EP2494903A2 - Cleaning implement - Google Patents
Cleaning implement Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2494903A2 EP2494903A2 EP12157849A EP12157849A EP2494903A2 EP 2494903 A2 EP2494903 A2 EP 2494903A2 EP 12157849 A EP12157849 A EP 12157849A EP 12157849 A EP12157849 A EP 12157849A EP 2494903 A2 EP2494903 A2 EP 2494903A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- wringer
- fibres
- outer perimeter
- elongate member
- rib
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/14—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing combined with squeezing or wringing devices
- A47L13/142—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing combined with squeezing or wringing devices having torsional squeezing or wringing action
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47L13/00—Implements for cleaning floors, carpets, furniture, walls, or wall coverings
- A47L13/10—Scrubbing; Scouring; Cleaning; Polishing
- A47L13/20—Mops
- A47L13/24—Frames for mops; Mop heads
- A47L13/254—Plate frames
- A47L13/255—Plate frames for mops of textile fringes or the like
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25G—HANDLES FOR HAND IMPLEMENTS
- B25G1/00—Handle constructions
- B25G1/10—Handle constructions characterised by material or shape
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25G—HANDLES FOR HAND IMPLEMENTS
- B25G3/00—Attaching handles to the implements
- B25G3/02—Socket, tang, or like fixings
- B25G3/12—Locking and securing devices
- B25G3/28—Locking and securing devices comprising wedges, keys, or like expanding means
Definitions
- the wringer cups used on these kinds of mops often have grooves or ribs on the inside.
- the ribs help to squeeze water out of the mop fibres.
- the wringing is not always completely effective, however. Some of the water that has been squeezed out of the mop fibres can sometimes re-enter the fibres before draining completely out of the wringer cup.
- Certain existing wringers and/or connection assemblies allow the mop fibres to be come tangled or twisted in locations below other areas that are still retaining fluids, thereby preventing proper drainage of fluids. Other systems also may not properly orient the fibres to permit proper draining characteristics.
- aspects of this disclosure relate to an innovative wringer cup.
- the wringer cup has holes in it that may permit water to drain out of the wringer cup more quickly and effectively so as to help prevent re-absorption.
- the wringer cup includes inwardly directed ribs and the ribs include perforations to enhance the draining of water from the mop fibres.
- wringer cup may comprise a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end.
- the upper end may have a terminus having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of by unitary body.
- the lower end may have a terminus having a second outer perimeter.
- the second outer-perimeter may not be either circular or oval.
- the second outer perimeter may also be larger than the first outer perimeter.
- the unitary body may include inward extending ribs.
- Each of the ribs may have a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom.
- the inward-extending ribs may be devoid of any perforations.
- the unitary body may also have outward-extending ribs, such as located on the lower end.
- the outward-extending ribs may include a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top.
- the rib sides of the outward extending ribs may be devoid of perforations.
- the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations.
- the plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer.
- an upper end of the wringer may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and a lower end is conical but not cylindrical.
- the lower end may further include convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions.
- the lower end may further have drainage exits located on each concave region.
- the drainage exits may be located on a pinnacle location of the convex regions most distant from the inner most portion of the concave regions. In certain embodiments, no more than a single drainage exit is provided on any given horizontal plane of each convex region.
- Drainage exits may be vertically arranged in a parallel fashion along the vertical axis (i.e., height) of convex regions.
- at least one drainage exit has a height that is about 25-30% of its length.
- the drainage exit may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions.
- Another drainage exit may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length and is at least about 2 centimetres away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions.
- the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are fully retracted into the inner portion of wringer, an upper portion of the fibres may be located at least above the upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis defined by the central bore
- a first compression force may cause an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate handle before corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit.
- Fibres in the intermediate portion may remain extended into an interior region of the convex regions, thereby resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer. At least a fraction of the fibres proximate to the an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first force, thereby permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits.
- An increase in twisting forces may result in a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, thereby resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres.
- a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, thereby resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres.
- fibres in the intermediate section will twist around the central axis and away from the convex regions in a downward progression.
- a cleaning implement comprising an elongate member having a first end and a second end.
- the cleaning implement may include a wringer configured to be slidably positioned along at least a portion of the elongate member.
- a connection assembly may be configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and secure a plurality of mop fibres.
- the connection assembly may include a top portion having a first surface defining a first outer perimeter along a horizontal plane and a downward-extending vertical wall extending parallel with the elongate member, the wall being proximate to the outer perimeter of the first planar surface.
- the connection assembly may further include a bottom portion.
- the bottom portion may have a second planar surface defining a second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane that is larger than the second outer perimeter.
- securement of mop fibres between the first and the second planar surfaces, the vertical wall of the top portion is configured to force the plurality of mop fibres to traverse from radiating along the horizontal plane towards a downward vertical direction.
- connector assemblies for the mop fibres.
- the connector assembly may be configured to allow for easier assembly of the mop fibres to a mop elongate member.
- a wringer comprising: a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a terminus having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of by unitary body; the lower end comprising: a terminus having a second outer perimeter; wherein the second outer-perimeter is not circular or oval; and wherein the second outer perimeter is larger than the first outer perimeter.
- the lower end may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations.
- the lower end may further comprise a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations.
- the central bore may be configured to permit a elongate member having a first end extend through the inner portion of the wringer; and wherein upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, the an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above the upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis between the central bore and a center of the perimeter of the bottom and under a first compression force against the wringer.
- the wringer may be configured such that retracting the elongate member fully into the inner portion upon rotation of the wringer around the central axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate handle before corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of the convex regions, thereby resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to the an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first force, thereby permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits.
- An increase in twisting forces may result in a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, thereby resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres; and wherein the fibres in the intermediate section will twist around the central axis and away from the convex regions in a downward progression.
- the plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer; wherein the square-like shape has a perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end.
- the upper end may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and the lower end may be conical but not cylindrical and the lower end may further comprise a plurality of convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions; and drainage exits located on each concave region, wherein the drainage exits may be located on a pinnacle location of the convex regions most distant from the inner most portion of the concave regions.
- no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane.
- the drainage exits may be vertically arranged along in a parallel fashion along each of convex regions.
- At least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 25-30% of its length and may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions, and at least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length and may be at least about 2 centimetres away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions.
- a cleaning implement comprising an elongate member having a first end and a second end; a wringer configured to be slidably positioned along at least a portion of the elongate member; a connection assembly configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and secure a plurality of mop fibres to an elongate member, the connection assembly comprising: a top portion comprising: a first surface defining a first outer perimeter along a horizontal plane; and a downward-extending vertical wall extending parallel with the elongate member and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the wall being proximate to the outer perimeter of the first planar surface; a bottom portion comprising: a second planar surface defining a second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane, wherein first outer perimeter is larger than the second outer perimeter; and wherein upon securement of mop fibres between the first and the second planar surfaces, the vertical wall of the top portion is configured to force the plurality of mop fibres to
- the cleaning implement may further comprise an insert configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and including a tab with an outer portion that extends in a direction away from and transverse to the elongate member when mounted on the elongate member; and a collar configured to frictionally engage the outer portion of the tab.
- the wringer may comprise a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a terminus having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of by unitary body; the lower end comprising: a terminus having a second outer perimeter; wherein the second outer-perimeter is not circular or oval; and wherein the second outer perimeter is larger than the first outer perimeter.
- the lower end may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations; a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations; and wherein at least one inward extending rib shares a common side with an outward rib.
- the central bore of the wringer may be configured to permit a elongate member having a first end extend through the inner portion of the wringer; and wherein upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above the upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis between the central bore and a centre of the perimeter of the bottom and under a first compression force against the wringer.
- the wringer may be configured such that retracting the elongate member fully into the inner portion upon rotation of the wringer around the central axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate handle before corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of the convex regions, thereby resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to the an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first force, thereby permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits
- the plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer; and wherein the square-like shape has a perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end.
- the upper end may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and the lower end may be conical but not cylindrical and the lower end may further comprise a plurality of convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions; and drainage exits located on each concave region, wherein the drainage exits may be located on a pinnacle location of the convex regions most distant from the inner most portion of the concave regions. For each convex region, no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane.
- a wringer comprising: a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end along a vertical axis; the upper end comprising a conical or frusto-conical shape and further comprising a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of an elongate member into an inner portion of the unitary body; the lower end comprising: a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations; the plurality of outward-extending ribs further define a first outer perimeter enclosing an X-shaped cross sectional area across a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the vertical axis; a terminus defining a second outer perimeter defining a square-like second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane
- the square-like second outer perimeter of the lower end's terminus may comprise a plurality of concave regions and plurality of convex regions.
- the square-like second outer perimeter of the lower end's terminus may comprise two pairs of opposing convex regions and two pairs of opposing concave regions.
- the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above an upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to the vertical axis under a first compression force against the wringer.
- the wringer may be configured such that retracting an elongate member fully into the inner portion of the wringer and upon rotation of the wringer around the vertical axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the upper portion of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate member before twisting of corresponding sections of the same mop fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and before twisting of corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein, before rotation of the wringer, fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of convex regions formed in the wringer, resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first compression force, permitting the flow of
- the wringer may be further configured such that an increase in twisting forces results in a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres; and wherein the fibres in the intermediate section will twist around the vertical axis and away from the convex regions in a downward progression.
- the wringer may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs that each share a common side with an outward extending rib; and each inward rib may comprise a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations.
- no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane.
- the drainage exits may be vertically arranged along in a parallel fashion along each outward extending rib.
- At least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 25-30% of its length and may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of the bottom of an adjacent inward extending rib, and at least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length and may be at least about 2 centimetres away from the bottom of an adjacent inward extending rib.
- a cleaning implement comprising: an elongate member having a first end and a second end along a vertical axis; a wringer configured to be slidably positioned along at least a portion of the elongate member; a connection assembly configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and secure a plurality of mop fibres to an elongate member, the connection assembly comprising: a top portion comprising: a first surface defining a first outer perimeter along a horizontal plane; and a downward-extending vertical wall extending parallel with the elongate member and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the wall being proximate to the first outer perimeter of the first surface; a bottom portion comprising: a second surface defining a second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane, wherein first outer perimeter is larger than the second outer perimeter; and wherein upon securement of mop fibres between the first and the second surfaces, the vertical wall of the top portion is configured to force the plurality of mop
- the cleaning implement may further comprise an insert configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and including a tab with an outer portion that extends in a direction away from and transverse to the elongate member when mounted on the elongate member; and a collar configured to frictionally engage the outer portion of the tab.
- the wringer may comprise a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a top having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of the unitary body; the lower end comprising: a plurality of outward-extending ribs that define a first outer perimeter of the lower end enclosing an X-shaped cross sectional area across a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the vertical axis; and a terminus defining a second outer perimeter defining a square-like second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the lower end of the wringer; and wherein the second outer perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end and comprises concave and convex regions.
- the lower end may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations; a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib tops each comprise a plurality of perforations; and wherein at least one inward extending rib shares a common side with an outward rib.
- the central bore of the wringer may be configured to permit the elongate member extend through the inner portion of the wringer; and wherein upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above an upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis between the central bore and a centre of the perimeter of the bottom of the wringer and under a first compression force against the wringer.
- the wringer may be configured such that retracting the elongate member fully into the inner portion of the wringer and upon rotation of the wringer around the central axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate member before twisting of corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and before twisting of corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of the convex regions formed in the wringer, resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first compression force, permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits
- the plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer; and wherein the square-like shape has a perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end.
- the upper end may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and the lower end is conical but not cylindrical and the lower end may further comprise: a plurality of convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions; and drainage exits located on each concave region, wherein the drainage exits are only located on a pinnacle location which is defined by the most distant area of the convex regions from the inner most portion of the concave regions.
- no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane.
- a wringer comprising: a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a first outer perimeter and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of an elongate member into an inner portion of the unitary body and wherein the first outer perimeter lies in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the elongated member; the lower end comprising: a plurality of parallel extending ribs; a second outer perimeter and a third outer perimeter and wherein the second outer perimeter extends between the first outer perimeter and the third outer perimeter and the second outer perimeter and the third outer perimeter are both orthogonal to the elongated member; wherein the first outer perimeter, the second outer perimeter, and the third outer perimeter each have a different shape; and wherein the second outer perimeter is larger than the first outer perimeter and the third outer perimeter is larger than the second outer perimeter.
- Each rib may comprise a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, and wherein the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations.
- the invention also relates to a wringer for use with a cleaning implement in accordance with any statement herein.
- FIGS 1- 4 show one embodiment of an illustrative mop 10 in accordance with one embodiment of this disclosure.
- the illustrated mop may include an elongate member 12, a set of mop elements 14 on an end 16 of the elongate member 12, and a wringer cup 18.
- a connector assembly 50 is provided to fasten the mop elements 14 to the end 16 of elongate member 12.
- the elongate member for such mops can be a lightweight metal tube, however, any rigid structure, including wood and or plastic may be employed.
- the illustrated elongate member includes an optional hand grip 20, discussed below.
- the mop elements 14 that are illustrated take the form of flat strips. It is conventionally known that such strips can be made from (for example) water-absorbing non-woven fibrous material that is around 18 or 19 inches (45.72 or 48.26 centimetres) long and about 0.15 inch (3.81 millimetres) thick in its non-compressed state. Other materials could also be used.
- the illustrated wringer cup 18 may be disposed on the elongate member 12 above the mop elements 14, and has an outer wall 23 that tapers outwardly toward a lower end 25.
- the precise shape and arrangement of the wringer cup may not be important to various embodiments of the invention, however, is important to other embodiments disclosed herein.
- wringer cups used on such mops are preferably slidably mounted on the elongate member, such as member 12, and may take the form of a tubular shell that can be moulded in one piece from a polymeric material such as polypropylene.
- wringer cups may include ribs 27 that help to squeeze liquid from the mop fibres during wringing.
- the optional hand grip 20 that has been illustrated in Figure 2 is mounted on the elongate member 12, above the mop elements 14.
- the hand grip is arranged to hold the wringer cup 18 above the mop elements fibres when the mop is being used. This position is illustrated in Figure 1 , in which an upper portion 29 of the wringer cup (seen in Figure 3 ) fits within a lower part 31 of the handgrip.
- the perforations 35 in the wringer cup 18 help allow the water being squeezed from the mop elements 14 to be transported away so as to reduce re-absorption. As discussed below, however, various embodiments have different sized perforations 35. Further embodiments are directed towards the location and dimensions of perforations 35 and/or other exits for fluids.
- Embodiments of mop 10 may differ from previously known mops with wringer cups in the perforations 35, 38 on the wringer cup 18.
- the illustrated perforations are disposed near the lower end 25 of the wringer cup.
- the illustrated perforations preferably have a width that is no more than about one-third the diameter of the elongate member 12, and are less than the width of the flat strips that form the mop elements 14 on the end of the elongate member.
- the ribs 27 may include a plurality of perforations 38, such as arranged in a linear manner. However, the perforations 38 are preferably located to a side 27a rather then on a centre 27b of the ribs 27 so as to not interfere with the compressing of the mop element 14 by the ribs 27 in effecting removal of water.
- the wringer cup 18 includes a first end 18a and a second end 18b.
- the size of the perforations 35, 38 may be substantially uniform or may be increased from smaller to larger moving towards the second end 18b of the wringer cup 18. This is useful for permitting more water to be squeezed out near the second end 18b than the first end 18a of the wringer cup 18.
- different configurations and size patterns, such as alternating smaller and larger, of perforations may be used.
- Figure 6 illustrates a side view of the wringer cup depicted in Figure 5 . It should be noted that because of the angle, the perforations 38 in the ribs 27 are not visible. In an embodiment, one or two of the ribs 27 may include the perforations 38. In another embodiment all of the ribs include the perforations on one or both of the sides of the ribs 27 and the perforations are aligned between ribs.
- the connector assembly 50 includes a collar 60 configured to be installed over an insert 70.
- the insert 70 includes a tubular end 71 that is positioned within the elongate member 12.
- the insert 70 further includes a plurality of tabs 72 on the side walls 73 of the insert 70.
- the insert 70 supports the inner member 80, and the plurality of tabs 72 engage a plurality of depressions 82 on the inner member 80.
- the inner member 80 is configured to engage the outer member 90 so as to hold the mop element 14 in place.
- the outer member 90 is inserted into the inner member 80 and the catch 91 holds the outer member 90 in place.
- Figure 9-11 illustrate various views of the insert 70.
- the plurality of tabs 72 include an outer portion 74 and an inner portion 76.
- the inner portion 76 is configured to engage the depressions 82 on the inner member 80.
- the outer portions 74 each are of a size and shape suitable to provide a friction point for the collar 60 as the collar 60 is slidably installed over the insert 70 to secure the engagement of the tabs 72 with respect to the inner member 80.
- Figure 8 illustrates the components of an embodiment of the connector 50 in the installed position.
- the outer member 90 is inserted into the inner member 80 and together the inner and outer members 80, 90 support the mop element 14.
- the inner member 80 is held in position by the insert 70 and the collar 60 is positioned around the insert 70.
- the collar 60 includes the chamfer wall 62 that connects the flared edge 64 to the chamfer end 66.
- the interior surface of the chamfer wall 62 is generally circular in cross-section to allow the collar to be slid over the insert 70 in essentially any rotational orientation. While the chamfer end 66 is not required, it helps the collar be placed in the installed position (as shown) more readily.
- the wringer cup 18 When the wringer cup 18 is pulled down over the mop elements 14, some of the water is forced out of the mop elements 14. To squeeze out more water, the wringer cup 18 may be rotated. As can be appreciated, however, rotating the wringer cup 18 is more effective if the mop elements 14 are held in a fixed position relative to the mop elongate member 12. The mop elements 14 are fixed to the elongate member 12 by the insert 70. When the insert 70 is installed, the friction force between the tubular end 71 and the elongate member 12 helps to prevent the insert 70 from moving.
- the inner and outer members 80, 90 are in turn mounted to the insert 70.
- the tabs 72 help hold the inner and outer members in place, to resist the twisting force
- the inner and outer members 80, 90 are configured in a four sided arrangement that interfaces with the insert 70 so as to prevent rotation.
- the tabs 72 include the outer portion 74 that extend outward.
- the outer portion 74 of the four tabs 72 provide a circular like profile that provides a suitable frictional engagement of the collar 60.
- connection assembly shows illustrative top portions (for example, inner member 80) and bottom portions (for example, outer member 90) in accordance with various embodiments. As discussed above, the connection assemblies may be configured to retain a plurality of fibres between them.
- Figure 14 shows another illustrative example of a top portion (top portion 1402) in accordance with one embodiment of this disclosure. Specifically, Figure 14A shows a top view of exemplary top portion 1402 and Figure 14B shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the top portion 1402.
- top portion 1402 may comprise one or more structures, such as structure 1404 configured for attachment to an elongate member, such as elongate member 12 shown in Figures 1-4 .
- the connection of top portion 1402 to an elongate member 12 may be direct or indirect and/or include one or more structural components positioned between top potion 1402 and elongate member 12.
- Top portion 1402 further comprises first surface 1406 that is shown as radiating away from the centre. As shown in FIGS 14A and 14B , first surface 1406 radiates away from a centre in a uniform manner to form a circular cross-sectional area. First surface 1406 may further define a first outer perimeter 1408 on a horizontal plane. Because the illustrative outer perimeter 1408 is circular, the diameter of the area within perimeter 1408 may be determined by the diameter of perimeter 1408. In one embodiment, outer perimeter 1408 may have a diameter of about 4 centimetres. Other dimensions, however, are not outside the scope of this disclosure.
- top portion 1402 may include a downward-extending vertical wall, such as wall 1410, proximate to the outer perimeter 1408 of the first surface 1406.
- the vertically downward-extending wall 1410 may be an extension of surface 1406.
- presence of downward curves in structure 1406 in conjunction with wall 1410 may permit a larger quantity of fibres to be secured between the top portion 1402 and a bottom portion (see, e.g. 1502 of Figure 15 ) than if wall 1410 was utilized without any curvature in structure 1406.
- wall 1410 may be a substantially vertical wall, such that it is parallel with a vertical plane and perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
- vertical wall may be about 90 degrees from the horizontal axis.
- outer perimeter 1408 may be the outer-most perimeter of top portion 1402.
- wall 1410 may be about 2 centimetres in length along the vertical axis.
- vertical wall 1410 may be about 1 degree to about 10 degrees from the vertical axis.
- wall 1410 may be less than 45 degrees from the vertical axis and surface 1406 may curve to about 1 degree to about 44 degrees from the horizontal axis.
- wall 1410 is shown as a solid and uniform structure, those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that there is no requirement that wall 1410 be so.
- lower edge 1412 of wall 1410 may be jagged, curved, irregular and combinations thereof.
- portions of perimeter 1408 may be devoid of corresponding portions of vertical wall 1410.
- Top portion 1402 may further include spikes 1414 or other structures for applying force and/or penetrating a plurality of fibres, such when used in combination with a bottom portion, such as 1502 of Figure 15 , which will be discussed below.
- spikes 1414 may be shaped and/or sized to assist securing fibres between top portion 1402 and a bottom portion.
- Figure 15 shows an exemplary bottom portion 1502 that may be used in conjunction with top portion 1402.
- Bottom portion 1502 may comprise a central upward-extending protrusion 1503 configured to be received by top portion 1402.
- protrusion 1503 may include or more retaining structures, such as retaining structure 1504 for securing bottom portion 1502 to top portion 1402.
- Bottom portion 1502 may also comprise one or more structures, such as structures 1506 for applying force upon and/or penetrating a plurality of fibres (see, e.g., structures 1506).
- the portion of mop fibres secured between the top and bottom portions 1402, 1502 may be substantially limited from rotational movement with respect to the horizontal plane.
- bottom portion 1502 may comprise a first surface, such as surface 1508.
- surface 1508 is positioned to be substantially planar with the horizontal plane when bottom portion 1502 is secured with top portion 1402.
- Surface 1508 defines an outer perimeter that is less than the outer-most perimeter of top portion 1402, such as outer perimeter 1408.
- surface 1508 may be substantially circular.
- the cross-sectional distance across (i.e. diameter) of surface 1508 may be about 1.5 centimetres (see element 1510).
- the cross-sectional distance (or diameter) of surface 1508 of bottom portion 1502 may be about 30 to about 40 percent of that across perimeter 1408 and/or the outer-most perimeter of the top portion 1402.
- the cross-sectional distance (or diameter) of surface 1508 of bottom portion 1502 may be about 37 to about 48 percent of that across perimeter 1408 and/or the outer-most perimeter of the top portion 1402.
- top and bottom portions 1402, 1502 may be configured such that upon being secured together with mop fibres between them, wall 1410 may be positioned to force mop fibres to be about parallel with the vertical plane (i.e., along with y-axis). In another embodiment, wall 1410 may be positioned to force mop fibres to be at least 45 degrees from the horizontal plane. In another embodiment, wall 1410 may be positioned to force the plurality of mop fibres at least 65 degrees from the horizontal plane. In yet a further embodiment, wall 1410 may be positioned to force mop fibres at least 75 degrees from the horizontal plane.
- the size and/or proportion of sizes of the top portion 1402 and bottom portion 1502 may provide improved aspects over various previously-known systems and methods.
- the size and/or proportion of the top or bottom portion 1402, 1502 may allow for one or more of the following exemplary improvements: better alignment of individual mop fibres in a vertical orientation, reduction of a fibre twisting on itself, increased turning of the fibre in a rotational manner around the axis of the elongate member 12 during usage of the mop, and combinations thereof.
- FIG. 16A shows a perspective view of exemplary wringer 1602 in accordance with an embodiment of this disclosure.
- Wringer 1602 may comprise a unitary body having upper end 1604 and a lower end 1606 along a vertical axis (such as the y-axis).
- wringer 1602 may be about 25 to about 30 centimetres in length along the y-axis. In yet other embodiments, it may be about 28 to about 29 centimetres. In still yet further embodiments, wringer 1602 may be about 28.5 centimetres in length.
- central bore 1614 may be configured to permit passage of the elongate member 12 into the interior of wringer 1602. Therefore, in some embodiments, central bore 1614 may be substantially circular. In other embodiments, however, the size and shape of central bore 1614 may vary.
- upper end 1604 may be characterized by a circular or oval perimeter with respect to the horizontal axis. Therefore, in one embodiment, at least a portion of the upper end 1604 may be cylindrical. This is best seen by viewing the side view of wringer 1602 shown in Figure 16B and the top view shown in Figure 16C . For example, looking first to Figure 16B , perimeter 1610 is substantially circular with respect to the horizontal plane of Figure 16B , therefore is shown as a straight line. In the illustrated embodiment, perimeters 1616 and 1617 are also substantially cylindrical, therefore, the cross-sectional area of wringer 1602 between perimeter 1616 and perimeter 1617 of the illustrated example is substantially cylindrical.
- Portions of upper end 1604 may be more cylindrical than other portions.
- terminus 1606 may define a perimeter (i.e., perimeter 1608) that is more cylindrical than a perimeter on a location upper end 1604 that is more proximate to the lower end 1606 , such as perimeter 1617.
- the cross-sectional area of upper portion 1604 may become more conical or conic-cylindrical in shape as it approaches the lower end 1606.
- Figure 16C shows a bottom view of wringer 1602. As seen in Figure 16C , perimeters 1610, 1616 and 1617 are each shown as concentric circles in which 1610 is smaller than 1616 which in turn is smaller than 1617.
- upper end 1604 of wringer 1602 may form is substantially cylindrical, however, has a slight conical-cylindrical three-dimensional structure.
- portions of upper end 1604 may be devoid of a perimeter resembling a cylinder and/or an oval.
- the cross-sectional area or distance of wringer 1602 at various portions of upper end 1604 may be distinctly different from the cross-sectional area or distance of wringer 1602 at various portions of the lower end 1606.
- Upper end 1604 may be about 40% to about 60% of the entire length of wringer 1602. In other embodiments, upper end 1604 may be about 45% to about 55% or 47.5% to about 52.5% of the length of wringer 1602. In yet another embodiment, upper portion 1604 is about 50% of the length of wringer 1602. In further embodiments, upper portion 1604 may be about 12 to about 18 centimetres in length. In one embodiment, upper portion 1604 may be about 15 to about 16 centimetres in length. In certain embodiments, upper portion 1604 may be characterized in its absence of voids or protrusions for water removal during operation of the wringer 1602. Upper end 1604 may be defined by the lack of the voids as well as a cylindrical shape that is distinct from the lower portion 1606.
- embodiments of this disclosure are directed towards an upper portion of a wringer cup, such as upper end 1604 of wringer 1602, that is substantially totally devoid of any voids with the exception of bore 1614.
- upper end 1604 is devoid of any protrusions or voids for the drainage of water.
- Upper end 1604 may include one or more extrusions or elevated portions, such as structures 1618.
- Structures 1618 may be configured to be graspable by a user, for example, to manoeuvre the wringer during operation.
- extrusions 1618 may comprise one or more chevron-shaped patterns, such as shown in the figures.
- Lower end 1606 of wringer 1602 may include a terminus 1620 having a second outer perimeter (see, e.g., element1622).
- the second outer-perimeter 1622 may not be circular or oval. This may be true even in embodiments in which upper end 1604 is substantially cylindrical or conical-cylindrical and/or the first outer perimeter 1610 is substantially circular or oval.
- the second outer perimeter 1622 not being an oval or circular in certain embodiments, it may comprise one or more convex, concave, curvy and/or rounded components.
- the second outer perimeter 1622 encompasses a larger cross-sectional surface area than the first outer perimeter 1610. Further features of perimeter 1622 will be provided in more detail below.
- perimeter 1622 may include one or more features or qualities described in relation to ledge 1632 and vice-versa. It is to be understood, however, that in certain embodiments, ledge 1632 comprise perimeter 1622. Yet in other embodiments, ledge 1632 is absent from the wringer 1602.
- perimeter 1622 and/or ledge 1632 may be about 26.3 centimetres. In one embodiment, perimeter 1622 is about 2 times the length as perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and/or 1617. In one embodiment, perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and or 1617 may be about 50-60% of perimeter 1622. In another embodiment, perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and/or 1617 may be about 55% of perimeter 1622. In one embodiment, the difference in cross-sectional area between perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and/or 1617 in the upper end 1604 and perimeter 1622 in the lower end 1606 may be due to the presence of one or more convex or concave regions of the lower end 1606, such as those disclosed below.
- Lower end 1606 of wringer 1602 may include one or more convex regions 1624-1630.
- convex regions 1624-1630 may comprise columns. Therefore, regions 1624-1630 may be referred to as "columns" throughout this disclosure in reference to the embodiment shown in Figure 16 but the reader is advised that the disclosure is not so limited.
- Convex regions/columns 1624-1630 may be substantially vertical.
- columns 1624-1630 are implemented such that the length is substantially straight, non-curvy (i.e., there is no bending along the horizontal axis).
- columns 1624-1630 may be implemented as rounded components that may widen along the horizontal plane (see x-axis) as the distance from the upper end 1604 increases and the distance towards the lower second outer perimeter 1622 decreases. As shown best in Figure 16D , columns 1624-1630 may terminate at ledge 1632. In this regard, columns 1624-1630 may terminate proximate to the second outer perimeter 1622 at ledge portions 1632a-1632d, which may be oval and/or circular. In certain embodiments, ledge portions 1632a-1632d are circular convex for at least 90 degrees.
- ledge portions 1632a-1632d may be circular convex for at least 135 degrees, yet in other embodiments they may form half-circles and thus be about 180 degrees.
- certain embodiments of convex regions 1624-1630 may be implemented as cross-sectional splices of conical or conical-cylindrical structures.
- perimeter 1622 may comprise rounded component 1622a.
- a pair of rounded components may be positioned in an opposing manner, such as shown in Figure 16C .
- Outer perimeter 1622 may be substantially identical to ledge 1632, such that corresponding portions of perimeter 1622 have substantially the same shape as ledge 1632 or those described in relation to 1632.
- Convex regions/columns 1624-1630 may be positioned in an opposing manner, such as shown in Figure 16C .
- two pairs of rounded components are shown, each being about 90 degrees from each other with regard to the horizontal plane.
- the positioning of the four convex regions 1624-1630 may be such that a generally square shape is formed (See Figure 16D ).
- a lower portion of the convex regions is more square shaped than the upper portion of the convex regions.
- ledge 1632 may be generally square-shaped. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other shapes are within the scope of this disclosure.
- Specific embodiments are directed towards the implementation of convex regions that provide a wringer 1602 with a non-circular cross-sectional across a horizontal plane. Further implementations may utilize convex regions, including regions 1624-1630, such that the lower end 1606 of the wringer 1602 has an increased cross-sectional area when compared to the upper portion 1604. In certain embodiments, this may result in less pressure against the corresponding mop fibres. In further embodiments, mop fibres having less pressure against the wringer 1602 may permit the expansion of mop fibres when compared to inter-fibre proximity in the upper end 1604 of the wringer 1602. In certain embodiments, decreased inter-fibre proximity may results in the improved water drainage over prior art systems and methods. For example, perimeter 1622 may be substantially square shaped. Examples of improved drainage are also discussed in more detail in relation to Figure 17 .
- concave region 1634 may be formed by the presence of adjacent convex regions, such as regions 1624 and 1626.
- each of the concave regions 1634-1640 may be formed by the presence of adjacent convex regions, such as regions 1624-1630.
- regions 1624-1630 For example, the joining of convex regions 1624 and 1626 forms concave region 1634. Therefore, various locations on the surface may be part of a concave and a convex region.
- One or more concave regions may be substantially inverse to a convex region, such as 1624-1630.
- Concave regions 1634-1640 may be described in some embodiments as a plurality of inward extending ribs. As seen in Figures 16A-16D , each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom. The bottom may be the most-inner curvature of the concave regions 1634-1640. As explained in more detail below, concave regions 1634-1640 may be devoid of any drainage exits, therefore, in certain embodiments, the rib bottom and the rib sides may be substantially devoid of any perforations.
- convex regions 1624-1630 may be described in some embodiments as a plurality of outward extending ribs. As seen in Figures 16A-16D , each outward rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top. The top may be the outer-most curvature of the convex regions 1624-1630. As explained in more detail below, convex regions 1624-1630 may comprise drainage exits, therefore, in certain embodiments, the rib top and the rib sides may comprise perforations. In certain embodiments, only the outer-most curvature of the convex regions 1624-1630 comprises perforations.
- Adjacent convex regions 1624-1630 and concave regions 1634-1640 may share a common side.
- a first side of a rib of a concave region may be a first or second side of a rib for a convex region.
- the concavity of a concave region may be equal to the convexity of an opposing and/or adjacent convex region 1624-1630.
- one or more concave regions 1634-1640 may be unrelated to the shape and/or curvature of one or more convex regions 1624-1630.
- Concave regions 1634-1640 may widen along the horizontal plane (see x-axis) as the distance from the upper end 1604 increases and the distance towards the lower second outer perimeter 1622 decreases. As shown best in Figure 16D , columns 1634-1640 may terminate at ledge 1632.
- convex regions 1624-1630 and concave regions 1634-1640 may provide improved drainage characteristics of over prior designs.
- the cross sectional area across the horizontal plane (along the x-axis) in lower end 1606 of wringer 1602 may resemble an "X".
- the cross-sectional diameter of the lower end 1606 proximate to perimeter may be at least twice that of the corresponding cross-sectional diameter of the lower end 1606 proximate to the upper end 1604 of the wringer 1602.
- cross-sectional diameter of the lower end 1606 proximate to perimeter may about 200% of the corresponding cross-sectional diameter of the lower end 1606 proximate to the upper end 1604 of the wringer 1602.
- the wringer's 1602 circumference at a location of lower end 1606 that is immediately adjacent to the upper end 1604 may be substantially circular or oval and have a perimeter about 14 to about 15 centimetres and the location of the lower end 1606 immediately adjacent to perimeter 1622 may be non-circular or oval and have a perimeter of about 26 to about 27 centimetres.
- each of the concave regions 1634-1640 are substantially devoid of any drainage exits or ports, such as exits 1631.
- One or more convex regions 1624-1630 may comprise drainage exits, such as plurality of exits 1631.
- drainage exits 1631 may be positioned substantially along the length of convex regions 1624-1630. (For simplicity, exits 1631 are not each individually labelled, however, it is apparent from the Figures that the unmarked exits may form part of exits 1631).
- each of the regions 1624-1630 may comprise one or more exits, such as exits 1631.
- plurality of exits 1631 may be positioned along at least 75% of the vertical length (parallel to the elongate member 12 of Figures 1-4 of the convex region(s) 1624-1630. Yet in other embodiments, plurality of exits may be at least along 80%, 85%, 90% or 95% of the vertical length of the convex region 1624-1630. In one embodiment, there may be 8 to 10 vertically arranged exits 1631 positioned along the length of each region 1624-1630. In one embodiment, there are 9 exits 1631 per region 1624-1630.
- Positioning and/or placement of drainage exits 1631 may be configured to provide improved drainage over existing designs. For example, as an outer portion of mop fibres contact the inner perimeter of convex regions 1624-1630 of the lower end 1606, exits 1631 may permit improved drainage capabilities. In this regard, draining exits 1631 may only be provided on an outer most surface of the convex regions 1624-1630. In one embodiment, only one exit is provided on any given horizontal plane for each column or convex region 1624-1630. For example, looking to Figures 16A-16D , exits 1631 are provided as lateral slits having horizontal lengths that are greater than their vertical height.
- Upper most exits 1631a of region 1624 may be about 0.5 centimetres in height and about 2 centimetres in length. In another embodiment, exit 1631a may be about 0.5 to about 0.7 centimetres in height and about 2.0 to about 2.2 centimetres in length. Having exits with a length greater than the height may be advantageous, either alone or in combination with other elements of this disclosure. In one embodiment, exit 1631a and/or any of plurality of exits 1631 may have a height that is about 25-30% of its length. In yet other embodiments, exit 1631a and/or any of plurality of exits 1631 may have a height that is about 28.5% of its length. Exit 1631a may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions, such as region 1634. This parameter is shown in Figure 16A as 1642.
- plurality of exits 1631 may each have the same general shape, such as shown in the Figures. This, however, is not a requirement. Further, different exits with the plurality of exits 1631 may have different dimensions relative to the dimensions of the convex regions 1624-1630. In one embodiment, as convex regions 1624-1630 expand away from the centre of the wringer 1602 dimensions of the corresponding exits may also change at a predictable rate.
- exit 1631 b may be about 0.7 to about 0.9 centimetres in height and about 2.0 to about 2.2 centimetres in length. In one embodiment, exit 1631 b may be about 0.8 centimetres in height and about 2.1 centimetres in length.
- exit 1631b and/or any of plurality of exits 1631 may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length. In other embodiments, exit 1631 b and/or any other plurality of exits 1631 may have a height that is about 38% of its length. Exit 1631 b may be at least about 2 centimetres away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions, such as region 1634. This parameter is shown in Figure 16A as 1644.
- aspects of the invention relate to a cleaning implement that permits a plurality of mop fibres to be retracted up through the bottom, such as by perimeter 1622, and in a vertical direction towards the upper end 1604 of wringer 1602.
- mop fibres which may be connected to a connection assembly similar or identical to the connection assembly of Figure 14 may be retracted along direction 1702 up into an interior of wringer 1602.
- the fibres may be water-absorbing non-woven fibrous material.
- the fibres may be strips that are around 18 or 19 inches (45.72 or 48.26 centimetres) long and about 0.15 inch (3.81 millimetres) thick in its non-compressed state. Other materials and dimensions may also be used.
- the plurality of fibres may be retracted in a vertical manner such that individual fibres will have an upper portion located at least above the upper most exit, such as 1631 a.
- at least a portion of the mop fibres may be above imaginary line 1704 when fully retracted in wringer 1602.
- a vertical wall, such as wall 1410 may be utilized, either alone or in conjunction with the upper end 1604 of wringer to position at least an outer portion of fibres located above imaginary line 1704 to be in a substantially vertical orientation.
- an outer portion of mop fibres located in the upper end 1604 of wringer are configured to be in a substantially vertical orientation when the fibres are fully retracted into the wringer 1602.
- the upper portion of fibres will travel in a downward vertical manner towards an intermediate portion, which may be located below the upper most exit, such as exit 1631 a but above the lower most exit, such as exit 1631b.
- intermediate portions of the mop fibres will be proximate to imaginary line 1706.
- a lower portion of the same fibres may be proximate but vertically lower than the intermediate portion.
- the lower portions of the fibres may be proximate to or below the lowest-most exit, such as exit 1631b.
- lower portions of the fibres may be proximate, but vertically lower than, imaginary line 1708.
- wringer may be configured to rotate about a central axis, such as an elongate member, such as elongate member 12 of Figures 1-4 provided through bore 1614 (shown in Figure 16A ) located on the upper end 1604 of wringer 1602.
- arrows 1710 show that wringer 1602 may be rotated in either horizontal direction along the vertical axis.
- the vertical positioning of the mop fibres, either as a result of the connection assembly and/or the shape or size of the wringer 1602 may result in improved drainage.
- rotating the mop along one of directions 1710 may result in only a portion of the mop fibres to be "wrung.”
- the upper portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate to location 1704 or above exit 1631 a) will begin to twist before the intermediate portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate to location 1706).
- intermediate portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate to location 1706) may begin to twist before the lower portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate to location 1708 or exit 1631b).
- the upper portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate or above location 1704 may be twisted to remove fluids within fibres.
- intermediate and/or lower portions of the fibres may be located against an interior side of the convex regions 1624-1630.
- certain embodiments permit the flow of fluids from the upper portion of mop fibres down into the intermediate and/or lower portion of the fibres and out exits 1631. Fluids may also exit through the opening created by perimeter 1622.
- the twisting force upon the upper portion mop fibres will increase and may result in twisting of the intermediate portion of the fibres.
- the intermediate fibres are also twisted along direction 1710 may result in removal of fluids from the twisted intermediate portions of the fibres, which may travel down to lower fibres in the intermediate portion and/or to the lower portion of mop fibres.
- Positioning of the concave regions 1634-1640 may provide a rigid surface resulting in compression forces upon the fibres as they are twisted. Fluid may continue to be removed through lower-positioned exits, such as exit 1631 b and/or the bottom. As mop fibres are twisted, the shape and/or size of the wringer 1602, alone or in combination, with the vertical alignment of the fibres resulting from a vertical wall on a connection assembly, may result in the fibres twisting around the vertical axis and away from the convex regions 1624-1630.
- the cleaning implement may further be configured such that application of further twisting forces are transferred downward resulting in twisting of a lower intermediate portion of the fibres.
- further compression forces may result in a second compression force upon the fibres.
- the upper portion of fibres must be twisted at least 25% of a full revolution before the twisting of the intermediate fibres.
- the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the intermediate fibres will rotate more than 10% of the revolution.
- the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the intermediate fibres will rotate more than 20% of the revolution.
- the lower portion fibres are also twisted along direction 1710, resulting in the removal of fluids from the twisted lower portions of the fibres.
- This fluid may travel down to lower fibres in the lower portion and/or out the bottom of the wringer 1602. Fluid may continue to be removed through lower-positioned exits, such as exit 1631 b and/or the bottom.
- the wringer is configured such that convex regions, such as regions 1624-1630 expand outward away from the vertical axis at a larger rate than concave regions, such as regions 1634-1640.
- convex regions such as regions 1624-1630 expand outward away from the vertical axis at a larger rate than concave regions, such as regions 1634-1640.
- This may be useful for example, when the upper portion of fibres are being twisted prior to the lower portion of mop fibres.
- the concave regions 1624-1630 have more cross-sectional area closer to the bottom (i.e., proximate to perimeter 1622), the lower fibres are less compressed than the upper portion of fibres. This may result in an increased water holding capacity of the lower portion of fibres.
- fluids may also be transferred to lower positioned portions of the fibres as the top portion is twisted. Unlike some prior art methods, these lower positioned fibres are not yet twisted (or at least at the same rate), therefore, increased fluid drainage from the upper portion may be realized.
- the fibres that are positioned within the cross-sectional area of the concave portions 1624-1630, however, may then be later wrung as the downward-spiralling twisting forces pull them towards the centre of the interior.
- the upper portion of fibres must be twisted at least 25% of a full revolution before the twisting of the lower portion of fibres. In another embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the lower fibres will rotate more than 10% of the revolution. In one embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the lower fibres will rotate more than 20% of the revolution.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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- Cleaning Implements For Floors, Carpets, Furniture, Walls, And The Like (AREA)
- Sink And Installation For Waste Water (AREA)
- Cleaning In General (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- One type of mop that has found commercial success is in the marketplace is a mop having an attached wringer cup, like the one disclosed in
U.S. Patent No. 5,060,338 . Other examples may be found inU.S. Patent Nos. 1,709,622 ;3,364,512 ;3,946,457 ; and4,809,287 ; and German published patent Application No.DE 3607121 A1 . - The wringer cups used on these kinds of mops often have grooves or ribs on the inside. When the cone-shaped wringer cup is pushed down over the mop fibres, the ribs help to squeeze water out of the mop fibres. The wringing is not always completely effective, however. Some of the water that has been squeezed out of the mop fibres can sometimes re-enter the fibres before draining completely out of the wringer cup. Certain existing wringers and/or connection assemblies allow the mop fibres to be come tangled or twisted in locations below other areas that are still retaining fluids, thereby preventing proper drainage of fluids. Other systems also may not properly orient the fibres to permit proper draining characteristics.
- What is needed, therefore, are improved systems and methods that improve upon conventional devices and processes, including one or more of the above-referenced limitations.
- The following presents a general summary of aspects of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of the invention and various features of it. This summary is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but it simply provides a general overview and context for the more detailed description that follows.
- Aspects of this disclosure relate to an innovative wringer cup. In an embodiment the wringer cup has holes in it that may permit water to drain out of the wringer cup more quickly and effectively so as to help prevent re-absorption. In an embodiment the wringer cup includes inwardly directed ribs and the ribs include perforations to enhance the draining of water from the mop fibres.
- In one embodiment, wringer cup may comprise a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end. The upper end may have a terminus having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of by unitary body. In certain embodiments, the lower end may have a terminus having a second outer perimeter. In some embodiments, the second outer-perimeter may not be either circular or oval. The second outer perimeter may also be larger than the first outer perimeter.
- The unitary body, such as on the lower end, may include inward extending ribs. Each of the ribs may have a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom. The inward-extending ribs may be devoid of any perforations. The unitary body may also have outward-extending ribs, such as located on the lower end. The outward-extending ribs may include a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top. In certain embodiments, the rib sides of the outward extending ribs may be devoid of perforations. In some embodiments, the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations.
- The plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer. In other embodiments, an upper end of the wringer may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and a lower end is conical but not cylindrical. The lower end may further include convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions. The lower end may further have drainage exits located on each concave region. The drainage exits may be located on a pinnacle location of the convex regions most distant from the inner most portion of the concave regions. In certain embodiments, no more than a single drainage exit is provided on any given horizontal plane of each convex region.
- Drainage exits may be vertically arranged in a parallel fashion along the vertical axis (i.e., height) of convex regions. In one embodiment, at least one drainage exit has a height that is about 25-30% of its length. The drainage exit may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions. Another drainage exit may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length and is at least about 2 centimetres away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions.
- The winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are fully retracted into the inner portion of wringer, an upper portion of the fibres may be located at least above the upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis defined by the central bore A first compression force may cause an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate handle before corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit. Fibres in the intermediate portion may remain extended into an interior region of the convex regions, thereby resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer. At least a fraction of the fibres proximate to the an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first force, thereby permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits.
- An increase in twisting forces may result in a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, thereby resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres. For example, fibres in the intermediate section will twist around the central axis and away from the convex regions in a downward progression.
- Further aspects relate to a cleaning implement comprising an elongate member having a first end and a second end. The cleaning implement may include a wringer configured to be slidably positioned along at least a portion of the elongate member. A connection assembly may be configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and secure a plurality of mop fibres. The connection assembly may include a top portion having a first surface defining a first outer perimeter along a horizontal plane and a downward-extending vertical wall extending parallel with the elongate member, the wall being proximate to the outer perimeter of the first planar surface. The connection assembly may further include a bottom portion. The bottom portion may have a second planar surface defining a second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane that is larger than the second outer perimeter. In certain embodiments, securement of mop fibres between the first and the second planar surfaces, the vertical wall of the top portion is configured to force the plurality of mop fibres to traverse from radiating along the horizontal plane towards a downward vertical direction.
- Further aspects relate to connector assemblies for the mop fibres. In an embodiment the connector assembly may be configured to allow for easier assembly of the mop fibres to a mop elongate member.
- In accordance with one aspect of the invention there is provided a wringer comprising: a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a terminus having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of by unitary body; the lower end comprising: a terminus having a second outer perimeter; wherein the second outer-perimeter is not circular or oval; and wherein the second outer perimeter is larger than the first outer perimeter.
- The lower end may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations. The lower end may further comprise a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations.
- The central bore may be configured to permit a elongate member having a first end extend through the inner portion of the wringer; and wherein upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, the an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above the upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis between the central bore and a center of the perimeter of the bottom and under a first compression force against the wringer.
- The wringer may be configured such that retracting the elongate member fully into the inner portion upon rotation of the wringer around the central axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate handle before corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of the convex regions, thereby resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to the an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first force, thereby permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits.
- An increase in twisting forces may result in a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, thereby resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres; and wherein the fibres in the intermediate section will twist around the central axis and away from the convex regions in a downward progression.
- The plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer; wherein the square-like shape has a perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end.
- The upper end may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and the lower end may be conical but not cylindrical and the lower end may further comprise a plurality of convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions; and drainage exits located on each concave region, wherein the drainage exits may be located on a pinnacle location of the convex regions most distant from the inner most portion of the concave regions.
- For each convex region, no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane. The drainage exits may be vertically arranged along in a parallel fashion along each of convex regions.
- At least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 25-30% of its length and may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions, and at least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length and may be at least about 2 centimetres away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions.
- According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a cleaning implement comprising an elongate member having a first end and a second end; a wringer configured to be slidably positioned along at least a portion of the elongate member; a connection assembly configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and secure a plurality of mop fibres to an elongate member, the connection assembly comprising: a top portion comprising: a first surface defining a first outer perimeter along a horizontal plane; and a downward-extending vertical wall extending parallel with the elongate member and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the wall being proximate to the outer perimeter of the first planar surface; a bottom portion comprising: a second planar surface defining a second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane, wherein first outer perimeter is larger than the second outer perimeter; and wherein upon securement of mop fibres between the first and the second planar surfaces, the vertical wall of the top portion is configured to force the plurality of mop fibres to traverse from radiating along the horizontal plane towards a downward vertical direction.
- The cleaning implement may further comprise an insert configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and including a tab with an outer portion that extends in a direction away from and transverse to the elongate member when mounted on the elongate member; and a collar configured to frictionally engage the outer portion of the tab.
- The wringer may comprise a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a terminus having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of by unitary body; the lower end comprising: a terminus having a second outer perimeter; wherein the second outer-perimeter is not circular or oval; and wherein the second outer perimeter is larger than the first outer perimeter.
- The lower end may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations; a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations; and wherein at least one inward extending rib shares a common side with an outward rib.
- The central bore of the wringer may be configured to permit a elongate member having a first end extend through the inner portion of the wringer; and wherein upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above the upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis between the central bore and a centre of the perimeter of the bottom and under a first compression force against the wringer.
- The wringer may be configured such that retracting the elongate member fully into the inner portion upon rotation of the wringer around the central axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate handle before corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of the convex regions, thereby resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to the an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first force, thereby permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits
- The plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer; and wherein the square-like shape has a perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end.
- The upper end may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and the lower end may be conical but not cylindrical and the lower end may further comprise a plurality of convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions; and drainage exits located on each concave region, wherein the drainage exits may be located on a pinnacle location of the convex regions most distant from the inner most portion of the concave regions. For each convex region, no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane.
- According to yet a further aspect of the invention there may be provided a wringer comprising: a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end along a vertical axis; the upper end comprising a conical or frusto-conical shape and further comprising a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of an elongate member into an inner portion of the unitary body; the lower end comprising: a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations; the plurality of outward-extending ribs further define a first outer perimeter enclosing an X-shaped cross sectional area across a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the vertical axis; a terminus defining a second outer perimeter defining a square-like second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the lower end of the wringer; and wherein the second outer perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end.
- The square-like second outer perimeter of the lower end's terminus may comprise a plurality of concave regions and plurality of convex regions. The square-like second outer perimeter of the lower end's terminus may comprise two pairs of opposing convex regions and two pairs of opposing concave regions.
- Upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above an upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to the vertical axis under a first compression force against the wringer.
- The wringer may be configured such that retracting an elongate member fully into the inner portion of the wringer and upon rotation of the wringer around the vertical axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the upper portion of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate member before twisting of corresponding sections of the same mop fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and before twisting of corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein, before rotation of the wringer, fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of convex regions formed in the wringer, resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first compression force, permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits.
- The wringer may be further configured such that an increase in twisting forces results in a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres; and wherein the fibres in the intermediate section will twist around the vertical axis and away from the convex regions in a downward progression.
- The wringer may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs that each share a common side with an outward extending rib; and each inward rib may comprise a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations.
- For each outward extending rib, no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane.
- The drainage exits may be vertically arranged along in a parallel fashion along each outward extending rib.
- At least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 25-30% of its length and may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of the bottom of an adjacent inward extending rib, and at least one drainage exit may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length and may be at least about 2 centimetres away from the bottom of an adjacent inward extending rib.
- According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a cleaning implement comprising: an elongate member having a first end and a second end along a vertical axis; a wringer configured to be slidably positioned along at least a portion of the elongate member; a connection assembly configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and secure a plurality of mop fibres to an elongate member, the connection assembly comprising: a top portion comprising: a first surface defining a first outer perimeter along a horizontal plane; and a downward-extending vertical wall extending parallel with the elongate member and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the wall being proximate to the first outer perimeter of the first surface; a bottom portion comprising: a second surface defining a second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane, wherein first outer perimeter is larger than the second outer perimeter; and wherein upon securement of mop fibres between the first and the second surfaces, the vertical wall of the top portion is configured to force the plurality of mop fibres to traverse from radiating along the horizontal plane to a downward vertical direction to provide increased turning of the fibre in a rotational manner around the vertical axis and reduce twisting of the mop fibres upon themselves when using the wringer.
- The cleaning implement may further comprise an insert configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and including a tab with an outer portion that extends in a direction away from and transverse to the elongate member when mounted on the elongate member; and a collar configured to frictionally engage the outer portion of the tab.
- The wringer may comprise a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a top having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of the unitary body; the lower end comprising: a plurality of outward-extending ribs that define a first outer perimeter of the lower end enclosing an X-shaped cross sectional area across a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the vertical axis; and a terminus defining a second outer perimeter defining a square-like second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the lower end of the wringer; and wherein the second outer perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end and comprises concave and convex regions.
- The lower end may further comprise a plurality of inward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations; a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib tops each comprise a plurality of perforations; and wherein at least one inward extending rib shares a common side with an outward rib.
- The central bore of the wringer may be configured to permit the elongate member extend through the inner portion of the wringer; and wherein upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger may be configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above an upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis between the central bore and a centre of the perimeter of the bottom of the wringer and under a first compression force against the wringer.
- The wringer may be configured such that retracting the elongate member fully into the inner portion of the wringer and upon rotation of the wringer around the central axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate member before twisting of corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and before twisting of corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit; wherein fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of the convex regions formed in the wringer, resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first compression force, permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits
- The plurality of outer ribs may define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer; and wherein the square-like shape has a perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end.
- The upper end may be substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and the lower end is conical but not cylindrical and the lower end may further comprise: a plurality of convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions; and drainage exits located on each concave region, wherein the drainage exits are only located on a pinnacle location which is defined by the most distant area of the convex regions from the inner most portion of the concave regions.
- For each convex region, no more than a single drainage exit may be provided on any given horizontal plane.
- According to yet a further aspect of the invention there is provided a wringer comprising: a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising: a first outer perimeter and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of an elongate member into an inner portion of the unitary body and wherein the first outer perimeter lies in a plane that is substantially orthogonal to the elongated member; the lower end comprising: a plurality of parallel extending ribs; a second outer perimeter and a third outer perimeter and wherein the second outer perimeter extends between the first outer perimeter and the third outer perimeter and the second outer perimeter and the third outer perimeter are both orthogonal to the elongated member; wherein the first outer perimeter, the second outer perimeter, and the third outer perimeter each have a different shape; and wherein the second outer perimeter is larger than the first outer perimeter and the third outer perimeter is larger than the second outer perimeter.
- Each rib may comprise a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, and wherein the rib top comprises a plurality of perforations.
- The invention also relates to a wringer for use with a cleaning implement in accordance with any statement herein.
- A more complete understanding of the present invention and certain advantages thereof may be acquired by referring to the following detailed description in consideration with the accompanying drawings, in which:
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Figure 1 is a perspective view of a wringer mop in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 2 is an enlarged side elevational view of the handgrip depicted inFigure 1 ; -
Figure 3 is an enlarged side elevational view of the wringer cup depicted inFigure 1 ; -
Figure 4 is a rotated side view of the wringer cup depicted inFigure 3 ; -
Figure 5 is an enlarged side elevational view of a second embodiment of the wringer cup; -
Figure 6 is a rotated side view of the wringer cup depicted inFigure 5 ; -
Figure 7 is an exploded side view of an embodiment of a connector assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the invention; -
Figure 8 is an assembled cross-sectional view of the connector assembly depicted inFigure 7 ; -
Figure 9 is a sectional view taken along the line 9-9 inFigure 7 ; -
Figure 10 is a sectional view taken along the line 10-10 inFigure 7 ; -
Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 11-11 inFigure 7 ; -
Figure 12 is a sectional view taken along the line 12-12 inFigure 8 ; -
Figure 13 is an enlarged side elevational view of a third embodiment of the wringer cup; -
Figure 14 shows an illustrative top portion of a connection assembly in accordance with one embodiment. Specifically,Figure 14A shows a top view of the exemplary top portion andFigure 14B shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the illustrative top portion of one possible connection assembly; -
Figure 15 depicts an exemplary bottom portion of a connection assembly in accordance with one embodiment; -
Figure 16 shows an illustrative wringer in accordance with one embodiment. - Specifically,
Figure 16A shows a perspective view,Figure 16B shows a side view, -
Figure 16C shows a bottom view andFigure 16D shows a top view of the illustrated wringer; and -
Figure 17 shows a side view of an illustrative wringer in accordance with one embodiment. - In the following description of various example structures in accordance with the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example cleaning implements, wringers, and connection assemblies in accordance with the invention. Additionally, it is to be understood that other specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, while the terms "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "rear," "right," "left," and the like may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements of the invention, these terms are used herein as a matter of convenience, e.g., based on the example orientations shown in the figures and/or the orientations in typical use.
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Figures 1- 4 show one embodiment of anillustrative mop 10 in accordance with one embodiment of this disclosure. The illustrated mop may include anelongate member 12, a set ofmop elements 14 on anend 16 of theelongate member 12, and awringer cup 18. To fasten themop elements 14 to theend 16 ofelongate member 12, aconnector assembly 50 is provided. - It is conventionally known that the elongate member for such mops can be a lightweight metal tube, however, any rigid structure, including wood and or plastic may be employed. The illustrated elongate member includes an
optional hand grip 20, discussed below. - The
mop elements 14 that are illustrated take the form of flat strips. It is conventionally known that such strips can be made from (for example) water-absorbing non-woven fibrous material that is around 18 or 19 inches (45.72 or 48.26 centimetres) long and about 0.15 inch (3.81 millimetres) thick in its non-compressed state. Other materials could also be used. - As seen in
Figures 3 and 4 , the illustratedwringer cup 18 may be disposed on theelongate member 12 above themop elements 14, and has anouter wall 23 that tapers outwardly toward alower end 25. The precise shape and arrangement of the wringer cup may not be important to various embodiments of the invention, however, is important to other embodiments disclosed herein. It is conventionally known that wringer cups used on such mops are preferably slidably mounted on the elongate member, such asmember 12, and may take the form of a tubular shell that can be moulded in one piece from a polymeric material such as polypropylene. It is also conventionally known that such wringer cups may includeribs 27 that help to squeeze liquid from the mop fibres during wringing. - The
optional hand grip 20 that has been illustrated inFigure 2 is mounted on theelongate member 12, above themop elements 14. The hand grip is arranged to hold thewringer cup 18 above the mop elements fibres when the mop is being used. This position is illustrated inFigure 1 , in which anupper portion 29 of the wringer cup (seen inFigure 3 ) fits within alower part 31 of the handgrip. - The
mop elements 14, which may also be referred to collectively as a mop head, tend to be highly absorbent so as to enable themop 10 to pick up spills. This absorbency means, however, that when removing the water from themop elements 14 the water in the vicinity of themop elements 14 tends to be re-absorbed. Theperforations 35 in thewringer cup 18 help allow the water being squeezed from themop elements 14 to be transported away so as to reduce re-absorption. As discussed below, however, various embodiments have differentsized perforations 35. Further embodiments are directed towards the location and dimensions ofperforations 35 and/or other exits for fluids. - Embodiments of
mop 10 may differ from previously known mops with wringer cups in theperforations wringer cup 18. As best seen inFigures 1 ,3 ,5 and13 , the illustrated perforations are disposed near thelower end 25 of the wringer cup. As seen inFigures 1 and3 , the illustrated perforations preferably have a width that is no more than about one-third the diameter of theelongate member 12, and are less than the width of the flat strips that form themop elements 14 on the end of the elongate member. - While the
perforations 35 are helpful, additional pathways for removing the water would be useful in certain embodiments. As seen inFigures 1 ,3 and5 , theribs 27 may include a plurality ofperforations 38, such as arranged in a linear manner. However, theperforations 38 are preferably located to aside 27a rather then on acentre 27b of theribs 27 so as to not interfere with the compressing of themop element 14 by theribs 27 in effecting removal of water. As apparent fromFigures 3 ,5 and13 , thewringer cup 18 includes afirst end 18a and asecond end 18b. As can be appreciated, the size of theperforations second end 18b of thewringer cup 18. This is useful for permitting more water to be squeezed out near thesecond end 18b than thefirst end 18a of thewringer cup 18. In other embodiments, different configurations and size patterns, such as alternating smaller and larger, of perforations may be used. -
Figure 6 illustrates a side view of the wringer cup depicted inFigure 5 . It should be noted that because of the angle, theperforations 38 in theribs 27 are not visible. In an embodiment, one or two of theribs 27 may include theperforations 38. In another embodiment all of the ribs include the perforations on one or both of the sides of theribs 27 and the perforations are aligned between ribs. - Turning to
Figures 7-12 , features of an embodiment of theconnector assembly 50 are illustrated. Looking atFigure 7 , theconnector assembly 50 includes acollar 60 configured to be installed over aninsert 70. Theinsert 70 includes atubular end 71 that is positioned within theelongate member 12. Theinsert 70 further includes a plurality oftabs 72 on theside walls 73 of theinsert 70. Theinsert 70 supports theinner member 80, and the plurality oftabs 72 engage a plurality ofdepressions 82 on theinner member 80. In turn, theinner member 80 is configured to engage theouter member 90 so as to hold themop element 14 in place. In an embodiment, theouter member 90 is inserted into theinner member 80 and thecatch 91 holds theouter member 90 in place. -
Figure 9-11 illustrate various views of theinsert 70. As can be appreciated from these figures, the plurality oftabs 72 include anouter portion 74 and aninner portion 76. Theinner portion 76 is configured to engage thedepressions 82 on theinner member 80. - The
outer portions 74 each are of a size and shape suitable to provide a friction point for thecollar 60 as thecollar 60 is slidably installed over theinsert 70 to secure the engagement of thetabs 72 with respect to theinner member 80. -
Figure 8 illustrates the components of an embodiment of theconnector 50 in the installed position. As depicted, theouter member 90 is inserted into theinner member 80 and together the inner andouter members mop element 14. Theinner member 80 is held in position by theinsert 70 and thecollar 60 is positioned around theinsert 70. As depicted, thecollar 60 includes thechamfer wall 62 that connects the flarededge 64 to thechamfer end 66. The interior surface of thechamfer wall 62 is generally circular in cross-section to allow the collar to be slid over theinsert 70 in essentially any rotational orientation. While thechamfer end 66 is not required, it helps the collar be placed in the installed position (as shown) more readily. - When the
wringer cup 18 is pulled down over themop elements 14, some of the water is forced out of themop elements 14. To squeeze out more water, thewringer cup 18 may be rotated. As can be appreciated, however, rotating thewringer cup 18 is more effective if themop elements 14 are held in a fixed position relative to the mopelongate member 12. Themop elements 14 are fixed to theelongate member 12 by theinsert 70. When theinsert 70 is installed, the friction force between thetubular end 71 and theelongate member 12 helps to prevent theinsert 70 from moving. - As noted above, the inner and
outer members insert 70. Looking atFigure 12 , while thetabs 72 help hold the inner and outer members in place, to resist the twisting force, the inner andouter members insert 70 so as to prevent rotation. - While the four sided arrangement is useful, configuring the
collar 60 in such a corresponding configuration makes the assembly of theconnector 50 more complex. Therefore, it is useful to allow thecollar 60 to be installed without concern regarding its rotational orientation. To provide this functionality, in an embodiment, thetabs 72 include theouter portion 74 that extend outward. In an embodiment, as depicted inFigure 12 , theouter portion 74 of the fourtabs 72 provide a circular like profile that provides a suitable frictional engagement of thecollar 60. - Some of the above examples of a connection assembly show illustrative top portions (for example, inner member 80) and bottom portions (for example, outer member 90) in accordance with various embodiments. As discussed above, the connection assemblies may be configured to retain a plurality of fibres between them.
Figure 14 shows another illustrative example of a top portion (top portion 1402) in accordance with one embodiment of this disclosure. Specifically,Figure 14A shows a top view of exemplarytop portion 1402 andFigure 14B shows a cross-sectional perspective view of thetop portion 1402. Looking first toFigure 14A ,top portion 1402 may comprise one or more structures, such asstructure 1404 configured for attachment to an elongate member, such aselongate member 12 shown inFigures 1-4 . The connection oftop portion 1402 to anelongate member 12 may be direct or indirect and/or include one or more structural components positioned betweentop potion 1402 and elongatemember 12. -
Top portion 1402 further comprisesfirst surface 1406 that is shown as radiating away from the centre. As shown inFIGS 14A and14B ,first surface 1406 radiates away from a centre in a uniform manner to form a circular cross-sectional area.First surface 1406 may further define a firstouter perimeter 1408 on a horizontal plane. Because the illustrativeouter perimeter 1408 is circular, the diameter of the area withinperimeter 1408 may be determined by the diameter ofperimeter 1408. In one embodiment,outer perimeter 1408 may have a diameter of about 4 centimetres. Other dimensions, however, are not outside the scope of this disclosure. - Although
perimeter 1408 is shown along a horizontal plane, the surface ofstructure 1406 is not required to be planar with respect to the horizontal plane. For example, as best seen inFigure 14B ,surface 1406 may travel along a vertical direction, such as by curving in a downward manner along the y-axis. As further shown inFigure 14B ,top portion 1402 may include a downward-extending vertical wall, such aswall 1410, proximate to theouter perimeter 1408 of thefirst surface 1406. In the illustrative embodiment, the vertically downward-extendingwall 1410 may be an extension ofsurface 1406. In certain embodiments, presence of downward curves instructure 1406 in conjunction withwall 1410 may permit a larger quantity of fibres to be secured between thetop portion 1402 and a bottom portion (see, e.g. 1502 ofFigure 15 ) than ifwall 1410 was utilized without any curvature instructure 1406. - In certain embodiments,
wall 1410 may be a substantially vertical wall, such that it is parallel with a vertical plane and perpendicular to the horizontal plane. Thus, vertical wall may be about 90 degrees from the horizontal axis. In such an embodiment,outer perimeter 1408 may be the outer-most perimeter oftop portion 1402. In one embodiment,wall 1410 may be about 2 centimetres in length along the vertical axis. In yet other embodiments,vertical wall 1410 may be about 1 degree to about 10 degrees from the vertical axis. In yet other embodiments,wall 1410 may be less than 45 degrees from the vertical axis andsurface 1406 may curve to about 1 degree to about 44 degrees from the horizontal axis. - Although
wall 1410 is shown as a solid and uniform structure, those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that there is no requirement thatwall 1410 be so. For example,lower edge 1412 ofwall 1410 may be jagged, curved, irregular and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, portions ofperimeter 1408 may be devoid of corresponding portions ofvertical wall 1410. -
Top portion 1402 may further includespikes 1414 or other structures for applying force and/or penetrating a plurality of fibres, such when used in combination with a bottom portion, such as 1502 ofFigure 15 , which will be discussed below. For examples,spikes 1414 may be shaped and/or sized to assist securing fibres betweentop portion 1402 and a bottom portion. -
Figure 15 shows anexemplary bottom portion 1502 that may be used in conjunction withtop portion 1402.Bottom portion 1502 may comprise a central upward-extending protrusion 1503 configured to be received bytop portion 1402. As shown inFigure 15 , protrusion 1503 may include or more retaining structures, such as retainingstructure 1504 for securingbottom portion 1502 totop portion 1402.Bottom portion 1502 may also comprise one or more structures, such asstructures 1506 for applying force upon and/or penetrating a plurality of fibres (see, e.g., structures 1506). The portion of mop fibres secured between the top andbottom portions - In one embodiment,
bottom portion 1502 may comprise a first surface, such assurface 1508. In one embodiment,surface 1508 is positioned to be substantially planar with the horizontal plane whenbottom portion 1502 is secured withtop portion 1402.Surface 1508 defines an outer perimeter that is less than the outer-most perimeter oftop portion 1402, such asouter perimeter 1408. In certain embodiments,surface 1508 may be substantially circular. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional distance across (i.e. diameter) ofsurface 1508 may be about 1.5 centimetres (see element 1510). In certain embodiments, the cross-sectional distance (or diameter) ofsurface 1508 ofbottom portion 1502 may be about 30 to about 40 percent of that acrossperimeter 1408 and/or the outer-most perimeter of thetop portion 1402. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional distance (or diameter) ofsurface 1508 ofbottom portion 1502 may be about 37 to about 48 percent of that acrossperimeter 1408 and/or the outer-most perimeter of thetop portion 1402. - In one embodiment, the top and
bottom portions wall 1410 may be positioned to force mop fibres to be about parallel with the vertical plane (i.e., along with y-axis). In another embodiment,wall 1410 may be positioned to force mop fibres to be at least 45 degrees from the horizontal plane. In another embodiment,wall 1410 may be positioned to force the plurality of mop fibres at least 65 degrees from the horizontal plane. In yet a further embodiment,wall 1410 may be positioned to force mop fibres at least 75 degrees from the horizontal plane. - In certain embodiments, the size and/or proportion of sizes of the
top portion 1402 andbottom portion 1502 may provide improved aspects over various previously-known systems and methods. In one embodiment, the size and/or proportion of the top orbottom portion elongate member 12 during usage of the mop, and combinations thereof. Those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will readily appreciate that these features are merely exemplary and that other improvements over various prior art devices are not excluded. - Further aspects relate to novel wringers as well as wringers having various novel features.
Figure 16A shows a perspective view ofexemplary wringer 1602 in accordance with an embodiment of this disclosure.Wringer 1602 may comprise a unitary body havingupper end 1604 and alower end 1606 along a vertical axis (such as the y-axis). In one embodiment,wringer 1602 may be about 25 to about 30 centimetres in length along the y-axis. In yet other embodiments, it may be about 28 to about 29 centimetres. In still yet further embodiments,wringer 1602 may be about 28.5 centimetres in length. - Looking first to the illustrative
upper end 1604, it may have aterminus 1608 defining a first outer perimeter (see perimeter 1610). In certain embodiments,outer perimeter 1610 may be substantially circular or oval.Terminus 1608 may further include a firstinner perimeter 1612 defining acentral bore 1614. Central bore 1614 may be configured to permit passage of theelongate member 12 into the interior ofwringer 1602. Therefore, in some embodiments,central bore 1614 may be substantially circular. In other embodiments, however, the size and shape ofcentral bore 1614 may vary. - Besides
terminus 1608, other portions ofupper end 1604 may be characterized by a circular or oval perimeter with respect to the horizontal axis. Therefore, in one embodiment, at least a portion of theupper end 1604 may be cylindrical. This is best seen by viewing the side view ofwringer 1602 shown inFigure 16B and the top view shown inFigure 16C . For example, looking first toFigure 16B ,perimeter 1610 is substantially circular with respect to the horizontal plane ofFigure 16B , therefore is shown as a straight line. In the illustrated embodiment,perimeters wringer 1602 betweenperimeter 1616 andperimeter 1617 of the illustrated example is substantially cylindrical. - Portions of
upper end 1604 may be more cylindrical than other portions. For example,terminus 1606 may define a perimeter (i.e., perimeter 1608) that is more cylindrical than a perimeter on a locationupper end 1604 that is more proximate to thelower end 1606 , such asperimeter 1617. In this regard, the cross-sectional area ofupper portion 1604 may become more conical or conic-cylindrical in shape as it approaches thelower end 1606.Figure 16C shows a bottom view ofwringer 1602. As seen inFigure 16C ,perimeters upper end 1604 ofwringer 1602 may form is substantially cylindrical, however, has a slight conical-cylindrical three-dimensional structure. In further embodiments, portions ofupper end 1604 may be devoid of a perimeter resembling a cylinder and/or an oval. As will be explained below in relation to alower end 1606 ofwringer 1602, the cross-sectional area or distance ofwringer 1602 at various portions ofupper end 1604 may be distinctly different from the cross-sectional area or distance ofwringer 1602 at various portions of thelower end 1606. -
Upper end 1604 may be about 40% to about 60% of the entire length ofwringer 1602. In other embodiments,upper end 1604 may be about 45% to about 55% or 47.5% to about 52.5% of the length ofwringer 1602. In yet another embodiment,upper portion 1604 is about 50% of the length ofwringer 1602. In further embodiments,upper portion 1604 may be about 12 to about 18 centimetres in length. In one embodiment,upper portion 1604 may be about 15 to about 16 centimetres in length. In certain embodiments,upper portion 1604 may be characterized in its absence of voids or protrusions for water removal during operation of thewringer 1602.Upper end 1604 may be defined by the lack of the voids as well as a cylindrical shape that is distinct from thelower portion 1606. - Unlike other prior art systems and methods which teach the benefits of using as many voids on a wringer for the removal of water from mop fibres, embodiments of this disclosure are directed towards an upper portion of a wringer cup, such as
upper end 1604 ofwringer 1602, that is substantially totally devoid of any voids with the exception ofbore 1614. For example, as shown in the illustrative embodiment,upper end 1604 is devoid of any protrusions or voids for the drainage of water. Further discussions relating to various embodiments will be provided below in relation to exits 1631. -
Upper end 1604 may include one or more extrusions or elevated portions, such asstructures 1618.Structures 1618 may be configured to be graspable by a user, for example, to manoeuvre the wringer during operation. In certain embodiments,extrusions 1618 may comprise one or more chevron-shaped patterns, such as shown in the figures. -
Lower end 1606 ofwringer 1602 may include aterminus 1620 having a second outer perimeter (see, e.g., element1622). In certain embodiments, the second outer-perimeter 1622 may not be circular or oval. This may be true even in embodiments in whichupper end 1604 is substantially cylindrical or conical-cylindrical and/or the firstouter perimeter 1610 is substantially circular or oval. Despite the secondouter perimeter 1622 not being an oval or circular in certain embodiments, it may comprise one or more convex, concave, curvy and/or rounded components. In the illustrative embodiment, the secondouter perimeter 1622 encompasses a larger cross-sectional surface area than the firstouter perimeter 1610. Further features ofperimeter 1622 will be provided in more detail below. Additionally,perimeter 1622 may include one or more features or qualities described in relation toledge 1632 and vice-versa. It is to be understood, however, that in certain embodiments,ledge 1632comprise perimeter 1622. Yet in other embodiments,ledge 1632 is absent from thewringer 1602. - In one embodiment,
perimeter 1622 and/orledge 1632 may be about 26.3 centimetres. In one embodiment,perimeter 1622 is about 2 times the length as perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and/or 1617. In one embodiment, perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and or 1617 may be about 50-60% ofperimeter 1622. In another embodiment, perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and/or 1617 may be about 55% ofperimeter 1622. In one embodiment, the difference in cross-sectional area between perimeter(s) 1610, 1616 and/or 1617 in theupper end 1604 andperimeter 1622 in thelower end 1606 may be due to the presence of one or more convex or concave regions of thelower end 1606, such as those disclosed below. -
Lower end 1606 ofwringer 1602 may include one or more convex regions 1624-1630. In the illustrated embodiment, convex regions 1624-1630 may comprise columns. Therefore, regions 1624-1630 may be referred to as "columns" throughout this disclosure in reference to the embodiment shown inFigure 16 but the reader is advised that the disclosure is not so limited. Convex regions/columns 1624-1630 may be substantially vertical. For example, in the illustrative embodiment, columns 1624-1630 are implemented such that the length is substantially straight, non-curvy (i.e., there is no bending along the horizontal axis). - As seen throughout
Figures 16A-16D , columns 1624-1630 may be implemented as rounded components that may widen along the horizontal plane (see x-axis) as the distance from theupper end 1604 increases and the distance towards the lower secondouter perimeter 1622 decreases. As shown best inFigure 16D , columns 1624-1630 may terminate atledge 1632. In this regard, columns 1624-1630 may terminate proximate to the secondouter perimeter 1622 atledge portions 1632a-1632d, which may be oval and/or circular. In certain embodiments,ledge portions 1632a-1632d are circular convex for at least 90 degrees. In yet further embodiments,ledge portions 1632a-1632d may be circular convex for at least 135 degrees, yet in other embodiments they may form half-circles and thus be about 180 degrees. In this regard, certain embodiments of convex regions 1624-1630 may be implemented as cross-sectional splices of conical or conical-cylindrical structures. For example, as best seen inFigure 16C ,perimeter 1622 may comprise roundedcomponent 1622a. - In certain embodiments, a pair of rounded components (see
components Figure 16C . Those skilled in the art with the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that any range of circular shapes is within the scope of this disclosure.Outer perimeter 1622 may be substantially identical toledge 1632, such that corresponding portions ofperimeter 1622 have substantially the same shape asledge 1632 or those described in relation to 1632. - Convex regions/columns 1624-1630 may be positioned in an opposing manner, such as shown in
Figure 16C . In the illustrative embodiments, two pairs of rounded components are shown, each being about 90 degrees from each other with regard to the horizontal plane. In one embodiment, the positioning of the four convex regions 1624-1630 may be such that a generally square shape is formed (SeeFigure 16D ). In one such embodiment, a lower portion of the convex regions is more square shaped than the upper portion of the convex regions. In this regard,ledge 1632 may be generally square-shaped. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other shapes are within the scope of this disclosure. - Specific embodiments are directed towards the implementation of convex regions that provide a
wringer 1602 with a non-circular cross-sectional across a horizontal plane. Further implementations may utilize convex regions, including regions 1624-1630, such that thelower end 1606 of thewringer 1602 has an increased cross-sectional area when compared to theupper portion 1604. In certain embodiments, this may result in less pressure against the corresponding mop fibres. In further embodiments, mop fibres having less pressure against thewringer 1602 may permit the expansion of mop fibres when compared to inter-fibre proximity in theupper end 1604 of thewringer 1602. In certain embodiments, decreased inter-fibre proximity may results in the improved water drainage over prior art systems and methods. For example,perimeter 1622 may be substantially square shaped. Examples of improved drainage are also discussed in more detail in relation toFigure 17 . - Aspects of the invention should not be limited to
outer perimeter 1622 consisting of opposing rounded surfaces or pairs of the same. Other shapes and configurations are within the scope of this disclosure. Further, certain embodiments are directed towards component being concave such as concave regions 1634-1640. (Figure 16D shows the general shape of illustrative regions 1634-1640 as an imaginary line located proximate toledge 1632 and/orperimeter 1622 andFigure 16A shows a possible shape of a portion of concave region 1634). Looking toFigure 16A ,concave region 1634 may be formed by the presence of adjacent convex regions, such asregions convex regions concave region 1634. Therefore, various locations on the surface may be part of a concave and a convex region. One or more concave regions may be substantially inverse to a convex region, such as 1624-1630. - Concave regions 1634-1640 may be described in some embodiments as a plurality of inward extending ribs. As seen in
Figures 16A-16D , each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom. The bottom may be the most-inner curvature of the concave regions 1634-1640. As explained in more detail below, concave regions 1634-1640 may be devoid of any drainage exits, therefore, in certain embodiments, the rib bottom and the rib sides may be substantially devoid of any perforations. - Similarly, convex regions 1624-1630 may be described in some embodiments as a plurality of outward extending ribs. As seen in
Figures 16A-16D , each outward rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top. The top may be the outer-most curvature of the convex regions 1624-1630. As explained in more detail below, convex regions 1624-1630 may comprise drainage exits, therefore, in certain embodiments, the rib top and the rib sides may comprise perforations. In certain embodiments, only the outer-most curvature of the convex regions 1624-1630 comprises perforations. - Adjacent convex regions 1624-1630 and concave regions 1634-1640 may share a common side. For example, a first side of a rib of a concave region may be a first or second side of a rib for a convex region. In certain embodiments, the concavity of a concave region may be equal to the convexity of an opposing and/or adjacent convex region 1624-1630. In yet other embodiments, one or more concave regions 1634-1640 may be unrelated to the shape and/or curvature of one or more convex regions 1624-1630. Concave regions 1634-1640 may widen along the horizontal plane (see x-axis) as the distance from the
upper end 1604 increases and the distance towards the lower secondouter perimeter 1622 decreases. As shown best inFigure 16D , columns 1634-1640 may terminate atledge 1632. - The combination of convex regions 1624-1630 and concave regions 1634-1640 may provide improved drainage characteristics of over prior designs. In one embodiment, the cross sectional area across the horizontal plane (along the x-axis) in
lower end 1606 ofwringer 1602 may resemble an "X". The cross-sectional diameter of thelower end 1606 proximate to perimeter may be at least twice that of the corresponding cross-sectional diameter of thelower end 1606 proximate to theupper end 1604 of thewringer 1602. In one embodiment, cross-sectional diameter of thelower end 1606 proximate to perimeter may about 200% of the corresponding cross-sectional diameter of thelower end 1606 proximate to theupper end 1604 of thewringer 1602. In one embodiment, the wringer's 1602 circumference at a location oflower end 1606 that is immediately adjacent to theupper end 1604 may be substantially circular or oval and have a perimeter about 14 to about 15 centimetres and the location of thelower end 1606 immediately adjacent toperimeter 1622 may be non-circular or oval and have a perimeter of about 26 to about 27 centimetres. - The presence of concave regions 1634-1640 as disclosed may result in an application of pressure against at least an outer portion of mop fibres during use of the
wringer 1602. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, each of the concave regions 1634-1640 are substantially devoid of any drainage exits or ports, such as exits 1631. One or more convex regions 1624-1630 may comprise drainage exits, such as plurality ofexits 1631. In certain embodiments, drainage exits 1631 may be positioned substantially along the length of convex regions 1624-1630. (For simplicity, exits 1631 are not each individually labelled, however, it is apparent from the Figures that the unmarked exits may form part of exits 1631). - As shown in the Figures each of the regions 1624-1630 may comprise one or more exits, such as exits 1631. In one embodiment, plurality of
exits 1631 may be positioned along at least 75% of the vertical length (parallel to theelongate member 12 ofFigures 1-4 of the convex region(s) 1624-1630. Yet in other embodiments, plurality of exits may be at least along 80%, 85%, 90% or 95% of the vertical length of the convex region 1624-1630. In one embodiment, there may be 8 to 10 vertically arrangedexits 1631 positioned along the length of each region 1624-1630. In one embodiment, there are 9exits 1631 per region 1624-1630. - Positioning and/or placement of drainage exits 1631 may be configured to provide improved drainage over existing designs. For example, as an outer portion of mop fibres contact the inner perimeter of convex regions 1624-1630 of the
lower end 1606, exits 1631 may permit improved drainage capabilities. In this regard, drainingexits 1631 may only be provided on an outer most surface of the convex regions 1624-1630. In one embodiment, only one exit is provided on any given horizontal plane for each column or convex region 1624-1630. For example, looking toFigures 16A-16D , exits 1631 are provided as lateral slits having horizontal lengths that are greater than their vertical height. - Upper
most exits 1631a of region 1624 (or any other exit) may be about 0.5 centimetres in height and about 2 centimetres in length. In another embodiment,exit 1631a may be about 0.5 to about 0.7 centimetres in height and about 2.0 to about 2.2 centimetres in length. Having exits with a length greater than the height may be advantageous, either alone or in combination with other elements of this disclosure. In one embodiment,exit 1631a and/or any of plurality ofexits 1631 may have a height that is about 25-30% of its length. In yet other embodiments,exit 1631a and/or any of plurality ofexits 1631 may have a height that is about 28.5% of its length.Exit 1631a may be at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions, such asregion 1634. This parameter is shown inFigure 16A as 1642. - In certain embodiments, plurality of
exits 1631 may each have the same general shape, such as shown in the Figures. This, however, is not a requirement. Further, different exits with the plurality ofexits 1631 may have different dimensions relative to the dimensions of the convex regions 1624-1630. In one embodiment, as convex regions 1624-1630 expand away from the centre of thewringer 1602 dimensions of the corresponding exits may also change at a predictable rate. For example,exit 1631 b may be about 0.7 to about 0.9 centimetres in height and about 2.0 to about 2.2 centimetres in length. In one embodiment,exit 1631 b may be about 0.8 centimetres in height and about 2.1 centimetres in length. In certain embodiments,exit 1631b and/or any of plurality ofexits 1631 may have a height that is about 35-40% of its length. In other embodiments,exit 1631 b and/or any other plurality ofexits 1631 may have a height that is about 38% of its length.Exit 1631 b may be at least about 2 centimetres away from the interior-most location of adjacent concave regions, such asregion 1634. This parameter is shown inFigure 16A as 1644. - As shown in
Figure 17 , aspects of the invention relate to a cleaning implement that permits a plurality of mop fibres to be retracted up through the bottom, such as byperimeter 1622, and in a vertical direction towards theupper end 1604 ofwringer 1602. For example, mop fibres, which may be connected to a connection assembly similar or identical to the connection assembly ofFigure 14 may be retracted alongdirection 1702 up into an interior ofwringer 1602. In one embodiment, the fibres may be water-absorbing non-woven fibrous material. The fibres may be strips that are around 18 or 19 inches (45.72 or 48.26 centimetres) long and about 0.15 inch (3.81 millimetres) thick in its non-compressed state. Other materials and dimensions may also be used. - The plurality of fibres may be retracted in a vertical manner such that individual fibres will have an upper portion located at least above the upper most exit, such as 1631 a. For example, at least a portion of the mop fibres may be above
imaginary line 1704 when fully retracted inwringer 1602. A vertical wall, such aswall 1410 may be utilized, either alone or in conjunction with theupper end 1604 of wringer to position at least an outer portion of fibres located aboveimaginary line 1704 to be in a substantially vertical orientation. In one embodiment, an outer portion of mop fibres located in theupper end 1604 of wringer are configured to be in a substantially vertical orientation when the fibres are fully retracted into thewringer 1602. - The upper portion of fibres will travel in a downward vertical manner towards an intermediate portion, which may be located below the upper most exit, such as
exit 1631 a but above the lower most exit, such asexit 1631b. In one embodiment, intermediate portions of the mop fibres will be proximate to imaginary line 1706. A lower portion of the same fibres may be proximate but vertically lower than the intermediate portion. For example, the lower portions of the fibres may be proximate to or below the lowest-most exit, such asexit 1631b. In one embodiment, lower portions of the fibres may be proximate, but vertically lower than,imaginary line 1708. - Upon the mop fibres being retracted into
wringer 1602, wringer may be configured to rotate about a central axis, such as an elongate member, such aselongate member 12 ofFigures 1-4 provided through bore 1614 (shown inFigure 16A ) located on theupper end 1604 ofwringer 1602. For example,arrows 1710 show that wringer 1602 may be rotated in either horizontal direction along the vertical axis. The vertical positioning of the mop fibres, either as a result of the connection assembly and/or the shape or size of thewringer 1602 may result in improved drainage. In one embodiment, rotating the mop along one ofdirections 1710 may result in only a portion of the mop fibres to be "wrung." For example, in one embodiment, the upper portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate tolocation 1704 or aboveexit 1631 a) will begin to twist before the intermediate portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate to location 1706). In further embodiments, intermediate portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate to location 1706) may begin to twist before the lower portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate tolocation 1708 orexit 1631b). - In certain embodiments, as the upper portion of mop fibres (which may be located proximate or above
location 1704 may be twisted to remove fluids within fibres. At the same time, intermediate and/or lower portions of the fibres may be located against an interior side of the convex regions 1624-1630. Thus, certain embodiments permit the flow of fluids from the upper portion of mop fibres down into the intermediate and/or lower portion of the fibres and out exits 1631. Fluids may also exit through the opening created byperimeter 1622. As the fibres are wrung, the twisting force upon the upper portion mop fibres will increase and may result in twisting of the intermediate portion of the fibres. In certain embodiments, the intermediate fibres are also twisted alongdirection 1710 may result in removal of fluids from the twisted intermediate portions of the fibres, which may travel down to lower fibres in the intermediate portion and/or to the lower portion of mop fibres. - Positioning of the concave regions 1634-1640 may provide a rigid surface resulting in compression forces upon the fibres as they are twisted. Fluid may continue to be removed through lower-positioned exits, such as
exit 1631 b and/or the bottom. As mop fibres are twisted, the shape and/or size of thewringer 1602, alone or in combination, with the vertical alignment of the fibres resulting from a vertical wall on a connection assembly, may result in the fibres twisting around the vertical axis and away from the convex regions 1624-1630. - The cleaning implement may further be configured such that application of further twisting forces are transferred downward resulting in twisting of a lower intermediate portion of the fibres. For example, further compression forces may result in a second compression force upon the fibres. In one embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must be twisted at least 25% of a full revolution before the twisting of the intermediate fibres. In another embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the intermediate fibres will rotate more than 10% of the revolution. In one embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the intermediate fibres will rotate more than 20% of the revolution. In certain embodiments, the lower portion fibres are also twisted along
direction 1710, resulting in the removal of fluids from the twisted lower portions of the fibres. This fluid may travel down to lower fibres in the lower portion and/or out the bottom of thewringer 1602. Fluid may continue to be removed through lower-positioned exits, such asexit 1631 b and/or the bottom. - In certain embodiments, the wringer is configured such that convex regions, such as regions 1624-1630 expand outward away from the vertical axis at a larger rate than concave regions, such as regions 1634-1640. This may be useful for example, when the upper portion of fibres are being twisted prior to the lower portion of mop fibres. For example, because the concave regions 1624-1630 have more cross-sectional area closer to the bottom (i.e., proximate to perimeter 1622), the lower fibres are less compressed than the upper portion of fibres. This may result in an increased water holding capacity of the lower portion of fibres. Therefore, in addition to fluids draining out
exits 1631, fluids may also be transferred to lower positioned portions of the fibres as the top portion is twisted. Unlike some prior art methods, these lower positioned fibres are not yet twisted (or at least at the same rate), therefore, increased fluid drainage from the upper portion may be realized. The fibres that are positioned within the cross-sectional area of the concave portions 1624-1630, however, may then be later wrung as the downward-spiralling twisting forces pull them towards the centre of the interior. - In one embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must be twisted at least 25% of a full revolution before the twisting of the lower portion of fibres. In another embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the lower fibres will rotate more than 10% of the revolution. In one embodiment, the upper portion of fibres must rotate at least 50% of a full revolution before twisting of the lower fibres will rotate more than 20% of the revolution.
- Although reference to upper, intermediate, and lower portions was provided in reference to the mop fibres, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that such references may be analogous to the corresponding sections of the
wringer 1602. For example, mop fibres located in an upper section ofwringer 1602 may twist under a first compression force before the corresponding portion of those same fibres located in a lower intermediate section and/or a lower section of thewringer 1602. - This detailed description has been given for clearness of understanding only. Modifications may be obvious to those skilled in the art. The intended scope of the invention is set forth in the following claims.
Claims (15)
- A cleaning implement comprising:an elongate member having a first end and a second end along a vertical axis;a wringer configured to be slidably positioned along at least a portion of the elongate member;a connection assembly configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and secure a plurality of mop fibres to an elongate member, the connection assembly comprising:a top portion comprising:a first surface defining a first outer perimeter along a horizontal plane; anda downward-extending vertical wall extending parallel with the elongate member and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, the wall being proximate to the first outer perimeter of the first surface;a bottom portion comprising:a second surface defining a second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane, wherein first outer perimeter is larger than the second outer perimeter; andwherein upon securement of mop fibres between the first and the second surfaces, the vertical wall of the top portion is configured to force the plurality of mop fibres to traverse from radiating along the horizontal plane to a downward vertical direction to provide increased turning of the fibre in a rotational manner around the vertical axis and reduce twisting of the mop fibres upon themselves when using the wringer.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 1, further comprising:an insert configured to be mounted on the second end of the elongate member and including a tab with an outer portion that extends in a direction away from and transverse to the elongate member when mounted on the elongate member; and a collar configured to frictionally engage the outer portion of the tab.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the wringer comprises a unitary body having an upper end and a lower end, the upper end comprising:a top having a first outer perimeter that is substantially circular and a first inner perimeter defining a central bore configured to permit passage of the elongate member into an inner portion of the unitary body;the lower end comprising:a plurality of outward-extending ribs that define a first outer perimeter of the lower end enclosing an X-shaped cross sectional area across a horizontal plane that is perpendicular to the vertical axis; anda terminus defining a second outer perimeter defining a square-like second outer perimeter along the horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the lower end of the wringer; andwherein the second outer perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end and comprises concave and convex regions.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 3, wherein the square-like second outer perimeter comprises two pairs of opposing convex regions and two pairs of opposing concave regions.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 3 or 4, the lower end further comprising:a plurality of inward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib bottom, wherein the rib bottom and the rib sides of the inward extending ribs are devoid of any perforations;a plurality of outward extending ribs, each rib comprising a first side and a second side that converge to form a rib top, wherein the rib sides of the outward extending ribs are devoid of perforations and the rib tops each comprise a plurality of perforations; andwherein at least one inward extending rib shares a common side with an outward rib.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 5, wherein, for each outward extending rib, no more than a single drainage exit is provided on any given horizontal plane.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 6, wherein the drainage exits are vertically arranged along in a parallel fashion along each of outward extending rib.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 6 or 7, wherein at least one drainage exit has a height that is about 25-30% of its length and is at least about 1 centimetre away from the interior-most location of the bottom of an adjacent inward extending rib, and at least one drainage exit has a height that is about 35-40% of its length and is at least about 2 centimetres away from the bottom of an adjacent inward extending rib.
- A cleaning implement according to any of claims 5-8, wherein the plurality of outer ribs define a square-like shape along a horizontal plane parallel with the first outer perimeter of the upper end of the wringer; and
wherein the square-like shape has a perimeter that is larger than the first outer perimeter of the upper end. - A cleaning implement according to any of claims 3-9, wherein the central bore of the wringer is configured to permit the elongate member extend through the inner portion of the wringer; and
wherein upon attachment of the first end of the elongate member to a plurality of fibres, the winger is configured such that when the plurality of fibres are retracted through a bottom vertically opposite the central bore, an upper portion of the fibres will be located at least above an upper most drainage exit of the outward extending ribs and aligned in a vertical manner parallel to a vertical axis between the central bore and a centre of the perimeter of the bottom of the wringer and under a first compression force against the wringer. - A cleaning implement according to any of claims 3-10, wherein the wringer is configured such that upon retracting the elongate member fully into the inner portion of the wringer and upon rotation of the wringer around the central axis results in a first compression force causing an initial twisting of the mop fibres located proximate to the elongate member before twisting of corresponding sections of the same fibres located at an intermediate section of the wringer and before twisting of corresponding sections located at a lower section of the wringer proximate to the lower-most drainage exit;
wherein fibres in the intermediate portion extend into an interior region of the convex regions formed in the wringer, resulting in an inter-fibre proximity in the intermediate portion that is less than an inter-fibre proximity in the upper end of the wringer; and
wherein at least a fraction of the fibres proximate to an interior side of the convex regions remain in a non-twisted state under application of the first compression force, permitting the flow of fluids from the upper portion into lower portion of and out drainage exits - A cleaning implement according to claim 11, wherein the wringer is further configured such that an increase in twisting forces results in a second compression force that initiates twisting of the fibres in the intermediate section, resulting in a downward progression of a twisting of the fibres; and
wherein the fibres in the intermediate section will twist around the vertical axis and away from the convex regions in a downward progression. - A cleaning implement according to any of claims 3-12, wherein the upper end of the wringer is substantially conic-cylindrical and devoid of any drainage exits and the lower end of the wringer is conical but not cylindrical and the lower end further comprising:a plurality of convex regions that define at least two opposing concave regions positioned between adjacent convex regions; anddrainage exits located on each concave region, wherein the drainage exits are only located on a pinnacle location which is defined by the most distant area of the convex regions from the inner most portion of the concave regions.
- A cleaning implement according to claim 13, wherein for each convex region, no more than a single drainage exit is provided on any given horizontal plane.
- A wringer for use with a cleaning implement in accordance with any one of claims 1-14.
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/041,267 US8402589B2 (en) | 2001-07-25 | 2011-03-04 | Cleaning implement |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2494903A2 true EP2494903A2 (en) | 2012-09-05 |
EP2494903A3 EP2494903A3 (en) | 2014-01-01 |
Family
ID=45877970
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP12157849.6A Withdrawn EP2494903A3 (en) | 2011-03-04 | 2012-03-02 | Cleaning implement |
Country Status (10)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2494903A3 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5571109B2 (en) |
CN (2) | CN102670143B (en) |
AR (1) | AR085605A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2012201174B2 (en) |
BR (1) | BR102012004957A2 (en) |
CA (2) | CA2851702C (en) |
CL (1) | CL2012000571A1 (en) |
MX (2) | MX2012002552A (en) |
RU (1) | RU2497434C1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN114748001A (en) * | 2022-04-29 | 2022-07-15 | 深圳甲壳虫智能有限公司 | Processing method of cleaning piece |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
MX2015007026A (en) * | 2012-12-10 | 2015-09-29 | 3M Innovative Properties Co | A floor cleaning tool with a squeezing element. |
CN109431403B (en) * | 2019-01-16 | 2023-11-03 | 武义爱格家居用品有限公司 | Cleaning barrel for flat mop |
CN114947668A (en) * | 2020-08-20 | 2022-08-30 | 科沃斯机器人股份有限公司 | Cleaning device and cleaning robot system |
Citations (6)
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US1709622A (en) | 1928-03-16 | 1929-04-16 | Andrew F Justis | Mop |
US3364512A (en) | 1965-05-01 | 1968-01-23 | Yamashita | Mop squeezing cover slidable on mop handle |
US3946457A (en) | 1974-03-22 | 1976-03-30 | S.A. Brush Company Limited | Mop wringer |
DE3607121A1 (en) | 1986-03-05 | 1987-09-10 | Leifheit Ag | WIPER |
US4809287A (en) | 1986-08-08 | 1989-02-28 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Double-heterostructure semiconductor with mesa stripe waveguide |
US5060338A (en) | 1990-04-16 | 1991-10-29 | The Libman Company | Wet mop with self-contained wringer |
Family Cites Families (12)
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US4593430A (en) * | 1982-11-30 | 1986-06-10 | Masco Corporation Of Indiana | Quick connect fitting for a faucet handle and the like |
CN2125365U (en) * | 1992-06-06 | 1992-12-23 | 武汉市武汉日用机械制造公司 | Helical tooth type water pressing device for mop |
CN2259132Y (en) * | 1996-06-06 | 1997-08-13 | 胡绍东 | Mop without wetting hand |
ES2117588B1 (en) * | 1997-01-02 | 1998-12-16 | Jimenez Juan Ruiz | DRAINAGE SYSTEM INCLUDING COMPRESSOR CYLINDER AND DUMP DRAINER. |
US6085378A (en) * | 1999-07-12 | 2000-07-11 | Quickie Manufacturing Corporation | Self-wringing swab mop with scrubber |
US6427280B1 (en) * | 2000-03-02 | 2002-08-06 | Freudenberg Household Products | Cleaning implement |
US7520018B2 (en) * | 2001-07-25 | 2009-04-21 | The Libman Company | Mop with attached wringer |
US6920664B2 (en) * | 2001-07-25 | 2005-07-26 | The Libman Company | Mop with attached wringer cup |
FR2873053B1 (en) * | 2004-07-19 | 2008-01-04 | Leborgne Sa | DEVICE FOR MOUNTING AND FASTENING A HANDLE TO A HITCH TOOL |
US7065823B2 (en) * | 2004-07-22 | 2006-06-27 | Llanes Joselito L | Cylinder attachment to wring water out of mop in pail with holding tray |
US20090025163A1 (en) * | 2007-07-26 | 2009-01-29 | Carl Freudenberg Kg | Cleaning implement |
NL2000800C1 (en) * | 2007-08-09 | 2009-02-10 | Ming-Hsien Lin | Cleaning element for e.g. mop, for cleaning floor, has reinforcing seams reinforcing water-absorbing strips, and holder plate attached to holder, where water-absorbing strips decline down when holder plate is attached to holder |
-
2012
- 2012-02-28 MX MX2012002552A patent/MX2012002552A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2012-02-28 JP JP2012041871A patent/JP5571109B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2012-02-28 AU AU2012201174A patent/AU2012201174B2/en active Active
- 2012-02-28 MX MX2015009303A patent/MX360829B/en unknown
- 2012-03-01 CA CA2851702A patent/CA2851702C/en active Active
- 2012-03-01 CA CA2770309A patent/CA2770309C/en active Active
- 2012-03-01 RU RU2012107864/12A patent/RU2497434C1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2012-03-02 CL CL2012000571A patent/CL2012000571A1/en unknown
- 2012-03-02 EP EP12157849.6A patent/EP2494903A3/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2012-03-02 AR ARP120100689A patent/AR085605A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2012-03-05 CN CN201210055996.7A patent/CN102670143B/en active Active
- 2012-03-05 CN CN201611032583.1A patent/CN107028570B/en active Active
- 2012-03-05 BR BR102012004957A patent/BR102012004957A2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Patent Citations (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US1709622A (en) | 1928-03-16 | 1929-04-16 | Andrew F Justis | Mop |
US3364512A (en) | 1965-05-01 | 1968-01-23 | Yamashita | Mop squeezing cover slidable on mop handle |
US3946457A (en) | 1974-03-22 | 1976-03-30 | S.A. Brush Company Limited | Mop wringer |
DE3607121A1 (en) | 1986-03-05 | 1987-09-10 | Leifheit Ag | WIPER |
US4809287A (en) | 1986-08-08 | 1989-02-28 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Double-heterostructure semiconductor with mesa stripe waveguide |
US5060338A (en) | 1990-04-16 | 1991-10-29 | The Libman Company | Wet mop with self-contained wringer |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN114748001A (en) * | 2022-04-29 | 2022-07-15 | 深圳甲壳虫智能有限公司 | Processing method of cleaning piece |
CN114748001B (en) * | 2022-04-29 | 2023-11-24 | 深圳甲壳虫智能有限公司 | Processing method of cleaning piece |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2770309C (en) | 2015-10-06 |
MX360829B (en) | 2018-11-16 |
RU2497434C1 (en) | 2013-11-10 |
JP2012183307A (en) | 2012-09-27 |
AR085605A1 (en) | 2013-10-16 |
JP5571109B2 (en) | 2014-08-13 |
CN107028570B (en) | 2019-10-29 |
CA2851702C (en) | 2015-08-18 |
BR102012004957A2 (en) | 2016-10-25 |
CN107028570A (en) | 2017-08-11 |
CL2012000571A1 (en) | 2012-12-14 |
CN102670143B (en) | 2016-12-14 |
AU2012201174B2 (en) | 2014-02-27 |
AU2012201174A1 (en) | 2012-09-20 |
CA2770309A1 (en) | 2012-09-04 |
CA2851702A1 (en) | 2012-09-04 |
CN102670143A (en) | 2012-09-19 |
MX2012002552A (en) | 2012-11-30 |
RU2012107864A (en) | 2013-09-10 |
EP2494903A3 (en) | 2014-01-01 |
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