Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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RECHARGEABLE CLEANING DEVICE, METHOD AND SYSTEM
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a cleaning device for picking up debris, a
cleaning device system and a method for picking up debris. Further, the
invention relates to
a method, system and device for the removal of lint and other like debris by
the use of
detachable cleaning pads having thereon an application of an amount of an
adhesive
material which is rechargeable or which may be applied in a plurality of
layers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Various types of lint cleaning devices have been suggested by the prior art.
z
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,727,616 issued to Kucera et. al., discloses a
cleaning roller
which comprises a support; a cylinder carried by the support for rotation
about its
longitudinal axis; and a plurality of windings of material wound about the
cylinder. Each of
the windings has an outwardly facing adhesive surface and has a continuous cut
along the
substantial portion of a line extending across each winding to define a
circumferentially
extending narrow band of uncut windings disposed proximate one edge of the
cylinder.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,083,075, issued to M. A. Hester, discloses a device
comprising a housing having an elongated handle connected thereto and a tape
cartridge
disposed therein, the housing further comprising means for selectively
advancing the tape
and the cartridge to present a tacky surface for contacting and thus removing
litter. The tape
cartridge comprises a first reel for supplying a length of tape and a second
reel for taking up
the length of tape. The tape advancing means rotates the second reel to
thereby advance a
length of tape from the first reel in response to a sequential movement of the
cartridge from
the first extended position to a second retracted position and back to the
extended position.
U.S: Pat. No. 3,040,352, issued to N. B. Vian, discloses a device with a body
portion thereof whereby a tubular roll of material having a sticky surface may
be fractionally
retained thereon. The body portion has a configuration that coacts with the
tubular roll of
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adhesive material so that the roll of adhesive material is positively retained
thereon without
the use of special fasteners until removed by the user of the device.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,742,547, issued to M. Sohmer, discloses a device which
includes a tube-like roller having a length of pressure sensitive adhesive
material wound
around the periphery of the roller. Removable disk shaped end members enclose
the ends
of the roller. An inverted V-shaped holder is connected to the end members. A
handle
extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the roller and is connected
to the apex of
the inverted V-shaped holder.
,~ 10
U.S. Pat. No. 5,553,344 issued to Rosenkrantz discloses a cleaning device
that includes a support member having a first side and second side, an
elongated handle
connected to the first side, and a plurality of sheets of adhesive material
are attached to the
second side. The sheets are arranged in a sandwich type fashion. Each sheet
has an
outwardly facing tacky adhesive surface and is adapted to be exposed when a
preceding
outermost sheet is removed. The tacky adhesive surface serves to pick up lint
and other
light substances when placed against it.
However, none of the prior art devices disclose a cleaning device making use
of a detachable, disposable-cleaning pad which acts as a substrate for a
rechargeable
adhesive material.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The within invention is directed a cleaning device for picking up debris, a
method for picking up debris using a cleaning device and a cleaning device
system.
Preferably, the method of the invention is performed using the preferred form
of the
cleaning device or the cleaning device system as described herein, however,
any suitable
cleaning device or cleaning device system having the properties discussed
herein may be
used.
The device, system and method may be used for picking up any debris such
as lint or other undesirable material from a surface. For this reason, the
within invention
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has been found to have particular application to the hospitality industry for
use in cleaning
up lint and other debris which is not easily or readily picked up by a vacuum
cleaner.
However, it is understood that the device, system and method may also be
used in picking up or retrieving any desired object or material from a surface
and may be
used in a variety of further applications. For instance, other potential
applications of the
device, system and method include: in the airline industry, for cleaning up
the cabins of
airplanes; for cleaning ceiling vents around which dust has accumulated; for
cleaning tile
and ceramics; for use by handicapped persons in picking up objects such as
dropped car
keys, eyeglasses, etc.; for forensic purposes for evidence gathering by
police; and for
cleaning up pins or other hazardous objects in hospitals, change rooms and in
manufacturing plants.
Further, the device and method may be used to pick up debris or materials
from any surface, but is particularly suited in the preferred embodiment for
use in picking
up debris from carpeted areas or other flooring surfaces.
In a first aspect of the invention, the invention is comprised of a cleaning
device for picking up debris, comprising:
(a) a support member, wherein the support member is comprised of a support
surface;
(b) a cleaning pad having an attaclunent side and a substrate side, wherein
the
attachment side is releasably attached with the support surface and wherein
the substrate side is adapted to accept an application of an adhesive
material.
The cleaning device may be further comprised of the adhesive material and
may also be further comprised of an adhesive material applicator for applying
the adhesive
material to the substrate side of the cleaning pad.
In a second aspect of the invention, the invention is comprised of a cleaning
device system comprising:
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(a) a support member, wherein the support member is comprised of a support
surface;
(b) a cleaning pad having an attachment side and a substrate side, wherein the
attachment side is adapted to be releasably attached with the support surface
and wherein the substrate side is adapted to accept an application of an
adhesive material;
(c) an amount of the adhesive material; and
(d) an adhesive material applicator, for applying the adhesive material to the
substrate side of the cleaning pad.
In the first and second aspects of the invention, the support member may
have any shape, configuration or dimensions suitable for the intended
application of the
device and system and capable of providing the necessary support surface for
releasable
attachment with the cleaning pad. Specifically, the support member is provided
to support
the cleaning pad in the mamer described herein, as well as to facilitate the
use of the device
or system by the user. Thus, the shape, configuration and dimensions are
selected to be
compatible with the desired or intended use.
In the preferred embodiment, the support member includes a planar support
surface for releasable attachment with the cleaning pad. The support surface
is preferably
planar to facilitate the ease of attachment of the cleaning pad thereto and to
facilitate the use
of the device or system for the picking up of debris from a planar surface
such as the ground
or floor. However, the support surface may have any other shape or
configuration
permitting the releasable attachment of the cleaning pad and permitting the
use of the
cleaning pad on the intended surface to be cleaned.
To facilitate the use of the device or system, each of the device and the
system is preferably further comprised of a handle connected with the support
member. The
handle may have any shape or dimensions suitable for grasping by the user or
compatible
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with being held by hand. As well, the handle, and particularly its length, may
be configured
to permit the user to contact a surface with the cleaning pad without the need
to bend over
or stoop (i.e. to pick up debris from the floor) or to contact a surface at a
distance from the
user (i.e. to clean the ceiling or other elevated surface). Further, the
handle itself may be
formed by a single structural member or element or it may be comprised of a
plurality of
structural members or elements, either pernlanently or detachably connected or
fastened
together, to form the complete handle.
The handle may be constructed of any suitable material or combination of
materials, including wood, metal, plastic, fiberglass, or composites.
Preferably the handle is
relatively sturdy yet lightweight. In the preferred embodiment, the handle is
constructed
essentially of tubular aluminum.
The handle may be connected with the support member in any manner and
by any structure or mechanism permitting the gripping of the handle by the
user to use the
device or system in the intended fashion. For instance, the handle may be
integrally formed
with the support member to provide a single unit or member. Alternatively, the
handle may
be rigidly or movably connected with the support member, either permanently or
detachably. For example, the handle may be detachably connected with the
support
member so that the handle can be removed for certain applications of the
cleaning device or
so that different lengths and types of handles can be connected with the
support member for
different applications of the cleaning device.
Finally, the handle may connected with the support member at any location
or position on the support member. However, preferably, the handle is
connected at a
location or position which does not interfere with the attachment of the
cleaning pad with
the support surface and which facilitates the use of the device or system by
the user. In the
preferred embodiment, the handle is connected with the support member at a
location or
position opposed to the support surface. As a result, the user may relatively
easily apply
pressure through the handle to the cleaning pad attached to the support
surface in order to
pick up the desired obj ect or debris.
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In addition, although the handle may be rigidly or fixedly connected with the
support member, the handle is preferably movably connected with the support
member to
permit adjustment of the angle between the handle and the support member. More
particularly, the handle is preferably pivotably connected with the support
member. In the
preferred embodiment, the handle is pivotably connected with the support
member such that
the handle is capable of pivoting about two axes relative to the support
member.
Any mechanism or structure may be utilized which permits the desired
pivoting motion. For example, the handle may be connected with the support
member using
a ball joint structure or some other type of articulating joint as is known in
the art.
In the preferred embodiment, the handle is connected with the support
member using a universal joint structure which includes an upper swivel and a
lower swivel
which provide for rotation about two axes oriented at right angles to each
other. In the
preferred embodiment the lower swivel is comprised of a lower pivot pin or
shaft mounted
on the support member which engages the lower end of a coupling member which
forms
part of the lower end of the handle, and the upper swivel is comprised of an
upper pivot pin
or shaft motuited on the handle which engages the upper end of the coupling
member and
thus connects the coupling member with the remainder of the handle.
As indicated, the cleaning pad has an attachment side and a substrate side. In
the device, the attachment side is releasably attached or attachable with the
support surface.
In the system, the attachment side is adapted to be releasably attached with
the support
surface. In each of the device and the system, the attachment side may be
comprised of any
material, substance, means, mechanism or structure suitable for, and capable
of, releasably
attaching the attachment surface with the support surface so that the cleaning
pad may be
removed as desired or as required in order to permit the attachment of a
replacement
cleaning pad.
Preferably, each of the device and system is further comprised of a releasable
attachment mechanism for releasably attaching the attachment side of the
cleaning pad with
the support surface. Any releasable attachment mechanism which facilitates the
releasable
attachment of the attachment side with the support surface may be used.
However,
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preferably, the releasable attachment mechanism is comprised of a hook and
loop fastening
system.
Any hook and loop fastening system capable of retaining or maintaining the
attachment of the cleaning pad to the support member during use of the device
or system
may be used. In other words, the hook and loop fastening system is to be
selected to be
capable of maintaining the attachment upon exposure of the cleaning pad to
stresses or
forces typically or reasonably anticipated to be encountered during use.
Further, the hook and loop fastening system is preferably comprised of a
hook portion associated with one of the support surface and the attachment
side and a loop
portion associated with the other of the support surface and the attachment
side. In the
preferred embodiment, the hook portion is associated with the support surface
and the loop
portion is associated with the attachment side.
The hook portion may be connected, affixed, fastened, mounted or otherwise
associated with one of the support surface and the attachment side of the
cleaning pad in
any manner and by any mechanism such that movement of the hook portion
relative to the
support surface or the attachment side is inhibited, particularly during use
of the device or
system.
The hook portion may be removably or detachably connected, affixed,
fastened or otherwise mounted with one of the support surface and the
attachment side of
the cleaning pad, thus facilitating relatively easy replacement of the hook
portion, if
necessary. Alternatively, the hook portion may be integrally formed with one
of the support
surface and the attachment side of the cleaning pad.
Preferably, however, the hook portion is fixedly or permanently connected,
affixed, fastened or otherwise mounted with one of the support surface and the
attachment
side of the cleaning pad. In the preferred embodiment, the hook portion is
fixedly attached
with the support surface. More particularly, the hook portion is comprised of
a fabric hook
material which is glued to the support surface such that the support surface
comprises the
hoolc material.
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Similarly, the loop portion may be connected, affixed, fastened, mounted or
otherwise associated with one of the support surface and the attachment side
of the cleaning
pad in any manner and by any mechanism such that movement of the loop portion
relative
to the support surface or the attachment side is inhibited, particularly
during use of the
device or system.
The loop portion may be removably or detachably connected, affixed,
fastened or otherwise mounted with one of the support surface and the
attachment side of
the cleaning pad, thus facilitating relatively easy replacement of the loop
portion, if
necessary. Alternatively, the loop portion may be integrally formed with one
of the support
surface and the attachment side of the cleaning pad.
Preferably, however, the loop portion is fixedly or permanently connected,
affixed, fastened or otherwise mounted with one of the support surface and the
attachment
side of the cleaning pad. In the preferred embodiment, the attachment side of
the cleaning
pad is comprised of the loop portion. More particularly, the loop portion is
comprised of a
fabric loop material, which may be referred to as the brush, which is heat
laminated to the
cleaning pad such that the attachment side comprises the loop material.
The cleaning pad may be comprised of a single material and a single layer of
material such that the attachment side and the substrate side are comprised of
the same
material. Preferably, however, the attachment side of the cleaning pad is
comprised of an
attachment layer and the substrate side of the cleaning pad is comprised of a
substrate layer
so that it is not necessary for a single material to exhibit the preferred
characteristics of both
the attachment side and the substrate side of the cleaning pad.
Thus, the cleaning pad is preferably comprised of at least two layers,
particularly the attachment layer and the substrate layer. However, one or
more further
layers may be positioned between the attachment and substrate layers. In
addition, the
layers of the cleaning pad may be removably or fixedly connected, affixed,
fastened or
otherwise mounted together to provide the cleaning pad. The layers may be so
affixed by
any material, substance, means, mechanism or structure suitable for, and
capable of,
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affixing the layers in a manner inhibiting the relative movement of the layers
during use of
the cleaning pad. Alternatively, the layers of the cleaning pad, including the
attachment
layer and the substrate layer, may be integrally formed with each other to
provide the
cleaning pad. In the preferred embodiment, the cleaning pad is comprised of
the attachment
layer and the substrate layer which are fixedly attached to each other by heat
lamination.
As discussed above, the substrate side of the cleaning pad is adapted to
accept an application of an adhesive material. The substrate side of the
cleaning pad may be
comprised of any material, substance, means, mechanism or structure suitable
for, and
capable of, accepting the application of the adhesive material thereon.
In the preferred embodiment, the substrate side of the cleaning pad is
comprised of a substrate layer as described above. The substrate layer of the
cleaning pad
may be comprised of any substance, material or fabric suitable for, and
capable of,
accepting the application of the selected adhesive material thereon.
Preferably, the substrate layer is selected such that the adhesive material is
not significantly absorbed by the substrate layer or such that the adhesive
material does not
significantly permeate or impregnate the substrate layer. In other words, it
is preferred that
the substrate layer permit a substantially surface application of the adhesive
material only so
that the consumption of adhesive material applied to the substrate layer is
minimized. The
substrate layer preferably also provides a resilient surface so that the
substrate layer can
conform to the surface from which debris is to be collected, thus enhancing
the
effectiveness of the cleaning device or system.
It has been found that both of these objectives can generally be achieved if
the substrate layer is comprised of a foam material such as a polyolefin foam
material.
Although any polyolefin foam material capable of accepting the application of
the adhesive
material in the described manner may be used, the substrate layer is most
preferably
comprised of a crosslinked closed cell polyethylene foam material. Crosslinked
foams are
generally stronger materials than non crosslinked foams, while closed cell
foams tend to
absorb (and thus consume) less adhesive material than open cell foams.
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Although foam materials have been found to be generally suitable for use as
the substrate layer, any other material capable of, and suitable for,
accepting the adhesive
material may also be used for the substrate side of the cleaning pad, with
varying results
depending upon the application of the cleaning device or system.
The adhesive material is applied to the substrate side of the cleaning pad.
Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the adhesive material is particularly
applied to the
substrate layer. When the substrate side of the cleaning pad contacts the
debris, the debris
adheres to the cleaning pad. The adhesive material may be comprised of any
material,
substance, chemical composition or combinations thereof suitable for, and
capable of,
causing the desired debris to adhere to the cleaning pad. Thus, the adhesive
material and its
particular properties will be selected to be compatible with both the
substrate layer and the
debris or object to be picked up by the cleaning pad.
For example, any suitable polymer may comprise the adhesive material
including a pressure sensitive adhesive, an adhesive polymer, a tacky polymer
or
combinations thereof.
Preferably, the adhesive material has one or more of a number of various
preferable properties. Ideally, the adhesive material will exhibit each of the
desired
properties as discussed below.
First, the adhesive material is preferably substantially non-transferable. In
other words, it is desirable that no amount, or no significant amount, of the
adhesive
material be transferred from the substrate side of the cleaning pad to the
surface being
cleaned upon use of the cleaning pad.
Second, the adhesive material preferably has a curing time of less than about
one minute after it is applied to the substrate side of the cleaning pad. More
preferably, the
adhesive material has a curing time of less than about 30 seconds after it is
applied to the
substrate side of the cleaning pad. A relatively short curing time is
preferred so that the user
of the cleaning pad need not wait an inordinate length of time before being
able to use the
cleaning pad after the application of the adhesive material. Further, as
discussed below, in
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the preferred embodiment the adhesive material is applied as a spray using an
adhesive
material applicator. A quick curing time is desirable in this circumstance in
order to
minimize the effects of any over-spray. Over-spray is an amount of the
adhesive material
which is sprayed into the atmosphere but does not actually contact the
cleaning pad. It is
desirable that any over-spray dry quickly in the atmosphere before contacting
any undesired
surfaces. Ideally, any over-spray will dry or cure within a distance of 18
inches (45.72 cm)
from the spray applicator.
Third, the adhesive material should have a tack value which is sufficiently
high to enable the cleaning pad to pick up the "target" debris effectively.
The tack value
refers to the maximum adhesive strength of the adhesive material. The
desirable tack value
will vary depending upon the particular use of the device or system and the
properties,
including the weight, of the debris or other material to be picked up by the
cleaning pad.
For example, if the device or system is intended to be used to pick up
"debris" consisting of objects such as dropped keys, eyeglasses etc., the
adhesive material
will require a higher tack value than if the device or system is intended to
be used to pick up
debris such as lint, grass, pins etc. As a result, the term "debris" when used
herein includes
any material or object which is desired to be picked up by the cleaning
device, including,
but not limited to material commonly found on floors and carpets such as lint,
dirt, grass,
thread, pins, paper clips and scraps of paper, as well as larger pieces of
metal, plastic, wood,
paper, fabric, glass and in certain applications, objects such as keys,
eyeglasses, household
items, small tools etc.
Fifth, the adhesive material is preferably non-toxic. Sixth, the adhesive
material is preferably odorless.
As indicated, the device and system preferably include an adhesive material
applicator. Any type of applicator may be used which is compatible for use
with the
particular adhesive material and which is suitable for applying the adhesive
material to the
substrate side of the cleaning pad.
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The adhesive material and the adhesive material applicator may be integrated
into a single component of the cleaning device system such as an aerosol
applicator or they
may be separate components of the cleaning device system.
For instance, the adhesive material applicator may be comprised of a brush,
sponge, roller, tube or other suitable applicator device. However, in the
preferred
embodiment, the adhesive material applicator is an aerosol applicator and the
adhesive
material is integrated with the adhesive material applicator. In other words,
an amount of
the adhesive material is contained within the aerosol applicator so that the
adhesive material
can be sprayed onto the substrate side of the cleaning pad.
Further, the application of the adhesive material to the cleaning pad is
referred to herein as charging the cleaning pad. The within invention permits
the re-
spraying or re-charging of the cleaning pad as necessary. Thus, in the
preferred
embodiment, a rechargeable cleaning pad is provided wherein the adhesive
material may be
applied by the adhesive material applicator to the substrate side of the
cleaning pad in a
plurality of layers.
Recharging of the cleaning pad will typically occur as the tackiness of the
adhesive material decreases with use or as the cleaning pad becomes clogged or
loaded with
debris. Accordingly, the plurality of layers of adhesive material is generally
interspersed
with the debris. In other words, the recharging or the further layers of the
adhesive material
are applied to the substrate layer which has attached to it debris already
picked up by the
cleaning device.
The cleaning pad may be replaced when recharging of the cleaning pad is no
longer possible or practical. Preferably, the cleaning pad will be
rechargeable at least 6
times, and more preferably, at least 10 times before disposal of the cleaning
pad will
become necessary.
In a third aspect of the invention, the invention is comprised of a method for
picking up debris using a cleaning device comprising a support member and a
cleaning pad,
wherein the support member is comprised of a support surface, wherein the
cleaning pad
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has an attachment side and a substrate side, wherein the attachment side is
adapted to be
releasably attached with the support surface, and wherein the substrate side
is adapted to
accept an application of an adhesive material, the method comprising the
following steps:
S (a) releasably attaching the attachment side of the cleaning pad with the
support
surface of the support member;
(b) applying a layer of the adhesive material to the substrate side of the
cleaning
pad; and
(c) contacting the substrate side of the cleaning pad with the debris to pick
up
the debris.
Preferably, the method of the invention is performed using the preferred
form of the cleaning device as described above. However, any suitable cleaning
device
having the properties discussed herein may be used.
Further, the releasably attaching step may be comprised of any process and
may be performed by any mechanism or structure capable of releasably attaching
the
attachment side of the cleaning pad with the support surface of the support
member.
However, preferably, the releasably attaching step is performed using a
releasable
attachment mechanism as described above.
The applying step may similarly be comprised of any process and may be
performed by any mechanism or structure capable of applying a layer of the
adhesive
material to the substrate side of the cleaning pad. For instance, as discussed
above, the
applying step may be comprised of brushing or sponging a layer of the adhesive
matter on
the substrate side. However, in the preferred embodiment, the applying step is
comprised of
spraying a layer of the adhesive material on the substrate side.
The contacting step may be performed in any manner and by any process
able to bring the substrate side of the cleaning pad into proximity or contact
with the debris.
Typically, the contacting step will be comprised of moving the cleaning pad
into proximity
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with the debris and applying pressure through the cleaning pad such that the
debris adheres
to the cleaning pad.
As discussed above, the cleaning device is preferably rechargeable.
Therefore, in the preferred embodiment of the method, the method further
comprises
repeating steps (b) and (c) after completing step (c) to form on the substrate
side of the
cleaning pad a plurality of layers of the adhesive material interspersed with
the debris.
In addition, as discussed above, once recharging of the cleaning pad is no
longer desirable or practical, the cleaning pad is preferably disposed of and
replaced with a
replacement cleaning pad, and the cleaning method is repeated as necessary.
As a result, the method may include the further step of (d) detaching the
attachment side of the cleaning pad from the support surface of the support
member. The
detaclung step is preferably performed by simply releasing the releasable
attachment
mechanism.
In addition, the method may further comprise the following steps:
(e) releasably attaching an attachment side of a replacement cleaning pad with
the support surface of the support member;
(f) applying a layer of the adhesive material to the substrate side of the
replacement cleaning pad; and
(g) contacting the substrate side of the replacement cleaning pad with the
debris
to pick up the debris.
Each of steps (e) though (g) is preferably performed in a manner substantially
similar to
steps (a) through (c) as described above. In addition, recharging of the
replacement
cleaning pad may be desirable. Accordingly, the method further preferably
comprises
repeating steps (f) and (g) after completing step (e) to form on the substrate
side of the
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replacement cleaning pad a plurality of layers of the adhesive material
interspersed with the
debris.
Finally, once recharging of the replacement cleaning pad is no longer
desirable or practical, the replacement cleaning pad may also be disposed of.
As a result,
the method may further comprise the following step: (h) detaching the
attachment side of
the replacement cleaning pad from the support surface of the support member.
The cleaning device and system of the present invention provide an effective
cleaning system which can conveniently be manufactured and sold both as a
complete
system and as a product line comprising a number of products.
In particular, a complete "starter" system may be sold, which starter system
could include the following components:
(a) the support member, with or without a handle (permanently or removably
attached), or with an assortment of different handles for different
applications of the system;
(b) a supply of disposable and rechargeable cleaning pads;
(c) a supply of adhesive material; and
(d) an adhesive material applicator.
The supply of adhesive material and the adhesive material applicator may be
separate components of the system or they may be integrated into a single
component of
the system.
Where the adhesive material and the adhesive material applicator are
separate components of the system, the adhesive material applicator may
comprise a simple
device such as a brush, sponge, roller or tube or may comprise a more
sophisticated device
such as a rechargeable bottle or rechargeable tube.
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Where the adhesive material and the adhesive material applicator are
integrated into a single component of the system, the adhesive material
applicator is
preferably a relatively inexpensive device which is disposed of once the
supply of adhesive
material is exhausted or consumed. For example, in the preferred embodiment,
the supply
of adhesive material and the adhesive material applicator are integrated into
a single
component of the system which comprises a disposable aerosol applicator such
as an
aerosolcan.
A product line of individual components of the complete system could also
be sold separately from the complete system. For example:
(a) different handles could be sold for attachment with the support member so
that the cleaning device may be used for a broader range of applications;
(b) different shapes and sizes of support members could be sold for attachment
with an assortment of handles so that the cleaning device may be used for a
broader range of applications;
(c) a supply of replacement cleaning pads (possibly of different shapes and
sizes
for use with different support members) could be sold so that the complete
system does not require replacement once the original supply of cleaning
pads is used and disposed of;
(d) a replacement supply of adhesive material could be sold in circumstances
where the adhesive material and the adhesive material applicator are not
integrated into a single component of the system so that the complete system
does not require replacement once the original supply of adhesive material
has been consumed;
(e) a replacement adhesive material applicator (such as a brush, sponge,
roller,
tube, bottle etc.) could be sold in circumstances where the adhesive material
and the adhesive material applicator are not integrated into a single
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component of the system so that the complete system does not require
replacement if the original adhesive material applicator breaks or wears out;
and
(f) an integrated replacement supply of adhesive material and adhesive
material
applicator (such as an aerosol can) could be sold in circumstances where the
adhesive material and the adhesive material applicator are integrated into a
single component of the system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the
accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a pictorial side view of a preferred embodiment of a cleaning
device comprised of a support member and a cleaning pad;
Figure 2 is a pictorial top view of the support member shown in Figure l;
Figure 3 is a pictorial bottom view of the support member shown in Figure l;
Figure 4 is a pictorial view of the support member and the cleaning pad
attached thereto as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 5 is a pictorial view of the cleaning pad of Figure 1 shown in
isolation; and
device system.
Figure 6 is a pictorial side view of a preferred embodiment of a cleaning
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
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Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments
of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying
drawings wherein
like numerals indicate the same elements throughout the views.
Refernng to FIG. l and FIG. 6, the within invention is directed at a cleaning
device 10 for picking us debris and a cleaning device system 11. The cleaning
device 10 is
comprised of a support member 12 including a support surface 13 and a cleaning
pad 14 for
releasable attachment with the support member 12 and adapted to accept an
application of
an adhesive material 16. The cleaning device 10 is also further preferably
comprised of the
adhesive material 16, as well as an adhesive material applicator 1 ~ as shown
in FIG. 6 for
applying the adhesive material 16 to the cleaning pad 14 as discussed below.
The cleaning device system 11 is comprised of the support member 12
including the support surface 13 and the cleaning pad 14 which is adapted for
releasable
attachment with the support member 12 and further adapted to accept an
application of the
adhesive material 16. The system 11 is further comprised of an amount of the
adhesive
material 16 and the adhesive material applicator 1 ~ for applying the adhesive
material 16 to
the cleaning pad 14.
To facilitate the use of the device 10 or system 11, the device 10 and system
11 are preferably comprised of a handle 20 connected with the support member
12. The
handle 20 may be made of any suitable material, such as wood, metal, plastic,
composites or
combinations of materials. However, a material is preferably selected which is
lightweight
for ease of use by the user.
In the preferred embodiment, the handle 20 includes an elongated portion or
rod 22 extending between an upper end 24 for gripping by the user and a lower
end 26 for
attaclnnent or connection with the support member 12. The elongated rod 22 is
of sufficient
length for the intended job to be done. For example, the elongated rod 22
preferably has a
length of about 3 to 4 feet (about 91.44 to 121.92 cm) would be preferable so
that a user of
average height may stand comfortably without substantial bending over while
using the
device 10 or system 11 for picking up items off a floor. A longer elongated
rod 22 of the
handle 20 may be provided for reaching high ceilings, etc. As well, an
adjustable elongated
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rod 22 may be provided so that the user may adjust the length of the handle 20
as required
for a particular application.
The handle 20 is preferably made of a rigid, lightweight tubing, such as
aluminum or plastic, and preferably has a substantially circular cross
section. In the
preferred embodiment, the handle 20 is comprised of aluminum tubing. Further,
although
the handle 20 may have any shape, the upper end 24 of the handle 20 is
preferably provided
with a curved end 28 and a grip portion 30, wherein the grip portion 30 has a
longitudinal
axis 32 that is preferably generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 34
of the elongated
rod 22 of the handle 20 to provide a comfortable hand position for the user.
However, any
angle may be provided between the longitudinal axis 32 of the grip portion 30
and the
longitudinal axis 34 of the elongated rod 22.
As indicated, the handle 20 is connected with the support member 12. In the
preferred embodiment, the lower end 26 of the handle 20 is connected with the
support
member 12. More particularly, the lower end 26 of the handle 20 is connected
with the
support member 12 at a location or position on the support member 12 opposed
to the
support surface 13. As a result, the user may relatively easily apply pressure
through the
handle 20 to the cleaning pad 14 in order to pick up the desired object or
debris.
In addition, the handle 20 is preferably movably connected with the support
member 12 to permit adjustment of the angle between the handle 20, and
particularly the
longitudinal axis 34 of the elongated rod 22, and the support member 12. In
the preferred
embodiment, the handle 20 is pivotably connected with the support member 12
such that the
handle 20 is capable of pivoting about two axes relative to the support member
12.
More particularly, refernng to FIGS. 2 - 4, in the preferred embodiment, the
support member 12 includes a first side or top surface 36 and an opposed
second side or
planar bottom surface 38, wherein the support surface 13 is comprised of the
planar bottom
surface 38 of the support member 12. The top surface 36 preferably has a
central hub 40
from which one or more reinforcement ribs 42 may radiate to limit the
flexibility of the
support member 12. Further, in the preferred embodiment, the support member 12
is
rectangular in shape and reinforcement ribs 42 extend longitudinally from the
hub 40.
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Further, the lower end 26 of the handle 20 is preferably connected with the
top surface 36 of the support member 12. Although it may be connected at any
position on
the top surface 36, the lower end 26 of the handle 20 is preferably connected
substantially
centrally in order to define the central hub 40.
The top surface 36 of the support member 12 and the lower end 26 of the
handle 20 are preferably pivotably connected by a universal joint structure 44
to provide
articulation, or angle adjustments of the handle 20 relative to the support
member 12 as
desired.
Referring to FIGS. 2 - 4, the universal joint structure 44 is comprised of an
upper swivel 46 and a lower swivel 48 which provide for rotation about two
axes which are
preferably oriented at substantially right angles to each other. The lower
swivel 48 is
comprised of a lower pivot pin or shaft 50, which preferably defines a first
rotational axis of
the universal joint structure 44. The lower pivot pin 50 is mounted on the
support member
12 preferably at the location of the central hub 40. Further, in the preferred
embodiment,
the lower pivot pin 50 is mounted or affixed with or within the longitudinal
reinforcement
ribs 42 which comprise the top surface 36 of the support member 12. Referring
to FIG. 2,
the lower pivot pin 50 is preferably mounted longitudinally between a pair of
opposed
reinforcement ribs 42 such that the lower pivot pin 50 is substantially
aligned along the
longitudinal axis of the rectangular support member 12.
The universal joint structure 44 is further comprised of a coupling member
52 having an upper end 54 and a lower end 56. In the preferred embodiment, the
coupling
member 52 forms and comprises the lower end 26 of the handle 20. The lower
pivot pin 50
engages the lower end 56 of the coupling member 52 such that the coupling
member 52 is
pivotable about the lower pivot pin 50.
The upper swivel 46 is comprised of an upper pivot pin or shaft 58, which
preferably defines a second rotational axis of the universal joint structure
44, which is
preferably substantially perpendicular to the first rotational axis of the
universal joint
structure 44. The upper pivot pin 58 is mounted on the handle 20. More
particularly, the
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lower end 26 of the handle is preferably comprised of a receiving member 60
for receiving
an end of the elongated rod 22, which is held in place by a rivet 62 or other
fastener.
Alternatively, as is well known in the art, the end of the elongated rod 22
may be provided
with external threads (not shown) and the receiving member 60 may be provided
with
internal threads (not shown) which receive the threads of the elongated rod
22.
In the preferred embodiment, the upper pivot pin 58 is mounted with or
within the receiving member 60 such that the upper pivot pin 58 is aligned
substantially
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 34 of the elongated rod 22 of the
handle 20. The
upper pivot pin 58 engages the upper end 54 of the coupling member 52 such
that the
receiving member 60 and the elongated rod 22 are pivotable about the upper
pivot pin 58.
As indicated, the support member 12 includes a planar support surface 13 for
releasable attachment with the cleaning pad 14. The support surface 13 is
preferably planar
to facilitate the ease of attachment of the cleaning pad 14 thereto and to
facilitate the use of
the device 10 or system 11 for the picking up of debris from a planar surface
such as the
ground, floor or ceiling.
Referring to FIGS. 3 - 6, the cleaning pad 14 has an attachment side 64 and a
substrate side 66. In the device 10, the attachment side 64 is releasably
attached or
attachable with the support surface 13. In the system 11, the attachment side
64 is adapted
to be releasably attachable with the support surface 13. As a result, the
cleaning pad 14 may
be removed as desired or as required for disposal and in order to permit the
attachment of a
replacement cleaning pad 14.
The releasable attachment is preferably provided by a releasable attachment
mechanism, preferably a hook and loop fastening system 68. The hook and loop
fastening
system 68 maintains the attachment of the cleaning pad 14 to the support
surface 13 of the
support member 12 upon exposure of the cleaning pad 14 to stresses or forces
typically or
reasonably anticipated to be encountered during use.
Further, in the preferred embodiment, the cleaning pad 14 is comprised of
two layers. The attachment side 64 of the cleaning pad 14 is comprised of an
attachment
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layer 70 and the substrate side 66 of the cleaning pad 14 is preferably
comprised of a
substrate layer 72. The attachment layer 70 of the cleaning pad 14 is
releasably attached or
attachable with the support surface 13.
In the preferred embodiment, the hook and loop fastening system 68 is
comprised of a hook portion 74 and a loop portion 76. Preferably, the
attachment side 64 of
the cleaning pad 14, and particularly the attachment layer 70, comprises the
loop portion 76
of the hook and loop fastening system 68. Further, preferably, the support
surface 13 of the
support member 12 forms or comprises the hook portion 74 of the hook and loop
fastening
system 68.
The attachment layer 70 is releasably attached or attachable with the support
surface 13. In the preferred embodiment, the support surface 13 is comprised
of a fabric
hook pad 78, which is itself comprised of fabric hooks of the type employed in
a VelcroTM
type fabric fastener. In a preferred embodiment, the fabric hook pad 78 is
constructed from
a hook and loop fastener product manufactured or sold by American & Efird
Canada, Inc.
having stock number THFAFR-75.
The hook pad 78 is preferably fixedly attached with the support surface 13
by an adhesive or glue which firmly affixes the backing of the fabric hook pad
78 to the
support surface 13. Alternatively, a plurality of smaller VelcroTM type hook
pads may be
used instead of one larger hook pad 78, provided that the total area of the
smaller hook-pads
is sufficient to fasten the cleaning pad 14 firmly to the support surface 13.
The fabric hook pad 78 of the support surface 13, which provides the hook
portion 74 of the hook and loop fastening system 68, is releasably attached or
attachable to
the attachment layer 70 of the cleaning pad 14 which provides the compatible
loop portion
76. In the preferred embodiment, the attachment layer 70 is comprised of
fabric loops 80
such as the type employed in a VelcroTM type fabric fastener, or other
material which will
fasten to fabric hooks such as a non-woven fabric or a felt having a fibrous
surface
sufficient to be fastened to fabric hooks. The entire attachment side 64 of
the cleaning pad
14 is preferably comprised of the fabric loops 80. However, alternately, one
or more
distinct patches or groupings of fabric loops 80 may provide the attachment
layer 70.
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In a preferred embodiment, the attachment layer 70 is particularly comprised
of a fabric referred to as a brush fabric and sold by Rentex Mills Inc. under
the name of
RentexTM #4371. RentexTM #4371 is a 100% nylon wrap knit.
The layers of the cleaning pad 14, being the attachment layer 70 and the
substrate layer 72, are bonded together, preferably by heat lamination.
Alternatively, the
layers may be joined together in any convenient manner, such as for example,
by adhesive
bonding, stitching, or the like. The resulting cleaning pad 14 preferably
provides a
relatively thin cushion, preferably about 0.125 inches (0.3175 cm) thick.
However, less or
greater thiclcnesses may be used. Preferably, both the thickness and the
composition of the
layers of the cleaning pad 14 are selected such that the cleaning pad 14 is
relatively resilient
in order that the cleaning pad 14 is capable of conforming to the surface to
be cleaned.
The substrate side 66 of the cleaning pad 14 is comprised of the substrate
layer 72. The substrate layer 72 is selected such that it is capable of, and
suitable for,
accepting an application of the adhesive material 16 thereon. In the preferred
embodiment,
the substrate layer 72 itself does not exhibit adhesive properties. Rather,
the adhesive
material 14 is required to be applied in order for the debris to adhere to the
cleaning pad 14.
Further, the substrate layer 72 is preferably selected such that the adhesive
material 16 is not
significantly absorbed by the substrate layer 72 or such that the adhesive
material 16 does
not significantly permeate or impregnate the substrate layer 72. In other
words, it is
preferred that the substrate layer 72 permit a substantially surface
application of the
adhesive material 16 only.
Preferably, the substrate layer 72 is comprised of a foam material, more
preferably a microporous foam of synthetic plastic material such as, for
example polyolefin,
polyamide, polyvinyl, polyethylene or the like. In the preferred embodiment,
the substrate
layer 72 is comprised of a polyolefin foam material and more preferably, a
closed cell
polyethylene foam material.
A preferred form of a closed cell polyethylene foam material is commercially
available in Canada and the United States of America from Sekisui America
Corporation
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under the trade-mark Volara~ 2A. Volara~ 2A is a fine-celled, irradiation
crosslinked
polyethylene foam. Crosslinking bonds the molecules of the polyolefin resin
into a
structure that gives the polymer increased strength. Crosslinking may be
achieved by either
physical means, such as through irradiation by an electron beam, or chemical
means.
Further, the preferred foam is closed cell. Open-celled foams provide an
interconnecting cell structure which permits absorption of liquids and
provides a relatively
softer foam structure. Closed-cell foams tend to provide for relatively lower
liquid
absorption and enhanced structural integrity. In addition, the density of the
foam is
preferably selected to provide the substrate layer 72 with a desired degree of
flexibility and
resiliency. Typically, the structural properties of the foam material improve
proportionately
with increasing density, however, the softness and flexibility generally
decrease.
In the preferred embodiment, the substrate layer 72 is therefore comprised of
2 1b. closed cell, cross linked polyethylene foam sold under the trade name
Volara~ 2A and
having the characteristics listed in Table 1.
TABLE 1
Normal Density PCF - 2.0
Compression Strength @ 25% PSI - 6.0
Compression Strength a~ 50% PSI - 15.0
Tensile Strength PSI - 49.5
Elongation % To Break - 107.0
Tear Resistance lb./in - 13.0
Compression Set % Original Thickness - 21.0
Maximum Working Temperature* - 200
(degree fahrenheit)
Minimum Working Temperature* - -110
(degree fahrenheit)
. Water Absorption - 0.04
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lbs./cut surface max.
K-Factor BTU/(hr.)(ft.z) - 0.25
(degree fahrenheit in.)
*Maximum working temperature represents less than 5% shrinkage.
The adhesive material 16 is applied to the substrate layer 72 of the cleaning
pad 14. Thus, when the substrate side 66 of the cleaning pad 14 contacts the
debris, the
debris adheres to the cleaaung pad 14. Any suitable polymer may comprise the
adhesive
material 16 including a pressure sensitive adhesive, an adhesive polymer, a
tacky polymer
or combinations thereof.
Preferably, the adhesive material 16 has one or more of a number of various
preferable properties. First, the adhesive material 16 is preferably
substantially non-
transferable such that no amount, or no significant amount, of the adhesive
material 16 is
transferred from the substrate side 66 of the cleaning pad 14 to the surface
being cleaned
upon use of the cleaning pad 14. Second, the adhesive material 16 preferably
has a curing
time of less than about one minute, and preferably less than about 30 seconds,
after it is
applied to the substrate layer 72.
Third, the adhesive material 16 preferably has a tack value which is
sufficiently high to enable the cleaning pad 14 to pick up the debris
effectively. The tack
value refers to the maximum adhesive strength of the adhesive material 16,
which will vary
depending upon the particular use of the device 10 or system 11 and the
properties,
including the weight, of the debris or other material to be picked up by the
cleaning pad 14.
Fifth, the adhesive material 16 is preferably non-toxic. Sixth, the adhesive
material 16 is
preferably odorless.
The adhesive material 16 may be comprised of an adhesive substance
commercially available in Canada from ODIF S.A. of France under the trade-maxk
505
Temporary AdhesiveTM. However, 505 Temporary AdhesiveTM may not be preferable
in
some applications. Specifically, it has been found that 505 Temporary
AdhesiveTM tends to
have a relatively long curing time and may not have a sufficient tack value
for some
applications of the device and system.
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As a result, in the preferred embodiment, the adhesive material 16 is
comprised of a modified formulation of 505 Temporary AdhesiveTM. Specifically,
the
modified formulation is commercially available in Canada from ODIF S.A. of
France under
the trade-mark Tacky ToolTM Recharger Adhesive. The Tacky TooITM Recharger
Adhesive
has been found to have improved properties including a relatively faster
curing rate and
higher tack values, while still providing the other desirable properties of
the adhesive
material 16, including low transferability or non-transferability of the
adhesive material 16.
For instance, it has been found through testing of the cleaning device system
that the Taclcy TooITM Recharger Adhesive has a curing time of less than or
equal to about
30 seconds upon its initial or first application to the substrate layer 72 and
a curing time of
less than or equal to about 5 seconds upon its subsequent application to the
debris or
recharging of the cleaning pad 14. Further, any over-spray of the Tacky TooITM
Recharger
Adhesive has been found to dry within about 18 inches (45.72 cm) of its point
of discharge
to an inert and harmless powder.
Finally, refernng to FIG. 6. the device 10 and system 11 preferably include
an adhesive material applicator 18. In the preferred embodiment, the adhesive
material
applicator 18 is an aerosol applicator. Further, an amount of the adhesive
material 16 is
contained within the adhesive material applicator 18 so that the adhesive
material 16 can be
sprayed onto the substrate layer 72 of the cleaning pad 14. In the preferred
embodiment the
adhesive material 16 and the adhesive material applicator 18 are therefore
integrated into a
single component of the system, wherein the aerosol applicator is discarded
once the
adhesive material 16 contained within it is exhausted.
The application of the adhesive material 16 to the cleaning pad 14 by
spraying by the adhesive material applicator 18 is referred to as charging the
cleaning pad
14. The cleaning pad 14 may be re-sprayed or re-charged as necessary by simply
spraying a
further layer of the adhesive material 16 on the substrate layer 72 and any
debris that may
have collected thereon during use. Recharging of the cleaning pad 14 will
typically occur
as the tackiness of the adhesive material 16 decreases with use or as the
cleaning pad 14
becomes clogged or loaded with debris. Accordingly, the plurality of layers of
adhesive
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material 16 is interspersed with the debris. In other words, the recharging or
the further
layers of the adhesive material 16 are applied to the substrate layer 72 by
spraying over the
debris already adhered to the cleaning pad 14.
The cleaning pad 14 is replaceable when recharging of the cleaning pad 14 is
no longer practical or desirable. Preferably, the cleaning pad 14 will be
rechargeable at
least 6 times, and more preferably, at least 10 times before disposal of the
cleaning pad 14
and replacement by a replacement cleaning pad 14 becomes necessary.
The within invention is also comprised of a method for picking of debris
using a cleaning device, preferably the cleaning device 10 as described
herein.
Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment of the method, the attachment layer
70 of the
cleaning pad 14 is releasably attached to the support surface 13 of the
support member 12
by engaging the fabric hook pad 78 with the fabric loops 80.
The rechargeable adhesive material 16 is then applied, by spraying from the
adhesive material applicator 18, onto the substrate layer 72 of the cleaning
pad 14. The
cleaning device 10 is then used to pick up lint and other debris from a carpet
or other
surface. More particularly, the substrate side 66 of the cleaning pad 14 is
contacted and
applied to the debris in order that the debris adheres to the cleaning pad 14.
Once debris has accumulated on the cleaning pad 14 and as the tackiness of
the cleaning pad 14 diminishes, the cleaning pad 14 may be recharged with the
adhesive
material 16 by spraying another layer of tl~e adhesive material 16 onto the
substrate layer 72
directly over the debris which has already accumulated on the cleaning pad 14.
Further, when recharging of the cleaning pad 14 is no longer feasible, the
cleaning pad 14 may be removed by detaching the attachment layer 70 of the
cleaning pad
14 from the support surface 13 for disposal of the cleaning pad 14, and a
replacement
cleaning pad 14 may then be affixed in place of the previous cleaning pad 14.
The
application of the adhesive material 14 and the contacting of the debris may
then be
repeated as necessary.
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The foregoing description of the preferred embodiments of the invention
have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not
intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed.
Modifications or
variations are possible and contemplated in light of the above teachings by
those skilled in
the art, and the embodiments discussed were chosen and described in order to
best illustrate
the principles of the invention and its practical application. It is intended
that the scope of
the invention be defined by the claims appended hereto.
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