Squeezing out device

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for squeezing out a mop cover mounted on a mop holder of a mopping device, and in particular for squeezing out an additional part of a mop cover extending beyond the mop holder.

[0002] The invention generally relates to the field of floor cleaning and floor treatment carried out by the use of a mopping device wherein the cleaning and treatment may include professional cleaning and treatment as well as cleaning and treatment in the household.

[0003] In lots of cases the cleaning or treatment of a floor is carried out in two steps. In the first step the cleaning or treatment liquid is applied onto the floor and in a second step the floor is dried or polished. This represents a very time consuming and, therefore, cost intense procedure for which it is highly desired to find a more efficient alternative.

[0004] From the prior art a mop cover has become recently available (WO05/013793 A1 ) which comprises an additional part extending beyond the mop holder. Such double size mop covers can be used for specific cleaning tasks in particular with a wet/dry cleaning combination. Said double size mops are used such that the part of the mop cover attached to the mop holder functions as the cleaning or applying element which is charged with the liquid to be applied onto the floor whereas the part of the mop cover additionally extending beyond the mop holder functions as a dryer or polisher.

[0005] Independent from the shape, typically the flat mop covers of the mopping devices generally used in the above cleaning and treatment procedures need to be frequently charged with the liquid to be applied on the floor, like water, a cleaning solution or any other floor treatment solution. It is also necessary to rinse the mop cover from time to time. After having been charged with the liquid to

be applied onto the floor or after having been rinsed the mop cover has to be pressed or wrung to remove excess liquid.

[0006] There are several devices for squeezing out the various kinds of mop covers known from the state of the art. For example WO 97/17008 discloses a squeezing out device for removing liquid from a flat mop cover mounted on a mop holder. This squeezing out device has two cheek plates movable in relation to each other. When those cheek plates are in their top initial position they form a downwardly tapering entry gap for inserting the mop cover with the mop holder. By the exertion of perpendicular pressure with the aid of a mop handle on e.g. shoul- ders provided on the lower longitudinal edge of the cheek plates, the cheek plates can be moved downwardly from their top initial position squeezing out the mop cover to a bottom final position.

[0007] However, this squeezing out device can not be used for squeezing out mop covers mounted on flat mopping devices since with those devices the mop cover extends only to a low extent beyond the surface of the mop holder. Thus, either only the small part of the mop cover extending beyond the surface of the mop holder can be squeezed out or the mop holder also has to be inserted into the tapering entry gap and squeezed out which probably will not result in an effective squeezing out of the mop cover. In case mop covers comprising a segment extending beyond the mop holder are used, only the extending part can be squeezed out. This results in the segment of the mop cover attached to the mop holder being charged too much.

[0008] A similar device for squeezing out a mop cover is described in DE 94

16 565 U1. This device also uses two approaching cheeks to squeeze out a mop cover mounted on both sides of a mop holder. However, such a device is mainly suitable for mop holders having a wedge-like cross-section in which the mop cover is attached to the tapering sides and the handle mounted to the remaining side. This device as well will not be suitable for squeezing out mop covers mounted onto a flat mop having the handle connected to one of its flat sides.

[0009] A squeezing out device for mop covers mounted on a flat mopping device having the handle connected to one of its flat sides is disclosed in WO 01/67942 A1. The squeezing out device comprises a device functioning as a counter bearing device for edge fixing sections on a wiping panel. Thereby, the wiping panel is prevented from unintentionally being moved out of the squeezing out device when the textile element is squeezed out on a bearing surface. With said device the pressure used to squeeze out the wiping textile is imparted by the wiping panel in combination with the bearing surface of the squeeze out device. Consequently, only those parts of a wiping textile will be squeezed out with the device disclosed in said document which do not extend beyond the surface of the wiping panel.

[0010] Therefore, it was an object of the present invention to provide a device for squeezing out a mop cover attached to a flat mop holder, and in particular larger mop covers which have an additional part extending beyond the surface of the mop holder.

[0011] The object is met by a device for squeezing out a mop cover mounted on a mop holder of a mopping device comprising: a container for storing a liquid; a squeeze out structure which is detachably fixed in a position in which it does not extend into the interior of the container below the horizontal plane comprising the fixing points; a horizontal swivel axis between the fixing points and inside the container at the upper part of the container wall wherein the squeeze out structure can be swiveled around the swivel axis into and out of the container an entry gap for inserting an additional part of the mop cover extending beyond the mop holder between an outer edge of the squeeze out structure and an inner wall of the container; and a fixture wherein

at least a segment of the fixture moves towards the container wall forming the entry gap when the squeeze out structure swivels around the swivel axis into the container, at least a part of said segment of the fixture extends parallel to the shape of at least a part of the inner container wall forming the entry gap, and wherein at least a part of said inner container wall forming the entry gap and at least a part of the segment of the fixture moving towards said container wall and being parallel to at least a part of said container wall represent complementary parts of a press for squeezing out the additional part of the mop extending beyond the mop holder in the entry gap.

[0012] Before squeezing out the mop cover, usually it is first put into the liquid stored within the container to become soaked. However, the liquid for soaking the mop cover may also be stored in a container separate therefrom. The squeezing of the mop cover using the device according to the present invention is then carried out such that at first the part of the mop cover extending beyond the surface of the mop holder is inserted into the entry gap formed between the outer edge of the squeeze out structure and the inner wall of the container. The part of the mop cover mounted on the mop holder is placed onto the surface of the squeeze out structure. Pushing the mop holder against the squeezing surface then results in a swiveling movement of the squeezing out structure around the swivel- ing axis and towards or into the interior of the container.

[0013] Thereby, the fixture or at least a part thereof moves towards the container wall forming the entry gap. At some point of the movement the part of the fixture which extends parallel to the shape of at least a part of the inner container wall forming the entry gap gets into contact with the part of the mop cover which has been inserted into the entry gap. After this point has been reached the part of the inner container wall which has the shortest distance to said part of the fixture and said part of the fixture itself form complementary parts of a press. The continuing movement of the mop holder along the squeeze out structure and downwards

into the container then induces the squeezing out of the extending part of the mop cover.

[0014] When pulling the remaining extending part of the mop cover out of the thus formed press the whole part of the mop cover extending beyond the sur- face of the mop holder will be squeezed out. The pulling out of the extending part of the mop cover preferably is combined with letting the part of the mop cover attached to the holder glide over the surface of the squeeze out surface. If the gliding process also includes pressing the mop cover onto the squeeze out surface, which is preferred, the excessive liquid will at the same time be removed from the part of the mop cover attached to the mop holder.

[0015] Preferably, the part of the mop cover attached to the mop holder comprises enough liquid after the squeezing out process to clean or treat the floor. In contrast thereto, the part of the mop extending beyond the mop holder should at the same time be squeezed out to such an extent that it can be used to dry or pol- ish the floor after it got into contact with the charged part of the mop. Said two parts of the mop cover, i.e. the part attached to the mop holder and the part extending beyond the mop holder, may be separated from each other by any means known in the art to avoid the liquid to pass over from the charged part of the mop to the squeezed out part of the mop.

[0016] This process of squeezing out is particularly advantageous as it benefits from a movement directed downwardly. This facilitates the pulling out of the extending part of the mop cover out of the press. Moreover, the handle with which the mop holder is connected may function as a lever in order to further reduce the force required to pull out the extending part of the mop cover.

[0017] The squeeze out structure is detachably fixed in a position in which it does not extend into the interior of the container below the horizontal plane comprising the fixing points. With removable is meant hat the squeeze out structure may be moved under specific circumstances to a position different from the fixed

position, for example it may be swiveled around the swivel axis. Those specific circumstances can occur if for example pressure is imparted on the squeeze out surface like by pushing with the mop holder having the mop cover attached thereon against the squeeze out surface. Thereby, the squeeze out structure 5 starts to swivel around the swivel axis and, therefore, leaves its detachably fixed position.

[0018] The squeeze out structure should at least be fixed in a position such that it does not extend into the interior of the container below the horizontal plane comprising the fixing points. Typically, this represents a position in which the io squeeze out structure is more or less parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0019] However, in a preferred embodiment the squeeze out structure is detachably fixed in a position in which it extends above the horizontal plane comprising the fixing points, and in particular above the interior of the container. In this position the squeeze out structure is fixed such that the plane formed by the is squeeze out structure and the plane comprising the upper edge of the container intersect with an angle of above 0° and preferably below 90°. The plane comprising the upper edge of the container generally represents a horizontal plane. In an even more preferred embodiment the squeeze out structure should be in an upright position. This corresponds to an intersection angle of the above defined

20 planes of from 45 to below 90°.

[0020] The lower the angle between the above specified planes the less is the benefit of the movement directed downwardly. However, an angle close to 90° may make it more difficult to insert the extending part of the mop cover into the entry gap as the gap is narrower. Therefore, the angle should preferably be from 25 40 to 60°. This also facilitates the immersing of the mop cover into the liquid stored in the container.

[0021] The possible ways to detachably fix the position of the squeeze out structures are known by the skilled person. One possible way is to provide each of

the ends of the swivel axis with a lever and a spring which , for example, are fixed somewhere at the container. Thereby, the squeeze out structure can be detach- ably fixed in an upright position. The spring will be put under tension when the squeeze out structure is pushed by the mop holder and swiveled into the con- tainer. Therefore, when the pushing force is removed the squeeze out structure will return to its original position. This has the additional advantage that the squeeze out device instantly and automatically is in a state ready-to-use after one squeezing out process has been completed. The cleaning person is not forced to get the squeeze out device ready-to-use again for the next squeezing out process but at once can immerse the mop cover into the liquid and then insert the extending mop cover into the entry gap.

[0022] Besides using a combination of lever and spring, the center of gravity may be adjusted such that the squeeze out structure is fixed in an upright position in the regular state. A corresponding effect can be achieved, for example, by se- lecting materials for the squeeze out structure and the fixture connected with or mounted on the swivel axis which differ in their weights. Again, when pushing against the squeeze out structure for example with the mop head the squeeze out structure will swivel into the interior of the container and when the pushing force is removed the squeeze out structure returns to its initial position.

[0023] Of course the squeeze out structure may also be detachably fixed preferably in an upright position by means of common clips or similar means which open when pressure is imparted to the squeeze out structure. However, this requires that the cleaning person clamps the squeeze out structure by himself or herself after the squeeze out process has been completed or at least before a new squeeze out process shall be started. Therefore, the other fixing procedures are preferred.

[0024] The shortest length of a perpendicular from the outer edge of the squeeze out structure forming the entry gap to the opposite outer edge of the squeeze out structure preferably is at least the total length of the mop cover. This

enables the whole part of the mop cover extending beyond the surface of the mop holder to be squeezed out easily. In case the perpendicular is not as long, a part of the extending segment of the mop is still inserted within the entry gap when the mop cover attached to the mop holder reaches the front edge of the squeeze out structure. When the mop holder is further moved downwards to pull out the part of the mop cover still remaining in the entry gap there is the danger that the part of the mop cover mounted on the mop holder immerses into the liquid stored in the container before the extending part of the mop cover is completely pulled out of the press although it has been squeezed out before. Alternatively, if the gliding movement downwards is stopped before the mop cover reaches the liquid to avoid the immersing of the mop cover into the liquid, the pulling out of the extending part of the mop cover which has not been squeezed out yet, is more strenuous.

[0025] Generally, a swivel axis is a straight line about which a rotating movement takes place. It may be an imaginary line but in a preferred embodiment the swivel axis is a component of the squeeze out structure or is at least connected with the squeeze out structure.

[0026] Although the swivel axis may be at any position of the squeeze out structure as long as the swiveling of the squeeze our structure around said axis described above is not hindered it is preferred that the swivel axis forms an outer edge of the squeeze out structure and in particular the edge forming the entry gap.

[0027] The horizontal swivel axis may be a segment of the squeeze out structure over its whole length for example in the case where the squeeze out structure is made rather plane-like. In such an embodiment the swivel axis typically will represent one of the outer edges of the squeeze out structure. However, it is also possible that the swivel axis is located somewhere within the plane-like squeeze out structure. In this case, it generally will not be distinguishable from the rest of the squeeze out structure apart from the fixing points extending therefrom.

[0028] However, the swivel axis can also be connected to the squeeze out structure at one or more specific points or short segments. For example, in case the squeeze out structure is a grid made of steel rods which extend parallel to the swivel axis, the end points of one or more similar or identical rods which are per- pendicular to the swivel axis and fix the parallel rods of the squeeze out structure to form the grid, may be used as connection to the swivel axis.

[0029] The swivel axis is located such within the container that the squeeze out structure can swivel around the axis into the container without being hindered by the container walls. The two ends of the swivel axis preferably are mounted on the inside of opposite walls of a container having a quadrangular opening. However, they may also be mounted on adjacent inside walls of such a container if the shape of the squeeze out structure nevertheless allows its swiveling into the interior of the container.

[0030] Preferably, the two ends of the swivel axis are mounted in the upper part of the container wall, i.e. preferably 0,2 to 20 cm, more preferred 0,5 to 15 cm and most preferred 1 to 10 cm below the upper edge of the container wall. In case the swivel axis is mounted such that the minimum length of a perpendicular from the bottom of the container to the swivel axis is too low, the squeeze out structure may immerse into the liquid stored in the container when swiveling into the interior of the container. This may result in the part of the mop cover which is attached to the holder also immersing again into the liquid when being pushed over the front edge of the squeeze out structure to pull out the extending part of the mop cover.

Thereby, the already squeezed out mop cover can be charged again. Therefore, it should preferably be avoided that the squeeze out structure can immerse into the liquid when being swiveled into the container.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment the fixture is connected with or mounted to the squeeze out structure, the swivel axis and/or the fixing points. Depending on the shape of the fixture it may be connected with or mounted to said parts of the squeezing out device at one or more single points, segments or areas.

The number and location of the connecting points are not specifically limited as long as the functions of the fixture and the squeeze out structure, swivel axis and/or fixing points are not restricted.

[0032] The fixture which is connected with or mounted on the swivel axis may be formed as a three-dimensional, a plan-like and, therefore, rather two- dimensional structure or as a bow of a rod-like material. In case the fixture is formed as a three-dimensional or plane-like structure generally the fixture will be connected to the squeeze out structure or the swivel axis over the whole length of the swivel axis or at least over one or more segments. However, it is preferred that the fixture is formed as a bow which end points are connected with the squeeze out structure, the swivel axis and/or the fixing points. The bow may be round but is also possible that it is formed of different segments which are independent from each other either rounded or straight. Those segments may be connected with each other via corners or via rounded connection parts.

[0033] In case the fixture is formed of a three-dimensional or a plan-like structure the edge of the fixture extending parallel to the shape of at least a part of the inner container wall forming the entry gap and getting into contact with the part of the mop extending beyond the mop holder during the squeezing out process may have a plane-like shape or a shape having one or more taperings like one or more tips.

[0034] If the fixture represents a bow it is preferred that it is made of a rod- like material. The cross section of the rod may be round but also pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, or polygonal. However, it is especially preferred that the cross section of the rod is round. It is also possible that the single seg- ments of the bow do not have the same but different cross sections, although it is preferred that the cross section of the rood forming the bow does not change along the length of the bow. In order to facilitate the exertion of the extending part of the mop cover out of the press it may be helpful to use a bow which at least comprises one part which represents a roll.

[0035] The material which forms the fixture is not limited as long as it is able to squeeze the extending part of the mop cover together with the complementary part of the container. Preferably, the fixture is made of a metal, an alloy or a plastic.

[0036] It is also possible that the edge of the fixture getting into contact with the mop cover during the squeeze out process is shorter than the length of the swivel axis or the squeeze out structure or than the part of the fixture connected with the swivel axis or the squeeze out structure. An example for this may be a fixture formed of an area in the shape of a trapezium with the long side of the par- allel sides connected to the swivel axis and the opposite short side of the parallel sides forming the edge getting into contact with the mop cover.

[0037] In case the fixture is formed of a bow the bow itself or at least a part thereof represents the edge of the fixture getting into contact with the extending segment of the mop cover during the squeeze out process. Thereby, at least a part of the bow which is parallel to the shape of at least a part of the inner container wall forming the entry gap forms one of the complementary elements of the press.

[0038] The length of the part of the edge of the fixture getting into contact with the mop cover during the squeeze out process and which forms one comple- ment of the press should at least correspond to the width of the mop cover to be squeezed out. Preferably, said part of the fixture is longer than the width of the mop cover in order to facilitate the insertion of the extending part of the mop cover into the entry gap and the squeezing out process.

[0039] The shortest distance between the edge of the fixture getting into contact with the mop cover during the squeeze out process and the complementary part of the inner container wall should be adapted to the thickness of the mop cover. If the distance is too small it will be very difficult to pull the extending part of

the mop cover out of the press. If the distance is too large the squeezing out effect is not sufficient and the extending part of the mop cover will be too wet.

[0040] Therefore, in a preferred embodiment the edge of the fixture getting into contact with the mop cover during the squeeze out process is provided with one or more distance pieces which are fixed thereon and which define the minimum distance from said edge of the fixture to the inner container wall forming the entry gap. It will be particularly preferred if the distance pieces are adjustable and allow the adjustment of different contact pressures depending on the requirements of the cleaning or treatment procedure. Any kind of distant pieces known in the art may be used, for example pins the length of which can be varied by screwing them into the fixture.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment the plane comprising the squeeze out structure and the plane comprising the edge of the fixture getting into contact with the mop when it is squeezed out and the points of the squeeze out structure, the swivel axis and/or the fixing points to which the fixture is connected or mounted, intersect with an angle of from 85 to below 180°, preferably of from 100 to 150, more preferred of from 110 to 130°.

[0042] However, it has to be guaranteed that the edge of the fixture getting into contact with the mop when it is squeezed out and which is parallel to the shape of the corresponding inner container wall forming the entry gap, and said inner container wall still form a press. In case the above mentioned angle is above 90° it has to be taken care that the edge of the fixture does not extend above the upper edge of the container wall when inducing the swiveling movement. In case the angle is below 90° it has to be taken care that the fixture still gets close enough to the corresponding inner container wall forming the entry gap to be capable to squeeze out the extending mop cover.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment the interior of the container wall opposite to the inner wall forming the entry gap is provided with a barrier which prevents the

squeeze out structure from further swiveling into the container beyond said barrier. If the position of said barrier is appropriately chosen, which belongs to the typical abilities of the skilled person, the swiveling of the squeeze out structure towards the interior of the container will be stopped, for example, before the squeeze out structure immerses into the liquid within the container. Thereby, it can be avoided that the part of the mop cover attached to the mop holder gets charged again after already having been squeezed out. Moreover, in case the fixture is connected or mounted to the swivel axis or the squeeze out structure such that after a specific point of the swiveling movement the edge of the fixture which is supposed to func- tion as one complement of the press extends beyond the upper edge of the container wall, such a barrier may prevent a further swiveling beyond this point.

[0044] A suitable barrier can be formed by the shape of the container, for example, if the opening of the container tapers from its upper edge in the direction to its bottom. If at some position the area of the squeeze out structure is larger then the area of a cross-section of the container parallel to the bottom, the edge of the squeeze out structure opposite to its edge forming the entry gap will meet the container wall and the swiveling movement will stop independent from whether there still is a pressure imparted on the squeeze out structure. However, one or more of the inner walls of the container can also comprise one or more protrusions like a ledge, bead, set square(s) or pins. It is possible to form the container as one piece including said protrusion i.e. the protrusion is made of the same material, for example if the container is cast or moulded. However, an alternative way will be to attach or fix the protrusion which is either of the same or of a different material than the container after having produced the container.

[0045] The same barrier effect is also obtainable by providing such means at one or both wall(s) intersected by the swivel axis. Suitable barrier means may also reach from one of said walls to the other. Examples for those means are rods having any kind of cross-section like a round, elliptic, quadrangular, rectangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, or a polygonal cross- section.

[0046] In a particularly preferred embodiment the angle between the plane comprising the squeeze out structure in the position stopped by the barrier, and the horizontal plane is from 45° to below 90°.

[0047] In order to avoid that the squeezed out part of the mop cover at- tached to the mop holder glides beyond the edge of the squeeze out structure opposite to the swivel axis and again into the liquid stored in the container, the squeeze out structure preferably is provided with a catch. This catch may be of the same material as the squeeze out structure or of a different one. In a preferred embodiment the catch is formed of a plane-like plate or one or more rods extend- ing parallel to the edge of the squeeze out structure which lie in a plane essentially perpendicular to the squeeze out structure.

[0048] Although generally different kinds of mop covers like mop heads and flat mop covers may be squeezed out with the device of the present invention it is specifically adapted to squeeze out flat mop covers which extend to some extent beyond the surface of the mop holder on which it is preferably detachably attached. Therefore, preferably the flat mop cover is an elongate rectangular flat member with a backing textile forming a top side provided with attachment means for the attachment on a plate-like mop holder, whereas the mop holder may be inflexible or flexible as known from the art. A bottom side of the backing textile typically is the mopping side and normally has a trimming. The term "flat mop covers" preferably includes mop covers having a thickness of about 0,5 to 3 cm, more preferred of about 1 cm to 2,5 cm.

[0049] The squeeze out device of the present invention may be used to squeeze out mop covers used in professional floor cleaning or floor treatment as well as with mop covers used in the household. Consequently, the mop covers should have a width of from 20 to 50 cm, preferably of from 25 to 45 cm and more preferred of from 30 to 40 cm. In the sense of the present invention width of the mop cover means the length of the side of the mop cover which extends essentially parallel to the longer side of the mop holder. The length of a preferred mop

cover to be used in the device according to the present invention preferably corresponds at least to the double length of the holder (i.e. generally the double length of the shorter side of the mop holder, i.e. it preferably has a length a from 20 to 100 cm, more preferred of from 40 to 60 cm). In case the mop covers are not flat covers the free swinging textile mounted on the mop holder should have a length corresponding to the one defined above with respect to flat mop covers. The shape of the container should be appropriate to receive the above described mop covers.

[0050] Generally, the squeeze out structure defines a flat squeeze out sur- face. However, it is also possible that the surface of the squeeze out structure has one or more cambers. It only has to be guaranteed that the mop cover can glide over the surface, preferably with additionally imparting pressure on it, in order to pull the extending part of the mop cover out of the press and to squeeze out the part of the mop cover which is attached to the mop holder.

[0051] Moreover, the squeeze out structure may comprises one or more openings to allow the excessive liquid charged on the mop cover to flow through the openings into the container. However, as the squeeze out structure is supposed to be swiveled around the swivel axis into the interior of the container, i.e. it is swiveled into a position where it is inclined from the horizontal plane, it is not absolutely necessary that the squeeze out structure comprises openings. In this case the excessive liquid to be removed from the part of the mop cover attached to the holder may also run down over the edge of the squeeze out structure into the container.

[0052] Yet, it is preferred that the squeeze out structure comprises one or more openings. Those openings may be formed by spacing out two or more squeeze out means resulting in a squeeze out formation. In a preferred embodiment those squeeze out means represent rods which are preferably arranged essentially parallel to each other. Further rods may also be attached rectangular to those essentially parallel rods to stabilize and fix them. The distance between the

single rods and their diameter defines the openings of the squeeze out surface. However, it is also possible to use rolls, balls, plates having three or more corners or being round or elliptic, or the like. Consequently, the squeeze out formation can represent a sieve, a grid, a perforated plate structure or the like.

[0053] The shape of the squeeze out structure preferably corresponds at least to some extent to the shape of the container, or at least the shape of the upper edge of the container forming its opening. Thus, in case the container represents a bucket with a rectangular opening and a corresponding rectangular upper edge the shape of the squeeze out structure also should be rectangular. However, if the container is a bucket with a round opening and a corresponding round upper edge the squeeze out structure preferably has either also a rectangular shape or a shape which is adapted to the round shape of the upper edge or at least parts thereof.

[0054] The material which the squeeze out structure is made of is not par- ticularly limited as long as it allows the structure to be pushed for example by the mop holder without bursting. The preferred material represents a metal or an alloy, but plastics may also be appropriate.

[0055] The squeeze out structure may cover almost the whole opening of the container when it is in a position parallel to the horizontal plane as long as it is guaranteed that the squeeze out structure may be swiveled into the interior of the container without being blocked by the container walls. However, it is preferred that the squeeze out structure covers only a part of the container opening when it is in a position parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0056] The container may be any kind of container which may be used to transport the liquid which is supposed to be applied onto the floor. However, especially it is a bucket. Although buckets having a quadrangular basis shape are preferred for use in the present invention it is also possible to employ buckets or containers of any other shape, for example round buckets. Of course it is also possi-

ble that one or more sides of the container having in general a quadrangular shape are rounded or slightly rounded. The material of the container is not particular limited as long as it is not attacked by the liquid to be applied onto the floor. Preferably the container is made of a plastic material.

[0057] The container can also be placed or mounted on a movable plate having castors to form a cleaning trolley the cleaning personnel can take easily with him or her.

[0058] Moreover, the present invention relates to a method of squeezing out a mop cover which includes a part extending beyond the mop holder, the method comprising the steps of a) inserting the extending part of the mop cover soaked with a substance used for a desired cleaning or treatment process, into an entry gap formed between the outer edge of a squeeze out structure and the inner wall of a container for storing a liquid, wherein the squeeze out structure is detachably fixed in a position in which it does not extend into the interior of the container be- low the horizontal plane comprising fixing points and can be swiveled around a horizontal swivel axis which is formed between the fixing points and which is inside the container at the upper part of the container wall, into and out of the container , and b) pushing the mop holder against the surface of the squeezing out structure such that the squeeze out structure swivels around the swivel axis into the con- tainer and thereby moves at least a part of a segment of a fixture which extends parallel to the shape of at least a part of the inner container wall forming the entry gap, towards said inner container wall, and whereby by said movement the extending part of the mop holder inserted into the entry gap is squeezed out between said part of the fixture and said inner container wall and pulled out of the entry gap.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment the degree of squeezing out the part of the mop cover extending beyond the mop holder may be varied by varying the minimum distance between the inner container wall forming the entry gap and the part of the segment of the fixture which extends parallel to the shape of at least a

part of said inner container wall. To realize the variation of said minimum distance the means described above with respect to the device may be used, like for example distance pieced provided at the fixture or at the inner container wall forming the press.

[0060] In order to facilitate the squeeze out process it is advantageous if the squeeze out structure returns into its original position when the pushing of the mop holder against the surface of the squeezing out structure stops. The means described above concerning the device may be used to achieve this, for example a combination of a lever and a spring.

[0061] Moreover, it can be provided that the extent of the swiveling movement of the squeeze out structure can be adjusted by means of a barrier. This may optimize the extent of the squeezing out process of the part of the mop cover to be squeezed out. Moreover, such a means facilitates the pulling out of the squeezed out part of the mop cover as thereby the minimum distance between the fixture and the inner wall of the container forming the press can be influenced. Such a means also helps to avoid that the already squeezed out mop cover is immersed again into the liquid stored in the container when the squeeze out structure is swiveled into said liquid together with the mop cover. Suitable means for accomplishing such barriers are mentioned above in connection with the device of the present invention.

[0062] In a further preferred embodiment the gliding of the mop cover over the surface of the squeeze out structure during the pushing movement is stopped by means of a catch, preferably at the latest at the end of the squeeze out structure opposite to the edge forming the entry gap. This as well helps to avoid the immersing of the already squeezed out mop cover into the liquid when the pushing movement cannot be stopped at the end of the squeeze out structure. Suitable realizations for the catch are describe above with respect to the device according to the invention.

[0063] It is particular preferred to use the device according to the present invention as described above in the method according to the present invention although other devices may also be used as well. Consequently the specifications described in connection with the device may apply for the method as well.

[0064] With the device and the method according to the present invention it is possible to squeeze out the segment of the mop cover extending beyond the mop holder to an extent such that the residual moisture is reduced to 50 to 200 wt.% related to the weight of the dry mop cover. The residue of moisture preferably can be adjusted depending on the material and thickness of the mop cover and the intended kind of floor treatment. The adjustment can, for example, be obtained by means of the distance pieces located at the fixture.

Description of the drawings

Fig. 1 shows a three-dimensional view on one preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

Fig. 2 shows a side view of the device of Fig. 1 in which the squeeze out structure is in an upright ready to use position

Fig. 3 shows a side view of the device of Fig. 1 in which the squeeze out structure is moved into a horizontal position

Fig. 4 shows a side view of the device in Fig. 1 in which the squeeze out structure is in the final squeeze out position

Fig. 5 shows a three-dimensional view of another preferred embodiment of the device according to the present invention

Fig. 6 shows a side view of the device of Fig. 5 in which the squeeze out structure is in an upright ready to use position

Fig. 7 shows a side view of the device of Fig. 5 in which the squeeze out structure is moved into a horizontal position

Fig. 8 shows a side view of the device in Fig. 5 in which the squeeze out structure is in the final squeeze out position

[0065] In the following the invention will be further elucidated by means of the specifically preferred embodiments shown in the figures.

[0066] Figures 1 to 4 show one preferred embodiment, figures 5 to 8 an- other one. In the first embodiment the container 2a has a rectangular basis shape of the bottom and also a rectangular shape of the upper edge 14 of the container walls, wherein those two rectangular shapes differ in size. In this embodiment the two side walls of the container 2a have a trapezium shape with the short side of the parallel sides being at the bottom. This results in one container wall being in- dined from the upper edge to the bottom towards the direction of the opposite wall. In the second embodiment, the container 2b has an essentially rectangular basis shape of the bottom and an identical shape formed by the upper edge of the container walls. In the second embodiment the wall of the container being opposite to the wall forming the entry gap 6, is slightly rounded.

[0067] In both embodiments the squeeze out structure 3 is formed of a grid preferably made of metal having several main rods arranged parallel to each other and held together by means of three cross rods, one connected with one end of the rods, one connected with the other end and one connected with the center of each rod.

[0068] The squeeze out structure 3 in both embodiments is fixed to opposite inner sides of container walls at fixing points 4. Those fixing points 4 are also con-

nected with a further rod forming the swivel axis 5 and forming at the same time the outer edge of the squeeze out structure 3 forming the entry gap 6.

[0069] In both embodiments the entry gap 6 is formed by the swivel axis 5 being part of the squeeze out structure 3 and the inner container wall 7.

[0070] The end points of a bow-like fixture 8 having one section parallel to the main rods of the squeeze out structure 3 are also connected with the fixing points 4 and, consequently, at the same time with the squeeze our structure 3 and the swivel axis 5.

[0071] The fixture 8 which is made of one piece, comprises three sections: one section parallel to the main rods of the squeeze out structure 3 and two further sections roundly connected with the end points of the first section and perpendicular thereto. The first section represents the part of the fixture 8 which will get into contact with the extending part of the mop cover and which forms one complement of the press.

[0072] In both embodiments the plane comprising the edge of the fixture 8 getting into contact with the mop when it is squeezed out and the points of the squeeze out structure 3, the swivel axis 5 and/or the fixing points 4 to which the fixture 8 is connected or mounted is the plane comprising the first section of the fixture 8 and the swivel axis 5. The plane comprising the squeeze out structure 3 and the plane comprising the first section of the fixture 8 and the swivel axis 5 intersect with an angle α of about 90° in the first embodiment. In contrast thereto, the plane comprising the squeeze out structure 3 and the plane comprising the first section of the fixture 8 and the swivel axis 5 intersect with an angle α' of more than 90° in the second embodiment.

[0073] In both embodiments the squeeze out structure 3 is detachably fixed in a position in which it does not extend into the interior of the container 2a, 2b below the horizontal plane comprising the fixing points 4, by means of lever 11 in

combination with a spring 12. Whereas the one end of the lever 11 which is not connected with the spring 12 is mounted outside of the container wall and is united with the fixing point 4 the free end of the spring 12 is fixed to the upper edge of the container wall 14. The spring is in a relaxed condition in case the squeeze out structure 3 is in an upright position. In case pressure is imparted onto the squeeze out structure 3 for example when the mop holder with a mop cover attached thereto is pushed against the squeeze out structure 3, the squeeze out structure 3 swivels around the swivel axis 5 and moves via a horizontal position towards the interior of the container 2a, 2b. Thereby, the spring 12 gets tensed. As soon as the pressure is removed again, for example when the squeezed out mop is removed from the container, the spring 12 relaxes again while returning into its initial upright position. This enables the cleaning person to directly insert the extending part of the mop cover into the entry gap 6 again for the next squeeze out process without being forced to bring the squeeze out structure in the ready-to-use position himself or herself. This very much facilitates the cleaning process and is time saving.

[0074] In both embodiments the squeeze out structure 3 is provided with a catch 10 which also has a rod like shape. It lies within a plane extending perpendicular to the plane comprising the squeeze out structure 3 and is located at the edge of the squeeze out structure 3 opposite to the swivel axis 5.

[0075] Moreover, the second embodiment comprise a barrier 13which prevents the squeeze out structure 3 from further swiveling into the container 2b beyond said barrier 13. In the second embodiment as shown in Fig. 5 to 8 the barrier 13 is generated by means of a rod extending from one wall of the container to the opposite one, wherein the rod is parallel to the main rods of the squeeze out struc- ture 3. When the squeeze out structure 3 reaches the rod 13 the squeeze out structure 3 will rest on it and the swiveling movement stops independent from the pressure which may still be imparted to the squeeze out structure 3.

[0076] The squeeze out process is carried out in the following way. The mop generally is immersed at first into the liquid stored within the container 2a, 2b. In

case the squeeze out structure 3 is detachably fixed in a horizontal position this process may be difficult depending on the size of the gap formed between the edge of the squeeze out structure 3 and the inner container wall opposite to the entry gap 6. Therefore, the squeeze out structure should be detachably fixed in an upright rest position which is shown in Fig. 2 and 6.

[0077] The immersing of the mop cover into the liquid stored in the container is further facilitated if the squeeze out structure does not fill the whole opening of the container in the horizontal position, but provides a gap opposite to the entry gap 6. Usually, this provides enough space for the cleaning personnel to easily immerse the mop cover below the squeeze out structure into the container (corresponding to the direction marked by the arrow relating to reference sign 1 in Fig. 2 and Fig. 6).

[0078] After having rinsed the mop accordingly it is removed from the liquid and lifted in the opening of the container above the squeeze out structure 3. The segment of the mop cover extending beyond the map holder is inserted into the entry gap 6. The upright position of the squeeze out structure 3 facilitates the insertion of the mop cover into the entry gap 6 as it forms a kind of funnel.

[0079] The mop holder is then almost automatically directed with the mop cover attached thereto to the surface of the squeeze out structure 3. While push- ing the mop holder against the squeeze out structure 3 the squeeze out structure 3 starts to swivel around the swivel axis 5 and moves downwards towards the interior of the container 2a, 2b. Thereby, at the same time the first section of the fixture moves towards the inner wall 7 of the container forming the entry gap 6. This results in the extending segment of the mop cover being squeezed out by a press formed by the first section of the fixture 8 and the inner wall 7 of the container.

[0080] Further pushing the mop holder over the surface of the squeeze out structure 3 leads to a gliding movement by which the segment of the mop cover attached to the mop holder is slightly squeezed out to remove excessive amount

of liquid and the extending part of the mop cover is squeezed out to a larger extent. The longer the movement takes place the more of the extending part of the mop cover exerts the entry gap 6 in a squeezed out state. The amount of water remaining in the segment of the mop cover attached to the mop holder depends on the pressure imparted to the mop holder when pushing it against the surface of the squeeze out structure 3. However, the downward movement automatically increases the pressure imparted on the squeeze out structure 3.

[0081] Besides facilitating the swiveling movement and the squeezing out of the segment of the mop cover extending beyond the mop holder, the downwards movement at the same time supports the pulling out of the squeezed out extending part of the mop cover. Depending on the distance from the first section of the fixture 8 and the inner wall 7 of the container 2a, 2b during the squeeze out process and on the thickness of the segment of the mop cover extending beyond the mop holder it may require quite some force to pull out the extending part of the mop cover from the entry gap 6. This pulling out on hand is facilitated by the downwards movement of the mop holder when gliding it over the surface of the squeeze out structure 3. On the other hand the pulling out may be facilitated by fixing distance pieces to the first section of the fixture 8, which are not shown in the figures.

[0082] When the mop holder is pushed to the end of the squeeze out structure 3 the mop cover should be completely pulled out of the entry gap 6. This in particular is the case when the length of a perpendicular from the swivel axis 5 to the opposite edge 9 of the squeeze out structure 3 is at least the total length of the mop cover. Otherwise it may difficult to pull the remaining part of the extending segment of mop cover out of the entry gap 6.

[0083] The catch 10 avoids that the already squeezed out segment of the mop cover attached to the mop holder immerses into the liquid within the container 2a, 2b. Using such a catch 10 it will not be possible to push the mop holder over the edge 9 of the squeeze out structure 3 opposite to the swivel axis 5.

[0084] In order to prevent the squeeze out structure 3 from immersing itself into the liquid within the container 2b a barrier 13 is provided. The swiveling movement stops when the squeeze out structure 3 arrives at said barrier 13.

[0085] When the extending segment of the mop cover is completely pulled out of the entry gap 6 the mop holder with the segment of the mop cover attached thereto being sufficiently charged but not too wet and with the segment extending beyond the mop holder which is completely squeezed out can be removed from the squeeze out structure 3 and used to clean or treat the floor. When the mop holder is removed from the squeeze out structure 3 the squeeze out structure re- turns into its initial upright or horizontal position due to the tension of the spring 12 and is ready for the next squeezing out process.