U.S. patent application number 11/799505 was filed with the patent office on 2007-11-15 for shower enclosure and bathtub cleaning system.
Invention is credited to Joseph Clemente, Thomas Panasci.
Application Number | 20070264075 11/799505 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38685299 |
Filed Date | 2007-11-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070264075 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Panasci; Thomas ; et
al. |
November 15, 2007 |
Shower enclosure and bathtub cleaning system
Abstract
A cleaning system includes a housing having a lumen defined
therein including a first and second end configured to fluidly
connect a hose and a pipe connection. The pipe connector is
configured to selectively engage a showerhead pipe. The hose
includes a first end where it operatively engages the lumen and a
second end configured to operatively engage a hand-held scrubbing
device for scrubbing a shower enclosure. The pipe connector is
configured to divert water from the showerhead pipe through the
hose via the lumen and is designed for use with the hand-held
scrubbing device. The system further includes a spool disposed in
the housing and configured to operatively engage the hose. The
spool is selectively rotatable within the housing from a retracted
position to a released position. A receiving compartment is defined
in the housing and is designated to releasably retain a cartridge
therein. The cartridge is configured to retain a cleaning agent
therein.
Inventors: |
Panasci; Thomas; (Forest
Hills, NY) ; Clemente; Joseph; (New York,
NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CARTER, DELUCA, FARRELL & SCHMIDT, LLP
445 BROAD HOLLOW ROAD
SUITE 225
MELVILLE
NY
11747
US
|
Family ID: |
38685299 |
Appl. No.: |
11/799505 |
Filed: |
May 1, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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60796776 |
May 2, 2006 |
|
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|
60844558 |
Sep 14, 2006 |
|
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60844540 |
Sep 14, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
401/289 ;
15/29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 2200/3033 20130101;
A46B 15/0081 20130101; A46B 13/06 20130101; A46B 15/0055 20130101;
A46B 5/002 20130101; A46B 7/04 20130101; A46B 5/005 20130101; A46B
11/063 20130101; A47L 13/26 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
401/289 ;
015/029 |
International
Class: |
A46B 13/06 20060101
A46B013/06; A46B 11/06 20060101 A46B011/06 |
Claims
1. A cleaning system, comprising: a housing having a lumen defined
therein, the lumen including a first and second end configured to
fluidly connect a hose and a pipe connection, said pipe connector
being configured to selectively engage a showerhead pipe, the hose
including a first end where it operatively engages the lumen and a
second end being configured to operatively engage a hand-held
scrubbing device for scrubbing a shower enclosure, the pipe
connector being configured to divert water from the showerhead pipe
through the hose via the lumen and being designed for use with the
hand-held scrubbing device; a spool disposed in the housing and
configured to operatively engage the hose, wherein the spool is
selectively rotatable within the housing from a retracted position
to a released position; and a receiving compartment defined in the
housing which is designated to releasably retain a cartridge
therein, the cartridge being configured to retain a cleaning agent
therein.
2. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the scrubbing
device includes at least one rotatable scouring element disposed
thereon.
3. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the scrubbing
device includes a rotatable cleaning head, the cleaning head being
configured to release at least one of the water and the cleaning
agent therefrom and having at least one rotatable scouring
element.
4. The cleaning system according to claim 3, wherein the scrubbing
device includes a button disposed thereon configured to release at
least one of the water and the cleaning agent through at least one
of the cleaning head and the rotatable scouring element.
5. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein an extension
handle is positioned between the hose and the scrubbing device for
fluid communication therebetween, the extension handle having a
first end configured for connection to the second end of the hose
and a second end configured for connection with the scrubbing
device.
6. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the housing
includes at least one fastener disposed thereon configured to
secure the housing to a surface in a shower enclosure.
7. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the housing
includes a control valve disposed thereon configured to selectively
control the flow of at least one of the water and the cleaning
agent through the lumen.
8. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the housing
includes a mirror disposed thereon.
9. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein the hose is
flat.
10. A hand-held scrubbing device configured for fluid communication
with a showerhead pipe, comprising: a cartridge being configured
for retaining a cleaning agent therein; a yoke configured and
dimensioned to receive the cartridge therein, the yoke defining a
lumen therein configured to translate water from an inlet end
defined at a first end of the yoke to an outlet defined at a second
end of the yoke, the inlet end being configured to receive water
from a water source and the outlet end being configured to release
the water therefrom; at least one mechanical interface configured
and dimensioned for placement within the yoke to releasably retain
the cartridge therein; a biasing lever configured to bias the
cartridge to enable the release of the cleaning agent therefrom;
and a cleaning head pivotally connected to the yoke including at
least one rotatable scouring element configured to clean a bathroom
surface.
11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the cartridge is
pressurized.
12. The device according to claim 10, wherein the scrubbing device
further includes a controller component disposed thereon configured
to selectively release at least one of the water and the cleaning
agent through at least one of the cleaning head and the scouring
element.
13. The device according to claim 10, wherein the water source is
in fluid communication with a showerhead pipe through a hose
positioned therebetween.
14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the hose is connected
to the showerhead pipe via a quick-release connector.
15. The device according to claim 13, wherein the inlet end of the
lumen is coupled to a first end of an extension handle configured
for use with the scrubbing device, the extension handle including a
second end configured for connection to the hose.
16. The device according to claim 15, further configured to be
received in a caddy apparatus, the caddy apparatus being configured
and dimensioned to receive at least one of the scrubbing device,
the extension handle, and the scrubbing device coupled to the
extension handle.
17. A hand-held scrubbing device configured for attachment to a
showerhead pipe, comprising: a cartridge configured to retain a
cleaning agent therein, the cartridge dimensioned to be received
within a housing; an application mechanism disposed within the
housing defining a lumen between an inlet connector configured for
connection to a water source and an outlet connector configured for
connection to a spraying component, the spraying component being
configured to release at least one of the water and the cleaning
agent therefrom onto a bathroom surface for cleaning purposes; and
a rotatable cleaning head coupled to the housing including at least
one rotatable scouring element configured to clean a bathroom
surface.
18. The device according to claim 17, wherein the water source is a
hose in fluid communication with a showerhead pipe.
19. The device according to claim 18, wherein the inlet connector
is coupled to a first end of an extension handle configured for use
with the scrubbing device, the extension handle including a second
end configured for connection to the hose.
20. The device according to claim 19, further configured to be
received in a caddy apparatus, the caddy apparatus being configured
and dimensioned to receive at least one of the scrubbing device,
the extension handle, and the scrubbing device coupled to the
extension handle.
21. The device according to claim 17, wherein the rotatable
cleaning head is configured to releasably retain the cleaning agent
therein.
22. The device according to claim 21, wherein the cleaning agent is
released from the at least one rotatable scouring element.
23. The device according to claim 17, wherein the water from the
water source pressurizes the at least one rotatable scouring
element to cause rotational movement thereof.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 60/796,776 filed on May 2, 2006
entitled "Shower Enclosure and Bathtub Cleaning System," U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/844,558 filed Sep. 14,
2006 entitled "Foaming Version," and U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/844,540 filed Sep. 14, 2006 entitled "Caddy
Version," the entire contents all of which are incorporated herein
by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present disclosure relates to cleaning systems and
methods, and more particularly, to systems and methods for cleaning
and/or washing shower enclosures, bathtubs, and the like.
[0004] 2. Background of Related Art
[0005] A dwelling (i.e., a home, an apartment, a hotel room, etc.)
has many areas that must be cleaned periodically. For purposes of
overall health and sanitation, surfaces in bathroom areas often
require special cleaning efforts.
[0006] Clean bathroom surfaces are essential for many reasons. The
moist wet surfaces in bathrooms provide a haven for bacteria and
viruses and must be kept under control to prevent disease. If the
surfaces in the bathroom are not kept sanitary or impeccably clean,
a bathroom user can be exposed to such ailments as foot fungus, the
common cold, or other more serious illnesses.
[0007] Conventional methods of cleaning surfaces of a bathroom
typically consist of filling a bucket with detergent and water and
manually scrubbing the surfaces with a sponge or brush. Such a
method has many inherent problems. For example, this method
involves repeatedly rinsing the brush and having to fill and dump
the bucket numerous times to discard dirty water. The soap or
detergent may also cause skin irritations or allergic reactions to
any exposed skin. To overcome this drawback, the wearing of rubber
gloves has been adopted. However, rubber gloves are known to be
very uncomfortable because they promote excess sweating of the
hands.
[0008] Another problem with manual cleaning is that the person
cleaning must manipulate their body in many ways to reach all of
the surfaces. This includes kneeling on hard surfaces which can
cause knee and back problems. Reaching higher surfaces involves
reaching over one's head. This latter movement can easily cause a
person to lose their footing on slick surfaces, resulting in
injury.
[0009] Various instruments and devices have been developed and
employed to facilitate the cleaning of the surfaces of a bathroom,
such as, for example, powered brushes and the like. In certain
instances, the cleaning instruments and/or devices are fluidly
attached to an existing fixture (e.g., shower head, bathtub faucet,
etc.) of the bathtub or shower enclosure, or the fixture is removed
from the water supply pipes and the cleaning instruments and/or
devices are directly fluidly connected to a free end of the water
supply pipes.
[0010] A continuing need exists for a system which facilitates the
cleaning of surfaces of a bathroom including a shower enclosure, a
bathtub and the like.
[0011] A need further exists for a system which facilitates the
cleaning of surfaces of a bathroom including an adapter for
enabling selective fluid connection of a bath fixture (e.g., a
shower head) and a cleaning instrument or device to a free end of a
water supply pipe.
SUMMARY
[0012] The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for
cleaning and/or washing shower enclosures, bathtubs, and the
like.
[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a
cleaning system for cleaning surfaces of a bath, shower enclosure,
bath tub and the like is provided. The cleaning system includes a
housing having a lumen defined therein including a first and second
end configured to fluidly connect a hose and a pipe connection. The
pipe connector is configured to selectively engage a showerhead
pipe. The hose includes a first end where it operatively engages
the lumen and a second end configured to operatively engage a
hand-held scrubbing device for scrubbing a shower enclosure. The
pipe connector is configured to divert water from the showerhead
pipe through the hose via the lumen and is designed for use with
the hand-held scrubbing device. The system further includes a spool
disposed in the housing and configured to operatively engage the
hose. The spool is selectively rotatable within the housing from a
retracted position to a released position. A receiving compartment
is defined in the housing and is designated to releasably retain a
cartridge therein. The cartridge is configured to retain a cleaning
agent therein.
[0014] In an embodiment, the system may include an extension handle
connected between the second end of the hose and the hand-held
scrubbing device. It is envisioned that the extension handle may
include telescopic functionality to provide additional reach for
difficult areas.
[0015] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
cleaning system for cleaning surfaces of a bath, shower enclosure,
bath tub and the like is provided. The cleaning system includes a
universal adapter configured and dimensioned for connection to a
free end of a showerhead pipe of the bath; and a showerhead adapter
configured and dimensioned for connection to a fitting of a shower
head. The universal adapter and the showerhead adapter are
configured for selective fluid-tight connection with one another.
The cleaning system further includes a tube having a first fitting
provided at a first end thereof for fluid connection with the
universal adapter, and a fitting provided at a second end thereof
for fluid connection with a cleaning attachment. The cleaning
system also includes a cleaning attachment having a handle portion
including a first end configured for fluid connection with the
second fitting of the tube; a head portion operatively supported on
a second end of the handle portion; and at least one scouring
element operatively associated with the head portion of the
cleaning attachment. In use, the showerhead is replaced by the tube
and cleaning attachment for cleaning of the surfaces of the
bath.
[0016] Desirably, the universal adapter includes a quick release
coupling for engaging each of the showerhead adapter and the first
fitting of the tube.
[0017] In an embodiment, the cleaning attachment may include a
plurality of scouring elements extending from a first surface of
the head portion. It is envisioned that the cleaning attachment may
include a squeegee extending from a surface of the head portion
which is opposite the scouring elements. Desirably, the head
portion of the cleaning attachment may be pivotable with respect to
the handle portion.
[0018] In an embodiment, the head portion of the cleaning
attachment may include at least one aperture formed therein for
discharge of fluid therefrom. The cleaning attachment may include a
control switch for opening and closing the apertures formed in the
head portion thereof.
[0019] In another embodiment, the scouring elements of the cleaning
attachment may be capable of oscillating in a transverse direction
and/or a longitudinal direction. It is envisioned that the scouring
elements of the cleaning attachment may be capable of rotating. It
is envisioned that the cleaning attachment may be configured and
adapted to cause the scouring elements to rotate, oscillate in a
transverse direction, and/or oscillate in a longitudinal
direction.
[0020] The handle portion of the cleaning attachment may be
elongated. In an embodiment, the handle portion of the cleaning
attachment has a length of from about 6 inches to about 24 inches.
In another embodiment, the handle portion of the cleaning
attachment has a length of from about 24 inches to about 60
inches.
[0021] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a
cleaning system for cleaning surfaces of a bath, shower enclosure,
bath tub and the like is provided. The cleaning system includes a
universal adapter configured and dimensioned for connection to a
free end of a showerhead pipe of the bath; a tube having a first
fitting provided at a first end thereof for fluid connection with
the universal adapter, and a fitting provided at a second end
thereof for fluid connection with a cleaning attachment; and a
cleaning attachment attachable to the fitting at the second end of
the tube. The cleaning attachment includes a handle portion
including a first end configured for fluid connection with the
second fitting of the tube; a head portion operatively supported on
a second end of the handle portion; and at least one scouring
element operatively associated with the head portion of the
cleaning attachment.
[0022] The universal adapter may include a quick release coupling
for engaging the first fitting of the tube.
[0023] The cleaning attachment may include a plurality of scouring
elements extending from a first surface of the head portion. The
cleaning attachment may further include a squeegee extending from a
surface of the head portion which is opposite the scouring
elements.
[0024] The head portion of the cleaning attachment is desirably
pivotable with respect to the handle portion. It is envisioned that
the head portion of the cleaning attachment includes at least one
aperture formed therein for discharging fluid therefrom. Desirably,
the cleaning attachment includes a control switch for opening and
closing the apertures formed in the head portion thereof.
[0025] It is envisioned that the cleaning attachment is configured
and adapted to cause the scouring elements to rotate, oscillate in
a transverse direction, and/or oscillate in a longitudinal
direction.
[0026] The cleaning system may further include a showerhead adapter
configured and dimensioned for connection to a fitting of a shower
head. The universal adapter and the showerhead adapter are
configured for selective fluid-tight connection with one another.
Accordingly, in use, the showerhead is replaced by the tube and
cleaning attachment when cleaning the surfaces of the bath.
[0027] For a better understanding of the present disclosure and to
show how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made,
bay way of example, to the accompanying drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0028] FIG. 1 is a perspective view, with parts separated, of a
cleaning system in accordance with an embodiment of the present
disclosure;
[0029] FIG. 2 is a further perspective view, with parts separated,
of the cleaning system of FIG. 1;
[0030] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
cleaning system of the present disclosure;
[0031] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cleaning tool of the
cleaning systems of FIGS. 1-3;
[0032] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another cleaning tool of the
cleaning systems of FIGS. 1-4;
[0033] FIGS. 6 through 8 showing a cleaning head having a removable
cartridge;
[0034] FIGS. 9A and 9B show a Y valve connector of the unit;
[0035] FIGS. 10 through 11 show a caddy for the cleaning tool;
[0036] FIGS. 12 through 14 show a wall mounted unit with a quick
connect hose;
[0037] FIGS. 15 through 29 show various views of the cleaning
head;
[0038] FIGS. 30 through 33 show a telescopic handle for use with
the cleaning tool;
[0039] FIGS. 34 through 38 show additional views of the caddy for
the cleaning tool;
[0040] FIGS. 39 through 40 show a cleaning system according to
embodiments of the present disclosure;
[0041] FIG. 41 shows a scrubbing device according to embodiments of
the present disclosure;
[0042] FIG. 42 shows an exploded view of the scrubbing device of
FIG. 41;
[0043] FIG. 43 shows a scrubbing device according to embodiments of
the present disclosure;
[0044] FIG. 44 shows an exploded view of the scrubbing device of
FIG. 43;
[0045] FIG. 45 shows a scrubbing device according to embodiments of
the present disclosure; and
[0046] FIG. 46 shows an exploded view of the scrubbing device of
FIG. 45.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0047] With reference to the drawings, new and improved systems and
methods for cleaning and/or washing shower enclosure, bathtubs and
the like, embodying the principles and concepts of the present
disclosure will be described.
[0048] With reference to FIG. 1, an exemplary embodiment of a
system for cleaning a shower enclosure, bathtub and the like, in
accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, is
generally designated as system 100. Cleaning system 100 is intended
for fluid connection to a free end of a shower head pipe 12
projecting from a shower wall 10 or other shower structure or the
like. Shower head pipe 12 delivers a supply of water to a shower
head 14 or cleaning system 100, as will be described in greater
detail below. As is typical, a distal end 12a of shower head pipe
12 is threaded for connection with complementary threads provided
on a showerhead 14 or the like.
[0049] Cleaning system 100 includes a universal adapter 110, at
least one cleaning attachment 120, and optionally an elongate hose
or tube 130.
[0050] Universal adaptor 110 of cleaning system 100 includes a
first end 112 configured and dimensioned to connect to distal end
12a of showerhead pipe 12, and a second end 114 configured and
dimensioned to selectively connect with one of a plurality of
components (e.g., showerhead 14, cleaning attachment 120, etc.).
Universal adaptor 110 defines a lumen 116 enabling passage of fluid
(e.g., water) and the like therethrough. Desirably, it is
envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure, for
second end 114 of universal adapter 110 to include a quick release
fluid coupling 118 for enabling quick and easy connecting and
disconnecting of various components thereto. It is also envisioned
that second end 114 may be configured and dimensioned for snap-fit,
threaded, pressure, friction-fit and/or any other type of coupling
known by one having ordinary skill in the art.
[0051] Cleaning system 100 further includes a showerhead adapter
210 configured and adapted to fluidly interconnect showerhead 14 to
universal adapter 110. Showerhead adapter 210 includes a first end
212 configured and dimensioned to selectively connect to second end
114 of universal adapter 110, and a second end 214 configured and
adapted to selectively connect to a fitting 14a of showerhead 14.
Showerhead adapter 210 defines a lumen 216 enabling passage of
fluid (e.g., water) and the like therethrough. Desirably, it is
envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure, for
first end 212 of showerhead adapter 210 to be configured and
adapted to operatively engage quick release fluid coupling 118 of
universal adapter 110.
[0052] As seen in FIG. 2, tube 130 includes a first end having a
first fitting 132 configured and dimensioned to connect with second
end 114 of universal adaptor 110. Tube 130 includes a second end
having a second fitting 134 configured and dimensioned to
selectively connect with cleaning tool 120. Tube 130 defines a
lumen 136 enabling passage of fluid (e.g., water) and the like
therethrough. Desirably, it is envisioned and within the scope of
the present disclosure, for first fitting 132 of tube 130 to
include a quick release fluid coupling configured and adapted to
cooperate with quick release fluid coupling 118 of adapter 110 to
enable quick release and coupling thereof. It is further envisioned
and within the scope of the present disclosure, for second fitting
134 of tube 130 to include a quick release fluid coupling (not
shown) for enabling quick and easy connecting and disconnecting of
various cleaning tools and the like thereto.
[0053] Desirably, depending on the size of the shower enclosure,
bath tub or the like, an appropriate length tube 130 is connected
to second end 114 of universal adaptor 110 which enables the user
to reach all of the surfaces or a selected number of surfaces of
the shower enclosure with cleaning tool 120.
[0054] It is envisioned that a fluid-tight seal is provided between
second end 114 of universal adapter 110 and first end 132 of hose
130. For example, an O-ring or the like (not shown) may be used to
create the fluid-tight seal between second end 114 of universal
adapter 110 and first end 132 of hose 130.
[0055] Cleaning attachment or tool 120 of cleaning system 100
further includes a working head portion 122 configured and adapted
to affect cleaning and/or scrubbing of a desired surface. Cleaning
attachment 120 includes a handle portion 124 having a first end 126
configured and dimensioned to connect with second end 134 of tube
130, and a second end 128 configured and dimensioned to support
working head portion 122. Cleaning attachment 120 may have a handle
portion 124 having a length of from about 6 inches to about 24
inches, as seen in FIG. 2, or cleaning attachment 120 may have a
handle portion 124a having a length from about 24 inches to about
60 inches, as seen in FIG. 3. In accordance with the present
disclosure, depending on the size and shape of the shower enclosure
or bath tub that is to be cleaned, a cleaning attachment 120 having
either a shorter handle portion 124 or a longer handle portion 124a
will be attached to tube 130 in order to facilitate the cleaning
thereof.
[0056] Desirably, cleaning attachment 120 includes a tilt action
hinge 129 or the like between handle portion 124, 124a and head
portion 122. As seen in FIG. 3, hinge 129 enables head portion 122
to tilt off-axis or to angle, upwardly or downwardly (as indicated
by arrow "A"), with respect to a longitudinal axis of handle
portion 124, 124a.
[0057] As seen in FIGS. 2-5, head portion 122 of cleaning
attachment 120 includes at least one scouring element 142
operatively associated with a first or front surface 122a thereof
for scrubbing the surfaces of the shower enclosure or bathtub.
Desirably, cleaning attachment 120 includes a plurality of scouring
elements 142. It is envisioned that scouring elements 142 may
include, and are not limited to, sponges, bristles, and the like.
If the scouring element 142 is a sponge, it is contemplated that
the sponge may be a single larger sponge or a plurality of smaller
sponges covering at least a portion of front surface 122a of head
portion 122. If scouring element 142 consists of bristles, it is
envisioned that the bristles may form a single bristled region
covering at least a portion of front surface 122a, or a plurality
of tufts of bristles, as shown in FIGS. 2-5, dispersed over at
least a portion of front surface 122a of head portion 122.
[0058] While cleaning attachment 120 may be "non-powered" or
"non-motorized", as discussed above, it is envisioned and within
the scope of the present disclosure for cleaning attachment 120 to
be "powered" or "motorized" (i.e., include mechanisms and/or
systems which deliver motion to scouring element 142).
[0059] Desirably, head portion 122 of cleaning attachments 120 may
be provided with a mechanism or system (not shown) which is capable
of causing scouring elements 142 to rotate and/or oscillate, as
indicated by arrows "B" and "B'" respectively in FIG. 4.
Alternatively, head portion 122 of cleaning attachments 120 may be
provided with a mechanism or system (not shown) which is capable of
causing scouring elements 142 to rotate, as indicated by arrow "C"
in FIG. 5. Optionally, head portion 122 of cleaning attachments 120
may be provided with a mechanism or system (not shown) which is
capable of causing scouring elements 142 to oscillate in a
longitudinal or transverse direction, as indicated by respective
arrows "D" and "E" of FIGS. 4 and 5, with respect to a longitudinal
axis of cleaning attachment 120.
[0060] Desirably, scouring elements 142 may be removed from head
portion 122 of cleaning attachment 120 and replaced with new or
sanitized scouring elements 142 as needed and/or desired.
[0061] It is envisioned that scouring elements 142 of cleaning
attachment 120 may be driven or powered by, for example, fluid
pressure, electrical energy, and the like. In an embodiment, as
seen in FIG. 3, an electrical power pack or energy source 150 may
be incorporated into handle 124a of cleaning attachment 120. Energy
source 150 delivers power to the mechanism or system (not shown)
used to drive scouring elements 142. Energy source 150 may include
replaceable batteries, rechargeable batteries and the like.
[0062] As seen in FIGS. 2-5, head portion 122 of cleaning
attachment 120 includes a squeegee 144 extending from a second or
rear surface 122b thereof for wiping off excess water from the
surfaces of the shower enclosure or bathtub.
[0063] Desirably, as seen in FIGS. 2-5, head portion 122 of
cleaning attachment 120 includes at least one opening or aperture
146 formed in a distal surface 122c thereof. Desirably, during use,
apertures 146 of head portion 122 permit water to exit therefrom in
the form of a spray or the like. The water exiting apertures 146 of
head portion 122 may be used to rinse of the surfaces of the shower
enclosure of bathtub. While apertures 146 are shown and described
as being provided in distal surface 122c of head portion 122, it is
envisioned and within the scope of the present disclosure for
apertures to be located anywhere around the surface of head portion
122, either an upper surface, a lower surface or a side
surface.
[0064] It is envisioned and within the scope of the present
disclosure for cleaning attachment 120 to be provided with a
control switch 148 (i.e., an "on/off" switch"), see FIGS. 2-5,
which is configured and adapted to open and close apertures 146 of
head portion 122, or configured and adapted to permit, impede, or
prevent water from being delivered to apertures 146 of head portion
122.
[0065] Referring now to another embodiment of the present
disclosure shown in FIG. 6 through 8 there is shown an extension
handle 200 connected with a cleaning head 202. The extension handle
200 can be connected between a cleaning head 202 and a hose 204 in
a shower (not shown) as discussed above. The cleaning head 202 has
an insertion compartment 206. The insertion compartment 206 is a
receiving surface on the cleaning head 202 and which is dimensioned
to receive a disposable cartridge 208 having a detergent therein.
The disposable cartridge 208 has a valve sealed by an O ring. The
valve mates with a corresponding structure on the insertion
compartment 206 of the cleaning head 202 to permit the user to
removably insert and connect the cartridge 208 having a detergent
therein into the cleaning head 202 for an improved cleaning tool.
The cartridge 208 can then communicate detergent through a lumen
formed through the cleaning head 202. The lumen (not shown) is
connected with a sponge or scouring element 210 on the distal end
of the head 202 to release the detergent into the sponge 210 for
scrubbing purposes. It is also envisioned that the cleaning head
202 is configured to release the detergent directly onto the
surface to be cleaned. For example, the detergent may be released
through any suitable location of the cleaning head 202 such as the
distal-most portion, forward-most portion, and/or sides of the
cleaning head 202. The cleaning product is released by pushing a
button, trigger, dial, or some other mechanism or interface on the
head 202 or on the bottom of the head 202. The button or dial may
also control water flow through the head 202. The head 202 may be
fitted with attachable tools such as scrubbing bristles, a grout
cleaner, a squeegee and a shower door track cleaner. The tools will
break down and store in the caddy 300 shown in FIG. 11.
[0066] Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown the cartridge 208
removably connected on the head 202, and FIG. 7 shows the cartridge
208 snap fit or mated on the cleaning head 202. An advantageous
feature of the present disclosure is that the cartridge 208 may be
easily replaced from the head 202, and can be sold separately from
the unit with a favored detergent in the cartridge 208 for cleaning
or scrubbing. Various different detergents can be used with the
present cartridge 208.
[0067] Referring now to FIG. 9A, there is shown a showerhead 220.
In this embodiment, the showerhead has a Y-shaped valve 222 to
permit selective water access to a hose for cleaning purposes. It
should be understood that the term "Y-shape" is utilized for
illustrative purposes only and valve 222 may be any shape suitable
for use with the present disclosure such as, for example,
"T-shaped" or the like. The showerhead 220 has a first lumen 224 on
the Y-shaped valve 222 for communicating with the extension hose
226 as shown in FIG. 9B, and another lumen 228 for communicating
with a conventional spout 230. The Y-shaped valve 222 also has a
collar 232 with a detent 234. The detent 234 is disposed on the
collar 232. A hose 226 has a matching interface (not shown) to
receive the detent 234. The detent 234 and interface may be
arranged on multiple sides of the collar 232 and hose 226. An
advantageous feature of the present disclosure is that the
extension hose 226 having the interface can ride up onto the collar
232 and mate with the detent 234 for a quick snap fit water tight
connection arrangement. In this manner, the Y-shaped valve 222 is
configured to divert water from the spout 230 to the hose 226 while
the hose 226 is mated with the detent 234. Upon the conclusion of
the use of the hose 226, the user can simply pull the hose 226 away
from the Y-shaped valve 222 to disengage the hose 226.
[0068] Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, there is shown a caddy
300. The caddy 300 has a receiving space 302 defined therein to
receive the head 202. Preferably, the caddy 300 is made from a
thermoplastic material and can be stored in the shower or in the
bathroom, and is portable. The caddy 300 also has an interior space
304 to receive a number of cleaning products or related items.
[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 12 through 14, there is shown a wall
mounted hose with a quick connection apparatus 400. In this
embodiment, the apparatus 400 has a wall plate 402 that forms a
lumen 404 defined therein. The wall plate 402 has a bellows pipe
404 and an exit port 406. A hose 408 is adapted to be connected to
the port 406 as shown in FIG. 13. Referring now to FIG. 14, there
is shown a cross sectional view of the wall plate 402. The wall
plate 402 is connected to the wall by a threaded member 410 that
engages a feed pipe. The feed pipe connects with the shower head
412. However, some of the water that escapes from the feed pipe
enters the bellows tube 404 and flows through lumen 414. The lumen
414 communicates with the port 406, and may be releasably opened or
closed using a valve 416. Referring now again to FIG. 12, the valve
416 can be rotated to open or close the flow of water to the hose
408.
[0070] Referring now to FIGS. 15 through 19 as shown, the cleaning
head 202 in this embodiment has a compartment 206 with a cartridge
208 that is removable. In embodiments, it is envisioned that a door
or cover (not shown) may be included to secure the cartridge 208
within the compartment 206. The cleaning head 202 also has a
scouring element 210 or brush as shown. As shown in FIG. 17, the
scouring element 210 or brush can be articulated by a pivot member
212 in the direction of reference arrow "F" as shown. Referring to
FIGS. 18 and 19 there is shown a top elevation view and a side view
of the cleaning head 202. In this embodiment, the cartridge 206 has
a detent 214 to easily remove the cartridge 208 for replacement
purposes.
[0071] Referring now to FIGS. 20 through 23, the cleaning head 202
simplifies and improves the efficiency of cleaning hard surfaces
including shower walls and the tub surface. The system consists of
a quick release adapter (not shown), a flexible hosing and a
handle/cleaning head 202. Quick release fittings will allow the
system to have a snap fit connection to an existing conventional
shower as discussed above. The handle/cleaning head 202 may be
configured and dimensioned for a user to hold and move the cleaning
head 202 for scrubbing. The cleaning head 202 may further include
telescopic extension on that provides additional reach for
difficult areas. The telescopic portion allows the handle/cleaning
head to extend from first predetermined length to a second
predetermined length as shown in FIGS. 30 through 33. The head 202
also accommodates various accessories such as liquids or sprays
cleaning products in the cartridge 208 as shown in FIG. 20. The
cleaning head 202 also has removable/interchangeable accessories
including scrubbing bristles, a squeegee, replaceable/disposable
cleaning pads, and other tools for cleaning difficult areas. The
accessories will be installed on the bottom surface 215 of the
cleaning head 202 as shown in FIG. 22. A rotational dial 217 on the
top 219 of the head 202 (or a button 217' on the bottom side shown
in FIG. 22) will allow the head to spray water or cleaning product
in the cartridge 208 or from the hose from either the front, sides,
or bottom of the head 202. At least one of the dial 217 and the
button 217' may also be configured to release the scouring element
210 from the bottom surface 215 of the head 202, as shown in FIG.
22, and/or alter the direction of the water released from the head
202 (not explicitly illustrated). A reservoir is disposed in or on
the top of the cleaning head 202 which accepts
replaceable/disposable cartridges 208 having cleaning product
therein. In another embodiment, the user may load an amount of
cleaning product in the head for future use. The cartridge 208 can
be replaced when the cleaning product runs out or if the user wants
to install a different cleaning product (bleach vs. non bleach,
etc.).
[0072] Referring now to FIGS. 23 through 29, the head portion 202
will pivot in the direction of arrow "G" to allow the head 202 to
ride the cleaning surface efficiently, and scour any surface. The
head 202 may be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise to release
and/or control water flow. Alternatively, the cleaning head 202 or
the handle 219 of the head 202 may be rotated clockwise or counter
clockwise from the head 202 to release cleaning product and water
simultaneously. Therefore, the user can spray water or cleaning
product and water from the head 202.
[0073] Referring now to FIGS. 30 through 33, there is shown the
head 202 connected to the handle 500. Here, the handle 500 is
connected to the head 202 by a telescopic portion 502. The
telescopic portion 502 can vary the length of the handle portion
500 from a first predetermined size to a second predetermined size
as shown. The telescopic portion 502 has a first portion 504 and a
second portion 506 with the first portion 504 being adapted to be
coaxial with the second portion 506 as shown in FIG. 32. The handle
portion 500 is connected to flexible hosing that will, in turn,
connect to the shower pipe using a quick release adapter that
attaches to the shower pipe as discussed above. As shown, the head
202 may be detachable from the telescopic portion 502 for
installation purposes. In another embodiment, the telescopic
portion 502 may be rotatable in the direction of reference arrow
"H" shown in FIG. 30 and second portion 506 may also be rotatable
in the direction of reference arrow "J" shown in FIG. 30. Rotation
of each of the portion 502 and portion 506 may activate the water
spray, or may activate the head 202 to release the detergent or
contents of the cartridge 208. Alternatively, the device may
further have a knob 501 to activate the head to release the
detergent or contents of the cartridge 208 or activate the water
spray.
[0074] The system may be stored in a plastic caddy 300 having a
handle 301 when not in use as shown in FIGS. 34 through 38. The
head region 202 will have a quick disconnect so it can be removed
from the handle and the system can collapse further for storage in
the caddy as shown in FIG. 37. To install the cleaning head 202,
the showerhead is removed from the shower pipe. A quick release
adapter is installed on the naked shower pipe. The shower head is
reinstalled at one of the open ends of the adapter. The open end
includes a quick release fitting that will accept the hose for the
system.
[0075] Referring now to FIGS. 39, 39A, and 40, there is shown a
wall mounted caddy 600 configured and dimensioned for coupling to a
showerhead pipe 612 via a "T" connector 605. The "T" connector 605
is configured to permit selective water access to a hose 610 for
cleaning purposes. In this embodiment, the caddy 600 has a body
portion 602 that forms a lumen (not explicitly shown) defined
therein. The lumen is configured to facilitate fluid communication
between a first lumen 607 defined through the "T" valve 605, shown
in FIG. 9B, and the hose 610. The "T" connector 605 has another
lumen 609, shown in FIG. 9B, for communicating with a conventional
spout 630. The hose is configured at a first end (not explicitly
shown) to couple to the lumen within the body portion 602 for fluid
communication with the "T" connector 605 via the first lumen 607. A
connector 612 coupled to a second end 611 of the hose 610 is
configured for attachment to a cleaning attachment such as, for
example, the cleaning head 202 or alternatively the extension
handle 200 shown in FIGS. 6-8.
[0076] In embodiments, the "T" connector 605 may include a valve
603 configured to selectively divert water from the showerhead pipe
612 through the first lumen 607 for fluid communication with the
hose 610 or through the second lumen 609 to the conventional spout
630. In this manner, water may be diverted from the showerhead pipe
612 through the body portion 602 of the caddy 600 to the hose 610
for use with the cleaning head 202 (FIG. 15).
[0077] In embodiments, the caddy 600 may include a mirror 604, as
shown in FIG. 39. The mirror 604 may be integrally formed with the
surface of body portion 602 as, for example, reflective plastic. In
other embodiments, the mirror 604 may be releasably attached to
body portion 602 by, for example, suction cups, fasteners, double
sided adhesive tape, etc.
[0078] The caddy 600 may further include fasteners such as, for
example, one or more suction cups 615 configured to secure the body
portion to a surface 620 below the showerhead pipe 612, as shown in
FIG. 39. The surface 620 may be any surface suitable for a
shower/bath environment such as, for example, tile, plastic, vinyl,
etc.
[0079] In embodiments, caddy 600 may be configured to store the
hose 610 within the body portion 602 of caddy 600, as shown in FIG.
39. In this configuration, the hose 610 may be wound around a spool
(not shown) within the body portion 602 for storage therein. The
body portion 602 may include at least one handle 606 on either side
in operative association with the spool configured for turning in a
manner depicted by the arrow "K" in FIG. 39. In this manner, the
hose 610 may alternate between a stored configuration within the
body portion 602, wherein the hose 610 is coiled around the spool,
and an extended configuration for cleaning purposes, wherein the
hose 610 is extended from the body portion 602. It should be
understood that the hose 610 may be, for example, a flat hose
and/or a tube or hose sufficiently pliant as would be suitable for
coiling the hose 610 around the spool within body portion 602.
[0080] FIG. 40 shows another embodiment of caddy 600 including an
insertion compartment 650 dimensioned to receive a cartridge 652
having a detergent therein. It is envisioned that a door or cover
(not shown) may be included to secure the cartridge 652 within the
compartment 650. The cartridge 652 has a valve sealed by an O ring.
The valve mates with a corresponding structure (not shown) on the
insertion compartment 650 of the caddy 600 to permit the user to
removably insert and connect the cartridge 652 having a detergent
therein into the caddy 600 for an improved cleaning system. The
cartridge 652 may be disposable or be configured for refill with
detergent while mated to the insertion compartment 650. The
cartridge 652 can then communicate detergent through a lumen formed
through the body portion 602 of the caddy 600. It is also
envisioned that the compartment 650 is configured to receive
detergent directly therein without the use of the cartridge 652.
For example, a liquid detergent may be received within the
compartment 650 for communication through the body portion 602 of
the caddy 600. The lumen (not shown) is connected with the hose 610
to release the detergent out of the hose 610 and/or through the
sponge or scouring element 210 on the distal end of the head 202 to
release the detergent into the sponge 210 for scrubbing purposes
(FIGS. 6-8). It is envisioned that the cleaning head 202 is
configured to release the detergent directly onto the surface to be
cleaned. For example, the detergent may be released through any
suitable location of the cleaning head 202 such as the distal-most
portion, forward-most portion, and/or sides of the cleaning head
202. In this embodiment, the body portion 602 of the caddy 600 may
further include a detergent valve 603 configured to allow the
release of detergent from the cartridge 652 into the lumen within
the body portion 602. The valve 603 may be embodied as a knob, a
button, or the like and configured to be positioned in a plurality
of configurations or cleaning settings of the caddy 600. Any
setting or configuration suited for cleaning purposes is envisioned
such as, for example: a detergent configuration wherein detergent
is released into the lumen, a rinse configuration wherein fluid
communication is permitted between the body portion 602 and the
hose 610; a combination configuration wherein detergent is released
into the lumen and fluid communication is simultaneously permitted
between the body portion 602 and the hose 610; and an off
configuration wherein no fluid communication is permitted between
the body portion 602 and the hose 610 and detergent is not released
into the lumen, etc. Caddy 600 may further include a receiving
space 660 defined therein to receive the head 202 or,
alternatively, the head 202 including the extension handle 200
(FIGS. 6-8), as shown in FIG. 40.
[0081] FIG. 41 shows an alternative embodiment of a cleaning head
700 for use with the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the
cleaning head 700 includes a cartridge 702 having detergent therein
configured to be received within a connector yoke 710. The
cartridge 702 may be disposable or be configured for refill with
detergent while mated to the connector yoke 710. The cartridge 702,
shown in detail in FIG. 42, may be a pressurized canister
configured to release detergent through a valve 703 upon pressure
applied on the valve 703 from a lever 715 pivotally mated to a
first end 711 of the connector yoke 710. As shown in FIG. 41, the
lever 715 may include a biasing member 715a configured to bias the
valve 703 inward toward the cartridge 702 and allow the release of
detergent from the valve 703 through the biasing member 715a via an
aperture (not explicitly shown). The lever 715 is configured to
pivot about an "X-X axis" defined by a throughbore 716 (FIG. 42)
through the first end of the connector yoke 710. The lever 715
includes a throughbore 717 configured to be positioned coaxial to
the throughbore 716 defined through the connector yoke 710. In this
manner, throughbores 716 and 717 may be configured to receive a
fastener or pin therethrough (not shown) configured to operatively
mate the lever 715 to the first end 711 of the connector yoke 710.
The pivoting motion of the lever 715 about the X-X axis is depicted
in FIG. 41 by an arrow "L." Once placed within the connector yoke
710, the cartridge 702 may be secured therein by a plunger 720
inserted between the cartridge 702 and a second end 712 of the
connector yoke 710 to bias the cartridge 702 toward the first end
of the connector yoke 710, as shown in FIG. 41. Connector yoke 710
further defines a lumen 730 therethrough having a first end 731
including an aperture 734 configured to dispense water therefrom
and a second end 732 including a connector 736 configured to
receive a water source such as, for example, the hose 610 (FIG.
39), the extension handle 200 (FIG. 6-8), etc.
[0082] The cleaning head 700 further includes a head portion 740 in
mated relation to the connector yoke 710, as shown in FIG. 41. The
head portion 740 includes at least one scouring element (not shown)
operatively associated with a first or front surface 740a thereof
for scrubbing the surfaces of the shower enclosure or bathtub. The
head portion 740 may include a plurality of scouring elements. It
is envisioned that the scouring elements may be, for example,
sponges, bristles, etc. The head portion 740 includes a throughbore
743 configured to be positioned coaxial to the throughbore 716
defined through the connector yoke 710 along the X-X axis. In this
manner, throughbore 743 and throughbore 716 may receive a fastener
or pin (not shown) therethrough to pivotally mate the head portion
740 to the connector yoke 710. The pivoting action of the head
portion 740 relative to the connector yoke 710 is depicted by arrow
"M", as shown in FIG. 41. The pivoting motion capacity of the head
portion 740 provides for improved cleaning performance of the
system of the present disclosure.
[0083] FIG. 43 shows another alternative embodiment of a cleaning
head 800 for use with the present disclosure. In this embodiment,
the cleaning head 800 includes a cartridge 810 having detergent
therein configured to be coupled with an application mechanism 830,
shown in FIG. 44. The cartridge 810 may be a self-contained
canister configured to release detergent into the application
mechanism 830 upon mating to a receiving compartment 835 defined on
the application mechanism 830. The cartridge 810 may be disposable
or configured to be refilled with detergent while mated to the
receiving compartment 835. The cartridge 810 may be, for example,
threaded, snap-fit, slide-fit, etc. to the receiving compartment
835. The cleaning head 800 includes a housing 820 configured to
house the application mechanism 830 and the cartridge 810 therein,
as illustrated in FIG. 44. The application mechanism 830 includes a
connector 832 configured to receive a water source such as, for
example, the hose 610 (FIG. 39), the extension handle 200 (FIG.
6-8), etc. The connector 832 may be configured to protrude from the
housing 820 through an aperture (not shown) formed in the housing
820. The application mechanism 830 further includes a fitting 834
configured to receive a nozzle 840 thereon in, for example, a
snap-fit or threaded manner. As shown in FIGS. 43 and 44, the
fitting 834 may be disposed outside the housing 820 through an
aperture 820a defined thereon. In this manner, the nozzle 840 may
be configured to attach to the fitting 834 on the outside of the
housing 820 and to spray water and/or detergent for cleaning
purposes. In use, the detergent is released by the cartridge 810
into the receiving compartment 835 and subsequently translated into
a chamber 837 in fluid communication with the fitting 834 and the
connector 832, as shown in FIG. 44. In this way, detergent and/or
water may be released from the nozzle 840 as desired.
[0084] The cleaning head 800 further includes a head portion 850 in
mated relation to the housing, as shown in FIG. 43. The head
portion 850 includes at least one scouring element (not shown)
operatively associated with a first or front surface 850a thereof
for scrubbing the surfaces of the shower enclosure or bathtub. The
head portion 850 may include a plurality of scouring elements. It
is envisioned that the scouring elements may be, for example,
sponges, bristles, etc. The head portion 850 includes a throughbore
851 configured to be positioned coaxial to a throughbore 821
defined through the housing 820 along an X-X axis, as shown in FIG.
43. In this manner, throughbore 851 and throughbore 821 may receive
a fastener or pin (not shown) therethrough to pivotally mate the
head portion 850 to the housing 820. The pivoting action of the
head portion 850 relative to the housing 820 is depicted by the
arrow "N" in FIG. 43. The pivoting motion capacity of the head
portion 850 provides for improved cleaning performance of the
system of the present disclosure.
[0085] Alternatively, the cleaning head 800 of FIGS. 43 and 44 may
be configured to include a cartridge 860 in place of the head
portion 850, as depicted in FIG. 45. In this embodiment, the
cartridge 860 may be, for example, snap-fit, threaded, etc. into
the housing 820 for releasing detergent into the application
mechanism 830, as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 43 and 44.
The cartridge 860, shown in detail in FIG. 46 includes at least one
scouring element (not shown) operatively associated with a first or
front surface 860a thereof for scrubbing the surfaces of the shower
enclosure or bathtub. The cartridge 860 may include a plurality of
scouring elements. It is envisioned that the scouring elements may
be, for example, sponges, bristles, etc.
[0086] As to a further discussion of the manner of usage and
operation of the present disclosure, the same should be apparent
from the above description. Accordingly, no further discussion
relating to the manner of usage and operation will be provided.
[0087] With respect to the above description then, it is to be
realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts
of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape,
form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are
deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and
all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings
and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed
by the present disclosure.
[0088] Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only
of the principles of the disclosure. Further, since numerous
modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in
the art, it is not desired to limit the disclosure to the exact
construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly,
all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to,
falling within the scope of the disclosure.
* * * * *