Cleaning system

Abstract

Aspects described herein generally relate to a cleaning system, such as a cleaning appliance having a primary cleaning member and a removable secondary cleaning member, and more particularly to a mop assembly having a primary cleaning member and a removable secondary cleaning member. The primary cleaning member may be a sponge-based cleaning member, and the secondary cleaning member may be a scrubbing brush or similar handheld scrubbing member. The scrubbing brush may have an attachment member including a pair of rails and a tab assembly that helps releasably connect the scrubbing brush to a connection member of the mop assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects described herein generally relate to a cleaning system, such as a cleaning implement having a primary cleaning component and a removable secondary cleaning component, and more particularly to a mop system having a primary cleaning component and a removable secondary cleaning component. Background Art

[0002] Mops are used to clean all types of surfaces. However, in some cases, a dirty surface may require additional scrubbing force to loosen the dirt so that it can be wiped off. For hard-to-reach areas, a handheld cleaning and / or scrubbing member may be useful. Summary of the invention

[0003] In light of the foregoing background, a simplified overview of the present disclosure is presented below to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the various embodiments of the present disclosure. This overview is not an extensive review of the embodiments described herein. It is not intended to identify key or important elements, or to describe the scope of the embodiments described in the present disclosure. The following overview only presents some concepts of the embodiments of the present disclosure in a simplified form, as a preface to the more detailed description provided below.

[0004] Various aspects of the present disclosure may be directed to a mop assembly comprising: a handle assembly, wherein the handle assembly has a handle member having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; and a connecting member having a handle receiving portion connected to the first end of the handle member, wherein the connecting member has a front side, a rear side opposite the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side arranged opposite the handle receiving portion. The bottom side may include a main receiving portion, and the front side may include a brush receiving portion. The mop assembly may also include a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion, a flexible cleaning member connected to the main receiving portion, wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the flexible cleaning member, and a scrubbing brush releasably attached to the brush receiving portion, wherein the scrubbing brush may include a base structure and an attachment structure. A plurality of bristles may extend from the front side of the base structure. The brush receiving portion may include: (a) a base surface; (b) a first engagement member extending from a front side of the connecting member over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot is created between the first engagement member and the base surface; and (c) a second engagement member extending from a front side of the connecting member over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot is created between the second engagement member and the base surface. The brush receiving portion may also include a first retaining member located on an outwardly facing surface of the front side of the connecting member, and the attachment structure of the scrub brush may include a tab assembly connected to the base structure of the scrub brush, wherein the tab assembly may engage the retaining member to help secure the scrub brush to the connecting member. The brush receiving portion may also include a second retaining member extending upward from the base surface of the brush receiving portion, wherein the attachment structure may include a central engagement member contacting the second retaining member to help secure the scrub brush to the connecting member. The base structure of the scrubbing brush may include a rear side opposite to the front side, a top side extending between the front side and the rear side, a bottom side opposite to the top side, a first end extending between the top side and the bottom side, and a second end opposite to the first end, and the attachment structure may include a pair of rails that may be located on the rear side. The pair of rails may include: (a) a first rail having a first rear surface, a first outer side surface, a first inner side surface, wherein the first inner side surface may diverge from the first outer side surface, and (b) a second rail having a second rear surface, a second outer side surface, a second inner side surface, wherein the second inner side surface may diverge from the second outer side surface, and wherein the first outer side surface and the second outer side surface may be substantially parallel to each other. The rail distance may be greater than the brush width, wherein the rail distance is the minimum distance between the first outer side surface and the second outer side surface. The first rail may have a first outwardly facing surface extending from the top side of the base structure toward the first outer side surface, and the second rail may have a second outwardly facing surface extending from the bottom side of the base surface toward the second outer side surface.The first outwardly facing surface of the first guide rail may form a first acute angle with the first rear surface, and the second outwardly facing surface of the second guide rail may form a second acute angle with the second rear surface. When the scrubbing brush is slidably engaged with the brush receiving portion, the first outwardly facing surface may face the inwardly facing surface of the first engaging member. The first guide rail may also include a first guide surface extending between the first outer side surface and the first inner side surface, wherein the first guide surface forms an acute angle with the first inner side surface. The tab assembly may have a pivot tab, the pivot tab comprising: (a) a first end, the first end being located at a position farthest from the base structure of the scrubbing brush; (b) a second end, the second end being located at a position closest to the base structure opposite to the first end; (c) an upper surface; (d) a lower surface, the lower surface being opposite to the upper surface; and (e) a pivot member extending from the lower surface. The pivot member may contact the outwardly facing surface of the front side of the connecting member to create a gap between the lower surface of the pivot tab and the outwardly facing surface of the brush receiving portion. In some examples, the first retaining member may be a raised protrusion extending from the outward surface of the brush receiving portion, wherein the first retaining member has an engagement surface facing a stop surface on the pivot tab. Alternatively, the retaining member may be received in a pocket located in the lower surface of the pivot tab.

[0005] Still other aspects of the present disclosure may relate to a cleaning device comprising: (a) a handle assembly, wherein the handle assembly may include a slender handle member and a control rod connected to the handle member; (b) a connecting member, the connecting member having a handle receiving portion attached to an end of the handle member, wherein the connecting member may include a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite to the handle receiving portion, wherein the bottom side may include a main receiving portion and the front side includes a secondary receiving portion; (c) a wringing mechanism, the wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion of the connecting member, wherein movement of the wringing mechanism can be controlled by the control rod; (d) a main cleaning member, which can be releasably engaged with the wringing mechanism, and (e) a secondary cleaning member, which can be releasably attached to the secondary receiving portion, wherein the secondary cleaning member can have a base structure with a cleaning structure extending from a first side of the base structure, a pair of guide rails located on a second side of the base structure, and a tab assembly located on a third side of the base structure, wherein the third side is located between the first side and the second side. The wringing mechanism can be configured to wring any excess moisture from the main cleaning member by folding the first end of the main cleaning member toward the second end of the main cleaning member. A pair of guide rails can slidably engage a pair of slots in the secondary receiving portion, and the tab assembly can engage a retaining member located on the outward surface of the secondary receiving portion to secure the secondary cleaning member to the connecting member. The tab assembly can include a pivoting tab having: a first end, the first end being located at a position farthest from the base structure; a second end, the second end being located at a position closest to the base structure relative to the first end; an upper surface; a lower surface, the lower surface being opposite to the upper surface; and a pivoting member extending from the lower surface. The pivoting member can contact the outward surface of the secondary receiving portion to create a gap between the lower surface and the outward surface of the secondary receiving portion. The first retaining member can be a raised protrusion extending from the outward surface of the secondary receiving portion, wherein the retaining member can be received in a slot pocket located in the lower surface of the pivoting tab. In some examples, the first retaining member may be a raised protrusion extending from the outer surface of the brush receiving portion, wherein the first retaining member may include an inclined surface and an engagement surface opposite the inclined surface. The engagement surface of the first retaining member may face a stop surface extending from the lower surface of the tab assembly. The primary cleaning member may be a sponge-based cleaning member, and the secondary cleaning member may be a scrubbing brush.The secondary receiving portion may include: (a) a base surface; (b) a first engaging member extending from a first side over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot in a pair of slots can be created between the first engaging member and the base surface; and (c) a second engaging member extending from a first side over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot in a pair of slots can be created between the second engaging member and the base surface; and (d) a central engaging member contacting a second retaining member to help secure the secondary cleaning member to the connecting member, wherein the central engaging member may be located between a pair of guide rails.

[0006] Yet additional aspects of the present disclosure may be directed to a mop assembly comprising: (a) a handle assembly, wherein the handle assembly comprises an elongated handle member and a lever connected to the handle member; and (b) a connecting member having a handle receiving portion attached to an end of the handle member, wherein the connecting member may have a front side, a rear side opposite the front side, and a bottom side disposed opposite the handle receiving portion between the front side and the rear side. The bottom side may include a main receiving portion, and the front side may include a brush receiving portion. The brush receiving portion may have a base surface, a first engaging member may extend from the front side of the connecting member over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot of a pair of slots may be created between the first engaging member and the base surface, and a second engaging member may extend from the front side of the connecting member over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot of a pair of slots may be created between the second engaging member and the base surface. The brush receiving portion may also include a first retaining member formed as a raised protrusion on an outwardly facing surface of the connecting member; and a second retaining member extending upward from the base surface. The mop assembly may also include a wringing mechanism connected to a main receiving portion of the connecting member, wherein the movement of the wringing mechanism is controlled by a control rod and a sponge-based cleaning member releasably engaged with the wringing mechanism, wherein the wringing mechanism may be configured to wring any excess moisture from the sponge-based cleaning member by folding a first end of the sponge-based cleaning member toward a second end of the sponge-based cleaning member. The mop assembly may also include a scrubbing brush releasably attached to the brush receiving portion, wherein the scrubbing brush may have a base structure with a plurality of bristles extending from a first side of the base structure, a pair of guide rails located on a second side of the base structure, and a tab assembly located on a third side of the base structure. The third side may be located between the first side and the second side. The pair of guide rails of the scrubbing brush may slidably engage a pair of slots on the brush receiving portion, and the tab assembly may engage a first retaining member located on an outwardly facing surface of the brush receiving portion to help secure the scrubbing brush to the connecting member. In addition, the central engaging member may contact the second retaining member to help secure the scrubbing brush to the connecting member. The base structure, the pair of guide rails, and the tab assembly of the scrubbing brush may be formed as an integral member. The tab assembly may include a pivot tab having: (a) a first end portion located at a position farthest from the base structure; (b) a second end portion located at a position closest to the base structure relative to the first end; (c) an upper surface; (d) a lower surface opposite to the upper surface; and (e) a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts an outward surface of the connecting member to create a gap between the lower surface and the outward surface of the connecting member. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present disclosure is illustrated by way of example and not limitation in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements, and in which:

[0008] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cleaning implement according to one or more aspects described herein;

[0009] Figure 2 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Figure 1 A side view of a portion of an exemplary cleaning tool;

[0010] Figure 3 FIG. 3 shows a flow chart of a flow chart along line 3-3 according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 1 A cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0011] Figure 4 Illustrated is a diagram of an embodiment of the present invention according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 2 Line 4-4 Figure 1 A cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0012] Figure 5 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Figure 3 an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of an exemplary cross-sectional view of;

[0013] Figure 6 Illustrated is a diagram of an embodiment of the present invention according to one or more aspects described herein. Figure 2 Line 6-6 Figure 1 A cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0014] Figure 7 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Figure 1 A perspective view of a portion of a mop component of an exemplary cleaning implement of;

[0015] Figure 8 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Figure 7 A side view of a portion of a mop assembly;

[0016] Fig. 9 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Figure 7 A perspective view of a portion of a mop assembly;

[0017] Fig.10 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Figure 1 A perspective view of a scrubbing brush component of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0018] Fig.11The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.10 A perspective view of a scrubbing brush assembly;

[0019] Fig.12 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.10 An enlarged perspective view of a portion of a scrubbing brush assembly;

[0020] Fig.13 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.10 A top view of a portion of a scrubbing brush assembly;

[0021] Fig.14 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative exemplary cleaning implement according to one or more aspects described herein;

[0022] Fig.15 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.14 A side view of a portion of an exemplary cleaning tool;

[0023] Fig.16 FIG. 1 shows a flow chart of a flow chart along line 16-16 according to one or more aspects described herein. Fig.14 A cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0024] Fig.17 Illustrated is a diagram of an embodiment of the present invention according to one or more aspects described herein. Fig.15 Line 17-17 Fig.14 A cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0025] Fig.18 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.14 an enlarged perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of an exemplary cross-sectional view of;

[0026] Fig.19 Illustrated is a diagram of an embodiment of the present invention according to one or more aspects described herein. Fig.15 Line 19-19 Fig.14 A cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0027] Fig. 20 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.14 A perspective view of a portion of a mop component of an exemplary cleaning implement of;

[0028] Fig.21 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig. 20 a side view of a portion of a mop assembly;

[0029] Fig. 22The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig. 20 A perspective view of a portion of a mop assembly;

[0030] Fig.23 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.15 A perspective view of a scrubbing brush component of an exemplary cleaning tool of;

[0031] Fig.24 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig.23 A perspective view of a scrubbing brush assembly;

[0032] Fig.25 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig. 22 an enlarged perspective view of a portion of a scrubbing brush assembly; and

[0033] Fig.26 The present invention illustrates one or more aspects described herein. Fig. 22 A top view of a portion of a scrubbing brush assembly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] In the following description of various example structures, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this document, and in which various example cleaning appliances, wringers and connection assemblies according to various embodiments are illustrated by way of illustration. Additionally, it should be understood that other specific arrangements of parts and structures may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, and structural and functional modifications may be made. Moreover, although the terms "upper", "lower", "front", "back", "back", "top", "bottom" etc. may be used in this specification to describe various example features and elements, it is for convenience, for example, based on the example orientations shown in the accompanying drawings and / or the orientations in typical use, these terms are used. It should be noted that the accompanying drawings may not be drawn to scale. It should be noted that various connections between elements are discussed in the following description. It should be noted that these connections are universal, and unless otherwise specified, may be direct or indirect, and this specification is not intended to limit this aspect.

[0035] The following terms are used in this specification and, unless otherwise stated or clear from the context, have the meanings provided below.

[0036] As used herein, "plurality" refers to any number greater than one, either separately or in combination as desired, up to an infinite number.

[0037] "Substantially perpendicular" means that a first line, line segment, plane, edge, surface, etc. is approximately (in this case, within 5%) orthogonal to another line, plane, edge, surface, etc. over at least 50% of the length of the first line, line segment, plane, edge, surface, etc.

[0038] "Substantially parallel" means that a first line, line segment, plane, edge, surface, etc. is approximately equidistant (in this case, within 5%) from another line, plane, edge, surface, etc. over at least 50% of the length of the first line, line segment, plane, edge, surface, etc.

[0039] By "substantially flat" it is meant that a surface is level and aligned with another surface such that the two surfaces form a substantially flat single surface (within a tolerance of + / - 0.05 inches).

[0040] Figures 1 to 6 An example of a cleaning system or cleaning device 100 according to one or more aspects described herein is illustrated. An exemplary cleaning device 100 may include a mop assembly 100 including a main cleaning member 160 and a removable secondary cleaning member 170, the secondary cleaning member 170 allowing a user to make additional cleaning choices. The mop assembly 100 may include a handle assembly 110 connected to a connecting member 120, wherein the connecting member 120 may be configured as a wringing mechanism 150. The main cleaning member 160 may be connected to the wringing mechanism 150, wherein the wringing mechanism 150 may be configured to wring any excess liquid in the main cleaning member 160 by squeezing and / or folding the main cleaning member 160. The secondary cleaning member 170 may be releasably fixed to the connecting member 120 of the mop assembly 100. The main cleaning member 160 may be a sponge-based cleaning member, while the secondary cleaning member 170 may be a handheld cleaning member, such as a scrubbing brush, a scrubbing pad, or a similar cleaning member. In the illustrative example, secondary cleaning member 170 is shown as a scrubbing brush 170 .

[0041] The mop assembly 100 can be used as a conventional mop to clean floors or other surfaces that require cleaning using the main cleaning member 160. However, in situations where the surface may be difficult to clean, the removable scrubbing brush 170 can provide the user with another option to effectively clean the surface while being easily retained by the mop assembly 100 for ready use. For example, the scrubbing brush 170 can be used to clean areas that are inaccessible unless the brush 170 is removed from the connecting member 120. As another option, the scrubbing brush 170 can be used when attached to the connecting member 120 of the mop assembly 100.

[0042] The handle assembly 110 of the cleaning tool 100 may include a handle member 112, wherein a control rod 116 is connected to the handle member 112. The handle member 112 may include a first end 114, a second end opposite the first end 114, wherein the first end 114 may be connected to a handle receiving portion 130 of the connecting member 120. A handle or similar member located on the handle member 112 near the second end may provide a position for the user's hand to easily grasp and use the mop assembly 100. The control rod 116 may be connected to the wringing mechanism 150 and may be configured to control the movement of the wringing mechanism 150. For example, the lever 116 may have a use position and a wringing position, in which the wringing mechanism 150 allows the main cleaning member 160 to be in a substantially flat or planar orientation to clean the intended surface, and in the wringing position, the lever 116 may be pulled upward to cause the wringing mechanism 150 to squeeze and / or fold the ends 164, 166 of the main cleaning member 160 toward each other to wring or squeeze any excess moisture (such as water or cleaning solution) out of the main cleaning member 160. The lever 116 may be connected to the wringing mechanism 150 via a rod or cable that extends inside the hollow portion of the handle member 112 and the hollow portion of the connecting member 120. The operation of the wringing mechanism 150 by the lever 116 is known to those skilled in the art. For example, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 191,133 filed on July 26, 2011, now U.S. Patent No. 8,713,742 issued on May 6, 2014, describes the operation of the wringing mechanism by a lever on a mop assembly. Therefore, US Patent No. 8,713,742 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The handle member 112 may have an elongated shape and may be a lightweight hollow metal tube. Alternatively, any rigid structure formed of wood or polymeric material may be used for the handle member 112.

[0043] Figures 2 to 6A releasable connection between a secondary cleaning member 170 and a connecting member 120 of a mop assembly 110 is illustrated. The scrubbing brush 170 may include a base structure 172 and an attachment structure 184, the base structure 172 having a plurality of bristles 174 extending from a front side 176 of the base structure 172. The attachment structure 184 may allow the scrubbing brush 170 to be removably coupled to the connecting member 120 of the mop assembly 100. The attachment structure 184 may include a pair of guide rails 185, 186 and a tab assembly 200, wherein each guide rail 185, 186 may be slidably engaged with a secondary receiving portion 136 of the connecting member 120. The pair of guide rails 185, 186 may include a first guide rail 185 disposed along a rear side 178 and / or a top side 180 of the base structure 172 and a second guide rail 186 disposed along a rear side 178 and / or a bottom side 181 of the base structure 172. For example, the guide rail 185 can be slidably engaged with the first opening 143 created between the first engagement member 140 and the base surface 138 of the secondary receiving portion 136, and the guide rail 186 can be slidably engaged with the second opening 144 created between the second engagement member 142 and the base surface 138. The two guide rails 185, 186 and the two engagement members 140, 142 can be arranged on opposite sides of the center plane 173 of the scrubbing brush 170. In some cases, the two guide rails 185, 186 and the two engagement members 140, 142 can be mirror images relative to the center plane 173.

[0044] To limit the sliding movement of the scrubbing brush 170, a retaining member 147 can be located on the outwardly facing surface 148 of the first engaging member 140 of the secondary receiving portion 136 on the front side 122 of the connecting member 120. The retaining member 147 can be a raised protrusion extending from the outwardly facing surface 148 of the secondary receiving portion 136. To secure the scrubbing brush 170 to the secondary receiving portion 136, the retaining member 147 can be received in a groove pocket 216 located on the lower surface 208 of the pivot tab 202. The center of the retaining member 147 can be substantially centered along the length L1 of the first engaging member 140. Alternatively, the center of the retaining member 147 can be offset so that the center of the retaining member 147 is closer to the first end of the first engaging member 140 than the second end of the first engaging member 140.

[0045] The scrub brush 170 can be releasably coupled to the front side 122 of the connecting member 120. In some examples, the scrub brush 170 can be releasably coupled to the rear side 124 or other side of the connecting member 120. In addition, the connecting member 120 can have a main receiving portion 134 on the underside 132.

[0046] like Figures 7 to 9As best shown, the connecting member 120 can have a front side 122, a back side 124 opposite the front side 122, a right side 126 between the front side 122 and the back side 124, a left side 128 opposite the right side 126, a handle receiving portion 130 near the top of the connecting member 120, and a lower side 132 opposite the handle receiving portion 130. The lower side 132 can include a primary receiving portion 134 that receives and secures the wringing mechanism 150. The front side 122 can include a secondary receiving portion 136, which can also be referred to as a brush receiving portion 136. The brush receiving portion 136 may include a base surface 138, a first engagement member 140 extending from the front side 122 of the connecting member 120 over a first portion of the base surface 138, wherein a first slot or opening 143 may be created between the first engagement member 140 and the base surface 138, and a second engagement member 142 extending from the front side 122 of the connecting member 120 over a second portion of the base surface 138, wherein a second slot or opening 144 may be created between the second engagement member 142 and the base surface 138. The base surface 138 may be a substantially flat surface and may be a layered surface having a plurality of layers. The first engagement member 140 may include an inwardly facing surface 145 that faces the base surface 138 and forms an acute angle with the base surface 138. Similarly, the second engagement member 142 may include an inwardly facing surface 146 that faces the base surface 138 and forms an acute angle with the base surface 138.

[0047] like Figures 10 to 13 As best shown, the base structure 172 may include a rear side 178 opposite the front side 176, a top side 180 extending between the front side 176 and the rear side 178, a bottom side 181 opposite the top side 180, a first end 182 extending between the top side 180 and the bottom side 181, and a second end 183 opposite the first end 182. The bristles 174 may be formed from one or more polymeric materials.

[0048] The first rail 185 may have a first rear surface 187, a first rail outer side surface 188, a pair of first rail inner side surfaces 189 (where each first rail inner side surface 189 diverges from the first rail outer side surface 188), a pair of first rail guide surfaces 190 at each end of the first rail 185, and a first rail outward surface 191. Each first rail guide surface 190 may extend between the first rail outer side surface 188 and one of the first rail inner side surfaces 189, where each first rail guide surface 190 may form an acute angle with one of the first rail inner side surfaces 189. The first rail outward surface 191 may extend from the top side 180 of the base structure 172 toward the first rail outer side surface 188. The first rail outward surface 191 forms an acute angle with the first rear surface 187. The first rail outward surface 191 may face or face the inward surface 145 of the first engagement member 140.

[0049] Similarly, the second rail 186 can have a second rail rear surface 192, a second rail outer side surface 193, a pair of second rail inner side surfaces 194 (where each second rail inner side surface 194 diverges from the second rail outer side surface 193), a pair of second rail guide surfaces 195 at each end of the second rail 186, and a second rail outward surface 197. Each second rail guide surface 195 can extend between the second rail outer side surface 193 and one of the second rail inner side surfaces 194, where each second rail guide surface 195 can form an acute angle with one of the second rail inner side surfaces 194. The second rail outward surface 197 can extend from the bottom side 181 of the base structure 172 toward the second rail outer side surface 193. The second outward surface 197 can form an acute angle with the second rail rear surface 192. The second rail outward surface 197 can face or face the inward surface 146 of the second engagement member 142. In addition, each of the rail guide surfaces 190, 195 can have a taper or chamfer to help steer the rails 185, 186 into their corresponding slots 143, 144. Similarly, each slot 143, 144 can have a taper or chamfered surface at each end to help steer the corresponding rail 185, 186 into its appropriate slot.

[0050] The first rail outer side surface 188 and the second rail outer side surface 193 can be substantially parallel to each other. The rail distance D1 can be greater than the brush width, where the rail distance D1 can be defined as the minimum distance between the first outer side surface and the second outer side surface. In addition, a pair of ribs 198 can connect the first rail 185 and the second rail 186. The ribs 198 can extend substantially perpendicular to the rail outer side surfaces 188, 193. The ribs 198 can help further strengthen and support the rails 185, 186. In some examples, the first rail 185 can have a central recess 199 that coincides with the position of the tab assembly 200. For example, the width W1 of the central recess 199 can be greater than the width W2 of the tab assembly 200.

[0051] Each guide rail 185, 186 may be flexible so that each guide rail 185, 186 may deform slightly when the guide rail 185, 186 slides into the opening 143, 144. Alternatively, the guide rail 185, 186 may slide freely within the opening 143, 144.

[0052] As described above, the attachment structure 184 of the scrub brush 170 may also include a tab assembly 200 extending from the base structure 172 of the scrub brush 170 to engage the retaining member 147, thereby securing the scrub brush 170 to the secondary receiving portion 136. The engagement of the tab assembly 200 and the retaining member 147 in combination with the engagement of the rails 185, 186 and the openings 143, 144 of the secondary receiving portion 136 may secure the scrub brush 170 to the connecting member 120.

[0053] The tab assembly 200 may include a pivot tab 202 pivotally connected to an arm or a pair of arms 204. The pivot tab 202 may include an upper surface 206, a lower surface 208, and a pivot member 210 extending from the lower surface 208 of the pivot tab 202. The tab 202 may have a first end 212 located farthest from the base structure 172 and a second end 214 located closest to the base structure 172 opposite the first end 212. The pivot member 210 may be located between the first end 212 and the second end 214. In addition, the pivot member 210 may contact the outward surface 148 of the secondary receiver 136 to create a gap 218 between the lower surface 208 and the outward surface 148 of the secondary receiver 136. The lower surface 208 may include a slot pocket 216 proximate the second end 214. When the scrub brush 170 is secured to the connecting member 120, the retaining member 147 may be received in the pocket 216. To allow a user to remove the scrub brush 170, the user may press downwardly on the upper surface 206 of the tab 202 at the first end 212 opposite the end having the pocket 216. The downward force acting on the first end 212 may cause the tab 202 to pivot downwardly at the first end 212 and move upwardly at the second end 214. The upward movement of the second end 214 disengages the pocket 216 from the retaining member 147 to allow the scrub brush 170 to slide out of the secondary receiving portion 136. To reattach the scrub brush 170 to the connecting member 120, the guide rails 185, 186 may be inserted back into the openings 143, 144. When the tab 202 of the scrub brush 170 approaches the retaining member 147, the user can apply a downward force on the first end 212 of the tab 202 to move the second end 214 upward and allow the second end 214 to move the pocket 216 over the retaining member 147. Once the pocket 216 is over the retaining member 147, the user can remove the pressure / force on the first end 212 to allow the second end 214 to move downward, thereby securing the retaining member 147 within the pocket 216. The example mop system 100 can allow the scrub brush 170 to slide laterally into the secondary receiving portion in either of two directions.

[0054] It is contemplated that the scrub brush 170 may be formed of any polymeric material or combination of materials. For example, the scrub brush 170 may be formed of two or more polymers, or one or more fiber reinforced polymers, or other materials. It is also contemplated that the base structure 172 may be formed using any manufacturing process, including injection molding. The bristles 174 may be formed of one or more polymeric materials. The base structure 172 and attachment structure 184 of the scrub brush (which includes a pair of rails 185, 186 and the tab assembly 200) may be formed as an integral component.

[0055] As described above, the main cleaning member 160 can be a sponge, sponge-based cleaning member, or other compressible member made of a water-absorbent porous or semi-porous material connected to the wringing mechanism 150. The main cleaning member 160 can be referred to as a mop head 160. The mop head 160 can be absorbent to allow the mop assembly 100 to pick up spills. The wringing mechanism 150 can then be used to squeeze excess water out of the mop head 160.

[0056] Figures 14 to 26 An alternative exemplary cleaning system or cleaning device 300 according to one or more aspects described herein is illustrated. The exemplary cleaning device 300 may include a mop assembly 300 including a main cleaning member 360 and a removable secondary cleaning member 370, the secondary cleaning member 370 allowing a user to make additional cleaning choices. The mop assembly 300 may include a handle assembly 310 connected to a connecting member 320, wherein the connecting member 320 may be configured as a wringing mechanism 350. The main cleaning member 360 may be connected to the wringing mechanism 350, wherein the wringing mechanism 350 may be configured to wring any excess liquid in the main cleaning member 360 by squeezing and / or folding the main cleaning member 360. The secondary cleaning member 370 may be releasably fixed to the connecting member 320 of the mop assembly 300. The main cleaning member 360 may be a sponge-based cleaning member, while the secondary cleaning member 370 may be a handheld cleaning member, such as a scrubbing brush, a scrubbing pad, or a similar cleaning member. In the illustrative example, the secondary cleaning member 370 is shown as a scrubbing brush 370 .

[0057] The mop assembly 300 can be used as a conventional mop to clean floors or other surfaces that require cleaning using the main cleaning member 360. However, in situations where the surface may be difficult to clean, the removable scrubbing brush 370 can provide the user with another option to effectively clean the surface while being easily retained by the mop assembly 300 for ready use. As another option, the scrubbing brush 370 can be used when attached to the connecting member 320 of the mop assembly 300.

[0058] The handle assembly 310 of the cleaning tool 300 may include a handle member 312, wherein a control rod 316 is connected to the handle member 312. The handle member 312 may include a first end 314, a second end opposite the first end 314, wherein the first end 314 may be connected to a handle receiving portion 330 of the connecting member 320. A handle or similar member located on the handle member 312 near the second end may provide a position for the user's hand to easily grasp and use the mop assembly 300. The control rod 316 may be connected to the wringing mechanism 350 and may be configured to control the movement of the wringing mechanism 350. For example, the control rod 316 can have a use position and a wringing position, in which the wringing mechanism 350 allows the main cleaning member 360 to be in a substantially flat or planar orientation to clean the intended surface, and in the wringing position, the control rod 316 can be pulled upward to squeeze the wringing mechanism 350 toward each other and / or fold the ends 364, 366 of the main cleaning member 360 to wring or squeeze out any excess moisture (such as water or cleaning solution) from the main cleaning member 360. The control rod 316 can be connected to the wringing mechanism 350 via a rod or cable, which extends inside the hollow portion of the handle member 312 and the hollow portion of the connecting member 320. The handle member 312 can have an elongated shape and can be a lightweight hollow metal tube. Alternatively, any rigid structure formed by wood or polymeric material can be used for the handle member 312.

[0059] Figures 15 to 19The releasable connection between the secondary cleaning member 370 and the connecting member 320 of the mop assembly 300 is illustrated. The scrubbing brush 370 may include a base structure 372 and an attachment structure 384, the base structure 372 having a plurality of bristles 374 extending from a front side 376 of the base structure 372. The attachment structure 384 may allow the scrubbing brush 370 to be removably coupled to the connecting member 320 of the mop assembly 300. The attachment structure 384 may include a pair of guide rails 385, 386 and a tab assembly 400, wherein each guide rail 385, 386 may be slidably engaged with the secondary receiving portion 336 of the connecting member 320. The pair of guide rails 385, 386 may include a first guide rail 385 arranged along a rear side 378 and / or a top side 380 of the base structure 372 and a second guide rail 386 that may be arranged along a rear side 378 and / or a bottom side 381 of the base structure 372. For example, the guide rail 385 can be slidably engaged with the first opening 343 created between the first engagement member 340 and the base surface 338 of the secondary receiving portion 336, and the guide rail 386 can be slidably engaged with the second opening 344 created between the second engagement member 342 and the base surface 338. The two guide rails 385, 386 and the two engagement members 340, 342 can be arranged on opposite sides of the central plane 373 of the scrubbing brush 370. In some cases, the two guide rails 385, 386 and the two engagement members 340, 342 can be mirror images relative to the central plane 373.

[0060] To limit the sliding movement of the scrubbing brush 370, the first retaining member 347 can be located on the outward surface 348 of the first engagement member 340 of the secondary receiving portion 336 on the front side 322 of the connecting member 320, and the second retaining member 339 extends upward from the base surface 338. The first retaining member 347 can be a raised protrusion extending from the outward surface 348 of the secondary receiving portion 336. The first retaining member 347 can have an inclined surface 349 on one side and an engagement surface 351 opposite the inclined surface 349. The engagement surface 351 can contact the stop surface 416 on the tab assembly 400. To secure the scrubbing brush 370 to the secondary receiving portion 336, the guide rails 385, 386 can be slid into their respective openings 343, 344. The scrubbing brush 370 slides into the openings 343, 344 until the stop surface 420 of the central engagement member 398 contacts the second retaining member 339 on the secondary receiving portion 336. The second retaining member 339 may be a raised protrusion extending from the base surface 338. In some examples, the second retaining member 339 may have a polygonal shape, such as the rectangular shape shown, although the shape of the second retaining member 339 may have any shape including a curved or rounded shape. In addition, when the scrubbing brush 370 slides into the secondary receiving portion, the tab assembly 400 may slide upward along the inclined surface 349 until the stop surface 416 reaches the engagement surface 351, wherein the tab assembly 400 falls into a proper position so that the engagement surface 351 contacts and / or faces the stop surface 416. The engagement of the first retaining member 347 and the stop surface 416 may prevent the scrubbing brush 370 from moving laterally in a first direction, while the engagement of the second retaining member 339 and the central engagement member 398 may prevent the scrubbing brush 370 from moving laterally in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The center of the first retaining member 347 and the center of the second retaining member 339 may be substantially centered along the length L1 of the first engagement member 340. Alternatively, the center of the retaining member 347 and the center of the second retaining member 339 may be offset such that the center of the retaining member 347 is closer to the first end of the first engaging member 340 than the second end of the first engaging member 340 .

[0061] The scrub brush 370 can be releasably coupled to the front side 322 of the connecting member 320. In some examples, the scrub brush 370 can be releasably coupled to the rear side 324 or other side of the connecting member 320. The connecting member 320 can have a main receiving portion 334 on the underside 332.

[0062] like Figure 20 to Figure 22As best shown, the connecting member 320 can have a front side 322, a back side 324 opposite the front side 322, a right side 326 between the front side 322 and the back side 324, a left side 328 opposite the right side 326, a handle receiving portion 330 near the top of the connecting member 320, and a lower side 332 opposite the handle receiving portion 330. The lower side 332 can include a main receiving portion 334 that receives and secures the wringing mechanism 350. The front side 322 can include a secondary receiving portion 336, which can also be referred to as a brush receiving portion 336. The brush receiving portion 336 may include a base surface 338, a second retaining member 339, a first engagement member 340 extending from the front side 322 of the connecting member 320 over a first portion of the base surface 338, wherein a first slot or opening 343 may be created between the first engagement member 340 and the base surface 338, and a second engagement member 342 extending from the front side 322 of the connecting member 320 over a second portion of the base surface 338, wherein a second slot or opening 344 may be created between the second engagement member 342 and the base surface 338. The first engagement member 340 may include an inwardly facing surface 345 that faces the base surface 338 and forms an acute angle with the base surface 338. Similarly, the second engagement member 342 may include an inwardly facing surface 346 that faces the base surface 338 and forms an acute angle with the base surface 338.

[0063] like Figure 23 to Figure 26 As best shown, the base structure 372 may include a back side 378 opposite the front side 376, a top side 380 extending between the front side 376 and the back side 378, a bottom side 381 opposite the top side 380, a first end 382 extending between the top side 380 and the bottom side 381, and a second end 383 opposite the first end 382. The bristles 374 may be formed from one or more polymeric materials.

[0064] The first rail 385 may include a first rear surface 387, a first rail outer side surface 388, a pair of first rail inner side surfaces 389 (where each first rail inner side surface 189 diverges from the first rail outer side surface 388), a first rail guide surface 390 at the end of the first rail 385, and a first rail outward surface 391. The first rail guide surface 390 may extend between the first rail outer side surface 388 and the first rail inner side surface 389. In some examples, the first rail guide surface 390 may be at an end of the first rail 385 closer to the second end 383. In addition, the first rail guide surface 390 may form an acute angle with the first rail inner side surface 389. The first outward surface 391 may extend from the top side 380 of the base structure 372 toward the first rail outer side surface 388. The first rail outward surface 391 forms an acute angle with the first rear surface 387. The first rail outwardly facing surface 391 may face or face the inwardly facing surface 345 of the first engagement member 340 .

[0065] Similarly, the second rail 386 may include a second rail rear surface 392, a second rail outer side surface 393, a pair of second rail inner side surfaces 394 (where each second rail inner side surface 394 diverges from the second rail outer side surface 393), a second rail guide surface 395 at the end of the second rail 386, and a second rail outward surface 397. In some examples, the first rail guide surface 395 may be at the end of the first rail 386 closer to the second end 383. The second rail guide surface 395 may extend between the second rail outer side surface 393 and the second rail inner side surface 394. Additionally, the second rail guide surface 395 may form an acute angle with the second rail inner side surface 394. The second rail outward surface 397 may extend from the bottom side 381 of the base structure 372 toward the second rail outer side surface 393. The second outward surface may form an acute angle with the second rail rear surface 392. The second rail outwardly facing surface 397 may face or face the inwardly facing surface 346 of the second engagement member 342. In addition, each of the guide surfaces 390, 395 may have a taper or chamfer to help redirect the rails 385, 386 into their corresponding slots 343, 344. Similarly, each slot 343, 344 may have a taper or chamfered surface at each end to help redirect the corresponding rail 385, 386 into its appropriate slot.

[0066] The first rail outer side surface 388 and the second rail outer side surface 393 can be substantially parallel to each other. The rail distance D1 can be greater than the brush width, wherein the rail distance is the minimum distance between the first outer side surface and the second outer side surface. In addition, a central engaging member 398 can connect the first rail 385 and the second rail 386. The central engaging member 398 can extend substantially perpendicular to the rail outer side surfaces 388, 393. The central engaging member 398 can include a stop surface 420 that contacts the second retaining member 339 on the secondary receiving portion 336. As shown in the illustrated example, the stop surface 420 can be substantially planar, but in other examples, the stop surface can be non-planar, such as a concave or convex curved surface. The central engaging member 398 can be substantially rectangular or can have different shapes, such as triangular, circular, or other shapes known to those skilled in the art. The central engaging member 398 can help further strengthen and support the rails 385, 386. In some examples, the first rail 385 can have a central recess 399 that coincides with the position of the tab assembly 400. For example, the width W1 of the central recess 399 may be greater than the width W2 of the tab assembly 400 .

[0067] Each guide rail 385, 386 may be flexible so that each guide rail 385, 386 may deform slightly when the guide rail 385, 386 slides into the opening 343, 344. Alternatively, the guide rail 385, 386 may slide freely within the opening 343, 344.

[0068] As described above, the attachment structure 384 of the scrubbing brush 370 may also include a tab assembly 400 extending from the base structure 372 of the scrubbing brush 370 to engage the first retaining member 347, thereby laterally securing the scrubbing brush 370 to the secondary receiving portion 336 in a first direction, while the engagement of the second retaining member 339 and the central engagement member 398 may laterally constrain the scrubbing brush 370 in a second direction opposite to the first direction. In addition, the engagement of the guide rails 385, 386 with the openings 343, 344 helps constrain the scrubbing brush 370 in the vertical direction and in the forward and rearward directions. In short, the engagement of the tab assembly 400 and the first retaining member 347, the engagement of the central engagement member 398 and the second retaining member 339, and the engagement of the guide rails 385, 386 with the openings 343, 344 of the secondary receiving portion 336 may secure the scrubbing brush 370 to the connecting member 320. When the scrubbing brush 370 is connected to the connecting member 320, the scrubbing brush 370 can move slightly. For example, the scrubbing brush 370 can move laterally less than 1 mm or less than 2 mm.

[0069] The tab assembly 400 may include a pivot tab 402 pivotally connected to an arm or a pair of arms 404. The pivot tab 402 may include an upper surface 406, a lower surface 408, and a pivot member 410 extending from the lower surface 408 of the pivot tab 402. The tab 402 may have a first end 412 located farthest from the base structure 372 and a second end 414 located closest to the base structure 372 opposite the first end 412. The pivot member 410 may be located between the first end 212 and the second end 414. In addition, the pivot member 410 may contact the outward surface 348 of the secondary receiver 436 to create a gap 418 between the lower surface 208 and the outward surface 348 of the secondary receiver 336. The lower surface 408 may include a stop surface 416 proximate the second end 414. The stop surface 416 may extend from the lower surface 408 of the pivot tab 402. When the scrub brush 170 is secured to the connecting member 320, the first retaining member 347 may contact and / or face the stop surface 416. To allow a user to remove the scrub brush 170, the user may press downwardly on the upper surface 406 of the tab 402 at the first end 412 opposite the end having the stop surface 416. The downward force acting on the first end 412 may cause the tab 402 to pivot downwardly at the first end 412 and move upwardly at the second end 414. When the scrub brush slides out of the secondary receiving portion 336 laterally in the first direction, the upward movement of the second end 414 allows the stop surface 416 to pass over the first retaining member 347. To reattach the scrub brush 370 to the connecting member 320, the guide rails 385, 386 may be inserted back into the openings 343, 344 in the second lateral direction. As the tab 402 of the scrubbing brush 370 approaches the retaining member 347, the outer surface of the tab 402 slides up the inclined surface 349 until the stop surface 416 passes the stop surface 351, at which point the tab 402 will be lowered, placing the stop surface 416 in a position facing the stop surface 351 of the first retaining member 347. The scrubbing brush 370 can continue to move in the second lateral direction until the central engagement member 398 contacts the second retaining member 339. The example mop system 300 can allow the scrubbing brush 370 to slide laterally into the secondary receiving portion in only one direction. Once secured to the secondary receiving portion 336, the scrubbing brush 370 can have less than 1 mm, or in some cases less than 2 mm, of play in any direction.

[0070] It is contemplated that the scrubbing brush 370 may be formed of any polymeric material or combination of materials. For example, the scrubbing brush 370 may be formed of two or more polymers, or one or more fiber reinforced polymers, or other materials. It is also contemplated that the base structure 372 may be formed using any manufacturing process, including injection molding. The bristles 374 may be formed of one or more polymeric materials. The base structure 372 and the attachment structure 384 of the scrubbing brush (which includes a pair of rails 385, 386 and the tab assembly 400) may be formed as an integral component.

[0071] As described above, the main cleaning member 360 can be a sponge, sponge-based cleaning member, or other compressible member made of a water-absorbent porous or semi-porous material connected to the wringing mechanism 350. The main cleaning member 360 can be referred to as a mop head 360. The mop head 360 can be absorbent to allow the mop assembly 100 to pick up spills. The wringing mechanism 350 can then be used to squeeze excess water out of the mop head 360.

[0072] Various aspects of the disclosure have been described in terms of illustrative examples thereof. Numerous other examples, modifications, and variations within the scope and spirit of the appended claims will occur to those of ordinary skill in the art from a review of the disclosure. For example, the exemplary mop systems described herein may include features that combine features of the mop systems described herein, or some features may be optional according to various aspects of the disclosure.

[0073] The present disclosure also relates to the following aspects:

[0074] 1. A mop assembly, comprising:

[0075] a handle assembly including a handle member having a first end and a second end opposite the first end;

[0076] a connecting member having a handle receiving portion connected to the first end of the handle member; the connecting member having a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite to the handle receiving portion;

[0077] wherein the bottom side includes a main receiving portion and the front side includes a brush receiving portion;

[0078] a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion;

[0079] a flexible cleaning member connected to the main receiving portion, wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the flexible cleaning member; and

[0080] A scrub brush is releasably attached to the brush receiving portion, wherein the scrub brush includes a base structure and an attachment structure, wherein a plurality of bristles extend from a front side of the base structure.

[0081] 2. The mop assembly according to aspect 1, wherein the brush receiving portion comprises:

[0082] Base surface;

[0083] a first engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot is created between the first engagement member and the base surface; and

[0084] A second engagement member extends from the front side of the connecting member over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot is created between the second engagement member and the base surface.

[0085] 3. A mop assembly according to aspect 2, wherein the brush receiving portion further comprises a first retaining member located on an outward surface of the front side of the connecting member, and the attachment structure of the scrubbing brush comprises a tab assembly connected to the base structure of the scrubbing brush, wherein the tab assembly engages the first retaining member to help secure the scrubbing brush to the connecting member.

[0086] 4. The mop assembly of aspect 3, wherein the brush receiving portion further comprises a second retaining member extending upwardly from the base surface of the brush receiving portion, and the attachment structure comprises a central engagement member contacting the second retaining member to help secure the scrubbing brush to the connecting member.

[0087] 5. The mop assembly according to aspect 3, wherein the base structure further comprises a rear side opposite to the front side, a top side extending between the front side and the rear side, a bottom side opposite to the top side, a first end extending between the top side and the bottom side, and a second end opposite to the first end, and

[0088] Wherein the attachment structure includes a pair of rails located on a portion of the rear side of the base structure.

[0089] 6. The mop assembly according to aspect 5, wherein the pair of rails comprises:

[0090] a first rail having a first rear surface, a first outer surface, and a first inner surface, wherein the first inner surface diverges from the first outer surface, and

[0091] a second guide rail having a second rear surface, a second outer surface, and a second inner surface, wherein the second inner surface diverges from the second outer surface, and

[0092] The first outer surface and the second outer surface are substantially parallel to each other.

[0093] 7. The mop assembly of aspect 6, wherein the first rail has a first outwardly facing surface extending from the top side of the base structure toward the first outer side surface, and the second rail has a second outwardly facing surface extending from the bottom side of the base surface toward the second outer side surface,

[0094] The first outwardly facing surface forms a first acute angle with the first rear surface.

[0095] 8. The mop assembly of aspect 7, wherein the first outwardly facing surface faces the inwardly facing surface of the first engagement member when the scrubbing brush is slidably engaged with the brush receiving portion.

[0096] 9. The mop assembly according to aspect 6, wherein the first guide rail further comprises a first guide surface extending between the first outer side surface and the first inner side surface, wherein the first guide surface forms an acute angle with the first inner side surface.

[0097] 10. The mop assembly according to aspect 3, wherein the tab assembly comprises:

[0098] A pivot tab having a first end located farthest from the base structure, a second end located closest to the base structure relative to the first end, an upper surface, a lower surface opposite to the upper surface, and a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts the outward surface of the front side of the connecting member to create a gap between the lower surface of the pivot tab and the outward surface of the brush receiving portion.

[0099] 11. The mop assembly of aspect 10, wherein the first retaining member is a raised protrusion extending from the outwardly facing surface of the brush receiving portion, and wherein the first retaining member has an inclined surface and an engagement surface facing a stop surface on the pivot tab.

[0100] 12. A cleaning device, comprising:

[0101] a handle assembly including an elongated handle member and a control rod connected to the elongated handle member;

[0102] a connecting member having a handle receiving portion attached to an end of the elongated handle member; the connecting member having a front side, a rear side opposite the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite the handle receiving portion;

[0103] wherein the bottom side includes a primary receiving portion and the front side includes a secondary receiving portion;

[0104] a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion of the connecting member, wherein movement of the wringing mechanism is controlled by the control rod;

[0105] a main cleaning member releasably engageable with the wringing mechanism,

[0106] wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the main cleaning member by folding the first end of the main cleaning member toward the second end of the main cleaning member; and

[0107] a secondary cleaning member releasably attached to the secondary receiving portion, the secondary cleaning member having a base structure with a cleaning structure extending from a first side of the base structure, a pair of guide rails on a second side of the base structure, and a tab assembly on a third side of the base structure, wherein the third side is between the first side and the second side,

[0108] Wherein the pair of rails slidably engage a pair of slots in the secondary receiving portion, the tab assembly engages a first retaining member located on an outwardly facing surface of the secondary receiving portion to help secure the secondary cleaning member to the connecting member.

[0109] 13. The cleaning appliance of aspect 12, wherein the tab assembly comprises:

[0110] A pivot tab having: a first end portion, the first end portion being located at a position farthest from the base structure; a second end portion, the second end portion being located at a position closest to the base structure relative to the first end portion; an upper surface; a lower surface, the lower surface being opposite to the upper surface; and a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts the outward surface of the secondary receiving portion to create a gap between the lower surface and the outward surface of the secondary receiving portion.

[0111] 14. A cleaning appliance according to aspect 13, wherein the first retaining member is a raised protrusion extending from the outwardly facing surface of the secondary receiving portion, and wherein the first retaining member is received in a pocket in the lower surface of the pivot tab.

[0112] 15. A cleaning tool according to aspect 12, wherein the first retaining member is a raised protrusion extending from the outward surface of the secondary receiving portion, and wherein the first retaining member includes an inclined surface and an engagement surface opposite to the inclined surface, wherein the engagement surface faces a stop surface extending from the lower surface of the tab assembly.

[0113] 16. The cleaning implement of aspect 12, wherein the primary cleaning member is a sponge-based cleaning member and the secondary cleaning member is a scrubbing brush.

[0114] 17. The cleaning appliance according to aspect 12, wherein the secondary receiving portion comprises:

[0115] Base surface;

[0116] a first engagement member extending from the first side over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot of the pair of slots is created between the first engagement member and the base surface; and

[0117] a second engagement member extending from the first side over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot of the pair of slots is created between the second engagement member and the base surface,

[0118] wherein the secondary receiving portion further comprises a second retaining member extending upwardly from the base surface, and

[0119] A central engaging member contacts the second retaining member to help secure the secondary cleaning member to the connecting member, wherein the central engaging member is located between the pair of guide rails.

[0120] 18. A mop assembly, comprising:

[0121] a handle assembly including an elongated handle member and a control rod connected to the elongated handle member;

[0122] a connecting member having a handle receiving portion attached to an end of the elongated handle member; the connecting member having a front side, a rear side opposite the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite the handle receiving portion;

[0123] wherein the bottom side comprises a main receiving portion and the front side comprises a brush receiving portion, the brush receiving portion comprising:

[0124] Base surface;

[0125] a first engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot of a pair of slots is created between the first engagement member and the base surface;

[0126] a second engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot of the pair of slots is created between the second engagement member and the base surface;

[0127] a first retaining member formed as a raised protrusion on an outwardly facing surface of the connecting member; and

[0128] a second retaining member extending upwardly from the base surface;

[0129] a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion of the connecting member, wherein movement of the wringing mechanism is controlled by the control rod;

[0130] a sponge-based cleaning member releasably engageable with the wringing mechanism,

[0131] wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the sponge-based cleaning member by folding a first end of the sponge-based cleaning member toward a second end of the sponge-based cleaning member; and

[0132] a scrub brush releasably attached to the brush receiving portion, the scrub brush comprising:

[0133] the base structure having a plurality of bristles extending from a first side of the base structure,

[0134] a pair of guide rails located on a second side of the base structure,

[0135] a central engagement member located between the pair of rails, and

[0136] a tab assembly located on a third side of the base structure, wherein the third side is located between the first side and the second side, and

[0137] wherein the pair of rails of the scrub brush slidably engage the pair of slots of the brush receiving portion, the tab assembly engages the first retaining member, and the central engagement member contacts the second retaining member to secure the scrub brush to the connecting member.

[0138] 19. The mop assembly of aspect 18, wherein the base structure of the scrubbing brush, the pair of rails and the tab assembly are formed as a unitary component.

[0139] 20. The mop assembly of aspect 18, wherein the tab assembly comprises:

[0140] A pivot tab having a first end located farthest from the base structure, a second end located closest to the base structure relative to the first end, an upper surface, a lower surface opposite to the upper surface, and a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts the outward surface of the connecting member to create a gap between the lower surface and the outward surface of the connecting member.

Claims

1. A mop assembly, comprising: a handle assembly including a handle member having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a connecting member having a handle receiving portion connected to the first end of the handle member; the connecting member having a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite to the handle receiving portion; wherein the bottom side includes a main receiving portion and the front side includes a brush receiving portion; a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion; a flexible cleaning member connected to the main receiving portion, wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the flexible cleaning member; as well as a scrub brush releasably attached to the brush receiving portion, wherein the scrub brush comprises a base structure and an attachment structure, wherein the attachment structure of the scrub brush comprises a tab assembly connected to the base structure of the scrub brush, and wherein a plurality of bristles extend from a front side of the base structure; wherein the base structure further comprises a rear side opposite to the front side, a top side extending between the front side and the rear side, a bottom side opposite to the top side, a first end extending between the top side and the bottom side, and a second end opposite to the first end, and wherein the attachment structure comprises a pair of rails located on a portion of the rear side of the base structure, The pair of guide rails comprises: a first rail having a first rear surface, a first outer surface, and a first inner surface, wherein the first inner surface diverges from the first outer surface, and a second guide rail having a second rear surface, a second outer surface, and a second inner surface, wherein the second inner surface diverges from the first outer surface, and wherein the first outer side surface and the second outer side surface are substantially parallel to each other; and wherein the first guide rail further comprises a first guide surface extending between the first outer side surface and the first inner side surface, wherein the first guide surface forms an acute angle with the first inner side surface; and The brush receiving portion comprises: Base surface; a first engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot is created between the first engagement member and the base surface; and a second engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot is created between the second engagement member and the base surface; a first retaining member located on an outwardly facing surface of the front side of the connecting member; wherein the tab assembly engages the first retaining member to help secure the scrub brush to the connecting member.

2. The mop assembly of claim 1 , wherein the brush receiving portion further comprises a second retaining member extending upwardly from the base surface of the brush receiving portion, and the attachment structure comprises a central engagement member contacting the second retaining member to help secure the scrubbing brush to the connecting member.

3. The mop assembly of claim 1 , wherein the first rail has a first outwardly facing surface extending from the top side of the base structure toward the first outer side surface, and the second rail has a second outwardly facing surface extending from the bottom side of the base surface toward the second outer side surface, The first outwardly facing surface forms a first acute angle with the first rear surface.

4. The mop assembly of claim 3, wherein the first outwardly facing surface faces the inwardly facing surface of the first engagement member when the scrubbing brush is slidably engaged with the brush receiving portion.

5. The mop assembly of claim 1, wherein the tab assembly comprises: a pivot tab having a first end located farthest from the base structure, a second end located opposite the first end and closest to the base structure, an upper surface, and a lower surface opposite the upper surface; and a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts the outwardly facing surface of the front side of the connecting member to create a gap between the lower surface of the pivot tab and the outwardly facing surface of the brush receiving portion.

6. A mop assembly, comprising: a handle assembly including a handle member having a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a connecting member having a handle receiving portion connected to the first end of the handle member; the connecting member having a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite to the handle receiving portion; wherein the bottom side includes a main receiving portion and the front side includes a brush receiving portion; a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion; a flexible cleaning member connected to the main receiving portion, wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the flexible cleaning member; as well as a scrub brush releasably attached to the brush receiving portion, wherein the scrub brush comprises a base structure and an attachment structure, wherein the attachment structure of the scrub brush comprises a tab assembly connected to the base structure of the scrub brush, and wherein a plurality of bristles extend from a front side of the base structure; Wherein, the brush receiving part comprises: Base surface; a first engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot is created between the first engagement member and the base surface; and a second engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot is created between the second engagement member and the base surface; a first retaining member located on an outwardly facing surface of the front side of the connecting member; wherein the tab assembly engages the first retaining member to help secure the scrub brush to the connecting member; Wherein the tab assembly comprises: a pivot tab having a first end located furthest from the base structure, a second end located opposite the first end and closest to the base structure, an upper surface, a lower surface opposite the upper surface, and a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts the outwardly facing surface of the front side of the connecting member to create a gap between the lower surface of the pivot tab and the outwardly facing surface of the brush receiving portion; and Wherein the first retaining member is a raised protrusion extending from the outwardly facing surface of the brush receiving portion, and wherein the first retaining member has an inclined surface and an engagement surface facing a stop surface on the pivot tab.

7. A cleaning device comprising: a handle assembly including an elongated handle member and a control rod connected to the elongated handle member; a connecting member having a handle receiving portion attached to an end of the elongated handle member; The connecting member has a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite to the handle receiving portion; wherein the bottom side includes a primary receiving portion and the front side includes a secondary receiving portion; a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion of the connecting member, wherein movement of the wringing mechanism is controlled by the control rod; a main cleaning member releasably engageable with the wringing mechanism, wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the main cleaning member by folding a first end of the main cleaning member toward a second end of the main cleaning member; as well as a secondary cleaning member releasably attached to the secondary receiving portion, the secondary cleaning member having a base structure with a cleaning structure extending from a first side of the base structure, a pair of guide rails on a second side of the base structure, and a tab assembly on a third side of the base structure, wherein the third side is between the first side and the second side, wherein the pair of rails slidably engage a pair of slots in the secondary receiving portion, and the tab assembly engages a first retaining member located on an outwardly facing surface of the secondary receiving portion to help secure the secondary cleaning member to the connecting member; Wherein the tab assembly comprises: a pivot tab having: a first end portion, the first end portion being located farthest from the base structure; a second end portion, the second end portion being located opposite the first end portion and closest to the base structure; an upper surface; a lower surface, the lower surface being opposite the upper surface; and a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts the outwardly facing surface of the secondary receiving portion to create a gap between the lower surface and the outwardly facing surface of the secondary receiving portion; and Wherein the first retaining member is a raised protrusion extending from the outwardly facing surface of the secondary receiving portion, and wherein the first retaining member is received in a pocket located in the lower surface of the pivot tab.

8. The cleaning appliance of claim 7, wherein the primary cleaning member is a sponge-based cleaning member and the secondary cleaning member is a scrubbing brush.

9. A cleaning tool comprising: a handle assembly including an elongated handle member and a control rod connected to the elongated handle member; a connecting member having a handle receiving portion attached to an end of the elongated handle member; The connecting member has a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite to the handle receiving portion; wherein the bottom side includes a primary receiving portion and the front side includes a secondary receiving portion; a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion of the connecting member, wherein movement of the wringing mechanism is controlled by the control rod; a main cleaning member releasably engageable with the wringing mechanism, wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the main cleaning member by folding a first end of the main cleaning member toward a second end of the main cleaning member; as well as a secondary cleaning member releasably attached to the secondary receiving portion, the secondary cleaning member having a base structure with a cleaning structure extending from a first side of the base structure, a pair of guide rails on a second side of the base structure, and a tab assembly on a third side of the base structure, wherein the third side is between the first side and the second side, wherein the pair of rails slidably engage a pair of slots in the secondary receiving portion, and the tab assembly engages a first retaining member located on an outwardly facing surface of the secondary receiving portion to help secure the secondary cleaning member to the connecting member; and The secondary receiving unit comprises: Base surface; a first engagement member extending from the first side over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot of the pair of slots is created between the first engagement member and the base surface; and a second engagement member extending from the first side over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot of the pair of slots is created between the second engagement member and the base surface, wherein the secondary receiving portion further comprises a second retaining member extending upwardly from the base surface, and A central engaging member contacts the second retaining member to help secure the secondary cleaning member to the connecting member, wherein the central engaging member is located between the pair of guide rails.

10. A mop assembly, comprising: a handle assembly including an elongated handle member and a control rod connected to the elongated handle member; a connecting member having a handle receiving portion attached to an end of the elongated handle member; The connecting member has a front side, a rear side opposite to the front side, and a bottom side between the front side and the rear side and arranged opposite to the handle receiving portion; wherein the bottom side comprises a main receiving portion and the front side comprises a brush receiving portion, the brush receiving portion comprising: Base surface; a first engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a first portion of the base surface, wherein a first slot of a pair of slots is created between the first engagement member and the base surface; a second engagement member extending from the front side of the connecting member over a second portion of the base surface, wherein a second slot of the pair of slots is created between the second engagement member and the base surface; a first retaining member formed as a raised protrusion on an outwardly facing surface of the connecting member; and a second retaining member extending upwardly from the base surface; a wringing mechanism connected to the main receiving portion of the connecting member, wherein movement of the wringing mechanism is controlled by the control rod; a sponge-based cleaning member releasably engageable with the wringing mechanism, wherein the wringing mechanism is configured to wring any excess moisture from the sponge-based cleaning member by folding a first end of the sponge-based cleaning member toward a second end of the sponge-based cleaning member; and a scrub brush releasably attached to the brush receiving portion, the scrub brush comprising: the base structure having a plurality of bristles extending from a first side of the base structure, a pair of guide rails located on a second side of the base structure, a central engagement member located between the pair of rails, and a tab assembly located on a third side of the base structure, wherein the third side is located between the first side and the second side, and wherein the pair of rails of the scrub brush slidably engage the pair of slots of the brush receiving portion, the tab assembly engages the first retaining member, and the central engagement member contacts the second retaining member to secure the scrub brush to the connecting member.

11. The mop assembly of claim 10, wherein the base structure of the scrubbing brush, the pair of rails and the tab assembly are formed as a unitary member.

12. The mop assembly of claim 10, wherein the tab assembly comprises: a pivot tab having: a first end, the first end being located at a position farthest from the base structure; a second end, the second end being located at a position closest to the base structure opposite to the first end; an upper surface; and a lower surface, the lower surface being opposite to the upper surface; and a pivot member extending from the lower surface, wherein the pivot member contacts the outwardly facing surface of the connecting member to create a gap between the lower surface and the outwardly facing surface of the connecting member.

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