BROOM WITH MODULAR HEAD

Abstract

A tool for cleaning a surface is provided. The tool includes a pole and a head member coupled to an end of the pole. A first plurality of bristles extend from a side of the head member opposite the pole. An extension member is separately coupled to an end of the head member. A second plurality of bristles extends from a side of the first extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the second plurality of bristles including a first portion of bristles that extend on a first angle relative to an end surface of the extension member in a direction away from the pole.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/811,803 filed Feb. 28, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a tool for cleaning surfaces such as a floor, and in particular to a cleaning tool such as a broom that has a modular element allowing the broom to be configured during manufacturing or by the end user.

Cleaning tools such as brooms, typically include bristles that are used to sweep or gather up debris from the floor. These brooms are fixed in size and configuration, resulting in dedicated manufacturing lines and increased inventory. Further, it has been found that different types of bristles are suited for cleaning different types of debris. Existing brooms are limited to two different types of bristles. Thus, a user may have to have several different types of brooms depending on the type of environment being cleaned.

Accordingly, while existing brooms are suitable for their intended purposes the need for improvement remains, particularly in providing a broom having the features described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

According to one aspect of the disclosure a tool for cleaning a surface is provided. The tool includes a pole and a head member coupled to an end of the pole. A first plurality of bristles extend from a side of the head member opposite the pole. An extension member is separately coupled to an end of the head member. A second plurality of bristles extends from a side of the first extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the second plurality of bristles including a first portion of bristles that extend on a first angle relative to an end surface of the extension member in a direction away from the pole.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first angle is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 90 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first angle is less than 90 and greater than zero. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first portion of bristles each have a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being coupled to the extension member and the distal end being positioned farther from the pole than the end surface of the extension surface.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the second plurality of bristles include a second portion of bristles extend on a second angle relative to a front side surface of the extension member and a third portion of bristles that extend on a third angle relative to a rear surface of the extension member. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first plurality of bristles includes a plurality of periphery bristles and a plurality of center bristles, the center bristles being different than the periphery bristles. Further, the second plurality of bristles further includes a second portion of bristles, the second portion of bristles being different than the first portion of bristles, the periphery bristles and the center bristles.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the second portion of bristles have a different material, diameter, bristle shape, straight or crimped, flagged or unflagged, or stiffness than the first portion of bristles, the periphery bristles and the center bristles. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first portion of bristles is different than the second portion of bristles, the periphery bristles and the center bristles.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method of cleaning a floor with a tool is provided. The method includes providing a head member coupled to a pole, the head member having a first plurality of bristles extending from a side opposite the pole. An extension member is provided, the extension member having a second plurality of bristles extending from a side of the first extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the second plurality of bristles including a first portion of bristles that extend on a first angle relative to an end surface of the extension member in a direction away from the pole. An extension member is coupled to an end of a head member, the head member being coupled to an end of a pole. At least a portion of the first plurality of bristles and the second plurality of bristles are placed on the floor. At least a portion of the first plurality of bristles and the second plurality of bristles are moved across the floor.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the extension member is selected from a plurality of extension members. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, at least one of the plurality of extension members is longer than the selected extension member. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, each of the plurality of extension members includes at least one of different bristle types, combinations of bristle types, bristles of different lengths, or bristle angles.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first angle is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 90 degrees. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first angle is less than 90 and greater than 0. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the first plurality of bristles includes a plurality of periphery bristles and a plurality of center bristles, the center bristles being different than the periphery bristles; and the second plurality of bristles further includes a second portion of bristles, the second portion of bristles being different than the first portion of bristles, the periphery bristles and the center bristles.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure a tool for cleaning a surface is provided. The tool includes a pole and a head member coupled to an end of the pole. A first plurality of bristles extends from a side of the head member opposite the pole. A first extension member is removably coupled to a first end of the head member, the first extension member having a second plurality of bristles extending from a side of the first extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the second plurality of bristles including a first portion of bristles that extend on a first angle relative to an end surface of the extension member in a direction away from the pole. A second extension member is removably coupled to a second end of the head member, the second end being opposite the first end, the second extension member having a third plurality of bristles extending from a side of the second extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the third plurality of bristles including a second portion of bristles that extend on a second angle relative to an end surface of the extension member in a direction away from the pole.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, a third extension member is configured to be removably coupled to at least one of the first end or second end of the head member, the third extension member having a fourth plurality of bristles extending from a side of the third extension member. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments the third extension member is longer than the first extension member and second extension member.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the fourth plurality of bristles has at least one of different bristle types, combinations of bristle types, bristles of different lengths, or bristle angles than the second plurality of bristles and the third plurality of bristles.

Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the second plurality of bristles has a first characteristic, the third plurality of bristles has a second characteristic, the fourth plurality of bristles has a third characteristic, the third characteristic being different than the first characteristic or second characteristic. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the third characteristic is selected from a group consisting of a bristle diameter, a bristle shape, a flagged/unflagged bristle, a straight/crimped bristle, stiffness, and material. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the third characteristic is the bristle shape, the bristle shape being selected from a group consisting of round, triangular, quadrilobal, and rectangular. Additionally or alternatively, in this or other embodiments, the third characteristic is the bristle material, the material being selected from a group consisting of polymer, natural fiber, metal, composite, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polytetrafluoroethylene, boar hair, horse hair, Tampico fiber, Palmetto fiber, brass, steel, and carbon fiber.

These and other advantages and features will become more apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The subject matter, which is regarded as the disclosure, is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features, and advantages of the disclosure are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a broom according to an embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a front view of the broom of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the broom of FIG. 1, the opposite side being a mirror image thereof;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the broom of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the broom of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a partially unassembled view of the broom of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the head portion of the broom of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a center head member for the broom of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8B is a front view of the center head member of FIG. 8A;

FIGS. 8C and 8D are bottom views of the center head member of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8E is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the center head member of FIG. 8A;

FIGS. 9A and 9B are partial unassembled perspective views of the head member of the broom of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9C is a partial front view of the head member of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9D is a partial bottom view of the head member of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9E is a front view of the head member assembly of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9F is a side view of the head member assembly of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9G is a partial front view of a head member assembly in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 9H is a partial sectional view of the head assembly of FIG. 9E;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a broom in accordance with another embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a front view of the broom of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a side view of the broom of FIG. 10, the opposite side being a mirror image thereof;

FIG. 13 is a top view of the broom of FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the broom of FIG. 10;

FIG. 15 is an partially unassembled view of the broom of FIG. 10;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of the head portion of the broom of FIG. 10;

FIG. 17 is a first partial unassembled perspective view of the head portion of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a second partial unassembled perspective view of the head portion of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is a partial unassembled front view of the head portion of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is a partial unassembled bottom view of the head portion of FIG. 16;

FIG. 21A is an illustration of a bristle bundle with straight bristles; and

FIG. 21B is an illustration of a bristle bundle with crimped bristles.

The detailed description explains embodiments of the disclosure, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide for a broom for cleaning a floor where the broom head includes a modular head member. The modular head member provides a number of advantages in allowing the broom head member to be configured for different cleaning environments by having cleaning elements or bristles with different properties to be combined. The modular head member further provides manufacturing improvements allowing the fabrication of brooms for different cleaning environments in a cost effective and efficient manner. Still further embodiments include a broom that provides the user with an interchangeable end modules for different cleaning environments. Still further embodiments include bristles that extend beyond an end of the broom head to facility cleaning along walls or other vertical surfaces. Still further embodiments include a plurality of bristle types, such as three or more bristle types that facilitate different cleaning environments.

Referring now to FIG. 1-FIG. 7, an embodiment is shown of a cleaning tool or broom 100. The broom 100 includes a pole or handle 102 having a grip member 104 on one end. The handle 102 may be made from any suitable material, such as aluminum, fiberglass, or wood for example. Coupled to the handle 102 on an opposite end from the grip 104 is a head member assembly 106. The head member assembly 106 includes a center head member 108, and a pair of separately couplable end modules 110, 112. The center head member 108 and the end modules 110, 112 each have cleaning elements or bristles 114. As will be described in more detail herein, in some embodiments the bristles 114 may be formed from a plurality of bristle types, such a 2, 3, 4 or more bristle types that are of different stiffness, diameter, bristle shape, flagged or unflagged, straight or crimped, material or a combination of the foregoing. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the bristles on the center head member 108 and the end modules 110, 112 may be the same.

It should be appreciated that while the illustrated embodiment shows a single cleaning element, this is for clarity purposes and the claims should not be so limited. The illustrated cleaning elements or bristles may be comprised of a plurality of cleaning element or bristles that are bundled or grouped together into individual bristle elements. The bristles could be straight (FIG. 21A) or crimped (FIG. 21B). In an embodiment, the bristles may have a diameter between less than 0.05 mm to more than 1.2 mm, and in an embodiment between 0.2 to 1 mm. Further, while embodiments herein refer to the bristle as having a diameter, it is contemplated that the bristle may have other shapes, such as but not limited to round, triangular, quadrilobal, or rectangular for example. Further, the bristles may be flagged (e.g. having ends split) or unflagged.

Bristles may be made from a suitable material, such as but not limited to plastic/polymer materials, natural fibers, metals, or composites for example. In an embodiment, the bristles may be made from one or more of polyester, polypropylene, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polytetrafluoroethylene, boar hairs, horse hair, Tampico fiber, Palmetto fiber, brass, steel, or carbon fibers for example. The bristles may further include additives to increase abrasiveness or to dissipate static electricity, such as but not limited to aluminum oxide.

In an embodiment, the handle 102 is coupled to the center head member 108 by a bracket 116. The bracket 116 may be shaped to fit over a raised portion 118 (FIG. 7) on the center head member 108. The bracket 116 may be coupled to the raised portion 118 by a fastener 138. In an embodiment, the raised portion 118 includes a pair of angled holes 122, 124 that are disposed on a fixed predetermined angle, such as 40 degrees to 45 degrees from the surface being cleaned. In another embodiment, the holes 122, 124 are on an angle of 30 degrees to 50 degrees. In an embodiment, the bracket 120 includes a cylindrical projection 126 having a hole 128 that extends therethrough. The hole 128 is sized and positioned to be coaxial with the holes 122, 124. The holes 122, 124, 128 are sized to receive the end of the handle 102. It should be appreciated that the bracket 120 is removably coupled to the raised portion 118 to allow the user to switch from using hole 124 to hole 122. This provides advantages in extending the life of the broom as the bristles may get deformed due to use in a single direction. To accommodate this, the end user can change the hole position and use the broom in an opposite direction.

In an embodiment, the handle 102 may be further coupled to the center head portion 108 via a bracket 130 having a pair of arms 132, 134. The bracket 130 includes a hole 136 that is sized to receive the handle 102. When the bracket 130 is coupled to the center head member 108, the hole 136 is aligned coaxial with the hole 128 and one of the holes 122, 124. Ends of the arms 132, 134 may be coupled to the center head member 108 and/or the end modules 110, 112 by a fastener, such as screws 138 that extend through the arms 132, 134, center head member 108 and end modules 110, 112. In an embodiment, the screws 138 may engage a corresponding threaded insert in the end modules 110, 112. In an embodiment, the handle 102 may be coupled to the bracket 120 by fasteners such as screws, by threading directly into the center head member, with nuts, or molding in inserts for example.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8C, an embodiment is shown of the center head member 108. The center head member 108 includes a body 140 having a top side 142. The top side 142 may include recesses and ribs and other structural and/or aesthetic elements for example. In an embodiment, the front side 144 and rear side 146 are curved. Extending from each end 148, 150 is a tongue member 152, 154. Each tongue 152, 154 includes a projection 156, 158. In an embodiment, the projection 156, 158 define an optional slot 160, 162 that is sized to receive the ends of the arms 132, 134. In an embodiment, the projection 156, 158 defines a flange 164, 166 that extends about the periphery of the tongue 152, 154. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 164, 166 is sized to fit within a slot 168 (FIG. 9A, FIG. 9H) in the end modules 110, 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the tongue 152, 154 also includes a pair of parallel ribs 170, 172, 174, 176 that extend from a bottom side 178, 180. The ribs 170, 172, 174, 176 are sized to fit in slots 182, 184. In an embodiment, the tongue 152, 154 includes a second projection 152, 154 that is sized to be received in a recess 186 (FIG. 9A) in the end module 110, 112. In an embodiment, the bottom side 178, 180 further includes a tab 181, 183 sized and positioned to receive a recess 185 on the end modules 110, 112. In an embodiment, the tab 181, 183 and recess 185 cooperate as a snap fit to hold the end modules 110, 112 on the center head member 108.

In the illustrated embodiment, the center head portion includes a plurality of rows of bristles 188. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the bristles 188 may be arranged on an angle relative to an axis or first centerline 190 (FIG. 4) and/or a second centerline 192. The first centerline 190 defining a plane that extends through the handle 102 and the head member assembly 106 (e.g. substantially perpendicular to the surface being cleaned). The second center line defining a plane that extends through the middle of the center head member 108 (e.g. substantially perpendicular to the surface being cleaned and the first plane passing through the axis 190, the first plane extending into/out-of the page in the view of FIG. 4). In some embodiments, one or more of the rows of bristles 188 may have separate groups of bristles that are coupled on one end to the body 140. Each of the separate groups of bristles may be disposed on a different angle relative to one or both of planes passing through centerlines 190, 192. The plane passing through centerline 192 extends into/out-of the page in the view of FIG. 4 In an embodiment, the angle of the bristles relative to the plane 190 increases as the bristles are positioned farther from the plane 190. In an embodiment the bristles 188 is comprised of seven rows of bristles, with bristle rows 189A, 189B, 189C being on one side of the plane 192 and bristle rows 189D, 189E, 189F being on an opposite side of the plane 192. In an embodiment, the bristle rows 189A, 189B, 189C are symmetrical about the plane 192 with the bristle rows 189D, 189E, 189F. In an embodiment, the center bristle row 189G is disposed on the plane 192.

In an embodiment, each of the bristle rows 189A-189F is disposed on a different angle relative to the adjacent rows of bristles. In an embodiment, the bristle angles of adjacent rows are inverted relative to the plane 190 to provide a crisscrossing pattern when viewed from the front (FIG. 8B). In an embodiment, a distal end 194, 196 of the bristles in the bristle rows 189A, 189D extends beyond the front side 144 and rear side 146 respectively. It should be appreciated that this allows the user to clean areas with the bristle rows 189A, 189D without interference from the central head member 108. Including cleaning in corners using the long side of the brush and dragging in along the edge.

Referring now to FIG. 8D, an embodiment of the center head member 108 is shown. In this embodiment, the bristle rows 189A, 189D for a first portion of bristles 196 having a first bristle characteristic, and the bristle rows 189B, 189C, 189E, 189F, 189G form a second portion of bristles having a second bristle characteristic. The bristle characteristic may be one or more of the bristle diameter, bristle shape, flagged/unflagged, straight/crimped, stiffness, material, flagged/unflagged, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the first bristle characteristic is different than the second bristle characteristic. It should be appreciated that while embodiments herein may refer to the center head member 108 as having one or two different bristle characteristics, this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the center head member 108 may include 3, 4, 5 or more different types of bristles with different bristle characteristics. Further, it is contemplated that each bristle bundle may include different bristle types having different bristle characteristics.

Referring to FIG. 8E, an embodiment is shown of the center head member 108. In this embodiment, the proximate end (the end at the bottom side of the body 140) of each of the rows of bristles 189A-189C are offset relative to the adjacent bristle in the rows 189A-189C. Similarly the proximate end of the each of the rows of bristles 189D′-189F′ are offset relative the adjacent bristles in rows 189D′-189F′. For example, the bristle 189D′ is offset from the plane 190 by a distance D1, the bristle 189F′ is offset from the plane 190 a distance D2, and the bristle 189E′ is offset from the plane 190 a distance D3. Where D3>D2>D1. In an embodiment, the bristles within a given row 189A-189G are equally spaced apart along the length of the row.

Referring now to FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B, an embodiment is shown of the end module 112. It should be appreciated that while the illustrated embodiments only shown the end module 112, the end module 110 is constructed in the same manner. The end module 112 includes a body 200 having a top surface 202, a bottom surface 204, an end surface 206, a front surface 208, and a rear surface 210. The recesses 163, 186 are formed in the top surface 202. As discussed herein, when the end module 112 is assembled onto the tongue 154, the flange 166 is received within the slot 168 and the ribs 174, 176 are received within the slots 182, 184. The end module 112 is slid on the tongue 154 until the tab 183 is slid into the recess 185. In an embodiment, the engagement of the tab 183 into the recess 185 provides a first coupling of the end module 112 to the center head member 108 and also aligns an opening 212 in the recess 186 with an opening 214 in the optional slot 162. This allows the fastener 138 to be inserted to secure the end module 112 to the center head member 108. In an embodiment, a threaded insert is disposed within the end module opening 212 that is sized to receive and couple with the fastener 138. In other embodiments, the fastener 138 is omitted and the end module 112 is coupled to the center head member 108 by the snap fit of the tab 183 with the recess 185. In some embodiments, the end module 112 is configured to be easily removed from the center head member 108 to allow the interchanging of different end modules 112. In other embodiments, the end modules 110, 112 may be fastened to the center head module 108 using other fastening means, such as but not limited to a press fit, adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding, or a combination of the foregoing. Different end modules 112 may have different bristles, different combinations of bristles, bristles having different lengths or disposed on different angles, a different length module (e.g. to make the broom 100 wider), or a combination of the foregoing. Thus, the user may select an end module 112 from a plurality of end modules, each of which is suitable for a different cleaning task or environment.

In an embodiment, the body 200 may further include an angled surface 216 (FIG. 9C) disposed between the sides 206, 208, 210 and the bottom surface 204. The angled surface 216 provides a surface for the bristles, such as a row of bristles 218A for example, to extend out at an angle relative to the sides 206, 208, 210. Further, in some embodiments, the thickness “TB” of the body 140 is less than the thickness “TE” of the end module 112. This allows for the forming of holes on an angle in the body 200 to allow the bristles of the end module 112 to extend past the side 206, 208, 210. While giving enough depth for the bristles to be held/supported in the center head member/end module and held with a staple. It should be appreciated that the bristles may also be coupled to the center head member or end modules using other fastening means, such as but not limited to adhesive bonding or ultrasonic welding for example.

Referring now to FIG. 9D, an embodiment is shown of the plurality bristles extending from the bottom surface 204 of the end module 112. In an embodiment, the bristles are comprised of a plurality of rows 218A-218K, Bristle rows 218A-218D are disposed on one side of the plane 192, while bristle rows 218H-218K are disposed symmetrically on an opposite side of the plane 192. The center of bristle row 218E is disposed substantially co-planar with the plane 192. The bristle rows 218E, 21F extend on angles away from the plane 190 adjacent the end surface 206. It should be appreciated that other bristle row patterns are contemplated.

In the illustrated embodiment, the bristle rows 218A-218D, 218H-218K are arranged on an angle relative to the plane 192, with the distal end of each bristle being further away from the plane 192 than the proximate end (e.g. the end adjacent the surface 204). In the illustrated embodiment, the distal ends of the bristle rows 218A, 218B, 218H, 218I extend beyond the sides 208, 210 respectively. It should be appreciated that at least some of the bristles 218A-218D, 218H-218K may further be on an angle relative to the plane 190. In an embodiment, the distal ends of bristle rows 218A, 218B, and bristle rows 218H, 218I are disposed on an angle A1 (FIG. 9F) such that the distal ends of bristles 218A, 218B, 218H, 218I extend beyond the front surface 208 and the rear surface 210. In other words, the horizontal or perpendicular distance D4, D4′ to the distal end is greater than the horizontal or perpendicular distance D5 to the surfaces 208, 210. In an embodiment, the distance D4 is different than the distance D4′. In an embodiment, the distance D4 is between 0.7 to 4 inches, the distance D5 is between 0.75 to 2 inches, while the angle A1 is between 130-160 degrees. In another embodiment the angle A1 is 90 to 180 degrees,

Similarly, the bristle rows 218E, 21F are disposed on an angle relative to the plane 190 such that the distal ends of the bristle rows 218E, 218F are on an angle A2 (FIG. 9E) in one embodiment A2 is between 130 to 160 degrees and in another embodiment 90 to 180 degrees to extend beyond the end surface 206. In other words, the perpendicular or horizontal distance D6 from the plane 190 to the end surface 206 is less than the perpendicular or horizontal distance D7 from the plane 190 to the distal end of the bristle rows 218E, 218F. In an embodiment, the distal ends of bristle row 218F are trimmed on an angle to be substantially parallel to the plane 190. In one embodiment the distance D6 is between 6 to 18 inches. In one embodiment the distance D7 is between 5.5 to 22 inches.

It should be appreciated that the angling or flaring of the bristles outward relative to the surfaces 206, 208, 210 provides advantages in facilitating the cleaning of corners, such as at the intersection of a wall and a floor for example.

In an embodiment, the bristle rows 218A, 218B, 218F, 218H, 218G form a third portion of bristles 220 having a third bristle characteristic, and the bristle rows 218C, 218D, 218E, 218J, 218K form a fourth portion of bristles 222 having a fourth bristle characteristic. The bristle characteristic may be one or more of the bristle diameter, stiffness, flagged/unflagged, straight/crimped, material or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the third bristle characteristic is different than the fourth bristle characteristic. In an embodiment, the third bristle characteristic is the same as the first bristle characteristic, and the fourth bristle characteristic is the same as the second bristle characteristic. In still another embodiment, each of the first bristle characteristic, the second bristle characteristic, the third bristle characteristic, and the fourth bristle characteristic are different from each other (e.g. four different bristle types). It should be appreciated that the bristle portions 196, 189, 220, 222 may be further divided into sub-portions with different characteristics. For example, the bristle rows 218F, 218G may be a distinct bristle portion for bristle rows 218A, 21B. It should be appreciated that while embodiments herein may refer to the bristle rows 218A-218L as having one or two different bristle characteristics, this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the bristles coupled to the end modules may include 3, 4, 5 or more different types of bristles with different bristle characteristics. Further, it is contemplated that each bristle bundle may include different bristle types having different bristle characteristics.

Referring now to FIG. 9G, an embodiment is shown wherein the bristles extend on to the end surface 206 of end modules 210, 212. In this embodiment, the end module 212 may include one or more rows 224 that extend in a direction away from the plane 190. Thus, the head member assembly 106 may include bristles on a plurality of angles A1, A2, A3 (FIG. 9G) relative to the plane 190 from 90 degrees (e.g. perpendicular to the plane 190) and zero degrees (e.g. parallel to the plane 190) inclusive. Further, the bristles may be on a plurality of angles relative to the plane 192 from 90 degrees (e.g. perpendicular to the plane 192) to zero degrees (e.g. parallel to the plane 192) inclusive. In an embodiment, the angles A1, A2, A3 may be less than 90 degrees and greater than zero degrees.

Referring now to FIGS. 10-18, another embodiment of a cleaning tool or broom 300. The broom 300 includes a pole or handle 302 having a grip 304 on one end. In an embodiment, the handle 302 may be the pole described in concurrently filed U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/811,822 entitled Ergonomic Pole, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In an embodiment, a second grip member 305 is coupled to the handle 302 offset a predetermined distance from the grip 304. The second grip member 305 may be fixed or movable by the user along the length of the handle 302. Coupled to the handle 302 on an end opposite the grip 304 is a head member assembly 306. In an embodiment, the handle 302 includes a threaded end 303 (FIG. 15) that couples with a threaded opening 328 in a cylindrical projection 326 that extends from the top side of a central head member 308. In an embodiment, the cylindrical projection 326 is integrally molded into the central head member 308. In another embodiment, the cylindrical projection may formed in a bracket that is coupled to the central head member. Slidably or releasably coupled to the central head member 308 are a pair of opposing end modules 310, 312. Extending from a side of the central head member 308 and end modules 310, 312 are a plurality of cleaning elements or bristles 314.

In an embodiment, the end modules 310, 312 are coupled to the central head member 308 by fasteners 338. In an embodiment, the fasteners 338 are inserted through the bottom surface of the end module 310, 312.

In an embodiment, the center head member 308 includes a pair of tongues 352, 354. The tongues 352, 354 are generally planar and include a pair of ribs 374, 376 disposed on a bottom side of the tongue 354 (e.g. adjacent the bristles 314). The tongue 354 is sized to fit in a slot 363. The slot 363 further includes a pair of slots 382, 384 that are sized and positioned to receive the ribs 374, 376. When the end module 312 is fully inserted, the opening the opening 314 in tongue 354 is aligned with the opening 312 allowing the fastener 338 to be inserted and couple the end module 312 to central head member 308. In other embodiments, the end module may be coupled to the center head member by other fastening means, such as but not limited to a bolt or screw with a threaded insert, snap-fit, adhesive bonding, ultrasonic welding or a rivet for example. It should be appreciated that while the end module 312 and tongue 354 are described herein, the end module 310 and tongue 352 are the constructed in the same manner.

Similar to the broom 100, the central head member 308 includes a plurality of bristles 388 that are arranged in a plurality of rows. In an embodiment, the bristles 388 may be arranged in the same manner as the bristles 188. The bristles 388 may be comprised of a portion 396 of bristles having a first bristle characteristic and a second portion 398 of bristles having a second bristle characteristic. In an embodiment, the first bristle characteristic is different than the second bristle characteristic. In another embodiment, the first bristle characteristic is the same as the second bristle characteristic. It should be appreciated that while embodiments herein may refer to the bristle 388 as having one or two different bristle characteristics, this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the bristles 388 coupled to the center head member may include 3, 4, 5 or more different types of bristles with different bristle characteristics. Further, it is contemplated that each bristle bundle may include different bristle types having different bristle characteristics.

The end modules 310, 312 each include a plurality of bristles 418. In an embodiment, the bristles 418 are configured the same as the bristles of end module 112. The bristles 418 are arranged in a plurality of rows. In an embodiment, the rows may be comprised of a third portion of bristles having a third bristle characteristic and a fourth portion of bristles having a fourth bristle characteristic. In an embodiment, the third bristle characteristic is different than the fourth bristle characteristic. In another embodiment, the third bristle characteristic is the same as the fourth bristle characteristic. In an embodiment, the first bristle characteristic, the second bristle characteristic, the third bristle characteristic, and the fourth bristle characteristic are all different. It should be appreciated that while embodiments herein may refer to the bristles 418 as having one or two different bristle characteristics, this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the bristles 418 coupled to the end modules may include 3, 4, 5 or more different types of bristles with different bristle characteristics. Further, it is contemplated that each bristle bundle may include different bristle types having different bristle characteristics.

In an embodiment, the bristles 388 and the bristles 418 may be configured the same as broom 10 with the bristles in the rows on the periphery each extend on an angle such that each distal end extends beyond the front, rear and end surfaces of the central head member 308 and end modules 310, 312. As discussed herein, this provides advantages in facilitating the cleaning of corners, such as the base of a wall for example.

It should be noted that the terms “first,” “second,” “upper,” “top,” “bottom,” “lower,” “front,” and “rear,” and the like may be used herein to modify various elements. These modifiers do not imply a spatial, sequential, or hierarchical order to modify the elements unless specifically stated. The term “about” is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of filing the application.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and/or groups thereof.

While the disclosure is provided in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the disclosure is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the disclosure can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Additionally, while various embodiments of the disclosure have been described, it is to be understood that the exemplary embodiment(s) may include only some of the described exemplary aspects. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description, but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tool for cleaning a surface comprising:

a pole;

a head member coupled to an end of the pole;

a first plurality of bristles extending from a side of the head member opposite the pole;

an extension member removably coupled to an end of the head member; and

a second plurality of bristles extending from a side of the extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the second plurality of bristles including a first portion of bristles that extend on a first angle relative to an end surface of the extension member in a direction away from the pole.

2. The tool of claim 1, wherein the first angle is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 90 degrees.

3. The tool of claim 2 wherein the first angle is less than 90 and greater than 0.

4. The tool of claim 1, wherein the first portion of bristles each have a proximal end and a distal end, the proximal end being coupled to the extension member and the distal end being positioned farther from the pole than the end surface of the extension surface.

5. The tool of claim 1, wherein the second plurality of bristles include a second portion of bristles extend on a second angle relative to a front side surface of the extension member and a third portion of bristles that extend on a third angle relative to a rear surface of the extension member.

6. The tool of claim 1 wherein:

the first plurality of bristles includes a plurality of periphery bristles and a plurality of center bristles, the plurality of center bristles being different than a periphery bristles; and

the second plurality of bristles further includes a second portion of bristles, the second portion of bristles being different than the first portion of bristles, the periphery bristles and the plurality of center bristles.

7. The tool of claim 6, wherein the second plurality of bristles have a different material, diameter, bristle shape, straight or crimped, flagged or unflagged, or stiffness than the plurality of periphery bristles or the plurality of center bristles.

8. The tool of claim 6, wherein the first plurality of bristles is different than the second plurality of bristles.

9. A method of cleaning a floor with a tool, the method comprising:

providing a head member coupled to a pole, the head member having a first plurality of bristles extending from a side opposite the pole;

providing an extension member, the extension member having a second plurality of bristles extending from a side of the extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the second plurality of bristles including a first portion of bristles that extend on a first angle relative to an end surface of the extension member in a direction away from the pole;

coupling the extension member to an end of the head member;

placing at least a portion of the first plurality of bristles and the second plurality of bristles on the floor; and

moving at least a portion of the first plurality of bristles and the second plurality of bristles across the floor.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising selecting the extension member from a plurality of extension members.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of extension members is longer than the selected extension member.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein each of the plurality of extension members includes at least one of different bristle types, combinations of bristle types, bristles of different lengths, or bristle angles.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the first angle is greater than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 90 degrees.

14. The method of claim 13 wherein the first angle is less than 90 and greater than 0.

15. The method of claim 9, wherein:

the first plurality of bristles includes a plurality of periphery bristles and a plurality of center bristles, the plurality of center bristles being different than the plurality of periphery bristles; and

the second plurality of bristles further includes a second portion of bristles, the second portion of bristles being different than the first portion of bristles, the plurality of periphery bristles and the plurality of center bristles.

16. A tool for cleaning a surface comprising:

a pole;

a head member coupled to an end of the pole;

a first plurality of bristles extending from a side of the head member opposite the pole;

a first extension member removably coupled to a first end of the head member, the first extension member having a second plurality of bristles extending from a side of the first extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the second plurality of bristles including a first portion of bristles that extend on a first angle relative to an end surface of the first extension member in a direction away from the pole; and

a second extension member removably coupled to a second end of the head member, the second end being opposite the first end, the second extension member having a third plurality of bristles extending from a side of the second extension member and positioned adjacent the first plurality of bristles, the third plurality of bristles including a second portion of bristles that extend on a second angle relative to an end surface of the second extension member in a direction away from the pole.

17. The tool of claim 16, further comprising a third extension member configured to be removably coupled to at least one of the first end or the second end of the head member, the third extension member having a fourth plurality of bristles extending from a side of the third extension member.

18. The tool of claim 17, wherein the third extension member is longer than the first extension member and the second extension member.

19. The tool of claim 17, wherein the fourth plurality of bristles has at least one of different bristle types, combinations of bristle types, bristles of different lengths, or bristle angles than the second plurality of bristles and the third plurality of bristles.

20. The tool of claim 17, wherein the second plurality of bristles has a first characteristic, the third plurality of bristles has a second characteristic, the fourth plurality of bristles has a third characteristic, the third characteristic being different than the first characteristic or the second characteristic.

21. The tool of claim 20, wherein the third characteristic is selected from a group consisting of a bristle diameter, a bristle shape, a flagged/unflagged bristle, a straight/crimped bristle, stiffness, and material.

22. The tool of claim 21, wherein the third characteristic is the bristle shape, the bristle shape being selected from a group consisting of round, triangular, quadrilobal, and rectangular.

23. The tool of claim 21, wherein the third characteristic is a bristle material, the material being selected from a group consisting of polymer, natural fiber, metal, composite, polyester, polypropylene, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polytetrafluoroethylene, boar hair, horse hair, Tampico fiber, Palmetto fiber, brass, steel, and carbon fiber.