U.S. patent application number 15/737978 was filed with the patent office on 2018-10-18 for disposable toilet bowl scrub system.
This patent application is currently assigned to 3M Innovative Properties Company. The applicant listed for this patent is 3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY. Invention is credited to Mark W. Baldwin, Thomas C. Meier.
Application Number | 20180296043 15/737978 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 56292967 |
Filed Date | 2018-10-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180296043 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Meier; Thomas C. ; et
al. |
October 18, 2018 |
DISPOSABLE TOILET BOWL SCRUB SYSTEM
Abstract
The present disclosure generally relates to a scrub head capable
of use in a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system and to methods
of making and using the scrub head. The present disclosure also
generally relates to a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system and
to methods of making and using the disposable toilet bowl cleaning
system.
Inventors: |
Meier; Thomas C.; (Woodbury,
MN) ; Baldwin; Mark W.; (Woodbury, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
3M INNOVATIVE PROPERTIES COMPANY |
St. Paul |
MN |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
3M Innovative Properties
Company
St. Paul
MN
|
Family ID: |
56292967 |
Appl. No.: |
15/737978 |
Filed: |
June 22, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
June 22, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2016/038667 |
371 Date: |
December 19, 2017 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62183378 |
Jun 23, 2015 |
|
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|
62242581 |
Oct 16, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 2200/304 20130101;
A47K 11/10 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A47K 11/10 20060101
A47K011/10 |
Claims
1. A scrub head capable of use in a disposable toilet bowl cleaning
system, comprising: a cup; a strap, at least a portion of which is
adjacent to or attached to the cup; and a cleaning pad adjacent to
or attached to the strap.
2. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the cup includes an
opening.
3. The scrub head of claim 2, wherein the opening has a diameter of
between about 5 mm an about 30 mm.
4. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the cup includes a first end
and a second end between which is a cup body and wherein the cup
body is substantially hollow.
5. The scrub head of claim 4, wherein the cup body has a height of
between about 15 mm and about 70 mm.
6. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the cup and strap are a
unitary piece.
7. The scrub head of claim 4, wherein the strap has a length that
is greater than a length of the cup body.
8. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the strap has an arcuate
shape.
9. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the strap has a radius of
curvature of between about 5 mm and about 25 mm.
10. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the strap includes a slot
into which a portion of the cup engages.
11. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the cleaning pad is a
nonwoven polymeric material.
12. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein the cleaning pad includes at
least one of an abrasive, a dye, a fragrance, an abrasive slurry, a
bleaching agent, a germicide, or an antimicrobial agent.
13. The scrub head of claim 1, having one degree of freedom.
14. The scrub head of claim 1, having three degrees of freedom.
15. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein a first end of the cup
attaches to a first end of the strap.
16. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein a second end of the cup
attaches to a second end of the strap.
17. The scrub head of claim 1, wherein a second end of the strap is
not connected to the cup.
18. A disposable toilet cleaning system, comprising: the scrub head
of claim 1; and a handle assembly.
19. The disposable toilet cleaning system of claim 18, further
comprising: a caddy assembly.
20. The disposable toilet cleaning system of claim 18, further
comprising: an actuation button or switch in which when the
actuation button or switch is in a first position, the scrub head
is held onto the handle assembly and when the actuation button or
switch is in a second position, the scrub head is not held onto the
handle assembly.
Description
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a scrub head
capable of use in a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system and to
methods of making and using the scrub head. The present disclosure
also generally relates to a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system
and to methods of making and using the disposable toilet bowl
cleaning system.
BACKGROUND
[0002] There are currently a number of cleaning devices for
cleaning toilet bowls that include a reusable handle assembly and a
disposable pad that is releasably engageable with the handle
assembly. U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,816,313; 3,221,356; 3,383,158;
4,466,152; 4,493,124; 4,852,201; 5,488,748; 5,592,713; 5,630,243;
6,295,688; 7,127,768; 7,275,276; 7,386,910; 7,065,825; Published
Patent Applications US 2002/0025213A1 and 2002/0120993A1; PCT
Applications WO 87/00022 and WO 01/15587; and European Patent
Application EP 1 190 657 A1 provide illustrative examples.
[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 7,127,768 describes one exemplary prior art
toilet cleaning device (often referred to as a "wand"). Some
embodiments from this patent are shown herein as FIGS. 1A and 1B.
Toilet cleaning device 1 includes a handle 10 operatively connected
to a cleaning head 20. Cleaning head 20 includes a sponge 24, a
scrim 34, and a filament or top 40, each of which are described in
greater detail in U.S. Pat. No. 7,127,768.
SUMMARY
[0004] The inventor of the present disclosure realized that
existing toilet cleaning devices have various drawbacks. For
example, one drawback is that many users do not want to touch the
disposable cleaning pad with their hand. For many users, this means
that they do not want to touch the disposable cleaning pad either
during attachment of the scrub head to the handle assembly or
during removal of the dirty disposable scrub head from the handle
assembly. For many users, it is desirable to hold the reusable
handle assembly and attach the disposable scrub head--without
touching the cleaning pad--instead of holding the disposable scrub
head in the user's hand during attachment to the handle assembly.
Many prior art toilet cleaning devices require that the user hold
the disposable cleaning pad in their hand during application to the
handle assembly and/or during removal from the handle assembly.
Some prior art toilet cleaning devices intended for hands-free
attachment of the cleaning pad to the handle are in practice
difficult to use without holding the cleaning pad while attaching
to the handle, or the pad does not reliably disconnect from the
handle without touching the pad.
[0005] An additional or alternative drawback is that many existing
toilet cleaning devices lack secure attachment of the cleaning pad
to the handle. Alternatively, the forces the user places on the
cleaning pad exceed the security of attachment of the cleaning pad
to the handle. Consequently, the cleaning pad falls into the toilet
during use. This is especially undesirable because the user is then
forced to reach into the toilet with the user's hand or another
implement to remove the cleaning pad from the toilet. The cleaning
pad must be thrown away and is wasted, and the entire process must
begin again.
[0006] An additional or alternative drawback is that many existing
toilet cleaning devices include a cleaning pad that does not clean
the toilet bowl very well. In some instances, this is because the
cleaning pad is poorly shaped and/or sized. In some instances, this
is because the cleaning pad has minimal movement when secured to
the handle assembly. In some instances, the existing cleaning pads
and/or toilet cleaning devices are unable to adequately clean at
least one of the following areas of the toilet: under the rim or in
the drain.
[0007] The inventors of the present disclosure invented a toilet
bowl cleaning device including disposable pads aligned for easy,
hands-free connection to and release from the reusable handle
assembly. The toilet bowl cleaning system described herein resolves
or improves upon at least some of the above-identified drawbacks of
existing toilet cleaning systems.
[0008] Some embodiments relate to scrub heads capable of use in a
disposable toilet bowl cleaning system, comprising: a cup; a strap,
at least a portion of which is adjacent to or attached to the cup;
and a cleaning pad adjacent to or attached to the strap. In some
embodiments, the cup includes an opening. In some embodiments, the
opening has a diameter of between about 5 mm an about 30 mm. In
some embodiments, the cup includes a first end and a second end
between which is a cup body and wherein the cup body is
substantially hollow. In some embodiments, the cup body has a
height of between about 15 mm and about 70 mm. In some embodiments,
the cup and strap are a unitary piece.
[0009] In some embodiments, the strap has a length that is greater
than the length of the cup body. In some embodiments, the strap has
an arcuate shape. In some embodiments, the strap has a radius of
curvature of between about 5 mm and about 25 mm. In some
embodiments, the strap includes a slot into which a portion of the
cup engages.
[0010] In some embodiments, the cleaning pad is a nonwoven
polymeric material. In some embodiments, the cleaning pad includes
at least one of an abrasive, a dye, a fragrance, an abrasive
slurry, a bleaching agent, a germicide, or a antimicrobial
agent.
[0011] In some embodiments, the scrub head has one degree of
freedom. In some embodiments, the scrub head has three degrees of
freedom.
[0012] In some embodiments, a first end of the cup attaches to a
first end of the strap. In some embodiments, a second end of the
cup attaches to a second end of the strap. In some embodiments, a
second end of the strap is not connected to the cup.
[0013] Some embodiments relate to a disposable toilet cleaning
system, comprising a scrub head as described herein and a handle
assembly. Some embodiments further include a caddy assembly. Some
embodiments further include an actuation button or switch in which
when the actuation button or switch is in a first position, the
scrub head is held onto the handle assembly and when the actuation
button or switch is in a second position, the scrub head is not
held on the handle assembly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These figures are not drawn to scale and are intended merely
for illustrative purposes. The disclosure may be more completely
understood in consideration of the following detailed description
of various embodiments of the disclosure in connection with the
accompanying drawings, in which:
[0015] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a prior art toilet bowl
cleaning system.
[0016] FIG. 1B is an exploded side view of the scrub head of the
prior art disposable toilet bowl cleaning system of FIG. 1A.
[0017] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of one exemplary embodiment of
a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system of the type generally
described herein.
[0018] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of another exemplary
embodiment of a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system of the type
generally described herein.
[0019] FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are respectively perspective, side, and
front views of another exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet
bowl cleaning system of the type generally described herein.
[0020] FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C are respectively perspective, side, and
front views of another exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet
bowl cleaning system of the type generally described herein.
[0021] FIG. 5A is a side view of the scrub head of the disposable
toilet bowl cleaning system of FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C.
[0022] FIG. 5B is a side view of the scrub head of the disposable
toilet bowl cleaning system of FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C.
[0023] FIG. 6 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a
cleaning pad of the type generally described herein.
[0024] FIG. 7 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of a
cleaning pad of the type generally described herein.
[0025] FIGS. 8A and 8B are side views of another exemplary
embodiment of a scrub head of a scrubbing tool of the type
generally described herein. FIG. 8B shows the scrub head when in
use and/or during application on a handle assembly.
[0026] FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C are a respective side, side schematic,
and front views of another exemplary embodiment of a scrub head of
a scrubbing tool of the type generally described herein. FIGS. 9B
and 9C show the scrub head and/or scrubbing tool in use.
[0027] FIGS. 10A and 10B show a side view and a top view,
respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a scrub head of a
scrubbing tool of the type generally described herein. FIG. 10C
shows a perspective side view of the scrub head in use. FIG. 10D
shows a perspective top view of the scrub head in use.
[0028] FIGS. 11A and 11B respectively show a top view and a
perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning pad of
the type generally described herein. FIG. 11C shows a front view of
a scrub head of the type generally described herein with the
cleaning pad shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B.
[0029] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system with the scrub head
separate from the handle assembly.
[0030] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of the disposable toilet bowl
cleaning system of FIG. 12.
[0031] FIGS. 14A-14C show a perspective view, a side view, and a
top view, respectively, of a handle assembly of the type generally
described herein.
[0032] FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view at line A-A of FIG.
3B.
[0033] FIGS. 16A-16C show a perspective view, a side view, and a
bottom view, respectively, of an exemplary actuation mechanism for
use in a handle assembly of a disposable toilet bowl cleaning
system.
[0034] FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional side view at line A-A of the
actuation mechanism FIG. 16B.
[0035] FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of
an exemplary disposable toilet bowl cleaning system shown in FIGS.
4A, 4B and 4C including the actuation mechanism of FIGS. 19 and
20.
[0036] FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of the disposable
toilet bowl cleaning system of FIG. 16B along line B-B.
[0037] FIG. 20 shows an enlargement of a portion of FIG. 19.
[0038] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a plurality of exemplary
scrub heads of one of the types described herein in stacked
arrangement.
[0039] FIG. 22 shows one exemplary side perspective view of a scrub
head refill package.
[0040] In the following detailed description, reference may be made
to the accompanying set of drawings that form a part hereof and in
which are shown by way of illustration several specific
embodiments. It is to be understood that other embodiments are
contemplated and may be made without departing from the scope or
spirit of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0041] The present disclosure generally relates to various toilet
bowl cleaning systems or devices that improve upon some of the
drawbacks of the prior art toilet bowl cleaning systems or devices.
Many embodiments of the toilet bowl cleaning systems described and
shown herein are no-touch solutions in which the user need not
physically touch the cleaning pad during application of the
cleaning pad to the handle assembly and/or during removal of the
cleaning pad from the handle assembly. In some embodiments, the
user need never physically touch the cleaning pad--from the time of
purchase to the time of end-of-use disposal. Many embodiments of
the toilet bowl cleaning systems described herein include a
disposable scrub head and a reusable handle assembly. Many
embodiments of the toilet bowl cleaning system include a scrubbing
tool, a caddy, and a refill package. The term "scrubbing tool" as
used herein can refer to the scrub head and the handle assembly
when assembled.
[0042] FIGS. 2A and 2B are schematic perspective views of two
exemplary embodiments of disposable toilet bowl cleaning systems,
200 and 250, respectively, of the types generally described herein.
Disposable toilet bowl cleaning system 200 of FIG. 2A includes a
handle assembly 210 (sometimes referred to as a "wand"), a caddy
assembly 220, and one or more disposable scrub heads 230 housed in
caddy assembly 220. Handle assembly 210 rests in tray 216. Handle
assembly 210 and scrub heads 230 can be any of the handle
assemblies or scrub heads described herein.
[0043] Caddy assembly 220 includes a lid 222, a housing 224, and a
foot 226. In some embodiments, including the one shown in FIG. 2A,
housing 224 is clear or translucent. This may be preferred in some
embodiments, as it permits the user to see how many disposable
scrub heads 230 remain in caddy assembly 220. Caddy assembly 220 is
optional. In some embodiments, caddy assembly 220 serves to store
extra scrub heads 230 and potentially handle assembly 210 when not
in use. In some embodiments, caddy assembly 220 forms an enclosed
and/or air tight environment. This may be preferred in some
embodiments to minimize, reduce, or eliminate odor and/or to keep
children or pets from touching scrub heads 230. Caddy assembly 220
may be formed from any desired material. One exemplary material is
a durable material, such as, for example, plastic or metal. Less
durable materials such as cardboard may also be used.
[0044] Disposable toilet bowl cleaning system 250 of FIG. 2B
includes a handle assembly 260, a caddy assembly 270, and
disposable scrub heads 280 (not shown) housed in caddy assembly
270. Handle assembly 260 rests in tray 256. Handle assembly 260 and
scrub heads 280 can be any of the handle assemblies or scrub heads
described herein.
[0045] Caddy assembly 270 of FIG. 2B includes a lid 272 and a
housing 274. In some embodiments, the "foot" of caddy assembly 270
is part of or integral with the tray 256. In some embodiments,
including the embodiment of FIG. 2B, housing 274 is substantially
opaque. This may be preferred in some embodiments, as it hides from
users the contents of caddy assembly 270, which some users may find
more aesthetically pleasing or desirable. In some embodiments,
caddy assembly 270 forms an enclosed and/or air tight environment.
This may be preferred in some embodiments to minimize, reduce, or
eliminate odor and/or to keep children or pets from touching scrub
heads 280. Caddy assembly 270 may be formed from any desired
material. One exemplary material is a durable material, such as,
for example, plastic or metal. Less durable materials such as
cardboard may also be used. Caddy assembly 270 is optional.
[0046] In some embodiments, including the one shown in FIG. 2B,
disposable toilet bowl cleaning system 250 includes a sleeve 240
that wraps around handle assembly 260 and caddy assembly 270.
Sleeve 240 is typically present on disposable toilet bowl cleaning
system 250 during transit and sale, and the end user removes it
before actual use of the disposable toilet bowl cleaning system
250. Sleeve 240 can prevent handle assembly 260 from falling off of
or becoming disengaged or separated from caddy assembly 270 during
transit. Sleeve 240 can be made of any desired material including,
for example, paper (e.g., corrugated paper, cardboard), plastic,
fabric, metal, elastic, etc. Sleeve 240 can have any desired size.
In some embodiments, sleeve 240 includes written text or pictorial
information advertising the disposable toilet bowl cleaning system
and/or instructing the user how to use the disposable toilet bowl
cleaning system.
[0047] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiments shown
in FIGS. 2A and 2B without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present disclosure. For example, the size and shape of the
disposable toilet bowl cleaning systems can vary in any desired
way. The number of scrub heads in the caddy assemblies can vary,
and can be any desired number. In some embodiments, the lid is
optional and/or removeable. The sleeve is optional.
[0048] FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are schematic drawings showing a
perspective view, a side view, and a front view, respectively, of
one exemplary disposable toilet bowl cleaning system 300 consistent
with the teachings herein. Disposable toilet bowl cleaning system
300 includes a handle assembly 310 and a scrub head 320 releasably
attached to handle assembly 310.
[0049] Handle assembly 310 includes a first end 312 and a second
end 314 as well as a front side 316 and a back side 318.
[0050] Scrub head 320 is releasably attached to second end 314 of
handle assembly 310 by an attachment mechanism. The attachment
mechanism can be any desired attachment mechanism. Some attachment
mechanisms are mechanical. One exemplary mechanical attachment
mechanism is plastic snaps. In some embodiments, the attachment
mechanism includes an actuation button or switch 340 on handle
portion 310. In one embodiment, actuation button or switch 340 is
positioned towards first end 312 of handle portion 310. In some
embodiments, actuation button or switch 340 is a thumb push button
on the top side 316 of handle assembly 310. When the actuation
button is pushed forward, scrub head 320 is ejected or released
from attachment to handle assembly 310.
[0051] In some embodiments, scrub head 320 is uniquely shaped for
targeting under the rim of a toilet bowl. In some embodiments,
scrub head 320 provides effective surface area coverage for
cleaning and scrubbing the toilet bowl and/or is sized to fit in
the drain hole of the toilet. Scrub head 320 includes a receptacle
or cup 350, a strap 360, and a cleaning pad 370, all of which will
be shown and described in greater detail in later Figures and the
accompanying descriptions.
[0052] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 3A-3C without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present disclosure. For example, the length and curvature of the
handle portion, the position of the actuation button or switch, the
size and angle of the scrub head, the angle of the scrub head could
be fixed or variable, the size of the receptacle or cup etc.
[0053] FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C respectively show a perspective view, a
side view, and a front view, of another embodiment of an exemplary
disposable toilet bowl cleaning system 400. Disposable toilet bowl
cleaning system 400 is similar to the disposable toilet bowl
cleaning system 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. Disposable toilet bowl
cleaning system 400 includes a handle assembly 410 and a scrub head
420 releasably connected to handle assembly 410. Handle assembly
410 includes a first end 412 and a second end 414 as well as a
front side 416 and a back side 418.
[0054] Scrub head 420 is releasably attached to second end 414 of
handle assembly 410 by an attachment mechanism. The attachment
mechanism can be any desired attachment mechanism. Some attachment
mechanisms are mechanical. One exemplary mechanical attachment
mechanism is plastic snaps. In some embodiments, the attachment
mechanism includes an actuation button or switch 440 on handle
portion 410. In one embodiment, actuation button or switch 440 is
positioned towards first end 412 of handle portion 410. In some
embodiments, actuation button or switch 440 is a thumb push button
on the top side 416 of handle assembly 410. When the actuation
button is pushed forward, scrub head 420 is ejected or released
from attachment to handle assembly 410.
[0055] In some embodiments, scrub head 420 is uniquely shaped for
targeting under the rim of a toilet bowl. In some embodiments,
scrub head 420 provides effective surface area coverage for
cleaning and scrubbing the toilet bowl and/or is sized to fit in
the drain hole of the toilet. Scrub head 420 includes a receptacle
or cup 450, a strap 460, and a cleaning pad 470, all of which will
be shown and described in greater detail in FIG. 5A and the
accompanying description.
[0056] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 4A-4C without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present disclosure. For example, the length and curvature of the
handle portion, the position of the actuation button or switch, the
size and angle of the scrub head, the angle of the scrub head could
be fixed or variable, the size of the receptacle or cup etc.
[0057] FIG. 5A is a side view of scrub head 320 of FIGS. 3A-3C.
FIG. 5B is a side view of scrub head 420 of FIGS. 4A-4C. In FIGS.
5A and 5B, scrub head 320, 420 includes a receptacle or cup 350,
450, a strap 360, 460, and a cleaning pad 370, 470.
[0058] Cup 350, 450 and strap 360, 460 in combination, are
sometimes referred to as a shoe or form. As is shown in the
perspective view of FIG. 10D, cup 350, 450 is cup-shaped with a
concave portion or opening. Cup 350, 450 includes a first end 352,
452 and a second end 354, 454 between which is a cup body 356, 456.
In some embodiments, cup body 356, 456 is hollow. In the exemplary
embodiments of FIG. 5A and 10A, an opening 358, 458 extends
generally from first end 352, 452 area to second end 354, 454 area
of cup body 356, 456.
[0059] In some embodiments, cup body 356 includes one or more slots
extending generally between first and second ends 352 and 354,
respectively. Slots, opening 358, 458 and/or cup 350, 450 being
hollow can be effective for a variety of different reasons, one of
which is to reduce the amount of material needed to form cup 350,
450 and to decrease the overall weight of the scrubbing tool.
[0060] In some embodiments, cup 350, 450 is made of a plastic, such
as, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or
polystyrene.
[0061] In some embodiments, cup body 356, 456 has a height of
between about 10 mm and about 70 mm. In some embodiments, cup body
356, 456 has a height of between about 20 mm and about 40 mm. In
some embodiments, cup body has a height of greater than about 10
mm, greater than about 15 mm, greater than about 20 mm, greater
than about 25 mm, greater than about 30 mm, or greater than about
35 mm. In some embodiments, cup body has a height of less than
about 70 mm, less than about 60 mm, less than about 50 mm, less
than about 40 mm, less than about 35 mm, or less than about 30
mm.
[0062] In some embodiments, cup body 356, 456 has a diameter of the
opening in the cup of between about 5 mm an about 30 mm. In some
embodiments, cup body 356, 456 has a diameter of the opening in the
cup of between about 7 mm and about 20 mm. In some embodiments, cup
opening has a diameter of greater than about 5 mm, greater than
about 6 mm, greater than about 7 mm, greater than about 8 mm,
greater than about 9 mm, or greater than about 10 mm. In some
embodiments, cup opening has a diameter of less than about 20 mm,
less than about 18 mm, less than about 16 mm, less than about 15
mm, or less than about 14 mm.
[0063] Strap 360, 460 is adjacent and/or connected to cup 350, 450
and cleaning pad 370, 470. In some embodiments, strap 360, 460 has
an arcuate shape and includes a first end 362, 462, a second end
364, 464, and a contact surface 366, 466 opposite an inner surface
368, 468. First end 362, 462 of strap 360, 460 is attached to first
end 352, 452 (or an area nearby) of cup 350, 450. Second end 364,
464 of strap 360, 460 is attached to second end 354, 454 (or an
area nearby) of cup 350, 450.
[0064] In some embodiments, strap 360, 460 has a length that is
greater than a length of cup 350, 450 such that the above
attachments cause strap 360, 460 to bend and take an arcuate shape
with a radius of curvature. In some embodiments, strap 360, 460 has
a length of between about 80 mm and about 150 mm. In some
embodiments, strap 360, 460 has a length of between about 100 mm
and about 120 mm. In some embodiments, the strap has a length of
greater than about 80 mm, greater than about 90 mm, greater than
about 100 mm, greater than about 105 mm, or greater than about 110
mm. In some embodiments, the strap has a length of less than about
150 mm, less than about 140 mm, less than about 130 mm, less than
about 120 mm, or less than about 115 mm.
[0065] In some embodiments, strap 360, 460 has a radius of
curvature of between about 1 mm and about 25 mm. In some
embodiments, strap 360, 460 has a radius of curvature of between
about 3 mm and about 8 mm. In some embodiments, the strap has a
radius of curvature greater than about 1 mm, greater than about 2
mm, greater than about 3 mm, greater than about 4 mm, greater than
about 5 mm, or greater than about 6 mm. In some embodiments, the
strap has a radius of curvature of less than about 25 mm, less than
about 20 mm, less than about 15 mm, less than about 12 mm, or less
than about 10 mm.
[0066] In some embodiments, strap 360, 460 includes at least one
channel or opening. Where present, the channel or opening can
assist in reducing material cost and weight of the overall
scrubbing tool. In some embodiments, strap 360, 460 is made of a
plastic, such as, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or
polystyrene.
[0067] In some embodiments, first and second ends 352, 452 and 354,
454 respectively, of strap 360, 460 are attached to cup 350, 450
such that first and second ends 352, 452 and 354, 454 respectively,
are substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments,
first and second ends 352, 452 and 354, 454 respectively, of strap
360, 460 are attached to cup 350, 450 such that first and second
ends 352, 452 and 354, 454 respectively, are not substantially
parallel to each other.
[0068] In some embodiments, cup 350, 450 and strap 360, 460 form a
unitary piece. Such embodiments may be desirable because there are
fewer parts, fewer assembly steps, and/or fewer tools needed to
form the combined strap and cup. As such, the manufacturing cost is
lower when a unitary cup and strap is used. In some embodiments,
cup 350, 450 and strap 360, 460 are two or more pieces. In some
embodiments, cup 350, 450 and strap 360, 460 are made from the same
material. In some embodiments, cup 350, 450 and strap 360, 460 are
formed from different materials.
[0069] Cleaning pad 370, 470 includes a first end 372, 472, a
second end 374, 474, an attachment surface 376, 476, and a
scrubbing surface 378, 478. Attachment surface 376, 476 of cleaning
pad 370, 470 is attached to contact surface 366, 466 of strap 360,
460. In one embodiment, the cleaning pad 370, 470 is attached to
contact surface 366, 466 of strap 360, 460 by ultrasonic weld
bonding. Alternatively, the cleaning pad may be attached by thermal
fusing, adhesive bonding, mechanical attachment such as hook and
loop fasteners, etc. Any known cleaning material used as cleaning
or abrasive cleaning pads can be used for cleaning pad 370, 470. In
some embodiments, at least scrubbing surface 378, 478 of cleaning
pad 370, 470 includes an abrasive material. Useful materials
include natural or synthetic sponges, steel wool pads, paper
toweling, woven cloth pads, pads formed of narrow aluminum, bronze
or plastic fibers or ribbons, nonwoven fabric of varying density,
porosity and thickness, nonwoven, lofty, low density abrasive
scouring pads, and nonwovens with secured abrasive particles, and
composite structures incorporating one or more of the foregoing as
elements.
[0070] Nonwoven articles are particularly suitable for use as
cleaning pads. Nonwoven webs comprising open, lofty,
three-dimensional structure of fibers bonded to one another at
their mutual contact points are used extensively in the manufacture
of abrasive articles for cleaning, abrading, finishing and
polishing applications on any of a variety of surfaces.
[0071] Nonwoven webs suitable for use in the abrasive cleaning
article may be made of, but are not limited to, an air-laid,
carded, stitch-bonded, spunbound, spunbonded, wet laid, or melt
blown construction. In one embodiment, the nonwoven web is an open,
lofty, three-dimensional air-laid nonwoven substrate such as
described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,958,593 to Hoover et al, the
disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in its
entirety. This nonwoven web is formed by randomly disposed staple
fibers. One successful commercial product comprising such a
nonwoven web is that sold under the trade designation
"Scotch-Brite" available from 3M Company, St. Paul, Minn.
[0072] In some embodiments, the cleaning pad is impregnated with a
cleaning material (e.g., soap, detergent), a dye, a fragrance, an
abrasive slurry, bleaching agents, or germicides/antimicrobial
agents. Examples of suitable cleaning pads and cleaning materials
that may be impregnated or coated onto the cleaning pad are
described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,146,676, 7,232,364, and U.S. Pat.
Publication No. 2016/0106274, the disclosures of which are herein
incorporated by reference in their entirety.
[0073] Scrub heads 320 and 420 of FIGS. 5A and 5B are generally
rigid such that they each have little to no translational motion
and generally have zero degrees of freedom.
[0074] One difference between scrub head 320 of FIG. 5A and scrub
head 420 of FIG. 5B is the distance between first end 352, 452 and
second end 354, 454 of strap 360. In the embodiment FIG. 5A, the
distance between first end 352 and second end 354 is greater than
the distance of first end 452 and second end 454 of FIG. 5B. In
other words, the length of cup body 356 of FIG. 5A is greater than
the length of cup body 456 of FIG. 5B.
[0075] Another difference between scrub head 320 of FIG. 5A and
scrub head 420 of FIG. 5B is that in FIG. 5B, first and second ends
462 and 464, respectively, of strap 460 are offset from one
another. More specifically, first end 462 of strap 460 is attached
to a side surface 453 of cup 450 while second end 464 of strap 360
is attached along or to a portion of second end 454 of cup 450. In
this way, first end 462 and second end 464 of strap 460 are offset
from one another. Consequently, first and second ends 372, 472
& 374, 474, respectively, of cleaning pad 370, 470 are also
offset from each other. More specifically, first end 372, 472 of
cleaning pad 370, 470 is attached to a portion of first end 352,
452 of cup 350, 450 while the second end 374, 474 of cleaning pad
370, 470 extends beyond second end 354, 454 of cup 350, 450.
[0076] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiments shown
in FIGS. 5A and 5B without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present disclosure.
[0077] FIG. 6 shows a top view of one exemplary embodiment of a
cleaning pad 600 that may be used with or on one of the scrub heads
generally described herein. Cleaning pad 600 is generally
rectangular in shape, having generally parallel top and bottom
surfaces 602, 604, respectively, and generally parallel side
surfaces 606, 608, respectively. FIG. 6 shows the shape of the
die-cut web, when viewed from the top, before attachment to the
shoe which then creates the curved shape of the head.
[0078] FIG. 7A shows a top view of one exemplary embodiment of a
cleaning pad 700 that may be used with or on one of the scrub heads
generally described herein. FIG. 7 shows the shape of the die-cut
web, when viewed from the top, before attachment to the shoe which
then creates the curved shape of the head. Cleaning pad 700 is
generally rectangular on a first and/or the upper end and has a
bulbous or generally circular shape at the lower and/or second end.
The bottom surface 720 of scrub head 710 has a greater surface area
than the top surface 730 of scrub head 710. In some embodiments,
the surface area of the top surface of the scrub head is between
about 1000 mm.sup.2 and about 2500 mm.sup.2. In some embodiments,
the bottom surface of the scrub head has a surface area of between
1000 mm.sup.2 and about 6000 mm.sup.2.
[0079] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiments shown
in FIGS. 6 and 7 without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present disclosure. For example, any desired shape or size cleaning
pad may be used.
[0080] FIGS. 8A and 8B show side views of another exemplary
embodiment of a scrub head 800 of a disposable toilet bowl cleaning
system of one of the types generally described herein. FIG. 8B
shows a schematic side view of scrub head 800 when in use and/or
during application on a handle assembly. Scrub head 800 is similar
to the scrub head of FIG. 5B except that second end 864 of strap
860 is not fixedly attached to second end 854 of cup 850.
[0081] In some embodiments, the strap has a keyhole and the cup has
a button. To fix the strap to the cup and get the final curved
form, the strap is folded until the button on the cup can pass
through the hole on the strap. The keyhole has a section that is
narrower than the button and has to be forced or snapped past the
button until it passes into a slot. The slot perimeter creates a
track to allow fore and aft translational motion. This
translational motion facilitates and assists the bending properties
of the strap material and gives it a range of motion indicated by
theta 1 and theta 2 in FIG. 8B. It is shaded to distinguish two
possible positions of the strap: in this case the two positions are
unflexed and fully flexed.
[0082] This allows fore and aft translational motion of second end
854 of cup 850 in the second end 864 of strap 860 at the bottom
surface of scrub head 800 during application and/or use. Scrub head
800 has one degree of freedom. The dashed lines in FIG. 8B
represent the translational motion allowed or permitted by the one
degree of freedom. As can be seen, the translational degree of
freedom allows the scrub head to flex up and down, creating a
variable angle scrub surface. In some embodiments, the scrub head
can flex from an angle .theta..sub.1 of about 5.degree. to an angle
.theta..sub.2 of about 65.degree.. In some embodiments, the scrub
head can flex at least about 5.degree., at least about 10.degree.,
at least about 15.degree., at least about 20.degree., and/or at
least about 25.degree.. In some embodiments, the scrub head flexes
no more than about 65.degree., no more than about 60.degree., no
more than about 55.degree., no more than about 50.degree., no more
than about 45.degree., no more than about 40.degree., no more than
about 35.degree., no more than about 30.degree., and/or no more
than about 25.degree..
[0083] This can be made/accomplished by how the mold is designed to
make the part, i.e., having a channel or slot on the end of the
strap to which the bottom of the cup attached. Also how thin and/or
flexible the material is that is used to make the part. This allows
the bottom of the cup to slide fore and aft in the strap, enabling
the flexing up and down movement of the scrub head as shown in FIG.
8B.
[0084] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 8A and 8B without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present disclosure.
[0085] FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C are a respective side view, schematic
side view when in use, and front view of another exemplary
embodiment of a scrub head 900 of a disposable toilet bowl cleaning
system of one of the types generally described herein. Scrub head
900 is similar to the scrub head of FIG. 5B except that the second
end 954 of cup 950 is not attached or not fully attached to the
second end 964 of the strap 960. The second end 954 of cup 950 and
second end 954 of strap 950 are free, creating a cantilever. This
cantilevered structure of scrub head 900 provides for three degrees
of freedom, allowing fore and aft translation, up and down
translation, and side-to-side or lateral motion at the bottom
surface of scrub head 900. The dashed lines in FIGS. 9B and 9C
respectively represent the translational and side-to-side (or
lateral) motion allowed or permitted by the three degrees of
freedom. As can be seen in FIG. 9B, scrub head 900 can flex fore
and aft as well as up and down. In some embodiments, scrub head 900
can flex from an angle .theta..sub.1 of about 5.degree. to an angle
.theta..sub.2 of about 65.degree.. In some embodiments, the scrub
head can flex at least about 5.degree., at least about 10.degree.,
at least about 15.degree., at least about 20.degree., and/or at
least about 25.degree.. In some embodiments, the scrub head flexes
no more than about 65.degree., no more than about 60.degree., no
more than about 55.degree., no more than about 50.degree., no more
than about 45.degree., no more than about 40.degree., no more than
about 35.degree., no more than about 30.degree., and/or no more
than about 25.degree..
[0086] As can be seen in FIG. 9C, scrub head 900 can also flex
side-to-side or laterally In some embodiments, the scrub head can
flex side-to-side or laterally from an angle .psi. of about
+50.degree. from vertical to an angle .psi. of about -50.degree.
from vertical. In some embodiments, the scrub head can flex
side-to-side or laterally from vertical to an angle .psi. of about
+40.degree., or an angle of about +30.degree., or an angle of about
+20.degree., or an angle of about +10.degree.. In some embodiments,
the scrub head can flex side-to-side or laterally from vertical
from an angle .psi. of about -40.degree., or an angle of about
-30.degree., or an angle of about -20.degree., or an angle of about
-10.degree.. The three degrees of freedom allows the scrub head
substantial flexibility to contact variously angled toilet surfaces
in need of cleaning. This permits the scrub head and disposable
toilet cleaning tool of the present disclosure to better clean a
toilet and/or to get into especially hard-to-reach areas of the
toilet bowl.
[0087] The angle, .delta., describes how the curved, cantilever
form can change from the unflexed position to a minimum position
when the cup and strap bend enough to touch.
[0088] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 9A -9C without departing from the spirit and
[0089] FIGS. 10A and 10B show a side view and a top view,
respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a scrub head of a
disposable toilet bowl cleaning system of one of the types
generally described herein. FIG. 10C show a schematic side view of
the scrub head 1000 in use. FIG. 10D shows a perspective top view
of the scrub head 1000 in use. Scrub head 1000 is the same as the
scrub head 420 of FIGS. 4A-4C.
[0090] As seen in FIG. 10A, the receptacle includes a cup 1050
adjacent and/or attached to a strap 1060 adjacent or attached to a
cleaning pad 1070. As is shown in FIG. 10C, strap 1060 has a
smaller surface area and/or size than cleaning pad 1070. Strap 1060
includes a slot or channel into which cup body 1056 of cup 1050
engages. FIGS. 10A and 10B show a side view and a top view,
respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a scrub head of a
disposable toilet bowl cleaning system of one of the types
generally described herein. FIG. 10C shows a perspective top view
of the scrub head 1000 in use. Scrub head 1000 is the same as the
scrub head 420 of FIGS. 4A-4C.
[0091] As seen in FIG. 10A, the receptacle includes a cup 1050
adjacent and/or attached to a strap 1060 adjacent or attached to a
cleaning pad 1070. As is shown in FIG. 10D, strap 1060 has a
smaller surface area and/or size than cleaning pad 1070. Strap 1060
includes a slot or channel 1062 into which cup body 1056 of cup
1050 engages. Cup 1050 includes a button 1052 that engages slot
1062 to maintain the position of cup 1050 in slot 1062. The
assembly of cup 1050 engaged in the slot 1062 of the strap 1060
allows cup 1050 to move forward and/or rearward during use or
assembly. As such, embodiments of this general type have one degree
of freedom. The arrows in FIGS. 10C and 10D represent the
translational movement allowed by the one degree of freedom. As can
be seen, the one translational degree of freedom allows scrub head
1000 to flex up and down, creating a variable angle scrub surface.
Strap 1060 is able to flex and bend during use and/or attachment of
button 1052 on cup 1050 into slot 1062 on strap 1060. This ability
to flex allows cup 1050 to slide forward and rearward in the slot,
which assists the variable angle motion for more conformal contact
between the scrub head 1000 and a toilet bowl surface. Both the
flexibility of the cleaning pad 1070 material, the flexibility of
the strap 1060 material, and the slotted design on the cup
1050/strap 1060 assembly allows flexural and translational
movement, both of which provide a variable angle scrubbing device
that better conforms to the contours of a toilet and that better
cleans the toilet.
[0092] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 10A and 10B without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present disclosure.
[0093] FIGS. 11A and 11B respectively show a top view and a
perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning pad of a
type generally described herein. Cleaning pad 1100 curves inward
from the first end 1110 toward the center. Cleaning pad 1100 curves
outward from the second end 1120 toward the center. Consequently,
the bottom or lower portion (the area generally between first end
1110 and the middle or center) of cleaning pad 1100 has a greater
surface area than the top or upper portion (the area generally
between second end 1120 and the middle or center) of cleaning pad
1100. In one embodiment, the surface area of the top or upper
portion of cleaning pad 1100 has a surface area of between about
1000 mm.sup.2 and about 2500 mm.sup.2, and the bottom or lower
portion of the scrub head has a surface area of between 1000
mm.sup.2-6000 mm.sup.2.
[0094] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 11A and 11B without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present disclosure.
[0095] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of
a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system 1200 (the same as the
disposable toilet bowl cleaning system 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3C)
with the scrub head 1220 separate from the handle assembly 1210.
Handle assembly 1212 includes a first end 1212 separated from
second end 1214 by the handle body 1215. Cup 1250 includes an
opening 1282 that is sized to accept an insertable portion 1217 of
second end 1214 of handle assembly 1210.
[0096] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIG. 12 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure.
[0097] FIGS. 14A-14C show a perspective view, a side view and a top
view, respectively, of the handle assembly used in the disposable
toilet bowl cleaning systems shown in FIGS. 2A, FIGS. 3A-3C, FIG.
12, and FIG. 13. FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional side view at line
A-A of FIG. 3B and FIG. 14B.
[0098] Referring to FIGS. 12-15, handle assembly 1210 includes a
first member 1211 and a second member 1213, which together form
handle body 1215. First member 1211 includes a first end 1290, a
second end 1291 an inner surface 1292, and an outer surface 1293.
Insertable portion 1217 extends from second end 1291 of first
member 1211 and is sized to fit into opening 1082 of shoe 1250 of
scrub head 1220. Toward first end 1290 of first member 1211 is a
first portion 1295 of an opening 1296 in handle body 1215 that
engages an actuation button or switch 1240.
[0099] Second member 1213 of handle body 1215 is similar to first
member 1211. Second member 1213 includes a first end 1280, a second
end 1281, an inner surface 1282, and an outer surface 1283. Toward
first end 1280 of second member 1213 is a second portion 1285 of
opening 1296 in handle body 1215 that engages an actuation button
or switch 1240.
[0100] Flanges 1294a, 1294b, 1294c etc. are positioned along the
inner surface 1292 of first member 1211 and insert and engage with
mating portions 1296a, 1296b, 1296c etc. (not shown) that are
positioned along the inner surface 1282 of second member 1213 to
connect first and second members 1211 and 1213 together to create
handle body 1215, which has a length and/or shape that can be
easily gripped by a user's hand.
[0101] In some embodiments, first and second members 1211 and 1213
of handle assembly 1210 are molded. In some embodiments, first and
second members 1211 and 1213 of handle assembly 1210 are made of a
polymeric material such as, for example, acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene (ABS), High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS), polycarbonate (PC),
and/or polypropyelene (PP).
[0102] Handle assembly 1210 also includes an actuation mechanism
1310 for attaching scrub head 1220 to, and detaching scrub head
1220 from, handle assembly 1210. Actuation mechanism 1310 is
positioned within handle body 1215 of handle assembly 1210 and
includes a plunger rod 1320, a spring stop 1330, a plunger spring
1340, and actuation button 1240. Plunger rod 1320 includes a first
end 1322, which is capable of extending from the insertable portion
1217 of the first member 1211, and a second end 1326 connected to
actuation button 1240. When the button is pushed, the plunger rod
first end 1322 will extend from 1217. This is what pushes the head
off the handle. Plunger spring 1340 is positioned around plunger
rod 1320 adjacent first end 1322 of the plunger rod 1320. Spring
stop 1330 is positioned between plunger spring 1340 and second end
1326 of plunger rod 1320. When handle assembly 1210 is assembled,
plunger spring 1340 is positioned around plunger rod 1320 between
flange 1294a at second end 1291 of first member 1211 and spring
stop 1330.
[0103] Scrub head 1220 can be attached to handle assembly 1210 by
engagement of the insertable portion 1217 of handle assembly 1210
within cup 1250 of scrub head 1220. To effect this engagement, the
user inserts insertable portion 1217 of handle assembly 1210 into
cup 1250 of scrub head 1220 and pushes or exerts force to guide
handle assembly firmly into/onto cup 1250. The user's force causes
the at least one snap 1265 in insertable portion 1217 to flex or
push inwardly toward plunger rod 1320. This permits insertable
portion 1217 to slide into cup 1250. When snaps 1265 align with the
corresponding slots 1268 on cup 1250, snaps 1265 enter into slots
1268 and return generally to their original non-flexed (relaxed)
position. In this way, snaps 1265 engage with slots 1268 of cup
1220 of scrub head 1220. In this engaged position, snaps 1265
attach scrub head 1220 to handle assembly 1210 and hold scrub head
1220 in place.
[0104] Alternatively, to effect engagement of handle assembly 1210
with scrub head 1220, the user can activate the activation
mechanism by activating button or switch 1240 and can then insert
insertable portion 1217 of handle assembly 1210 into cup 1250 of
scrub head 1220. When button or switch 1240 is activated (or pushed
forward in the embodiment of these Figures) towards the second end
1214 of handle assembly 1210, snaps 1265 on handle assembly 1210
flex or push inwardly toward plunger rod 1320. This enables scrub
head 1220 to easily slide onto handle assembly 1210. Once scrub
head 1220 is on handle assembly 1210, the user releases or slides
button or switch 1240 into its original position. This causes snaps
1265 to engage with slots 1268 on cup 1250 and hold scrub head 1220
firmly in place on handle assembly 1210.
[0105] Some embodiments of actuation mechanism 1310 exhibit sliding
movement between a relaxed position and a detached position. When
in the relaxed position, actuation mechanism 1310 allows scrub head
1220 to be attached to handle assembly 1210 as described above.
When in the detached position, actuation mechanism 1310 forces
scrub head 1220 off of or away from handle assembly 1210, which is
described in more detail below. Actuation mechanism 1310 is moved
from the relaxed position to the detached position by actuation
button or switch 1240 that can be manually moved along handle body
1215 by a thumb or finger of a person grasping the handle assembly
1210.
[0106] In the relaxed position, snaps 1265 are positioned within
slots 1268 and first end 1322 of plunger rod 1320 is positioned in
insertable portion 1217 of handle assembly 1210. In the relaxed
position, the plunger rod is inside the handle assembly, or
insertable portion 1217. However, when the button is pushed
forward, the end of the plunder rod 1322 extends out of the handle,
out of opening 1297 in 14A.
[0107] To detach scrub head 1220 from handle assembly 1210, the
user activates button or switch 1240. In this embodiment, switch
1240 is activated by pushing it forward. When button or switch 1240
is forced forward towards the second end 1214 of handle assembly
1210, plunger rod 1320 is also forced forward and extends through
an opening 1297 in insertable portion 1217. In this position,
plunger rod 1320 is the detached position, as depicted in FIG. 14C.
This causes plunger rod 1320, which is rigidly attached to
actuation mechanism 1310, to move forward. Plunger rod 1320 pushes
against scrub head 1220. This generates enough force to push or
flex snaps 1265 inward toward plunger rod 1320. The force of
plunger rod 1320 against scrub head 1220 generates enough force to
release snaps 1265 from slots 1268. Snaps 1265 are capable of
flexural motion such that they can flex inward, providing
additional "give" to release scrub head 1250 from handle assembly
1220. Once snaps 1265 are pushed inward, scrub head 1220 slides off
of insertable portion 1217. In this way, scrub head 1220 is easily
detached from handle assembly 1210 without requiring the user to
touch scrub head 1220.
[0108] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 12, 13, 14A-14C and 15 without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present disclosure. For example, the specific
embodiment of FIGS. 14A-14C and 15 includes two snaps 1265 and two
slots 1268, but those of skill in the art will appreciate that any
desired number of snaps or slots may be used. Further, those of
skill in the art will appreciate that snaps and slots are only one
exemplary mechanical attachment system. Any desired mechanical
attachment system may be used. Further, the button or switch can be
any actuation mechanism and can be positioned anywhere on handle
assembly 1210. Alternatively, one could use a frictional fit in
which insertable portion 1217 expands and collapses when it engages
with 1282/1250 of the scrub head.
[0109] FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, and 17 show an exemplary embodiment of
an actuation mechanism capable of being used in any of the
disposable toilet bowl cleaning systems described herein. FIGS.
16A-16C show a perspective view, a side view and a bottom view,
respectively, of handle assembly 1610. Handle assembly 1610
includes a first end 1612 separated from second end 1614 by the
handle body 1615. Insertable portion 1617 extends from second end
1614. Actuation button or switch 1640 is located on the bottom side
of handle body 1615. When handle assembly 1610 is at rest or not in
use and has no scrub head attached.
[0110] Scrub head 1720 can be attached to handle assembly 1610 by
engagement of the insertable portion 1617 of handle assembly 1610
within cup 1750 of scrub head 1720. To effect this engagement, the
user can insert insertable portion 1617 of handle assembly 1610
into cup 1750 of scrub head 1720 and push or exert force to guide
handle assembly 1610 firmly into/onto cup 1750. The user's force
causes the at least one pin 1765 in insertable portion 1617 to
collapse or retract inwardly toward button rod 1620. This permits
insertable portion 1617 to slide into cup 1750. When pins 1765
align with the corresponding slots 1768 on cup 1750, pins 1765
enter into slots 1768 and return generally to their original
non-retracted (emerged) position. In this way, pins 1765 engage
with slots 1768 of cup 1750 of scrub head 1720. In this engaged
position, pins 1765 attach scrub head 1720 to handle assembly 1610
and hold scrub head 1720 in place.
[0111] Alternatively, to effect engagement of handle assembly 1610
with scrub head 1750, the user can activate the activation
mechanism by activating button or switch 1640 and can then insert
insertable portion 1617 of handle assembly 1610 into cup 1750 of
scrub head 1720. Second end 1622 of button rod 1620 is attached
within insertable portion 1617 by one or more latch pin rods
(referred to herein as a "pin" or "pins") 1765 and the first end
1624 of button rod 1620 is attached to actuation button or switch
1640. In this specific embodiment, pins 1665 have a flexible
diamond shape that expands in the relaxed position and collapses in
the detach position. In the relaxed position, the flexible diamond
shape is expanded and pins 1665 engage the slots 1768 of cup 1750.
When actuation button or switch 1640 is forced backwards towards
the first end 1612 of handle assembly 1610, the diamond shaped pins
1665 collapse to the detach position, removing pins 1665 from slots
1768 of cup 1750 of scrub head 1720. Consequently, when button or
switch 1640 is activated (or pulled backward in the embodiment of
these figures) towards the first end 1612 of handle assembly 1610,
pins 1765 on handle assembly 1610 collapse. This enables scrub head
1720 to easily slide onto handle assembly 1610. Once scrub head
1720 is on handle assembly 1610, the user releases or slides back
button or switch 1640. This causes pins 1765 to emerge. Upon
emerging, pins 1765 engage with slots 1768 on cup 1750 and hold
scrub head 1720 firmly in place on handle assembly 1610.
[0112] FIG. 17 shows a cross-sectional side view at line A-A of
FIG. 16B. In the relaxed position, pins 1665 are positioned within
slots 1768 and first end 1622 of plunger rod 1620 is positioned in
insertable portion 1617 of handle assembly 1610.
[0113] To detach scrub head 1720 from handle assembly 1610, the
user activates button or switch 1640 by, in this embodiment,
pulling it back toward the first end 1612 of handle assembly 1610.
When button or switch 1640 is pulled back towards the first end
1612 of handle assembly 1610, pins 1665 retract toward button rod
1620. Once pins 1665 are pushed inward, scrub head 1720 slides off
or falls off of insertable portion 1617. In this way, scrub head
1720 is easily detached from handle assembly 1610 without requiring
the user to touch scrub head 1720.
[0114] In this case, there really isn't a plunger rod that extends
beyond the handle to assist in pushing the head off during
ejection, like in the previous example. Everything takes place
inside the handle. The button is pulled rather than pushed. The
button has a rod that extends to the handle end. At the end of the
button rod, there exists a diamond shaped feature with protrusions
(pins) that can collapse and expand laterally and engage with the
cup of a scrub head.
[0115] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 16A-16C and 17 without departing from the spirit and scope of
the present disclosure. For example, the specific embodiment of
FIGS. 16A-16C and 17 includes two pins 1765 and two slots 1768, but
those of skill in the art will appreciate that any desired number
of pins or slots may be used. Further, those of skill in the art
will appreciate that pins and slots are only one exemplary
mechanical attachment system. Any desired mechanical attachment
system may be used. Further, the button or switch can be any
actuation mechanism and can be positioned anywhere on handle
assembly 1610.
[0116] FIG. 18 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of
a disposable toilet bowl cleaning systems including the actuation
mechanism of FIGS. 19 and 20. Disposable toilet bowl cleaning
system 1800 includes a handle assembly 1810 and a scrub head 1820
releasably connected to handle assembly 1810.
[0117] Handle assembly 1810 includes a first member 1811 and a
second member 1813 which together form handle body 1815. First
member 1811 includes a first end 1890, a second end 1891 an inner
surface 1892, and an outer surface 1893. First end 1890 of first
member 1811 includes a flange 1894 that inserts and connects with a
portion of second member 1813. Insertable portion 1817 extends from
second end 1891 of first member 1811 and is sized to fit into
opening 1882 of shoe 1850 of scrub head 1820. Toward first end 1890
of first member 1811 is an opening 1896 in handle body 1815 that
engages an actuation button or switch 1840. Unlike previous
embodiments, this embodiment only includes one hole to create the
opening.
[0118] Second member 1813 of handle body 1815 is similar to first
member 1811. Second member 1813 includes a first end 1880, a second
end 1881, an inner surface 1882, and an outer surface 1883. First
end 1880 of second member 1813 includes an insert 1884 that flange
1894 of first end 1890 of first member 1811 engages to connect
first and second members 1811 and 1813. The combination of second
end 1891 of first member 1811 and second end 1881 of second member
1813 creates handle body 1815, which has a length and/or shape that
can be easily gripped by a user's hand. Unlike previous
embodiments, the button opening is on the top side only in this
specific embodiment.
[0119] In some embodiments, first and second members 1811 and 1813
of handle assembly 1810 are molded. In some embodiments, first and
second members 1811 and 1813 of handle assembly 1810 are made of a
polymeric material such as acrylonitrile butadiene (ABS),
polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, or high impact
polystyrene.
[0120] Handle assembly 1810 also includes an actuation mechanism
1860 for attaching scrub head 1820 to, and detaching scrub head
1820 from, handle assembly 1810. Actuation mechanism 1860 is
positioned within handle body 1815 of handle assembly 1810 and
includes a button rod 1840, a button spring 1870, and latch
1875.
[0121] In this specific embodiment, the button is comprised of
multiple sections: the button, button rod, spring locator post and
latch clamp. When the button is pushed forward, the button rod,
spring post and latch clamp move forward and the spring is
compressed due to contact with the spring post on the button rod on
one end of the spring and contact with a flange located on the
bottom handle on the other end of the spring. As the latch clamp
moves forward, which is essentially a constant diameter cylinder,
it surrounds the latch and causes the latch to contract. Once the
button is released, the compressed spring then retracts to its
original position and therefore the sections of the button also
return to their original positions. As the latch clamp retracts,
the latch then expands to its original position, due to its 2-sided
cantilever design.
[0122] A latch 1875 extends from the second end of the first and
second members 1817, 1821 and is sized to fit into the opening at
the first end of cup 1850 of scrub head 1820 when in a retracted
position. Latch 1875 is partially positioned in handle body 1815
and is attached to the handle body 1815 at second end 1817. In some
embodiments, latch 1875 is shaped like a V, with two members 1877
and 1879 extending at an angle from the first end. Extending
members 1877 and 1879 are movable between a retracted position, in
which the two extending members 1877 and 1879 are forced toward
each other, and an extended position, in which two extending
members 1877 and 1879 are extended away from each other.
[0123] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIG. 18 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure.
[0124] FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of the disposable
toilet bowl cleaning system of FIG. 4B along line B-B. FIG. 20
shows an enlargement of a portion of FIG. 19. In use, scrub head
1920 is releasably attached to handle assembly 1910 by engagement
of latch 1875 within cup 1950 of scrub head 1920. Scrub head 1920
is attached to handle assembly 1910 by inserting latch 1875 into
the opening of cup 1950 of scrub head 1920. Extending members 1877
and 1879 of latch 1875 then retract towards each other until latch
1875 passes by snap undercuts of scrub head 1920 and then expands
such that scrub head 1920 is rigidly attached to handle assembly
1910 and locked in place.
[0125] Handle assembly 1910 includes a seal 1895 generally at
second end 1914 of handle body 1915 of handle assembly 1910. In
some embodiments, seal 1895 is present to provide a water tight
attachment of handle assembly 1910 to the scrub head. In some
embodiments, seal 1895 is a soft material. Exemplary materials for
use in seal 1895 include, for example, thermoplastic elastomer,
silicone, or rubber. Seal 1895 can be of any desired size.
Exemplary sizes of seal 1895 include 1, 3, 5 mm thick, etc.
[0126] When the disposable toilet bowl cleaning system of FIG. 16B
is in the relaxed position, extending members 1877 and 1879 of
latch 1875 are fully extended, allowing the second ends of latch
1875 to engage cup 1950. When actuation button or switch 1840 on
handle assembly 1910 is forced forward towards the second end of
handle assembly 1910, button clamp is forced forward and engages
with latch 1875. Extending members 1877 and 1879 of latch 1875 then
retract toward each other until latch 1875 clears snap undercuts
1876 on cup 1950 of scrub head 1920, allowing scrub head 1920 to
disengage and/or fall off of handle assembly 1910.
[0127] Many changes may be made to the specific embodiment shown in
FIGS. 18 and 19 without departing from the spirit and scope of the
present disclosure. For example, any number of snaps and
corresponding slots can be used without departing from the intended
scope of the present disclosure. Alternatively, the actuation
button or switch can be any desired mechanical design, can be more
than one mechanical structure, and/or may also be positioned
anywhere on the handle assembly.
[0128] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a plurality of exemplary
scrub heads of one of the types described herein in stacked
arrangement. Scrub heads 2120 of FIG. 21 can be any of the scrub
heads described herein. Scrub heads 2120 of FIG. 21 can be placed
within a caddy assembly. An exemplary caddy assembly is shown in
FIGS. 2A and 2B. In some embodiments, scrub heads 2120 can be
stacked and sold as a refill package.
[0129] FIG. 22 shows one exemplary side perspective view of a scrub
head refill package. Refill package 2200 includes a plurality of
scrub heads 2220. Scrub heads 2220 can be any of the scrub heads
described herein. In some embodiments, scrub heads 2220 are held
within a packaging 2230. In some embodiments, when scrub heads 2220
have all been dispensed, packaging 2230 can be removed and either
refilled or discarded. In some embodiments, scrub heads 2220 are
stacked in such a way that they are easily insertable into a handle
assembly and/or caddy assembly.
[0130] In some embodiments, to use the scrubbing tool, a user first
inserts a portion of the handle assembly into the receptacle of the
scrub head. The user then uses the scrubbing tool for cleaning
purposes (e.g., such as to clean a toilet bowl). When the user
desires to remove the scrub head, he or she simply manually engages
the actuation button, moving the plunger rod or button rod along
the handle portion a short distance to detach the scrub head from
the handle assembly. Thus, the dirty scrub head can be removed from
the handle assembly without contact by the user.
[0131] The recitation of all numerical ranges by endpoint is meant
to include all numbers subsumed within the range (i.e., the range 1
to 10 includes, for example, 1, 1.5, 3.33, and 10).
[0132] The terms first, second, third and the like in the
description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between
similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or
chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used
are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the
embodiments of the disclosure described herein are capable of
operation in other sequences than described or illustrated
herein.
[0133] Moreover, the terms top, bottom, over, under and the like in
the description and the claims are used for descriptive purposes
and not necessarily for describing relative positions. It is to be
understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under
appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the
disclosure described herein are capable of operation in other
orientations than described or illustrated herein.
[0134] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document
and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this
document controls.
[0135] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this
document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
[0136] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and
not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one
or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each
other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary
skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract
is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. .sctn. 1.72(b), to allow the
reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure.
It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to
interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the
above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped
together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be
interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is
essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in
less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus,
the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed
Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on
its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such
embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations
or permutations. The scope of the disclosure can be determined with
reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of
equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
[0137] Those having skill in the art will appreciate that many
changes may be made to the details of the above-described
embodiments and implementations without departing from the
underlying principles thereof. Further, various modifications and
alterations of the present disclosure will become apparent to those
skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of
the disclosure. The scope of the present application should,
therefore, be determined only by the following claims and
equivalents thereof.
* * * * *