U.S. patent application number 16/185076 was filed with the patent office on 2020-04-30 for graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher with easily graspable handle.
The applicant listed for this patent is Medline Industries, Inc. Invention is credited to Shiny Chacko, Tamara Dick, Steve McNabb, Paige Wexler.
Application Number | 20200132531 16/185076 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 70328579 |
Filed Date | 2020-04-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200132531 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wexler; Paige ; et
al. |
April 30, 2020 |
Graduated Mop Liquid Measurement Pitcher with Easily Graspable
Handle
Abstract
A graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher includes a base, a
plurality of sidewalls extending from the base to a liquid
receiver, and a cylindrical handle. A first sidewall expands as it
extends distally from the base to a waist and then tapers inward as
it extends from the waist to the liquid receiver. A second sidewall
and a third sidewall are substantially planar. A first plurality of
demarcations is disposed along the second sidewall and indicate a
number of mop heads of a first type capable of being saturated by a
volume of liquid held by the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher. A second plurality of demarcations is disposed along the
third sidewall and indicates another number of mop heads of a
second type capable of being saturated by another volume of liquid
held by the graduated mop liquid measurement.
Inventors: |
Wexler; Paige; (Highland
Park, IL) ; Dick; Tamara; (Fox Lake, IL) ;
McNabb; Steve; (Kenosha, WI) ; Chacko; Shiny;
(Ingleside, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Medline Industries, Inc |
Northfield |
IL |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
70328579 |
Appl. No.: |
16/185076 |
Filed: |
November 9, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62752741 |
Oct 30, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01F 19/00 20130101;
A47L 13/50 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G01F 19/00 20060101
G01F019/00 |
Claims
1. A graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher, comprising: a base;
a plurality of sidewalls extending distally from the base to a
liquid receiver; and a cylindrical handle; wherein: a first
sidewall expands outward from the base to a waist of the graduated
mop liquid measurement pitcher and then tapers inward to the liquid
receiver; and a second sidewall expands outward from the base and
terminates at a lower-handle engaging ledge; the cylindrical handle
extends from the lower-handle engaging ledge to an upper
handle-engaging ledge; and the second sidewall tapers inward from
the upper handle-engaging edge to the liquid receiver.
2. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 1, further
comprising a concave rear surface wall spanning the lower-handle
engaging ledge and the upper handle-engaging ledge.
3. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 2, wherein
the lower-handle receiving ledge and the upper handle-receiving
ledge are substantially planar.
4. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 2, wherein
the cylindrical handle, the lower-handle engaging ledge and the
upper handle-engaging ledge define a D-shape.
5. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 2, wherein
a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall are substantially
planar.
6. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 5, wherein
the third sidewall and the fourth sidewall taper inward as they
extend from the base to a neck situated between the plurality of
sidewalls and the liquid receiver.
7. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 6, wherein
the liquid receiver comprises three substantially straight sides,
further comprising a pour spout flue interrupting a fourth side of
the liquid receiver.
8. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 7, wherein
the pour spout flue traverses the neck.
9. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 8, further
comprising eight microfiber mop fill demarcations disposed along
the third sidewall and six microfiber mop fill demarcations
disposed along the fourth sidewall.
10. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 9,
further comprising a "standard/premium" mop head demarcation
disposed along the third sidewall.
11. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 10,
further comprising a "super" mop head demarcation disposed along
the fourth sidewall.
12. A graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher, comprising: a base;
a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base to a liquid
receiver, wherein a first sidewall expands as it extends distally
from the base to a waist and then tapers inward as it extends from
the waist to the liquid receiver and a second sidewall and a third
sidewall are substantially planar; a first plurality of
demarcations disposed along the second sidewall indicating a number
of mop heads of a first type capable of being saturated by a volume
of liquid held by the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher and
filled to one demarcation of the first plurality of demarcations;
and a second plurality of demarcations disposed along the third
sidewall indicating another number of mop heads of a second type
capable of being saturated by another volume of liquid held by the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher and filled to another
demarcation of the second plurality of demarcations.
13. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 12,
further comprising a "standard/premium" mop head demarcation
disposed along the third sidewall.
14. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 13,
further comprising a "super" mop head demarcation disposed along
the fourth sidewall.
15. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 14,
wherein a fourth sidewall is interrupted by a lower-handle engaging
ledge and a cylindrical handle extending from the lower-handle
engaging ledge to an upper handle-engaging ledge.
16. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 15,
further comprising a concave rear surface wall spanning the
lower-handle engaging ledge and the upper handle-engaging
ledge.
17. A graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher, comprising: a base
and a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base to a liquid
receiver; six demarcations disposed along a first sidewall, each
demarcation of the six demarcations indicating a multiple of nine
ounces of liquid held by the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher when filled to the each demarcation of the six
demarcations; eight demarcations disposed on a second sidewall,
each demarcation of the eight demarcations indicating a multiple of
six ounces of liquid held by the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher when filled to the each demarcation of the eight
demarcations.
18. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 17, the
base defining a punt surrounded by a perimeter edge and one or more
liquid transmission channels interrupting the perimeter edge.
19. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 18,
further comprising a "standard/premium" mop head demarcation
disposed along the second sidewall.
20. The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of claim 18,
further comprising a "super" mop head demarcation disposed along
the first sidewall.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority and benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 119(e) from U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/752,741,
filed Oct. 30, 2018, which is incorporated by reference for all
purposes.
BACKGROUND
Technical Field
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to containers, and more
particularly to liquid-holding containers.
Background Art
[0003] Containers are frequently used to transport liquids. It
would be advantageous to have an improved container.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] FIG. 1 illustrated a first perspective view of one
explanatory mop liquid measurement pitcher in accordance with one
or more embodiments of the disclosure;
[0005] FIG. 2 illustrates a second perspective view thereof;
[0006] FIG. 3 illustrates a rear elevation view thereof;
[0007] FIG. 4 illustrates a right side elevation view thereof;
[0008] FIG. 5 illustrates a front elevation view thereof;
[0009] FIG. 6 illustrates a left side elevation view thereof;
[0010] FIG. 7 illustrates a top plan view thereof; and
[0011] FIG. 8 illustrates a bottom plan view thereof.
[0012] FIG. 9 illustrates various embodiments of the
disclosure.
[0013] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the
figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not
necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of
some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to
other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of
the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Embodiments of the disclosure are now described in detail.
Referring to the drawings, like numbers indicate like parts
throughout the views. As used in the description herein and
throughout the claims, the following terms take the meanings
explicitly associated herein, unless the context clearly dictates
otherwise: the meaning of "a," "an," and "the" includes plural
reference, the meaning of "in" includes "in" and "on." Relational
terms such as first and second, top and bottom, and the like may be
used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity
or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or order between such entities or actions.
[0015] The terms "substantially" and "about" are used to refer to
dimensions, orientations, or alignments inclusive of manufacturing
tolerances. Thus, a "substantially orthogonal" angle with a
manufacturing tolerance of plus or minus two degrees would include
all angles between 88 and 92, inclusive. Also, reference
designators shown herein in parenthesis indicate components shown
in a figure other than the one in discussion. For example, talking
about a device (10) while discussing figure A would refer to an
element, 10, shown in figure other than figure A.
[0016] Embodiments of the disclosure provide an improved container,
configured as a pitcher in one embodiment, that allows for quick
and accurate measurement of an amount of liquid to be applied to a
predefined number of mop heads. Embodiments of the disclosure
contemplate that mopping systems have improved from the days when
the only mop available was a cotton-based, string mop. The advent
of microfibers has led the charge in improving mopping
technologies, as the microfiber mop head has transformed the way
that floors and other surfaces are cleaned.
[0017] Microfibers are synthetic fibers having a thickness of less
than one denier. Microfibers are used to make non-woven, woven, and
knitted textile products. Microfibers are also used in the
manufacture of modern mop heads. A microfiber mop head can be
attached to a lightweight, maneuverable, often rectangular, head
from which a shaft or other handle extends. After absorbing an
amount of cleaning solution, the microfiber mop head is used to mop
a floor or other horizontal surface. Cleaning personnel frequently
favor microfiber mop heads due to the fact that they make cleaning
more efficient. Microfiber mops are also generally less tiring to
use than are conventional, heavy, cotton string mops. Further,
microfibers tend to be much more absorbent than are their cotton
string counterparts.
[0018] Embodiments of the disclosure further contemplate that it
can be difficult for cleaning personnel to know exactly how much
liquid to apply to a microfiber mop head prior to using it to mop.
With conventional string mops, the mop is saturated and then wrung,
perhaps with the aid of a mechanical press mounted on a bucket.
Microfiber mop heads are different, in that when they are properly
used they are generally not wrung. Instead, when they absorb a
proper amount of solution, they can be used for mopping without
wringing.
[0019] Since the amount of liquid needed to saturate the microfiber
mop head is generally unknown, cleaning personnel frequently just
"soak" a microfiber in a basin of cleaning solution on a work cart.
After employing this less than optimal solution, a user must then
hand-wring the microfiber mop head prior to attaching it to the
mop.
[0020] This inefficient usage technique is problematic for several
reasons. First, it wastes cleaning solution. These cleaning
solutions can be expensive, as they frequently include not only
cleansers, but antimicrobial and antibacterial chemicals as well.
When too much cleaning solution is dispensed, overages must be
discarded, thereby increasing overall cleaning costs. Second, the
chemicals can be hazardous if not handled properly. Some facilities
use chemicals such butoxyethanol, quarternary ammonium compounds,
and phenols as cleansing agents. These chemicals can cause
respiratory irritation and skin burns if improperly handled. Should
someone wring a mop saturated with these chemicals without wearing
gloves, skin irritation can occur.
[0021] Embodiments of the disclosure provide a container,
configured as a pitcher in one or more embodiments, that ensures a
correct amount of cleaning solution is dispensed into another
container, such as a bucket, for a predefined number of mop heads.
Moreover, containers described in accordance with embodiments of
the disclosure fit perfectly within commonly used dispensing system
dispensers, such as the J-Fill.TM. QuattroSelect.TM. dispensing
machines manufactured by Diversey, Inc.
[0022] Embodiments of the disclosure ensure the correct amount of
cleaning solution that can be absorbed by a predetermined number of
mop heads is used in the mopping process. Not only does this
eliminate the need for handwringing mop heads, but it also results
in a more economical process due to the fact that cleaning solution
is not wasted. Further, containers configured in accordance with
one or more embodiments of the disclosure offer more
environmentally friendly cleaning solutions due to the fact that
excess cleaning solution need not be discarded into public sewage
systems.
[0023] In one or more embodiments, a graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher comprises a base and a plurality of sidewalls
extending distally from the base to a liquid receiver. A first
sidewall expands outward from the base to a waist of the graduated
mop liquid measurement pitcher and then tapers inward to the liquid
receiver. A second sidewall expands outward from the base and
terminates at a lower-handle engaging ledge. A cylindrical handle
extends from the lower-handle engaging ledge to an upper
handle-engaging ledge. The second sidewall tapers inward from the
upper handle-engaging edge to the liquid receiver.
[0024] In one or more embodiments, a first plurality of
demarcations is disposed along a sidewall. The first plurality of
demarcations indicates a number of mop heads of a first type
capable of being saturated by a volume of liquid held by the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher and filled to one
demarcation of the first plurality of demarcations. In one or more
embodiments, a second plurality of demarcations is disposed along
another sidewall. The second plurality of demarcations indicates
another number of mop heads of a second type capable of being
saturated by another volume of liquid held by the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher and filled to another demarcation of the
second plurality of demarcations.
[0025] Illustrating by example, in one embodiment six demarcations
are disposed along one sidewall. Each demarcation of the six
demarcations indicates a multiple of 225 milliliters of liquid held
by the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher when filled to the
each demarcation of the six demarcations. Similarly, in one
embodiment eight demarcations are disposed on a second sidewall.
Each demarcation of the eight demarcations indicates a multiple of
150 milliliters of liquid held by the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher when filled to the each demarcation of the
eight demarcations.
[0026] When improper amounts of water and/or cleaning solution are
used in a microfiber mop head during cleaning, the mop heads may be
under-saturated. Where this is the case, the mop may fail to
deliver a sufficient amount of cleaning solution to the surface to
be cleaned. Consequently, the germs and bacteria that may be active
along the surface may not receive, for example, enough
antimicrobial agents. In environments where cleanliness is
imperative, e.g., hospitals and medical offices, this can create a
risk of infection or other malady.
[0027] By contrast, when a mop head is over-saturated, other
problems can arise. If there is too much solution, a user may have
to hand wring the mop head, which can result in the issues noted
above. Moreover, too much solution can prevent the cleaned surface
from drying properly. This is in addition to the economic loss
caused by wasting expensive cleaning solutions.
[0028] Embodiments of the disclosure therefore advantageously
provide solutions to these issues providing a pitcher, which fits
nicely into commonly used cleaning solution machines, and which
includes a comfortable handle that fits all sizes of hands, that
includes a plurality of demarcations disposed along the sidewall.
In one or more embodiments, each demarcation comprises an indicator
of a number of mop heads capable of being saturated by a volume of
liquid disposed in the pitcher having a particular demarcation as
an upper limit. Accordingly, when a user wants to saturate three
mop heads, rather than performing complex arithmetic in his head,
the user simply fills the measurement canister until the liquid
reaches the "3 Mops" demarcation. Each demarcation, therefore,
provides a simple and convenient mechanism for indicating the exact
amount of fluid required because each demarcation corresponds to a
fluid level suitable for saturating a predetermined number of mop
heads. Embodiments of the disclosure therefore facilitate a simple
and clear understanding of just how much liquid is required for a
predetermined number of microfiber mop heads. When the process is
kept simple, there is little chance of error.
[0029] Turning now to FIGS. 1-8, illustrated therein is one
explanatory graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 that
includes a cylindrical handle 101 that is easily graspable. The
cylindrical handle 101 is designed to minimize wrist strain.
[0030] In one or more embodiments, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 is configured to measure a predefined
volume of cleaning solution dispensed, for example, from a wall
dispenser or a stand-alone dispenser. The graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 can then transfer the cleaning solution to
another vessel, such as a bucket, delivering the cleaning solution
to the other vessel with an effortless and easily controlled
pour.
[0031] The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 can be
manufactured in a variety of sizes. Illustrating by example, in one
or more embodiments the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher
100 has a height 401 that is about 225 millimeters. The graduated
mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 can be manufactured from a
variety of materials as well. In one embodiment, the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100 is manufactured from polyethylene
using a blow-molding process. This height dimension and material
are illustrative only, as others will be obvious to those of
ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this
disclosure.
[0032] The graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 includes a
base 800 and one or more sidewalls 102,202,302,602. The sidewalls
102,202,302,602 taper outward as they extend distally from the base
800. The front sidewall 202 expands outwardly to a waist 103. Once
the maximum outward extension is reached at the waist 103, the
front sidewall then tapers inwardly toward the liquid receiver 104
and corresponding pour spout flue 105.
[0033] The rear sidewall 302 also expands outwardly from the base
800, but stops at a lower handle-engaging ledge 106. In one
embodiment, the lower handle-engaging ledge 106 is about forty-two
millimeters above the base 800.
[0034] A cylindrical handle 101 then extends upward from the lower
handle-engaging ledge 106. In one or more embodiments, the
cylindrical handle 101 has a radius of about thirty millimeters. In
one or more embodiments, the cylindrical handle 101 extends upward
from the lower handle-engaging ledge 106 by a distance of about 115
millimeters. Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that while
some containers include ergonomic handles designed to fit the
contours of a user's hand, containers in accordance with
embodiments of the disclosure advantageously are more quickly
graspable, especially in wet environments or when a user is wearing
gloves, when the handle is configured as a cylinder. As such, the
cylindrical handle 101 provides a graspable surface that is quick
and reliable, and works to prevent the spillage of liquids from the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100. In one or more
embodiments, the cylindrical handle 101 can be textured, or can
include surface features, that help a user grasp the sides of the
cylindrical handle 101. Such texturing or other surface features
can be particularly helpful when the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 is used in wet environments.
[0035] In one or more embodiments, the lower handle-engaging ledge
106 extends distally into the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 from the cylindrical handle 101 to a concave rear
surface wall 107. In this illustrative embodiment, the concave rear
surface wall 107 is disposed between the cylindrical handle 101 and
the fluid receiving interior 700 of the container. As best shown in
FIG. 4, in one or more embodiments an interior edge 402 of the
cylindrical handle 101, the lower handle-engaging ledge 106, the
upper handle-engaging ledge 206, and the concave rear surface wall
107 define a "D" shape in that it defines an interior shape that
resembles the interior of the letter D. The concave rear surface
wall 107 provides a stop surface for a user's hand or fingers,
thereby preventing the unnecessary rotation of a user's wrist about
the cylindrical handle 101.
[0036] The concave rear surface wall 107 extends into the graduated
mop liquid measurement pitcher 100, separating a maximum distance
from the interior edge 402 of the cylindrical handle 101 at the
waist 103 of the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100. In
one or more embodiments, this maximum distance from the interior
edge 402 of the cylindrical handle 101 occurring at the waist 103
is about 28.5 millimeters. Radiused contours can be added where the
cylindrical handle 101 engages the lower handle-engaging ledge 106
or the upper handle-engaging ledge 206. Similarly, radiused
contours can be added between the lower handle-engaging ledge 106
and the concave rear surface wall 107, or alternatively between the
upper handle-engaging ledge 206 and the concave rear surface wall
107, as shown in FIGS. 4, and 6.
[0037] In one or more embodiments, the cylindrical handle 101
extends upwardly from the lower handle-engaging ledge 106 until it
reaches the upper handle-engaging ledge 206. In one or more
embodiments, the distance that the cylindrical handle 101 extends
upwardly between the lower handle-engaging ledge 106 and the upper
handle-engaging ledge 206 is about 115 millimeters. Other distances
will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having the
benefit of this disclosure.
[0038] From the upper handle-engaging ledge 206, the rear side 103
then tapers back in, or gets narrower, as it extends from the upper
handle-engaging ledge 206 to the liquid receiver 104. In one
embodiment, the lower handle-engaging ledge 106 is about forty-two
millimeters above the base 800. In one or more embodiments, rear
side 103 tapers inwardly, causing the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 to get narrower, as it extends from the
upper handle-engaging ledge 206 vertically by a distance of about
forty-eight millimeters.
[0039] In contrast to the front sidewall 202 and the rear sidewall
302, in one or more embodiments the left and right sidewalls
102,602 are substantially planar. As best shown in FIGS. 3 and 5,
in one or more embodiments these sidewalls 102,602 taper inwardly
from the base 800 as they extend distally upward from the base 800
until they reach the liquid receiver 104. In one or more
embodiments, the left and right sidewalls 102,602 taper inwardly at
an angle of between two and three degrees as they extend upward by
a vertical distance of about 205 millimeters to the base of the
liquid receiver 104.
[0040] From the waist 103, moving upward, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 tapers to a neck 403 situated at the base
of the liquid receiver 104. As best shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, in one
or more embodiments the pour spout flue 105 traverses the neck 403.
Said differently, in one or more embodiments a base 404 of the pour
spout flue 105 is situated below the neck 403, while a flue edge
405 of the pour spout flue 105 is situated above the neck 403. In
this illustrative embodiment, the pour spout flue 104 allows for
easy pouring due to the fact that the contoured design, including
the outward opening of the flue edge allows for smooth liquid flow
from the pour spout flue 104.
[0041] From the neck 403, the liquid receiver 104 and the pour
spout flue 105 then taper outwardly as they extend distally above
the neck 403. In one embodiment, the pour spout flue 105 extends
vertically about thirty-eight millimeters while extending outwardly
at an angle of about seventy degrees. By contrast, the sides
108,109,308 of the liquid receiver 104 expand outwardly at an angle
of between twenty-five and twenty-six degrees from the neck 403 as
they extend vertically a distance of about twenty millimeters from
the neck 403.
[0042] As best shown in FIG. 7, in one or more embodiments each of
the sides 108,109,308 of the liquid receiver 104 are substantially
straight, and are joined with radiused corners 708,709. In one
embodiment, the radiused corners 708,709 have radii of about thirty
millimeters. In one embodiment, the liquid receiver 104 has a
length of about 105 millimeters. In one or more embodiments, the
liquid receiver 104 has a width of about ninety millimeters.
[0043] The pour spout flue 105 is centered along a fourth side 704
of the liquid receiver 104 in one or more embodiments. In the
illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the pour spout flue 105
extends from the fourth side 704 of the liquid receiver 104 by a
distance 706 of between fourteen and fifteen millimeters. The pour
spout flue 105 includes a convex flue surface 710 that is bounded
on each side by a flue wall 711,712. Convex-out radiused corners
can be disposed between the convex flue surface 710 and the flue
walls 711,712. In this illustrative embodiment, convex-in radiused
corners are then disposed between the flue walls 711,712 and the
fourth side 704 of the liquid receiver 104.
[0044] As best shown in FIG. 8, in one or more embodiments the base
800 of the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 includes a
punt 801 surrounded by a perimeter edge 802. As used herein, "punt"
refers to an indentation in the bottom of a container that
resembles a scar in, for example, a glass bottle where the pontil,
punty, or punt was broked from a work of blown glass. In this
illustrative embodiment, the perimeter edge 802 allows the base 800
to be perimeter weighted when the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 is filled with liquid to prevent the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100 from falling over.
[0045] Situated along the perimeter edge 802 are two liquid
transmission channels 803,804 through which liquids caught in the
punt 801 can escape or be channeled out from under the graduated
mop liquid measurement pitcher 100. In one or more embodiments,
these liquid transmission channels 803,804 provide for greater
mechanical stability by bifurcating the perimeter edge 802, thereby
leaving a partial perimeter edge on each side of the center of
gravity. However, the liquid transmission channels 803,804 can
provide other functions as well. Illustrating by example,
embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100 will be used in wet environments,
such as in a cleaning liquid dispenser machine. Accordingly, the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 may be placed on wet
surfaces. Where this is the case, the inclusion of the liquid
transmission channels 803,804 allows this liquid to exit from
beneath the base 800.
[0046] In one or more embodiments, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 includes graduated demarcations that serve
as indicators corresponding to a volume of cleaning solution
suitable for a corresponding number of mops to be saturated. In
this illustrative embodiment, the demarcations on the right and
left sides of the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 are
different due to the fact that each is intended for use with a
different type of microfiber mop head.
[0047] Embodiments of the disclosure contemplate that there are
different sizes and types of microfiber mop heads. Illustrating by
example, there are "standard" microfiber mop heads that are made
from polyester and foam, are stitched together, and generally
couple to a mop with a hook and loop fastener. Such standard mop
heads are about nineteen inches in length, and about four inches in
width.
[0048] "Premium" mop heads have the same look and feel as the
standard mop heads, but are wider, generally having widths of 20.5
inches. They include the same fills as the standard mop heads, but
are designed to be commercially laundered. Experimental testing has
shown that premium mop heads and standard mop heads generally
saturate with the same amount of liquid.
[0049] "Super" mop heads include polyamide fills and are generally
of a higher quality. Super mop heads are generally about 20.5
inches by four inches. Experimental testing has shown that these
mop heads require more liquid to saturate due to their different
fills. Such testing has shown that it takes 1.5 times the amount of
liquid to saturate a super mop head as it does a standard or
premium mop head. Due to this observed fact, the graduations on
either side of the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 are
different in one or more embodiments.
[0050] Beginning with the right side of the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, in one or more
embodiments the right sidewall 102 comprises a plurality of
demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417. In one embodiment,
each demarcation 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 comprises an
indicator of a number of standard or premium mop heads capable of
being saturated by a volume of liquid disposed within the graduated
mop liquid measurement pitcher 100, when in an upright position,
bounded by the base 800 and sidewalls 102,202,303,602, and having a
selected demarcation as an upper limit.
[0051] For example, if a user desires to saturate four microfiber
mop heads with solution, a volume of liquid disposed in the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 having the base 800 as
its bottom limit, the sidewalls 102,202,302,602 as its outer limit,
and demarcation 414 as its upper limit would provide the correct
amount of solution that could be absorbed by a standard or premium
microfiber mop head. In one or more embodiments, when cleaning a
room in a hospital or other health care environment, when cleaning
four rooms a new mop is used in each room. Thus, a volume of liquid
disposed in the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 having
the base 800 as its bottom limit, the sidewalls 102,202,302,602 as
its outer limit, and demarcation 414 as its upper limit would
provide the correct amount of solution would provide the correct
amount of liquid for four standard or premium microfiber mop heads
to clean four rooms. In other embodiments, two mop heads are used
in each room. In such an embodiment, a volume of liquid disposed in
the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 having the base
800 as its bottom limit, the sidewalls 102,202,302,602 as its outer
limit, and demarcation 414 as its upper limit would provide the
correct amount of solution for four standard or premium mop heads
to clean two rooms, and so forth.
[0052] Accordingly, each demarcation
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 corresponds to a fluid level
suitable for saturating a predetermined number of standard or
premium mop heads. To confirm that these demarcations
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 are for standard or premium mop
heads, and not super mop heads, a standard/premium moniker
demarcation 418 is set forth above the demarcations
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417.
[0053] Both the standard/premium demarcation 418 and the other
demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 can be molded into the
sidewall 102 of the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 in
one or more embodiments. In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS.
1-8, the standard/premium demarcation 418 and the other
demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 are molded into the
sidewall 102 of the side of the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 such that they protrude outward from an exterior of the
sidewall 102 of the side of the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100. In other embodiments, the standard/premium demarcation
418 and the other demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 are
molded into the sidewall 102 of the side of the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100 such that they extend inwardly from
an exterior of the sidewall 102 of the side of the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100. In still other embodiments, the
standard/premium demarcation 418 and the other demarcations
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 are printed, etched, painted,
carved, inscribed, or otherwise made along the sidewall 102. Other
techniques for creating the standard/premium demarcation 418 and
the other demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 in the
sidewall 102 will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art
having the benefit of this disclosure.
[0054] In this illustrative embodiment, each demarcation
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 comprises a linear demarcator and
the words "X mops," wherein X is a value within a predetermined
range. For example, demarcation 410 comprises linear demarcator 420
and the words 421 "8 mops." Similarly, demarcation 411 comprises
linear demarcator 422 and the words 423 "7 mops." These
demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 aid users in
determining the proper measurements of water and chemicals for a
predetermined number of standard or premium microfiber mop heads.
The demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 further eliminate
questions regarding quantities or volumes required, as well as
eliminate the need for complicated unit conversion
calculations.
[0055] In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the linear
demarcators of the demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417
each have a common length, which is about thirty millimeters. In
other embodiments, the linear demacators of the demarcations
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 can be configured to be inversely
tapered such that each demarcator becomes shorter as the sidewall
102 extends from the neck 403 to the base 800.
[0056] In one or more embodiments, the demarcations
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 correspond to a predetermined range
of microfiber standard or premium mop heads that can be saturated.
In this illustrative embodiment, the predetermined range is 1 to 8
microfiber mop heads, inclusive. Accordingly, filling liquid into
the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 to the first
demarcation 417 provides enough liquid to saturate a single
standard or premium microfiber mop head, while filling the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 to the last
demarcation 410 provides enough liquid to saturate eight standard
or premium microfiber mop heads. The predetermined range of
one-to-eight is illustrative only. Other ranges will be obvious to
those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this
disclosure.
[0057] Due to the way that the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 is configured, in one or more embodiments the
demarcations 410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 are different
distances apart. Illustrating by example, in one embodiment
demarcation 417 is between eighteen and nineteen millimeters above
the base 800. In one embodiment, demarcation 416 is between fifteen
and sixteen millimeters above demarcation 417. In one embodiment,
demarcation 415 is between twenty and twenty-one millimeters above
demarcation 416. In one embodiment, demarcation 414 is between
twenty-three and twenty-four millimeters above demarcation 415. In
one embodiment, demarcation 413 is between twenty-four and
twenty-five millimeters above demarcation 414. In one embodiment,
demarcation 412 is between twenty-four and twenty-five millimeters
above demarcation 413. In one embodiment, demarcation 411 is
between twenty-four and twenty-five millimeters above demarcation
412. In one embodiment, demarcation 410 is between eighteen and
nineteen millimeters above demarcation 411.
[0058] In one illustrative embodiment, each demarcation
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 corresponds to an increase of six
fluid ounces. In one embodiment, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 is configured for use with 19''.times.4''
polyester foam standard, or 20.5''.times.4'' polyester foam premium
microfiber mop heads. Experimental testing has shown that such mop
heads are capable of absorbing six ounces of water and/or cleaning
solution and providing desired cleaning results.
[0059] Accordingly, in one embodiment each demarcation
410,411,412,413,414,415,416,417 positioned on the right sidewall
102, i.e., the "standard/premium" side of the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 is set to six-ounce increments.
Consequently, filling the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher
100 to linear demarcator 422 would add six ounces more to the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 than would filling to
linear demarcator 424. While six-ounce increments are one
alternative, others will be readily apparent to those of ordinary
skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.
[0060] The left sidewall 602 of the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 is configured for super mop heads. As noted
above, super mop heads can absorb 1.5 times the water and cleaning
solution due to the fact that they include an 80/20
polyester/polyimide fill instead of straight polyester.
Consequently, to accommodate either standard/premium mop heads or
super mop heads, the "super" side, i.e., sidewall 602 of the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100, is configured
differently from the "standard/premium" side of the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100.
[0061] As best shown in FIG. 6, in one or more embodiments the left
sidewall 602 comprises a plurality of demarcations
610,611,612,613,614,615. In one embodiment, each demarcation
610,611,612,613,614,615 comprises an indicator of a number of super
mop heads capable of being saturated by a volume of liquid disposed
within the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100, when in an
upright position, bounded by the base 800 and sidewalls
102,202,303,602, and having a selected demarcation on the left
sidewall 602 as an upper limit.
[0062] For example, if a user desires to saturate four super
microfiber mop heads with solution, a volume of liquid disposed in
the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 having the base
800 as its bottom limit, the sidewalls 102,202,302,602 as its outer
limit, and demarcation 615 as its upper limit would provide the
correct amount of solution that could be absorbed by a super
microfiber mop head. Accordingly, each demarcation
4610,611,612,613,614,615 corresponds to a fluid level suitable for
saturating a predetermined number of super mop heads. To confirm
that these demarcations 610,611,612,613,614,615 are for super mop
heads, and not super mop heads, a super mop head moniker
demarcation 618 is set forth above the demarcations
610,611,612,613,614,615.
[0063] Both the super demarcation 618 and the other demarcations
610,611,612,613,614,615 can be molded into the sidewall 602 of the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 in one or more
embodiments. In the illustrative embodiment of FIGS. 1-8, the super
demarcation 618 and the other demarcations 610,611,612,613,614,615
are molded into the sidewall 602 of the side of the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100 such that they protrude outward from
an exterior of the sidewall 602 of the side of the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100. In other embodiments, the super
demarcation 618 and the other demarcations 610,611,612,613,614,615
can be configured differently, as described above. These different
methods include molding such that they extend inwardly from an
exterior of the sidewall 602, printing, etching, painting, carving,
inscribing, and other techniques.
[0064] In this illustrative embodiment, each demarcation
610,611,612,613,614,615 comprises a linear demarcator and the words
"X mops," wherein X is a value within a predetermined range. For
example, demarcation 610 comprises linear demarcator 620 and the
words 621 "6 mops." Similarly, demarcation 611 comprises linear
demarcator 622 and the words 623 "5 mops." These demarcations
610,611,612,613,614,615 aid users in determining the proper
measurements of water and chemicals for a predetermined number of
super microfiber mop heads. The demarcations
610,611,612,613,614,615 further eliminate questions regarding
quantities or volumes required, as well as eliminate the need for
complicated unit conversion calculations.
[0065] In one or more embodiments, the demarcations
610,611,612,613,614,615 correspond to a predetermined range of
super microfiber mop heads that can be saturated. In this
illustrative embodiment, the predetermined range is 1 to 6 super
microfiber mop heads, inclusive. Accordingly, filling liquid into
the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 to the first
demarcation 615 provides enough liquid to saturate a single super
microfiber mop head, while filling the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 to the last demarcation 610 provides enough
liquid to saturate six super microfiber mop heads. The
predetermined range of one-to-six is illustrative only. Other
ranges will be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art having
the benefit of this disclosure.
[0066] Due to the way that the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 is configured, in one or more embodiments the
demarcations 610,611,612,613,614,615 are different distances apart.
Illustrating by example, in one embodiment demarcation 615 is
between twenty-six and twenty-seven millimeters above the base 800.
In one embodiment, demarcation 614 is between twenty-eight and
twenty-nine millimeters above demarcation 615. In one embodiment,
demarcation 613 is about thirty-six millimeters above demarcation
614. In one embodiment, demarcation 612 is between thirty-seven and
thirty-eight millimeters above demarcation 613. In one embodiment,
demarcation 611 is between thirty-four and thirty-five millimeters
above demarcation 612. In one embodiment, demarcation 610 is
between twenty-two and twenty-three millimeters above demarcation
611.
[0067] In one illustrative embodiment, each demarcation
610,611,612,613,614,615 corresponds to an increase of nine fluid
ounces. In one embodiment, the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 is configured for use with 19''.times.4'' 80/20
polyester/polyimide super, or 20.5''.times.4'' 80/20
polyester/polyimide super microfiber mop heads. Experimental
testing has shown that such mop heads are capable of absorbing nine
ounces of water and/or cleaning solution and providing desired
cleaning results.
[0068] Accordingly, in one embodiment each demarcation
610,611,612,613,614,615 positioned on the left sidewall 602, i.e.,
the "super" side of the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher
100 is set to nine-ounce increments. Consequently, filling the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 to linear demarcator
622 would add nine ounces more to the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher 100 than would filling to linear demarcator
624. While nine-ounce increments are one alternative, others will
be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having
the benefit of this disclosure.
[0069] Techniques for using the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 are described in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No.
9,320,404 to Gornik et al., entitled "Mop Measuring Canister and
Systems and Method Therefor," which is incorporated herein by
reference for all purposes. The graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 can be used with a bucket configured to retain a
predetermined number of microfiber mop heads against a base of the
bucket.
[0070] Illustrating by example, the bucket can include mop head
retention members that extend from a side of the bucket inward
toward the bucket's interior. The predetermined number of mop
heads, which in one embodiment comprises between one and ten mop
heads, sit between the mop head retention members and the opposite
wall.
[0071] To use the components of a system configured in accordance
with embodiments of the disclosure, a user first places the
predetermined number of mop heads into the bucket. The selected or
predetermined number of mop heads can be placed between the mop
head retention members and the opposite wall such that they rest
against the base of the bucket.
[0072] Once this step is complete, a cleaning person obtains a
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 as described above.
The person fills the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100
with a cleaning fluid to one of the demarcations corresponding (1)
to the selected number of mop heads and (2) to whether the mop
heads are premium/standard mop heads or super mop heads. If the
selected number of mop heads exceeds the maximum demarcation, the
process can be repeated. For example, if the selected number of mop
heads is ten, but the maximum demarcation is six, the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher 100 can be filled to the four mop head
demarcation, emptied into the bucket, refilled to the six mop head
demarcation, and then again emptied into the bucket.
[0073] In this illustrative embodiment, the user fills the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 by placing it in a
dispensing machine such as the J-Fill.TM. QuattroSelect.TM.
dispensing machine manufactured by Diversey, Inc. One places the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher 100 under a nozzle or
within the dispensing machine and causes the fluid to flow into the
measurement canister 100. Once the fluid reaches the demarcation
corresponding to the selected number of mops, the user stops the
fluid from flowing. Thus, if the user plans to saturate six super
mop heads, the user fills the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100 until the fluid reaches the demarcation reciting "6
mops" on the super side of the graduated mop liquid measurement
pitcher 100. This provides a quick and simple way to instantly know
exactly how much fluid is required for a particular number of mop
heads. Moreover, this ensures that all fluid required for proper
cleaning will be absorbed, and that none will be wasted.
[0074] Turning now to FIG. 9, illustrated therein are various
embodiments of the disclosure. At 901, a graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher comprises a base, a plurality of sidewalls
extending distally from the base to a liquid receiver, and a
cylindrical handle. At 901, a first sidewall expands outward from
the base to a waist of the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher
and then tapers inward to the liquid receiver. At 901, a second
sidewall expands outward from the base and terminates at a
lower-handle engaging ledge.
[0075] At 901, the cylindrical handle extends from the lower-handle
engaging ledge to an upper handle-engaging ledge. At 901, the
second sidewall tapers inward from the upper handle-engaging edge
to the liquid receiver.
[0076] At 902, the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of 901
further comprises a concave rear surface wall spanning the
lower-handle engaging ledge and the upper handle-engaging ledge. At
903, the lower-handle receiving ledge and the upper
handle-receiving ledge of 902 are substantially planar. At 904, the
cylindrical handle, the lower-handle engaging ledge and the upper
handle-engaging ledge of 902 define a D-shape.
[0077] At 905, a third sidewall and a fourth sidewall of 902 are
substantially planar. At 906, the third sidewall and the fourth
sidewall of 905 taper inward as they extend from the base to a neck
situated between the plurality of sidewalls and the liquid
receiver.
[0078] At 907, the liquid receiver of 906 comprises three
substantially straight sides. At 907, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher of 906 further comprises a pour spout flue
interrupting a fourth side of the liquid receiver. At 908, the pour
spout flue of 907 traverses the neck.
[0079] At 909, the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of 908
further comprises eight microfiber mop fill demarcations disposed
along the third sidewall and six microfiber mop fill demarcations
disposed along the fourth sidewall. At 910, the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher of 909 further comprises a
"standard/premium" mop head demarcation disposed along the third
sidewall. At 911, the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of
910 further comprises a "super" mop head demarcation disposed along
the fourth sidewall.
[0080] At 912, a graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher comprises
a base and a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base to a
liquid receiver. At 912, a first sidewall expands as it extends
distally from the base to a waist and then tapers inward as it
extends from the waist to the liquid receiver and a second sidewall
and a third sidewall are substantially planar. At 912, a first
plurality of demarcations is disposed along the second sidewall
indicating a number of mop heads of a first type capable of being
saturated by a volume of liquid held by the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher and filled to one demarcation of the first
plurality of demarcations. At 912, a second plurality of
demarcations is disposed along the third sidewall indicating
another number of mop heads of a second type capable of being
saturated by another volume of liquid held by the graduated mop
liquid measurement pitcher and filled to another demarcation of the
second plurality of demarcations.
[0081] At 913, the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of 912
further comprises a "standard/premium" mop head demarcation
disposed along the third sidewall. At 914, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher of 913 further comprises a "super" mop head
demarcation disposed along the fourth sidewall. At 915, the fourth
sidewall of 914 is interrupted by a lower-handle engaging ledge and
a cylindrical handle extending from the lower-handle engaging ledge
to an upper handle-engaging ledge. At 916, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher of 915 further comprises a concave rear surface
wall spanning the lower-handle engaging ledge and the upper
handle-engaging ledge.
[0082] At 917, a graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher comprises
a base and a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base to a
liquid receiver. At 917, six demarcations are disposed along a
first sidewall, with each demarcation of the six demarcations
indicating a multiple of nine ounces of liquid held by the
graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher when filled to the each
demarcation of the six demarcations. At 917, eight demarcations are
disposed on a second sidewall, with each demarcation of the eight
demarcations indicating a multiple of six ounces of liquid held by
the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher when filled to the
each demarcation of the eight demarcations.
[0083] At 918, the base of 917 defines a punt surrounded by a
perimeter edge and one or more liquid transmission channels
interrupting the perimeter edge. At 919, the graduated mop liquid
measurement pitcher of 918 further comprises a "standard/premium"
mop head demarcation disposed along the second sidewall. At 920,
the graduated mop liquid measurement pitcher of 918 further
comprises a "super" mop head demarcation disposed along the first
sidewall.
[0084] In the foregoing specification, specific embodiments of the
present disclosure have been described. However, one of ordinary
skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes
can be made without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure as set forth in the claims below. Thus, while preferred
embodiments of the disclosure have been illustrated and described,
it is clear that the disclosure is not so limited. Numerous
modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents
will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the
spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the
following claims. For example
[0085] Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be
regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and
all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope
of present disclosure. The benefits, advantages, solutions to
problems, and any element(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage,
or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be
construed as a critical, required, or essential features or
elements of any or all the claims. The disclosure is defined solely
by the appended claims including any amendments made during the
pendency of this application and all equivalents of those claims as
issued.
* * * * *