EP1845832A1

EP1845832A1 - Cleaning device with liquid reservoir and replaceable non-woven pad

Info

Publication number: EP1845832A1
Application number: EP06719379A
Authority: EP
Inventors: David A. Hoadley; Steven A. Zach; Jeffrey S. Kunkler; Tianzhu Wang; Chrissie M. Smits; Scott Massing
Original assignee: SC Johnson and Son Inc
Current assignee: SC Johnson and Son Inc
Priority date: 2005-01-28
Filing date: 2006-01-25
Publication date: 2007-10-24
Anticipated expiration: 2026-01-25
Also published as: ATE487412T1; JP2008528187A; TW200630065A; AU2006211531B2; MX2007009141A; WO2006083629A1; CN101150976A; US20060171767A1; CA2595841A1; AU2006211531A1; DE602006018109D1; EP1845832B1; CN101150976B; JP4852553B2

Abstract

A cleaning system for selective wet or dry cleaning is disclosed. The cleaning system includes a handle defining a fluid reservoir retaining cradle and a moveably attached support member configured to receive a cleaning implement. The pivotal arrangement of the handle and support member allow liquid to be selectively applied to either the surface to be cleaned or the cleaning implement.

Description

Attorney Docket No. J-41'50

CLEANING DEVICE WITH LIQUID RESERVOIR AND REPLACEABLE

NON-WOVEN PAD

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of cleaning devices such as hand held dusters and dust mops. More particularly, the present invention relates to a cleaning system having a handle defining a cradle for receiving a fluid reservoir attached to a support arm for mounting a cleaning implement, the entire system capable of either wet, damp or dry cleaning or dusting.

2. Discussion of the Related Art

For decades, hand held feather dusters, dust rags and other cleaning implements have been used as cleaning tools for the removal of dust adhering to furniture such as dressers and coffee tables, electrical appliances such as computers, lights, interior walls, lintels and the like. Thus, it is generally well known to remove dust or dirt from floors, furniture, and other household surfaces by rubbing a dust rag, cloth or other cleaning implement against the surface such that the dust or dirt adheres to the cleaning implement.

Throughout the last half-century, new cleaning implements have been developed to assist the individual in dusting and similar cleaning chores. While hand held dusters and other cleaning implements are generally well known in the art, numerous drawbacks exist with the current commercially available designs. For example, US Application Pub. No. US 2004/0034956 Al, U.S. Patent No. 6,813,801, U.S. Patent No. 5,953,784 and U.S. Patent No. 6,550,092, hereby Attomey Docket No. J-4150

expressly incorporated by reference, disclose variations of hand held cleaning devices incorporating a disposable cleaning pad. These devices, while somewhat suitable for the desired application, exhibit notable limitations. For example, none of the above-cited references provide a convenient storage configuration. Rather, in order to store most prior art hand held cleaning implements, the handle must be physically disassembled from its cleaning pad support member. Additionally, the attachment portions of these known devices often comprise a press fitted member that may weaken over time resulting in the support member disengaging from the handle portion during cleaning. In addition, a suitable retention means has not been developed to adequately maintain the cleaning pad on the support member, during dusting or other cleaning. For example, the handy mop disclosed in US Application Pub. No. US 2004/0034956 Al, discloses arcuate protrusions along the lateral sides of the parallel attachment plates. The arched surfaces and spacing of these protrusions does not always adequately maintain the dust pad on the plates during cleaning. As one performs the normal dusting or cleaning motion, the pad often slides off the plates. In general, the majority of improvements to hand held dusters and mops have been directed at improving the basic mechanical components of the cleaning device. These improvements have been directed at providing an inexpensive yet robust implement for dry dusting or cleaning. However, notably absent in the prior art is any attempt to provide a hand held cleaning implement that allows for selective wet, damp or dry dusting.

The addition of water or other cleaning solution to most cleaning pads or systems has been known to increase the efficiency of the cleaning device in Attomey Docket No. J-4150

absorbing dust and other debris. Despite this knowledge, there are presently no hand held cleaning systems that include an attached water or cleaning fluid reservoir accessible on the cleaning implement to allow a user to single handedly alternate between wet, damp or dry dusting. To date, prior art dusting and cleaning devices require a user to obtain a separate spray bottle or other liquid application means if one desires wet dusting or cleaning.

In light of the need for a wet or damp dusting or cleaning system, there is an additional need for improvements in the cloth associated with such systems. Many of the known disposable dusting or cleaning cloths include fabrics that do not adequately absorb water and dust. While some improvements to dusting cloths are disclosed in the art, there remains a need for an improved cleaning fiber and orientation that maximizes the wet and dry absorbency of the dusting pad, while at the same time fully facilitating the advantages of the liquid in the cleaning system.

SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION Consistent with the foregoing, and in accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly described herein, a cleaning system, and a method of using and manufacturing such a system are disclosed in suitable detail to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention.

In one preferred embodiment, a cleaning tool includes a handle portion having a top, a bottom defining a cradle, a centrally placed opening allowing access to the cradle and a cleaning pad support member moveably attached to the handle portion. In another embodiment, the support member is moveable between a first cleaning position a second cleaning pad liquid application position, and a third storage position. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning tool includes a detachable cleaning -A-

Attomey Docket No. J-4150 fluid dispenser within the cradle. The cleaning fluid dispenser may be, for example, a pump spray bottle, can or package, or an aerosol bottle, can or package, a deformable handle/reservoir that dispenses fluid by squeezing a handle, a reservoir with squirt trigger, or a flexible pouch with an attachable spray nozzle. In yet another embodiment, the cleaning tool includes parallel attachment members that include at least one vertically extending cleaning pad retaining tab projecting from an upper surface of the attachment members.

In still another alternative embodiment, the cleaning pad support member includes a circular pivot member at one end that is configured to fit within a pivot member-receiving cradle within the handle portion. The circular pivot member may include a plurality of notches and the handle may include a semi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward into the pivot member-receiving cradle. This could also be a type of living hinge. Such a configuration eliminates the need for additional parts such as springs, fasteners, thereby reducing the cost of manufacture and assembly. The engagement tab is configured to fit within the notches for selective pivoting of the cleaning support member. In an alternative embodiment, the pivot member includes a first notch corresponding to a cleaning position, a second notch corresponding to a liquid application position, and a third notch corresponding to a storage position. The interaction between the notches and engagement tab produce an auditory click signaling a user that the support arm is in one of the functional positions.

Li yet another preferred embodiment, the fluid dispenser includes a spray cap configured to align the fluid dispenser within the cradle. The cap may include flats Attorney Docket No. J-4150 and the cradle may comprise a pair of opposed flanges such that the flanges align the cap within the cradle via selective engagement with the opposed flats.

In another preferred embodiment, the cleaning tool includes a cleaning pad that is comprised of a combination of fibers and at least one nonwoven sheet. The fibers on the cleaning pad may be tapered in a manner such that when the cleaning pad is attached to the support, the fibers closest the handle are shorter than the fibers closest to a free end of the support member. The fibers may be constructed of a polymer that allows for the spontaneous transport of aqueous fluids. Preferably, the fibers are in the form of a tow and are non-cylindrical or lobed. In an alternative embodiment, a cleaning system includes a cleaning tool having a handle defining an interior recess for receiving a fluid reservoir and a cleaning media support pivotally attached to the handle. The support is capable of pivoting rearwardly from a cleaning position. The system preferably further includes a cleaning media attached to the cleaning media support and a fluid reservoir attached to the handle in the cradle. The reservoir is capable of applying fluid to a surface to be cleaned and to the surface of the cleaning media.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a replaceable cleaning pad for use with a cleaning tool having vertically extending protrusions includes a combination of fibers and at least one nonwoven sheet. In another preferred embodiment, a replaceable spray dispenser for use in a cleaning tool that includes a handle portion defining a cradle on the interior of the handle configured to receive the spray dispenser includes a cap that has a pair of opposed flats configured to fit within a pair of rails within the cradle thereby preventing twisting of the spray dispenser. The flats can be parallel or tapered. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

The preferred cleaning kit includes a handle defining a cleaning fluid reservoir-receiving bay, a cleaning pad support pivotally attached to the handle, a cleaning pad with two useable surfaces having a combination of fibers and at least one nonwoven sheet and a fluid reservoir attached to the handle within the bay. The fluid reservoir includes opposed grooves configured to align the spray cap within the receiving bay.

The preferred method of cleaning includes providing a cleaning tool having a handle having a top and bottom and an opening allowing access into the bottom from the top and a cleaning pad support pivotally attached to the handle portion. The method further includes the steps of placing a cleaning pad onto the cleaning pad support, inserting a fluid dispenser into the fluid dispenser cradle, positioning the cleaning pad onto a surface to be cleaned and moving tbe cleaning pad on the surface to be cleaned.

The method of manufacturing the preferred cleaning tool includes forming a handle having two parts, a top and bottom, that define a cavity and an opening configured to allow access into the bottom from the top and pivotally attaching a cleaning pad support to the handle portion. Alternatively, a one piece shell could be utilized,

In another embodiment, a device for cleaning a surface includes a handle, a pivot joint connected to the handle and a cleaning head portion connected to the pivot joint and capable of folding beneath the handle for ease of storage and packaging. The cleaning head portion can be made to pivot in a variety of directions to allow use of either side of the cloth. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

In another embodiment a cleaning tool for wet, damp or dry cleaning includes a handle portion defining a cradle for a fluid reservoir and a cleaning implement support member attached to the handle portion. The cleaning implement support member may be movably attached to the handle portion. The cleaning implement support member may include a circular pivot member at one end, configured to fit within a pivot member receiving cavity in the handle portion. The circular pivot member may include a plurality of notches and the handle may include a semi- flexible engagement tab projecting downward into the pivot member receiving cavity, the engagement tab configured to fit within the notches for selective pivoting of the cleaning support member. In one embodiment, the engagement of the semi-flexible engagement tab inio the notches produces an auditory signal to let the user know it is properly locked in place.

In another embodiment, the pivot point on the handle portion is located below a horizontal plane defined by a fluid reservoir within the cradle. Here, the fluid reservoir within the handle may complete an ergonomically beneficial design of the handle.

In a final embodiment, a cleaning system for wet, damp or dry cleaning includes an ergonomic handle portion, a cleaning media support arm attached to the handle portion, a cleaning media attached to the support arm and a liquid delivery system capable of delivering a cleaning liquid to the cleaning media or a surface to be cleaned. The liquid delivery system may be a fluid reservoir that forms the handle portion.

These, and other, aspects and objects of the present invention will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following Attomey Docket No. J-4150

description and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the following description, while indicating preferred embodiments of the present invention, is given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention without departing from the spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A clear conception of the advantages and features constituting the present invention, and of the construction and operation of typical mechanisms provided with the present invention, will become more readily apparent by referring to the exemplary, and therefore non-limiting, embodiments illustrated in the drawings accompanying and forming a part of this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate the same elements in the several views, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of an assembled cleaning system capable of wet or dry cleaning, the cleaning system shown in a first cleaning position or 9 o'clock position;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the component parts of the cleaning system illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the cleaning system in the storage position or 3 o'clock position; FIG. 4 is a side, view of the cleaning system in the liquid application position or 5 o'clock position with the cleaning pad support and a human finger shown in phantom;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the underside of the cleaning system illustrating a preferred construction of the fluid-receiving cradle; Attomey Docket No. J-4150

FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the cleaning system taken along the longitudinal axis of the device illustrated FIGS. 1-5; .

FIG. 7 is a sectional, view taken along line 5 — 5 of Fig. 6;

FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along line 6 — 6 of Fig. 6; FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line 7 — 7 of Fig. 6;

FIG. 10 is side view of a cleaning system in the liquid application position further illustrating an alternative embodiment of the cleaning pad attached to the cleaning system;

FIG. 11 is an exploded partial perspective view of the pivot assembly of the inventive cleaning system illustrated in FIGS. 1-5;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the component parts of an alternative embodiment of the cleaning system; and

FIG. 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the alternative cleaning system illustrated in Fig. 12 taken along the longitudinal axis of the system. In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention, which is illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended that the invention be limited to the specific terms so selected and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents, which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. For example, the word connected or terms similar thereto are often used. They are not limited to direct connection but include connection through other elements where such connection is recognized as being equivalent by those skilled in the art. Attoraey Docket No. J-4150

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED .EMBODIMENTS

The present invention and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in detail in the following description. 1. System Overview

In a basic form, the invention is a cleaning system for use in wet, damp or dry cleaning that includes a fluid reservoir or liquid delivery system, and a cleaning pad support head capable of supporting a cleaning pad or other cleaning implement. The cleaning pad support head may be moveable and in the illustrated embodiment includes a pivotable connection. The cleaning system allows for fluid application directly to a cleaning pad or to a surface to be cleaned. The cleanin/r system preferably includes a cleaning tool that includes a handle that defines a fluid reservoir receiving cradle and a pivotally attached cleaning pad support member. This results in a single hand operated tool that provides options for wet, damp or dry cleaning not available in traditional cleaning devices.

2. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be further described by the following, non-limiting examples which will serve to illustrate various features of significance. The examples are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the present invention may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the present invention. Accordingly, the below examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

Turning initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, the inventive cleaning system 20 is illustrated according to one preferred embodiment of the present invention. Cleaning Attomey Docket No. J-4150 system 20 is generally comprised of a cleaning tool 22, including a handle portion or handle 24 and pivotally attached cleaning pad support member, cleaning implement support member or cleaning media support 26, a liquid delivery system, cleaning fluid dispenser or reservoir 30 and a cleaning pad or cleaning media 28 attached to the cleaning tool 22 via the cleaning pad support member 26.

Handle portion 24 is preferably a curved ergonomically designed member configured to comfortably fit within the palm of a hand of a user. Handle portion 24 includes an integral top 29, first sidewall 21a, second sidewall 21b, rear wall 23 and bottom 31. Handle portion 24 may be constructed from a variety of synthetic resins, plastics or other suitable materials. In the preferred embodiment, handle portion 24 is constructed from polypropelene. Although the handle portion 24 may be constructed in a wide variety of sizes depending on the intended use, in the preferred embodiment, handle portion 24 is approximately 8.5 inches long, 1.3 inches wide and 1.7 inches high. The preferred dimensions allows for ease of use, manipulation, packaging, shipping and storage of the cleaning system 20 as well as increasing the overall ergnomics of the design. Handle portion 24 may be constructed in a variety of colors for increased aesthetic appeal. It may additionally be constructed from a translucent material.

As will be described in greater detail below, handle portion 24 defines a fluid reservoir-receiving cradle, recess or bay 36. In the preferred embodiment, the insertion of the fluid dispenser or reservoir 30 into the cradle 36 finishes the ergonomic design or form of the handle portion 24. Thus, the palm of a user's hand extends over the top 29 handle portion 24 and the user's fingers extend at least partially around the fluid reservoir 30. Additionally, the preferred curved ergonomic Attomey Docket No. J-4150 design of the of the handle portion 24 is constructed in a manner such that the pivot point defined by the pivot member receiving cavity 50 is located below the horizontal plane defined by the fluid reservoir 30 within the cradle 36. Such an orientation is advantageous in maximizing fluid application as discussed in greater detail below. Near the center of the handle portion 24 is an opening or hole 32 extending through handle portion 24 into the bottom 31 of the handle portion. In the illustrated embodiment, opening 32 is approximately 2.5 inches from a pivot member receiving cavity 50 located at the forward end 25 of the handle portion 24. As illustrated in FIG. 4, opening 32 provides a user single-handed access into a fluid reservoir- receiving cradle, recess or bay 36 defined in the bottom 31 of the handle portion 24. Near the forward end 25 of the handle portion 24, above the pivot member receiving cavity 50 is a cantilevered pivot engagement tab 38, extending downwardly into the pivot member receiving cavity 50 described in greater detail below.

FIG. 2 illustrates one preferred embodiment of a fluid reservoir 30 of the cleaning system 20. In the illustrated embodiment, fluid reservoir 30 is in the form of a fluid dispenser or a pump-activated spray bottle configured to retain water or a specialized fluid. The fluid may be comprised of a variety of known products. Preferably the fluid is selected from the commercially available Pledge® Multi- Surface Cleaner, Pledge® Wood and Glass Cleaner, End Dust®, Fantastic® all purpose cleaner, Windex® glass cleaner, anti-bacterials such as Oust® or Lysol®, fragrances such as Glade®, leather or vinyl treatment such as Armor All®, fabric protectors such as Scotch Guard®, or fabric fresheners such as those manufactured by S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. of Racine, Wisconsin, or Fabreze®. The fluid may alternatively generally comprise, without limitation: any all-purpose cleaner, oil or Attomey Docket No. J-4150 water based dust inhibitor, anti-static, anti-microbial, antibacterial, sanitizing and deodorizing agent, dusting agent, glass cleaner, furniture polish, leather or vinyl treatment, other cleaning agent, wax, polish or shining agent, softening agent, friction- enhancing compound, perfumes, dish cleaner, soap, insect repellent or insect barrier, exfoliator or other personal care product, paint for sponge painting or other application, water out emulsions, oil out emulsions, dust mite killer or repellant, . abrasive cleaner, shoe polish, pet sanitation products, etc.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the preferred spray bottle is a generally cylindrical bottle having an integral bottom 51, sidewall 53, second 55 and third 59 sections. A spray cap or nozzle 61 is screwed or press fitted onto the top of the spray bottle. The spray cap 61 includes a pair of opposed flats 63 a, 63b configured to selectively engage flanges 71a, 71b of the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36. Alternatively, a system of tabs and grooves could be used to form a similar locking mechanism. The spray cap 61 could alternatively include a one sided flat button or a tapered button. In addition to the illustrated spray bottle, the fluid reservoir 30 could take a variety of forms including but not limited to an aerosol package, a deformable handle or reservoir that dispenses fluid by squeezing, a squirt gun or a flexible pouch with an attachable spray nozzle. While the fluid reservoir 30 is illustrated as fitting within the cradle 36 of the handle portion 24, the fluid reservoir may alternatively completely form the handle of the system, having only the upper portion of the cleaning system attached (i.e. the pivot member and the attachment members). Attomey Docket No. J-4150

It should be recognized that opposed flats 63a, 63b of the spray cap 61 provide for a tight fit within the handle portion 24, and further serve to properly orientate the fluid reservoir 30 within the cleaning system 20. Alternatively, it is understood that the fluid reservoir 30 could include other uniquely designed contours that allow for a mating tight fit within the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36.

FIG. 5 better illustrates the bottom 31 of the handle portion 24 defining the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36. Cradle 36 is generally defined by a lower support 37, handle portion sidewalls 21a, 21b and two U-shaped supports or rails 44 and 46 configured to receive the fluid reservoir 30 of the preferred embodiment. In the preferred embodiment, lower support 37 is comprised of a plurality of ribs 39 extending from the inner side of rear wall 23 of handle portion 24. The forward ends 43 of ribs 39 define the lower support 37 configured to support the bottom 51 of the fluid reservoir 30. In the preferred embodiment, ribs 39 include a central rib 45 having a length roughly equal to diameter of the bottom of the fluid reservoir 30. The remaining ribs 39 define progressively shorter lengths, thereby tapering off from the central rib 45 and supporting the remainder of the circular bottom of the fluid reservoir 30. As best shown in FIG. 9, a pair of triangular retention tabs 42a, 42b extend along opposed sides of the cradle 36 near the lower support 37. Retention tabs 42a, 42b are configured to frictionally engage and retain the lower sidewall 53 of the fluid reservoir 30. Extending forwardly from the retention tabs 42a, 42b, sidewalls 21a, 21b further define the sides of the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36 and are spaced in a manner to tightly fit around the sidewall 53 of the fluid reservoir 30.

While in the illustrated preferred embodiment, the fluid reservoir 30 is press fit or friction fit within the cradle 36 of the handle portion 24, it is recognized that Attorney Docket No. J-4150 alternative configurations could be utilized to retain the fluid reservoir 30 within the handle portion 24. For example, Velcro® or rubber bands could be included on a segment of the handle portion 24 in order to retain the fluid reservoir 30 within the handle portion 24. Other support structures or retaining features could be hingedly or otherwise attached to the handle portion to retain the fluid reservoir with in the handle portion.

Near the forward end of the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36 is a first U- shaped bottleneck receiving support 44. First bottleneck receiving support 44 is configured to press fit around, receive and retain the fluid reservoir 30 of the preferred embodiment. As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8, first bottleneck receiving support 44 is configured to press fit around the fluid reservoir 30 near the junction 59 of the second 55 and third 57 sections of the reservoir 30.

Slightly forward of the first bottleneck receiving support 44 is a second U- shaped spray cap receiving support 46. Spray cap receiving support 46 is configured to press fit around, retain and orientate the spray cap 61 of the fluid reservoir 30. As best illustrated in FIG. 7, spray cap receiving support 46 is defined by a pair of flanges 71a, 71b extending from the inner side of opposed sidewalls 21a, 21b. Flanges 71a, 71b are configured to press fit around flats 63a, 63b of fluid reservoir spray cap 61 when the reservoir is placed within the cradle 36. The tight fit defined by flanges 71a, 71b and flats 63a, 63b serves to properly orientate spray cap 61 within the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36 such that spray cap 61 faces in a direction away from the cradle 36. Forward of the opening 32, are a plurality of structural support ribs 48 extending forwardly towards the pivot member receiving cavity 50.

Turning now to FIGS. 6 and 11, at the forward end 25 of the bottom 31 of the Attomey Docket No. J-4150 handle portion 24 is a pivot member receiving cavity 50. Pivot member receiving cavity 50 is defined between integral opposed ears 49a, 49b located at the forward end 25 of the handle portion 24. Ears 49a, 49b include opposed grooves 52a, 52b on their inner cavity surface configured to slidably engage the axles 80a, 80b of a circular pivot member 82 during assembly. Grooves 52a, 52b have a width that is equal to or slightly wider than the diameter of the axles 80a, 80b of the circular pivot member 82. It is understood that grooves 52a, 52b and the pivot member receiving cavity 50 are configured to accommodate a variety of alternative cleaning pad support members 26 or other cleaning implements having pivot members 82 attached at their proximal ends. .

At the terminal end of the grooves 52a, 52b, are pivot holes 54 configured to receive the axles 80a, 80b of the circular pivot member 82 and allow pivotable motion therein. A curved slot 83 extends laterally from grooves 52a, 52b and defines a passage configured to allow the movement of circular pivot retention tabs 85 extending from the pivot member 82. On opposed sides of the forward end of the pivot member receiving cavity 50 are circular pivot retention tab holes 87 configured to engage and receive the circular pivot retention tabs 85 located on the pivot member 82.

Projecting downwardly from the top 29 of the handle portion 24 into the pivot member receiving cavity 50 is a resiliently biased semi-flexible pivot engagement tab 38. Engagement tab 38 is comprised of a first end 39 attached to the handle portion 24 and a second free end 91 configured to engage notches 102, 104, 106 on the outer surface of the pivot member 82 as will be described in greater detail below.

Attached within the pivot member receiving cavity 50 of the handle portion 24 Attorney Docket No. J-4150

is the cleaning pad support member 26. Cleaning pad support member 26 is comprised of an integral circular pivot member 82, linking section 93 and support head generally designated 92. Circular pivot member 82 includes integral axles 80a, 80b on its opposed lateral sides. As best shown in FIG. 11, axles 80a, 80b are configured to fit within pivot holes 54 and rotatably pivot therein. Pivot member 82 also includes a circular pivot retention tab 95. Circular retention tab 95 is configured to fit within retention tab holes 87 and support the system is in the cleaning position. Pivot member 82 defines three notches or indentations 102, 104, 106 corresponding to alternative positions of the cleaning pad support member 26. A cleaning position notch 102, liquid application notch 104 and storage position notch 106 are defined on the external surface of the pivot member 82. In general, the preferred pivot assembly requires about between 2-3 lbf of pivot force in order to rotate it.

Integral with and extending from the pivot member 82 is the linking section 93 and support head 92. In the preferred embodiment, support head 92 of cleaning pad support member 26 includes a pair of parallel attachment members or attachment prongs 108a, 108b configured to engage the pockets or sleeves 110a, 110b of a cleaning pad 28 as is generally known in the art. Attachment members 108a, 108b may be spaced apart in a variety of configurations, however, in the preferred embodiment, attachment members 108a, 108b have a total width of about 1.25 inches from opposed outside lateral edges. The preferred attachment members 108a, 108b are about 6.75 inches long, about .75 inches thick, and about .80 inches wide. Attachment members 108a, 108b define a rounded leading edge 107 configured for ease of insertion into the sleeves 110a, 110b of cleaning pad 28. It is recognized that although the preferred embodiment illustrates a pair of attachment members 108a, Attorney Docket No. J-4150

108b multiple configurations may be utilized. For example, a single, wider attachment member could be utilized. Alternatively,, three or more attachment members could be utilized.

Attachment members 108a, 108b include a plurality of spaced cleaning pad retaining tabs, barbs or projections 112 projecting from their upper surface 105. Ih the illustrated embodiment, retaining tabs 112 are triangular-shaped tabs having a first wall 114 extending in a generally vertical direction from the upper surface of the attachment members 108a, 108b and a second angled wall 116 sloping from the upper edge of the first wall 114 towards the distal end of the attachment members 108a 108b. Tabs 112 are preferably raised about .050 inches from the attachment members 108a, 108b. The unique triangular configuration of tl:e retaining tabs 112 serves a dual function. The angled wall 116 allows for ease of placement of the cleaning pad 28 on the attachment members 108a, 108b during assembly, while the vertical first wall 114 retains the cleaning pad 28 on the attachment members 108a, 108b during ' the cleaning motion.

In addition to the unique configuration of the retaining tabs 112, their orientation on the attachment members 108a, 108b also serves to maintain the cleaning pad 28 on the attachment members 108a, 108b. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining tabs 112 are staggered and include a leading tab 115, three intermediary tabs 117 and a trailing tab 119. In the illustrated embodiment, each attachment member 108a, 108b includes five retaining tabs 112. Testing has illustrated that when the retaining tabs 112 are spaced an equal distance from one another, their retention function is not as great as when the tabs are placed in the staggered configuration illustrated in the preferred embodiment. In the preferred Attorney Docket No. J-4150 embodiment, the first tab is spaced 1.0 inch, the second is spaced 2.0 inches, the third 2.5 inches, the fourth 3.0 inches and the fifth 4.0 inches from the rounded leading edge 107.

In one embodiment, the attachment members 108a, 108b may be expandable, inflatable, partially inflatable, or include an inflatable portion. The inflatability provides for an improved fit of the cleaning pad 28 on the attachment members 108a, 108b as well as facilitating hands free removal of the cleaning pad 28 from the attachment members 108a, 108b.

Cleaning pad 28 is generally known in the art and comprised of a combination of fibers defining a cleaning surface 111 and attachment portion 113. The cleaning pad 28 may., for example, include a plurality of fluffed nonwoven fabrics made of synthetic resins, which may be welded to one another. The pad may include fibers constructed from PP, PE, PET fibers in a variety of alternative percentages by weight. In the illustrated embodiment, attachment portion 113 defines a pair of pockets or sleeves 110a, 110b configured to receive the attachment members 108a, 108b of the cleaning pad support member 26. Cleaning pad 28 is preferably, a 20g/sqm spun lace cloth with betwen 1-4% mineral oil manufactured by Haso Corporation of Japan. Such cleaning or dusting pads are described in PCT/JP2004/10507 the entirety of which is expressly incorporated by reference. When the cleaning system 20 is used, the sleeve-like cleaning pad 28 is mounted over the attachment members 108a, 108b so that all of the retaining tabs 112 . are within the sleeves 110a, 110b. The retaining tabs 112 are, in this configuration, thus capable of being fully enclosed by the cleaning pad 28, avoiding the possibility of the attachment members 108a, 108b scratching delicate furniture or other items Attomey Docket No. J-4150 being contacted.

The cleaning surface 111 of cleaning pad 28 may be comprised of a polymer that allows for the spontaneous transport of aqueous fluids. Such polymers are described in, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 5,723,159, 5,972,505 and 5,200,248 the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by reference.

It should be recognized that the polymer fibers of the cleaning pad can take a variety of forms to increase various performance characteristics of the cleaning system 20. Standard circular fibers may be used, as is generally known in the art. Alternatively, the individual fibers on the cleaning pad may be lobed in the form of loose tow fibers. The unique lobed configuration creates channels within the individual fibers enabling improved capillary action on each individual fiber and increasing the overall cleaning or dusting surface area thereby increasing the overall efficiency of both wet and dry dusting. The higher surface area results in an increase in the proportion of particles adhering in the grooves or channels and results in dust particles being "trapped" within the grooves of the lobed fiber. The lobed fibers generally exhibit improved dust retention, more efficient wet wiping and longer life than standard circular fibers. Furthermore, the lobed fibers can be made stiffer thereby generating a higher wiping pressure in a smaller contact area. It is understood that the inventive lobed fibers could be comprised of a multitude of polymers with PP, PE or PET being recognized as the most cost effective alternatives. Alternatively acrylic or biodegradable polymers could be utilized.

In another alternative embodiment, the cleaning pad 28 may include stiffer or strut fibers attached to mass of tow fibers. In this arrangement, the stiffer fibers (usually in the range of about 0.3mm) carry the majority of the stress applied to the Attomey Docket No. J-4150 cleaning pad 28. The tow may be linked to the stronger fibers by entanglement at the outer ends of the fiber. The stiffer fibers result in a cleaning pad 28 that is springy resulting in a more desirable feel of applied force for users. The stiffer fibers can further be utilized to clean difficult areas such as crevices, blinds or screens. The stiffer fibers have the further advantage in that they keep the tow volume expanded, thereby increasing dust migration into the tow fibers.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the cleaning pad 28 could include absorbent materials in particulate form fixed onto the remaining fibers of the cleaning pad 28. The absorbent materials may take the form of known super absorbent polymers SAP. The SAPs may be, for example, acrylic based polymers applied as a coating or turned into fibers directly. Such commercially available SAPs generally include X-linked polyacrylic acids or X-linked starch-acrylic-acid-graft-poϊymers, the carboxyl groups of which are partially neutralized with sodium hydroxide or caustic potash. The SAPs may be made by such processes as a solvent or solution polymerization method or the inverse suspension or emulsion polymerization method. Such SAPs are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,391 the disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

The absorbent materials increase the overall absorbency of the fibers, prevent the fibers from packing close together into a fiber mass, and enhance the friction of the fibers. The "string of pearls" arrangement also allows for strategically placed high absorbency regions on the cleaning pad. For example, if it is desirable to have the forward end of the cleaning pad 28 be more absorbent than the remainder of the cleaning pad 28, the forward end could include a higher percentage of the particulate absorbent materials. Attomey Docket No. J-4150

The cleaning pad 28 could also include fibers that are formed into helices. Such fibers can be formed by drawing fiber bundles over a blade or heating coaxial bicomponent fibers. The resulting helical fibers exhibit a fluffier texture and more attractive appearance while at the same time increasing the volume (while using less fiber) and dust retention of the duster. The helical nature of the fibers is also advantageous in that they allow coarse fibers to feel softer due to the spring effect. Furthermore, the fibers gradual loss of the helical nature, can serve as an indication of the effective life of the cleaning pad.

It should be recognized that none of the aforementioned fiber materials or configurations are exclusive. The cleaning pad could include strategic combinations of the various fibers and other known fibeπ-;. In one example, the cleaning pad may be comprised of between 25-100% of the lobed fibers by weight.

Similarly, although the preferred embodiment discloses a single cleaning surface 111, the invention is in no way limited to such a single cleaning surface. To the contrary, numerous alternative configurations are within the scope of the present invention. For example, the inventive pad could include multiple cleaning surfaces, with alternate or similar fiber configurations to accommodate various cleaning functions. In one embodiment, a cleaning pad 28 could be two sided with one side of the cloth for dusting and the alternate side of the cleaning pad 28 for cleaning. This could also be accomplished by turning the pad "inside out" to expose a new clean surface. Alternatively, a triangular or other multi-sided cleaning pad 28 could be utilized. Circular cleaning pads are also envisioned and within the scope of the present invention. In general, a variety of cleaning pad 28 shapes or configuration could be utilized to maximize the various properties of the cleaning pad 28 and Attomey Docket No. J-4150 selected fibers.

As noted above, the orientation and type of fibers utilized on the cleaning pad 28 could include a wide variety of alternatives. For example and in no way limiting, the cleaning pad 28 could include a generally fluffy pad including a flat center strip around the area defined by the pockets or sleeves 110a, 110b. Such an orientation may increase the surface area and exhibit a better efficacy. Additionally, the center strip could include an absorbent pillow or tube extending down the center of the cleaning pad 28. Such an absorbent pillow could provide an area of high absorbency on the cleaning pad 28. Various alternative combinations are envisioned including, for example, cleaning pads consisting of alternating sections of sponges, feather-like structures, micro-fibers or cellulose foam. Wood pulp is preferred.

The cleaning pad 28 could also include a fluffy cloth with a hydrophilic additive to improve the absorbency of water. Such hydrophilic additives include but are not limited to glycerin and glycols. The cleaning pad 28 could also be comprised entirely of an absorbent material such as Rayon.

The cleaning pad 28 or cleaning pad support member 26 could also include a piezoelectric crystal to impart an electrostatic charge on the cleaning pad during use to increase dust retention. Such crystals are generally known and typically generate a charge when subjected to mechanical stress. Examples of materials that can be used include but are not limited to quartz analogue crystals like berlinite (AlPO₄) and gallium orthophosphate (GaPO₄), ceramics with perovskite or tungsten-bronze _: structures (BaTiO₃, KNbO₃, LiNbO₃, LiTaO₃, BiFeO₃, Na_xWO₃, Ba₂NaNb₅O₅, Pb₂KNb₅Oi₅). Additionally some Polymer materials like rubber, wool, hair, wood fiber, and silk exhibit piezoelectricity to some extent and may be utilized. Attomey Docket No. J-4150

Additionally, the polymer polyvinylidene fluoride, (-CH₂-CF₂-), which exhibits piezoelectricity several times larger than quartz may be used.

The cleaning pad 28 may also include a portion of an unbonded web material, as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,858,112, issued Jan. 12, 1999 to Stokes et al. and 5,962,112, issued Oct. 5, 1999 to Haynes et al. or other material such as described by U.S. Pat. No. 4,720,415, issued Jan. 19, 1988 to Vander Wielan et al. or any super absorbent material such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,995,133, issued Feb. 1991 and 5,638,569 both issued to Newell, 5,960,508, issued Oct. 5, 1999 to Holt et al., and 6,003,191, issued Dec. 21, 1999 to Sherry et al., all of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein, in their entirety.

In one embodiment, the cleaning pad 28 may comprises a spunbond fiber nonwoven web having a basis weight of approximately 68 grams per square meter. The spunbond fibers may comprise bicomponent fibers having a side-by-side configuration where each component comprises about 50%, by volume, of the fiber. The spunbond fibers will comprise first and second polypropylene components and/or a first component comprising polypropylene and a second component comprising propylene-ethylene copolymer. About 1% or more or less of titanium oxide or dioxide is added to the fiber(s) in order to improve fiber opacity. The spunbond fiber nonwoven web s thermally bonded with a point unbonded pattern. The nonwoven web is bonded using both heat and compacting pressure by feeding the nonwoven web through a nip formed by a pair of counter-rotating bonding rolls; the bonding rolls comprise one flat roll and one engraved roll. The bonded region of the nonwoven web comprises a continuous pattern that corresponds to the pattern imparted to the engraved roll. Further, the bonded region is applied to the web when Attorney Docket No. J-4150 it passes through the nip. The bonded region will range between approximately about 27% to about 35% of the area of the nonwoven web and forms a repeating, non- random pattern of circular unbonded regions. Absorbency enhancing or superabsorbent materials, including superabsorbent polymers, powders, fibers and the like may be combined with the cleaning pad 28.

Alternatively, the pad 28 comprises a laminate of an air-laid composite and a spunbond fiber nonwoven web. The nonwoven web may comprise monocomponent spunbond fibers of polypropylene having a basis weight of approximately 14 grams per square meter. The air-laid composite may comprises from about 85% to about 90% kraft pulp fluff and from about 10% to about 15% bicomponent staple fibers. The bicomponent staple fibers may have a sheath-core configuration; the core component comprising polyethylene terephthalate and the sheath component comprising polyethylene. The air-laid composite has a basis weight between about 200 and about 350 grams per square meter and an absorbency of between about 8 and about 11 grams per gram.

The cleaning pad 28 may also include a portion or side of hydrophilic fibers useful for scrubbing. Additionally, nylon fibers may be used to increase the coefficient of friction when they become wet. Portions of the cleaning pad 28 may be composed of microfibers and ultra-microfibers having a denier per filament (dpf) less than or equal to about 1.0.

As described, the cleaning pad 28 can be formed by any material or material- forming process known, including woven and non-woven materials, polymers, gels, extruded materials, laminates, layered materials which are bonded together integrally and thus form a co-material, fused materials, extruded materials, air laying, etc. Attomey Docket No. J-4150

The cleaning pad 28 can alternatively be optimized for providing a cleaning fluid to the surface, such as with micro capsules or encapsulated fluids or agents. The enhanced surface of the cleaning pad 28 can have scrubbing or abrasive qualities. The enhanced surface can also be formed by a mechanical stamping, bonding, pressing, compression, extrusion, sprayed, sputtered, laminated or other surface forming or affecting process. The various alternative cleaning solutions discussed above could be microencapsulated into the cleaning pad such that they, are selectively released by some additional stimulus. It is understood that various cleaning solutions microencapsulated into the cleaning pad could be activated by water, another chemical in the fluid reservoir or pressure. The solutions could be dry impregnated. Alternatively, the chemical solutions could be encapsulated in pockets or bubbles on or within the pad 28 or on the cleaning media support 26. The pockets could be designed to burst and release the cleaning solution upon the application of moderate pressure. It should be understood that the cleaning system 20 may be presented with its component parts partially preassembled or unassembled. During assembly or manufacture of the cleaning system 20, the ears 49a, 49b of the preformed handle portion 24 described above can be forced to flex outward from each other as the pivot member 82 is inserted therebetween in the orientation described above. The axles 80a, 80b slide along the path defined by the grooves 52a, 52b until they reach the pivot hole 54 defined at the terminal end. Axles 80a, 80b fit within holes 54 thereby defining a pivot joint. The sleeves 110a, 110b of the cleaning pad 28 are then placed over the attachment members 108a, 108b securing the cleaning pad to the system. The circular pivot member 82 accommodates rotational movement of the cleaning pad Attomey Docket No. J-4150 support member 26 in a range of about 55 to 65 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis of the handle portion 24. The preferred range is ideal for accommodating the alternate fiber lengths and cloth geometries of the inventive system. Particularly preferred is a range of about 61 degrees. When the cleaning pad support member 26 is fully extended in its cleaning position (FIG. 1), circular retention tabs 95 fit within retention tab. holes 87 and maintain the cleaning pad support member 26 in its cleaning position.

FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 10 illustrate the inventive cleaning system in its alternating positions. FIG. 1 illustrates the cleaning system 20 in its cleaning position. As described above, in the cleaning position the cleaning pad support member 26 extends forwardly, pivot engagement tab 38 engages the cleaning position notch 102 of pivot member 82, and retention tabs 95 fit within the retention tab holes 87. These engagement or retaining features create at least 2.5M of pivot force. This amount of force is sufficient to maintain the cleaning pad support member 26 in its fully extending cleaning position despite any torque experienced during normal dusting, drying, or cleaning motions. Thus, in the cleaning position, a user may manipulate the cleaning system 20 via the handle portion 24. Additionally, the user may apply the water or other liquid housed within the fluid reservoir 30 directly onto the surface to be cleaned. The user may insert a finger through the opening 32 and depress the spray cap 61 thereby causing the discharge of the fluid housed within the reservoir 30. Due to the orientation of the cleaning system 20 in the cleaning position, the liquid will typically be applied directly to the surface to be cleaned in an area behind the cleaning pad 28 when the system is in a horizontal orientation such as when dusting a coffee table. Alternatively, a cleaning solution can be sprayed onto a vertical surface Attomey Docket No. J-4150 to be cleaned, such as a window or door molding.

FIGS. 4 and 10 illustrate the cleaning system 20 in. a second liquid application position. Ih order to move the cleaning pad support member 26 into the liquid application position a user must hold the handle portion 24 and. apply torque to the cleaning pad support member 26 to move it from the cleaning position illustrated in FIG. 1. As sufficient torque is applied to overcome the forces of the inventive engagement features, the circular pivot member 82 rotates downwardly into the liquid application position. In the liquid application position, pivot engagement tab 38 engages the liquid application notch 104 of the pivot member 82 thereby holding the cleaning pad support member 26 is its angled liquid application state. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle 0 between the cleaning pad support member ^'2C> and the handle portion 24 in the liquid application position, may be between 45° and 68°. Preferably, the angle 0 between the cleaning pad support member 26 arid the handle portion 24 is between 55° and 68° with 63° being particularly preferred. This preferred angle takes into consideration the spray pattern of the fluid reservoir (shown in phantom) in order to achieve liquid application onto the greatest surface area of the cleaning surface 111 of the cleaning pad 28.

During dusting or cleaning a user may repeatedly rotate the cleaning pad support member 26 from its cleaning position to its liquid application position as needed. Alternatively, as noted above, a user may simply apply liquid directly to the surface to be cleaned while using the cleaning system 20 in the cleaning position.

FIG. 3 illustrates the storage position of the cleaning system. As illustrated in FIG. 3, in the storage position the cleaning pad support member 26 is rotated backwards such that it is generally parallel to the plane defined by the longitudinal Attomey Docket No. J-4150 axis of the handle portion 24. In the storage position, engagement tab 38 engages the storage position notch 106 thereby maintaining cleaning pad support member 26 in its folded position. In the storage position, the cleaning system 20 may be easily stored into a variety of spaces such as kitchen drawers or cabinets. Alternatively, the system can be hung on a wall using the opening 32 in the handle portion 24.

. As it can be appreciated from the description above the invention includes a novel method of adjusting the cleaning pad support member 26. One first obtains the cleaning system 20. While holding the handle portion (and preferably no other portion of the device), one presses the cleaning pad support member 26 against an object (e.g. a wall or a floor) to cause rotation of the cleaning support member 26 relative to the handle portion 24. In an alternative embodiment, the pivot member may include a torsion spring or other biasing means to return the cleaning support member 26 to its cleaning position without effort on behalf of the user.

FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the cleaning pad 128 of the present invention. Cleaning pad 128 is similar to the pad previously described, however, pad 128 includes tapered fibers 129 on its cleaning surface 111. As illustrated in FIG. 10, fibers 129 are tapered in a manner such that those fibers 129 closest to the handle portion 24 are shortest. As one moves away from the handle portion 24, the fibers 129 become progressively longer in length. The tapered fiber length further accommodates the cleaning system 20 in achieving a maximum cleaning fluid application surface area on the cleaning surface 111, in the fluid application position.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate an additional alternative embodiment of the cleaning system. As illustrated by FIGS. 12 and 13, the cleaning fluid reservoir 30 of the Attorney Docket No. J-4150 previous embodiment has been replaced with a flexible pouch 130. In the alternative embodiment, spray nozzle or cap 134, with an angled dip tube 140 may be retained in the handle portion 24 as previously described. A user may puncture the seal at a preformed location 138 on the pouch with the pump dip tube 140. Alternatively, a user may screw the spray cap 134 onto a threaded pouch fitment 151 or the spray cap 134 may be directly staked to the pouch 130 during the filling operation. As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the cradle of the previous embodiment has been replaced with a snap-fitting cover 142 attached via a living hinge 141 to the handle portion 24. Cover 142 secures the pouch 130 within the cleaning system 20. It is understood that the component parts of the inventive system 20 described above may be manufactured and sold separately or together in the form of a cleaning system or kit. It should be further understood the present invention contemplates a variety of additional alternative configurations and component parts which may be attached within the pivot member receiving cavity 50 of the handle portion 24. A wide variety of alternative interchangeable cleaning implements may be substituted for the cleaning pad support member 26 described above. The alternative cleaning implements would preferably include a support member with a modular design which include a universal pivot member or other attachment member similar to that described in the preferred embodiment such that the alternative implements could be used interchangeably with the preferred handle portion 24. For example, and in now way limiting an alternative cleaning implements could include a squeegee for cleaning windows, mirrors or other glass structures, a soft surface cleaner such as a lint roller, a glass cleaner including an indexing refill roll, an insect swatter, a dog brush or other grooming implement, a scrub brush or other cleaning implement etc. Attomey Docket No. J-4150

Numerous other pivotally or moveably attached cleaning implements are also within the scope of the present invention.

Furthermore, although the preferred embodiment illustrates a handle portion 24 pivotally attached to a cleaning pad support 26, it is recognized that the present invention is in no way limited to such a construction. For example, the inventive cleaning system 20 could be constructed as a single non-movable piece allowing only surface spraying of the cleaning fluid. Likewise, the cleaning pad support need not be pivotally attached to the handle portion as described in the preferred embodiment. Numerous alternative embodiments that allow for movement of the cleaning pad support 26 in relation to the handle portion are within the scope of the invention. The cleaning pad support member 26 and handle portion 24 may alternatively be slidably connected, hingedly connected, bendable or otherwise movable into its various desired orientations. A spring loaded lock switch could be used to allow 180° rotation of the cleaning pad support member 26. The cleaning pad support member 26 could include a centrally located pivot member to allow for 360° rotation. Alternatively, the handle portion could be rotatable 360° in relation to the cleaning pad support member 26. Additionally, the handle portion 24 could include an integral or attachable telescoping extension to allow for dusting or cleaning areas outside of a normal user's reach. Additionally, the handle portion as described could be eliminated completely and the fluid reservoir could be arranged to form the handle of the cleaning system. The pivotable attachment member could be attached to the upper end of the fluid reservoir. Further, although the spray bottle described herein is a physically separate module, it will be manifest that the spray bottle may be directly integrated into, or Attomey Docket No. J-4150 form the handle portion with which it is associated. The reservoir could have a plug that could be removed when filling with fluid.

The cleaning pad support could alternatively be connected to the handle portion via a threaded connection. Such an orientation would allow for the ease of attachment and removal of the numerous alternative cleaning implements that are within the scope of the present invention. The cleaning pad support could also be alternatively arranged to rotate in either a vertical or horizontal direction to accommodate various cleaning functions. The cleaning system could further include a motorized spinning head for additional efficacy and less effort on behalf of the consumer. Although the cleaning fluid delivery system has been described in reference to the fluid reservoir, it is recognized that alternative configurations for dejiveriηg cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned or to a cleaning media are also within the scope of the present invention. For example, the fluid reservoir could be arranged in a manner such the cleaning fluid is sprayed or applied on the back surface of a cleaning pad or cloth and allowed to move through the cloth via a wicking action.

Alternatively, the attachment members or tines 108a, 108b of the cleaning system could be in fluid communication with the cleaning fluid reservoir such that cleaning fluid may be discharged on a cleaning pad 28 via the attachment members 108a, 108b. Such a delivery system could deliver cleaning fluid through the tip, bottom, top or lateral sides of the attachment members. Alternatively, the liquid delivery system could include a flip out nozzle or reservoir configured for spraying cleaning fluid onto the cleaning media. Such a configuration would eliminate the need for a pivoting support member. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

Although the best mode contemplated by the inventors of carrying out the present invention is disclosed above, practice of the present invention is not limited thereto. It will be manifest that various additions, modifications and rearrangements of the features of the present invention may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of the underlying inventive concept.

Moreover, as .noted throughout the application the individual components need not be formed in the disclosed shapes, or assembled in the disclosed configuration, but could be provided in virtually any shape, and assembled in virtually any configuration, so as to provide for a cleaning system that includes a cleaning fluid reservoir attached to cleaning implement -support. Furthermore, all the disclosed features of each disclosed embodiment can be combined with, or substituted for, the disclosed features of every other disclosed embodiment except where such features are mutually exclusive.

It is intended that the appended claims cover all such additions, modifications and rearrangements. Expedient embodiments of the present invention are differentiated by the appended claims. . . . - •■

Claims

Attomey Docket No. J-4150CLAIMS

What is claimed is: 1. A cleaning tool comprising: a) a handle portion having an opening configured to allow access to a cradle; and b) a cleaning pad support member moveably attached to the handle portion.

2. The cleaning tool of claim 1 , wherein the support member is moveable between a first cleaning position and a second cleaning pad liquid application position.

3. The cleaning tool of claim 2, further comprising a cleaning fluid dispenser within the cradle.

4. The cleaning tool of claim 3, wherein the cleaning fluid dispenser comprises a pump spray bottle.

5. The cleaning tool of claim 3, wherein the fluid dispenser comprises a flexible pouch and an attachable spray nozzle.

6. The cleaning tool of claim 1 , wherein the cleaning pad support member comprises a pair of parallel attachment members. Attorney Docket No, J-4150

7. The cleaning tool of claim 6, wherein the attachment members are spaced 1.25 inches apart.

8. The cleaning tool of claim 6, wherein the parallel attachment members comprise at least one vertically extending cleaning pad retaining tab projecting from an upper surface of the attachment members.

9. The cleaning tool of claim 8, wherein the retaining tabs comprise a first wall extending in a generally vertical direction and a second angled wall sloping from an upper edge of the first wall towards a distal end of the attachment members.

10. The cleaning tool of claim 1, wherein the cleaning pad support member comprises a circular pivot member at one end, the circular pivot member configured to fit within a pivot member receiving cavity in the handle portion.

11. The cleaning tool of claim 10, wherein the circular pivot member comprises a plurality of notches and the handle comprises a semi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward into the pivot member receiving cavity, the engagement tab configured to fit within the notches for selective pivoting of the cleaning support member.

12. The cleaning tool of claim 11, wherein the pivot member comprises a first notch corresponding to a cleaning position, a second notch corresponding to a liquid application position, and a third notch corresponding to a storage position. Attomey Docket No. J-41S0

13. The cleaning tool of claim 12, wherein the angle between the handle portion and cleaning pad support member is between 45 and 68 degrees in the liquid application position.

14. The cleaning tool of claim 12, wherein the angle between the handle portion and cleaning pad support member is between 55 and 68 degrees in the liquid application position.

15. The cleaning tool of claim 3, wherein the fluid dispenser comprises a mechanism configured to align the fluid dispenser within the cradle.

16. The cleaning tool of claim 15, wherein the mechanism is a cap comprised of flats, the flats configured to align the fluid dispenser within the cradle.

17. The cleaning tool of claim 16, wherein the cradle comprises at least one flange, the at least one flange configured to align the cap within the cradle via selective engagement with the flats.

18. The cleaning tool of claim 1, further comprising a cleaning pad removably attached to the cleaning pad support member. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

19. The cleaning tool of claim 19, wherein the cleaning pad support member comprises at least one longitudinally extending attachment prong and the cleaning pad defines at least one sleeve configured to receive the attachment prong and secure the cleaning pad to the cleaning pad support member.

20. A cleaning system including:

(a) a cleaning tool comprising: a handle defining an interior recess for receiving a fluid reservoir; and a cleaning media support pivotably attached to the handle, the support capable of pivoting rearwardly from a cleaning position;

(b) a cleaning media attached to the cleaning media support; and

(c) a fluid reservoir attached to the handle in the cradle, the reservoir capable of applying fluid to a surface to be cleaned and to the surface of the cleaning media.

21. The cleaning system of claim 20, wherein the cleaning media support comprises a pair of parallel laterally extending attachment prongs.

22. The cleaning system of claim 21, wherein the attachment prongs comprise a plurality of projections extending generally vertically from the prongs.

23. The cleaning system of claim 22, wherein the projections comprise an angled side sloping away from the handle. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

24. The cleaning system of claim 20, wherein the support comprises a pivot member at one end the pivot member including a plurality of indentations configured to receive a semi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward from the handle.

25. The cleaning system of claim 24, wherein the pivot member comprises a first indentation defining a cleaning position, a second indentation defining a liquid application position, and a third indentation defining a storage position.

26. The cleaning system of claim 25, wherein the angle between the handle and cleaning media support is between 45 and 68 degrees in the liquid application position.

27. The cleaning system of claim 25, wherein the angle between the handle and cleaning media support is between 55 and 68 degrees in the liquid application position.

28. The cleaning system of claim 25, wherein the angle between the handle and cleaning media support is about 63 degrees in the cleaning position.

29. The cleaning system of claim 20, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a spray nozzle and fluid container integral with the handle. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

30. The cleaning system of claim 20, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises opposed flat sidewalls, the sidewalls configured to align the fluid reservoir within the recess.

31. • A cleaning kit comprising: a handle defining a cleaning fluid reservoir receiving bay; a cleaning pad support pivotally attached to the handle, the support capable of pivoting from a cleaning position to a storage position wherein the support is substantially folded upon the handle; a cleaning pad having a combination of fibers and at least one nonwoven sheet; and a fluid reservoir attached to the handle within the bay the reservoir comprising a spray cap having opposed flats configured to align the spray cap within the receiving bay. . .

32. A device for cleaning a surface comprising: a handle; a pivot joint connected to the handle; a cleaning head portion connected to the pivot joint and capable of folding beneath the handle.

33. The device of claim 32, further comprising a fluid dispenser connected to the device and able to dispense fluid upon the cleaning head. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

34. A cleaning tool for wet, damp or dry cleaning comprising: a) a handle portion defining a cradle for a fluid reservoir; and b) a cleaning implement support member attached to the handle portion. .

35. The cleaning tool of claim 34, wherein the cleaning implement support member is movably attached to the handle portion.

36. The cleaning tool of claim 35, wherein the cleaning implement support member is pivotally attached to the handle portion.

37. The cleaning tool of claim 35, wherein the cleaning implement support member is slidably attached to the handle portion.

38. The cleaning tool of claim 34, wherein the handle portion has a top, a bottom and an opening configured to allow access into the cradle.

39. The cleaning tool of claim 35, wherein the cleaning implement support member is moveable between a first cleaning position and a second cleaning pad liquid application position.

40. The cleaning tool of claim 34, further comprising a detachable cleaning fluid dispenser within the cradle. Attorney Docket No. J-4150

41. The cleaning tool of claim 36, wherein the cleaning implement support member comprises a circular pivot member at one end, the circular pivot member configured to fit within a pivot member receiving cavity in the handle portion.

^" 5 ^•

42. The cleaning tool of claim 41 , wherein the circular pivot member comprises a plurality of notches and the handle comprises a semi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward into the pivot member receiving cavity, the engagement tab configured to fit within the notches for selective pivoting of the cleaning support 0 member.

43. The cleaning tool of claim 42 whereir? the engagement of the semi- flexible engagement tab into the notches produces and auditory signal.

5 44. The cleaning tool of claim 36, wherein a pivot point on the handle portion is located below a horizontal plane defined by a fluid reservoir within the cradle.

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