U.S. patent application number 11/631996 was filed with the patent office on 2007-10-25 for cleaning apparatus with gripping means for cleaning pads.
Invention is credited to Daniel Gartland.
Application Number | 20070245508 11/631996 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34982188 |
Filed Date | 2007-10-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070245508 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gartland; Daniel |
October 25, 2007 |
Cleaning apparatus with gripping means for cleaning pads
Abstract
The invention relates to an improved cleaning apparatus
including a handle with gripping means to selectively grip a
cleaning pad from a number of stacked cleaning pads to perform a
cleaning operation, such as on a toilet bowl, and then selectively
release the cleaning pad for disposal such as by flushing, without
the need for direct contact with the cleaning pad by the user The
invention also provides specific improvements for the cleaning pad
and handle which may be used independently and therefore the
improvements to the same are pertinent for use with handles or
cleaning pads of different design.
Inventors: |
Gartland; Daniel; (North
Yorkshire, GB) |
Correspondence
Address: |
UNILEVER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GROUP
700 SYLVAN AVENUE,
BLDG C2 SOUTH
ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS
NJ
07632-3100
US
|
Family ID: |
34982188 |
Appl. No.: |
11/631996 |
Filed: |
July 8, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
July 8, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB05/02697 |
371 Date: |
January 9, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/209.1 ;
15/210.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47K 11/10 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
015/209.1 ;
015/210.1 |
International
Class: |
A47K 11/10 20060101
A47K011/10 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 10, 2004 |
GB |
0415477.9 |
Nov 11, 2004 |
GB |
0424930.6 |
Claims
1- Apparatus for cleaning, said apparatus including a handle, a
cleaning pad and gripping means for the cleaning pad, said gripping
means including a plurality of gripping members which are moved to
a position to contact the cleaning pad and further movement of the
gripping means with respect to the cleaning pad causes the gripping
members to move between the first position in which the same are in
contact with a surface of the pad, to a second position whereupon
said gripping members exert the grip on the said cleaning pad.
2- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the cleaning pad can be
ejected from the gripping means by the movement of the gripping
members from the second to the first position.
3- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the outer layer of the
cleaning pad has an open structure such as woven, fibre or
foam.
4- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein grip is achieved as
movement of the gripping members between the first and second
positions, causes the movement apart of first and second sets of
said gripping members such that the cleaning pad, at least that
portion between the location of said sets of gripping members, is
stretched and held under an increased level of tension.
5- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the gripping members are
split into sets, which depend outwardly from a common face of the
gripping means and which are moved between said first and second
grip positions.
6- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the movement of the
gripping members between said first and second positions is, or
includes, a snap action.
7- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the gripping members are
of elongate form and are relatively straight, with the gripping
members in each set provided in a linear spaced array.
8- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the gripping members are
angularly aligned so as to approach the cleaning pad at an angle to
the cleaning pad.
9- Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein some or all of the
gripping members are provided with hook formations.
10- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the gripping means are
provided for use in conjunction with a handle, said handle located
with the gripping means and depending away from a face of the
gripping means which opposes the face from which the gripping
members protrude.
11- Apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the movement of the
gripping members between the first and second positions is achieved
by relative movement of the handle and gripping means.
12- Apparatus according to claim 11 wherein movement of the handle
towards the gripping means causes movement of the gripping members
from the first to the second position and movement of the handle
away from the gripping means causes movement of the gripping means
from the second to the first position.
13- Apparatus means according to claim 10 wherein the gripping
means are angularly adjustable with respect to the handle to allow
the cleaning operations to be performed and then further pivotal
movement to one of the extremes of movement between the handle and
gripping means allows, the handle with the gripping means held by
or against an item, to be moved relative to and with respect to the
gripping means, towards the same to contact and grip the cleaning
pad, or away from the gripping means to cause the ejection of the
cleaning pad.
14- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the gripping members are
provided as part of a plate, said plate retained on the gripping
means such that movement between the first and second positions
involves movements about an overcentre so as to provide snap
action.
15- Apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the handle is removably
attachable to the gripping means, via engagement means which can be
moved between engagement and open positions.
16- Apparatus according to claim 15 wherein movement of the
engagement means is achieved by operation of a lever which is
provided as part of the handle.
17- Apparatus according to claim 1 where a holder is provided for
the pads and handle, said holder having two location positions for
the handle, a first ready to use position on top of the stack of
pads, and a second storage position seated at the rear of the
holder facing the opposite direction with the grip located over a
raised bump that ensures the grip remains in the open position
ready for use.
18- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the holder and handle
include any or any combination of the features of-the rotating grip
of the handle has a stop that ensures the open grip does not rotate
under the weight of the handle in the stored position in the stand,
or under applied pressure by the user when engaging a pad, a
rest/guide against which the handle can lean, and/or a handle with
the majority of the handle's weight to one side of the handle/grip
pivoting axis, when the handle is positioned above a horizontal
pad.
19- Apparatus according to claim 1 wherein one or more ribs are
located inside the holder to provide limited frictional resistance
with a stack of pads located within.
20- Apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the one or more ribs
are incorporated into a carton wall in which the pads are
provided.
21- Apparatus for performing a cleaning operation, said apparatus
including a cleaning pad, gripping means for gripping the pad and a
handle for connection with the gripping means, said cleaning pad
selectively displaceable from the gripping means and said gripping
means selectively displaceable from the handle and wherein the
gripping means include teeth which can be moved from a first,
gripping position, to a second, ejection position substantially
perpendicular to the surface of the cleaning pad with which they
are in contact to cause ejection of the cleaning pad.
22- Apparatus according to claim 21 wherein when the cleaning pad
is ejected, the teeth of the gripping means return to a third
position.
23- Apparatus according to claim 21 wherein he handle and gripping
means are connected via a pivot location and said gripping means is
selectively removable from the handle by pivoting the gripping
means to a position at an extremity of the range of pivotal
movement.
24- Apparatus according to claim 23 wherein the position for
removal is outwith the normal movement range required for operation
of the apparatus in the cleaning operation.
25- Apparatus according to claim 24 wherein when the gripping means
and handle are in the required position to allow removal,
manipulation and/or deformation of the handle and/or gripping means
causes the subsequent removal.
26- A cleaning pad for use in a cleaning action, said pad formed
from a blend of fibres including cellulosic fibre.
27- A cleaning pad according to claim 26 wherein the cellulosic
fibre is included within the range 20-70% of the fibre blend.
28- A cleaning pad according to claim 27 wherein other fibre is
provided within the range 30-80%.
29- A cleaning pad according to claim 28 wherein the other fibre
includes 30-80% wool fibre (keratin).
30- A cleaning pad according to claim 29 wherein the pad includes
20-70% viscose rayon at >8 decitex fibre titre and 30-80%
sheep's wool >30 micron.
31- A cleaning pad according to claim 26 wherein the pad includes
perforation/cut lines in the pad in a grid of cuts and joining tags
of uncut material, along the length of the pad and across the
width.
32- A cleaning pad according to claim 31 wherein additional and
longer cut lines are provided to segment the pad.
33- A cleaning pad according to claim 31 wherein the spacing
between cut lines in a maximum of 15 mm in any direction.
34- A cleaning pad according to claim 31 wherein the pad is
substantially rectangular in shape with corners with a curved
profile of a minimum radius of 10 mm.
35- A cleaning pad according to claim 26 wherein the fibres of the
cleaning pad are needled at a ratio of between 2-4 penetrations per
cm. square.
36- A cleaning pad according to claim 26 wherein at least some of
the fibres in the cleaning pad are cut such that more than 60% of
the fibre within the pad has a length of less than 15 mm.
37- A cleaning pad according to claim 26 wherein an aqueous
dispersion of a polymer binder is applied to the cleaning pad.
38- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein the binder
includes abrasive particles therein.
39- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein the cleaning pad
has a penetration of said binder from at least one external surface
inwardly to a depth of up to 3 mm.
40- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein the depth of
penetration is up to 2 mm.
41- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein the binder is
applied to opposing planer external surfaces of the pad.
42- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein the pad has a
first external surface with a relatively strong layer, an inner
core or layer of unbonded fibre and at the opposing side another
relatively strong layer.
43- A cleaning pad according to claims 37 wherein the polymer
binder is biodegradable.
44- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein the polymer is a
high molecular aliphatic polyester polyurethane.
45- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein the polymer binder
includes biodegradable particulate solids to a level within the
range of between 5% and 100% of the polymer dispersion's solids
mass.
46- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein a water resistant
binder coat is applied to one side of the pad and on the alternate
face, a polymer coating is applied.
47- A cleaning pad according to claim 37 wherein a fibre is added
to the fibre blend which can degrade after a period of use in
water.
48- A cleaning pad according to claims 37 wherein the buoyancy of
the cleaning pad is controlled so as to influence the disposability
of the pad when discarded from the assembly and when the same is
required to be flushed away.
49- A cleaning pad according to claim 48 wherein the buoyancy is
determined with respect to density of the cleaning pad and the
preferred density range for flushability is between 1.05 grms per
CC-1.45 grms per CC when the cleaning pad is fully immersed in
cold, pure water at 4 deg. C for 60 seconds prior to weighing the
test sample whilst in water.
50- A cleaning pad according to claim 49 wherein the density of the
cleaning pad is within the range of 1.05-1.45 times the density of
the water or water solution in which the cleaning pad is immersed
in use.
Description
[0001] The invention to which this application relates is the
provision of apparatus including a gripping means and actuation
handle therefor which can be used to exert a gripping force on a
cleaning pad such that the apparatus, with the cleaning pad
attached thereto, can be used to control the operation of cleaning
using the cleaning pad on, for example, a toilet bowl. Furthermore,
the gripping means can be actuated to eject the cleaning pad from
the apparatus when soiled without the need for physical contact
with the same.
[0002] In the applicant's co-pending patent application
PCT/GB2004/000740, there is disclosed cleaning apparatus comprising
a handle, attachment means, a cleaning pad and a holder- for a
number of said cleaning pads. In that application there is
disclosed a means whereby attachment of the pad to the handle can
be selectively achieved by, for example, use of Velcro on the
handle which engages with fibres or matter of the cleaning pad.
However a problem with this is the whilst it works the attachment
mechanism are not readily replaceable because the ejection means
passes through the attachment mechanism in the handle assembly.
[0003] While this is found to be effective, the aim of the current
invention is to provide an improved gripping means for use with a
handle and which allows the cleaning pad to be gripped as required
for use and also to be ejected when it is required to dispose of
the cleaning pad. A further aim of the invention is to provide
improvements to the pad which allow improved operation of the same,
allow improved disposal of the cleaning pad when discarded and
generally improve the utility of the apparatus.
[0004] In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided
apparatus for cleaning, said apparatus including gripping means for
the cleaning pad, said gripping means including a plurality of
gripping members which are moved to a position to contact the
cleaning pad and further movement of the gripping means with
respect to the cleaning pad causes the gripping members to move
between the first position in which the same are in contact with a
surface of the pad, to a second position whereupon said gripping
members exert the grip on the said cleaning pad.
[0005] In one embodiment the cleaning pad can be ejected from the
gripping means by the movement of the gripping members from the
second to the first position.
[0006] In one embodiment the outer layer of the cleaning pad has an
open structure such as woven, fibre or foam.
[0007] In one embodiment, the grip is achieved as the movement of
the gripping members between the first and second positions, causes
the movement apart of first and second sets of said gripping
members such that the cleaning pad, at least that portion between
the location of said sets of gripping members, is stretched and
held under an increased level of tension. In one embodiment, the
gripping members are split into sets, which depend outwardly from a
common face of the gripping means and which are moved between said
first and second grip positions.
[0008] In one embodiment, the movement of the gripping members
between said first and second positions is, or includes, a snap
action. This has two advantages, firstly, when moving from the
first to the second grip position, the snap action causes the
gripping members to move apart quickly while retaining contact with
the same respective portions of the cleaning pad thereby stretching
the same and causing the additional tension and hence retention of
the cleaning pad. A second advantage is that when moving the
gripping members from the second to the first position, to remove
the cleaning pad, the snap action acts as an ejection force on the
cleaning pad so that the cleaning pad is totally removed from the
gripping members and can therefore be discarded at the appropriate
location as the snap action effectively acts to "pop" the cleaning
pad from the gripping means.
[0009] In one embodiment, the gripping members are of elongate form
and are relatively straight, with the gripping members in each set
provided in a linear spaced array and can be provided in a series
of rows. The gripping members can be angularly aligned so as to
approach the cleaning pad at an angle which may be perpendicular to
the cleaning pad or angled outwardly therefrom. In addition, or
alternatively, some or all of the gripping members can be provided
with hook formations if that is found to increase the gripping
action of the cleaning pad. The number, spacing and/or formation of
the gripping members can be varied dependent on the particular
formation of the cleaning pad with which the same are to be
used.
[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the gripping means is provided
for use in conjunction with a handle, said handle located with the
gripping means and, typically, depending away from a face of the
gripping means which opposes the face from which the gripping
members protrude. In one embodiment, the movement of the gripping
members between the first and second positions is achieved by
relative movement of the handle and gripping means. In one
embodiment, movement of the handle towards the gripping means
causes movement of the gripping members from the first to the
second position and movement of the handle away from the gripping
means causes movement of the gripping means from the second to the
first position. In both cases, it is required that either the
handle or gripping means are held in a relatively fixed position so
as to allow the application of force to the other of the gripping
means or handle and allow the relative movement of the same in
order to allow the movement forces to be exerted on the gripping
members.
[0011] In one embodiment the gripping means can be angularly
adjustable with respect to the handle to allow the cleaning
operations to be performed and then further pivotal movement to one
of the extremes of movement between the handle and gripping means
allows, the handle with the gripping means held by or against an
item, to be moved relative to and with respect to the gripping
means, towards the same to contact and grip the cleaning pad, or
away from the gripping means to cause the ejection of the cleaning
pad.
[0012] In one embodiment, the gripping members are provided as part
of a plate, said plate retained on the gripping means such that
movement between the first and second positions involves movement
about an overcentre so as to provide the required snap action.
[0013] Typically the stiffness of the plate on which the gripping
members are formed versus the rigidity and dimensional stability of
the cleaning pad are synchronised to as to allow the optimal
engagement of the cleaning pad with the gripping members.
Furthermore the angle of contact and movement of the gripping
members with respect to the cleaning pad has an impact on the grip
which is achieved and therefore are taken into account during
design considerations.
[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the handle is removably
attachable to the gripping means, via engagement means which can be
moved between engagement and open positions. In a preferred
embodiment, the movement of the engagement means is achieved by
operation of a lever which is provided as part of the handle and
which, in one preferred embodiment, has an actuation means at, or
adjacent to, the location at which the handle would be held,
thereby allowing the actuation of the engagement means by the user
when holding the handle in a normal position so as to allow the
release of the gripping means from the handle if, for example, the
same become unclean or damaged, and replacement with a new gripping
means.
[0015] Thus, in accordance with the invention, there is provided a
handle and gripping means assembly which can be operated by a user
with their hand on the handle and so the engagement and removal of
cleaning pads from the assembly can be achieved without the need
for the user to physically contact the cleaning pad thereby greatly
improving hygiene. Furthermore, the gripping means can also be
removed from the handle for replacement purposes without the need
for physical contact with the gripping means by the user which
again provides a hygiene improvement. Importantly, the cleaning pad
is also effectively and reliably gripped by the gripping means
during use.
[0016] If required, the cleaning pads can be held in a magazine in
the form of a holder, said holder also acting to locate, for
storage purposes, and in one embodiment gripping purposes, the
handle and gripping means. The holder can also be used to allow the
orientation of the gripping means as they approach a cleaning pad
in the holder to be correct so as to ensure that the gripping means
exert the gripping force on the cleaning pad and lift the same from
the holder for use.
[0017] In one embodiment the holder has two positions for storing
the handle--(a) in the ready to use position on top of the stack of
pads, and (b) seated at the rear of the holder facing the opposite
direction (to provide a means of avoiding any "drip" contamination
of fresh pads) with the grip located over a protrusion that ensures
the grip remains in the open position ready for use.
[0018] In one embodiment a plurality of features and any or any
combination of the same improve the usability of the system and in
particular the ease of storing the handle and the loading of fresh
pads. These features include a rotating grip of the handle which
includes a stop that ensures the open grip does not rotate under
the weight of the handle in the stored position in the stand, or
under applied pressure by the user when engaging a pad. The grip
holds the handle on the pad.
[0019] A rest/guide is provided in the holder against which the
handle can lean and locate into. Preferably the guide has a "U"
section shape that restricts the movement of the handle in a
sideways direction and a forward direction (away from the user)
leaving the handle free to pull towards the user without
interference. A further feature is the handle shape that positions
the majority of the handle's weight to one side of the handle/grip
pivoting axis when the handle is positioned above a pad in the
holder. In the preferred design the handle leans forward away from
the user onto the stand guide. However in another embodiment it
could lean towards the user.
[0020] Collectively, these features provide a preferred embodiment
of holder and handle relationship.
[0021] In one embodiment the holder includes one or more ribs
located on the inside walls of the storage area for the pads to
provide limited frictional resistance with the vertical stack of
pads located within, so as to provide a "de-nesting" feature to
ensure pads are dispensed singularly when pulled out by the handle.
In one embodiment ribs are made from a semi flexible material, or
feature a spring loaded seating that enables the ribs to
deform/move to allow a carton in which the pads are provided to be
loaded into the holder such as in a perpendicular direction to the
ribs.
[0022] In one embodiment one or more ribs are incorporated into the
carton wall itself, or a folded insert placed between the pads and
the carton wall.
[0023] In a further aspect of the invention there is provided
apparatus for performing a cleaning operation, said apparatus
including a cleaning pad, gripping means for gripping the pad and a
handle for connection with the gripping means, said cleaning pad
selectively displaceable from the gripping means and said gripping
means selectively displaceable from the handle and wherein the
gripping means include teeth which can be moved from a first,
gripping position, to a second, ejection position substantially
perpendicular to the surface of the cleaning pad with which they
are in contact to cause ejection of the cleaning pad.
[0024] In one embodiment, once the cleaning pad is ejected, the
teeth of the gripping means return to a third position. Preferably
the teeth return substantially to this position at which the teeth
are held in the best position for gripping the next cleaning pad.
Typically the teeth move from the third to the first gripping
position in a snap action.
[0025] In one embodiment the handle and gripping means are
connected via a pivot location and said gripping means is
selectively removable from the handle by pivoting the gripping
means to a position at an extremity of the range of pivotal
movement.
[0026] Typically the position for removal is outwith the normal
movement range required for operation of the apparatus in the
cleaning operation.
[0027] In one embodiment, once the gripping means and handle are in
the required position to allow removal, manipulation and/or
deformation of the handle and/or gripping means causes the
subsequent removal.
[0028] Thus the present invention provides apparatus which allows
for the self contained attachment and ejection of the cleaning pad
from the assembly without the need for the same to be located in
the handle and therefore allows greater ease of replacement.
[0029] In a further aspect of the invention there is provided a
cleaning pad for use in a cleaning action, said pad formed from a
blend of fibres including cellulosic fibre.
[0030] In one embodiment the cellulosic fibre is included within
the range 20-70% of the fibre blend and preferably is viscose >8
decitex fibre titre. In one embodiment the other fibre is provided
within the range 30-80%.
[0031] Typically the other fibre includes 30-80% wool fibre
(keratin). Yet further preferably the other fibre includes, 30-80%
sheep's wool >30 micron.
[0032] Most preferably the combination of material used to form the
cleaning pad is 60-70% sheeps wool and 30-40% viscose.
[0033] In one embodiment the pad composition includes an added
semi-soluble fibre such as 90%+hydrolised PVOH. Preferably, the
added fibre is a bi-component fibre comprising an insoluble coating
(e.g. aliphatic polyester) and a semi-soluble core (e.g. PVOH).
This fibre may comprise 5-100% of the total fibre weight.
[0034] In one embodiment the material may include abrasive
particles and/or a polymer coating and/or a releasing agent such as
silicon which allows the material to be cut effectively.
[0035] The blend of fibres optimises the combination of cleaning
pad properties including specific gravity to assist flushing,
dimensional resistance when wet which improves the feel and control
of the pad when in use, absorbance which assists the cleaning
operation of the pad and limits the wet strength of the cleaning
pad. This, in turn enables the at least partial disintegration of
the pad and hence allows the improved disposal of the same through
flushing or other disposal means.
[0036] In one embodiment of the invention there is provided a
cleaning pad to which an aqueous dispersion of a polymer binder is
applied.
[0037] In one embodiment the cleaning pad has a penetration of said
binder from at least one external surface inwardly to a depth of up
to 3 mm. In one embodiment the depth of penetration is up to 2
mm.
[0038] In one embodiment the binder is applied to opposing planer
external surface of the pad.
[0039] In one embodiment the selective application of the binder
results in a cleaning pad having, from one external surface, a
relatively strong layer, an inner core or layer of unbonded fibre
and at the opposing side another relatively strong layer. The said
strong layers include the polymer binder. The provision of the
different layers allows the improved delamination of the cleaning
pad when disposed.
[0040] In one embodiment the fibres of the cleaning pad are needled
at a ratio of between 2-4 penetrations per cm. square.
[0041] In one embodiment a proportion of the fibres in the cleaning
pad are cut typically when part of the cleaning pad. In one
embodiment more than 60% of the fibre within the pad has a length
of less than 15 mm.
[0042] Preferably the layout of the perforation/cut lines in the
pad is a grid of parallel cuts and joining tags of uncut material,
across the length and width of the pad.
[0043] Alternatively one set of cut lines in one direction are
offset to perpendicular to create a "stretcher bond" pattern.
[0044] In one embodiment additional layer cut lines are provided to
segment the pad and promote quicker partial break-up of the pad
after flushing, as well as weaker lines of folding to assist with
flushing.
[0045] In one embodiment the layout of perforations in the pad is
to ensure there is a maximum spacing between cut lines of 15 mm in
any direction and more preferably less than 10 mm in at least one
direction.
[0046] In one embodiment the pad includes corners with a curved
profile. In one embodiment the minimum radius of the curve is 10
mm, preferably 15 mm. This assists the pad to turn in the confines
of the toilet trap into the necessary orientation to flush.
[0047] In one embodiment the pad perforations have material
connection points wider/greater in dimension and/or frequency,
along the length of the pad and narrower and/or less frequent
across the pad width in the perpendicular plane. This provides the
necessary minimum strength to resist the stretching load exerted by
the grip during engagement, but provides a weaker bond between the
rows of perforations across the width, which are held in place
during cleaning by the grip teeth. This promotes the break-up of
the pad after flushing, without compromising integrity in use.
[0048] In one embodiment the polymer binder is biodegradable.
Preferably the polymer is a high molecular aliphatic polyester
polyurethane.
[0049] In one embodiment the binder applied to the pad is a
water-resistant binder coat applied to one side, and is preferably
a biodegradable, high molecular weight, aliphatic polyester. On the
alternate face, a semi-soluble polymer coating is applied such as
Poly Vinyl alcohol (PVOH) or Starch.
[0050] In one embodiment the fibre is added to the fibre blend
which can degrade after a period of use in water there by
encouraging the degradation of the cleaning pad.
[0051] In one embodiment the polymer binder includes biodegradable
particulate solids. In one embodiment the solids are not readily
water soluble. Preferably the solids are dimensionally unstable
and/or soft when wet and subject to stress. Typically the solids
are added to a level within the range of between 5% and 100% of the
polymer dispersion's solids mass.
[0052] In a preferred embodiment the buoyancy of the cleaning pad
is controlled so as to influence the disposability of the pad when
discarded from the assembly and when the same is required to be
flushed away. Preferably the buoyancy is determined with respect to
density of the cleaning pad and the preferred density range for
flushability is 1.05 grms per CC-1.45 grms per CC when the cleaning
pad is fully immersed in cold, pure water at 4 deg. C. for 60
seconds prior to weighing the test sample whilst in water. More
preferably the density of the cleaning pad is within the range of
1.05-1.45.times. the density of the water or water solution in the
toilet bowl trap prior to flushing. This is particularly relevant
when the pad is impregnated with soluble solids such as
surfactants, dye etc, that may significantly increase the density
of the flush water solution.
[0053] Specific embodiments of the invention are now described with
respect to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0054] FIGS. 1a-c illustrate views of the gripping means according
to one embodiment of the invention;
[0055] FIGS. 2a-b illustrate the gripping means plate;
[0056] FIGS. 3a-c illustrate the gripping means of FIGS. 1a-d in
conjunction with a handle in accordance with one embodiment of the
invention;
[0057] FIGS. 4a-b illustrates the handle in position for storage in
a holder;
[0058] FIGS. 5a-b illustrate an alternative arrangement of the
gripping means;
[0059] FIGS. 6a-b illustrate a yet further embodiment of gripping
means in accordance with the invention;
[0060] FIGS. 7a and b illustrate perspective view and cross
sectional side elevation of a cleaning pad in accordance with one
embodiment of the invention;
[0061] FIGS. 8a-g illustrate a fixing arrangement between a handle
and gripping means in accordance with the invention;
[0062] FIGS. 9a-b illustrate in schematic manner the fixing
arrangement between the handle and gripping means;
[0063] FIGS. 10a-c illustrate a fixing arrangement between the
gripping means and the cleaning pad; and
[0064] FIGS. 11a-e illustrate a further arrangement between the
handle and gripping means to allow the ejection of the cleaning
pad;
[0065] FIGS. 12a-c illustrate embodiments of the cleaning pad in
plan;
[0066] FIGS. 13a-h illustrate positions of the handle with respect
to the holder; and
[0067] FIGS. 14a-c illustrate further features of the holder.
[0068] Referring firstly to FIGS. 1a-c there are illustrated views
of a gripping means in accordance with one embodiment of the
invention.
[0069] The gripping means includes a body 2 which has a first side
4 and a second, opposing side 6, from which gripping members 8
protrude to allow the selective gripping of a cleaning pad.
[0070] Dealing firstly with the side 4, this includes, in this
embodiment, an aperture 10 and a location bar 12 which is provided
for location with the end of a handle in a manner described
subsequently. The bar is mounted with respect to the gripping means
so as to be movable as indicated by the arrow 14 through the
aperture 10. The purpose of this movement will also be described
subsequently.
[0071] Turning now to the other surface, or underside, 6 there are
shown two sets of gripping members 10, set 16 and set 18. In each
set there is provided a plurality of gripping members 10 which, in
this arrangement, are linearly spaced as shown. In both FIGS. 1a-b,
the gripping members are shown in a first position. However, shown
in FIG. 1b, in broken lines, are the position of the gripping
members 10' when in the second position, having been moved there by
movement in the direction of arrows 20,22 respectively.
[0072] FIGS. 2a-b illustrate how the gripping members 10 are
provided as part of a plate 24 which, in turn, is connected to arms
26 which in turn is connected to rod 12. The plate 24 is held in
the gripping means body 28 via the connection of the bars 30 in the
hook formations 32 in a manner which allows pivotal movement 25 and
hence allows the movement of the gripping members with the snap
action. Preferably the plate is held in tension such that it is
moved from the rest position of FIG. 2a to the tensioned in use
position as indicated by arrows 27.
[0073] In order to move the gripping means between the first and
second positions, relative movement is required between the plate
24 and the body 28. In one embodiment, this is achieved by placing
the gripping means such that the gripping members 10 contact the
surface 34 of the cleaning pad 36 as shown in FIG. 1b in bold lines
and then applying a force to either of the gripping means or handle
such as to push the same together which causes the gripping means
plate to move to the second position and hence the gripping
members, which retain contact with the pad, to move to the second
position 10' in which, in this embodiment, the gripping means are
extended as shown in FIG. 1b and the cleaning pad is held under
tension by stretching as indicated by the broken lines 36'.
[0074] To remove the cleaning pad, the reverse steps are followed
in the handle and gripping means are moved apart to cause the
gripping means plate to move from the second to the first position
and the plate moves with the snap action, as the grip of the
gripping members is released, to eject the cleaning pad.
[0075] In this example, FIG. 1c illustrates a spring release 31
which, if the movement of the handle with respect to the gripping
means does not cause the ejection of the cleaning pad, actuation of
the spring release 31 does cause movement of the gripping members
and plate back to the first position and hence causes ejection of
the cleaning pad.
[0076] In one embodiment, force is applied via the handle 38 as
shown in FIGS. 3a-c which is formed so as to engage with the rod 12
on the gripping means. In one embodiment, the handle can be
permanently attached to the gripping means but alternatively, and
preferably, the gripping means is releasable from the handle. In
this embodiment, the release is by the opening of engagement means
40 which include an engaging collar which is at one end of the
handle 38. The opening of the collar is achieved via a lever 42
which is shown in the open position in FIG. 1c and which has an
actuation point 44 adjacent to the position 46 for the user's hand
on the handle. The collar 40 is normally held in a closed position
in engagement around the rod 12 of the gripping means, thereby
holding the gripping means in conjunction with the handle. However,
if the user wishes to eject the gripping means then they can
operate the lever 42 at the actuation point to cause the opening of
the collar and hence release of the gripping means. The engagement
means 40 can also be used to allow other implements to be picked up
and used in conjunction with the handle, with the other implements
having a rod attachment means around which the collar fits and
including any or any combination of a brush or any replaceable
cleaning means.
[0077] With the handle, gripping means and cleaning pad all
attached, so the cleaning apparatus in accordance with the
invention is formed and can be used for the cleaning operation
which is required. After one or a number of uses, it will be
desired to discard the cleaning pad and replace the same with a
new, clean version. In order to do this, the gripping means and
handle are moved apart to a limited extent which causes the
gripping plate 24 to which the rod 12 is connected to be moved and
the gripping members to move from the second, gripping position
10', to the first position 10 in which the pad is released from the
grip. Preferably, the movement from the second to the first
position also has a snap action such that in addition to causing
the gripping members to be released from the pad, the snap action
causes the positive ejection of the cleaning pad from the gripping
means.
[0078] FIGS. 4a and b illustrate an arrangement of gripping means,
handle 38, and holder 48. If required, a store of cleaning pads can
be held in the holder and the holder is provided with guides to
allow the guided movement of the gripping member on the handle to
grip and remove one of the cleaning pads for use.
[0079] Turning now to FIGS. 5a and b there is illustrated a further
embodiment of the invention. In this arrangement, the gripping
members 110 are held in a plate 124 such that initially, as
indicated in FIG. 5a, only some of the gripping members will
contact the cleaning pad 136 as the handle 138 and gripping means
102 are moved to contact the pad. This is the first position.
Thereafter continued movement causes all of the gripping members
110' to contact the pad 136 as shown in FIG. 5b as the pivot
location points 130,132 move as indicated by arrows 125 to the
second position shown in FIG. 5b and in which the cleaning pad is
gripped. In this arrangement the plate 124 can be an integral part
of the gripping member 102 housing 128 or formed separately. To
remove the cleaning pad the reverse of the steps are performed.
[0080] FIGS. 6a and b show a yet further arrangement where there is
provided two plate 224, 224' each having at least one gripping
member 210. Each plate is pivotally connected or formed with the
housing 228 by pivot locations 230,232. In this arrangement the
plates 224, 224' are moved on to the cleaning pad 236, as shown ion
FIG. 6a such that the gripping members 210 contact the same in the
first position. Further movement towards the pad causes the members
210 to advance into the cleaning pad and outwardly thereby adding
to the gripping force on the cleaning pad. The provision of
protrusions 250 on the plates and housing 228 at matching locations
causes the gripping members to exert the gripping force as shown in
FIG. 6b where the second position is achieved. Again in order to
remove the cleaning pad the reverse of the steps is performed.
[0081] Referring firstly to FIGS. 7a-b there is illustrated a
cleaning pad 302 in accordance with the invention which includes
front and rear opposing planar surfaces 304, 306. Depending
inwardly from the surfaces 304, 306 are layers 308, 310
respectively which include a polymer binder material. Between the
layers 308, 310 is provided a layer 312 which preferably does not
include the polymer binder.
[0082] A blend of fibre is used in the cleaning pads construction
to optimise the desired combination of cleaning pad properties:
specific gravity (to assist flushing), dimensional resilience when
wet (feel and control of pad in use), absorbency (to assist
cleaning) and limit wet strength (to enable partial disintegration
of pad). The preferred blend is 20-70% cellulosic fibre, 40-80%
other fibre, more preferably 20-70% Viscose rayon, >8 decitex
fibre titre, 30-80% sheep's wool >30 micron.
[0083] The application of the aqueous dispersion of polymer binder
is controlled to ensure that the penetration of cured polymer,
after manufacture, is substantially limited to the first 2 mm
inwardly from both the external surfaces of the pad. The result is
a cleaning pad with three distinct layers--relatively strong outer
layers and an inner core of lightly entangled unbonded fibre. This
subsequently enables partial break-up of the pad structure by
de-lamination after flushing.
[0084] The required de-lamination effect described above can be
further improved by minimizing the mechanical entanglement of fibre
during the needle punching part of the manufacturing process. The
preferred rate of "needling" is between 2-4 penetrations per cm
sq.
[0085] Post flushing de-lamination of the pad can be enhanced
further still, by increasing the density of cut lines through the
pad structure, thereby reducing the number of long uncut fibres
within the pad structure. Preferably, more than 60% of the fibre
within the finished pad will have a cut length of less than 15
mm.
[0086] The preferred primary coating constituent for the cleaning
pad is both insoluble and biodegradable, and most preferably has
high molecular aliphatic polyester polyurethanes. It is desirable
to maintain the abrasive properties of a substantially insoluble
coating, whilst limiting the bond strength of the coating to assist
breakdown of the cleaning pad after flushing. This may be achieved
by adding to the primary polymer dispersion, biodegradable
particulate solids that are not readily water soluble but are
either dimensionally unstable, or soften when a) wet and/or b)
subject to stress during use. Preferred additives include, ground
vegetable matter (e.g walnut shells), partially hydrolysed
polyvinyl alcohol and modified starches. These fillers may be added
at a level between 5 and 100% of the polymer dispersion solid's
mass.
[0087] FIGS. 8a-g and FIGS. 9a-b illustrate an end of the assembly
handle 314 and gripping means 316. The gripping means 16 are
provided with teeth for gripping the cleaning pad 302 in a manner
which will subsequently be described. The gripping means 316 may
need to be detached from the handle to allow replacement and this
is achieved by manipulation of the pivot location 318 between the
same. The pivot location is formed by an axle rod 320 located in
jaws 322 of the handle. In normal operation of the device, pivotal
movement between the handle and gripping means is possible to allow
the normal pivotal movement of the cleaning pad in the cleaning
operation. In order to allow the gripping means to be removed the
same is moved to the extreme pivotal range position as shown in
FIG. 9b to allow the narrow section of width X to be positioned so
as to pass through gap 324 in the jaws 322. Typically manipulation
of the jaws to increase the width of the gap 324 is necessary to
allow the rod to pass through the enlarged gap. Typically the said
extreme position is outwith the normal operating pivotal range
required for the cleaning operation.
[0088] FIGS. 10a-c show the arrangement between the cleaning pad
and the gripping means with the teeth of the gripping means
contacting the cleaning pad to hold the cleaning pad to the
teeth.
[0089] To ensure the ejection of the cleaning pad 302 from the
device after use, it is desirable for the gripping means teeth 30
to move from the first gripping position (FIG. 10a) past the third
or ready position (FIG. 10b) to momentarily assume a substantially
vertical second position perpendicular to the pad to eject the same
as shown in FIG. 10c. After completing the ejection the teeth
spring back to the ready position automatically and to the position
where the teeth are at the preferred angle for the introduction
into the new cleaning pad. The movement of the plate and gripping
means between the positions of FIGS. 10b and a works in a single
snap motion. The momentary extension to FIG. 10c is achieved
fluidly by the user of the device either by the extended
"follow-through" movement of the thumb button on the handle or
follow through movement of the handle when used against a fixed
surface e.g side of the toilet bowl. This additional ejection
movement is facilitated by the inclusion of 4 slots within the
gripping means frame to hold the two axels of the moveable plate.
The centre of the moveable plate is now allowed to move further up
vertically in relation to the frame, bringing together the gripping
members into a vertical orientation to maximise disengagement from
the pad fibres.
[0090] Turning to FIGS. 11a-e, there is provided a further
arrangement between the handle and gripping means for the ejection
of the cleaning pad. In this case located at the tip 402 of the
handle 404 are two plungers 406, 408 which are connected by a
flexible strap 410 (which is supported in the handle) to a thumb
activated switch 412 at the end held by the user. When pressed, the
thumb switch pushes the plungers out from within their housing,
against the top of the gripping assembly frame 414 to activate the
ejection movement within. The plungers then automatically retract
into the housing of the handle by means of a compression spring 415
arrangement. This design provides a convenient means of remote
ejection of the used cleaning pad, without a fixed link between the
thumb switch and gripping assembly. This has the benefit of
allowing easy replacement of the gripping assembly, and providing
unrestricted movement of the gripping means assembly in use.
[0091] FIG. 11c shows the apparatus with the gripping means teeth
in a protruding position and FIG. 11e shows the gripping means
teeth withdrawn.
[0092] FIGS. 12a-c illustrate further embodiments of a cleaning pad
500 which in each embodiment is shown as being substantially
rectangular in plan with rounded corners 502. The embodiment shown
in FIG. 12a has a series of cuts 504 running along the length of
the pad and a series of cuts 506 running perpendicular thereto to
form a "grid" of cuts. FIG. 12b illustrates a variation on this
where there is a different pattern of cuts but again the principal
is the same of trying to reduce the size of the pad during disposal
and promoting the "breaking up" of the pad. It should be
appreciated that tags of unbroken material can be provided along
the cuts at intervals so as to maintain the integrity of the pad as
a single unit during use. The width of the tags can be adjusted to
suit particular break up and disposal requirements following
use.
[0093] FIG. 12c shows a yet further pattern of cuts and in this
case the inclusion of additional longer cuts 508 which further
serve to spilt the pad into segments which once again promotes the
splitting up of the pad.
[0094] FIGS. 13a-14c illustrate a further aspect of the invention
and show a holder 600 and handle 602 located therein. The handle
will operate in a similar manner to that as previously described.
The FIGS. 13a-d illustrate the handle in a first in use position on
top of a stack of cleaning pad held in the holder and FIG. 13e-h
illustrate the handle in a second storage position in which drips
from the handle are prevented from landing on the pads as the
handle end and gripping means do not lie above the pads in this
position.
[0095] FIG. 14b illustrates a preferred arrangement of the handle
602, gripping means 606 and stack of pads 604 in the holder 600. In
this arrangement the handle weight is offset to the side of axis A
of the holder and pivot axis 608 as indicated by arrows 610 and
therefore is positioned to be angled away from the user. Arrow B
indicates the limitation of the pivotal movement of the handle
which in combination with rest C ensures that the handle and grip
successfully pick up of the pad. The handle is moved to pick up and
remove a pad 604' from the top of the stack. FIG. 14a illustrates
an alternative embodiment with the handle in the reverse
orientation.
[0096] FIG. 14c shows a sectional elevation through the holder 600
and illustrates the provision of one of the ribs 612 provided to
contact with the stack of pads, either directly or through the
deformable wall of the pad carton/cartridge, and provide a denest
feature to allow one of the pads to be removed from the stack at a
time. There is also shown part of the guide or rest 614 against
which the handle rests when in the holder and which is
substantially Ushaped.
[0097] There is therefore provided a series of embodiments of a
gripping means for a cleaning pad which allow the effective and
reliable gripping of the pad while at the same time allowing the
grip to be achieved by the user remotely of the pad itself. While
in certain embodiments the ejection of the pad can be achieved by
the reverse steps of the gripping step, it should be appreciated
that other actuation means can be provided in the handle and/or
gripping means to cause the ejection of the cleaning pad.
* * * * *