WO2019032516A1

WO2019032516A1 - Cleaning implement with illuminated spray

Info

Publication number: WO2019032516A1
Application number: PCT/US2018/045510
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert Hans-Joachim Damaschke; Jeremy Michael CARTER; Jannik Scheele
Original assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
Priority date: 2017-08-10
Filing date: 2018-08-07
Publication date: 2019-02-14
Also published as: US20190045997A1

Abstract

A cleaning implement. The cleaning implement has at least one nozzle to spray liquid onto a target surface, such as a floor. At least one light is provided. The light illuminates the spray, providing qualitative notice to the user where the spray occurs and qualitatively the amount of liquid dispensed. The spray and light may be concurrently activated by a common switch.

Description

CLEANING IMPLEMENT WITH ILLUMINATED SPRAY

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to illuminated spray cleaning implements.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cleaning implements are well known in the art. Particularly, floor cleaning implements have been used which dispense a fluid onto the target surface. The fluid solubilizes debris on the floor for later scrubbing and/or removal from the floor. Other treatments may include polishing, disinfecting, etc., all of which are collectively referred to as cleaning.

Fluids sprayed from a cleaning implement include any fluid usable to treat a target surface. Typical fluids include cleaning fluids, disinfectants, perfumes, etc. A suitable cleaning fluid may be made according to commonly assigned US 6,380,151. Upon wetting the target surface with the fluid, the user may remove debris with a disposable cloth. The cleaning sheet may be removably attached to the head, and particularly to the underside of the head. Suitable cleaning sheets include nonwovens, microfiber, yarns, formed polymeric films, superabsorbent gelling materials; compostable materials, such as PLA, combinations thereof, etc. Suitable cleaning sheets may be made according to the teachings of commonly assigned U.S. patents 6,797,357; 6,936,330; D489,537; D499,887; 5,960,508; 6,003,191; 6,048,123; 6,101,661 and/or 6,601,261.

The cleaning sheet may be disposable, i.e. discarded after being soiled. A disposable cleaning sheet may be discarded after a single use. Alternatively, the cleaning sheet may laundered and restored, for subsequent reuse. For example, a microfiber cleaning sheet may be used more than once. After subsequent reuse, a durable cleaning sheet may then be discarded. The cleaning sheet may be removably attached to the head using hook and loop fasteners, resiliently deformable grippers, adhesive, cohesion, magnets, spring loaded clips, etc. Suitable grippers may be made according to the teachings of commonly assigned U.S. patents 6,305,046; 6,484,346 and/or 6,651,290.

Cleaning implements which dispense fluid from a single nozzle are well known in the art, as illustrated by commonly assigned US 5,888,006; 5,988,920; 6,206,058; 6,217,889; 6,386,392; 6,663,306; 6,722,806 and 7,172,099. When using a single nozzle, typically the fluid spray pattern diverges as fluid is expelled from the nozzle. The typical pattern sprayed from a single nozzle cleaning implement is a fan or cone shape. The art also includes plural nozzle implements, as illustrated by US 3,219,276; 6,540,424; 6,595,712; 6,976,802; 7,264,413 and commonly assigned 8,186,898.

But it is helpful for the user to see where the spray is deposited. If the spray is deposited too heavily, under saturation of the cloth may occur. If the spray is deposited in the wrong place, debris may not be solubilized. UV radiation is suggested in 9351626. But this radiation is not visible to the eye and does not visually assist the user in the cleaning process. CN 206324739 teaches a vacuum cleaner with an illuminating lamp, but does not teach how to best incorporate a spray.

It can be helpful to illuminate the floor or other target surface being cleaned. But if the illumination is on too long, battery life is depleted. If the illumination is not present at the proper time, efficacious cleaning does not occur. For example, if the spray pattern is not illuminated but the floor is illuminated post-spray, then improper spray, and thus poor cleaning, may result.

Accordingly, this invention is directed to the problem of visibly illuminating spray on a target surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention comprises a head for a cleaning implement or a cleaning implement having such a head. The head has a longitudinal centerline and comprises: a front, a bottom for removably receiving a cleaning sheet, and at least one nozzle juxtaposed with said front of said head for dispensing a liquid therefrom in response to activation by a switch, the switch being connectable to a power supply, and at least one light juxtaposed with the nozzle, the light providing illumination of spray from the nozzle in response to activation of the switch. The illumination preferably intercepts the spray upon dispensing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1A is a perspective view of a cleaning implement according to the present invention.

Fig. IB is a top plan view of the cleaning implement of Fig. 1A, having the reservoir omitted for clarity.

Fig. 2A is a schematic front view of a head according to the present invention having two nozzles which spray outwardly and two inwardly oriented outboard lights.

Fig. 2B is a schematic top plan view of an exemplary spray pattern, having three nozzles which spray forwardly, the two outboard nozzles having forward illumination disposed outboard of the lights, the center nozzle having no illumination.

Fig. 2C is a schematic top plan view of an exemplary spray pattern, having three nozzles, two outboard nozzles which spray inwardly and having outwardly oriented illumination disposed inboard of the lights, and a center forward spray nozzle having dual light forward illumination.

Fig. 3 is a fragmentary schematic view of an implement according to the present invention with a circuit diagram. Fig. 4. Is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a floor cleaning implement having a light and nozzle on the body of the implement. Fig. 5A is a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of an implement suitable for holding a duster and having a finger sprayer, the duster and user' s finger shown in phantom.

Fig. 5B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an implement suitable for holding a duster to be used for dry dusting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to Figs. 1A and IB, the cleaning implement 10 according to the present invention may comprise a head 20, a handle 12 and a pole 14 therebetween. The pole 14 and head 20 may be connected by a u-joint, as is known in the art. The implement 10 may further comprise a body 18 mounted on the pole 14 as shown, or the components of the body 18 may be integrated into the head 20. The head 20 may comprise one or more nozzles 30 for dispensing fluid therefrom and one or more lights 31.

Each nozzle 30 may have a dedicated light 31. Alternatively, a single nozzle 30 may have plural lights 31, or a single light 31 may be diffused to intercept plural nozzles 30. Illumination from the lights 31 intercepts spray from the nozzles 30, so that the user can more easily perceive the spray during the cleaning process. Illumination from the lights 31 is schematically represented throughout as a dotted line, it being understood the illumination may be specular or diffuse, as desired. The nozzles 30 and lights 31 may be referred to herein in either the singular or plural senses, it being understood that where a single nozzle 30 or light 31 is disclosed, plural lights 31 or nozzles 30 may be used and vice versa.

The head 20 may comprise attachments for removably receiving a cleaning sheet. The head 20 and or body 18 may comprise a reservoir 40 for receiving a fluid to treat the target surface and other components as may be helpful. The body 18 may comprise a pump, a motor 38 therefor, batteries 42 to power the motor 38 and lights 31 if line current is not used, or an inlet for the power cord if line current is utilized. Battery 42 power is preferred for portability and maneuverability of the implement 10. The lights 31 and pump motor 38 may have a common power supply or individual power supplies. There may also be provision for communication of control signals between the head 20 and body 18 as illustrated in commonly assigned US 6,579,023. The pump motor 38 and at least one light 31 may be controlled by a common switch

15. Preferably depressing or otherwise activating the switch 15 momentarily dispenses fluid from at least one nozzle 30 and concurrently illuminates all of the available lights 31.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the implement 10 is battery 42 powered and has a single switch, which is a normally open switch 15. Depressing the switch 15 simultaneously activates the pump motor 38 and the lights 31. Spray and illumination both occur simultaneously during the time the switch 15 is depressed. The illumination from the light 31 intercepts the spray from the nozzle 30, so that the user can see where the spray occurs. When the switch 15 is released, the illumination and spray both stop. This arrangement provides the benefit that the user can see the spray when needed but conserves battery 42 power during the post-spray cleaning.

In use, a user removably attaches a cleaning sheet to the bottom 24 of the head 20 of the cleaning implement 10, and fills or installs a reservoir 40 of the desired liquid. The user depresses or otherwise activates the normally open switch 15. Upon activation, the circuit is energized and the user simultaneously sprays the liquid onto the target surface from the nozzles

30 and illuminates the spray from the LED lights 31. Optionally and preferably the LED lights

31 illuminate the target surface. More preferably the LED lights 31 illuminate the target surface and spray. When the user judges adequate quantity and placement of spray has occurred, the switch is deactivated 15. The spray and illumination may simultaneously and automatically stop. The user then cleans the portion of the target surface which has been sprayed.

The handle 12 may provide for ergonomic manipulation of the implement 10. An on-off switch may be disposed on the handle 12, body 18, head 20 or pole 14. While a stand-up implement 10 suitable for a standing user is illustrated, the invention is not so limited. As used herein, a stand-up implement 10 has a configuration suitable for use by a standing adult user without undue bending or manipulation when using the implement 10 to clean a floor. Alternatively, the pole 14 may be shortened or eliminated, and/or the handle 12 configured for hand-held ergonomics or for use on one's hands and knees.

As used herein horizontal refers to the primary direction of the movement of the head 20 of the implement 10 along a horizontal target surface and which occurs within the plane of the target surface. Vertical refers to the direction perpendicular to the target surface and horizontal direction, and which spaces apart the top surface 22 and bottom surface 24 of the head 20. The width of the implement 10 refers to the left - right direction during use. The front - back direction is perpendicular thereto and parallel to the target surface. The implement 10 may have a longitudinal centerline which divides the implement 10 into two halves, in the front-back direction.

Examining the components in more detail, the head 20 may comprise a generally upwardly facing top surface 22 and a bottom surface 24 opposed thereto. The head 20 may have a front edge. The width of the front edge of the head 20 is defined by two side edges, with one side edge being disposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline. The width of the front edge may be divided into four quadrants, two inboard quadrant and two outboard quadrants, with one inboard quadrant and one outboard quadrant being disposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline. The head 20, and particularly the bottom surface 24 thereof, may move relative to the target surface to be cleaned.

The target surface may be a floor, and more particularly a hard surface floor, such as tile, hardwood, linoleum, etc. A cleaning sheet may be attached to the bottom surface 24, using attachments as are known in the art.

Exemplary attachments include deformable grippers, etc. Deformable grippers may be used to attach the cleaning sheet, because such an attachment works with a variety of sheet materials, does not require extra manufacturing steps in the sheet (such as the addition of adhesive) and may last for the life of the implement 10. While uniform and substantially identical attachments are typically used, the invention is not so limited. The attachments may comprise two or more different attachment types. Three or more attachments may be used. If four attachments are utilized, they may be disposed in a rectangular pattern comprising two front attachments and two rearward attachments. One or more of the attachments may be disposed on the top surface 22 of the head 20 and generally face away from the bottom surface 24 of the head 20 and target surface during cleaning. This disposition of attachments provides the benefit of convenient access thereto. Alternatively or additionally, the attachments may comprise a hook and loop system as is known in the art. The bottom of the head 20 may be totally or partially covered with hooks. The cloth may comprise loops. By engaging the hooks into the loops, the cloth may be releasably attached to the head 20. If desired, the implement 10 may further comprise an adapter plate to allow different sizes and types of cloths to be utilized, as illustrated by commonly assigned US 6,842,936.

The reservoir 40 may be detachable and replaced as the contents are depleted. A reservoir 40 may be removably attached to the implement 10 using a dedicated sleeve 32. The reservoir 40 may be inverted and inserted into the sleeve 32, so that fluid flows from the reservoir 40. Alternatively, the reservoir 40 may be may be permanently attached to the implement 10 and refilled as necessary.

If a dedicated sleeve 32 is utilized, the sleeve 32 may have a release 34. The release 34 allows the reservoir 40 to be removed from the sleeve 32 when the contents are depleted or as otherwise desired. The release 34 may be disposed on the top of the sleeve 32. This position provides for ergonomic convenience, so that manipulation of the release 34 does not require the user to bend over to reach the lower portions of the implement 10.

The release 34 may serve as a push button mechanism, or other releasable latching mechanism, to allow removal of the bottle or other reservoir device from the sleeve 32. As the consumer pushes down on the push button, or other latch mechanism of the release 34, such downward motion is converted to a lateral motion of a moving member. The moving member engages a complementary portion of the reservoir in a first position and disengages from such portion in a second position. The manipulation of the release 34 engages and disengages the moving member from the complementary portion of the reservoir.

While a single reservoir 40 is shown, one of skill will recognize the invention is not so limited. The implement 10 may comprise plural reservoirs 40. The plurality of reservoirs 40 may contain the same fluid therein, thus providing greater quantity than a single reservoir 40. Alternatively, the reservoirs 40 may comprise different fluids. The different fluids may be dispensed sequentially, or a particular fluid may be dispensed as needed for a particular task. If the reservoirs 40 comprise different fluids, the fluids may be co-dispensed, to allow mixing at the point of use on the target surface.

Fluid may be dispensed from the reservoir 40 using a manual pump. Such a reservoir 40 may be disposed on the head 20 and the pump controlled remotely from the handle 12 or pole 14, as illustrated in US 6,467,983; 6,655,866 and/or 6,659,670.

If desired, fluid may be dispensed from the reservoir 40 using an automatic pump. An automatic pump is driven by a motor 38. The motor 38 is powered from an external source, such as batteries 42, line current, etc. The batteries 42 and/or pump may be disposed in the head 20, body 18, elsewhere on the pole 14 or combinations thereof. For example, the batteries 42 may be disposed on the body 18, while the motor 38 and pump are disposed on the head 20, or all three components may be disposed on the body 18 or head 20. An implement 10 having a replaceable reservoir 40 and powered pump may be made according to the teaching of commonly assigned US 5,888,006; 5,988,920; 6,142,750; 6,206,058; 6,321,941; 6,328,543; 6,386,392; 6,491,069; 6,579,023; 6,814,519; 6,842,936; 7,172,099 and/or 7,187,537.

Alternatively, fluid may be dispensed from the reservoir 40 using a gravity fed system. A gravity fed implement 10 may have the reservoir 40 mounted above and in fluid communication with one or more spray nozzles 30. Fluid flows from the reservoir 40 to the nozzles 30 under the influence of gravity. The flow may be controlled by shutoff valves, as is known in the art. A gravity fed implement 10 having plural nozzles 30 may be made according to the teachings of US 6,540,424; 6,953,299; 6,964,535 and/or 7,004,658.

The fluid may flow from the reservoir 40 though a flow path to one or more nozzles 30 for dispensing onto the target surface. A check valve may be disposed in the flow path to prevent back flow between the nozzles 30. The check valve may have a single inlet and plural outlets. The inlet may receive fluid from the reservoir 40. The outlets may direct the fluid to the nozzles 30. Referring back to Figs. 1A and IB, the implement 10 may comprise a plurality of nozzles 30. The nozzles 30 are shown to be disposed onto the head 20 of the implement 10. However, one of skill will recognize the invention is not so limited. The nozzles 30 may be mounted onto the handle 14, body 18, head 20 or a combination thereof. If the nozzles 30 are disposed on the head 20 of the implement 10, the nozzles 30 may be juxtaposed with the front face thereof. If the nozzles 30 are disposed on the front face of the head 20, the nozzles 30 may be recessed behind the front face. This arrangement provides the benefit that the nozzles 30 are protected if the front edge of the implement 10 should strike a wall or other solid object.

Likewise, the lights 31 may be recessed from the front of the head 20, for protection. If desired, one or more nozzles 30 and one or more lights 321 may be disposed in a common socket, for precaution from the front edge of the head 20. The at least one nozzle 30 may dispense fluid in a spray, mist, stream, fan or other desired pattern, collectively referred to herein as a spray. Each nozzle 30 may be oriented at a particular azimuthal angle relative to the longitudinal centerline and/or the horizontal plane. The orientation of a nozzle 30 is determined by the orientation of the centerline of that nozzle 30. At least one nozzle 30 may be disposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline, and spaced equally or unequally therefrom.

A mist is a preferred for factor to dispense fluid from the at least one nozzle 30. A mist provides for even distribution, without saturation of the floor. But a pump which provides a mist may not provide a concomitant audible signal to the user. Such audible signal can qualitatively indicate how much fluid is being dispensed.

The lights 31 according to the present invention advantageously illuminate a mist, and thereby provide qualitative indication to the user in the absence of an audible signal. Eliminating the audible signal advantageously provides for quieter operation.

The at least one nozzle 30 may be oriented towards the longitudinal centerline and spray fluid forward and towards the respective opposite side edge. The spray pattern of the fluid may be contained within the width of the head 20, if the spray from each nozzle 30 remains within a forward extension of the respective opposite side edge. Further each nozzle 30 may have an included spray angle for depositing the desired spray pattern. Each nozzle 30 may be oriented towards the longitudinal centerline at an angle of at least 10, 15 or 20 degrees, but not more than 30, 25 or 20 degrees. A nozzle 30 may have a symmetric included spray angle of at least 40, 50 or 60 degrees, but not more than 80, 70 or 60 degrees. Each nozzle 30 may be oriented not more than plus or minus 10, 5 or zero degrees relative to the horizontal.

As a non-liming prophetic example, in implement 10 may be provided having two nozzles 30 azimuthally oriented inward about 40 - 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal centerline. Each nozzle may have an included angle of spray of about 80 - 85 degrees and spray forward a distance of at least about 50 cm. The nozzles 30 may spray from horizontal to vertically upwards 5 or 10 degrees as desired. Such an arrangement may prophetically provide the uniform spray pattern which provides relatively greater residence time for more debris on the target surface. The nozzle geometry may be adjusted to prevent spray from dribbling on the front face of the head 20 while intercepting illumination from the lights 31.

One nozzle 30 may be disposed on each outboard quadrant of the front face of the head 20. This arrangement provides a geometry where the nozzles 30 are spaced apart, as measured between nozzle 30 orifices, a distance of at least 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 or 60 cm or more. Such a geometry provides the benefit of more area coverage by fluid sprayed from the pair of nozzles 30. Additionally, one or more nozzles 30 may be juxtaposed with or coincident the longitudinal centerline. Thus, a symmetric spray pattern implement 10 may have two nozzles 30, one disposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline, three nozzles 30 if a nozzle 30 is added to the longitudinal centerline, four nozzles 30 if two are disposed on each side of the longitudinal centerline, five nozzles 30 if one is added to the longitudinal centerline, etc.

If desired, each nozzle 30 may have an asymmetric spray pattern. The asymmetric pattern may provide greater spray near the outer edges of the head 20 than near the longitudinal centerline. Such a nozzle may have an asymmetric opening, allowing greater flow to occur juxtaposed with the outer edges of the spray pattern. This distribution of the spray may prophetically provide a visual cue to the user where the boundaries of the spray hit the target surface. If the boundaries of the spray generally correspond to the width of the head 20, the user may prophetically have the added convenience of cleaning a more uniform distribution of cleaning fluid directly in front of the head 20 and on the area sought to be cleaned.

This differential spray pattern provides the benefit that the heavier deposition of fluid near the outer edges along the width of the head 20 provides a visual clue to the user where the fluid is deposited. By depositing the fluid where debris is disposed on the target surface, the user can spray more fluid on such debris, and increase the residence time of such fluid on the debris. The spray pattern may be determined by placing the implement 10 on a horizontal surface and disposing a piece of brown kraft paper in front of the implement 10. The spray is deposited on the kraft paper and the spray pattern determined by the darkened/wetted regions thereof.

If desired, the implement 10 may further comprise an abrasive patch 60. The abrasive patch 60 may comprise any material which acts to remove debris without damaging the target surface. Such a patch 60 may comprise a blend of adhesively bonded nylon and polyester fibers, as is known in the art. This geometry provides an advantageous system for removal of debris from the target surface. The implement 10 may optionally comprise a suction nozzle and vacuum and/or a rotatable beater bar for collecting debris removed from the target surface.

Referring to Figs. 2A - 2C, the lights 31 may be fluorescent, incandescent or preferably

LED, as are known in there art. The lights 31 may have be pure white or have a slightly bluish hue with a color temperature of 7500 - 8500K. The lights 3 lparticularly may have a wavelength in the visible spectrum, so the user can see the spray in use. The lights 31 may have a diameter of 2 to 4 mm, activate upon forward voltage of 4 to 7 volts, a 50% included cone angle of 30 to 40 degrees and emit from 5000 to 8000 mcd. Suitable LED lights are sold by Everluck Optoelectronic Technology (ShenZhen) Co. of Shenzhen, China under part number LR- CW300R100.

It is preferred that the cone of the lights 31 intercept the spray during use and illuminate the spray with visible light (400 - 700 nm), preferably white light. Illuminating the spray unexpectedly highlights the liquid deposited during the cleaning process. Referring to Fig. 3 the circuit may preferably have a normally open switch 15 (the switch 15 being shown in the closed position for illustration), a pump motor 38 and at least one light 31 disposed in series. This arrangement provides the benefit of conserving battery 42 life, so that the lights 31 are only illuminated when most necessary, i.e. during spraying. Alternatively, plural, dedicated switches 15 may be used to independently control the lights 31 and pump motor 38. This arrangement provides the benefit that the at least one light 31 can remain on to illuminate the floor after spraying and during subsequent cleaning, particularly if a normally closed switch 15 is used for the lights 31. Alternatively, the lights 31 may have a delay modulator 31M. The delay modulator 31M automatically keeps the lights 31 illuminated for 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 or more seconds after the user releases the normally open switch 15. This arrangement provides the benefit that the lights 31 provide illumination after spraying but do not use undue battery 42 power. Referring to Fig. 4, in another embodiment the at least one nozzle 30 and/or at least one light 31 may be mounted on the body 18. This arrangement prophetically provides the benefit that more illumination of the spray and the floor occurs, due to the greater area swept by the illumination of the light[s] 31. Referring to Figs. 5 A - 5B, the cleaning article may comprise a laminate of tow fibers and nonwovens, as is known in the art. Such cleaning articles are commonly referred to as dusters and used for dusting as disclosed in 6,813,801; and commonly assigned 8,756,746 and commonly assigned 8,931,132. Such cleaning articles typically have one or more sleeves for attachment to a complementary cleaning implement 10H. Such a cleaning implement 10H may have a handle 12 and tines 18T in pivoting relationship as disclosed in 8,657,515 and 9,392,923 or in fixed relationship as disclosed in commonly assigned 8,578,564. In such an embodiment, and in any of the embodiments described herein, the cleaning implement 10H may have a pump 36 which may be a trigger sprayer pump 36, finger pump 36 or other manually operated pump 36. The pump 36 operation may momentarily close a normally open switch 15, illuminating the target surface during spraying. Again, a separate switch 15, independently operable relative to the manually actuated pump 36, may be used to illuminate the target surface. Again, the light 31 intercepts the spray from the manual pump 36.

Alternatively, the cleaning implement 10H for use with a duster may have a handle 12 and tines 18T, and not have a pump 36 or spray nozzles 30, and still have one or more lights 31. This embodiment provides the benefit of axial illumination for small spaces and/or illumination below the duster for direct contact with the target surface. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning implement 10 may prophetically comprise a mitt. Referring back to Figs. 2A, 2B, 2C and 4, the invention is not limited to nozzle 30 and light

31 combinations which intersect in an inward/outward azimuthal configuration, or forward configuration. The nozzle 30 and light 31 may be equally spaced from the bottom 24 of the head 20, may be vertically stacked, diagonally stacked and any combination thereof on either or both of the body 18 and head 20. The nozzle 30 and light 31 may be separated with one on the head 20 and the other on the body 18.

The nozzle 30 and light 31 may be oriented mutually parallel, it still being preferred that diffusion from the light intercept the spray during operation without regard to specific angular relationships and placement between the nozzle 30 and light 31. In a less preferred embodiment illumination from the light 31 need not intercept spray from the nozzle 31.

The cleaning implements 10, 10H disclosed herein may be used in, but not limited to, any of the following combinations. Combinations

A. A head for a cleaning implement, said head having a longitudinal centerline and comprising: a front, a bottom for removably receiving a cleaning sheet, and at least one nozzle juxtaposed with said front of said head for dispensing a liquid therefrom in response to activation by a switch, said switch being connectable to a power supply, and at least one light juxtaposed with said nozzle, said light providing illumination of spray from said nozzle in response to activation of said switch, said illumination intercepting said liquid upon dispensing from said nozzle. B. A head according to paragraph A comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated. C .A head according to paragraphs A and B comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein said nozzles spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated.

D. A head according to paragraphs A, B and C comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein said nozzles spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal centerline, one said light being disposed inboard of each said nozzle, whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated.

E. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C and D comprising at least one tine for removably receiving a sleeved cleaning article thereon, and a handle joined to said head, a manual pump disposed within said handle and in fluid communication with said nozzle, whereby illumination from said light intercepts spray from a said respective nozzle when said pump is activated.

F. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D and E comprising two forwardly spraying nozzles, one said forwardly spraying nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and four lights, a pair of said lights disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, one said light being disposed on each side of and flanking a respective nozzle, whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when a single switch is activated.

G. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D, E and F comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated, said lights and said nozzles each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head. H. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D, E, F and G comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and outboard of a respective nozzle, whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated, said lights and said nozzles each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head.

I. A head according to paragraphs A, B, C, D, E, F, G and H comprising two nozzles, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights, one said light disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, each said light and respective nozzle being disposed in a respective socket and thereby recessed from said front of said head, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated, said sockets each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head.

J. A cleaning implement having a longitudinal centerline and a transverse width perpendicular thereto, said implement comprising: a head for removably receiving a cleaning sheet, said cleaning sheet being configured to contactingly cleaning a target surface;

a body articulably joined to said head;

a handle joined to said body whereby said device is configured for floor cleaning; a reservoir disposed on said body for dispensing liquid to at least one nozzle through a flow path in fluid communication from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle;

a switch for dispensing liquid from said reservoir in response to activation thereof; and a light functionally juxtaposed with said at least one nozzle whereby illumination from said at least one light intercepts spay upon dispensing from said nozzle.

K. An implement according to paragraph J further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said motor, said motor being controlled by said switch.

L. An implement according to paragraphs J and K further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said motor, said motor and said light being controlled by said switch.

M. An implement according to paragraphs J, K and L further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected to said pump, and a DC battery power supply for providing energy to said motor, said motor and said light being controlled by said switch and a modulator for delaying deactivation of said light when said switch is deactivated, said modulator, said light and said motor being electrically disposed in series.

N. An implement according to paragraphs J, K, L and M further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said motor, said motor and said light being controlled by said switch, said implement comprising two nozzles and two lights disposed on said head, one said nozzle and one said light being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline whereby illumination from each said light intercepts spray from a respective said nozzle upon activation of said switch. O. An implement according to paragraphs J, K, L, M and N further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle, an electric motor operably connected to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said motor, said motor and said light being controlled by said switch, said implement comprising at least one nozzle and at least one light, said nozzle being disposed on said body, whereby illumination from said light intercepts spray from said nozzle upon activation of said switch.

P. A cleaning implement having a longitudinal centerline and a transverse width perpendicular thereto, said implement comprising: a head for contactingly cleaning a target surface;

a body articulably joined to said head,

a reservoir disposed on said body for dispensing liquid to at least one nozzle through a flow path in fluid communication from said reservoir to said at least one nozzle;

a pump for pumping liquid from said reservoir through said nozzle to spray liquid therefrom; a motor for operating said pump;

a light functionally juxtaposed with said at least one nozzle whereby illumination from said at least one light intercepts spay upon dispensing from said nozzle. a battery for providing power to said motor and said light; and

a switch for operating said motor and said light in response to activation of said switch.

Q. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O and P wherein said at least one nozzle is disposed on said body and said at least one light is disposed on said head.

R. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O, P and Q wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed on said head, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights disposed on said head, one said light being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated. S. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O, P, Q and R wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed on said head, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights disposed on said head, one said light being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated, said switch being a normally open switch whereby said motor and said two lights are simultaneously activated only when said switch is activated.

T. An implement according to paragraphs K, L, M, N, O, P, Q, R and S wherein said comprising two nozzles disposed on said head, one said nozzle being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights disposed on said head, one said light being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each light intercepts spray from a respective nozzle when said switch is activated and further comprising a third nozzle disposed in said longitudinal cetnerline, said third nozzle not having a dedicated light associated therewith.

The dimensions and other values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such value is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm."

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern. While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of this invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A head (20) for a cleaning implement (10H), said head (20) having a longitudinal centerline and

comprising: a front, a bottom for removably receiving a cleaning sheet, and at least one nozzle (30) juxtaposed with said front of said head (20) for dispensing a liquid therefrom in response to activation by a switch (15), said switch (15) being connectable to a power supply, and characterized by further comprising at least one light (31) juxtaposed with said nozzle

(30) , said light (31) providing illumination of spray from said nozzle (30) in response to activation of said switch (15), said illumination intercepting said liquid upon dispensing from said nozzle (30).

2. A head (20) according to claim 1 comprising two nozzles (30), one said nozzle (30) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights (31), one said light

(31) disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, further characterized in that illumination from each light (31) intercepts spray from a respective nozzle (30) when said switch (15) is activated.

3. A head (20) according to claims 1 and 2 comprising two nozzles (30), one said nozzle (30) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights (31), one said light (31) disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein said nozzles (30) spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each said light (31) intercepts spray from a respective nozzle (30) when said switch (15) is activated.

4. A head (20) according to claims 1, 2 and 3 comprising two nozzles (30), one said nozzle (30) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights (31), one said light (31) disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and wherein said nozzles (30) spray liquid inwardly towards said longitudinal centerline, one said light (31) being disposed inboard of each said nozzle (30), whereby illumination from each said light (31) intercepts spray from a respective nozzle (30) when said switch (15) is activated.

5. A head (20) according to claims 1, 2, 3 and 4 comprising two nozzles (30), one said nozzle (30) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights (31), one said light (31) disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and outboard of a respective nozzle (30), whereby illumination from each said light (31) intercepts spray from a respective nozzle (30) when said switch (15) is activated, said lights (31) and said nozzles (30) each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head (20).

6. A head (20) according to claims 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 comprising two nozzles (30), one said nozzle (30) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights (31), one said light (31) disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, each said light (31) and respective nozzle (30) being disposed in a respective socket and thereby recessed from said front of said head (20), whereby illumination from each light (31) intercepts spray from a respective nozzle (30) when said switch (15) is activated, said sockets each being equally spaced from said bottom of said head (20).

7. A head (20) according to claim 1 comprising at least one tine for removably receiving a sleeved (32) cleaning article thereon, and a handle (12) joined to said head (20), a manual pump disposed within said handle (12) and in fluid communication with said nozzle (30), whereby illumination from said light (31) intercepts spray from a said respective nozzle (30) when said pump is activated.

8. A cleaning implement (10) having a longitudinal centerline and a transverse width perpendicular thereto, said implement (10) comprising: a head (20) for removably receiving a cleaning sheet, said cleaning sheet being configured to contactingly cleaning a target surface (22);

a body (18) articulably joined to said head (20); a handle (12) joined to said body (18) whereby said device is configured for floor cleaning;

a reservoir (40) disposed on said body (18) for dispensing liquid to at least one nozzle (30) through a flow path in fluid communication from said reservoir (40) to said at least one nozzle (30);

a switch (15) for dispensing liquid from said reservoir (40) in response to activation thereof; and characterized by further comprising a light (31) functionally juxtaposed with said at least one nozzle (30) whereby illumination from said at least one light (31) intercepts spray upon dispensing from said nozzle (30).

9. An implement (10) according to claim 8 wherein said at least one nozzle (30) is disposed on said head (20) of said implement (10).

10. An implement (10) according to claims 8 and 9 comprising two nozzles (30) and two lights (31) disposed on said head (20), one said nozzle (30) and one said light (31) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline whereby illumination from each said light (31) intercepts spray from a respective said nozzle (30) upon activation of said switch (15).

11. An implement (10) according to claims 8, 9 and 10 comprising two nozzles (30) and two lights (31) disposed on said head (20), one said nozzle (30) and one said light (31) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline whereby illumination from each said light (31) intercepts spray from a respective said nozzle (30) upon activation of said switch (15), each said nozzle (30) spraying inwardly towards said longitudinal centerline.

12. An implement (10) according to claims 8, 9, 10 and 11 further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir (40) to said at least one nozzle (30), an electric motor (38) operably connected to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said motor (38), said motor (38) and said light (31) being controlled by said switch (15).

13. An implement (10) according to claims 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir (40) to said at least one nozzle (30), an electric motor (38) operably connected to said pump and a DC battery (42) power supply for providing energy to said motor (38) , said motor (38) and said light (31) being controlled by said switch (15) and a modulator (31M) for delaying deactivation of said light (31) when said switch (15) is deactivated.

14. An implement (10) according to claims 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 further comprising a pump for dispensing liquid from said reservoir (40) to said at least one nozzle (30), an electric motor (38) operably connected to said pump, and a power supply for providing energy to said motor (38), said motor (38) and said light (31) being controlled by said switch (15) and said at least one light (31) is activated only when said motor (38) is activated.

15. An implement (10) according to claims 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 14 wherein said comprising two nozzles (30) disposed on said head (20), one said nozzle (30) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, and two lights (31) disposed on said head (20), one said light (31) being disposed on each side of said longitudinal centerline, whereby illumination from each light (31) intercepts spray from a respective nozzle (30) only when said switch (15) is activated.