CLEANING IMPLEMENT WITH DOUBLE-SIDED CLEANING HEAD

Abstract

 A cleaning implement (1) for cleaning floors comprises a cleaning head (2), a handle (3), and a joint (4). The cleaning head (2) comprises a first side (5) and an opposed second side (6). The cleaning head (2) and the handle (3) are pivotally connected to each other by the joint (4) for optional use of the first side (5) and the second side (6). The first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a first-type cleaning device and the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a second-type cleaning device (7) being different from the first-type cleaning device. The first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) comprises at least one first-type fastening element (8) being configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device to the cleaning head (2) and at least one second-type fastening element (9) being configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device (7) to the cleaning head (2).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning implement according to claim 1 and to a method of producing such a cleaning implement according to claim 14.

PRIOR ART

[0002] Cleaning implements for cleaning floors such as mops are well-known in the art. In this context, it is generally known that a thorough cleaning is achieved when the cleaning is carried out with an appropriate cleaning implement. For example, a thorough cleaning of a floor is achieved by performing a dry cleaning in a first step by removing dust or the like, and by performing a wet cleaning in a subsequent step by wiping out dirt or the like.

[0003] Despite the greater benefits provided by specific cleaning operations such as a dry cleaning followed by a wet cleaning, users may find it inconvenient to have multiple cleaning implements due to limited storage availability and a more elaborate cleaning, since a specific cleaning implement must be put into use for each cleaning operation. Moreover, higher cost can arise if multiple cleaning implements must be purchased.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to provide a cleaning implement that enables a thorough cleaning and at the same time optimized with respect to handling and storage requirements.

[0005] This object is achieved with a cleaning implement according to claim 1. In particular, a cleaning implement for cleaning floors is provided, wherein the cleaning implement comprises a cleaning head, a handle, and a joint. The cleaning head comprises a first side and an opposed second side. The cleaning head and the handle are pivotally connected to each other by the joint for optional use of the first side and the second side. The first side of the cleaning head is designed for a first-type cleaning device and the second side of the cleaning head is designed for a second-type cleaning device being different from the first-type cleaning device. The first side of the cleaning head comprises at least one first-type fastening element being configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device to the cleaning head and at least one second-type fastening element being configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device to the cleaning head.

[0006] That is, the cleaning implement preferably comprises a double sided cleaning head, wherein one side is specifically designed for the use of a specific cleaning device, i.e. of a cleaning device of a specific type, called herein the first-type cleaning device and the second-type cleaning device. The cleaning implement is configured such that a user can select the side of the cleaning head and thus the type of cleaning device for use by pivoting the cleaning head and either have the first side and thus the first-type of cleaning device being fastened to the cleaning head or the second side and thus the second-type of cleaning device being fastened to the cleaning head in a position for use. The first-type fastening element and the second-type fastening element are preferably designed for the first-type cleaning device and the second-type cleaning device. The first-type fastening element and the second-type fastening element could be the same type of fastening elements, e.g. identical fastening elements. However, and as will be explained in greater detail below, the first-type fastening element and the second-type fastening element are preferably different types of fastening elements.

[0007] To this end it is particularly preferred that the first side of the cleaning head is configured to support the first-type cleaning device and that the second side of the cleaning head is configured to support the second-type cleaning device, respectively. That is, the first-type cleaning device is preferably fastened to the first-type fastening element such that the first-type cleaning device is at least partially arranged on the first side of the cleaning head, and wherein said first side of the cleaning head comprises characteristics that are appropriate for usage with the first-type cleaning device. Likewise, the second-type cleaning device is preferably fastened to the second-type fastening element such that the second-type cleaning device is at least partially arranged on the second side of the cleaning head, and wherein said second side of the cleaning head comprises characteristics that are appropriate for usage with the second-type cleaning device.

[0008] The cleaning implement being designed for different cleaning devices is preferably configured for different cleaning operations, such as wet-cleaning and dry-cleaning, see also further below.

[0009] The first side of the cleaning head can comprise one first-type fastening element or a plurality of first-type fastening elements. Likewise, the first side of the cleaning head can comprise one second-type fastening element or a plurality of second-type fastening elements. Statements regarding one first-type fastening element or one second-type fastening element preferably apply likewise to a plurality of first-type fastening elements or to a plurality of second-type fastening elements, respectively.

[0010] The second side of the cleaning head is preferably free from any fastening elements.

[0011] The second-type fastening element being provided on the first side of the cleaning head allows a fastening of the second-type cleaning device such, that the second-type cleaning device can extend over the second side of the cleaning head as well as along outer lateral sides of the cleaning head up to the first side of the cleaning head, wherein the second-type fastening element can fasten the second-type cleaning device. In this way, the second-type cleaning device can be supported on the second side of the cleaning head.

[0012] The provision of the first-type and the second-type fastening elements on the same side of the cleaning head enables the usage of the same cleaning implement with different types of cleaning devices in order to perform different cleaning operations. Any inconveniences being associated with multiple cleaning implements being designed for single cleaning operations such as a limited storage availability, a more elaborate cleaning or higher costs that are generated if multiple cleaning implements must be purchased are dispended with.

[0013] The first-type cleaning device preferably is heavy and/or woven and/or re-usable and/or configured for wet-cleaning. In fact, the first-type cleaning device preferably has a grammage of 150 g/m² (gram per square meter) or more. The first-type cleaning device preferably is a woven cloth having a grammage of 150 g/m² or more.

[0014] The second-type cleaning device preferably is soft and/or light-weight and/or non-woven and/or disposable and/or configured for dry-cleaning. In fact, the second-type cleaning device preferably has a grammage of 150 g/m² (gram per square meter) or less. The second-type cleaning device preferably is a nonwoven cloth having a grammage of 150 g/m² or less.

[0015] The first-type cleaning device and/or the second-type cleaning device preferably are commercially available cleaning devices and/or are well-known in the art.

[0016] The first side and the second side of the cleaning head preferably comprise or consist of different materials and/or have a different hardness and/or a different density. The first side of the cleaning head is preferably harder and/or denser than the second side of the cleaning head.

[0017] The first side and the second side preferably have a shore D hardness of greater than 70, wherein the shore D hardness of the first side however is preferably greater than the shore D hardness of the second side.

[0018] In particular, the first side of the cleaning head is preferably configured to support heavy cleaning devices having a grammage of 150 g/m² or more such as a woven cloth having a grammage of 150 g/m² or more. The second side of the cleaning head is preferably configured to support soft or light-weight cleaning devices such as a nonwoven cloth having a grammage of 150 g/m² or less.

[0019] The first and second type fastening elements are provided on the first side and thus preferably on the harder and/or denser side of the cleaning head.

[0020] The first side of the cleaning head preferably comprises or consists of at least one plastics, in particular of at least one polymer or copolymer thereof. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers such as polypropylene.

[0021] The second side of the cleaning head preferably comprises or consists of at least one plastics, in particular of at least one polymer or copolymer thereof. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers such as polypropylene or EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) and/or elastomeric polymers such as thermoplastic elastomers (also known as TPE or TPR, i.e. thermoplastic rubber). Preferred elastomeric polymers are rubbers, in particular synthetic rubbers such as silicone rubber. The polymer is preferably foamed. That is, the second side of the cleaning head can comprise or consist of at least one polymeric foam. A preferred polymeric foam is foamed polypropylene or EVA foam. However, other polymeric foams are likewise conceivable and are well-known in the art.

[0022] Hence, the second side of the cleaning head is preferably softer than the first side of the cleaning head.

[0023] The cleaning head preferably comprises at least a first plate and a second plate. The first plate of the cleaning head preferably provides the first side of the cleaning head and the second plate of the cleaning head preferably provides the second side of the cleaning head.

[0024] The cleaning implement preferably is a mop, in particular a flat mop, and the cleaning head preferably is a mop head, in particular a flat mop head.

[0025] The cleaning head preferably is of a plate-like shape. That is, the cleaning head preferably has an elongated shape and in particular a rectangular shape.

[0026] The cleaning head preferably has an area expansion being defined by a length expansion extending along a longitudinal direction of the cleaning head and a width expansion extending along a transversal direction of the cleaning head running perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction. The length expansion preferably is larger than the width expansion.

[0027] The cleaning head preferably is preferably formed in several parts and preferably comprises at least a first plate and a second plate.

[0028] The first plate preferably consists of a first type material and the second plate preferably consists of a second type material being different from the first type material.

[0029] An outer surface of the first plate preferably provides the first side of the cleaning head and an outer surface of the second plate preferably provides the second side of the cleaning head.

[0030] The first plate and the second plate of the cleaning head are preferably removably fastened to one another. For instance, the first plate and the second plate can be mechanically fastened to one another such as via a plug-in and/or snap-in connection.

[0031] However, it is likewise conceivable that the first plate and the second plate of the cleaning head are permanently fastened to one another such as adhesively connected to one another.

[0032] The first plate and the second plate of the cleaning head can be directly fastened to one another.

[0033] The first plate and the second plate of the cleaning head can be mechanically and/or adhesively connected to one another.

[0034] For instance, the first and second plate can be purely mechanically connected to one another such as via a plug-in connection and/or a snap-in connection. In this case it is preferred that the first plate and the second plate are removably fastened to one another.

[0035] It is conceivable that the first plate and the second plate are purely adhesively connected to one another.

[0036] It is however likewise conceivable that the first plate and the second plate are mechanically and adhesively connected to one another.

[0037] In either case it is preferred that the first plate and the second plate are permanently fastened to one another.

[0038] The first plate and the second plate being adhesively connected to one another are preferably glued to one another.

[0039] Alternatively, the first plate and the second plate of the cleaning head can be indirectly fastened to one another, preferably via at least one stabilizing plate being arranged between the first plate and the second plate.

[0040] That is, the first plate and the second plate can be directly fastened to one another or can be indirectly fastened to one another. In the latter case, it is preferred that a stabilizing plate is arranged between the first plate and the second plate.

[0041] The stabilizing plate is preferably configured to stabilize the second plate. That is, the stabilizing plate preferably serves the purpose of improving a stability of the second plate. The stabilizing plate preferably furthermore serves the purpose of reducing material consumption of the cleaning head.

[0042] The stabilizing plate preferably consists of a rigid material and/or comprises reinforcing ribs.

[0043] The stabilizing plate preferably a shore D hardness of greater than 70. The stabilizing plate preferably comprises or consists of at least one plastics, in particular at least one polymer or copolymer thereof. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers such as polypropylene or polyamide. It is furthermore conceivable that the stabilizing plate is reinforced, for instance fibre-reinforced. Hence, the stabilizing plate can comprise or consist of a fibre-reinforced plastics such as glass fiber reinforced polypropylene or polyamide.

[0044] The stabilizing plate is preferably mechanically, for instance via a plug-in and/or a snap-in connection, and/or adhesively connected to the first plate and/or to the second plate.

[0045] The stabilizing plate is preferably at least partially received within a recess formed in the second plate. It is particularly preferred that the stabilizing plate is clamped within the recess of the second plate.

[0046] The stabilizing plate preferably comprises one or more connection elements being configured to connect to one or more corresponding connection elements of the first plate. For example, the stabilizing plate can comprise one or more protrusions that can engage into one or more corresponding recesses of the first plate.

[0047] Additionally or alternatively, the stabilizing plate can be adhesively connected such as glued to the first plate and/or to the second plate.

[0048] An area expansion of the first plate and of the second plate and, if present, of the stabilizing plate preferably is essentially the same. In other words, a size of the first plate and of the second plate and, if present, of the stabilizing device preferably is essentially the same.

[0049] The first-type fastening element and the second-type fastening element can be located on the first side of the cleaning head at a distance from one another.

[0050] Alternatively, the first-type fastening element and the second-type fastening element can be arranged at least partially at a same location on the first side of the cleaning head.

[0051] In any case it is preferred that the first-type fastening element preferably extends at least partially into the first side of the cleaning head. The first-type fastening element is preferably at least partially received in a recess formed in the first side of the cleaning head, in particular in the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head that provides the first side of the cleaning head. However, it is likewise conceivable that the first side of the cleaning head lacks such as recess or the like and that the first-type fastening element is directly arranged on the first side of the cleaning head, in particular on the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head.

[0052] The first-type fastening element preferably protrudes from the first side of the cleaning head, in particular from the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head that provides the first side of the cleaning head.

[0053] The second-type fastening element preferably extends at least partially into the first side of the cleaning head, in particular at least partially into and more preferably entirely through the first plate of the cleaning head and optionally furthermore at least partially or entirely through the stabilizing plate, if present. As such, it is preferred that the first side of the cleaning head, in particular the first plate of the cleaning head and optionally the stabilizing plate, comprises at least one aperture within which the second-type fastening element is at least partially received. The second-type fastening element is preferably arranged flush with the first side of the cleaning head, in particular flush with the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head that provides the first side of the cleaning head. Hence, an outer surface of the second-type fastening element is preferably flush with the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head.

[0054] The first-type fastening element preferably extends at least partially along a longitudinal side of the first side of the cleaning head, wherein said longitudinal side extends along the longitudinal direction of the cleaning head mentioned earlier. It is particularly preferred that the cleaning head comprises two first-type fastening elements that extend at least partially along the two opposite longitudinal sides of the first side of the cleaning head.

[0055] The second-type fastening element is preferably arranged in a corner of the first side of the cleaning head, in particular in a corner of the first plate of the cleaning head.

[0056] It is particularly preferred that the cleaning head comprises four second-type fastening elements that are arranged in each corner of the cleaning head, in particular in each corner of the first plate of the cleaning head.

[0057] The second-type fastening element preferably fastens the first-type fastening element to the first side of the cleaning head. Additionally or alternatively, the second-type fastening element preferably extends at least partially into and/or through the first-type fastening element.

[0058] In the event that the first-type fastening element and the second-type fastening element are arranged at least partially at a same location of the first side of the cleaning head it is preferred that the second-type fastening element fastens the first-type fastening element to the first side of the cleaning head. In fact, the second-type fastening element extending at least partially into the first-type fastening element preferably fastens the first-type fastening element to the cleaning head, in particular to the first side of the cleaning head and particularly preferably to the first plate of the cleaning head.

[0059] For instance, the first-type fastening elements can extend along the longitudinal sides and into the corners of the first side, and wherein the second-type fastening elements are arranged in the corner extend into the first side and through the first-type fastening elements in the region of the corners.

[0060] However, and as mentioned earlier, it is likewise conceivable that the first-type fastening elements and the second-type fastening elements are arranged at a distance from one another. For instance, the first-type fastening elements can extend along the longitudinal sides up to a corner area however not until the corners, and wherein the second-type fastening elements are arranged in the corners.

[0061] The first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be an integral component of the cleaning head. Alternatively, the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be formed separately from the cleaning head.

[0062] The first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be removably attached to the cleaning head. Alternatively, the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be permanently attached to the cleaning head.

[0063] That is, the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be an integral component of the cleaning head. Being an integral component means that the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element are formed from the cleaning head, for instance from the first plate of the cleaning device.

[0064] However, it is likewise conceivable that the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element are formed separately from the cleaning head. For instance, the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be attached to the cleaning head, in particular to the first plate of the cleaning head and optionally furthermore to the stabilizing plate, if present, via a positive lock and/or a non-positive lock such as via a plug-in and/or a snap-in connection.

[0065] For example, the first-type fastening element can be plugged into the recess formed in the first side of the cleaning head, in particular in the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head as mentioned earlier. The second-type fastening element can be plugged into the aperture of the first side of the cleaning head, in particular of the first plate of the cleaning head and optionally of the stabilizing plate as mentioned earlier. Furthermore, the first-type fastening element and/or the second type fastening element can in each case comprise one or more snap-elements such as lugs that can snap into one or more corresponding slots elements provided on the cleaning head or vice versa.

[0066] A connection can be improved by additionally screwing or otherwise fastening the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element to the first side of the cleaning head, in particular to the first plate of the cleaning head.

[0067] However, the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be permanently attached to the cleaning head, for instance adhesively via a glue or the like. Such a permanent attachment can be present in addition to an attachment via a positive lock and/or a non-positive lock. However, it is likewise conceivable that the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element are permanently attached to one another via an adhesive only and in the absence of an additional attachment via a positive lock and/or a non-positive lock.

[0068] The first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element are preferably mechanical fastening elements. Additionally or alternatively, the first-type fastening element can be configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device via a positive lock and preferably corresponds to a hook-and-loop fastener. Additionally or alternatively, the second-type fastening element can be configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device via a non-positive lock and preferably via a clamping connection. Additionally or alternatively, the second-type fastening element is preferably flexible and/or elastically deformable and/or comprises at least one opening for receiving part of the second-type cleaning device.

[0069] The first-type fastening element is preferably configured for fastening the first-type cleaning device to the first side of the cleaning head in a releasable manner.

[0070] The first-type fastening element preferably corresponds to a hook-and-loop fastener, preferably a commercially available hook-and-loop-fastener such as Velcro^®. As such, it is preferred that the first-type cleaning device comprises one or more corresponding fastening elements that can establish a connection with the first-type fastening elements, such as a corresponding hook-and-loop fastener or Velcro^®.

[0071] Likewise, the second-type fastening element is preferably configured for fastening the second-type cleaning device to the first side of the cleaning head in a releasable manner.

[0072] The second-type fastening element is preferably configured to fasten the second-type fastening device via a clamping connection. To this end it is particularly preferred that the second-type-fastening element is flexible and/or elastically deformable and/or comprises at least one opening being configured to receive part of the second-type cleaning device in order to fasten the second-type cleaning device. The opening can have the shape of a slit or cut, although various other shapes are likewise conceivable. To this end it is preferred that the second-type fastening element has a plurality of openings, in particular slits or cuts.

[0073] In order to fasten the second-type cleaning device to said second-type fastening element a user can simply push part of the second-type cleaning device into the opening(s) of the second-type fastening element, wherein the second-type fastening element preferably deflects under finger pressure so that a portion of the second-type cleaning device can be pushed into the openings of the second-type fastening element, whereby it gets clamped within the opening(s). As mentioned earlier, the second-type fastening element can be arranged within an aperture of the cleaning head, in particular of the first plate of the cleaning head and optionally also of the stabilizing plate of the cleaning head. To this end it is particularly preferred that an outer surface of the second-type fastening element spans said aperture, and wherein a portion of the second-type cleaning device being pushed into the openings of the second-type fastening element is furthermore pushed into said aperture.

[0074] The joint preferably defines a first pivot axis about which the cleaning head is pivotable and a second pivot axis about which the cleaning head is pivotable. The second pivot axis preferably runs perpendicularly to the first pivot axis.

[0075] The cleaning head preferably comprises a recess extending inwardly from an outer side of the cleaning head. The joint is preferably at least partially arranged within the recess.

[0076] The first pivot axis preferably runs parallel to the longitudinal direction of the cleaning head and the second pivot axis preferably runs parallel to the transversal direction of the cleaning head.

[0077] A first pivot angle about which the cleaning head is pivotal about the first pivot axis is preferably 180° or greater, in particular up to about 270°.

[0078] By pivoting the cleaning head about the first pivot axis, the first side or the second side of the cleaning head can be selected for use.

[0079] A second pivot angle about which the cleaning head is pivotable about second pivot axis is preferably about 90° or larger. For instance, the second pivot angle can be up to about 180° especially in the event that the first pivot axis runs perpendicularly to the first side and the second side of the cleaning head.

[0080] By pivoting the cleaning head about the second pivot axis, the cleaning head can be transferred into a cleaning position and a stowed position. In the cleaning position, the cleaning head preferably runs perpendicular to the handle, or in other words, the first side or the second side of the cleaning head can be used to clean, for example, a floor, whereby the first side or the second side runs parallel to the floor. In the stowed position, the cleaning head preferably runs parallel to the handle, wherein the stowed position allows the cleaning implement to be stowed in a space-saving manner.

[0081] The joint can be a biaxial joint as it is known in the art, for instance a universal joint. However, other joints are likewise conceivable. For instance, the joint can be a multi-part joint such as a two-part joint comprising a first joint-part and a second joint-part, and wherein each joint-part defines one of the pivot axes.

[0082] The cleaning head preferably comprises a recess extending inwardly from an outer side of the cleaning head, and wherein the joint is arranged within the recess. The joint is preferably pivotally mounted on a pin or bolt, wherein said pin or bolt defines the first pivot axis.

[0083] The pin or bolt is preferably connected to the cleaning head, in particular to the first plate and/or the second plate and/or the stabilizing plate.

[0084] The joint is preferably located centrally on the cleaning head, i.e. the joint is preferably arranged in a center of the cleaning head. The recess preferably extends from said center to one longitudinal side of the cleaning head in order to pivot the cleaning head about the first pivot axis and thereby optionally allow usage of the first side or the second side of the cleaning head. The first pivot angle is greater than 180° because the joint can be pivoted through said laterally open recess.

[0085] In another aspect a method of producing a cleaning implement as described above is provided. The method comprises the steps of i) providing a cleaning head, ii) providing a handle, and iii) providing a joint. The cleaning head comprises a first side and an opposed second side. The cleaning head and the handle are pivotally connected to each other by the joint for optional use of the first side and the second side. The first side of the cleaning head is designed for a first-type cleaning device and the second side of the cleaning head is designed for a second-type cleaning device being different from the first-type cleaning device. The first side of the cleaning head comprises at least one first-type fastening element being configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device to the cleaning head and at least one second-type fastening element being configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device to the cleaning head.

[0086] Any statements made herein regarding the cleaning implement per se preferably likewise apply to the method of producing the cleaning implement and vice versa.

[0087] The cleaning head, in particular the first plate and/or the second plate and/or the stabilizing plate can be injection molded. To this end it is preferred to produce one or more of these components by injection molding a polymer or copolymer thereof, for instance a thermoplastic polymer such as polypropylene or a synthetic rubber such as silicone. However, it is likewise conceivable to produce at least the second plate by foaming at least one polymer or copolymer thereof. For instance, the second plate in the form of EVA foam can be produced by a copolymerization reaction between vinyl acetate and ethylene. The manufacturing of foamed polymers are well-known to the skilled person.

[0088] Additionally or alternatively, the first-type fastening element and/or the second-type fastening element can be injection molded. To this end it is particularly preferred that a flexible and/or elastically deformable second-type fastening element is produced by injection-molding a flexible and/or elastically deformable polymer or copolymer thereof. Conceivable polymers are elastomers such as rubbers, in particular synthetic rubbers such as silicone rubber. In the event of the first-type fastening element being a hook-and-loop fastener it is preferred to adhesively attach a preferably commercially available hook-and-loop fastener to the first plate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0089] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in the following with reference to the drawings, which are for the purpose of illustrating the present preferred embodiments of the invention and not for the purpose of limiting the same. In the drawings,

Fig. 1a

shows a perspective view of a cleaning implement comprising a cleaning head, a handle and a joint according to the present invention, wherein the cleaning head is in a first position;

Fig. 1b

shows a perspective view of the cleaning implement according to figure 1a, wherein the cleaning head is pivoted by the joint and in a second position;

Fig. 2a

shows a partial perspective view of the cleaning head in the first position according to figure 1a;

Fig. 2b

shows a partial perspective view of the cleaning head in the second position according to figure 2b;

Fig. 3

shows a top view of the cleaning implement according to figure 1a;

Fig. 4

shows a partial side view of the cleaning implement according to figure 1b, wherein a cleaning device is fastened to the cleaning head;

Fig. 5

shows a partial perspective view of the cleaning implement according to figure 1a, wherein the cleaning head is pivoted by the joint and in a third position;

Fig. 6

shows a top view of the cleaning implement according to figure 1b;

Fig. 7

shows a partial exploded view of the cleaning head in the second position according to figure 2b;

Fig. 8

shows a perspective view of a stabilizing plate of the cleaning head of the cleaning implement according to figure 1a;

Fig. 9

shows a partial perspective view of a second plate comprising a stabilizing plate of the cleaning head of the cleaning implement according to figure 1a;

Fig. 10

shows a partial sectional view of the cleaning head in the second position according to figure 2b;

Fig. 11

shows a partial exploded view of the cleaning head in the second position according to figure 2b;

Fig. 12

shows a partial sectional view of the cleaning head in the second position according to figure 2b;

Fig. 13

shows another partial sectional view of the cleaning head in the second position according to figure 2b.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0090] Various aspects of a cleaning implement 1 for cleaning floors shall now be illustrated with reference to the figures.

[0091] As follows from figure 1a and 1b, the cleaning implement 1 is configured for cleaning floors and comprises a cleaning head 2, a handle 3, and a joint 4. The cleaning head 2 comprises a first side 5 and an opposed second side 6 that correspond here to a first outer surface 14 of the cleaning head 2 and an opposed second outer surface 15 of the cleaning head 2. The first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 is designed for a first-type cleaning device and the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 is designed for a second-type cleaning device 7 being different from the first-type cleaning device. The cleaning head 2 and the handle 3 are pivotally connected to each other by the joint 4 such that a user of the cleaning implement 1 can choose either the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 and thus the first-type cleaning device or the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 and thus the second-type cleaning device 7 for performing a particular cleaning operation.

[0092] The depicted cleaning implement 1 is a flat mop and the cleaning head 2 is a flat mop head, wherein the cleaning head 2 has an elongated, rectangular shape. That is, the cleaning head 2 has an area expansion being defined by a length expansion extending along a longitudinal direction L of the cleaning head 2 and a width expansion extending along a transversal direction T of the cleaning head 2 running perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction L, and wherein the length expansion is larger than the width expansion.

[0093] As follows from figures 1a to 7, the joint 4 is a biaxial joint that defines two pivot axis P1, P2 about which the cleaning head 2 is pivotable. In fact, the joint 4 defines a first pivot axis P1 that runs parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the cleaning head 2 and a second pivot axis P2 that runs perpendicular to the first pivot axis P1 and parallel to the transversal direction T of the cleaning head 2. The cleaning head 2 comprises a recess 13 extending inwardly from an outer lateral side 16 of the cleaning head 2, and wherein the joint 4 is arranged within the recess 13. As follows from figure 7, the joint 4 is pivotally mounted on a pin or bolt 17 that connects the joint 4 to the cleaning head 2, and wherein said pin or bolt 17 defines the first pivot axis P1. The second pivot axis P2 is defined by another pin or bolt 18 that connects the joint 4 to the handle 3. In the depicted example the joint is a two-part joint comprising a first joint-part 4a and a second joint-part 4b, wherein the first joint-part 4a defines the first pivot axis P1 and the second joint-part 4b provides the second pivot axis P2.

[0094] Moreover, the joint 4 is located centrally on the cleaning head 2, i.e. the joint 4 is arranged in a center of the cleaning head 2. The recess 13 extends from said center to one outer lateral side 16 of the cleaning head 2, which corresponds here to one longitudinal side 19 of the cleaning head 2. The recess 13 allows the cleaning head 2 to be rotated about the first pivot axis P1 by a first pivot angle being about 270° and thus to adapt a first cleaning position, wherein the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 can be used for cleaning, and to adapt a second cleaning position, in which the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 can be used for cleaning.

[0095] By pivoting the cleaning head 2 about the second pivot axis P2, the cleaning head 2 can be transferred into a cleaning position and a stowed position. In the cleaning position, see, e.g. figures 1a to 4, the cleaning head 2 preferably runs perpendicular to the handle 3, or in other words, the first side 5 or the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 can be used to clean, for example, a floor, whereby the first side 5 or the second side 6 runs parallel to the floor. In the stowed position, see, e.g. figure 5, the cleaning head 2 preferably runs parallel to the handle 3, wherein the stowed position allows the cleaning implement 1 to be stowed in a space-saving manner. A second pivot angle about which the cleaning head 2 is pivotable about second pivot axis P2 is about 90° or larger, for instance about 180° in the event that the first pivot axis P1 runs perpendicularly to the first side 5 and the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2.

[0096] As follows from figures 2a to 6, one side, herein called the second side 6, of the cleaning head 2 is entirely free from any fastening elements and corresponds here to an even, i.e. flat surface (figures 2a and 3). However, it is likewise conceivable that the second side 6 comprises an uneven surface, e.g. because of the provision of lamellas or other protruding structures on the surface of the second side 6 (not shown). An uneven surface has the advantage that a friction between the floor to be cleaned and the second side 6 and the second-type cleaning device 7 being provided on said second side 6, and as such a risk of damaging the second-type cleaning device 7, is reduced. The other side, herein called the first side 5, of the cleaning head 2 however comprises first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... being configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device to the cleaning head 2 and second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... being configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device 7 to the cleaning head 2 (figures 2b, 5 and 6). The two sides 5, 6 of the cleaning head 2 comprise or consist of different materials and have a different hardness. In particular, the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 is harder than the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2. Here, the first side 5 or the harder side of the cleaning head 2 is made of a hard thermoplastics such as polypropylene. The second side 6 or the softer side of the cleaning head 2 is made of an elastomeric polymer, preferably a foamed elastomeric polymer such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. As follows from these figures, both types of fastening elements 8, 8a, ... and 9, 9a, ... are provided on the harder side 5 of the cleaning head 2.

[0097] The first side 5 or the harder side of the cleaning head 2 is configured to support heavy cleaning devices such as a heavy woven cloth. That is, the first-type cleaning device is fastened to the first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... such that the first-type cleaning device is at least partially arranged on the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 (not shown). The second side 6 or the softer side of the cleaning head 2 is configured to support soft or light-weight cleaning devices 7 such as a disposable cleaning cloth. That is, and as follows from figure 4, the second-type cleaning device 7 which corresponds here to a disposable cleaning cloth is fastened to the second-type fastening element 9, 9a, ... such that the second-type cleaning device 7 extends over the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 as well as along outer lateral sides 16, 16a, ... of the cleaning head 2 up to the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 that comprises the second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... that fasten the second-type cleaning device 7.

[0098] In the depicted examples, the cleaning head 2 comprises three first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, 8b and four second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, 9b, 9c. The first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... and the second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... are located on the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 in each case at a distance from one another. In fact, the first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... have the shape of strips that extend along the longitudinal sides 19, 19a of the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2. To this end one first-type fastening element 8 is provided on the continuous longitudinal side 19a of the cleaning head 2, whereas two first-type fastening elements 8b, 8b are provided on the longitudinal side 19 of the cleaning head 2 being interrupted by the recess 13. The second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... are provided in the corners 20, 20a, ... of the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2. The first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... extend along the longitudinal sides 19, 19a up to a corner area however not into the corners 20, 20a, ....

[0099] The first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... and the second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... are mechanical fastening elements. The first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... are configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device via a positive lock and correspond here to hook-and-loop fasteners such as self-adhesive textile Velcro^® strips that are glued to the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2. The second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... are configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device 7 via a non-positive lock and correspond here to insertion buttons that are made of a flexible and/or elastically deformable material that comprises openings 21 in the form of slits or cuts that can receive part of the second-type cleaning device 7. In order to fasten the second-type cleaning device 7 to said second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... a user can simply push parts of the second-type cleaning device 7 into the openings 21 of the second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ..., whereby the second-type cleaning device 7 gets clamped within the openings 21.

[0100] As best seen in figure 7, the cleaning head 2 is a multi-piece element that comprises a first plate 10 and a second plate 11, between which a third plate in the form of a stabilizing plate 12 is arranged. The first plate 10, in particular its outer surface 14, provides the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 and the second plate 11, in particular its outer surface 15, provides the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2.

[0101] The first plate 10 and the second plate 11 of the cleaning head 2 are mechanically fastened to one another via a plug-in and/or snap-in connection. An additional fastening can be achieved by adhesively connecting such as gluing the plates 10, 11 together. As follows from figures 7 to 10, the first plate 10 and the second plate 11 of the cleaning head 2 are in this case indirectly fastened to one another via the stabilizing plate 12 being arranged between the first plate 10 and the second plate 11. The stabilizing plate 12 is configured to stabilize the soft second plate 11. The stabilizing plate 12 furthermore serves the purpose of reducing material consumption of the cleaning head 2. The stabilizing plate 12 consists of a rigid material and comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs 22 that extend along the longitudinal direction L and the transversal direction T of the cleaning head 2. The stabilizing plate 12 is received within a recess 23 formed in the second plate 11 and is fixed within the second plate 11 by being clamped within the recess 23 of the second plate 11. Furthermore, the stabilizing plate 12 comprises connection elements 24 in the form of snaps or lugs that can enter a connection with corresponding connection elements in the form of recesses in the first plate 10 in order to connect the stabilizing plate 12 to the first plate 10. The stabilizing plate 12 furthermore comprises a plurality of screw holes 25 into which screws can be screwed from the first plate 10 and via screw holes 26 of the first plate 10 in order to additionally connect the first plate 10 to the stabilizing plate 12 and thus to the second plate 11 being in clamping connection with the stabilizing plate 12. As follows from figure 7, the screw holes 25, 26 of the stabilizing plate and of the first plate are located at a position that lies below the first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ..., such that the first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... will cover any screws that are screwed into the screw holes 25, 26 towards an outside. As furthermore follows from these figures, the pin or bolt 17 that connects the joint 4 to the cleaning head 2 is pivotally mounted within openings 27 delimited by the first plate 10, the stabilizing plate 12 and the second plate 11 in the region of the recess 13.

[0102] From figures 11 to 13 it follows that the first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... extend partially into the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 and are partially received in recesses 28, 28a, ... formed in the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. The first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... are adhesively connected to the first plate by 10 gluing the first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... into the recesses 28, 28a, ... of the first plate 10. Furthermore, the first-type fastening elements 8, 8a, ... protrude from the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2, here by about 1-2 millimeter, see figures 12 and 13.

[0103] The second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... extend partially into the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2, in particular through apertures 29, 29a, ... formed in the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. The second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... are attached to the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2 via a snap-in connection, wherein lugs 31 formed on the second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... engage latches 32 arranged in the apertures 29, 29a, ... of the first plate 10. The second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... are arranged flush with the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2, in particular flush with the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. That is, an outer surface 33, 33a, ... of the second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... is flush with the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. At the same time, the outer surface 33, 33a,.... of the second-type fastening element 9, 9a, ... spans the aperture 29, 29a, ... formed in the first plate 10. The second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... which can be seen an insertion buttons, are large enough so that the second-type cleaning device 7 such as disposable cleaning cloth can be inserted deep enough into the insertion buttons 9, 9a, .... As such, a depth of the apertures 29, 29a, ... that is formed within the first plate 10 as well as apertures 30, 30a, ... being formed in the stabilizing plate 12 is about 1.5 centimetre. The second-type fastening elements 9, 9a, ... are integrated as separately formed injection-molded, soft insertion parts.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0104] 

1	cleaning implement	19. 19a	longitudinal side
2	cleaning head	20, 20a, ...	corner
3	handle	21	opening
4	joint	22	reinforcing rib
4a	joint-part	23	recess
4b	joint-part	24	connection element
5	first side	25	screw holes
6	second side	26	screw holes
7	second-type cleaning device	27	opening
8, 8a, ...	first-type fastening element	28, 28a, ...	recess
9, 9a, ...	second-type fastening element	29, 29a, ...	aperture
		30, 30a, ...	aperture
10	first plate	31	lug
11	second plate	32	latch
12	stabilizing plate	33, 33a, ....	outer surface
13	recess
14	first outer surface	P1	first pivot axis
15	second outer surface	P2	second pivot axis
16, 16a, ...	lateral side	L	longitudinal direction
17	bolt	T	transversal direction
18	bolt

Claims

1. A cleaning implement (1) for cleaning floors comprising:

- a cleaning head (2),

- a handle (3), and

- a joint (4),

wherein the cleaning head (2) comprises a first side (5) and an opposed second side (6),

wherein the cleaning head (2) and the handle (3) are pivotally connected to each other by the joint (4) for optional use of the first side (5) and the second side (6),

characterized in that the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a first-type cleaning device and the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a second-type cleaning device (7) being different from the first-type cleaning device, and

in that the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) comprises at least one first-type fastening element (8) being configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device to the cleaning head (2) and at least one second-type fastening element (9) being configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device (7) to the cleaning head (2).

2. The cleaning implement (1) according to claim 1, wherein the first-type cleaning device is at least one of heavy, woven, re-usable or configured for wet-cleaning, and preferably is a woven cloth having a grammage of 150 g/m² or more, and/or
wherein the second-type cleaning device (7) is at least one of soft, light-weight, non-woven, disposable or configured for dry-cleaning, and preferably is a nonwoven cloth having a grammage of 150 g/m² or less.

3. The cleaning implement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side (5) and the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) comprise or consist of different materials and/or have a different hardness, and/or
wherein the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) is harder than the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2).

4. The cleaning implement (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) comprises or consists of at least one plastics, in particular of at least one polymer or copolymer thereof, and wherein preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers such as polypropylene, and/or
wherein the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) comprises or consists of at least one plastics, in particular of at least one polymer or copolymer thereof and/or of a polymeric foam, and wherein preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers and/or elastomeric polymers such as rubbers or EVA and/or thermoplastic elastomers and/or wherein a preferred polymeric foam is EVA foam.

5. The cleaning implement (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning head (2) comprises at least a first plate (10) and a second plate (11), and
wherein the first plate (10) of the cleaning head (2) provides the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) provides the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2).

6. The cleaning implement (1) according to claim 5, wherein the first plate (10) and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) are removably fastened to one another, preferably mechanically such as via a plug-in and/or snap-in connection, or
wherein the first plate (10) and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) are permanently fastened to one another such as adhesively connected to one another.

7. The cleaning implement (1) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the first plate (10) and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) are directly fastened to one another, or
wherein the first plate (10) and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) are indirectly fastened to one another, preferably via at least one stabilizing plate (12) being arranged between the first plate (10) and the second plate (11).

8. The cleaning implement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first-type fastening element (8) and the second-type fastening element (9) are located on the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) at a distance from one another, or
wherein the first-type fastening element (8) and the second-type fastening element (9) are at least partially arranged at a same location on the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2).

9. The cleaning implement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second-type fastening element (9) fastens the first-type fastening element (8) to the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2), and/or
wherein the second-type fastening element (9) extends at least partially into and/or through the first-type fastening element (8).

10. The cleaning implement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first-type fastening element (8) and/or the second-type fastening element (9) are an integral component of the cleaning head (2) or are formed separately from the cleaning head (2).

11. The cleaning implement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first-type fastening element (8) and/or the second-type fastening element (9) are removably attached to the cleaning head (2) or permanently attached to the cleaning head (2).

12. The cleaning implement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of:

- the first-type fastening element (8) and/or the second-type fastening element (9) are mechanical fastening elements,

- the first-type fastening element (8) is configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device via a positive lock and preferably corresponds to a hook-and-loop fastener,

- the second-type fastening element (9) is configured to fasten the second-type cleaning (7) device via a non-positive lock and preferably via a clamping connection, or

- the second-type fastening element (9) is at least one of flexible, elastically deformable or comprises at least one opening for receiving part of the second-type cleaning device (7).

13. The cleaning implement (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the joint (4) defines a first pivot axis (P1) about which the cleaning head (2) is pivotable and a second pivot axis (P2) about which the cleaning head (2) is pivotable, the second pivot axis (P2) preferably running perpendicularly to the first pivot axis (P1), and/or
wherein the cleaning head (2) comprises a recess (13) extending inwardly from an outer side of the cleaning head (2), and wherein the joint (4) is at least partially arranged within the recess (13).

14. A method of producing a cleaning implement (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising:

- Providing a cleaning head (2),

- Providing a handle (3), and

- Providing a joint (4),

wherein the cleaning head (2) comprises a first side (5) and an opposed second side (6),

wherein the cleaning head (2) and the handle (3) are pivotally connected to each other by the joint (4) for optional use of the first side (5) and the second side (6),

characterized in that the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a first-type cleaning device and the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a second-type cleaning device (7) being different from the first-type cleaning device, and

in that the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) comprises at least one first-type fastening element (8) being configured to fasten the first-type cleaning device to the cleaning head (2) and at least one second-type fastening element (9) being configured to fasten the second-type cleaning device (7) to the cleaning head (2).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein at least part of the cleaning head (2), in particular the first plate (10) and/or the second plate (11) and/or the stabilizing plate (12), are injection molded or foamed, and/or
wherein the first-type fastening element (8) and/or the second-type fastening element (9) are injection molded or foamed.

Drawing