US20120273001A1 - Optics cleaning apparatus and method - Google Patents
Optics cleaning apparatus and method Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120273001A1 US20120273001A1 US13/068,023 US201113068023A US2012273001A1 US 20120273001 A1 US20120273001 A1 US 20120273001A1 US 201113068023 A US201113068023 A US 201113068023A US 2012273001 A1 US2012273001 A1 US 2012273001A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- holder
- optics
- buffing cloth
- scrub pad
- cover
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 38
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 11
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 65
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 claims description 40
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 claims description 27
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 claims description 14
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 10
- 229920001410 Microfiber Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011796 hollow space material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000003658 microfiber Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 description 2
- 241000283707 Capra Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000593 degrading effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010410 dusting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003550 marker Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011148 porous material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000005336 safety glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000006748 scratching Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002393 scratching effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005201 scrubbing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C13/00—Assembling; Repairing; Cleaning
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B08—CLEANING
- B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
- B08B1/00—Cleaning by methods involving the use of tools, brushes, or analogous members
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G02—OPTICS
- G02C—SPECTACLES; SUNGLASSES OR GOGGLES INSOFAR AS THEY HAVE THE SAME FEATURES AS SPECTACLES; CONTACT LENSES
- G02C13/00—Assembling; Repairing; Cleaning
- G02C13/006—Devices specially adapted for cleaning spectacles frame or lenses
-
- B08B1/12—
Definitions
- This invention relates to an optics cleaning apparatus and method.
- the invention relates, to an optics cleaning apparatus including a holder with a first end, a second end and an outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir.
- a fluid applicator is connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir and a scrub pad is connected with the second end.
- Devices such as safety glasses, eyeglasses, cameras, binoculars, rifle scopes, microscopes, telescopes, video lenses, computer and analog monitors, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and the like have lenses that must be kept clean in order to function at full capacity. Dirt, moisture, smears and or fogging, smudges, oil, and other debris present in the working environment of the device are a constant source of contamination and create an ongoing need for constant cleaning of the lens.
- Prior art solutions range form using anything handy, shirt sleeves, tissue paper and such, to dedicated cleaning solutions and cloths.
- the problem with the prior art solutions are that the handy items may seriously compromise the lens, scratching or damaging it beyond usefulness.
- Supplies required for a proper cleaning include a wide variety of devices and materials such as large particle dirt removers such as brushes and wipes.
- cleaning solutions, cleaning solution applicators and scrubbers, and cleaning and drying cloths that do not damage the lens.
- Such an assortment of materials is cumbersome and difficult to transport easily “in the field”, in particular, and as a result, lens care often reverts to what is handy. What is handy, though, risks seriously degrading the lens.
- the optics cleaning apparatus of the present invention includes a holder with a first end, a second end and an outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir.
- a fluid applicator is connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir and a scrub pad is connected with the second end.
- Fluid applicator is a device for applying a fluid from the applicator to another location.
- the fluid applicator may be any such device as, for example only and not by way of limitation, a spray nozzle or a fluid soaked permeable material.
- Sprub pad is used to describe a device conformed to be applied to another surface and to rub and scrub it without damage to the surface.
- a fluid applicator cover and a scrub pad cover are provided in which both covers connect with holder.
- the reservoir further includes an optics cleaner.
- a dust brush is connected with the holder.
- the dust brush is connected with the second end and the scrub pad connects with the dust brush.
- the invention includes a buffing cloth contained within the holder.
- the buffing cloth is contained within the cover for either the first end or the second end.
- the buffing cloth includes a buffing cloth removal device for removing the buffing cloth from the cover.
- the second end is removable and the internal reservoir is refillable.
- an optics cleaning apparatus includes a holder with a first end, a second end and outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir and where the internal reservoir includes an absorbent cartridge.
- a fluid applicator is connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir and the absorbent cartridge.
- a scrub pad is connected with the second end, a dust brush is connected with the holder and a buffing cloth is contained within the holder.
- a fluid applicator cover and a scrub pad cover are provided in which both covers connect with the holder.
- the reservoir further includes an optics cleaner.
- the dust brush is connected with the second end and the scrub pad connects with the dust brush.
- the buffing cloth is contained within either the cover for the first end or the second end.
- the buffing cloth includes a buffing cloth removal device for removing the buffing cloth from the cover.
- the second end is removable and the internal reservoir is refillable.
- an optics cleaning method consists of the steps of:
- a. providing a holder with a first end, a second end and outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir filled with optics cleaner; a fluid applicator connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir; and a scrub pad connected with the second end;
- the holder includes a buffing cloth and dust brush.
- the method includes the step of buffing the optics device with the buffing cloth after rubbing the cleaner on the optics device.
- the method includes the step, before applying optics cleaner to the optic device, of dusting the optics device with the dust brush.
- FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the optics cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment
- FIG. 2 is a top view of the buffing cloth according to one embodiment
- FIG. 3 is a top view of the invention of FIG. 1 with cap covers in place on the first end and the second end of the holder;
- FIG. 4 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the invention including a dust brush assembly
- FIG. 5 is a partial section view of the invention of FIG. 3 illustrating the connection of the fluid applicator with an absorbent cartridge within the reservoir;
- FIG. 6 is a top view of the invention of FIG. 3 with cap covers in place on the first end and the second end of the holder.
- an optics cleaning apparatus 10 includes a holder 12 with a first end 14 and a second end 16 .
- Holder 12 may be any desired shape but is preferably tube like with a round outer surface 18 for example only and not by way of limitation.
- Holder 12 includes a hollow space created by outer surface 18 .
- the hollow space on the inside of holder 12 serves as a reservoir 20 as more clearly shown in FIG. 5 .
- Holder 12 may be made of any desired material such as plastic or metal. Holder 12 may be in any dimension such as one-half inch to one inch in diameter and three to six inches in length, for example only. The point to be noted is that it is very compact and thus it is easy to store and transport. It will fit, for example, in a shirt pocket.
- Fluid applicator 22 is connected with first end 14 of holder 12 and with reservoir 20 .
- fluid applicator 22 is of sufficient length such that there is an exterior portion 24 and an interior portion 26 of fluid applicator 22 as more clearly shown in FIG. 5 .
- Fluid applicator 22 preferably may be made of any porous material now known or hereafter developed that absorbs and releases fluid.
- MAKA MARKTM by Chuck Moore of Elkton, Tenn. and SHARPIETM Marker Pens are suitable and representative of the type and function of the applicator required by the invention.
- Fluid applicator 22 acts as a wick to transport fluid from the reservoir 20 to the exterior portion 24 of fluid applicator 22 as will be discussed more fully hereafter. It should be understood, however, that fluid applicator 22 may be a spray nozzle, as known in the art and not described more fully hereafter, connected with the reservoir 20 and still serve the required purpose of the invention.
- Scrub pad 28 is connected with second end 16 of holder 12 .
- Scrub pad 28 is made of any suitable material such as a micro fiber material such that use of the scrub pad in evenly spreading a fluid 30 onto a lens (not shown) and rubbing and scrubbing the lens does not scratch or damage the lens or any lens coatings that may be present. Any such material now know or hereafter developed is suitable.
- a fluid applicator cover 32 and a scrub pad cover 34 are provided as well.
- the covers ensure that dirt and debris are prevented from coming in contact with fluid applicator 22 and scrub pad 28 when they are not in use. Further, the covers connect with holder 12 to form a single sealed unit as shown in FIG. 3 . This prevents the escape of fluid 30 when not in use, for example, and keeps the scrub pad 28 clean. Covers 32 and 34 may be press fit connected or screw thread connected with holder 12 or connected in any other effective manner.
- buffing cloth 36 is illustrated.
- Buffing cloth 36 is preferably made of a micro fiber material that is absorbent and soft such that it will not damage lenses or lens coatings.
- buffing cloth 36 is of a size to fit within one of the covers 32 or 34 . Applicant has found that extending scrub pad cover 34 a little provides space to include buffing cloth 36 . Location in fluid applicator cover 32 is possible as well but it was found that the buffing cloth 36 would absorb fluid 30 from fluid applicator 22 and is not ideal.
- Buffing cloth removal device 38 preferably is in the form of an extension or “rat tail” from the buffing cloth 36 .
- the buffing cloth 36 is stuffed into the end cap 34 with the removal device 38 pushed in last. When time comes to remove the buffing cloth 36 the user simply pulls on removal device 38 and the buffing cloth 36 is easily retrieved for use.
- FIG. 4 an exploded version of another embodiment of the optics cleaning apparatus 10 is illustrated in which like numbers are used to identify like parts as described above with regard to FIGS. 1 and 3 .
- optics cleaning apparatus 10 includes a holder 12 , with a first end 14 and a second end 16 and an outer surface 18 enclosing a reservoir 20 (see FIG. 5 ).
- a fluid applicator 22 is provided that includes an exterior portion 24 and an interior portion 26 .
- the interior portion 26 extends into reservoir 20 , all as described above.
- reservoir 20 includes an absorbent cartridge 40 .
- Fluid 30 such as lens cleaning and anti-fogging fluid as is known in the art, is introduced into reservoir 20 where it is absorbed by absorbent cartridge 40 and then slowly released or transferred to the interior portion 26 of fluid applicator 22 .
- the exterior portion 24 of fluid applicator 22 transfers fluid 30 to a lens as described above.
- a suitable cleaning and defogging fluid 30 is PARKER'S PERFECTTM by ParBur Labs of Hollister, Mo., for example only and not by way of limitation.
- Absorbent cartridge 40 facilitates the uniform transfer of fluid 30 and continuously absorbs fluid 30 from reservoir 20 .
- second end 16 is removable such that fluid 30 may be added to reservoir 20 as needed.
- a dust brush 42 is connected with second end 16 and the scrub pad 28 is connected to the holder 12 by connection with the dust brush 42 as shown.
- Dust brush 42 is a non-abrasive anti-static brush useful when needed to remove large dust and debris prior to application of cleaning fluid 30 .
- a suitable brush is made by Gordon Brush Mfg. Co. of Commerce, Calif. that is made of goat hair, for example only and not by way of limitation.
- this embodiment is a more rugged embodiment in that fluid applicator cover 32 and scrub pad cover 34 are connected with holder 12 by threaded engagements 44 as illustrated. Further, gaskets 46 are provided to ensure a closed and sealed environment when attached.
- dust brush 42 is connected with second end 16 with threaded engagements 44 in combination with gasket 46 to ensure that fluid 30 is prevented from leaking out of reservoir 20 .
- scrub pad 28 in this embodiment, is connected with holder 12 by connection with dust brush 42 by threaded engagements 44 and including sealing gasket 46 as illustrated.
- FIG. 5 a partial section view of the invention of FIG. 3 is presented that illustrates the connection of the fluid applicator 22 with an absorbent cartridge 40 within the reservoir 20 .
- fluid 30 in the reservoir 20 is absorbed by absorbent cartridge 40 and, passes to interior portion 26 and then to exterior portion 24 of fluid applicator 22 as described above.
- absorbent cartridge 40 and fluid applicator 22 may be a single piece of material that is both absorbent and strong enough to serve as an applicator.
- optics cleaning apparatus 10 is shown assembled with covers 32 and 34 in place.
- optics cleaning apparatus 10 is a fully self contained optics cleaning kit that is easy to use and easy to carry.
- a functional device includes the dimensions of three-quarters of an inch to one and one-half inches in diameter and five to ten inches in length. Again, any suitable dimensions for the task that are functional are acceptable. Further, it should be understood that some or all of the listed elements of the invention are removable and replaceable.
- a simple version of the invention as shown, for example, in FIG. 1 may be designed to be used and thrown away.
- a user In operation, a user carries optics cleaning apparatus 10 with him, in his shirt pocket, for example. When a lens on a device being used needs cleaning, the optics cleaning apparatus 10 is pulled out.
- fluid applicator cover 32 is removed and fluid applicator 22 is used to apply fluid 30 to the lens.
- Fluid applicator cover 32 is replaced and scrub pad cover 34 is removed and scrub pad 28 is used to evenly distribute fluid 30 on the lens and to clean the lens with the fluid 30 .
- buffing cloth 36 is removed with buffing cloth removal device 38 from scrub pad cover 34 and used to buff and dry the lens. Then the buffing cloth is stuffed into scrub pad cover 34 with the buffing cloth removal device 38 last and the cover is replaced.
- Optics cleaning apparatus 10 is now ready for reuse.
- scrub pad cover 34 In the case where a user carries optics cleaning apparatus 10 in the version shown in FIG. 4 , before applying the fluid 30 , scrub pad cover 34 along with scrub pad 28 are unscrewed from holder 12 . Dust brush 42 is then used to brush dust and debris from the lens. Then fluid 30 is applied. Scrub pad 28 is reconnected and used as described above. Then scrub pad cover 34 is reattached and the optics cleaning apparatus 10 is ready for use again.
- this version enables the user to add more fluid by removing dust brush 42 from the second end 16 of holder 12 . This exposes reservoir 20 and, in this case absorbent cartridge 40 . Fluid 30 is added, the apparatus reassembled and it is ready to go.
Abstract
An optics cleaning apparatus includes a holder with a first end, a second end and an outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir. A fluid applicator is connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir and a scrub pad is connected with the second end.
Description
- This invention relates to an optics cleaning apparatus and method. In particular, in accordance with one embodiment, the invention relates, to an optics cleaning apparatus including a holder with a first end, a second end and an outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir. A fluid applicator is connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir and a scrub pad is connected with the second end.
- A problem arises with regard to devices that include lenses. Devices such as safety glasses, eyeglasses, cameras, binoculars, rifle scopes, microscopes, telescopes, video lenses, computer and analog monitors, personal digital assistants (PDAs) and the like have lenses that must be kept clean in order to function at full capacity. Dirt, moisture, smears and or fogging, smudges, oil, and other debris present in the working environment of the device are a constant source of contamination and create an ongoing need for constant cleaning of the lens.
- Prior art solutions range form using anything handy, shirt sleeves, tissue paper and such, to dedicated cleaning solutions and cloths. The problem with the prior art solutions are that the handy items may seriously compromise the lens, scratching or damaging it beyond usefulness. As the expense of the device increases the need for a proper, non-damaging solution to the problem increases such that users find themselves having to have a shelf load of cleaning supplies available when needed. Supplies required for a proper cleaning include a wide variety of devices and materials such as large particle dirt removers such as brushes and wipes. Also required are cleaning solutions, cleaning solution applicators and scrubbers, and cleaning and drying cloths that do not damage the lens. Such an assortment of materials is cumbersome and difficult to transport easily “in the field”, in particular, and as a result, lens care often reverts to what is handy. What is handy, though, risks seriously degrading the lens.
- Thus, it is clear that a need exists for a fully self contained, optics maintenance apparatus and method for cleaning optics that enables a professional cleaning of a lens “in the field”, that is safe and easy to use and that is not cumbersome to carry or hard to maintain.
- It, therefore, is an object of this invention to provide an apparatus and method for cleaning optics that is not cumbersome to carry, that is easy to maintain, that is safe and easy to use and that enables a professional lens cleaning wherever and whenever needed.
- Accordingly, the optics cleaning apparatus of the present invention, according to one embodiment includes a holder with a first end, a second end and an outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir. A fluid applicator is connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir and a scrub pad is connected with the second end.
- As used herein, terms are given their common meaning. “Holder” is used to describe something that contains and retains something else. “Reservoir” describes a space in the holder within which material may be added to and withdrawn from. “Fluid applicator” is a device for applying a fluid from the applicator to another location. In this regard, the fluid applicator may be any such device as, for example only and not by way of limitation, a spray nozzle or a fluid soaked permeable material. “Scrub pad” is used to describe a device conformed to be applied to another surface and to rub and scrub it without damage to the surface.
- In another aspect of the invention, a fluid applicator cover and a scrub pad cover are provided in which both covers connect with holder. In one aspect, the reservoir further includes an optics cleaner. In another aspect, a dust brush is connected with the holder. In a further aspect, the dust brush is connected with the second end and the scrub pad connects with the dust brush.
- In one aspect, the invention includes a buffing cloth contained within the holder. In another aspect, the buffing cloth is contained within the cover for either the first end or the second end. In a further aspect, the buffing cloth includes a buffing cloth removal device for removing the buffing cloth from the cover. In other aspects, the second end is removable and the internal reservoir is refillable.
- According to another embodiment of the invention, an optics cleaning apparatus includes a holder with a first end, a second end and outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir and where the internal reservoir includes an absorbent cartridge. A fluid applicator is connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir and the absorbent cartridge. A scrub pad is connected with the second end, a dust brush is connected with the holder and a buffing cloth is contained within the holder.
- In one aspect of this invention, a fluid applicator cover and a scrub pad cover are provided in which both covers connect with the holder. In another aspect, the reservoir further includes an optics cleaner. In a further aspect, the dust brush is connected with the second end and the scrub pad connects with the dust brush. In one aspect, the buffing cloth is contained within either the cover for the first end or the second end. In one aspect, the buffing cloth includes a buffing cloth removal device for removing the buffing cloth from the cover. In another aspect, the second end is removable and the internal reservoir is refillable.
- According to another embodiment, an optics cleaning method consists of the steps of:
- a. providing a holder with a first end, a second end and outer surface where the outer surface encloses an internal reservoir filled with optics cleaner; a fluid applicator connected with the first end and with the internal reservoir; and a scrub pad connected with the second end;
- b. applying the optics cleaner to an optic device with the fluid applicator; and
- c. rubbing the optics cleaner on the optic device with the scrub pad.
- In another aspect of the invention, the holder includes a buffing cloth and dust brush. In another aspect, the method includes the step of buffing the optics device with the buffing cloth after rubbing the cleaner on the optics device. In one aspect, the method includes the step, before applying optics cleaner to the optic device, of dusting the optics device with the dust brush.
- Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment, the appended claims and the accompanying drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is an exploded view of the optics cleaning apparatus according to one embodiment; -
FIG. 2 is a top view of the buffing cloth according to one embodiment; -
FIG. 3 is a top view of the invention ofFIG. 1 with cap covers in place on the first end and the second end of the holder; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the invention including a dust brush assembly; -
FIG. 5 is a partial section view of the invention ofFIG. 3 illustrating the connection of the fluid applicator with an absorbent cartridge within the reservoir; and -
FIG. 6 is a top view of the invention ofFIG. 3 with cap covers in place on the first end and the second end of the holder. - The preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated by way of example in
FIGS. 1-6 . With specific reference toFIG. 1 , anoptics cleaning apparatus 10, according to one embodiment, includes aholder 12 with afirst end 14 and asecond end 16.Holder 12 may be any desired shape but is preferably tube like with a roundouter surface 18 for example only and not by way of limitation.Holder 12 includes a hollow space created byouter surface 18. The hollow space on the inside ofholder 12 serves as a reservoir 20 as more clearly shown inFIG. 5 . -
Holder 12 may be made of any desired material such as plastic or metal.Holder 12 may be in any dimension such as one-half inch to one inch in diameter and three to six inches in length, for example only. The point to be noted is that it is very compact and thus it is easy to store and transport. It will fit, for example, in a shirt pocket. -
Fluid applicator 22 is connected withfirst end 14 ofholder 12 and with reservoir 20. Thus,fluid applicator 22 is of sufficient length such that there is anexterior portion 24 and aninterior portion 26 offluid applicator 22 as more clearly shown inFIG. 5 . -
Fluid applicator 22 preferably may be made of any porous material now known or hereafter developed that absorbs and releases fluid. MAKA MARK™ by Chuck Moore of Elkton, Tenn. and SHARPIE™ Marker Pens are suitable and representative of the type and function of the applicator required by the invention.Fluid applicator 22, it should be understood, acts as a wick to transport fluid from the reservoir 20 to theexterior portion 24 offluid applicator 22 as will be discussed more fully hereafter. It should be understood, however, thatfluid applicator 22 may be a spray nozzle, as known in the art and not described more fully hereafter, connected with the reservoir 20 and still serve the required purpose of the invention. -
Scrub pad 28 is connected withsecond end 16 ofholder 12.Scrub pad 28 is made of any suitable material such as a micro fiber material such that use of the scrub pad in evenly spreading a fluid 30 onto a lens (not shown) and rubbing and scrubbing the lens does not scratch or damage the lens or any lens coatings that may be present. Any such material now know or hereafter developed is suitable. - Preferably, a
fluid applicator cover 32 and ascrub pad cover 34 are provided as well. The covers ensure that dirt and debris are prevented from coming in contact withfluid applicator 22 andscrub pad 28 when they are not in use. Further, the covers connect withholder 12 to form a single sealed unit as shown inFIG. 3 . This prevents the escape offluid 30 when not in use, for example, and keeps thescrub pad 28 clean.Covers holder 12 or connected in any other effective manner. - Referring now to
FIG. 2 , buffingcloth 36 is illustrated. Buffingcloth 36 is preferably made of a micro fiber material that is absorbent and soft such that it will not damage lenses or lens coatings. Preferably buffingcloth 36 is of a size to fit within one of thecovers cloth 36. Location influid applicator cover 32 is possible as well but it was found that the buffingcloth 36 would absorb fluid 30 fromfluid applicator 22 and is not ideal. - In one aspect, Applicant has determined that adding a buffing
cloth removal device 38 is very useful. Buffingcloth removal device 38 preferably is in the form of an extension or “rat tail” from the buffingcloth 36. In use, the buffingcloth 36 is stuffed into theend cap 34 with theremoval device 38 pushed in last. When time comes to remove the buffingcloth 36 the user simply pulls onremoval device 38 and the buffingcloth 36 is easily retrieved for use. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 an exploded version of another embodiment of theoptics cleaning apparatus 10 is illustrated in which like numbers are used to identify like parts as described above with regard toFIGS. 1 and 3 . - Accordingly,
optics cleaning apparatus 10 includes aholder 12, with afirst end 14 and asecond end 16 and anouter surface 18 enclosing a reservoir 20 (seeFIG. 5 ). Afluid applicator 22 is provided that includes anexterior portion 24 and aninterior portion 26. Theinterior portion 26 extends into reservoir 20, all as described above. - Further, however, in this embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 5 , reservoir 20 includes anabsorbent cartridge 40.Fluid 30, such as lens cleaning and anti-fogging fluid as is known in the art, is introduced into reservoir 20 where it is absorbed byabsorbent cartridge 40 and then slowly released or transferred to theinterior portion 26 offluid applicator 22. In use, theexterior portion 24 offluid applicator 22 transfers fluid 30 to a lens as described above. A suitable cleaning anddefogging fluid 30 is PARKER'S PERFECT™ by ParBur Labs of Hollister, Mo., for example only and not by way of limitation. -
Absorbent cartridge 40 facilitates the uniform transfer offluid 30 and continuously absorbs fluid 30 from reservoir 20. Importantly, according to this embodiment,second end 16 is removable such thatfluid 30 may be added to reservoir 20 as needed. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 1 , this means thatscrub pad 28 is unscrewed or disconnected fromsecond end 16 which exposes fluid reservoir 20 and allows fluid 30 to be added. After filling, thescrub pad 28 is reconnected withsecond end 16 and theoptics cleaning device 10 is ready for continued use. - According to the embodiment shown in
FIG. 4 , adust brush 42 is connected withsecond end 16 and thescrub pad 28 is connected to theholder 12 by connection with thedust brush 42 as shown.Dust brush 42 is a non-abrasive anti-static brush useful when needed to remove large dust and debris prior to application of cleaningfluid 30. A suitable brush is made by Gordon Brush Mfg. Co. of Commerce, Calif. that is made of goat hair, for example only and not by way of limitation. - Still referring to
FIG. 4 , this embodiment is a more rugged embodiment in thatfluid applicator cover 32 andscrub pad cover 34 are connected withholder 12 by threadedengagements 44 as illustrated. Further,gaskets 46 are provided to ensure a closed and sealed environment when attached. - Likewise,
dust brush 42 is connected withsecond end 16 with threadedengagements 44 in combination withgasket 46 to ensure thatfluid 30 is prevented from leaking out of reservoir 20. Similarly,scrub pad 28, in this embodiment, is connected withholder 12 by connection withdust brush 42 by threadedengagements 44 and including sealinggasket 46 as illustrated. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , a partial section view of the invention ofFIG. 3 is presented that illustrates the connection of thefluid applicator 22 with anabsorbent cartridge 40 within the reservoir 20. Here, fluid 30 in the reservoir 20 is absorbed byabsorbent cartridge 40 and, passes tointerior portion 26 and then toexterior portion 24 offluid applicator 22 as described above. It should be understood, of course, thatabsorbent cartridge 40 andfluid applicator 22 may be a single piece of material that is both absorbent and strong enough to serve as an applicator. - Referring to
FIG. 6 , theoptics cleaning apparatus 10 is shown assembled withcovers optics cleaning apparatus 10 is a fully self contained optics cleaning kit that is easy to use and easy to carry. In this configuration, including thedust brush 42 attachment, the Applicant has determined that a functional device includes the dimensions of three-quarters of an inch to one and one-half inches in diameter and five to ten inches in length. Again, any suitable dimensions for the task that are functional are acceptable. Further, it should be understood that some or all of the listed elements of the invention are removable and replaceable. On the other hand, a simple version of the invention as shown, for example, inFIG. 1 may be designed to be used and thrown away. - In operation, a user carries
optics cleaning apparatus 10 with him, in his shirt pocket, for example. When a lens on a device being used needs cleaning, theoptics cleaning apparatus 10 is pulled out. First, in the version shown inFIG. 1 ,fluid applicator cover 32 is removed andfluid applicator 22 is used to apply fluid 30 to the lens.Fluid applicator cover 32 is replaced andscrub pad cover 34 is removed andscrub pad 28 is used to evenly distributefluid 30 on the lens and to clean the lens with the fluid 30. Then, if present, buffingcloth 36 is removed with buffingcloth removal device 38 fromscrub pad cover 34 and used to buff and dry the lens. Then the buffing cloth is stuffed into scrub pad cover 34 with the buffingcloth removal device 38 last and the cover is replaced.Optics cleaning apparatus 10 is now ready for reuse. - In the case where a user carries
optics cleaning apparatus 10 in the version shown inFIG. 4 , before applying the fluid 30,scrub pad cover 34 along withscrub pad 28 are unscrewed fromholder 12.Dust brush 42 is then used to brush dust and debris from the lens. Then fluid 30 is applied.Scrub pad 28 is reconnected and used as described above. Then scrubpad cover 34 is reattached and theoptics cleaning apparatus 10 is ready for use again. - Should fluid 30 run low, this version enables the user to add more fluid by removing
dust brush 42 from thesecond end 16 ofholder 12. This exposes reservoir 20 and, in this caseabsorbent cartridge 40.Fluid 30 is added, the apparatus reassembled and it is ready to go. - The description of the present embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. As such, while the present invention has been disclosed in connection with an embodiment thereof, it should be understood that other embodiments may fall within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. An optics cleaning apparatus comprising:
a. a holder with a first end, a second end and outer surface wherein said outer surface encloses an internal reservoir;
b. a fluid applicator connected with said first end and with said internal reservoir; and
c. a scrub pad connected with said second end.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 further including a fluid applicator cover and a scrub pad cover wherein both covers connect with said holder.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said reservoir further includes an optics cleaner.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 further including a dust brush connected with said holder.
5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein said dust brush is connected with said second end and said scrub pad connects with said dust brush.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 further including a buffing cloth contained within said holder.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said buffing cloth is contained within a cover for said first end or said second end.
8. The apparatus of claim 6 wherein said buffing cloth includes a buffing cloth removal device for removing said buffing cloth from said cover.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said second end is removable and said internal reservoir is refillable.
10. An optics cleaning apparatus comprising:
a. a holder with a first end, a second end and outer surface wherein said outer surface encloses an internal reservoir and wherein said internal reservoir includes an absorbent cartridge;
b. a fluid applicator connected with said first end and with said internal reservoir and said absorbent cartridge;
c. a scrub pad connected with said second end;
d. a dust brush connected with said holder; and
e. a buffing cloth contained within said holder.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 further including a fluid applicator cover and a scrub pad cover wherein both covers connect with said holder.
12. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said reservoir further includes an optics cleaner.
13. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said dust brush is connected with said second end and said scrub pad connects with said dust brush.
14. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said buffing cloth is contained within a cover for said first end or said second end.
15. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said buffing cloth includes a buffing cloth removal device for removing said buffing cloth from said cover.
16. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein said second end is removable and said internal reservoir is refillable.
17. An optics cleaning method comprising:
a. providing a holder with a first end, a second end and outer surface wherein said outer surface encloses an internal reservoir filled with optics cleaner; a fluid applicator connected with said first end and with said internal reservoir; and a scrub pad connected with said second end;
b. applying said optics cleaner to an optic device with said fluid applicator; and
c. rubbing said optics cleaner on said optic device with said scrub pad.
18. The method of claim 17 wherein said holder includes a buffing cloth and dust brush.
19. The method of claim 18 further including buffing said optics device with said buffing cloth.
20. The method of claim 18 wherein before applying optics cleaner to said optic device said optics device is dusted with said dust brush.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/068,023 US20120273001A1 (en) | 2011-04-29 | 2011-04-29 | Optics cleaning apparatus and method |
PCT/US2012/000222 WO2012148498A1 (en) | 2011-04-29 | 2012-04-27 | Optics cleaning apparatus and method |
US13/694,369 US8992106B1 (en) | 2011-04-29 | 2012-11-26 | Optics cleaning apparatus and method |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/068,023 US20120273001A1 (en) | 2011-04-29 | 2011-04-29 | Optics cleaning apparatus and method |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20120273001A1 true US20120273001A1 (en) | 2012-11-01 |
Family
ID=47066948
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/068,023 Abandoned US20120273001A1 (en) | 2011-04-29 | 2011-04-29 | Optics cleaning apparatus and method |
US13/694,369 Expired - Fee Related US8992106B1 (en) | 2011-04-29 | 2012-11-26 | Optics cleaning apparatus and method |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/694,369 Expired - Fee Related US8992106B1 (en) | 2011-04-29 | 2012-11-26 | Optics cleaning apparatus and method |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20120273001A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2012148498A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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USD732254S1 (en) * | 2014-01-13 | 2015-06-16 | Melvin A. Burklow | Optics cleaning kit |
CN104722514A (en) * | 2013-12-19 | 2015-06-24 | 孙黎明 | Antique cleaning device |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2012148498A9 (en) | 2013-07-11 |
WO2012148498A1 (en) | 2012-11-01 |
US8992106B1 (en) | 2015-03-31 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |