Golf Ball Cleaning Pad

Abstract

A foldable cleaning pad sized for placement in a user's clothing or golf bag pocket includes a substantially fluid impermeable backing layer, and an inner cleaning layer having a fluid absorptive portion. The cleaning pad is configured to be folded in half about a mid-plane fold axis, so as to present outwardly only the backing layer. Peripheral edge portions of the cleaning pad are provided with pairs of magnets positioned in symmetrically spaced locations on each side of the fold axis. The opposing pairs of magnets are positioned with the opposite magnetic polarity so that when the pad is folded, the magnets are provided in juxtaposition such that the magnetic attraction therebetween substantially prevents the leakage or transmission of fluids, moisture or other debris therebetween from the interior of the folded pad. The inner cleaning layer of the pad is provided with both a fluid absorptive portion, as well as an abrasive scrubbing portion. The fluid absorptive portion is selected to enable the pad to be precharged with a suitable cleaning fluid such as water with abrasive scrubbing portion presenting a roughened surface selected to facilitate the dislodgement of dirt, stains and other debris from the article to be cleaned.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/760,960 filed Jan. 23, 2006.

SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a multilayer cleaning pad and more particularly, a cleaning pad for use with a cleaning fluid in cleaning golf balls, golf clubs, bowling balls, shoes and the like. The cleaning pad includes a flexible substantially fluid impermeable backing layer and a flexible inner layer having a fluid absorptive part. A series of magnets are provided about an edge portion of the pad to enable the cleaning pad to be secured in a folded orientation for storage to substantially prevent the leakage or transmission of fluids or moisture therefrom.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of personal cleaning cloths and towels by golfers is well known. In particular, when playing the game of golf, dirt, grass and other debris frequently accumulates on the golf ball or golf club face. As such accumulated debris may adversely affect club impact of the golf ball and/or ball travel, it is acceptable to periodically wipe golf ball and club head surfaces during play to ensure that correct club head/golf ball contact occurs.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,939,167 to Holms describes a conventional golf ball cleaning cloth used to periodically clean golf balls. The cloth of Holms is formed as a 20 cm diameter circular disk having a Nylon backing layer and a terrycloth inner layer. Holms discloses the use of the cleaning pad whereby the golfer wets the inner layer and thereafter folds the disk into quarters to enable it to be inserted and carried in the golfer's pocket. Holms suffers the disadvantage, however, that the folded cleaning pad is susceptible to opening once placed in the user's pocket, wetting the user's clothing.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,594,851 to Sprague teaches a similar golf ball cleaning device which includes a pair of hingely connected plastic panels which each carry an absorbent cotton pad. Sprague similarly describes the use of the cleaning device whereby the cotton absorbent material is wetted and used to clean a golf ball surface. Following such use, panels thereafter are folded together for storage and subsequent reuse.

Sprague also suffers the further disadvantage in that after the cotton pads have been wetted, if the cleaning device is placed in the golfer's pocket, the panels tend to move out of a hingely aligned position allowing the moistened absorbent pads to contact the golfer's clothing, allowing moisture to wick into the user's pants or jacket. Sprague suffers the disadvantage in that as a golf game may last several hours or more, the absorbent panels have a tendency to dry out, minimizing the cleaning effectiveness of the cleaning cloth.

In addition, as the cleaning cloths/devices are used, mud or grass removed from the golf ball/club accumulates on the absorbent layer, and may be released into the pockets of the user's clothing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to at least partially overcome some of the difficulties of prior art devices by providing a foldable cleaning pad which is sized for placement in a user's clothing or golf bag pocket. The cleaning pad includes a substantially fluid impermeable backing layer, and an inner cleaning layer having a fluid absorptive portion. The cleaning pad is configured to be folded in half about a mid-plane fold axis, so as to present outwardly substantially only the fluid impermeable backing layer. Peripheral edge portions of the cleaning pad are provided with at least one pair of magnets, each positioned to assist in maintaining the pad in a folded orientation. More preferably, the cleaning pad includes a plurality of pairs of magnets which are positioned in symmetrically spaced locations on each side of the fold axis. The opposing pairs of magnets are positioned with the opposite magnetic polarity so that when the pad is folded, the magnets are provided in juxtaposition such that the magnetic attraction therebetween substantially prevents the leakage or transmission of fluids, moisture or other debris therebetween from the interior of the folded pad.

In a more preferred construction, the inner layer of the pad is provided with both a fluid absorptive portion, as well as an abrasive scrubbing portion. The fluid absorptive portion is selected to enable the pad to be precharged with a suitable cleaning fluid such as water, glass cleaner, metal cleaners, or other liquid detergents. The abrasive scrubbing portion presents a roughened surface selected to facilitate the dislodgement of dirt, stains and other debris from the article to be cleaned. The scrubbing portion could include, by way of non-limiting example, a roughened synthetic or Nylon™ pad, a screen or a coarse canvass material. Most preferably, the abrasive portion is provided as a woven synthetic mesh having a substantially open weave of between about 0.25 and 1 mm, which allows any dirt or debris to be readily rinsed therefrom.

Although not essential, a flexible cushioning layer may be provided in a position interposed between the inner and outer layer. The cushioning layer preferably is formed from a resiliently compressible material to provide enhanced pressure contact between the golf ball/club and the inner layer of the pad. In a simplified construction, the cushioning layer may consist of a foamed or closed cellular plastic layer having a thickness selected less than about 4 mm, and more preferably between about 1 and 2 mm. The cushioning layer is preferably formed having substantially the same general size and shape as each of the inner and outer layers, with its peripheral edge portion defining with a number of through apertures or recesses (hereinafter collectively recesses) sized to receive a selected one of the magnets therein.

In another embodiment and manufacture, magnets are prepositioned within a respective recess formed in the cushioning layer. The magnets located on a first side of the fold axis are positioned in a first polar orientation, with each opposing magnet on the second other side of the fold axis oriented in a polar orientation opposite thereto. An adhesive or adhesive member may optionally be then used to secure the magnets in place relative to the cushioning layer within each respective recess. Suitable adhesives include liquid or hot melt glues. Most preferably, however, an adhesive backed tape is applied to the magnets and cushioning layer, fixing the magnets and cushioning layer relative to each other.

In the assembly of the cleaning pad, the inner and outer layers may be stitched directly to each other, with the cushioning layer disposed therebetween. Most preferably, however, an edging member is provided in a position overlapping the peripheral edges of each of the inner layer, the outer layer, as well as the cushioning layer. The edging member may consist of a single folded piece of material. More preferably, however, the edging member is formed from two discrete and flexible edging strips which are joined or fused to each other at their outermost periphery in a substantially fluid-impermeable manner by adhesives, mechanical fasteners, and/or by heat or sonic welding. Suitable edging strips could include, without limitation, plastic webbing, PVC strips and the like.

Accordingly, in one aspect the present invention resides in a foldable cleaning pad comprising,

a flexible outer layer,

a flexible inner layer having a fluid absorptive portion,

said inner layer and said outer layer having a size and shape selected so as to be substantially contiguous with each other and symmetrical about a mid-plane,

a flexible cushioning layer interposed between said inner layer and said outer layer, the cushioning layer including a peripheral edge portion defining a plurality of recesses spaced symmetrically about said mid-plane,

a plurality of magnets, each of said magnets located in a respective one of said recesses, with the magnets located in the respective recesses on a first side of said mid-plane being in a first polar orientation, and said magnets located in the respective recesses on the second other side of the mid-plane being in a second other polar orientation opposite to the first polar orientation, whereby folding of the cleaning pad about the mid-plane moves the magnets on the first side of the mid-place into an orientation substantially juxtaposed with the magnets on the second side of the mid-plane,

at least one of said outer layer and said cushioning layer being substantially fluid impermeable.

In another aspect, the present invention resides in a foldable golf ball cleaning pad comprising,

a flexible substantially fluid impermeable outer layer,

a flexible inner layer having a fluid absorptive portion and a generally non-absorbent abrasive portion,

said inner layer and said outer layer having a size and shape selected so as to be substantially contiguous with each other and being generally symmetrical about a mid-plane,

a substantially non-absorbent flexible cushioning layer interposed between said inner layer and said outer layer, the cushioning layer including a peripheral edge portion defining a plurality of recesses spaced symmetrically about said mid-plane,

a permanent magnet located in each respective one of said recesses, wherein the magnets located in the recesses on a first side of said mid-plane being in a respective first polar orientation, and the magnets located in the symmetrically opposed recesses on the second other side of the mid-plane being in a respective second other polar orientation whereby folding of the cleaning pad about the mid-plane moves the magnets on the first side of the mid-place into substantially juxtaposed alignment with the magnets on the second side of the mid-plane.

In a further aspect, the present invention resides in a foldable cleaning pad including,

a flexible substantially fluid impermeable outer layer,

a flexible inner layer having a fluid absorptive portion, a substantially non-absorbent and abrasive mesh portion,

said inner layer and said outer layer having a size and shape selected so as to be substantially contiguous with each other and being generally symmetrical about a mid-plane,

a substantially fluid impervious flexible cushioning layer interposed between said inner layer and said outer layer, the cushioning layer having a size and shape generally corresponding to the outer layer and comprising a resiliently compressible substantially closed cellular material having a thickness selected at less than about 4 mm, the cushioning layer including a peripheral edge portion defining a plurality of recesses spaced symmetrically on opposite sides of said mid-plane,

a magnet being located in each respective one of said recesses, with the magnets located in the respective recesses on a first side of said mid-plane being in a first respective polar orientation, with the magnets located in the symmetrically opposed recesses on the second other side of the mid-plane being in the second other polar orientation opposite to the first polar orientation, whereby folding of the cleaning pad about the mid-plane moves the magnets on the first side of the mid-place into an orientation substantially juxtaposed with the magnets on the second side of the mid-plane,

at least one edging member being secure to edge portions of at least one of the inner layer, the outer layer and the cushioning layer to assist in maintaining the positioning of the edge portion of the layers relative to each other.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference may now be had to the following detailed description, taken together with the accompanying drawings in which,

FIG. 1 illustrates a golf ball/club cleaning pad in accordance with a preferred embodiment in a folded storage position;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the back of the cleaning pad of FIG. 1 in a fully opened configuration;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the front of the cleaning pad of FIG. 1 in a fully opened configuration, illustrating absorbent and scrubbing panel portions;

FIG. 4 illustrates schematically the cleaning pad of FIG. 3 showing the placement of permanent magnets about the pad periphery;

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view showing the layer construction of the cleaning pad of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the edge portion of the cleaning pad shown in FIG. 4 taken along line 6-6′;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the back of a cleaning pad in accordance with a further embodiment in a fully opened configuration, showing a fluid impermeable backing layer;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the front of the cleaning pad of FIG. 7 in a fully opened configuration, showing a fluid absorbent inner-most layer of a central scrubbing panel;

FIG. 9 illustrates schematically the cleaning pad shown in FIG. 8, showing the placement of magnets about the pad periphery;

FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded view showing the layer construction of the cleaning pad of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 illustrates a partial cross-sectional edge view of the cleaning pad shown in FIG. 9 taken along 11-11′;

FIG. 12 illustrates a partial cross-sectional edge view of the cleaning pad shown in FIG. 9 taken along line 12-12′; and

FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of a layer construction of a two-layer golf ball cleaning pad in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference is first made to FIGS. 1 to 3 which illustrate a portable cleaning pad 10 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. As will be described, the cleaning pad 10 is adapted to be moistened with a suitable cleaning fluid, and thereafter used to scrub dirt, grass and other debris from the surface of golf balls and/or golf club faces (not shown). Following use, the cleaning pad 10 is configured so as to be folded in half about its mid-plane axis A_l-A_l as a pouch as shown in FIG. 1, for easier placement and storage within a golfer's pants, jacket and/or golf bag, while substantially preventing wicking or leakage of cleaning fluid, moisture or other dirt or debris therefrom to the golfer's clothing or golf bag.

As shown best in FIGS. 2 and 3, the cleaning pad 10 is preferably symmetrically formed about a mid-plane axis A_l-A_l. Preferably, the pad 10 has an overall shape selected to enable its folding in half for storage as two mirror juxtaposed half-panels 22a,22b along the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l as a fold line. In this regard, in a preferred construction, when fully opened in the position shown in FIG. 2, the pad 10 preferably has an overall longitudinal length in the axial direction A_l-A_l selected at between about 7 and 14 cm, and more preferably between about 8 and 10 cm. The maximum lateral width of the pad in the direction transverse to the fold axis A_l-A_l is selected at between about 10 to 15 cm, and more preferably about 12½ cm. It is to be appreciated, however, that the cleaning pad 10 may be formed with larger or smaller dimensions as desired.

The cleaning pad 10 is most preferably formed of three pliable layers 12,14,16 which are joined together and overlain along their entire peripheral edges by an edging strip 18. As shown best in FIG. 5, a three-layer construction of the pad 10 includes an outer backing layer 12, an inner cleaning layer 14, and a cushioning layer 16 which is provided in a sandwiched position interposed between the backing layer 12 and inner layer 14. The backing layer 12 and inner layer 14 have a size and shape which is substantially contiguous with each other, and which preferably is formed so as to be symmetrical about the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l.

The hacking layer 12 is made of a flexible substantially fluid impermeable material. The backing layer 12 may be formed from a number of different possible materials, including Neoprene™, Nylon or other materials which are selected to substantially prevent the movement of fluids therethrough. Most preferably, the backing layer 12 is formed from 0.3 to 0.6 mm PVC fabric.

FIG. 2 shows best the pad 10 as including a pair of pull tabs 25a,25b. The pull tabs overlay the backing layer 12 and are joined along their peripheral edge to the edging strip 18 on each lateral side of the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l, approximately mid way along its length. The pull tabs 25a,25b are preferably made of a semi-rigid plastic or Neoprene material which has a thickness selected to restrict or hinder the folding of the cleaning pad 10 thereacross and in a direction transverse to the fold axis A_l-A_l.

The inner cleaning layer 14 is shown best in FIGS. 3 and 5 as being formed as a flexible two-part construction having a fluid absorbent panel 28 and abrasive panel 30 which are joined along a stitch seam 32. In a most simplified construction, the absorbent panel 28 is formed from a cotton fabric or terry-cloth material, so as to provide a slightly roughened surface for enhanced removal of dirt or debris from the golf ball or club face, while being sufficiently absorbent so as to retain a volume of cleaning liquid therein.

Although not essential, for ease of cleaning, it is most desirable that the abrasive panel 30 be formed from a substantially non-absorbing material. The abrasive panel 30 is formed as Nylon or other woven mesh, which presents a roughened surface for dislodging dirt and/or stains from the golf ball or golf club. Although not essential, the mesh used to form the panel 30 preferably has an average pore diameter size selected at between about 0.2 and 1 mm so as to facilitate the flushing of any dirt or debris which accumulates therein. The abrasive panel 30 preferably comprises between about 20 to 50% of the inner layer 14. FIG. 3 shows best the fluid absorbent panel 28 as most preferably forming about 75% of the cleaning layer 14 with the abrasive panel 30 forming the remainder. Alternately, each of the panels 28,30 could be of the same size and symmetrically disposed about the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l. In a less preferred embodiment, however, the abrasive panel 30 could be omitted in its entirety, and the inner cleaning layer 14 formed solely from the absorptive terry-cloth material.

Most preferably, the cushioning layer 16 is formed of a resiliently compressible material. As shown best in FIG. 5, the cushioning layer 16 has a size and shape which generally corresponds to that of the backing layer 12 and which is also symmetrical about the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l. The peripheral edge portion of the cushioning layer 16 defines a plurality of spaced rectangular recesses 34 which are symmetrically arranged on opposite sides of the panel mid-plane A_l-A_l. Although not essential, the cushioning layer 16 is preferably also formed so as to be substantially fluid impervious, thus providing enhanced protection against cleaning fluid leakage or wicking, from the folded pad 10. In a most preferred construction, the cushioning layer 16 consists of a resiliently compressible closed cellular plastic foam material having a thickness selected at between about 1 and 2 mm. The applicant has appreciated that the resiliency of the cushioning layer 16 is such as to provide more even contact between the inner layer 14 and the golf ball or other item to be cleaned in use of the pad 10.

FIGS. 4 and 5 show best a series of magnets 40a-g as provided at spaced locations about the periphery of the half-panel 22a. The magnets 40a-g are positioned at an edge location so as to be overlain by the edging strip 18, as for example in the manner shown in FIG. 4. Each of the magnets 40a-g are coupled directly to the cushioning layer 16 by a strip of water repellent flexible adhesive tape 44 (FIG. 5). As shown best in FIG. 4, the permanent magnets 40a-g are each secured to the cushioning layer 16 with their south polarity (S) side positioned in the same upwardly oriented position.

A corresponding number of permanent magnets 42a-g are similarly secured to the second half-panel 22b in a mirror and symmetrically opposed arrangement about the mid-plane A_l-A_l from each respective magnet 40a-g. The permanent magnets 42a-g are similarly affixed to the peripheral edge portion of the cushioning layer 16 by strips of flexible adhesive tape 44 in the opposite polar orientation to the symmetrically opposed magnet 40a-g, such that the north polarity (N) of each of the magnets 42 is oriented upwardly.

The magnets 40,42 are preferably rectangular bar or rare earth magnets which have a length of between about 5 and 10 mm, a width of about 1 and 4 mm, and preferably a thickness of preferably less than about 2 mm. Although not essential, for ease of manufacture, most preferably magnets 40 are identical in size, shape and construction to magnets 42. Most preferably, the magnets 40,42 are positioned along the peripheral edge of the respective half panels 22a,22b in positions separated from both the hinge axis A_l-A_l, as well as each adjacent magnet 40,42 by a distance selected of between about 5 to 20 mm, and preferably about 10 mm. The applicant has appreciated that with this spacing, the movement of the magnets 40,42 into overlapping juxtaposition achieves substantially sealing contact along the entire periphery of the abutting portions of the edge strip 18. The magnets 40,42 may thus be used to maintain the cleaning pad 10 in the folded position for storage, substantially preventing the leakage of not only moisture or fluids from the inner layer 14, but also any dirt or debris which accumulates thereon onto the golfer's clothing or golf bag.

With the polar orientation of the magnets 40,42 opposite to each other, the folding of the cleaning pad 10 in half along the axis A_l-A_l results in each magnet 40a-g directly aligning over the corresponding respective opposite magnet 42a-g. The opposing north/south polar orientation of the magnets of 40a-g and 42a-g thus ensures a magnetic seal along the periphery of the folded pad 10, and maintains the portion of the edge strip 18 which extends along the first half-panel 22a directly against the portion of the edge strip 18 which extends along the second half-panel 22b.

Although not essential, the use of a water repellent adhesive strip 44 advantageously ensures that the magnets 40a-g, 42a-g are maintained in the desired orientation and spacing in the manufacture of the cleaning pad 10. In particular, in the assembly of the pad 10, the magnets 40,42 may be pre-positioned in a respective recess 34 formed in the cushioning layer 16. For simplified manufacture, the magnets 40,42 are positioned so that the magnets on one side of the mid-plane A_l-A_l are all in the same polar orientation, and which is opposite to the symmetrically opposed magnets on the other side of the mid-plane A_l-A_l. It is to be appreciated that other orientations are also possible. The use of the adhesive strip 44 thus fixes the magnets 40,42 in the desired position.

The applicant has appreciated that the positioning of the pull tabs 25a,25b laterally along each side of the mid portion of the fold axis A_l-A_l advantageously prevents the cleaning pad 10 from being folded in an orientation transverse to the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l where the magnets 40a-g otherwise would not be moved into juxtaposed alignment with the symmetrically opposed magnets 42a-g.

As will be described, the edging strip 18 is preferably 1 to 2 cm wide, and formed from a water repellent material, such as Nylon webbing, or more preferably flexible PVC cloth. As will be described, the edging strip 18 is stitched about the periphery of the panel 10 through the edge portion of all three layers 12,14,16, either in combination or together, to thus secure the layers 12,14,16 against movement from their juxtaposed orientation.

FIG. 6 illustrates best an enlarged cross-sectional view showing preferred attachment of the peripheral edging strip 18 in assembly of the cleaning pad 10. The edging strip 18 is formed from two flexible PVC fabric strips or edging members 46,48. The edging members 46,48 are sonically or heat welded along their outermost peripheral edge to create a substantially fluid impermeable seal therebetween. Most preferably, an outer stitching seam 50 is formed through both of the edging members 46,48 adjacent to their outermost peripheral edge to assist in maintaining the sealing contact therebetween.

FIG. 6 shows best the edging member 48 as being mechanically secured to both the backing layer 12 and the cushioning layer 14 by an inner stitch seam 52 spaced towards its innermost peripheral edge. Most preferably, the inner stitch seam 52 extends along a position spaced immediately inwardly from the recesses 34 and magnets 40,42. The edging member 46 is similarly secured along its inner peripheral edge to the inner layer 14 by an inner stitch seam 54 which is aligned with the seam 52. With this construction the stitching seams 50,52,54 through the PVC strip 18 act to secure the layers 12,14 and 16 relative to each other and against movement.

In use of the present apparatus, a golfer simply grasps each of the pull tabs 25a,25b to unfold the cleaning pad 10, opening it to the position shown in FIG. 3. The pull tabs 25a,25b are stitched to the edge strip 18 in a mirror spaced position about the axis A_l-A_l, and are sized to facilitate the unfolding of the cleaning pad 10 from the closed storage position for use. Once opened, the fluid absorptive panel 28 of the inner cleaning layer 14 may be charged with a volume of a suitable cleaning fluid. Cleaning fluids may include water, or more preferably, an alcohol based cleaning fluid which exhibits comparably high evaporation rate. Once so charged, the inner cleaning layer 14 is rubbed against the golf ball or golf club to remove dirt and debris. Following cleaning, the cleaning pad 10 is re-folded about its mid-plane axis A_l-A_l, folding the inner layer 14 inwardly against itself, and aligning the half-panel 22a in overlaying juxtaposition with half-panel 22b, for later use.

Although FIGS. 2 and 3 show the cleaning pad 8 as being symmetrical in both aligned and transverse to the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l, the invention is not so limited. To minimize the possibility that the magnets 40,42 may be misaligned, the cleaning pad 10 may alternately be uniquely symmetrical only about the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l. It is to be appreciated that such a construction thus ensures that the pad layers may be folded only in one possible juxtaposed orientation. Reference may be had to FIGS. 7 to 10 which show a cleaning pad 10 in accordance with an alternate embodiment of the invention wherein like reference numerals are used to identify like components. In FIG. 7, the cleaning pad 10 is formed so as to be symmetrical only about the mid-plane axis A_l-A_l, and not transverse thereto.

FIG. 8 shows best the fluid absorbent inner layer 14 used in the pad 10 of FIG. 7 as having a general peripheral shape which mirrors that of the backing layer 12. In the embodiment shown, the inner layer 14 is provided as a fluid absorbent terry-cloth layer, without a non-absorbent abrasive or mesh panel or portion. As shown best in FIG. 10, the terry-cloth layer 14 is formed with a plurality of inwardly projecting rectangular recesses 34 formed about its periphery. As with the first embodiment described with reference to FIG. 4, and as shown best in phantom in FIG. 9, the edge recesses 34 are spaced from each other and have a size so as to directly align over an associated magnet 40a-g,42a-g.

In the embodiment as shown in FIG. 9, the magnets 40a-g,42a-g are preferably pre-secured directly to the backing layer 12 prior to movement of the layer 14 into alignment in juxtaposition with the backing layer 12.

Although not essential, the applicant has appreciated that the recesses 34 advantageously minimize the bulk of the stitched edge 18 in the final construction of the pad 10. Furthermore, the provision of the recesses 34 minimize the thickness of fluid absorbent fabric material which overlays the positioned magnets 40,42, and which otherwise may interfere with the magnetic attraction between the magnets 40a-g,42a-g as the panels 22a,22b are moved into overlying alignment.

FIG. 10 shows best the cleaning pad of FIGS. 7 and 8 as further including a fluid absorptive reservoir layer 96 as being provided in a position interposed between the inner layer 14 and the outer layer 12. The reservoir layer 96 may be chosen of a highly absorptive sponge-type material to enable the cleaning pad 10 to be pre-charged with a comparatively larger volume of water or other cleaning fluid, minimizing the likelihood that it may dry out prematurely. The use of the reservoir layer 96 and magnets 40,42 to seal edge strip 18 advantageously allows the pad 10 to be pre-charged with a volume of alcohol or ammonia based cleaning fluids, including without restriction, glass cleaners and the like. By storing and transporting the cleaning pad 10 in the sealed position, alcohol based fluids may be used with minimal fluid evaporation.

Where a fluid retaining reservoir layer 96 is provided, the reservoir layer may, for example, be chosen with a slightly open cellular construction, and for example may be comprised of a 1 to 4 mm thick foam sheet, or alternately a lofted fabric. The reservoir layer is preferably selected to retain a volume of cleaning fluid therein, to refresh evaporated or dispersed cleaning fluid in the inner layer 14 upon the application of contact pressure thereto, as for example by manually pressing a golf ball (not shown) against the panel 14.

As indicated, because the backing layer 12 and inner cleaning layer 14 are symmetrical only about the axis A_l-A_l, this ensures that whenever the cleaning pad 10 is folded, the portions of the peripheral edge of the strip 18 along each half-panel 22a, 22b are brought into the corrected juxtaposed alignment. As a result, magnets 40a-g which extend along half-panel 22a are maintained in alignment with the magnets 42a-g housed along the half panel 22b. As such, the cleaning pad 10 is not inadvertently folded such that magnet 26a is moved into alignment over magnet 26g.

Although FIG. 6 illustrates the edging strip 18 as being formed from two heat or sonically fused PVC fabric edging member strips 46,48, the invention is not so limited. In an alternate construction, the edging strip 18 may be formed from a single folded water resistant fabric such as Nylon or the like. Reference may be had to FIGS. 11 and 12 which illustrate sectional views of an alternate edging strip 18 construction used with the cleaning pad 10 of FIG. 9 respectively taken along lines 11-11 and 12-12, respectively. The strip 18 is secured to the layers 12,14 by a single stitching seam 100. Most preferably, the seam 100 is positioned to pass through each overlapping edges of each of the inner layer 14, the backing layer 12 and the reservoir layer 96. The seam thus acts to define number of pockets 102 in which an associated magnet 40a-g,42a-g is located. The applicant has appreciated that the edge strip 18 orientation shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 provides the cleaning pad 10 with an overall flexible edge which does not otherwise substantially interfere with magnetic contract between the magnets 40,42.

Although the preferred embodiments of the invention illustrates the cleaning pad 10 as having a pliable three layer construction, the invention is not so limited. FIG. 13 illustrates an exploded view of an alternate two-layer panel 10 construction for use in a cleaning pad 10 in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, wherein like references numerals are used to identify like components. In FIG. 13, a thicker-ply inner fluid absorbent layer 114 is provided in place of the reservoir layer 96 and terry cloth layers 14 shown in FIG. 10. The thicker absorbent layer 114 is adapted for positioning in direct contact with the backing layer 12. The inner layer 114 is otherwise identical to that disclosed with reference to FIG. 7 and includes a series of peripherally extending recesses 34 which are each selected to align over a respective magnet 40,42 which has been pre-positioned on the backing layer 12 in a manner similar to that previously described.

Although the preferred embodiment of the invention describes the use of fourteen permanent magnets 40a-g and 42a-g for juxtaposed alignment with each other, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that a fewer or larger number of magnets may also be used. Similarly, although the use of rectangular magnets 40,46 advantageously provide longitudinally elongated contact surfaces between the edge strip portions 18 along the half-panels 22a,22b, it is to be appreciated that magnets of other constructions and shapes may also be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Although the preferred embodiment describes the cleaning pad 10 as being used to clean golf balls or golf clubs, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that the cleaning pad 10 could also be provided for a variety of different uses, including without restriction, as a portable glass cleaner, a bowling ball cleaner, a shoe polisher, or as a cleaning appliance useful wherever a portable cleaning device may be desired.

While the preferred embodiment of the invention describes the cleaning pad 10 as having a three layer construction, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that in an alternate possible construction, the cushioning layer 16 could be omitted in its entirety. Alternately, a fluid absorbing cushioning layer could be provided in a position interposed between part or all of the inner layer and the backing layer which is to function as a cleaning fluid reservoir.

While the preferred embodiment of the invention discloses the pre-impregnation of the absorbent portion of the inner layer with water or alcohol based cleaners, the cleaning pad 10 may also be used with other cleaning solutions. These include, without restriction, glass cleaners, detergents, or ammonia based cleaners, or the like.

While the preferred embodiment describes the positioning of the permanent magnets 40a-g each positioned within the same polar orientation, the invention is not so limited. It is to be appreciated that the magnets 40a-g could be positioned in different polar orientations with the symmetrically opposed magnets 40,42a-g provided in the opposite polar orientation.

Although the detailed description describes and illustrates preferred embodiments, the invention is not so limited. Many modifications and variations will now occur to persons skilled in the art. For a definition of the invention, reference may be had to the appended claims.

Claims

1. A foldable cleaning pad comprising,

a flexible outer layer,

a flexible inner layer having a fluid absorptive portion,

said inner layer and said outer layer having a size and shape selected so as to be substantially contiguous with each other and symmetrical about a mid-plane,

a flexible cushioning layer interposed between said inner layer and said outer layer, the cushioning layer including a peripheral edge portion defining a plurality of recesses spaced symmetrically about said mid-plane,

a plurality of magnets, each of said magnets located in a respective one of said recesses, with the magnets located in the respective recesses on a first side of said mid-plane being in a first polar orientation, and said magnets located in the respective recesses on the second other side of the mid-plane being in a second other polar orientation opposite to the first polar orientation, whereby folding of the cleaning pad about the mid-plane moves the magnets on the first side of the mid-place into an orientation substantially juxtaposed with the magnets on the second side of the mid-plane,

at least one of said outer layer and said cushioning layer being substantially fluid impermeable.

2. The foldable cleaning pad of claim 1 further including flexible first and second edging members,

an inner edge portion of the first edging member being secured along a peripheral edge portion of said outer layer by stitching,

an inner edge portion of the second edging member being secured to a peripheral edge portion of at least one of said inner layer and said cushioning layer by stitching,

the first and second members being joined to each other along outer edge portions and defining an outermost edge surface of said cleaning pad.

3. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 1 further including a flexible adhesive member adhered to at least one of said magnets and said cushioning layer, said adhesive member assisting in maintaining the positioning of at least one magnet in said respective recess.

4. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 1 wherein said magnets comprise permanent magnets having a length selected at less than about 20 mm, and a width of less than about 5 mm, and said recesses comprise castellated indentations.

5. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 3 wherein said magnets have a length selected at less than about 10 mm and a width of less than about 2.5 mm.

6. The cleaning pad of claim 1 wherein said cushioning layer comprises a substantially fluid impermeable foamed plastic layer.

7. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 5 wherein said cushioning layer comprises a substantially closed cell foamed layer having a thickness selected at between about 0.5 and 2 mm.

8. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 7 wherein said inner layer further comprises a flexible abrasive portion.

9. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 8 wherein said abrasive portion comprises a woven open mesh panel, and said fluid absorptive panel.

10. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 9 wherein said cleaning pad is selected from the group consisting of a golf ball cleaning pad, a bowling ball cleaning pad and a shoe cleaning pad.

11. A foldable golf ball cleaning pad comprising,

a flexible substantially fluid impermeable outer layer,

a flexible inner layer having a fluid absorptive portion and a generally non-absorbent abrasive portion,

said inner layer and said outer layer having a size and shape selected so as to be substantially contiguous with each other and being generally symmetrical about a mid-plane,

a substantially non-absorbent flexible cushioning layer interposed between said inner layer and said outer layer, the cushioning layer including a peripheral edge portion defining a plurality of recesses spaced symmetrically about said mid-plane,

a permanent magnet located in each respective one of said recesses, wherein the magnets located in the recesses on a first side of said mid-plane being in a respective first polar orientation, and the magnets located in the symmetrically opposed recesses on the second other side of the mid-plane being in a respective second other polar orientation whereby folding of the cleaning pad about the mid-plane moves the magnets on the first side of the mid-place into substantially juxtaposed alignment with the magnets on the second side of the mid-plane.

12. The cleaning pad of claim 11 further including substantially fluid impermeable first and second edging members,

an inner edge portion of the first edging member being secured along a peripheral edge portion of said outer layer by stitching,

an inner edge portion of the second edging member being secured to a peripheral edge portion of at least one of said inner layer and said cushioning layer by stitching,

the first and second edging members being sealingly joined to each other along outer edge portions and defining an outermost edge surface of said cleaning pad.

13. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 11 wherein said pad has a width in the direction of said mid-plane selected at between about 8 and 15 cm, and a width in a direction transverse thereto selected between about 10 and 15 cm.

14. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 11 further including an adhesive to assist in maintaining said magnets in position within said respective recesses.

15. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 11 further including an adhesive member to assist in maintaining the positioning of said magnets relative to said respective recesses.

16. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 15 wherein said adhesive member comprises a flexible adhesive tape bonded to each of said magnets and said cushioning layer.

17. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 16 wherein said magnets comprise generally rectangular magnets having a length selected at less than about 12 mm and a width selected at less than about 5 mm.

18. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 11 wherein said cushioning layer comprises a substantially closed cell foamed layer having a thickness selected at between about 0.5 and 2 mm.

19. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 11 further including a pair of pull tab members, each of said tab members being of a rigid or semi-rigid material and disposed on opposing sides of said mid-plane at locations selected to substantially prevent folding of said cleaning pad in a direction transverse to said fold axis.

20. A foldable cleaning pad including,

a flexible substantially fluid impermeable outer layer,

a flexible inner layer having a fluid absorptive portion, a substantially non-absorbent and abrasive mesh portion,

said inner layer and said outer layer having a size and shape selected so as to be substantially contiguous with each other and being generally symmetrical about a mid-plane,

a substantially fluid impervious flexible cushioning layer interposed between said inner layer and said outer layer, the cushioning layer having a size and shape generally corresponding to the outer layer and comprising a resiliently compressible substantially closed cellular material having a thickness selected at less than about 4 mm, the cushioning layer including a peripheral edge portion defining a plurality of recesses spaced symmetrically on opposite sides of said mid-plane,

a magnet being located in each respective one of said recesses, with the magnets located in the respective recesses on a first side of said mid-plane being in a first respective polar orientation, with the magnets located in the symmetrically opposed recesses on the second other side of the mid-plane being in the second other polar orientation opposite to the first polar orientation, whereby folding of the cleaning pad about the mid-plane moves the magnets on the first side of the mid-place into an orientation substantially juxtaposed with the magnets on the second side of the mid-plane,

at least one edging member being secure to edge portions of at least one of the inner layer, the outer layer and the cushioning layer to assist in maintaining the positioning of the edge portion of the layers relative to each other.

21. The cleaning pad as claimed in claim 20 further including at least one flexible adhesive tape member to assist in maintaining the positioning of said magnets in said respective recesses, the adhesive tape member being bonded to each of said cushioning layer and said magnets.