JP2008508908A - Cleaning device provided with gripping means for cleaning pad - Google Patents

Abstract

  The present invention selectively grips one cleaning pad from several stacked cleaning pads to perform cleaning operations such as a toilet, and then eliminates the need for direct contact by the user with the cleaning pad. And an improved cleaning device including a handle with gripping means for selectively releasing a cleaning pad for disposal, such as by washing. The present invention also provides certain improvements for cleaning pads and handles that can be used independently. Accordingly, improvements to these are suitable for use with different designs of handles or cleaning pads.

Description

  The invention to which this application relates relates to a gripping force applied to the cleaning pad such that the device can be used by a cleaning pad attached thereto, for example to control a cleaning operation using the cleaning pad on a toilet bowl. An apparatus comprising a gripping means and an actuating handle therefor can be used. Further, the gripping means can be actuated to eject the cleaning pad from the device when soiled without the need for physical contact with the cleaning pad.

  Applicant's co-pending patent application PCT / GB2004 / 000740 discloses a cleaning device comprising a handle, attachment means, a cleaning pad and a holder for several of the cleaning pads. This application discloses means by which attachment of the pad to the handle can be selectively accomplished, for example, by use of a Vecro on the handle that engages the fibers or material of the cleaning pad. However, the problem is that the attachment mechanism is not easily replaceable as the drainage means passes through the attachment mechanism in the handle assembly while it is working.

  While this has been found to be effective, the object of the present invention is that the cleaning pad is gripped when needed for use and drained when needed for disposal of the cleaning pad. Providing an improved gripping means for use with a handle. A further object of the present invention is to provide an improved form for the pad that allows its improved work and allows for improved disposal of the cleaning pad when it is discarded, and generally improves the utility of the device. It is to improve.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for cleaning, comprising gripping means for a cleaning pad, wherein the gripping means is moved to a position for contacting the cleaning pad. A further movement of the gripping means relative to the cleaning pad between the first position where the gripping member contacts the surface of the pad and a second position where the gripping member exerts grip on the cleaning pad. An apparatus for moving the object is provided.

  In one embodiment, the cleaning pad can be ejected from the gripping means by movement of the gripping member from the second position to the first position.

  In one embodiment, the outer layer of the cleaning pad has an open structure such as a fabric, fiber, or foam.

  In one embodiment, the gripping is accomplished as a movement of the gripping member between the first position and the second position, causing a first and second set of moving away of the gripping member, so that The portion of the cleaning pad between at least the set of gripping members is stretched and held under increased levels of tension. In one embodiment, the gripping member is divided into a plurality of sets that are suspended outwardly from a common surface of the gripping means and the first position and the second gripping position are Moved between.

  In one embodiment, the movement of the gripping member between the first position and the second position is a snap action or includes a snap action. This has two advantages. First, when moving from the first position to the second gripping position, the snapping action moves the gripping member quickly away while maintaining contact with the same parts of the cleaning pad, thereby The gripping member is extended, causing additional tension and thus retention of the cleaning pad. The second advantage is that when moving the gripping member from the second position to the first position to remove the cleaning pad, the snap action acts to effectively “bounce” the cleaning pad from the gripping means. Thus, the snap action acts as a draining force on the cleaning pad so that the cleaning pad can be completely removed from the gripping member and thereby discarded in place.

  In one embodiment, the gripping members are elongated and are relatively straight, and each set of gripping members is provided in a linearly spaced array and can be provided in a series of rows. . The gripping members can be arranged at an angle to approach the cleaning pad at an angle that may be perpendicular to the cleaning pad or inclined outward from the cleaning pad. In addition or alternatively, if some or all of the gripping members are found to increase the gripping action of the cleaning pad, they can be provided with a hook formation. The number, spacing, and / or shape of the gripping members may vary depending on the particular shape of the cleaning pad with which the gripping member is used.

  In a preferred embodiment, a gripping means is provided for use with the handle, said handle being arranged with the gripping means, usually suspended away from the surface of the gripping means opposite the surface from which the gripping member projects. is doing. In one embodiment, the movement of the gripping member between the first position and the second position is achieved by relative movement of the handle and the gripping means. In one embodiment, movement of the handle toward the gripping means causes movement of the gripping member from the first position to the second position, and movement of the handle away from the gripping means is from the second position to the first position. Causes the gripping means to move to a position. In both cases, either the handle or the gripping means allows the application of a force to the other of the gripping means or the handle and allows its relative movement in order to allow a moving force to be exerted on the gripping member. It is required to be held in a relatively fixed position to allow.

  In one embodiment, the angle of the gripping means is adjustable with respect to the handle so as to allow a cleaning operation to be performed, at which time one of the two end positions of the movement between the handle and the gripping means. A further pivoting movement to the one causes the handle with gripping means held by or against the article to cause the drainage of the cleaning pad or towards the gripping means to contact and grip the cleaning pad To be moved relative to the gripping means so as to move away from the gripping means.

  In one embodiment, gripping means is provided as part of the plate, the plate being over-centered to provide a snapping action that requires movement between a first position and a second position. It is held by the gripping means so as to include movement around.

  Typically, relative to the stiffness and dimensional stability of the cleaning pad, the stiffness of the plate on which the gripping member is formed is tuned to allow optimal engagement between the cleaning pad and the gripping member. Also, the angle of contact and movement of the gripping member with respect to the cleaning pad has an effect on the gripping achieved and is therefore considered during design considerations.

  In a preferred embodiment, the handle is removably attachable to the gripping means via engaging means that can move between an engaged position and an open position. In a preferred embodiment, the movement of the engagement means is achieved by the operation of a lever provided as part of the handle, and in a preferred embodiment it is in the position where the handle is held or in that position. The handle so that the gripping means can be released from the handle when, for example, the gripping means becomes dirty or damaged and replaced with a new gripping means. Allows the user to actuate the engagement means when held in the normal position.

  Thus, according to the present invention, the user can be manipulated by the user on the handle with the user's hand, so that the engagement and disengagement of the cleaning pad from the assembly is performed by the user physically with the cleaning pad. An assembly of a handle and gripping means is provided that is achieved without the need for unnecessary contact, thereby greatly improving hygiene. The gripping means can also be removed from the handle for replacement purposes without the need for physical contact with the gripping means by the user, which also provides improved hygiene. Importantly, the cleaning pad is also effectively and reliably gripped by the gripping means during use.

  If desired, a cleaning pad can be held in a magazine in the form of a holder, which also arranges handles and gripping means for storage purposes and in one embodiment for gripping purposes. Act to do. When the holder also reaches the cleaning pad in the holder, the orientation of the gripping means is modified to ensure that the gripping means exerts a gripping force on the cleaning pad and lifts the cleaning pad from the holder for use. Can be used to make it possible.

  In one embodiment, the holder is in two positions for storage of the handle, (a) a ready position for use at the top of the stack of pads, and (b) an opening where the grip is prepared for use. Seated behind the oppositely facing holder (to provide a means to avoid any “drop” contamination of the new pad), with a grip placed on the protrusion, ensuring that it stays in place Position.

  In one embodiment, the features and any or any combination of features improve the utility of the system, particularly the ease of storing handles and loading new pads. These features include a stop that ensures that the open grip does not rotate under the weight of the handle in the storage position within the stand or under pressure applied by the user when engaging the pad. Including a rotating gripping handle including Grasping holds the handle on the pad.

  A rest / guide is provided in the holder, against which the handle rests and is disposed. Preferably, the guide has a “U” cross-sectional shape that constrains the movement of the handle in the lateral and forward directions (away from the user) so that the handle can be freely pulled toward the user without obstruction. To do. A further feature is a handle shape that places most of the handle weight on one side of the handle / grip pivot when the handle is positioned above the pad in the holder. In a preferred configuration, the handle tilts forward on the stand guide away from the user. However, in other embodiments, the handle may be inclined toward the user.

  Collectively, these features provide a preferred embodiment of the relationship between the holder and the handle.

  In one embodiment, the holder provides limited frictional resistance with the vertical stack of pads disposed therein, thereby allowing the pads to be dispensed, particularly when pulled out by the handle. It includes one or more ribs disposed on the inner wall of the storage area for the pad to provide a “de-nesting” shape to ensure. In one embodiment, the ribs are made from a semi-flexible material, i.e. the ribs are loaded into the holder, such as in a direction perpendicular to the ribs, with the carton in which the pads are fed. Features spring-loaded seating that allows it to be deformed / moved to make it possible.

  In one embodiment, one or more ribs are incorporated in the carton wall itself or in a folded insert disposed between the pad and the carton wall.

  In a further aspect of the present invention, an apparatus for performing a cleaning operation includes a cleaning pad, a gripping means for gripping the pad, and a handle for connection to the gripping means, the cleaning pad comprising: Selectively displaceable from a gripping means, said gripping means being selectively displaceable from a handle, the gripping means including teeth, which causes the cleaning pad to be discharged from a first gripping position An apparatus is provided that can be moved to a second ejection position that is substantially perpendicular to the surface of the cleaning pad with which the tooth contacts.

  In one embodiment, once the cleaning pad is discharged, the teeth of the gripping means return to the third position. Preferably, the teeth return substantially to this position where the teeth are held in the best position for gripping the next cleaning pad. Usually, the tooth moves from the third position to the first gripping position in a snap action.

  In one embodiment, the handle and the gripping means are connected via a pivoting position, said gripping means being selectively removable from the handle by pivoting the gripping means to the end position of the range of pivoting movement.

  Usually, the position for removal is outside the normal range of movement required for the operation of the device during the cleaning operation.

  In one embodiment, once the gripping means and handle are in the position required to be removable, manipulation and / or deformation of the handle and / or gripping means causes subsequent removal.

  Thus, the present invention provides an apparatus that allows for the built-in mounting of the cleaning pad to and out of the assembly without the need for the cleaning pad to be placed in the handle, thus allowing for easier replacement To.

  In a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a cleaning pad for use in a cleaning operation, wherein the cleaning pad is formed from a mixture of fibers including cellulosic fibers.

  In one embodiment, the cellulose fibers are included in the range of 20% to 70% of the fiber mixture, and are preferably viscose greater than 8 dtex fiber number. In one embodiment, other fibers are included in the range of 30% -80%.

  Usually, the other fibers contain 30% to 80% wool fibers (keratin). More preferably, the other fibers comprise 30% to 80% wool greater than 30 microns.

  Most preferably, the combination of materials used to form the cleaning pad is 60% to 70% wool and 30% to 40% viscose.

  In one embodiment, the pad composition comprises 90% + added semi-soluble fibers such as hydrolyzed PVOH. Preferably, the added fibers are bicomponent fibers consisting of an insoluble coating (eg aliphatic polyester) and a semi-soluble core (eg PVOH). This fiber may constitute 5% to 100% of the total weight of the fiber.

  In one embodiment, the material may include abrasive particles, and / or a polymer coating, and / or a release agent such as silicon that allows the material to be effectively cut.

  Fiber mix improves specific gravity to assist cleaning, improves pad feel and control in use, dimensional resistance when wet, assists in cleaning the pad, and limits the wet strength of the cleaning pad Optimize the combination of cleaning pad characteristics, including absorbency. This further allows for at least partial disassembly of the pad, thus allowing for improved disposal of the pad through cleaning or other disposal means.

  In one embodiment of the present invention, a cleaning pad is provided with an aqueous dispersion of a polymeric binder.

  In one embodiment, a cleaning pad has penetration of the binder from at least one external surface to a depth of 3 mm. In one embodiment, the penetration depth is up to 2 mm.

  In one embodiment, a binder is added to the opposing planar outer surface of the pad.

  In one embodiment, the selective addition of the binder has, from one outer surface, a relatively strong layer, an inner core or layer of unbound fibers, and another relatively strong layer on the opposite side. A cleaning pad results. The strong layer includes a polymer binder. The provision of different layers allows for improved peeling of the cleaning pad when discarded.

  In one embodiment, the fibers of the cleaning pad are perforated at a rate of 2-4 per square centimeter.

  In one embodiment, some of the fibers in the cleaning pad are typically cut when the cleaning pad is separated. In one embodiment, more than 60% of the fibers in the pad have a length of less than 15 mm.

  Preferably, the perforation / cut line layout within the pad is a grid of tags that join parallel notches and uncut material across the length and width of the pad.

  Alternatively, one set of tear lines in one direction is offset vertically to create a “longitudinal stack” pattern.

  In one embodiment, additional layer tear lines are provided, as well as weak fold lines to aid cleaning to divide the pad and promote more rapid partial destruction of the pad after cleaning.

  In one embodiment, the layout of the perforations in the pad ensures that there is a maximum spacing between tear lines of 15 mm in either direction, more preferably less than 10 mm in at least one direction.

  In one embodiment, the pad comprises a corner with a curvilinear contour. In one embodiment, the minimum radius of the curve is 10 mm, preferably 15 mm. This helps the pad bend in the direction required for cleaning within the toilet trap boundary.

  In one embodiment, the pad perforations are wider / larger dimension and / or frequency along the length of the pad, narrower and / or less frequent material connection points along the width of the pad in the vertical plane. Have This provides the minimum strength necessary to resist the stretch load exerted by the grip during engagement, but a weaker bond between rows of perforations across the width held in place during cleaning by the gripping teeth I will provide a. This facilitates the destruction of the pad after cleaning without compromising integrity during use.

  In one embodiment, the polymeric binder is biodegradable. Preferably, the polymer is a polymeric aliphatic polyester polyurethane.

  In one embodiment, the binder applied to the pad is a water resistant binder coating applied to one side, preferably a biodegradable, high molecular weight aliphatic polyester. On another side, a semi-soluble polymer coating such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or starch is added.

  In one embodiment, the fibers are added to a fiber mixture that can degrade after expiration in water by promoting degradation of the cleaning pad.

  In one embodiment, the polymeric binder comprises a biodegradable particulate solid. In one embodiment, the solid is not readily water soluble. Preferably, the solid is dimensionally unstable and / or softens when wet and stressed. Usually, the solid is added at a level in the range between 5% and 100% of the solid weight of the polymeric dispersant.

  In a preferred embodiment, the buoyancy of the cleaning pad is controlled to affect the discardability of the pad when it is discarded from the assembly and when the cleaning pad needs to be cleaned. Preferably, the buoyancy is determined relative to the density of the cleaning pad, and the preferred density range for cleanability is that the cleaning pad cools pure water cold at 4 ° C. for 60 seconds before weighing the test sample in water. Between 1.05 grams / CC and 1.45 grams / CC when fully immersed. More preferably, the density of the cleaning pad is in the range of 1.05-1.45 times the density of the water or aqueous solution in the toilet trap prior to cleaning. This is particularly appropriate when the pad is soaked with soluble solids such as surfactants, dyes, etc., which can significantly increase the density of the aqueous cleaning solution.

  Specific embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  Turning first to FIGS. 1 a-1 c, there is shown a diagram of gripping means according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  The gripping means comprises a body 2 having a first side 4 and an opposing second side 6 from which a gripping member 8 protrudes to allow selective gripping of the cleaning pad. .

  When discussing side 4 first, this comprises in this embodiment a location bar 12 which is provided for positioning the opening 10 and the end of the handle in the manner described below. The bar is mounted with respect to the gripping means so as to be movable through the opening 10 as indicated by the arrow 14. The purpose of this movement is also described below.

  Considering the other surface, i.e. the lower side 6, here two sets of gripping members 10, i.e. sets 16 and 18, are shown. Each set is provided with a plurality of gripping members 10 that are linearly spaced as shown in this configuration. In both FIGS. 1a-1b, the gripping member is shown in a first position. However, the position of the gripping member 10 'when in the second position, moved there by movement in the direction of the arrows 20, 22, respectively, is shown in broken lines in FIG. 1b.

  FIGS. 2 a-2 b show how the gripping member 10 is provided as part of the plate 24, which is further connected to the arm 26, which is further connected to the rod 12. Yes. The plate 24 is held in the gripping means body 28 via a connection of a bar 30 in the hook forming body 32 which allows a pivoting movement 25 and thus allows movement of the gripping member by a snapping action. Preferably, the plate is held in tension such that it is moved from the rest position of FIG. 2a to the tensioned position in use, as indicated by arrow 27.

  In order to move the gripping means between the first position and the second position, a relative movement between the plate 24 and the body 28 is required. In one embodiment, as shown in bold lines in FIG. 1b, the gripping means is positioned so that the gripping member 10 contacts the surface 34 of the cleaning pad 36, and then a force is applied to either the gripping means or the handle, This is accomplished, for example, by pressing them together. This moves the gripping means plate to the second position, thus moving the gripping member holding contact with the pad to the second position 10 ′, and in the second position 10 ′, this embodiment Now, the gripping means is stretched as shown in FIG. 1b, and the cleaning pad is held under tension by stretching as indicated by the dashed line 36 ′.

  To remove the cleaning pad, following the reverse steps in the handle, the gripping means is moved away to move the gripping means plate from the second position to the first position, and the plate is moved away from the gripping member. Since the grip is released, the gripper is moved by a snap operation so as to eject the cleaning pad.

  In this example, FIG. 1c shows that if the movement of the handle relative to the gripping means does not cause the cleaning pad to be ejected, the action of the spring release 31 causes the gripping member to move and return the plate to the first position. Thus, a spring release 31 is shown which causes the cleaning pad to be discharged.

  In one embodiment, force is applied through a handle 38 as shown in FIGS. 3a-3c, which is configured to engage the rod 12 in the gripping means. In one embodiment, the handle can be permanently attached to the gripping means, but alternatively and preferably, the gripping means is releasable from the handle. In this embodiment, the release is by the release of the engagement means 40, which includes an engagement collar at one end of the handle 38. The opening of the collar is achieved via a lever 42, which is shown in the open position in FIG. 1c and has an operating point 44 adjacent to the position 46 for the user's hand on the handle. The collar 40 is normally held in a closed position in engagement around the rod 12 of the gripping means, thereby holding the gripping means together with the handle. However, if the user wishes to eject the gripping means, they can operate the lever 42 at the operating point to cause the collar to open and thus the gripping means to be released. Engagement means 40 can also be used to allow other implementations to be picked up and used with the handle, other implementations being a brush or any replacement around which the collar fits It has a rod attachment means comprising any of the possible cleaning means or any combination thereof.

  With the handle, the gripping means and the cleaning pad are all attached, so that the cleaning device according to the invention is formed and can be used for the required cleaning operations. After one or more uses, it is desirable to discard the cleaning pad and replace it with a new, clean version. To do this, the gripping means and handle are moved away to a limited range, the gripping plate 24 to which the rod 12 is connected is moved, and the gripping member is moved away from the second gripping position 10 ′. The pad is moved to the first position 10 where it is released from the grip. Preferably, the movement from the second position to the first position also has a snap action to additionally release the gripping member from the pad, the snap action being a reliable ejection from the gripping means of the cleaning pad. Give rise to

  FIG. 4 shows the arrangement of the gripping means, handle 38 and holder 48. If necessary, a reservoir of cleaning pads can be held in a holder, which guides movement of the gripping member at the handle to grip and remove one of the cleaning pads for use. A guide is provided to enable this.

  Referring now to FIGS. 5a and 5b, a further embodiment of the present invention is shown. In this configuration, only a number of gripping members contact the cleaning pad 136 when the gripping member 110 is initially moved so that the handle 138 and gripping means 102 contact the pad, as shown in FIG. 5a. As shown in FIG. This is the first position. Subsequently, when successive movements, the swivel placement points 130, 132 move to the second position shown in FIG. 5b as indicated by arrow 125, all of the gripping means 110 ′ and the pad 136 as shown in FIG. 5b. The cleaning pad is gripped there. In this configuration, the plate 124 may be an integral part of the gripping member 102 housing 128 or may be formed separately. To remove the cleaning pad, the reverse of these steps is performed.

  Figures 6a and 6b show yet another configuration in which two plates 224, 224 'each having at least one gripping member 210 are provided. Each plate is pivotally connected to or formed with the housing 228 by pivot positions 230, 232. In this configuration, the plate 224, 224 'moves onto the cleaning pad 236 as shown in FIG. 6a so that the gripping member 210 contacts it in the first position. Further movement toward the pad advances member 210 into the cleaning pad, thereby applying a gripping force outwardly on the cleaning pad. Providing protrusions 250 at mating locations on the plate and housing 228 causes the gripping member to exert a gripping force, as shown in FIG. 6b where the second position is achieved. Again, these steps are reversed to remove the cleaning pad.

  Referring first to FIGS. 7 a-7 b, a cleaning pad 302 according to the present invention is shown that includes front and rear opposing flat surfaces 304, 306. Suspended inwardly from the surfaces 304, 306 are layers 308, 310, each containing a polymeric binder material. Between layers 308, 310 is provided a layer 312 that preferably does not contain a polymer binder.

  The mixture of fibers has cleaning pad properties: specific gravity (to aid cleaning), dimensional elasticity when wet (feel and control of the pad in use), absorbency (to aid cleaning), limitations Used in the cleaning pad structure to optimize the desired combination of wet strength (to allow partial disassembly of the pad). A preferred blend is 20% to 70% cellulose fiber, 40% to 80% other fiber, more preferably 20% to 70% viscose rayon with a fiber number greater than 8 dtex, 30% to 80% The wool is thicker than 30 microns.

  Application of the aqueous dispersion of polymer binder is controlled to ensure that the penetration of the cured polymer is substantially limited to the first 2 mm inward from both external surfaces of the pad after manufacture. The result is a cleaning pad with three distinct layers: a relatively strong outer layer and a loosely entangled inner core of unbonded fibers. This in turn allows partial disassembly of the pad structure by peeling after cleaning.

  The required delamination effects described above can be further improved by minimizing the mechanical entanglement of the fibers during the needle punch portion of the manufacturing process. A preferred ratio of “perforations” is 2 to 4 perforations per square centimeter.

  By increasing the density of tear lines through the pad structure, thereby reducing the number of long uncut fibers in the pad structure, the peeling of the pad after cleaning may be further enhanced. Preferably, more than 60% of the fibers in the finished pad will have a cut length of less than 15 mm.

  The preferred main coating components for the cleaning pad are both insoluble and biodegradable, most preferably polymeric aliphatic polyester polyurethane. It is desirable to maintain the polishing properties of a substantially insoluble coating while limiting the bond strength of the coating to assist in breaking the cleaning pad after cleaning. It is not readily water soluble in the main polymeric dispersants, but is either dimensionally unstable or softens when used a) when wet and / or b) under stress. This is accomplished by adding some biodegradable particulate solid. Preferred additives include powdered plants (eg walnut shells), partially hydrolyzed polyvinyl alcohol, and conditioned starch. These filters may be added at a level between 5% and 100% of the solid mass of the polymer dispersant.

  FIGS. 8 a-8 g and 9 a-9 b show the end of the assembly of handle 314 and gripping means 316. The gripping means 16 includes teeth for gripping the cleaning pad 302 as described below. The gripping means 316 may need to be detached from the handle to allow replacement, and this is accomplished by manipulation of the pivot position 318 between the handle and the gripping means. The pivot position is formed by an axial rod 320 disposed within the handle jaw 322. In normal operation of the device, a pivoting movement between the handle and the gripping means is possible in order to allow a normal pivoting movement of the cleaning pad during the cleaning operation. To allow the gripping means to be removed, the gripping means is shown in FIG. 9b to allow a narrow segment of width X to be placed through the gap 324 in the jaw 322. It is moved to the end position of the turning range as shown. Usually, manipulation of the jaws to increase the width of the gap 324 is necessary for the rod to pass through the wide gap. Normally, the end position is outside the swivel range of normal operation required for the cleaning operation.

  Figures 10a to 10c show a configuration between the cleaning pad and the gripping means comprising the teeth of the gripping means in contact with the cleaning pad to hold the cleaning pad against the teeth.

  To ensure ejection of the cleaning pad 302 from the device after use, the teeth 30 of the gripping means are moved from the first gripping position (FIG. 10a) through the third or ready position (FIG. 10b). In order to eject the pad as shown in FIG. 10c, it is desirable to temporarily take a second position substantially perpendicular to the pad. After the discharge is complete, the tooth spring automatically returns to the ready position, where the tooth takes the preferred angle to introduce a new cleaning pad. The movement of the plate and gripping means between the positions of FIG. 10b is a work in a single snapping action. Temporary extension to FIG. 10c may cause extended “follow-through” movement of the thumb button on the handle, or follow of the handle when used against a fixed surface, such as the side of a toilet bowl, for example. This is accomplished fluidly by the user of the device, either through movement. This additional ejection movement is facilitated by providing four slots in the gripping means frame to hold the two axes of the movable plate. The center of the movable plate is now moved further vertically upward relative to the frame, allowing the gripping members to be oriented vertically so as to maximize separation from the pad fibers.

  With reference to FIGS. 11a to 11e, a further arrangement between the handle and the gripping means for discharging the cleaning pad is provided. In this case, the flexible strap 410 (supported within the handle) causes the two plungers 406, 408 connected to the thumb actuation switch 412 held at the end by the user to move the tip 402 of the handle 404. Placed in. When pressed, the thumb switch pushes the plunger out of its housing against the top surface of the gripping assembly frame 414 to activate the internal ejection movement. The plunger is then automatically retracted into the handle housing using the compression spring 415 structure. This arrangement provides a convenient means of remote ejection of used cleaning pads without a fixed connection between the thumb switch and the gripping assembly. This has the advantage of allowing easy replacement of the gripping assembly and providing unrestricted movement of the gripping means assembly during use.

  FIG. 11c shows the device in the position where the gripping means teeth protrude, and FIG. 11e shows the gripping means teeth retracted.

  12a-12c show further embodiments of the cleaning pad 500, which is shown in each embodiment as being substantially rectangular in a plane with rounded corners 502. The embodiment shown in FIG. 12a includes a series of notches 504 that run along the length of the pad and a series of notches 506 that run perpendicular to the length of the pad to form a “grid” of notches. Have. FIG. 12b shows a variation to this where there is a different pattern of notches, but the principle of reducing the size of the pad being discarded and promoting the “breaking” of the pad is the same. It should be understood that tags of unbroken material can be spaced along the notch so as to maintain the integrity of the pad as a single unit during use. The width of the tag can be adjusted to suit specific destruction and disposal requirements after use.

  FIG. 12c shows yet another pattern of notches, where an additional longer notch 508 serves to divide the pad into segments, which again facilitates the splitting of the pad.

  Figures 13a-14c illustrate a further aspect of the present invention, showing a holder 600 and a handle 602 disposed therein. The handle will operate in a manner similar to that previously described. Figures 13a to 13d show the handle in a first use position at the top of the stack of cleaning pads held in the holder, and Figures 13e to 13h show that the handle end and the gripping means are In this position, the handle is shown in the second storage position, since it is not above the pad, so that droplets from the handle are prevented from falling on the pad.

  FIG. 14 b shows a preferred configuration of the handle 602, the gripping means 606, and a stack of pads 604 in the holder 600. In this configuration, the weight of the handle is arranged to be offset toward the holder axis A and pivot axis 608 as indicated by arrow 610 and thus tilted away from the user. Arrow B indicates that the limit of the pivoting movement of the handle in combination with the rest C ensures that the handle and grip pick up the pad successfully. The handle is moved to pick and remove the pad 604 'from the top of the stack. FIG. 14a shows an alternative embodiment with the handle in the opposite direction.

  FIG. 14c shows an elevational section through the holder 600, with one of the ribs 612 provided to contact the pad stack, either directly or through the deformable wall of the pad carton / cartridge. It provides the most dense form that is provided and that allows one of the pads to be removed from the stack at a time. Also shown is a portion of a guide or rest 614 that is substantially U-shaped with the handle resting against it when in the holder.

  In this way, a gripping means for the cleaning pad that allows an effective and reliable gripping of the pad while at the same time allowing the gripping to be achieved by a user away from the pad itself A series of embodiments are provided. In certain embodiments, pad ejection can be accomplished by the reverse of the gripping step, although other actuation means are provided in the handle and / or gripping means to cause cleaning pad ejection. It should be understood that this may be done.

It is a figure which shows the holding means by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the holding means by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the holding means by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the holding means plate. It is a figure which shows the holding means plate. FIG. 2 shows the gripping means of FIGS. 1 a-1 c together with a handle according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 shows the gripping means of FIGS. 1 a-1 c together with a handle according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 shows the gripping means of FIGS. 1 a-1 c together with a handle according to an embodiment of the invention. It is a figure which shows the handle | steering-wheel in the position for storage of a holder. It is a figure which shows the structure which becomes an alternative of a holding means. It is a figure which shows the structure which becomes an alternative of a holding means. FIG. 6 is a view showing still another embodiment of the gripping means according to the present invention. FIG. 6 is a view showing still another embodiment of the gripping means according to the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning pad according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a side sectional elevation view of a cleaning pad according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the fixation structure between the handle | steering-wheel and holding means by this invention. It is a figure which shows the fixation structure between the handle | steering-wheel and holding means by this invention. It is a figure which shows the fixation structure between the handle | steering-wheel and holding means by this invention. It is a figure which shows the fixation structure between the handle | steering-wheel and holding means by this invention. It is a figure which shows the fixation structure between the handle | steering-wheel and holding means by this invention. It is a figure which shows the fixation structure between the handle | steering-wheel and holding means by this invention. It is a figure which shows the fixation structure between the handle | steering-wheel and holding means by this invention. It is the schematic of the fixed structure between a handle and a holding means. It is the schematic of the fixed structure between a handle and a holding means. It is a figure which shows the fixed structure between a handle | steering-wheel and a cleaning pad. It is a figure which shows the fixed structure between a handle | steering-wheel and a cleaning pad. It is a figure which shows the fixed structure between a handle | steering-wheel and a cleaning pad. FIG. 6 shows a further arrangement between the handle and the gripping means for allowing the cleaning pad to be discharged. FIG. 6 shows a further arrangement between the handle and the gripping means for allowing the cleaning pad to be discharged. FIG. 6 shows a further arrangement between the handle and the gripping means for allowing the cleaning pad to be discharged. FIG. 6 shows a further arrangement between the handle and the gripping means for allowing the cleaning pad to be discharged. FIG. 6 shows a further arrangement between the handle and the gripping means for allowing the cleaning pad to be discharged. It is a top view of embodiment of a cleaning pad. It is a top view of embodiment of a cleaning pad. It is a top view of embodiment of a cleaning pad. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. It is a figure which shows the position of the handle with respect to a holder. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing further features of the holder. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing further features of the holder. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing further features of the holder.

Claims (50)

  An apparatus for cleaning comprising a handle, a cleaning pad, and gripping means for the cleaning pad, wherein the gripping means includes a plurality of gripping members that are moved to a position for contacting the cleaning pad. Further movement of the gripping means relative to the cleaning pad moves the gripping member between a first position where the gripping member contacts the surface of the cleaning pad and a second position where the gripping member grips the cleaning pad. Let the device.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the cleaning pad can be ejected from the gripping means by movement of the gripping member from the second position to the first position.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the outer layer of the cleaning pad has an open structure such as a fabric, fiber, or foam.   The gripping is accomplished as a movement of the gripping member between the first position and the second position, causing the first and second sets of gripping members to move away, so that at least the cleaning pad of the cleaning pad The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a portion of the set of gripping members between the sets of positions is stretched and held under increased levels of tension.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gripping member is divided into a plurality of sets, hangs outward from a common surface of the gripping means, and is moved between the first position and the second gripping position. .   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the movement of the gripping member between the first position and the second position is or includes a snapping action.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gripping members are elongated and are relatively straight, and each set of gripping members is provided in a linearly spaced array.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the gripping members are angled to approach the cleaning pad at an angle relative to the cleaning pad.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein some or all of the gripping members comprise hook formations.   The gripping means is provided for use with a handle, wherein the handle is disposed with the gripping means and hangs away from the surface of the gripping means opposite the surface from which the gripping member protrudes. apparatus.   11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein movement of the gripping member between the first position and the second position is achieved by relative movement of the handle and the gripping means.   The movement of the handle toward the grip means causes the grip member to move from the first position to the second position, and the movement of the handle away from the grip means causes the grip means from the second position to the first position. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the movement is caused.   The gripping means is adjustable in angle with respect to the handle to allow a cleaning operation to be performed, and further pivoting movement to one of the end positions of the movement between the handle and the gripping means A handle comprising gripping means held by or in contact with the article is directed toward the gripping means to grip the cleaning pad in contact with the cleaning pad or away from the gripping means to cause discharge of the cleaning pad 11. The device according to claim 10, wherein the device can be moved relative to the gripping means.   A gripping means is provided as part of the plate, the plate gripping such that movement between the first position and the second position includes movement about an overcenter to provide a snapping action. 14. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, held by means.   11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the handle is removably attachable to the gripping means via engaging means that can move between an engaged position and an open position.   16. A device according to claim 15, wherein the movement of the engagement means is achieved by operation of a lever provided as part of the handle.   A holder is provided for the cleaning pad and handle, said holder being used in two positions for the handle, i.e. a preparation position for the first use at the top of the stack of cleaning pads and a grip. A second storage position seated behind the oppositely facing holder, with grips disposed on the raised bumps to ensure that it remains in the open position prepared for Item 2. The apparatus according to Item 1.   Handle with holder that ensures that the open grip does not rotate under the weight of the handle in the storage position within the stand or under pressure applied by the user when the pad and pad are engaged Rotating handle, rest / guide on which the handle can lean, and / or handle where most of the handle weight is on one side of the handle / grip pivot when the handle is positioned above the horizontal pad The device of claim 1, comprising any one of the features or any combination of the features.   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more ribs are disposed inside the holder to provide limited frictional resistance with a stack of cleaning pads disposed within the holder.   The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the one or more ribs are incorporated into a carton wall provided with a cleaning pad.   An apparatus for performing a cleaning operation, comprising: a cleaning pad; a gripping means for gripping the cleaning pad; and a handle for connecting to the gripping means, wherein the cleaning pad is selectively selected from the gripping means. Displaceable, the gripping means is selectively displaceable from a handle, the gripping means includes teeth, and the teeth cause the cleaning pad to be ejected from a first gripping position. An apparatus that can be moved to a second ejection position that is substantially perpendicular to the surface of the cleaning pad that contacts it.   The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the teeth of the gripping means return to the third position when the cleaning pad is ejected.   The handle and the gripping means are connected via a pivot position, the gripping means being selectively removable from the handle by pivoting the grip means to the end position of the range of pivot movement. Equipment.   24. The device according to claim 23, wherein the position for removal is outside the normal range of movement required for the operation of the device during the cleaning operation.   25. The apparatus according to claim 24, wherein manipulation and / or deformation of the handle and / or gripping means causes subsequent removal when the gripping means and handle are in the position required to be removable.   A cleaning pad for use in a cleaning operation, wherein the cleaning pad is formed from a mixture of fibers including cellulose fibers.   27. The cleaning pad of claim 26, wherein the cellulose fibers are included in the range of 20% to 70% of the fiber mixture.   28. The cleaning pad of claim 27, wherein the other fibers are provided in the range of 30% to 80%.   29. The cleaning pad of claim 28, wherein the other fibers comprise 30% to 80% wool fibers (keratin).   30. The cleaning pad of claim 29, wherein the cleaning pad comprises 20% to 70% fiber viscose rayon greater than 8 dtex and 30% to 80% wool thicker than 30 microns.   27. The cleaning pad of claim 26, comprising a perforation / cut line in the cleaning pad that joins a tag of uncut material with a grid of notches along the length and across the width of the cleaning pad. Cleaning pad.   32. The cleaning pad of claim 31, wherein additional longer tear lines are provided to divide the cleaning pad.   33. Cleaning pad according to claim 31 and 32, wherein the spacing between the tear lines is at most 15 mm in either direction.   32. The cleaning pad of claim 31, wherein the cleaning pad is substantially rectangular in shape with a corner of a curved contour with a minimum radius of 10 mm.   35. A cleaning pad according to any one of claims 26 to 34, wherein the fibers of the cleaning pad are perforated at a rate of 2 to 4 per square centimeter.   36. A cleaning pad according to any one of claims 26 to 35, wherein at least some of the fibers of the cleaning pad are cut such that more than 60% of the fibers in the cleaning pad have a length of less than 15 mm.   37. A cleaning pad according to any one of claims 26 to 36, wherein an aqueous dispersion of polymer binder is added to the cleaning pad.   38. The cleaning pad of claim 37, wherein the binder comprises abrasive particles.   38. The cleaning pad of claim 37, wherein the cleaning pad has a penetration of the binder from at least one outer surface to a depth of up to 3mm.   38. A cleaning pad according to claim 37, wherein the penetration depth is up to 2 mm.   38. The cleaning pad of claim 37, wherein a binder is applied to the opposing planar outer surface of the cleaning pad.   42. Any one of claims 37 to 41, wherein the cleaning pad has a first outer surface with a relatively strong layer, an inner core or layer of unbonded fibers, and another relatively strong layer on the opposite side. The cleaning pad according to item.   43. A cleaning pad according to any one of claims 37 to 42, wherein the polymer binder is biodegradable.   44. A cleaning pad according to any one of claims 37 to 43, wherein the polymer is a polymeric aliphatic polyester polyurethane.   45. A cleaning pad according to any one of claims 37 to 44, wherein the polymeric binder comprises a biodegradable particulate solid in a level in the range between 5% and 100% of the solid mass of the polymeric dispersant.   38. The cleaning pad of claim 37, wherein a water resistant binder coating is applied to one side of the cleaning pad and a polymer coating is applied to the other side.   38. The cleaning pad of claim 37, wherein the fibers are added to a fiber mixture that can be degraded after use in water.   48. The buoyancy of the cleaning pad is controlled to affect the disposal properties of the cleaning pad when discarded from the assembly and when the cleaning pad needs to be cleaned. The cleaning pad according to one item.   Buoyancy is determined relative to the density of the cleaning pad, and the preferred density range for cleanability is that the cleaning pad is completely immersed in cold pure water at 4 ° C for 60 seconds before weighing the test sample in water. 49. The cleaning pad of claim 48, wherein the cleaning pad is between 1.05 grams / CC and 1.45 grams / CC.   50. The cleaning pad of claim 49, wherein the density of the cleaning pad is in the range of 1.05-1.45 times the density of the water or aqueous solution in which the cleaning pad is immersed during use.

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