Cleaning head of a cleaning implement comprising a unitary main body with mechanical fastener elements

Abstract

 A cleaning substrate can be releasably attached via mechanical fastener elements to a cleaning head of a cleaning implement. The cleaning head and the substrate can be used for cleaning of surfaces, especially hard and generally flat surfaces, such as flooring, walls, glass panes and the like. The cleaning head is adapted to allow squeezing in a press. The cleaning head can be easily manufactured by comprising a main body with load receiving regions which can be manufactures as a single piece with the mechanical fastener elements. The cleaning head design allows adaptation for including further attachment means so as to allow very versatile usage in combination of various substrates adapted for different types of attachment means.

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning head of a cleaning implement to which a cleaning substrate can be releasably attached via mechanical fastener elements. More particularly the cleaning head and the substrate are used for cleaning surfaces, especially hard and generally flat surfaces, such as flooring, walls, glass panes and the like. The cleaning head can be easily manufactured and may comprise further attachment means so as to allow very versatile usage in combination of various substrates adapted for different types of attachment means.

Background

[0002] Cleaning implements for cleaning hard and generally flat surfaces are widely known and distributed both for commercial and private usage. Typically the cleaning implement comprises a cleaning head to which a handling means such as a handle is connected and to which a cleaning substrate is removeably attached.

[0003] A first type of such implements is a dry duster, where the substrate can be discarded after single use.

[0004] Particularly for industrial or commercial cleaning the substrates are typically re-usable, and are typically washed after being used and dirt-loaded. Many applications use a substrate in a wet state, typically wetted at the cleaning location, such as in a bucket with a cleaning liquor, which often is an aqueous solution of a cleaning composition, such as a detergent.

[0005] Significant effort has been spent against designing both cleaning head and substrate to provide easy handling during cleaning but also easy exchange of the substrate. For wet cleaning applications, systems have been developed to allow easy and effective dewatering of the substrate, often without the need for removing it before wringing or squeezing.

[0006] There are many ways known, how to releasably attach substrates to the cleaning head. WO1991/016849A1 discloses a two piece snap clamp, which can be opened to receive and release the substrate, whilst it remains affixed in the closed position.

[0007] A further attachment means relates to a pivoting mechanism for receiving pocketed substrates, such as described in EP1352604A1 (Sanamundi) or EP1994871A1 (Vermop)

[0008] If the substrate comprise eyes or rivets, as also well known in the art and on the market such as commercially offered by Filmop s.r.l, Italy, under the trade designation number 8420, Speedy 50 cm x 16cm (polyester mop with flaps), these may interact with pins of the cleaning head adapted to the size and position of the eyes.

[0009] Among other known attachment means are macro fastener for receiving a substrate such as known under the trade designation EcoQuick as distributed by Avet AG, Switzerland, hooks for connecting strips of the substrate to the cleaning head or the handle, mechanical fastener elements positioned on the upper surface of the cleaning head or magnetic attachment means, such as shown in GB2477096. In US3452383A a mop holder is shown with a unitary plastic cleaning head comprising a slot for fixation of the substrate.

[0010] Often the attachment is adapted to provide a "kit-type" system, where the design of the head and the substrate are adapted to match each other. Whilst this may provide improved handling, it often reduces the selection of available pads, and thus it may complicate logistics and/or cost.

[0011] A particular system where the cleaning head and the substrate are adapted to each other is a mechanical fastener or hook-and-loop system.

[0012] Such systems are widely used as garment fasteners or in disposable absorbent articles such as are currently marketed under the trademark VELCRO® by Velcro USA Inc. and under the trademark SCOTCHMATE® by 3M Co. As taught in U.S. Pats. No. 2, 717,437 and 3,009,235 (both DeMestral), the hook strip can be made from special warps of upstanding nylon loop piles. One leg of each loop is cut to leave an open-ended hook, which is available to act as a fastener element. Often, the hooks are manufactured on a support strip and attached to the article, typically by adhesive means.

[0013] The use of such systems with cleaning implements is known, such as described in DE20003773U1 according to which a cleaning head comprises a clamp attachment means on the upper surface and additionally mechanical fastener type attachment strips at the side portions of the cleaning head. WO1997018744A1 (Ensson) describes a cleaning implement with a cleaning head with a frame, of which at least the underside of the frame is provided with attachment means for the detachable fitting of holder bars to the underside of which mechanical fastener strips are affixed.

[0014] In KR1006706 an eraser for a blackboard is shown. It may have arrow like shaped mechanical fastener elements, which may be arranged in alternatively oriented rows.. However there is still a need for cleaning implements which can be manufactured very efficiently and yet allow use with various substrates less or even without any kit-type limitations.

[0015] A well known approach towards efficient manufacturing in general is described in EP2025829A1, describing the manufacturing of mechanical fastener hooks in an injection moulding process.

Summary

[0016] The present invention is a cleaning head for a cleaning implement having in its in-use configuration an essentially flat cleaning surface extending in the x-y direction and exhibiting a z-directional thickness, further having a second surface opposite of the cleaning surface. The cleaning head comprises a main body comprising load receiving regions adapted to allow squeezing of a substrate releasably attached to the cleaning surface and a mechanical fastener element comprising mechanical fastener engagement member positioned on and extending from the cleaning surface, which are adapted to engage with the cleaning substrate. The cleaning head is adapted for squeezing the cleaning substrate attached to the cleaning surface, such as in a flat press. The load receiving regions of the main body and the mechanical fastener elements of the main body are essentially unitary and essentially of the same main body material. Preferably, the main body material may be injection mouldable and may exhibit at least one of the following properties:

• melt flow rates of more than 0.02 g/10 minutes, often more than 0.2 g/10 minutes, or even more than 1 g/10 minutes, and of less than 2000 g/10 minutes, often less than 300 g/10 minutes, or even less than about 100 g/10 minutes, all determined at a load of 2.16 kg for temperatures of 230°C;
• linear mould shrinkage of less than about 0.1 cm/cm;
• Rockwell R hardness, as determined according to ISO 2309-2, of not less than about 20, often it will be more than 30, but rarely more than 110.

[0017] Further, the main body material may exhibit one or more of the following properties:

• bulk density of more than 500 kg/m³ and less than 600 kg/m³, preferably from about 535 kg/m³ to about 550 kg/m³;
• density such as determined by ISO 1183 of more than about 123 kg/m³ and less than about 2250 kg/m³, preferably between 600 kg/m³ and about 1200 kg/m³, in particular around 900 kg/m³;
• ultimate tensile strength as determined according to ISO 527-2 at 50 mm/min of more than about 13.0 MPa, preferably less than about 130 MPa, and more preferably less than about 26 MPa;
• flexural Modulus at room temperature of more than about 0.172 GPa at room temperature and typically less than about 9.32 GPa.
• flexural Modulus at a temperature range between 60°C and 90°C of preferably less than about 0.56 GPa, and typically more than about 0.37 GPa;
• a shear modulus of more than about 0.26 GPa, typically less than about 0.73 GPa;
• a Charpy Impact according to ISO 179/1eA at -20°C of more than about 0.02 J/cm², and in a particular execution of about 0.4 J/cm²;
• melting point of more than about 130°C, typically less than about 170°C;
• Crystallization temperature of more than about 25°C, typically less than about 130°C;
• Vicat softening point of at least 50°C, typically less than about 190°C.

[0018] Preferably, the main body material is selected from the group consisting of polyamides, polyolefins, such as polyethylene, preferably high density polyethylene, or polypropylene. In a particular execution, the main body material is a polypropylene copolymer, preferably a heterophasic block copolymer.

[0019] The cleaning head comprises mechanical fastener elements comprising engagement member comprising a stem and a head exhibiting dimensions. The elements may have

• an overall height of from more than 0.5 mm, preferably more than about 1 mm;
• an overall height of not more than about 5 mm, preferably less than about 3 mm;
• a width or a length extension of more than about 1 mm, preferably more than about 2 mm;
• a width or a length extension of less than about 5 mm, preferably less than about 3 mm.

[0020] The head of the engagement member may exhibit

• a rounded head shape;
• an asymmetric shape with regard to any plane with a z-directional extension
• an essentially flat side wall opposite of an essentially non-flat side wall.

[0021] The engagement member may be arranged in engagement regions forming a predetermined pattern, preferably of essentially parallel rows of mechanical fastener engagement member, preferably 6 rows in one of the pattern fields, covering at least 5%, optionally more than 10% of the total cleaning surface, and preferably less than 50% more preferably less than 25%

[0022] The cleaning head may comprise at least one, preferably at least two further substrate attachment means selected from the group consisting of

• snap clamps, adapted to cooperate with a flap mop substrate;
• pins adapted to receive eyes of a flat mop substrate, preferably exhibiting a pin diameter of between 5 mm and 8 mm;
• lever mechanism adapted to receive pockets of a flat mop substrate;
• macro fastener for receiving a flat substrate;
• hooks to which strips of the substrate may be connected, such as by tying, optionally with elastic elements or springs, or with mechanical fastener elements;
• additional mechanical fastener elements on the opposite or side surfaces of the cleaning head, adapted to be attached to folded over portions of the substrate;
• magnetic attachment means.

[0023] A cleaning head according to the present invention may suitably be combinable with various substrate designs.

Brief description of the Figures

[0024] 

Fig. 1 shows schematically an isometric downward (Fig. 1B) and upward (Fig. 1C) view of a cleaning head and a substrate (Fig. 1A).

Fig. 2A to G show schematically various exemplary executions of engagement members of mechanical fastener elements;

Fig. 3A - D show schematically a design for a cleaning head with various attachment means.

[0025] Same numerals in the figures refer to same or equivalent elements or features.

Detailed description

[0026] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments and executions of the invention, one or more of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each execution is provided by way of explanation and is not meant as a limitation of the invention. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield still a third embodiment. It is intended that the present invention include these and other modifications and variations.

[0027] The present invention is directed towards a cleaning implement as may very suitably, but not exclusively, be employed for cleaning hard surfaces, such as floors, walls, ceilings, or window panes.

[0028] The cleaning implement comprises a handle and a cleaning implement head, also referred to as cleaning head, which is adapted to be combined with cleaning substrates such as wipes, or flat mops as will be releasably attached to the cleaning implement head.

[0029] As can be seen in the schematic Fig. 1A, the cleaning substrate 10 is typically a substrate with flat surfaces, or comprises a flat portion, exhibiting in Cartesian coordinates a width (y-)direction 19, and a length (x-)direction 11, in which the substrate extends significantly larger than along its thickness (z-)direction 15. Within the present context "flat" refers to a generally even and levelled surface, such in the context of the cleaned surface to a floor, a wall or a window pane. Within the present context a flat surface may exhibit a surface structure, such as roughness, or may also exhibit a curvature, such as a wall of a cylinder, if the roughness or curvature are relatively small compared to the z-directional extension of the element which contacts this surface. In particular when used for describing features of the cleaning implement or parts thereof, a "flat" surface may also exhibit certain interruptions such as grooves, or steps and may comprise flat sub-surfaces.

[0030] The cleaning substrate generally exhibits a first or cleaning x-y-surface 12, which during use is oriented towards the cleaned surface, and an opposite surface 18 oriented towards the cleaning surface 110 of the cleaning head 100 (see Fig. 1B and C). Thus the substrate has a cleaning portion corresponding to the cleaning surface, but it may include other portions (not shown in Fig 1A), such as to allow the releasable attachment to the cleaning implement head. "Attach" and its derivatives refer to the joining, adhering, connecting, bonding, sewing together, depositing on, associating with, or the like, of two elements. Two elements will be considered to be attached together directly to one another or indirectly to one another, such as when each is directly attached to intermediate elements. "Attach" and its derivatives include permanent, releasable, or refastenable attachment. "Releasable attachment" and its derivatives refer to two elements being attached such that they can be separated repeatedly without structurally damaging at least one, preferably both elements.

[0031] For a typical application for cleaning floors, the cleaning surfaces are oriented towards the floor, and then often are referred to as "lower surface", and the opposite surface as "upper" surface, though of course in case of cleaning walls or ceilings the terms "upper" and "lower" would not apply in the strict sense. During use, the substrates are moved over the surface, often such that the length direction of the substrate is perpendicular to the direction of movement (respectively aligned with the cross-direction or width of the substrate), so as to cover the largest surface with one movement.

[0032] "Configuration" and related terms are used in the present context when two or more connected elements can be arranged in different geometric arrangements for particular uses or stages of usage:

• A mounting configuration aims a easing the application and attachment and the removal of the substrate.
• The in-use or cleaning configuration with the substrate attached to the cleaning head exhibits preferably a flat cleaning surface.
• In a squeeze configuration the cleaning head with the substrate attached thereto is adapted to allow squeezing of the substrate by applying pressure thereto. A cleaning implement according to the present invention is adapted to allow squeezing of the substrate in a cleaning configuration though for particular substrates the squeeze configuration can be different.

[0033] There exists a multitude of commercially available cleaning substrates, and also various approaches for attaching the cleaning substrate releasably to the cleaning head.

[0034] Within the present context the cleaning substrates are adapted to engage with so called mechanical fastener elements or engagement member thereof of the cleaning head.

[0035] "Mechanical fastener" and it related terms, also known as "hook-and loop-fastener" refer to the connecting of two elements by mechanical interaction of the surfaces structures. Whilst "hermaphroditic" fastener are know, where both surfaces exhibit similar structures and functionalities, most mechanical fastener systems comprise first male elements protruding from one surface and adapted to engage into a female surface, which may be execute as looped, woven, or otherwise made open structures. Commercially available systems are among others distributed under the VELCRO ® brand by Velcro USA, or under the brand SCOTCHMATE ® by 3M Inc. USA.

[0036] Considering schematic Figure 2, the hook like engaging members 130 of the mechanical fastener elements are protruding from the cleaning surface 110 of the cleaning head, adapted to engage with the opposite surface 18 of the substrate. Fig. 2B to H show enlarged views of exemplary executions of such an engagement member 130, each comprising a stem 131 with a stem height 132 and a stem cross-section 133 and a head 134 having a width extension 135, a length extension 136 and a head height 137, and an overall height 139. Fig 2B and C show schematically a so called "mushroom execution" with a circular column as a stem and a head with a mushroom like cross-sectional shape. Fig. 2D shows schematically a similar execution, except that it looks in the top view like a slice of the centre portion of the first execution. Fig. 2E and F show a further modification of the mushroom, where the head extends essentially only in one direction. Such an execution can be particularly beneficial, when the loads as transferred during use are in one preferential direction. Generally, the dimensions of the engagement member should be adapted to cooperate with conventional substrates. Henceforth the overall height of the engagement member is typically not less than about 0.5 mm, often more than about 1 mm, but is typically less than about 5 mm, often less than about 3 mm. The width or length dimensions are typically more than about 1 mm, often more than about 2 mm but are typically less than about 5 mm, often less than about 3 mm.

[0037] Fig. 2G and H show a particularly preferred execution for an engagement member, showing a hook 130, protruding z-directionally from the base surface, which exhibits an asymmetric shape with regard to any plane with a z-directional extension

[0038] Thus, in preferred execution the head extends essentially in one direction only, as can be seen in Fig. 2G, and exhibits a rounded tip. Further, the hook exhibits both in the stem and in the head one essentially flat surface whist the opposite surface is rounded, as can be seen in the top view in Fig. 2H. Thus, in the top view of the x-y-direction, one portion of the head tapers towards the tip in one direction, whilst the other side of the tip is formed by the flat side.

[0039] As will be described herein below, such a design exhibits particular advantages in the manufacturing, as it eases the forced removal from the mould form. In a particular execution the overall height 139 is approximately 2 mm, the stem height 132 about 1 mm, the stem extension at the base about 1.3 mm and the head length dimension 136 is about 1.9 mm (measured from the base of the stem). The width extension 135 is about 0.8 mm. Typically there will be a plurality of engagement member 130 forming an engagement region 120, as indicated in Fig. 2A. An engagement region 120 may be formed by engagement member of the same shape, or there may be differently shaped engagement member which optionally may be adapted to engage with different substrates. The area of an engagement region is determined by the shortest line circumscribing the engagement region. Preferably, the engagement member 130 in a region 120 form a repeating predetermined pattern. In a preferred execution, the engagement members in an engagement region are arranged in a engagement member pattern with essentially identically shaped, but differently oriented, preferably along the length direction of the cleaning head (and thus cross-directionally to the wiping movement). A preferred pattern is shown in Fig. 2A, showing engagement members 130 arranged at a member distance 124 in rows 121 at a row distance 122, with alternating orientation of the engagement heads in each row. The member distance may be more than 1 mm, often more than 2 mm, but should preferably be less than 10 mm, more preferably less than 5 mm. The row distance may be more than 1 mm, often more than 3 mm or even more than 10 mm, but should preferably be less than 20 mm, more preferably less than 15 mm.

[0040] Several of the engagement regions, which may be of the same shape, pattern or execution or not, may be distributed over the cleaning surface of the cleaning head.

[0041] Whilst it is not necessary that the full area of the cleaning surface of the cleaning head is covered by one or more engagement regions, there should be sufficient attachment force between the cleaning substrate and the cleaning head to withstand normal cleaning operation including lifting, such as to allow squeezing. However, the attachment forces should not be too high so as to allow easy removal of the substrate from the cleaning head. Preferably, the engagement regions are such that there is a free edge to allow easy gripping of an edge of the substrate. In preferred execution the engagement member exhibit a directionality, such that their attachment force along the width direction of the cleaning head is higher than along the length direction, such that during normal cleaning operation along the width direction the attachment forces are higher, but that the forces along the length direction are lower for easier removal and separation of the substrate from the cleaning head. Overall, there may be at least 5%, often more than 10% or even more than 15% of the cleaning surface of the cleaning head being covered by engagement regions. Whilst the total cleaning surface may be covered by engagement member, the engagement regions preferably cover less than 50%, often less than 25% or even less than 20% of the cleaning surface. A particular execution is shown in Fig. 1C and Fig. 2A showing eight engagement regions 120, each with six rows each with 14 engagement member with an alternating orientation in one row versus a neighbouring row. Overall, the engagement regions cover approximately 11 % of the cleaning surface of the cleaning head.

[0042] The cleaning head is further adapted to allow squeezing of the substrate. In the case of wet cleaning, it is often desired to rinse the cleaning substrate in a cleaning liquor, such as an aqueous solution comprising cleaning agents such as detergents. Upon wetting, it is often desired to remove excess cleaning liquor from the substrate such as by squeezing the substrate.

[0043] There are many possibilities to execute the squeezing, such as manual wringing. Often, however, it is desired that the cleaning person does not need to bend down or to directly come into contact with the cleaning liquor. To this end, numerous squeezing implements have been developed, partly specifically adapted to particular types of substrate.

[0044] The present invention aims at providing a cleaning implement head which allows easy squeezing of a cleaning substrate while attached thereto without requiring particular mechanical squeeze hinges, which would be needed to be operated for the squeezing.

[0045] Thus the squeezing may be executed by placing the cleaning implement with the cleaning substrate attached thereto into an essentially flat press, such known from and described in e.g. EP2359733A1 (Vermop Salmon), showing two plate shaped press jaws adapted to act on a cleaning head with a cleaning substrate attached thereto, or as commercially available from Avet AG, Switzerland, under the trade designation Moppwringer M200. Optionally, the squeezing can be achieved by any other means, e.g. by pressing the substrate by foot against a channel, trough or chute, thereby allowing running off of the squeezed out cleaning liquor.

[0046] Squeezing refers to the application of mechanical pressure to the substrate or at least to a mayor part of the portions of the substrate which are oriented towards or can be in direct contact with the cleaned surface, such that used cleaning fluid is removed and the substrate is readied for receiving fresh cleaning fluid. To this end, the cleaning head is adapted to receive squeezing forces on its opposite surface 150, such as by operation of a squeezing implement, or a foot of an operator. Typically, though not necessarily, the forces will not be applied to the full opposite surface, but will only be applied to the force receiving regions 16. As schematically indicated in Fig. 1A, such force receiving regions 160 are protruding from the remainder of the surface. Preferably, they exhibit a smooth surface as to ease the transfer of forces. Optionally, the force receiving regions may be combined with other elements, for example with means 170 to connect to a handle (not shown).

[0047] Typically, though not necessarily, the forces are transmitted to the cleaning head either by the operator directly or in a squeezing apparatus, also triggered by the operator. Whilst

[0048] Fig. 1A shows a sharp transition from the force receiving protrusion to the remainder of the opposite surface, it is preferred that these transitions exhibit a certain curvature.

[0049] The squeezing forces as applied to the force receiving regions are transferred to the cleaning surface of the cleaning head towards the substrate. According to basic mechanics, the transfer of the forces will not purely go along the z-direction, but will also have x-and y- directional components. Thus even smaller force receiving surfaces will allow squeezing of essentially all of the cleaning portions of the substrate and the force distribution regions may correspond to less than 50%, often less than 25% or even less than 15% of the opposite surface of the cleaning head. The squeeze forces will be transmitted via the cleaning surface of the cleaning head to the cleaning portion of the substrate. Even if the force distribution is not completely levelled the squeezing effect may be sufficient, for example aided by capillary forces in the substrate.

[0050] In addition to satisfying the described requirements with regard to the handling and the use of the cleaning head in the cleaning implement, an important aspect relates to addressing the requirements towards easy and cost effective manufacturing, such as by using minimal amounts of available materials, or designing towards minimal number of parts to allow easy final assembly or to allow use of efficient production techniques.

[0051] Thus in one aspect of the manufacturing, it is desirable to have as little different materials forming the cleaning implement and thus also the cleaning head.

[0052] A particularly suitable manufacturing method is injection moulding of thermoplastic materials.

[0053] However, a drawback of applying the injection moulding technique to the making of a cleaning head are contradicting requirements for the functionality of transmitting forces versus allowing the forming of fine structures such as of the mechanical fastener elements. Previously such a requirement had been circumvented by applying pre-formed hooks to an essentially flat surface of the cleaning head, see e.g. the execution as applied in a SWIFFER ® WETJET® mop manufactured and distributed by Procter & Gamble Inc, USA, by attaching stripes of preformed VELCRO®-type hooks as manufactured and distributed by 3M, USA. Such an approach has hot only the drawback of the additional handling step of applying the hook-stripes to the cleaning head, but also that the hooks as used there are too fine to withstand typical squeezing forces.

[0054] A general description for the injection moulding of hook materials can be seen in EP2025829A1.

[0055] However it is a particular feature of the present invention that the forces are transmitted from a force receiving surface through the cleaning head to its cleaning surface, and in particular when this cleaning surface comprises mechanical fastener elements, is made in one part, preferably of a homogeneous material composition. "Unitary" refers to a configuration of an element with two or more discernible regions which are integral but not connected via other elements. Thus in one aspect of the manufacturing, it is desirable to have as little different materials forming the cleaning implement and thus also the cleaning head. However, it should be noted that it is within the scope of the present invention, if an additional layer (e.g. on top of the force receiving surface or on parts or regions of the cleaning surface) or an additional force transmitting means (such as by adding a pin or bolt into the structure without substantially changing the force distribution) is connected to a unitary element.

[0056] The cleaning head according to the present invention is manufactured by employing injection moulding technique for the main body of the cleaning head or - if the cleaning head comprises x-y-directionally cooperating main bodies - for these.

[0057] In general, materials for being used in injection moulding are well known in the art. Materials suitable and preferred materials exhibit certain properties. In particular, suitable resins exhibit melt flow rates of more than 0.02 g/10 minutes, often more than 0.2 g/10 minutes, or even more than 1 g/10 minutes, and of less than 2000 g/10 minutes, often less than 300 g/10 minutes, or even less than about 100 g/ 10 minutes, with a particular execution exhibiting about 45 g/10 minutes, all determined at a load of 2.16 kg for temperatures of 230°C. An important characteristic for injection moulding is the linear mould shrinkage. Whilst zero shrinkage eases the design, certain shrinkage can be designed in, as long as it remains constant for a production. Typically, linear mould shrinkage values do not exceed 0.1 cm/cm. In order to be useful in the present context, materials should exhibit a strength, as can be suitably expressed by Rockwell R hardness, as determined according to ISO 2309-2, the value of which should be not less than about 20, often it will be more than 30, but rarely more than 110, and in a particular execution it may be 89.

[0058] Preferred resins suitable for being employed for the present invention can further be described by exhibiting one or more of the following properties:

• bulk density of more than 500 kg/m³ and less than 600 kg/m³, such as from about 535 kg/m³ to about 550 kg/m³;
• density such as determined by ISO 1183 of more than about 123 kg/m³ and less than about 2250 kg/m³, preferably between 600 kg/m³ and about 1200 kg/m³, in particular around 900 kg/m³;
• linear mould shrinkage and transverse linear mould shrinkage of between 0.002 to about 0.03 cm/cm;
• ultimate tensile strength as determined according to ISO 527-2 at 50 mm/min of more than about 13.0 MPa and typically less than about 130 MPa, and in a particular execution of about 26 MPa;
• flexural modulus at room temperature of more than about 0.172 GPa at room temperature and typically less than about 9.32 GPa;
• flexural Modulus at a temperature range between 60°C and 90°C is preferably less than about 0.56 GPa, and typically more than about 0.37 GPa;
• a shear modulus of more than about 0.26 GPa, typically less than about 0.73 GPa;
• a Charpy Impact according to ISO 179/1eA at -20°C of more than about 0.02 J/cm², and in a particular execution of about 0.4 J/cm²;
• melting point of more than about 130°C, typically less than about 170°C;
• Crystallization temperature of more than about 25°C, typically less than about 130°C;
• Vicat softening point of at least 50°C, typically less than about 190°C.

[0059] Preferably, the resins are selected to allow

• processing temperatures of about 88°C to about 280°C;
• nozzle temperatures of about 204°C to about 243°C;
• injection pressures of about 0.5 to about 120 MPa;
• hold pressures of about 2 MPa, often more than about 20 MPa to about 60 MPa.

[0060] Particularly suitable resins show an optimum combination of very high stiffness, good flow properties and good impact strength. They should allow high speed injection moulding and may contain nucleating, antiblock, or antistatic / demoulding additives. Articles moulded from such resins show good ejectability and combine excellent stiffness with very good gloss and good antistatic properties.

[0061] Thus materials suitable for being employed in the present invention can be polyamides such as nylon®, preferably nylon ® 6, polyethylene, preferably high density polyethylene, or polypropylene. Suitable materials may comprise additives, such as - without limitation - fibres, such as glass or mineral fibres, or particles, such as talcum. Preferred resins may be selected from the group of olefinic polymers, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, and in particular polypropylene copolymer. More specifically such resins may be heterophasic block-copolymers. A particular execution may be Borealis BH345MO Polypropylene Copolymer, commercially available by Borealis, Austria. Another particular execution may be Sabic® PP412MN40, such as commercially available from Sabic Europe, The Netherlands.

[0062] Once having selected appropriate materials, a cleaning head and the key design parameter like dimensions of the injection moulding parameter can be set and/or appropriately adjusted according to conventional injection moulding design parameter. Particular attention should be spent against allowing easy removal from the form, also referred to as forced demoulding. To this end, the shape of the engagement members as described in the context of Fig. 2G and H is particularly useful. Further, the transitions from protrusions to flat regions of the main body of the cleaning head should preferably not be sharp. Also, differences in moulding thickness should not be excessive. It has been found practical, if the mould material thickness should for example not vary more than between about 6 and about 12 mm for centre regions, and should not be less than about 3mm towards the side margins of the cleaning head.

[0063] A preferred way for the making of a suitable mould form is electrochemical erosion forming, as well known in the art. Also the use of injection blades cooperatively moving relative to the form allows the formation of the preferred execution for hooks. The operation in particular with regard to the timing and the cooling should be such the hooks snap out from their form aided by injection blades without plastic deformation (i.e. they should be sufficiently cooled down) but also without breakage (as could result from brittleness caused by too low temperatures).

[0064] Thus, a well functioning cleaning head according to the present invention can essentially consist of a single piece made in a single manufacturing step of injection moulding. However, the mechanical fastener system may be combined with other attachment systems. Whilst this will of course increase material design and manufacturing complexity to a certain extent, this may be particularly useful as it allows the user of the cleaning head to choose various substrate designs.

[0065] In the following there is now a description of useful and particularly useful combinations, and what particular design measures may need to be taken to adapt the additional attachment means to the requirements for the cleaning head according to the present invention.

[0066] The explanation of various elements will be done by referring to Fig. 3, showing a particularly useful execution with four different attachment means (mechanical fastener, snap clamps for flap mops, folding mechanism for pocket mops and pins for matching eyed substrates). In spite of its versatility, such a cleaning head is still simple to manufacture with few individual elements respective pieces.

[0067] It should be noted, that these and other attachment methods are well known per se, but these have hitherto not been applied in a single cleaning head, which also exhibits unitary mechanical fastener elements.

[0068] Also, the accumulation of four attachment means in one cleaning head should only be seen as a non-limiting explanation. Similarly, other attachment means may be combined in various options.

[0069] Generally, Fig. 3 shows a cleaning head 1000 in a top view (Fig. 3A) and a bottom view (Fig. 3B) as well as side views Fig. 3C and Fig. 3D. The cleaning head exhibits a general length 1003, and an overall width 1007. Further the cleaning head as shown comprises a first and a second main body 1010 and 1020 respectively, which jointly form the cleaning surface 1100 and the opposite surface 1200.

[0070] The cleaning head comprises a cleaning surface 1100 with eight engagement regions 1111, each here shown with six rows of fourteen engagement hooks such as of the shape as shown in Fig. 2G and H with an alternating orientation as described in the context of Fig. 2A in the above.

[0071] The opposite surface 1200 comprises force receiving regions or protrusions 1210, 1220, 1230, 1240. The protrusions 1220 and 1230 show up as indentations 1220' and 1230' respectively, when looking at the bottom view. As indicated for protrusion 1220 and corresponding indentations 1220', one protrusion may 1220 correspond to several indentations 1220'. This may provide a more even force distribution. This may further ease the injection moulding process. Preferably, though not necessarily, all force receiving regions have the same z-directional distance from the cleaning surface.

[0072] As shown, the head comprises a connection means 1260 for fitting a handle, as shown in an upright position, though it can be tilted around a pivoting means 1265 so as to lower it for the squeezing action.

[0073] Optionally the cleaning head may comprise substrate guide means 1190 here shown as three parallel discontinuous protuberances extending from the cleaning surface.

[0074] A particular execution of a snap clamp, as may generally be known e.g., from WO1991016849A1, is shown in Fig. 3 as a first two piece snap clamp as part of the first main body 1010 shown as 2000 in a closed configuration, a corresponding second mirror snap clamp 2000' in an opened configuration with one stationary jaw 2010 integral with the main body and a pivotably moveable part 2020. The moveable part comprises a jaw part 2022 for receiving and holding the substrate and a lever part 2017 for actuating a snap lock.

[0075] Whilst snap clamps are well known in the art and also seen in the market, they need certain adaptation to be suitable in the present invention:

[0076] First, no parts of the snap clamp should protrude z-directionally more than the force receiving surfaces. Thus the axis for the lever may suitably fit into a protrusion, but the lever part of the movable part should in its close position not protrude more. This may be eased by fitting the lever part in the "open" position into an opening of the main body to allow a wider opening of the jaw.

[0077] If a substrate comprises eyes or rivets, as also well known in the art and on the market such as under the trade designation "Speedy", Article number 8420 of Filmop s.r.l, Italy, these may interact with pins 3000 adapted to the size and position of the eyes within the opening of the snap clamp. Suitably, the pins may be unitary with the main body and may have a circular cross-section of from about 3 mm diameter to about 8 mm diameter. When the clamp is in the "open" configuration, the pins can receive the eyes, which are then securely held in the "closed" configuration of the snap clamp.

[0078] Also for this embodiment care should be taken that the height of the pins is adapted to fit underneath the moveable part of the snap clamp in a closed configuration.

[0079] Yet a further attachment means relates to a pivoting mechanism for receiving pocketed substrates, as generally described in EP1352604A1 (Sanamundi) or EP1994871A1 (Vermop). In the exemplary execution as shown, the cleaning head comprises an additionally centre piece 1030 connecting the first and the second main body by hinges. A lever 4010 can be moved from a latched configuration into a release configuration by a snapper mechanism. Further a spring 4020 eases the change of configuration from a mounting configuration into a cleaning configuration. This embodiment requires particularly careful attention with regard to satisfying design criteria of the present invention. Thus, none of the elements, in particular the lever and its snapper mechanism should be higher than the protrusions of the other force receiving regions.

[0080] In addition or alternatively to the preferred execution of additional attachment means, the cleaning head may comprise further attachment means, such as one or more of the following non-limiting list, each of these being well known in the art per se. The adaptation of the particular attachment means can then readily be performed by a skilled person following the guidance given herein above:

• Macro fastener for receiving the substrate, such as executed in the mop head EcoQuick, as commercially available from Avet AG, Switzerland;
• hooks to which strips of the substrate may be connected, such as by tying, optionally with elastic elements or springs, or with mechanical fastener elements;
• additional mechanical engagement elements on the opposite or side surfaces of the cleaning head, adapted to be attached to folded over portions of the substrate;
• magnetic attachment means, such as described in GB2477096A.

Claims

1. A cleaning head for a cleaning implement having in its in-use configuration an essentially flat cleaning surface extending in the x-y direction and exhibiting a z-directional thickness, further having a second surface opposite of said cleaning surface, said cleaning head comprising a main body comprising

- load receiving regions adapted to allow squeezing of a substrate releasably attached to said cleaning surface,

- and a mechanical fastener element comprising mechanical fastener engagement members positioned on and extending from the cleaning surface, which are adapted to engage with said cleaning substrate,

said cleaning head being adapted for squeezing said cleaning substrate attached to said cleaning surface,
wherein
said load receiving regions of said main body and said mechanical fastener engagement member of said main body are essentially unitary and essentially of the same main body material,
characterized in that
said mechanical engagement members comprise a stem and a head, said members exhibiting

- a rounded head shape;

- an asymmetric shape with regard to any plane with a z-directional extension; and

- an essentially flat side wall opposite of an essentially non-flat side wall,

and in that said members are positioned in at least two rows, wherein the orientation of said essentially flat side walls is essentially parallel and the orientation of said asymmetric heads is essentially opposite.

2. A cleaning head according to claim 1, wherein said mechanical fastener engagement members are positioned in the form of engagement regions forming a predetermined pattern of essentially parallel rows of mechanical fastener engagement members , preferably arranged in six rows, covering at least 5%, optionally more than 10% of the total cleaning surface, preferably less than 50% and more preferably less than 25%.

3. A cleaning head according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said mechanical fastener engagement members exhibit at least one of the following:

- an overall height of more than 0.5 mm, preferably more than about 1 mm;

- an overall height of not more than about 5 mm, preferably less than about 3 mm;

- a width or a length extension of more than about 1 mm, preferably more than about 2 mm;

- a width or a length extension of less than about 5 mm, preferably less than about 3 mm.

4. A cleaning head according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein
said main body material is injection mouldable, preferably selected from the group consisting of polyamides, polyolefins, preferably high density polyethylene, or polypropylene, more preferably a polypropylene copolymer, and even more preferably a heterophasic block copolymer.

5. A cleaning head according to any of claims 1 to 3, further comprising at least one, preferably at least two of further substrate attachment means selected from the group consisting of

- snap clamps, adapted to cooperate with a flap mop substrate;

- pins adapted to receive eyes of a flat mop substrate, preferably exhibiting a pin diameter of between 5 mm and 8 mm;

- lever mechanism adapted to receive pockets of a flat mop substrate;

- macro fastener for receiving a flat substrate;

- macro-hooks to which strips of the substrate may be connected, such as by tying, optionally with elastic elements or springs, or with mechanical fastener elements;

- additional mechanical fastener elements on the opposite or side surfaces of the cleaning head, adapted to be attached to folded over portions of the substrate;

- magnetic attachment means.

6. A cleaning head according to claim 5, wherein said one or more further attachment means comprise attachment means elements, wherein

- said snap clamps comprise moveable snap clamp elements and immovable snap clamp elements, said immoveable snap clamp elements being essentially unitary with said main body;

- at least one of said pins as a pin attachment element is essentially unitary with said main body exhibiting a pin diameter of between 5 mm and 8 mm;

- said lever mechanism comprises moveable lever elements and immovable lever elements, said immoveable lever elements being essentially unitary with said main body;

- at least a portion of said further macro fastener as a macro-fastener element is unitary with said main body;

- at least one of said macro-hooks is unitary with said main body;

- additional mechanical fastener elements on the opposite or side surfaces of the cleaning head which are unitary with said main body.

7. A cleaning head according to claim 5 or 6, wherein said snap clamps are adapted to receive various substrate designs.

8. A cleaning head according to any of claims 5 to 7, adapted to be squeezed in a flat press.

Amended claims

Amended claims in accordance with Rule 137(2) EPC.

1. A cleaning head (100) for a cleaning implement having in its in-use configuration an essentially flat cleaning surface (110) extending in the x-y direction and exhibiting a z-directional thickness, further having a second surface (150) opposite of said cleaning surface (110),
said cleaning head (100) comprising a main body (1010) comprising

- load receiving regions adapted to allow squeezing of a substrate (10) releasably attached to said cleaning surface (110),

- and a mechanical fastener element comprising mechanical fastener engagement members (130) positioned on and extending from the cleaning surface (110), which are adapted to engage with said cleaning substrate (10),

said cleaning head (100) being adapted for squeezing said cleaning substrate (10) attached to said cleaning surface (110),
wherein
said load receiving regions of said main body (1010) and said mechanical fastener engagement member (130) of said main body (1010) are essentially unitary and essentially of the same main body material,
characterized in that
said mechanical engagement members (130) comprise a stem (131) and a head (134), said members exhibiting

- a rounded head shape;

- an asymmetric shape with regard to any plane with a z-directional extension; and

- an essentially flat side wall opposite of an essentially non-flat side wall,

and in that said members (130) are positioned in at least two rows, wherein the orientation of said essentially flat side walls is essentially parallel and the orientation of said asymmetric heads alternates in each row.

2. A cleaning head (100) according to claim 1, wherein said mechanical fastener engagement members (130) are positioned in the form of engagement regions (120) forming a predetermined pattern of essentially parallel rows (121) of mechanical fastener engagement members (1010), preferably arranged in six rows, covering at least 5%, optionally more than 10% of the total cleaning surface, preferably less than 50% and more preferably less than 25%.

3. A cleaning head (110) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said mechanical fastener engagement members exhibit at least one of the following:

- an overall height (139) of more than 0.5 mm, preferably more than about 1 mm;

- an overall height (139) of not more than about 5 mm, preferably less than about 3 mm;

- a width (135) or a length (136) extension of more than about 1 mm, preferably more than about 2 mm;

- a width (135) or a length (136) extension of less than about 5 mm, preferably less than about 3 mm

4. A cleaning head (110) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein
said main body (1010) material is injection mouldable, preferably selected from the group consisting of polyamides, polyolefins, preferably high density polyethylene, or polypropylene, more preferably a polypropylene copolymer, and even more preferably a heterophasic block copolymer.

5. A cleaning head (100) according to any of claims 1 to 3, further comprising at least one, preferably at least two of further substrate attachment means selected from the group consisting of

- snap clamps (2000), adapted to cooperate with a flap mop substrate;

- pins (3000) adapted to receive eyes of a flat mop substrate, preferably exhibiting a pin diameter of between 5 mm and 8 mm;

- lever mechanism adapted to receive pockets of a flat mop substrate;

- macro fastener for receiving a flat substrate;

- macro-hooks to which strips of the substrate may be connected, such as by tying, optionally with elastic elements or springs, or with mechanical fastener elements;

- additional mechanical fastener elements on the opposite or side surfaces of the cleaning head, adapted to be attached to folded over portions of the substrate;

- magnetic attachment means.

6. A cleaning head (100) according to claim 5, wherein said one or more further attachment means comprise attachment means elements, wherein

- said snap clamps (2000) comprise moveable snap clamp elements (2020) and immovable snap clamp elements (2010), said immoveable snap clamp elements (2010) being essentially unitary with said main body (1010);

- at least one of said pins (3000) as a pin attachment element is essentially unitary with said main body (1010) exhibiting a pin diameter of between 5 mm and 8 mm;

- said lever mechanism comprises moveable lever elements and immovable lever elements, said immoveable lever elements being essentially unitary with said main body (1010);

- at least a portion of said further macro fastener as a macro-fastener element is unitary with said main body (1010);

- at least one of said macro-hooks is unitary with said main body (1010);

- additional mechanical fastener elements on the opposite or side surfaces of the cleaning head which are unitary with said main body (1010).

7. A cleaning head according to claim 5 or 6, wherein said snap clamps (2000) are adapted to receive various substrate designs.

8. A cleaning head according to any of claims 5 to 7, adapted to be squeezed in a flat press.

Drawing