DE60131017T2 - Improved cleaning device with removable elevating element - Google Patents

Abstract

An improved cleaning implement (20) for hard surface cleaning is provided. This improved cleaning implement includes a handle (32), a mop head pivotably attached to said handle (32), and which has a pad (48) forming a bottom surface, and at least one elevational element (148, 248) removably attached to the bottom surface of the pad (48). The elevational element (148, 248, 348) provides the mop with the ability to pivot relative the surface to be cleaned. This improved cleaning implement (20) is used in synergy with a disposable absorbent cleaning pad (44) engaging the elevational element.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

The The present invention relates to cleaning devices and cleaning cloths to remove and retain dust, lint, hair, sand, Food crumbs, Grass and ä. are particularly suitable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Of the Use of cleaning devices to clean hard surfaces such as Mops corresponds to the state of the art.

Such Mops usually include a handle which is connected to a mop head, which on a Cleaning cloth is coupled, the user then with wipes the mop on the floor to be cleaned. Show these mop heads usually a flat surface on its underside. In a "wet cleaning" in which a liquid either sprayed on the surface to be cleaned or already in one Cleaning pad is included, these mops allow no special good use of the pillow. It turned out that only the front of the pillow, the first with the liquid comes into contact and in which most of the user practiced Pressure concentrated, indeed contributes to the cleaning process. As a result, a significant portion of the surface or volume of the pad is wasted which forces the consumer to get more cleaning pads to use, as a theoretical to achieve a clean floor would be required. Therefore, it is an object of this invention to provide an improved cleaning device to deliver the use of an associated cleaning pad improved.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

• (a) einen Griff;
• (b) einen Moppkopf, der drehbar an dein Griff befestigt ist, wobei der Moppkopf über ein Kissen verfügt, das eine untere Oberfläche bildet;
• (c) mindestens ein erhobenes Element, das abnehmbar an der unteren Oberfläche des Kissens befestigt ist, so dass das erhobene Element es ermöglicht, das sich der Mopp im Verhältnis zu der zu reinigenden Oberfläche drehen kann, wobei das erhobene Element auf der unteren Oberfläche im Wesentlichen zentriert ist, und
• (d) ein absorbierendes Reinigungskissen, das an das erhobene Element angekoppelt ist und abnehmbar am Moppkopf befestigt werden kann

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a hard surface cleaning apparatus comprising:

• (a) a handle;
• (b) a mop head rotatably attached to the handle, the mop head having a pad forming a bottom surface;
• (c) at least one raised element removably attached to the lower surface of the pad so that the raised element allows the mop to rotate relative to the surface to be cleaned, the raised element resting on the lower surface of the pad Is essentially centered, and
• (d) an absorbent cleaning pad which is coupled to the raised member and removably attachable to the mop head

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Even though the description with claims closes which particularly highlight the present invention and clearly It is believed that the present invention is based on the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings better understood, in which:

1 a perspective view of a suitable for use in the present invention Bodenmopps;

2 Figure 11 is a perspective view of a floor mop suitable for use in the present invention, wherein a cleaning cloth is shown as being disposed about the mop head;

3 Figure 3 is a perspective view of another ground mop suitable for use in the present invention;

4 is a cross-sectional view of the step-shaped pad of 1 along the line 3-3,

5 Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of another step-shaped cushion of a floor mop in which a cleaning cloth is further shown;

6 is a schematic representation of the lower surface of a cleaning pad, with egg a flat mop head is used;

7 Fig. 12 is a schematic illustration of the lower surface of a cleaning pad used with a stepped mop head;

8th Figure 3 is a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a cleaning pad used with a flat mop head;

9 Fig. 12 is a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of a cleaning pad used with a stepped mop head;

10 FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a cleaning pad including a functional sleeve; FIG.

11 Fig. 10 is a plan view of a cleaning pad of the present invention.

12 is a cross-sectional view of the in 11 shown cleaning pad.

13 Fig. 12 is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of a cleaning pad including a pair of functional cuffs when the mop is swept forward;

14 FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration of a cross-sectional view of a cleaning pad including a pair of functional cuffs when wiping with the mop in the reverse direction. FIG.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

definitions

Of the Term "comprising" as used herein Being, that means different components, ingredients or Steps in the execution of the present invention can be used together. Accordingly, the term "comprising" encompasses the more restrictive ones Expressions "consisting consisting essentially of "and" out".

As As used herein, the term "direct liquid compound" means that liquid between two cleaning pad components or layers (e.g. the scrubbing layer and the absorbent layer) can be significantly accumulated without an intermediate layer, be transported or stopped. For example, pulps, Nonwovens, assembly adhesive and the like between the two separate Components exist while a "direct Liquid connection "maintained will, as long as they are the liquid not on their way from one component or layer to another significantly hinder or detain.

As used herein refers to describing three-dimensional Plastic sheets, bands and Sheets used macroscopically extended " Tracks, bands and slides that are the surface have been adapted to a three-dimensional shape structure, so that both surfaces thereof having the three-dimensional pattern of the shape structure, wherein the pattern for the normal human eye is easily visible when the vertical Distance between the eye of the beholder and the plane of the web is about 30,48 cm (12 inches). Such macroscopically stretched webs, tapes and films are described in US Pat Usually by embossing (i.e., when the forming structure has a pattern consisting mainly of increased Elements), thermoforming (i.e., when the mold structure is in Pattern, mainly consists of Kapillarnetzwerkvertiefungen) or by extrusion of a resinous melt directly on the surface of a mold structure of a the two species are brought to the surface of the Adapt shape structures. In contrast, the term "even" when used herein used to describe plastic sheets, tapes and films is, on the overall condition of the web, the tape or the film, if this by the mere Eye in a macroscopic order of magnitude to be viewed as. In this context, "flat" webs, tapes and films can bands and films include the fine-scale surface variations on one or both sides, the surface deviations for the nakedness Eye are not easily visible when the vertical distance between the eye of the beholder and the plane of the orbit about 30,48 cm (12 Inch) or more.

As used herein, the term "Z-dimension" refers to the dimension that is orthogonal to the Län and width of the cleaning pad of the present invention or a component thereof. The Z dimension therefore corresponds to the thickness of the cleaning pad or a pad component.

As used herein, the term "XV-dimension" refers to the plane that is orthogonal to the thickness of the cleaning pad or component thereof The X and V dimensions correspond to the length and width of the cleaning pad or component of the pad When the cleaning pad is used in conjunction with a handle, the device moves in a direction parallel to the V dimension (or width) of the pad 1 and the discussion below.) Of course, the present invention is not limited to four-sided cleaning pads. Other shapes, such as circular, oval and the like may also be used. In determining the width of the Z-dimension pad, it should be understood that the pad is evaluated according to its intended use.

As as used herein, the term "layer" refers to an element or component of a cleaning pad; whose main dimension is X-Y, d. H. runs in the length and width direction. It It is obvious that the term "layer" does not necessarily refer to individual ones Material layers or material layers limited. Therefore, a layer Laminates or combinations of several layers or webs of the required Include material type. Thus, the term "layer" includes the terms "layers" and "multilayer".

As As used herein, the term "hydrophilic" is used to refer to surfaces denote by aqueous Liquids, which are applied to be wetted. Hydrophilicity and wettability usually based on the contact angle and the surface tension the liquids involved and solid surfaces Are defined. This will be detailed in the publication the American Chemical Society with the title Contact Angle, Wettability and Adhesion, edited by Robert F. Gould (copyright 1964), discussed. A surface is considered a liquid wetted (i.e., hydrophilic) when either the contact angle between the liquid and the surface is less than 90 ° or if the liquid it tends to spontaneously over the surface spread, with both conditions usually simultaneously given are. In contrast, a surface is considered to be "hydrophobic" when the contact angle is larger as 90 ° and yourself the liquid not spontaneously over the surface distributed.

As As used herein, the term "scrim" means any durable material, that of the scrubbing layer side of the cleaning pad, which is in contact with the surface comes, gives texture and that also a sufficient Has degree of openness to the required migration of the liquid to allow in the absorption layer of the cleaning pad. Close suitable materials Materials that have a continuous, open structure, like synthetic and wire mesh screens. The open areas of this Materials can by varying the number of interconnected strands which the network is made by controlling the thickness of each other connected strands etc. are controlled. Other suitable materials include those one in which the texture is characterized by a discontinuous pattern, the is printed on the substrate is provided. In this Aspect can be a durable material (eg synthetic material) in a continuous or discontinuous pattern, such as individual dots and / or lines, printed on a substrate, to provide the required texture. Likewise, the continuous or discontinuous patterns are printed on a release material, which then serves as a scrim. These patterns can be repeated or you can fortuitously be. It is understood that one or more of the described approaches to provide the desired Texture can be combined to form the optional scrim material. The height and the open area of the scrim or scrubbing substrate layer in the Z direction can contribute to the fluid flow to control or inhibit the absorbent core material. The Z-height of the scrim and / or the abrasive substrate help to provide a means for Controlling the volume of fluid to be provided while in contact with the cleaning surface the speed of liquid absorption and fluid connection is controlled in the absorbent core material.

For the purposes of the present invention, an "upper" layer of a cleaning pad is a layer that has a relatively greater distance from the surface to be cleaned (ie, closer to the device handle in the device context of use.) The term "lower" layer By contrast, a layer of a cleaning pad which has a relatively smaller distance from the surface to be cleaned (ie in the device context during use relatively further away from the device handle). Thus, the scrubbing layer is preferably the lowest layer and the absorbent layer is an upper layer relative to the scrubbing layer. The terms "upper" and "lower" layers are similarly used when referring to layers that consist of multiple layers (eg, when the scrubbing layer consists of a two-ply material). With regard to the order of layers (eg a third layer is a "lower" layer compared to a second layer. Conversely, a third layer is an "upper" layer as compared to a second layer. The terms "over" and "under" are used to refer to the relative positions of two or more materials in the thickness direction of a cleaning pad. By way of explanation, a material A is "above" the material B if the material B is located closer to the scrubbing layer than the material A. Also in this illustration, the material B is "under" the material A.

All Parts, ratios and percentages herein, in the specification, examples and claims refer to the weight and all numerical limitations be with the normal degree of accuracy, as it is from the technique allows is used unless otherwise specified.

Now become the preferred embodiments the present inventions closer considered, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals designate like elements and wherein reference numerals in which the last two digits are the same are (for example, 20 and 120), similar Designate elements.

• (a) wahlweise von etwa 0,001 Gew.-% bis etwa 0,5 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung ein Tensid, vorzugsweise ausgewählt aus der Gruppe bestehend aus Alkylpolysacchariden, Alkylethoxylaten, Alkylsulfonaten und Mischungen davon;
• (b) wahlweise hydrophiles Polymer, vorzugsweise weniger als etwa 0,5 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung;
• (c) wahlweise organisches Lösungsmittel, vorzugsweise von etwa 0,25 Gew.-% bis etwa 7 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung und vorzugsweise mit einem Siedepunkt von etwa 120°C bis etwa 180°C;
• (d) wahlweise von etwa 0,01 Gew.-% bis etwa 1 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung eine Mono- oder Polycarbonsäure;
• (e) wahlweise von etwa 0,01 Gew.-% bis etwa 1 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung ein Geruchsbekämpfungsmittel, vorzugsweise Cyclodextrin;
• (f) wahlweise eine Peroxidquelle, vorzugsweise von etwa 0,05 Gew.-% bis etwa 5 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung und vorzugsweise ausgewählt aus der Gruppe bestehend aus Benzoylperoxid, Wasserstoffperoxid und Mischungen davon;
• (g) wahlweise von etwa 0,001 Gew.-% bis etwa 0,1 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung ein Verdickungspolymer;
• (h) wässriges Lösungsmittelsystem, vorzugsweise mindestens etwa 80 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung;
• (i) wahlweise Schaumunterdrücker;
• (j) wahlweise von etwa 0,005 Gew.-% bis etwa 0,2 Gew.-% der Zusammensetzung einen Duftstoff, umfassend: (i) wahlweise von etwa 0,05 Gew.-% bis etwa 90 Gew.-% des Duftstoffs ein flüchtiges, hydrophiles Duftstoffmaterial; (ii) wahlweise mindestens etwa 0,2 Gew.-% des Duftstoffs ein flüchtiges, hydrophobes Duftstoffmaterial; (iii) wahlweise weniger als etwa 10 Gew.-% des Duftstoffs ein zurückbleibendes, hydrophiles Duftstoffmaterial; (iv) weniger als etwa 10 Gew.-% des Duftstoffs ein zurückbleibendes, hydrophobes Duftstoffmaterial;
• (k) wahlweise ein Waschmitteladjuvans, vorzugsweise ausgewählt aus der Gruppe bestehend aus Waschmittelbuilder, Puffer, Konservierungsstoff, antibakteriellem Mittel, Farbstoff, Bleichmitteln, Chelanten, Enzymen, Hydrotropen, Korrosionsinhibitoren und Mischungen davon.

In one aspect, the present invention is used in conjunction with hard surface cleaning compositions, preferably for use with the cleaning pads and / or cleaning devices described herein, and includes:

• (a) optionally from about 0.001% to about 0.5% by weight of the composition of a surfactant, preferably selected from the group consisting of alkyl polysaccharides, alkyl ethoxylates, alkyl sulfonates, and mixtures thereof;
• (b) optionally hydrophilic polymer, preferably less than about 0.5% by weight of the composition;
• (c) optionally, organic solvent, preferably from about 0.25% to about 7% by weight of the composition, and preferably having a boiling point of from about 120 ° C to about 180 ° C;
• (d) optionally from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of the composition of a mono- or polycarboxylic acid;
• (e) optionally from about 0.01% to about 1% by weight of the composition of an odor control agent, preferably cyclodextrin;
• (f) optionally, a peroxide source, preferably from about 0.05% to about 5% by weight of the composition, and preferably selected from the group consisting of benzoyl peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, and mixtures thereof;
• (g) optionally from about 0.001% to about 0.1% by weight of the composition of a thickening polymer;
• (h) aqueous solvent system, preferably at least about 80% by weight of the composition;
• (i) optionally suds suppressor;
• (j) optionally from about 0.005% to about 0.2% by weight of the composition comprises a perfume comprising: (i) optionally from about 0.05% to about 90% by weight of the perfume volatile, hydrophilic perfume material; (ii) optionally at least about 0.2% by weight of the perfume is a volatile, hydrophobic perfume material; (iii) optionally, less than about 10% by weight of the perfume is a residual, hydrophilic perfume material; (iv) less than about 10% by weight of the perfume is a residual, hydrophobic perfume material;
• (k) optionally a detergent adjuvant, preferably selected from the group consisting of detergency builder, buffer, preservative, antibacterial agent, dye, bleach, chelants, enzymes, hydrotropes, corrosion inhibitors and mixtures thereof.

• (a) mindestens eine Absorptionsschicht;
• (b) wahlweise eine flüssigkeitsdurchlässige Scheuerschicht, wobei die flüssigkeitsdurchlässige Scheuerschicht vorzugsweise eine mit Öffnungen versehene geformte Folie ist, mehr bevorzugt eine makroskopisch ausgedehnte dreidimensionale Kunststoffbahn mit zusammenlaufenden oder trichterförmigen Öffnungen und/oder Oberflächenabweichungen und vorzugsweise ein hydrophobes Material umfassend;
• (c) wahlweise eine Befestigungsschicht, wobei die Befestigungsschicht vorzugsweise ein durchsichtiges oder durchscheinendes Material umfasst, mehr bevorzugt eine durchsichtige oder durchscheinende Polyethylenfolie, und wobei die Befestigungsschicht vorzugsweise Schlaufen- und/oder Hakenmaterial zum Befestigen an einem Trägerkopf eines Griffs einer Reinigungsvorrichtung umfasst;
• (d) wahlweise mehrere ebene Flächen;
• (e) wahlweise mindestens eine Funktionsmanschette, vorzugsweise mindestens eine frei bewegliche, schlaufenförmige Funktionsmanschette;
• (f) wahlweise einen Dichtegradienten durch mindestens eine Absorptionsschicht hindurch, wobei der Dichtegradient vorzugsweise eine erste Ab sorptionsschicht mit einer Dichte von etwa 0,01 g/cm³ bis etwa 0,15 g/cm³, vorzugsweise von etwa 0,03 g/cm³ bis etwa 0,1 g/cm³ und mehr bevorzugt von etwa 0,04 g/cm³ bis etwa 0,06 g/cm³, und eine zweite Absorptionsschicht mit einer Dichte von etwa 0,04 g/cm³ bis etwa 0,2 g/cm³, vorzugsweise von etwa 0,1 g/cm³ bis etwa 0,2 g/cm³ und mehr bevorzugt von etwa 0,12 g/cm³ bis etwa 0,17 g/cm³ umfasst; wobei die Dichte der ersten Absorptionsschicht etwa 0,04 g/cm³, vorzugsweise etwa 0,07 g/cm³ und mehr bevorzugt etwa 0,1 g/cm³ weniger als die Dichte der zweiten Absorptionsschicht beträgt;
• (g) wahlweise mindestens einen klebenden Scheuerstreifen, der vorzugsweise ein Material ausgewählt aus der Gruppe bestehend aus Nylon, Polyester, Polypropylen, Schleifmittel und Mischungen davon umfasst; und
• (h) wahlweise Duftstoffträgerkomplex, vorzugsweise ausgewählt aus der Gruppe bestehend aus Cyclodextrin-Einschlussverbindung, Matrixduftstoffmikrokapseln und Mischungen davon, wobei sich der Duftstoffträgerkomplex vorzugsweise in einer Absorptionsschicht befindet.

In one embodiment, the present invention is used in synergy with a cleaning pad, preferably a disposable cleaning pad, for cleaning a hard surface, the cleaning pad comprising:

• (a) at least one absorption layer;
• (b) optionally, a liquid-permeable scrubbing layer, wherein the liquid-permeable scrubbing layer is preferably an apertured formed film, more preferably a macroscopically-expanded three-dimensional plastic web having convergent or funnel-shaped openings and / or surface deviations, and preferably a hydrophobic material;
• (c) optionally an attachment layer, wherein the attachment layer preferably comprises a transparent or translucent material, more preferably a clear or translucent polyethylene film, and wherein the attachment layer preferably comprises loop and / or hook material for loading fixed to a carrier head of a handle of a cleaning device comprises;
• (d) optionally a plurality of flat surfaces;
• (E) optionally at least one functional sleeve, preferably at least one freely movable, loop-shaped functional sleeve;
• (f) optionally, a density gradient through at least one absorption layer therethrough, wherein the density gradient preferably sorption from a first having a density of about 0.01 g / cm ³ to about 0.15 g / cm ^3, preferably from about 0.03 g / cm ³ to about 0.1 g / cm ^3, and more preferably from about 0.04 g / cm ³ to about 0.06 g / cm ³ , and a second absorption layer having a density of about 0.04 g / cm ³ to about 0.2 g / cm ³ , preferably from about 0.1 g / cm ³ to about 0.2 g / cm ^3, and more preferably from about 0.12 g / cm ³ to about 0.17 g / cm ³ ; wherein the density of the first absorption layer is about 0.04 g / cm ³ , preferably about 0.07 g / cm ³ and more preferably about 0.1 g / cm ³ less than the density of the second absorption layer;
• (g) optionally, at least one adhesive scrubbing strip, which preferably comprises a material selected from the group consisting of nylon, polyester, polypropylene, abrasives, and mixtures thereof; and
• (h) optionally, fragrance carrier complex, preferably selected from the group consisting of cyclodextrin inclusion compound, matrix fragrance microcapsules, and mixtures thereof, wherein the fragrance carrier complex is preferably in an absorption layer.

In one aspect of the invention, the improved cleaning device is used in synergy with a cleaning pad comprising at least two absorbent layers, the absorbent layers having a plurality of widths in the Z dimension, and further comprising functional cuffs, preferably free-moving, double-layered loop-shaped functional cuffs. Preferably, the cleaning pad has a T ₁₂₀₀ absorbance of at least about 5 grams / gram.

In another aspect is the improved cleaning device in synergy with a cleaning cloth, preferably a disposable cleaning cloth, for cleaning hard surfaces used, wherein the cleaning cloth includes functional cuffs, preferably freely movable, double-layered loop-shaped functional sleeves.

During the Efforts in the development of the present cleaning pads and cleaning cloths Applicants have found that an important consideration the cleaning performance with the ability related, To provide a cleaning pad, the apertured molded Sheets, a liquid-impermeable attachment layer and / or density gradients and / or functional cuffs and a Cleaning cloth with functional cuffs. In the context of a usual Cleaning operation (i.e., when the cleaning pad and / or the Cleaning cloth is moved back and forth in a direction in the Essentially parallel to the V-dimension or width of the pillow or cloth) gives each of these Structural elements the cleaning pad and / or the cleaning tissues an improved Cleaning performance, both separately and in conjunction with a or more additional elements. Apertured shaped Foils which are preferably used in the scrubbing layer, are opposite liquids permeable and provide efficient fluid transfer from the just cleaned surface to other layers of the Cleaning pad, preferably one or more absorption layers, while the tendency is diminished that such a liquid returns to the straight cleaned surface is pushed back. The functional cuffs are preferably free to move in the Y dimension during a usual one Cleaning process forward and backward to "tilt", creating particulate material withheld and the tendency of a redeposit of such particulate material on the just cleaned surface is reduced. The density gradients are preferably in the Absorption layer or absorption layers of the cleaning pad incorporated to liquid from the just cleaned surface into areas within the Cleaning pillow to "pump" or "suck" the furthest are removed from the just cleaned surface. The liquid-impermeable attachment layer provides a barrier layer, which allows a better distribution of fluid in X-Y direction support after the liquid the backside of the pillow he has enough, which continues from the cleaning surface away. These aspects of the present invention and the advantages provided are with regard to the drawings in detail explained.

It has been found that the presence of a density gradient within the absorbent pad of the cleaning pad used in connection with the present invention has an important influence on the cleaning performance and on the ability of the cleaning pad to quickly absorb liquids, especially liquid, containing the particulate material. Although density gradients in absorbent articles such as diapers, sanitary napkins, incontinence devices and As such, applicants have found specific density gradients that are uniquely useful for the absorbent layer in cleaning pads. Density gradients in cleaning pads are unique for at least two provable reasons. First, the absorbent layer in a cleaning pad must be able to carry liquid with both dissolved and unresolved suspended components, such as insoluble particulate matter. For diapers, sanitary napkins, incontinence devices, and the like, the absorbent layer usually only needs to be able to transport liquids having dissolved components, such as body fluids. Second, the absorbent layer of a cleaning pad must be able to absorb liquid against gravity. In diapers, sanitary napkins, incontinence devices, and the like, gravity usually acts on the absorbent layer to draw liquid into the absorbent layer and distribute it within it. The presence of sufficient elasticity in the cleaning pad, as described below, is important for maintaining good cleaning performance, especially for cleaning pads that include a density gradient. The preferred cleaning pads comprising the specific density gradients described herein have improvements in at least three important properties that affect hard surface cleaning performance: ingestion (the time required to transfer liquid from the surface being cleaned to the absorbent layer or surface). to the absorbent pads of the cleaning pad), to the distribution (the liquid wicking effect of the absorbent layer or absorption layers to use as much of the pad as possible) and to the rewet (the amount of dirty liquid retained within the absorbent layer or absorbent layers) and not expressed during a cleaning process).

The absorption layer may comprise a single absorption layer having a continuous density gradient in the Z dimension of the cleaning pad or a plurality of absorption layers having different densities resulting in a density gradient. A continuous density gradient is one in which the material comprising the cleaning pad is homogeneous but has different densities within the material. A method of generating a continuous density gradient is described in US Pat U.S. Patent No. 4,818,315 issued April 4, 1989 to Hellgren et al. Preferably, the cleaning pad used in connection with the present invention comprises a density gradient resulting from a plurality of absorbent layers, preferably three absorbent layers, each having a different density. A density gradient is usually "strong" as the density of the absorbent layers increases from a lower absorbent layer to an upper absorbent layer Preferably, the present cleaning pads comprise a "high" density gradient providing fast acquisition, better core utilization by effectively absorbing liquid in Z. and XY directions and a reduced tendency to squeeze out absorbed liquids, especially those containing unresolved particulates. A high density gradient preferably comprises at least two absorption layers, a first absorption layer having a density of from about 0.01 g / cm ³ to about 0.15 g / cm ³ , preferably from about 0.03 g / cm ³ to about 0 1 g / cm ³ and more preferably from about 0.04 g / cm ³ to about 0.06 g / cm ³ , and a second absorption layer has a density of about 0.04 g / cm ³ to about 0.2 g / cm ^3, preferably from approximately 0.1 g / cm ³ to about 0.2 g / cm ³ and more preferably from about 0.12 g / cm ³ to about 0.17 g / cm ^3; wherein the density of the first absorption layer is about 0.04 g / cm ³ , preferably about 0.07 g / cm ³ and more preferably about 0.1 g / cm ³ less than the density of the second absorption layer;

In another embodiment, the present cleaning pad comprises a density gradient resulting from three absorbent layers, wherein a first absorbent layer has a density of about 0.01 g / cm ³ to about 0.08 g / cm ^3, preferably from about 0.03 g / cm ³ to about 0.06 g / cm ³ , and a second absorption layer has a density of about 0.03 g / cm ³ to about 0.12 g / cm ³ , preferably from about 0.07 g / cm ³ to about 0.1 g / cm ³ , and a third absorption layer has a density of about 0.05 g / cm ³ to about 0.2 g / cm ³ , preferably from about 0.08 g / cm ³ to about 0.15 g / cm ³ ; wherein the difference in density between the first absorption layer and the second absorption layer and between the second absorption layer and the third absorption layer is at least about 0.02 g / cm ³ , preferably at least about 0.04 g / cm ³ .

In yet another embodiment, the cleaning pad comprises a first absorbent layer having a density of about 0.05 g / cm ³ , a second absorbent layer having a density of about 0.1 g / cm ³ and a third absorbent layer having a density of about 0, 15 g / cm ³ . It is understood that such a density gradient may be present in a cleaning pad with or without layers having multiple widths in the Z dimension.

Due to the density gradient, usually the porosity of the absorption layer, that is, the ratio of volumes of interstices of a material to the volume of its mass, increases to the extent in which the density increases. Porosity is important, particularly in the context of a cleaning pad for cleaning hard surfaces, because the liquid to be absorbed by the cleaning pad usually contains moderately large amounts of relatively large particulate material. As the contaminated liquid penetrates through the scrubbing layer into the cleaning pad, the larger particulate material is retained in the interstices of the lower absorbent layers. As the porosity of the absorbent layers decreases and the density increases, the larger particulate matter is retained in the larger interstices of the lower absorbent layers and the remaining liquid is subsequently transferred to the upper absorbent layers. This allows the liquid to be more easily transferred to the higher density layers, thereby allowing the particulate material to be retained in the interstices of the lower absorbent layers. As a result, the cleaning pad retains both liquid and particulate matter much more effectively than cleaning pads without a high density gradient.

If an absorbent layer having a density of less than about 0.1 g / cm ^3, the layer tends to be less resilient, which is another important property of the present cleaning pad as discussed below. To increase the elasticity of a relatively low density absorbent layer, a thermoplastic material, preferably a bicomponent fiber, is bonded to the fibers of the absorbent layer. After melting, at least a portion of this thermoplastic material migrates, usually due to inter-fiber capillary gradients, to the intersections of these fibers. These intersections become binding sites for the thermoplastic material. Upon cooling, the thermoplastic materials solidify at these intersections to form the junctions that hold the fibrous matrix or web together in each of the respective layers. This can be beneficial in providing additional overall integrity to the cleaning pad. Although bicomponent fibers are well known in the art, they are commonly used in proportions of less than about 15%. Applicants have found that to impart the desired elasticity, an absorbent layer having a density of less than about 0.05 g / cm ³ preferably at least about 20%, preferably at least about 30%, more preferably at least about 40% of a thermoplastic material as a bicomponent fiber. A preferred conjugate fiber comprises a copolyolefin bicomponent fiber comprising a core of less than about 81% polyethylene terephthalate and a fiber cladding of less than about 51% copolyolefin and commercially available from Hoechst Celanese Corporation under the tradename CELBOND T-255 ^® is available.

As in more detail below discussed is an aspect of the present invention applies a mop for use with a removable cleaning cloth or Cleaning pad attached to a mop head with an elastic bottom surface is attached, a part of which is preferably a substantially stepped Profile that attaches to the removable cleaning pad. Although the one discussed here present invention for reasons of simplicity and clarity in relation to a ground mop It will be understood that the present invention is different from others Types of mops and cleaning devices on which a cleaning cloth or a cleaning pad is removably attached, can be used can.

In 1 and 2 is a ground mop 20 shown manufactured according to the present invention. The ground mop 20 includes a mop head 22 with a leading edge 24 and a trailing edge 26 , As used herein, the term "leading edge" is intended to refer to the most remote edge of the mop head 22 refer to the mop head 22 "Leads" when moved in a forward direction of movement away from the user, as well as the term "trailing edge" on the farthest edge of the mop head 22 refer to the mop head 22 "Retraced" when moved in a forward direction of movement by the user, for most ground mops, the leading edge 24 and the trailing edge 26 essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis 28 of the mop head 22 , as in 1 shown, with the longitudinal axis 28 along the length of the mop head 22 extending axis is. A rotatable joint, like the universal joint 30 , connects the handle 32 from mop 20 with the mop head 22 , The universal joint 30 Includes two pivot axes through which the handle 32 in the directions 36 and 38 can be turned. The handle 32 is over a thread with the universal joint 30 at the connector 40 connected. The handle 32 can be provided as a one-piece structure or can be three sections 34 . 36 and 38 include, which are connected by a thread, so that the ground mop 20 within a carton of a suitable size and later assembled for use. The grip section 38a may be equipped with an elastic and resilient part suitable for use by the user of the floor mop 20 to be seized. The mop head 22 further includes a plurality of attachment structures 42 , The attachment structures 42 are designed to be a cleaning cloth or a cleaning pad 44 during use and around the mop head 22 hold around like in 2 shown. The attachment structures 42 are preferably at the corners of the mop head 22 although these locations depend on the size and shape of the mop head 22 can vary. The attachment structures 42 are preferably provided in the form described in co-pending U.S. Application No. 09 / 364,714, filed August 13, 1999, in Kingry et al. as common inventors will be described. The ground mop 20 is preferably in conjunction with the disposable cleaning cloth 44 using the slotted attachment structures 42 removable at the mop head 22 is appropriate. In a further embodiment of the invention, the mop comprises 20 a handle 32 , a carrier head or mop head 22 , which handles by a universal joint 30 is attached and a container 34 which is in fluid communication with a liquid delivery system containing at least one spray nozzle 25 includes, preferably on the mop head 22 attached, such an arrangement in U.S. Patent No. 5,888,006 to Ping et al., issued Mar. 30, 1999.

The Cleaning cloth or cleaning pad may be in the form of a tissue or nonwoven fabric, which is a liquid can absorb uniformly or an absorption density gradient as will be discussed in more detail hereinafter.

Regarding the 4 and 5 and in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a cushion 48 shown having a stepped embodiment and at the base of a mop head 22 can be attached by means of adhesive. In 4 a cushion is shown in a stepped embodiment, the two raised elements 148 and 248 includes. In 5 a cushion is shown in a stepped embodiment, the three elements raised 148 . 248 and 348 includes. Of course, the present invention is not limited to cushions in a stepped embodiment comprising two or three raised elements. One skilled in the art will recognize and understand that cushions in other stepped embodiments may provide similar benefits, such as a step-shaped embodiment comprising a single raised element or a stepped embodiment comprising more than three raised elements. The bottom surface of the pillows 48 in use couples at least a portion and, more preferably, a substantial portion of the cleaning wipe 44 , as in 5 shown.

As in the 4 and 5 shown, the lower surface of cushions 48 a profile shape, a profile size and a recess, whereby it comes in use to a repeated rocking movement of the mop head. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the width 153 the contact surface 152 provides a mop that during any single forward and / or backward sweep of mop 20 repeated around the contact surface 152 "Rocking" or "turning" or "rotating" can cause the surface of cleaning cloth or cleaning pad 44 Therefore, this rocking motion allows picking up over a larger percentage of the surface area of cleaning cloth, which can be increased with the soil directly on the ground or, in a "wet cleaning", with the liquid sprayed on the ground 44 while the lower surface of the cloth repeatedly touches and releases the hard surface to be cleaned due to rocking motion. As used herein, the term "contact surface" is intended to refer to the portion of the cross-sectional profile of the lower surface of either the mop head 22 or the cleaning cloth 44 refer by a straight line 56 , which touches the pinnacle of this lower surface, comes into contact with the straight line 56 essentially perpendicular to the transverse axis 58 from the mop head 22 is.

In one embodiment, the cushion is achieved in a stepped embodiment by at least one raised element 148 on the pillow 48 with attachment means such as adhesive, double-sided tape, Velcro ^® velcro or any other fasteners that meet the state of the art is attached. The step-shaped embodiment can also be achieved by the raised element during the molding process of pillows 48 or the molding process of mop head 22 is molded directly so that it is permanently installed in it. Preferably, the width of the raised element is smaller than the width of the mop head. In another embodiment, the raised member is centered on the mop head so that the mop head is equally capable of pivoting forward and backward. In a further embodiment of the invention, the stepped shape is achieved by attaching or forming a plurality of raised elements on the mop head. It is obvious that the edges of these raised elements can be angular, rounded, angled, structured or in any combination thereof. The surface 152 . 252 and 352 etc. of these raised elements facing the floor to be cleaned is generally flat, but a discontinuous surface can be used equally advantageously. For example, such breaks could be in the form of a grid, protrusions, or holes, but other types of interruptions may equally advantageously be used. The raised elements can be made from a variety of materials with different properties. For example, these collected elements can all be made from one material manufactured, which is generally not deformable. In a further embodiment, all of the raised elements may be made of a material that is generally deformable, such as foams, sponges, polyester wadding, wrapped gels or liquids, and the like. Deformable materials would be defined as any materials that temporarily lose their shape under normal mop pressures (about 0.69 kPa (0.1 psi) to 1.4 kPa (0.2 psi)), but which regain their original shape when the pressure subsides. The use of more deformable materials used to form the raised member may also be advantageous because it produces a pumping action that enhances fluid absorption when wiped with the absorbent pad across the surface, and also because the rocking action is improved such materials are more readily deformable when wiping with the device in a back and forth motion, and further because a padding is provided which can protect the soil surface from potential damage and facilitate wiping, particularly when thinner pads or cleaning pads are used having an absorbent core that is narrower than the width of the mop head, or dusters. In yet another embodiment, a combination of generally non-deformable and deformable material can be used for various raised elements. This combination of raised elements made of different material with different properties can increase or improve the ability of the mop head to rotate with respect to the surface to be cleaned. The mop head 22 and the universal joint 26 are preferably made of ABS polymers (eg terpolymer of acrylonitrile), polypropylene or other plastic materials by injection molding. The pillow 48 in a stepped embodiment and each raised element may be molded from polyurethane or from ABS-like polymers (eg terpolymer of acrylonitrile), polypropylene or other plastic material by injection molding. The mop handle 32 can be made of aluminum, plastic or other structural materials.

The U.S. Patent 6,101,661 to Policicchio et al., discloses a cleaning pad comprising a plurality of planar surfaces in contact with the surface to be cleaned. In such a cleaning pad, the thickness of all layers forming the absorbent substrate is sufficient to produce the desired rocking motion. However, it is believed that the combination of this cleaning pad with the improved cleaning device provides further improvement and / or optimizes the cushion if the pad could be made thinner and / or less absorbent. Making the cleaning pad thinner and less absorbent is particularly useful for making so-called "household cleaning pads." A household cleaning pad is useful for consumers with smaller households who need to clean smaller areas For these consumers, a standard pillow with multiple layers of absorbent may be useful too much "absorbency" - which is defined as the maximum amount of solution a pillow can hold before it's used up. Although making a "household cleaning pad" also provides some advantages, reducing the absorbency and thinning the pad can significantly affect the way this cleaning pad works and works. what is defined as the amount of solution a pad can hold for a given amount of solution dosage and for a given contact time with the solution. Furthermore, when the pad is thinned, the "rocking effect" during wiping is reduced, resulting in a reduction in the height of the "pivot point", which is the distance of the recess between the center portion of the pad and the bottom Contact comes, and the edge of the pillow, which is defined from the ground, is defined. The step-shaped design on the underside of the mop head, it is believed, is determined by the height of the pivot point formed in the mop head rather than in the cushion, or the height of the pivot point created by a combination of a stepped mop head and a step-shaped cushion same advantages offered by the im U.S. Patent 6,101,661 revealed cleaning pads.

The improved cleaning device with a mop head with a step-shaped cushion may also in combination with a cleaning pad, the functional cuffs includes, be used advantageously. It is believed that a more effective "rocking effect" as well Rolling back and forth or Slip the functional cuffs during wiping easier. This is touching therefore, that more space exists, so the cuff of can roll itself.

As mentioned above, an object of this invention is to improve the cleaning efficiency of the cleaning pad, which can be associated with the absorption efficiency of the cleaning pad. To measure the improved absorption efficiency, the following test is performed. Test method for measuring the absorption efficiency of a cleaning pad used with an improved cleaning device: First "standard" pillow Second "standard" pillow household pillow Primary absorption layer (closest to the ground) Width (mm 64 64 64 Length - mm 300 300 300 Thickness - mm 5 3 3 Secondary absorption layer Width (mm 88 88 Length - mm 300 300 none Thickness - mm 3.5 3.5 Storage absorption layer (layer closest to the mop head) Width (mm 120 120 120 Length - mm 300 300 300 Thickness - mm 1.5 1.5 1.5 Overall cushion thickness - mm Total turning height - mm 10.0 8.5 8 6.5 4.5 3.0 Embodiment of the absorbent sheet covering ground cloth Apertured formed film Apertured formed film Apertured formed film Implementation of functional cuffs 60 g / m ² hydroentangled polyester with scrim Inner sleeve made from double-layer apertured film with outer sleeve, 30 g / m ² Polyethelene: Polyester bicomponent fibers, produced in a flow-through process Inner sleeve made from double-layer apertured film with outer sleeve, 30 g / m ² Polyethelene: Polyester bicomponent fibers, produced in a flow-through process Total Absorption Capacity - mils 250 250 125

test surfaces

The test is carried out on ceramic floors as well as on ready-to-install wooden floors in order to measure the quality conditions of different floors. The different results obtained can be explained in part by the different "wettability" of the surfaces and by the fact that the ceramic tiles used in this test have joint lines (6 mm wide x 3 mm deep) in which solution settles and thereby absorbs cleaning pad can be made more difficult as contact between the cleaning pad and the surface is reduced The test area is composed of 5 × 1 m ² tile test surfaces and a 5 × 1 m ² area of painted wood.

test protocol

In this test are each a mop head with a flat pillow and a mop head with a Stepped pillows tested in combination with two different "standard cleaning pillows" with different properties and a "household cleaning pillow". The step-shaped pad includes a raised member that is adhesively secured substantially in the center of the bottom of the mop head. The actual dimensions of the raised element are 25 mm wide by 265 mm long by 1 mm high. This raised element is attached to the base of a mop head 114 mm wide by 265 mm long. The flat mop head has the same dimension as the stepped mop head, except that it does not contain a raised element.

This Test was performed with standard cleaning pads that 3 absorption layers with different widths, lengths and Include thicknesses. The first and second standard pads also include different ones Pairs of "loop-shaped" functional cuffs. The "household cleaning cushion" comprises two absorption layers and a pair of "looped" functional cuffs similar to those of which are used in the second "standard cleaning pad". The pair of functional cuffs that come with the second standard cushion and the household pillow is used, will be explained in more detail below described.

The following list leads the properties of the two cleaning pads and and of the "household cleaning pad" used for this Test were used on:

On the first 1 m ² test area, 0.3 mm (10 mils) of cleaning solution (composed of 2% propoxypropanol solvent, 0.01% nonionic surfactant and 0.005 sodium hydroxide and brought to pH 10.5) is uniform over the entire range of 1 m ² applied. A pre-weighed dry pad is attached using Velcro ^® -Klettband on the underside of Moppkopfvorrichtung. Starting from the left side of the test area is with the cleaning device 14 Swipe forks back and forth until the end of the right side is reached. Subsequently, a further 14 strokes are wiped back and forth from the right side to the left side of the test area with the cleaning device. The person who performs the text then goes to the next 1 m ² range over and repeats the same process. When a total of 50 mils of fluid has been applied to a total floor area of 5 m ² and wiped with the cleaning pad, the test is completed and the pad is weighed again. Absorption efficiency is calculated by calculating the ratio of the amount of solution absorbed by the cleaning pad compared to the 50 mils applied to the bottom and then multiplying by 100 to convert the result to a percentage.

Results

It has been found that the absorption efficiency is improved for both "standard" cleaning pads and the "household cleaning pad" when wiping with a stepped mop head rather than a standard mop head with a flat bottom. By observing the pads used tested on each mop head, it will be apparent that the presence of a stepped embodiment not only produces a more pronounced turning height and cuff movement as described above, but also that the step-shaped embodiment creates a pressure area in the center portion of the cleaning pad. causing the cleaning solution to be absorbed by the center portion of the pad rather than at the leading edge. As a result, each cleaning pad tested is capable of absorbing a larger amount of liquid, and therefore the cleaning efficiency of the cleaning pad is improved. This observation is schematically through 6 Fig. 11 illustrates where the soil solution Ds is absorbed on a cleaning pad tested with a flat mop head, and 7 in which it is shown where the soil solution Ds is absorbed on a cleaning pad tested with a stepped mop head. The different layers of absorbent material forming the cleaning pads create a density gradient in the center region of the pads. As a result, these cleaning pads absorb more towards the center area. The step-shaped mop head optimizes fluid uptake through the center region of the pad as the solution sprayed onto the bottom is pushed and absorbed by the center portion of the cleaning pad and moves in the Z-direction and X-direction to make optimum use of the density gradient, as in US Pat the 8th and 9 is illustrated. 8th Figure 11 shows the solution movement Sm in a cleaning pad comprising three absorption layers (the upper one having a high density Hd and the lower one having a low density Ld) used with a flat mop head. 9 Fig. 11 shows the solution movement Sm in a cleaning pad which also comprises three absorption layers (the upper one having a high density Hd and the lower one having a low density Ld) used with a stepped mop head. In a flat embodiment of the mop head, the absorption point is displaced towards the leading edge of the cleaning pad and the advantageous use of the existing density gradient in the pad is significantly reduced.

One important feature of the preferred cleaning pads and / or cleaning wipes, the used in synergy with the present invention the presence of one or more improved functional cuffs. Applicants have found that a functional cuff or functional cuffs the cleaning performance of conventional Cleaning pads and wipes and the cleaning pads and wipes of the present invention improved. Functional cuffs offer improved particulate uptake at conventional Cleaning pads and cleaning pads as well as the cleaning pads and wipes of the present invention.

Cleaning pads, which include a functional sleeve or functional cuffs, are in the 10 . 11 and 12 illustrated in the drawings. 10 is a perspective view of a cleaning pad 200 , which is a freely movable, loop-shaped functional sleeve 207 includes. The loop-shaped functional sleeve 207 has two surfaces 209 and 211 on. During a typical cleaning process, such as wiping with the mop or otherwise wiping, the cleaning pad becomes 200 moves forward over the surface that has just been cleaned in the Y _f direction and then moves backwards in the Y _b direction. While the cleaning pad 200 in Y _f direction, the functional cuff tilts 207 around, leaving their surface 211 comes in contact with the surface just cleaned. Particulate material on the just cleaned surface is passing through the surface 211 the functional cuff 207 added. If the cleaning pad 200 then moved in the Y _b direction, the functional cuff tilts 207 around, leaving their other surface 209 comes in contact with the surface just cleaned. The particulate material, initially from the surface 211 is recorded, is between the surface 211 the functional cuff 207 and the layer 201 of cleaning pads 200 forfeited. The surface 209 the functional cuff 207 is then able to take up additional particulate material.

The 11 and 12 illustrate a cleaning pad 400 , the two freely movable, loop-shaped functional cuffs 411 and 413 includes, similar to the functional cuff 207 in 10 , In terms of 12 During a typical cleaning process, the cleaning pad becomes 400 Moved in Y _f direction over a hard surface and the functional cuffs 411 and 413 be tilted so that the surfaces 417 and 425 come in contact with the just cleaned surface and can accommodate particulate material. The cleaning pad 400 is then moved across the hard surface in the Y _b direction, causing the functional cuffs 411 and 413 be overturned so that the surfaces 419 and 423 come in contact with the just cleaned surface. That from the surface 425 absorbed particulate material is between the surface 425 and the scouring layer 401 forfeited. The surfaces 419 and 423 are then able to pick up additional particulate matter from the surface being cleaned. If the cleaning pad 400 is moved back across the hard surface in the Y _f direction, the additional particulate material received is interposed between the surface 423 and the scouring layer 401 forfeited. If the functional cuff or functional cuffs are incorporated into cleaning pads with layers of several widths in Z dimension, as in 12 For example, the height (that is, the Z dimension of a fully extended functional sleeve) of the functional sleeve is large enough that when the functional sleeve tilts toward the centerline of the cleaning pad, it overlaps the layer having the narrowest width. 11 shows a cleaning pad 400 , the two functional cuffs 411 and 413 includes, wherein the functional cuffs 411 and 413 Both are tilted towards the centerline of the cleaning pad, resulting in the packaging of the cleaning pad 400 is preferred for sales purposes. The mode of action of the cuffs is shown schematically in 13 and 14 illustrates that represent how large particles Lp through the cuffs 207 on a cleaning pad or cleaning cloth 44 are retained when the mop is moved in a Yf forward and a Yb reverse motion.

When wiping back and forth over a hard surface with a cleaning pad and / or cleaning wipe comprising a functional sleeve or functional cuffs, the functional cuff is "tilted" or "turned" from one side to the other whereby they absorb and retain particulate matter. Cleaning cushions and cleaning wipes with functional cuffs have improved uptake and retention of larger particulate matter, which is usually present on hard surfaces, and have a reduced tendency for redeposition of the particulate material on the surface being cleaned. In addition to absorbing larger particulates, the cuffs play an important role in distributing the solution and in smoothing all the streaks created by the structure of the bottom cloth so as to prevent the formation of streaks upon drying. This feature of assisting in dispensing solution is particularly important in a "wet" cleaning device, where the solution is sprayed over a specific concentrated area, often with a lower dosage or with lower soil moisture levels compared to conventional systems, and then wiped with an absorbent pad over it. Since the dosage is low and concentrates on an area covered by the spray pattern width, the pad must be able to loosen contaminants but also be able to absorb at a controlled rate. If the pad absorbs too quickly, wiping with the mop will create dry spots that will cause streaks over a dirty floor when wiping with a dry pad. When the outer part of the sleeve is made of a non-woven material, the sleeve can usually absorb some liquid in the interstices between the fibers forming the non-woven material. The liquid absorbed by the cuffs is then released during the mop movement, which helps to more uniformly distribute the liquid during wiping and to minimize the streaking that results from wiping with a dry cleaning pad. As noted above, streaks from wiping with a dry pad are caused by the pad absorbing too quickly, particularly if the solution dosage is very low or the actual spraying of the solution is less frequent (for example, spraying every 2 m ^{2 of} solution) all ½ m ² , which would be recommended since this is the approximate width that is usually covered by the spray pattern). The cuff distribution properties are also further enhanced when the cuff points toward the center at the leading edge during the mop wiping movement, or when a cuff on the trailing edge faces toward the center during the mop wiping movement.

If the cuff points to the center of the pillow, thereby the contact between the floor cloth and the floor on the area passing through the cuff is covered, interrupted. The part of the pillow, which is covered by the cuff, has a reduced Absorbency on, since the liquid of several layers must be absorbed before entering the core absorption layer or Core absorption layers can penetrate (the liquid must pass through the layers penetrate, which form the cuff, and potentially with openings provided shaped film of the cleaning pad).

As As described above, the cuffs play an important role in providing benefits in terms of retaining larger particulates, Hair and lint and a dissolving solution. These properties are for the Overall performance of the cleaning pad crucial. As also above described the cuffs work optimally by during the Mop wiping movement back and forth to be moved. It was found that to optimize this ability the functional cuffs to move back and forth, the properties the outer cuff (the term "outer" refers to the part of the cuff that during actually wiping comes in contact with the ground) from the properties of the inner sleeve should differ (the term "inner" refers to the part of the cuff, while rubbing against each other). It was found that at an optimized embodiment the cuff the inner part of the cuff when rubbing against each other, a lower friction or "sliding" than the outer part the cuff, the higher one Has friction or "slip" when he rubs against the floor. This different friction leads to a different one Measure Force required to slip or slide the materials To bring moving. The cuffs can be better free and back move as that to break the between the outer cuff and the ground formed temporary Binding force required is far greater than the force that to break the between the inner cuff with itself arising temporary Binding is required.

Functional cuffs may comprise a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, apertured formed film, carded polypropylene, rayon or polyester, hydroentangled polyester, spunbond polypropylene, polyester, polyethylene or cotton, polypropylene, or blends thereof. When using freely moving functional cuffs, the material used for the functional cuffs should be sufficiently stiff so that the cuffs can "tip over" from one side to the other without collapsing or turning around by themselves high basis weight (eg, materials having a basis weight of over about 30 g / m ² ) or by adding further materials to increase stiffness, such as scrim, adhesive, elastomers, elastic bands, foams, sponges, scrubbing layers, and Preferably, the functional cuffs comprise a hydroentangled substrate, including, but not limited to, polyester, cotton, polypropylene, and blends thereof having a basis weight of at least about 20 g / ^m2 and a scrim material for stiffening.

To the Determine the material that would best suit you Cuff with the desired, To achieve the above-described properties, was the following Test completed.

Determine material for the inner sleeve:

Of the subsequent test was carried out to determine which materials have properties with where the least amount of resistance occurs when the material rubbed together in both dry and wet conditions becomes.

Test method:

• Equipment: Force gauge (force meter MF Shimpo 0-8,9 N (2 lb.)), 500 g weight (6 cm round by cm thick), substrate, solution (0.04% surfactant, 2% solvent in water), adhesive tape

Method:

• 1. a sample of a substrate to be tested, 20 cm wide by 30 cm long, is prepared. The sample is then opened a test surface strained and stuck on this, with the part of the material, which would represent the inner part of the cuff, pointing upwards.
• 2. Another sample of the same material is cut into a 12 x 12 cm ² piece. This sample is wrapped around the 6 cm round weight and glued to it with tape, with the part that represents the inside of a cuff pointing down.
• 3. Use a pin at 2.5 cm at the front of the trailing edge made a mark on the adhered substrate (this provides the starting point) and another mark at 20 cm in Proceeding forward from the first mark (this represents the end point).
• 4. The round weight with the substrate wound around it positioned in front of the start line. The dynamometer gets round Weight attached and pointing to zero. Then the weight gets below pushed forward at a slow but steady pace until it reaches the 20 cm mark. Then that's on the dynamometer displayed force recorded. The same process is done 3 times with the same material repeated. This test is called "gliding on a dry substrate ".
• 5. To measure a slide on wet substrate will be 10 full Sprays one in a bottle containing cleaning solution stuck to the test surface Substrate (about 0.3 mm (10 mils)) and a full puff of the same solution is placed on a test side of the weight wound substrate given.
• 6. The weight will reapply with the substrate in front of the start line positioned and pressed firmly. The dynamometer is attached to the round weight and points to zero. Subsequently the weight gets under a slow but constant speed pushed forward until it reaches the 20 cm mark. Then the force displayed on the dynamometer is recorded. Of the same process is repeated 3 times with the same material. This test is called "gliding on a wet substrate ".

The results of this test are shown in Table 1 below: Table 1 example Material tested on the same material Dry gliding - N (lb. force) (average 3 Wdhlg.) Wet gliding - N (lb. force) average 3 cycles. 1 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured formed film (DRI WEAVE film with wide funnel opening - the negative side represents the test contact surface) - 3.1 (0.7) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 1,1 (0,25) standard deviation 0 (0) 2 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured formed film (DRI WEAVE film with narrow funnel opening - the positive side represents the test contact surface) - 10.7 (2.4) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 8.9 (2.0) standard deviation 0.18 (0.04) 3 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured double-hole formed film (DRI WEAVE film with wide funnel opening - the negative side represents the test contact surface) - 4.4 (1.0) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 2.2 (0.5) standard deviation 0 (0) 4 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured double hole sized formed film (DRI WEAVE film with narrow funnel opening - the positive side represents the test contact surface) - 6.7 (1.5) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 9.8 (2.2) standard deviation 0.18 (0.04) 5 20 g / m ² spunbonded polyester (with binder) 1.69 (0.38) standard deviation. 0.13 (0.03) 1.56 (0.35) standard deviation. 0.13 (0.03) 6 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured film, code PF / 12 (the negative side represents the test contact surface) 3.1 (0.7) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 1.56 (0.35) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 7 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured film, code PF / 12 (the positive side represents the test contact 8.0 (1.8) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 5.3 (1.2) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 8th 20 g / m ² polyethylene film 4.4 (1.0) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 1.3 (0.3) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 9 20 g / m ² polypropylene, carding process 2.89 (0.65) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 2.98 (0.67) 0.13 (0.03) 10 40 g / m ² polyester needle punched - Flow Clean 3.03 (0.68) standard deviation 0.18 (0.04) 3.47 (0.78) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 11 40 g / m ² hydroentangled polyester 3.91 (0.88) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 3.78 (0.85) standard deviation 0.22 (0.05) 12 50 g / m ² hydroentangled polyester, a page laminated with 10 g / m ² polypropylene scrim, faces the test surface 2.98 (0.67) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 2.44 (0.55) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 13 30 g / m ² bicomponent fibers of polyester + polyethylene polyester, connected in the flow-through 3.78 (0.85) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 3.78 (0.85) standard deviation 0.09 (0.02)

Determine material for the outer sleeve:

The following test was performed to determine which materials have properties Those that experience the greatest amount of drag when the material rubs against a surface in both wet and dry conditions (simulating a hard surface to be cleaned).

A smooth, shiny, glazed ceramic tile is selected as a test surface as it is extremely smooth is.

Test method:

• Equipment: Force gauge (MF Shimpo Force gauge 0-8.9 N (2 lb.)), 500 g weight (6 cm round by 2 cm thick), substrate, solution (0.04% surfactant, 2% solvent in water), tape, ceramic floor tile 33 cm × 33 cm (13 '' × 13 '') Italian glazed tile, made by Valentino Kerastone-Ceramiche Piemme-41053 Maranello, Italy

Method:

• 1. The ceramic tile is positioned on the test surface and stuck with a double-sided tape to prevent slipping to prevent.
• 2. A sample of the material to be tested is cut into a 12 x 12 cm ² sample. The sample is then wrapped around the 6 cm round weight with the part representing the outer cuff material pointing to the bottom surface.
• 3. Use a pin at 2.5 cm at the front of the trailing edge made a mark on the adhered substrate (this provides the starting point) and another mark at 20 cm in Proceeding forward from the first mark (this represents the end point).
• 4. The round weight with the substrate wound around it positioned in front of the start line. The dynamometer gets round Weight attached and pointing to zero. Then the weight gets below pushed forward at a slow but steady pace until it reaches the 20 cm mark. Then that's on the dynamometer displayed force recorded. The same process is done 3 times with the same Material repeated. This test is referred to as "sliding on a dry substrate".
• 5. To measure a slip on the wet substrate 10 full sprays one evenly in a bottle of cleaning solution the ceramic tile is applied (about 0.3 mm (10 mils)) and a full Spray of the same solution is placed on a test side of the weight wound substrate.
• 6. The weight will reapply with the substrate in front of the start line positioned and pressed firmly. The dynamometer is attached to the round weight and points to zero. Subsequently the weight gets under a slow but constant speed pushed forward until it reaches the 20 cm mark. Then that will be on recorded power displayed force gauge. The same process is repeated 3 times with the same material. This test will as a "glide on a wet substrate ".

The results of this test are shown in Table 1 below: Table 2 example Material side tested on a surface Dry gliding N (lb. force) (average 3 Wdhlg.) Wet gluten - N (lb. force) average 3 cycles. 1 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured formed film (DRI WEAVE film with wide funnel opening - the negative side represents the test contact surface) - 5.3 (1.2) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 1.3 (0.3) standard deviation 0 (0) 2 20 g / m ^{2 of} an apertured formed film (DRI WEAVE film with a narrow funnel opening - the positive represents the test contact surface) - 9.8 (2.2) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 3.6 (0.8) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 3 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured double-hole formed film (DRI WEAVE film with wide funnel opening - the negative side represents the test contact surface) - 5.3 (1.2) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 2.2 (0.5) standard deviation 0 (0) 4 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured double hole shaped film (DRI WEAVE film with narrow funnel opening - the negative side represents the test contact surface) - 10.7 (2.4) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 8.1 (1.8) standard deviation 0.18 (0.04) 5 20 g / m ² spunbonded polyester Remay (with binder) 4.0 (0.9) standard deviation. 0.13 (0.03) 1.3 (0.3) standard deviation. 0.13 (0.03) 6 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured film, code PF / 12 (the negative side represents the test contact surface) 5.8 (1.3) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 1.8 (0.4) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 7 20 g / m ^{2 of} apertured film, code PF / 12 (the positive side represents the test contact surface) 7.6 (1.7) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 3.1 (0.7) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 8th 20 g / m ² polyethylene film 8.9 (2.0) standard deviation. 0.22 (0.05) 1.56 (0.35) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 9 20 g / m ² polypropylene, carding process 6.7 (1.5) standard deviation 0.18 (0.04) 1.33 (0.3) standard deviation. 0.13 (0.03) 10 40 g / m ² polyester, needle punched - Flow Clean EM 2000 6.7 (1.5) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 2.7 (0.6) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 11 40 g / m ² hydroentangled polyester 4.4 (1.0) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 2.7 (0.6) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 12 50 g / m ² hydroentangled polyester, a page laminated with 10 g / m ² polypropylene scrim, faces away from the test surface 3.6 (0.8) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 2.89 (0.65) standard deviation 0.04 (0.01) 13 30 g / m ² bicomponents of polyester + polyethylene polyester, connected in the flow-through 2.89 (0.65) standard deviation 0.13 (0.03) 2.7 (0.6) standard deviation 0.089 (0.02)

It has been found that materials such as those illustrated in Examples 1, 3, 5, 6, and 8 provide good internal cuff material properties due to their low friction, as well as the low material-to-material fl exibility in testing these materials as inner cuffs busy is as shown in Table 1. Preferred materials are usually apertured films in which the negative side faces inwardly to form inner sleeves as in Examples 1, 3 and 6, or else the materials are non-apertured films as in Examples 8. Alternative materials may be nonwoven materials in which the fibers have been coated with a high level of chemical coating or adhesive coating or binder to smooth the structure, as in Example 5.

at a double layer cuff offer materials like those in the Examples 10, 11, 12 and 13 shown due to their high Friction good properties for an outer sleeve material, as by the high lubricity values when testing as outer collars is occupied, as shown in Table 2. These materials are common Nonwovens, where by the manufacturing process many free Fibers remain. Furthermore, the fiber matrix has a certain Degree of integrity and capillary spaces caused by thermal Solidification (spunbond, meltblown or carding), by joining fibers of different melting point (in the through-air dryer given bicomponent fibers) or by solidification (Water jet needling) arise. Allow the free fibers and capillary spaces it, that the structure is something liquid absorbed, which explains in part, Why a high friction occurs when in contact with a wet floor? Although Example 9 is a thermally consolidated web, here are too many fibers through a tight embossing pattern stapled. This leaves very few free fibers and capillary gaps are left, which is why in testing as outer cuff leads to a bad sliding behavior. The property, free Fibers also prove useful in providing these materials from hook for larger contaminants such as lint, hair and dust as beneficial (holding on to this Contaminants is a major function in cuffs).

While the cuff can be formed by layers of two different materials, a high performance cuff can also be made by choosing a material having good outer cuff properties and applying a scrim on the inside. Such a material is illustrated by Example 12 wherein the scrim side was tested as an inner sleeve and gave a wet slipper value of 2.44 N (0.55 lb. force) material-on-material while the opposite side was tested as the outer sleeve and one Wet sliding coefficient at material on surface of 2.89 (0.65 lb. force). It is also possible to form a one-piece sleeve structure by applying chemical treatments, adhesives and other polymers or any combination thereof on one side to coat the fibers on that side so that the resulting surface after treatment has a reduced wet sliding value having material-on-material. Further, it has been found that specific apertured films such as those described in Examples 1-2, Examples 3-4 and those described in Examples 6-7 in Tables 1 and 2 can also be used to form a single-layered sleeve , In a double-layered sleeve, the smoother side of the apertured film (often referred to as the "negative side") is usually turned inwards because it has the lowest material-on-material friction (wet sliding) Side ") usually has projections that arise during the manufacturing or piercing process, whereby it is more structured and therefore has a higher friction in material-on-material (wet sliding). In fact, the material-on-surface lubricity for the structured portion of the apertured films described is higher than the material-on-material friction coefficient (wet sliding) at the negative portion of the film. This is illustrated in comparing Example 1 with Example 2, Example 3 with Example 4, and Example 6 with Example 7 in Tables 1 and 2, wherein in each comparison the side with the pits has consistently lower friction values (wet sliding) compared to the positive side revealed. As a result, the material is suitable as a one-piece sleeve design. In particular, it has been found that this type of material is advantageous for applications where scrubbing of the surface to be cleaned is required. While the positive side structure also contributes to the retention of lint, hair and dirt, it has been found that by spraying, coating, screen printing, etc. a layer of adhesive, chemical treatment and the like on some or all external surfaces enhances these properties and / or or friction in material-on-surface (wet sliding) is increased, if necessary. Alternatively, other well-suited materials used as outer sleeves due to their fiber properties described in Tables 1 and 2 above (Examples 10, 11, 12, and 13) may be thermally bonded as strips, squares, circles, diamonds, and the like , mechanically bonded, ultrasonically welded, so that the outer sleeve made of an apertured film has some areas where the positive side protrusions are exposed, thus allowing scrubbing. Alternatively, instead of full nonwoven fabrics, the actual fibers constituting the nonwoven fabrics such as polypropylene, polyester, polyethylene, nylon, rayon, etc., and / or natural fibers such as cellulose, hemp, etc. may be used as full coverage or partial coverage in zones of the outer the ver ver with openings be applied film to form the cuff as a one-piece layer.

Of the large part the above discussion focuses on cuffs that are designed to be optimal to work in a wet environment, like wet wiping with the mop. However, the presence of functional cuffs Also beneficial when improving the performance of dry dusters be. However, you have to the properties of the inner cuffs and the properties of the outer cuffs based on friction without the presence of liquid (dry sliding). Similar to in applications for Wet wiping with a mop is the preferred method of dusting Characteristics in that the inner sleeve side a friction in material-on-material (Dry sliding), which is lower than the friction at Material on surface (Dry sliding) for the outer sleeve side.

At the Examine properties for Inner collars should have the friction in material-on-material or the glides are less than about 2.7 N (0.6 lb. force), preferably less than about 2.2 N (0.5 lb. force), and more preferably less than about 1.8 N (0.4 lb. force). For the outer cuff, the friction should be in material-on-surface or the floating value is greater than about 1.8 N (0.4 lb. force), preferably more than about 2.2 N (0.5 lb. force), and more preferably more than about 2.7 N (0.6 lb. force). Furthermore, the ratio should be between the friction in material-on-material or the wet sliding value Inner collars and the friction in material-on-surface or the floating value for outer collars below about 1, preferably below about 0.9, and more preferably below about 0.75.

In a further embodiment at least two layers of material are used in the invention, to form the functional cuff. These layers are at selected attachment points partially between the inner sleeve and outer sleeve materials connected with each other. These selected attachment points allow the presence of free surfaces or gears between the layers. This not only gives gaps to the Retention of contaminants that penetrate through the outer layer, but gives the loop also more mass, what the inclination of the cuffs minimized, under the pressure that the cuff initially during the Production and subsequently when wiping with the mop is exposed to flatten and crumple.

The functional cuffs may be in the form of a single-layered or multi-layered laminate structure and in the form of a loop-shaped or non-looped structure. Preferably, the functional cuffs include a loop as in FIGS 2 . 4a and 4b illustrated the drawings. A looped functional cuff can be constructed by folding a strip of cuff material in the middle to form a loop and attaching it to the substrate. Non-looped functional cuffs may also be used, especially if the material used has sufficient rigidity. The cleaning pads and wipes of the present invention may further comprise a combination of looped and / or non-looped single layer and / or multi-layer functional cuffs. Furthermore, the functional cuffs may comprise an absorbent layer as described below.

The Functional cuffs can as an integral part of the lower layer of a cleaning pad or the substrate of a cleaning cloth or else attached separately to a cleaning pad and / or cleaning cloth become. When the functional cuffs are an integral part the lower layer of the cleaning pad and / or cleaning cloth are the functional cuffs preferably loop-shaped functional cuffs, by curling the lower layer of the cleaning pad or the cleaning pad substrate be formed, for example in the form of a Z-fold and / or C-fold. Alternatively you can the functional cuffs on the lower layer of a cleaning pad and / or cleaning cloth by a variety of methods, the According to the state of the art, to be mounted separately, including, but not limited on, double-sided adhesive tape, hot glueing, gluing, ultrasonic welding, sewing, mechanical High pressure welding and the same.

The functional cuffs may be incorporated into conventional prior art cleaning pads and wipes comprising a variety of cellulosic and nonwoven materials, such as sponges, foam, paper towels, polishing cloths, dusters, cotton towels and the like, both dry and dry pre-moistened form. In a preferred embodiment, the functional cuffs are particularly effective when incorporated into the cleaning pads of the present invention as well as in the co-pending U.S. Patent Application Ser. 08 / 756,507 (Holt et al.), In co-pending US patent application Ser. 08 / 756,864 (Sherry et al.) And the co-pending US (Holt et al.), All filed on November 26, 1996; and in co-pending US patent application (Policicchio et al.), filed 10. March 1998, described cleaning pads.

In a further embodiment, a cleaning wipe comprises one or more functional cuffs and a backing material, preferably a nonwoven substrate comprising a hydroentangled material, including, but not limited to, those disclosed in co-pending applications to Fereshtehkhou et al., U349, filed on May 20. May 1998 (case 6664M); Fereshtehkhou et al., US Serial no. 09 / 082,396, filed May 20, 1998 (Case 6798M); and U.S. Patent No. 5,525,397 issued June 11, 1996 to Shizuno et al. In this preferred embodiment, the substrate of the cleaning wipe has at least two regions in which the regions differ by their basis weight. The substrate may comprise one or more high basis weight ranges having a basis weight of from about 30 to about 120 g / ^m2 , preferably from about 40 to about 100 g / ^m2 , more preferably from about 50 to about 90 g / ^m2 and more preferably from about 60 to about 80 g / m ² , and one or more low basis weight regions where the low basis weight region (s) have a basis weight that is not more than about 80%, preferably not more than about 60%. , more preferably not more than about 40% and even more preferably not more than about 20% of the basis weight of the range or high basis weight ranges. The substrate of the cleaning sheet preferably has a total basis weight of about 20 to about 110 g / m ^2, more preferably from about 40 to about 100 g / m ² and even more preferably from about 60 to about 90 g / m ^2.

A Functional cuff or multiple functional cuffs can open Cleaning pads and wipes applied on a variety of places on the kis sen and towels or be formed as an integral part of it. To the Example can or can the functional sleeve or functional cuffs along the Center line of the cleaning pad or cleaning cloth are located (in the X-V plane), either along the X dimension or the V dimension. Preferably, the cleaning pad or wipe comprises two Functional cuffs that are at or near opposite edges cleaning pad or cleaning cloth (eg the front and trailing edges of the pad and / or cloth, based on the V-dimension). Preferably lies or lie the functional sleeve or functional cuffs in such a place that its length is perpendicular to the consumer in the forward and backward wiping inserted direction or the wiping direction.

The The present invention further comprises articles of manufacture containing the comprises the aforementioned cleaning pads and / or cleaning cloth, the improved functional cuffs in conjunction with an instruction manual include, in a box, a carton or another container may be included. The present invention further includes articles of manufacture which the above-mentioned improved cleaning device in combination with instructions for use contained in a package, a carton or other container may be included. As used here, the phrase "in conjunction with" means that the instructions for use either directly printed on the cleaning cloth itself or in a separate way, including, without limitation to be in the form of a booklet, Print advertising, electronic advertising and / or verbal transmission, presents is to give the instructions for use to a consumer of the article of manufacture to convey. The instructions for use preferably contain the instructions for use of the cleaning pad and / or cleaning cloth that improved Functional cuffs for cleaning hard surfaces with a cleaning device, as a ground mop, with a handle and a mop head includes. The instructions for use may also contain instructions for use of the cleaning pad and / or the cleaning cloth which improved Includes functional cuffs, or for any other type of cleaning pads with a ground mop with a stepped mop head, configured as described hereinabove. For example the manual may be to instruct the cleaning cloth with a ground mop with a stepped Mop head to use. Additional instructions may be available to a user To do this, instruct the cleaning cloth or cleaning pad on the mop head to attach, move the ground mop and then the Remove cleaning cloth from mop head.

Claims (10)

Cleaning device ( 20 ) for hard surface cleaning, comprising: (a) a handle ( 32 ); (b) a mop head ( 22 ) rotatably mounted on the handle ( 32 ), wherein the mop head ( 22 ) over a pillow ( 48 ) which forms a lower surface; (c) at least one element raised ( 148 ), which is removable on the lower surface of the pillow ( 48 ), so that the mop head ( 22 ) is able to rotate relative to the surface to be cleaned, the raised element ( 148 ) is substantially centered on the lower surface, and (d) an absorbent cleaning pad ( 44 ) attached to the raised element ( 148 ) and detachable at the mop head ( 22 ) can be attached. Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 1, wherein the width of the raised element ( 148 ) is less than the width of the mop head ( 22 ). Cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the length of the raised element ( 148 ) is less than the length of the mop head ( 22 ). Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 1, wherein the edges of the raised element ( 148 ) are either angular, rounded, angled, structured, smooth or any combination thereof. Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 1, wherein the raised element ( 148 ) is generally incompressible. Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 1, wherein the raised element ( 148 ) is generally compressible. Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 1, wherein the surface of the raised element ( 148 ) pointing to the surface to be cleaned, has breaks in it. Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 1, further comprising a second raised element which is attached to the first raised element. Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 8, wherein the width of the second raised element is less than the width of the first raised element. Cleaning device ( 20 ) according to claim 8, wherein the thickness of the second raised element is less than the thickness of the first raised element.