PUSH-UP SOAP DISPENSER

Abstract

A push-up soap dispenser includes a housing configured to house a bar of soap; a movable bottom panel configured to be movable from the bottom end of the housing towards the top end of the housing; a pressure fit opening proximate to the top end of the housing; a cap configured to attached to the top end of the housing via the pressure fit opening; and a flange connected to a side of the push-up soap dispenser housing. The flange includes a connection hole located in the flange configured to connect to a hanging apparatus. The push-up soap dispenser may be fabricated using plastics, bioplastics, cardboard, or GEX materials.

Claims

1. A push-up soap dispenser comprising: a housing configured to house a bar of soap; a movable bottom panel configured to be movable from the bottom end of the housing towards the top end of the housing; a pressure fit opening proximate to the top end of the housing; and a cap configured to attached to the top end of the housing via the pressure fit opening.

2. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, further comprising: a flange connected to a side of the push-up soap dispenser housing.

3. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 2, further comprising: a connection hole located in the flange, wherein the connection hole is configured to connect to a hanging apparatus.

4. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 3, wherein the hanging apparatus is a string.

5. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 3, wherein the hanging apparatus is a cable.

6. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the housing is fabricated from a plastic material.

7. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 6, wherein the plastic material is a bioplastic.

8. The soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the pressure fit opening is narrower than the housing.

9. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the cap comprises: a recess configured to fit a finger for squeeze and lift removal of the cap from the housing.

10. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the cap is fabricated from a plastic material.

11. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 10, wherein the plastic material is a bioplastic.

12. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the housing is fabricated using a cardboard material.

13. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the cap is fabricated using a cardboard material.

14. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the housing is fabricated using a GEX material.

15. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein the cap is fabricated using a GEX material.

16. The push-up soap dispenser of claim 1, wherein moving of the movable bottom panel is configured to cause an inserted bar of soap to extend outward from the housing.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The accompanying drawings, where like numerals indicate like components, illustrate embodiments of the invention.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of a push-up soap dispenser and detached cap.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a perspective diagram of a push-up soap dispenser and cap action.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view diagram of a bar of soap being inserted into a push-up soap dispenser.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view diagram of a push-up soap dispenser with a push-up soap dispenser cap attached.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view diagram of a push-up soap dispenser illustrating a thumb push operation to expose soap housed in the push-up soap dispenser.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the method of soap bar insertion into a push-up soap dispenser.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the method of use of a push-up soap dispenser.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the method of use of hanging a push-up soap dispenser.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Reference will now be made in detail to background examples and some embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the description and claims below, relational terms such as top, down, upper, lower, top, bottom, left and right may be used to describe relative orientations between different parts of a structure being described, and it is to be understood that the overall structure being described can actually be oriented in any way in three-dimensional space.

[0017] Push-up soap dispensers offer several advantages that fulfill specific unfulfilled needs in the marketplace. Benefits provided by the presently claimed push-up soap dispenser are listed below.

[0018] Convenience: Push-up soap provides a convenient and mess-free application method. Users can simply push the bottom of the container to push the soap stick upwards, eliminating the need for grabbing slippery soap with fingers or applying liquid soap, which can spill or easily slide off hands.

[0019] Portability: Push-up soap is compact and travel-friendly, making it easy for users to carry it in their bags, purses, or pockets. Its solid form eliminates the risk of leakage or spillage during transportation, ensuring that users can stay fresh and clean on the go.

[0020] Hygiene: Push-up soap promotes hygiene by minimizing direct contact with the product. Unlike naked soaps or shampoos, which require users to handle the product with their hands, push-up soap allows for touch-free application, reducing the risk of product contamination and maintaining cleanliness.

[0021] Ease of Application: Push-up soap glides smoothly onto the skin, providing even coverage with minimal effort. The solid stick formulation ensures precise application, allowing users to apply the soap exactly where needed without excess product or messy residue.

[0022] Longevity: Push-up soap typically lasts longer than other forms of soap when used correctly, such as regular uncontained soap bars or liquid soaps. The container reduces and controls the exposure of the soap to water, ensuring that only the necessary amount is used, and excess soap is not rinsed away.

[0023] Variety: The push-up soap used in the containers is available in a wide range of formulations, scents, and brands to suit individual preferences and needs. Whether users prefer unscented options, natural ingredients, or specific fragrance profiles, there is a push-up soap product available to cater to their preferences.

[0024] Suitability for Sensitive Skin: Many push-up soap formulations are suitable for sensitive skin types. They are often free from harsh chemicals, alcohol, and artificial fragrances, making them gentle and non-irritating even for users with sensitive or allergy-prone skin.

[0025] Environmentally Friendly Packaging: Push-up soap is provided in recyclable or biodegradable packaging, reducing its environmental impact compared to single-use bottles. This eco-friendly packaging option aligns with consumers' growing preference for sustainable products.

[0026] In summary, push-up soap addresses specific needs in the marketplace by offering convenience, portability, hygiene, ease of application, longevity, variety, suitability for sensitive skin, and environmentally friendly packaging. Whether for everyday use or travel purposes, push-up soap provides an effective and user-friendly solution for staying clean whether at home or on the go.

[0027] With respect to environmentally friendly packaging, an array of materials can be used to fabricate the push-up soap dispenser.

[0028] One example is GEX (Graphene-Enhanced Materials). GEX (Graphene-Enhanced Materials) are composite materials that incorporate graphene, a two-dimensional carbon allotrope, into various matrices to enhance their properties. Graphene, with its remarkable mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, serves as a multifunctional additive in these materials.

[0029] Graphene can be synthesized through various methods including chemical vapor deposition (CVD), liquid-phase exfoliation, and epitaxial growth. Each method produces graphene with different characteristics in terms of layer thickness, grain size, and defects.

[0030] Graphene is then dispersed into the matrix material using techniques such as mixing, coating, or in-situ growth. The dispersion process is crucial to ensure uniform distribution and optimal interaction between graphene and the matrix.

[0031] GEX materials find applications in structural components across industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. By incorporating graphene, these materials exhibit enhanced mechanical properties including tensile strength, stiffness, and toughness. They can be used in aircraft components, automotive parts, and high-performance building materials.

[0032] Incorporating graphene into materials can improve their performance, leading to lighter and stronger products. This reduction in material usage contributes to resource efficiency and lowers the environmental impact of manufacturing processes.

[0033] GEX materials with enhanced conductivity and thermal properties can contribute to energy savings in various applications. For instance, in electronics, they enable more efficient energy transmission and dissipation, reducing power consumption.

[0034] The improved mechanical properties of GEX materials can increase product lifespan and durability. This results in fewer replacements and less waste generation over time, promoting sustainability.

[0035] Some GEX materials can be recycled due to their compatibility with existing recycling processes. This enables the recovery of valuable graphene and matrix materials for reuse, reducing the demand for virgin resources and minimizing waste disposal.

[0036] In summary, GEX materials offer a wide range of benefits including enhanced mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, leading to improved performance and sustainability across various industries. Their fabrication processes and environmental advantages make them promising materials for future applications.

[0037] With respect to environmentally friendly packaging, bioplastic materials can also be used to fabricate the push-up soap dispenser.

[0038] Bioplastic materials are a class of plastics derived from renewable biomass sources such as plants, algae, or microorganisms. These materials offer an alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics, with the potential for reduced environmental impact. Here's a detailed breakdown of bioplastic materials:

[0039] Bioplastics are typically derived from biomass sources such as corn starch, sugarcane, cellulose, or algae. These feedstocks are renewable and biodegradable, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

[0040] The biomass feedstock undergoes chemical or biological processes to extract polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from plant sugars or other organic compounds.

[0041] The extracted polymers are then processed using conventional plastic manufacturing techniques such as extrusion, injection molding, or thermoforming to produce bioplastic products in various shapes and forms.

[0042] Bioplastics are commonly used in packaging applications such as bottles, containers, bags, and films. They offer similar properties to conventional plastics in terms of strength, flexibility, and barrier properties, making them suitable for protecting and preserving a wide range of products.

[0043] Bioplastics are increasingly being used in the production of consumer goods such as utensils, cutlery, trays, and disposable tableware. These products provide a renewable and biodegradable alternative to traditional plastic items.

[0044] Bioplastic fibers derived from materials like corn starch or cellulose can be used in the textile industry to produce fabrics for clothing, upholstery, and other applications. These biodegradable textiles offer an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fibers like polyester.

[0045] Bioplastics are utilized in the production of medical devices and implants due to their biocompatibility and biodegradability. Materials such as PLA and PHA are FDA-approved for medical use and can be used in surgical sutures, implants, and drug delivery systems.

[0046] Bioplastics are derived from renewable biomass sources, which reduces dependence on finite fossil fuels and helps mitigate carbon emissions associated with plastic production.

[0047] Many bioplastics are biodegradable, meaning they can be broken down by microorganisms into natural compounds such as carbon dioxide and water. This reduces the accumulation of plastic waste in the environment and helps address issues like marine pollution.

[0048] Bioplastic production generally has a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional plastics, especially if the biomass feedstock is sustainably sourced and the manufacturing process is optimized for energy efficiency.

[0049] Some bioplastics, such as PLA, can be composted under controlled conditions to produce nutrient-rich soil additives. This creates a closed-loop system where biodegradable materials are returned to the soil, supporting agricultural sustainability.

[0050] In summary, bioplastic materials offer a promising solution to the environmental challenges posed by conventional plastics. Their renewable nature, biodegradability, and potential for reduced carbon emissions make them an attractive option for a wide range of applications across industries. However, it's important to consider factors such as feedstock sustainability, end-of-life disposal options, and the need for continued innovation to improve performance and scalability.

[0051] With respect to environmentally friendly packaging, cardboard materials can also be used to fabricate the push-up soap dispenser.

[0052] Cardboard is a versatile material made from paper pulp or fibrous materials, primarily used for packaging and construction purposes. It consists of multiple layers of paperboard pressed together to form a rigid and durable structure.

[0053] Cardboard is typically made from recycled paper or virgin wood pulp sourced from sustainably managed forests. Recycled cardboard often comes from post-consumer waste such as old corrugated containers or cardboard boxes.

[0054] The raw materials are pulped, either mechanically or chemically, to break down the fibers into a slurry. This slurry is then cleaned and refined to remove impurities and produce a uniform pulp mixture.

[0055] The pulp mixture is formed into sheets using a paper machine, where it passes through a series of rollers and screens to remove excess water and form a continuous sheet of cardboard.

[0056] In the case of corrugated cardboard, multiple layers of paperboard are glued together with a corrugated (fluted) inner layer sandwiched between two flat outer layers. This corrugated structure provides strength and rigidity to the cardboard.

[0057] Cardboard is primarily used for packaging due to its lightweight, yet sturdy nature. It is widely used for shipping boxes, cartons, and packaging inserts to protect goods during transit. Corrugated cardboard boxes are especially popular for their strength and cushioning properties.

[0058] Cardboard is also used for point-of-sale displays, retail packaging, and promotional materials. Its printable surface allows for branding, graphics, and product information to be easily displayed, making it an effective marketing tool.

[0059] Cardboard is used in various construction applications, including temporary structures, insulation, and protective barriers. Large cardboard tubes or honeycomb cardboard panels can be used for creating lightweight partitions, furniture, and exhibition stands.

[0060] Due to its versatility and ease of manipulation, cardboard is popular for arts and crafts projects, prototyping, and DIY activities. It can be easily cut, folded, and decorated to create anything from model airplanes to costume props.

[0061] One of the primary environmental benefits of cardboard is its recyclability. Cardboard can be recycled multiple times without losing its structural integrity, reducing the need for virgin materials and diverting waste from landfills.

[0062] Many cardboard manufacturers use recycled paper or wood pulp from responsibly managed forests certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This promotes sustainable forestry practices and helps protect natural habitats.

[0063] Cardboard is biodegradable, meaning it can naturally break down into organic compounds when exposed to environmental conditions such as moisture, microbes, and oxygen. This reduces the long-term environmental impact of discarded cardboard products.

[0064] Trees used in cardboard production act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in their biomass. Sustainable forestry practices help mitigate climate change by maintaining healthy forest ecosystems and sequestering carbon.

[0065] In summary, cardboard materials offer a sustainable and versatile solution for packaging, construction, and various other applications. Their recyclability, sustainable sourcing, biodegradability, and carbon sequestration benefits make them an environmentally friendly choice for businesses and consumers alike. However, efforts to improve recycling infrastructure, promote responsible sourcing, and reduce packaging waste are essential for maximizing the environmental benefits of cardboard materials.

[0066] FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of a push-up soap dispenser and detached cap. The push-up soap dispenser 1 is shaped so to house a bar of soap. The push-up soap dispenser may be fabricated using GEX, bioplastics, or cardboard. The push-up soap dispenser may also include a protruding flange connector 5 configured to connect to a rope or cable 6 so to allow a user to hang the push-up soap dispenser if so desired. The push-up soap dispenser also includes a pressure fit opening 3 that allows soap dispenser cap 2 to attach to the push-up soap dispenser. In one embodiment, the soap dispenser cap 2 includes one or more finger indents so to aid the user's fingers to grip the cap for squeeze and lift removal of the soap dispenser cap 2.

[0067] FIG. 2 is a perspective diagram of a push-up soap dispenser and cap action. Here it is clearly illustrated how the soap dispenser cap 2 can be attached or removed from the push-up soap dispenser 1. The attachment of the cap to the push-up soap dispenser is achieved by frictional force between the cap and the pressure fit opening 3 of the push-up soap dispenser 1.

[0068] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view diagram of a bar of soap being inserted into a push-up soap dispenser. When a user desires to insert a bar of soap into the push-up soap dispenser, the user simply needs to push the soap into the push-up soap dispenser as illustrated in FIG. 3. The soap bar is pushed in until it is completely inserted into the push-up soap dispenser.

[0069] FIG. 4 is a perspective view diagram of a push-up soap dispenser with a push-up soap dispenser cap attached. When not in use, it is desirable to enclose the soap within the push-up soap dispenser. This can be achieved by attaching the soap dispenser cap 2. Once the cap is attached, the user can store or transport the soap in the push-up soap dispenser without having the stored soap coming into contact with any unwanted surfaces.

[0070] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view diagram of a push-up soap dispenser illustrating a thumb push operation to expose soap housed in the push-up soap dispenser. To expose additional soap from the push-up soap dispenser, the user simply needs to push-up the bottom surface of the push-up soap dispenser. By pushing up the bottom surface of the push-up soap dispenser, the soap housed within is also pushed upward and out of the push-up soap dispenser housing. In this fashion, the user can continually push up only the necessary amount of soap required by the user, while the remainder of the soap is still protected within the push-up soap dispenser housing.

[0071] FIG. 6 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the method of soap bar insertion into a push-up soap dispenser. In step 31, the dispenser cap is removed. In step 32, the soap is inserted into the push-up soap dispenser housing. In step 33, the cap is attached to the push-up soap dispenser housing. In step 34, a rope or cable is attached to the flange on the side of the push-up soap dispenser.

[0072] FIG. 7 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the method of use of a push-up soap dispenser. In step 41, the dispenser cap is removed from the push-up soap dispenser. In step 42, the bottom panel of the push-up soap dispenser is pushed up to expose the desired amount of soap. In step 43, the exposed soap is used. In step 44, the cap is attached to the push-up soap dispenser to protect the remaining soap from coming into contact with any other surfaces.

[0073] FIG. 8 is a flowchart diagram illustrating the method of use of hanging a push-up soap dispenser. In step 51, the cap is placed on the push-up soap dispenser. In step 52, the rope or cable is inserted into the flange hole on the side of the push-up soap dispenser. In step 53, the open end of the rope or cable is tied together. In step 54, the rope or cable is hung from a hook to store the soap for future use.

[0074] Although certain specific embodiments are described above for instructional purposes, the teachings of this patent document have general applicability and are not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Accordingly, various modifications, adaptations, and combinations of various features of the described embodiments can be practiced without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.