Slotted Retention Tool for Retaining Abrasive Material

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/644,194, filed on May 8, 2024. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

The present technology relates to scouring devices. More specifically, the present technology relates to a slotted retention tool for an abrasive material for use with a power-driven tool.

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Various types of machinery and fixtures, such as vehicles, industrial equipment, construction tools, agricultural implements, plumbing systems, and manufacturing components, can be exposed to harsh environmental conditions and frequent use. As a result, these objects can become rusted and/or coated with various contaminants, including dirt, grease, oil, grime, corrosion, mineral scale, chemical deposits, and other stubborn residues. Such buildup of rust and/or contaminants can hinder performance, reduce the lifespan of components, and complicate maintenance or repair procedures.

The design of certain rust and contaminant removal equipment fails to account for the realities of field work or on-site maintenance. Such equipment can be bulky or too rigid to reach into recessed or irregularly shaped areas, leaving surfaces untreated, particularly when the object to be treated remains in situ. The need to disassemble or partially dismantle machinery to access certain portions of machinery and fixtures can significantly increase labor time and risk damage to surrounding components. Additionally, consumable parts of rust and contaminant removal equipment such as abrasive elements or cleaning heads can wear out quickly and can be cumbersome to replace, particularly when a tool must be taken apart or when special assembly/disassembly tools are required. These shortcomings not only slow down the cleaning process but also discourage regular maintenance, leading to further degradation of equipment and components over time.

Cost and versatility can further limit the usefulness of rust and contaminant removal equipment. M any rust and contaminant removal equipment systems are specialized for a narrow range of applications, requiring users to invest in multiple tools or accessories to handle different surface types, geometries, or contaminant levels. This lack of adaptability not only increases upfront equipment costs but also drives ongoing expenses related to maintenance, replacement parts, and consumables. Furthermore, when tools are not easily adjustable or modular, users are often forced to improvise or work inefficiently, leading to wasted time and subpar results.

Accordingly, there is a continuing need for a slotted retention tool for retaining an abrasive material for use with a power-driven tool that is compact and adaptable for use in confined or hard-to-reach areas, while also allowing for quick and easy replacement of worn abrasive components.

In concordance with the instant disclosure, a slotted retention tool for an abrasive material for use with a power-driven tool that is compact and adaptable for use in confined or hard-to-reach areas, while also allowing for quick and easy replacement of worn abrasive components, has surprisingly been discovered. The present technology includes articles of manufacture, systems, and processes that relate to a slotted retention tool for an abrasive material for use with a power-driven tool.

In certain embodiments, a slotted retention tool for retaining an abrasive material is provided. The slotted retention tool can include a body having a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion disposed between the first end and the second end. The slotted retention tool can further include a slot at the first end of the body where the slot can define a transitional surface. The slot can be configured to retain an abrasive material for use during operation of the slotted retention tool. The slotted retention tool can also include a drive portion at the second end of the body. The drive portion can be configured to be received by a power-driven tool.

In certain embodiments, a cleaning system is provided. The cleaning system can include a slotted retention tool as described herein. The cleaning system can further include the abrasive material and the power-driven tool.

In certain embodiments, a method of using a slotted retention tool for retaining an abrasive material is provided. The method can include a step of providing an object to be treated. The method can include a step of providing a slotted retention tool for an abrasive material. The method can include a step of providing an abrasive material. The method can include a step of disposing the abrasive material in a slot of the slotted retention tool. The method can include a step of providing a power-driven tool. The method can include a step of coupling the slotted retention tool to the power-driven tool. The method can include a step of positioning the slotted retention tool. The step of positioning the slotted retention tool can include inserting the slotted retention tool into the object to be treated. The step of positioning the slotted retention tool can include disposing the slotted retention tool adjacent object to be treated. The step of positioning the slotted retention tool can include disposing the slotted retention tool such that the object to be treated can be received in the cavity of the slotted retention tool. The method can include a step of operating the slotted retention tool to treat the object.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as may be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word “substantially” in describing the broadest scope of the technology. “About” when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” and/or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” and/or “substantially” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters.

Although the open-ended term “comprising,” as a synonym of non-restrictive terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments may alternatively be described using more limiting terms such as “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps excluding additional materials, components or processes (for consisting of) and excluding additional materials, components or processes affecting the significant properties of the embodiment (for consisting essentially of), even though such additional materials, components or processes are not explicitly recited in this application. For example, recitation of a composition or process reciting elements A, B and C specifically envisions embodiments consisting of, and consisting essentially of, A, B and C, excluding an element D that may be recited in the art, even though element D is not explicitly described as being excluded herein.

As referred to herein, disclosures of ranges are, unless specified otherwise, inclusive of endpoints and include all distinct values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range of “from A to B” or “from about A to about B” is inclusive of A and of B. Disclosure of values and ranges of values for specific parameters (such as amounts, weight percentages, etc.) are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is envisioned that two or more specific exemplified values for a given parameter may define endpoints for a range of values that may be claimed for the parameter. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that Parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1-10, or 2-9, or 3-8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 1-9, 1-8, 1-3, 1-2, 2-10, 2-8, 2-3, 3-10, 3-9, and so on.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a slotted retention tool,′,″ for retaining an abrasive material, a cleaning system, and a methodof method of using a slotted retention tool for retaining an abrasive material are provided. Advantageously, the present disclosure addresses shortcomings in rust and contaminant removal equipment by providing a slotted retention tool,′,″ that is compact and adaptable for use in confined or hard-to-reach areas, while also allowing for quick and easy replacement of worn abrasive materials. The slotted retention tool,′,″ can allow a user to reach into recessed or irregularly shaped areas, allowing hard-to-reach surfaces to be treated, particularly when the object to be treated remains in situ. The slotted retention tool,′,″ can minimize the need to disassemble or partially dismantle machinery.

Referring now to the drawings, in certain embodiments, and with reference to, a slotted retention tool,′,″ for retaining an abrasive material,′,″ is provided. The slotted retention tool,′,″ can include a body,′,″ having a first end,′,″, a second end,′,″, and an intermediate portion,′,″ disposed between the first end,′,″ and the second end,′,″. In certain embodiments, the first end,′,″, and the second end,′,″ can include an angled or contoured edge. The angled or contoured edgecan assist with insertion of the slotted retention tool,′,″ or alignment during use.

The slotted retention tool,′,″ can further include a slot,′,″ at the first end,′,″ of the body,′,″ where the slot,′,″ can define a transitional surface,′,″. The slot,′,″ can be configured to retain an abrasive material,′,″ for use during operation of the slotted retention tool,′,″. The slotted retention tool,′,″ can also include a drive portion,′,″ at the second end,′,″ of the body,′,″. The drive portion,′,″ can be configured to be coupled to or received by a power-driven tool.

In certain embodiments, and with reference to, the body,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″ can include a substantially circular cross-section. A circular cross-section can offer several advantages, including ease of rotation during use, uniform distribution of abrasive forces around a perimeter of the slotted retention tool,′,″, and improved ergonomics for manual or mechanized operation. The circular cross-section shape can allow the slotted retention tool,′,″ to be more easily integrated with rotary or oscillating devices, such as power drills, handheld rotary tools, stationary or bench-mounted motorized shafts, such as those found in factory or industrial settings, or other mechanical drivers. A circular cross-section may also assist in maintaining consistent surface contact when used on cylindrical or similarly contoured objects, thereby maximizing cleaning efficiency and minimizing uneven wear of the abrasive material,′,″.

The body,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″ can further include an exterior surface,′,″ and an interior surface,′,″, with the interior surface,′ defining a cavity,′. The cavity,′ can extend partially or entirely through the body and may be centrally located, depending on the intended application.

The cavity,′ can serve as a receiving space for an object to be treated, cleaned, scraped, scoured, scrubbed, or polished. For example, the cavity,′ may be dimensioned to fit around an end of a pipe, shaft, axial, bolt, or similarly shaped element, enabling the abrasive material,′ retained in the slots,′ of the slotted retention tool,′ to engage the outer surface of the object to be treated with substantially consistent pressure. In this manner, the cavity,′ can facilitate secure positioning of the slotted retention tool,′ around the object to be treated. The dimensions and shape of the cavity,′ can be selected based on the size and geometry of the object to be treated. The cavity,′ can be circular, polygonal, or irregular, and it may be coaxial with the outer geometry of slotted retention tool,′ or offset, as needed. The cavity,′ can also include tapered or stepped surfaces to accommodate different diameters of the object to be treated or to improve alignment and centering of the object to be treated within the slotted retention tool,′. Such features can allow the slotted retention tool,″ to engage a wide variety of object surfaces while maintaining abrasive contact, contributing to versatility across a range of use cases.

It should be understood that the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be configured to support multiple modes of use, depending on how the abrasive material,′,″ is positioned relative to the body,′,″. In general, the abrasive material,′,″ can be positioned within the slotted retention tool,′,″, or it can extend outwardly from the slotted retention tool,′,″. Each configuration can enable different cleaning and surface treatment applications.

In a first mode of use, the abrasive material,′ can be disposed substantially within the cavity,′ defined by the slotted retention tool. In such embodiments, the abrasive material,′ can be inserted through the slot,′,″ at the first end,′ of the body,′ and into the cavity,′, where it can be retained. This configuration can be particularly advantageous for cleaning or scouring objects or components that can fit at least partially within the cavity,′ of the slotted retention tool,′. For example, a user can insert the slotted retention tool,′ over a cylindrical rod, pipe, fastener, or shaft such that the abrasive material,′ contacts the outer surface of the object to be treated from within. As the slotted retention tool,″ is rotated or translated axially, the abrasive material,′ can provide 360-degree or targeted cleaning of the object to be treated. This internal cleaning configuration can be especially useful when the object to be treated remains in situ.

In a second mode of use, the abrasive material,′,″ can be configured to extend radially outward from the body,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″. In this configuration, the abrasive material,′,″ can be retained in the slot,′,″ but can protrude beyond the slot,′,″ such that it projects from the slotted retention tool,′,″, along and/or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body,′,″. This can allow the slotted retention tool,′,″ to be run alongside an external surface or object to be treated, wherein the outwardly extending abrasive material,′,″ can make contact with the surface to be treated. For instance, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be moved across a large, flat surface, such as a housing, bracket, structural beam, or casing, allowing the abrasive material,′,″ to scour contaminants from the surface during motion. This exterior-cleaning configuration can be especially useful for treating irregular, curved, or non-uniform shapes, and for working in environments where internal access to the object is limited or not possible.

In a third mode of use, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be inserted into an opening, bore, cavity, or recess of an object to be treated. This can allow the abrasive material,′,″ to contact and scour an interior surface of the object to be treated as the tool is rotated, oscillated, or otherwise actuated. For example, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be inserted into a cylindrical housing, pipe, tube, or similar hollow component, such that the abrasive material,′,″ can clean rust, deposits, or other contaminants from the internal wall of the component. This mode of use can be particularly advantageous for in situ cleaning where disassembly of the object or component to be treated is not practical, and for complex geometries or confined internal spaces that are difficult to access.

In certain embodiments, and with reference to, the body″ of the slotted retention tool″ can be formed as a solid structure. This solid structure can have a diameter that is substantially smaller than a diameter of the body,′ having the cavity,′, allowing it to access confined spaces and hard-to-reach surfaces. This body″ can be particularly beneficial in field or maintenance settings where disassembly of surrounding objects is not feasible or where the object to be treated remains in situ.

This design of the body,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be configured to extend into recessed or irregularly shaped areas, such as grooves, channels, or cavities found on or between mechanical parts. This feature allows the abrasive material retained in the tool to engage with surfaces that are otherwise obscured or obstructed, providing treatment without the need for significant repositioning of either the tool or the object being cleaned. For example, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be inserted into a narrow gap between a stationary pipe and an adjacent fixture, allowing the internal surfaces of the pipe or the external surfaces of nearby object to be treated without requiring full removal or reorientation. This improves both the speed and efficiency of maintenance procedures, while also reducing the risk of damage to surrounding parts due to unnecessary disassembly or handling.

It should be understood that the body,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be manufactured in any suitable length, allowing it to accommodate a variety of cleaning and maintenance scenarios. The flexibility in length can be achieved by varying the dimensions of the intermediate portion,′,″ of the body,′,″ that extends between the first end,′,″ and second end,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″. A longer intermediate portion,′,″ can enable the slotted retention tool,′,″ to reach deeper into recessed cavities or behind large obstructions, such as engine components, pipe fittings, or machine housings, where direct access is otherwise limited. The ability to modify the length of the body,′,″ by adjusting the intermediate portion,′,″ can provide customization and adaptability. In certain embodiments, the intermediate portion,′,″ can be formed integrally with the body,′,″ as a single piece, while in other embodiments, it can be a modular or replaceable section that allows for reconfiguration of the overall slotted retention tool,′,″ length. This design approach can provide a single slotted retention tool that can be implemented in various lengths without altering the core functionality. One having ordinary skill in the art can select a suitable length of the body,′,″ within the scope of the present disclosure.

In certain embodiments, and with reference to, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can include a slot,′,″ formed in the first end,′,″ of the body,′,″. The slot,′,″ can be oriented substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the body,′,″. The longitudinal orientation of the slot,′,″ can provide functional alignment with the overall shape and intended operation of the slotted retention tool,′,″. By extending the slot,′,″ along the length of the body,′,″, the abrasive material retained within the slot,′,″ can engage with a greater surface area of the object being treated during linear or rotational motion. It should be understood that the slot,′,″ can include a first slot,′,″a disposed opposite a second slot,′,″b.

The slot,′,″ can include both a depth D and a width W, where the depth D is substantially greater than the width W. This proportional geometry can create a narrow but deep slot or channel that can retain an abrasive material,′,″ such as a pad, strip, sheet, filament, or other elongate form of abrasive material. The increased depth of the slot,′,″ can also allow the abrasive material,′,″ to be held securely within the slotted retention tool,′,″, minimizing the risk of slippage or unintended displacement during use. The narrow width, meanwhile, can help to maintain a tight grip on the abrasive material,′,″ and can be selected to correspond to the material's thickness to ensure an interference fit.

In certain embodiments, the slot,′,″ can extend partially or fully along the longitudinal length of the body,′,″, and can be formed through various manufacturing methods, such as machining, molding, or casting, depending on the material composition of the slotted retention tool,′,″. The shape and size of the slot,′,″ can be further tailored to accommodate different types of abrasive media, including flexible cloth-backed abrasives, wire mesh, polymer-embedded grit, woven fiber pads, sandpaper, scouring pads, steel wool, non-woven abrasive webs, or any other material suitable for cleaning, scouring, polishing, or otherwise treating an object or component that has been contaminated with rust, dirt, grease, scale, or other surface deposits. This design can allow the slotted retention tool,′,″ to hold a variety of materials without the need for adhesives or complex fastening mechanisms, simplifying both assembly and abrasive material,′,″ replacement.

In certain embodiments, and with reference to, the slot,′,″ can include a transitional surface,′,″ between the exterior surface,′,″ of the body,′,″ and the interior surface,′,″ of the body,′,″. With reference to, the slot″ can also include a transitional surface″ extending a length of the slot″ between opposing exterior surfaces″. To improve the mechanical engagement between the slot,′,″ and the retained abrasive material,′,″, the transitional surface,′,″ can include texturing. The texturing can increase friction between the slot,′,″ and the retained abrasive material,′,″, minimizing slippage, especially under vibration or rotational force during operation. It should be understood that the texturing can be applied to, or formed on, any part of the slotted retention tool,′,″, to improve handling, grip, or retention of the abrasive material,′,″.

The texturing can take on a variety of forms. For example, the transitional surface,′,″ can include knurling, dimples, ridges, grooves, or other patterned features. Knurling can create a crosshatched or diamond pattern that increases the contact area and provides a gripping effect on flexible or compressible abrasive materials. Dimples can act as micro-indentations that accommodate portions of a surface of the abrasive material,′,″ to create additional mechanical engagement. Ridges and grooves can run along a longitudinal axis or transversely along the slot to further stabilize the abrasive material,′,″ in its retained position. These textured features can be formed integrally with the slot during molding or machining or added as secondary surface treatments.

In addition to enhanced mechanical engagement, the transitional surface,′,″ of the slot,′,″ can be configured to minimize sharp edges. Sharp edges can contribute to premature tearing or degradation of the abrasive material,′,″, especially if the abrasive material,′,″ is flexible or cloth-backed. By minimizing sharp transitions, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can promote longer life of abrasive material,′,″. To accomplish this, the transitional surface,′,″ can be provided as a chamfered edge. The chamfered edge can serve to guide the abrasive material,′,″ smoothly into the slot,′,″ and reduce stress concentrations at the interface between the abrasive material,′,″ and the slotted retention tool,′,″. In certain embodiments, the chamfered edge can form a 45-degree surface relative to the exterior surface,′,″ of the body,′,″. A 45-degree chamfer can also be efficiently produced using conventional manufacturing techniques, making it a practical design choice.

Alternatively, or in addition to chamfering, the transitional surface,′,″ can be formed as a rounded edge, a beveled edge, a radiused edge, or a filleted edge. A rounded edge can provide a smooth transition between the exterior surface,′,″ of the body,′,″ and the interior surface,′,″ of the slot,′,″. This rounded configuration can be particularly advantageous when working with fragile or fray-prone abrasive materials, as it further militates against the risk of cutting or damaging the abrasive material,′,″ during insertion or operation. It should be understood that a person having ordinary skill in the art can select a suitable type of transitional surface to minimize the presence of sharp edges.

In certain embodiments, and with reference to, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can include several slots,′,″ formed in the first end,′,″ of the body,′,″. These slots,′,″ can be positioned to accommodate multiple pieces or segments of abrasive material, enabling simultaneous or multi-surface cleaning, polishing, or scouring. The inclusion of multiple slots,′,″ can increase the overall working surface area of the slotted retention tool,′,″. By distributing the abrasive material,′,″ across slots,′,″, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can reduce wear and extend the life of the abrasive material,′,″.

Each slot,′,″ can be equispaced around the first end,′,″ of the body,′,″, such that each slot,′,″ can be separated by an equal angular distance. For example, if the first end,′,″ of the body,′,″ includes four equispaced slots,′,″, each slot,′,″ can be spaced substantially 90 degrees apart around a circumference of the body,′,″. Similarly, if the first end,′,″ of the body,′,″ includes three equispaced slots,′,″, each slot,′,″ can be spaced substantially 120 degrees apart around a circumference of the body,′,″. Such arrangements can contribute to balanced wear, predictable surface engagement, and improved symmetry of motion during use. The use of multiple, equispaced, and oppositely disposed slots can further increase the adaptability of the slotted retention tool,′,″, allowing it to be customized or optimized for different applications. Each slot,′,″ can independently retain a section of the abrasive material,′,″, or alternatively, the slots,′,″ can collectively retain a single continuous abrasive material,′,″, depending on the intended implementation.

In certain embodiments, the abrasive material,′,″ can include a pad,′,″ of a sparse-unwoven polymeric material. This type of material features an open, fibrous structure that can allow for both flexibility and aggressiveness in cleaning applications. The sparse and unwoven material can enable the pad,′,″ to conform to irregular surfaces while maintaining durability and sufficient mechanical integrity during use. Polymeric compositions suitable for such pads,′,″ can include nylon, polyester, polypropylene, or blends thereof, which may be embedded with abrasive particles or left untreated depending on the desired level of abrasiveness. For example, the sparse-unwoven polymeric material can include a Scotch-Brite® pad, manufactured and marketed byM Company, headquartered in Maplewood, Minnesota. It should also be understood that the abrasive material,′,″ can include any material suitable for scouring, scrubbing, cleaning, or polishing as described herein. For example, the abrasive material,′,″ can include a cotton cloth, a woven or nonwoven fabric, or a polishing textile configured for surface treatment applications.

The pad,′,″ of sparse-unwoven polymeric material can be disposed substantially within the slot,′,″ formed in the body,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″. In some embodiments, the pad,′,″ can extend radially outward from the slot,′,″ and along a longitudinal axis of the body,′,″, beginning at or adjacent the first end,′,″. This can enable the pad,′,″ to engage with surfaces both on the side and along the length of the object being treated. The radial extension ensures outward contact pressure is maintained, even when the slotted retention tool,′,″ is rotated, pushed, or pulled through confined spaces. The longitudinal extension can promote continuous surface coverage along the axis of movement.

In certain embodiments, the pad,′,″ can extend not only from the first end,′,″ but also along a full length of the body,′,″ to the second end,′,″. This full-length configuration can enable 360-degree surface engagement around the body,′,″ and along its axial extent, maximizing the contact area of the abrasive material,′,″. Such an arrangement can be particularly beneficial for cylindrical or tubular components, internal bores, or other elongated geometries where consistent abrasive contact is desired along the entire depth of the cavity,′ or surface feature. Additionally, the full-length abrasive pad,′,″ can be beneficial when cleaning in situ objects, such as pipes or engine parts, where disassembly is not feasible, and access to the entirety of the target surface must be achieved through minimal tool manipulation.

It should be understood that the size and dimensions of the slotted retention tool,′,″ and its associated components can be selected based on the specific application or object to be treated. For example, the overall length, diameter, and slot geometry can be tailored to fit within confined spaces, accommodate particular abrasive materials, or conform to the shape of a component to be treated. This flexibility in design can allow the slotted retention tool,′,″ to be scaled up for industrial tasks or scaled down for precision applications.

In certain embodiments, and with reference to, a cleaning systemis provided. The cleaning systemcan include a slotted retention tool,′,″ as shown and described herein. The cleaning systemcan further include the abrasive material,′,″, such as a pad of sparse-unwoven polymeric material configured for scouring, scrubbing, cleaning, and polishing, and a power-driven tool for actuating the slotted retention tool,′,″. The combination can allow the cleaning systemto deliver mechanical agitation to objects/surfaces needing treatment.

The power-driven tool can include any conventional motorized drive mechanism capable of imparting rotational, oscillatory, or reciprocating motion to the slotted retention tool,′,″. For example, the power-driven tool can include a handheld rotary tool, a drill, an impact driver, or an oscillating multi-tool. In some configurations, the slotted retention tool,′,″ can be coupled to a drive shaft or chuck of the power-driven tool through an integrated or removable adapter. The drive-portion or interface between the slotted retention tool,′,″ and the power-driven tool can be configured to allow for quick installation and removal, facilitating interchangeability and reducing downtime.

It should also be understood that the power-driven tool can be pneumatic, electric, or battery-operated, and can include variable speed controls to tailor the motion and intensity of the abrasive action based on the specific surface or contaminant being treated. The power-driven tool can also include features such as torque limiting, reverse operation, or ergonomic grips to enhance control and usability. The cleaning system, when used in conjunction with such a power-driven tool, can significantly improve the consistency, speed, and effectiveness of cleaning and surface preparation tasks across a wide range of applications, including automotive, industrial, marine, and household settings.

In certain embodiments, and with reference to, a methodof using a slotted retention tool,′,″ for retaining an abrasive material,′,″ is provided. The methodcan be used for cleaning, scouring, polishing, or otherwise treating an object or component that has been contaminated with rust, dirt, grease, scale, or other surface deposits. The methodcan include a stepof providing a component to be scoured, which can be a mechanical part, a structural member, a pipe, a fitting, or any other object having surface contaminants. The object to be treated can be freely accessible or positioned in situ, such as part of a larger assembly, housing, or engine block. The methodcan include a stepof providing a slotted retention tool,′,″ for an abrasive material,′,″. The methodcan include a stepof providing an abrasive material,′,″. The abrasive material,′,″ can be selected for a predetermined level of aggressiveness or cleaning action, depending on the application. The methodcan include a stepof disposing the abrasive material,′,″ in a slot,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″. This can include inserting the abrasive material,′,″ into a single slot, or into multiple slots where present, and optionally trimming or securing the abrasive material,′,″ so it extends radially and longitudinally as desired. The methodcan include a stepof providing a power-driven tool, such as a drill, rotary driver, or oscillating multi-tool. The power-driven tool can be electric, pneumatic, or battery-powered, and can include features such as variable speed control or torque limiting. The methodcan include a stepof coupling the slotted retention tool,′,″ to the power-driven tool. The methodcan include a stepof positioning the slotted retention tool,′,″. The stepof positioning the slotted retention tool,′,″ can include a stepof inserting the slotted retention tool,′,″ into the object to be treated. The stepof positioning the slotted retention tool,′,″ can include a stepof disposing the slotted retention tool adjacent the object to be treated. The stepof positioning the slotted retention tool,′,″ can include a stepof disposing the slotted retention tool,′,″ around the object to be treated such that the slotted retention tool,′,″ can receive the object to be treated in a cavity,′ of the slotted retention tool,′,″. It should be understood that positioning the slotted retention tool,′,″ can include inserting at least a portion of the slotted retention tool,′,″ into the object to be treated such that the abrasive material,′,″ contacts an interior surface of the object to be treated. It should also be understood that positioning the slotted retention tool,′ can include disposing the slotted retention tool,′ such that the object to be treated can be at least partially received within a cavity,′ of the slotted retention tool,′. The methodcan include a stepof operating the slotted retention tool,′,″ to treat the object. This can include activating the power-driven tool to rotate, oscillate, or vibrate the slotted retention tool,′,″ such that the abrasive material,′,″ removes contaminants from the object surface. The slotted retention tool,′,″ can be manipulated in various orientations to ensure comprehensive surface treatment, including twisting, angling, or partial withdrawal and reinsertion of the slotted retention tool,′,″ to reach all desired surfaces. The methodcan include a stepof inspecting the object after scouring. The user can visually or manually inspect the treated area to determine whether the desired level of contaminant removal, surface roughness, or finish has been achieved.

If the abrasive material,′,″ has become worn, clogged, or detached, the methodcan include a stepof replacing or repositioning the abrasive material,′,″. The user can remove the abrasive material,′,″ from the slot or slots,′,″ of the slotted retention tool,′,″ and either reposition the abrasive material,′,″ to expose a fresh portion or replace it with a new abrasive material,′,″.

It may be desirable to perform a multi-stage treatment process. Accordingly, the methodcan include a stepof repeating the methodwith a different abrasive grade. For example, a coarse abrasive material can first be used for heavy-duty scouring or rust removal, followed by a finer or less aggressive abrasive for polishing or preparing the surface for coating. The slotted retention tool,′,″ can retain different grades or types of abrasive pads in succession, allowing for flexible and efficient surface treatment workflows using a single tool body.