DE102020127502A1 - cleaning element - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning element (10) for a surface (100), comprising a base body (12) with at least one cleaning surface (14). It is proposed that the base body (12) includes a metering unit (16) with which a predetermined quantity of cleaning agent (18) can be applied to the cleaning surface (14).

Description

The invention relates to a cleaning element for a surface, comprising a base body with at least one cleaning surface.

STATE OF THE ART

A large number of cleaning cloths or cleaning sponges for treating or cleaning surfaces are known from the prior art. Depending on the area of application, different materials and additional cleaning agents are used. For example, microfiber cloths are known, which are used for essentially smooth surfaces.

This is how it shows DE 103 27 583 A1 a device for cleaning or treating surfaces with three different materials arranged on the surface. The different materials can be used for different pre- or post-treatments during cleaning.

Due to the increasing development towards digital devices with different displays, in particular touch displays, such as smartphones, tablets or displays on dashboards in a vehicle, there are more and more display and interaction surfaces that become soiled through constant touching. On the one hand, this can affect the usability and readability of the display, and on the other hand, bacteria or viruses can lead to unhygienic and uncomfortable operation.

While smartphones are usually only used by one person, tablets, laptops, for example with touch displays, or control panels in a vehicle can be used by different people. Cleaning the displays from fingerprints, grease, bacteria and/or viruses is therefore particularly important.

In particular, with such surfaces, it makes sense to use a cleaning agent to remove dirt. the DE 100 10 508 A1 shows, for example, a cleaning device with a sponge body and an integrated storage chamber for a cleaning medium. The cleaning medium can reach the surface to be cleaned through an open-cell structure of the swarm body or through additional application channels in the swarm body.

The disadvantage of the known sponges or cleaning cloths is that either the cleaning agent has to be applied independently of the cleaning element, for example in the form of a conventional spray bottle, or the integrated cleaning agent cannot be dosed. Especially with sensitive surfaces such as displays or touch displays, mirrored and/or painted surfaces, an overdose of cleaning agent can lead to damage. Furthermore, cleaning on the go is difficult, since either the cleaning agent has to be carried along separately, or a soaked or very damp cleaning agent is left behind, which can be stored separately and cannot simply be carried in the bag.

The object of the invention is therefore to propose a cleaning element that enables optimal cleaning of surfaces, such as the surfaces of displays, is easy to use and flexibly transportable.

This object is solved by a cleaning element according to the independent claims. Advantageous further developments of the invention are the subject matter of the dependent claims.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

The subject matter of the invention is a cleaning element for a surface, comprising a base body with at least one cleaning surface.

It is proposed that the base body includes a dosing unit with which a predetermined amount of cleaning agent can be applied to the cleaning surface. A desired amount of cleaning agent can be applied to the cleaning surface with the dosing unit, so that overdosing can be avoided. The dosing unit is therefore preferably used not only for storing or storing the cleaning agent, but also for dispensing and/or dosing the cleaning agent.

The cleaning agent can be a liquid, a powder, a powder or a foam. The cleaning agent can also have a disinfecting effect. This is preferably supplied directly to the cleaning surface by the dosing unit. The cleaning surface can absorb and store the cleaning agent. In particular, the cleaning surface can release the cleaning agent over a large area onto the surface to be cleaned.

In other words, a flat cleaning element can be formed that provides at least one surface that is used for cleaning a preferably at least partially smooth and/or flat surface, for example a surface of a tablet, smartphone, laptop or a car tool fitting, serves. A particular advantage is that the integrated dosing unit allows an adjustable amount of cleaning agent to be added to the cleaning surface. The cleaning agent can be applied directly and specifically to this one cleaning surface or a desired cleaning surface. This can be done, for example, by spraying. The cleaning agent is preferably applied to the cleaning surface from the inside, ie from the inside of the cleaning element.

The cleaning element according to the invention is particularly advantageous in that it can be used easily and transported flexibly. It can consist of a compact, three-dimensional object that has no removable individual parts such as protective caps or the like, which means it can be actuated with just one movement and is always ready to hand. The cleaning element can, for example, have basic shapes such as a rectangle, a cone or a cylinder.

The cleaning agent is distributed over a large area by the cleaning surface and is therefore not only dispensed in spots on a surface to be cleaned. The released cleaning agent is advantageously stored in the base body and/or in particular in the cleaning surface, so that it does not drip out. The base body is preferably a three-dimensional element that has a volume. The cleaning surface preferably forms a surface of the base body, it being possible for the cleaning agent to be stored in the volume of the base body that adjoins the cleaning surface. In particular, the cleaning surface is moistened from the inside with cleaning agent, with the cleaning agent penetrating outwards, i.e. outside the cleaning element, through the cleaning surface.

It is also conceivable that the cleaning element has more than one cleaning surface. The individual cleaning surfaces can be arranged adjacent to one another. The cleaning surfaces can have different material properties for different cleaning purposes, e.g. soft and soft for one cleaning surface and hard, scratchy for another cleaning surface that has an abrasive effect. It is conceivable that an alignment of the dosing unit for wetting a cleaning surface with cleaning agent can be changed, e.g. directed to another cleaning surface by a rotary movement.

Advantageously, the cleaning surface forms a soft plaster surface, so that edges and bumps, i.e. curved and/or non-continuous surfaces, can also be cleaned. Advantageously, the cleaning element can also be used to clean grooves, such as key gaps and/or folds on a surface of a smartphone, tablet or a surface of another object. This can be made possible, for example, by the soft plaster surface. Furthermore, the plaster surface can enable the cleaning of grooves, for example, by means of geometric configurations, such as edges or the like.

The dispensing quantity of the cleaning agent is determined by the dosing unit. The place to which the cleaning agent is applied is preferably limited to the cleaning surface. In this way, in particular, the risk of cleaning agent getting onto other surfaces, for example during a spraying process with a cleaning agent, can be avoided. The cleaning surface is preferably used for mechanical cleaning of the surface to be cleaned and at the same time has the cleaning agent on it.

The dosing unit can in particular prevent the cleaning agent from soaking through or dripping out of the cleaning surface or out of the cleaning element, since only a small amount can be dispensed. The portion of the cleaning agent that is not released can continue to be stored in the dosing unit and cannot reach the cleaning surface. As a result, a transportable cleaning element can be provided in particular, which can be transported or stored between individual cleaning processes without individual elements, such as the base body or the cleaning surface, or the entire cleaning element being further soaked during storage or during transport. The cleaning element can also be easily carried in a pocket

Advantageously, the dosing unit is fully integrated into the base body and is not visible from a position outside the cleaning element. This ensures, for example, that the complete amount of cleaning agent dispensed is absorbed by the surface of the base body, in particular by the cleaning surface.

The dosing unit can, for example, contain a quantity of cleaning agent that is designed for a period of use of one to three months. The dosing unit can preferably be refilled and/or the base body with the cleaning surface can be exchanged and/or washed. The complete cleaning element is therefore preferably a reusable element.

The dosing unit can advantageously be made of plastic. Other materials such as aluminum or the like are also conceivable.

The cleaning element according to the invention is suitable, for example, for graphic user interfaces. This can be ordinary screens, touchscreens, smartphones, tablets, game consoles, navigation devices, PCs or laptops. Ordinary surfaces can also be cleaned with the cleaning element according to the invention, such as the surface of a keyboard, door handle, painted surfaces in the car or the housing of smartphones or tablets.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body can consist at least partially of an absorbent material and/or an absorbent material can be arranged on the cleaning surface. The base body can be made of foam, for example. The cleaning surface can be made of a non-woven fabric, a microfiber or a similar material. For example, the base body can be provided with a microfiber cover. For example, an encased foam body can be formed, which is at least partially absorbent on the surface. The non-woven fabric or the cleaning surface can be pulled over the base body, e.g , which allows to easily change or wash the cleaning surface. A cleaning surface designed as a removable cover can also be designed to be printable in order to individualize the cleaning element and use it as advertising material, for example.

The cleaning surface can have different shapes and different dimensions. At least one diagonal or one edge dimension of the cleaning surface can be between 30 and 80 mm, in particular between 40 and 60 mm. For example, the cleaning surface can have at least one edge length or diagonal that corresponds to a maximum dimension of the cleaning element. Other dimensions are also conceivable, it being possible for the dimensions to be adapted to the object to be cleaned.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body can have an actuating element, by means of which the dosing unit can be activated. The actuating element can be used to apply the quantity of cleaning agent to be dispensed from the dosing unit to the cleaning surface at a point in time desired by an operator. A sealing cap is not required.

In a preferred embodiment, the actuating element can be arranged on a surface of the base body that is different from the cleaning surface. It can consist, for example, of a type of push button or pressure surface or of a switch. One-handed operation is advantageously ensured in this way.

In a preferred embodiment, the actuating element can be designed as a side surface of the cleaning element. The actuating element can, for example, have a basic shape similar to that of the cleaning surface or another side surface of the basic element. Advantageously, the actuating element does not or not significantly protrude beyond the surface of the base body, so that the cleaning element has a compact design.

In a preferred embodiment, the actuating element can be arranged on a side surface of the cleaning element, which runs essentially at right angles to the cleaning surface. In this embodiment, too, the actuating element preferably does not protrude or does not protrude significantly beyond the surface of the base body. If the actuating element is arranged essentially at right angles to the cleaning surface, it is particularly advantageous for the cleaning element to be operated with one hand. In a preferred embodiment, for example, two actuating elements can be present on two opposite side surfaces of the cleaning element. These can be coupled to each other, e.g. B. by coupling elements, and by moving towards each other, for example by pressing both actuating elements, trigger the dosing unit.

In a preferred embodiment, a dosing direction of the dosing unit relative to a direction of the base body can be applied to the actuating element. If the cleaning element is designed with a uniform configuration of all surfaces, for example, the cleaning surface can be recognized in this way. The actuating element can also advantageously be marked in color in order to clearly identify a spray side and the orientation of the cleaning element.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body with the cleaning surface can be rotatable with respect to the dosing unit. This can make it possible to select different surfaces of the cleaning element as the cleaning surface. Advantageously, in this embodiment, a dosing direction is indicated on the actuating element. By turning the dosing unit with respect to the base body, for example, all of the peripherally arranged side surfaces or side areas of the base body can be area can be determined or selected. As a result, when a cleaning surface that has already been used is dirty, an adjacent cleaning surface can be selected.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body can be covered with a cleaning fleece, which is preferably removable. The cleaning fleece can form the cleaning surface and completely transform the base body. For example, the cleaning fleece can be arranged so that it can be removed, so that it can be cleaned. The cleaning member can be used for a long period of time by replacing the cleaning non-woven fabric. The cleaning element can, for example, hold a large number of such conversions as replacement elements, so that the cleaning element can continue to be used when a cleaning fleece is being cleaned.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body can have at least two side surfaces, at least one of which is the cleaning surface, the side surfaces having different material properties. In this case, for example, the dosing unit can be aligned on a first side surface in such a way that it applies the cleaning agent to the first side surface. This first side surface can serve as a cleaning surface. A second side surface can be designed for after-treatment of the surface to be cleaned, and in particular can have different material properties than the first side surface. This allows the surface to be cleaned to be rubbed dry. The second side face can be designed for polishing, for example. This can also absorb the applied cleaning agent, for example by sucking it up. It is also conceivable that more than two side surfaces are designed with different material properties, so that a multi-stage cleaning process, for example three or four stages, can be carried out. Advantageously, an orientation of the dosing unit can be changed so that different cleaning surfaces can be wetted with cleaning agent as desired.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body can be in the form of a cube, pyramid, truncated cone, sphere or cuboid. Each of the side surfaces of these basic shapes can form a cleaning surface. A cleaning surface can also be arranged on each of two different side surfaces of a basic shape. If the cleaning element is designed in the form of a cube, for example, the edge length can be 30-80 mm, in particular 60 mm. The cleaning element can have dimensions of 60×60×60 mm, for example. Essentially, the base body can also have these dimensions. The basic shape of the cleaning element can be determined by the basic shape of the base body.

In a preferred embodiment, the base body can be made in two parts. The base body can consist, for example, of two symmetrically designed partial elements, so that the interior of the base body can be opened. The dosing unit is preferably integrated in the interior of the base body. In this embodiment, by disassembling the two partial elements, the dosing unit can be reached and, for example, exchanged or refilled. It is also conceivable that the base body is designed in one piece with an internal recess, in particular a through hole. The dosing unit can be arranged in this recess. In such an embodiment, too, the dosing unit can be replaced or refilled by removing the dosing unit from the recess. A further element can be arranged around the base body, which element either forms a partial element of the base body or is formed as a covered surface. The cleaning surface is then arranged on this second partial element or the covered surface. In a further embodiment, the base body can be made of an elastic material so that it can be wrapped around the dosing unit. To fix and/or to connect the two end sides of the elastic material, a Velcro fastener or the like can be arranged on the base body, for example, so that it can be easily replaced when worn. In each embodiment, the base body preferably has an at least partially flat and/or continuous surface, which represents the at least one cleaning surface and can be reached by the dosing unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the cleaning surface can be flat or curved in a complementary shape or angled to the surface design of an object to be cleaned and can be contacted over the entire surface with a surface to be cleaned. For this purpose, the cleaning surface can be flat, curved concavely or convexly or be designed in a complex manner complementary in shape to an object to be cleaned. As a result, a flat contact of the cleaning surface and a flat, even application of the cleaning agent can advantageously be achieved. Advantageously, the cleaning surface is moistened with cleaning agent from the inside and allows the cleaning agent to penetrate the cleaning surface to the outside, i.e. to the outside of the cleaning element. As a result, the cleaning agent can also be distributed over the entire surface of the cleaning surface, for example.

In a preferred embodiment, the dosing unit can have a spray head and a reservoir, the spray head being directed towards the cleaning surface and/or being able to be aligned towards the cleaning surface. The spray head can be activated in particular by actuating the actuating element. The dosing unit can use a pump or similar for this purpose. have as a spray head. In this respect, the dosing unit can comprise a reservoir and a pump unit as a spray head, through which a metered release of a cleaning agent contained in the reservoir is made possible. The spray head of the pump unit can be arranged at a certain distance from the cleaning surface, so that the cleaning agent is not just sprayed onto the cleaning surface in a punctiform manner. For example, a recess, for example a through hole, can be arranged in the base body, which connects the cleaning surface to the recess in which an element of the dosing unit is arranged, e.g. B. a nozzle. The spray head of the dosing unit can be arranged at one end of the recess, the cleaning surface at the other end of the recess. The nozzle can extend through the recess and can also be shorter than the recess. The recess can, for example, widen conically in the direction of the cleaning surface. The recess can also have any geometry. The shape of the recess can, for example, coordinate or determine the surface to be sprayed on the cleaning surface. It is also conceivable that the spray head touches the cleaning surface. To fill the storage container, the spray head can advantageously be detachably connected to the storage container, for example by means of a snap-in lock, a rotary thread, a bayonet lock or the like. The spray head can also be rotated relative to the reservoir. Thus, the exit point of the liquid can be aligned omnidirectionally with respect to the base body, for example also aligned in corner areas of the base body.

In a further embodiment, the recess cannot be in the form of a through hole. A volume of the base body therefore remains between the nozzle and the cleaning surface as a type of storage volume. This can store the cleaning agent and deliver it to the cleaning surface. This can also further prevent the cleaning agent from dripping out.

In a preferred embodiment, the dosing unit can be integrated in a first part of the base element, preferably exchangeably, and a second part can be arranged rotatably around the first part, with the cleaning surface being arranged on the second part. By turning the second part-body, different side surfaces of the second part-body can be reached or sprayed with the dosing unit. For example, the entire surface of the second partial body can be designed as a cleaning surface in succession and in sections. The base body can also be cylindrical, for example. The first part can be made of foam, the second part of microfiber. Other materials are also conceivable.

In a preferred embodiment, an upper side and an underside of the base body can each be designed as a gripping element, by which the dosing unit can be activated, and the cleaning surface can be arranged at right angles to these two gripping elements. The gripping element can be the actuating element for the dosing unit, for example as a pressure plate of a spray head. By pressing at least one gripping element, the dosing unit can be activated and, for example, release a spray that reaches and moistens the cleaning surface from the inside. The gripping element can be designed to be removable from the dosing unit in order to facilitate removal of the dosing unit from the base body. The cleaning element can be held between the thumb and index/middle finger, with the two fingers touching the two gripping elements. For example, the gripping elements can be pressed once or twice. As a result, the cleaning element is moistened on the cleaning surface. The cleaning surface can now be wiped several times over a surface to be cleaned. For polishing, drying or wiping, the cleaning element can be rotated around the axis between the two gripping elements, so that another side surface can be aligned with the surface to be cleaned. The surface to be cleaned can be post-treated with this side face. A multi-stage cleaning process is possible with just one one-piece cleaning element. The procedure just described is also possible with a cleaning element that has only one actuating element.

In a preferred embodiment, a tab can be arranged on the base body. The tab can be used for easier transport or for easier gripping. For this purpose, the tab can be designed as a loop, for example, through which a user can reach with his hand and/or at least one finger. A manufacturer's note can also be attached to the tab. In such a case, the tab can be made smaller than in the case of a loop, whereby reaching through may not be possible or is not necessarily required. The tab can only serve as a sign to. The tab can also be used to mark the cleaning surface.

A magnetic element can be included in the interior of the cleaning element, in particular in or on the base body, or in or on the dosing unit. The cleaning element can thus be temporarily attached to a ferromagnetic counter-element, for example placed on a ferromagnetic element on a belt or on a smartphone case, and thus be attached easily and securely.

Overall, advantageous effects of the cleaning element according to the invention can be achieved, for example, by a combination of an internal tank, a dosing unit, for example a pump, a transport function, for example a nozzle, a cleaning surface, such as a cleaning cloth and a base body, for example made of a carrier material such as foam .

A selected or predetermined surface is preferably wetted with the proposed cleaning element, it being possible for the remaining outer surfaces to serve as so-called holding elements or gripping elements. This means that the cleaning element according to the invention can be gripped on the side surfaces that do not form the cleaning surface, without these surfaces being soaked. Consequently, a handy cleaning element that can be used flexibly can be provided, it being possible to prevent a user from coming into contact with the cleaning agent, in particular a cleaning liquid.

The cleaning liquid in a reservoir of the dosing element can be refillable. Refilling can take place by removing or exchanging the reservoir from the dosing element or by refilling access, advantageously through the spray head. A classic alcohol-based cleaning agent, an antibacterial and possibly virucidal disinfectant or another cleaning agent can be used as the cleaning agent. The cleaning element can also be used to apply paint or adhesive in order to cover surfaces with paint or adhesive.

DRAWINGS

Further advantages result from the existing drawings and drawing descriptions. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings. The drawing, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them into further meaningful combinations.

• 1 zwei Ansichten einer ersten Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 2 eine weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements sowie unterschiedliche Grundformen eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 3 zwei weitere Ausführungsformen eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 4 verschiedene Ausführungsformen einer Oberseite des Grundelements oder des Betätigungselements;
• 5 eine weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements in einer Teilschnittansicht;
• 6 eine weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements in einer Teilschnittansicht;
• 7 eine Schnittansicht der Ausführungsform nach 5;
• 8 eine weitere Ansicht der Ausführungsform nach 5;
• 9 eine Ausführungsform einer Dosiereinheit;
• 10 eine weitere Ansicht der Dosiereinheit aus 9;
• 11 Teile einer weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 12 eine weitere Ansicht der Ausführungsform aus 11;
• 13 eine Schnittdarstellung einer weiteren Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 14 eine weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 15 eine weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 16 eine weitere Ansicht der Ausführungsform aus 15;
• 17 eine weitere Ausführungsform eines erfindungsgemäßen Reinigungselements;
• 18 eine weitere Ansicht der Ausführungsform aus 17;
• 19 eine weitere Ansicht der Ausführungsform aus 17;
• 20 weitere Ansichten der Ausführungsform aus 17.

It shows:

• 1 two views of a first embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 2 a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention and different basic forms of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 3 two further embodiments of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 4 various embodiments of a top side of the base element or the actuating element;
• 5 a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention in a partial sectional view;
• 6 a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention in a partial sectional view;
• 7 a sectional view of the embodiment 5 ;
• 8th another view of the embodiment 5 ;
• 9 an embodiment of a dosage unit;
• 10 Another view of the dosing unit 9 ;
• 11 Parts of a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 12 Another view of the embodiment 11 ;
• 13 a sectional view of a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 14 a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 15 a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 16 Another view of the embodiment 15 ;
• 17 a further embodiment of a cleaning element according to the invention;
• 18 Another view of the embodiment 17 ;
• 19 Another view of the embodiment 17 ;
• 20 further views of the embodiment 17 .

In the figures, the same or similar components are denoted by the same reference symbols.

1 shows two views of a first embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention. The side view and the isometric view show a cleaning element 10 in the form of a cube with six side surfaces 26. The cleaning element 10 has a base body 12, with a surface 24 of the base body 12 being designed as a cleaning surface 14 is. An actuating element 22 is arranged on a top side 38 of the base body 12 on a side surface 26 adjacent to the cleaning surface 14 . A further actuating element 22 is arranged on an opposite side with respect to the first actuating element 22 on an underside 40 of the base body 12 . The cleaning surface 14 is virtually between these two actuating elements 22. The actuating elements 22 just project beyond the surface 24 of the base body 12. It is also conceivable that the actuating elements 22 do not project beyond the surface 24 and are integrated into the surface 24. The cleaning element 10 can be held and pressed between the thumb and forefinger or middle finger, for example. The thumb or index/middle finger each touches an actuating element 22. When the two actuating elements 22 move against one another, ie towards one another, the cleaning surface 14 is moistened by a dosing unit (not visible here). In this embodiment, the dosing unit 16 is completely integrated within the base body 12 . A surface to be cleaned 100 (not shown here) can be cleaned with the moistened cleaning surface 14 . For drying or after-wiping, the cleaning element 10 can be rotated about the axis which runs through the two actuating elements 22, so that the surface 100 to be cleaned can be after-treated with another surface 24 of the base body 12. The base body 12 can consist at least partially of an absorbent material 20 . It is also conceivable that the absorbent material 20 is only arranged or applied on the cleaning surface 14 . It is also conceivable that at least two side surfaces 30 of the base body 12 have different material properties and form different cleaning surfaces 14 with different cleaning properties, eg soft and scratchy. In a further embodiment, the base body 12 can be encased or covered with another material. This can be, for example, a cleaning fleece 28 (not shown here). In such an embodiment, the surfaces of the cleaning fleece 28 can form the cleaning surface 14 and the further side surfaces 26 of the cleaning element 10 . In a further embodiment, the lower actuating element 22 can be fastened immovably in the base body 12 . The dosing unit 16 can only be activated by the upper actuating element 22 .

2 (a) shows a further embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention. The cleaning element 10 can have different basic shapes. In this case, for example, the base body 12 can have a triangular basic shape. In such an embodiment, too, the base body 12 can consist of an absorbent material and/or be covered with an exchangeable material. The exchangeable material can form the cleaning surface 14 and be designed, for example, as a cleaning fleece or microfiber cloth. In the illustrated embodiment, the cleaning surface 14 is arranged on a side surface 26, for example. However, it is also possible, for example, to arrange the cleaning surface 14 on an underside 40 of the base body 12 and thus on the underside of the cleaning element 10 .

2 B) shows different basic shapes of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention. The cleaning element 10 can be cuboid, cubic, pyramidal, truncated, spherical, rectangular or cuboid. The basic shapes shown correspond to the shape of the upper side 38 and/or the underside 40 of the base body 12. The shapes shown can therefore correspond to the base area of the cleaning element 10.

In 3 two further embodiments of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention are shown. The cleaning element 10 after 3 (a) has the shape of a truncated pyramid, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, unlike the embodiment shown in FIG 1 the cleaning surface 14 is arranged on the underside 40 of the base body 12 and thus on the underside of the cleaning element 10 . The cleaning element 10 has an actuating element 22 on the surface 24 and thus on the upper side 38 of the base body 12 . The actuating element 22 can be designed differently, as already referred to 1 described. Likewise, the actuating element 22 can have different shapes and can also be circular, for example. In 3 (b) a spherical cleaning element 10 is shown. This shows a coherent and therefore continuous surface 24, with a continuous side surface 26 being formed. Any location on the surface 24 can be designed as a cleaning surface 24. This can be marked, for example. The marked area of the cleaning surface 14 can be moistened, sprayed or wetted in some other way with cleaning agent, in particular with a cleaning liquid, by means of the dosing unit (not visible in this representation). The surface to be cleaned can be post-treated with any other position on the surface 24 of the cleaning element 10 or the base body 12 .

4 12 shows various embodiments of an upper side 38 of the base element 12 or of the actuating element 22. At least one marking 44 can be applied to the upper side 38 or to the actuating element 22, which indicates a dosing direction D1. The marking 44 can be represented by an arrow or the like. take place. In 4 (a) the dosing unit 16 is aligned, for example, on a surface 24 or cleaning surface 14 which is above the upper side 28 in the top view shown. The marking 44 consequently indicates the dosing direction D1 in the direction of this cleaning surface 14 . In the embodiment according to 4 (b) two markings 44 are arranged on the actuating element 22 . Consequently, two surfaces 24 of the cleaning element 10 can be formed as a cleaning surface 14, which lie above and to the left with respect to the actuating element 22 in the top view shown. It is also conceivable that three or more markings are attached to the upper side 38 or the actuating element 22, as for example in 4(c) shown. As a result, the different cleaning surfaces 14 can also have different cleaning properties, for example. This can be achieved, for example, in that different cleaning surfaces 14 have different material properties. A cleaning surface 14 can be moistened, for example, while another cleaning surface 14 is suitable for post-treatment, for example polishing. According to 4 (d) a further dosing direction D1 is marked with the marking 44 . The dosing unit 16 can optionally be adjusted to the different cleaning surfaces 14 .

A further embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention is shown in a partial sectional view 5 . The dosing unit 16 can be seen in this view; it is integrated in the base body 12 . The dosing unit 16 has a reservoir 46 in which cleaning agent 18 can be stored. The reservoir 46 is connected to a spray head 32 on which a nozzle 28 is arranged. The reservoir 46 may be interchangeably connected to the spray head 32 for refilling purposes, or may be refillable by means of a separate refill access or through the spray head 32. In this embodiment, the nozzle 28 protrudes into the base body 12 . The nozzle 28 is arranged in a recess 52 in the base body 12 . In this embodiment, the recess 52 is not designed as a through hole, so that material of the base body 12 remains in front of the nozzle 48 in the spraying direction. This material represents a storage volume 54 in which the cleaning agent 18 conveyed through the nozzle 48 can be accommodated. This can be made possible, for example, by an absorbent material 20 of the base body 12 . The nozzle 48 is aligned in the direction of the cleaning surface 14, it being possible for another material, such as microfibers or a type of fleece, to be applied to the cleaning surface 14. It is also conceivable that the entire base body 12 is encased with this additional material.

The dosing unit 16, such as in 5 shown, can be arranged in a recess 56 in the base body 12 . It is also conceivable that the base body 12 is adapted to the shape of the dosing unit 16 in the recess 56 . The dosing unit 16 is activated via at least one actuating element 22 which is arranged on the upper side 38 of the base body 12 in the embodiment shown. This actuating element 22 is connected to the spray head 32 of the dosing unit 16 via coupling elements 50 . If the actuating element 22 is displaced in the direction of the force application device F, the dosing unit 16 is activated. As a result, cleaning agent 18 is applied through nozzle 48 to cleaning surface 14 from the inside. In the illustrated embodiment, this occurs in that the cleaning agent 18 passes through the nozzle 48 into the storage volume 54 of the base body 12 and from there it reaches the cleaning surface 14 . It is also conceivable that the cleaning agent is sprayed or applied directly onto the cleaning surface 14 from the inside, in that the recess 52 is designed as a through hole, and consequently no storage volume 54 remains between the nozzle 48 and the cleaning surface 14 . For example, this is in 6 shown, with the through hole widening conically in the direction of the cleaning surface 14 in the illustrated embodiment. As a result, the cleaning agent 18 conveyed through the nozzle 48 can reach a larger surface area on the cleaning surface 14 . Other configurations of the recess 52 are also conceivable.

6 shows further that the actuating element 22 is square. The coupling element 50 is tubular and at least partially encloses the spray head 52 in the lower area. Other embodiments of the coupling element 50 are also conceivable. For example, the coupling element 50 can fill the entire recess 56 . On the underside 40 of the base body 12 is a base plate 58 is arranged, which is connected to the dosing unit 16, in particular to the reservoir 46. The base plate 58 can serve as a counterpart for the actuating element 22 , with the actuating element 22 and the base plate 58 being able to be designed as gripping elements 42 . In this case, the base plate 58 does not move relative to the base body 12 . The counterpart can also be designed as a further actuating element 22 and enable a movement in the opposite direction to the direction F shown.

A sectional view of the embodiment 5 indicates 7 . In this view, the connection between the actuating element 22 and the dosing unit 16 through the coupling element 50 can be clearly seen. The coupling element 50 therefore connects the dosing unit 16 to the actuating element 22 in such a way that a displacement of the actuating element 22 activates the dosing unit 16 . The nozzle 48 is arranged centrally between the upper side 38 and the lower side 40 of the base body and is aligned with the cleaning surface 14 . The surface 100 to be cleaned can thus be cleaned, polished and/or disinfected with the cleaning surface 14 .

8th Fig. 12 shows another view of the embodiment 5 . In this view, the underside 40 can be seen at least partially from the outside. The base plate 58 on the bottom 40 can therefore have the same geometry as the actuating element 22 on the top 38 . The entire cleaning element 10 can have a uniform, optical appearance. The area of the base body 12 that is arranged in front of the nozzle 48 is emphasized here, with the cleaning agent 18 being able to be introduced into the base body 12 in particular in the illustrated, circled area. The base body 12 consists, for example, of an absorbent material, with the absorbent material also being able to be arranged only in the area in the base body on which the cleaning surface 14 is arranged.

An embodiment of a dosing unit 16 is in 9 shown. The illustration shows the reservoir 46 in an exemplary embodiment with a base plate 58. Other embodiments with other cross sections are also conceivable. For example, the base plate can have a round cross-sectional shape. The reservoir 46 and the base plate 58 can also 2 (a) until 2 (g) have basic forms shown. In an embodiment that is not shown, the reservoir 46 can also be designed without a base plate 58 , in which case it can be completely integrated in the base body 12 . In such a case, the reservoir 46 or add-on parts such as the base plate 58 or the like are not visible from outside the cleaning element 10 . In all of the described embodiments, the reservoir 46 can be integrated into the base body 12 .

10 shows another view of the dosing unit 16 9 . The spray head 32 with the nozzle 48 is arranged on the upper side of the storage container 46 . It is also conceivable that, for example, two or more nozzles 48 are arranged on the spray head 32 . These can all be aligned on a cleaning surface 14, ie for example all in one direction. If the cleaning surface 14 is a curved or non-continuous surface, a plurality of nozzles 48 can be arranged in different directions and all reach the cleaning surface 14 . It is also conceivable that multiple nozzles 48 are aligned with different cleaning surfaces 14 .

Parts of a further embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention are in 11 shown. The representation shows different coupling elements 50 which form a connection between the actuating element 22 and the base plate 58 . The coupling elements 50 shown are preferably completely integrated in a recess 56 in the base body 12 (not shown). The dosing unit 16 (not shown) is arranged inside the coupling elements 50 . The nozzle 48 of the dosing unit 16 can protrude through the recess 52 . The recess 52 runs on a level with the recess in the base body 12, for example shown in FIGS 5-8 .

12 Figure 12 shows another view of the embodiment 11 . The illustration is shown without the actuating element 22 so that the recess 56 for the dosing unit 16 becomes visible.

In 13 a sectional view of a further embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention is shown. In this embodiment, additional coupling elements 50 are shown, which connect the actuating element 22 to the dosing unit 16 . Specifically in the embodiments according to 5 until 8th and 13, the cleaning element 10 can be assembled as follows. The reservoir 46 with the base plate 58 (including the complete dosing unit 16) can be pushed into the recess 56 of the base element 12 from below as far as it will go (e.g. determined by the base plate 58). The actuating element 22 with the coupling element 50 can then be inserted into the recess 56 from above, with a connection between the coupling element 50 and the dosing unit 16 taking place. By grasping the cleaning element 10 in the hand, touching the actuating element 22 and the base plate 58, a spray burst can be triggered by pressing on the elements. As a result, the cleaning surface 14, for example a microfiber, is moistened from the inside.

14 shows a further embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention. This has a two-part base element 12 . A second body part 46 is arranged around a first body part 34 . The cleaning surface 14 is arranged on the second partial body 36 . It would also be conceivable to form a plurality of cleaning elements 14 on different surfaces 24 of the second partial body 36 . In such an embodiment, the second partial body 36 can be easily dismantled and cleaned. Likewise, the two partial elements 34, 36 can have different material properties. The first part-body 34 can consist, for example, of an absorbent material, the second part-body 36 of a microfiber or cleaning fleece or also with a scratching or abrasive material property. A plurality of cleaning surfaces with different cleaning properties can also be arranged on the second partial body. Other material combinations are also conceivable.

In 15 a further embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention is shown. Different coupling elements 50 form a connection between the actuating element 22 and the base plate 58. The coupling elements 50 shown are preferably completely integrated in a recess 56 in the base body 12 (not shown). A nozzle 48 of a dosing unit 16 can protrude through the recess 52 .

16 Figure 12 shows another view of the embodiment 15 . In the illustration on the left, the recess 56 for the dosing unit 16 can be seen from a side view. A pump 60 of the dosing unit 16 can be seen inside the coupling elements 50 . The illustration on the right shows a sectional view along the line AA through the illustration on the left. The pump 60 and the reservoir 46 inside the coupling elements 50 can be seen.

17 shows a further embodiment of a cleaning element 10 according to the invention. The coupling element 50 is designed as a closed shell, with a nozzle 48 protruding in a recess. The nozzle 48 can be designed as a hose, for example.

In the 18 until 20 are other views of the embodiment of FIG 17 shown. This embodiment includes further features and reference symbols that already relate to 1 were explained. Therefore, no further explanation is given at this point. In 18 12 is a front view and a sectional view of the embodiment of FIG 17 shown. The sectional view along the line BB reveals the reservoir 46 and the pump 60 inside the coupling elements 50 . In 19 is the embodiment according to 17 shown with body 12. 20 shows isometric views of the embodiment according to FIG 17 with base body 12. Furthermore, the position of the dosing unit 16 within the base body 12 can be seen in a wireframe representation. Graphic representations can be arranged on the actuating element 22 for design reasons or for informational reasons.

In an embodiment that is not shown, the second partial body 36 can also enclose the upper side 38 and the lower side 40 of the base body 12 . The second partial body 36 can thus be designed as a casing and be fastened, for example, in the areas of the recess 56 . The sheathing can be sewn.

It is also conceivable for the second body part 36 to be rotatable about the first body part 34, with a position of the cleaning surface 14 determined by the spray head 32 or the nozzle 48 of the dosing unit 16 by rotating the second body part 36 from different sections of the second body part 36 can be reached. As a result, each of the side surfaces 26 of the second partial body 36 can be used as a cleaning surface 14, with the cleaning element 10 being able to be used for an even longer service life. The second partial body 36 can consist of a material that is not dimensionally stable, so that it can be displaced or rotated about any geometries of the first partial body 34 . If both sub-bodies 34, 36 are made of dimensionally stable materials and are arranged to be rotatable, the cleaning element 10 preferably has a cylindrical basic shape.

In an exemplary embodiment, the cleaning element 10 can have external dimensions of, for example, 60×60×60 mm. The base body 12 can be made of foam with microfibers, and the dosing unit 16 can be made of plastic. The base body 12 can be designed as a foam cube and have a square hole with an edge dimension of 40 mm, which forms the recess 56 for the dosing unit 16 . The foam cube can have a cover made of microfiber cloth, which is sewn, for example. This forms the cleaning surface 14 and can be formed, for example, as a second partial body 36 .

In an exemplary embodiment, actuator 22 may also be formed of plastic, aluminum, metal, or the like. This also applies to the coupling elements 50.

All of the illustrated embodiments show a compact cleaning element that is one-piece in operation and that can be used easily and quickly with one hand. It is reusable as well as refillable. In particular, individual elements can be removable, replaceable and washable. This can affect individual elements of the base body 12, for example.

Reference List

10

cleaning element

12

body

14

cleaning surface

16

dosing unit

18

cleaning supplies

20

absorbent material

22

actuator

24

surface of the main body

26

Side surface of the cleaning element

28

cleaning fleece

30

side of the body

32

spray nozzle

34

part of the body

36

part of the body

38

top of the body

40

bottom of the body

42

gripping element

44

mark

46

reservoir

48

jet

50

coupling element

52

Recess for nozzle

54

storage volume

56

Recess for dosing unit

58

base plate

60

pump

100

surface to be cleaned

D1

dosing direction

f

force application direction

QUOTES INCLUDED IN DESCRIPTION

This list of documents cited by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent Literature Cited

• DE 10327583 A1 [0003]
• DE 10010508 A1 [0006]

Claims (17)

Cleaning element (10) for a surface (100), comprising a base body (12) with at least one cleaning surface (14), characterized in that the base body (12) comprises a dosing unit (16) with which a predetermined amount of cleaning agent (18) can be applied to the cleaning surface (14). Cleaning element (10) after claim 1 , characterized in that the base body (12) consists at least partially of an absorbent material (20) and/or an absorbent material (20) is arranged on the cleaning surface (14). Cleaning element (10) after claim 1 and 2 , characterized in that the base body (12) has an actuating element (22) through which the dosing unit (16) can be activated. Cleaning element (10) after claim 3 , characterized in that the actuating element (16) is arranged on a surface (24) of the base body (12) which is different from the cleaning surface (14). Cleaning element (10) according to one of claims 3 or 4 , characterized in that the actuating element (22) is formed as a side surface (26) of the cleaning element (10). Cleaning element (10) according to one of claims 3 until 5 , characterized in that the actuating element (22) is arranged on a side surface (26) of the cleaning element (10) which runs essentially at right angles to the cleaning surface (14). Cleaning element (10) according to one of claims 3 until 6 , characterized in that on the actuating element (22) a dosing direction (D1) of the dosing unit (16) is applied with respect to a direction of the base body (12). Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (12) with the cleaning surface (14) can be rotated with respect to the dosing unit (16). Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (12) is covered with a cleaning fleece (28), which is preferably removable. Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (12) has at least two side surfaces (30), at least one of which is the cleaning surface (14), the side surfaces (30) having different material properties. Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (12) is cuboid, cube-shaped, pyramid-shaped, truncated cone-shaped, spherical or cuboid-shaped. Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base body (12) is constructed in two parts. Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cleaning surface (14) is flat or complementary in shape to an object to be cleaned and can be contacted over its entire surface with a surface (100) to be cleaned. Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing unit (16) has a spray head (32) and a reservoir (46), the spray head (32) being directed towards the cleaning surface (14) and/or towards the cleaning surface (14) can be aligned, the spray head (32) preferably being detachably connected to the storage container (46) for filling the storage container (46). Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dosing unit (16) is integrated in a first partial body (34) of the base element (12), preferably exchangeable, and a second partial body (36) rotatable around the first partial body (34) is arranged, wherein the cleaning surface (14) is arranged on the second part body (36). Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an upper side (38) and an underside (40) of the base body (12) are each designed as a gripping element (42) by which the dosing unit (16) can be activated, and the cleaning surface (14) is arranged at right angles to these two gripping elements (42). Cleaning element (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a tab is arranged on the base body (12).

Images