Cleaning device for controlled environment

Abstract

A cleaning device includes a hexagonal flat mop head and an articulating mop handle, and they may be geometrically configured in a plurality of different cleaning positions relative to a linear handle axis to improve access to surfaces and corners of a controlled environment that restricts access. To effect articulation of the mop handle, an articulation handle joint interconnects the upper handle section and the lower handle section for pivoting relative to a handle pivot axis, which may be orthogonal to the linear handle axis. The cleaning device may also include a mop coupling capable of multi-axial movement of the flat mop head and the articulating mop handle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning device comprising a flat mop head and an articulated mop handle for cleaning controlled environments and RABS devices characterized by restricted access. Background Technology

[0002] Controlled environments are used in industries such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceutical production, and precision optics for the development and handling of substances and components. A controlled environment maintains sterile conditions or temperature and environmental control within an internal processing workspace, which is physically isolated by one or more barriers that restrict worker access to the processing space. An example of a controlled environment used in such fields is a restricted access barrier system (“RABS”), which is a device constructed to reduce or limit worker interaction with the contained workspace. Barrier isolation elements are another type of controlled environment commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry for handling sensitive drugs and solutions. Other examples include glove boxes, fume hoods, and other devices that include structural barriers to restrict physical access to the workspace.

[0003] These controlled environments may require maintaining stringent cleanliness standards, including maintaining sterility and ensuring low particulate contamination (i.e., keeping surfaces and air free of particulate matter) to avoid compromising product quality. In fact, industry standards or government regulations require many facilities that utilize controlled environments and RABS equipment (especially pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities) to maintain a high degree of sterility and cleanliness.

[0004] However, the above requirements may be difficult to meet, as the aforementioned structural features that restrict access to the workspace can also hinder cleaning, especially for conventional cleaning tools. For example, controlled environments or RABS equipment may include corners and surfaces that are difficult to access or locate for cleaning due to structural barriers surrounding the workspace.

[0005] In addition, cleaning procedures used in some controlled environments and RABS equipment can be adjusted or standardized to ensure the desired level of sterility and decontamination. For example, the amount or proportion of cleaning solution or disinfectant can be specified, and instructions for use of cleaning techniques can be prepared to ensure that all surfaces of the equipment (including hard-to-reach corners and crevices) are properly cleaned. In some cases, cleaning tools can be constructed with removable and disposable contact pads or brushes to reduce contamination due to reuse. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, the present invention provides a cleaning device exemplified by a flat-head mop, which can be selectively configured to be in various different cleaning positions. The cleaning device includes a flat mop head connected to a lever-shaped articulated mop handle. The articulated mop handle may be generally elongated and includes an upper handle section and a lower handle section, which form a linear handle axis when arranged collinearly with respect to each other.

[0007] To improve accessibility to corners and crevices, the flat mop head can have a hexagonal shape including laterally opposed triangular tips. For access to differently arranged surfaces, the articulated mop handle includes an articulated handle joint that allows the upper and lower handle sections to pivot relative to a linear handle axis. Specifically, the articulated handle joint allows the upper and lower handle sections to be angularly displaced to multiple cleaning positions, including obtuse, right, and acute angle cleaning positions.

[0008] On the other hand, the cleaning device may also include a multi-axial mop connector that connects the flat mop head and the articulated mop handle. The mop connector may include, for example, a swivel joint forming a rotation axis and a frame joint forming a longitudinal frame axis, allowing the mop to pivot in various directions relative to the linear handle axis. The rotation axis and the longitudinal frame axis may be arranged orthogonally to each other to form the multi-axial pivoting direction of the flat mop head.

[0009] For example, a hexagonal flat mop head can have a longitudinal or elongated direction extending along and forming a longitudinal frame axis, which is orthogonal to the linear handle axis. The rotation axis can be arranged to laterally pivot the longitudinal frame axis relative to the linear handle axis, allowing the two axes to move to different angular positions. Conversely, the frame joint allows the flat mop head to rotate relative to the longitudinal frame axis through which the frame joint is located, thereby maintaining the orthogonality between the linear handle axis and the longitudinal frame axis.

[0010] The articulated mop handle and multi-axis mop connector enable the cleaning device to take on a variety of different cleaning positions to advantageously access different surfaces and corners within a restricted, controlled environment. For example, the ability of the articulated mop handle to present obtuse-angle, right-angle, and acute-angle cleaning positions allows for wiping all possible internal surfaces within a box-shaped, restricted, controlled environment from the outside. These and other possible features and advantages will become apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The subject matter of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the exemplary accompanying drawings. All features described and / or shown herein can be used alone or in combination in various ways. The features and advantages of various embodiments will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate the following: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a cleaning device having a flat mop head and an articulated mop handle, the articulated mop handle having a hinged joint that allows for reconfiguration into multiple cleaning positions, including straight or collinear positions as shown in the figure.

[0012] Figure 2 This is a view of a cleaning device with a handle connector configured to align the articulated mop handle in a right-angled position as shown.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a view of a cleaning device with a handle joint configured to bend the articulated mop handle to an obtuse angle of approximately 135°.

[0014] Figure 4 This is a view of a cleaning device with a handle joint configured to bend the articulated mop handle to an acute angle of approximately 60°.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a view of a cleaning device with a handle joint configured to allow the articulated mop handle itself to bend backward for storage.

[0016] Figure 6 This is an assembly view of an embodiment of an articulated handle connector configured to releasably lock an articulated mop handle into multiple cleaning positions.

[0017] Figure 7 This is a three-dimensional view of the telescopic handle section and the ergonomic handle, which allows the articulated mop handle to extend.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a perspective view of a multi-axial mop connector that connects the flat mop head to the articulated motion mop handle.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of a multi-axial mop connector, which includes a swivel joint and a frame joint for manipulating the flat mop head to various different positions.

[0020] Figure 10This is a rear perspective view of the mop head frame, which features a two-piece split frame design and an elongated hexagonal shape for approaching corners.

[0021] Figure 11 This is a rear perspective view of the mop frame, with the frame latches released and the split frame design displaced to discard or install the mop pad.

[0022] Figure 12A This is a perspective view of a microfiber mop pad having laterally opposed cavities for attachment to a hexagonal mop frame.

[0023] Figure 12B Figure 12A is a detailed cross-sectional view of the microfiber mop pad shown, revealing multiple layers.

[0024] Figure 13 The use of a cleaning device according to the invention is illustrated, which is configured in a right-angle cleaning position to clean the inner surface of a controlled environment.

[0025] Figure 14 The use of a cleaning device according to the invention is illustrated, which is configured in an obtuse-angle cleaning position to clean the inner surface of a controlled environment.

[0026] Figure 15 The use of a cleaning device according to the invention is illustrated, which is configured in an acute-angle cleaning position to clean the inner surface of a controlled environment. Detailed Implementation

[0027] Now referring to the accompanying drawings, whereby, wherever possible, the same reference numerals denote the same elements, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image shows a cleaning device 100 exemplified by a flat mop, which has a flat mop head 102 connected to an elongated mop handle 104. As is common in the art, the flat mop head 102 may be fitted with a cleaning pad cover 106 made of cloth or microfiber material, which is in physical contact with the surface being cleaned.

[0028] The flat mop head 102 is further characterized by its flat, flat profile relative to the elongated mop handle 104, which improves maneuverability and cleaning around and under objects and equipment. The flat profile of the mop head 102 forms a two-dimensional mop plane 108, which corresponds to the geometry of the mop head 102 and is generally orthogonal to the mop handle 104. The mop plane 108 defines the contact surface between the flat mop head 102 and the surface being cleaned during use.

[0029] The flat mop head 102, with its flat, flat profile and attachable cleaning pad cover 106, differs from conventional cord mops, which consist of independently tangled fiber cords attached to the end of the mop handle. As described in more detail below, the flat mop head 102 can be shaped as an elongated hexagon coplanar with the mop plane 108 for ease of manipulation during cleaning, and the cleaning pad cover 106 can be configured as a removable cover and specifically arranged to detachably fit onto the hexagonal mop head 102.

[0030] The elongated mop handle 104 has a long, rod-like configuration, allowing the cleaning device to be gripped and operated by hand. The mop handle 104 extends along and defines a linear handle axis 109, with a flat mop head 102 attached to one axial end of the handle 104. The mop handle 104 is characterized by having a sufficiently small circumference or cross-section for gripping compared to its elongated axial length, which improves the accessibility of the flat mop head 102. To further improve the accessibility and functionality of the cleaning device 100, the mop handle 104 can be articulated, allowing it to fold or bend itself and relative to the linear handle axis 109 to various positions for cleaning or storage.

[0031] To enable articulation of the cleaning device 100, in an embodiment, the articulated mop handle 104 may include an upper handle segment 110 and a lower handle segment 112 connected by an articulated hinge or pivot joint 114. For example, the upper handle segment 110 and the lower handle segment 112 may be configured to be collinear with respect to a linear handle axis 109, and the articulated handle joint 114 may be arranged along a linear length defined by the articulated mop handle 104. An intermediate length position of the articulated handle joint 114 configures the upper handle segment 110 and the lower handle segment 112 as a kinematic pair, which can pivotally articulate with respect to each other between collinear relationships and various angular relationships. The articulated handle joint 114 allows a flat mop head 102, which can be attached to the lower handle segment 112, to be angularly displaced or offset with respect to the linear handle axis 109, which may be described relative to the upper handle segment 110 as a reference.

[0032] To connect to the upper handle section 110 and lower handle section 112 of the articulated mop handle 104, the articulated handle connector 114 may include a first connector link 116 and a second connector link 118, which are operatively fixed together and pivot about the handle pivot axis 119 at an angle relative to each other. Thus, the articulated handle connector 114 provides a single degree of rotation relative to the handle pivot axis 119. The first and second connector links 116, 118 may be made of a rigid material (e.g., molded plastic) and are operatively intersecting each other at the handle pivot axis 119.

[0033] The first connector 116 and the second connector 118 can be connected to the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112, such that the handle pivot axis 119 is perpendicular to the linear handle axis 109 and can intersect the linear handle axis 109. Therefore, the handle pivot axis 119 is also perpendicular to the length extension of the articulated mop handle 104 and can extend laterally relative to the mop handle 104.

[0034] The ability of the flat mop head 102 to articulate relative to the linear handle axis 109 allows the cleaning device 100 to advantageously interact with cleaning surfaces that may have various orientations, particularly in controlled environments and RABS equipment. For example, in Figure 1 In the standard collinear or straight position 120 or arrangement shown, the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 can be collinearly aligned along the linear handle axis 109, such that the articulated mop handle 104 is straight. The collinear cleaning position 120 can be characterized as an angular arrangement of 180° between the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112. The collinear cleaning position 120 of the articulated mop handle 104 allows the flat mop head 102 to be pressed into contact with a cleaning surface, which can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the linear handle axis 109.

[0035] To reach and approach cleaning surfaces that may be oriented differently relative to the linear handle axis 109 of the articulated mop handle 104, such as surfaces substantially parallel to the linear handle axis 109, the articulated handle joint 114 allows the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 to pivot about 90° relative to each other about the handle pivot axis 119, as shown below. Figure 2 As shown in the image. Figure 2 The right-angle position 122 or normal position shown allows the flat mop head 102 to be pressed down against a surface oriented parallel to the upper handle section 110, while the flat mop head 102 can move back and forth during wiping by moving the upper handle section 110 along the linear handle axis 109 in a similar manner.

[0036] The articulated handle connector 114 can pivot the articulated mop handle 104 to various other positions and configurations to improve cleaning by enabling the flat mop head 102 to reach surfaces located in unusual orientations or obstructed by limited access. For example, see reference... Figure 3 The cleaning device 100 is shown in an obtuse-angle cleaning position 124, in which the lower handle section 112 is offset at an obtuse angle relative to the upper handle section 110 and the linear handle axis 109. In the obtuse-angle cleaning position 124, the flat mop head 102 remains forward-oriented relative to the linear handle axis 109, but is offset to be able to contact a surface that may be oriented parallel or nearly parallel to the linear handle axis 109. The obtuse-angle cleaning position 124 can have any feasible obtuse angle between the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112, including, for example, an angle of 135°.

[0037] refer to Figure 4 The cleaning device 100 shown is in an acute-angle cleaning position, in which the lower handle section 112 is oriented at an acute angle relative to the upper handle section 110 and the linear handle axis 109. In an acute-angle cleaning position 126, the lower handle section 112 is partially flipped backward relative to the upper handle section 112. The acute-angle cleaning angle 126 causes the flat mop head 102 to be inverted and flipped backward relative to the linear handle axis 109, thereby allowing the flat mop head 102 to approach the obstructed surface as described below. The acute-angle cleaning position 126 may include any suitable acute angle between the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112, including, for example, an angle of 60°.

[0038] exist Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the articulated handle joint 114 can form an acute angle, wherein the upper handle segment 110 and the lower handle segment 112 are nearly parallel and arranged side-by-side. In the flipped position 128, the linear length of the articulated mop handle 104 is reduced relative to the linear handle axis 109. When the cleaning device 100 is not in use, the flipped angle 128 (where the upper handle segment 110 and the lower handle segment 112 are approximately side-by-side) can be used to store the cleaning device 100.

[0039] In an embodiment, in order to enable the articulated handle joint 114 to pivot the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 about the handle pivot axis 119 to the different cleaning positions shown, the first and second connecting links 116, 118 can be structurally configured as follows: Figure 6As shown. For example, the first and second connecting links 116, 118 can be substantially identical in structure and can be made of molded plastic. The first and second connector links 116, 118 can each include a joint end 130 and a socket end 134, the joint end 130 defining a planar abutment surface 132, and a socket hole 136 disposed in the socket end 134. The joint end 130 of the first and second connector links 116, 118 can generally be arc-shaped, such that the planar abutment surfaces 132 are circular and have similar diameters.

[0040] For connection with the corresponding upper handle section 110 and lower handle section 112, the socket hole 136 of the socket end 134 can be a cylindrical hole, sized to receive the correspondingly shaped rod component of the handle section. The socket hole 136 can define and extend a socket axis 138, which is aligned with the direction in which the first and second handle sections 110, 112 are inserted into the corresponding socket end 134. The socket axis 138 can be orthogonal to and intersect with the laterally oriented handle pivot axis 119. When the articulated handle joint 114 pivots, the socket axes 138 of the corresponding first and second joint links 116, 118 can also be moved relative to each other at various angular offsets.

[0041] In this embodiment, the recessed holes 136 of the first and second connector links 116, 118 facilitate modular reconfiguration of the cleaning device 100. For example, upper handle sections 110 and lower handle sections with different configurations can be easily removed and reattached to the articulated handle connector 114 using the recessed end 134, allowing the length and / or shape of the articulated mop handle 104 to be selectively changed according to its intended use. The connectivity enabled by the recessed holes 136, formed as part of the first and second connector links 116, 118, promotes interchangeability of different designs of the upper handle section 110 and lower handle section 112. The modularity of the articulated mop handle 104 provided by the recessed end 134 enhances the versatility of the cleaning device 100 for controlled environments with limited cleaning access.

[0042] When the articulated handle joint 114 is used for assembly, the planar abutment surfaces 132 are oriented to be parallel and opposite to each other and perpendicular to the handle pivot axis 119. The planar abutment surfaces 132 are configured to be in abutment contact, and when the articulated ends 130 of the first and second rigid joint links 116, 118 are adjacent to each other and pivot about the handle pivot axis 119, the planar abutment surfaces 132 can rotate relative to each other.

[0043] To rigidly fix and lock the first and second rigid joint links 116, 118 at specific angular relationships, for example, corresponding to the different cleaning positions shown, the articulated handle joint 114 may include a locking mechanism 140. For example, the locking mechanism 140 is capable of rigidly locking the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 into a fixed angular arrangement when engaged, and can be selectively released to allow the first and second handle sections to pivotally articulate about the handle pivot axis 119 to move between various different cleaning positions.

[0044] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 140 may include a plurality of locating pins 142 projecting from a planar abutment surface 132 of a joint end 130, the plurality of locating pins 142 being received in corresponding plurality of locking apertures 144 disposed in the planar abutment surface 132 of the second joint end 130. In another embodiment, the plurality of locating pins 142 and the plurality of locking apertures 144 may be arranged in an annular arrangement extending circumferentially about the handle pivot axis 119 and perpendicular to the planar abutment surface 132. When the planar abutment surfaces 132 are arranged adjacent to each other, the plurality of annularly arranged locating pins 142 are received in the corresponding plurality of locking apertures 144. Thus, the locking mechanism 140 is engaged, and the physical arrangement of the plurality of locating pins 142 in the plurality of locking apertures 144 prevents relative rotation or pivoting movement of the first and second joint links 116, 118 relative to the handle pivot axis 119.

[0045] To disengage the locking mechanism 140, for example, to articulate the first and second connector links 116, 118 at an angle relative to each other and relative to the handle pivot axis 119, the locking mechanism 140 may include a pressable release button 146. The release button 146 may be a molded plastic component and may be operably associated with a coil spring 148 such that the release button 146 can be pressed and released by spring actuation. The release button 146 and the coil spring 148 may be operably accommodated in the articulated end 130 of the first connector link 116 and may be aligned with the handle pivot axis 119.

[0046] Release button 146 and coil spring 148 are operably arranged such that when release button 146 is pressed, the articulated ends 130 of the first and second connector links 116, 118 separate from each other relative to the handle pivot axis 119. This physical separation in the direction of the handle pivot axis 119 displaces the planar abutment surfaces 132 of the articulated ends 130 and displaces the plurality of locating pins 142 from their corresponding locking holes 144. Thus, the first connector link 116 is freely pivoted relative to the second connector link 118 by relative articulation about the handle pivot axis 119. When release button 146 is released, coil spring 148 causes the planar abutment surfaces 132 of the first and second connector links 116, 118 to move in contact with each other, causing the plurality of locating pins 142 to be re-accepted in the plurality of locking holes 144. Locking mechanism 140 re-engages, and the articulated handle connector 114 is no longer articulated relative to the handle pivot axis 119.

[0047] In this embodiment, a plurality of locating pins 142 and corresponding locking orifices 144 may be arranged to allow the articulated handle joint 114 to pivot about the handle pivot axis 119 in a plurality of discrete angular increments. The incremental angular movements may correspond to a plurality of cleaning positions 120-126. When the locking mechanism 140 is pivoted to a selected angular arrangement and the locating pins 142 are received in the locking orifices 144, the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 are rigidly interlocked into the selected cleaning position and the articulated mop handle 104 is reinforced such that the applied force can be transmitted, for example, through the articulated handle joint 114, thereby moving the flat mop head 102 during the scrubbing motion.

[0048] In an embodiment, to increase or decrease the length of the articulated mop handle 104, the upper handle section 110 can be configured as a telescopic handle section. For example, refer to... Figure 7 The upper handle section 110 may include a tubular guide sleeve 150 and a telescopic shaft 152 slidably received within the tubular guide sleeve 150. The tubular guide sleeve 150 and the telescopic shaft 152 may have complementary diameters to allow for relative sliding movement. When assembled, the tubular guide sleeve 150 and the telescopic shaft 152 may be coaxially aligned along the linear handle axis 109, wherein the telescopic shaft 152 is concentrically received within the tubular guide sleeve 150.

[0049] To allow the tubular guide sleeve 150 and the telescopic shaft 152 to slide linearly relative to each other, the upper handle section 110 may include a sliding collar 154 located at the axial end of the tubular guide sleeve 150. The sliding collar 154 may have an inner diameter operably configured to compress radially about or expand radially away from the telescopic shaft 152. When the sliding collar 154 is twisted relative to the linear handle axis 109, the inner diameter is correspondingly restricted or expanded to prevent or release linear movement of the telescopic shaft 152 relative to the tubular guide sleeve 150. Therefore, the sliding collar 154 provides a torsion locking mechanism, thereby allowing selective extension of the upper handle section 110 and adjustment of the overall length of the articulated mop handle 104.

[0050] For gripping the articulated mop handle 104 during use, the upper handle section 104 may include an ergonomic handle portion 156 attached to an axial end opposite to the sliding collar 154. The ergonomic handle portion 156 may be disposed on a tubular guide sleeve 150 concentrically aligned with the linear handle axis 109 and may extend axially, partially along the linear length of the upper handle section 104. The ergonomic handle portion 156 may be made of a soft material (e.g., compressible rubber or foam elastomer) and may be shaped or molded along its axial length for easy hand gripping.

[0051] Return to reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 To enable the flat mop head 102 to be arranged in different orientations and angles relative to the articulated mop handle 104, the cleaning device 100 may include a multi-axial mop connector 160. The mop connector 160 can physically interconnect the flat mop head 102 and the articulated mop handle 104, while allowing the structural components to move in multiple axes relative to each other.

[0052] For example, the mop connector 160 may include a swivel joint 162 forming a rotation axis 164, which allows the mop plane 108 of the flat mop head 102 to pivot relative to the lower handle section 112 to different angles, and to a linear handle axis 109 when collinear with the upper handle section 110. For example, the mop plane 108 can be moved from a position orthogonal to the linear handle axis 109 to a position substantially parallel to and side-by-side with the linear handle axis 109. When the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 are collinear, the rotation axis 164 can be orthogonal to the linear handle axis 109 of the articulated mop handle 104.

[0053] The mop connector 160 may further include a frame joint 166 forming a longitudinal frame axis 168, which allows the flat mop head 102 to be pivotally tilted relative to the mop connector. The longitudinal frame axis 168 may be aligned with the elongated hexagonal shape of the flat mop head 102 and may be parallel to the mop plane 108. The frame joint 166 allows the mop plane 108 to tilt or rotate relative to the longitudinal frame axis 168 from a position orthogonal to the linear handle axis 109 to a position substantially parallel to the linear handle axis 109. The frame joint 166 physically connects the flat mop head 102 to the articulated mop handle 104.

[0054] The longitudinal frame axis 168 can be orthogonal to the rotation axis 164, and when the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 are collinear, the longitudinal frame axis 168 can also be orthogonal to the linear handle axis 109. Furthermore, when the articulated mop handle 104 is straight and the upper handle section 110 and the lower handle section 112 are collinear, the longitudinal frame axis 168 can be parallel to the linear handle axis 119. Therefore, the pivoting motion of the articulated handle joint 114 causes the flat mop head 102 to rotate around the pivot handle axis 119, while the tilting of the frame joint 166 causes the flat mop head 102 to rotate around the longitudinal frame axis 168.

[0055] For reference purposes, the pivoting of the flat mop head 102 and mop plane 108 about the axis of rotation 164 relative to the articulated mop handle 104 and the linear handle axis 109 toward the side can be referred to as rotation. Similarly, the pivoting of the flat mop head 102 and mop plane 108 about the longitudinal frame axis 168 to tilt upward relative to the articulated mop handle 104 and the linear handle axis 109 can be referred to as tilting.

[0056] In order to geometrically align the rotation axis 164 and the longitudinal frame axis 168 relative to each other, the mop connector 160 can be an assembly of components, as exemplified in... Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown in the diagram. For example, a mop connector 160 may include a connector 170, which may be cylindrical in shape and may extend relative to a connecting axis 172. The cylindrical connector 170 may be hollow and may be formed of rigid molded plastic. The cylindrical connector 170 may taper at one axial end and be formed as a forked fork 174, the forked portion extending parallel to the connecting axis 172.

[0057] The forked prongs 174 can serve as a structural part of the rotary joint 162, which can be pivotally connected to the frame link 176, which includes a corresponding structural part of the rotary joint. The frame link 176 can be generally flat or triangular in shape. The apex of the flat or triangular frame link 176 can be inserted between the forked prongs 174, and these two parts can be engaged by inserting a rotating pin 178 through the forked prongs and the apex to form a pivot joint corresponding to the rotary joint 162. During assembly, the rotating pin 178 corresponds to the rotation axis 164 and is orthogonal to the connecting axis 172 of the connecting cylinder 170.

[0058] In an embodiment, to secure the rotary joint 162 in a preferred angular position and limit further articulation between the connecting cylinder 170 and the frame link 176, the rotary joint 164 may include a ball-shaped positioning limiter 180. (See reference...) Figure 9 The spherical positioning limiter includes a spherical ball 182, which may be made of steel and is sized to be received in a ball hole 184 axially disposed in the connecting cylinder 170 and aligned with the connecting axis 172. The ball hole 184 may be located between the forked structures of the forked forks 174. The spherical positioning limiter 180 may also include a helical spring 186 located in the ball hole 184, which linearly pushes the spherical ball 182 outward along the connecting axis 172.

[0059] When the rotary joint 162 is assembled, the spherical ball 182 is thus pushed against the apex of the frame link 176 oriented towards the ball hole 184. A hemispherical ball seat 188 may be formed in the apex of the frame link 176, which can accommodate a portion of the spherical ball 182. The spatial overlap of the spherical ball 182 and the ball seat 188 prevents relative pivoting movement between the connecting cylinder 170 and the frame link 176, thereby locking the angular configuration of the rotary joint 162.

[0060] To disengage the ball-shaped positioning limiter 180, a force can be applied to the frame link 176 to remove the spherical ball 182 from the ball seat 188 by compression of the coil spring 186. When the ball-shaped positioning limiter 180 is engaged, the rotary joint 164 can be arranged such that the longitudinal frame axis 168 is orthogonal to the rotation axis 164 and axially offset relative to the connecting axis 172 and spaced apart from the rotation axis 164.

[0061] To enable pivotal movement about the longitudinal frame axis 168, the frame joint 166 can also be configured as a pin joint. For example, the base of the triangular frame link 176, opposite the apex located between the forks 174, may include a longitudinal hole therein, which can accommodate a cylindrical frame pin 190. Thus, the frame pin 190 is aligned with the longitudinal frame axis 168 and can protrude from the longitudinal apex of the triangular frame link 176.

[0062] The protruding end of the frame pin 190 can be rotatably connected to a corresponding journal or articulated structure 194 on the flat mop head 102, thereby allowing the flat mop head 102 and the frame link 176 to pivotally articulate relative to each other about the longitudinal frame axis 168. In an embodiment, the frame joint 166 may also include a ball-shaped positioning limiter 196, comprising a spherical ball pushed by a coil spring into a corresponding hemispherical ball seat to temporarily fix or limit rotation of the frame joint 166 in a preferred angular arrangement.

[0063] To connect the mop connector 160 to the mop handle 102, a handle connector 200 may be disposed on the end of the connecting sleeve 170 axially opposite to the forked prong 174. In embodiments with a segmented tubular sleeve, the handle connector 200 may include a connecting clip 202 formed in the end of the connecting sleeve 170. The connecting clip 202 is typically cylindrical and aligned relative to the connecting axis 172.

[0064] The connecting collet 202 is operably associated with a collet nut 204, which also has a sleeve-like physical configuration and is sized to extend concentrically at the axial end of the connecting cylinder 170. The outer diameter of the connecting cylinder 170 and the inner diameter of the collet nut 204 may be threaded and may form a threaded joint 206, such that relative rotation of the components causes the collet nut 204 to move linearly along the connecting axis 172.

[0065] The inner diameter of the connecting nut 204 may be tapered or truncated at one end, such that when the segmented portion of the connecting collet 202 and the tapered portion of the connecting nut 204 are axially aligned, these segments are radially compressed inward, thereby forcibly reducing the diameter of the connecting collet 202. The connecting collet 202 can radially compress a rod or shaft having complementary diameters and extending from the lower handle segment to secure the components together.

[0066] In one embodiment, the mop connector 160 may further include a connector clip 208 extending circumferentially around the connector cylinder 170. The connector clip 208 may include protruding teeth 209 that may be received in an opening laterally through the connector cylinder 170 and may traverse and interlock with a component of an articulated mop handle inserted therein.

[0067] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 As described above, to facilitate access to corners and crevices within a controlled environment, the flat mop head 102 can be implemented or shaped as an elongated hexagon. For example, the flat mop head 102 may include a planar frame plate 210, which is generally flat and extends together within the mop plane 108. A frame joint structure 194 connected to the mop connector may be formed on the outer surface of the planar frame plate 210 such that the longitudinal frame axis 168 is aligned in the extending direction with the elongated hexagonal shape of the flat mop head 102.

[0068] The frame plate 210 has a hexagonal outline and may include a first triangular tip 212 and a relatively positioned second triangular tip 214. The vertices of the triangular tips 212 and 214 point in opposite directions relative to the longitudinal frame axis 168, and the tips can be bisected equally by the longitudinal frame axis 168. The angular dimensions of the triangular tips 212 and 214 can be selected to approximate the corners formed at the intersection of different surfaces in a controlled environment. To longitudinally offset the first and second tips 212 and 214, the frame plate 210 may also include a first longitudinal edge 216 and a second longitudinal edge 218 extending between the tips, which are parallel to each other and parallel to the longitudinal frame axis 168.

[0069] To facilitate the assembly or disposal of the mop pad cover, in this embodiment, the flat mop head 102 may have a split frame design. For example, the frame plate 210 may be assembled from a first side wing 220 and a second side wing 222. The first and second side wings 220, 222 may be located on opposite longitudinal sides of the frame plate 210 relative to the longitudinal frame axis 168. The first side wing 220 may structurally correspond to the tip 212 of a first triangle, and the second side wing 222 may structurally correspond to the tip 214 of a second triangle.

[0070] The first and second wings 220, 222 are pivotally connected to each other and can pivot relative to each other. For example, the first and second wings 220, 222 can cooperate to form a frame hinge 224, thereby enabling these structures to pivotally articulate. The frame hinge 224 can also form a frame hinge axis 226, which orthogonally traverses the longitudinal frame axis 168 and divides the planar frame plate 210 into the first and second wings 220, 222, respectively.

[0071] In one embodiment, the first side wing 220 may include one or more hinge arms 228 extending from the first side wing 220 and including hooks that can engage a correspondingly shaped pivot rod 229 disposed on the second side wing 222. The pivot rod 229 corresponds to the frame hinge axis 226, and the hooks on the hinge arms 228 are slidably rotatable about the pivot rod 229, thereby enabling the first and second side wings 220, 22 to pivotally articulate about the frame hinge axis 226. The frame hinge 224 allows the planar frame plate 210 to... Figure 10 The set position and Figure 11 The first and second wings 220, 222 pivot between the release positions shown. In the set position, the first and second wings 220, 222 are coplanar with the mop plane 108. In the release position, the first and second wings 220, 222 have angular displacement relative to the mop plane 108.

[0072] To secure or release the frame plate 210 relative to a set position, the frame hinge 224 may be operably associated with a latch and locking mechanism 230. For example, the latch and locking mechanism 230 may include a spring-loaded sliding latch 232 mounted to the upper surface of the first side wing 220. The sliding latch 232 may be longitudinally movable relative to the longitudinal frame axis 168 and may be located between the hinge arms 228 extending from the first side wing 220.

[0073] The latch 234 may be structurally formed on the second side wing 222 and may include a tongue or block that projects longitudinally relative to the longitudinal frame axis 168 and is also located between the hinge arms 228. When the spring-loaded sliding latch 232 is released, the sliding latch 232 may extend longitudinally onto the upper surface of the latch 234 on the second side wing 222 and slide physically against that upper surface. By geometrically maintaining the first and second side wings 220, 222 in a coplanar relative pivot within the mop plane 108, joint movement of the frame hinge 224 can be prevented, such as... Figure 10 As shown.

[0074] If the sliding latch 232 is forced to move in the opposite longitudinal direction relative to the longitudinal frame axis 168, the sliding latch 232 releases the latch 234, and the first and second side wings 220, 222 can pivot relative to each other and displace relative to the mop plane 108, as... Figure 11 As shown. When the latch and locking mechanism 230 is released and the frame hinge 224 pivots together the first and second side wings 220, 222 about the frame hinge axis 226, the first and second triangular tips 212, 214 spatially overlap each other. The angular convergence of the first and second tips 212, 214 effectively reduces the longitudinal length of the flat mop head along the longitudinal frame axis 168.

[0075] refer to Figure 12A An embodiment of a cleaning pad cover 106 is shown, which is configured to fit onto the flat frame plate 210 of a flat mop head 102 for cleaning surfaces in a controlled environment by direct physical contact. In embodiments where the flat mop head 102 is hexagonal to improve accessibility to corners and crevices, the cleaning pad cover 106 may have a corresponding hexagonal shape; although other shapes are contemplated in other embodiments. The cleaning pad cover 106 may be made of a flexible absorbent material as described below and may be relatively soft to avoid damaging or scratching the surface being cleaned. The cleaning pad cover 106 may be made of natural or synthetic fabrics and textiles arranged and treated to fit securely and firmly around the flat frame plate 210.

[0076] In this embodiment, the cleaning pad cover 106 may include a planar main sheet 240, which is elongated and oriented about a lateral pad centerline 242. The main sheet 240 of the cleaning pad cover 106 is flat and can be placed against the frame plate 210 to move across the surface during cleaning. The planar main sheet 240 may have an elongated hexagonal periphery 244 or profile relative to the lateral pad centerline 242.

[0077] For example, the planar main sheet 240 may include first and second triangular pad corners 246, which are positioned relative to and oriented oppositely to the lateral pad centerline 242. For example, the first and second triangular pad corners 246 include two sloping edges intersecting the lateral pad centerline 242, thereby forming triangular vertices at opposite elongated ends of the cleaning pad cover 106. To form an elongated hexagonal shape, the hexagonal perimeter 244 may include first and second straight pad edges 248 parallel to the lateral pad centerline 242 and extending between the first and second triangular pad corners 246.

[0078] To secure the cleaning pad cover 106 to the flat mop head 102, the first and second triangular pad corners 246 may each be configured as enclosing pad cavities 250, which define areas for accommodating the correspondingly shaped first and second triangular tips 212, 214 of the flat mop frame 210. The pad cavities 250 defined by the triangular pad corners 244, 246 may have corresponding triangular profiles and are accessible via cavity edges 252 that are perpendicular to the lateral pad centerline 242 and generally extend between the first and second straight pad edges 248.

[0079] In order to operatively accommodate the split frame design of the flat mop head 102, in Figure 10In the indicated configuration, the lateral spacing between the parallel cavity edges 252 can be less than the longitudinal length of the frame plate 210 along the longitudinal frame axis 168. Therefore, when the flat frame plate 210 is fitted inside the cleaning pad cover 106, the first and second triangular tips 212, 214 of the flat mop frame 210 are received in the opposing pad cavities 250 located at the corresponding first and second triangular pad corners 244, 246.

[0080] However, in order to facilitate the insertion and fitting of the cleaning pad cover 106 into the flat mop head 102, when the frame plate 210 has been released and the side wings 220, 222 are converging toward each other, the distance between the cavity edges 250 along the lateral pad centerline 242 can be dimensionally greater than the distance between the first and second triangular tips 212, 214.

[0081] During installation, the flat main sheet 210 of the cleaning pad cover 106 is placed adjacent to the floor or surface, and the triangular tips 212, 214 of the frame plate 210 are positioned and placed between the opposing cavity edges 252. The frame plate 210 is pressed against the main sheet 210 such that the converging wings 220, 222 pivotally extend outward relative to the lateral pad axis 242, and as the frame plate 210 moves into the flat set position, the triangular tips 212, 214 are inserted into the pad cavity 250. When the triangular tips 212, 214 are within the pad cavity 250, the cleaning pad cover 106 partially surrounds the frame plate 210 and is securely held onto the flat mop head 102.

[0082] In embodiments, the pad cavity 250 can be configured differently to facilitate the fitting of the cleaning pad cover 106 to the frame plate 210. For example, the cavity edge 252 can be positioned at different lateral locations relative to the lateral pad centerline 242, wherein the pad cavity 250 can be accessed through the cavity edge 252, wherein a first cavity edge is located at the intersection of a first triangular pad corner 246 and a straight pad edge 248, and a second cavity edge is positioned such that the triangular profile is laterally closer to the apex of the second triangular pad corner 246.

[0083] The pad cavity 250, associated with the second cavity edge 252 located closer to the apex of the pad corner 246, is smaller in size and can fit more tightly with the corresponding triangular tips 212, 214 of the frame plate 210 when inserted. The smaller pad cavity 250 can be secured to the cleaning pad cover 106. Conversely, the larger pad cavity 250 allows the triangular tips 212, 214 received therein to move more freely, thereby allowing some relative movement between the cleaning pad cover 106 and the flat frame plate 210 when manipulated with a wiping motion during cleaning.

[0084] To separate the cleaning pad cover 106 from the frame plate 210 after use, the split design of the frame plate 210 is released by moving the sliding latch 232 to disengage and release the latch 234. The side wings 220, 222 can be pivotally folded toward each other relative to the frame hinge axis 226, thereby removing the triangular tips 212, 214 from the pad cavity 250. Thus, the used cleaning pad cover 106 is released from the frame plate 210 and can be disposed of without direct handling or physical contact.

[0085] In an embodiment, to improve cleaning and reduce the possibility of surface damage, when the first and second side wings 220, 222 are in Figure 10 When positioned as shown, the outline of the hexagonal periphery 244 can be larger in size than the corresponding outline of the planar frame plate 210. Therefore, when the frame plate 210 is fitted inside the cleaning pad cover 106, the hexagonal periphery 244 extends spatially beyond and can surround the outer edge of the frame plate 210.

[0086] If the flat mop head 102 physically approaches or moves into a corner or similar object, the extended hexagonal periphery 244 of the cleaning pad cover 106 can be displaced or folded over the corresponding outer edge of the frame plate 210, thereby preventing direct physical contact with the harder material of the frame plate 210. This also ensures that the intersecting surfaces being cleaned come into contact with the softer fabric of the cleaning pad cover 106 and are exposed to any solutions or disinfectants contained therein.

[0087] In an embodiment, the main sheet 240 of the cleaning pad cover 106 can have a multi-layered structure with different physical layers, each with different properties or characteristics. For example, Figure 12B An embodiment of a multilayer structure comprising a main sheet 240 with three different layers is shown. The main sheet 240 may include an outer microfiber layer 260 made of ultrathin microfibers of a synthetic material (e.g., polyester or polyamide). The outer microfiber layer 260 is characterized by its ability to absorb and retain small particulate contaminants (including oil) and to wipe surfaces without producing streaks or leaving residue. The microfiber textile is also quite soft and will not scratch surfaces or leave lint. The outer microfiber layer 260 may be a nonwoven textile made of open fibers.

[0088] To provide additional cushioning for the cleaning pad cover 106, the multilayer main sheet 240 may include an inner foam layer or foam pad 262. The foam pad 262 may be a compressible open-cell or closed-cell foam, providing additional scratch resistance and absorption for retaining cleaning solutions or disinfectants. The multilayer main sheet 240 may also include a polyester textile backing layer 264. The backing layer 264 can provide additional breathability for the cleaning pad cover 106.

[0089] In an embodiment, to further limit potential damage or scratches to the surface, the outer microfiber layer 250 can be folded back and edged onto the foam pad 262 and backing layer 264 of the main sheet 240. For example, at the hexagonal perimeter 244 of the cleaning pad cover 106, an extension of the outer microfiber layer 260 can be folded back and wrapped around the outer edges of the foam pad 262 and backing layer 264, and secured by stitching to form an edge 266.

[0090] The binding 266 is held in place by stitching 268, which secures the folded edge of the outer microfiber layer 260 to the foam pad 262 and backing layer 264 of the main sheet 240. The stitching 268 can run and travel parallel to the hexagonal perimeter of the main sheet 240. The binding 266 ensures that only the outer microfiber layer 260 is in physical contact with the surface when the cleaning pad cover 106 moves to corners, etc. The binding 266 also reduces scratches and ensures that the flat mop head 102 thoroughly cleans the inner surface.

[0091] refer to Figures 13 to 15 The articulated mop handle 104 of the cleaning device 100 is described to improve accessibility to corners and crevices of the controlled environment or RABS equipment. For example, the controlled environment 300 can be characterized as having multiple intersecting planar surfaces, which may be orthogonally arranged to create a series of right-angled corners.

[0092] In an embodiment, the planar surface may include a floor 302, a rear wall 304, a side wall 306, and a ceiling 308 defining an interior space 310 in which activities involving hazardous or dangerous substances can take place. During these activities, exposure to the interior space 310 can be reduced by a forward-oriented sliding window sash 312 parallel to the rear wall 304. The window sash 312 may be made of transparent resin glass to allow visibility into the interior space 310.

[0093] During cleaning in a controlled environment 300, which can be performed according to routine procedures in a laboratory setting, the articulated mop handle 104 allows the cleaning device 100 to be configured in multiple cleaning positions to access different internal planar surfaces. For example... Figure 13 A cleaning device 100 is shown, wherein an articulated handle 104 is configured in a right-angle position 122, and a flat mop head 102 is oriented at 90° relative to the linear handle axis 109. The flat mop head 102 can be placed and pressed against the floor 202, and the articulated mop handle 104 moves back and forth during wiping motion.

[0094] The advantage of the articulated mop handle 104 being configured in multiple different cleaning positions 120-126 is that the force applied to the upper handle section 110 is redirected by the articulated handle joint 114 to the desired orientation of the flat mop head 102. The cleaning device 100 can be easily operated by gripping the upper handle section 110 in a comfortable or natural orientation, while the articulated handle joint 114 geometrically orients the flat mop head 102 to access hard-to-reach areas within the interior space 310 of the controlled environment 300.

[0095] refer to Figure 14 On the other hand, the cleaning device 100 can be configured in an obtuse-angle cleaning position 124, wherein the articulated mop handle 104 forms a 135° angle with respect to the linear handle axis 109. The obtuse-angle cleaning position 124 allows the mop plane 108 of the flat mop head 102 to be placed parallel to the rear wall 304 of the controlled environment 300. The adjacent and parallel abutment of the flat mop head 102 and the rear wall 204 enables coverage and cleaning of a large surface area.

[0096] If the height of the interior space 310 of the controlled environment 300 is relatively large, the telescopic upper handle section 110 can be extended to reach the upper area of ​​the rear wall 304. In addition, the cleaning device 100 can rotate 180° relative to the linear handle axis 109, so that the flat mop head is oriented toward the ceiling 308 to clean the surface.

[0097] The obtuse-angle cleaning position 124 of the articulated mop handle 104 allows the flat mop head 104 to access corners and surfaces of the interior space 310 that would otherwise be difficult to reach. The obtuse-angle cleaning position 124 also redirects the force applied by the articulated mop handle 104 from a direction of approximately 135° along the linear handle axis 109 to a direction that applies force to the flat mop head 102 in contact with the interior surface for cleaning.

[0098] refer to Figure 15On the other hand, the cleaning device 100 can be configured in an acute-angle cleaning position 126, wherein the articulated mop handle 104 is at a 60° angle relative to the linear handle axis 109. In the acute-angle cleaning position 126, the articulated mop handle 104 can be inserted into the interior space 310 of the controlled environment 300, and the flat mop head 102 is positioned rearward toward the partially lowered window sash 312. The user can pull the articulated handle by applying force in the direction of the linear handle axis 109, causing the flat mop head 102 to be positioned adjacent to the window sash 312 and manipulated with appropriate wiping action. The acute-angle cleaning position 126 advantageously allows cleaning of the interior surface of the window sash 312 from the outside of the controlled environment 300. For example, the advantage of the acute-angle cleaning position 126 is that the distal portion of the mop handle 104 is positioned outside the interior space 310 of the controlled environment 300 and can be gripped by the operator without having to insert their hands into the interior space 310 when cleaning the window sash 312.

[0099] from Figures 13 to 15 It is understood that the combined assembly of the articulated mop handle 104, the telescopic upper handle section 110, and the multi-axial mop connector enables the flat mop head 102 of the cleaning device 100 to reach any and all interior surfaces of the restricted controlled environment 300 from a position outside the controlled environment. If the controlled environment is handled or exposed to toxic or hazardous substances, it is beneficial to avoid inserting body parts into the interior space 310. Therefore, all interior surfaces can be thoroughly wiped and disinfected by the cleaning pad cover 106, thereby ensuring compliance with prescribed or standardized cleaning procedures.

[0100] While the subject matter of the invention has been detailed and described in the accompanying drawings and the foregoing description, such description and illustration should be considered illustrative or exemplary, and not restrictive. Any statements characterizing the invention herein are also considered illustrative or exemplary, and not restrictive, as the invention is defined by the claims. It should be understood that changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of the appended claims, which may include any combination of features from the different embodiments described above.

[0101] The terms used in the claims should be interpreted as having the broadest reasonable interpretation consistent with the foregoing description. For example, the use of the articles “a” or “the” when introducing an element should not be interpreted as excluding multiple elements. Similarly, the expression “or” should be interpreted as inclusive, such that the statement “A or B” does not exclude “A and B” unless it is clearly evident from the context or the foregoing description that it is intended to refer only to one of A and B. Furthermore, the expression “at least one of A, B, and C” should be interpreted as one or more of a set of elements consisting of A, B, and C, and should not be interpreted as requiring at least one of each of the listed elements A, B, and C, regardless of whether A, B, and C are related as a category or otherwise. In addition, the expressions “A, B, and / or C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” should be interpreted as including any singular entity from the listed elements (e.g., A), any subset from the listed elements (e.g., A and B), or the entire list of elements A, B, and C.

Claims

1. A cleaning apparatus for a controlled environment with restricted access, the cleaning apparatus comprising: An articulated mop handle, the articulated mop handle being elongated relative to a linear handle axis, and including an articulated handle joint having a locking mechanism for selectively locking the articulated mop handle in a plurality of cleaning positions relative to the linear handle axis. A hexagonal flat mop head, the flat mop head including a frame plate with a split frame design and a microfiber cleaning pad cover that can be releasably fitted to the mop frame; as well as A mop connector that connects the articulated mop handle to the flat mop head, the mop connector being configured to allow the flat mop head to move in multiple axes relative to the linear handle axis.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein, The frame plate includes a first triangular tip and a second triangular tip, which are oriented in opposite directions relative to each other.

3. The cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein, The split-frame design of the frame plate includes a first wing and a second wing pivotally connected at the frame hinge.

4. The cleaning device according to claim 3, wherein, The mop frame includes a spring-loaded sliding latch that is movably mounted on the first side wing and can slide to engage with a latch on the second side wing.

5. The cleaning device according to claim 4, wherein, When the sliding latch engages with the latch, the sliding latch secures the mop frame in a set position in which the first side wing and the second side wing are coplanar.

6. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The cleaning pad cover includes a first pad cavity and a second pad cavity, which are oriented opposite to each other to receive the first triangular tip and the second triangular tip, respectively.

7. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The articulated handle joint includes a pressable button that selectively locks and releases the locking mechanism.

8. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 7, wherein, The locking mechanism includes multiple positioning elements arranged in a ring and capable of being received in a plurality of correspondingly ring-arranged locking orifices.

9. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The articulated mop handle includes an upper handle section and a lower handle section connected via the articulated handle connector.

10. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The upper handle section is configured as a telescopic handle section, which includes a telescopic shaft that can extend and retract relative to the tubular sleeve along the linear handle axis.

11. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The telescopic handle section includes a torsion-locking sliding collar that releases and restricts sliding movement between the tubular sleeve and the telescopic shaft.

12. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The mop connector includes a rotary pivot joint and a frame pivot joint that are orthogonally oriented relative to each other.

13. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The mop connector includes a triangular frame link that interconnects the rotating pivot joint and the frame pivot joint.

14. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, The mop connector includes a connector collet that is clamped to the mop handle by a collet nut.

15. A cleaning apparatus for a controlled environment with restricted access, the cleaning apparatus comprising: An articulated mop handle, the articulated mop handle being elongated relative to a linear handle axis, and the articulated mop handle including an upper handle section and a lower handle section joined at an articulated handle joint, the articulated handle joint allowing the upper handle section and the lower handle section to articulate at an angle relative to a handle pivot axis orthogonal to the linear handle axis; the articulated handle joint includes a locking mechanism for selectively locking the articulated mop handle in a plurality of angled cleaning positions relative to the handle pivot axis. A hexagonal flat mop head, the flat mop head having a frame plate defining a frame plane; as well as Mop connector, which connects the articulated mop handle to the flat mop head, the mop connector comprising: Rotate the pivot joint so that the flat mop head can articulate at an angle relative to the articulated mop handle about a rotation axis orthogonal to the linear handle axis. as well as A frame pivot joint that allows the flat mop head to articulate at an angle relative to the mop connector about a longitudinal frame axis orthogonal to the axis of rotation.

16. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The articulated handle joint includes a pressable button that selectively engages and disengages the locking mechanism.

17. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 16, wherein, The locking mechanism includes a plurality of locating pins arranged in a ring and capable of being received in a plurality of correspondingly ring-arranged locking orifices.

18. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The mop connector includes a triangular frame link that pivotally interconnects the rotating pivot joint and the frame pivot joint.

19. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The frame plate is a split frame design, which includes a first wing and a second wing pivotally connected at the frame hinge.

20. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 19, wherein, The first wing includes a first triangular tip, and the second wing includes a second tip, the first triangular tip and the second tip being oriented laterally away from each other.

21. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The frame plate includes a spring-loaded sliding latch, which is movably mounted on the first side wing and can slide to engage with a latch on the second side wing.

22. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 21, wherein, When the sliding latch engages with the latch, the sliding latch secures the mop frame in a set position in which the first side wing and the second side wing are coplanar with the mop plane.

23. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The segment is configured as a telescopic handle segment, which includes a telescopic shaft capable of extending and retracting relative to the tubular sleeve along the linear handle axis.

24. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The plurality of angled cleaning positions that can be selectively locked by the locking mechanism include: A right-angle cleaning position, in which the upper handle segment and the lower handle segment are orthogonal to each other; An obtuse-angle cleaning position, in which the upper handle section and the lower handle section are oriented at an obtuse angle to each other; and In the acute-angle cleaning position, the upper handle section and the lower handle section are oriented at an acute angle to each other.

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