BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates generally to implements with antimicrobial handles
for cleaning hard surfaces such as showers, bathrooms, kitchens, floors, walls, outdoor
surfaces, and automobiles. The invention also relates to toilet cleaning implements
with antimicrobial handles. The invention also relates to toilet cleaning implements
with antimicrobial handles and disposable cleaning elements such as cleaning pads.
Description of the Related Art
[0002] Toilet brushes are typically housed in a special brush storage unit. This storage
unit typically allows the brush to drip dry, while the drippings collect on a bottom
section of the storage unit. It should be appreciated that the drippings, even upon
drying, can present an additional concentration of bacterial contamination and odor.
U.S. Pat. 5,941,379 to Barardo solves part of this problem by disclosing a toilet
cleaning implement with a handle and a cleaning head. The cleaning head preferably
soaks in a cleaning solution while not in use. A preferred cleaning solution comprises
a disinfectant, deodorizer, fragrance, anti-bacterial, sanitizer, or combination thereof.
[0003] In order to eliminate the need for soaking in a disinfectant solution, several patents
describe toilet cleaning implements with disposable brushes or pads which eliminate
bacteria growing in the brush or pad, for example, WO01/15587 to Trenz et al., U.S.
Pat. Appl. 2002/0007527 to Hart, WO01/43618 to Lalli, U.S. Pat. 6,295,688 to Sayles,
U.S. Pat. 5,488,748 to Koch, U.S. Pat. 6,094,771 to Egolf, U.S. Pat. 5,471,697 to
Daconta, U.S. Pat. 5,888,002 to Fensterheib, U.S. Pat. 4,466,152 to Moss et al., U.S.
Pat. 4,642,836 to Bokmiller, and WO00/71012 to Belt et al.
[0004] U.S. Pat. 4,852,201discloses a toilet bowl cleaning implement having a handle with
a removable cleaning pad disposed on one end. The toilet bowl cleaning implement also
includes a cleaning solution that is contained in the pad. Numerous types of cleaning
compositions, as well as implements with disposable cleaning pads, are known in the
art. Illustrative are the compositions and apparatus disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,523,347,
4,031,673, 3,413,673 and 3,383,158.
[0005] Prior art cleaning implements disclose sanitizing cleaning solutions and sanitary
means of removing used cleaning pads. However, these cleaning implements often still
require touching for attaching the cleaning pad. Additionally, these cleaning implements
remain out and can generate odors and other microbiological problems. Maintaining
a sanitary condition on handles and other parts of the cleaning implement are not
disclosed. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a cleaning
implement with a sanitary handle that overcomes the disadvantages and shortcomings
associated with prior art cleaning implements.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In accordance with the above objects and those that will be mentioned and will become
apparent below, one aspect of the present invention comprises a cleaning implement
comprising a handle wherein said cleaning implement is used for cleaning hard surfaces
and wherein said cleaning implement has an antimicrobial surface.
[0007] In accordance with the above objects and those that will be mentioned and will become
apparent below, another aspect of the present invention comprises a cleaning implement
comprising a handle wherein said cleaning implement is used for cleaning hard surfaces
and wherein said cleaning implement has an antimicrobial surface and wherein said
cleaning implement comprises a exterior finish corresponding to a SPI finish designation
selected from the group consisting of A-1, A-2, A-3, B-1, B-2, B-3, and combinations
thereof.
[0008] In accordance with the above objects and those that will be mentioned and will become
apparent below, another aspect of the present invention comprises a cleaning implement
comprising a handle wherein said cleaning implement is used for cleaning toilets and
wherein said cleaning implement inhibits the growth of microorganisms on the surface
of said cleaning implement.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Before describing the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that this
invention is not limited to particularly exemplified systems or process parameters
that may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein
is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the invention only, and
is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any manner.
[0010] All publications, patents and patent applications cited herein, whether
supra or
infra, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each
individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually
indicated to be incorporated by reference.
[0011] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the
singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly
dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a "surfactant" includes two or
more such surfactants.
[0012] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the
same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the
invention pertains. Although a number of methods and materials similar or equivalent
to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present invention, the
preferred materials and methods are described herein.
[0013] For the purposes of this invention, the term "antimicrobial" includes limiting the
presence of at least one virus, at least one bacterium, at least one fungus, or a
combination thereof. Limiting the presence of microrganism includes limiting the growth
of a microorganism. This term also includes retarding, inhibiting, inactivating, killing,
or preventing the replication of or reducing the number of a microorganism. Different
terms may be used for different microorganisms. A surface that has an antimicrobial
effect is an antimicrobial surface.
[0014] The cleaning implement can be maintained on its surface as a disinfectant, sanitizer,
and/or sterilizer. As used herein, the term "disinfect" shall mean the elimination
of many or all pathogenic microorganisms on the surface with the exception of bacterial
endospores. As used herein, the term "sanitize" shall mean the reduction of contaminants
on the device surface to levels considered safe according to public health ordinance,
or that reduces the bacterial population by significant numbers where public health
requirements have not been established. A surface that has an antimicrobial effect
such that it sanitizes the surface is "self-sanitizing". And at least 99% reduction
in bacterial population within a 24 hour time period is deemed "significant." As used
herein, the term "sterilize" shall mean the complete elimination or destruction of
all forms of microbial life and which is authorized under the applicable regulatory
Taws to make legal claims as a "Sterilant" or to have sterilizing properties or qualities.
Where microorganisms have been reduced by significant numbers, the surface can be
designated as sanitary.
[0015] In the application, effective amounts are generally those amounts listed as the ranges
or levels of ingredients in the descriptions, which follow hereto. Unless otherwise
stated, amounts listed in percentage ("%'s") are in weight percent (based on 100%
active) of the cleaning composition alone, not accounting for the substrate weight.
Each of the noted cleaner composition components and substrates is discussed in detail
below.
[0016] As used herein, the term "substrate" is intended to include any material that is
used to clean an article or a surface. Examples of cleaning substrates include, but
are not limited to nonwovens, sponges, films and similar materials which can be attached
to a cleaning implement, such as a floor mop, handle, or a hand held cleaning tool,
such as a toilet cleaning device.
[0017] As used herein, "wiping" refers to any shearing action that the substrate undergoes
while in contact with a target surface. This includes hand or body motion, substrate-implement
motion over a surface, or any perturbation of the substrate via energy sources such
as ultrasound, mechanical vibration, electromagnetism, and so forth.
[0018] The term "cleaning composition", as used herein, is meant to mean and include a cleaning
formulation having at least one surfactant.
[0019] The term "surfactant", as used herein, is meant to mean and include a substance or
compound that reduces surface tension when dissolved in water or water solutions,
or that reduces interfacial tension between two liquids, or between a liquid and a
solid. The term "surfactant" thus includes anionic, nonionic and/or amphoteric agents.
Cleaning Implement
[0020] In an embodiment of the invention, the cleaning implement comprises the tool assembly
disclosed in Co-pending Application No. 10/678033, entitled "Cleaning Tool with Gripping
Assembly for a Disposable Scrubbing Head", filed Sept. 30, 2003 and incorporated herein.
[0021] In another embodiment of the invention, the cleaning implement comprises the tool
assembly disclosed in Co-pending Application No. 10/602478, entitled "Cleaning Tool
with Gripping Assembly for a Disposable Scrubbing Head", filed June 23, 2003 and incorporated
herein.
[0022] In another embodiment of the invention, the cleaning implement comprises the tool
assembly disclosed in Co-pending Application No. 10/766179, entitled "Interchangeable
Tool Heads", filed January 27, 2004 and incorporated herein.
[0023] In another embodiment of the invention, the cleaning implement comprises the tool
assembly disclosed in Co-pending Application 10/758722, entitled "Cleaning Composition
for Disposable Cleaning Head", filed January 16, 2004, and incorporated herein.
[0024] The cleaning implement can comprise a non-removable cleaning pad or brush, for example
PCT App. WO2003/082048 to Belansky et al. The cleaning implement can comprise a removable
cleaning pad or brush, for example PCT App. WO2002/071915 to Truong et al. The cleaning
implement can comprise a handle attached to a support, such as a cleaning head that
comprises a cleaning surface. The cleaning surface can comprise a removeable cleaning
pad. The handle can either form one single piece jointly with the cleaning head or
cleaning surface, or it may be mounted also on an extension handle bar that can be
connected to the cleaning head or surface in a detachable manner. The cleaning implement
may be a manual tool or a motorized tool, for example U.S. Pat. 6,253,405 to Gutelius
et al. and U.S. Pat. App. 2002/0129835 to Pieroni et al.
[0025] In another embodiment of the invention, the cleaning implement comprises an elongated
shaft having a handle portion on one end thereof. The tool assembly further includes
a gripping mechanism that is mounted to the shaft to engage the removable cleaning
pad. Examples of suitable cleaning implements are found in US2003/0070246 to Cavalheiro;
U.S. Pat. 4,455,705 to Graham; U.S. Pat. 5,003,659 to Paepke; U.S. Pat. 6,485,212
to Bomgaars et al.; U.S. Pat. 6,290,781 to Brouillet, Jr.; U.S. Pat. 5,862,565 to
Lundstedt; U.S. Pat. 5,419,015 to Garcia; U.S. Pat. 5,140,717 to Castagliola; U.S.
6,611,986 to Seals; US2002/0007527 to Hart; U.S. Pat. 6,094,771 to Egolf et al.; U.S.
Pat. App. 2003/0127108 to Policicchio et al.; and U.S. Pat. 6,540,424 to Hall et al.
The cleaning implement may have a hook, hole, magnetic means, canister or other means
to allow the cleaning implement to be conveniently stored when not in use. To ergonomically
reach certain cleaning areas, the cleaning implement may be greater than 12 inches
long and shorter than 36 inches long.
Cleaning pad attachment
[0026] The cleaning implement holding a removable cleaning pad may have a cleaning head
with an attachment means, for example PCT App. WO2002/071915 to Truong et al., or
the attachment means may be an integral part of the handle of the cleaning implement,
for example U.S. Pat. 6,161,242 to Cabrero Gomez et al., or may be removably attached
to the end of the handle, for example U.S. Pat. 5,625,918 to Kieson et al. The cleaning
pad may be attached by a friction fit means for example PCT App. WO00/71012 to Belt
et al., by a clamping means for example U.S. Pat. 6,611,986 to Seals, by a threaded
screw means for example U.S. Pat. 5,673,455 to Per-Lee et al., by hook and loop attachment
for example PCT App. WO2002/071915 to Truong et al., or by any other suitable attachment
means. The cleaning pad may have a rigid or flexible plastic or metal fitment for
attachment to the cleaning implement, for example U.S. Pat. 5,625,918 to Kieson et
al., or the cleaning pad may be directly attached to the cleaning implement.
Cleaning pad substrate
[0027] The cleaning pad may comprise a substrate that is water-insoluble, water-dispersible,
or water-soluble. A wide variety of materials can be used as the cleaning pad substrate.
The substrate should have sufficient wet strength, abrasivity, loft and porosity.
Examples of suitable substrates include, nonwoven substrates, wovens substrates, hydroentangled
substrates, foams and sponges.
[0028] Melamine foams and composites of melamine foams, as described in U.S. Pat. 6,503,615
to Horii et al. and U.S. 6,608,118 to Kosaka et al. may be suitable as a substrate.
Urethane foams and composites of urethane foams, as described in U.S. Pat. 6,375,964
to Cornelius and U.S. Pat. 5,650,450 to Lovette et al. may be suitable as a substrate.
Cellulose foams are also suitable as substrate or part of a substrate composite and
are described, for example, in U.S. 6,372,952 to Lash et al.
[0029] The cleaning pad substrate may comprise a water-soluble or water-dispersible foam.
The foam component may comprise a mixture of a polymeric material and a cleaning composition,
the foam component being stable upon contact with air and unstable upon contact with
water. The foam component may release the cleaning composition or part thereof upon
contact with water, the component preferably partially or completely disintegrating,
dispersing, denaturing and/or dissolving upon contact with water.
[0030] The substrate may comprise a water-soluble or water dispersible pouch or container.
Suitable containers are water-soluble or water-dispersible gelatin beads, comprising
cleaning compositions completely surrounded by a coating made from gelatin. The substrate
may comprise a water-soluble or water-dispersible pouch. The pouch is typically a
closed structure, made of a water-soluble or water-dispersible film described herein,
enclosing a volume space which comprises a composition. Said composition may be in
solid, gel or paste form.
[0031] In one embodiment, the cleaning pad of the present invention comprises a nonwoven
substrate or web. The substrate is composed of nonwoven fibers or paper. The term
nonwoven is to be defined according to the commonly known definition provided by the
"Nonwoven Fabrics Handbook" published by the Association of the Nonwoven Fabric Industry.
Methods of making nonwovens are well known in the art. Generally, these nonwovens
can be made by air-laying, water-laying, meltblowing, coforming, spunbonding, or carding
processes in which the fibers or filaments are first cut to desired lengths from long
strands, passed into a water or air stream, and then deposited onto a screen through
which the fiber-laden air or water is passed. In the present invention the nonwoven
substrate can be prepared by a variety of processes including, but not limited to,
air-entanglement, hydroentanglement, thermal bonding, and combinations of these processes.
[0032] Suitable cleaning pad substrates are disclosed in Co-pending Application No. 10/663496,
entitled "Disposable Cleaning Head", filed September 12, 2003 and incorporated herein.
Suitable cleaning pad substrates are disclosed in Co-pending Application No. 10/758744,
entitled "Disposable Cleaning Substrate", filed January 16, 2004 and incorporated
herein.
Cleaning composition
[0033] In one embodiment, the cleaning device comprises a cleaning pad that is impregnated
with a cleaning composition and is 'wet-to-the-touch'. In another embodiment, the
cleaning device comprises a cleaning pad that is impregnated with a cleaning composition
that is 'dry-to-the-touch'. By 'dry-to-the- touch', it is meant that the substrate
is free of water or other solvents in an amount that would make them feel damp or
wet-to-the-touch as compared to the touch of a wet substrate. In another embodiment,
the cleaning device contains a removable attached vessel containing a cleaning composition
and the cleaning substrate is free of the cleaning composition.
[0034] The cleaning composition may contain one or more surfactants selected from anionic,
nonionic, cationic, ampholytic, amphoteric and zwitterionic surfactants and mixtures
thereof. A typical listing of anionic, nonionic, ampholytic, and zwitterionic classes,
and species of these surfactants, is given in U.S. Pat. 3,929,678 to Laughlin and
Heuring. A list of suitable cationic surfactants is given in U.S. Pat. 4,259,217 to
Murphy. Where present, ampholytic, amphotenic and zwitteronic surfactants are generally
used in combination with one or more anionic and/or nonionic surfactants. The surfactants
may be present at a level of from about 0% to 90%, or from about 0.001 % to 50%, or
from about 0.01% to 25% by weight.
Solvent
[0035] Suitable organic solvents include, but are not limited to, C
1-6 alkanols, C
1-6 diols, C
1-10 alkyl ethers of alkylene glycols, C
3-24 alkylene glycol ethers, polyalkylene glycols, short chain carboxylic acids, short
chain esters, isoparafinic hydrocarbons, mineral spirits, alkylaromatics, terpenes,
terpene derivatives, terpenoids, terpenoid derivatives, formaldehyde, and pyrrolidones.
Alkanols include, but are not limited to, methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol,
butanol, pentanol, and hexanol, and isomers thereof. Diols include, but are not limited
to, methylene, ethylene, propylene and butylene glycols. Alkylene glycol ethers include,
but are not limited to, ethylene glycol monopropyl ether, ethylene glycol monobutyl
ether, ethylene glycol monohexyl ether, diethylene glycol monopropyl ether, diethylene
glycol monobutyl ether, diethylene glycol monohexyl ether, propylene glycol methyl
ether, propylene glycol ethyl ether, propylene glycol n-propyl ether, propylene glycol
monobutyl ether, propylene glycol t-butyl ether, di- or tri-polypropylene glycol methyl
or ethyl or propyl or butyl ether, acetate and propionate esters of glycol ethers.
Short chain carboxylic acids include, but are not limited to, acetic acid, glycolic
acid, lactic acid and propionic acid. Short chain esters include, but are not limited
to, glycol acetate, and cyclic or linear volatile methylsiloxanes. Water insoluble
solvents such as isoparafinic hydrocarbons, mineral spirits, alkylaromatics, terpenoids,
terpenoid derivatives, terpenes, and terpenes derivatives can be mixed with a water-soluble
solvent when employed.
[0036] The solvents are preferably present at a level of from 0.001 % to 10%, more preferably
from 0.01 % to 10%, most preferably from 1% to 4% by weight.
Additional adjuncts
[0037] The cleaning compositions optionally contain one or more of the following adjuncts:
stain and soil repellants, lubricants, odor control agents, perfumes, fragrances and
fragrance release agents, and bleaching agents. Other adjuncts include, but are not
limited to, acids, electrolytes, dyes and/or colorants, solubilizing materials, stabilizers,
thickeners, defoamers, hydrotropes, cloud point modifiers, preservatives, and other
polymers. The solubilizing materials, when used, include, but are not limited to,
hydrotropes (e.g. water soluble salts of low molecular weight organic acids such as
the sodium and/or potassium salts of toluene, cumene, and xylene sulfonic acid). The
acids, when used, include, but are not limited to, organic hydroxy acids, citric acids,
keto acid, and the like. Electrolytes, when used, include, calcium, sodium and potassium
chloride. Thickeners, when used, include, but are not limited to, polyacrylic acid,
xanthan gum, calcium carbonate, aluminum oxide, alginates, guar gum, methyl, ethyl,
clays, and/or propyl hydroxycelluloses. Defoamers, when used, include, but are not
limited to, silicones, aminosilicones, silicone blends, and/or silicone/ hydrocarbon
blends. Bleaching agents, when used, include, but are not limited to, peracids, hypohalite
sources, hydrogen peroxide, and/or sources of hydrogen peroxide.
[0038] Preservatives, when used, include, but are not limited to, mildewstat or bacteriostat,
methyl, ethyl and propyl parabens, short chain organic acids (e.g. acetic, lactic
and/or glycolic acids), bisguanidine compounds (e.g. Dantagard and/or Glydant) and/or
short chain alcohols (e.g. ethanol and/or IPA). The mildewstat or bacteriostat includes,
but is not limited to, mildewstats (including non-isothiazolone compounds) include
Kathon GC, a 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, KATHON ICP, a 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one,
and a blend thereof, and KATHON 886, a 5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one, all
available from Rohm and Haas Company; BRONOPOL, a 2-bromo-2-nitropropane 1, 3 diol,
from Boots Company Ltd., PROXEL CRL, a propyl-p-hydroxybenzoate, from ICI PLC; NIPASOL
M, an o-phenyl-phenol, Na
+ salt, from Nipa Laboratories Ltd., DOWICIDE A, a 1,2-Benzoisothiazolin-3-one, from
Dow Chemical Co., and IRGASAN DP 200, a 2,4,4'-trichloro-2-hydroxydiphenylether, from
Ciba-Geigy A.G.
[0039] Antimicrobial agents include quaternary ammonium compounds and phenolics. Non-limiting
examples of these quaternary compounds include benzalkonium chlorides and/or substituted
benzalkonium chlorides, di(C
6- C
14)alkyl di short chain (C
1-4 alkyl and/or hydroxyalkl) quaternaryammonium salts, N-(3-chloroallyl) hexaminium
chlorides, benzethonium chloride, methylbenzethonium chloride, and cetylpyridinium
chloride. Other quaternary compounds include the group consisting of dialkyldimethyl
ammonium chlorides, alkyl dimethylbenzylammonium chlorides, dialkylmethylbenzylammonium
chlorides, and mixtures thereof. Biguanide antimicrobial actives including, but not
limited to polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride, p-chlorophenyl biguanide; 4-chlorobenzhydryl
biguanide, halogenated hexidine such as, but not limited to, chlorhexidine (1,1'-hexamethylene
-bis-5-(4-chlorophenyl biguanide) and its salts are also in this class.
[0040] The cleaning composition may include a builder or buffer, which increase the effectiveness
of the surfactant. The builder or buffer can also function as a softener and/or a
sequestering agent in the cleaning composition. A variety of builders or buffers can
be used and they include, but are not limited to, phosphate-silicate compounds, zeolites,
alkali metal, ammonium and substituted ammonium polyacetates, trialkali salts of nitrilotriacetic
acid, carboxylates, polycarboxylates, carbonates, bicarbonates, polyphosphates, aminopolycarboxylates,
polyhydroxysulfonates, and starch derivatives.
[0041] Buffering and pH adjusting agents, when used, include, but are not limited to, organic
acids, mineral acids, alkali metal and alkaline earth salts of silicate, metasilicate,
polysilicate, borate, hydroxide, carbonate, carbamate, phosphate, polyphosphate, pyrophosphates,
triphosphates, tetraphosphates, ammonia, hydroxide, monoethanolamine, monopropanolamine,
diethanolamine, dipropanolamine, triethanolamine, and 2-amino-2methylpropanol. Other
suitable buffers include ammonium carbamate, citric acid, acetic acid. Mixtures of
any of the above are also acceptable. Useful inorganic buffers/alkalinity sources
include ammonia, the alkali metal carbonates and alkali metal phosphates, e.g., sodium
carbonate, sodium polyphosphate. For additional buffers see WO 95/07971, which is
incorporated herein by reference. Other preferred pH adjusting agents include sodium
or potassium hydroxide. When employed, the builder, buffer, or pH adjusting agent
comprises at least about 0.001% and typically about 0.01-50% of the cleaning composition.
[0042] When the composition is an aqueous composition, water can be, along with the solvent,
a predominant ingredient. The water should be present at a level of less than 99.9%,
more preferably less than about 99%, and most preferably, less than about 98%. Deionized
water is preferred. Where the cleaning composition is concentrated, the water may
be present in the composition at a concentration of less than about 85 wt.%.
Sensors for microbial detection
[0043] The cleaning implement can have a sensor that indicates the presence of a significant
amount of microorganisms or allergens or the absence of a significant amount of microorganisms
or allergens. The sensor can be part of the cleaning pad, the cleaning head, the handle,
any other part of the cleaning implement, or can be remotely connected to the cleaning
implement. The sensor can indicate the presence or absence of microorganisms or allergens
on the cleaning implement, including the cleaning pad, or on the cleaning surface
or other part of the environment, such as the air. A "significant amount of microorganisms
or allergens" can vary according to the potential health effects. Where the microorganisms
or allergens are highly toxic, the significant amount may be quite small.
[0044] The cleaning implement can monitor microorganisms or allergens during the cleaning
process. The cleaning implement can monitor microorganisms or allergens separate from
the cleaning process. The cleaning implement can monitor microorganisms or allergens
and respond by signaling for the initiation of the cleaning process. The cleaning
implement can monitor microorganisms or allergens and indicate that the cleaning process
is not necessary. The cleaning implement can be a manual cleaning device, a manual
cleaning device with a handle, a cleaning substate such as a wipe, a cleaning dispenser
such as an air-sanitizing device, or a motorized cleaning device such as a cleaning
robot. The cleaning implement can physically or chemically remove the microorganisms
or allergens.
[0045] Allergens promote allergic reactions, which range from rhinitis, nasal congestion,
conjunctival inflammation, and urticaria to asthma. Notable triggers for these diseases
are allergens derived from house dust mites; arthropods, including cockroaches; pets
(cats, dogs, birds, rodents); molds; pollen; chemicals; and protein-containing furnishings,
including feathers, kapok, etc.
[0046] The cleaning implement can include at least one sensor, which can be a biosensor.
As used herein, the term "biosensor" is defined as a component comprising one or more
biologically reactive means being adapted to detect one or more target pathogenic
microorganisms or related biomolecules (e.g., an enzyme sensor, organella sensor,
tissue sensor, microorganism sensor, immunosensor or electrochemical sensor), additionally
having the capability to provide a signal of said detection to the consumer. The term
"biologically reactive" is defined as having the capability to selectively interact
with, and preferably bind, target pathogenic microorganisms and/or related biomolecules
as described herein.
[0047] The biosensor of the present invention comprises a bio-recognition element, or molecular
recognition element, that provides the highly specific binding or detection selectivity
for a particular analyte. The bio-recognition element, or system, may be a biologically
derived material such as an enzyme or sequence of enzymes; an antibody; a membrane
receptor protein; DNA; an organelle, a natural or synthetic cell membrane; an intact
or partial viable or nonviable bacterial, plant or animal cell; or a piece of plant
or mammalian tissues, and generally functions to interact specifically with a target
biological analyte. The bio-recognition element is responsible for the selective recognition
of the analyte and the physico-chemical signal that provides the basis for the output
signal.
[0048] Biosensors may include biocatalytic biosensors, and bioaffinity biosensors. In biocatalytic
biosensor embodiments, the bio-recognition element is "biocatalytic" and may comprise
an enzyme, organelle, piece of plant or mammalian tissue, or whole cells, the selective
binding sites "turn over" (i.e., can be used again during the detection process),
resulting in a significant amplification of the input signal. Biocatalytic sensors
such as these are generally useful for real-time, continuous sensing.
[0049] Bioaffinity sensors are generally applicable to bacteria, viruses, and toxins and
include chemoreceptor-based biosensors and/or immunological sensors (i.e. immunosensors).
Chemoreceptors are complex biomolecular macroassemblies responsible, in part, for
a viable organism's ability to sense chemicals in its environment with high selectivity.
Chemoreceptor-based biosensors comprise one or more natural or synthetic chemoreceptors
associated with a means to provide a signal (visual, electrical, etc.) of the presence
or concentration of a target biological analyte. In certain embodiments, the chemoreceptor
may be associated with an electrode (i.e., an electrical transducer) so as to provide
a detectable electrical signal. Chemoreceptors may include whole or partial nerve
bundles (e.g., from antennae or other sensing organs) and/or whole or partial natural
or synthetic cell membranes. On the other hand, the bio-recognition elements of immunosensors
are generally antibodies. Antibodies are highly specific and can be made toward bacteria,
viruses, fragments of microorganisms (e. g., bacterial cell walls, parasite eggs or
portions thereof, etc.), and large biomolecules. Suitable antibodies may be monoclonal
or polyclonal. In any case, bioaffinity biosensors are generally irreversible because
the receptor sites of the biosensor become saturated when exposed to the target biological
analyte.
[0050] In certain embodiments, biocatalytic bioaffinity biosensors may be combined, such
as RNA/DNA probes or other high-affinity binding systems wherein the initial bio-recognition
event is followed by biological amplification of the signal. For example, a specific
bacteria may be detected by a biosensor comprising genetic material, such as DNA,
as a bio-recognition element and PCR (i.e., polymerase chain reaction) amplification
to detect small numbers of organisms, preferably less than or equal to about 500.
Biocatalytic and bioaffinity biosensor systems are described in more detail in
Journal of Chromatography, 510 (1990) 347-354 and in the
Kirk - Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, 4
th ed. (1992), John Wiley & Sons, NY, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference
herein.
[0051] The biosensors of the present invention preferably detect biologically active analytes
related to impending (i.e., future presentation of symptoms is likely) or current
human systemic disease states, including, but not limited to, pathogenic bacteria,
parasites (e.g., any stage of the life cycle, including eggs or portions thereof,
cysts, or mature organisms), viruses, fungi such as Candida albicans, antibodies to
pathogens, and/or microbially produced toxins.
[0052] The physico-chemical signal generated by the bio-recognition element or elements
may be communicated visually to the consumer (i.e., via a color change visible to
the human eye). Other embodiments may produce optical signals, which may require other
instrumentation to enhance the signal. These include flourescence, bioluminesence,
total internal reflectance resonance, surface plasmon resonance, Raman methods and
other laser-based methods. Exemplary surface plasmon resonance biosensors which may
comprise bioconjugate surfaces as bio-recognition elements are available as IBIS I
and IBIS II from XanTec Analysensysteme of Muenster, Germany. Alternatively, the signal
may be processed via an associated transducer which, for example, may produce an electrical
signal (e.g., current, potential, inductance, or impedance) that may be displayed
(e.g., on a readout such as an LED or LCD display) or which triggers an audible or
tactile (e.g., vibration) signal or which may trigger an actuator, as described herein.
The signal may be qualitative (e.g., indicating the presence of the target biological
analyte) or quantitative (i.e., a measurement of the amount or concentration of the
target biological analyte). In such embodiments, the transducer may optionally produce
an optical, thermal or acoustic signal.
[0053] In any case, the signal may also be durable (i.e., stable and readable over a length
of time typically at least of the same magnitude as the usage life of the article)
or transient (i.e., registering a real-time measurement). Additionally, the signal
may be transmitted to a remote indicator site (e.g., via a wire, or transmitter, such
as an infrared or rf transmitter) including other locations within or on the cleaning
device or remote devices. Further, the biosensor, or any of its components, may be
adapted to detect and/or signal only concentrations of the target biological analyte
above a predefined threshold level (e.g., in cases wherein the target biological analyte
is normally present in the environment.
[0054] As described above, the target analytes that the biosensors of the present invention
are adapted to detect may be pathogenic microorganisms. A non-limiting list of pathogenic
bacteria that the biosensor may detect include any of the various pathogenic strains
of
Escherichia coli (commonly known as
E Coli); Salmonella strains, including
S. typhi, S. paratyphi, S. enteriditis, S. typhimurium, and
S. heidelberg; Shigella strains such as
Shigella sonnei, Shigella flexneri, Shigella boydii, and
Shigella dysenteriae; Vibrio cholerae; Mycobacterium tuberculosis; Yersinia enterocolitica;
Aeromonas hydrophila; Plesiomonas shigelloides; Campylobacter strains such as
C. jejuni and
C. coli; Bacteroides fragilis; and Clostridia strains, including
C. septicum, C. perfringens, C. botulinum, and
C. difficile. A non-limiting example of a commercially available biosensor adapted to detect
E. coli is available from AndCare, Inc. of Durham, N.C., as test kit #4001. ABTECH, Scientific,
Inc., of Yardley, Pa. offers "bioanalytical biotransducers", available as BB Au-1050.5-FD-X,
which may be rendered biospecific (for microorganisms or other target biological analytes
as described herein) by covalently immobilizing polypeptides, enzymes, antibodies,
or DNA fragments to their surfaces. Other suitable microbial biosensors are described
in U.S. Pat. No. 5,869,272 (gram negative organisms); U.S. Pat. No. 5,795,717 (Shigella);
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5, 830,341; 5,795,453; 5,354,661; 5,783,399; 5,840,488; 5,827,651;
5,723,330; and 5,496,700, all of which are incorporated herein by reference.
[0055] The target analytes that the biosensors of the present invention are adapted to detect
may also be viruses. These may include viruses such as rotavirus, rhinovirus and human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV). An exemplary biosensor adapted to detect HIV is described
in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,830,341 and 5,795,453, referenced above. The disclosure of each
of these patents is incorporated by reference herein.
[0056] In yet other embodiments, the target analytes the biosensors of the present invention
are adapted to detect may fungi such as
Candida albicans. In addition to pathogenic bacteria, certain beneficial colonic bacteria may be detected
and/or measured as a health indicator, such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus strains.
[0057] The biosensors of the present invention may also comprise bio-recognition systems,
including enzymes or binding proteins such as antibodies immobilized onto the surface
of physico-chemical transducers. For example, a specific strain of bacteria may be
detected via biosensors employing antibodies raised against that bacterial strain.
Alternatively, a target bacteria may be detected by a bio-recognition element (including
antibodies and synthetic or natural molecular receptors) specific to extracellular
products of the target bacteria, such as toxins produced by that strain (e.g.,
E. coli). Exemplary enzyme electrodes include those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,820 entitled
"Remote Electrochemical Sensor," issued to Joseph Wang et al. on Oct. 14, 1997 and
U.S. Pat. No. 5,091,299 entitled "An Enzyme Electrode For Use In Organic Solvents,"
issued to Anthony P. F. Turner et al. on Feb. 25, 1992, respectively. Both of these
patents are incorporated by reference herein.
[0058] In any of the foregoing examples, the specific microorganism may be directly detected
or may be detected by binding a toxin, enzyme, or other protein produced by the organism
or an antibody, such as a monoclonal antibody, specific to the organism. Exemplary
biosensors adapted to detect proteolytic enzymes described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,567
and toxins in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,496,452; 5,521,101; and 5,567,301.
[0059] The biosensor of the present invention may comprise one or more "proactive sensors".
This is especially useful in embodiments where the detection of the target biologically
reactive analyte precedes the onset of clinically observable health symptoms. A proactive
sensor may detect an impending event or detect a parameter that directly relates,
or at a minimum correlates to the occurrence of an impending event. A parameter that
correlates to an event is any measurable input, signal such as one or more of the
potential inputs listed above, that correlates with the occurrence of the event within
the frame of reference of the system. Proactive sensors in a cleaning implement may
measure one or more different inputs in order to predict an event.
[0060] In biosensor embodiments wherein the bio-recognition element does not produce an
easily visible signal (e.g., a color change), the biosensor may include a transducer
in communication with the bio-recognition element in order to convert the physico
chemical signal from the bio-recognition element into a usable signal to the consumer
or component of the article (e.g., and actuator). Exemplary transducers may include
electrochemical transducers (including potentiometric, amperometric, and conductimetric
transducers), optical transducers (including flourescence, bioluminesence, total internal
reflective resonance, and surface plasmon resonance), thermal transducers, and acoustic
transducers, as known in the art. A power source, such as a miniature 3 volt watch
battery or printed thin film lithium battery, may be connected with the biosensor
to provide any required power.
[0061] If microorganisms are incorporated into a biosensor, they may be immobilized in the
biosensor by techniques known in the art such as entrapment, adsorption, crosslinking,
encapsulation, covalent attachment, any combination thereof, or the like. Further,
the immobilization can be carried out on many different substrates such as known the
art. In certain preferred embodiments, the immobilization substrate may be selected
from the group of polymer-based materials, hydrogels, tissues, nonwoven materials,
woven materials.
[0062] In certain embodiments, the sensor, including any biosensor embodiments, may comprise,
be disposed on, or be operatively associated with a microchip, such as a silicon chip,
MEMs (i.e., micro electromechanical system) device, or an integrated circuit. Microchip-based
biosensors may be known as "biochips". Regardless of the type of sensor, the microchip
may comprise a multiplicity of sensor components having similar or different sensitivities,
kinetics, and/or target analytes (i.e., markers) in an array adapted to detect differing
levels or combinations of said analyte(s). Further, each sensor in such an array may
provide a different type of signal, including those types disclosed herein, and may
be associated with different actuators and/or controllers. Also, each sensor in an
array may operate independently or in association with (e.g., in parallel, combination,
or series) any number of other sensors in the array.
[0063] The biosensor may be disposed in and/or operatively connected to any portion of a
cleaning implement that will be exposed to the input that the biosensor is designed
to detect. For the purposes of the present invention, the term "operatively connected"
refers to a means of communication such that the biosensor may signal some portion
of the implement when the biosensor detects an input. The biosensor may be separate
from and operatively connected to another portion of the biosensor, another biosensor,
an actuator, a controller or some other portion or component of the implement. "Operatively
connected" may, for example, include a means of communication such as an electrical
connection via a conductive wire or member, via a transmitted signal such as radio
frequency, infrared or another transmitted frequency communication. Alternatively,
the biosensor may be operatively connected via a mechanical connection such as a pneumatic
or a hydraulic connection.
[0064] In cleaning implement embodiments, the biosensor may be located on the cleaning head,
the cleaning pad, the handle or some other part of the cleaning implement. The biosensor
may be integral with the cleaning implement, or may be installed by the consumer.
In some embodiments, the biosensor may be separate from the cleaning implement, e.g.,
separately applied to a surface via adhesive or other means as known in the art, and/or
may have one or more components separate from the cleaning implement.
EXAMPLES
Cleaning Implement Materials
[0065] The cleaning implement can comprise one or more thermoplastic material such as polyethylene,
polypropylene, nylon, ABS; acetal, NOREL™, polyester including PET and PBT, etc. The
cleaning implement can comprise a thermoset material. The cleaning implement can comprise
an elastomeric material, for example U.S. Pat. 6,638,993 to Patel et al. The exterior
portion of the cleaning implement can comprise a thermoplastic or other material that
incorporates an antimicrobial. The exterior portion of the cleaning implement can
comprise a thermoplastic or other material that incorporates a material that interacts
with the environment, for example air or light, to produce an antimicrobial effect.
The exterior portion of the cleaning implement can comprise a thermoplastic or other
material that naturally has an antimicrobial effect, for example U.S. Pat. 6,194,530
to Klesse et al. The exterior portion of the cleaning implement can comprise a film
that incorporates an antimicrobial, for example U.S. Pat. App. 2004/0076674 to Ottersback
et al. The exterior portion of the cleaning implement may show a consumer cue, for
example color, which indicates that the exterior portion is sanitary, for example
U.S. Pat. 6,333,093 to Burrell et al. This consumer cue may incorporate a sensor or
biosensor.
[0066] The cleaning implement can comprise a plastic that incorporates an antimicrobial
material, for example, as in U. S. Pat. 6,627,676 to George et al., EP1400334 to Zelli,
EP1044139 to Stahl et al., WO00/53413 to Sarangapani, WO99/60297 to Beckett et al.,
WO00/26100 to Stahl et al., U. S. Pat. 5,9765,62 to Krall, U. S. Pat. Appl. 2003/0049295
to Guggenbichler et al., and U. S. Pat. 6,187,456 to Lever.
[0067] The antibacterial material may be a metal such as copper, zinc and silver including
nanosilver particles, an organic acid such as benzoic acid and salicyclic acid, a
preservative such as propyl paraben, a N-halo compounds such as N-chlorotoluenesulfonamide,
Triclosan®, a photosensitizer, or other antimicrobial agent.
[0068] The cleaning implement can comprise a smooth finish in order to reduce irregularities
that could promote the growth of microbiological organisms. The smoothness of the
finish can be measured by the industry standard finish produced on a 420 stainless
steel cavity by a buff Grade #3 diamond buff, a Grade No. 6 diamond buff, a Grade
#15 diamond buff, 800 grit sandpaper, 400 grit sandpaper, 320 grit sandpaper or 600
stone; these finishes have been designated by the Society of the Plastics Industry
as an SPI finish A-1, A-2, A-3, B-1, B- 2, B-3, and C-1, respectively. A finish corresponding
to SPI A-1 to B-3 can have reduced finish irregularities that might promote the growth
of microbiological organisms.
[0069] Where the cleaning implement comprises a removeable cleaning pad, the pad gripping
mechanism often contains irregular surfaces such as ridges, hooks, a Velcro® hook
mechanism, cross-hatches, etc. An example of such an irregular surfaces is also described
in Co-pending Application No. 10/678033, entitled "Cleaning Tool with Gripping Assembly
for a Disposable Scrubbing Head", filed Sept. 30, 2003 and incorporated herein. These
irregular surfaces can promote the growth of microbiological organisms. The pad gripping
mechanism can comprise a thermoplastic or other material that incorporates an antimicrobial
to limit the growth of microbiological organisms.
[0070] The handle grip area can also contain an irregular surface to aid in gripping with
the hand, for example to provide a non-slip surface. This handle grip area can also
incorporate an antimicrobial to limit the growth of microbiological organisms.
[0071] In one embodiment of the invention, the exterior of the cleaning implement may support
no growth of bacteria or other organisms. In another embodiment of the invention,
the exterior of the cleaning implement may support reduced growth of bacteria or other
organisms. In another embodiment of the invention, the exterior of the cleaning implement
may reduce odors caused by the growth of bacteria or other organisms.