Cleaning tool with double-sided cleaning head

Abstract

A cleaning tool (1) for cleaning a floor comprises a cleaning head (2), a handle (3) and a coupling (4). The cleaning head (2) comprises a first side (5) and an opposite second side (6). The cleaning head (2) and the handle (3) are pivotally connected to each other by a link (4) for optionally using the first side (5) and the second side (6). A first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a first type of cleaning device and a second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a second type of cleaning device (7) different from the first type of cleaning device. The first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) comprises at least one first type of fastening element (8) configured to fasten the first type of cleaning device to the cleaning head (2) and at least one second type of fastening element (9) configured to fasten the second type of cleaning device (7) to the cleaning head (2).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The invention relates to a cleaning tool according to claim 1 and to a method of manufacturing such a cleaning tool according to claim 14. BACKGROUND

[0002] Cleaning tools, such as mops, for cleaning floors are well known in the art. It is generally known in this case that thorough cleaning is achieved when cleaning is performed with a suitable cleaning tool. For example, thorough cleaning of a floor is achieved by performing dry cleaning in a first step, by removing dust, etc., and by performing wet cleaning in a subsequent step, by wiping dirt, etc.

[0003] Although greater benefits are provided by a specific cleaning operation, such as dry cleaning followed by wet cleaning, a user can find it inconvenient to have multiple cleaning tools due to limited storage availability and more elaborate cleaning, since a specific cleaning tool must be used for each cleaning operation. Furthermore, higher costs arise if multiple cleaning tools must be purchased. SUMMARY

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

[0005] This object is achieved by a cleaning tool according to claim 1. In particular, a cleaning tool for cleaning a floor is provided, wherein the cleaning tool comprises a cleaning head, a handle and a link. The cleaning head comprises a first side and an opposite second side. The cleaning head and the handle are pivotally connected to each other by the link for optionally using the first side and the second side. The first side of the cleaning head is designed for a first type of cleaning device and the second side of the cleaning head is designed for a second type of cleaning device which is different from the first type of cleaning device. The first side of the cleaning head comprises at least one first type of fastening element configured to fasten the first type of cleaning device to the cleaning head and at least one second type of fastening element configured to fasten the second type of cleaning device to the cleaning head.

[0006] That is, the cleaning tool preferably comprises a dual-sided cleaning head, wherein one side is specifically designed for use with a specific cleaning device, i.e. a specific type of cleaning device, which is referred to herein as a first type cleaning device and a second type cleaning device. The cleaning tool is configured such that the user can select the side of the cleaning head and thus the type of cleaning device for use by pivoting the cleaning head and bringing the first side and thus the first type cleaning device fastened to the cleaning head or the second side and thus the second type cleaning device fastened to the cleaning head into a position for use. The first type fastening element and the second type fastening element are preferably designed for the first type cleaning device and the second type cleaning device. The first type fastening element and the second type fastening element can be the same type of fastening element, e.g. the same fastening element. However, and as will be explained in more detail below, the first type fastening element and the second type fastening element are preferably different types of fastening elements.

[0007] For this purpose, it is particularly preferred that, respectively, the first side of the cleaning head is configured to support the first type cleaning device and the second side of the cleaning head is configured to support the second type cleaning device. That is, the first type cleaning device is preferably fastened to the first type fastening element such that the first type cleaning device is at least partially arranged on the first side of the cleaning head, and wherein said first side of the cleaning head comprises features suitable for use with the first type cleaning device. Likewise, the second type cleaning device is preferably fastened to the second type fastening element such that the second type cleaning device is at least partially arranged on the second side of the cleaning head, and wherein said second side of the cleaning head comprises features suitable for use with the second type cleaning device.

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

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

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

[0011] The second type of fastening element provided on the first side of the cleaning head allows fastening of a second type of cleaning device, such that the second type of cleaning device can be extended on the second side of the cleaning head and along the lateral side of the cleaning head up to the first side of the cleaning head, wherein the second type of fastening element can fasten the second type of cleaning device. In this way, the second type of cleaning device can be supported on the second side of the cleaning head.

[0012] Providing the first type of fastening element and the second type of fastening element on the same side of the cleaning head enables the use of the same cleaning tool with different types of cleaning devices in order to perform different cleaning operations. Any inconvenience associated with multiple cleaning tools designed for a single cleaning operation is obviated, such as limited storage availability, more delicate cleaning or higher costs if multiple cleaning tools have to be purchased.

[0013] The first type of cleaning device is preferably heavy, and / or woven, and / or reusable, and / or configured for wet cleaning. Indeed, the first type of cleaning device preferably has a grammage of 150 g / m2or more. The first type of cleaning device is preferably a woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m2or more. 2 The first type of cleaning device is preferably a woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m2or more. 2 The first type of cleaning device is preferably a woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m2or more.

[0014] The second type of cleaning device is preferably soft, and / or light, and / or non-woven, and / or disposable, and / or configured for dry cleaning. Indeed, the second type of cleaning device preferably has a grammage of 150 g / m2or less. The second type of cleaning device is preferably a non-woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m2or less. 2 The second type of cleaning device is preferably a non-woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m2or less. 2 The second type of cleaning device is preferably a non-woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m2or less.

[0015] The first type of cleaning device and / or the second type of cleaning device is preferably a commercially available cleaning device and / or is known in the art.

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

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

[0018] In particular, the first side of the cleaning head is preferably configured to support a first type of cleaning device having a grammage of 150 g / m2or more. 2heavy cleaning device, such as a woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m 2 woven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m 2 nonwoven fabric having a grammage of 150 g / m

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

[0020] The first side of the cleaning head preferably comprises or consists of at least one plastic, in particular of at least one polymer or a copolymer thereof. A preferred polymer is a thermoplastic polymer, such as polypropylene.

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

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

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

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

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

[0026] The cleaning head preferably has an area extension defined by a length extension extending along a longitudinal direction of the cleaning head and a width extension extending along a transversal direction of the cleaning head extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The length extension is preferably greater than the width extension.

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

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

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

[0030] The first plate and the second plate of the cleaning head are preferably fastened to each other in a removable manner. For example, the first plate and the second plate can be mechanically fastened to each other, such as via a plug-in connection and / or a snap-in connection.

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

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

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

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

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

[0036] However, it is equally conceivable that the first plate and the second plate are mechanically and adhesively connected to each other.

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

[0038] The first plate and the second plate adhesively connected to each other are preferably glued to each other.

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

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

[0041] The stabilizing plate is preferably configured to stabilize the second plate. That is, the stabilizing plate is preferably used for the purpose of increasing the stability of the second plate. The stabilizing plate is preferably also used for the purpose of reducing material consumption of the cleaning head.

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

[0043] The stabilizing plate preferably has a Shore D hardness of more than 70. The stabilizing plate preferably comprises or is composed of at least one plastic, in particular of at least one polymer or a copolymer thereof. Preferred polymers are thermoplastic polymers, such as polypropylene or polyamide. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the stabilizing plate is reinforced, for example fiber-reinforced. Thus, the stabilizing plate can comprise or be composed of a fiber-reinforced plastic, such as a glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene or polyamide.

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

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

[0046] The stabilizing plate preferably comprises one or more connecting elements which are configured to be connected to one or more corresponding connecting elements of the first plate. For example, the stabilizing plate can comprise one or more protrusions which can be engaged into one or more corresponding recesses of the first plate.

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

[0048] The area extensions of the first plate and the second plate and the stabilizing plate, if present, are preferably approximately the same. In other words, the dimensions of the first plate and the second plate and the stabilizing device, if present, are preferably approximately the same.

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

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

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

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

[0053] The second type of fastening element preferably extends at least partially into the first side of the cleaning head, in particular at least partially into the first plate of the cleaning head and more preferably completely through the first plate of the cleaning head and optionally also at least partially or completely through the stabilization plate, if present. It is therefore preferred that the first side of the cleaning head, in particular the first plate of the cleaning head and optionally the stabilization plate, comprises at least one aperture within which the second type of fastening element is at least partially received. The second type of fastening element is preferably arranged flush with the first side of the cleaning head, in particular flush with an outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head, which outer surface provides the first side of the cleaning head. The outer surface of the second type of fastening element is therefore preferably flush with the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head.

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

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

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

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

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

[0059] For example, the first type of fastening element can extend along the longitudinal side and into a corner portion of the first side, and wherein the second type of fastening element arranged in the corner portion extends into the first side and through the first type of fastening element in the area of the corner portion.

[0060] However, and as mentioned before, it is equally conceivable that the first type of fastening element and the second type of fastening element are arranged at a distance from each other. For example, the first type of fastening element can extend along the longitudinal side up to the area of the corner portion, but not up to the corner portion, and wherein the second type of fastening element is arranged in the corner portion.

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

[0062] The first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can be attached to the cleaning head in a removable manner. Alternatively, the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can be permanently attached to the cleaning head.

[0063] That is, the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can be an integral part of the cleaning head. Being an integral part means that the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element is formed by the cleaning head, for example by the first plate of the cleaning device.

[0064] However, it is equally conceivable that the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element is formed separately from the cleaning head. For example, the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can be attached to the cleaning head, in particular to the first plate of the cleaning head, and optionally also to the stabilization plate, if present, via a form-fit locking and / or a non-form-fit locking, such as via a plug-in connection and / or a snap-in connection.

[0065] For example, the first type of fastening element can be plugged into a recess formed in the first side of the cleaning head, in particular into a recess formed in the outer surface of the first plate of the cleaning head as described before. The second type of fastening element can be plugged into an aperture of the first side of the cleaning head, in particular into an aperture of the first plate of the cleaning head, and optionally into an aperture of the stabilizing plate as described before. Furthermore, the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can comprise one or more snap elements, such as lugs, which can snap into one or more corresponding slot elements provided on the cleaning head, or, the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can comprise one or more slot elements, which can snap into one or more corresponding snap elements, such as lugs, provided on the cleaning head, in each case.

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

[0067] However, the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can be permanently attached to the cleaning head, for example adhesively attached to the cleaning head via gluing or the like. Such permanent attachment can exist in addition to the attachment via the form-fit locking and / or the non-form-fit locking. However, it is likewise conceivable that the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element are permanently attached to one another only via the adhesive and permanently attached to one another only via the adhesive without additional attachment via the form-fit locking and / or the non-form-fit locking.

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

[0069] The first type of fastening element is preferably configured to releasably fasten the first type of cleaning device to the first side of the cleaning head.

[0070] The first type of fastening element preferably corresponds to a hook-and-loop fastener, preferably a commercially available hook-and-loop fastener, such as Velcro®. It is therefore preferred that the first type of cleaning device comprises one or more corresponding fastening elements, such as corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners or Velcro®, with which a connection can be established with the first type of fastening element.

[0071] Likewise, the second type of fastening element is preferably configured for releasably fastening the second type of cleaning device to the first side of the cleaning head.

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

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

[0074] The link preferably defines a first pivot axis about which the cleaning head can be pivoted and a second pivot axis about which the cleaning head can be pivoted. The second pivot axis preferably extends perpendicular to the first pivot axis.

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

[0076] The first pivot axis preferably extends parallel to a longitudinal direction of the cleaning head, and the second pivot axis preferably extends parallel to a transverse direction of the cleaning head.

[0077] The first pivoting angle, by which the cleaning head is pivotable about the first pivoting axis, is preferably 180° or more, in particular up to about 270°.

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

[0079] The second pivoting angle, by which the cleaning head is pivotable about the second pivoting axis, is preferably about 90° or more. For example, the second pivoting angle can be up to about 180°, in particular in case the first pivoting axis extends perpendicularly to the first side and the second side of the cleaning head.

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

[0081] The link can be a two-axis link as known in the art, for example a cardan link. However, likewise other links are conceivable. For example, the link can be a multi-piece link, such as a two-piece link comprising a first link part and a second link part, and wherein each link part defines one of the pivoting axes.

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

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

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

[0085] In another aspect, a method of manufacturing a cleaning tool as described above is provided. The method comprises the steps of i) providing a cleaning head, ii) providing a handle, and iii) providing a link. The cleaning head comprises a first side and an opposite second side. The cleaning head and the handle are pivotally connected to each other by the link for optionally using the first side and the second side. The first side of the cleaning head is designed for a first type of cleaning device, and the second side of the cleaning head is designed for a second type of cleaning device different from the first type of cleaning device. The first side of the cleaning head comprises at least one first type of fastening element configured to fasten the first type of cleaning device to the cleaning head and at least one second type of fastening element configured to fasten the second type of cleaning device to the cleaning head.

[0086] Any statement herein regarding the cleaning tool as such preferably applies equally to the method of manufacturing the cleaning tool, or any statement herein regarding the method of manufacturing the cleaning tool preferably applies equally to the cleaning tool.

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

[0088] Additionally or alternatively, the first type of fastening element and / or the second type of fastening element can be injection molded. To this end, it is particularly preferred that the flexible and / or elastically deformable second type of fastening element is manufactured by injection molding a flexible and / or elastically deformable polymer or a copolymer thereof. A conceivable polymer is an elastomer, such as a rubber, in particular a synthetic rubber, such as silicone rubber. In case the first type of fastening element is a hook-and-loop fastener, it is preferred that a commercially available hook-and-loop fastener is adhesively attached to the first plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0089] The preferred embodiments of the present application will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings, which are for the purpose of illustrating the preferred embodiments of the present application and not for the purpose of limiting the same. In the drawings,

[0090] Figure 1a a perspective view of a cleaning tool according to the present application is shown, the cleaning tool comprising a cleaning head, a handle and a link, wherein the cleaning head is in a first position;

[0091] Figure 1b a perspective view of a cleaning tool according to Figure 1a , wherein the cleaning head is pivoted by the link and in the second position;

[0092] Figure 2a a partial perspective view of a cleaning head in a first position according to Figure 1a ;

[0093] Figure 2b a partial perspective view of a cleaning head in a second position according to Figure 2b ;

[0094] Figure 3 a top view of a cleaning tool according to Figure 1a ;

[0095] Figure 4 a partial side view of a cleaning tool according to Figure 1b , wherein the cleaning device is fastened to the cleaning head;

[0096] Figure 5 a partial perspective view of a cleaning tool according to Figure 1a , wherein the cleaning head is pivoted by the link and in the third position;

[0097] Figure 6 a top view of a cleaning tool according to Figure 1b ;

[0098] Figure 7 a partial exploded view of a cleaning head in a second position according to Figure 2b ;

[0099] Figure 8 a perspective view of a stabilizing plate of a cleaning head of a cleaning tool according to Figure 1a ;

[0100] Figure 9 a partial perspective view of a second plate of a stabilizing plate of a cleaning head of a cleaning tool according to Figure 1a ;

[0101] Figure 10 a partial cross-sectional view of a cleaning head in a second position according to Figure 2b ;

[0102] Figure 11 a partial exploded view of a cleaning head in a second position according to Figure 2b ;

[0103] Figure 12 a partial exploded view of a cleaning head in a second position according to Figure 2ba partial cross-sectional view of the cleaning head in the second position;

[0104] Figure 13 a further partial cross-sectional view of the cleaning head in the second position is shown according to Figure 2b DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0105] Reference is now made to the drawings illustrating aspects of a cleaning tool 1 for cleaning a floor.

[0106] As will be explained below according to Figure 1a and Figure 1b , the cleaning tool 1 is configured for cleaning a floor and comprises a cleaning head 2, a handle 3 and a link 4. The cleaning head 2 comprises a first side 5 and an opposite second side 6, the first side 5 corresponding here with a first outer surface 14 of the cleaning head 2 and the opposite second side 6 corresponding with an opposite second outer surface 15 of the cleaning head 2. The first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 is designed for a first type of cleaning device and the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 is designed for a second type of cleaning device 7, different from the first type of cleaning device. The cleaning head 2 and the handle 3 are pivotally connected to each other by the link 4, such that a user of the cleaning tool 1 can select the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 and thus the first type of cleaning device or can select the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 and thus the second type of cleaning device 7 for performing a specific cleaning operation.

[0107] The depicted cleaning tool 1 is a flat mop and the cleaning head 2 is a flat mop head, wherein the cleaning head 2 has an elongated rectangular shape. That is, the cleaning head 2 has an area extension defined by a length extension extending along a longitudinal direction L of the cleaning head 2 and a width extension extending along a transversal direction T of the cleaning head 2 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L, and wherein the length extension is larger than the width extension.

[0108] As will be explained below according to Figures 1a to 7 , the link 4 is a bi-axial link defining two pivot axes P1, P2 about which the cleaning head 2 is pivotable. In fact, the link 4 defines a first pivot axis P1 extending parallel to the longitudinal direction L of the cleaning head 2 and a second pivot axis P2 extending perpendicular to the first pivot axis P1 and parallel to the transversal direction T of the cleaning head 2. The cleaning head 2 comprises a recess 13 extending inwardly from an outer side 16 of the cleaning head 2, and wherein the link 4 is arranged within the recess 13. As will be explained below according to Figure 7 ​, the link 4 is pivotally mounted on a pin or bolt 17 connecting the link 4 to the cleaning head 2, and wherein the pin or bolt 17 defines a first pivot axis P1. A second pivot axis P2 is defined by a further pin or bolt 18 connecting the link 4 to the handle 3. In the depicted example, the link is a two-piece link comprising a first link part 4a and a second link part 4b, wherein the first link part 4a defines the first pivot axis P1 and the second link part 4b provides the second pivot axis P2.

[0109] Further, the link 4 is centrally located on the cleaning head 2, i.e. the link 4 is arranged in the center of the cleaning head 2. The recess 13 extends from said center to one lateral side 16 of the cleaning head 2, which here corresponds to one longitudinal side 19 of the cleaning head 2. The recess 13 allows the cleaning head 2 to be rotated about the first pivot axis P1 by a first pivot angle of about 270° and thus to adapt to a first cleaning position, in which a first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 can be used for cleaning, and to a second cleaning position, in which a second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 can be used for cleaning.

[0110] By pivoting the cleaning head 2 about the second pivot axis P2, the cleaning head 2 can be transferred into a cleaning position and into a stowed position. In the cleaning position, see for example Figures 1a to 4 , the cleaning head 2 preferably extends perpendicular to the handle 3, or in other words, the first side 5 or the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 can be used for cleaning, for example a floor, whereby the first side 5 or the second side 6 extends parallel to the floor. In the stowed position, see for example Figure 5 , the cleaning head 2 preferably extends parallel to the handle 3, wherein the stowed position allows the cleaning tool 1 to be stowed in a space-saving manner. The second pivot angle about the second pivot axis P2, which the cleaning head 2 is able to pivot, is about 90° or more, for example about 180° in the case that the first pivot axis P1 extends perpendicular to the first side 5 and the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2.

[0111] As follows according to Figures 2a to 6 , one side of the cleaning head 2, which is referred to herein as the second side 6, is completely free of any fastening elements and here corresponds to a smooth, i.e. flat surface (see Figure 2a and Figure 3). However, it is equally conceivable that the second side 6 comprises an uneven surface, for example because of a sheet or other protruding structure (not shown) provided on the surface of the second side 6. An uneven surface has the advantage that the friction between the floor to be cleaned and the second side 6 and the second type of cleaning device 7 provided on said second side 6 is reduced and thus the risk of damaging the second type of cleaning device 7 is reduced. However, the other side of the cleaning head 2, which is referred to herein as the first side 5, comprises first type fastening elements 8, 8a... configured to fasten a first type of cleaning device to the cleaning head 2 and second type fastening elements 9, 9a... configured to fasten a second type of cleaning device 7 to the cleaning head 2. Figure 2b , Figure 5 and Figure 6 ). The two sides 5, 6 of the cleaning head 2 comprise or are composed of different materials and have different hardnesses. In particular, the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 is harder than the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2. Here, the first side 5 or the harder side of the cleaning head 2 is made of a hard thermoplastic, such as polypropylene. The second side 6 or the softer side of the cleaning head 2 is made of an elastomeric polymer, preferably a foamed elastomeric polymer, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) foam. As follows from these figures, both types of fastening elements 8, 8a... and 9, 9a... are provided on the harder side 5 of the cleaning head 2.

[0112] The first side 5 or the harder side of the cleaning head 2 is configured to support heavy cleaning devices, such as heavy woven fabrics. That is, a first type of cleaning device is fastened to the first type fastening elements 8, 8a..., such that the first type of cleaning device is arranged at least partially on the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 (not shown). The second side 6 or the softer side of the cleaning head 2 is configured to support soft or lightweight cleaning devices 7, such as disposable cleaning. That is, and as follows from these figures, a second type of cleaning device 7, here corresponding to a disposable cleaning fabric, is fastened to the second type fastening elements 9, 9a..., such that the second type of cleaning device 7 extends on the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2 and along the outer lateral sides 16, 16a... of the cleaning head 2 to the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2, which comprises the second type fastening elements 9, 9a... fastening the second type of cleaning device 7. Figure 4

[0113] ​In the depicted example, the cleaning head 2 comprises three first type fastening elements 8, 8a, 8b and four second type fastening elements 9, 9a, 9b, 9c. The first type fastening elements 8, 8a... and the second type fastening elements 9, 9a... are located at a distance from each other on the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 in each case. In fact, the first type fastening elements 8, 8a... have the shape of a strip extending along the longitudinal sides 19, 19a of the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2. To this end, one first type fastening element 8 is provided on a continuous longitudinal side 19a of the cleaning head 2, while two first type fastening elements 8b, 8b are provided on a longitudinal side 19 of the cleaning head 2 which is interrupted by the recess 13. The second type fastening elements 9, 9a... are provided in the corner portions 20, 20a... of the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2. The first type fastening elements 8, 8a... extend along the longitudinal sides 19, 19a up to the corner portion area, but not into the corner portions 20, 20a...

[0114] The first type fastening elements 8, 8a... and the second type fastening elements 9, 9a... are mechanical fastening elements. The first type fastening elements 8, 8a... are configured to fasten the first type cleaning device via a form-fit locking, and correspond here to a hook-and-loop fastener, such as a self-adhesive fabric Velcro® strip glued to the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2. The second type fastening elements 9, 9a... are configured to fasten the second type cleaning device 7 via a non-form-fit locking, and correspond here to an insertion button made of a flexible and / or elastically deformable material, which includes an opening 21 in the form of a slit or cut, which can receive a portion of the second type cleaning device 7. In order to fasten the second type cleaning device 7 to the second type fastening elements 9, 9a..., the user can simply push a portion of the second type cleaning device 7 into the opening 21 of the second type fastening elements 9, 9a..., whereby the second type cleaning device 7 is clamped within the opening 21.

[0115] As Figure 7 As best seen in Fig. 1, the cleaning head 2 is a multi-piece element comprising a first plate 10 and a second plate 11, between which a third plate in the form of a stabilizing plate 12 is arranged. The first plate 10, in particular its outer surface 14, provides the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2, and the second plate 11, in particular its outer surface 15, provides the second side 6 of the cleaning head 2.

[0116] The first plate 10 and the second plate 11 of the cleaning head 2 are mechanically fastened to each other via a plug-in connection and / or a snap-in connection. An additional fastening can be achieved by an adhesive connection, such as gluing the plates 10, 11 together. As follows from the description of the plug-in connection and / or the snap-in connection, the first plate 10 and the second plate 11 are fastened to each other in a form-fit manner. Figures 7 to 10, the first plate 10 and the second plate 11 of the cleaning head 2 are indirectly fastened to each other in this case via a stabilizing plate 12 arranged between the first plate 10 and the second plate 11. The stabilizing plate 12 is configured to stabilize the soft second plate 11. Furthermore, the stabilizing plate 12 serves the purpose of reducing the material consumption of the cleaning head 2. The stabilizing plate 12 is composed of a rigid material and comprises a plurality of reinforcing ribs 22 extending along the longitudinal direction L and the transverse direction T of the cleaning head 2. The stabilizing plate 12 is received within a recess 23 formed in the second plate 11 and is fixed within the second plate 11 by being clamped within the recess 23 of the second plate 11. Furthermore, the stabilizing plate 12 comprises connecting elements 24 in the form of snaps or lugs which can form a connection with corresponding connecting elements in the form of recesses in the first plate 10 in order to connect the stabilizing plate 12 to the first plate 10. The stabilizing plate 12 also comprises a plurality of screw holes 25 into which screws can be screwed from the first plate 10 and via screw holes 26 of the first plate 10 in order to additionally connect the first plate 10 to the stabilizing plate 12 and thus to the second plate 11 which is clamped connected with the stabilizing plate 12. As will be explained below with reference to these figures, the screw holes 25 of the stabilizing plate and the screw holes 26 of the first plate are positioned at a location below the first type fastening elements 8, 8a... such that any screw screwed into the screw holes 25, 26 will be covered towards the outside by the first type fastening elements 8, 8a.... Furthermore, as will be explained below with reference to these figures, the pins or bolts 17 which connect the link 4 to the cleaning head 2 are pivotally mounted within openings 27 delimited by the first plate 10, the stabilizing plate 12 and the second plate 11 in the region of the recess 13. Figure 7 , the screw holes 25 of the stabilizing plate and the screw holes 26 of the first plate are positioned at a location below the first type fastening elements 8, 8a... such that any screw screwed into the screw holes 25, 26 will be covered towards the outside by the first type fastening elements 8, 8a.... Furthermore, as will be explained below with reference to these figures, the pins or bolts 17 which connect the link 4 to the cleaning head 2 are pivotally mounted within openings 27 delimited by the first plate 10, the stabilizing plate 12 and the second plate 11 in the region of the recess 13.

[0117] , the screw holes 25 of the stabilizing plate and the screw holes 26 of the first plate are positioned at a location below the first type fastening elements 8, 8a... such that any screw screwed into the screw holes 25, 26 will be covered towards the outside by the first type fastening elements 8, 8a.... Furthermore, as will be explained below with reference to these figures, the pins or bolts 17 which connect the link 4 to the cleaning head 2 are pivotally mounted within openings 27 delimited by the first plate 10, the stabilizing plate 12 and the second plate 11 in the region of the recess 13. Figures 11 to 13 , the first type fastening elements 8, 8a... partially extend into the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2 and are partially received in recesses 28, 28a... formed in the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. The first type fastening elements 8, 8a... are adhesively connected to the first plate 10 by gluing the first type fastening elements 8, 8a... into the recesses 28, 28a... of the first plate 10. Furthermore, the first type fastening elements 8, 8a... here protrude about 1 to 2 millimeters from the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2, see Figure 12 and Figure 13 .

[0118] The second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... extend partially into the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2, in particular through the openings 29, 29a... formed in the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. The second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... are attached to the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2 via a snap connection, wherein lugs 31 formed on the second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... engage latches 32 arranged in the openings 29, 29a... of the first plate 10. The second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... are arranged flush with the first side 5 of the cleaning head 2, in particular with the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. That is, the outer surface 33, 33a... of the second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... is flush with the outer surface 14 of the first plate 10 of the cleaning head 2. At the same time, the outer surface 33, 33a... of the second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... spans the openings 29, 29a... formed in the first plate 10. The second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... which can be regarded as insertion buttons are large enough so that the second type of cleaning means 7, such as a disposable cleaning fabric, can be inserted deep enough into the insertion buttons 9, 9a.... Thus, the depth of the openings 29, 29a... formed in the first plate 10 as well as the openings 30, 30a... formed in the stabilizing plate 12 is about 1.5 centimeters. The second type of fastening elements 9, 9a... are incorporated as separately formed injection molded soft insertion parts.

[0119] List of reference signs

Claims

1. A cleaning tool (1) for cleaning floors, said cleaning tool (1) comprising: Clean the head (2). Handle (3), and Connecting part (4) The cleaning head (2) includes a first side (5) and an opposite second side (6). The cleaning head (2) and the handle (3) are pivotally connected to each other via the connecting part (4) for optional use of the first side (5) and the second side (6). The feature is that the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a first type of cleaning device, and the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a second type of cleaning device (7) different from the first type of cleaning device, and The first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) includes at least one first type fastening element (8) and at least one second type fastening element (9), wherein the first type fastening element (8) is configured to fasten the first type cleaning device to the cleaning head (2), and the second type fastening element (9) is configured to fasten the second type cleaning device (7) to the cleaning head (2).

2. The cleaning tool (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The first type of cleaning device is at least one of heavy, woven, or reusable, or configured for wet cleaning, and preferably has a strength of 150 g / m². 2 Woven fabrics with a weight of grammage or greater, and / or The second type of cleaning device (7) is at least one of soft, lightweight, non-woven, and disposable, or configured for dry cleaning, and preferably has a strength of 150 g / m³. 2 Nonwoven fabrics with a weight of grammage or less.

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

4. The cleaning tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first side portion (5) of the cleaning head (2) comprises or is made of at least one plastic, particularly at least one polymer or a copolymer of said at least one polymer, wherein the preferred polymer is a thermoplastic polymer, such as polypropylene, and / or The second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) comprises or is made of at least one plastic, particularly of at least one polymer or a copolymer of said at least one polymer and / or of polymer foam, wherein the preferred polymer is a thermoplastic polymer and / or an elastomeric polymer, such as rubber or EVA and / or a thermoplastic elastomer, and / or wherein the preferred polymer foam is EVA foam.

5. The cleaning tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The cleaning head (2) includes at least a first plate (10) and a second plate (11), and The first plate (10) of the cleaning head (2) provides the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2), and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) provides the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2).

6. The cleaning tool (1) according to claim 5, wherein, The first plate (10) and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) are removably, preferably mechanically, for example, via a plug-in connection and / or a snap-fit ​​connection, fastened to each other, or The first plate (10) and the second plate (11) of the cleaning head (2) are permanently fastened to each other, for example, adhesively connected to each other.

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

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

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

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

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

12. The cleaning tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, Includes at least one of the following: The first type of fastening element (8) and / or the second type of fastening element (9) are mechanical fastening elements. The first type of fastening element (8) is configured to fasten the first type of cleaning device via a form-fit locking mechanism and preferably corresponds to a hook-and-loop fastener. The second type of fastening element (9) is configured to fasten the second type of cleaning device (7) via non-form-fit locking and preferably via a clamping connection, or The second type of fastening element (9) is at least one of flexible and elastically deformable or includes at least one opening for receiving a portion of the second type of cleaning device (7).

13. The cleaning tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The connecting portion (4) defines a first pivot axis (P1) and a second pivot axis (P2), the cleaning head (2) is pivotable about the first pivot axis (P1), the cleaning head (2) is pivotable about the second pivot axis (P2), the second pivot axis (P2) preferably extends perpendicular to the first pivot axis (P1), and / or The cleaning head (2) includes a recess (13) extending inward from the outer side of the cleaning head (2), and the connecting portion (4) is at least partially disposed within the recess (13).

14. A method for manufacturing a cleaning tool (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising: Provide head cleaning (2). Provides handle (3), and Provide a link (4). The cleaning head (2) includes a first side (5) and an opposite second side (6). The cleaning head (2) and the handle (3) are pivotally connected to each other via the connecting part (4) for optional use of the first side (5) and the second side (6). The feature is that the first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a first type of cleaning device, and the second side (6) of the cleaning head (2) is designed for a second type of cleaning device (7) different from the first type of cleaning device, and The first side (5) of the cleaning head (2) includes at least one first type fastening element (8) and at least one second type fastening element (9), wherein the first type fastening element (8) is configured to fasten the first type cleaning device to the cleaning head (2), and the second type fastening element (9) is configured to fasten the second type cleaning device (7) to the cleaning head (2).

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein, At least a portion of the cleaning head (2), particularly the first plate (10) and / or the second plate (11) and / or the stabilizing plate (12), is injection molded or foamed, and / or Wherein, the first type of fastening element (8) and / or the second type of fastening element (9) are injection molded or foamed.

Images