The invention relates generally to mops, and more particularly to mops in which a connector is used to connect mop fibers to a handle.
U.S. Pat. No. 1,924,978 discloses an early version of a cleaning product with a separate connector used to secure a "dusting element" to a handle. In that device, the connector (head H) is illustrated as being attached to the handle ferrule 5 that is anchored to the handle by a pin 6 or the like. The connector includes two deformable arms 2 that are used to hold the dusting element. The dusting element includes an internal casing or envelope 7 with a central opening 8, through which the arms can pass when squeezed together. After the arms are inserted into the casing or envelope, they can be released to hold the dusting element in place. Unfortunately, the device appears to require an internal casing or envelope, which could be unduly expensive for use with a mop.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,299,480 shows a more conventional method for attaching mop fibers to a handle. The illustrated mop head includes a U-shaped wire loop 11 that has pointed ends 13 that can be used to pierce a cylindrical ferrule 12. The completed head can be attached to a handle by a driving a nail through a hole 14 in the ferrule.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,135,272 discloses a more modem implementation of the idea. That discloses a plastic connector 12 having an aperture 27 and slot 29 used for securing fibers to the head. A separate strap 34 having a head 35 is first passed through the aperture 27, then under the mop fibers, then up through the slot 29. The head holds one end of the strap in the aperture 27, while projecting teeth 38 hold the other end in the slot 29. The connector includes an upper cylindrical portion 14 that permits it to be threaded onto a handle 18.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,377,879 discloses a one-piece mop connector comprising a tongue 16 that can be used to hold mop fibers. The tongue can be locked in place by a series of grips 18 that can engage locking members 22 molded onto the sides of the connector. The connector is secured to a handle through the seating of an interior retaining projection 28 in a groove 30 on the end of the handle. This semi-permanent connection of the connector to the handle is not particularly desirable.
In apparent recognition of the need for improving the security of the connection of a connector to a handle, while permitting easy replacement or exchange of a mop head, U.S. Pat. No. 5,375,286 discloses a resilient bayonet-type mounting system for cleaning implements. The disclosed mop head apparently traps mop fibers between distinct upper and lower elements 9 and 10 that are secured together by ultrasonic welding.
A simpler and more convenient connector for attaching mop fibers to a mop handle would be desirable.