TW201713258A - Disposable toilet bowl scrub system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to a scrub head capable of use in a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system and to methods of making and using the scrub head. The present disclosure also generally relates to a disposable toilet bowl cleaning system and to methods of making and using the disposable toilet bowl cleaning system.

Description

Disposable toilet scrubbing system

The present disclosure generally relates to a scrubbing head that can be used in a disposable toilet cleaning system and a method of making and using the scrubbing head. The present disclosure is also generally directed to a disposable toilet cleaning system and method of making and using the disposable toilet cleaning system.

There are currently some cleaning devices for cleaning toilets, which include a reusable handle assembly and a disposable pad that is releasably engageable with the handle assembly. U.S. Patent Nos. 2,816,313; 3,221,356; 3,383,158; 4,466,152; 4,493,124; 4,852,201; 5,488,748; 5,592,713; 5,630,243; 6,295,688; 7,127,768; 7,275,276; Descriptive examples are provided in the patent applications US 2002/0025213 A1 and 2002/0120993 A1; PCT application WO 87/00022 and WO 01/15587; and European Patent Application EP 1 190 657 A1, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. .

An exemplary prior art toilet cleaning device (often referred to as a "wand") is described in U.S. Patent No. 7,127,768. Some embodiments of this patent are shown herein in Figures 1A and 1B. The toilet cleaning device 1 includes a handle 10 that is operatively coupled to a cleaning head 20. The cleaning head 20 includes a sponge 24, a scrim 34, and a A filament or top 40, each of which is described in more detail in U.S. Patent No. 7,127,768.

The inventors of the present disclosure recognize that existing toilet cleaning devices have various drawbacks. For example, one drawback is that many users do not want to touch the disposable cleaning pad with their hands. For many users, this means that the user does not want to touch the disposable cleaning pad during attachment of the scrub head to the handle assembly or during removal of the dirty disposable scrub head from the handle assembly. For many users, what is desired is to hold the reusable handle assembly and attach the disposable scrub head without touching the cleaning pad, rather than attaching the disposable scrub head to the handle total The disposable scrub head is held in the hand during the formation. Many prior art toilet cleaning devices require the user to hold the disposable cleaning pad in the hand during application of the disposable cleaning pad to the handle assembly and/or during removal from the handle assembly. Some prior art toilet cleaning devices that are intended to allow the cleaning pad to be attached to the handle without the need to be manually attached to the handle without holding the cleaning pad, are actually difficult to use, or do not touch the pad In this case the pad cannot be reliably removed from the handle.

An additional or additional disadvantage is that many existing toilet cleaning devices lack the secure attachment of the cleaning pad to the handle. Alternatively, the force exerted by the user on the cleaning pad exceeds the attachment fastness of the cleaning pad to the handle. Therefore, the cleaning pad falls into the toilet during use. This is especially undesirable because the user is then forced to reach into the toilet by hand or another appliance to remove the cleaning pad. The cleaning pad must be thrown away and wasted, and the entire process must be restarted.

An additional or additional disadvantage is that many existing toilet cleaning devices include a cleaning pad that does not clean the toilet very well. In some cases, this is due to the poor shape and/or size of the cleaning pad. In some cases, this is because the cleaning pad has minimal movement after being secured to the handle assembly. In some cases, existing cleaning pads and/or toilet cleaning devices are not capable of adequately cleaning at least one of the following areas of the toilet: under the edge or in the drain.

The inventors of the present disclosure have invented a toilet bowl cleaning device that includes a disposable pad that is aligned for easy, non-handed attachment to and releasable from the reusable handle assembly. The toilet cleaning system described herein solves or ameliorates at least some of the above identified disadvantages of existing toilet cleaning systems.

Some embodiments relate to a scrub head that can be used in a disposable toilet cleaning system, comprising: a cup; a belt adjacent at least a portion of the cup or attached to the cup; and a cleaning A pad adjacent to the strap or attached to the strap. In some embodiments, the cup includes an opening. In some embodiments, the opening has a diameter of between about 5 mm and about 30 mm. In some embodiments, the cup includes a first end and a second end, the body of the cup being located between the first end and the second end, and wherein the cup is The system is essentially hollow. In some embodiments, the cup body has a height of between about 15 mm and about 70 mm. In some embodiments, the cup and the strap are unitary pieces.

In some embodiments, the strap has a length that is greater than the length of the body of the cup. In some embodiments, the strap has an arcuate shape. In some embodiments The strip has a radius of curvature of between about 5 mm and about 25 mm. In some embodiments, the strap includes a slot into which one of the cups partially engages.

In some embodiments, the cleaning pad is a nonwoven polymeric material. In some embodiments, the cleaning pad comprises at least one of: an abrasive, a dye, a fragrance, a slurry, a bleach, a bactericide, or an antimicrobial agent.

In some embodiments, the scrub head has one degree of freedom. In some embodiments, the scrub head has three degrees of freedom.

In some embodiments, the first end of the cup is attached to the first end of the strap. In some embodiments, the second end of the cup is attached to the second end of the strap. In some embodiments, the second end of the strap is not attached to the cup.

Some embodiments relate to a disposable toilet cleaning system comprising a scrub head and a handle assembly as described herein. Some embodiments further include a caddy assembly. Some embodiments further include an actuating button or switch, wherein the scrubbing head is retained to the handle assembly when the actuating button or switch is in a first position, and when the actuating button or switch is in a second When in position, the scrub head is not retained on the handle assembly.

A-A‧‧‧ line

B-B‧‧‧ line

Δ‧‧‧ angle

Ψ‧‧‧ angle

θ ₁ ‧‧‧ angle

θ ₂ ‧‧‧ angle

1‧‧‧ toilet cleaning device

10‧‧‧handle

20‧‧‧ cleaning head

24‧‧‧Sponge

34‧‧‧ gauze

40‧‧‧long filament or top

200‧‧‧Disposable toilet cleaning system

210‧‧‧Handle assembly

216‧‧‧ gauze

220‧‧‧can assembly

222‧‧‧ cover

224‧‧‧ Shell

226‧‧‧Base

230‧‧‧Disposable scrub head; scrub head

240‧‧‧ envelope

250‧‧‧Disposable toilet cleaning system

256‧‧‧ bracket

260‧‧‧handle assembly

270‧‧‧can assembly

272‧‧‧ cover

274‧‧‧ Shell

280‧‧‧Disposable scrub head; scrub head

300‧‧‧Disposable toilet cleaning system

310‧‧‧handle assembly; handle part

312‧‧‧ First end

314‧‧‧ second end

316‧‧‧ front side; top side

318‧‧‧ Back side

320‧‧‧Scrubbing head

340‧‧‧Actuation button or switch

350‧‧‧ receptacle or cup

352‧‧‧First end

354‧‧‧ second end

356‧‧‧ cup body

358‧‧‧ openings

360‧‧‧Band

362‧‧‧ first end

364‧‧‧second end

366‧‧‧Contact surface

368‧‧‧ inner surface

370‧‧‧ Cleaning mat

372‧‧‧ first end

374‧‧‧second end

376‧‧‧ Attachment surface

378‧‧‧ scrubbing the surface

400‧‧‧Disposable toilet cleaning system

410‧‧‧handle assembly; handle part

412‧‧‧ first end

414‧‧‧second end

416‧‧‧ front side; top side

418‧‧‧ Back side

420‧‧‧Scrubbing head

440‧‧‧Actuation button or switch

450‧‧‧seat or cup

452‧‧‧ first end

453‧‧‧ side surface

454‧‧‧ second end

456‧‧‧ cup body

458‧‧‧ openings

460‧‧‧带带

462‧‧‧ first end

464‧‧‧second end

466‧‧‧Contact surface

468‧‧‧ inner surface

470‧‧‧ Cleaning mat

472‧‧‧ first end

474‧‧‧second end

476‧‧‧ Attachment surface

478‧‧‧ scrub surface

600‧‧‧cleaning mat

602‧‧‧ top surface

604‧‧‧ bottom surface

606‧‧‧ side surface

608‧‧‧ side surface

700‧‧‧cleaning mat

710‧‧‧Scrubbing head

720‧‧‧ bottom surface

730‧‧‧ top surface

800‧‧‧Scrubbing head

850‧‧‧ cup

854‧‧‧second end

860‧‧‧带带

864‧‧‧second end

900‧‧‧Scrubbing head

950‧‧‧ cup

954‧‧‧second end

960‧‧‧Band

964‧‧‧second end

1000‧‧‧Scrubbing head

1050‧‧‧ cup

1052‧‧‧ button

1056‧‧‧ cup body

1060‧‧‧Band

1062‧‧‧ slots or channels; meshing slots

1070‧‧‧ Cleaning mat

1082‧‧‧ Opening

1100‧‧‧cleaning mat

1110‧‧‧First end

1120‧‧‧ second end

1200‧‧‧Disposable toilet cleaning system

1210‧‧‧Handle assembly

1211‧‧‧ first component

1212‧‧‧ first end

1213‧‧‧Second component

1214‧‧‧second end

1215‧‧‧Handle body

1217‧‧‧ insertable part

1220‧‧‧Scrubbing head

1240‧‧‧Actuation button or switch

1250‧‧‧ cup; hoof

1265‧‧‧Snap

1268‧‧‧ slots

1280‧‧‧ first end

1281‧‧‧second end

1282‧‧‧ openings; inner surface

1283‧‧‧ outer surface

1285‧‧‧Part II

1290‧‧‧ first end

1291‧‧‧second end

1292‧‧‧ inner surface

1293‧‧‧Outer surface

1294a‧‧‧Flange

1294b‧‧‧Flange

1294c‧‧‧Flange

1295‧‧‧Part 1

1296‧‧‧ openings

1296a‧‧‧Parts

1296b‧‧‧Parts

1296c‧‧‧Parts

1297‧‧‧ openings

1310‧‧‧Activity agency

1320‧‧‧ plunger rod

1322‧‧‧First end; end of plunger rod

1326‧‧‧second end

1330‧‧‧Spring stopper

1340‧‧‧Plunger spring

1610‧‧‧Handle assembly

1612‧‧‧First end

1614‧‧‧second end

1615‧‧‧Handle body

1617‧‧‧ insertable part

1620‧‧‧Button rod; plunger rod

1622‧‧‧second end

1624‧‧‧First end

1640‧‧‧Actuation button or switch

1665‧‧‧Latch

1720‧‧‧Scrubbing head

1750‧‧‧ cup; scrubbing head

1765‧‧‧Latch

1768‧‧‧ slots

1800‧‧‧Disposable toilet cleaning system

1810‧‧‧Handle assembly

1811‧‧‧ first component

1813‧‧‧Second component

1815‧‧‧Handle body

1817‧‧‧ insertable part; second end

1820‧‧‧Scrubbing head

1821‧‧‧second end

1840‧‧‧Actuation button or switch; button lever

1850‧‧‧ cup; hoof

1860‧‧‧Activity agency

1870‧‧‧ button spring

1875‧‧‧Latch

1876‧‧‧Snap incision

1877‧‧‧ member; extension member

1879‧‧‧ components; extension members

1880‧‧‧ first end

1881‧‧‧second end

1882‧‧‧ openings; inner surface

1883‧‧‧ outer surface

1884‧‧‧plugin

1890‧‧‧First end

1891‧‧‧second end

1892‧‧‧ inner surface

1893‧‧‧ outer surface

1894‧‧‧Flange

1895‧‧‧Seal

1896‧‧‧ openings

1910‧‧‧Handle assembly

1914‧‧‧ second end

1915‧‧‧Handle body

1920‧‧‧Scrubbing head

1950‧‧‧ cup

2120‧‧‧Scrubbing head

2200‧‧‧ Refill packaging

2220‧‧‧Scrubbing head

2230‧‧‧Package

These figures are not drawn to scale and are intended for purposes of illustration only. The present disclosure may be more completely understood by the following description of the embodiments of the embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein: FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a prior art toilet cleaning system.

1B is an exploded side elevational view of the scrub head of the prior art disposable toilet cleaning system of FIG. 1A.

2A is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment of a disposable toilet cleaning system of the type generally described herein.

2B is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet cleaning system of the type generally described herein.

3A, 3B, and 3C are perspective, side, and front views, respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet cleaning system of the type generally described herein.

4A, 4B, and 4C are perspective, side, and front views, respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet cleaning system of the type generally described herein.

Figure 5A is a side elevational view of the scrub head of the disposable toilet cleaning system of Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C.

Figure 5B is a side elevational view of the scrub head of the disposable toilet cleaning system of Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C.

Figure 6 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning pad of the type generally described herein.

Figure 7 is a top plan view of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning pad of the type generally described herein.

8A and 8B are side views of another exemplary embodiment of a scrubbing head scrubbing head of the type generally described herein. Figure 8B shows the scrubbing head when in use and/or during application to the handle assembly.

9A, 9B, and 9C are respective side, side, and front views of another exemplary embodiment of a scrubbing head of a scrubbing tool of the type generally described herein. Figures 9B and 9C show the scrub head and/or scrubbing tool in use.

10A and 10B show side and top views, respectively, of another illustrative embodiment of a scrubbing head of a scrubbing tool of the type generally described herein. Figure 10C shows a perspective side view of the scrub head in use. Figure 10D shows a perspective top view of the scrub head when in use.

11A and 11B show top and perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning pad of the type generally described herein. Figure 11C shows a front view of a scrub head of the type generally described herein having a cleaning pad as shown in Figures 11A and 11B.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet cleaning system in which the scrub head and the handle are generally open.

Figure 13 is an exploded view of the disposable toilet cleaning system of Figure 12.

14A-14C show perspective, side, and top views, respectively, of a handle assembly of the type generally described herein.

Figure 15 shows a cross-sectional view at line A-A of Figure 3B.

16A-16C show perspective, side, and bottom views, respectively, of an exemplary actuation mechanism for a handle assembly of a disposable toilet cleaning system.

Figure 17 shows a cross-sectional side view at line A-A of the actuating mechanism of Figure 16B.

18 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the exemplary disposable toilet cleaning system illustrated in FIGS. 4A, 4B, and 4C, including the actuation mechanism of FIGS. 19 and 20.

Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional view of the disposable toilet cleaning system of Figure 16B taken along line B-B.

Figure 20 shows an enlargement of a portion of Figure 19.

Figure 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary scrub head of a plurality of types described herein in a stacked configuration.

Figure 22 shows an exemplary side perspective view of a scrub head refill package.

The following embodiments are described with reference to a set of the accompanying drawings, in which FIG. It is understood that other embodiments may be devised and made without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosure.

The present disclosure is generally directed to various toilet cleaning systems or devices that improve some of the shortcomings of prior art toilet cleaning systems or devices. Many embodiments of the toilet cleaning system described and illustrated herein are non-contact solutions in which the user does not need to apply the cleaning pad to the handle assembly and/or during removal of the cleaning pad from the handle assembly. The body touches the cleaning pad. In some embodiments, the user does not need to physically touch the cleaning pad from the time of purchase until the end of use. Many embodiments of the toilet cleaning system described herein include a disposable scrub head and a reusable handle assembly. Many embodiments of the toilet cleaning system include a scrubbing tool, a can, and a refill package. As used herein, the term "scrubbing tool" may refer to an assembled scrub head and handle assembly.

2A and 2B are schematic perspective views of two exemplary embodiments of disposable toilet cleaning systems of the type generally described herein (200 and 250, respectively). The disposable toilet cleaning system 200 of FIG. 2A includes a handle assembly 210 (sometimes referred to as a "stick"), a can assembly 220, and one or more disposable scrub heads 230, the disposable scrub head 230 being housed in a can The assembly is in 220. The handle assembly 210 is placed in the bracket 216. Handle assembly 210 and scrub head 230 can be any of the handle assemblies or scrub heads described herein.

The can assembly 220 includes a cover 222, a housing 224, and a foot 226. In some embodiments (including those shown in Figure 2A), the outer casing 224 is clear or translucent. This may be preferred in some embodiments as it allows the user to see how many disposable scrub heads 230 remain in the can assembly 220. The tank assembly 220 is optional. In some embodiments, the can assembly 220 is used to store an additional scrub head 230 and may store the handle assembly 210 when not in use. In some embodiments, the can assembly 220 forms a closed and/or airtight environment. This may be preferred in some embodiments to minimize, reduce, or eliminate odor and/or prevent the child or pet from touching the scrub head 230. The can assembly 220 can be formed from any desired material. An exemplary material is a durable material such as, for example, plastic or metal. Less durable materials such as cardboard can also be used.

The disposable toilet cleaning system 250 of FIG. 2B includes a handle assembly 260, a can assembly 270, and a disposable scrub head 280 (not shown) that is received in the can assembly 270. The handle assembly 260 is placed in the bracket 256. Handle assembly 260 and scrub head 280 can be any of the handle assemblies or scrub heads described herein.

The can assembly 270 of FIG. 2B includes a cover 272 and a housing 274. In some embodiments, the "foot" of the can assembly 270 is part of or integral with the bracket 256. In some embodiments (including the embodiment of Figure 2B), the outer casing 274 is substantially opaque. This may be preferred in some embodiments because it obscures the contents of the can assembly 270 and is invisible to the user, and some users may find such a more aesthetically pleasing or desirable. In some embodiments, the can assembly 270 forms a closed and/or airtight environment. This may be preferred in some embodiments to minimize, reduce, or eliminate odor and/or prevent the child or pet from touching the scrub head 280. The can assembly 270 can be formed from any desired material. An exemplary material is a durable material such as, for example, plastic or metal. Less durable materials such as cardboard can also be used. The tank assembly 270 is optional.

In some embodiments (including those shown in FIG. 2B), the disposable toilet cleaning system 250 includes an encasement 240 that wraps around the handle assembly 260 and the can assembly 270. The envelope 240 is typically present on the disposable toilet cleaning system 250 during shipping and sale, and the user removes the disposable toilet cleaning system 250 prior to its actual use. The envelope 240 can prevent the handle assembly 260 from falling out of the can assembly 270 or from the can assembly 270 during transport. The envelope 240 can be made of any desired material, including, for example, paper (eg, corrugated cardboard, cardboard), plastic, fabric, metal, elastomer, and the like. The envelope 240 can have any desired size. In some embodiments, the envelope 240 includes written text or image information that advertises the disposable toilet cleaning system and/or instructs the user how to use the disposable toilet cleaning system.

Many variations to the specific embodiments shown in Figures 2A and 2B can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, a disposable toilet cleaning system The size and shape can be varied in any way desired. The number of scrub heads in the can assembly can vary and can be any desired number. In some embodiments, the cover is optional and/or removable. The envelope is optional.

3A, 3B, and 3C are perspective views, side views, and front views, respectively, of an exemplary disposable toilet cleaning system 300 consistent with the teachings herein. The disposable toilet cleaning system 300 includes a handle assembly 310 and a scrub head 320 that is releasably attached to the handle assembly 310.

The handle assembly 310 includes a first end 312 and a second end 314 and a front side 316 and a rear side 318.

The scrub head 320 is releasably attached to the second end 314 of the handle assembly 310 by an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism can be any desired attachment mechanism. Some attachment mechanisms are mechanical. An exemplary mechanical attachment mechanism is a plastic snap. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism includes an actuating button or switch 340 on the handle portion 310. In one embodiment, the actuation button or switch 340 is positioned toward the first end 312 of the handle portion 310. In some embodiments, the actuation button or switch 340 is a thumb push button on the top side 316 of the handle assembly 310. When the actuation button is pushed forward, the scrub head 320 exits or dislodges from the attachment to the handle assembly 310.

In some embodiments, the scrub head 320 is uniquely shaped to target the edges of the toilet. In some embodiments, the scrub head 320 provides an effective surface area coverage for cleaning and scrubbing the toilet and/or a drain hole sized to fit the toilet. The scrub head 320 includes a receptacle or cup 350, a strap 360, and a cleaning Pad 370, and the like, will all be shown and described in more detail in later figures and accompanying description.

Many variations may be made to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 3A-3C without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, the length and curvature of the handle portion, the position of the actuation button or switch, the size and angle of the scrub head (the angle of the scrub head can be fixed or variable), the size of the receptacle or cup, and the like.

4A, 4B, and 4C show perspective, side, and front views, respectively, of another embodiment of an exemplary disposable toilet cleaning system 400. The disposable toilet cleaning system 400 is similar to the disposable toilet cleaning system 300 shown in Figures 3A-3C. The disposable toilet cleaning system 400 includes a handle assembly 410 and a scrub head 420 that is releasably coupled to the handle assembly 410. The handle assembly 410 includes a first end 412 and a second end 414 and a front side 416 and a rear side 418.

The scrub head 420 is releasably attached to the second end 414 of the handle assembly 410 by an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism can be any desired attachment mechanism. Some attachment mechanisms are mechanical. An exemplary mechanical attachment mechanism is a plastic snap. In some embodiments, the attachment mechanism includes an actuating button or switch 440 on the handle portion 410. In one embodiment, the actuation button or switch 440 is positioned toward the first end 412 of the handle portion 410. In some embodiments, the actuation button or switch 440 is a thumb push button on the top side 416 of the handle assembly 410. When the actuation button is pushed forward, the scrub head 420 exits or dislodges from the attachment to the handle assembly 410.

In some embodiments, the scrub head 420 is uniquely shaped to target the edges of the toilet. In some embodiments, the scrub head 420 is provided for The effective surface area of the cleaning and scrubbing toilet is covered and/or sized to fit the drain hole of the toilet. The scrub head 420 includes a receptacle or cup 450, a strap 460, and a cleaning pad 470, all of which will be shown in greater detail and described in Figure 5A and the accompanying description.

Many variations may be made to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 4A-4C without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, the length and curvature of the handle portion, the position of the actuation button or switch, the size and angle of the scrub head (the angle of the scrub head can be fixed or variable), the size of the receptacle or cup, and the like.

Figure 5A is a side elevational view of the scrub head 320 of Figures 3A-3C. Figure 5B is a side elevational view of the scrub head 420 of Figures 4A-4C. In Figures 5A and 5B , the scrub heads 320, 420 include a receptacle or cup 350, 450, a strap 360, 460, and a cleaning pad 370, 470.

The combined cups 350, 450 and straps 360, 460 are sometimes referred to as shoes or forms. As shown in the perspective view of Fig. 10D, the cups 350, 450 have a concave or open cup shape. The cups 350, 450 include a first end 352, 452 and a second end 354, 454 between the first end and the second end. In some embodiments, the cup bodies 356, 456 are hollow. In the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 5A and 10A, an opening 358, 458 extends generally from the first end 352, 452 region of the cup body 356, 456 to the second end 354, 454 region.

In some embodiments, the cup body 356 includes one or more slots that extend generally between the first end and the second end (352 and 354, respectively). The slots, openings 358, 458 and/or hollow cups 350, 450 can be for a variety of different reasons. One of the reasons is to reduce the amount of material needed to form the cups 350, 450 and to reduce the overall weight of the scrubbing tool.

In some embodiments, the cups 350, 450 are made of plastic, such as, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or polystyrene.

In some embodiments, the cup bodies 356, 456 have a height of between about 10 mm and about 70 mm. In some embodiments, the cup bodies 356, 456 have a height of between about 20 mm and about 40 mm. In some embodiments, the cup body has a height greater than about 10 mm, greater than about 15 mm, greater than about 20 mm, greater than about 25 mm, greater than about 30 mm, or greater than about 35 mm. In some embodiments, the cup body has a height of less than about 70 mm, less than about 60 mm, less than about 50 mm, less than about 40 mm, less than about 35 mm, or less than about 30 mm.

In some embodiments, the cup bodies 356, 456 have a diameter that is an opening in the cup between about 5 mm and about 30 mm. In some embodiments, the cup bodies 356, 456 have a diameter that is an opening in the cup between about 7 mm and about 20 mm. In some embodiments, the cup opening has a diameter greater than about 5 mm, greater than about 6 mm, greater than about 7 mm, greater than about 8 mm, greater than about 9 mm, or greater than about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the cup opening has a diameter of less than about 20 mm, less than about 18 mm, less than about 16 mm, less than about 15 mm, or less than about 14 mm.

The straps 360, 460 are adjacent to and/or attached to the cups 350, 450 and the cleaning pads 370, 470. In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 have an arcuate shape and include a first end 362, 462, a second end 364, 464, and a contact surface 366, 466, contact surfaces 366, 466 and An inner surface 368, 468 is opposite. The first ends 362, 462 of the straps 360, 460 are attached to the first ends 352, 452 (or a nearby region) of the cups 350, 450. The second ends 364, 464 of the straps 360, 460 are attached to the second ends 354, 454 (or a nearby region) of the cups 350, 450.

In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 have a length that is greater than the length of the cups 350, 450 such that the attachment causes the straps 360, 460 to be bent and take the shape of an arc having a radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 have a length of between about 80 mm and about 150 mm. In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 have a length of between about 100 mm and about 120 mm. In some embodiments, the strap has a length greater than about 80 mm, greater than about 90 mm, greater than about 100 mm, greater than about 105 mm, or greater than about 110 mm. In some embodiments, the strap has a length of less than about 150 mm, less than about 140 mm, less than about 130 mm, less than about 120 mm, or less than about 115 mm.

In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 have a radius of curvature between about 1 mm and about 25 mm. In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 have a radius of curvature between about 3 mm and about 8 mm. In some embodiments, the strap has a radius of curvature greater than about 1 mm, greater than about 2 mm, greater than about 3 mm, greater than about 4 mm, greater than about 5 mm, or greater than about 6 mm. In some embodiments, the strap has a radius of curvature of less than about 25 mm, less than about 20 mm, less than about 15 mm, less than about 12 mm, or less than about 10 mm.

In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 include at least one channel or opening. When present, channels or openings can help reduce material costs and total scrubbing tools weight. In some embodiments, the straps 360, 460 are made of plastic, such as, for example, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or polystyrene.

In some embodiments, the first end and the second end of the straps 360, 460 (352, 452, and 354, 454, respectively) are attached to the cups 350, 450 such that the first end and the second end The parts (352, 452, and 354, 454, respectively) are substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the first end and the second end of the straps 360, 460 (352, 452, and 354, 454, respectively) are attached to the cups 350, 450 such that the first end and the second end The parts (352, 452, and 354, 454, respectively) are not substantially parallel to each other.

In some embodiments, the cups 350, 450 and the straps 360, 460 form a one-piece piece. Such embodiments may be desirable because fewer parts, fewer assembly steps, and/or fewer tools are needed to form the combined straps and cups. Therefore, when an integral cup and a belt are used, the manufacturing cost is low. In some embodiments, the cups 350, 450 and the straps 360, 460 are two or more components. In some embodiments, the cups 350, 450 and the straps 360, 460 are made of the same material. In some embodiments, the cups 350, 450 and the straps 360, 460 are formed from different materials.

The cleaning pads 370, 470 include a first end 372, 472; a second end 374, 474; an attachment surface 376, 476; and a scrubbing surface 378, 478. Attachment surfaces 376, 476 of cleaning pads 370, 470 are attached to contact surfaces 366, 466 of straps 360, 460. In one embodiment, the cleaning pads 370, 470 are attached to the contact surfaces 366, 466 of the straps 360, 460 by ultrasonic welding. Alternatively, the cleaning pad can be attached by heat fusion, bonding, mechanical attachment (such as hook and loop fasteners), and the like. Any known cleaning material used as a cleaning or abrasive cleaning pad can be used for the cleaning pads 370, 470. In some embodiments, at least the scrubbing surfaces 378, 478 of the cleaning pads 370, 470 comprise an abrasive material. Useful materials include natural or synthetic sponges; steel wool mats; paper toweling; woven mats; mats formed of narrow aluminum; bronze or plastic fibers or tapes; non-woven fabrics of varying density, porosity and thickness a woven fabric; a non-woven, fluffy, low-density abrasive wiping pad; and a non-woven fabric having fixed abrasive particles; and a composite structure incorporating one or more of the foregoing as an element.

Non-woven fabrics are particularly suitable for use as cleaning mats. Nonwoven webs comprising open, fluffy, three-dimensional structural fibers that are joined to each other at their common point of contact are widely used in the manufacture of abrasive articles for use in any of a variety of surfaces. Cleaning, grinding, post-treatment and polishing applications.

Non-woven webs suitable for use in abrasive cleaning articles can be made without limitation to: airlaid, carded, stitch-bonded, spunbound, spunbonded, Wet laid, or melt blown construction. In one embodiment, the nonwoven web is an open, fluffy, three-dimensional air-laid nonwoven substrate, such as described in U.S. Patent No. 2,958,593, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. . This non-woven mesh material is formed of randomly disposed short fibers. A successful commercial product comprising such a nonwoven web material is commercially available from 3M Company, St. Paul, MN under the trade name "Scotch-Brite".

In some embodiments, the cleaning pad is impregnated with a cleaning material (eg, soap, detergent), a dye, a fragrance, an abrasive slurry, a bleach, or a bactericide/antibacterial agent. Examples of suitable cleaning pads and cleaning materials that can be saturated or applied to the cleaning pad It is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,146,676, 7,232,364, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2016/0106274, the disclosure of each of each of

The scrub heads 320 and 420 of Figures 5A and 5B are generally rigid such that they each have little translational motion, even without translational motion, and typically have zero degrees of freedom.

One difference between the scrub head 320 of FIG. 5A and the scrub head 420 of FIG. 5B is the distance between the first ends 352, 452 of the strap 360 and the second ends 354, 454. In the embodiment of FIG. 5A, the distance between the first end 352 and the second end 354 is greater than the distance between the first end 452 and the second end 454 of FIG. 5B. In other words, the length of the cup body 356 of Figure 5A is greater than the length of the cup body 456 of Figure 5B.

Another difference between the scrub head 320 of Figure 5A and the scrub head 420 of Figure 5B is that in Figure 5B, the first end and the second end of the strap 460 (462 and 464, respectively) are offset from one another. More specifically, the first end 462 of the strap 460 is attached to one side surface 453 of the cup 450 while the second end 464 of the strap 360 is partially attached along one of the second ends 454 of the cup 450 Or attached to a portion of the second end 454 of the cup 450. In this manner, the first end 462 and the second end 464 of the strap 460 are offset from one another. Therefore, the first end and the second end of the cleaning pads 370, 470 (37, 472, and 374, 474, respectively) are also offset from each other. More specifically, the first ends 372, 472 of the cleaning pads 370, 470 are attached to one of the first ends 352, 452 of the cups 350, 450 while the second ends 374 of the pads 370, 470 are cleaned. , 474 extends beyond the second ends 354, 454 of the cups 350, 450.

Many variations may be made to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

6 shows a top view of an illustrative embodiment of a cleaning pad 600 that can be used with or for use with one of the scrubbing heads generally described herein. The cleaning pad 600 is generally rectangular in shape having substantially parallel top and bottom surfaces (602, 604, respectively) and substantially parallel side surfaces (606, 608, respectively). Figure 6 shows the shape of the die cut web prior to attachment to the hoof when viewed from the top, which then produces a curved shape of the head.

7A shows a top view of an illustrative embodiment of a cleaning pad 700 that can be used with or on one of the scrubbing heads generally described herein. Figure 7 shows the shape of the die cut web prior to attachment to the hoof when viewed from the top, which then produces a curved shape of the head. The cleaning pad 700 is substantially rectangular at the first end and/or the upper end and has a spherical or substantially circular shape at the lower end and/or the second end. The bottom surface 720 of the scrub head 710 has a surface area that is greater than the top surface 730 of the scrub head 710. In some embodiments, the surface area of the top line of the scrub head surface of between about and about 1000mm ² 2500mm ^2. In some embodiments, the bottom surface of the scrub head has a surface area of between about 1000mm ² to 6000mm ^2.

Many variations of the specific embodiments shown in Figures 6 and 7 can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, a cleaning pad of any desired shape or size can be used.

8A and 8B show side views of another illustrative embodiment of a scrub head 800 of a disposable toilet cleaning system of one of the types generally described herein. Figure 8B shows a schematic side view of the scrub head 800 when in use and/or during application to the handle assembly. The scrub head 800 is similar to the scrub head of FIG. 5B, except that the second end 864 of the strap 860 is not fixedly attached to the second end 854 of the cup 850.

In some embodiments, the strap has a keyhole and the cup has a button. To secure the strap to the cup and to obtain the final curved form, the strap is folded until the button on the cup passes through the aperture in the strap. The keyhole has a section that is narrower than the button and has to be forced or snapped through the button until it enters the slot. A track that allows longitudinal translational motion is created around the slot. This translational motion promotes and contributes to the bending properties of the tape material and gives it a range of motion as indicated by θ1 and θ2 in Figure 8B. Shade it to distinguish between two possible positions of the strap: in this case, the two positions are non-flexible and fully flexed.

This allows longitudinal translational movement of the second end 854 of the cup 850 in the second end 864 of the strap 860 at the bottom surface of the scrub head 800 during application and/or use. The scrub head 800 has a degree of freedom. The dashed line in Figure 8B represents the translational motion allowed or allowed by one degree of freedom. As can be seen, the translational freedom allows the scrub head to flex up and down, creating a variable angle scrubbing surface. In some embodiments, the scrub head can be flexed from an angle θ _{1 of} about 5° to an angle θ _{2 of} about 65°. In some embodiments, the scrub head can flex at least about 5°, at least about 10°, at least about 15°, at least about 20°, and/or at least about 25°. In some embodiments, the scrub head flex is no greater than about 65°, no greater than about 60°, no greater than about 55°, no greater than about 50°, no greater than about 45°, no greater than about 40°, and no greater than about 35 °, no more than about 30°, and/or no more than about 25°.

This can be done/completed by the mold being designed to make the part, with the end of the strap having a channel or slot to which the bottom of the cup is attached. The extent of the material and/or the degree of flexibility are also used to make the part. This allows the bottom of the cup to slide longitudinally in the belt so that the scrub head can flex up and down as shown in Figure 8B.

Many variations may be made to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

9A, 9B, and 9C show respective side views, schematic side views (when used) of another exemplary embodiment of a scrub head 900 of a disposable toilet cleaning system of one of the types generally described herein. And front view. The scrub head 900 is similar to the scrub head of FIG. 5B, except that the second end 954 of the cup 950 is not attached to the second end 964 of the strap 960 or is not fully attached to the second end 964 of the strap 960. The second end 954 of the cup 950 and the second end 954 of the strap 950 are free to create a cantilever. This cantilevered structure of the scrub head 900 provides three degrees of freedom, allowing for longitudinal translation, up and down translation, and side to side or lateral movement at the bottom surface of the scrub head 900. The dashed lines in Figures 9B and 9C represent the translational motion and side-to-side (or lateral) motion allowed or allowed by three degrees of freedom, respectively. As can be seen in Figure 9B, the scrub head 900 can flex longitudinally and flex up and down. In some embodiments, the scrub head 900 can flex from an angle θ _{1 of} about 5° to an angle θ _{2 of} about 65°. In some embodiments, the scrub head can flex at least about 5°, at least about 10°, at least about 15°, at least about 20°, and/or at least about 25°. In some embodiments, the scrub head flex is no greater than about 65°, no greater than about 60°, no greater than about 55°, no greater than about 50°, no greater than about 45°, no greater than about 40°, and no greater than about 35 °, no more than about 30°, and/or no more than about 25°.

As can be seen in Figure 9C, the scrub head 900 can also flex sideways or laterally. In some embodiments, the scrub head can be deflected from an angle of about +50° from vertical to an angle of about -50° from vertical to lateral or lateral deflection. In some embodiments, the scrub head can flex from a vertical side to a side or side to an angle of about +40°, or an angle of about +30°, or an angle of about +20°, or about +10°. angle. In some embodiments, the scrub head can be from an angle of about -40°, or an angle of about -30°, or an angle of about -20°, or an angle of about -10° from the vertical side to the side or sideways. Flexed. Three degrees of freedom allow the scrubbing head to be substantially flexible to contact the various angles of the toilet surface that require cleaning. This allows the scrub head and disposable toilet cleaning tool of the present disclosure to better clean the toilet and/or into areas that are particularly difficult to reach.

The angle δ describes the degree to which the curved cantilevered fossa can be changed from the unflexed position to the minimum position (when the cup and the strap are sufficiently bent to touch).

Many variations may be made to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 9A-9C without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

10A and 10B show side and top views, respectively, of another illustrative embodiment of a scrubbing head of a disposable toilet cleaning system of one of the types generally described herein. Figure 10C shows a schematic side view of the scrub head 1000 in use. Figure 10D shows a perspective top view of the scrub head 1000 in use. The scrub head 1000 is identical to the scrub head 420 of Figures 4A-4C.

As seen in FIG. 10A, the receptacle includes a cup 1050 adjacent to and/or attached to a strap 1060 that is adjacent to or attached to a cleaning pad 1070. As shown in FIG. 10C, the strap 1060 has a surface area and/or size that is less than the cleaning pad 1070. The strap 1060 includes a slot or channel into which the cup body 1056 of the cup 1050 engages. 10A and 10B show side and top views, respectively, of another illustrative embodiment of a scrubbing head of a disposable toilet cleaning system of one of the types generally described herein. Figure 10C shows a perspective top view of the scrub head 1000 in use. The scrub head 1000 is identical to the scrub head 420 of Figures 4A-4C.

As seen in FIG. 10A, the receptacle includes a cup 1050 adjacent to and/or attached to a strap 1060 that is adjacent to or attached to a cleaning pad 1070. As shown in FIG. 10D, the strap 1060 has a surface area and/or size that is less than the cleaning pad 1070. The strap 1060 includes a slot or channel 1062 into which the cup body 1056 of the cup 1050 engages. The cup 1050 includes a button 1052 that engages the slot 1062 to maintain the position of the cup 1050 in the slot 1062. The assembly of the cup 1050 that engages in the slot 1062 of the strap 1060 allows the cup 1050 to move forward and/or backward during use or assembly. As such, this general type of embodiment has one degree of freedom. The arrows in Figures 10C and 10D represent the translational movement allowed by one degree of freedom. As can be seen, a degree of translational freedom allows the scrub head 1000 to flex up and down, creating a variable angle scrubbing surface. The strap 1060 can flex and bend during use and/or when the button 1052 on the cup 1050 is attached to the slot 1062 on the strap 1060. This ability to flex allows the cup 1050 to slide forward and backward in the slot, which facilitates variable angular motion for more conformable contact between the scrub head 1000 and the toilet surface. The flexibility of the cleaning pad 1070 material, the flexibility of the material of the strap 1060, and the slotted design on the cup 1050/tape 1060 assembly allow for flexing and translational movement, both of which provide better A variable angle scrubbing device that conforms to the contour of the toilet to better clean the toilet.

Many variations may be made to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 10A and 10B without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

11A and 11B show top and perspective views, respectively, of an exemplary embodiment of a cleaning pad of the type generally described herein. The cleaning pad 1100 is curved inwardly from the first end portion 1110 toward the center. The cleaning pad 1100 is bent outward from the second end 1120 toward the center. As a result, the bottom or lower portion of the cleaning pad 1100 (substantially in the region between the first end 1110 and the center or center) has a greater portion than the top or upper portion of the cleaning pad 1100 (substantially at the second end 1120 with the middle or The surface area between the centers. In one embodiment, the cleaning pad top surface area of 1100 or 1000mm upper portion having a surface area of between ² between about ² to about 2500mm, and the scrub head has a bottom or lower portion of between ² to 6000mm ² to 1000mm Surface area.

Many variations may be made to the particular embodiment illustrated in Figures 11A and 11B without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

12 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet cleaning system 1200 (identical to the disposable toilet cleaning system 300 shown in FIGS. 3A-3C) with the scrub head 1220 separated from the handle assembly 1210. The handle assembly 1212 includes a first end 1212 that is separated from the second end 1214 by the handle body 1215. The cup 1250 includes an opening 1282 that is sized to receive the insertable portion 1217 of the second end 1214 of the handle assembly 1210.

Many variations to the specific embodiments shown in Figure 12 are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Figures 14A-14C show perspective, side and top views, respectively, of the handle assembly used in the disposable toilet cleaning system of Figures 2A, 3A-3C, 12, and 13. Figure 15 shows a cross-sectional side view of Figure 3B and Figure 14B taken at line AA.

Referring to Figures 12-15 , the handle assembly 1210 includes a first member 1211 and a second member 1213 that together form the handle body 1215. The first member 1211 includes a first end 1290, a second end 1291, an inner surface 1292, and an outer surface 1293. The insertable portion 1217 extends from the second end 1291 of the first member 1211 and is sized to fit into the opening 1082 of the hoof 1250 of the scrub head 1220. The first end 1290 toward the first member 1211 is a first portion 1295 of the opening 1296 in the handle body 1215 that engages the actuating button or switch 1240.

The second member 1213 of the handle body 1215 is similar to the first member 1211. The second member 1213 includes a first end portion 1280, a second end portion 1281, an inner surface 1282, and an outer surface 1283. The first end 1280 toward the second member 1213 is a second portion 1285 of the opening 1296 in the handle body 1215 that engages the actuating button or switch 1240.

Flanges 1294a, 1294b, 1294c, etc. are positioned along inner surface 1292 of first member 1211 and insert and engage mating portions 1296a, 1296b, 1296c, etc. (not shown) positioned along inner surface 1282 of second member 1213 to The first member 1211 and the second member 1213 are coupled together to create a handle body 1215 having a length and/or shape that can be easily grasped by a user's hand.

In some embodiments, the first member 1211 and the second member 1213 of the handle assembly 1210 are molded. In some embodiments, the first member 1211 and the second member 1213 of the handle assembly 1210 are made of a polymeric material such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), Polycarbonate (PC), and / or polypropylene (PP).

The handle assembly 1210 also includes an actuating mechanism 1310 for attaching the scrub head 1220 to the handle assembly 1210 and disassembling the scrub head 1220 from the handle assembly 1210. The actuation mechanism 1310 is positioned within the handle body 1215 of the handle assembly 1210 and includes a plunger rod 1320, a spring stop 1330, a plunger spring 1340, and an actuating button 1240. The plunger rod 1320 includes a first end portion 1322 that is extendable from the insertable portion 1217 of the first member 1211 and a second end portion 1326 that is coupled to the button 1240. When the button is pushed, the plunger rod first end 1322 will extend from 1217. This is the operation of pushing the handle down the handle. A plunger spring 1340 is positioned around the plunger rod 1320 adjacent the first end 1322 of the plunger rod 1320. Spring stop 1330 is positioned between plunger spring 1340 and second end 1326 of plunger rod 1320. After the handle assembly 1210 is assembled, the plunger spring 1340 is positioned about the plunger rod 1320 between the flange 1294a at the second end 1291 of the first member 1211 and the spring stop 1330.

The scrub head 1220 can be attached to the handle assembly 1210 by engaging the insertable portion 1217 of the handle assembly 1210 within the cup 1250 of the scrub head 1220. To effect this engagement, the user inserts the insertable portion 1217 of the handle assembly 1210 into the cup 1250 of the scrub head 1220 and pushes or applies a force to securely guide the handle assembly into/on the cup 1250. . The force of the user causes at least one of the snap-fit portions 1217 to flex or push inwardly toward the plunger rod 1320. This allows the insertable part 1217 Slide into the cup 1250. When the snap 1265 is aligned with the corresponding slot 1268 on the cup 1250, the snap 1265 enters the slot 1268 and substantially returns to its original, non-flexing (relaxed) position. In this manner, the snap 1265 engages the slot 1268 of the cup 1220 of the scrub head 1220. In this engaged position, the snap 1265 attaches the scrub head 1220 to the handle assembly 1210 and holds the scrub head 1220 in place.

Alternatively, to effect engagement of the handle assembly 1210 with the scrub head 1220, the user can activate the activation mechanism by activating a button or switch 1240, and can then insert the insertable portion 1217 of the handle assembly 1210 into the cup of the scrub head 1220. In the 1250. When the button or switch 1240 is activated toward the second end 1214 of the handle assembly 1210 (or pushed forward in embodiments of the drawings), the snap 1265 on the handle assembly 1210 is directed toward the plunger rod 1320 Internal deflection or push. This enables the scrub head 1220 to be easily slid onto the handle assembly 1210. Once the scrub head 1220 is on the handle assembly 1210, the user releases or slides the button or switch 1240 into its original position. This causes the snap 1265 to engage the slot 1268 on the cup 1250 and securely retain the scrub head 1220 on the handle assembly 1210.

Some embodiments of the actuation mechanism 1310 exhibit sliding movement between the relaxed position and the disassembled position. When in the relaxed position, the actuation mechanism 1310 allows the scrub head 1220 to be attached to the handle assembly 1210 as described above. When in the disassembled position, the actuation mechanism 1310 forces the scrub head 1220 to fall off or exit from the handle assembly 1210, which is described in more detail below. The actuation mechanism 1310 is moved from the relaxed position to the disengaged position by an actuation button or switch 1240 that can be manually moved along the handle body 1215 by the thumb or finger of the person grasping the handle assembly 1210. .

In the relaxed position, the snap 1265 is positioned within the slot 1268 and the first end 1322 of the plunger rod 1320 is positioned in the insertable portion 1217 of the handle assembly 1210. In the relaxed position, the plunger rod is inside the handle assembly or inside the insertable portion 1217. However, when the button is pushed forward, the end 1322 of the plunger rod extends out of the handle and exits the opening 1 1297 in 14A.

To disassemble the scrub head 1220 from the handle assembly 1210, the user activates the button or switch 1240. In this embodiment, switch 1240 is activated by pushing switch 1240 forward. When the button or switch 1240 is forced forward toward the second end 1214 of the handle assembly 1210, the plunger rod 1320 is also forced forward and projects through the opening 1297 in the insertable portion 1217. In this position, the plunger rod 1320 is in the disengaged position, as depicted in Figure 14C. This causes the plunger rod 1320, which is firmly attached to the actuation mechanism 1310, to move forward. The plunger rod 1320 is pushed against the scrub head 1220. This creates sufficient force to push or flex the snaps 1265 inwardly toward the plunger rod 1320. The force of the plunger rod 1320 against the scrub head 1220 creates sufficient force to release the snap 1265 from the slot 1268. The snaps 1265 can flex the motion such that they can flex inwardly, providing additional "give" to dissipate the scrub head 1250 from the handle assembly 1220. Once the snap 1265 is pushed inward, the scrub head 1220 slides off the insertable portion 1217. In this manner, the scrub head 1220 is easily detached from the handle assembly 1210 without requiring the user to touch the scrub head 1220.

Many variations of the specific embodiments illustrated in Figures 12, 13, 14A-14C, and 15 can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, the particular embodiment of Figures 14A-14C and Figure 15 includes two snaps 1265 and two slots 1268, but those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any desired The number of snaps or slots. Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that snaps and slots are merely an exemplary mechanical attachment system. Any desired mechanical attachment system can be used. Additionally, the button or switch can be any actuation mechanism and can be positioned anywhere on the handle assembly 1210. Alternatively, a friction fit can be used in which the insertable portion 1217 is deployed and folded as it engages the 1282/1250 of the scrub head.

16A, 16B, 16C, and 17 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an actuation mechanism that can be used in any of the disposable toilet cleaning systems described herein. 16A-16C show perspective, side and bottom views, respectively, of the handle assembly 1610. The handle assembly 1610 includes a first end 1612 that is separated from the second end 1614 by the handle body 1615. The insertable portion 1617 extends from the second end 1614. An actuation button or switch 1640 is positioned on the underside of the handle body 1615. When the handle assembly 1610 is stationary or not in use, and the scrub head is not attached.

The scrub head 1220 can be attached to the handle assembly 1610 by engaging the insertable portion 1617 of the handle assembly 1610 within the cup 1750 of the scrub head 1720. To effect this engagement, the user can insert the insertable portion 1617 of the handle assembly 1610 into the cup 1750 of the scrub head 1720 and push or apply a force to securely guide the handle assembly 1610 into the cup 1750. /on. The force of the user causes at least one of the latches 1765 of the insertable portion 1617 to collapse or retract inwardly toward the button lever 1620. This allows the insertable portion 1617 to slide into the cup 1750. When the latch 1765 is aligned with the corresponding slot 1768 on the cup 1750, the latch 1765 enters the slot 1768 and substantially returns to its original non-retracted (exit) position. In this way, the pin 1765 and the cup of the scrub head 1720 The slot 1768 of the object 1750 is engaged. In this engaged position, the latch 1765 attaches the scrub head 1720 to the handle assembly 1610 and holds the scrub head 1720 in place.

Alternatively, to effect engagement of the handle assembly 1610 with the scrub head 1750, the user can activate the activation mechanism by activating a button or switch 1640, and can then insert the insertable portion 1617 of the handle assembly 1610 into the cup of the scrub head 1720. In the 1750. The second end 1622 of the button lever 1620 is attached within the insertable portion 1617 by one or more latch latch levers (referred to herein as "pins or pins") 1765, while the first of the button levers 1620 End 1624 is attached to an actuation button or switch 1640. In this particular embodiment, the latch 1665 has a flexible diamond shape that expands in the relaxed position and collapses in the disassembled position. In the relaxed position, the flexible diamond shape unfolds and the latch 1665 engages the slot 1768 of the cup 1750. When the actuation button or switch 1640 is forced rearwardly toward the first end 1612 of the handle assembly 1610, the diamond shaped pin 1665 is collapsed to the disassembled position, and the latch 1665 is removed from the slot 1768 of the cup 1750 of the scrub head 1720. . As a result, when the button or switch 1640 is activated toward the first end 1612 of the handle assembly 1610 (or pulled back in the embodiment of the drawings), the latch 1765 on the handle assembly 1610 is folded. This enables the scrub head 1720 to be easily slid onto the handle assembly 1610. Once the scrub head 1720 is on the handle assembly 1610, the user releases or slides the button or switch 1640 back. This causes the latch 1765 to exit. After exiting, the latch 1765 engages the slot 1768 on the cup 1750 and secures the scrubbing head 1720 in position on the handle assembly 1610.

Figure 17 shows a cross-sectional side view at line A-A of Figure 16B. In the relaxed position, the latch 1665 is positioned within the slot 1768 and the first end 1622 of the plunger rod 1620 is positioned in the insertable portion 1617 of the handle assembly 1610.

To detach the scrub head 1720 from the handle assembly 1610, the user activates the button or switch 1640 in this embodiment by pulling the button or switch 1640 back toward the first end 1612 of the handle assembly 1610. When the button or switch 1640 is pulled back toward the first end 1612 of the handle assembly 1610, the latch 1665 is retracted toward the button lever 1620. Once the latch 1665 is pushed inward, the scrub head 1720 slides or falls off the insertable portion 1617. In this manner, the scrub head 1720 is easily detached from the handle assembly 1610 without requiring the user to touch the scrub head 1720.

In this case, there is virtually no plunger rod that protrudes beyond the handle as in the previous example to facilitate the ejection of the head during ejection. Everything happens inside the handle. The buttons are pulled rather than pushed. The button has a lever that projects to the end of the handle. At the end of the button bar, there is a diamond-shaped feature having a projection (bolt) that can be folded and unfolded laterally and engaged with the cup of the scrub head.

Many variations to the specific embodiments shown in Figures 16A-16C and 17 can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, the particular embodiment of Figures 16A-16C and Figure 17 includes two pins 1765 and two slots 1768, but those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any desired number of pins or slots can be used. Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the latch and slot are merely an exemplary mechanical attachment system. Any desired mechanical attachment system can be used. Additionally, the button or switch can be any actuation mechanism and can be positioned anywhere on the handle assembly 1610.

18 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a disposable toilet cleaning system including the actuation mechanism of FIGS. 19 and 20. The disposable toilet cleaning system 1800 includes a handle assembly 1810 and a scrub head 1820 that is releasably coupled to the handle assembly 1810.

The handle assembly 1810 includes a first member 1811 and a second member 1813 that together form the handle body 1815. The first member 1811 includes a first end 1890, a second end 1891, an inner surface 1892, and an outer surface 1893. The first end 1890 of the first member 1811 includes a flange 1894 that is inserted into and coupled to a portion of the second member 1813. The insertable portion 1817 extends from the second end 1891 of the first member 1811 and is sized to fit into the opening 1882 of the hoof 1850 of the scrub head 1820. The first end 1890 toward the first member 1811 is an opening 1896 in the handle body 1815 that engages an actuating button or switch 1840. Unlike the previous embodiment, this embodiment includes only one aperture that creates an opening.

The second member 1813 of the handle body 1815 is similar to the first member 1811. The second member 1813 includes a first end 1880, a second end 1881, an inner surface 1882, and an outer surface 1883. The first end 1880 of the second member 1813 includes an insert 1884 with a flange 1894 of the first end 1890 of the first member 1811 engaging the insert 1884 to connect the first member 1811 and the second member 1813. The combination of the second end 1891 of the first member 1811 and the second end 1881 of the second member 1813 establishes a handle body 1815 having a length and/or shape that can be easily grasped by a user's hand. Unlike the previous embodiment, the button opening is only on the top side in this particular embodiment.

In some embodiments, the first member 1811 and the second member 1813 of the handle assembly 1810 are molded. In some embodiments, the first component of the handle assembly 1810 The 1811 and second member 1813 are made of a polymeric material such as acrylonitrile butadiene (ABS), polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, or high impact polystyrene.

The handle assembly 1810 also includes an actuating mechanism 1860 for attaching the scrub head 1820 to the handle assembly 1810 and disassembling the scrub head 1820 from the handle assembly 1210. The actuation mechanism 1860 is positioned within the handle body 1815 of the handle assembly 1810 and includes a button lever 1840, a button spring 1870, and a latch 1875.

In this particular embodiment, the button includes a plurality of segments: a button, a button lever, a spring locator post, and a latch clip. When the button is pushed forward, the button lever, the spring post and the latch clip move forward, and the spring is in contact with the spring post on the button lever at one end of the spring and on the other end of the spring The flange on the bottom handle contacts and compresses. When the latch clip (which is essentially a constant diameter cylinder) moves forward, it wraps around the latch and causes the latch to contract. Once the button is released, the compressed spring is then retracted to its original position, and thus the segment of the button also returns to its original position. When the latch clip is retracted, the latch is then deployed to its original position due to its cantilevered design on both sides.

When in the retracted position, the latch 1875 extends from the second end 1817 of the first member and the second end 1821 of the second member and is sized to fit the cup of the scrub head 1820 In the opening at the first end of the 1850. The latch 1875 is partially positioned in the handle body 1815 and attached to the handle body 1815 at the second end 1817. In some embodiments, the latch 1875 is shaped like a V, with the two members 1877 and 1879 extending from the first end at an angle. The extension members 1877 and 1879 can be retracted and extended Moving between the out positions, in the retracted position, the two projecting members 1877 and 1879 are forced forward to each other, in which the two projecting members 1877 and 1879 extend out of each other.

Many variations to the specific embodiments shown in Figure 18 are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Figure 19 shows a cross-sectional view of the disposable toilet cleaning system of Figure 4B taken along line BB. Figure 20 shows an enlargement of a portion of Figure 19. In use, the scrub head 1920 is releasably attached to the handle assembly 1910 by engaging the latch 1875 within the cup 1950 of the scrub head 1920. The scrub head 1920 is attached to the handle assembly 1910 by inserting the latch 1875 into the opening of the cup 1950 of the scrub head 1920. The extension members 1877 and 1879 of the latch 1875 are then retracted toward each other until the latch 1875 passes the snap-in cutout of the scrub head 1920 and is subsequently deployed such that the scrub head 1920 is securely attached to the handle assembly 1910 and locked into position .

The handle assembly 1910 includes a piece 1895 that is generally at the second end 1914 of the handle body 1915 of the handle assembly 1910. In some embodiments, a seal 1895 is present to provide a watertight attachment of the handle assembly 1910 to the scrub head. In some embodiments, the seal 1895 is a soft material. Exemplary materials for the seal 1895 include, for example, thermoplastic elastomers, polyoxyxides, or rubber. The seal 1895 can be of any desired size. Exemplary dimensions of the seal 1895 include 1 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm thick, and the like.

When the disposable toilet cleaning system of Figure 16B is in the relaxed position, the extension members 1877 and 1879 of the latch 1875 are fully extended such that the second end of the latch 1875 engages the cup 1950. When the actuation button or switch 1840 on the handle assembly 1910 is forced forward toward the second end of the handle assembly 1910, the button clamp is forced forward and latches 1875 meshed. The extension members 1877 and 1879 of the latch 1875 are then retracted toward each other until the latch 1875 is disengaged from the snap cutout 1876 on the cup 1950 of the scrub head 1920, disengaging the scrub head 1920 from the handle assembly 1910 and/or Fall off.

Many variations of the specific embodiments shown in Figures 18 and 19 can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, any number of snaps and corresponding slots can be used without departing from the intended scope of the disclosure. Alternatively, the actuation button or switch can be any desired mechanical design, can be greater than one mechanical structure, and/or can be positioned anywhere on the handle assembly.

Figure 21 is a perspective view of an exemplary scrub head of a plurality of types described herein in a stacked configuration. The scrub head 2120 of Figure 21 can be any of the scrub heads described herein. The scrub head 2120 of Figure 21 can be placed within the can assembly. An exemplary can assembly is shown in Figures 2A and 2B. In some embodiments, the scrub head 2120 can be stacked and sold as a refill package.

Figure 22 shows an exemplary side perspective view of a scrub head refill package. Refill package 2200 includes a plurality of scrub heads 2220. The scrub head 2220 can be any of the scrub heads described herein. In some embodiments, the scrub head 2220 is retained within the package 2230. In some embodiments, when all of the scrub heads 2220 are dispensed, the package 2230 can be removed and refilled or discarded. In some embodiments, the scrubbing heads 2220 are stacked in such a manner that they can be easily inserted into the handle assembly and/or the can assembly.

In some embodiments, to use the scrubbing tool, the user first inserts a portion of the handle assembly into the receptacle of the scrub head. The user then uses a scrubbing tool for cleaning purposes (such as, for example, a toilet bowl). When the user wants to remove the scrubbing head, only To manually engage the brake button, move the plunger rod or button lever a short distance along the handle portion to disassemble the scrub head from the handle assembly. Therefore, the dirty scrubbing head can be removed from the handle assembly without the user touching it.

All numerical ranges expressed by the endpoints are intended to include all numbers included within the range (i.e., ranges 1 through 10 include, for example, 1, 1.5, 3.33, and 10).

The terms "first", "second", "third" and the like in this specification and the scope of the claims are used to distinguish similar elements and not necessarily to describe The order of a sequence or chronological. It is to be understood that the terms of the present invention are to be construed as being in the

In addition, the terms "top", "bottom", "over", "under" and the like in this specification and the scope of the patent application are for the purpose of description, and not It must be used to describe the relative position. It is understood that the terms so used are interchangeable, where appropriate, and the embodiments disclosed herein are capable of operation in other orientations not described or illustrated herein.

In the event of inconsistent usage between this document and any of the documents so incorporated by reference herein, the usage in this document is primarily used.

In this document, as commonly seen in the patent documents, the phrase "a" or "an" includes one or more than one, independent of any other circumstances or "at least one" or "one or more" Usage of one or more. In this document, Unless otherwise indicated, the term "or" is used to refer to a non-exclusive or such that "A or B" includes "A but not B", "B but not A (B but not A)" and "A and B (A and B)". In this document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the verbal English equivalents for the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein". In addition, in the following claims, the terms "include" and "include" are open-ended, that is, systems, devices, articles, compositions, including elements other than those listed after such terms in the claims. Formulations, or processes, are still considered to fall within the scope of this patent application. In addition, in the scope of the following claims, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to add values to their targets. Claim.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the examples described above (or one or more aspects thereof) can be used in combination with one another. Other embodiments may be used, such as those of ordinary skill in the art, after reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b) to enable the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the present disclosure. It is understood that the abstract will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the scope of the patent application. Additionally, in the above embodiments, various features may be grouped together to simplify the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as an intent that the disclosed features are not claimed as required by any claim. Rather, the inventive subject matter may be present in less than all features of the specific disclosed embodiments. Therefore, the scope of the following claims is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as the same as the The scope of the disclosure can be determined by reference to the entire scope of the claims and the scope of the claims.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes may be made to the above-described embodiments and applications without departing from the basic principles. In addition, various modifications and variations of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the scope of the present application should be determined only by the scope of the following claims and their equivalents.

1000‧‧‧Scrubbing head

1050‧‧‧ cup

1060‧‧‧Band

1070‧‧‧ Cleaning mat

Claims (20)

A scrubbing head that can be used in a disposable toilet cleaning system, comprising: a cup; a belt adjacent at least a portion of the cup or attached to the cup; and a cleaning pad Adjacent to the strap or attached to the strap. A scrub head according to claim 1, wherein the cup comprises an opening. A scrubbing head according to claim 2, wherein the opening has a diameter of between about 5 mm and about 30 mm. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cup comprises a first end and a second end, the body of the cup being located between the first end and the second end, And wherein the cup is substantially hollow in the system. A scrub head according to claim 3, wherein the cup body has a height of between about 15 mm and about 70 mm. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cup and the strap are a one-piece piece. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the strap has a length greater than the length of the body of the cup. A scrub head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the strip has an arcuate shape. A scrub head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tape has a radius of curvature of between about 5 mm and about 25 mm. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the strap comprises a slot into which one of the cups partially engages. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning mat is a non-woven polymeric material. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning pad comprises at least one of: an abrasive, a dye, a fragrance, a slurry, a bleach, a bactericide, or an antibacterial agent. Agent. A scrub head according to any of the preceding claims, which has a degree of freedom. A scrub head according to any of the preceding claims, which has three degrees of freedom. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one of the first ends of the cup is attached to a first end of the strap. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one of the second ends of the cup is attached to a second end of the strap. A scrubbing head according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second end of one of the straps is not attached to the cup. A disposable toilet cleaning system comprising: the scrubbing head of any one of claims 1 to 17; a handle assembly. The disposable toilet cleaning system of claim 18, further comprising: a can assembly. A disposable toilet cleaning system according to any one of claims 18 to 19, further comprising: an actuating button or switch, wherein the scrubbing head is retained to the handle when the actuating button or switch is in a first position On the assembly, and when the actuation button or switch is in a second position, the scrub head is not retained on the handle assembly.