CN101090661A - Motorized cleaning implement - Google Patents

Abstract

A motorized cleaning implement is provided for cleaning surfaces with a cleaning substrate. The motorized cleaning implement includes a bumper pad that is connected to a motor capable of providing a reciprocating motion to the bumper pad. A cleaning substrate which includes a pocket is attached to the bumper pad.

Description

Motorized cleaning implement

Technical field

The present invention relates to the field of burnisher.More particularly, the present invention relates to can be used for for example field of the multiple purposes burnisher of floor, sink, bathtub, shower room wall etc. of cleaning hard surfaces.

Background of invention

Can find much can clean product in the literature such as this type of smooth hard surfaces such as tile floor, hardwood flooring, sales counter table tops.Aspect the clear flat surface, especially aspect use clean substrate cleaning floor, multiple device has been described.These devices comprise the elongate handle that is rotatably connected to mophead by universal joint.An example of this type of instrument is SWIFFER ^Burnisher.The mophead of these instruments typically comprises by universal joint and is connected to the rigid support plate of mophead and bottom that is positioned at rigid support plate and in the face of desiring " buffer " or " mat " of clean surface." buffer " pad has farthest reduced the risk at clean operation damage during flat surfaces.For the clear flat surface, the user is at first with a clean substrate, for example disposable dry cleansing sheet (for example, SWIFFER ^Cleaning foil) or disposable absorption cleaning wipe or cleaning pad (for example, SWIFFER WET ^The cleaning pad of preliminary wetting), is attached on the fixed structure that slit is arranged of the top surface that is positioned at gripper shoe, makes clean substrate be sandwiched between cushion pad and the desire clean surface, use the clean substrate wiping flat surfaces of selecting then.It is found that this instrument and disposable clean substrate are united the not only convenient easy-to-use but also health very of use, because contacting between its hand of having avoided the user and the clean substrate, and clean substrate can be dropped after flat surfaces is cleaned at once.In any case, use the rigid support plate user of such instrument can't be effectively or the surface of clean curved efficiently, especially aduncate concave surface.

The product that much can clean such as this type of curved surfaces such as sink, bathtubs is also arranged in the document.In these products some comprise clean solution, and described solution is applied directly to be desired on the clean Surface, and water rinses out then.Although these do not require what the user does, to compare with clean substrate wiping on the desire clean Surface, they can not provide identical cleaning efficacy usually.In order to strengthen clean-up performance, some cleaning products comprise the clean substrate of uniting use with cleaning products.Wherein modal is sponge.For the surface of clean curved, the user usually with sponge hand held in, be administered to clean solution on the sponge or be applied directly to and desire on the clean Surface, wiping should the surface then.In case after the surface clean, this sponge of the common rinsing of user makes it dry so that use again.Sponge material (natural or synthetic) has pliability, so they conform to the shape on the surface that is cleaned.Yet such reusable substrate becomes unhygienic along with long use, and depends on " corrosivity " of clean solution, may require the user to be with gloves to come the adversary to protect.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a kind of like this burnisher, it can be with the mode clear flat or the curved surface of disposable cleaning substrate with convenient and health.

Another object of the present invention provides a kind of like this Motorized cleaning implement, and it can be with the disposable cleaning substrate with the mode of convenient and health clear flat and/or curved surface not too arduously.

Summary of the invention

In one embodiment, the present invention relates to be used for the Motorized cleaning implement of clean surface, described burnisher comprise the substrate that is used to keep clean cushion pad, be used to the motor that makes cushion pad reciprocating with respect to motor, wherein motor is operably connected on the cushion pad, and the disposable cleaning substrate is detachably connected at least a portion of cushion pad.

In one embodiment, the present invention also relates to come the method for clean surface with Motorized cleaning implement, described burnisher has the cushion pad of the substrate that is used to keep clean and is used to the motor that makes cushion pad reciprocating with respect to motor, and described method comprises: clean substrate is provided, described clean substrate is connected at least a portion of described cushion pad and with described clean substrate and contacts surface to be cleaned.

Summary of drawings

Though this specification by particularly pointing out and clearly claimed letter of authorization requirement of the present invention is drawn a conclusion, should believe by following explanation and can understand the present invention better in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 is that the axle that waits of " tradition " burnisher is surveyed view;

Fig. 2 is that the axle that waits of the burnisher of one embodiment of the invention is surveyed view;

Fig. 3 is the zoomed-in view of the mophead of burnisher shown in Figure 2;

Fig. 4 has a top view at the enterolithic mophead of X-Y plane;

Fig. 5 is the side view with the mophead that is out of shape on the Z direction;

Fig. 6 A is that the axle that waits of another burnisher of the present invention is surveyed view;

Fig. 6 B is the top view of another burnisher of the present invention;

Fig. 7 is the top view of the burnisher shown in Fig. 6 A;

Fig. 8 A is the front view with another burnisher on curved top portion surface;

Fig. 8 B is the front view with another burnisher of curved top portion and lower surface;

Fig. 9 is that the axle that waits of another burnisher of the present invention is surveyed view;

Figure 10 is as shown in Figure 9 the front view of burnisher in clean operation;

Figure 11 is that the axle that waits of another burnisher of the present invention is surveyed view;

Figure 12 is the top view of the disposable clean substrate below burnisher and the cushion pad that is positioned at described instrument;

Figure 13 is the top view of instrument shown in Figure 12, and wherein clean substrate is connected on the cushion pad;

Figure 14 is that the axle that waits of instrument of the present invention is surveyed view, and wherein cushion pad comprises bristle;

Figure 15 is that the axle that waits of Motorized cleaning implement is surveyed view;

Figure 16 is the tilted side view of power-driven tool shown in Figure 15;

Figure 17 is that the axle that waits of another Motorized cleaning implement is surveyed view;

Figure 18 is that the axle that waits of power-driven tool shown in Figure 16 is surveyed view, and wherein the part of mophead shell and shank has been removed;

Figure 19 is that the axle that waits of instrument shown in Figure 16 is surveyed view, and wherein shank is pushed downwards;

Figure 20 is the partial enlarged view of power-driven tool shown in Figure 17;

Figure 21 is the perspective view of another Motorized cleaning implement;

Figure 22 A is the perspective view with Motorized cleaning implement of two syndetons;

Figure 22 B is the schematic diagram of syndeton;

Figure 22 C is the Motorized cleaning implement of Figure 22 A and the perspective view that is connected to the clean substrate of burnisher at least in part;

Figure 23 A is the side view of the Motorized cleaning implement of Figure 21;

Figure 23 B is the top view that comprises the cushion pad of stiffener;

Figure 24 is the perspective view of clean substrate of the present invention;

Figure 25 is the right side view of clean substrate shown in Figure 24;

Figure 26 is the profile along the cleaning basis matter as shown in figure 24 of axis 26-26 intercepting;

Figure 27 is the perspective view of the strainer that is shown in an open position;

Figure 28 is the perspective view of burnisher with strainer of open position;

Figure 29 is the perspective view that shows the burnisher as shown in figure 28 of strainer in the closed position;

Figure 30 is the magnification fluoroscopy profile along the burnisher as shown in figure 29 of axis 30-30 intercepting;

Figure 31 is the perspective view of burnisher and clean substrate;

Figure 32 is a profile, and its demonstration is inserted into the part and the strainer that is shown in an open position of the pocket cushion pad partly of substrate; With

Figure 33 is the profile that shows the burnisher as shown in figure 31 of strainer in the closed position.

Detailed description of preferred embodiment

Although do not plan to limit the utilization of burnisher as herein described and substrate, it is believed that its purposes of summary will help to illustrate the present invention.

The disposable clean substrate of modern burnisher utilization such as sheet or absorption pad, they are fixed to the head of burnisher releasedly, and can abandon easily and change after dirty.These burnishers have a shank, and this shank is rotatably connected on the mophead.These mophead is rectangular basically and comprise " buffering " pad of a rigid support plate that is connected to shank and a base plane that is connected to mophead.This cushion pad is made by flexible material, and it has farthest reduced the possibility that the surface is caused during the clean operation damage.Clean substrate is wrapped on the mophead and is connected on the structure that slit is arranged that is positioned at the gripper shoe top.An embodiment of this " modernization " burnisher is by TheProcter; Gamble Company sells and is shown in the SWIFFER among Fig. 1 ^Burnisher.This type instrument especially is fit to the big flat surface of cleaning for example floor, wall or ceiling.Yet the size of mophead, shape and rigidity do not allow the user to clean the surface of other type, for example the surface of sink, bathtub or " narrow ", for example floor between wall and the toilet seat.

For clean curved and/or narrow surface, the user can be applied directly to clean solution the surface and go up and need not it with wiping out on the surface.Yet, when coming the clean surface, can obtain superior cleaning with clean substrate.The user can at first be applied to clean solution on the clean substrate or on the surface, come the described surface of wiping with this clean substrate then.The most frequently used clean substrate is to absorb sponge, and sponge can be out of shape, and therefore conforms to curved surface.Yet these conventional sponges require users to put on one's gloves to avoid contacting with clean solution and/or to contact with the dirt that absorbs in the sponge.Require the user to pay suitable effort in order to remove obstinate stain, this makes clean up task not only difficulty but also inconvenience.In addition, because these sponges are intended to reuse, therefore sponge itself is dirty, both unhygienic also plain after repeatedly using.

As following will from detailed disclosure know understand, the invention solves aforementioned misgivings.

The relevant part of all references is incorporated herein by reference.Quoting of any document may not be interpreted as its approval as prior art of the present invention.

Should be appreciated that each higher limit that provides in this manual will comprise each lower limit, promptly also have clear and definite expression as this lower limit in this explanation.Each lower limit that provides in this specification will comprise each higher limit, promptly at this paper clear and definite expression be arranged also as this higher limit.Each number range that provides in this specification will comprise all narrower number ranges that are contained in this broader numerical, promptly at this paper clear and definite expression be arranged also as this narrower number range.

Except as otherwise noted, in specification of the present invention, embodiment and claims all mark, ratio and percentage all by weight, and except as otherwise noted, the conventional accuracy that all numerical value boundary values all use this area to provide.

As hereinafter describing in more detail, the present invention relates to a kind of burnisher with mophead with its most preferred form, and it is that part is deformable at least.The invention still further relates to a kind of can be during clean operation around the fixing disposable cleaning substrate of mophead.

I. non-Motorized cleaning implement

With reference to figure 2, it illustrates a kind of non-Motorized cleaning implement 10 constructed in accordance.

In one embodiment, burnisher 10 comprises a mophead 20, shank 30, and it is rotatably connected to mophead 20 by a universal joint 40, and described universal joint has the first rotation A-A and the second rotation B-B.So-called " elongate handle " is meant that length is at least about 5cm, preferably at least about 20cm, and more preferably at least about 60cm, even more preferably 115cm at least.

Fig. 3 shows the view of the bottom of mophead 20, universal joint 40 and shank 30.

In one embodiment, mophead 20 comprises " buffering " pad 120 that is connected to interconnecting component 220.Interconnecting component 220 can be connected on the cushion pad 120 by any method known in the art.In a preferred embodiment, interconnecting component 220 adheres on the cushion pad 120.Interconnecting component 220 comprises base part 1220 and at least one, but two projections 2220 and 3220 that are used for universal joint 40 is pivotably connected to interconnecting component 220 preferably.In a preferred embodiment, cushion pad 120 is a substantially rigid for deformable substantially base part.

So-called " deformable substantially ", be meant when the side of cushion pad is being supported wall extruding (as shown in Figure 4), cushion pad 120 at X-Y plane (promptly, horizontal plane) in or be deformed or " being crushed ", or refer to when cushion pad is being supported the curved surface extruding, cushion pad 120 is deformed on the Z direction, makes that at least a portion of cushion pad is bent upwards (as shown in Figure 5).In a preferred embodiment, cushion pad is simultaneously in X-Y plane and deformable on the Z direction.Except other beneficial effect, deformable cushion pad has suitable shape curved surface, for example the ability of sink or bathtub and/or the ability that collapses under pressure at two hard surfaces (between wall and toilet).Therefore, the burnisher with deformable bumper pad can use with the various hard surfaces in the cleaning bathroom with the disposable cleaning substrate combination.

In one embodiment, mophead has at least about 0.1, preferably at least about 0.15, and more preferably at least about 0.2, even more preferably at least about 0.25, and most preferably at least about " rigidity is to deformable " ratio of 0.3.In one embodiment, the ratio of " rigidity and the deformable " of mophead is less than about 0.75, preferably less than about 0.7, be more preferably less than about 0.65, even be more preferably less than about 0.6, and most preferably less than about 0.55.

Be not bound by any theory, the ratio that it is believed that " rigidity and deformable " provides effective mensuration to the ability on the surface that the suitable shape of mophead is cleaned.

" rigidity and deformable ratio " of mophead can followingly be calculated: the gross area of the lower surface of the base part 1220 that will in X-Y plane, protrude (make and contact) with cushion pad by the substantially rigid material, and divided by the gross area of the lower surface of the deformable bumper pad of in X-Y plane, protruding.The power that is applied on shank 30 and/or the universal joint 40 by the user is sent to cushion pad by base part, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, if " rigidity and deformable " ratio is too low (promptly, less than 0.05), this power will be applied to a relatively little zone rather than apply equably.This low " rigidity and deformable " ratio reduced the operability of mophead, and it has limited the ability that the user controls the direction of mophead; It can cause cushion pad to be damaged potentially; And it has reduced the whole cleaning efficacy that described instrument and the clean substrate that is connected to cushion pad are used in combination.Those skilled in the art also will understand, if " rigidity and deformable " ratio too high (that is, greater than about 0.75), cushion pad deformation ability in X-Y plane and on the Z direction will be subjected to the restriction with cushion pad substrate contacted rigidity partly.

In a preferred embodiment, at the gross area of the lower surface of the projecting inward base part 1220 of X-Y plane between about 1cm ²With about 100cm ²Between, preferably between about 2cm ²With about 50cm ²Between, more preferably between about 4cm ²With about 30cm ² Between.Base part 1220 can have any suitable geometry.It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that base part can be by segmentation, cause a plurality of base parts but still identical beneficial effect is provided.

In a preferred embodiment, at the gross area of the projecting inward deformable lower surface of X-Y plane between about 2cm ²With about 500cm ²Between, preferably between about 4cm ²With about 400cm ²Between, more preferably between about 6cm ²With about 300cm ²Between.

In one embodiment, interconnecting component 220 longitudinally axis L-L be connected to cushion pad 120.In a preferred embodiment, the length of the interconnecting component of measuring along the longitudinal axes L of cushion pad 120-L 220 be axis L-L mensuration longitudinally cushion pad length at least about 20%, preferably between about 20% and about 85%, more preferably between about 35% and about 75%.In one embodiment, along the width of the interconnecting component of measuring perpendicular to the line of the longitudinal axes L-L of cushion pad 120 220 between along the width of measuring cushion pad perpendicular to the line of longitudinal axes L-L about 10% and about 60% between, preferably between 15% and about 50%, more preferably between about 20% and about 40%.

In one embodiment, cushion pad is made by deformable material, and described material has at least about 5, preferably at least about 7, more preferably at least about 10 category-A hardometer measured value.In one embodiment, cushion pad is made by deformable material, and described material has less than about 60, preferably less than approximately, and is more preferably less than about 40 category-A hardometer measured value, and described measured value is measured by category-A durometer hardness tester.Hardness or durometer hardness can pass through available from Pacific Transducer Corp., Los Angeles, and the model of California is 408 category-A hardometer measurement, and defers to ASTM D2240.Cushion pad with " soft " allows cushion pad to conform to profile or groove in the surface, for example in the bathroom between mud line between the ceramic tile and bathtub or the sweep in the shower cabinet.In contrast, by having the shape that is tending towards easily to conform to thin portion (for example mud line between ceramic tile) greater than the conventional thermoplastic foam of about 60 category-A hardometer measured value or cushion pad that rigid foam is made.Having can be typically too fragile and do not have the required hardness in clean surface effectively less than the cushion pad of about 5 category-A hardometer measured value.Have less than about 60 but be very suitable shape greater than this type cushion pad of about 5 category-A hardometer measured value, and can unite use with stiffener (hereinafter describing), thereby use and exert oneself to clean during prevent that cushion pad from losing its shape, and prevent the lower limb of its contact shell.

In one embodiment, the thickness of cushion pad (that is, in the Z direction) is at least about 2mm, preferably at least about 5mm, and more preferably at least about 10mm, even more preferably at least about 15mm.In one embodiment, the thickness of cushion pad (that is, in the Z direction) preferably less than about 80mm, is more preferably less than about 50mm less than about 100mm.It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that for given hardness or hardometer the ability of material deformation and its thickness are inversely proportional to.In other words, the cushion pad of the relative thin of being made by the deformable material degree that is tending towards being out of shape is greater than the thicker cushion pad that is manufactured from the same material.

In one embodiment, cushion pad 120 comprises " weak district " so that the distortion of cushion pad.So-called " being convenient to the weak district of cushion pad distortion " be meant in order to increase it in X-Y plane and/or the ability on the Z direction, any change that the cushion pad material is done or any change of being done in the cushion pad material.The non-limiting example in this " weak district " comprising: the slit of making on cushion pad; The slit of on the whole thickness of cushion pad, making; Bubble of in cushion pad, creating or space; The chamber that on the top of cushion pad and/or bottom, makes; Extend through the hole or the opening of the whole thickness of cushion pad; And their any combination.In one embodiment, these weak districts are positioned evenly on the cushion pad, to increase described pad deformation ability equably.In the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 6 A, these weak districts " concentrating " are positioned between vertical side of the outward flange of cushion pad 120 and base part 1220 in the part of cushion pad 120.One skilled in the art will appreciate that the position, quantity and/or the size that depend on weak district, the deformability of specific part under pressure or constraints that improves cushion pad becomes possibility.

In a preferred embodiment, cushion pad 120 comprises at least one but preferably includes a plurality of weak districts that these weak districts are hole or openings 1120 of making or form at the whole thickness of cushion pad.Except other beneficial effect, these holes 1120 help cushion pad 120 in X-Y plane and the distortion on the Z direction.In one embodiment, cushion pad 120 comprises 1 to 50 hole, preferred 2 to 30 holes, more preferably 6 to 20 holes.Hole or opening 1120 can have any geometry known in the art, for example circle, rectangle, triangle, ellipse, vertically, inside or outwardly-bent but still identical beneficial effect is provided with respect to the center of cushion pad.Fig. 6 B has shown an embodiment of cushion pad 120, comprises four aduncate longitudinal openings 1125.Except the deformability that can increase cushion pad, hole or opening 1120 also can help during rinsing liquid is discharged from cushion pad under current when cushion pad.

In a preferred embodiment, cushion pad 120 is made by the material that does not absorb water substantially.So-called " material that does not absorb water substantially " is meant the weight of the water of the cushion pad that absorbs initial drying, be immersed in the water 5 minutes fully and cushion pad do not caused under the situation of unsuitable distortion or extruding, less than about 50% of the weight of the cushion pad of drying, preferably less than about 30%, be more preferably less than 20%, even be more preferably less than about 10%, most preferably less than about 2%.Except other beneficial effect, because burnisher and disposable cleaning substrate combination are used, the most dirt that removes from the surface that is cleaned is trapped the disposable substrate.Therefore, after clean operation, only stay the low amount of dirt solution remnants of the cushion pad that does not absorb water, this small portion of residual easily water rinses out.Therefore, burnisher provides a kind of and conventional sea to compare the mode of the clean surface of health/clean.

Cushion pad 120 can have any suitable geometric configuration.In an embodiment shown in Figure 6, cushion pad 120 has elliptical shape.In one embodiment, cushion pad 120 partly begins from the centre to be tapered towards two tops 2120 and 3120, and has basic " eye " shape or acute angle shape.

In the embodiment that Fig. 7 represents (wherein the overhead of shank and universal joint is not shown therebetween for simplicity), form two edge limited angle α of the cushion pad on top 2120, they are between about 10 degree and about 150 degree, preferably between about 40 degree and about 120 degree, more preferably between about 60 degree and about 100 degree.In one embodiment, form two edge limited angle β of the cushion pad on top 3120, they are between about 10 degree and about 150 degree, preferably between about 40 degree and about 120 degree, more preferably between about 60 degree and about 100 degree.In one embodiment, angle [alpha] is different with β.In one embodiment, angle α equals angle β.Except other beneficial effect, each in the top 2120 and 3120 allows to be connected to the surface in the clean substrate of mophead 20 and the corner that cushion pad 120 comes clean room, because it allows user to operate clean substrate in the corner.In addition, when one of top was inserted between the vertical surface progressively, top 2120 or 3120 allowed mophead to arrive and the narrow surface of cleaning between vertical surface, for example between wall and toilet seat.Should be appreciated that if separate the width of the distance of vertical surface then to allow mophead to be pulled in the ability of X-Y plane internal strain or " crushing " farther for cushion pad, thereby can clean more this narrow floor surface less than cushion pad.

In one embodiment, the thickness of cushion pad is constant.

In an embodiment shown in Fig. 8 A, the thickness of cushion pad 120 changes in X-Y plane, preferably changes along the Y direction.In a preferred embodiment, the lower surface of cushion pad 120 is open and flat substantially, and its thickness from the middle part of cushion pad towards at least one but preferably two tops 2120 and 3120 increase.In a preferred embodiment, the thickness of cushion pad 120 is constant at the part place of the pad of contiguous interconnecting component 220, and 2120 and 3120 increases from the edge of projection 2220 and 3220 towards the top subsequently.The result is that the top surface of cushion pad is crooked at the part place of the pad of adjacent top end 2120 and 3120.In another embodiment, the top surface of cushion pad 120 can be open and flat substantially, and the lower surface of cushion pad can be crooked at the part place of the pad of adjacent top end 2120 and 3120.

In another embodiment shown in Fig. 8 B, the top surface of cushion pad 120 and lower surface all can be crooked at the part place of the pad of adjacent top end 2120 and 3120.Be not intended to be bound by any theory, it is believed that cushion pad deformation ability under pressure allows clean substrate to stand tension force when clean substrate is connected to cushion pad with curved bottom surface and mophead and affacts surface to be cleaned.Therefore, clean substrate is fixed on the cushion pad tightly.

In addition, the thickness of cushion pad can influence its deformation ability.Therefore, it is possible to create the zone with increase rigidity on cushion pad by the cushion pad that provides a thickness to increase gradually or reduce.Except other beneficial effect, cushion pad has improved the ability that mophead removes obstinate stain at the thickness that has increase near top 1120 and 2120 places, and is as mentioned below.

In an embodiment shown in Figure 9, base part 1220 is connected on the cushion pad 120, makes the rotation of universal joint 40 be basically parallel to one of at least the line L-L that engages top 2120 and 3120.In one embodiment, universal joint 40 comprises lower member 140, and described lower member is rotatably connected on the projection 2220 and 3220 of base part 1220 around rotation A-A.Universal joint 40 also comprises a upper component 240 that is rotatably connected to lower member 140 around rotation B-B.In one embodiment, the far-end of shank 30 is releasably connected to upper component 240.

In one embodiment, lower member 140 forms the handle that users can singlehanded grasping.Except other beneficial effect, this embodiment not only allows the user to clean big surface (as floor, bathtub) or be difficult to clean Surface (as wall) by using the mophead 20 and the combination of elongated shank 30, and allow the user to clean less surface (as mirror) or the surface (as sink) that is difficult to arrive need not elongated shank 30, wipe surfaces then by singlehanded grasps handle.

In a preferred embodiment, base part 1220 is connected on the cushion pad 120, makes the rotation A-A of lower member 140 be basically parallel to the line L-L that engages top 2120 and 3120.Except other beneficial effect, this embodiment also allows the power that the user is applied on the handle " to be concentrated " in the district of one of adjacent top end 2120 or 3120 by crooked cushion pad 120 with the user of singlehanded grasps handle, feasible have only this district of the cushion pad on contiguous this top to contact with surface to be cleaned, as shown in figure 10.One skilled in the art will appreciate that towards the top concentrated force and can help to remove stain by the frictional force that increases between clean substrate and the spot.

In Figure 10 and preferred embodiment shown in Figure 11, the user can temporarily lock lower member 140 (that is, stoping lower member 140 around rotation A-A rotation) by such mode: rotation upper component 240 is positioned between the shank 1240 and 2240 of upper component 240 up to one of projection 2220 or 3220.Except other beneficial effect, when user's one hand grasps handle, this embodiment prevents that also mophead from tilting or rotation.

In an especially preferred embodiment, at least one but preferably two projection 2220 and/or 3220 is less times greater than the interior distance between first and second shanks 1240 and 2240 of upper component 240, so that the user can be by just one of upper component 240 extruding or backup projection temporarily lock universal joint 40 (that is, preventing lower member 140 and upper component 240).Except other beneficial effect, upper component 240 rotated and farthest reduces the user and point the risk of being squeezed folder by accident when this embodiment prevented that the finger as the user is positioned at " path " of upper component 240.The preferred embodiment of this lockable universal joint is described in the following patent: the common unsettled U.S. Patent application of submitting on September 3rd, 2,003 60/499 of authorizing people such as James, the common unsettled U.S. Patent application of submitting on April 13rd, 852 and 2,004 60/562 of authorizing people such as James, 000, both have all transferred The Procter ﹠amp; Gamble Company.

As previously mentioned, burnisher 10 is united use with the disposable cleaning substrate that is fixed to mophead 20 releasedly.

In one embodiment, mophead 20 comprises that at least one is used to engage and keep around the retaining member of the disposable cleaning substrate of mophead 20 in clean operation.The non-limiting example of suitable retaining member comprises deformable syndeton, hook or and-loop fastener, clamping device, protrusion, clip, adhesive or their any combination.

In preferred embodiment shown in Figure 12, mophead 20 comprises at least one but two syndetons 320 and 325 that are used to engage and keep disposable cleaning substrate 50 preferably.Syndeton 320 comprises (being that thickness is less than 2mm) and the deformable plastic layer of the relative thin that is positioned on the hollow space.This plastic layer comprises the slit that intersects by its making, and it forms at least one but preferred a plurality of triangle or cheeses with summit.Because pie-shaped sector is a deflection, the user can push away pie-shaped sector with the part of clean substrate under normal finger pressure summit.After the user takes away finger, so pie-shaped sector can recover its original-shape and at least one summit joint (and even penetrating) remains on mophead clean substrate on every side.Suitable syndeton is disclosed in authorizing people such as Kingry and transferring The Procter of announcing October 23 calendar year 2001 in more detail; In the United States Patent (USP) 6,305,046 of Gamble Company.

In one embodiment, mophead 20 comprises at least one but two syndetons that are molded within the base part 1220 preferably.In a preferred embodiment, mophead comprises at least one but two syndetons 320 and 325 that are connected on the deformable bumper pad 120 preferably, as shown in figure 12.In one embodiment, the top surface of syndeton 320 and/or 325 contiguous cushion pads 120.In a preferred embodiment, syndeton 320 and/or 325 is positioned on the longitudinal axes L-L of cushion pad.In an embodiment as shown in figure 12, longitudinally axis L-L measure between the geometric center Ca of syndeton 320 (or maintenance structure of any other type) and the distance between the top 2120 less than axis L-L longitudinally measure between about 80% of the center of cushion pad and the distance between the top 2120, preferably less than about 60%, be more preferably less than 50%, even be more preferably less than about 40%.Except other beneficial effect, syndeton 320 and/or 325 also allows the user by in two parts 150 of the top fold of cushion pad 120 and/or parcel clean substrate 50 and 250 and two parts 150 and 250 are connected on the single syndeton, as shown in figure 13 in the location on longitudinal axes L-L.Two parts 150 and 250 are located symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of clean substrate respectively, and are on the relative half block of clean substrate.In addition, be positioned at side that syndeton 320 and/or 325 on longitudinal axes L-L do not influence cushion pad in X-Y plane and/or the deformability on the Z-direction (Fig. 4 and shown in Figure 5 as described above).In a preferred embodiment, syndeton 320 and/or 325 basic adjacent top end 2120 and/or 3120.So-called " adjacent top end ", be meant about 35% of the center C b of the cushion pad that the geometric center Ca of the syndeton 320 (or retaining member of any other type) that axis L-L longitudinally measures and the distance between the top 2120 are measured less than axis L-L longitudinally and the distance between the top 2120, preferably between about 5% and about 30%, more preferably between about 10% and about 25%.Found that the position of syndeton 320 on mophead 20 has a direct impact minimum dimension (being length and width), especially the width to the clean substrate (as shown in figure 13) that is connected to the basic rectangle on the cushion pad 120 has a direct impact.Except other beneficial effect, the syndeton 320 and/or 325 of adjacent top end 2120 and/or 3120 location also allows handle 30 to rotate in any direction, and does not hinder the disposable cleaning substrate that is kept by syndeton.In addition, when burnisher is united use with the clean substrate of basic rectangle, syndeton 320 and/or 325 as close as possible tops 1120 and/or 2120 are placed, and the width of clean substrate can be minimized, because the relative part of clean substrate or angle can arrive syndeton.Therefore, only need less material to make clean substrate and reduced the manufacturing cost of substrate.In addition, when the disposable cleaning substrate was connected on the mophead as shown in figure 13, clean substrate covered the side of cushion pad, but so that the lower surface of tool using and side surface clean.

Two retaining members that it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the cushion pad with rectangular shape and be positioned at as previously mentioned on the cushion pad can be united use with wideer clean substrate, but this clean substrate can be disturbed universal joint and/or shank.Disturb universal joint for preventing clean substrate, clean substrate can have at least one but preferably two slit of making or notch or pattern on clean substrate, so that universal joint and/or shank can rotate freely, and can not be subjected to interference from the clean substrate that is connected to cushion pad.

In one embodiment, the outer surface of cushion pad 120 is preferably continuous substantially, and cushion pad is preferably made by the material of deformable and non-suction.So-called " basic continuous exterior surface " be meant the outer surface of cushion pad be homogeneous and/or do not interrupt, for example have the outer surface of the brush of a plurality of bristles on the contrary, these bristles constitute a discontinuous surface together.In one embodiment, the outer surface of cushion pad can veining and/or have the three-D pattern that forms on cushion pad.The non-limiting example of the suitable non-absorbing material of deformable comprises ethylene vinyl acetate, SANTOPRENE ^, neoprene, KRAYTON, natural rubber, polyethylene, polypropylene rubber, polyurethane, synthetic foam or any other suitable material.

In one embodiment, the outer surface of cushion pad 120 can be continuous substantially as previously mentioned, but also comprises the bristle 60 that is connected to deformable cushion pad.In a preferred embodiment, bristle 60 can be connected on the lower surface of cushion pad and/or be connected on the side of cushion pad, as shown in figure 14.Bristle 60 can be of value to scrub surfaces but also be of value to maintenance Disposable, nonwoven material clean substrate.

As previously mentioned, interconnecting component 220 and universal joint 40 are preferably made by the material of substantially rigid.The non-limiting example of substantially rigid material comprises wood, metal, pottery, glass, plastics such as polypropylene, PETG, acronitrile-butadiene-styrene, nylon, acetyl group (any acetal homopolymer or copolymer resin), polystyrene and their any combination.

In a preferred embodiment, cushion pad 120 is fixedly connected to interconnecting component 220.Cushion pad can be permanently connected by any method known in the art.In one embodiment, cushion pad 120 can use adhesive that carry, heat fusing or solvent carries is connected to interconnecting component 220 as synthetic water.

As previously mentioned, syndeton 320 and/or 325 is preferably made by pliable and tough substantially material.The non-limiting example of pliable and tough substantially material comprises low density polyethylene (LDPE) or LLDPE.In a preferred embodiment, syndeton 320 and/or 325 is fixedly connected on the cushion pad 120.In a preferred embodiment, syndeton 320 adheres to the inner surface of periphery edge or ring, and the outer surface of described edge or ring adheres on the cushion pad.

As previously mentioned, burnisher 10 comprises elongate handle 30.Handle 30 can be any handle known in the art, and can be single, segmentation, telescopic or contractile handle.

Described burnisher is preferably united use with disposable clean substrate.Yet, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these instruments also can advantageously unite use with reusable base material (as sponge or any other absorbing material).The non-limiting example of suitable disposable cleaning substrate comprises " dry cleaning foil ", " dry absorption cleaning wipe or pad " or " cleaning wipe of preliminary wetting or pad ", the cleaning foil of described drying be used for particulate matter (as, dust, chip, hair, velveteen, anaphylactogen) remove from desiring clean Surface; , the absorption cleaning wipe of described drying or pad come wipe surfaces to come the surface cleaning that wets to remove dirty solution by clean solution being administered on the surface then with cleaning piece or pad; The cleaning wipe of described preliminary wetting or pad soak in advance with Cleasing compositions.Disposable clean substrate can comprise the single or multiple lift base material.Disposable clean substrate is preferably made by non-woven material.

II. Motorized cleaning implement

Referring to Figure 15 and Figure 16, schematically illustrate the Motorized cleaning implement of making according to one embodiment of the present of invention 11 has been described.

In one embodiment, burnisher 11 comprises head 21 and handle 31, and described handle is connected on the head 21, preferably is pivotably connected on the mophead by joint 41.

In one embodiment, head 21 comprises " buffering " pad 121 that is connected to sliding component 221.Sliding component 221 can be fixedly connected on the cushion pad 121 by any method known in the art.In one embodiment, sliding component 221 is adhered to cushion pad 121.

Cushion pad 121 can be any cushion pad of previously described relevant non-Motorized cleaning implement.

In one embodiment, head 21 has at least about 0.1, preferably at least about 0.15, and more preferably at least about 0.2, even more preferably at least about 0.25, and most preferably at least about " rigidity is to deformable " ratio of 0.3.In one embodiment, " rigidity is to deformable " ratio of mophead is less than about 0.75, preferably less than about 0.7, be more preferably less than about 0.65, even be more preferably less than about 0.6, and most preferably less than about 0.55.

" rigidity and deformable ratio " of mophead can followingly be calculated: the gross area of the lower surface of the sliding component 221 that will in X-Y plane, protrude (make and contact) with cushion pad 121 by the substantially rigid material, and divided by the gross area of the lower surface of the deformable bumper pad of in X-Y plane, protruding 121.Sliding component can or directly be connected on the cushion pad or indirectly and is connected on the cushion pad.Sliding component can be connected on the cushion pad indirectly by being connected to the base part that himself is connected to cushion pad.When sliding component was connected to the base part that himself is connected to cushion pad, " rigidity is to the deformable ratio " of motor-driven mophead can calculate like this: the gross area of lower surface that is used in the base part (its material by substantially rigid is made and contacted with cushion pad 121) that protrudes in the X-Y plane is divided by the gross area of the lower surface of the deformable bumper pad of protruding in X-Y plane 121.

In one embodiment, sliding component 221 makes that cushion pad 121 and sliding component 221 are all removable between first and second guiding elements 321 and 421, preferably slides with respect to first and second guiding elements 324,421 along the C-C axis.In one embodiment, at least one but preferably two guiding elements include tongue 1321 and 2321, described tongue is used to engage the corresponding groove 1221 and 2221 on every the side that is produced on sliding component 221, and is used to allow sliding component 221 to slidably reciprocate along the C-C axis.The position that it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that tongue and groove can be inverted and still can be provided identical beneficial effect.Those skilled in the art also will be understood that, can use except that tongue is for example circular, spherical with other mechanism the groove, the linear bearing provides identical beneficial effect with train.In order to minimize the friction between tongue and the groove, preferably use low-friction material, and the shape of tongue and groove is by providing smooth and/or circular surface is optimized, so that contacting between restriction tongue part and the groove part.

In one embodiment, provide slip and/or reciprocating motion by the electro-motor 521 that is connected to mophead to sliding component 221.Motor 521 can be electrically connected at least one battery (perhaps disposable battery or rechargeable battery) that preferably is positioned within the handle 31.One skilled in the art will appreciate that because sliding component is connected on the cushion pad, slide and/or move back and forth also conduction and give cushion pad.

Electro-motor can start by the switch 131 that preferably is positioned on the handle 31.Electro-motor 521 comprises the rotating shaft that is operably connected to sliding component 221.The non-limitative example of suitable motor comprises a kind of AC permanent magnet motor (being made by Action Motor company), has 10750 rev/mins 6V operation characteristic and when unloaded when the maximum current of 0.32A and peak torque 89.10 ^-3The moment of torsion of Nm and the maximum current of 14.5A, described motor can use with the AA disposable battery.The non-limiting example of suitable switch comprises Open-closure switch, transient state switch, potential difference meter, variable speed switch and their combination.

In an embodiment shown in Figure 16, the rotating shaft of motor 521 is operably connected to sliding component 221 by rotary drive mechanism 621, and described mechanism comprises around the driving bearing pin 1621 of the rotation operation of rotary drive mechanism 621.In one embodiment, drive the slit 3221 that bearing pin 1621 engages on the top surface that is produced on sliding component 221, and described slit is preferably perpendicular to the C-C axis.It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that gear pin 1621 goes in ring around the rotation of rotary drive mechanism 621, bearing pin can navigate in slit 3221, thereby promotes and pulling sliding component 221 and cushion pad 121 with respect to guiding elements 321,421.

In one embodiment, the sliding frequency of sliding component and cushion pad is between about 50Hz and about 40Hz, preferably between about 5Hz and about 10Hz, more preferably between about 15Hz and about 30Hz.So-called " sliding frequency " is meant the front and back slip number of times of sliding component in a second.It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that, the sliding frequency of sliding component depends on the rotary speed of rotary drive mechanism 621, and the amplitude (or displacement amplitude) of sliding component motion depends on the distance between the rotation that drives bearing pin 1621 and rotary drive mechanism 621.In one embodiment, displacement amplitude is between 1mm and 30mm, preferably between about 2mm and about 20mm, more preferably between about 3mm and about 10mm.

In one embodiment, the rotating shaft of electro-motor 521 is directly connected to (that is, the rotation of rotary drive mechanism is identical with rotary drive mechanism) on the rotary drive mechanism.In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 15 and 16, the rotating shaft of electro-motor 521 is connected on the rotary drive mechanism indirectly by at least one travelling gear.

In one embodiment, the rotation of the rotating shaft of motor 521 is basically parallel to the rotation of rotary drive mechanism 621.

In Figure 17 and preferred embodiment shown in Figure 180, the rotation of the rotating shaft of motor is basically perpendicular to the rotation of rotary drive mechanism.

Figure 18 shows burnisher 11, and a part that wherein comprises the part of shell 721 of motor, gear and rotary drive mechanism and handle hand 31 for clarity is not shown.In one embodiment, the rotation of the rotating shaft of motor is basically parallel to sliding component 221, and the rotation of rotary drive mechanism 621 is basically perpendicular to sliding component 221.In this embodiment, universal joint and/or one group of gear 821 can be used to transmit rotatablely moving of rotating shaft to rotary drive mechanism 621.Except other beneficial effect, when the rotation of rotating shaft was parallel to sliding component 621, the height that comprises the shell of motor, gear and rotary drive mechanism also can reduce.

In one embodiment, the joint 41 of shank 31 is a fork that comprises one first and second leg member 141 and 241, and first and second leg member are connected to shell 721 around the D-D axis rotatably around pivot.In one embodiment, leg member 141 and 241 limits when shank 31 is pushed down as shown in figure 19 the volume that can be occupied by at least a portion of shell 721.

In a preferred embodiment, shank 31 is elastically connected to shell 721, makes shank 31 return its home position when release is applied to pressure on the shank 31.

In one embodiment, handle 31 by at least one but preferably two spring members 51 (spring member for example shown in Figure 20) flexibly be connected on the shell 721.In one embodiment, the first of spring member 51 can be connected on the leg member 141, and the second portion of spring member can be connected on the shell 721.Spring member 51 can be made by any suitable elasticity material and/or elastomeric material, and when the user stopped to apply up or down pressure on handle 31, described material allowed handle 31 to return back to its home position.The non-limitative example that can be used for the suitable material of spring member 51 comprises metal, plastics, timber and elastomeric material.

In one embodiment, the battery that is positioned within the handle 31 can be electrically connected to motor by electric wire, described electric wire can be positioned within handle, the legg members 141 and/or 241, then by be used for leg member 141 and/or 241 and shell 721 between pivotally connected opening pierce into shell 721.Except other beneficial effect, be positioned within the handle and and also allow handle to pivot, and be limited in the risk that electric wire may be damaged or may contact with water during the clean operation simultaneously with respect to shell 721 by the pivotally connected electric wire that pierces into shell.

In an embodiment shown in Figure 21, Motorized cleaning implement 12 comprises cushion pad 22 and is used to seal and protect the shell 32 of motor that described motor is electrically connected at least one battery and switch 132, and is operably connected to sliding component 122.In a preferred embodiment, shell 32 is basic antiseepage, thereby prevents that liquid from arriving motor and any other electronic building brick of installing in the enclosure.As previously mentioned, motor can be directly but preferably is connected to sliding component 122 indirectly.

In one embodiment, shell 32 meets the moulding of ergonomics ground, makes user's available his or his palm during clean operation touch the top surface to shell 32.In one embodiment, the outer surface of shell 32 is basic convex surface with respect to cushion pad, makes that the user can singlehanded grasping shell.In a preferred embodiment, shell 32 comprises the preferably concave part 232 (with respect to cushion pad) of contiguous cushion pad 22.In a preferred embodiment, concave part 232 is arranged on the left and right sides of shell 32.In one embodiment, concave part 232 comprise at least one but preferably a plurality of outstanding 1232, when the user with his or his finger when in this concave part, pinching, describedly give prominence to the finger slippage in convex portions that is used to prevent the user.In a preferred embodiment, shell 32 is symmetrical substantially with respect to vertical plane.Except other beneficial effect, the shell with plane of symmetry also allow the user with his or his left hand or the right hand use power-driven tool.

In one embodiment, shell is made by acronitrile-butadiene-styrene, polypropylene or the moldable thermoplastic of any injection moulding.In a preferred embodiment, convex portions 232 and/or outstanding 1232 is made by flexible material.The non-limitative example of flexible material comprises that ethylene vinyl acetate foam, siloxanes, siloxane foams, SBR styrene butadiene rubbers, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), thermoplastic foam, thermosetting foams or polyolefin for example provide more soft touch and the polypropylene blend of butadiene rubber block copolymer and their any mixture.The material of soft-touch also provides other beneficial effect: they not only provide better grasping, and also provide nonslip properties when wetted when it is surperficial.For example, a kind of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is for example by Kraton Polymers Inc., Houston, and the styrene block copolymer plastics of the trade mark that Texas makes KRATON by name just provide such beneficial effect.KRATON provides when wetting and dry and comfortable all the easily surface of grasping, and will provide soft-surface to improve common grasping and user's feel.

In one embodiment, switch 132 is positioned in the sunk part 332 of shell 32.In a preferred embodiment, the plane of symmetry of switch 132 basic adjacent housings 32.Except other beneficial effect, switch 132 is positioned at prevents also in the sunk part 332 that the user from unexpectedly opening or closing motor.When the user wished to open or closes motor, he or she can be interior so that contact-making switch 132 with the reeve of the finger tip at least sunk part 332 of finger simply.One skilled in the art will appreciate that when user's grip device the switch that is positioned in the zone that is difficult for touching of shell prevents that during clean operation the user from unexpectedly opening or closing motor.

In one embodiment, cushion pad 22 comprises at least one head portion 122, preferably a plurality of head portions.In one embodiment, cushion pad comprises first (promptly) head portion 122 and second (i.e. back) head portion 222 of the plane of symmetry that is basically parallel to shell 32.

In one embodiment, cushion pad comprises that at least one is close to the syndeton 322 of first head portion and/or second head portion 122,222 substantially.

In one embodiment, cushion pad comprises the syndeton 322 of at least one (i.e. back) head portion 222 that is close to second substantially.

The Motorized cleaning implement that comprises the cushion pad of the syndeton with one of adjacent top end part can use with the disposable cleaning substrate that comprises pocket.First (promptly) head portion can inject in the pocket, and " free end " of substrate can fold on the top of cushion pad and be connected on the syndeton 322.

In the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 22 A, cushion pad comprises first syndeton 322 and second syndeton 322 ' of both all contiguous substantially second (i.e. back) head portions 222, and first (promptly) head portion 122 does not comprise syndeton.In one embodiment, first syndeton and second syndeton comprise a plurality of cheese deflectionable parts 1322, and when clean substrate was pushed in syndeton, described deflectionable part can engage at least a portion of clean substrate.Pie-shaped sector preferably deviates from the direction by substrate effect power thereon.Alternative syndeton 322 that can be included on the cushion pad is shown among Figure 22 B.Syndeton can comprise that a plurality of pie-shaped sectors with common vertex 1322 in the rear portion that is positioned at syndeton and each all have its own summit and from the rear portion of syndeton towards a plurality of pie-shaped sectors 2322 of the front portion extension of syndeton.Be not bound by any theory, it is believed that pie-shaped sector 1322 within the same syndeton and 2322 combination provide the bigger face that grasps with the substrate that keeps clean.Syndeton can be formed or be formed by two separation members that are connected to cushion pad subsequently by single injection molded.The pie-shaped sector of syndeton is preferably made by the injection molding of thermoplastic, wherein mould forms these slits, but alternative manufacture method is included in pliable and tough and the deformable plastic coat and makes slit, or makes by any other method known in the art.

In one embodiment, syndeton 322 and 322 ' is molded in two plastic coats that separate that are connected to cushion pad independently.In a preferred embodiment, syndeton 322,322 ' is molded in the same plastic coat that is connected to cushion pad subsequently.Except other beneficial effect, the buffering with first syndeton and second syndeton 322,322 ' is paid somebody's debt and expected repayment later each free end or the turning that the permission user connects clean substrate independently of each other.As previously mentioned, cushion pad can be reciprocating.Therefore advantageously, provide at least two free-ended syndetons of substrate that can keep clean individually, break away from cushion pad so that during clean operation, prevent clean substrate.

In one embodiment, the space that is positioned on syndeton 322 and/or the (if there is) 322 ' is not stopped by the part of shell 32 or shell substantially.So-called " not being blocked substantially " is meant that shell 32 does not use the mode of syndeton to extend to stop substantially on syndeton.As previously mentioned, the user can be by at the free end of the top fold clean substrate of the head portion of cushion pad and these free ends or the turning of clean substrate is connected on the syndeton.Therefore useful is, allows space on the syndeton be substantially free of and may hinder and/or stop the user substrate to be connected to any object of cushion pad.

Figure 22 C shows the clean substrate 52 of the pocket 152 that comprises first (the promptly) head portion that is connected to cushion pad 32, and one of the free end of described substrate or turning 252,352 are engaged by one of syndeton 322.For the purpose of clear and explanation, the state before second free end of substrate is engaged by second syndeton with it shows.

When free end or turning all were connected to syndeton 322 and/or 322 ', the substrate that is cleaned at least in part of the sidepiece of cushion pad 32 covered.The result is that when the user was supporting the sidepiece of use cushion pad in surface to be cleaned, the sidepiece of the cushion pad that the substrate that is cleaned covers also can be used to cleaning.

In an embodiment shown in Figure 23 A, the head portion of cushion pad 32 one of at least is gradually thin.So-called " gradually thin " is meant that the thickness of the top ends office of cushion pad increases towards sliding component gradually from the top.In a preferred embodiment, first (promptly) head portion 122 is gradually thin, and does not preferably comprise any syndeton.One skilled in the art will appreciate that when packing clean substrate (the non-woven material clean substrate that comprises the pocket that can enter by opening specifically) pocket can flatten so that when selling, the opening that therefore leads to pocket reduces.When the user when its packing removes substrate, if the thickness of the cushion pad of top end is excessive, the opening that then head portion of cushion pad is injected pocket has difficulty.Except other beneficial effect, gradually Bao head portion also allows the user that this head portion is easily injected in " flattening " pocket of clean substrate.Except make the front portion gradually thin, also can make the rear end of pad 22 gradually thin to reduce mat thickness, so that allow more most of joint gripping apparatus 322 or 322 ' of turning 252 and 352.

As previously mentioned, non-cushion pad motor-driven or Motorized cleaning implement is preferably made by the deformable material that allows cushion pad to conform to the shape of curved surface.The head portion of cushion pad allows the user to apply bigger power in (thereby finally for clean substrate) of cushion pad less regions/areas, at this moment before head portion or back head portion " bending " as described above shown in Figure 10ly.One skilled in the art will appreciate that when in less district, applying bigger power friction between clean substrate and the surface to be cleaned increases, therefore just from then on the surface remove stain.

When Motorized cleaning implement comprises can do by the reciprocating deformable bumper pad that motor provided (shown in Figure 23 A) that is installed in the shell time, and when the head portion of user's " bending " cushion pad with when the surface removes stain, it is useful that the top surface of cushion pad does not contact with shell 32.Allow the head portion contact shell of cushion pad may cause cushion pad to be damaged, but also may damage motor, gear and/or other assembly of Motorized cleaning implement owing to the top surface of cushion pad and the friction between the shell.

In addition, when the long-term bending of head portion quilt, the part elasticity of head portion fluffs thereby it is tending towards crooked and maintenance upwarps.

Found to control head portion especially the deformable degree of first (promptly) head portion be useful, this can prevent the generation of foregoing problems.

Figure 23 B shows the top view of Motorized cleaning implement, does not wherein show shell, motor, battery and gear for the purpose of clear.

In one embodiment, burnisher is included in the stiffener 224 that extends at least a portion of first head portion 122.In a preferred embodiment, stiffener 224 makes that for flexible and be preferably flexiblely substantially it returns back to its original-shape when power stops to be applied to stiffener.In one embodiment, stiffener is connected to the base part 1220 of instrument.In a preferred embodiment, when the molded base part, stiffener and base part are integrated and are together made with it.In one embodiment, stiffener is close to the top surface setting of head portion.In another embodiment, stiffener is positioned within the head portion at least in part.In another embodiment, stiffener fully is positioned at and/or incorporates within the head portion of cushion pad.Cushion pad can center on stiffener moulding and/or molded.

Stiffener is preferably made by thermoplastic, described material deflection a little when pressure is applied to head portion.The shape of stiffener 224, size and deformability are through preferably, make and to apply power between about 4.4N (1 pound) and 88.9N (20 pounds) and during the curved apex part, the top surface of head portion and/or stiffener do not contact with shell 32 as the user.As previously mentioned, stiffener is preferably made by elastomeric material.Except other beneficial effect, when power stopped to be applied on the head portion, flexible substantially stiffener also allowed the head portion of cushion pad to recover its original-shape.Substantially flexible stiffener reduces foregoing head portion substantially along with long-term use produces " shape memory loss ".

In addition, stiffener keeps space, gap and/or space between the top surface of head portion and shell.The top surface of head portion and the existence in the gap between the shell prevent head portion friction shell, therefore prevent the loss of the power and/or the energy of tracker action during use.

In one embodiment, the vertical range between the lower limb of shell and the top surface of cushion pad and/or the stiffener (promptly on the Z-direction) is between about 1mm and 10mm, preferably between 2mm and 9mm, more preferably between 3mm and 8mm.In one embodiment, make the required power of lower limb of head portion and/or stiffener touching shell be at least about 1 pound, be preferably at least about 2 pounds, more preferably at least about 3 pounds.In one embodiment, the required power of lower limb that makes head portion and/or stiffener touching shell preferably less than about 10 pounds, is more preferably less than about 8 pounds less than about 20 pounds.The power that is applied on head portion and/or the stiffener can be measured by at first the lower surface of cushion pad being posted on scale.Afterburning subsequently curved apex is partly spent its rotation 0 degree extremely about 45, so that limit the bottom of cushion pad and the contact area between the scale.Increase the power that is applied on the device and touch the lower limb of shell, and note the indicated power of scale up to the top surface and/or the stiffener of head portion.

III. strainer

As previously mentioned, non-motor-driven or motor-driven (having or do not have handle) burnisher can use with the clean substrate (being preferably the disposable cleaning substrate) of the mophead that is connected to instrument, the contact surface to be cleaned, bottom at least that makes substrate.

In an embodiment shown in Figure 24 to 27, clean substrate 50 can have bottom 150 and top layer 250, and described bottom and top layer bond together so that form the pocket part 350 that can enter by opening 1350.In a preferred embodiment, the shape of pocket part 350 conforms to the shape of at least a portion of the cushion pad of burnisher substantially.It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that clean substrate can be made by monolayer material, this monolayer material can be folded bonded then so that form foregoing pocket part.

At least a portion of the cushion pad of burnisher can inject in the pocket 350 by opening 1350.In a preferred embodiment, the bottom 150 of clean substrate 50 is longer than top layer (when axis 26-26 measurement longitudinally) so that form extension 450.In one embodiment, extension 450 can randomly be connected on the mophead by any mechanism known in the art.

In one embodiment, burnisher comprises that one is used for clean substrate is placed strainer 70 under the tension force, (is shown in an open position), as shown in figure 27 so that it conforms to the shape of the cushion pad of burnisher to small part.

Strainer 70 comprises male element 170 with three-dimensional projection 1170 and the female element 270 with corresponding three-dimensional sunk part 1270, and described sunk part can be engaged by projection 1170.Projection and sunk part can have Any shape known in the art.

In one embodiment, female element 270 operationally is connected to male element 170, make that projection 1170 engagement concave portions divide 1270 when strainer is in primary importance (or closing position), make obtain when strainer is in the second place (or open position) projection 1170 not engagement concave portions divide 1270.In one embodiment, female element can be connected to male element 170 around pivot rotatably along the E-E axis.

Figure 28 shows the Motorized cleaning implement 11 that comprises the strainer 70 that is shown in an open position.In one embodiment, male element 170 can be connected, and preferably is adhered to cushion pad 121, and female element 270 is connected to male element 170 rotatably around pivot, as previously mentioned.Should be appreciated that male element 170 can be moulded directly in the cushion pad 121 (for example being molded in the cushion pad) and identical beneficial effect still is provided.The position that also should be appreciated that male element and female element can be inverted (that is, female element can be connected to cushion pad) and identical beneficial effect still is provided.

Figure 29 shows Motorized cleaning implement 11, and wherein strainer 70 is shown in an open position.

Should be appreciated that strainer also can be united with non-Motorized cleaning implement uses and still provides identical beneficial effect.

In one embodiment, the sliding component 221 of Motorized cleaning implement is connected to the top surface of strainer 70, makes strainer and cushion pad to vertically move with respect to the motor of instrument.

Figure 30 is the amplification profile along the intercepting of 27-27 axle of burnisher 11 as shown in figure 26, and this figure shows the projection 1170 of the sunk part 1270 that engages female element 270.

When strainer 70 is in second (or opening) position (as Figure 28 and shown in Figure 31), the user can inject at least a portion of cushion pad 121 the pocket part 350 (shown in Figure 24 to 26) of clean substrate 50, makes the top layer 250 of substrate 50 cover at least a portion of the male element 170 of strainer.In case the user is inserted into the pocket part of clean substrate with cushion pad, the user can close strainer so that male element engages female element, so that top layer 250 (it is sandwiched between public affairs and the female element) is compelled to follow the three-dimensional path by public and female element establishment.In one embodiment, gap 370 (as described in Figure 30) separates 2170 with projection 1170 with sunk part, makes that the part of top layer 250 is positioned at the space that create in this gap when strainer is closed.

Figure 32 is the plan cross-sectional view along 32-32 axis (shown in Figure 31) intercepting, and it shows that strainer is shown in an open position, and wherein cushion pad 121 has injected the pocket part of clean substrate 50.

When strainer was closed, as shown in figure 33, top layer was forced to occupy the space that is produced by the gap 370 between the sunk part 1270 of the projection 1170 that is clipped in male element 170 and female element 270.In one embodiment, the distance between male element in the closed position and the female element is between about 0.1mm and 10mm, preferably between about 0.5mm and about 5mm, more preferably between 0.7mm and about 2mm.When strainer 70 was closed, top layer 350 stood tension force, and described tension force then the outer surface that causes clean substrate being pasted cushion pad 121 are tightly fixed, as shown in figure 33.Therefore, strainer reduces the lax of pocket part, and described lax permission cushion pad injects the pocket part.

Except other beneficial effect, strainer provides maintaining body to be connected on the mophead of burnisher in the substrate that keeps clean during the clean operation.In addition, strainer reduces the lax of pocket.If Motorized cleaning implement, it also is useful removing this lax, so that clean substrate and cushion pad move with respect to motor.It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that clean substrate can be limited with respect to the motion of motor if cushion pad can move with respect to the clean substrate fundamental freedom.

In addition, be close to that cushion pad is placed and most (lower surface and side) of clean substrate in the time of can being used to clean when substrate, the cleaning efficiency of uniting the clean substrate of use with burnisher increases.

As previously mentioned, non-motor-driven or Motorized cleaning implement can be united use with the disposable cleaning substrate, preferred a kind of substrate that comprises non-woven material.This disposable clean substrate can be substantially dry or comprise a kind of suprabasil Cleasing compositions (liquid or pasty state) that is impregnated into.

In one embodiment, the user can be connected to clean substrate the cushion pad of power-driven tool, and the user can be with switch opens so that make clean substrate and cushion pad seesaw along the C-C axis then.The user can make the lower surface of clean substrate be close to the desire clean Surface so that remove the dirt that exists on this surface then.When clean substrate is close to surface to be cleaned with when the sliding frequency between about 3Hz and the 40Hz and the displacement amplitude between about 1mm and about 30mm move back and forth, the user can only apply minimum pressure to handle and clean surface like a dream.Should be noted that Motorized cleaning implement also can use under the pent situation of switch, but so need the user to move forward and backward cushion pad.

When the user wishes to remove obstinate stain, or the user is when wishing thorough wipe surfaces, and the user can apply power up or down and clean substrate is seesawed shank.

When Motorized cleaning implement is used to the surface of clean curved, during as bathtub, sink or the like, the surface that foregoing deformable and rubber-like cushion pad allows clean substrate to conform to be cleaned also can be moved forward and backward simultaneously.

In addition, when clean substrate was connected on the cushion pad so that the side of its covering cushion pad and bottom surface, clean substrate can be used to clean simultaneously a plurality of surfaces.For example, the clean substrate of the adjacent side of the lower surface of covering cushion pad and cushion pad can be used to clean the surface that is formed by two vertical walls.In one embodiment, at least a portion in the right side of cushion pad or left side can be basically parallel to longitudinal axis C-C (that is the axis of translation before and after the cushion pad).In one embodiment, the part on a left side and right side is basically parallel to longitudinal axis C-C.In addition, when cushion pad comprises that at least one head portion (as described in the on-powered tools part) and clean substrate cover the bottom of this head portion and side, the surface that clean substrate can be used to clean the corner that formed by three basic vertical walls or formed by the parallel wall in two sides that is connected by a vertical wall such as shower track.

The method of clean surface:

Aforementioned motor-driven or non-motor-driven cleaning device can be used for cleaning, polish, cleaning or prepare the inside and outside any surface of family or businessfice.The non-limitative example of available this type of device clean Surface comprises floor, table top, bathtub, shower cabinet, dolly outside, wheel, instrument, furniture, glass door, external appliance, timber structure, concrete, pitch, masonry, vinyl wallboard, bathroom fixtures and is not easy any other surface of cleaning and/or getting at.Motor-driven and non-motor-driven cleaning device all can be randomly but is preferably included extension bar, thereby described bar can be connected the scouring that is provided in the zone that is difficult to get at.

For illustrate and describe for the purpose of, carried out the aforementioned description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention.Do not plan to describe exhaustively or limit the present invention for disclosed accurate form.Modification or modification are possible and are susceptible to according to above-mentioned instruction by those skilled in the art.Described embodiment is selected and describe so that bestly describe inventive principle and practical application thereof.Scope of the present invention appending claims from here limits and this scope should be understood that the maximum magnitude that prior art allows.

Claims (24)

1. Motorized cleaning implement that is used for the clean surface, described Motorized cleaning implement comprises:

Cushion pad, it is used to the substrate that keeps clean;

Motor, it is used to make described cushion pad to move back and forth with respect to described motor, and wherein said motor is operably connected on the described cushion pad; With

The disposable cleaning substrate, it is detachably connected at least a portion of described cushion pad.

2. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, described Motorized cleaning implement also comprises shell, wherein said motor is arranged within the described shell.

3. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 3, wherein said shell has the top of basic convex shape.

4. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 3, wherein said shell comprises the concave part of the described cushion pad of basic vicinity.

5. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said clean substrate comprises pocket, and described cushion pad comprises that at least one is inserted into the head portion in the described pocket.

6. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 5, the described head portion that wherein is inserted in the described pocket is tapered.

7. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cushion pad comprise that at least one is used to engage the syndeton of at least a portion of described clean substrate.

8. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 7, wherein said syndeton is close to the head portion of described cushion pad substantially.

9. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 8, the space of wherein said syndeton top is not blocked substantially.

10. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cushion pad comprises lower surface and side, and wherein said clean substrate covers at least a portion of described lower surface and described side.

11. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cushion pad moves back and forth with the frequency between about 5Hz and about 50Hz.

12. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 11, wherein said cushion pad moves back and forth with the displacement amplitude between about 1mm and about 30mm.

13. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cushion pad comprise head portion and are used to engage first and second syndetons of described clean substrate.

14. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 13, wherein said first and second syndetons are close to described head portion substantially.

15. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said clean substrate comprise one deck non-woven material at least.

16. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 15, wherein said clean substrate comprises Cleasing compositions.

17. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cushion pad has basic continuous exterior surface.

18. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 17, wherein said cushion pad comprise the material that has less than about 60 category-A hardometer measured value.

19. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 1, wherein said cushion pad comprises deformable head portion.

20. Motorized cleaning implement as claimed in claim 19, described Motorized cleaning implement also comprises stiffener, and wherein said stiffener is connected at least a portion of described deformable head portion.

21. the method with the Motorized cleaning implement clean surface, described Motorized cleaning implement have the cushion pad of the substrate that is used to keep clean and be used to described motor that described cushion pad is moved back and forth with respect to motor, described method comprises:

Clean substrate is provided;

Described clean substrate is connected at least a portion of described cushion pad; With

With described clean substrate contact surface to be cleaned.

22. method as claimed in claim 21, described method also are included in described clean substrate and contact the step that starts described motor before the step on described surface to be cleaned.

23. method as claimed in claim 21, described method also are included in described clean substrate and contact the step that starts described motor after the step on described surface to be cleaned.

24. method as claimed in claim 21, wherein said clean substrate comprise one deck non-woven material at least.

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