Cleaning device system and method of use

Abstract

The present invention provides a cleaning device system and a method of use. The cleaning device system includes: a replacement head including at least one pad defining a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the pad being substantially opposite to the second surface, the first surface being attached to an attachment member, and the second surface being used for cleaning the surface; a cleaning device including a generally elongated handle and a cavity at a distal end opposite the handle; wherein the cleaning device and the replacement head are removably attached to each other by placing the second surface of the pad of the replacement head in a generally horizontal manner and lowering the cleaning device body toward the replacement head in a generally vertical manner, such that at least a portion of the attachment member of the replacement head enters the cavity and a removable mechanical connection is made between the attachment member and the cavity of the cleaning device body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to cleaning devices, and more specifically, to the connection methods and means between the cleaning device and the replacement head. Background Technology

[0002] Cleaning hard floors can be challenging when there is a mix of different types of debris. In some cases, it's necessary to vacuum up dry, loose debris, wipe away stuck debris, and also absorb any wet debris that may be present. Existing technological tools, such as vacuum cleaners, dry mops, and wet mops, can handle some of these types of debris, but not all at once. Therefore, many people typically sweep up the dry debris and then mop up the wet or stuck debris.

[0003] Known tools that can handle both dry and wet media have longer setup times than broom / mop combinations, and post-use maintenance can be particularly arduous when liquids are involved. If a combination tool is not properly cleaned after each use, it can become smelly and unpleasant. Finally, the cleaning process can be messy, potentially requiring the user to get their hands dirty and / or wear gloves.

[0004] Existing cleaning devices that utilize at least partially a handle and replaceable cleaning pads require the user to manually wrap a non-rigid cleaning pad around the end of the mop handle before use. This process typically requires the user to use both hands and can be inconvenient. In embodiments where the non-rigid cleaning pad is pre-wetted, the user typically has to wet their hands in order to use the mop.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for an improved replacement head that can be easily attached to and removed from the cleaning device without effort or dirt. Summary of the Invention

[0006] A cleaning device system includes a cleaning device and a replaceable head that can be selectively attached. The replaceable head includes at least one cleaning disc defining a first surface and a second surface substantially opposite the first surface. The second surface is used to clean a surface, such as a floor. The replaceable head also includes an attachment member attached to the first surface of the cleaning disc. In some embodiments, the attachment member may be a plastic tray including a dust collection box. A filter may also optionally be configured to be attached to the dust collection box. The cleaning device includes a generally elongated handle and a cavity at its distal end. The cleaning device and the replaceable head are removably attached to each other by: first, positioning the replaceable head such that the cleaning disc is generally horizontal; second, lowering the cleaning device toward the replaceable head such that at least a portion of the attachment member enters the cavity; and finally, after the process is completed, initiating a removable mechanical connection between the attachment member and the cavity of the cleaning device.

[0007] According to another aspect of the invention, the attachment member (e.g., the plastic tray) includes a front protective portion defining an internal space, and at least a portion of the cleaning device is lowered into the internal space during the connection process.

[0008] According to another aspect of the invention, at least a portion of the cleaning device, when connected to the replacement head, also contacts the first surface of the cleaning pad.

[0009] According to another aspect of the invention, the cavity in the cleaning device includes at least one inner wall angled inward so that the replacement head is pushed toward proper alignment with the cavity for proper connection.

[0010] According to another aspect of the invention, the attachment member includes at least one connector lip and the cavity includes at least one movable connector arm, wherein when the at least one connector lip passes through the at least one connector arm, the at least one connector arm and the at least one connector lip form the mechanical connection.

[0011] According to another aspect of the invention, a cleaning device system may include: a replacement head including at least one pad defining a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the pad being substantially opposite to the second surface, the first surface including an attachment member, and the second surface for cleaning the surface; a cleaning device including a generally elongated handle and a cavity at a distal end opposite the handle; wherein the cleaning device and the replacement head are configured to be removably attached to each other by: placing the second surface of the pad of the replacement head in a generally horizontal manner and lowering the cleaning device body toward the replacement head in a generally vertical manner, such that at least a portion of the attachment member of the replacement head enters the cavity, and such that at least a portion of the cleaning device is located below a portion of the attachment member and vertically aligned with said portion to form an active removable mechanical connection between the attachment member and the cavity of the cleaning device body.

[0012] The attachment member may be made of plastic.

[0013] The cleaning device may also include a vacuum source.

[0014] The replacement head may include a dust collection box capable of collecting and storing dirt and debris.

[0015] The dust collection box may include a top opening and a filter, the filter being positioned such that it at least partially covers the top opening.

[0016] The dust collection box may have an opening through which the dust and debris can pass and enter the dust collection box.

[0017] The attachment member may include a front protective portion defining an interior space, and when the removable mechanical connection is initiated, at least a portion of the cleaning device may be lowered into at least a portion of the interior space.

[0018] The cleaning device may also include a nozzle from which cleaning fluid can be sprayed.

[0019] The cleaning device can also contact the first surface of the cleaning pad when connected to the replacement head.

[0020] The cavity may include at least one inner wall angled inward so that the replacement head is pushed toward proper alignment with the cavity for proper connection.

[0021] The cavity may include at least a pair of opposing inner walls that are angled inward toward each other.

[0022] The attachment member may include at least one connector surface and the cleaning device includes at least one connector arm, wherein when the at least one connector surface passes over the at least one connector arm, the at least one connector arm together with the at least one connector surface forms the mechanical connection.

[0023] The present invention also provides a method for connecting a cleaning device to a replacement head in a cleaning device system, the method comprising the steps of: placing a pad on the replacement head such that a cleaning surface is positioned generally horizontally; holding the cleaning device generally vertically; and lowering the cleaning device toward the replacement head in a generally vertical manner such that at least a portion of an attachment member on the replacement head enters a cavity in the cleaning device, such that at least a portion of the cleaning device moves below and is vertically aligned with a portion of the attachment member to form an active removable mechanical connection between the attachment member and the cavity of the cleaning device.

[0024] In the method, the mechanical connection can be formed during the process of lowering the cleaning device onto the replacement head when the connector arm on the cleaning device passes over and hooks below the connector surface on the attachment member of the replacement head.

[0025] In the method, when the removable mechanical connection is established between the cleaning device body and the replacement head, the cleaning device can also contact the second surface of the cleaning sheet.

[0026] The present invention also provides a cleaning device system comprising: a replacement head including at least one pad defining a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the pad being substantially opposite to the second surface, the first surface including an attachment member, and the second surface for cleaning the surface; a cleaning device including a generally elongated handle and a cavity at a distal end opposite the handle; wherein the cleaning device and the replacement head are configured to be removably attached to each other by: placing the second surface of the pad of the replacement head in a generally horizontal manner and lowering the cleaning device body toward the replacement head in a generally vertical manner, such that at least a portion of the attachment member of the replacement head enters the cavity and a removable mechanical connection is made between the attachment member and the cavity of the cleaning device body; wherein the attachment member includes a front protective portion defining an internal space; and wherein, prior to making the removable mechanical connection, at least a portion of the cleaning device is lowered into at least a portion of the internal space, such that the cleaning device remains properly aligned with the replacement head during the formation of the removable mechanical connection.

[0027] The attachment member may be made of plastic.

[0028] The cleaning device may also include a vacuum source.

[0029] The replacement head may include a dust collection box capable of collecting and storing dirt and debris.

[0030] The dust collection box may include a top opening and a filter, the filter being positioned such that it at least partially covers the top opening.

[0031] The dust collection box may have an opening through which the dust and debris pass and enter the dust collection box.

[0032] The cleaning device may also include a nozzle from which cleaning fluid can be sprayed.

[0033] The cleaning device can also contact the first surface of the cleaning pad when connected to the replacement head.

[0034] The cavity may include at least one inner wall angled inward so that the replacement head is pushed toward proper alignment with the cavity for proper connection.

[0035] The cavity may include at least a pair of opposing inner walls that are angled inward toward each other.

[0036] The attachment member may include at least one connector surface and the cleaning device includes at least one connector arm, wherein when the at least one connector surface passes over the at least one connector arm, the at least one connector arm together with the at least one connector surface forms the mechanical connection.

[0037] The present invention also provides a method for connecting a cleaning device to a replacement head in a cleaning device system, the method comprising the steps of: providing a replacement head having a pad coupled to an attachment member, the replacement head having a front guard defining an internal space, the front guard having an opening that is generally upward when the replacement head is placed on a cleaning surface in a generally horizontal manner; providing a cleaning device including a suction source, the cleaning device having a cavity located at a distal end; placing the replacement head on the cleaning device such that the pad is positioned in a generally horizontal manner; holding the cleaning device in a generally vertical manner above the replacement head; and lowering the cleaning device toward the replacement head in a generally vertical manner while angled the cavity relative to the replacement head such that at least a portion of the cleaning device is lowered into at least a portion of the internal space before a removable mechanical connection is made; and wherein the cavity is then rotated relative to the replacement head while the portion of the cleaning device remains in the internal space until the removable mechanical connection is formed between the replacement head and the cleaning device.

[0038] One advantage of this invention is that the user can complete the connection process between the cleaning device and the replacement head with one hand by simply lowering the main body of the cleaning device vertically downward onto the replacement head.

[0039] Another advantage of this invention is that the user does not have to hold the cleaning device and the replacement head simultaneously during the connection process.

[0040] Another advantage of the invention is that the angled inner wall of the cavity pushes the replacement head for proper alignment during the connection process. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 An isometric view of the cleaning device and replacement head of the present invention is shown;

[0042] Figure 2 Show Figure 1 An isometric view of the cleaning devices and replacement heads that are separated from each other;

[0043] Figure 3 Show Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along line 3-3 shows the attached cleaning device head and replacement head, with the connector arm in the locked position.

[0044] Figure 3A Show Figure 1 A cross-sectional view along line 3A-3A shows the attached cleaning device head and replacement head, with the connector arm in the open position.

[0045] Figure 4An isometric view of the replacement head of the present invention is shown;

[0046] Figure 5 Shown from different angles Figure 4 An isometric view of the replacement head;

[0047] Figure 6 An isometric view of the plastic tray of the present invention is shown;

[0048] Figure 7 A front view of the plastic tray of the present invention is shown;

[0049] Figure 8 A rear view of the plastic tray of the present invention is shown;

[0050] Figure 9 A side view of the plastic tray of the present invention is shown;

[0051] Figure 10 A bottom view of the plastic tray of the present invention is shown;

[0052] Figure 11 A top view of the plastic tray of the present invention is shown;

[0053] Figure 12 Show Figure 4 The cross-sectional view along line 12-12 depicts the open cover in the closed position;

[0054] Figure 12A Show Figure 4 The cross-sectional view along line 12A-12A depicts the open cover in the open position;

[0055] Figure 13 An enlarged front view of one side of the replacement head is shown;

[0056] Figure 14 Show Figure 4 The cross-sectional view along line 14-14 depicts the shape of the first connector lip;

[0057] Figure 15 Show Figure 1 The cross-sectional view along line 15-15 depicts the interaction between the cleaning device head and the front guard of the plastic tray;

[0058] Figure 16 An exploded view showing an embodiment of the gasket of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 17 A cleaning device is shown lowering toward the replacement head of the invention during the connection process;

[0060] Figure 18 Show Figure 17The cleaning devices and replacement heads are brought slightly closer to each other during the connection process;

[0061] Figure 19 Show Figure 17 and Figure 18 The cleaning devices and replacement heads are brought closer together during the connection process; and

[0062] Figure 20 Show Figure 19 The cleaning device and replacement head after the connection process is completed. Detailed Implementation

[0063] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A perspective view of a cleaning device system including a cleaning device 2 and a replacement head 4, the replacement head being selectively attached and detachable, is shown. The cleaning device 2 includes a handle 6, a cleaning device body 8 optionally including a suction source (not visible), a cleaning device head 10, and a trigger 11 for selectively activating the suction source. Although, for example... Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cleaning device 2 shown represents a combination of a mop and a vacuum device; however, those skilled in the art will recognize that the cleaning device 2 can be used alternatively as a mop when the suction source is unavailable or not turned on during use. The cleaning device 2 may also include a container for holding fluid (e.g., cleaning fluid), a jet nozzle 12, and a user-activated button 14 for selectively spraying fluid from the jet nozzle 12. Preferably, the jet nozzle 12 is used to spray fluid from the jet nozzle 12 to a position in front of the replacement head 4 when the button 14 is activated by the user during normal use. Reference is now made to... Figure 3 and 3A The cleaning device head 10 includes a vacuum-sealed surface 16 and at least two connector arms 18, 20. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one connector arm 18 can be in a closed position ( Figure 3 ) and opening position ( Figure 3A The cleaning device head 10 includes a cavity 21 that facilitates connection with the replacement head 4. (Generally referring to...) Figure 3A and Figure 15 The inner walls 23 on the front, rear and / or both sides are slightly angled inward. More specifically, the inner walls 23 are angled inward such that the opening to the cavity 21 is wider than the opening at the inward position in the cavity 21.

[0064] For reference Figures 4-6 The replacement head 4 includes a gasket 24, a filter 26, and an attachment member, which in the illustrated embodiment is a plastic tray 22. The plastic tray 22 includes a dust collection chamber 28 and a sealing surface 30 (see example...). Figure 6) and front guard 32. In the illustrated embodiment, the plastic tray 22 serves as an attachment member that facilitates the connection between the replacement head 4 and the cleaning device head 10.

[0065] The plastic pallet 22 can be made of any suitable material (including non-plastics); however, inexpensive and easy-to-handle materials are preferred. For example, polyethylene terephthalate (or “PET”) is considered a preferred material, partly because PET is inexpensive and easily thermoformed into the desired shape. Injection molding, blow molding, or any other common manufacturing process are also acceptable and suitable alternatives. As shown, the plastic pallet 22 can be formed from a single integral piece or can be composed of two or more components joined or engaged during the assembly of the replacement head 4.

[0066] like Figures 6-12 The illustrated plastic tray 22 includes a dust collection chamber 28, the size and shape of which are configured to collect and retain dust and debris sucked into the plastic tray 22 during use. In the illustrated embodiment, the dust collection chamber 28 has a bottom wall 34, a front wall 36, a rear wall 38, a left wall 40, and a right wall 42. A top opening 46 is located at the top of the dust collection chamber 28. The walls and the top opening 46 together generally define a volume capable of collecting and retaining common household dust and debris. Those skilled in the art will understand that changing the size and shape of the walls and the top opening 46 will increase or decrease the total volume of the dust collection chamber without departing from the spirit of the invention. Although the rear wall 38, as well as the left and right walls 40, are... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The wall is shown as generally straight, but it may include at least one curve or bend, or other features that deviate from its straightness. For example, as shown... Figure 10 The front wall 36 shown includes a series of curves and features. Among other benefits, the curves and bends can increase structural stability without increasing material thickness. The bottom wall 34 defines a bottom surface 48 and may include a ridge 50 (see below). Figure 8 and Figure 10 This helps to retain the dust collected at the bottom of the dust collection chamber 28 during use in its proper place. Alternatively, the bottom wall 34 may be generally flat.

[0067] For reference Figure 3 , Figure 3A , Figure 6 and Figure 11 The sealing surface 30 extends circumferentially around the top opening 46 of the dust collection chamber 28. The sealing surface 30 is complementary to the vacuum sealing surface 16 on the cleaning device head 10. During use, the sealing surface 30 and the vacuum sealing surface 16 are in direct or (preferably) indirect contact with each other. In a preferred embodiment where the sealing surface 30 and the vacuum surface 16 are in indirect contact, during use, the filter 26 may be sandwiched between the sealing surface and the vacuum surface (see example...). Figure 3 To facilitate an effective seal and prevent suction loss during use, the sealing surface must be held in place against the vacuum sealing surface with sufficient force. In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing surface is a generally rectangular ring with a generally flat surface. The term "generally rectangular" is intended to describe a shape whose width is greater than its length. However, the shape is not intended to be limited to a precise rectangle. For example, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the generally rectangular shape includes rounded corners. Other embodiments may have beveled corners or non-straight sidewalls.

[0068] refer to Figure 5 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 There is at least one opening 52, which allows air, dust, and debris to be drawn from a location outside the replacement head 4 into the dust collection chamber 28 during use. In a preferred embodiment, a single rectangular opening 52 is located on the front wall 36 of the dust collection chamber 28. Those skilled in the art will understand that, although not shown, alternative embodiments may include: multiple openings on a single wall; openings extending on two or more adjacent walls; an opening on at least one wall and another opening on another wall; or any combination of the above alternatives.

[0069] Preferably, the opening 52 is covered by an opening cover 54. The opening cover 54 can be made of any suitable material; however, in two preferred embodiments, the material is spunbond polypropylene, 1.25 oz extruded PET, 0.7 Mil, or 80 gsm spunbond PP. Preferably, the opening cover 54 is a cantilever flap that, when opened ( Figure 12A ) Allows air, dust, and debris to enter the dust collection chamber, while when closed ( Figure 12 The opening 52 is generally covered to retain the collected dust and debris within the dust collection chamber 28. While the cantilevered flap described above is a cost-effective solution, alternatives may include an opening cover 54 made of, for example, plastic or metal. Preferably, the opening cover 54 is attached to the underside of the filter 26. However, although not shown, the opening cover 54 may, for example, be attached to a plastic tray. Additionally, while the preferred embodiment generally relies on the flexibility and resilience of the material used for the opening cover 54, the opening cover 54 may also use a hinge or movable hinge that defines a pivot axis.

[0070] In some embodiments, reference is now made to Figure 5 The opening may also include an opening rib 55. Preferably, the opening rib 55 is integral with the dust collection chamber 28 and provides a stop surface to prevent the opening cover 54 from getting stuck in or coming off the opening 52 during shipment or normal use.

[0071] refer to Figures 7-11 and Figure 13The plastic tray 22 serves as an attachment member for the replacement head 4. The plastic tray 22 includes a first connector lip 56 that extends outward from the left wall 40 of the dust collection chamber 28 to the outside of the sealing surface 30. Additionally, at least a portion of the first connector lip 56 is located between the front wall 36 and the rear wall 38 of the dust collection chamber, for example, in… Figure 11 As shown in the diagram. The first connector lip 56 includes a lower surface 58 located below the sealing surface 30. More specifically, and as shown in the diagram. Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, the lower surface 58 of the first connector lip 56 lies between the horizontal plane of the sealing surface 30 and the second surface 60 of the gasket 24 (described in more detail below). More specifically, in some embodiments, the lower surface 58 of the first connector lip 56 is closer to the sealing surface 30 than the second surface 60 of the gasket 24. The cross-sectional shape of the first connector lip 56 can be any shape chosen by the designer. However, it is preferred that the first connector lip 56 has a cross-sectional shape including at least one curve to increase stiffness and reduce material usage. The actual relative positioning of the lower surface 58 of the first connector lip 56 should be complementary to the design of the cleaning device head 10 and the connector arms 18, 20. In the locked position, as... Figure 3 As shown, the connector arms 18, 20 of the cleaning device head 10 engage with the lower surface 58 of the first connector lip 56. When held in place by the connector arms 18, 20 of the cleaning device head 10, the sealing surface 30 of the replacement head 4 engages directly or indirectly with the vacuum sealing surface 16.

[0072] In some embodiments, reference is now made to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The first connector lip 56 may extend behind the rear wall 38 and / or additionally in front of the front wall 36. In a further embodiment, the first connector lip 56 may extend in front of the front guard 32 (described below). The first connector lip 56 may be integrally formed with other features of the plastic tray 22 (e.g., dust collection chamber), or may be a separate element combined with the remaining features of the plastic tray 22 prior to final use.

[0073] refer to Figures 7-11 and Figure 13 The second connector lip 62 extends outward from the right wall 42 of the dust collection chamber 28 to the outside of the sealing surface 30. Additionally, at least a portion of the second connector lip 62 is located between the front wall 36 and the rear wall 38 of the dust collection chamber 28, for example, in… Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown in the image. Similar to... Figure 13 and Figure 14 The first connector lip 56 shown, and the second connector lip 62 include a lower surface 64 located below the horizontal plane of the sealing surface 30 (see example...). Figure 7 and Figure 8 More specifically, the lower surface 64 of the second connector lip 62 lies between the horizontal plane of the sealing surface 30 and the second surface 60 of the gasket 24 (described in more detail below). Even more specifically, in some embodiments, the lower surface 64 of the second connector lip 62 is closer to the sealing surface 30 than the second surface 60 of the gasket 24. The cross-sectional shape of the second connector lip 62 can be any shape chosen by the designer and can be the same as or different from the first connector lip 56. Preferably, for the same reasons described above, the second connector lip 62 has a cross-sectional shape including at least one curve. The relative positioning of the lower surface 64 of the second connector lip 62 should be configured such that it is complementary to the design of the cleaning device head 10 and the connector arms 18, 20. In the locked position, as Figure 3 As shown, the connector arms 18, 20 of the cleaning device head 10 engage with the lower surface 64 of the first connector lip 56. When held in place by the connector arms 18, 20 of the cleaning device head 10, the sealing surface 30 of the replacement head 4 engages directly or indirectly with the vacuum sealing surface 16.

[0074] In some embodiments, reference is now made to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The second connector lip 62 may extend behind the rear wall 38 and / or additionally in front of the front wall 36. In a further embodiment, the second connector lip 62 may extend in front of the front guard 32 (described below). The second connector lip 62 may be integrally formed with other features of the plastic tray 22 (e.g., dust chamber 28), or may be a separate element combined with the remaining features of the dust chamber 28 prior to final use. In some embodiments, the first connector lip 56 and the second connector lip 62 may be separate elements, while in other embodiments, for example... Figure 6 In the embodiment shown, the first connector lip 56 and the second connector lip 62 may interconnect across the front and / or rear of the plastic tray 22.

[0075] For reference Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 The plastic tray 22 may include a front guard 32 located at least partially in front of the dust collection chamber 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the front guard 32 is located in front of the dust collection chamber 28 and defines a shaped bottom surface 66 and an internal space 68, and generally extends from the right side to the left side of the plastic tray 22. The cross-sectional shape of the front guard 32 can be any suitable shape; however, a generally triangular cross-section (such as...) is preferred. Figure 9 (As shown in the diagram) has been demonstrated to have specific utility. Preferably, the lowest portion of the bottom surface 66 is very close to the floor being cleaned to help control the airflow entering the dust collection chamber 28. In some embodiments, for example Figure 5and Figure 7 As shown, preferably, the front guard 32 includes one or more crenellated portions 70. While it is desirable for the portions of the front guard 32 to be extremely close to the ground during the cleaning process, the crenellated portions 70 provide a portion that allows larger debris (e.g., grain fragments) to come very close to the opening 52 of the dust collection chamber 28 for being sucked into the dust collection chamber 28. Figure 11 The internal space 68 of the front guard 32 shown provides space to receive corresponding complementary features 72 on the cleaning head 10. Preferably, the internal space 68 is located asymmetrically on the plastic tray 22 such that, in the event that the replacement head 4 is unintentionally inverted by the end user, the features on the front of the cleaning head 10 will contact the plastic tray material (e.g., sealing surface 30), thereby alerting the end user that the replacement head 4 has been improperly attached. The cleaning head 10 may include a single feature that enters the internal space 68 of the front guard 32 during attachment, or as... Figure 3 As shown, it may include several features. As noted above, the shape of the interior space 68 may be generally triangular. In these embodiments, the generally converging walls of the interior space 68 are used to assist the user in positioning the cleaning device head 10 in the proper attachment position by slightly pushing the cleaning device head 10 forward or backward during attachment.

[0076] For reference Figure 9 The interior space 68 may have a partial vertical wall 86 on the side closer to the dust collection chamber 28. The partial vertical wall 86 may interact with features on the cleaning head 10 to prevent movement relative to the cleaning head 10 during the pull-back stroke.

[0077] The front suction chamber 88 is located between the front protective element 32 and the dust collection chamber 28. The front suction chamber 88 extends from one side to the other across the plastic tray 22. Figure 9 The front suction chamber 88 shown is defined at the front by the rear side of the front guard 32, and at the rear by the front wall 36 of the dust collection chamber and the opening 52. The size and shape can be determined by the designer; however, it is preferred to shape the front suction chamber 88 in a way that promotes airflow toward the opening 52 to guide dust and dirt.

[0078] Filter 26 is made of a suitable material that allows air to pass through during use but blocks at least most of the dust drawn into the dust collection chamber 28 during cleaning. Additionally, it is desirable that filter 26 absorb and / or block moisture before it enters the cleaning device 2. Materials that are inexpensive to manufacture, easy to cut to size, and easy to attach to the plastic tray 22 are desirable. In the illustrated embodiment, filter 26 is a nonwoven hydrophobic material made of 40gsm SMS polypropylene. In embodiments where the filter material is printable, additional printed patterns, including, for example, logos or directions of use, may be applied to filter 26.

[0079] Filter 26 is attached to plastic tray 22, such that essentially the entire top opening 46 is covered, as... Figure 4 As shown in the diagram. It is desired that, if not all, but most of the air drawn into the dust collection chamber 28 during vacuum suction passes through the filter 26 before entering the cleaning device 2, thereby minimizing the amount of dust, debris, and moisture entering and potentially damaging the suction source. Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, filter 26 is attached to sealing surface 30 such that when replacement head 4 is attached to cleaning device head 10, filter 26 is sandwiched between sealing surface 30 and vacuum-sealed surface 16 of plastic tray 22. While it is desirable for filter 26 to substantially completely cover the top opening 46 of dust collection chamber 28, it is preferred that filter 26 does not cover the interior space 68 of front guard 32, allowing feature 72 on cleaning device head 10 unobstructed access to the interior space 68 of front guard 32 during attachment. Filter 26 can be attached to plastic tray 22 in any acceptable manner. Suitable methods include using heat and using adhesives and glues to bond the materials together. While it is preferred that filter 26 be permanently attached to plastic tray 22, other embodiments may have a removable connection. Further embodiments may include the end user placing filter 26 over top opening 46 during use.

[0080] The liner 24 includes a first surface 74 and a second surface 60 and is made of any suitable material, preferably one that can be used to scrub the surface being cleaned and / or absorb moisture. The liner 24 is well known in the art and may comprise one or more layers. For example, a single-layer liner made of 100% PET material or 58 gsm carded spunlace PET and 10 gsm spunbond PP may be used. Alternatively, as... Figure 16 As shown, the pad 24 may include four layers, each providing a utility (e.g., absorption, retention, scrubbing). Exemplary layers include:

[0081] Layer 1: Airlaid retention layer; 180gsm, 47% pulp, 53% bico material.

[0082] Layer 2: Air-laid collection layer; 100gsm, 47% pulp, 53% Bico material. Layer 3: Top layer; carded spunlace PET, 58gsm; spunbond PP, 10gsm.

[0083] Layer 4: Multifunctional strip; meltblown PP, 35gsm

[0084] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram shows a multilayer gasket 24. Several methods are shown for bonding the various layers together. Figure 5In this process, the layers are ultrasonically welded together continuously along the entire edge. In some embodiments, additional welding may be performed within the filter body, such as... Figure 5 The pattern is generally hexagonal. Continuous welding along the front and rear edges often provides suitable adhesion between layers to prevent delamination. Figure 4 The image shows flat-head welds at local locations along the front and rear edges. In some embodiments, approximately eight (8) weld locations are provided in total. In other embodiments, it has been found that using approximately fifty (50) weld locations is quite effective. Additionally, reference is still made to... Figure 4 The spaced weld seams can be positioned along the edge of the gasket 24. In other embodiments, as shown, along... Figure 4 The weld position at the leading edge of the gasket 24 can be moved rearward. By welding the layers together at localized locations, it has been shown that the weld maintains acceptable adhesion between the layers but allows some expansion between them. It has been found that expansion between welds allows for the absorption of additional liquid during use. For example, in some cases where continuously welded multi-layer gaskets may tend to push away a certain amount of water on the ground in front of or behind the cleaning device 2, intermittently welded gaskets may absorb liquid due to slight delamination that may occur between the welds. In embodiments where the weld is moved rearward from the edge of the gasket 24, local delamination may increase and, in some cases, improve performance. The number and location of welds between the front and rear portions of the gasket 24 may be the same or different depending on the designer's judgment.

[0085] The external shape of the pad 24 can be any suitable shape known to those skilled in the art. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the pad 24 may be generally rectangular. A first surface 74 of the pad 24 is attached to the bottom surface 48 of the dust collection chamber 28, such that a second surface 60 of the pad 24 material is in contact with the ground during cleaning. Preferably, the first surface 74 of the pad 24 covers at least a majority, and more preferably, all, of the bottom surface 48 of the dust collection chamber 28. The pad 24 may extend outward from the bottom surface 48 of the dust collection chamber 28. Figure 4 and 5 As shown, the liner 24 extends rearward and extends to each side of the bottom surface 48 of the dust collection chamber 28. Although it is acceptable for the liner 24 to extend in front of the front wall 36 of the dust collection chamber 28, such an arrangement may impede usability because, for example, it may block the opening 52 leading to the dust collection chamber 28 and / or the liner 24 may fold or bend when the cleaning device 2 is pushed forward by the user during cleaning.

[0086] The gasket 24 can be attached in any suitable manner. Preferably, the first surface 74 of the gasket 24 is permanently attached to the bottom surface 66 of the dust collection chamber 28. Suitable methods include the use of thermal bonding or adhesives. Alternatively, the gasket 24 can be replaced and removably attached by, for example, hook and loop fasteners.

[0087] For reference Figures 17-20 The present invention discloses a method for attaching a replacement head 4 to a cleaning device 2. The replacement head 4 is disposed on a generally horizontal surface, such as a floor, such that the second surface 60 of the pad 24 is also generally horizontal. The cleaning device body 8 and the elongated handle 6 (see example) Figure 1 With the device held generally vertically, the user lowers the cleaning device body 8 by moving it vertically downwards from directly above the replacement head 4, causing the known connection features to be generally aligned. (Reference) Figure 17 In some embodiments, the angle of the cleaning head 10 relative to the rest of the components of the cleaning device 2 can be a natural angle. However, when the user moves the cleaning device body 8 further vertically downward, the cleaning head 10 contacts the replacement head 4, and the cleaning head 10 rotates naturally, causing the lower surface to also become horizontal relative to the ground (see...). Figure 18 and Figure 19 (For reference only) Figure 19 and Figure 20 As the user continues to lower the cleaning device body 8 by applying downward force to the handle or simply allowing gravity to lower the cleaning device 2, a portion of the attachment member of the replacement head 4 (e.g., a plastic tray 22) enters the cavity 21 of the cleaning device head 10. Figure 20 As shown, a removable mechanical connection is formed when the cleaning device 2 has been lowered completely vertically onto the replacement head 4.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, when the cleaning head 10 is lowered onto the replacement head 4, at least one connector arm 18 or 20 is pushed into the open position by the relative angle of the surfaces of the connector arms 18, 20 and the downward force of the cleaning body. Once the attachment member is fully within the cavity 21 and the connector arms 18, 20 have passed beneath the connector lips 56, 62, the movable connector arm can return to the closed position, thus completing the mechanical connection. An additional angled inner wall 23 on at least one of the front, back, and / or side of the cavity 21 further assists in pushing the cleaning body and / or replacement head 4 for proper alignment during the connection process.

[0089] For reference during use Figures 1-3A When the replacement head 4 is installed such that the material of the filter 26 is sandwiched between the sealing surface 30 and the vacuum sealing surface 16 of the plastic tray 22, the user activates the cleaning device 2, thereby generating suction. Air drawn into the dust collection chamber 28 causes the opening cover 54 to move to the open position (e.g., ...). Figure 12A(As shown in the diagram). When the user moves the cleaning device 2 and replacement head 4 across the surface to be cleaned, the suction source draws air, dirt, and debris from the area in front of the replacement head 4, below the front guard 32, and draws the air, dirt, and debris into the dust collection chamber 28 through the opening 52. Once inside the dust collection chamber 28, the air, dust, and debris are drawn towards the filter 26, through which the air passes. The dust and debris cannot pass through the filter 26 and remain in the dust collection chamber 28. If needed, the user can activate button 14 on the cleaning device 2 to spray fluid onto the surface in front of the replacement head 4. The user can then use the second surface 60 of the pad 24 to scrub the surface with the cleaning fluid for a thorough cleaning.

[0090] During the cleaning process, one or more of the following may occur: the dust collection chamber 28 will fill with dust and debris; the filter 26 will become clogged; and the liner 24 will become soiled. The user can selectively replace the replacement head 4 at any time by moving at least one of the connector arms 18, 20 to the open position, thereby disengaging the first connector lip 56 and the second connector lip 62 from the cleaning device head 10. Advantageously, in the described embodiment, the user can replace the entire replacement head 4 at once without soiling and replace it with a newer replacement head 4 for future use.

[0091] Those skilled in the art will recognize that additional embodiments or variations described above can be implemented without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. For example, while various alternatives for connecting a replacement head to a cleaning device head (i.e., first and second connector lips, elastic strips, etc.) have been disclosed, additional means utilizing more than one disclosed method or obvious alternative are considered to be within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, the term "about" is used herein to describe additional ranges of values ​​known to those skilled in the art equivalent to the stated range. When the term "about" is used in relation to a range, the term is intended to apply to both ends of the range.

Claims

1. A cleaning device system comprising: a replacement head comprising at least one pad defining a first surface and a second surface, the first surface of the pad being generally opposite the second surface, the first surface being attached to an attachment member, and the second surface being for cleaning a surface, and a dust cup capable of collecting and storing dirt and debris, the dust cup comprising a top opening and a filter, the filter being positioned such that the filter at least partially covers the top opening, wherein the dust cup has an opening through which the dirt and debris pass and into the dust cup; a cleaning device comprising a generally elongated handle and a cavity at an opposite distal end of the handle, and a vacuum source; wherein the cleaning device and the replacement head are removably attached to each other by placing the second surface of the pad of the replacement head in a generally horizontal manner and lowering the cleaning device body toward the replacement head in a generally vertical manner, such that at least a portion of the attachment member of the replacement head enters the cavity, such that at least a portion of the cleaning device is located below and in vertical alignment with a portion of the attachment member to form a positive removable mechanical connection between the attachment member and the cavity of the cleaning device body, wherein the attachment member comprises a front guard defining an interior space, and upon causing the removable mechanical connection, at least a portion of the cleaning device is lowered into at least a portion of the interior space.

2. The cleaning device system of claim 1, wherein the attachment member is formed of plastic.

3. The cleaning device system of claim 1, wherein the cleaning device further comprises a spray nozzle from which cleaning fluid can be sprayed.

4. The cleaning device system of claim 1, wherein the cleaning device, when connected to the replacement head, is also in contact with the second surface of the pad.

5. The cleaning device system of claim 1, wherein the cavity comprises at least one interior wall that is angled inwardly such that the replacement head is urged into proper alignment with the cavity for proper connection.

6. The cleaning device system of claim 5, wherein the cavity comprises at least one pair of opposing interior walls that are angled inwardly toward each other.

7. The cleaning device system of claim 1, wherein the attachment member comprises at least one connector lip and the cleaning device body comprises at least one connector arm, the at least one connector arm and the at least one connector lip together forming the mechanical connection when the at least one connector lip passes the at least one connector arm.

8. A method for connecting a cleaning device to a replacement head in a cleaning device system, the method comprising the steps of: providing the replacement head having a pad coupled to an attachment member, the replacement head having a front guard defining an interior space, the front guard having an opening that is generally upwardly facing when the replacement head is placed in a generally horizontal manner on a cleaning surface; The cleaning device is provided, including a suction source, the cleaning device having a cavity at a distal end; placing the replacement head on the cleaning surface such that the pad is positioned in a generally horizontal manner; holding the cleaning device above the replacement head in a generally vertical manner; and lowering the cleaning device toward the replacement head in a generally vertical downward manner while angling the cavity relative to the replacement head such that at least a portion of the cleaning device is lowered into at least a portion of the interior space before a removable mechanical connection is made; wherein a portion of the cleaning device including the cavity is subsequently rotated relative to the replacement head while the portion of the cleaning device remains in the interior space until the removable mechanical connection is formed between the replacement head and the cleaning device.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the removable mechanical connection is formed during the process of lowering the cleaning device onto the replacement head when a connector arm on the cleaning device passes over and hooks under a connector lip on the attachment member of the replacement head.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the cleaning device is also in contact with a first surface of the pad when a mechanical connection is established between the cleaning device and the replacement head.

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