wire (e.g., galvanized iron, brass, carbon steel, stainless steel)), polymeric bristles (e.g., formed of one or more synthetic fibers (e.g., nylon), natural bristles (e.g., formed of one or more natural fibers (e.g., bamboo fibers, sisal, boar hair), and / or any other suitable bristles formed of suitable material(s) (e.g., any suitable material(s) either individually or in combination). The proximal ends of bristles 12 canbe fixedly connected to the mounting structure 24, band 13, and / or other structure of the ring brush 10 by way of interference fit(s), receptacles containing adhesive material (e.g., epoxy), insert molding, and / or other suitable fastening techniques (e.g., staples and / or other suitable binding).

[0079] Reiterating from above, a variety of variations are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the arcuate mounting structure 24 can be configured in any other suitable shapes, and the bristles 12 can be any suitable conventional bristles. In this regard, the first embodiment and a second embodiment of this disclosure can be configured similarly and be used similarly, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to the those of ordinary skill in the art. Figs. 8-9 depict an example of the second embodiment of the ring brush 10. In the second embodiment, the bristles 12 can be straight, relatively straight, substantially straight and / or in any other suitable configuration. As another example for the second embodiment, the mounting structure 24 of the bristle assembly 16 can be relatively rigid, relatively flat or planar, and / or in the shape of a plate or block that does not (e.g., substantially does not or somewhat does not) follow the curvature of the outer surface 20 of the band 13. For example, the mounting structure 24, or the lower or inner surface of the mounting structure, can extend tangentially to the band outer surface 20. For resizing the band opening 14, the band 13 can be elastic and more flexible than the mounting structure 24. For example, the mounting structure 24 can comprise, consist essentially of, or consist of material (e.g., elastomeric material) that is more rigid and / or stiffer than (e.g., has a higher modulus of elasticity than) the band 13. As another example, gaps 44 (Fig. 8) that can be at least partially arcuate can be defined between opposite end portions of the mounting structure 24 and respective portions of the band outer surface 20.

[0080] Although the band 13 may be symmetrical as depicted for at least some of the abovediscussed examples, the band may optionally also be unsymmetrical or otherwise less uniform. The one or more unsymmetrical features can result from the band 13 or another portion of the ring brush 10 (i) incorporating at least one relatively thick section including mounting structure for the bristles 12; (ii) incorporating at least one design or ornamental element (e.g., via cut out(s), void(s), and / or added structure(s) that may be cute or pretty; (iii) incorporating at least one extension and / or stiffening structure that seeks to maintain a coaxial arrangement between the band and the lengthwise axis of the user’s phalange extending through the finger opening 14, or the like, during use of the ring brush; and / or (iv) other suitable features.

[0081] At least partially reiterating from above, the proximal ends of bristles 12 can be fixedly connected to the mounting structure 24, band 13, and / or other suitable structure of the ring brush 10; and the mounting structure or other suitable structure of the ring brush to which the bristles are mounted can be arcuate, flat, a band, a partial band, and / or in any other suitable configuration. In the example depicted in Fig. 10, a dashed line (dashed boundary line 46) schematically and theoretically represents a front edge of a three-dimensional boundary between the arcuate band 13 and mounting structure 24, in accordance with a version of the second embodiment. It is believed that the dashed boundary line 46 can also represent a front edge of a bond, bonded area, and / or adhesive layer positioned between and connecting the separately formed mounting structure 24 and band 13 to one another.

[0082] As another example (e.g., third embodiment) that can also be understood with reference to Fig. 10, the dashed boundary line 46 can be disregarded, and the bristles 12 can be mounted relatively more directly to (e.g., can be directly mounted to) the band 13, without there being a separate mounting structure 24. The mounting structure 24 can be an integral part of the unitary band 13 so that the unitary band includes a relatively thick section that serves as a mounting structure in which inner ends of the bristles 12 are embedded, or the like. More specifically, for the third embodiment of the ring brush 10, the bristles 12 are mounted to a relatively thick and / or raised area of the band 13. The relatively greater thickness of the mounting structure 24 portion of the band 13 can be omitted. The inner ends of the bristles 12 can be directly mounted to the band 13 by way of insert molding, fasteners (e.g., staples), adhesive material (e.g., epoxy), and / or any other suitable fastening, binding, crimping, or the like. The first through third embodiments can be configured similarly and be used similarly, except for variations noted and variations that will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0083] Fig. 11 depicts an example of multi-finger or dual-finger ring brush 10 configured so that the size of its finger openings 14 is adjustable, in accordance with a fourth embodiment. The first through fourth embodiments can be configured similarly and be used similarly, except for variations noted and variations that will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0084] Continuing to refer to Fig. 11, when the dual -finger ring brush 10 is worm by a user, the user’s index and middle fingers can respectively extend through the finger openings 14, or the ring brush may worn on other suitable fingers, or the like. In top and bottom plan views ofthe fourth embodiment ring brush 10 while it is configured for being used (e.g., generally as discussed above with reference to Figs. 6-7), each of the bodies 50 can appear to be generally rectangular, and the bodies 50 are typically superposed with one another, although a variety of other configurations are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0085] With continued reference to Fig. 11 in the following, the multi-finger or dual-finger ring brush 10 can include a plurality of bodies 50 (e.g., an upper body and a lower body) that collectively define the finger openings 14 for respectively receiving fingers of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user (e.g., substantially similarly to described above, or the like). The sizes of the finger openings 14 can be adjusted by way of the bodies 50 being adjustably connected to one another by at least one adjustable connection configured to be used to change the distance between the bodies 50. One or more of the bodies 50 may be a single-piece component (e.g., a unitary structure) or may be a multi-piece component (e.g., formed of multiple components).

[0086] As best understood with reference to Fig. 11, each of the bodies 50 can include a generally T-shaped initially-molded, foundation or base part (e.g., base 52), and one or more later-applied (e.g., via coating, over-molding, stickers, or other suitable mounting), relatively soft, grippable (e.g., non-slip), and compressive cover layers, parts, grips, or cushions 54. In one example, the cushions 54 are constructed from elastic material and the cushions are thick enough so that the cushions can be compressed by a user’s fingers in a manner that allows the finger openings 14 to deform / expand to accommodate fingers that are larger than the undeformed finger openings.

[0087] The cushions 54 can be at least partially made of silicone (e.g., with silicone being the only or a majority component) and / or any other suitable material(s). The bases 52 can be made of silicone, polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene and / or any other suitable material(s). One or more of, or each of, the bases 52 can comprise, consist essentially of, or consists of elastomeric material that is more rigid and / or stiffer than (e.g., has a higher modulus of elasticity than) the cushions 54. More generally, the one or more parts of the bodies 50 may be formed of any suitable material, in any suitable manner, and / or in any suitable order.

[0088] For one or more of, or each of, the bases 52, the base can include a relatively central portion (e.g., stem, core, or medial portion 56) and opposite lateral portions (e.g., extensions, appendages or flanges 58) extending outwardly from the medial portion. The cushions 54 can bemounted to respective inner surfaces of the bases 52 so that the finger openings 14 are at least mostly, substantially completely, or completely defined by inner surfaces of the cushions.

[0089] In the fourth embodiment, respective portions of the upper base 52, for example respective upper portions of the upper base’s medial portion 56 and flanges 58, form or function as a flat mounting structure 24 to which the proximal end portions of the bristles 12 are fixedly connected. The bristles 12 can be connected to the mounting structure 24 using the abovediscussed and / or any other suitable techniques. The bristles 12 can be of any suitable type, as discussed above.

[0090] As more specific examples best understood with reference to Fig. 11, for one or more of, or each of, the bases 52, outer faces or surface portions the base 52 and flanges 58 can be planar and coplanar with one another to define a planar or substantially planer outer surface of the mounting structure 24. Alternatively, the mounting structure 24 and / or its outer surface can be in any other suitable shape, for example by being stepped, curved, undulating, and / or in any other suitable configuration, as discussed further below. With continued reference to Fig. 11, for one or more of, or each of, the flanges 58, at least a portion of the flange (e.g., an outer end portion) can be curved so that the flange extends partially around the associated finger opening 14. Similarly, each of the cushions 54 can be curved and, thus, extend partially around the associated finger opening 14.

[0091] The cushions 54 may be omitted or configured differently. For example, rather than having separately formed cushions 54, the areas occupied by the cushions can be respectively occupied by material of the bodies 50, or the bodies can be in any other suitable shape. Whether the cushions 54 are present or not, each of the bodies 50 can be generally described as including a relatively central portion (e.g., stem, core, or medial portion 56) and opposite lateral portions (e g., extensions, appendages or flanges 58) extending outwardly from the body medial portion. At least partially reiterating from above and as best understood with reference to Fig. 11, the size of the finger openings 14 can be adjusted at least in part due to there being resizable gaps 64 respectively defined between distal ends of the body flanges 58.

[0092] Further regarding the resizable finger openings 14 of the example depicted in Fig. 11, the above-mentioned adjustable connection between the bodies 50 can be provided by one or more connectors, or more specifically fastener(s). In the example depicted in Fig. 11, the adjustable connection between the bodies 50 is partially provided by a fastener in the form of ascrew 70 (e.g., cylindrical shaft with external screw thread(s)). In the orientation depicted in Fig. 11 (which could be reversed by inverting the ring brush 10), an upper end portion of the screw 70 can be fixedly mounted to (e.g., embedded in and non-movable relative to) a lower end portion of the medial portion 56 of the upper body 50. In the example depicted in Fig. 11, the lower end portion of the screw 70 is threadedly mated in an internally threaded hole 72 (e g., tapped bore) in an upper end portion of the medial portion 56 of the lower body 50. This adjustable connection is configured so that there can be relative rotational movement between the screw 70 and the lower body 50, and during the relative rotating the mutually engaged screw threads of the screw 70 and hole 72 cause the distance between the bodies 50 to change in response to the relative rotational movement, so that the sizes of the finger openings 14 and gaps 64 are changed accordingly.

[0093] In an example of a method of adjusting the ring brush 10 that includes the screw 70, the sizes of the finger openings 14 (i) increase in response to manually induced relative rotation between the bodies 50 in a first direction, and (ii) decrease in response to manually induced relative rotation between the bodies 50 in a second direction that is opposite from the first direction. In this regard, Fig. 11 can be described as depicting the ring brush 10 in a first configuration with the gaps 64 being a first size and the finger openings 14 having a first size. The ring brush is releasably secured in the first configuration due to the adjustable connection (e.g., the screw 70 and hole 72).

[0094] In response to predetermined relative rotation (e.g., of 180 degrees or multiples thereof) between the bodies 50 in the first direction, the same fourth embodiment ring brush 10 with movably connected-together bodies 50 can be configured in a second configuration. In the second configuration, the gaps 64 are larger than the first size of the gaps 64, and the finger openings 14 are larger than the first size of the finger openings 14. The ring brush is releasably secured in the second configuration due to the adjustable connection.

[0095] In response to predetermined relative rotation (e.g., of 180 degrees or multiples thereof) between the bodies 50 in the second direction, the same fourth embodiment ring brush 10 with movably connected-together bodies 50 can be configured in a third configuration wherein the gaps 64 are smaller than the first size of the gaps 64, and the finger openings 14 are smaller than the first size of the finger openings 14, wherein the ring brush is releasably secured in the third configuration due to the adjustable connection.

[0096] The screw-based adjustable connection depicted in Fig. 11 can be configured in a manner that seeks to restrict any unintended relative rotation between the bodies 50 by restricting any unintended self-loosening between the externally threaded screw 70 and the internally threaded hole 72. Any such unintended self-loosening may be restricted as a result of the lower end of the screw 70 fitting relatively tightly into the hole 72 in a manner that increases friction between the threads of the screw 70 and hole 72. As another example for restricting unintended self-loosening, one or more coatings with a relatively high coefficient of friction can be applied to the threads of the screw 70 and / or hole 72.

[0097] For another example of how unintended self-loosening of the screw 70 can be restricted, the fourth embodiment ring brush 10 can further include a conventional internally threaded nut (not depicted in the drawings). The screw 70 can extend through and be engaged with internal threads of the conventional nut (e g., “jam nut”), so that the nut can be caused to travel at least partially along the length of the screw in opposite directions by being rotated in opposite directions. For restricting unintended self-loosening between the screw 70 and lower body 50, the conventional nut on the screw 70 can be rotated so as to become tightly engaged in face-to-face contact with the upper surface of the lower base medial portion 56 in a manner that seeks to inhibit relative rotation between the screw and the lower body 50. This tightly engaged face-to-face contact can create or increase tensile stress in the screw 70 in a manner that increases friction and inhibits relative rotation. For enabling or making easier relative rotation between the screw 70 and lower body 50, the conventional nut on the screw 70 can first be rotated so as to disengage from the upper surface of the lower base medial portion 56.

[0098] As a further example, unintended self-loosening may be restricted by the threaded hole 72 being defined by a self-locking nut that is fixedly at least partially embedded in the medial portion 56 of the lower base 52, so that the lower end portion of the screw 70 is threadedly mated in the internally threaded self-locking nut. The self-locking nut may not be novel per se, and it may include an elastically deformable part (e.g., an internal O-ring or washer) that provides a releasable locking action against the screw 70.

[0099] In at least some of the above, the ring brush 10 and associated features are described with the ring brush oriented as depicted in Fig. 11. Alternatively, the ring brush can be oriented differently than depicted in Fig. 11, such as by being inverted as compared to Fig. 11. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that aspects of this disclosuredescribed in the context of one orientation can be modified accordingly for different orientations of the ring brush 10. As another example, both ends of the screw 70, or the like, can be fixedly (e.g., non-adjustably) connected to the respective bodies 50 so that the above-discuss sizing feature associated with the screw is omitted. More generally, the upper and lower bodies 50 can be permanently fixedly connected to one another in any other suitable manner.

[0100] Fig. 12 depicts a ring brush 10 in accordance with a fifth embodiment, wherein the fourth and fifth embodiments can be configured similarly and be used similarly, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. In Fig. 12, the bristle mounting structure(s) 24 are curved or more specifically collectively undulating. Alternatively, the mounting structure(s) 24 of the fifth embodiment can be a relatively flat area, a flat plate, a flat bar, slab, and / or the like, as discussed above and / or the like.

[0101] As compared to the fourth embodiment ring brush 10 (Fig. 11), in the fifth embodiment (Fig. 12) the screw-based adjustable connection (Fig. 11) is replaced with a push- pull or form-fit adjustable connection (Fig. 12). Referring to Fig. 12, the adjustable connection of the fifth embodiment ring brush 10 can be partially provided by a tiered push-on fastener 73 including a shaft with external protrusions (e.g., flexible tabs, ribs, or other suitable structures) that are spaced apart along the length of the shaft of the fastener 73. In the orientation depicted in Fig. 12 (which could be reversed by inverting the ring brush 10), an upper end portion of shaft of the fastener 73 can be fixedly mounted to (e.g., embedded in and non-movable relative to) a lower end portion of the medial portion 56 of the upper body 50. In the example depicted in Fig. 12, the lower end portion of the fastener 73 is mated in a hole 74 in an upper end portion of the medial portion 56 of the lower body 50. The hole 74 can be configured to at least partially define a series of form-fit connections respectively associated with a series of different sizes of the finger openings 14 and gaps 64. For example, the diameter of the hole 74 can be tiered by way of a sidewall of the hole 74 having an alternating series of grooves and / or ridges that define a series of shoulders that are spaced apart along the length of the hole 74 for respectively engaging with the external protrusions of the fastener 73 in a manner that allows the spacing between the bodies 50 and, thus, the size of the finger openings 14, to be adjusted.

[0102] As an example of a method of adjusting the ring brush 10 that includes the push-on or form-fit fastener 73 (Fig. 12), the sizes of the finger openings 14 can (i) increase in response to manually induced relative translational (non-rotational) movement between the bodies 50 in afirst direction, and (ii) decrease in response to manually induced relative translational movement between the bodies 50 in a second direction that is opposite from the first direction.Alternatively, the relative movement between the bodies 50 associated with the fastener 73 can be accompanied by, or at least partially facilitated by, some relative rotation between the bodies.

[0103] Fig. 12 can be described as depicting the ring brush 10 in a first configuration with the gaps 64 being a first size and the finger openings 14 having a first size. The ring brush 10 is releasably secured in the first configuration due to the adjustable connection (e.g., the fastener 73 and hole 74). In response to predetermined relative movement between the bodies 50 away from one another in the first direction, the same fifth embodiment ring brush 10 with movably connected-together bodies 50 can be configured in a second configuration. In the second configuration, the gaps 64 are larger than the first size of the gaps 64, and the finger openings 14 are larger than the first size of the finger openings 14. The ring brush 10 is releasably secured in the second configuration due to the adjustable connection.

[0104] In response to predetermined relative movement between the bodies 50 toward one another in the second direction, the same fifth embodiment ring brush 10 with movably connected-together bodies 50 can be configured in a third configuration. In the third configuration, the gaps 64 are smaller than the first size of the gaps 64, and the finger openings14 are smaller than the first size of the finger openings 14, wherein the ring brush is releasably secured in the third configuration due to the adjustable connection.

[0105] Figs. 13-15 depict a ring brush 10 in accordance with a sixth embodiment. At least the first and sixth embodiments can be configured similarly and be used similarly , except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. In Fig.15 the bristle assembly 16 is exploded away from the band outer surface 20 and an associated extension 78, as discussed further below. In Fig. 15, a portion of a user’s finger 15 (e.g., intermediate phalange and distal phalange) is schematically depicted with dashed lines, and the ring band 13 is being worn on the intermediate phalange that extends through the band opening 14.

[0106] When the ring brush 10 is being used, for example as discussed above with reference to Fig. 7, the reactionary forces being applied to the distal ends of the bristles 12 can result in reactionary torque that seeks to cause relative rotation between the band axis 22 (Fig. 15) and the lengthwise axis 76 (Fig. 15) of the phalange upon which the band 13 is being worn. Referring toFigs. 13-15, the ring brush 10 can include one or more fortifying features (e g., at least one upper extension 78 (e.g., lever)) for at least partially counteracting the reactionary torque in a manner that seeks to maintain a coaxial, approximately coaxial, and / or substantially coaxial arrangement between the axes 22, 76 during use of the ring brush 10. In the embodiments depicted in the drawings, the extension 78 extends rearwardly along the band axis 22.

[0107] In the example depicted in Figs. 13-15, the asymmetrical extension 78 (i) is part of (e.g., an asymmetrical extension of) the band body 13 (ii) is a rearwardly extending portion of the band rear edge 21, (iii) extends only partially around the band axis 22, (iv) includes opposite arcuate, elongate inner and outer surfaces 80, 82, (v) and tapers rearwardly / upwardly to a rounded rear end or tip. In the embodiment depicted in Figs. 13-15 the ring brush 10 and band body 13 are asymmetrical because, for example, band front edge 19 does not form an extension corresponding the rear extension 78 (e.g., the band front edge 19 is generally flat or planar), and the lower portion of the band rear edge 21 does not form an extension corresponding the rear extension 78. The band body 13 together with the extension 78 can be single-piece component (e.g., a unitary article) formed of polymeric and / or other suitable materials.

[0108] Relative to the band axis 22, the extension inner surface 80 can have a radius of curvature that is the same as, about the same as, and / or substantially the same as the radius of curvature of the band inner surface 18. Relative to the band axis 22, the extension outer surface 82 can have a radius of curvature that is the same as, about the same as, substantially the same as, and / or greater than the radius of curvature of the band outer surface 20. More specifically for the example depicted in 13-15, the radius of curvature of the extension outer surface 82 can gradually increase in the upward direction so that the front end of the extension forms a crescentshaped front edge or shoulder 83 configured to engage a rear edge of the bristle assembly base 24 in a manner that may seek to help hold the bristle assembly base 24 in its mounted position. The extension’s front edge or shoulder, if present, can alternatively be in any other suitable shape, for example by not being tapered into a crescent shape, or the like.

[0109] As at least alluded to above, when the ring brush 10 of Figs. 13-15 is being used, there can be a reactionary torque resulting from the reactionary force being applied to the distal ends of the bristles 12. That reactionary torque can be at least partially counteracted by a reactionary torque resulting from a reactionary force being applied by the upper surface of the proximal portion of the phalange (upon which the ring brush is being worn) against the extensioninner surface 80. The counteracting seeks to maintain a coaxial, approximately coaxial, and / or substantially coaxial arrangement between the axes 22, 76 (Fig. 15). The rear extension 78 can be in any suitable shape (e.g., in the shape of at least one design or ornamental element) and / or the rear extension can incorporate at least one design or ornamental element (e.g., via cut out(s), void(s), and / or added structure(s)) that may be cute or pretty.

[0110] At least partially reiterating from above, the band 13 can include at least one gap for size adjustments; the band can include different parts, portions, sections, or zones constructed of materials with different properties (e g., different moduli of elasticity); and / or the band can include variety of differently configured and located types of fortifying structures, reinforcements, stiffeners, stiffening materials, stays, inserts, or the like that can be at least partially embedded in or otherwise associated with the band. In this regard and for example, Fig. 16 is an isolated view of an example of a composite version of the band 13 that may be used in place of the other bands of this disclosure. The composite band 13 can include a main body part 84 upon or into which one or more fortifying structures are mounted and / or at least partially embedded. For the example depicted in Fig. 16, the fortifying structures may be referred to as embedded or partially embedded parts 86 (e g., stays and / or at least partially embedded parts). Fig. 16 is schematic because, for example, portions of the embedded parts 86 (e.g., stiffeners) are hidden from view and depicted with dashed lines.

[0111] There can be a single embedded part 86, a series of embedded parts that are spaced apart from one another and arranged in series around the band axis 22, and / or any other suitable arrangement of the embedded parts. One or more of the embedded parts 86 can be omitted or configured differently than depicted in Fig. 16. The bristle assembly base 24 (Fig. 3) can be mounted to (e.g., fixedly attached to) the outer surface of one or more of the embedded parts 86, or the proximal ends of the bristles 12 can be mounted directly to (e.g., embedded in) one or more of the embedded parts 86. A respective portion of one or more of the embedded parts 86 can provide a relatively firm mounting surface or area to which the bristle assembly base 24 or bristles 12 can be mounted.

[0112] The one or more embedded parts 86 can be stiffer than the main body part 84. As an example, it is believed that the composite band 13 can be formed by insert molding, so that the at least one embedded part 86 is formed of material that is more rigid and / or stiffer than (e.g., has a higher modulus of elasticity than) the body part 84, and it is believed that each of these parts canbe made of various types of elastic silicone and / or other suitable materials. Fig. 16 also depicts an example of the band including a gap 88. As discussed above, the band 13 can be at least partially constructed of flexible material such that the size of the gap 88 can be manually changed to change the size of the band opening 14. Depending upon the size of the gap 88, the band 13 (e.g., body) may be more specifically referred to as a partial band. The gap 88 can be relatively narrow, such as by being defined by a slit.

[0113] Referring to Figs. 17-19, for any of the bristles 12 of this disclosure having a tip cover 40, the distal end of the bristle can define a shape and / or include structure that seeks to provide a relatively strong connection between bristle and the tip cover. For example, as depicted in Figs. 18-19, the distal end portion of the bristle 12 can be embedded in the tip cover 40, and an opening (e.g., hole, loop, or the like) can be defined by the bristle distal end portion. An inner portion of the tip cover 40 can extend into (e.g., through) the opening defined by the bristle distal end. The tip cover 40 can be formed of a relative strong material that seeks to result in the tip cover being, and remaining, securely fixedly attached to the bristle during use of the associated ring brush 10.

[0114] Figs. 20-22 depict a ring brush in accordance with a seventh embodiment, wherein the seventh embodiment can be like, and can be used like, the other embodiments of this disclosure , except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. For the example depicted in Fig. 20, the band 13 may be referred to as an inner body or inner band 13 (e.g., undulating band), and the bristle assembly base 24 may be referred to as an outer body or outer band 24. For automatically resizing the finger opening 14, the inner band 13 can be a size-adjusting elastic cushion, undulating spring, and / or the like, configured to radially expand and contract in response to differently sized phalanges / fingers 15 being in the finger opening 14. The diameters of differently sized phalanges / fingers 15 are schematically depicted with dashed lines in Figs. 21-22, respectively. The inner band 13 can be less rigid and / or less stiffer than the outer band 24. For example, the inner band 13 can be formed of material that is less rigid and / or less stiffer than (e.g., has lower modulus of elasticity than) the outer band 24.

[0115] In the example depicted in Fig. 21, dashed lines (dashed boundary lines 46) schematically and theoretically represent front edges of a three-dimensional boundary between the inner and outer bands 13, 24 (e.g., bodies). It is believed that the dashed boundary line 46can also represent front edges of bonds, bonded areas, and / or adhesive material positioned between and connecting inner and outer bands 13, 24 to one another after they are initially formed separately from one another. As another example, it is believed that the inner and outer bands 13, 24 may be simultaneously formed as a single, unitary molded part. As a further example, it is believed that the inner and outer bands 13, 24 may be formed sequentially and connected to one another by way of insert molding, over molding, and / or in any other suitable manner. As another example, the inner and outer bands 13, 24 may be formed separately from one another, and then be releasably connected to one another by way of an interference fit, mechanical fastener(s) (e.g., snap fastener(s), clips(s)), magnet(s), and / or other suitable fastening features that allow the inner band to be removed from the outer band, so that the outer band may be worn on / in direct contact with a user’s finger without using the inner band.

[0116] The proximal ends of the bristles 12 can be fixedly mounted to (e g., embedded in) the outer band 24 or be connected thereto in any other suitable manner. In the example depicted in Figs. 20-22, in the circumferential direction around the inner band 13, the inner band comprises or defines a series of inwardly protruding elastic size adjusters 90 (e.g., at least one size-adjusting cushion, size adjusting-spring, or the like). The size adjusters 90 may be collectively referred to as a size adjuster, size-adjusting cushion, series of undulations, and / or the like. The outer band 24 can be a partial band. One or more of the size adjusters 90 may be omitted so that the inner band 13 is a partial band that extends only partially around the axis 22, or the inner band can be replaced with one or more of the size adjusters, as discussed further below.

[0117] One or more of, or each of the size adjusters 90 can be in the form of an arcuate elastic spring having opposite ends (adjuster ends) and a medial portion positioned between the adjuster ends. Adjacent adjuster ends can be connected to one another and the inner surface 18 of the outer band 24. In the relaxed state or configuration of each size adjuster 90, the size adjuster can be an undulation, so that the medial portion of the size adjuster extends inwardly toward the band axis 22, and an at least partially closable gap or at least partially collapsible hole (adjuster hole 92) is defined between the outer surface of the medial portion of the size adjuster and a corresponding portion of the inner surface 18 of the outer band 24. In the relaxed state or configuration of the inner band 13, one or more of, or each of, the adjuster holes 92 can be open at the front and rear of the ring brush 10.

[0118] Reiterating from above, the elastic inner band 13 can be less rigid and / or less stiff than (e.g., formed of material having a lower modulus of elasticity than) the outer band 24. The inner band 13 can be elastically reconfigurable to a plurality of configurations or sizes in response to differently sized phalanges / fingers 15 being in the finger opening 14. As a result, the ring brush 10 can be transitioned between at least first and second configurations (Figs. 21 and 22, respectively). In the first configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size in response to being in receipt of at least one relatively small phalange of a user. In the second configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size in response to being in receipt of, and one or more of the size adjusters 90 being outwardly deformed by, at least one relatively large phalange of a user. The size of the finger opening 14 in the second configuration is larger than the size of the finger opening in the first configuration.

[0119] A variety of shapes of the one or more size adjusters 90 and / or a variety of undulating shapes of the inner band 13 or portions thereof are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the undulating shape of the inner band 13, or a portion thereof, can include elastic living hinges, elastic folds, elastic pleats, and / or the like, that are elasticity biased toward a partially folded together configuration and can be expanded (e.g., at least partially unfolded) in response to outward force from at least one finger inserted into the band opening 14.

[0120] Referring to Fig. 23, the seventh embodiment ring brush 10 (Figs. 20-22) can further include the above-discussed upper extension 78 (see, e.g., Figs. 13-15), or a variation thereof. Referring to Fig. 23, the upper extension 78 can be an integrally formed part of the outer band 24, so that upper extension is relatively rigid as compared to the inner band 13.

[0121] Referring to Figs. 20-22, each of the relaxed size adjusters 90 can be outwardly concave and inwardly convex, such that each of the size adjusters may be referred to as inwardly arched portions 90. In contrast, the outer band 24 can be outwardly convex and inwardly concave, such that segments of the outer band 24 may be referred to as outwardly arched portions. In Figs. 24-30 generally corresponding outwardly arched segments are denoted by numeral 94.

[0122] As at least partially indicated above with reference to Figs. 20-22, one or more portions of the inner and outer bands 13, 24 of the seventh embodiment ring brush 10 can be omitted. For example, about an upper half of inner band 13 can be omitted, and about a lower half of the outer band 24 can be omitted to provide an eighth embodiment of the ring brush 10depicted in Figs. 24-26. The seventh and eight embodiments can be configured similarly and be used similarly, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0123] In the example of the eighth embodiment depicted in Figs. 24-26, the ring brush 10 includes an undulating band 96 including some of the above-mentioned inwardly and outwardly arched portions 90, 94 respectively connected end to end. The proximal ends of the bristles 12 can be fixedly mounted to (e.g., embedded in) the upper outwardly arched portion 94 or be connected thereto in any other suitable manner. One or more of, or each inwardly arched portion 90 can be an arcuate elastic size-adjusting spring having opposite ends (adjuster ends) and a medial portion positioned between the adjuster ends. In the relaxed state or configuration of each inwardly arched portion 90, the inwardly arched portion can be an undulation, so that its medial portion extends inwardly toward the band axis 22.

[0124] The inwardly arched portions 90 can be less rigid and / or less stiff than (e.g., formed of material having a lower modulus of elasticity than) the at least one outwardly arched portioner 94. The inwardly arched portions 90 can be elastically reconfigurable to a plurality of configurations or sizes in response to differently sized phalanges / fingers 15 being in the finger opening 14 and engaging outwardly against the inwardly arched portions 90. As a result, the ring brush 10 can be transitioned between at least first and second configurations (Figs. 25 and 26, respectively). In the first configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size in response to being in receipt of at least one relatively small phalange of a user. In the second configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size and in receipt of at least one relatively large phalange of a user. The size of the finger opening 14 in the second configuration is larger than the size of the finger opening in the first configuration.

[0125] The eighth embodiment and a ninth embodiment of this disclosure can be configured similarly and be used similarly, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to the those of ordinary skill in the art. Figs. 27-29 depict an example of the ninth embodiment ring brush 10. The ninth embodiment differs from the eighth embodiment because, for example, the lower inwardly arched portion 90 is replaced with a lower outwardly arched portion 94.

[0126] Various combinations and configurations of the inwardly and outwardly arched portions 90, 94 are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, Fig. 30 depicts a variation of the ninth embodiment where a relatively narrow outwardly arched portion 94 is connected toand spans between respective ends of the upper and lower outwardly arched portions 94. The relatively narrow outwardly arched portion 94 is outwardly superposed with a respective inwardly arched portion 90. Optionally, the opposite side of the ring brush 10 may include a corresponding relatively narrow outwardly arched portion 94.

[0127] The eighth and ninth embodiment ring brushes 10 (Figs. 24-29) can further include the above-discussed upper extension 78 (see, e.g., Figs. 13-15), or a variation thereof. In each of the versions of the eighth and ninth embodiment ring brushes 10 depicted in Figs. 31-32, respectively, the upper extension 78 can be an integrally formed part of the upper outwardly arched portion 94, so that upper extension is relatively rigid (e.g., formed of material having a higher modulus of elasticity) as compared to the inner band 13.

[0128] A variety of single, multi-component and / or adjustable bands 13 are withing the scope of this disclosure. For example, Figs. 33-35 depict a ring brush 10 with at least one body in the form of a band 13 (Fig. 13) that is openable and closable, and adjustable for changing the size of the band opening 14 between predetermined sizes, in accordance with a tenth embodiment. The tenth embodiment can be like, and can be used like, the other embodiments of this disclosure, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0129] In the tenth embodiment, the band 13 can be formed by at least one band strap 100 and at least one strap fastener. Figs. 33-34 depict the ring brush 10 with the strap fastener open, and the band 13 in an open, flat configuration. Fig. 35 depicts the ring brush 10 with the strap fastener closed, and the band 13 in one of its several closed-loop configurations, and there can be a greater or lesser number of the three closed-loop configurations for the tenth embodiment ring brush 10. Whereas Figs. 33-34 depict an example of the tenth embodiment ring brush 10 in a flat configuration, depending upon the rigidity of the band 13 and / or bristle assembly 16, or the like, the ring brush 10 may not be completely flat when in an opened, relaxed state or configuration.

[0130] The strap fastener can be a clasp (e.g., deployant clasp, folding clasp, butterfly clasp, etc.), buckle (e.g., snap-fit buckle, pin buckle and / or frame with pivotable prong for selectively extending through one or more receptacles 102, etc.), and / or other suitable fastening mechanism for releasably connecting, and / or otherwise releasably holding relatively closely together, the opposite end portions of the strap 100. In the example depicted in Figs. 33-35, the strap fastener is a clasp including at least one prong 104 (e.g., pin, protrusion, or other suitable fastener or malepart) and a series of receptacles 102 (e g., openings, holes, or other suitable fastener or female parts). In the tenth embodiment, the prong 104 is a structure integrally formed with and protruding outwardly from one end portion of the strap 100, although the prong can be a separate piece fixedly, movably, and / or pivotably connected to the strap 100.

[0131] The receptacles 102 can be a series of holes extending through the other end portion of the strap 100, for respectively receiving the prong 104. Accordingly, the strap fastener may be identified by numerals 102 and 104, collectively. That said and reiterating from above, a variety of differently configured strap fasteners 102, 104 are within the scope of this disclosure. As a non-limiting example, it is believed the strap fastener 102, 104 can alternatively be any suitable type of conventional fastener used for connecting opposite ends of straps, strap parts, or the like.

[0132] In a version of the example depicted in Figs. 33-35, the bristles 12 can be part of a bristle assembly 16 as discussed above, wherein the bristle assembly includes a mounting structure 24 mounted to an outer surface of a medial portion of the strap 100. In another version, the medial portion of the strap 100 may optionally be thicker than other portions of the strap, and proximal ends of the bristles 12 can be embedded in the medial portion of the strap. Alternatively, the thickness of the strap 100 may not vary along its length.

[0133] The opposite end portions of the strap 100 can be referred to as first and second strap parts that extend from opposite sides of the medial portion of the strap and / or opposite sides of the mounting structure 24. The first and second strap parts can be integrally formed with, or formed separately from and connected to, the opposite sides (e.g., opposite edges) of the medial portion of the strap 100 and / or opposite sides (e.g., opposite edges) of the mounting structure 24.

[0134] In the example depicted in Figs. 33-35, the strap fastener 102, 104 is operatively associated with the first and second strap parts, and configured to be closed so that the band 13 (e.g., the at least one body) (i) extends at least partially around the band opening 14 (Fig. 35) and axis 22 thereof, and (ii) is adjustable between multiple configurations. In a first configuration (e g., prong 104 in first receptacle 102), the band opening 14 is a first size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush 10 is worn by the user. In a second configuration (e.g., prong 104 in second receptacle 102), the band opening 14 is a second size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush 10 is worn by the user. In a third configuration (e.g., prong 104 in third receptacle 102), the band opening 14 is athird size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush 10 is worn by the user. The size of the band opening 14 in the second configuration is larger than the size of the band opening in the first configuration, and size of the band opening in the third configuration is larger than the size of the band opening in the second configuration.

[0135] The band holes 102 and prong 104 can be cooperatively configured (e.g., sized) so that the releasable connection between the prong and a respective band hole is provided by an interference fit between the prong and the band hole and / or in any other suitable manner. There can be a greater or lesser number of different sizes of the band opening 14 as a result of the strap fastener 102, 104 being configured differently.

[0136] The tenth embodiment ring brush 10 (Figs. 33-35) can further include the abovediscussed upper extension 78 (see, e.g., Fig. 36), or a variation thereof. In the version of the tenth embodiment ring brush 10 depicted in Fig. 36, the upper extension 78 can be an integrally formed part of the strap 100 or an originally separate article mounted to the medial portion of the strap and / or mounted to the mounting structure 24 of the bristle assembly 16. In Fig. 36, a portion of a user’s finger 15 (e.g., intermediate phalange and distal phalange) extending through the band opening 14 is schematically depicted with dashed lines, and the upper extension 78 is configured in a manner that seeks to maintain a coaxial, approximately coaxial, and / or substantially coaxial arrangement between the axes 22, 76 during use of the ring brush 10, as discussed above.

[0137] At least partially reiterating from above, the band 13 can include different parts, portions, sections, or zones (e.g., relatively rigid and / or stiff parts or sections, and relatively less rigid and / or less stiff parts or sections) constructed of materials with different properties (e.g., different moduli of elasticity). In this regard, Figs. 37-38 depict additional examples of ring brushes 10 having bands 13 with both arcuate relatively stiff sections 110 and arcuate relatively flexible (e.g., elastic) sections 112. The embodiments depicted in Figs. 37-38 can be like the other embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0138] For ease of understanding in Figs. 37-38, schematic boundary lines 114 are included to identify the boundaries between the relatively stiff and relatively flexible sections 1 10, 1 12. It is believed that one or more of the boundaries (which are schematically represented by lines 114) may or may not be visible to the naked eye. The relatively flexible (e.g., elastic) sections 112can be less rigid and / or less stiff than (e.g., formed of material having a lower modulus of elasticity than) the relatively stiff sections 110, for example as discussed above with reference to the portions 90, 94 (Figs. 29-32). Figs. 37-38 depict the relatively flexible sections 112 in their relaxed states (e.g., configurations) rather than their deformed states (e.g., configurations), as discussed further below.

[0139] Referring to Fig. 37, which depicts the band 13 in its relaxed (e.g., first) configuration, the band 13 (or more specifically the relatively flexible section 112) can be elastically reconfigurable to a plurality of configurations or sizes in response to differently sized phalanges / fingers 15 being in the finger opening 14. As a result, the ring brush 10 of Fig. 37 can be transitioned between at least first and second configurations. In the first configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size in response to being in receipt of at least one relatively small phalange of a user. In the second configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size in response to being in receipt of, and the relatively flexible section 112 (e.g., size adjuster) being outwardly deformed by, at least one relatively large phalange in the finger opening 14. The size of the finger opening 14 in the second configuration is larger than the size of the finger opening in the first configuration.

[0140] A variety of differently configured (e.g., number of) relatively stiff and relatively flexible sections 110, 112 are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the embodiment depicted in Fig. 38 can be like the embodiment depicted in Fig. 37, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. In Fig. 38, the relatively stiff sections 110 are pivotably connected to one another by the interpositioned relatively flexible sections 112, respectively. As a more specific example, the relatively flexible section 112 that is positioned at the top has a relatively short arcuate length and can be referred to as a pliable or living hinge that is configured to allow relative pivoting between the relatively stiff sections 110. It is believed that that living hinge (e.g., pivotable junction) can be in a different location, configured differently, and / or replaced with other suitable pivotable junctions (e.g., flexible joint, living hinge, area of reduced thickness, or the like).

[0141] Referring to Fig. 38, which depicts the band 13 in its relaxed (e.g., first) configuration, the band 13 can be elastically reconfigurable to a plurality of configurations or sizes in response to differently sized phalanges / fingers 15 being in the finger opening 14. As aresult, the ring brush 10 of Fig. 38 can be transitioned between at least first and second configurations. In the first configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size in response to being in receipt of at least one relatively small phalange of a user. In the second configuration, the finger opening 14 is a size in response to being in receipt of at least one relatively large phalange of a user, so that the size of the finger opening 14 in the second configuration is larger than the size of the finger opening in the first configuration. The transition from the first to the second configuration can include the living hinge defined by the relatively small relatively flexible section 112 allowing / facilitating relative pivoting between the relatively stiff sections 110, 112, and the relatively large relatively flexible section 112 being outwardly deformed.

[0142] As another example with reference to Fig. 38, the relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e.g., living hinge) can allow relative pivoting between the upper / adjacent ends of the relatively stiff sections 110, for example so that the upper / adjacent ends of the relatively stiff sections 110 together with relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e.g., living hinge) can move inwardly relative to the finger opening 14 during use of the ring brush 10. For example, the relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e.g., living hinge) provides predetermined mobility between the relatively stiff sections 110 in a manner that seeks to allow for the shape of the upper portion of the band 30 to vary (e.g., become somewhat or at least partially flattened) in a beneficial way during use of the ring brush 10. As a more specific example, in a relaxed state or configuration of the ring brush 10 of Fig. 38, the relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e.g., living hinge) together with the relatively stiff sections 110 can collectively define an arc of a circle. When the ring brush 10 of Fig. 38 is being used, for example as discussed above with reference to Fig. 7, the reactionary forces being applied to the distal ends of the bristles 12 can be passed along to the relatively stiff sections 110 in a manner that causes the upper / adjacent ends of the relatively stiff sections 110 together with relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e g., living hinge) to be forced to move inwardly relative to the finger opening 14 during use of the ring brush 10, so that the relatively stiff sections 110 respectively define arcs of separate circles (e.g., in a deformed state or configuration). In response to this inward movement, any corresponding / resulting movement of the phalange in the finger opening 14, it is believed that the relatively large relatively flexible section 112 can be outwardly deformed in response to force being applied thereagainst by the phalange in the finger opening. Relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e.g., living hinge) can be, or canfunction as, a biased spring that is cooperatively configured with the relatively stiff sections 110 in a manner so that the upper / adjacent ends of the relatively stiff sections 110 together with relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e.g., living hinge) are collectively biased toward the configuration in which they collectively define an arc of a circle (e.g., relaxed configuration). The relatively small relatively flexible section 112 (e g., living hinge) can result in there being a slightly visible seam, parting line, or the like that extends along the band axis 22.

[0143] Referring to Figs. 37-38, one or more of the relatively stiff and relatively flexible sections 110, 112 can be configured differently or omitted. As another example, one or more of boundary lines 114 can be configured differently or omitted. More specifically, at least one of the boundary lines 1 14 can be replaced with a gap 88 (Fig. 16), slit, or the like, that allows for adjustable separation of adjacent sections of the band 13 from one another in a manner that facilitates adjustment to the size of the finger opening 14 responsive to insertion of phalange(s) thereinto.

[0144] Reiterating from above, it is within the scope of this disclosure for one or more of the terms “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and / or the like, to qualify each of the adjectives and adverbs of the foregoing disclosure, for the purpose of providing a broad disclosure. As an example, it is believed that those of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand that, in different implementations of the features of this disclosure, reasonably different engineering tolerances, precision, and / or accuracy may be applicable and suitable for obtaining the desired result. Accordingly, it is believed that those of ordinary skill will readily understand usage herein of the terms such as “substantially,” “about,” “approximately,” and the like.

[0145] In the specification and drawings, examples of embodiments have been disclosed. The present invention is not limited to such exemplary embodiments. The use of the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations and subcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Unless otherwise noted, specific terms have been used in a generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A ring brush configured to be worn on at least one phalange of a user, the ring brush comprising: at least one body extending at least partially around an opening configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein the at least one body extends at least partially around an axis of the opening; and a plurality of bristles mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body, wherein the plurality of bristles collectively extend at least partially around the axis, and at least portions of a majority of bristles of the plurality of bristles extend obliquely to the axis.

2. The ring brush according to claim 1, wherein: the plurality of bristles comprises a plurality of rods; and for each of multiple rods of the plurality of rods: the rod comprises a distal section and a proximal section positioned between the distal section and the at least one body, an angle is defined between the proximal and distal sections, and the distal section is inclined relative to the axis so that a length of the distal section extends along a length of the axis.

3. The ring brush according to claim 1, wherein: the plurality of bristles is a plurality of wire bristles; and for each of multiple wire bristles of the plurality of wire bristles: the wire bristle comprises a distal section and a proximal section positioned between the distal section and the at least one body, an angle is defined between the proximal and distal sections, and the distal section is inclined relative to the axis so that a length of the distal section extends along a length of the axis.

4. The ring brush according to claim 3, wherein for each of multiple wire bristles of the plurality of wire bristles, a length of the proximal section extends about perpendicular to the axis.

5. The ring brush according to claim 1, comprising a bristle assembly mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body; wherein the bristle assembly comprises: a mounting structure mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body, and the plurality of bristles; and wherein the plurality of bristles is connected to the mounting structure for moving with the mounting structure.

6. The ring brush according to claim 1, comprising an asymmetrical extension extending from the at least one body and along the axis so that the extension is configured to inhibit relative rotation between the axis and a lengthwise axis of the user’s phalange extending through the opening when the ring brush is worn by the user and used to brush a workpiece with distal ends of the bristles.

7. The ring brush according to claim 6, wherein the extension extends only partially around the axis.

8. The ring brush according to claim 6, wherein; the at least one body comprises a band extending at least partially around both the opening and the axis; and the extension extends rearwardly from an upper portion of the band.

9. The ring brush according to claim 1, wherein the at least one body is configured to be adjustable between at least: a first configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, anda second configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein the size of the opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the opening in the first configuration.

10. The ring brush according to claim 1, wherein: a first portion of the at least one body is stiffer than a second portion of the at least one body, at least a portion of the second portion is elastic so that the ring brush is configured to be transitioned between first and second configurations in response to the ring brush being worn on differently sized phalanges, in the first configuration the opening is a size, in the second configuration the opening is a size, and the size of the opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the opening in the first configuration.

11. The ring brush according to claim 10, wherein the second portion comprises an inwardly protruding spring that is biased toward an extended configuration that extends radially inwardly toward the axis.

12. The ring brush according to claim 10, wherein the second portion comprises an undulation.

13. The ring brush according to claim 1, comprising: a plurality of bodies, wherein the plurality of bodies includes the at least one body; and at least one adjustable connection between at least two bodies of the plurality of bodies, wherein the at least one adjustable connection is configured to connect the at least two bodies together in at least: a first configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, anda second configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein the size of the opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the opening in the first configuration.

14. The ring brush according to claim 13, wherein: the opening is a first opening; the ring brush further comprises a second opening configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user; in the first configuration the second opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user; in the second configuration the second opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user; and the size of the second opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the second opening in the first configuration.

15. A ring brush configured to be worn on at least one phalange of a user, the ring brush comprising: at least one body extending at least partially around an opening configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user; and a bristle assembly mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body, wherein the bristle assembly comprises: a mounting structure mounted to the at least one body for moving with the at least one body, and a plurality of bristles connected to the mounting structure for moving with the mounting structure.

16. The ring brush according to claim 15, wherein at least portions of a majority of bristles of the plurality of bristles extend obliquely to the axis.

17. The ring brush according to claim 15, wherein: the at least one body extends at least partially around an axis; and at least portions of bristles of the plurality of bristles extend obliquely to the axis.

18. The ring brush according to claim 15, wherein: proximal end portions of bristles of the plurality of bristles are fixedly connected to the mounting structure of the bristle assembly; and distal sections of bristles of the plurality of bristles extend outwardly away from the mounting structure.

19. The ring brush according to claim 15, wherein the mounting structure of the bristle assembly is arcuate.

20. The ring brush according to claim 15, wherein the mounting structure of the bristle assembly is rectangular.

21. A ring brush configured to be worn on at least one phalange of a user, the ring brush comprising: at least one body extending at least partially around both an opening and an axis of the opening, wherein the opening is configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user; a plurality of bristles mounted to the at least one body for moving with the ring brush, wherein bristles of the plurality of bristles extend crosswise to the axis; and an asymmetrical extension extending from the at least one body and along the axis so that the extension is configured to inhibit relative rotation between the axis and a lengthwise axis of the user’s phalange extending through the opening when the ring brush is worn by the user and used to brush a workpiece with distal ends of the bristles.

22. The ring brush according to claim 21, wherein the extension extends only partially around the axis.

23. The ring brush according to claim 21, wherein; the at least one body comprises a band extending at least partially around both the opening and the axis; and the extension extends rearwardly from an upper portion of the band.

24. The ring brush according to claim 21, wherein: the at least one body comprises a plurality of arched sections arranged in series; an arched section of the plurality of arched sections is outwardly arched; and arched sections of the plurality of arched sections are inwardly arched and elastic.

25. A ring brush configured to be worn on at least one phalange of a user, the ring brush comprising: at least one body extending at least partially around an opening configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein: a first portion of the at least one body is stiffer than a second portion of the at least one body, at least a portion of the second portion is elastic so that the ring brush is configured to be transitioned between first and second configurations in response to the ring brush being worn on differently sized phalanges, in the first configuration the opening is a size, in the second configuration the opening is a size, and the size of the opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the opening in the first configuration; and a plurality of bristles mounted to the first portion of the at least one body for moving with the ring brush.

26. The ring brush according to claim 25, wherein the second portion comprises an inwardly protruding spring that is biased toward an extended configuration that extends radially inwardly toward the axis.

27. The ring brush according to claim 25, wherein the second portion comprises an undulation.

28. The ring brush according to claim 25, wherein the second portion comprises a plurality of undulations that collectively extend at least partially around the axis.

29. The ring brush according to claim 25, wherein the first portion of the body comprises a series of undulations.

30. The ring brush according to claim 25, wherein: the at least one body comprises an outer body and an inner body that both extend at least partially around the axis; the second portion is part of the inner body; and the outer body comprises an asymmetrical extension extending along the axis so that the extension is configured to inhibit relative rotation between the axis and a lengthwise axis of the user’s phalange extending through the opening when the ring brush is worn by the user and used to brush a workpiece with distal ends of the bristles.

31. The ring brush according to claim 25, wherein: the at least one body comprises a plurality of arched sections arranged in series; an arched section of the plurality of arched sections is outwardly arched; and arched sections of the plurality of arched sections are inwardly arched and elastic.

32. A ring brush configured to be worn on at least one phalange of a user, the ring brush comprising: at least one body comprising a medial portion between opposite end portions, wherein the opposite end portions comprise a first strap part extending from one side of the medial portion, and a second strap part extending from another side of the medial portion; a plurality of bristles mounted to the medial portion; and a strap fastener operatively associated with the first and second strap parts, and configured to be closed so that the at least one body extends at least partially around an openingconfigured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein the strap fastener together with the first and second strap parts is adjustable between at least: a first configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, and a second configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein the size of the opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the opening in the first configuration.

33. The ring brush according to claim 32, wherein the strap fastener comprises: a series of holes in the first strap part; and a prong connected to the second strap part and configured to: extend into a first hole of the series of holes in the first configuration, and extend into a second hole of the series of holes in the second configuration.

34. The ring brush according to claim 32, wherein: the at least one body comprises a strap; the strap comprises the medial portion and the first and second strap parts; the medial portion is thicker than the first and second strap parts; and proximal ends of bristles of the plurality of bristles are embedded in the medial portion.

35. The ring brush according to claim 32, comprising a bristle assembly, wherein: the bristle assembly comprises a mounting structure mounted to the medial portion for moving with the medial portion; and bristles of the plurality of bristles are connected to the mounting structure for moving with the mounting structure.

36. The ring brush according to claim 32, comprising an asymmetrical extension extending from the medial portion, wherein: the at least one body extends at least partially around both the opening and an axis of the opening when the strap fastener closed; the extension extends only partially around the axis; and the extension extends along the axis so that the extension is configured to inhibit relative rotation between the axis and a lengthwise axis of the user’s phalange extending through the opening when the ring brush is worn by the user and used to brush a workpiece with distal ends of the bristles.

37. A ring brush configured to be worn on at least one phalange of a user, the ring brush comprising: a plurality of bodies; an opening at least partially defined by at least one body of the plurality of bodies so that the opening is configured to receive at least one phalange of a user when the ring brush is worn by the user; a plurality of bristles mounted to at least one body of the plurality of bodies for moving with the ring brush; and at least one adjustable connection between at least two bodies of the plurality of bodies, wherein the at least one adjustable connection is configured to connect the at least two bodies together in at least: a first configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, and a second configuration in which the opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user, wherein the size of the opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the opening in the first configuration.

38. The ring brush according to claim 37, wherein: the opening is a first opening; the ring brush further comprises a second opening configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user; in the first configuration the second opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user; in the second configuration the second opening is a size and configured to receive at least one phalange of the user when the ring brush is worn by the user; and the size of the second opening in the second configuration is larger than the size of the second opening in the first configuration.

39. The ring brush according to claim 38, wherein the at least one adjustable connection comprises a fastener.

40. The ring brush according to claim 37, wherein the fastener comprises shaft and a screw thread on the shaft.

41. The ring brush according to claim 37, wherein the fastener comprises a tiered push- on fastener.

42. A method of at least using a ring brush, the method comprising: a user wearing the ring brush on at least one finger of a hand of the user so that bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate a back side of the at least one finger; the user inwardly curling at least a distal end portion of the at least one finger toward a palm of the hand while the ring brush is worn on the at least one finger, so that that bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one curved finger; and brushing an animal with the ring brush, comprising: engaging distal ends of the bristles against the animal while the ring brush is worn on the at least one curved finger and bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one curved finger, andcausing relative movement between the ring brush and the animal while the distal ends of the bristles remain engaged against the animal and the ring brush is worn on the at least one curved finger and bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one curved finger.

43. The method according to claim 42, further comprising: at least partially extending at least the distal end portion of the at least one curved finger while the ring brush is worn on the at least one finger and bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one finger; and scratching the animal while at least the distal end portion of the at least one extended finger is at least partially extended, the ring brush is worn on the at least one at least partially extended finger, and bristles of the ring brush extend outwardly away from proximate the back side of the at least one at least partially extended finger, wherein the scratching of the animal is comprised of: engaging a fingertip and / or fingernail of the at least one at least partially extended finger against the animal, and causing relative movement between the fingertip and / or fingernail and the animal while the fingertip and / or fingernail remains engaged against the animal.

44. The method according to claim 43, wherein during the scratching of the animal the distal ends of the bristles are not engaged against the animal.

45. The method according to claim 43, further comprising repeating the brushing of the animal after the scratching of the animal.

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