U.S. patent application number 10/797237 was filed with the patent office on 2005-01-20 for cleaning implement.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Procter & Gamble Company. Invention is credited to Hofte, Paulus Antonius Augustinus, Keller, Leonard Joseph JR., Mensink, Johannes Lambertus Maria.
Application Number | 20050011536 10/797237 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32990794 |
Filed Date | 2005-01-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050011536 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hofte, Paulus Antonius Augustinus ;
et al. |
January 20, 2005 |
Cleaning implement
Abstract
The present invention provides a cleaning implement for cleaning
a hard surface. The cleaning implement has a handle which is
connected to a mop head via a universal joint. The cleaning
implement also has a cleaning tool which is removably connected to
the mop head. The cleaning implement has a locking mechanism for
temporarily preventing the rotation of the mop head relative to the
handle.
Inventors: |
Hofte, Paulus Antonius
Augustinus; (Sint Martens Latem, BE) ; Mensink,
Johannes Lambertus Maria; (Tervuren, BE) ; Keller,
Leonard Joseph JR.; (Cincinnati, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY DIVISION
WINTON HILL TECHNICAL CENTER - BOX 161
6110 CENTER HILL AVENUE
CINCINNATI
OH
45224
US
|
Assignee: |
The Procter & Gamble
Company
|
Family ID: |
32990794 |
Appl. No.: |
10/797237 |
Filed: |
March 10, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60453610 |
Mar 11, 2003 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
134/6 ; 15/115;
15/118; 15/228 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25G 3/38 20130101; A47L
13/12 20130101; A47L 13/254 20130101; A47L 13/44 20130101; A47L
13/42 20130101; A47L 13/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
134/006 ;
015/115; 015/118; 015/228 |
International
Class: |
A47L 013/12 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A cleaning implement for cleaning a hard surface comprising: a
handle; a mop head, wherein said mop head is connected to said
handle; and a cleaning tool, wherein said cleaning tool comprises a
grip portion, a head portion connected to said grip portion and a
scrubbing portion having a inner and an outer surface, wherein said
inner surface is connected to said head portion and wherein said
cleaning tool is removably connected to said mop head.
2. The cleaning implement of claim 1 wherein said mop head has a
substantially rectangular shape having a front edge, a back edge, a
first and a second side edge and wherein said cleaning tool is
removably connected to said mop head such that said scrubbing
portion is adjacent to one of said front edge, said back edge, said
first or said second side edges.
3. The cleaning implement of claim 2 wherein said cleaning tool is
removably connected to said mop head such that said scrubbing
portion is adjacent to either one of first or second side
edges.
4. The cleaning implement of claim 1 wherein the angle between a
hard surface and said outer surface of said scrubbing portion is
between about 10 and about 80 degrees.
5. The cleaning implement of claim 4 wherein said angle is between
about 25 and about 65 degrees.
6. The cleaning implement of claim 1 wherein the angle between said
hard surface and said outer surface of said scrubbing portion is
between about 100 and about 170 degrees.
7. The cleaning implement of claim 6 wherein said angle is between
about 115 and about 155 degrees.
8. The cleaning implement of claim 1 wherein said scrubbing portion
comprises and abrasive material.
9. The cleaning implement of claim 1 wherein said scrubbing portion
comprises a plurality of bristles.
10. A cleaning implement for cleaning a hard surface comprising: a
handle; a mop head having a top and a bottom surface, a plurality
of edges, wherein said mop head is pivotably connected to said
handle via a universal joint having a first and a second rotational
axis; a cleaning tool, wherein said cleaning tool is adjacent to
one of said edges of said mop head; and a locking mechanism for
releasably preventing the rotation of said mop head relative to at
least one of said first and second rotational axis.
11. The cleaning implement of claim 10 wherein said cleaning tool
faces away said handle when said mop head is locked relative to
said handle.
12. The cleaning implement of claim 10 wherein said locking
mechanism comprises a locking member wherein said locking member is
located on the top surface of said mop head and wherein the
rotation of said mop head relative to at least one of said first
and second rotational axis is temporarily prevented when said
locking member engages said handle.
13. The cleaning implement of claim 10 wherein said locking
mechanism comprises a first locking member located on the top
surface of said mop head and a second locking member located on
said handle wherein the rotation of said mop head relative to at
least one of said first and second rotational axis is temporarily
prevented when said first locking member engages said second
locking member.
14. The cleaning implement of claim 10 wherein said locking
mechanism is incorporated within said universal joint.
15. The cleaning implement of claim 14 wherein said universal joint
comprises an upper member connected to said handle and a lower
member, wherein said upper member is rotatably connected to said
lower member about said first rotational axis and wherein said
lower member is rotatably connected to said mop head about said
second rotational axis.
16. The cleaning implement of claim 15 wherein said locking
mechanism comprises a first lip located on said lower member for
engaging a corresponding second lip located on said upper
member.
17. The cleaning implement of claim 16 wherein the rotation of said
upper member and said lower member about said first rotational axis
is temporarily prevented when said first lip of said lower member
extend beyond said second lip of said upper member.
18. The cleaning implement of claim 15 wherein said upper member
comprises a recess portion and a pin partially extending within
said recess portion and defining a first recess portion and a
second recess portion, and wherein said lower member comprises a
projection located at least partially within said recess.
19. The cleaning implement of claim 18 wherein the rotation of said
upper member and said lower member about said first rotational axis
is temporarily prevented when said projection of said lower member
is located within said second recess portion.
20. A cleaning tool comprising: a grip portion; a head portion
having an outer surface, wherein said head portion is connected to
said grip portion; and a scrubbing portion connected to said head
portion, wherein said grip portion comprises a securing member for
releasably securing said cleaning tool to the mop head of a
cleaning implement.
21. The cleaning tool of claim 20 wherein said securing member
comprises a male portion for releasably engaging a female portion
located on said mop head.
22. The cleaning tool of claim 21 wherein said male portion
comprises a first leg member connected to said grip portion and a
second leg member connected to said first leg member.
23. The cleaning tool of claim 22 wherein said second leg member is
generally perpendicular to said first leg member.
24. The cleaning implement of claim 20 wherein the angle between
said grip portion and said outer surface of said head portion is
between about 10 and about 80 degrees.
25. The cleaning implement of claim 20 wherein the angle between
said grip portion and said outer surface of said head portion is
between about 100 and about 170 degrees.
26. The cleaning tool of claim 20 further comprising a scrubbing
portion.
27. The cleaning tool of claim 26 wherein said scrubbing portion is
releasably attached to said head portion.
28. A method of scrubbing a hard surface comprising: providing a
cleaning implement comprising: a handle; a mop head having a top
and a bottom surface, wherein said mop head is pivotably connected
to said handle via a universal joint having a first and a second
rotational axis; a scrubbing portion connected to said mop head,
wherein said scrubbing portion has an outer abrasive surface and
wherein the angle between the hard surface and said outer abrasive
surface is between about 10 and about 80 degrees during the normal
cleaning operation of the hard surface; a locking mechanism for
releasably preventing the rotation of said mop head relative to at
least one of said first and second rotational axis; locking said
mop head relative to said handle, such that the rotation of said
mop head relative to at least one of said first and second
rotational axis is prevented; and contacting the hard surface with
said outer abrasive surface.
29. The method of claim 28 wherein said top surface of said mop
head faces substantially upwards when said outer abrasive surface
contacts the hard surface.
30. A method of scrubbing a hard surface comprising: providing a
cleaning implement comprising: a handle having a longitudinal axis;
a mop head having a top and a bottom surface, wherein said mop head
is pivotably connected to said handle via a universal joint having
a first and a second rotational axis; a scrubbing portion connected
to said mop head, wherein said scrubbing portion has an outer
abrasive surface and wherein the angle between the hard surface and
said outer abrasive surface is between about 100 and about 170
degrees during the normal cleaning operation of the hard surface; a
locking mechanism for releasably preventing the rotation of said
mop head relative to at least one of said first and second
rotational axis; locking said mop head relative to said handle,
such that the rotation of said mop head relative to at least one of
said first and second rotational axis is prevented; rotating said
handle about its longitudinal axis; and contacting the hard surface
with said outer abrasive surface.
31. The method of claim 30 wherein said top surface of said mop
head faces substantially downwards when said outer abrasive surface
contacts the hard surface.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/453,610, filed Mar. 11, 2003.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to cleaning implements
suitable for cleaning hard surfaces.
[0003] The present invention also relates to tools, which can be
removably attached to a cleaning implement for facilitating the
cleaning of a hard surface.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The literature is replete with products capable of cleaning
hard surfaces such as ceramic tile floors, hardwood floors, counter
tops and the like. In the context of cleaning floors with a
cleaning solution, numerous mopping devices and other cleaning
implements are described which comprise a handle connected to a mop
head. The mop head of conventional cleaning implements include a
sponge, a cloth or strings of absorbent material, which can be
immersed in a bucket containing the cleaning solution in order to
simultaneously spread the cleaning solution and then remove the
soiled solution from the surface to be cleaned. The user typically
mixes a dose of a concentrated detersive solution with hot water
into the bucket. The use of a warm cleaning solution is beneficial
to remove tough stains or grease off the floor surface. However,
these conventional implements are not ideal from a hygiene point of
view since the user keeps dipping the mop head into the same
bucket, which rapidly becomes saturated with the soiled solution.
As a result, bacteria and soils are re-deposited on the floor
surface. In addition, users have a tendency to overdose the amount
of concentrated detersive solution needed for effective cleaning.
Modern cleaning implements are used with disposable absorbent
cleaning pads or wipes which can be removably attached to the mop
head of the implement. These pads or wipes can be substantially dry
and require the user to apply the cleaning solution on the surface
to be cleaned. These implements typically have liquid delivery
mechanism which can be actuated by the user when desired and which
can be used with a reservoir containing a pre-dosed amount of
cleaning solution. Examples of such pad and implement are
respectively the SWIFFER WETJET.RTM. absorbent cleaning pad which
can be used with the SWIFFER WETJET.RTM. cleaning implement sold by
The Procter & Gamble Company. Other types of disposable
absorbent cleaning pads or wipes are pre-impregnated with a
cleaning solution and as such, can be used with cleaning implements
which do not have a liquid delivery mechanism. Examples of such pad
and implement are respectively the SWIFFER WET.RTM. cleaning pad
which can be used with the SWIFFER.RTM. cleaning implement sold by
The Procter & Gamble Company. The disposable absorbent pads or
wipes of the modern cleaning implements are able to trap soils and
bacteria, and, as a result, offer a more hygienic way to clean hard
surfaces. In addition, these modem cleaning implements are easy and
convenient to use and also minimize the contact between the user
and the soiled solution.
[0005] With either conventional or modern cleaning implements, it
has been observed that some stains, such as dried food or grease,
can be particularly difficult to remove from the floor surface and
can require additional friction or abrasive force.
[0006] The addition of scrubbing or abrasive means to the implement
is known in the art.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 6,085,378 to Petner, granted Jul. 11, 2000,
describes a retractable string mop having a scrubbing strip
attached to the mop head of the implement. The mop head of this
implement is fixedly attached to a handle. When removal of tough
stains requires the use of the scrubbing strip, the user can
retract the strings of absorbent material within a sleeve and then
scrub the stain off the floor.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,581 to Lewis, granted Jan. 30, 2001,
describes a sponge mop (or butterfly mop) having a rectangular mop
head fixedly connected to a handle such that the angle between the
handle and the mop head is fixed. A brush having a plurality of
bristles is removably attached to the leading edge of the mop head.
When the user wishes to scrub the floor surface, he or she can
simply rotate the mop head such that the brush faces the floor
surface.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 6,000,087 to Petner, granted Dec. 14, 1999,
describes a roller sponge mop having a scrubbing strip attached to
a mop head which is fixedly attached to a handle. With this
implement, the user needs to the sponge mop in order to be able to
scrub the floor surface. The floor surface cannot be scrubbed
unless the sponge is retracted.
[0010] The mop head of the previously discussed implements are both
fixedly attached to the handle. Consequently, these implements are
not as handy as modern implements having a mop head pivotably
connected to a handle which allows the mop head to swivel around
objects and reach underneath furnitures.
[0011] Moreover, the scrubbing member of these two "conventional"
cleaning implements become soiled after only a few uses. If a user
wishes to remove the scrubbing member from the mop head in order to
rinse it, the user has to touch the soiled scrubbing member. In
addition, these implements do not allow the user to use the
scrubbing member independently from the implement without having to
touch the bristles of the brush.
[0012] International Patent Application Serial No. WO 00/27271, to
Policicchio et al., published May 18, 2000 and assigned to The
Procter & Gamble Company, describes that a scrubbing strip can
be connected to one of the edges of the rectangular mop head of a
cleaning implement. The scrubbing strip is preferably connected to
the mop head such that it does not contact the floor surface during
the cleaning operation but can contact the floor surface when
needed. The mop head of this cleaning implement is pivotably
connected to a handle in order to improve the maneuverability of
the mop head during the cleaning operation. The handle of this
implement includes a liquid delivery mechanism which can be
actuated by the user. When for example, the scrubbing strip is
located adjacent to the left edge of the mop head, a user can pivot
the mop head such that the right portion of the mop head leans
against the handle allowing the user to scrub the floor surface
with the scrubbing member. This implement does not allow the user
to use the scrubbing member independently from the implement
without having to touch the soiled scrubbing member. In addition,
since the mop head is pivotably, rather than fixedly, connected to
the mop head, the mop head can swivel or tilt back and forth during
the scrubbing operation and, as a result, can lead to a poor
scrubbing performance.
[0013] While the prior art addresses the problem associated with
the ability to remove tough stains from hard surfaces by providing
cleaning implements with additional scrubbing strip or other
brushes, the scrubbing tools which are disclosed are not optimal
both from an hygiene point of view as well as a convenience.
[0014] As such, there remains a need for a cleaning implement
including a scrubbing tool which can be removed from the implement
with minimal contact between the hand of the user and the soiled
scrubbing surface of the tool.
[0015] There remains also a need for a cleaning implement having a
mop head pivotably connected to a handle, a cleaning tool such as a
scrubbing tool connected to the mop head and a locking mechanism
allowing the mop head to be temporarily maintained in a desired
position during the scrubbing operation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] In one embodiment, a cleaning implement for cleaning a hard
surface comprises a handle, a mop head, wherein said mop head is
connected to said handle and a cleaning tool, wherein said cleaning
tool comprises a grip portion, a head portion connected to said
grip portion and a scrubbing portion having a inner and an outer
surface, wherein said inner surface is connected to said head
portion and wherein said cleaning tool is removably connected to
said mop head.
[0017] In one embodiment, a cleaning implement for cleaning a hard
surface comprises a handle, a mop head having a top and a bottom
surface, a plurality of edges, wherein said mop head is pivotably
connected to said handle via a universal joint having a first and a
second rotational axis, a cleaning tool, wherein said cleaning tool
is adjacent to one of said edges of said mop head and a locking
mechanism for releasably locking said mop head relative to said
handle.
[0018] In one embodiment, a cleaning tool comprises a grip portion,
a head portion having an outer surface, wherein said head portion
is connected to said grip portion, and a scrubbing portion
connected to said head portion, wherein said grip portion comprises
a securing member for releasably securing said cleaning tool to the
mop head of a cleaning implement.
[0019] All documents cited herein are, in relevant part,
incorporated herein by reference; the citation of any document is
not to be construed as an admission that it is prior art with
respect to the present invention.
[0020] It should be understood that every maximum numerical
limitation given throughout this specification will include every
lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations
were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation
given throughout this specification will include every higher
numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were
expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout
this specification will include every narrower numerical range that
falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower
numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.
[0021] All parts, ratios, and percentages herein, in the
Specification, Examples, and claims, are by weight and all
numerical limits are used with the normal degree of accuracy
afforded by the art, unless otherwise specified.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a cleaning implement
according to the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 2 is a top view of a cleaning tool according to the
present invention;
[0024] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the cleaning tool of FIG.
2;
[0025] FIG. 4 is a side view of a cleaning tool;
[0026] FIG. 5 is a side view of another cleaning tool;
[0027] FIG. 6 is a side view of the cleaning tool of FIG. 4 with a
cleaning implement during the scrubbing operation of a floor
surface;
[0028] FIG. 7 is a side view of the cleaning tool of FIG. 5 with a
cleaning implement during the scrubbing operation of a floor
surface;
[0029] FIG. 8 is isometric view another cleaning tool;
[0030] FIG. 9 is isometric view another cleaning tool;
[0031] FIG. 10 is a partial isometric view of a cleaning implement
having two cleaning tools;
[0032] FIG. 11 is a partial isometric view of a cleaning implement
having a locking mechanism;
[0033] FIG. 12 is a partial isometric view of a cleaning implement
having another locking mechanism;
[0034] FIG. 13 is a partial isometric view of a cleaning implement
having another locking mechanism;
[0035] FIG. 14 is a partial isometric view of a cleaning implement
having a lockable universal joint;
[0036] FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the lockable universal joint
of FIG. 14;
[0037] FIG. 16 is a front view of the lockable joint of FIG. 14
shown in an unlocked position;
[0038] FIG. 17 is a front view of the lockable joint of FIG. 14
shown in a locked position;
[0039] FIG. 18 is an exploded view another lockable universal joint
which is lockable in two directions;
[0040] FIG. 19 is a partial isometric view of a cleaning implement
having another lockable universal joint;
[0041] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of the upper member of the
universal joint of FIG. 19;
[0042] FIG. 21 is an isometric view of the upper member of the
universal joint of FIG. 19;
[0043] FIG. 22 is a front view of the upper member of the universal
joint of FIG. 19;
[0044] FIG. 23 is an isometric view of the lower member of the
universal joint of FIG. 19;
[0045] FIG. 24 is an isometric view of the universal joint shown in
FIG. 19 shown in an unlocked position;
[0046] FIG. 25 is an isometric view of the universal joint shown in
FIG. 19 shown in a locked position;
[0047] FIG. 26 is a front cross-section view of the lower member of
the universal joint of FIG. 19; and
[0048] FIG. 27 is an isometric view of a disposable pad or wipe
attached to the mop head of a cleaning implement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0049] While not intending to limit the utility of the cleaning
implement and the cleaning tools described herein, it is believed
that a brief description of their use will help elucidate the
invention.
[0050] In heretofore conventional wet-mopping operations, the mop
user requires a source of detersive liquid for application to the
surface being cleaned by means of the mop head. Earlier practice
was to dip the mop head into an external source of liquid, such as
a bucket, optionally wring-out the excess of liquid, and then apply
the mop head to the surface with sufficient force to dislodge soil
therefrom. Unfortunately, after repeated usage, the mop heads
themselves, become dirty, unsanitary, unsightly and have to be
removed and laundered. In addition, because the mop user dips the
mop head into the bucket which rapidly contains a soiled solution,
conventional mops tend to redeposit soils and bacteria onto the
floor surface and, as a result, are not optimal from an hygiene
point of view.
[0051] Modern mopping implements employ disposable wipes or
absorbent pads, which are releasably affixed to the head of the
mopping implement, and which can conveniently be discarded and
replaced after soiling. Even more modern implements carry their own
reservoir of detersive liquid, thereby greatly enhancing their
usefulness and convenience. In use, the liquid is dispensed onto
the surface being cleaned via a liquid delivery mechanism.
[0052] These implements are particularly convenient to remove
superficial and/or "light" soils from a floor surface but can
reveal themselves insufficient to remove tough stains from the
floor surface.
[0053] As will be immediately appreciated, it becomes necessary to,
somehow, releasably affix a scrubbing and/or abrasive tool to such
an implement in order to facilitate the removal of tough stains.
Moreover, from time-to-time, it is necessary to remove the
scrubbing tool in order to rinse its scrubbing surface or dispose
of it. In addition, it can be desirable to have a scrubbing tool
which is removable from the implement in order to allow the user to
use this scrubbing tool independently from the implement while
limiting the contacts between the user's hand and the soiled
scrubbing/abrasive surface. As will be seen from the disclosures
herein this affixing-usage-removal-replacement sequence in a
convenient and hygienic manner results in several problems whose
solutions are non-trivial.
[0054] The first problem faced by the manufacturer is that a
scrubbing/abrasive tool needs to be releasably connected to the
cleaning implement. The scrubbing tool also needs to be designed
such that it allows the user to use the scrubbing tool
independently from the implement (such as for example to scrub
areas which are difficult to reach when the scrubbing member is
connected to the implement).
[0055] In addition, when a user wishes to remove tough stains with
a scrubbing tool attached to a mop head pivotably connected to a
handle, he or she needs to rotate the mop head such that the
scrubbing surface is in contact with the stain and then rub the
scrubbing surface against the stain. The pulling and pushing
actions of the user on the handle during the scrubbing operation
can result in the swiveling or tilting of the mop head. This
swiveling or tilting of the mop head renders the scrubbing
operation less convenient and reduces the scrubbing
performance.
[0056] The foregoing considerations are addressed by the present
invention, as will be clear from the detailed disclosures which
follow.
[0057] Reference will now be made in detail to the present
preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are
illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein like numerals
indicate the same elements throughout the views and wherein
reference numerals having the same last two digits (e.g., 20 and
120) connote similar elements.
[0058] I. Scrubbing/Abrasive Tool
[0059] Referring to FIG. 1, a cleaning implement 10 comprising a
removable cleaning tool 20 is represented.
[0060] In one embodiment, the cleaning implement 10 comprises a
handle 30 connected to a mop head 40. In a preferred embodiment,
the handle 30 is pivotably connected to the mop head 40 via a
universal joint 130 as it is well known in the art. The cleaning
implement 10 can be used to clean a hard surface when a cleaning
pad or wipe (not shown) is attached about the mop head. Optional
but preferred features of the cleaning implement 10 are detailed in
section III in greater details.
[0061] Referring to FIG. 2, a removable cleaning tool 20 is
represented
[0062] In one embodiment, the cleaning tool 20 comprises a grip
portion 120 connected to a head portion 220. The grip portion is
preferably ergonomically designed such that it fits a user's hand.
In one embodiment, the grip portion 120 has a length Lg between
about 10 mm and about 120 mm, preferably between about 40 mm and
about 80 mm and a width Wg between about 10 mm and about 100 mm,
preferably between about 20 mm and about 50 mm. The head portion
220 has a length Lh between about 10 mm and about 50 mm, preferably
between about 15 mm and about 30 mm and a width Wh between about 20
mm and about 140 mm, preferably between about 70 mm and about 120
mm.
[0063] In one embodiment, the cleaning tool 20 comprises a
scrubbing portion 320 which is connected to the outer surface 1220
of the head portion 220. By "scrubbing portion", it is meant any
material or feature capable of loosening soils from a hard surface
when the scrubbing portion is rubbed against the soil.
[0064] In one embodiment, the scrubbing portion 320 is made of a
strip of abrasive or scouring material. In one embodiment shown in
FIGS. 2 and 3, the length Ls of the scrubbing portion 320 is
between about 20 mm and about 140 mm, preferably between about 70
mm and about 125 mm, its width Ws is between about 10 mm and about
50 mm, preferably between about 15 mm and about 35 mm and its
thickness Ts is between about 1 mm and about 20 mm, preferably
between about 2 mm and about 10 mm. The scrubbing portion(s)
typically used herein are composed of materials often used for
making scouring pads. Such materials are typically composed of
polymer blends with or without specific abrasives. Typical polymers
used include nylon, polyester and polypropylene or blends thereof.
Nylon is the most preferred material since it provides greater
stiffness and durability versus polyester and polypropylene. To
increase mechanical scrubbing ability, abrasive materials can be
combined with the polymers. For example, 3M Scotch Brite.RTM.
scouring pads are composed of nylon fibers combined with silicon
carbide and/or aluminum oxide and/or calcium carbonate as
abrasives. Another suitable scrubbing material is the GLIT.RTM.
MICROTRON.RTM. manufactured by The Katy Company. Depending on the
degree of scrubbing desired, the abrasive level and type can be
adjusted accordingly. Alternatively, for more surface-safe
scrubbing, the adhesive scrubbing strips can be composed of only
polymer or polymer blends combined with binders or curing adhesives
without any abrasives.
[0065] One skilled in the art will understand that the size as well
as the "hardness" (or degree of abrasiveness) of the abrasive
material are selected in order to prevent that the hard surface is
damaged during the scrubbing operation.
[0066] In one embodiment represented in FIG. 4, the head portion
220 is connected to the grip portion 120 such that the angle
.alpha. between the top surface of the grip portion 120 and the
head portion 220 is between about 10 and about 80 degrees,
preferably between about 25 and about 65 degrees, more preferably
between about 35 and about 55 degrees and even more preferably
equal to about 45 degrees.
[0067] In a preferred embodiment represented in FIG. 5, the head
portion 220 is connected to the grip portion 120 such that the
angle .alpha.' between the top surface of the grip portion 120 and
the head portion 220 is between about 100 and about 170 degrees,
preferably between about 115 and about 155 degrees, more preferably
between about 125 and about 145 degrees and even more preferably
equal to about 135 degrees. In one embodiment, the outer portion of
the head portion 320 is substantially flat. In a preferred
embodiment, the outer surface of the head portion is curved. When
the cleaning tool 20 is connected to the mop head 40, the grip
portion 120 of the tool is substantially parallel to the top
surface of the mop head 40 which is itself substantially parallel
to the floor surface. Consequently, during a normal cleaning
operation (i.e. when the bottom surface of the mop head is used to
wipe the floor as shown in FIG. 1), the angle between the floor
surface and the head portion 220 is substantially equal to the
angle between the grip portion 120 and the head portion 220.
[0068] When the angle between the top surface of the grip portion
120 and the head portion 220 is less than about 90 degrees, a user
can scrub the floor surface without having to remove the pad or
wipe (not shown for clarity) by pivoting the mop head against the
handle such that the head portion faces the floor (i.e. by holding
the handle at an angle between about 20 and 70 degrees relative to
the floor surface) as shown in FIG. 6.
[0069] When the angle between the top surface of the grip portion
120 and the head portion 220 is greater than about 90 degrees, a
user can scrub the floor surface without having to remove the pad
or wipe (not shown for clarity) by pivoting the mop head against
the handle and then rotating the handle of about 180 degrees about
the longitudinal axis of the handle such that the head portion
faces the floor (i.e. by holding the handle at an angle between
about 20 and 70 degrees relative to the floor surface) as shown in
FIG. 7.
[0070] Among other benefits, positioning the head portion 220 at an
angle .alpha. or .alpha.' relative to the grip portion 120, and
therefore the floor surface, allows a greater portion of a
scrubbing portion 320, which is connected to the head portion 220,
to be in contact with the floor surface during the scrubbing
operation. In addition, a curved head portion 220 enhances the
scrubbing performance during the scrubbing operation. The cleaning
tool 20 can be made of any suitable material such as metal, wood,
plastic(s). In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning tool is made of
Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene polymer and is molded as it is well
know in the art.
[0071] In one embodiment, a scrubbing kit can be sold to consumers
which include a cleaning tool 20 and/or at least two strips of
abrasive material having different "hardness" characteristics. In
one embodiment, each strip of abrasive material conveys information
to the user indicating on what type of surface they can be "safely"
used. Such information can be conveyed to the consumer by printing
directly onto the abrasive strip the name of the surface and/or by
using a color code. For example the color brown and white can
indicate that it is safe to use the strip of abrasive material
respectively on hardwood floors and ceramic tiles.
[0072] In another embodiment, the strip of scrubbing material is
impregnated with a dye which gradually fades due to the friction
between the strip and the hard surface in order to inform the user
that it is time to replace the abrasive strip. An example of a
suitable dye include indigotine as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
4,802,255, to Breuer et al., which describes nylon monofilaments
that include at least two colored regions, one of which is provided
by a dye. The monofilaments are included in the bristles of
toothbrushes and, as the toothbrush is used by the user, the color
intensity of the dyed region changes in response to wear, providing
an indication of when the toothbrush should be replaced.
[0073] The scrubbing portion 320 can be either permanently or
releasably attached to the head portion 220 of the cleaning tool
20. By "permanently attached" it is meant that the strip is torn if
a user attempts to remove it from the head portion 220. The
scrubbing portion 320 can be permanently attached to the head
portion 220 via any know process in the art such as heat bonding
sewing, screwing or riveting, slided in place within a channel or
via an adhesive. By "releasably attached", it is meant that a user
can easily remove the scrubbing portion 320 without excessive force
and without substantially deteriorating the head portion 220 and/or
the scrubbing portion. In one embodiment, the scrubbing portion 320
can be releasably attached to the head portion 220 via a pressure
sensitive adhesive. The pressure sensitive adhesive is preferably
selected such that the scrubbing portion 320 can be easily peeled
off the head portion (due to the local shear force applied by the
user on the strip) but maintains the strips connected to the head
portion 220 during the scrubbing operation (since the frictional
force is applied to a greater area of the strip). In one
embodiment, the scrubbing strip 320 is releasably attached to the
head portion 220 via hook fasteners extending outwardly from the
head portion 220. Non-limiting examples of hook fasteners include
VEL LOCK.TM. manufactured by the Velcro Industries and the AX 220
from the Aplix Inc. In one embodiment, a plurality of hooks can be
formed on the head portion during the manufacturing process. In a
preferred embodiment, a strip of hook fasteners 1220 is attached to
the head portion 220 such that the hooks extend from the head
portion 220. In this embodiment, a user can easily attach a strip
of fibrous scrubbing material as it is well know in the art. When a
scrubbing strip 320, having parallel opposite sides, is attached to
the head portion 220, the angle between the outer surface of the
strip 320 and the grip portion 120 or the floor surface is the same
as the angle between the head portion 220 and the grip portion 120
or the floor surface.
[0074] In another embodiment represented in FIG. 8, the scrubbing
portion 320 is a brush comprising a plurality of bristles 1320. In
one embodiment, the length of the brush is between about 20 mm and
about 140 mm, preferably between about 70 mm and about 125 mm, its
width is between about 10 mm and about 50 mm, preferably between
about 15 mm and about 35 mm and the length of its bristles is
between about 3 mm and about 40 mm, preferably between about 5 mm
and about 15 mm. In one embodiment, the bristles of the brush have
a length of at least about 1 mm, preferably at least about 5 mm,
more preferably at least about 10 mm. In one embodiment, the length
of the bristles of the brush less than about 100 mm, preferably
less than about 50 mm, more preferably less than about 30 mm. Such
bristles are typically composed of polymer or polymer blends, with
or without abrasives. In the context of brushes, bristles made of
nylon again are preferred because of rigidity, stiffness, and/or
durability. A preferred nylon bristle is commercially available
from 3M Corp. under the trade name Tynex.TM. 612 nylon. These
bristles show less water absorption versus commercial Nylon 66.
Reducing the ability of the bristles of the brush to absorb water
is beneficial since water absorption decreases bristle stiffness
and recovery while impacting scrubbing ability. Non-limiting
examples of materials suitable to make the bristles of the brush
include Nylon 66, polyester, Polypropylene, cotton, brass, cocoa,
or any combination thereof. Among other benefits, a brush having a
plurality of bristles is capable of reaching and loosening soil
lodged within grout lines and the like, or more generally within
the asperities of uneven surfaces. One skilled in the art will
understand that the hardness of the bristles (i.e. their ability to
flex or bend when compressed) as well as the length and thickness
of the bristles should be chosen to provide good loosening of the
soil without causing substantial damage to the hard surface being
brushed. As previously discussed for the strip of abrasive
material, a scrubbing kit can include at least two brushes having
different characteristics depending on the kind of surface in need
of scrubbing. The brush can also be permanently or releasably
attached to the head portion as previously discussed. In one
embodiment, the bristles can be affixed on a substrate which can be
releaseably attached to the outer surface of the head portion of
the scrubbing tool. In one embodiment, the bristles of the brush
can be coated with a dye as previously discussed such that color
intensity of the dyed region changes in response to wear, providing
an indication of when the brush should be replaced.
[0075] One skilled in the art will understand that a user can very
simply and conveniently hold any of the previously described
cleaning tool 20 in his or her hand independently from the cleaning
implement, in order to remove tough stains which are hard to reach
with a cleaning implement such as corners of a room, or
countertops.
[0076] In a preferred embodiment, a cleaning tool 20 is removably
attachable to the cleaning implement 10, preferably to the mop head
40 of the implement as shown in FIG. 1.
[0077] In one embodiment, the cleaning tool 20 is releasably
secured to the top surface of the mop head 40 such that the grip
portion 120 and/or the head portion 220 is elevated relative to the
top surface of the mop head 40. Among other benefits, elevating the
cleaning tool 20 and as a result the scrubbing portion 320 reduces
the possibility for the attachment layer of a cleaning pad or wipe
(not shown) to get in contact and/or entangled with the scrubbing
portion 320. This configuration is particularly advantageous when
the pad or wipe is releasably attached about the mop head 40 of the
cleaning implement via mechanical means, such as attachment
structures 340, located on the top surface of the mop head. In a
preferred embodiment, the distance between the bottom surface of
the grip portion 120 and the top surface of the attachment
structures 340 along the Z axis is between about 3 mm and about 30
mm, preferably, between 5 mm and 20 mm, more preferably between
about 10 mm and about 15 mm.
[0078] In one embodiment, a cleaning tool 20 is removably attached
to the mop head 40 such that the scrubbing portion 320 is not in
contact with the hard surface during a "regular" cleaning operation
(i.e., when the implement is used with a pad or wipe in the
configuration shown shown in FIG. 1).
[0079] In one embodiment, the cleaning tool 20 is attached to the
top surface of the mop head such that the head portion 220 is
adjacent to one of the edges of the mop head 40. In a preferred
embodiment, the head portion 220 is adjacent to one of the side
edges 140A or 140B of the mop head. As previously discussed, a user
can remove tough stains by rotating the mop head such that the
scrubbing portion 320 faces the floor surface. The user can then
scrub the stain off the floor surface by wiping back and forth the
scrubbing portion 320 against the stain. One skilled in the art
will understand that some cleaning solution is preferably applied
onto the stain before the scrubbing operation. Once the soils are
loosened, the user can simply absorb the soiled solution with the
absorbent cleaning pad or wipe.
[0080] The cleaning tool 20 can be releasably attached to the top
surface of the mop head via any method known in the art.
[0081] In a preferred embodiment, cleaning tool 20 comprises a
securing mechanism for maintaining the cleaning tool 20 attached to
the mop head 40 during the cleaning and scrubbing operations.
Non-limiting examples of suitable securing mechanism include a
strap of elastic material connected at both ends to the mop head to
maintain the grip portion 120 in between the elastic strap and the
mop head; a pair of straps which can be removably secured to each
other via hook and loop fasteners, a projection (or clip) located
at the bottom surface of the grip portion 120 for engaging a
corresponding opening located on the top surface of the mop head
(or vice versa); at least two projections extending from the top
surface of the mop head such that the width Wg of the grip portion
120 is slightly greater than the distance between the two
projection and can be forced fit in between these two projections;
hook fasteners located at the bottom surface of the grip portion
for mechanically engaging corresponding loop fasteners located on
the top surface of the mop head (or vice versa); a pressure
sensitive adhesive applied on the bottom surface of the grip
portion; magnet(s) located at the bottom surface of the grip
portion for magnetically attaching the grip portion 120 to a
corresponding ferrous portion or magnet(s) (or vice versa) on the
mop head; or a bolt extending from the mop head for passing through
the grip portion of the tool which is then secured with a
"butterfly nut" as it is well known in the art.
[0082] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the grip portion 120
comprises at least one projection 1120 resiliently extending from
the top surface of the grip portion 120. The resilient property of
the projection 1120 can be obtained via any method known in the art
such as by cutting slits on the top surface of the grip portion 120
around a portion of the projection 1120 or by adding a spring
mechanism in the form of a push-button. The grip portion 120 can be
inserted on the side of the mop head through a first opening which
is sufficiently large to receive the grip portion 120. The mop head
also comprises a second opening extending through the top portion
of the mop head and positioned such that when the projection 1120
reaches the second opening, the projection extends through at least
a portion of the second opening and maintains the cleaning tool 20
attached to the mop head. A user can remove the cleaning tool by
simultaneously depressing the projection 1120 and pulling the
cleaning tool 20 out of the mop head. One skilled in the art will
understand that the projection 1120 can also be located on one of
the side surface of the grip portion 120 such that it can extend
through a corresponding opening located on the side surface of the
mop head and still provide the same benefits.
[0083] In a preferred embodiment (shown in FIGS. 3 through 5), the
cleaning tool 20 comprises a male portion 125 connected to the
bottom surface of the grip portion 120 for engaging a corresponding
female portion 240 on the mop head 40 as shown in FIG. 10. A user
can simply attach or remove the cleaning tool 20 from the mop head
40 by inserting the male portion 125 within the female portion 240
or by pulling on the grip portion 120 and/or the hard portion 220
in order to pull the male portion out of the female portion 240. In
one embodiment, the male portion 125 comprises a first leg 1125 and
a second leg 2125. In one embodiment, the female portion 240 is
formed by slits 1240, 2240 corresponding the first and second legs
1125, 2125. In one embodiment, the first leg 1125 is connected to
the bottom surface of the grip portion 120 such that it is
substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface of the grip
portion 120 (i.e., within the X-Z plane). In one embodiment, the
second leg 2125 is connected to the first leg 1125 such that the
first and second legs are located in different planes. In a
preferred embodiment (shown in FIG. 3), the second leg 2125 is
substantially perpendicular to the first leg 1125 (i.e., the second
leg is located within the X-Y plane). One skilled in the art will
understand that in this embodiment, when the first and second legs
1125, 2125 are located within the corresponding slits on the mop
head 40, the only movement possible of the cleaning tool 20 is
along the X axis. When the user wishes to scrub a tough stain as
previously discussed, the frictional forces between the legs 1125
and 2125 and the mop head are preferably enough to overcome the
weight of the cleaning tool 20. As a result, the cleaning tool 20
remains attached to the mop head until the user overcomes these
frictional forces to pull the cleaning tool 20 out of the slits
240. When the cleaning tool 20 is located adjacent to one of the
side edges of a mop head, one skilled in the art will understand
that other configurations or orientations of the legs 1125 and 2125
relative to the X-Y and X-Z planes can be used and still provide
the same benefits
[0084] II. Lockable Handle Relative to a Mop Head
[0085] In another aspect, the invention is directed to a cleaning
implement having a handle pivotably connected to a mop head via a
universal joint. By "universal joint", it is meant any joint known
in the art which comprises at least two rotational axis allowing
the mop head to swivel when a user rotate the handle. In one
embodiment, the cleaning implement comprises a cleaning tool such
as the one previously described.
[0086] In one embodiment, the cleaning implement comprises a
locking mechanism for releasably maintaining the mop head against
the handle, as well as for temporarily preventing the rotation of
the mop head about at least one of the rotational axis of the
universal joint. As previously discussed, when a user wishes to
remove a tough stain off a floor surface, the user need to rotate
the mop head in order to have the scrubbing portion of the cleaning
tool oriented towards the floor surface. When the user rubs the
scrubbing tool by pushing and pulling back and forth on the handle,
the mop head can potentially swivel or tilt. This swiveling or
tilting of the mop head during the scrubbing operation is due to
the friction between the scrubbing portion of the scrubbing tool as
well as the ability of the mop head to pivot relative to the handle
because of to the universal joint and. This swiveling or tilting of
the mop head during the scrubbing operation limits the scrubbing
performance of the implement and renders the scrubbing operation
less convenient. The ease of use of the implement, as well as its
scrubbing performance are enhanced when the mop head is releasably
maintained or locked substantially against the handle during the
scrubbing operation as previously shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.
[0087] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a first
structure located on the mop head and capable of interacting with
the handle and/or a second structure located on the handle.
[0088] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 11, a locking mechanism 61
comprises a clip structure 161 having a first arm 1161 and a second
arm 2161. The clip 161 which is connected to the top surface of the
mop head 41. In a preferred embodiment, the clip structure 161 is
located on the top surface of the mop head 41 such that it is on
the half portion of the mop head 41 relative to the handle 31 which
is facing the edge of the mop head 41 where a cleaning tool 21 is
located. For illustrative purposes only, if a cleaning tool is
adjacent the left side edge of the mop head 41, the clip 161 is
preferably adjacent to the right side edge of the mop head 41. On
skilled in the art will understand that when the side of the mop
head having the clip structure 161 is applied against the handle, a
portion of the handle gets lodged in between the first and second
arms 1161, 2161 of the clip structure 161. The friction between the
clip structure 161 and the handle maintains the mop head 41 in a
locked position relative to the handle until enough force is
applied directly or indirectly by the user, to overcome this
friction.
[0089] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the locking
mechanism 61 comprises a protrusion 261 extending radially from the
handle and which can engage a corresponding opening 141 on the mop
head 41. The protrusion 261 and corresponding opening 141 are
preferably located respectively on the handle and the mop head such
that the opening 141 is located on the half portion of the mop head
41 relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle which is
opposite to the half portion of the mop head having the scrubbing
tool 21. One skilled in the art will understand that the protrusion
261 can be located on the top surface of the mop head and the
opening 141 can be located on the handle and still provide the same
benefits.
[0090] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 13, the locking
mechanism 61 comprises a magnet 241 connected to the top surface of
the mop head 41 which is magnetically attachable to a piece of
ferrous material 361 connected to the handle 31. The piece of
ferrous material 361 and the magnet 241 are preferably located
respectively on the handle and the mop head such that the magnet
241 is located on the half portion of the mop head 41 relative to
the handle which is opposite to the half portion of the mop head
having the scrubbing tool 21. One skilled in the art will
understand that the location of the magnet and the piece of ferrous
material 361 can be inverted and still provide the same benefit.
One skilled in the art will understand that the piece of ferrous
material 361 can be replaced by a second magnet as long as the
location of the first magnet on the mop head and the second magnet
on the handle as well as the orientation of their respective
magnetic poles cause the mop head to be maintained against the
handle. One skilled in the art will also understand that a piece of
ferrous material 361 is not necessary of the handle 31 itself is
made of a ferrous material. In a preferred embodiment, the piece of
ferrous material is a plate of metal comprising a suitable amount
of iron.
[0091] In one embodiment (previously shown in FIG. 10), a cleaning
implement has a plurality of cleaning tool such as any of the tools
previously discussed which can be adjacent to different edges of
the mop head 41. In this embodiment, the cleaning implement can
have a plurality of locking mechanisms in order to temporarily
maintain the mop head in a chosen position in order to selectively
use one of the cleaning tools.
[0092] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is integrated into
the universal joint of the cleaning implement.
[0093] In one embodiment represented in FIG. 14, the cleaning
implement 11 (shown without the upper portion of the handle for
clarity) has the universal joint 51 which includes an upper member
151 rotatably connected to a lower member 251 about a rotational
axis A-A. The upper member 151 is connected to the lower end of the
handle and the lower member 251 is rotatably connected to the mop
head 41 preferably adjacent to the center of the top surface of the
mop head 41 such that it can rotates about a rotational axis B-B.
In one embodiment, the rotational axis A-A and B-B are located in
different planes. In a preferred embodiment, the rotational axis
A-A is substantially perpendicular to the rotational axis B-B.
[0094] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 15, the upper member 151 of
the universal joint 51 has a first support portion 1151 and a
second support portion 2151 which are located in between a first
support portion 1251 and a second support potion 2251 of the lower
member 251. In one embodiment, the first support portion 1251 of
the lower member 251 has a lip portion 3251 for engaging a
corresponding lip portion 3151 formed on the upper member 151. In
one embodiment, the second support portion 2251 of the lower member
251 has a lip portion 4251 for engaging a corresponding lip portion
(not shown) formed on the upper member 151. In one embodiment, at
least the lower member 251 of the universal joint 51 is made of a
partially deformable material having good elastic properties. By
"good elastic properties" it is meant that this material recovers
substantially its original shape when pressure ceases to be
applied. The upper member 151 is rotated such that the projection
3151 passes beyond the projection 3251, the friction between the
projection 3151 and projection 3251 prevents the upper member 151
from rotating back about the rotational axis A-A until enough force
is applied directly or indirectly by a user to overcome the
friction.
[0095] In one embodiment (previously shown in FIG. 14), the lower
member 251 is rotatably connected to the mop head 41 such that the
rotational axis B-B is substantially parallel to longitudinal axis
C-C of the mop head. When the mop head 41 comprises a cleaning tool
21 connected to one of the side edges of the mop head 41, the lip
portion(s) 3251 is(are) preferably located on the side of the lower
member 251 such that it is "facing" the side edge of the mop head
which does not have the cleaning tool 11.
[0096] In one embodiment represented in FIG. 16, the angle .beta.
between the line intersecting the rotational axis A-A and including
the tip of the lip portion 3251 and the longitudinal axis of the
handle (when the handle is substantially perpendicular to the mop
head) is between about 30 and 120 degrees, preferably between 50
and 110 degrees, more preferably between 70 and 100 degrees. When a
user wishes to temporarily lock or maintain the mop head about the
handle, the user can rotate the handle and/or the mop head about
the rotational axis A-A such that the lip(s) located on the lower
member 251 engages and passes the lip(s) 3151 located on the upper
member 151 of the universal joint 51 as shown in FIG. 17. One
skilled in the art will understand that the position of the mop
head 41 relative to the handle in a locked position depends on the
angle .beta..
[0097] In one embodiment, the second support portion 2251 comprises
a lip portion 4251 for engaging a second corresponding lip portion
(not shown) formed on the upper member 151. In one embodiment, the
lip portions 3251 and 4251 are located on the same side of the
lower member 251 relative to the plane perpendicular to the
rotational axis B-B (as previously shown in FIG. 15). One skilled
in the art will understand that the amount of force needed to lock
and/or unlock the universal joint 51 depends on the extent the
corresponding lip portions 3151 and 3251 overlap but also on the
type of material chosen to make the lower and/or upper member 151
and 251.
[0098] In one embodiment represented in FIG. 18, the lower member
251 has a first and a second lip portion 3251, 4251 for engaging a
first corresponding lip portion 3151 and a second corresponding lip
portion (not shown) formed in the upper member 151 such that the
first and second lip portions 3251 and 4251 are located on opposite
sides of the lower member 251 relative to the plane perpendicular
to the rotational axis B-B. In one embodiment, both lip portions
3251 and 4251 are located on the first support member 1251. In
another embodiment (shown in FIG. 18), the first lip portion 3251
is located on the first support 1251 member and the second lip
portion 4251 is located on the second support member 2251. Among
other benefits, lip portions 3251 and 4251 located on opposite
sides of the lower member 251 relative to the plane perpendicular
to the rotational axis B-B enables a user to "lock" the mop head
relative to the handle in two directions. In one embodiment
(previously shown in FIG. 10), a cleaning implement includes two
cleaning tools 21 connected to opposite side edges of the mop head
such that a user can selectively use either one of these cleaning
tools by rotating and locking the mop head relative to the handle
(or the handle relative to the mop head). In one embodiment, the
first cleaning tool is a scrubbing tool as previously described and
the second cleaning tool can be either a scrubbing tool as
previously discussed (i.e., scrubbing strip or brush) or a squeegee
and/or carry an absorbent material.
[0099] In one embodiment represented in FIG. 19, the cleaning
implement 12 (shown without the upper portion of the handle for
clarity) has the universal joint 52, which includes an upper member
152 rotatably connected to a lower member 252 about a rotational
axis A-A. The upper member 152 is connected to the lower end of the
handle and the lower member 252 is rotatably connected to the mop
head 42 such that it can rotates about a rotational axis B-B as
previously discussed. In a preferred embodiment, the universal
joint is adjacent to the centered portion of the top surface of the
mop head 42.
[0100] In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 20 through 22, the upper
member 152 of the universal joint has a first support portion 1152
and a second support portion 2152 which are located in between a
first support portion 1252 and a second support potion 2252 of the
lower member 252 (shown in FIG. 23). The first support portion 1152
includes a groove 3152 for receiving a pin 62 extending beyond the
groove 3152. The pin 62 is preferably at least partially deformable
and is made of a material having good elastic properties. In a
preferred embodiment, the pin is made of spring-steel. The first
support portion 1152 also includes a recess 4152 having an arc
shape and which is adjacent to the outer edge of the first support
portion 1152. In a preferred embodiment, the recess 4152 has a
semi-circular shape. As previously discussed, a segment of the pin
62 extends beyond the groove 3152 and within the recess 4152 such
that the pin 62 divides the recess 4152 into a first and a second
portion 4152A and 4152B (shown in FIG. 22). In one embodiment, the
pin 62 can "flex" within the recess 4152.
[0101] In one embodiment shown in FIG. 23, the inner surface of the
first support portion 1252 of the lower member 252 includes a
projection 72 extending towards the second support portion 2252 of
the lower member 252. In a preferred embodiment, the projection 72
has generally a dome shape. This projection 72 can be formed during
the molding process of the lower member 252 or can be formed
independently and then attached to the support portion 1252. When
the upper member 152 is rotatably connected to the lower member 252
to form the universal joint 52, part of the projection 72 is
located within the recess 4152. The upper and lower members 152 and
252 can rotate freely about the rotational axis A-A when the
projection 72 is located within the first portion 4152A until the
pin 62 abuts the projection 72. The universal joint 52 is shown in
the "unlocked" position in FIG. 24. Since the pin is made of
deformable material, one skilled in the art will understand that
when enough pivoting force is applied on the handle and/or the mop
head, the pin 62 is able to pass over the projection 72. When the
pin 62 passes over the projection 72, the projection 72 is
"trapped" within the second portion 4152B (i.e., in between the pin
62 and the end of the recess 4152), as shown in FIG. 25, and, as a
result, the universal joint 52 is locked. The universal joint 52
remains locked until enough pivoting force is applied on the handle
and/or mop head such that the projection 62 returns within the
first portion 4152A. One skilled in the art will understand that
the "locking" angle between the handle and the rotational axis B-B
is determined by the location of the projection 72 on the inner
surface of the first support portion 1252 of the lower member
252.
[0102] In one embodiment, the angle .gamma. (shown in FIG. 26)
between the line which is orthogonal to the rotational axis A-A and
located within the plane of the inner surface of the first support
portion 1252 and the line which is orthogonal to the rotational
axis A-A and which includes the center of the projection 72 is at
least about 60 degrees, preferably between about 75 and about 110
degrees, more preferably between about 85 and about 100 degrees.
One skilled in the art will understand that if the projection 72 is
located on the inner surface of the support portion 1252 such that
the angle .gamma. is less than about 60 degrees, the handle will
abut against the edge of the mop head before the pin 62 has had a
opportunity to "jump" over the projection 72.
[0103] One skilled in the art will also understand that the pin 61
can be made of a substantially rigid material and the projection 72
can be made of a partially deformable material and still provide
the same benefits. The projection 72 can also be resiliently
attached to the support portion 1252 and include a spring-loaded
mechanism (such as a ball and spring mechanism.
[0104] In one embodiment, the second support portions 2152 and 2252
also include a groove, a pin, a recess and a projection as
previously described such that the universal joint is lockable in a
second position as previously discussed. When this lockable
universal joint is used to pivotably connect a handle to a mop head
including two cleaning tools 21 connected to opposite side edges of
the mop head, a user can selectively use either one of these
cleaning tools by rotating and locking the mop head relative to the
handle.
[0105] An additional benefit of the locking mechanisms previously
described is that they reduce the storage space of the implement
when the mop head is maintained against the handle. The implement
can be stored such that only one of the edges of the mop head,
rather than its bottom surface, is in contact with the floor. A
user can also very simply hang the implement with the mop head
maintained against the handle and, consequently, save some storage
space.
[0106] III. Optional Features of the Cleaning Implement.
[0107] The previously described cleaning tools and locking
mechanisms, can be used with either a cleaning implement carrying a
reservoir of cleaning solution connected to a liquid delivery
mechanism or with a cleaning implement which does not have a liquid
delivery mechanism.
[0108] The liquid delivery mechanism can be any mechanism known in
the art.
[0109] Non-limiting examples of liquid delivery mechanism include
electrically power pump, pressurized hand pump, aerosol mechanisms
or gravity mechanism, such as the ones described in International
patent application serial No. WO 01/22861, to Kunkler et al.,
published Apr. 5, 2001, in International patent application Serial
No. WO 00/27271, to Policicchio et al., published May 18, 2000, in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,779,155 to Ping et al., granted Jul. 14, 1998, and
in copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/409,263 to Hofte
et al filed Sep. 9, 2002, all assigned to The Procter & Gamble
Company.
[0110] The liquid delivery mechanism is preferably in fluid
communication with a nozzle connected to the implement and which is
preferably located on the top surface of the mop head. The liquid
delivery mechanism can be actuated by a user by pulling or pushing
on a trigger member which is preferably located on the upper
portion of the handle.
[0111] As previously discussed, cleaning implements which carry a
reservoir filled with a cleaning solution, are preferably used with
substantially dry absorbent cleaning pads and/or wipes. One example
of such a disposable pad releasably attached to the substantially
rectangular mop head of a cleaning implement is represented in FIG.
27. An absorbent cleaning pad or wipe 70 can be removably attached
about the mop head of the implement such that it is in contact with
the floor surface during the cleaning operation. The absorbent pad
and/or wipe can be releasably attached about the mop head via any
mechanism know in the art. Non-limiting examples of such mechanisms
include grippers (shown in FIG. 10) located on the top surface of
the mop head which comprises a plurality of pie-shaped structures
as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,305,046 to Kingry et al., granted
Oct. 23, 2001, as well as hook or loop fasteners located on the mop
head to engage loop or hook fasteners located on the pad and/or
wipe as described in International patent application Serial No. WO
00/27271, to Policicchio et al., published May 18, 2000. One
skilled in the art will understand that when a disposable pad or
wipe is attached to attachment structures located on the top
surface mop head and when the mop head includes a nozzle 80 for
dispensing the cleaning solution which is adjacent to the front
edge of the mop head, the disposable pad or wipe preferably
comprises a notch 170 on at least one of the edges of the pad or
wipe, preferably on both the front and back edges of the pad 70.
The notch allows the nozzle to dispense the cleaning solution on
the hard surface without being obstructed by the pad or wipe. The
use of such a notch is disclosed in International Patent
Application Serial No. WO 00/27271, to Policicchio et al.,
published May 18, 2000.
[0112] The substantially dry absorbent cleaning pad and/or wipe can
be made of any absorbent material known in the art and preferably
include a superabsorbent material as described in International
patent application Serial No. WO 00/27271, to Policicchio et al.,
published May 18, 2000 or in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
60/423,484 to Policicchio et al., filed Nov. 4, 2002, all assigned
to The Procter & Gamble Company. Non-limiting examples of
suitable cleaning pad include the SWIFFER WETJET.RTM. cleaning pad
sold by The Procter & Gamble Company, the CLOROX READY-MOP.RTM.
cleaning pad sold by The Clorox Company or the GRAB-IT GO-MOP.TM.
cleaning pad sold by The S.C. Johnson Company.
[0113] The previously described cleaning tools and lockable
mechanisms can also be used with cleaning implements which do not
include a liquid delivery mechanism. An example of such an
implement is the SWIFFER.RTM. cleaning implement sold by The
Procter & Gamble Company. This type of implement can either be
used with a substantially dry absorbent pad and/or wipe as
previously discussed but it is preferably used with a pre-moistened
cleaning pad and/or wipe. Non-limiting examples of pre-moistened
pads/wipes are the SWIFFER WET.RTM. cleaning pad sold by the
Procter and Gamble Company and the Pledge Grab-it.TM. Wet Floor
Wipes sold by The S.C. Johnson Company. Suitable pre-moistened
cleaning wipes/pads are described in U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 09/671,718 to Sherry et al., filed Sep. 27, 2000, in U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/267,186 to Barnabas et al., filed
Oct. 9, 2002, in U.S. Patent Application No. 60/328,008 to Barnabas
et al., filed Oct. 9, 2001 and in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/349,733 to Sherry et al., filed Jan. 23, 2003, all assigned to
The Procter & Gamble Company.
[0114] While particular embodiments of the subject invention have
been described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art
that various changes and modifications of the subject invention can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. In addition, while the present invention has been
described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof,
it is to be understood that this is by way of limitation and the
scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims which
should be construed as broadly as the prior art will permit.
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