U.S. patent application number 10/806310 was filed with the patent office on 2004-09-16 for cleaning tool with removable cleaning covers.
This patent application is currently assigned to Rapid Brands Corporation. Invention is credited to McKay, William D..
Application Number | 20040177863 10/806310 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32966914 |
Filed Date | 2004-09-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040177863 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McKay, William D. |
September 16, 2004 |
Cleaning tool with removable cleaning covers
Abstract
A cleaning system includes a cleaning head with a generally
spherical outer contour formed of a deformable and resilient
foam-like material. A handle extends from the head. A plurality of
disposable cleaning covers each have an inward face and an opposed
outer face. Each cover has an installed position, wherein the
inward face is disposed against the outer contour of the cleaning
head and the cover is wrapped about the cleaning head. A retaining
device selectively retains one of the sheets in the installed
position, such that the cleanable surface may be cleaned with the
outer face of the sheet.
Inventors: |
McKay, William D.; (Grand
Blanc, MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GIFFORD, KRASS, GROH, SPRINKLE
ANDERSON & CITKOWSKI, PC
280 N OLD WOODARD AVE
SUITE 400
BIRMINGHAM
MI
48009
US
|
Assignee: |
Rapid Brands Corporation
Flint
MI
|
Family ID: |
32966914 |
Appl. No.: |
10/806310 |
Filed: |
March 22, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10806310 |
Mar 22, 2004 |
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10637938 |
Aug 9, 2003 |
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10637938 |
Aug 9, 2003 |
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09993137 |
Nov 16, 2001 |
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10637938 |
Aug 9, 2003 |
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09602189 |
Jun 12, 2000 |
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6405403 |
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09602189 |
Jun 12, 2000 |
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09094551 |
Jun 12, 1998 |
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6298517 |
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60311463 |
Aug 11, 2001 |
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60260969 |
Jan 10, 2001 |
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60436031 |
Dec 23, 2002 |
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60456380 |
Mar 21, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
134/6 ; 15/209.1;
15/211; 15/231; 15/244.1; 15/244.3; 15/247 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 13/18 20130101;
A47L 13/24 20130101; A47L 25/005 20130101; A47L 13/256 20130101;
A47L 13/20 20130101; A47L 13/29 20130101; A47L 13/46 20130101; A47L
13/25 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
134/006 ;
015/244.3; 015/247; 015/211; 015/209.1; 015/231; 015/244.1 |
International
Class: |
A47L 013/16 |
Claims
1. A cleaning system for cleaning a cleanable surface, the system
comprising: a cleaning head having a generally spherical outer
contour, the head being formed of a deformable and resilient
foam-like material; a handle extending from the cleaning head; a
plurality of disposable cleaning covers, each cover having an
inward face and an opposed outer face configured to contact the
cleanable surface and thereby become soiled, each cover having an
installed position wherein the inward face is disposed against the
outer contour of the cleaning head and the cover is wrapped about
the cleaning head; and a retaining device for selectively retaining
one of the covers in the installed position such that the cleanable
surface may be cleaned with the outer face of the cover; wherein
one cover is disposed in the installed position, the cleanable
surface is cleaned until the outer face becomes soiled, and the
cover is removed from the installed position and another of the
covers is disposed in the installed position.
2. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning
cover is a sheet of cleaning material.
3. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cover
comprises a membrane of cleaning material surrounding an interior
cavity, the membrane having an opening defined therein in
communication with the interior cavity, the cleaning head being
received through the opening into the interior cavity when the
cover is in the installed position.
4. The cleaning system according to claim 3, wherein the retaining
device comprises an elastic material interconnected with the
opening of the membrane such that the opening is biased to a size
smaller than a largest cross section of the cleaning head.
5. The cleaning system according to claim 3, wherein the membrane
comprises at least a front and a back sheet each having a perimeter
edge, the front and back sheet being interconnected along a portion
of their perimeter edges
6. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cover has
an edge and the retaining device comprises a gripper for retaining
the edge.
7. The cleaning system according to claim 6, wherein the gripper is
part of the handle.
8. The cleaning system according to claim 6, wherein the gripper is
part of the cleaning head.
9. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the retaining
device comprises a portion of hook and loop-type material.
10. The cleaning system according to claim 9, wherein the portion
of hook and loop-type material is disposed on the handle.
11. The cleaning system according to claim 9, wherein the portion
of hook and loop-type material is disposed on the cleaning
head.
12. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the handle
includes a holder with an opening for removably holding the
cleaning head, the cleaning head being compressed and inserted into
the opening.
13. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a plurality of foam-like fingers with outer ends
forming the outer contour.
14. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a generally spherical ball with at least one cut
defined therein, the cut being the retaining device with a portion
of the cleaning cover being inserted into the cut when the cover is
in the installed position.
15. The cleaning system according to claim 14, wherein the ball has
a plurality of cuts defined therein.
16. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a generally spherical ball with at least one hole
defined therein, the hole being the retaining device with a portion
of the cleaning cover being inserted into the hole when the cover
is in the installed position.
17. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the foam-like
material forming the cleaning head has a 25% indentation force
deflection in the range of 15 to 65 pounds.
18. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the foam-like
material has a 25% indentation force deflection in the range of 35
to 45 pounds.
19. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning
covers comprise a non-woven material.
20. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning
covers have a fuzzy or flocked outer face.
21. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the outer
surfaces of the cleaning covers have a plurality of outwardly
extending fingers or fibers.
22. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the outer
surfaces of the cleaning covers are configured to statically gather
and retain debris.
23. A cleaning system for cleaning a cleanable surface, the system
comprising: a cleaning head having a generally spherical outer
contour, the head being formed of a deformable and resilient
foam-like material; a handle extending from the cleaning head; and
a plurality of disposable cleaning covers, each cover having an
inward face and an opposed outer face configured to contact the
cleanable surface and thereby become soiled, each cover having an
installed position wherein the inward face is disposed against the
outer contour of the cleaning head and the cover is wrapped about
the cleaning head; the cleaning head and cleaning covers being
configured such that the inner face of the cover clings or adheres
to the outer contour of the cleaning head, such that one of the
covers is retained in the installed position and the surface may be
cleaned with the outer face of the cover; wherein one cover is
disposed in the installed position, the cleanable surface is
cleaned until the outer face becomes soiled, and the cover is
removed from the installed position and another of the covers is
disposed in the installed position.
24. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
cover is a sheet of cleaning material.
25. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cover
comprises a membrane of cleaning material surrounding an interior
cavity, the membrane having an opening defined therein in
communication with the interior cavity, the cleaning head being
received through the opening into the interior cavity when the
cover is in the installed position.
26. The cleaning system according to claim 25, wherein the membrane
comprises at least a front and a back sheet each having a perimeter
edge, the front and back sheet being interconnected along a portion
of their perimeter edges.
27. The cleaning system according to claim 23 wherein the cover has
an edge, the system further comprising a gripper for retaining the
edge to assist in retaining the cover in the installed
position.
28. The cleaning system according to claim 27, wherein the gripper
is part of the handle.
29. The cleaning system according to claim 27, wherein the gripper
is part of the cleaning head.
30. The cleaning system according to claim 1, further comprising a
portion of hook and loop-type material to assist in retaining the
cover in the installed position.
31. The cleaning system according to claim 30, wherein the portion
of hook and loop-type material is disposed on the handle.
32. The cleaning system according to claim 30, wherein the portion
of hook and loop-type material is disposed on the cleaning
head.
33. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the handle
includes a holder with an opening for removably holding the
cleaning head, the cleaning head being compressed and inserted into
the opening.
34. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a plurality of foam-like fingers with outer ends
forming the outer contour.
35. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a generally spherical ball with at least one cut
defined therein, the cut being the retaining device with a portion
of the cleaning cover being inserted into the cut when the cover is
in the installed position.
36. The cleaning system according to claim 35, wherein the ball has
a plurality of cuts defined therein.
37. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a generally spherical ball with at least one hole
defined therein, the hole being the retaining device with a portion
of the cleaning cover being inserted into the hole when the cover
is in the installed position.
38. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the
foam-like material forming the cleaning head has a 25% indentation
force deflection in the range of 15 to 65 pounds.
39. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the
foam-like material has a 25% indentation force deflection in the
range of 35 to 45 pounds.
40. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
covers comprise a non-woven material.
41. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
covers have a fuzzy or flocked outer face.
42. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the outer
surfaces of the cleaning covers have a plurality of outwardly
extending fingers or fibers.
43. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the outer
surfaces of the cleaning covers are configured to statically gather
and retain debris.
44. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the outer
contour of the cleaning head is configured to statically attract
the cleaning cover thereto.
45. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
head has an adhesive on at least a portion of the outer
contour.
46. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the cleaning
cover is configured to statically attract the cleaning head.
47. The cleaning system according to claim 23, wherein the inward
face of the cleaning cover has an adhesive on at least a portion
thereof
48. A cleaning system for cleaning a variety of cleanable surfaces,
the system comprising: a handle; a cleaning head supported by the
handle, the cleaning head being formed of a deformable and
resilient foam-like material and having an outer surface defining
an outer contour; a plurality of disposable cleaning covers, each
cover comprising a membrane of cleaning material surrounding an
interior cavity area, the membrane having an opening defined
therein in communication with the interior cavity, the cover being
configured such that the head is received through the opening into
the interior cavity such that the cover generally surrounds the
head and generally conforms to the outer contour; wherein the
cleaning head is received in one of the cleaning covers and then
brought into contact with the cleanable surface and thereby become
soiled, and then the soiled cleaning cover is disposed of and the
cleaning head is received in another of the cleaning covers.
49. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head is generally spherical.
50. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head is generally peanut-shaped.
51. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a plurality of foam-like fingers with outer ends
forming the outer contour.
52. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head is generally head is generally cylindrical.
53. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head has an upper portion and a lower portion each with a side to
side dimension, the side to side dimension of the lower portion
being larger than the side to side dimension of the upper
portion.
54. The cleaning system according to claim 53, wherein the upper
and lower portions are both generally cylindrical.
55. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
cover is a sheet of cleaning material.
56. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cover
comprises a membrane of cleaning material surrounding an interior
cavity, the membrane having an opening defined therein in
communication with the interior cavity, the cleaning head being
received through the opening into the interior cavity when the
cover is in the installed position.
57. The cleaning system according to claim 56, further comprising
an elastic material interconnected with the opening of the membrane
such that the opening is biased to grip the cleaning head.
58. The cleaning system according to claim 56, wherein the membrane
comprises at least a front and a back sheet each having a perimeter
edge, the front and back sheet being interconnected along a portion
of their perimeter edges
59. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cover
has an edge, the system further comprising a gripper for retaining
the edge to assist in retaining the cover in the installed
position.
60. The cleaning system according to claim 59, wherein the gripper
is part of the handle.
61. The cleaning system according to claim 59, wherein the gripper
is part of the cleaning head.
62. The cleaning system according to claim 48,further comprising a
portion of hook and loop-type material to assist in retaining the
cover in the installed position.
63. The cleaning system according to claim 62, wherein the portion
of hook and loop-type material is disposed on the handle.
64. The cleaning system according to claim 62, wherein the portion
of hook and loop-type material is disposed on the cleaning
head.
65. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the handle
includes a holder with an opening for removably holding the
cleaning head, the cleaning head being compressed and inserted into
the opening.
66. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a plurality of foam-like fingers with outer ends
forming the outer contour.
67. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a generally spherical ball with at least one cut
defined therein, the cut being the retaining device with a portion
of the cleaning cover being inserted into the cut when the cover is
in the installed position.
68. The cleaning system according to claim 67, wherein the ball has
a plurality of cuts defined therein.
69. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
head comprises a generally spherical ball with at least one hole
defined therein, the hole being the retaining device with a portion
of the cleaning cover being inserted into the hole when the cover
is in the installed position.
70. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the
foam-like material forming the cleaning head has a 25% indentation
force deflection in the range of 15 to 65 pounds
71. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the
foam-like material has a 25% indentation force deflection in the
range of 35 to 45 pounds.
72. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
covers comprise a non-woven material.
73. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the cleaning
covers have a fuzzy or flocked outer face.
74. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the outer
surfaces of the cleaning covers have a plurality of outwardly
extending fingers or fibers.
75. The cleaning system according to claim 48, wherein the outer
surfaces of the cleaning covers are configured to statically gather
and retain debris.
76. A method of cleaning a cleanable surface, comprising the steps
of: providing a cleaning tool comprising: a handle; a cleaning head
supported by the handle, the cleaning head being formed of a
deformable and resilient foam-like material and having an outer
surface defining an outer contour; providing a plurality of
disposable cleaning covers, each cover having an inward face and an
opposed outer face; positioning the inward face of one of the
covers on the outer contour of the cleaning head such that the
cover covers a portion of the outer surface; contacting the
cleanable surface with the outer face of the cleaning cover on the
cleaning head so as to clean the cleanable surface until the outer
face becomes soiled; and removing the soiled cover from the
cleaning head and replacing it with another of the plurality of
cleaning covers.
77. A cleaning system for cleaning a variety of cleanable surfaces,
the system comprising: a handle; a cleaning head supported by the
handle, the cleaning head having an outer surface defining an outer
contour; a plurality of disposable cleaning covers, each cover
comprising a membrane of cleaning material pretreated with a
cleaning solution; wherein one of the pretreated cleaning covers is
positioned on the cleaning head and then brought into contact with
the cleanable surface and thereby become soiled, and then the
soiled cleaning cover is disposed of and another of the pretreated
cleaning covers is positioned on the cleaning head.
78. The cleaning system according to claim 77, wherein the cleaning
head is formed of a resilient plastic-like material and has a
flattened profile.
79. The cleaning system according to claim 77, further comprising a
resealable container holding the plurality of disposable pretreated
cleaning sheets.
80. The cleaning system according to claim 77, wherein the cleaner
includes a holder for holding the handle.
81. A cleaning system for cleaning dishes, comprising: a handle; a
cleaning head supported by the handle, the cleaning head having an
outer surface defining an outer contour; a plurality of disposable
cleaning covers, each cover comprising a membrane of cleaning
material pretreated with a dishwashing detergent; wherein one of
the pretreated cleaning covers is positioned on the cleaning head
and then wetted and brought into contact with the dishes so as to
clean the dishes.
82. The cleaning system according to claim 81, wherein the cleaning
head includes a latch bar for retaining the cleaning cover on the
cleaning head, the latch bar having one end pivotally
interconnected with the head and an other end detachably
interconnected with the head, the bar having an unlatched position
wherein the other end is spaced from the head and a latch position
where the other end is interconnected with the head, the cover
being positioned on the cleaning head when the bar is in the
unlatched position and then the bar being moved to the latched
position so as to retain the cover on the head.
83. The cleaning system according to claim 81, wherein the cleaning
covers comprise cleaning sheets.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/637,938, filed Aug. 9, 2003, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/993,137, filed Nov. 16, 2001, which is a continuation-in-part of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/979,415, now abandoned, which
is a U.S. national phase of PCT/US99/12945, filed Jun. 11, 1999.
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/993,137, is also a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/602,189, filed Jun. 12, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,405,403, which
is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/094,551, filed Jun. 12, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,298,517. U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/637,938 also claims priority from U.S.
provisional patent application Serial No. 60/436,031, filed Dec.
23, 2002. The present application also claims priority to U.S.
provisional patent application Serial No. 60/456,380 filed Mar. 21,
2003.
[0002] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/993,137, in turn, claims
priority from U.S. provisional patent application Serial No.
60/311,463, filed Aug. 11, 2001, and U.S. provisional patent
application Serial No. 60/260,969, filed Jan. 10, 2001. Each of the
above-referenced applications is incorporated herein in their
entirety by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This invention relates generally to cleaning tools with
removable and disposable cleaning covers.
BACKGROUND
[0004] Typically, persons who wish to clean areas such as
baseboards and around faucets or toilets or other small areas use a
dusting or wiping cloth or a sponge manipulated using their fingers
or hands. This is often uncomfortable or ineffective. In light of
this, there is a need for cleaning tools designed to simplify
cleaning baseboards and small areas. When a towel, rag, or sponge
is used for cleaning, it is typically washed and reused.
Alternatively, disposable cleaning devices, such as paper towels or
pre-moistened cleaning sheets may be used. However, such disposable
items are not designed for use with any type of cleaning
implement.
[0005] There have recently become available disposable, pretreated
cleaning sheets for washing dishes. These sheets are pretreated
with a soap or detergent for cleaning the dishes. In use, the sheet
is wetted and then used to clean the dishes. However, this requires
the user to contact the sheet with his or her hands. In light of
this, there is a need for a cleaning tool to support such a
cleaning sheet.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides a variety of embodiments of
cleaning systems, including a cleaning tool and disposable cleaning
covers or sheet for use therewith. According to one embodiment, the
cleaning system includes a cleaning head with a generally spherical
outer contour. The head is formed of a deformable and resilient
foam-like material. A handle extends from the cleaning head. A
plurality of disposable cleaning covers is provided, with each
cover having an inward face and an opposed outer face. Each cover
has an installed position wherein the inward face is disposed
against the outer contour of the cleaning head and the cover is
wrapped about the cleaning head. The system further includes a
retaining device for selectively retaining one of the covers in the
installed position, such that the cleanable surface may be cleaned
with the outer face of the cover. One cover is disposed in the
installed position and the cleanable surface is cleaned until the
outer face becomes soiled. The cover is then removed from the
installed position and another of the covers is disposed in the
installed position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
cleaning tool that forms a portion of the present invention;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the cleaning
tool according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a cleaning head portion of a
cleaning tool according to another embodiment of the present
invention;
[0010] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
disposable cleaning cover for use with the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
disposable cleaning cover for use with the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a
cleaning cover for use with the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a portion of a cleaning tool
with a disposable cleaning cover disposed thereon;
[0014] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a
cleaning tool with an alternative embodiment of a cleaning cover
disposed thereon;
[0015] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional side view of the disposable
cleaning cover of FIG. 4, taken along lines 9-9;
[0016] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of another
alternative embodiment of a cleaning tool according to the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a portion of a cleaning
tool according to another alternative, with a disposable cleaning
sheet disposed thereon;
[0018] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a portion of yet another
alternative embodiment of a cleaning tool for use with the present
invention;
[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of a cleaning
tool with an alternative embodiment of a cleaning cover installed
thereon;
[0020] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of yet another alternative
cleaning cover for use with the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a cleaning tool according
to the present invention with an alternative retainer for retaining
a cleaning cover thereon;
[0022] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
cleaning tool , along with a container for storing disposable
cleaning covers;
[0023] FIG. 16B is a top view of the container of FIG. 16A;
[0024] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a container, along with an
alternative cleaning tool with a flattened cleaning head;
[0025] FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment
of a container for holding disposable cleaning covers, along with a
cleaning tool;
[0026] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a disposable dishwashing
sheet and a cleaning tool designed for use with such a sheet;
[0027] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the cleaning tool of FIG.
19 with the cleaning sheet disposed thereon;
[0028] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of another
embodiment of a cleaning tool for use with a disposable dishwashing
sheet.
[0029] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a resilient cleaning head
and an associated holder and handle for use therewith, according to
the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a portion of a cleaning
tool with a disposable cleaning cover disposed thereon;
[0031] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a resilient cleaning head
and a holder and handle for use therewith;
[0032] FIG. 25 is a detailed view of a portion of a handle and
holder for a cleaning head;
[0033] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an assembled cleaning tool
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 27 is a front view of an embodiment of a cleaning head
for use with the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 28 is a front view of an alternative cleaning head for
use with the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 29 is a front view of another alternative cleaning head
for use with the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a portion of a cleaning
tool with yet another alternative cleaning head; and
[0038] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of yet another alternative
embodiment of a disposable cleaning cover for use with various
embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0039] The present invention provides cleaning tools for cleaning a
variety of areas. According to a first aspect, a cleaning tool is
provided for cleaning baseboards, corners, kick areas under
cabinets, and similar areas. FIG. 1 illustrates a cleaning tool 10
for this purpose. The cleaning tool 10 preferably includes a
generally spherical foam head 12 with a connection member 14
extending therefrom. The connection member 14 may be interconnected
with the head 12 in any of a variety of ways, as will be clear to
those of skill in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, the
connection member 14 is attached to the head 12 using barbs 15 that
engage the inside of the foam sphere 12. A handle 16 is attached to
the connection member 14 such as by threading, as shown. As shown,
the connector 14 may have a pivotal joint 18 to allow the head 12
to be positioned at various angles to the handle 16. The joint may
be constructed in other manners, as will be clear to those of skill
in the art.
[0040] The head 12 preferably is formed of a very soft, low-density
open cell foam, such that the head 12 is easily deformable for
cleaning duties. Preferably, the sphere 12 has a textured outer
surface, such as is characteristic for a very soft open cell foam
product. As will be clear to those of skill in the art, the
cleaning head 12 may be constructed of a variety of materials that
provide deformability and resiliency. It is preferred that the head
be formed from a foam-like material, such as polyurethane foam, as
well as various natural and synthetic sponge materials. It is
preferred that the foam-like material has a low density. Foam may
also be measured as having an Indentation Force Deflection (IFD) as
a measurement of its firmness. This is a measure taken at 25%
deflection. It is preferred that foam for use in the present
invention have an EFD in the range of 15 to 65 pounds, with 35 to
45 pounds being preferred.
[0041] FIG. 2 shows an alternative embodiment of a cleaning tool
20, including a generally spherical soft foam head 22, a connection
member 24, and a handle 26. In this embodiment, the connection
device 24 includes at least one gripper 28, for gripping an edge of
a cleaning cover positioned over the head 22. The gripper 28 may
take a variety of forms, with several versions disclosed and
discussed in Applicant's prior applications, incorporated herein.
In the gripper 28 illustrated in FIG. 2 takes a form of a
star-shaped cut in a piece of flexible material. The edge of a
piece of cleaning material may be tucked into the cut so that it is
retained by the gripper.
[0042] FIG. 3 illustrates another alternative embodiment of a
cleaning head 30 with a connection number 32. In this embodiment,
portions of hook and loop material 34 are disposed on the outer
surface of the head 30 for gripping or retaining a cleaning cover.
As will be clear to those of skill in the art, hook and loop-type
material typically consists of a portion of "hook material" and a
portion of "loop material" that interconnect with one another. The
portion of hook and loop material disposed on the outer surface of
the head 30 is preferably the "hook material" since it is
configured to grip cloth-like materials. However, for purposes of
the present invention, this material would be referred to
generically as a portion of hook and loop-type material.
[0043] The embodiments of cleaning tools and cleaning heads
illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 may be altered in various ways without
departing from the scope of the present invention. As shown the
connection number may take varied forms. Also, the retainers or
retaining devices may take forms such as the gripper 28, the hook
and loop-type material 34, adhesives of various types, as well as
any other retention means, including clamps and clips known to
those of skill in the art. A hinge or flex joint, such as 18 in
FIG. 1, may be used with any of the embodiments. The handle may be
connected with a connection member, as illustrated, or may be
directly connected to the cleaning head. Also, the handle may
interconnect with the connection number in any of a variety of
ways. It is preferred that a connection member be provided such
that interchangeable handles may be connected thereto. It is also
preferred that the connection member and handle have a diameter
substantially smaller than the diameter of the generally spherical
cleaning head, so as to allow the cleaning head to reach under and
around obstacles. It is also preferred that the connection number,
such as 14 in FIG. 1, have a rubberized or soft cover or surface
such that scratching of objects is avoided.
[0044] The tools of FIGS. 1-3 may each be used as shown, in which
case the foam head 12, 22 or 30 is brought into contact with the
surface to be cleaned, such as a baseboard. By pressing moderately
against the baseboard, the head will deform so as to clean the
entire baseboard and the corner where the baseboard meets the
floor. Preferably, the handles 16 and 26 are sufficiently long that
a person using the cleaning tools does not need to stoop over.
Alternatively, a shorter handle may be provided. As will be clear
to those of skill in the art, the same tool is useful for cleaning
under the edges of cabinets, where a kick space is provided, and is
useful for cleaning where walls meet ceilings and other hard to
reach areas. The heads may then be rinsed and reused, and may be
treated with a variety of cleaning supplies to aid in cleaning.
[0045] While the tools may be used as shown, according to the
present invention it is preferred that a disposable cover is
provided and used for actual cleaning. In this way, the cover may
be used and disposed of once it is soiled. A new cover may then be
placed on the cleaning head so that additional cleaning may be done
without having to clean the head of the tool. FIGS. 4-6 illustrate
various embodiments of a cleaning cover or mitt for use on the
tools of FIGS. 1-3. FIG. 4 illustrates a cleaning mitt or cover 40.
The cover 40 may be formed of a pair of sheets, forming a front and
a back of a mitt, with an opening 41 therebetween. Welded seams 42
interconnect the front 44 and back 46 sheets. As shown, the
interconnection does not extend entirely to the top, thereby
providing a large enough opening that the cleaning heads may be
squeezed and placed inside of the cover. In one preferred
embodiment, the heads of the cleaning tools have an outer diameter
of 6 to 10 inches, with approximately 8 inches being one preferred
size. However, larger and smaller sizes may also be provided. As
shown, the cover 40 has front and back sheets 44 and 46 that each
has an upwardly extended tab 48 and 50. These tabs may be gripped
by a gripper such as 28 in FIG. 2. Alternatively, they may be used
just to pull the cover onto the cleaning head.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 5, an additional cover or mitt 48,is
illustrated. In this embodiment, both the front 54 and back 56
sheet are generally U-shaped, as shown. They are interconnected at
seam 58. Again, a cleaning head is positioned in between the front
and back sheets forming the cover 52 so that the cover covers the
head. Experimentation has shown that the covers grip the heads
reasonably well without the use of adhesive or auxiliary
attachments. This is due to the roughened surface of the foam
spheres. In addition, the covers 40 or 52 are preferably formed of
a spun-lace non-woven material such as used in Swiffer.RTM. or
Grab-it.RTM. cleaning sheets. Any of the materials discussed in
Applicant's co-pending and issued patents may be used for the
formation of these covers 30 and 40. This includes forming the
covers from sheets of cleaning material that are single-layer,
multiple-layer, with or without reinforcement scrim, texturized,
and/or untreated or pretreated with a variety of materials.
[0047] FIG. 6 shows an alternative embodiment, similar to cover 52,
wherein upper tabs 62 are provided on the cover 60. These tabs
assist in the installation or removal of the cover 50 onto the
cleaning heads.
[0048] FIG. 7 illustrates one of the cleaning tools with a cover
installed thereon and the upper edges of the cover retained by the
grippers. FIG. 8 shows another of the cleaning tools with a
different embodiment of a cover 70 disposed thereon. This cover 70
is formed like a shower cap with an elastic material forming a band
72 at the opening, so as to retain the cover 70 around the cleaning
head. As shown, the cover 70 may loosely fit about the cleaning
head, which may be beneficial for some cleaning tasks.
Alternatively, the cover may conform more tightly to the outer
surface of the cleaning head.
[0049] Referring now to FIG. 9, a cross-sectional side view of the
cover 40 of FIG. 4 is shown. As shown, the cover is formed by a
front 44 and back 46 sheet that are joined at the seam 42. The
sheets are preferably a non-woven spun-bonded material suitable for
dusting and cleaning. The cover forms and surrounds a cavity 43
between the sheets 44 and 46 for receiving a cleaning head. The
cleaning head is inserted through the opening 41 into the cavity
43. As will be clear to those of skill in the art, the covers may
be constructed in a variety of other ways, including being formed
as a somewhat spherical sheet or cover, rather than a front and a
back sheet. Alternatively, it may be formed of three or more
sheets. FIG. 14 shows an alternative cover 70 with outer surfaces
72 that are tufted, flocked, or frayed to provide additional
cleaning abilities. As will be clear to those of skill in the art,
the outer surfaces of the covers may be configured in a variety of
ways, and may have a variety of textures or treatments. FIG. 31
shows yet another alternative cover 74 for use with any of the
embodiments of cleaning tools disclosed herein. This cover 74
includes a front sheet 75 and a back sheet 76, each with a
plurality of cleaning fingers or fibers extending therefrom. This
cover is formed as with a variety of disposable and non-disposable
dusters and cleaners known to those of skill in the art.
Preferably, the fingers and/or fibers are formed and/or treated so
as to collect and retain dirt and dust.
[0050] FIGS. 10-12 show alternative embodiments of cleaning heads
for a cleaning tool designed to clean baseboards and kick spaces
under cabinets. In each embodiment, the heads are preferably formed
of the resilient and deformable foam-like material and are radiably
symmetrical. The head 80 of the cleaning tool in FIG. 10 has a
larger base portion 82, a smaller upper portion 84, and a recessed
transition portion 86. The shape allows reaching under cabinets and
other objects to dust or clean. The head 90 in FIG. 11 is generally
cylindrical and is shown with grippers 92 in several places. The
grippers may be provided on any of the embodiments of cleaning
heads disclosed herein and in any position. A flat cleaning sheet
94 is shown wrapped about the head 90 with its edges 96 tucked into
the grippers 92. A generally flat cleaning sheet may be wrapped
around any of the cleaning heads shown herein, or a shaped cover
may be used. The cleaning head 100 in FIG. 12 has a shape similar
to the cleaning head 80, though the transition portion is shaped
differently. It is also shown having portions of hook and loop-type
material 102 for retaining the cleaning sheet. Again, portions of
hook and loop-type material may be provided on any of the
embodiments of cleaning heads herein and in any position, as
necessary or useful for retaining a cleaning sheet or cleaning
cover thereon. FIG. 13 illustrates that each of the heads of FIGS.
10-12 may be covered with a bag-shaped dusting cover 104, which
fits over the heads. It may be pleated and may have elastic 106 at
the top.
[0051] Turning now to FIG. 15, a cleaning tool 110 is illustrated,
which is designed for use with disposable cleaning wipes 114, such
as those made by Clorox.RTM.. These disposable cleaning wipes may
be wrapped around the head 112 of the tool 110, with the head
preferably being a soft foam ball. Preferably, the handle 116 has
multiple notches 118 for attaching the edge of the wipe, though
other attachment means may be provided, such as clips, grippers,
hook and loop-type fastener material, or other retainers. In this
embodiment, the handle 116 is attached to the head 112 using a
barbed end 120. Hook and loop fastener or other attachment means
100 may be provided on the side of the handle for attaching it to a
canister holding disposable wipes.
[0052] Referring now to FIGS. 16-18, it is preferred that a
cleaning tool according to one embodiment of the present invention
be designed so as to attach to or be sold in conjunction with a
container of cleaning wipes or covers. FIG. 16A shows a cylindrical
canister 130 with a handheld cleaning tool 132 being attached
thereto. The wipes or covers may be pre-moistened and/or pretreated
with a cleaning material. As such, it is preferred that the
container 130 be resealable to retain liquid therein. The present
invention may also be used with cleaning wipes provided in a
peel-and-seal-type container, as known to those of skill in the
art. FIG. 16B shows a top view with a handle of the tool being
attached in an indent in the side of the canister 130. FIG. 18
shows a more rectangular canister with the cleaning tool being
attached to its side.
[0053] The above-discussed embodiments of the present invention may
be altered in various ways. As one example, the heads of the
various cleaning tools may be treated with an antibacterial
substance to avoid the spread of germs. Additionally, the wipes or
cover may be shaped other than shown. As one example, the covers
may be sized significantly larger than the heads which they are
designed to cover, so that they fit somewhat loosely. They then
tend to cling to the cleaning head. Likewise, with the cleaning
tools for the disposable wipes, the wipes may be flat sheets that
wrap about the head of the cleaning tools, or may be shaped
covers.
[0054] FIG. 17 shows an alternative cleaning tool 134 with a
flattened spatula-like cleaning head 135 for receiving a cleaning
sheet or cleaning cover. The head 135 is preferably formed from a
cleanable material such as a semi-rigid plastic or rubber. This
material allows the head 135 to be sanitized, and it does not
substantially absorb and retain liquid between uses. As will be
clear to those of skill in the art, the head 135 may have other
sizes and shapes. For example, it may be more square or rectangle
than shown, it may be ovalized, or it may have a thickness other
than shown. As one example, the head 135 may be thicker on one side
than on the other so as to provide a thinner edge for cleaning in a
crevice.
[0055] Referring now to FIG. 19, an embodiment of the present
invention for use in cleaning dishes is illustrated. This
embodiment includes a cleaning tool 140 with a cleaning head 142
and a handle 144. As known to those of skill in the art, various
manufacturers offer pretreated cleaning sheets designed for washing
dishes. Such a sheet is shown at 146. Such a sheet 146 is typically
pretreated with a detergent for washing dishes. The detergent
becomes active when wetted. The cleaning head 142 is preferably
provided with portions or strips of hook and loop-type fastener
material 148. While the head 142 may have a variety of shapes, a
generally cylindrical shape, as shown, is preferred. The sheet 146
is wrapped about the head 142, as shown in FIG. 20. Preferably, a
clamping bar 150 is provided for further retaining the sheet 146 in
place. The clamping bar 150 has a first end 152 pivotably attached
to the head 142, and a second end 154 that is detachably retained
by the head 142. The clamping bar 150 rests in a groove or slot in
the head 142 when it is in the clamped position, as shown in FIG.
20. The sheet 146 may be positioned on the head 142 such that it
extends beyond the lower end 156 of the head and the second end 154
of the clamping bar 150 pierces or penetrates the sheet to hold it
in place.
[0056] FIG. 21 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cleaning
tool for retaining a disposable dishwashing cloth. The tool 160 has
a handle 162 and a detachable head 164 that is preferably formed of
a resilient and deformable foam-like material. The head 164 may
have grippers and/or portions of hook and loop-type material
thereon. A cleaning sheet 166 may be wrapped about the head 164 and
held in place by a clamping bar 168, that functions in the same way
as in the previous embodiment.
[0057] FIG. 22 shows an exploded view of a portion of a cleaning
tool according another embodiment of the present invention. In this
embodiment, a cleaning head 170 is formed as a generally spherical
foam-like ball. A holder 172 has a circular opening 174 that is
smaller than the outer diameter of the head 170. A handle 176 is
attached to the holder 172 and includes grippers 178, in this
embodiment. In use, the head 170 is compressed and inserted into
the opening 174 and the holder 172 and allowed to re-expand. This
causes the head 170 to take on a somewhat peanut-shaped profile.
FIG. 23 shows the assembled cleaning tool with a cleaning sheet 180
wrapped about the cleaning head 170 and retained by the grippers
178. For purposes of the present invention, the spherical head 170
is considered to remain generally spherical after insertion in the
holder 172. That is, the somewhat peanut-shaped design after
insertion is still considered to be generally spherical.
[0058] FIG. 24 illustrates an alternative embodiment of a cleaning
tool. In this embodiment, a portion of a handle 182 is shown
connected to a holder 184. The holder 184 takes a form of a strap
with inter-connectable ends to grip the center of the peanut-shaped
cleaning head 186. As will be clear to those of skill in the art,
the holder 184 may take a variety of forms, including the ring of
FIG. 22, as well as a variety of straps that inter-connect or
overlap in various ways. For example, the strap may be shaped to
surround the head and biased to this position, but may be flexed to
surround the head 186. Also, the holder 184 may be used with other
versions of cleaning heads, rather than the peanut-shaped head 186.
The peanut-shaped cleaning head may also be used with other
versions of handles and holders.
[0059] FIG. 25 shows a detailed view of a cleaning tool handle 189
with a ring-like holder 190. FIG. 26 shows such a handle and holder
with a cleaning head 192 formed by a plurality of foam-like fingers
194. This assembly of foam-like fingers 194 provides a textured
assembly that may be used as is, or covered with a cleaning sheet
or cover according to any of the embodiments described herein. The
head 192 may be formed by bundling multiple fingers 194 or,
preferably, may be formed by a sheet of foam material with a
plurality of cuts in the side. This sheet is rolled or folded to
provide the head 192. The embodiment of FIG. 26 may take a variety
of forms, depending on the size, shape and arrangement of the
fingers 194. For example, they may form a generally spherical head
or head that is generally cylindrical or elongated.
[0060] FIGS. 27-30 illustrate four embodiments of generally
spherical foam-like cleaning heads that may be used with any of the
handles, holders and/or sheets or covers described herein. The head
200 in FIG. 27 has a single cut therein. A cleaning sheet or cover
may be wrapped about the head 200 and tucked into the cut 202. The
same procedure may be performed with the head 192 in FIG. 26. A
sheet or cover may be wrapped around it and held in place by the
fingers 194, or the sheet or cover may be tucked in between the
fingers to hold it in place. FIG. 28 shows a head 204 with two cuts
206 and 208. FIG. 29 shows a head 210 with multiple cuts 212. These
heads, 204 and 210 may be used in the same way. FIG. 30 shows an
alternative wherein a head 214 has one or more holes 216 defined
therein. Portions of the cleaning sheet or cover may be tucked into
the holes 216 to assist in retaining the cover or sheet on the head
214. In the embodiment of FIG. 30, a pair of holes is shown and a
"smile" is printed on the head to give it a novelty appearance. As
will be clear to those of skill in the art, the generally spherical
heads of FIGS. 27-30 may have other shapes such as oblong,
peanut-shaped, somewhat squared off, or other shapes.
[0061] As will be clear to those of skill in the art, the various
embodiments of the present invention discussed herein may be
altered in various ways without departing from the scope or
teaching of the present invention. It is the following claims,
including all equivalents that define the scope of the present
invention.
* * * * *