U.S. patent application number 13/750553 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-30 for dusting devices.
This patent application is currently assigned to UNGER MARKETING INTERNATIONAL, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is UNGER MARKETING INTERNATIONAL, LLC. Invention is credited to Paul Adams, Lindita Ajro, Richard Andrus, Craig Bures, Jennifer Carter, James Dahl, Scott E. Machado, Douglas F. Melville, Bruce Popek, David Quinlan, Anthony Sgroi, Jr., Dane Unger.
Application Number | 20130133150 13/750553 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45020864 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130133150 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sgroi, Jr.; Anthony ; et
al. |
May 30, 2013 |
Dusting Devices
Abstract
A dusting device is provided that has at least one cleaning
member with a microfiber bundle secured to a spine by a seam. The
spine provides a resilient flexibility to the cleaning member such
that the spine flexes as pressure is applied, but at least
partially returns to an original shape upon removal of the
pressure.
Inventors: |
Sgroi, Jr.; Anthony;
(Wallingford, CT) ; Unger; Dane; (Brookfield,
CT) ; Quinlan; David; (Plantsville, CT) ;
Carter; Jennifer; (Oxford, CT) ; Ajro; Lindita;
(Oakville, CT) ; Adams; Paul; (Monroe, CT)
; Machado; Scott E.; (West Haven, CT) ; Popek;
Bruce; (South Windsor, CT) ; Bures; Craig;
(Prospect, CT) ; Melville; Douglas F.; (Simsbury,
CT) ; Dahl; James; (Manchester, CT) ; Andrus;
Richard; (Monterey, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
UNGER MARKETING INTERNATIONAL, LLC; |
Bridgeport |
CT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
UNGER MARKETING INTERNATIONAL,
LLC
Bridgeport
CT
|
Family ID: |
45020864 |
Appl. No.: |
13/750553 |
Filed: |
January 25, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13088838 |
Apr 18, 2011 |
|
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13750553 |
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61325131 |
Apr 16, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
15/209.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 13/38 20130101;
Y10T 156/1052 20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/209.1 |
International
Class: |
A47L 13/38 20060101
A47L013/38 |
Claims
1. A dusting device comprising: a resiliently flexible elongated
polymer spine; a base portion having said spine extending
therefrom; and a microfiber bundle comprising a plurality of
microfiber segments secured to one another by at least a first seam
and secured to said spine by a second seam.
2. The dusting device of claim 1, further comprising a handle
connected to said base portion.
3. The dusting device of claim 2, wherein said handle is releasably
connected to said base portion.
4. The dusting device of claim 1, further comprising at least two
resiliently flexible elongate spines extending from said base
portion.
5. The dusting device of claim 4, wherein said at least two spines
extend from said base portion to a spread position.
6. The dusting device of claim 5, further comprising a span control
member slideably disposed over said at least two spines of cleaning
members for movement between a first position and a second
position.
7. The dusting device of claim 6, wherein said at least two spines
remain in said spread position when said span control member is in
said first position and wherein said span control member urges said
at least two spines to a collapsed position when said span control
member is in said second position.
8. The dusting device of claim 4, wherein said at least two spines
are integrally formed with said base portion.
9. The dusting device of claim 4, wherein said at least two spines
are removably secured to said base portion.
10. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said elongated spine has
a cross sectional shape selected from the group consisting of a
substantially polygonal cross section, a circular cross section, an
ovoid cross section, a star shaped cross-section having a core with
a plurality of evenly spaced or unevenly spaced radially extending
members, and any combinations thereof.
11. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said second seam is
selected from the group consisting of a sewn seam, a glued seam, a
welded seam, a woven seam, and any combinations thereof.
12. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said second seam is a
sewn seam
13. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said second seam is a
glued seam.
14. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said microfiber bundle
comprises a plurality of fibers having a denier of less than
one.
15. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said spine comprises a
material selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyethylene,
polypropylene, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic rubber
(TPR), silicone rubber, hard durameter rubbers, foam, acetal, and
any combinations thereof.
16. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said spine is made of
acetal.
17. The dusting device of claim 1, wherein said spine is made of
nylon.
18. A dusting device comprising: a plurality of microfiber bundles,
each bundle consisting of a plurality of microfiber segments joined
together by a first seam to define a bundle length, said plurality
of microfiber segments having a denier of less than one; a
plurality of resiliently flexible elongated polymer spines
extending from a base portion, each bundle of said plurality of
microfiber bundles being secured along the bundle length to one of
said plurality of spines by a second seam; and a handle connected
to said base portion.
19. The dusting device of claim 18, wherein said second seam is a
sewn seam or a glued seam.
20. The dusting device of claim 18, wherein said plurality of
resiliently flexible elongated polymer spines are made of nylon or
acetal.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 13/088,838, filed Apr. 18, 2011, which claims the benefit of
U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/325,131, filed Apr. 16,
2010, the contents of both of which are incorporated by reference
herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present disclosure is related to dusting devices. More
particularly, the present disclosure is related to dusting devices
with cleaning members that are flexible, washable, and
reusable.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] The recurring need to remove dust from various surfaces in
residential and/or commercial settings has led to a variety of hand
held dusting devices being developed to accomplish this task. Some
common prior art hand held dusting devices range from simple
devices, such as a dusting rag, to more elaborate devices such as
hand held feather dusters. Each of these prior art hand held
dusting devices provide different advantages and/or disadvantages
to the user.
[0006] More recently, hand held dusting devices consisting of a
handle with a cleaning pad removably secured thereon have been
introduced. In many examples, the removable cleaning pad is made of
non-woven polymeric materials. When using these prior art devices,
the non-woven polymeric cleaning pads, once soiled, must be removed
from the handle and replaced with a new cleaning pad. The cost
and/or perceived environmental impact of constantly replacing the
non-woven cleaning pad may reduce the appeal of such hand held
dusting devices to some consumers.
[0007] Accordingly, it has been determined by the present
disclosure that there is a need for hand held dusting devices that
overcome, alleviate, and/or mitigate one or more of the
aforementioned and other deleterious effects of the prior art.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] A hand held dusting device is provided that includes a
flexible spine with a washable and reusable cleaning member
permanently secured thereon. The cleaning member is comprised of a
microfiber bundle, which when combined with the spine allow the
dusting device to function in a similar, but improved, manner as
common feather dusters. Thus, the microfiber bundle and spine
combine to form a flexible, washable, and reusable "microfiber
feather", which provides the dusting device of the present
application with the enhanced dust collection functionality of
typical microfiber fabrics.
[0009] A dusting device is provided that has at least one cleaning
member with a microfiber bundle secured to a spine by a seam. The
spine provides a resilient flexibility to the cleaning member such
that the spine flexes as pressure is applied, but at least
partially returns to an original shape upon removal of the
pressure.
[0010] A method of forming a flexible, washable cleaning member for
a dusting device is also provided. The method includes bonding a
length of microfiber to itself by a first seam; trimming the
microfiber to divide the length of microfiber into a plurality of
segments secured together by the seam to define a microfiber
bundle; fluffing the microfiber bundle to provide loft and
separation between the plurality of segments; and securing the
microfiber bundle to a flexible spine by a second seam.
[0011] The above-described and other features and advantages of the
present disclosure will be appreciated and understood by those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description,
drawings, and appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
hand held dusting device according to the present disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a
washable and reusable cleaning member according to the present
disclosure during assembly of a microfiber bundle with a spine;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the washable and reusable
cleaning member of FIG. 2 after assembly of the microfiber bundle
with the spine;
[0015] FIG. 4A is a side view of a first exemplary embodiment of a
fiber layout for the microfiber bundle of FIG. 2;
[0016] FIG. 4B is a side view of the fiber layout of FIG. 4A after
joining with one or more seams;
[0017] FIG. 4C is a side view of the fiber layout of FIG. 4B after
cutting the microfiber into segments and removing the cut-guiding
seams;
[0018] FIG. 5A is a side view of a second exemplary embodiment of a
fiber layout for the microfiber bundle of FIG. 2;
[0019] FIG. 5B is a side view of the fiber layout of FIG. 5A after
joining with one or more seams;
[0020] FIG. 5C is a side view of the fiber layout of FIG. 5B after
cutting the microfiber into segments and removing the cut-guiding
seams;
[0021] FIG. 6A is a side view of a third exemplary embodiment of a
fiber layout for the microfiber bundle of FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 6B is a side view of the fiber layout of FIG. 6A after
joining with one or more seams;
[0023] FIG. 6C is a side view of the fiber layout of FIG. 6B after
cutting the microfiber into segments and removing the cut-guiding
seams;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a top view of the microfiber bundle of FIG. 4, 5,
or 6 before cutting loops of the fiber layout and removal of at
least some of the seams;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a top view of the microfiber bundle of FIG. 7
after cutting loops of the fiber layout and removal of at least
some of the seams;
[0026] FIG. 9A is a first exemplary embodiment of a spine according
to the present disclosure during assembly of a microfiber bundle
with the spine;
[0027] FIG. 9B is a second exemplary embodiment of a spine
according to the present disclosure during assembly of a microfiber
bundle with the spine;
[0028] FIG. 9C is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a dusting device according to the present disclosure having the
spine of FIG. 9A or 9B;
[0029] FIGS. 10A and 10B are views of a third exemplary embodiment
of a spine according to the present disclosure;
[0030] FIG. 10C is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a dusting device according to the present disclosure having the
spine of FIG. 10A or 10B;
[0031] FIG. 10D is a partially exploded perspective view of an
exemplary embodiment of the dusting device of FIG. 10C;
[0032] FIG. 10E is a partially exploded sectional view of another
alternate exemplary embodiment of the dusting device of FIG.
10C;
[0033] FIG. 10F is a partially exploded sectional view of yet
another alternate exemplary embodiment of the dusting device of
FIG. 10C;
[0034] FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 are perspective views of another
alternate exemplary embodiment of a dusting device according to the
present disclosure, which includes a collection member;
[0035] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a fourth exemplary
embodiment of a spine according to the present disclosure;
[0036] FIG. 14B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a dusting device according to the present disclosure having the
spine of FIG. 14A;
[0037] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a fifth exemplary
embodiment of a spine according to the present disclosure;
[0038] FIG. 15B is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a dusting device according to the present disclosure having the
spine of FIG. 15A;
[0039] FIGS. 16A and 16B are views of other exemplary embodiments
of spines according to the present disclosure;
[0040] FIG. 16C is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a dusting device according to the present disclosure having the
spine of FIG. 16A or 16B;
[0041] FIG. 17A illustrates still a further exemplary embodiment of
a spine according to the present disclosure;
[0042] FIG. 17B through 17E illustrate expanded views of the spine
of FIG. 17A;
[0043] FIGS. 17F and 17G illustrate still further exemplary
embodiment of a spine according to the present disclosure;
[0044] FIG. 18 illustrates still a further exemplary embodiment of
a spine according to the present disclosure;
[0045] FIG. 19 illustrates still a further exemplary embodiment of
a spine according to the present disclosure;
[0046] FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C are views of another exemplary
embodiment of a dusting device according to the present disclosure;
and
[0047] FIG. 21 illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a hand
held dusting device according to the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0048] Referring to the drawings and in particular to FIG. 1, an
exemplary embodiment of a dusting device according to the present
disclosure is shown and is generally referred to by reference
numeral 10. Dusting device 10 includes a handle 12 and one or more
flexible, washable, and reusable cleaning members 14 (three
shown).
[0049] Cleaning member 14, also referred to herein as a "microfiber
feather", is an assembly of a microfiber bundle 16 with a flexible
spine 18 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Bundle 16 is shown in FIG. 2 in
a flattened state, and in FIG. 3 in a fluffed or spread state.
Preferably, bundle 16 and spine 18 are permanently secured to one
another by a seam 20.
[0050] As used herein, the term "seam" shall mean any continuous or
non-continuous connection between microfiber bundle 16 and flexible
spine 18. Seam 20 can be a sewn seam, a glued seam, a welded seam,
woven seam, and any combinations thereof.
[0051] Bundle 16 is formed of a fiber 22, which is cut into a
plurality of segments. In a preferred embodiment, fiber 22 is a
microfiber. As used herein, the term "microfiber" shall mean a
fiber having a denier of less than one. In some embodiments, fiber
22, when the fiber is a microfiber, is made of a blend of about 75%
polyester (PE) and about 25% polyamide (PA) having a denier of
about 0.138.
[0052] Spine 18 is configured to provide a resilient flexibility to
cleaning member 14. Namely, spine 18 bends as pressure is applied
during dusting, but at least partially returns to its original
shape upon removal of the pressure. Additionally, spine 18 is
preferably made of a non-scratch material so that cleaning member
14 can be used on a variety of delicate surfaces. For example, it
is contemplated by the present disclosure for spine 18 to be made
of nylon, polyethylene, polypropylene, thermoplastic elastomer
(TPE), thermoplastic rubber (TPR), silicone rubber, hard durameter
rubbers, foam, acetal, and can be fabricated by any suitable method
such as, but not limited to, injection molding, compression
molding, die cutting, and others. It is also contemplated by the
present disclosure for spine 18 to be formed of metallic materials
such as spring steel or a core of twisted wire (e.g. pipe cleaner
material). Of course, any material or combinations thereof that
provide the desired flexibility, washability, and
non-scratchability are sufficient.
[0053] Spine 18 can have any desired cross section that are
sufficient to provide the desired flexibility, washability, and
non-scratchability. For example, spine 18 can have a substantially
polygonal cross section including triangular, rectangular, or as
many sides as desired, a substantially circular or ovoid cross
section, a star shaped cross-section having a core with a plurality
of evenly spaced or unevenly spaced radially extending members, and
any combinations thereof.
[0054] Advantageously, cleaning member 14 is flexible, washable,
and reusable. As used herein, the term "washable" shall mean that
the microfiber feather, and when necessary other components of the
dusting device, can be washed in a cleaning solution such as water
and/or detergent either by hand or in a washing machine such as, a
laundry washing machine and a laundry drying machine.
[0055] Bundle 16 is described with simultaneous reference to FIGS.
4 through 8. FIGS. 4A through 4C illustrate a first embodiment for
constructing bundle 16. During the construction of bundle 16, a
length of microfiber 22 is repeatedly folded upon itself to a
desired length 24 and a desired width 26.
[0056] It should be recognized that bundle 16 is described by way
of example only as being constructed with microfiber 22 folded to a
single, constant width 26 along length 24. Of course, it is
contemplated by the present disclosure for bundle 16 to be
constructed with width 26 that varies along length 24. It should
also be recognized that bundle 16 is described by way of example
only as being constructed with microfiber 22 folded so that width
26 is symmetrical about a central axis 28 of the bundle. Of course,
it is contemplated by the present disclosure for bundle 16 to be
constructed with width 26 that is non-symmetrical about central
axis 28.
[0057] Once folded to the desired length 24, the various portions
of microfiber 22 in bundle 16 are joined by a seam 30. In the
illustrated embodiment, seam 30 is defined along central axis 28.
Of course, it is contemplated by the present disclosure for seam 30
to be defined in any desired position on bundle 16. One having
ordinary skill in the art can appreciate that the various portions
of fiber 22 of bundle 16 and seam 20 can be fabricated by a
continuous feeding process. That is, seam 20 can join the various
portions of fiber 22 as the length of the fiber is repeatedly
folded upon itself. This allows bundle 16 the option of being cut
to any desired length 24.
[0058] Once secured together by seam 30, loops 32, which are formed
by the folds of fiber 22, are cut so that the microfiber is divided
into a plurality of segments 34. Thus, in FIG. 4B, the loops 32 of
bundle 16 are cut at both sides (i.e., two cuts are made) to
provide the bundle shown in FIG. 4C. Segments 34 preferably have a
length of about 46.5 millimeters (mm), which has been determined by
the present disclosure as being sufficient to allow cleaning member
14 to be washable. However, without being bound to a particular
theory, segment 34 can have any length sufficient so that the
segments of bundle 16 resist tangling during the machine wash and
machine drying processes.
[0059] In some embodiments, bundle 16 can include one or more
cut-guiding seams 36 (two shown on each side of axis 28).
Cut-guiding seams 36 have been found by the present disclosure as
being advantageous to maintain fiber 22 in a desired position to
ensure that each loop 32 is cut. After cutting loops 32,
cut-guiding seams 36 are removed so that segments 34 move freely
about their connection at seam 30.
[0060] FIGS. 5A through 5C illustrate a second embodiment for
constructing bundle 16. Here, during the construction of bundle 16,
the length of fiber 22 is repeatedly coiled upon itself to desired
length 24 and desired width 26.
[0061] It should be recognized that bundle 16 is described by way
of example only as being constructed with fiber 22 coiled to a
single, constant width 26 along length 24. Of course, it is
contemplated by the present disclosure for bundle 16 to be
constructed with width 26 that varies along length 24. It should
also be recognized that bundle 16 is described by way of example
only as being constructed with fiber 22 coiled so that width 26 is
symmetrical about central axis 28 of the bundle. Of course, it is
contemplated by the present disclosure for bundle 16 to be
constructed with width 26 that is non-symmetrical about central
axis 28.
[0062] Once coiled to the desired length 24, the various portions
of fiber 22 in bundle 16 are joined by seam 30. In the illustrated
embodiment, seam 30 is defined along central axis 28. Of course, it
is contemplated by the present disclosure for seam 30 to be defined
in any desired position on bundle 16 and can be formed by a
continuous feeding process as detailed above.
[0063] Once secured together by seam 30, coils 32', which are
formed by the repeated coiling of fiber 22, are cut so that the
microfiber is divided into two different plurality of segments 34.
Thus, in FIG. 5B, the coils 32' of bundle 16 are cut at both sides
(i.e., two cuts are made) to provide the bundle shown in FIG. 5C.
The cuts can have any desired shape such as, but not limited to, a
straight line, a curved line, a sinosodial pattern, or any other
shape.
[0064] In some embodiments, bundle 16 can include one or more
cut-guiding seams 36 (two shown on each side of axis 28), which are
removed after cutting so that segments 34 move freely about their
connection at seam 30 as discussed above.
[0065] FIGS. 6A through 6C illustrate a third embodiment for
constructing bundle 16. During the construction of bundle 16, two
different lengths of fiber 22 are repeatedly folded upon themselves
and are placed adjacent to one another, in a partially overlapping
manner, so that the resultant bundle has desired length 24 and
desired width 26.
[0066] Again, it should be recognized that bundle 16 is described
by way of example only as being constructed with two microfibers 20
folded to a single, constant width 26 along length 24 and having
the microfibers folded so that width 26 is symmetrical about a
central axis 28 of the bundle. Of course, any desired configuration
is contemplated by the present disclosure.
[0067] Once folded to the desired length 24, the various portions
of microfibers 20 in bundle 16 are joined by a seam 30. In the
illustrated embodiment, seam 30 is defined along central axis 28.
Of course, it is contemplated by the present disclosure for seam 30
to be defined in any desired position on bundle 16 and can be
formed by a continuous feeding process as detailed above.
[0068] Once secured together by seam 30, the outermost loops 32'',
which are formed by the folds of microfibers 20, are cut so that
the two microfibers are divided into plurality of segments 34.
Thus, in FIG. 6B, the outermost loops 32'' of bundle 16 are cut at
both sides (i.e., two cuts are made) to provide the bundle shown in
FIG. 6C.
[0069] In some embodiments, bundle 16 can include one or more
cut-guiding seams 36 (two shown on each side of axis 28).
Cut-guiding seams 36 have been found by the present disclosure as
being advantageous to maintain fiber 22 in a desired position to
ensure that each outermost loop 32'' is cut. After cutting loops
32'', cut-guiding seams 36 are removed so that segments 34 move
freely about their connection at seam 30. It should be noted that
loops 32 can be cut between cut-guiding seams 36 so that one of the
cut-guide seams remains with the cut loop, while the other of the
cut-guiding seam remains on the segments for later removal. If
desired, loops 32 can be cut on either side of cut-guiding seams
36.
[0070] In each embodiment of FIGS. 4 through 6, bundle 16 is made
from one or more microfibers 20, bonded together by seam 30, then
trimmed to divide the one or more microfibers into the plurality of
segments 34. After trimming, bundle 16 can be further processed to
provide loft and separation between the segments (e.g.,
fluffed).
[0071] FIG. 7 illustrates bundle 16 having seam 30, loops 32, coils
32', or outermost loops 32'', and cut-guiding seams 36 before
cutting to provide segments 34. In contrast, FIG. 8 illustrates
bundle 16 having seam 30, loops 32, coils 32', or outermost loops
32'', after cutting to provide segments 34 and after the removal of
cut-guiding seams 36, if provided.
[0072] Returning now to FIGS. 1 through 3, dusting device 10 is
shown having five (three being visible) generally linear or
straight cleaning members 14. In this embodiment, each cleaning
member 14 has a generally narrow, flat spine 18 of substantially
the same length connected to handle 12 by a connection device 38.
However, it is contemplated by the present disclosure for cleaning
members 14 to have any desired shape or length.
[0073] In some embodiments, handle 12 can be configured so that the
entire dusting device 10 can be placed in the washing machine.
However, it is also contemplated by the present disclosure for
connection device 38 to removably connect cleaning members 14 to
handle 12. In this manner, cleaning members 14 can be removed from
handle 12 for washing and drying.
[0074] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C, dusting
device 10 is shown having three cleaning members 14 with a spine 18
of a generally elongated spiral shape. As shown, connection device
38 includes a first portion 40 on handle 12, and a second portion
42 that connects the cleaning members 14 to one another. Here,
first and second portions 40, 42 are releasably secured to one
another.
[0075] In some embodiments, second portion 42 maintains cleaning
members 14 connected to one another such that a subassembly 44,
consisting of the cleaning members and the second portion 42, can
be removed from handle 12 for washing and drying. Thus, in this
embodiment, at least cleaning members 14 and second portion 42 of
dusting device 10 are washable. However, it should also be noted
that cleaning members 14 can also be removed in individual manner
(i.e. the ability of removing each cleaning member 14 seperately)
to perform a washing/drying operation.
[0076] Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, it is contemplated by
the present disclosure for a plurality of spines 18 to be
integrally formed with one another to provide dusting device 10
with a desired shape such as that shown in FIG. 10C.
[0077] In this embodiment, spines 18 can be part of a spine
assembly 46, which includes the spines joined with a base portion
48. Spine assembly 46 is shown in an open or non-use position in
FIG. 10A, but in a closed or use position in FIG. 10B. In this
embodiment, base portion 48 includes a pair of interlocking
features 50, which releasably secure spine assembly 46 in the use
position. It should be noted that interlocking features 50 can be
any set of features configured to removably secure spine assembly
46 in the use position such as, but not limited to, welding,
adhesive, and others. In other embodiments, spine assembly 46 can
be integrally formed to the desired shape without the need for
separate features 50.
[0078] As shown in FIG. 10D, connection device 38 includes first
portion 40 on handle 12, and second portion 42 that connects the
cleaning members 14 to one another. Here, base portion 48 of spine
assembly 46 also functions as second portion 42 of connection
device 38. Additionally, interlocking features 50 can releasably
mate with at least part of first portion 40 releasably secure the
first portion to second portion 42. Of course any desired
interlocking features 50 are contemplated by the present
disclosure. For example, interlocking features 50 can be twistably
secured and released from one another by way of threads or
complementary pin and slot.
[0079] FIGS. 10E and 10F illustrate exemplary embodiments of
connecting device 38 that releasably secure first portion 40 and
second portion 42. In these embodiments, first portion 40 includes
a feature 52 that releasably engages a corresponding feature 54 of
second portion 42. Connecting device 38 includes a biasing member
56 and a button 58. Biasing member biases feature 52 to releasably
engage corresponding feature 54, while button 58 can be actuated by
the user to overcome the force of the biasing member to release
feature 52 from the corresponding feature 54 to allow the user to
remove subassembly 44.
[0080] Referring now to FIGS. 11 through 13, dusting device 10 is
shown with an exemplary embodiment of a span control member 60.
Span control member 60 is slideably disposed over cleaning members
14 between a first position (FIGS. 11 and 12) and a second position
(FIG. 13). As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, cleaning members 14 are
normally biased to a spread position so that the members span
across a larger area to allow cleaning of larger surfaces. However
in some instances, dusting device 10 may be too large to fit into a
desired space when cleaning members 14 are spread to the full span.
When span control member 60 is moved to second position of FIG. 13,
the inner diameter of the control member restrains the cleaning
members 14 from the full span.
[0081] Span control member 60 also serves as an adjustment of the
flexible portion of spine 18 as detailed in FIGS. 12 and 13. As
illustrated in FIG. 12, span control member 60 is in a position to
maximize the length of spine 18 via a first dimension L1. When span
control member 60 is moved away from handle 12, the active length
of spine 18 is reduced to a second, smaller dimension L2 as in FIG.
13. Since in this example first dimension L1 is larger than second
dimension L2, span control member 60 provides spine 18 with an
increased stiffness in the position of FIG. 12 than in the position
of FIG. 13.
[0082] Thus, when dusting delicate objects and more flexibility is
desired, the user can adjust the stiffness of dusting device 10 by
moving span control member 60 to the first dimension L1 as shown in
FIG. 12. In contrast, when dusting other objections such as, but
not limited to less fragile objects, less flexibility maybe
desired. Here, the user can adjust the stiffness of dusting device
10 by moving span control member 60 to the second dimension L2 as
shown in FIG. 13.
[0083] Furthermore, when it is desired to clean subassembly 44, the
span control member 60 can be slid to second position of FIG. 13.
In this position, cleaning members 14 are restrained from the full
span by member 60 and are secured together at the bottom by second
portion 42 of connecting device 38. It has been determined by the
present disclosure that maintaining cleaning members 14 in the
restrained position can mitigate damage to the subassembly 44,
which otherwise might occur during typical machine washing and
drying cycles. It should be recognized that the present disclosure
provides span control member 60 for restraining cleaning members 14
to prevent damage during washing. Of course, the present disclosure
contemplates the use of any span control member 60, which is
configured to restrain cleaning members in place during washing.
For example, span control member 60 can include a wash bag (not
shown)_in which dusting device 10 is placed during washing.
[0084] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, dusting device
10 is shown having cleaning members 14 with a spine 18 of a
generally elongated looped shape 62. Looped shape 62 is formed by a
bending spine 18. As shown, connection device 38 includes first and
second portions 40, 42 that can be releasably secured to one
another.
[0085] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, dusting device
10 is shown having cleaning members 14 with a spine 18 of a
generally elongated straight shape. Here, bundle 16 is secured to
spine 18 in such a manner so as to allow at least a portion 64 of
the bundle unsupported by the spine. In other words, bundle 16 is
longer than spine 18 so that portion 64 can move freely from the
end of the spine. As shown, connection device 38 includes first and
second portions 40, 42 that can be releasably secured to one
another.
[0086] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C, dusting
device 10 is shown having cleaning members 14 with a spine 18 of a
generally elongated straight shape. Here, a plurality of bundles 16
are secured to the same spine 18. In other words, each bundle 16 is
shorter than spine 18 so that multiple bundles 16-1, 16-2, 16-3 can
be secured to the spine adjacent to one another. Once bundles 16
are fluffed, it has been found that the bundles take a generally
spherical appearance as shown.
[0087] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17A, dusting device 10 is
shown having cleaning members 14 with a spine 18 of a generally
elongated straight shape. Here, spine 18 is segmented into a
plurality of segments 66, which allow the spine to move more
flexibly and freely. Details of spine 18 having one or more
segments 66 are explained in detail by simultaneous reference to
FIGS. 17B through 17E. FIG. 17B illustrates segments 66 permanently
bonded to cord 68. Such permanent bonding is achieved via
overmolding the one or more segments 66 onto cord 68 so that
spacing 100 between edges 102 of the segments is controlled to a
predetermined spacing. Spine of FIG. 17B allows for controlled
flexing of the spine with little to no flexural resistance. Rather,
flexural resistance of spine 18 is controlled by the mechanical
properties of cord 68. For example, if cord 68 is a string, spine
18 would provide little to no flexural resistance compared to a
cord constructed out of metallic wire or elastic cord. Therefore,
for some dusting applications, string like mechanical properties
for cord 68 is preferred.
[0088] Controlled flexing can also be made possible by spacing 100.
By reference to FIGS. 17C and D, each segment 66 has top and bottom
edge 102. Edges 102 allows for limited flexing through an angle 108
when the adjacent edges 102 contact. When spacing 100 is increased,
angle 108 is increased to allow more flexion. Conversely, when
spacing 100 is decreased, angle 108 is decreased to allow less
flexion.
[0089] Referring now to FIG. 17E, cord 68 is shown as an
elastomeric cord permanently bonded to segment 66. In this example,
elastomeric cord 104 allows for additional flexure as compared to
cord 68 via the stretching properties of elastomer cord 104.
[0090] Referring now to FIG. 17F, spine 18 can includes one or more
segments 104 that are constructed in hollow cylinders. Cord 106 has
a length 103 and is inserted through each hollow portion of
segments 104. Cord 106 further includes a pair of caps 110 on each
end to control length 103 and the plurality of distances 100. In
this example, all segments will move to a predetermined contact
position thus limiting the flexing of the spine 18. In some
embodiments, segments 66 can be separated from one another, but all
joined to bundle 16. Cord 68 can be central to the segments, namely
can pass through a hollow within the segments, or can be connected
to an exterior of the segments.
[0091] Spine 18 having segments 66 can be bonded to bundle 16 in a
variety of methods. The configurations as illustrated in FIGS. 17A
through 17G can be bonded as detailed in the previous embodiments
above. By reference to FIG. 17G, another configuration of spine 18
is shown having one or more segments 66. In this example, segments
66 are bonded directly to bundle 16 via a plurality of seams 114.
In this example, the positions of segments 66 on bundle 16 create
spacing 100, thus eliminating the requirement of a cord. The
controlled flexing of spine 18 is similar as detailed above.
[0092] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, dusting device 10 is
shown having cleaning members 14 with a spine 18 having a plurality
of arms 70 each having a bundle 16 secured thereto.
[0093] Referring now to FIG. 19, dusting device 10 is shown with
another exemplary embodiment of an elongated cleaning member 14
with spine 18 having one or more hinge members 72 (two shown).
Hinge members 72 can be any type of hinge member sufficient to
enhance the flexibility of spine 18. In some embodiments, the seam
securing bundle 16 to spine 18 can be discontinuous in the region
of hinge member 72 to further enhance the flexibility of spine
18.
[0094] For example, hinge member 72 can be a ball-and-socket hinge
74 that provides a limited range of motion 76. Alternately, hinge
member 72 can be a living hinge 78 defined in spine 18 by weakening
the spine in one or more locations. The living hinge 78 can be
provided by narrowing the thickness of the spine, adding one or
more openings through the spine, or any other method to locally
weaken the spine to bending. Of course, the present disclosure
contemplates any other type of hinge member 72 is suitable to
provide one or more regions of enhanced flexibility to spine
18.
[0095] Referring now to FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C, another exemplary
embodiment of dusting device 10 is shown. In this embodiment,
bundle 16 is formed to include a pocket 80, in which spine 18 is
received. At a terminal end 82 of spine 18, bundle 16 is secured to
the spine by any desired method such as a sewn seam, a glued seam,
a welded seam, press-fit, and any combinations thereof.
Furthermore, at a proximal end 84 of spine 18, bundle 16 is secured
to a collar 86 by any desired method such as a sewn seam, a glued
seam, a welded seam, press-fit, and any combinations thereof.
Collar 86 is rotatably disposed on spine 18 such that twisting of
the collar twists bundle 16 about the spine.
[0096] It should be recognized that dusting device 10 is described
above by way of example only as having bundle 16 secured directly
to spine 18 by seam 30. However, it is also contemplated by the
present disclosure for bundle 16 to be indirectly secured to spine
18 as desired. For example, and referring to FIG. 21, dusting
device 10 includes seam 20 securing bundle 16 to a pocket or sleeve
120. In this embodiment, spine 18 can be inserted into sleeve 120
to a desired position and then the sleeve and spine can be
permanently secured to one in any desired manner such as, but not
limited to sewing, adhesive, welding, and any combinations
thereof.
[0097] It should also be noted that the terms "first", "second",
"third", "upper", "lower", and the like may be used herein to
modify various elements. These modifiers do not imply a spatial,
sequential, or hierarchical order to the modified elements unless
specifically stated.
[0098] While the present disclosure has been described with
reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be
understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be
made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof
without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In
addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular
situation or material to the teachings of the disclosure without
departing from the scope thereof. In addition, combinations of the
different features can be combined to create different products.
Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be
limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed as the best mode
contemplated, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments
falling within the scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *