PROTECTIVE BARRIER FOR A SINK

Abstract

This present invention relates to a reusable and flexible sink cover/barrier that allows individuals to use a sink without worry of toothpaste, stray hair and other debris staining the sink surface. The reusable and flexible cover features a silicone configuration that closely adheres to the ceramic sink surface via a pressure sensitive adhesive. The cover comes in the form of a roll that can be easily unrolled to deploy over the sink surface, and that may be easily and quickly wiped clean with a towel or cleaning wipe after each use and then simply rolled up for the next time use is required. In another arrangement, the cover can be discarded after a single use. The cover offers a simple protection means for bathroom sinks and countertops.

Claims

1. A cover for a sink configured to provide a protective barrier to a sink surface, the cover comprising: a top surface for capturing debris from above and a bottom surface for adhering to said sink surface in a non-slip arrangement; at least one opening in said cover, wherein said at least one opening is proximal to a sink drain; and a flexible material for conforming to said sink surface, wherein said cover is configured to extend around an outer rim of said sink.

2. The cover of claim 1, wherein said cover is disposable.

3. The cover of claim 1, wherein said cover is reusable.

4. The cover of claim 3, wherein said cover is washable.

5. The cover of claim 3, wherein said flexible material comprises a silicone.

6. The cover of claim 5, wherein said silicone has a density in a range of about 0.4 g/cc to about 0.9 g/cc.

7. The cover of claim 5, wherein said silicone has a hardness in a range of about 5 Shore A to about 30 Shore A.

8. The cover of claim 5, wherein said cover has a thickness in a range of about 4 mm to about 10 mm.

9. The cover of claim 5, wherein said silicone is selected from a group consisting of FDA and food-grade silicone.

10. The cover of claim 5, wherein said bottom surface comprises a pressure sensitive adhesive.

11. A plurality of sink covers configured for individual installation of a sink cover to a sink surface comprising: said plurality of sink covers in a roll in a first storage condition; said plurality of sink covers include at least two said sink covers, wherein said at least two said sink covers are connected by a plurality of perforations in said first storage condition; at least a first sink cover separated from the at least a second sink covers along said plurality of perforations in a second use condition; each one of said plurality of sink covers configured to provide a protective barrier to a sink surface, wherein each one of said plurality of sink covers further comprised a top surface for capturing debris from above and a bottom surface for adhering to said sink surface; and each one of said plurality of sink covers further comprises a flexible material for conforming to said sink surface.

12. The plurality of sink covers of claim 11, wherein each sink cover comprises a drain opening.

13. The plurality of sink covers of claim 11, wherein each sink cover is disposable.

14. The plurality of sink covers of claim 11, wherein each sink cover is reusable

15. The plurality of sink covers of claim 11, wherein each sink cover comprises a silicone.

16. The plurality of sink covers of claim 15, wherein: said silicone includes a density in a range of about 0.4 g/cc to about 0.9 g/cc and a hardness of about 5 Shore A to about 30 Shore A; and further wherein said sink cover includes a thickness of about 4 mm to about 10 mm.

17. A method of installing a sink cover on a sink surface, said method comprising: separating a single said sink cover from a plurality of sink covers, wherein said plurality of sink covers is arranged in a roll in a first storage condition; installing said single sink cover over said sink surface, wherein said sink cover includes a top surface for capturing debris from above and a bottom surface for adhering to said sink surface; and said sink cover comprising a flexible material for conforming to said sink surface wherein said sink cover is configured to extend around an outer rim of said sink surface, and further wherein said bottom surface comprises a non-slip surface.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising perforating said single sink cover with at least one opening, wherein said at least one opening is proximal to a sink drain.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising disposing of said single sink cover after a single use.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising washing and reusing said single sink cover after a single use.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover of the present invention that can be used as a protective surface for a sink and/or countertop as per the disclosed structure;

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover of the present invention as a roll for easy storing and transportation as per the disclosed structure;

[0020] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential method of how a reusable sink cover of the present invention can be applied to a sink as per the disclosed structure;

[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover of the present invention applied to a sink as per the disclosed structure;

[0022] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover of the present invention applied to a sink as per the disclosed structure, wherein a user is wiping down the sink cover;

[0023] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover of the present invention being removed from a sink surface and rolled into a roll for later use as per the disclosed structure;

[0024] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a decorative roll of reusable sink covers of the present invention as per the disclosed structure;

[0025] FIG. 8 illustrates another potential embodiment of a roll of reusable sink covers of the present invention having perforated partition lines for segregating individual sink covers as per the disclosed structure; and

[0026] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of yet another potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover of the present invention with built-in drain perforations as per the disclosed structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0028] As noted above, there exists a long felt need in the art for a protective cover for a sink or washing basin to prevent to prevent the accumulation of debris thereon. There is also a long felt need in the art for a protective sink cover that can be easily applied to a sink or washing basin in a bathroom, kitchen or other place, and that enables a user to easily wipe off the toothpaste, stray hair, and other debris gathered on the protective sink cover. Moreover, there is a long felt need in the art for a sink barrier that enables a user to clean a sink after every use without much effort, and that allows individuals to use the sink without worry of toothpaste, stray hair and other debris staining the sink surface, or without the need to frequently change or clear the drain cover. There is also a long felt need in the art for a sink surface protection means that maintains a clean, hygienic and appealing environment in a bathroom, kitchen or any other place with a sink or washing basin. Finally, there is a long felt need in the art for a sink barrier device that is relatively inexpensive to manufacture, portable, reusable, and storable; or, alternatively, disposable.

[0029] Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover 100 of the present invention that can be used as a protective surface for a sink and/or countertop as per the disclosed structure. The sink cover 100 is a relatively flexible cover preferably comprised of a silicone, butyl rubber or any suitable synthetic plastic material that can be rolled easily for storing and portability. In one embodiment, the sink cover 100 is a generally rectangular sheet having a top surface 104 and a bottom surface 102. The bottom surface 102 may have an adhesive layer to stick to the sink surface. Also, the silicone material of the sink cover 100 makes the cover 100 adhere to the sink surface and covering different contours, such as curved portions and flat portions. The sink cover 100 has a length 110 and a width 108 based on different sizes of bathroom sinks and countertops. The top surface 104 can be available in numerous colors, styles, and custom designs to accommodate the needs and/or preferences of both children and adults alike. The sink cover 100 can also be available with pressure sensitive adhesive backing on the bottom surface 102 and a removable protective liner that can be removed just prior to application of the sink cover 100 to a sink.

[0030] As referenced above, the sink cover 100 is eco-friendly and can be made of a flexible silicone, rubber, or plastic having anti-slip properties. The sink cover 100 provides users with a protective barrier for a bathroom sink, thereby offering a user with a way to prevent debris from accumulating on the sink surface. The sink cover 100 can be easily and quickly wiped down with a towel or cleaning wipe after each use is completed.

[0031] The density of the silicone can be in the range of 0.4 g/cc to 0.9 g/cc, and the hardness can be in the range of 5 Shore A to 30 Shore A. Further, the thickness of the sink cover 100 can be in the range of 4 mm to 10 mm. The sink cover 100 material can comprise FDA silicone, food grade silicone, or other low-cost economical grade silicone. The sink cover 100 material provides for a long life, and can maintain many of its properties at extremely low or high temperatures. The cover material, as described above, provides for a non-slip sink cover when installed, with or without a pressure sensitive adhesive on the bottom surface.

[0032] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover 100 of the present invention as a roll for easy storing and transportation as per the disclosed structure. The flexible material of the sink cover 100 allows a user to easily unroll the cover 100 for use and thereafter to re-roll the cover 100 after use. The cover 100 can be easily rolled along the length of the cover 100 with the top surface 104 on the outside and the bottom or mounting surface 102 on the inside to protect the pressure sensitive adhesive. The cover 100, when in unrolled state, enables users to simply wipe away the debris after the cover 100 is used, and then re-roll the cover 100 for convenient storage and/or transportation.

[0033] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential method of how a reusable sink cover of the present invention can be applied to a sink as per the disclosed structure. The reusable sink cover or barrier 100 can be easily applied by unrolling the cover over a sink surface 202. In this manner, the pressure sensitive adhesive on the bottom surface 102 of the cover will adhere to the sink surface and, due to the silicone material, the cover 100 will conform and adhere to various different shapes and materials of the sink surface. Also, depending on the size of the barrier 100, the side edges of the sink surface 202 can also be covered by the barrier 100. More specifically, the barrier 100 may be applied by placing the roll on an edge of the sink surface 202 and unrolling the same across the entirety of the sink surface, wherein as roll is unrolled the barrier 100 adheres to the sink surface 202 with the user (not shown) applying only a minimal amount of pressure to the top surface 104. After applying, the top surface 104 is visible to the user and is ready for use and thus prevents debris accumulation from staining the sink surface 202. The barrier 100 can be manufactured in a plurality of different designs and/or colors to suit user preference including, without limitation, red, blue, white, black, etc., and is preferably compliant with both FDA 177.2600 and EC1935/2004.

[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of the reusable sink cover 100 of the present invention applied to a sink surface 202 as per the disclosed structure. As stated earlier, the sink cover 100 will adhere to many different types (i.e. shapes and materials) of the sink surface 202, such as on the side walls 404, curved portion 406, and the planar surface 408. Further, one or more continuous openings (i.e., extending between the top and bottom surfaces 104, 102) or perforations 402 are present on the sink cover 100 to coincide with the drain of the sink. The perforations 402 can be cut-out of the cover 100 by a user when the cover 100 is applied to the sink for the first time. Alternatively, the perforations 402 may be manufactured into the cover 100. It is to be appreciated that the sink cover 100 can be used without perforations when the sink cover 100 is used to capture and remove all debris or hair. For example, such use may be advantageous when trimming one's hair and/or beard. The sink cover 100, in this alternative embodiment, may comprise a disposable cover wherein the cover captures all debris during use and then is subsequently discarded.

[0035] The cover 100 remains securely attached to the sink surface while users go about their bathroom routine as needed. The cover 100 allows people to use the sink 202 without worry of toothpaste, stray hair, and other debris staining the sink surface and/or clogging the sink drain. In one embodiment, the sink surface 202 should be dry before applying the cover 100 to the sink. Alternatively, a silicone adhesive can be used on the bottom surface 102 of the cover 100 which can stick the silicone cover 100 on the wet sink surface 202.

[0036] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover 100 of the present invention applied to a sink as per the disclosed structure, wherein a user 502 is wiping down the sink cover 100. As stated earlier, the reusable sink cover 100 is washable. Further, toothpaste, hair and other debris that gather on the silicone cover 100 can be easily wiped away after each use. More specifically, a user 502 using a cloth/towel 504 can wipe the top surface 104 of the cover 100 to clean the same. Hygiene spray, such as an antimicrobial spray sanitizer, can also be sprayed onto the cover 100 to increase cleanliness and improve hygiene. Additionally, due to the sticky nature of the adhesive on the bottom surface 102 of the cover 100, the cover 100 does not move while attached to the sink or basin surface and the top surface 104 is wiped by a user. Cleaning solutions can also be used to clean the cover 100. In one embodiment, the cover 100 may also have a thermal insulation layer to enable use of the cover 100 with hot water.

[0037] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover 100 of the present invention being removed from a sink surface 202 and rolled into a roll for later use as per the disclosed structure. More specifically, after being used, the reusable sink cover 100 can be easily disengaged from the sink surface 202 and rolled into a roll for easy storage and transportation. The cover 100 can be grasped by the edges and/or corners by the user 502 and removed from the sink basin and then subsequently rolled into a roll. One advantage of the silicone cover 100 is that the cover 100 resumes a planar shape after being removed from the sink basin and counter. The generally planar shape of the removed cover 100 aids in the compact rolling of the cover 100. The rolled-up cover 100 can be easily unrolled onto a sink for the next subsequent use, thereby providing a hygienic surface for the user while maintaining the sink clean and free from debris and stains. It should be appreciated that the reusable sink cover 100 of the present invention has great commercial value in the hospitality industry where a new sink cover 100 can be used for each new customer or for each new day, wherein the staff can apply a new cover 100 in the morning to provide a hygienic environment to the user.

[0038] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a reusable sink cover or barrier 700 of the present invention with a custom design as per the disclosed structure. More specifically, the sink barrier 700 of the present invention can come in various colors, and can also have a custom design on a top surface 704 to satisfy the needs of the users. A bottom surface 702 can also have a pressure sensitive adhesive or any other reusable adhesive which does not affect the appearance of the sink surface similar to other embodiments of the present invention. The sink barrier 700 can be applied, removed and rolled in a similar manner as described in the earlier embodiments.

[0039] FIG. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of a roll of reusable sink covers 800 of the present invention having, for example, perforated partition lines 802 for segregating different sink covers as per the disclosed structure. In the present embodiment, the roll 800 can comprise a plurality of silicone covers, wherein each individual silicone cover is segregated by a pair of perforation lines 802. The roll 800 can be purchased and used by homeowners and commercial businesses, wherein a user can tar a new individual sink from the roll 800 and along the perforation line 802 and apply the same to the sink or basin. The perforation lines 802 may be present at equal length or different lengths to fit different sink sizes. The cover 800 can be easily torn along the perforated line 802 with minimal force and without the need for a cutting instrument. In one embodiment, the roll 800 can contain five individual sink covers. Alternatively, the roll 800 may contain more than ten individual sink covers.

[0040] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a reusable sink cover 900 of the present invention with built-in drain perforations or continuous openings as per the disclosed structure. In the present embodiment, drain perforation openings 402 can be built-in at the center of the sink cover 900. It should be appreciated that the perforation openings 402 can be built-in at different positions as per different designs of the sink or basin. It should be further appreciated that the sink cover 900 can be used without perforations (not shown) when the sink cover is used to capture and remove all debris or hair from a sink. For example, such use may be advantageous when trimming one's hair and/or beard. The sink cover 900, in this alternative embodiment, may comprise a disposable cover wherein the cover captures all debris during use and then is subsequently discarded.

[0041] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “sink cover”, “sink barrier”, “sink protecting means”, “reusable sink cover”, and “sink hug” are interchangeable and refer to the protective sink cover 100, 700, 800, 900 of the present invention.

[0042] Notwithstanding the forgoing, the sink cover 100, 700, 800, 900 of the present invention can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that it accomplishes the above stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration and material of the sink cover 100, 700, 800, 900 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the sink cover 100, 700, 800, 900 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the sink cover 100, 700, 800, 900 are important design parameters for user convenience, the sink cover 100, 700, 800, 900 may be of any size that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

[0043] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0044] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.