Brush with folding bristles

Abstract

A brush including two rails, at least one track, and one or more brush heads, each brush head including a plurality of bristle tufts, where the one or more brush heads are configured to move from an open position to a closed position. Further, a replacement kit including a packaging, the packaging including a cartridge, where the cartridge is open on a front and a bottom of the cartridge; and one or more openings configured to hold each brush head of the one or more brush heads.

Description

BRUSH WITH FOLDING BRISTLESCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 673922 filed July 22, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional brushes are often bulky, heavy, and difficult to transport and store. Bristles may be bent or otherwise damaged when placed in bags, boxes or pockets. Additionally, debris, dirt, and other contaminants may get on the brush and / or bristles of the brush when being transported. While foldable brushes may reduce damage to bristles, they still often do not include bristle protection, and may still be bulky and unwieldy. Further, foldable brushes may be difficult to open quickly or without the use of force to open and use the brush when desired.

[0003] Accordingly, brushes that are easy to transport without damaging or contaminating the brush, but which are easily accessible to users are needed.SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0005] In one aspect, disclosed herein is a brush including two rails, at least one track, where the track is configured to move along the at least two rails, and one or more brush heads, each brush head including a plurality of bristle tufts, wherein the one or more brush heads are configured to move from an open position to a closed position.

[0006] In some embodiments, each brush head further includes a connector configured to attach each brush head to the two rails. In some embodiments, each brush head further includes the at least one track. In some embodiments, each brush head further includes a channel configured to couple to the at least one track.

[0007] In some embodiments, the at least one track includes a connector configured to attach to the two rails.

[0008] In some embodiments, each brush head further includes a groove configured to couple to the at least one track. In some embodiments, the at least one track comprises a protrusion configured to couple with the groove of each brush head.

[0009] In some embodiments, in the closed position, the plurality of bristle tufts is parallel to the one or more brush heads, and wherein in the open position, the plurality of bristle tufts is perpendicular to the one or more brush heads.

[0010] In some embodiments, each brush head of the one or more brush heads is arranged parallel to each other. In some embodiments, in the closed position, each plurality of bristle tufts lay in a same direction. In some embodiments, in the closed position, a direction of each plurality of bristle tufts is alternated.

[0011] In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads are arranged in a first row including a first subset of the one or more brush heads, and a second row including a second subset of the one or more brush heads, wherein the first subset of brush heads is staggered from the second subset of brush heads.

[0012] In some embodiments, in the closed position, each plurality of bristle tufts is parallel to the one or more brush heads, and wherein, in the open position, the plurality of bristle tufts is angled outward from the one or more brush heads. In some embodiments, in the open position each brush head angles each plurality of bristle tufts in an alternating direction.

[0013] In some embodiments, when the two opposite sides of the brush are pulled or pushed apart the one or more brush heads move from the open position to the closed position.

[0014] In some embodiments, the brush further comprises a mechanism for moving the one or more brush heads from the open position to the closed position. In some embodiments, the mechanism is interlocking pieces configured to collapse and extend. In some embodiments, the mechanism is an accordion fold mechanism.

[0015] In some embodiments, the accordion fold mechanism includes a first arm, a second arm, and at least one hinge, wherein the first arm and the second arm move downwards at the hinge when force is applied to a first side and a second side of the brush. In some embodiments, the mechanism is a sliding slot mechanism. In some embodiments, the sliding slot mechanism includes a first slot and a second slot, where the first slot is configured to couple with a first connector of a first brush head of the one or more brush heads, and where the second slot is configured to couple with a second connector of asecond brush head of the one or more brush heads, where the first connector and the second connector are configured to slide along the first slot and the second slot, respectively. In some embodiments, the sliding slot mechanism includes a plurality of slots, where each slot of the plurality of slots is configured to couple with a connector of each brush head of the one or more brush heads. In some embodiments, the plurality of slots includes one or more interior slots, and one or more exterior slots, wherein the one or more interior slots have a greater angle than the one or more exterior slots.

[0016] In some embodiments, the brush further includes a brush base. In some embodiments, the brush base is configured to accordion fold.

[0017] In another aspect, disclosed herein is a replacement kit, including a packaging, the packaging including a cartridge, where the cartridge is open on a front and a bottom of the cartridge, and one or more openings configured to hold each brush head of the one or more brush heads described herein. In some embodiments, each opening of the one or more openings includes a holder, and a stopper, where the holder and the stopper are configured to secure each brush head of the one or more brush heads into the packaging.DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0019] FIGURE 1A is an example brush from a top-down perspective, in accordance with the present technology;

[0020] FIGURE IB is a right-side perspective of the brush of FIG. 1A moving from a closed position to an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0021] FIGURE 1C is a right-side perspective of the brush of FIG. 1 A in the open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0022] FIGURE 2 A is another example brush from a top-down perspective, in accordance with the present technology;

[0023] FIGURE 2B is a right-side perspective of the brush of FIG. 2A in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0024] FIGURE 2C is a right-side perspective of the brush of FIG. 2A moving between the closed position and an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0025] FIGURE 2D is a right-side perspective of the brush of FIG. 2A in the open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0026] FIGURE 3A is another example brush, from a top-down perspective, in the closed position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0027] FIGURE 3B is a top-down perspective of the brush of FIG. 3 A moving between the closed position and an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0028] FIGURE 3C is a top-down perspective of the brush of FIG. 3 A in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0029] FIGURE 4A is an example mechanism for moving a brush between an open position and a closed position in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0030] FIGURE 4B is the example mechanism for moving a brush between an open position and a closed position of FIG. 4 A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0031] FIGURE 4C is another example mechanism for moving a brush between an open position and a closed position in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0032] FIGURE 4D is the example mechanism for moving a brush between an open position and a closed position of FIG. 4C in an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0033] FIGURE 5A is an example brush base, in accordance with the present technology;

[0034] FIGURE 5B shows brush heads coupled to the brush base, in accordance with the present technology;

[0035] FIGURE 6A is an isometric view of an example brush, in accordance with the present technology;

[0036] FIGURE 6B is a right-side perspective view of the brush of FIG. 6A moving between a closed position and an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0037] FIGURE 6C is a right-side perspective view of the brush of FIG. 6A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0038] FIGURE 7A is an isometric view of an example brush, in accordance with the present technology;

[0039] FIGURE 7B is a right-side perspective view of the brush of FIG. 7A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0040] FIGURE 7C is an isometric view of the brush of FIG. 7A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0041] FIGURE 7D is a top-right perspective of another example brush in an open position, in accordance with the present technology;

[0042] FIGURES 8A-8H are example brush heads of a brush in accordance with the present technology;

[0043] FIGURE 9 is a top-right perspective of an example brush head, in accordance with the present technology;

[0044] FIGURE 10 is another top-down perspective of an example brush, in accordance with the present technology; and

[0045] FIGURE 11 is an example housing for a replacement kit of brush heads, in accordance with the present technology.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Disclosed herein are devices, kits, and systems for brushes configured to fold for ease of carrying, storing, transporting, and the like. In one aspect, disclosed herein is a brush including two rails. These rails are configured to attach to at least one track. In some embodiments, the track couples to each of the rails, and may slide or move along the rails. In some embodiments, one or more brush heads may be connected to each track. Any number of tracks may be utilized, depending on the size, functionality, or shape of the brush. In some embodiments, each brush head has a plurality of bristle tufts located on it. As used herein, each bristle tuft should be understood as being a plurality of bristles. In some embodiments, each bristles tuft is a plurality of bristles originating from a same origin point on the brush head. Any number of bristles can be included in a bristle tuft, including a single bristle. Any number of brush heads and / or bristle tufts may be incorporated into the brush described herein.

[0047] In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads are capable of switching between an open position and a closed position, where in the open position, the brush is capable of performing a function (such as brushing hair, brushing a beard, removing or applying paint, removing rust, applying makeup, etc.). In some embodiments,in the closed position, the brush may be stored, transported, or otherwise conveniently carried. This allows for portability of the brush, prevents damage to the bristles, and, in the case of the bristles being comprised of metal (for removing, for example, rust or paint) can prevent scratching or otherwise harming a user of the brush.

[0048] Advantageously, the brushes shown and described herein are configured to move from an open position to a closed position, which includes sliding or otherwise moving one or more brush heads, and rotating a plurality of bristles on the one or more brush heads contemporaneously.

[0049] FIG. 1A is an example brush 100 from a top-down perspective, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the brush 100 has a first side SI and a second side S2. The brush 100 may include two rails 105 A, 105B perpendicular to the first side SI and the second side S2. In some embodiments, the brush includes at least one track 110A, HOB, 110C. . . 110N (also referred to herein as a plurality of tracks 110A, HOB, HOC... HON).

[0050] The brush 100 may include one or more brush heads 115 A, 115B, 115C... 115N. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N are removable attached to the at least one track 110A, 110B, HOC... HON. In some embodiments, each brush head of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N are removably attached to a separate track of the at least one track 110A, 110B, HOC... 110N. The one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N may each include a plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N and one or more connectors. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N are connected to the at least one track 110 A, 110B, HOC... 11 ON with the one or more connectors (as shown in FIGs. 1B-1C).

[0051] In operation, when force is applied to two opposite sides (i.e., the first side SI and the second side S2) of the brush 100, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N move from a closed position (FIG. 1 A) to an open position (FIG. 1C).

[0052] In some embodiments, when the two opposite sides (such as the first side SI and the second side S2) of the brush 100 are pulled, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N move from the open position (FIG. 1C) to the closed position (FIG. 1A).

[0053] In some embodiments, in the closed position, the plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N is parallel to the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C...115N. In some embodiments, each brush head of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N are arranged parallel to each other. In some embodiments, in the closed position, each plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C. . . 120N lay in a same direction.

[0054] In some embodiments, the brush 100 may include springs, hydraulics or pneumatics, locks, hooks, or the like configured to assist in moving the one or more brush heads from the open position to the closed position and / or the closed position to the open position, as shown and described in detail herein. In some embodiments, the springs, hydraulics or pneumatics, locks, hooks, or the like may hold the brush 100 in the open position and / or the closed position. In some embodiments, the springs, hydraulics or pneumatics, locks, hooks, or the like may also be configured to act as a support when changing out or replacing one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N and / or bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N of the brush 100.

[0055] In some embodiments, bristles of the plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C. . . 120N are made of nylon, boar, rubber, plastic, squirrel, goat, pony, ox, brass wire, steel wire, stainless steel wire, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N may include natural fibers, synthetic fibers, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the brush 100 is configured to detangle hair, smooth hair, detangle beard hair, smooth beard hair, remove rust, remove paint, apply paint, apply makeup, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the brush 100 may be used to brush a pet and / or animal. In some embodiments, the brush 100 is used to clean surfaces, such as furniture, garments, floors, or the like. In some embodiments, the brush 100 is a broom. One skilled in the art will recognize that different bristle types may be employed for different functions. For example, in some embodiments, the brush 100 includes bristles made of steel wire and is used to remove paint.

[0056] FIG. IB is a right-side perspective of the brush 100 of FIG. 1A moving from a closed position to an open position, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors 125A, 125B, 125C. . . 125N is one or more magnets, one or more snaps, one or more rails, an adhesive, one or more fasteners, or a combination thereof. As the brush 100 moves from the closed position (FIG. 1A) to the open position (FIG. 1C), the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N may all turn in a same direction to move the plurality of bristles 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N from being parallel to the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N to being perpendicular to the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N.

[0057] FIG. 1C is a right-side perspective of the brush 100 of FIG. 1 A in the open position, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, in the open position, the plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C. . . 120N is perpendicular to the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N.

[0058] FIG. 2A is another example brush 100 from a top-down perspective, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, in the closed position, a direction of each plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N is alternated. These bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C. . . 120N may be referred to as “zippered” or “interlocking.” In some embodiments, the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N are arranged such that they are alternately faced towards the first side SI and the second side S2 of the brush 100. In some embodiments, the number of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N may be different based on which side (SI, S2) the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N face in the closed position. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A, brush head 115A (facing the first side SI) includes four bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N, while brush head 115B (facing the second side S2) includes five bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N. One skilled in the art will recognize that any number of bristle tufts may be one each brush head of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N.

[0059] FIG. 2B is a right-side perspective of the brush 100 of FIG. 2A in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 2C is a right-side perspective of the brush 100 of FIG. 2 A moving between the closed position and an open position, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 2D is a right-side perspective of the brush 100 of FIG. 2A in the open position, in accordance with the present technology.

[0060] In operation, as force is applied to the first side SI and the second side S2 (such as by squeezing the brush 100) the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N orient upwards in alternating directions (either towards the first side SI or towards the second side S2) as shown in FIG. 2C.

[0061] In some embodiments, in the open position, the plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C. . . 120N is perpendicular to the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N, as shown in FIG. 2D.

[0062] FIG. 3 A is another example brush 100, from a top-down perspective, in the closed position, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N are arranged in a first row R1 including a first subset of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N, and asecond row R2 including a second subset of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N. In some embodiments, the first subset of brush heads is staggered from the second subset of brush heads.

[0063] In some embodiments, the rails 110A, HOB, HOC... 110N each include one or more telescoping segments 116A, 116B, 116C... 116N. As the brush 100 moves from the closed position (FIG. 3 A) to the open position (FIG. 3C), the telescoping segments 116A, 116B, 116C. . . 116N may collapse. Further, each track may include a hydraulic pin with a corkscrew 117 on it. In operation, the corkscrew 117 on the hydraulic (or “inner”) pin turns the brush heads 115 A, 115B, 115C... 115N upright, before the pin collapses into the rest of the rails 110A, 110B, 110C. . . 1 ION.

[0064] FIG. 3B is a top-down perspective of the brush of FIG. 3A moving between the closed position and an open position, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 3C is a top-down perspective of the brush of FIG. 3 A in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, when the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N move from the closed position (FIG. 3 A) to the open position (FIG. 3C), the plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N on each brush head move from parallel to the brush head to perpendicular to the brush head. When the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N are arranged in staggered rows Rl, R2, the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N slide together to form a bristle tuft array as shown in FIGs. 3B-3C. In such embodiments, when force is applied to two sides of the brush (the first side SI and the second side S2), the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N rotate the bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N, and slot together to form the bristle tuft array (the open position) shown in FIG. 3C.

[0065] FIG. 4A is an example mechanism for moving a brush 100 between an open position and a closed position in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 4B is the example mechanism 160A, 160B for moving a brush between an open position and a closed position of FIG. 4A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology.

[0066] In some embodiments, the brush may a mechanism for moving the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N between an open position and a closed position. In some embodiments, the mechanism includes springs, hydraulics or pneumatics, locks, hooks, or the like configured to assist in moving the one or more brush heads from the open position to the closed position and / or the closed position to the open position. In some embodiments,the springs, hydraulics or pneumatics, locks, hooks, or the like may hold the brush in the open position and / or the closed position. In some embodiments, the springs, hydraulics or pneumatics, locks, hooks, or the like may also be configured to act as a support when changing out or replacing one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N and / or bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N of the brush 100.

[0067] In some embodiments, the mechanism includes one or more connection pieces 125A, 125B, 125C... 125N. In some embodiments, the connection pieces 125A, 125B, 125C... 125N connect the tracks 110A, HOB, HOC... 110N to the mechanism.

[0068] In one embodiment, the mechanism is interlocking pieces 160A, 160B. As force is applied to the first side SI and the second side S2 of the brush 100, the interlocking pieces 160 A, 160B collapse into themselves, like a collapsible telescope. Further, the interlocking pieces 160 A, 160B may extend as the first side SI and the second side S2 are pulled apart. In some embodiments, the interlocking pieces 160 A, 160B are further configured to lock in the open position and or the closed position. When force is applied to the first side SI and the second side S2, the lock may be disengaged.

[0069] FIG. 4C is another example mechanism for moving a brush 100 between an open position and a closed position in a closed position, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 4D is the example mechanism for moving a brush 100 between an open position and a closed position of FIG. 4C in an open position, in accordance with the present technology.

[0070] In some embodiments, the mechanism is a spring mechanism including one or more connection pieces 125 A, 125B, 125C. . . 125N, one or more attachments 126A, 126B, 126C... 126N, one or more springs 127A, 127B, 127C... 127N, and one or more panels 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N. In operation, as force is applied to the two sides (such as the first side SI and the second side S2), the one or more springs 127A, 127B, 127C. . . 127N compress, bringing both the one or more attachments 126A, 126B, 126C... 126N and the one or more panels 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N together. Each panel of the one or more panels 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N cover the bottom of the brush 100 and wrap around the one or more attachments 126A, 126B, 126C... 126N at the edges, allowing the attachments 126A, 126B, 126C... 126N to slide in and out of the panels 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N turn upright as the one or more panels 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N overlap the one or more attachments 126A, 126B, 126C... 126N. In some embodiments, the one or morepanels 128A, 128B, 128C... 128N follow the tracks 110A, HOB, HOC... HON. In some embodiments, the brush heads 115 A, 115B, 115C . . . 115N are attached to the panels 128A, 128B, 128C... 128N thus rotate, but do not slide along the panels 128A, 128B, 128C... 128N or the rest of the brush 100. In operation, the one or more panels 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N overlap the one or more attachments 126A, 126B, 126C. . . 126N, the one or more panels 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N catch a tab of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N (as shown in FIGs. 8G-8H) to rotate the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N to the open position. In some embodiments, the tab may be strategically places on the panel 128A, 128B, 128C... 128N to turn the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115 A, 115B, 115C... 115N includes the tab to interact with the panel 128A, 128B, 128C. . . 128N (as shown in FIGs. 8G-8H).

[0071] FIG. 5A is an example brush base 200, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the brush 100 further includes a base 200 coupled to the two rails 105A, 105B. In some embodiments, the base 200 is made of plastic, rubber, glass, fiberglass, or the like. In some embodiments, the base 200 is rigid. In some embodiments, the base 200 is configured to accordion (or “fan”) fold, as shown in FIG. 5B.

[0072] FIG. 5B shows brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N coupled to the brush base 200, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, in the closed position, each plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N is parallel to the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N (as shown in FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, in the open position, the plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C. . . 120N is angled outward from the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N in alternating directions towards the first side SI or the second side S2 of the brush 100. In some embodiments, in the open position, each brush head 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N angles each plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C. . . 120N in an alternating direction. In some embodiments, an edge of the one or more brush heads 115 A, 115B, 115C . . . 115N is attached at least partially to the accordion brush base 200. In operation, the plurality of bristles tufts 120A, 120B, 120C rotate in a similar manner as shown and described in FIG. 6B.

[0073] FIG. 6A is an isometric view of an example brush, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 6B is a right-side perspective view of the brush of FIG. 6A moving between a closed position and an open position, in accordance with the presenttechnology. FIG. 6C is a right-side perspective view of the brush of FIG. 6A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology.

[0074] In some embodiments, the mechanism is an accordion fold mechanism 210. The accordion fold mechanism 210 may include at least one first arm 215 A, at least one second arm 215B, and at least one hinge 220, as shown in FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, a separate first arm 215 A, second arm 215B, and hinge may be included for every two brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N in the brush 100.

[0075] In operation, as shown in FIGs. 6B-6C, the first arm 215 A and the second arm 215B move downwards at the hinge (hinge 220 of FIG. 6A) as force is applied to the first side SI and the second side S2 of the brush. In this manner, the accordion fold mechanism forms an accordion fold with the at least one first arm 215 A and the at least one second arm 215B as the brush 100 moves from the closed position to the open position.

[0076] FIG. 7A is an isometric view of an example brush, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 7B is a right-side perspective view of the brush of FIG. 7A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology. FIG. 7C is an isometric view of the brush of FIG. 7A in an open position, in accordance with the present technology.

[0077] In some embodiments, the mechanism is a sliding slot mechanism 270. In some embodiments, the sliding slot mechanism 270 includes a first slot 140A, a second slot 140B, and a spring 135. In some embodiments, the first slot 140 A is configured to couple with a first connector 125 A of a first brush head 115A. Similarly, the second slot 140B is configured to couple with a second connector 125B of a second brush head 115A.

[0078] In operation, as a force is applied to two sides of the brush 100 (such as first side SI and second side S2), the connectors 125 A, 125B slide up the respective first slot 140A and second slot 140B, compressing the spring 135. The connectors 125A, 125B may then “lock” in place, putting the brush 100 into the open position (as shown in FIGs. 7B, 7C). Applying force to the brush 100 again may unlock the connectors 125A, 125B and releasing the force allows the connectors to slide down the respective first slot 140 A and second slot 14B, returning to the closed position (as shown in FIG. 7A). In some embodiments, multiple sliding slot mechanisms 270 may be incorporated into a single brush 100. In some embodiments, each two brush heads 115A, 115B have a sliding slot mechanism 270.

[0079] FIG. 7D is a top-right perspective of another example brush 100 in an open position, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the slidingslot mechanism 270 may include a plurality of slots 140A, 140B, 140C, MON for coupling with a plurality of connectors 125A, 125B, 125C... 125N of a plurality of brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N. In some embodiments, interior slots (140A, 140B) may have a sharper or greater angle than exterior slots (140C, 140D). When force is applied the connectors 125A, 125B, 125C... 125N may slide up their respective slots 140A, 140B, 140C, 140N at a same rate, allowing a plurality of brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N to share a same sliding slot mechanism 270.

[0080] FIGs. 8A-8H are example brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N of a brush (such as brush 100) in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N described herein are removable and / or replaceable. In such embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N may include a connector (such as one or more connectors 125A, 125B, 125C... 125N) and a plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N.

[0081] In some embodiments, the brush head 115 includes a channel 150 configured to removable couple with a track (such as track 110A), as shown in FIG. 8 A. FIG. 8B is a side view of the brush head 115 of FIG. 8 A. The track 110A may slide through the channel 150 of the brush head 115 to couple the brush head 115 to the brush. In some embodiments, the brush head 115 further includes a connector 125 to further secure the brush head 115 to the brush, but in other embodiments, the brush head 115 may not include a connector, and the track itself may secure the brush head 115 to the brush.

[0082] In some embodiments, the track 110A is integrated into brush head 115 (as shown in FIG. 8C). FIG. 8D is a side view of the brush head 115 of FIG. 8C. In such embodiments, the track 110A may be removably coupled to two rails (such as rails 105 A, 105B), as shown and described herein. In such embodiments, the track 110A may serve as the connector, but in other embodiments, other connectors, such as one or more magnets, one or more snaps, one or more rails, an adhesive, one or more pins, one or more fasteners, or a combination thereof may also be used, in combination with or in place of the track.

[0083] In some embodiments, the brush head 115 includes a groove 155 (as shown in FIG. 8E). FIG. 8F is a side view of the brush head 115 of FIG. 8E. In such embodiments, the brush head 115 is configured to sit, rest, or nest on top of a track (such as track 110A). In some embodiments, the brush head 115 may include a separate connector 125 to secure the brush head 115 to the brush (such as to the two rails 150A, 150B).

[0084] In some embodiments, the brush head 115 further includes a tab 152 on at least one side of the brush head 115. In some embodiments, the tab 152 may interact with the mechanism (such as shown in FIGs. 4C-4D) to rotate the brush head 115 into the open position.

[0085] FIG. 9 is a top right perspective of an example brush head 115, in accordance with the present technology. In some embodiments, the brush head 115 includes a groove 155 (as shown and described in FIGs. 8E-8F). In some embodiments, the groove 155 is configured to couple with a corresponding protrusion 130 of a track 110. In such embodiments, the protrusion 130 may slide along the groove 155 and secure the brush head 115 to the track 110. The track 110 may include a connector 125 for securing the track 110 and the couple brush head 115 to a brush (such as brush 100).

[0086] FIG. 10 is another top-down perspective of an example brush 100, in accordance with the present technology. In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is a brush including a rail (or “single rail”) 105, at least one track 110A, HOB, HOC... 110N, wherein the track is configured to move along the rail 105, one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N, each brush head including a plurality of bristle tufts 120A, 120B, 120C... 120N, and a divot (such as shown in FIGs. 8E-8F and 9), where the divot is configured to attach each brush head 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N to the rail 105. In some embodiments, when force is applied to two opposite sides (i.e., the first side SI and the second side S2) of the brush 100, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N move from a closed position to an open position (such as shown in FIG. 2C). In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N are removably attached to the rail 105. In some embodiments, the divot is coupled with the single rail 105 such as with the use of magnets, fasteners, adhesive, or the like. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N are integrated into the rail 105.

[0087] FIG. 11 is an example housing (or packaging) 405 for a replacement kit 400 of brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N, in accordance with the present technology. Further disclosed herein is a kit 400 for a brush (such as brush 100) including one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N as shown and described herein. In some embodiments, the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N may be contained in packaging 405 such as plastic, a box, or the like. In some embodiments, one or more brush heads 115 A, 115B, 115C . . . 115N having distinct bristles may be packaged together. For example, a group of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N may havebristle tufts comprising nylon, while another group of brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N may have bristle tufts comprising boar hair.

[0088] In some embodiments, the packaging 405 includes a cartridge 406. In some embodiments, the cartridge 406 is open on the front and the bottom, allowing tracks of the brush (such as tracks 110A, HOB, HOC... 11 ON) to slide into the cartridge and couple to at least one replacement brush head 115 A, 115B, 115C . . . 115N.

[0089] In some embodiments, the packaging 405 further includes openings 407A, 407B, 407C... 407N configured to hold each individual brush head of the one or more brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C... 115N. In some embodiments, each opening includes a holder 410A, 410B, 410C. . . 410N and a stopper 415 A, 415B, 415C. . . 415N configured to secure each brush head 115 A, 115B, 115C . . . 115N into the cartridge 406.

[0090] In some embodiments, an outer edge of the cartridge 406 is just long enough to align the brush head with a track of the brush, while force is applied to the brush (as shown and described herein).

[0091] In operation, a user may pinch, squeeze, or otherwise apply force to the brush, exposing and removing any old or damaged brush heads. The user may then remove the packaging 405 from the kit 400 before sliding the brush (while the force is still applied) into the grooves 130A, 130B, 130C. . . 130N of the brush heads 115A, 115B, 115C. . . 115N until a back wall of the cartridge is contracted. The user may then slide the brush back out and stop applying force to the brush, putting the brush into a closed position as shown and described herein.

[0092] In yet another aspect, disclosed herein is brush kit, including a brush as shown and described herein, and a plurality of brush heads, where each brush head includes a plurality of bristle tufts, and a connector, where the connector is configured to attach each brush head to at least one track of a brush, where when force is applied to two opposite sides of the brush, the plurality of brush heads move from a closed position to an open position. In some embodiments, the brush includes a base coupled to the two rails. In some embodiments, the base is configured to accordion fold such as shown in FIGs. 5A-5B. In some embodiments, the brush kit may be packaged without any brush heads attached to the brush. In other embodiments, the brush kit may be packaged to include brush heads attached to the brush and one or more replacement brush heads. In some embodiments, the one or more replacement brush heads may have a same fiber material. In other embodiments, the one or more replacement brush heads may have a distinct fiber material.

[0093] It should be understood that the mechanisms described herein may be implemented into any of the brushes shown and described.

[0094] While illustrative embodiments have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0095] The present application may reference quantities and numbers. Unless specifically stated, such quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but representative of the possible quantities or numbers associated with the present application. Also, in this regard, the present application may use the term “plurality” to reference a quantity or number. In this regard, the term “plurality” is meant to be any number that is more than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms “about,” “approximately,” “near,” etc., mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. For the purposes of the present disclosure, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C,” for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all further possible permutations when greater than three elements are listed.

[0096] The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements, are intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided merely as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Similarly, any steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, in order to achieve the same or substantially similar result. Generally, the embodiments disclosed herein are non-limiting, and the inventors contemplate that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and functionalities from more than one specific embodiment shown in the figures and described in the specification.

[0097] In the foregoing description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without embodying all the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure variousaspects of the present disclosure. Further, it will be appreciated that embodiments of the present disclosure may employ any combination of features described herein.

[0098] The present application may include references to directions, such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “top,” and “bottom,” etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to assist in helping describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

[0099] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of the present disclosure have been described in the foregoing description. However, aspects of the present disclosure, which are intended to be protected, are not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Further, the embodiments described herein are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be appreciated that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as claimed.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A brush compri sing : two rails; at least one track; one or more brush heads, each brush head comprising: a plurality of bristle tufts, wherein the one or more brush heads are configured to move from an open position to a closed position.

2. The brush of Claim 1, wherein each brush head further comprises: a connector configured to attach each brush head to the two rails.

3. The brush of Claim 1, wherein each brush head further comprises the at least one track.

4. The brush of Claim 1, wherein each brush head further comprises a channel configured to couple to the at least one track.

5. The brush of Claim 1, wherein the at least one track comprises a connector configured to attach to the two rails.

6. The brush of Claim 1, wherein each brush head further comprises a groove configured to couple to the at least one track.

7. The brush of Claim 6, wherein the at least one track comprises a protrusion configured to couple with the groove of each brush head.

8. The brush of Claim 1, wherein in the closed position, the plurality of bristle tufts is parallel to the one or more brush heads, and wherein in the open position, the plurality of bristle tufts is perpendicular to the one or more brush heads.

9. The brush of Claim 1, wherein each brush head of the one or more brush heads is arranged parallel to each other.

10. The brush of Claim 9, wherein, in the closed position, each plurality of bristle tufts lay in a same direction.

11. The brush of Claim 9, wherein, in the closed position, a direction of each plurality of bristle tufts is alternated.

12. The brush of Claim 1, wherein the at least one track is configured to move along the at least two rails.

13. The brush of Claim 1, wherein the at least one track comprises two or more telescoping segments, wherein the two or more telescoping segments are configured to collapse, and wherein the at least two rails are configured to glide along one another.

14. The brush of Claim 1, wherein the at least one track further comprises a corkscrew configured to rotate the one or more brush heads.

15. The brush of Claim 1, wherein the one or more brush heads are arranged in: a first row including a first subset of the one or more brush heads; and a second row including a second subset of the one or more brush heads, wherein the first subset of brush heads is staggered from the second subset of brush heads.

16. The brush of Claim 15, wherein, in the closed position, each plurality of bristle tufts is parallel to the one or more brush heads, and wherein, in the open position, the plurality of bristle tufts is angled outward from the one or more brush heads.

17. The brush of Claim 16, wherein in the open position each brush head angles each plurality of bristle tufts in an alternating direction.

18. The brush of Claim 1, wherein when the two opposite sides of the brush are pulled the one or more brush heads move from the open position to the closed position.

19. The brush of Claim 1, wherein the brush further comprises a mechanism for moving the one or more brush heads from the open position to the closed position.

20. The brush of Claim 19, wherein the mechanism is interlocking pieces configured to collapse and extend.

21. The brush of Claim 19, wherein the mechanism is a spring mechanism comprising: one or more attachments;one or more springs; and one or more panels, wherein each panel is configured to cover edges of the one or more attachments, such that the one or more attachments slide into the one or more panels when the one or more brush heads are configured to move from an open position to a closed position.

22. The brush of Claim 19, wherein the mechanism is an accordion fold mechanism.

23. The brush of Claim 22, wherein the accordion fold mechanism comprises: a first arm; a second arm; and at least one hinge, wherein the first arm and the second arm move downwards at the hinge when force is applied to a first side and a second side of the brush.

24. The brush of Claim 19, wherein the mechanism is a sliding slot mechanism.

25. The brush of Claim 24, wherein the sliding slot mechanism comprises a first slot and a second slot, wherein the first slot is configured to couple with a first connector of a first brush head of the one or more brush heads, and wherein the second slot is configured to couple with a second connector of a second brush head of the one or more brush heads, wherein the first connector and the second connector are configured to slide along the first slot and the second slot, respectively.

26. The brush of Claim 24, wherein the sliding slot mechanism comprises a plurality of slots, wherein each slot of the plurality of slots are configured to couple with a connector of each brush head of the one or more brush heads.

27. The brush of Claim 26, wherein the plurality of slots comprises: one or more interior slots; and one or more exterior slots, wherein the one or more interior slots have a greater angle than the one or more exterior slots.

28. The brush of Claim 1, wherein the brush further comprises a brush base.

29. The brush of Claim 28, wherein the brush base is configured to accordion fold.

30. A replacement kit, comprising: a packaging, comprising: a cartridge, wherein the cartridge is open on a front and a bottom of the cartridge; and one or more openings configured to hold each brush head of the one or more brush heads of Claim 1.

31. The replacement kit of Claim 30, wherein each opening of the one or more openings comprises: a holder; and a stopper, wherein the holder and the stopper are configured to secure each brush head of the one or more brush heads into the packaging.

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