Patent Publication Number: US-7707674-B2

Title: Hand held scrubbing tool

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/778,016 filed Feb. 12, 2004 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,363,673, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/532,958 entitled Hand Held Scrubbing Tool, filed Dec. 29, 2003, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/447,240 entitled Hand-Held Cleaning Apparatus, filed Feb. 13, 2003, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/447,232 entitled Hand-Held Motorized Cleaning Apparatus With Integral Fluid Reservoir and Method of Constructing Same, filed Feb. 13, 2003, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/447,100 entitled Hand-Held Motorized Cleaning Apparatus With Extended Reach Capabilities, filed Feb. 13, 2003, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/447,141 entitled Cleaning Tool For Use With A Hand-Held Motorized Cleaning Apparatus, filed Feb. 13, 2003, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/447,113 entitled Hand-Held Motorized Cleaning Apparatus And Caddy Therefor, filed Feb. 13, 2003. The disclosures of each of the above referenced utility and provisional patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth in detail herein. 
    
    
     INTRODUCTION 
     The present disclosure generally relates hand-held motorized cleaning apparatuses. 
     Hand-held mechanized cleaning tools are known in the art and commonly employ a single tool head, such as a brush, accessory or the like, that are rotated or reciprocated to scrub dirt and other materials from a work surface. While known tool heads generally perform adequately on a given type of surface, such as a relatively large surface, they are often times limited in their use for other types of cleaning and/or are generally susceptible to improvement. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved hand-held mechanized cleaning tool. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one form, the present teachings provide a hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus that includes a housing, a battery located in the housing, a motor located in the housing and connected to the battery, an output drive shaft powered by the motor, a cleaning attachment coupled for rotational movement with the output drive shaft and a liquid delivery system. The liquid delivery system is operable independently from the motor and has a receiver, a cartridge, a compressor, a first valve, a valve actuator, a nozzle coupled to the housing and at least one fluid conduit that couples the cartridge, the first valve and the nozzle in fluid communication. The receiver is coupled to the housing. The cartridge is removably coupled to the receiver and configured to store a cleaning fluid therein. The compressor includes a piston and a self-coiling band. The self-coiling band is mounting on a hub on the receiver and biases the piston in a direction that compresses the cartridge. The first valve is at least partially housed in the housing and operable for selectively permitting fluid communication between the reservoir and the nozzle in response to movement of the valve actuator to dispense fluid from the liquid delivery system. The nozzle is operable for directing the dispensed fluid obliquely relative to the axis of rotation of the cleaning attachment and having at least one aperture being operable for dispersing the fluid dispensed from the liquid delivery system. The reservoir has a variable internal volume. Movement of the valve actuator to actuate the valve does not increase a pressure of the pressurized fluid in the reservoir. 
     In another form, the present teachings provide a hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus that includes a housing, a battery located in the housing, a motor located in the housing and connected to the battery, an output drive shaft powered by the motor, a cleaning attachment coupled for rotational movement with the output drive shaft and a liquid delivery system. The liquid delivery system is operable independently from the motor and has a reservoir, a reservoir housing, a first valve, a second valve, a valve actuator, a nozzle coupled to the housing, and at least one fluid conduit that couples the reservoir, the first valve, the second valve and the nozzle in fluid communication. The reservoir is received in the reservoir housing and is operable for storing a fluid therein. The reservoir is formed of a resilient material. The reservoir housing is coupled to the housing. The second valve is at least partially housed in the housing and operable for selectively permitting fluid communication between the reservoir and the nozzle in response to movement of the valve actuator to dispense fluid from the liquid delivery system. The nozzle is operable for directing the dispensed fluid obliquely relative to the axis of rotation of the cleaning attachment and has at least one aperture is operable for dispersing the fluid dispensed from the liquid delivery system. The reservoir has a variable internal volume. Movement of the valve actuator to actuate the valve does not increase a pressure of the pressurized fluid in the reservoir. The first valve is a check valve configured to permit a fluid to be injected into the liquid delivery system between the reservoir and the second valve. 
     In yet another form, the present teachings provide a hand-held motorized household cleaning apparatus with a housing, a battery located in the housing, a motor located in the housing and connected to the battery, an output drive shaft driven by the motor, the output drive shaft being rotatable about a shaft axis, a cleaning attachment that is rotatable about an attachment axis and a flexible adapter that can be selectively interposed between the output drive shaft and the cleaning attachment. The flexible adapter has a first drive end, which is configured to releasably engage the output drive shaft, and a second drive end, which is configured to releasably engage the cleaning attachment. The flexible adapter permits rotation of the cleaning attachment between a first position, wherein the attachment axis is generally coincident with the shaft axis, and a second position, wherein the attachment axis and the shaft axis are arranged in an oblique condition. 
     Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Additional advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is an exploded perspective view of the cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a portion of the hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the main body in greater detail; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 3  but illustrating one portion of the main body in exploded therefrom and another portion of the main body in section; 
         FIG. 4A  is an exploded perspective view of another exemplary housing for the main body; 
         FIG. 5  is a rear elevation of a portion of the main body illustrating the contacts on the cap; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic illustration of a portion of the main body illustrating the battery and power switch; 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the main body illustrating the piston assembly of the liquid dispensing system in greater detail; 
         FIG. 8  is an exploded elevation view illustrating an exemplary a valve assembly for the liquid dispensing system; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary valve assembly for the liquid dispensing system; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded perspective view illustrating an exemplary output nozzle for the liquid dispensing system; 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded perspective view illustrating another exemplary output nozzle for the liquid dispensing system; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a portion of the hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the removable head in greater detail; 
         FIG. 13  is a top plan view of the removable head; 
         FIG. 14  is a bottom view of the removable head; 
         FIG. 15  is a sectional view of the removable head; 
         FIG. 16  is a perspective view of a portion of the hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1  illustrating the removable extension handle in greater detail; 
         FIG. 17  is a longitudinal section view of a portion of the removable extension handle; 
         FIG. 18  is an elevation view of a flexible adapter constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 19  is an exploded perspective view of the flexible adapter of  FIG. 18  in operative association with the hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 20  is a top plan view of the flexible adapter of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 21  is an exploded perspective view in partial section of another exemplary liquid dispensing system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of another exemplary liquid dispensing system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 23  is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the liquid dispensing system of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view of yet another exemplary liquid dispensing system constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 26  is an exploded perspective view of another hand held cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, the cleaning tool forming a brush/squeegee cleaning apparatus with a rechargeable DC battery; 
         FIG. 27  is a view of the cleaning tool of  FIG. 26  in use; 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective view of another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention incorporating the use of replaceable cleaning fluid/solution cartridges that may be held in a handle portion of the tool; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention incorporating an independent fluid/solution reservoir that is removably attached to an independent cleaning head; 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of a cleaning tool of similar to that of  FIG. 29  but incorporating a removable, pump actuated cleaning fluid/solution reservoir; 
         FIG. 31  is a view of another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, the cleaning tool including a fluid delivery system with a reservoir that is located in an attachment, such as a brush; 
         FIG. 32  is a simplified perspective view of still another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, the cleaning tool being configured to receive a porous solid in a cartridge-like form that is positioned within a fluid path such that fluid passing through the solid dissolves the solid so that the chemicals that in the porous solid may be applied to a cleaning head of the tool; 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of another hand-held motorized cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 34  is a bottom perspective view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 33 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a schematic illustration of the transmission of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 33 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a view similar to that of  FIG. 34  but illustrating an alternately constructed hand-held motorized cleaning tool; 
         FIG. 37  is a schematic illustration of the transmission of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 38  is a view similar to that of  FIG. 33  but illustrating a second alternately constructed hand-held motorized cleaning tool; 
         FIG. 39  is a bottom perspective view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 38 ; 
         FIG. 40  is a perspective view of another hand-held motorized cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 41  is a side elevation view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 40  illustrating the secondary tool head in an extended condition; 
         FIG. 42  is a schematic illustration of a portion of the transmission of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 40 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a side elevation view of another hand-held motorized cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 43 ; 
         FIG. 45  is a rear elevation view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 43 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a perspective view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 43  illustrating the loading of a tool head to the housing; 
         FIG. 47  is a perspective view of an alternately constructed tool head for the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 43 ; 
         FIG. 48  is a perspective view of the alternately constructed tool head of  FIG. 47  as packaged with a cleanser or cleaner; 
         FIG. 49  is a perspective view illustrating the loading of the alternately constructed tool head to the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 43 ; 
         FIG. 50  is a schematic view of an alternately constructed hand-held motorized cleaning tool that is similar to the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 43 ; 
         FIG. 51  is a side elevation view of another hand-held motorized cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 52  is a perspective view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 51 ; 
         FIG. 53  is a perspective view of the hand-held motorized cleaning tool of  FIG. 51 ; 
         FIG. 54  is a side elevation view of another hand-held motorized cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 55 and 56  are side elevation views similar to that of  FIG. 54  but illustrating the employment of alternate removable heads and tool heads; 
         FIG. 57  is a perspective view of another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 58  is a top plan view of the cleaning tool of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 59  is a side elevation view of the cleaning tool of  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 60  is a side elevation view of another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 61  is a side elevation view similar to  FIG. 60  but illustrating an alternately constructed cleaning tool; 
         FIG. 62  is an exploded perspective view of another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 63  is a exploded partially sectioned view of a portion of the cleaning tool of  FIG. 62 ; 
         FIG. 64  is an exploded partially sectioned view of a portion of the cleaning tool of  FIG. 62 ; 
         FIG. 65  is a perspective view illustrating a first tool head constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention in operative association with a mechanized tool and with the tool head being used to clean a large surface; 
         FIG. 66  is another perspective view of the tool head of  FIG. 65  with the tool head being used for detail cleaning; 
         FIG. 67  is a perspective view illustrating a second tool head constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention in operative association with a mechanized tool; 
         FIG. 68  is a side elevation view in partial section of the tool head of  FIG. 67 ; 
         FIG. 69  is a bottom view of the tool head of  FIG. 67 ; 
         FIG. 70  is a bottom view of an alternately constructed tool head; 
         FIG. 71  is a view similar to that of  FIG. 68  but illustrating the application of additional pressure to the tool head to facilitate contact between the second set of bristles and a work surface; 
         FIG. 72  is a side elevation view of an alternately constructed tool head; 
         FIG. 73  is a side elevation view in partial section of a second alternately constructed tool head; 
         FIG. 74  is a side elevation view in partial section of a third alternately constructed tool head; 
         FIG. 75  is a side elevation view illustrating a third tool head constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention in operative association with a mechanized tool; 
         FIG. 76  is a perspective view illustrating a tool head similar to that of  FIG. 75  in operative association with a mechanized tool; 
         FIG. 77  is a sectional view showing the tool head of  FIG. 76  in greater detail; 
         FIG. 78  is a perspective view illustrating a fourth tool head constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; 
         FIG. 79  is a perspective view of the tool head of  FIG. 78  but illustrating the adjustment mechanism in a lowered position; 
         FIG. 80  is an exploded perspective view of a sixth tool head constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention in operative association with a mechanized tool; 
         FIG. 81  is a perspective view of a seventh tool head constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention in operative association with a mechanized tool; and 
         FIG. 82  is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the mechanized tool of  FIG. 81 ; 
         FIG. 83  is a perspective view of a caddy constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention in operative association with a cleaning tool; 
         FIG. 84  is a partial sectional view of the caddy and cleaning tool illustrated in  FIG. 83 ; 
         FIG. 85  is a perspective view of a second caddy constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention in operative association with a cleaning tool; and 
         FIG. 86  is a perspective view of a caddy of  FIG. 85  with the cleaning tool docked thereto. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2  of the drawings, a hand-held motorized cleaning apparatus constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral  10 . The cleaning apparatus  10  may include a main body  12 , a removable head  14  and a removable extension handle  16 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , the main body  12  may include a housing  20 , a battery  22 , a drive mechanism  24 , a power switch  26 , and a liquid dispensing system  28 . With additional reference to  FIG. 4 , the housing  20  may include a pair of housing shells  20   a  and a cap  20   b . The housing shells  20   a  may cooperate to define a handle  32  and a head portion  34 . The handle  32  may define a battery cavity  36  into which the battery  22  may be housed. The head portion  34  may define a central cavity  38  in which the drive mechanism  24  and portions of the liquid dispensing system  28  may be housed. The housing  20  may further include a cap  20   b  that is fixedly secured to the housing shells  20   a  to thereby close off the open end of the handle  32 . With brief reference to  FIGS. 3 and 5 , the cap  20   b  may include electrical contacts  40  that are configured to engage the battery  22  and a plurality of mating contacts  42  that are associated with a charger  44  to thereby permit the battery  22  to be recharged without necessitating its removal from the housing  20 . Returning to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the housing  20  may further include an overmold member  48  that is formed about the perimeter of portions of the housing  20  to enhance the capability of the housing  20  or portions thereof to be gripped by a user and/or to seal portions of the housing  20  to prevent the ingress of water or other fluids therein. Such overmolding is disclosed in further detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,718,014 and 6,248,007, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. 
     While the housing  20  has been illustrated and described as employing housing shells  20   a  of a conventional clam-shell style, the invention, in its broader aspects may be formed somewhat differently. For example, the housing  20  may include housing shells  20   a ′ as shown in  FIG. 4A . In this embodiment, a first housing shell  20   a ′ is formed with a unitarily formed handle  32 , while the other housing shell  20   a ′ is configured to close off the other half of the head portion  34 . 
     Returning to  FIGS. 4 and 5  and with additional reference to  FIG. 6 , the battery  22 , which may be disposed in the battery cavity  36 , may be a conventional rechargeable battery having one or more cells, such as a nickel-cadmium cells, nickel-metal hydride or a lithium ion cells, that are electrically coupled to the contacts  40  in the cap  20   b . In the particular example provided, the battery  22  is not user-serviceable and as such, is permanently disposed in the housing  20 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, however, that the battery  22  may be a rechargeable battery that is removable from the housing  20 , for charging on a recharging base (not shown) or for use with one or more battery-powered tools (not shown), or may be disposable (e.g., disposable alkaline batteries). 
     The drive mechanism  24  may include a DC motor  50  and a transmission  52 , which may be a planetary gearset, for converting the high-speed, low-torque output of the motor  50  to a relatively lower-speed, higher-torque output that is transmitted via an output member  56  to the removable head  14 . The configuration of the output member  56  is known in the art and described in detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,718,014 and 6,248,007 and as such, they need not be described in significant detail herein. Briefly, the output member  56  generally comprises a one-piece polymer member that may be attached to an output (not specifically shown) of the transmission  52 . The output member  56  may include a stud with a shaft receiving area and a leading section that may have a generally triangular block shape. The output member  56  may also have a relatively narrow neck or shaft section behind the leading section, which may form slots behind the cantilevered generally triangular shaped tips of the leading section. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 4 and 6 , the power switch  26  may be mounted to the housing  20  at any convenient point and is electrically coupled to the battery  22  and the motor  50  to selectively control a flow of electricity therebetween. In the particular example provided, the power switch  26  is mounted to an underside of the handle  32  so as to be more easily operated by the fingers of a user when the cleaning apparatus  10  is in use. The power switch  26  may consist of a simple toggle switch that is operable for selectively supplying the full power of the battery  22  to the motor  50 , or may be a multi-position switch which permits the battery  22  to provide two or more levels of power to the motor  50 . In the example provided, the power switch  26  is a three-position switch that provides off, high, and low power settings. The off setting may conventionally break the electrical connection between the motor  50  and the battery  22 , the high setting may conventionally couple the battery  22  to the motor  50  such that each of the cells  22   a  of the battery  22  are connected in series to thereby maximize the voltage of the electrical output provided by the battery  22  and the low setting may couple the battery  22  to the motor  50  such that only a portion of the cells  22   a  of the battery  22  are connected in series (the remaining cells  22   a  may not electrically coupled to another one of the cells  22   a , or may be connected to another of the cells  22   a  in a parallel configuration). 
     With reference to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , the liquid dispensing system  28  may include a reservoir assembly  60 , a valve assembly  62  and an output nozzle  64 . With additional reference to  FIG. 7 , the reservoir assembly  60  may include a liquid reservoir  70  and a piston assembly  72 . The liquid reservoir  70  may be fixedly coupled to the housing  20  and may include an input opening  76  into which a fluid may be dispensed, and an output stem  78  through which the fluid in the liquid reservoir  70  may be delivered to the valve assembly  62 . 
     The piston assembly  72  may include a piston  80 , a cylinder sleeve  82  and a spring  84 . The piston  80  is configured to be received through the input opening  76  and slidingly disposed in the liquid reservoir  70 . The piston  80  may include a seal member  86  that sealingly engages the interior wall  70   a  of the liquid reservoir  70 . The cylinder sleeve  82  may have a cylindrical configuration that defines a spring cavity  88  having an open proximal end and an end wall  90  that closes the distal end of the cylinder sleeve  82 . The cylinder sleeve  82  may be fixedly but removably coupled to the liquid reservoir  70 . In the example provided, a portion of the spring cavity  88  at the proximal end of the cylinder sleeve  82  is configured to threadably engage the exterior of the liquid reservoir  70 . Like the housing  20 , the cylinder sleeve  82  may include an overmold  92  that is configured to aid the user of the cleaning apparatus  10  to grip the cylinder sleeve  82  when it is to be installed to or removed from the liquid reservoir  70 . 
     The spring  84  is disposed between the piston  80  and the end wall  90  of the cylinder sleeve  82  and exerts a force onto the piston  80  that urges the piston  80  toward the output stem  78  to thereby maintain the fluid in the liquid reservoir  70  in a pressurized state. The end of the spring  84  proximate the piston  80  may be configured to engage the piston  80  so that the piston  80  may be withdrawn from the liquid reservoir  70  when the cylinder sleeve  82  and the liquid reservoir  70  are uncoupled from one another. A retractor (not shown) may be employed to retract the spring  84  into the cylinder sleeve  82  at times such as when the cylinder sleeve  82  is to be removed from the liquid reservoir  70  for the filling or recharging of the liquid reservoir  70 . The retractor may be coupled to the piston  80  so that the piston assembly  72  is removed from the liquid reservoir  70  when the spring  84  is retracted. The retractor may further include a lock or latch that may be employed by the user to selectively maintain the spring  84  in the retracted condition. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4 and 8 , the valve assembly  62  may include a valve  100  and an actuator  102 . The valve  100  is a normally closed valve and may be configured in any suitable manner. In the example provided, the valve  100  may include a valve body  110 , a valve stem  112 , a valve spring  114  and a valve cap  116 . The valve body  110  may define a valve stem cavity  120 , an inlet  122 , which is in fluid communication with the output stem  78  ( FIG. 7 ) of the liquid reservoir  70 , and an outlet  124 , which is in fluid communication with the output nozzle  64 . The valve stem  112  is received into the valve stem cavity  120  and may include a stem member  128  that may carry two or more seals  130   a ,  130   b . The valve cap  116  is coupled to the valve body  110  such that the valve spring  114  urges the valve stem  112  into a position wherein a first one of the seals  130   a  may be sealingly engaged to the valve body  110  at a location above the outlet  124 , while a second one of the seals  130   b  may be sealingly engaged to the valve body  110  at a location that is in-line with the inlet  122 . 
     The actuator  102  may be coupled to the value stem  112  and positioned so as To extend from the housing  20  where it may be depressed by the thumb or finger of one using The cleaning apparatus  10 . As the value stem  112  is slidably disposed in the value body  110 , Downward movement of the value stem  112  relative to the valve body  110  (which may be Caused by depressing the actuator  102 ) positions the second seal  130   b  below the inlet  122 . While the first seal  130   a  also translates downwardly, it is still positioned at a location above the outlet  124 . With the first and second seals  130   a  and  130   b  located above and below the outlet  124  and the inlet  122 , respectively, fluid in the liquid reservoir  70 , which is under pressure by virtue of the piston assembly  72 , may flow through the valve body  110  to the output nozzle  64 . 
     An alternative valve assembly  62   a  is illustrated in  FIG. 9 . The valve assembly  62 a includes a mounting block  140 , a pinch arm  142 , and a compression spring  144 . The mounting block  140  is configured to hold a hose  146  that interconnects the reservoir assembly  60  to the output nozzle  64 . The pinch arm  142  is pivotably coupled to the mounting block  140  and includes an actuation arm  150  and a compression arm  152 . The compression spring  144  is disposed between the mounting block  140  and the actuation arm  150  to thereby pivotably bias the actuation arm  150  upwardly so that the compression arm  152  engages and compresses the hose  146  to thereby inhibit fluid from flowing through the hose  146 . To actuate the valve assembly  62   a , the actuation arm  150  is pivoted downwardly relative to the mounting block  140  to thereby lift the compression arm  152  from the hose  146 . As the fluid in the reservoir assembly  60  is under pressure, the fluid will cause the hose  146  to expand so that fluid may flow to the output nozzle  64 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 10 , the output nozzle  64  may include a nozzle mount  160  and a nozzle body  162 . The nozzle mount  160  may include a body  164 , which is configured to be coupled to the valve assembly  62  ( FIG. 3 ) or the reservoir assembly  60  ( FIG. 3 ) as appropriate via a conduit, such as a hose  146 , and a receiver  166 , which is configured to receive the nozzle body  162  at least partially therein. In the particular example provided, the receiver  166  includes a conically shaped interior sidewall  168 . 
     The nozzle body  162  may include a stem portion  170  and a head portion  172 . The stem portion  170  may be coupled to the body  164  of the nozzle mount  160  in any appropriate manner. In the example provided, the stem portion  170  includes a male thread form  176  that threadably engages a female thread form (not specifically shown) that is formed along the interior of the body  164 . Fluid escapement features  178  may be formed in or on the output nozzle  64  to prevent the stem portion  170  from blocking the flow of fluid through the nozzle mount  160 . In the example provided, the fluid escapement features  178  include a pair of flats that are formed on the opposite sides of the stem portion  170 . 
     The head portion  172  is configured with a shape that conforms to the interior surface  168  of the receiver  166 . The exterior surface  180  of the head portion  172  may include one or more channels  182  that may extend along the length of the exterior surface  180 . The channels  182  may be spaced about the exterior surface  180  in any desired manner. For example, the channels  182  may spiral about the head portion  172 , and/or may extend in a direction that is angled to the longitudinal axis of the head portion  172  so as to intersect the longitudinal axis and/or may extend in directions that are angled to the longitudinal axis of the head portion  172  and which are skewed to the longitudinal axis. An assembly feature, such as a slot  184 , may be formed on the head portion  172  to facilitate the installation and adjustment of the nozzle body  162  to the nozzle mount  160 . 
     In operation, the nozzle body  162  may be rotated relative to the nozzle mount  160  to thereby alter an amount of clearance between the interior surface  168  of the receiver  166  and the exterior surface  180  of the head portion  172 . As those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure, the amount of such clearance dictates, at least partially, the amount of fluid that may be dispensed by the output nozzle  64  and/or the size of the stream that is dispensed. The channels  182  in the exterior surface  180  of the head portion  172  ensure that fluid may be dispensed even when the exterior surface  180  of the head portion  172  is abutted against the interior surface  168  of the receiver  166 . Alternatively, the channels  182  may be omitted so as to inhibit fluid dispensing if the exterior surface  180  of the head portion  172  is abutted against the interior surface  168  of the receiver  166 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 11 , another exemplary output nozzle constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral  64   a . The output nozzle  64   a  may include a nozzle mount  160   a  and a nozzle body  162   a . The nozzle mount  160   a  may include a body  164   a , which is configured to be coupled to the valve assembly  62  ( FIG. 3 ) or the reservoir assembly  60  ( FIG. 3 ) as appropriate via a conduit, such as a hose  146 , and a receiver  166   a , which is configured to engage the nozzle body  162   a . In the particular example provided, the receiver  166   a  includes an externally threaded hollow stem  190  that is in fluid connection with the body  164   a  and configured to threadably engage the nozzle body  162   a . The nozzle body  162   a  may include an end face  194  having a plurality of fluid dispensing apertures  196  formed therethrough. In operation, fluid flowing through the nozzle mount  160   a  is forced through the fluid dispensing apertures  196  in the nozzle body  162   a.    
     With reference to  FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  12  through  15 , the removable head  14  may be removably coupled to the output member  56  and may include a generally triangular socket  200  that is configured to receive the leading section of the output member  56  in a known manner. The removable head  14  may be configured in any desired manner and may include a plurality of bristles or a pad-like scouring member. In the example provided, the removable head  14  includes a brush body  210  to which is coupled a plurality of first bristles  212 , a plurality of second bristles  214  and a plurality of third bristles  216 , all of the bristles being relatively soft. The first bristles  212  may be disposed generally parallel to a rotational axis of the removable head  14  and may have a length of about 18 mm. The second bristles  214  may be disposed at an angle of about 25° relative to the rotational axis of the removable head  14  and may have a length of about 20 mm. The third bristles  216  may be disposed at an angle of about 50° relative to the rotational axis of the removable head  14  and may have a length of about 32.5 mm. Construction of the removable head  14  in this manner permits the bristles to effectively clean a corner  220  that is defined by three walls  222  that are orthogonal to one another. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  16  and  17 , the extension handle  16  may include a handle housing  250  and a handle actuator  252 . The handle housing  250  is configured to engage the housing  20  and provide an extended handle  254  that is relatively further away from the removable head  14  than the handle  32 . In the particular example provided, the handle housing  250  includes a pair of handle housing shells  260 , a clasp member  262 , a hinge  264  and a latch  268 . The handle housing shells  260  cooperate to define a cavity  270  into which the handle actuator  252  may be received. The clasp member  262  is coupled to one of the handle housing shells  260  via the hinge  264  and cooperates with the handle housing shells  260  to define an aperture  276  that is configured to receive the head portion  34  of the housing  20  therein. The aperture  276  may be configured so that it engages the head portion  34  at a predetermined location to thereby locate the handle actuator  252  relative to the actuator  102 . The latch  268  may be a conventional over-center camming latch and may include first and second latch members  280  and  282 , respectively, that may be disengaged from one another to permit the clasp member  262  to be rotated outwardly to thereby couple the extension handle  16  to or remove the extension handle  16  from the handle  32 . Engagement of the first and second latch members  280  and  282  to one another while the handle housing  250  is engaged to the head portion  34  of the housing  20  fixedly couples the extension handle  16  to the main body  12 . 
     The handle actuator  252  may include a triggering rod  290 , an auxiliary actuator  292  and an auxiliary trigger  294 . The triggering rod  290  may be journally supported by wall members  296  that are formed in the handle housing shells  260  so as to be slidable therein between the auxiliary actuator  292  and the auxiliary trigger  294 . The auxiliary actuator  292  and the auxiliary trigger  294  may each be pivotably coupled to one of the handle housing shells  260 . Upward rotation of the auxiliary actuator  292  causes the triggering rod  290  to slide within the handle housing  250  toward the auxiliary trigger  294 . Similarly, upward rotation of the auxiliary trigger  294  causes the triggering rod  290  to slide within the handle housing  250  toward the auxiliary actuator  292 . It should be noted that as contact between the actuator  102  and the auxiliary actuator  292  when the extension handle  16  is coupled to the main body  12  biases the auxiliary actuator  292  into the upwardly rotated position. To operate the liquid dispensing system  28  when the extension handle  16  is coupled to the main body  12 , the user need only depress the auxiliary trigger  294  (i.e., rotate the auxiliary trigger  294  upward). This movement of the auxiliary trigger  294  is translated through the triggering rod  290  and to the auxiliary actuator  292 , which in turn pushes the actuator  102  downwardly to cause liquid to be dispensed in the manner that is described above. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 18 through 20 , the cleaning apparatus  10  may further include a flexible adapter  300  that permits the rotational axes  302  and  304  of the output member  56  and the removable head  14 , respectively, to be moved relative to one another between a position wherein the axes  302  and  304  are coincident, and a position wherein the rotational axes  302  and  304  are disposed in an oblique condition. The flexible adapter  300  may include a female socket  310 , a male socket  312  and flexible member  314  that interconnects the female socket  310  and the male socket  312 . The female socket  310  may be configured in a manner that is similar to the configuration of the generally triangular socket of the removable head  14 , whereas the male socket  312  may be configured in a manner that is similar to the configuration of the leading section of the output member  56 . 
     The flexible member  314  may be formed from an elastomeric material that may have a durometer of about 35 Shore A to about 60 Shore A. The flexible member  314  includes a pair of mounting flanges  320  that are separated by a necked-down portion  322 . Each of the mounting flanges  320  includes a plurality of drive tabs  328  that engage corresponding features that are formed into the female and male sockets  310  and  312 . 
     In the example provided, the female and male sockets  310  and  312  are preformed and thereafter inserted into a mold (not shown) that may be employed to both form the flexible member  314  and fixedly couple the flexible member  314  to the female and male sockets  310  and  312 . The drive tabs  328  extend through the female and male sockets  310  and  312  and are configured so as to inhibit axial movement of the female and male sockets  310  and  312  relative to the flexible member  314 . 
     In operation, the resilient nature of the material from which the flexible member  314  is formed tends to maintain the female and male sockets  310  and  312  about a common rotational axis. The necked-down portion  322 , however, permits the removable head  14  to be rotated even when the axes  302  and  304  are arranged in an oblique manner. 
     While the cleaning apparatus has been described and illustrated as employing a liquid dispensing system with a liquid reservoir of a specific configuration, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the invention, in its broader aspects, may be configured somewhat differently. 
     For example, the liquid dispensing system may be configured as illustrated in  FIG. 21 . In this example, the liquid dispensing system  28   a  may include a cartridge assembly  400  and a housing assembly  402 . The cartridge assembly  400  may include a liner  410 , a liner holder  412 , a valve assembly  414 , and a liner lid holder  416 . 
     The liner  410  may include a body portion  420 , which may be formed from a sheet plastic material, and a flange portion  422 . The body portion  420  forms a collapsible container that may be filled with a desired liquid. The flange portion  422  extends about the circumference of the open end of the body portion  420 . The flange portion  422  extends outwardly from the body portion  420  and may optionally extend inwardly to effectively close off the open end of the body portion  420 . This latter configuration may be desirable, for example, for marketing liners  410  that have been pre-filled with a liquid. 
     The liner holder  412  may be a generally tubular housing into which the body portion  420  of the liner  410  may be received. The liner holder  412  may also include an abutting face  430  against which the flange portion  422  may be abutted. In the particular example provided, the liner holder  412  does not extend continuously about the circumference of the body portion  420  to thereby define a window  436  through which a user of the cleaning apparatus  10  may readily determine the extent to which the liner  410  is filled with a liquid. Alternatively, the liner holder  412  may be formed in whole or in part with a transparent material that permits the user to view the liner  410  therethrough. 
     The valve assembly  414  may include a valve disk  440  and a valve  442 . The valve disk  440  may be an annular disk that is configured to abut the flange portion  422  of the liner  410  on a side opposite the liner holder  412 . The valve  442  is coupled to the valve disk  440  and is configured to receive fluid from the liner  410 . In situations where the flange portion  422  of the liner closes off the open end of the body portion  420 , the valve  442  may be configured to pierce the flange portion  422  when the cartridge assembly  400  is assembled. 
     The liner lid holder  416  is configured to engage the liner holder  412  such that the flange portion  422  of the liner  410  is clamped between and sealingly engages the abutting face  430  and the valve disk  440 . In the example provided, the liner lid holder  416  is an annular collar having a set of internal threads  446 , which are configured to threadably engage mating external threads  448  formed on the liner holder  412 , and a nosepiece  450 . The nosepiece  450  extends forwardly and has an interior diameter that is configured to receive the valve  442  therethrough. The exterior of the liner lid holder  416  may include features, such as recesses or protrusions  452  that permit the liner lid holder  416  to be more easily gripped by the hand of a user. 
     The housing assembly  402  may include a housing  460 , a receiver  462  and a compressor  464 . The housing  460  may be integrally formed the housing  20  ( FIG. 1 ) or may be unitarily formed and coupled thereto. The housing  460  serves as a mount for the receiver  462  and the compressor  464  and is configured to receive the cartridge assembly  400 . In this regard, one of the cartridge assembly  400  and the housing  460  may include a set of hooks (not shown) that are configured to engage the other one of the cartridge assembly  400  and the housing  460  when they are assembled to one another to thereby support a rearward end of the cartridge assembly  400 . 
     The receiver  462  is a sleeve-like member that is configured to receive the nosepiece  450  of the liner lid holder  416 . In one embodiment, the receiver  462  aligns the valve  442  to an output  470  that is formed in the receiver  462  so that the valve  442  sealingly engages the output  470 . Alternatively, one or both of the nosepiece  450  and the receiver  462  may carry a seal member (not shown), such as an O-ring, for sealingly engaging the other one of the nosepiece  450  and the receiver  462 . 
     The compressor  464  may include a piston  476  that is movable into and out of the liner holder  412  to apply a compressive force onto the contents of the liner  410 . In the example provided, the piston  476  is mounted for translation relative to the housing  460  and biased forwardly by a spring  480 . The spring  480  may be of any type (e.g., a compression spring), but in the particular example provided, is a band or constant-force spring of the type that is commonly employed in commercially available tape measures. The band spring may include a flat band  482  that is coiled about a spool  484  that is supported on a hub  486  that is formed on the housing  460 . A first end of the flat band  482  engages the hub  486 , while the opposite end of the flat band  482  is fixedly coupled to the piston  476 . The flat band  482  is configured to bias the piston  476  forwardly toward the hub  486 . 
     A retractor  490  may be employed to permit a user to pull the piston  476  rearwardly for loading and unloading of the cartridge assembly  400  to the housing assembly  402 . The retractor  490  may include an arm  478 , a dog  478   a , which may be coupled to a forward end of the arm  478 , and a pull  490   a , which may be coupled to a rearward portion of the arm  478  and may be shaped in any desired manner to permit the user to use one or more fingers and/or a thumb to actuate the retractor  490 . In the example provided, the arm  478  is a structural link between the dog  478   a  and the pull  490   a  such that rearward movement of the arm  478  (in response to the user pulling the pull  490   a  in a rearward direction) causes corresponding rearward movement of the dog  478   a . While the arm  478  is configured to slide through an aperture  478   b  in the piston  476 , contact between the dog  478   a  and the piston  476  (when the dog  478   a  is being moved in a rearward direction) moves the piston  476  in a rearward direction. A spring (not shown) may be employed to bias the dog  478   a  forwardly. 
     The compressor  464  may further include a latch  496  that engages the arm  478 , the dog  478   a  or the piston  476  when the piston  476  is located in a rearward position to thereby maintain the piston  476  in such condition for the loading and/or unloading of the cartridge assembly  400  to/from the housing assembly  402 . 
     To load the cartridge assembly  400 , the user may pull the pull  490   a  to move the piston  476  rearwardly and may engage the latch  496  to maintain the piston  476  at a rearward position. A liner  410  may be inserted to the liner holder  412  such that the flange portion  422  abuts the abutting face  430  and thereafter filled with a desired liquid. The valve assembly  414  is installed over the flange portion  422  and the liner lid holder  416  is coupled to the liner holder  412  to thereby seal the flange portion  422  of the liner  410  between the abutting face  430  and the valve disk  440 . The cartridge assembly  400  is installed to the housing assembly  402  such that the nosepiece  450  is received into the receiver  462  and if so configured, the liner holder  412  engages the housing assembly  402 . The latch  496  may thereafter manipulated to permit the piston  476  to travel forwardly and contact the liner  410 . A force, which may be generated by the spring  480 , may be applied onto the liner  410  which places the fluid in the liner  410  in a pressurized state. The valve  442  may be configured to open in response to the pressurized state of the fluid in the liner  410 , or may be opened in response to contact between the valve  442  and another element, such as the receiver  462 . 
     Yet another liquid dispensing system is illustrated in  FIGS. 22 and 23 . In this example, the liquid dispensing system  28   b  includes a reservoir bottle  500  and a valve assembly  62   b . The reservoir bottle  500  may be removably coupled to the valve assembly  62   b  via a threaded connection. The valve assembly  62   b  may be part of a pump that is of a type that is well known in the art and employed in conjunction with various commercially available liquid household cleaners that employ manually operated spray bottles. The valve assembly  62   b  may have an outlet  510  that is coupled in fluid connection to the output nozzle  64  by a hose  512 . The actuator  102   b  in this example includes a push button  514  and a rocker  516  that is pivotably mounted in the housing  20  ( FIG. 1 ) of the cleaning apparatus  10  ( FIG. 1 ). 
     To dispense fluids from the reservoir bottle  500 , the push button  514  is depressed, which causes the rocker  516  to pivot downwardly and actuate the valve assembly  62   b . As the valve assembly  62   b  is part of a pump in the example provided, fluid is dispensed through the hose  512  after which the valve assembly  62   b  is opened to permit fluid in the reservoir to be drawn into the pump. One or more springs  520  may be employed to return the rocker  516 . While this embodiment has been described and illustrated as entirely manually powered, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from this disclosure that the reservoir  500  may alternatively be a disposable aerosol-type container and the valve assembly  62   b  a normally-closed valve that may be selectively opened by the rocker  516  to cause the contents of the reservoir  500  to be dispensed. 
     Yet another liquid dispensing system is illustrated in  FIG. 24 , wherein the liquid dispensing system  28   c  may include a resilient bladder  600  and a check valve  602 . The bladder  600  may be disposed in a bladder housing  604  that may be employed to inhibit the overfilling of the bladder  600 . The bladder  600  may be filled by forcing a fluid through the check valve  602  and into the conduit  606  that interconnects the bladder  600  and the valve assembly  62  ( FIG. 4 ). As the valve assembly  62  ( FIG. 4 ) includes a normally closed valve in this example, the fluid is forced into the bladder  600  causing the bladder  600  to expand within the bladder housing  604 . The check valve  602  conventionally inhibits fluid from flowing from the conduit  606  through the check valve  602 . Due to the resilient nature of the bladder  600 , the wall of the bladder  600  exerts a force onto the fluid therein. In the example provided, the fluid is illustrated as being introduced through the check valve  602  into the conduit  606  via a syringe  610 , but those skilled in the art will appreciate that a pressurized, pre-filled disposable container may also be used to charge the bladder  600 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 25 , an alternative preferred cleaning tool A 22  is shown. The cleaning tool A 22  may include a cleaning head A 24 , an elongated portion A 26  and a graspable portion A 28  which may be held with a single hand of a user. The elongated portion A 26  may include a cleaning fluid/solution reservoir A 30  for holding a quantity of cleaning fluid/solution therein. Thus, it will be appreciated that the cleaning fluid/solution could comprise a readily flowable fluid or alternatively a gel or other cleaning solution having a gel-like consistency. A trigger A 32  may be used to pump the cleaning fluid/solution held within the reservoir A 30  through a neck portion A 34  of the elongated handle A 26  to the cleaning head A 24  where it may be released into a brush A 36  of the cleaning head A 24  or an area proximate the brush A 36 . The graspable handle portion A 28  may be removable from the reservoir A 30 , such as by threaded engagement therewith, to allow the cleaning fluid/solution to be replenished as needed. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 26 and 27 , a cleaning tool A 40  in accordance with an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown. The cleaning tool A 40  may include a housing A 42  adapted to receive a releasable, rechargeable DC battery A 44  for powering an internally disposed motor (not shown). A pad assembly A 46  may be driven rotationally by the motor via a suitable drive mechanism. A squeegee A 48  may be disposed adjacent the pad assembly A 46 . Thus, either the pad A 46  assembly or the squeegee A 48  can be selected for use simply by the user orientating the tool A 40  as desired relative to a work surface. The brush assembly A 46  may include a replaceable cleaning pad A 47  having a cylindrical, interior void A 50  into which a reservoir A 52  for holding a quantity of cleaning fluid/solution may be inserted therein. The reservoir A 52  may include small openings A 54  through which the cleaning fluid/solution may flow into the replaceable pad  48  as the pad is driven rotationally by the motor of the tool A 40 . The tool A 40  thus forms a very light weight, easily graspable cleaning implement which can be used especially effectively on windows and other surfaces where both the cleaning brush and a squeegee would typically be used (i.e., especially glass surfaces). 
     Referring now to  FIG. 28 , a cleaning tool A 80  in accordance with another alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The cleaning tool A 80  may include a cleaning head portion A 82  having a brush A 84 , a handle portion A 86  which may be at least partially hollow, and a cleaning fluid/solution cartridge A 88  that may be adapted to be inserted within the handle portion A 86 . An end cap A 90  may be used to hold the cleaning cartridge A 88  within the handle portion A 86 . It will be appreciated that the cleaning cartridge A 88  could include an area adapted to be punctured or otherwise pierced by internal structure within the cleaning tool A 80  to thus release the contents of the cartridge A 88 . The cleaning head A 82  may further include a control A 92  which may be pushed by the user to help dispense fluid into the brush A 84 . In this regard, it will be appreciated that control A 92  may open or close an internally disposed valve, thus allowing the user to control the application of cleaning fluid/solution to the brush A 84 . The cartridges A 88  may be supplied in any appropriate manner, such as in a release strip A 94  and packaged in predetermined quantities for sale at the retail level. 
     Referring to  FIG. 29 , a cleaning tool A 100  is illustrated which forms a variation of the cleaning tool A 80  of  FIG. 28 . The cleaning tool A 100  may include a cleaning head A 102 , which may be adapted to be removably coupled to a bottle or like element A 104  having a quantity of cleaning fluid/solution therein. The cleaning head A 102  may be threadably engaged to the element A 104 , snap-fit coupled together, or coupled by any suitable means that allows quick and easy attachment and removal of the cleaning bottle A 104 . The user actuatable control A 106  may allow the fluid/solution within the bottle A 104  to be applied through an orifice A 108  at a location that may be just above a scrub brush A 110  of the cleaning head A 102 . Again, control A 106  could be used to provide a pumping action to help withdraw fluid from the bottle A 104 . Advantageously, the bottle A 104  functions as a handle for the tool A 100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 30 , a including tool A 112  is shown that forms still another variation of the cleaning tool A 80 . Cleaning tool A 112  may have a cleaning head A 114 , which may be threadably coupled to a container A 116  of cleaning fluid/solution. The container A 116  may include a pump lever A 118  which can be easily actuated by the user. In this embodiment, as with the cleaning tool A 100 , a neck portion of the container A 116  forms the handle for the cleaning tool. The container A 116  further includes a conventional, internal pump mechanism with a pump lever A 118  that may be employed to actuate the internal pump mechanism to cause the cleaning fluid/solution to be dispensed. Cleaning fluid/solution may be pumped out of an orifice A 120  above a scrub brush or cleaning pad A 122  as the user engages the pump lever. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 31 , still another preferred form of the cleaning tool of the present invention is shown. The cleaning tool A 260 , which is especially well adapted to be controlled while positioned in the palm of a hand of use, may include a handle portion A 262  and a main housing portion A 264 . Handle portion A 262  may have a curved upper surface A 266  which may be comfortably received by a palm of a hand of the user. Elongated handle portion A 262  may receive one or more internally disposed, rechargeable DC batteries (not specifically shown) which may be secured therein via a releasable cap A 270 . A motor (not shown) may be powered by the battery or batteries and may drive a gear reduction assembly (not shown), which in turn has an output shaft (not shown) which may be coupled to a cleaning brush assembly A 280 . The brush assembly A 280  may include a cleaning fluid/solution reservoir A 282  and a scrub brush A 284 . A control A 286  on the housing portion A 262  may be used to apply a pumping action to the reservoir A 282  to help release fluid into the brush A 284 . Alternatively, fluid may be dispensed from the cleaning fluid/solution reservoir A 282  as a result of another force or action, such as centrifugal force. The palm shaped surface A 266  allows the user to place considerable pressure on the brush A 284 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 32 , a cleaning tool A 400  constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is shown. The cleaning tool A 400  may have a cleaning head A 402  that may receive a solid cleaning cartridge A 404  in a desired area, such as within a recessed area A 406 . The cleaning cartridge A 404  may be generally porous and include any form of concentrated chemical (e.g., a soap or detergent or any other type of chemical that may be used for cleaning, buffing, shining, waxing, etc., which releases the chemical (e.g., by dissolving) gradually as the cleaning cartridge A 404  is exposed to fluids. The cleaning cartridge A 404  is disposed in a fluid flow path A 408  which may be in communication with an associated water source, such as a water reservoir A 410  that may be releasably coupled to a neck portion A 412  of the tool A 400 . Fluid from the water source (e.g., the water reservoir A 410 ) thus flows through the flow path A 408  and chemical(s) are gradually released by the cleaning cartridge A 404  to provide a mixture of water and cleaning solution at a brush A 414  thereof. When a given cleaning cartridge A 404  is completely used up, then a new clean cartridge A 404  can be easily inserted in the recess A 406 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 33 and 34  of the drawings, another hand-held motorized cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral B 10 . The motorized cleaning tool B 10  is illustrated to include a housing B 12 , a power-and-drive train B 14  and a plurality of tool head attachments B 16   a , B 16   b  and B 16   c.    
     The housing B 12  defines a handle B 18  and operably houses the power-and-drive train B 14 . The housing B 12  has a generally triangular shape in bottom view, with its nose B 20  being relatively smaller than its rear end B 22 . This configuration permits the cleaning tool B 10  to access via the nose B 20  of the housing B 12  relatively tight areas, such as corners, while maintaining the capacity for cleaning relatively large surfaces, such as floors. 
     The power-and-drive train B 14  includes a battery pack B 30 , a drive motor B 32 , a power switch B 34  and a transmission B 36 . The motor B 32  is electrically coupled to the battery pack B 30  via the power switch B 34  in a known manner. Due to the conventional nature of such battery packs, a detailed discussion of the battery pack B 30  need not be provided herein except to note that the battery pack B 30  may include one or more battery cell that may be of any known type. For example, the battery pack B 30  may be a discrete and removable unit having one or more nickel-cadmium (NiCd), lead-acid, lithium ion, lithium ion polymer, alkaline or nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) cells that are rechargeable via a separate charging station, or may be a unit having one or more nickel-cadmium (NiCd), lead-acid, lithium ion, lithium ion polymer, alkaline or nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) cells that are permanently housed in the housing B 12  and rechargeable charger that is wholly or partially housed in the housing, or may include a plurality of conventional commercially available reusable or disposable battery cells, such as lithium or alkaline batteries (e.g., AA, C, D and/or 9V alkaline batteries). 
     With additional reference to  FIG. 37 , the transmission B 36  includes a gear train B 40  having an input gear B 41  that is coupled for rotation with the output shaft B 32   a  of the motor B 32 . The gear train B 40  further includes a first output gear B 42 , a first idler gear B 44 , a second output gear B 46 , a second idler gear B 48  and a third output gear B 50 . An output member B 54   a , B 54   b  and B 54   c  is coupled for rotation to the output gears B 42 , B 46  and B 50 , respectively; each output member B 54   a , B 54   b  and B 54   c  is employed to releasably secure the tool heads Bl 6   a , Bl 6   b  and Bl 6   c , respectively, to the transmission B 36 . 
     In the particular embodiment illustrated, the transmission B 36  further includes a first switch B 60  and a second switch B 62 , which are employed to selectively uncouple the second output gear B 46  and the third output gear B 50 , respectively, from gear train B 40  such that one or more of the tool heads Bl 6   b  and Bl 6   c  are placed in a stationary (i.e., unpowered) condition. In the particular example provided, the first switch B 60  is coupled to the first idler gear B 44  and permits the first idler gear B 44  to be translated between a first position, wherein the first idler gear B 44  is meshingly engaged to both the first and second output gears B 42  and B 46 , and a second position, wherein the first idler gear B 44  is disengaged from at least one of the first and second output gears B 42  and B 46 . 
     Likewise, the second switch B 62  is coupled to the second idler gear B 48  and permits the second idler gear B 48  to be translated between a first position, wherein the second idler gear B 48  is meshingly engaged to both the second and third output gears B 46  and B 50 , and a second position, wherein the second idler gear B 48  is disengaged from at least one of the second and third output gears B 46  and B 50 . 
     As noted above, the tool heads B 16   a , B 16   b  and B 16   c  are removably coupled to the output members B 54   a , B 54   b  and B 54   c , respectively, such that rotation of an output member causes the associated tool head to rotate. In the particular embodiment illustrated, each of the tool heads B 16   a , B 16   b  and B 16   c  is a rotary brush, but as those skilled in the art will appreciate, they could alternatively be a pad or sponge-like material of the various types that are well known in the art for use in tasks such as cleaning, polishing and buffing. 
     Configuration of the cleaning tool B 10  in the manner described above permits the user to selectively engage or disengage the third output gear B 50  via the second switch B 62  or the second and third output gears B 46  and B 50  via the switch B 60  to thereby divert rotary power to the desired tool head or tool heads in a desired manner. 
     In  FIGS. 36 and 37 , an alternatively constructed cleaning tool B 10 ′ is illustrated. The cleaning tool B 10 ′ is generally similar to the cleaning tool B 10  of  FIG. 33 , except that the configuration of the transmission B 36 ′ is changed somewhat so that the tool head B 16   b  rotates in a direction that is opposite that of the tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   c . Construction in this manner is advantageous in that the torque produced by the tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   c  is largely offset by the torque that is produced by the tool head B 16   b  to that the cleaning tool B 10 ′ is somewhat easier for the user to control. Like the transmission B 36  that is illustrated in conjunction with the cleaning tool B 10  of  FIG. 33 , the transmission B 36 ′ may optionally include one or more switches (not shown) for selectively disabling one or more of the tool heads B 16   a , B 16   b  and B 16   c.    
     The cleaning tool B 10 ″ illustrated in  FIGS. 38 and 39  is also similar to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 33 , except that the housing B 12 ″ of the cleaning tool B 10 ″ is somewhat shorter in length and wider at its rear end B 22 ″ to accommodate the tool heads B 16   a , B 16   b  and B 16   c  in a triangular arrangement rather than the in-line arrangement that is best illustrated in  FIG. 34 . In the example illustrated, the transmission B 36 ″ includes a single (optional) switch B 60 ″ which may be employed to selectively disable the tool heads B 16   b  and B 16   c.    
     In  FIGS. 40 and 41 , another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral B  10   a . The cleaning tool B 10   a  is generally similar to the cleaning tool B 10  of  FIG. 33  except that it includes a pair of counter-rotating tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b , which are employed for primary or large surface cleaning tasks, and a secondary or detail tool head B 50  that may be employed as necessary for detail cleaning. 
     The secondary tool head B 50  is illustrated as being a bristle brush but may alternatively be formed from a pad or sponge-like material of the various types that are well known in the art and employed on tasks such as scrubbing, polishing and buffing. The secondary tool head B 50  is slidably housed in the housing B 12   a  of the cleaning tool B 10   a  and movable via an actuator B 52  between an extended position, which is illustrated in  FIG. 41 , and a retracted position, which is illustrated in  FIG. 40 . 
     In its simplest form, neither the motor B 32   a  nor the transmission B 36   a  is coupled to the secondary tool head B 50  and the user of the cleaning tool B 10   a  is therefore required to manually reciprocate the secondary tool head B 50  on a work surface to perform the desired detail cleaning task. With additional reference to  FIG. 42 , the actuator B 52  may also be operable for selectively coupling (and uncoupling) the secondary tool head B 50  to the output shaft B 56  of the motor B 32   a  to thereby provide the secondary tool head B 50  with a source of rotary power. Preferably, the actuator B 52  also simultaneously uncouples (and re-couples) the remainder of the transmission B 36   a  from the output shaft B 56  so that the tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  are maintained in an unpowered state while the secondary tool head B 50  is being employed. 
     In  FIGS. 43 through 46 , another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral B  10   b . The cleaning tool B 10   b  includes a housing B 12   b , a first tool head B 16   a , a second tool head B 16   b  and a power-and-drive train B 14   b  that is housed in the housing B 12   b  and which includes a battery pack B 30 , a motor B 32   b  and power switch B 34   b  for selectively operating the motor B 32   b.    
     The first tool head B 16   a  is configured to receive a rotational input that is provided by the motor B 32   b  and may be a brush, pad or sponge-like material of a type that is well known in the art and employed for tasks such as scrubbing, polishing and buffing. The first tool head B 16   a  may be coupled to the power-and-drive train B 14   b  by any appropriate means, but is preferably removably coupled thereto with VELCRO®. 
     The second tool head B 16   b  may be a brush, pad or sponge-like material of a type that is well known in the art and employed for tasks such as scrubbing, polishing and buffing and need not be identical in configuration to that of the first tool head B 16   a . The second tool head B 16   b  is configured to be received between a pair of laterally spaced-apart guide rails B 90  that are formed in the housing B 12   b . The guide rails B 90  cooperate to fix the second tool head B 16   b  laterally relative to the housing B 12   b , while a latch B 96  is employed to fix the second tool head B 16   b  longitudinally relative to the housing B 12   b . The latch B 96  includes a locking tab B 98  that is biased downwardly away from the housing B 12   b . The locking tab B 98  includes a tactile portion B 100 , which is configured to be engaged by the finger or thumb of the user to push the locking tab B 98  upwards when loading or unloading the second tool head B 16   b  to the guide rails B 90  (illustrated in  FIG. 46 ), and an engagement portion B 102 , which is configured to engage a corresponding slot or aperture B 106  ( FIG. 46 ) that is formed into the second tool head B 16   b  when the locking tab B 98  is biased in a downward position. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 47 through 49 , the first and second tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  may be formed as a unit with a common base or backer B 110 . In the particular example provided, the backer B 110  includes a plurality of perforations B 112  that serve to delineate the first and second tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b . While the user of the cleaning tool B  10   b  may separate the first and second tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  from one another prior to their installation to the housing B 12   b , the user may, in the alternative, load the tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  as a unit through the rear end B 22   b  of the housing B 12   b  and thereafter operate the cleaning tool B  10   b  (i.e., operate the motor B 32   b ) so as to rotate the first tool head B 16   a  and tear the portion of the backer B 110  between the perforations B 112 . 
       FIG. 48  illustrates the packaging of the tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  with a suitable commercially available cleaner or cleanser B 120 . In this embodiment, the amount of cleaner or cleanser B 120  that is packaged with the tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  is tailored to match the lifespan of the first and second tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  such that one or both of the tool heads B 16   a  and B 16   b  are worn out by the time the contents of the bottle of cleaner or cleanser B 120  are used. 
       FIG. 50  schematically illustrates an alternately configured cleaning tool B 110   b ′ having a somewhat different power-and-drive train B 14   b ′ that provides the tool head B 16   a  with a source of rotary power and provides the tool head B 16   b  with a source of reciprocating power via a conventional rotating cam B 150  and linkage B 152 . In this embodiment, the tool head B 16   b  is pointed at its rear end B 22   b ′ so as to more easily fit into corners and perform detail cleaning tasks. 
     In  FIGS. 51 through 53 , another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral B 10   c . The cleaning tool B 10   c  includes a D-handle housing B 12   c , a power-and-drive train B 14   c  and a single, cylindrical tool head B 16   c  that is mounted for rotation along an axis that is generally parallel to a handle B 170  that is defined by the housing B 12   c.    
     The tool head B 16   c  includes a first or large surface portion B 172  and a second or detail portion B 174 . The first portion B 172  may be a brush, pad or sponge-like material of a type that is well known in the art and employed for tasks such as scrubbing, polishing and buffing. The second portion B 174  may also be a brush, pad or sponge-like material of a type that is well known in the art and employed for tasks such as scrubbing, polishing and buffing and may be different than the first portion B 172  to provide, for example, more or less aggressive cleaning capabilities. In the particular embodiment provided, the first portion B 172  is made of a sponge-like material, while the second portion B 174  is made of a mildly abrasive pad-like material, such as SCOTCHBRITE®, which is manufactured by the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company. The second portion B 174  is defined by a spherical radius that is generally smaller than the radius that defines the cylindrically shaped first portion B 172  so as to avoid undesired contact between the second portion B 174  and the work surface B 176 . Alternatively, the radii that define the first and second portions B 172  and B 174  may similarly sized, especially if the first and second portions B 172  and B 174  are made of similar materials. Also alternatively, the second portion B 174  may include, for example, a plurality of bristles that are oriented generally parallel to the rotational axis of the tool head B 16   c.    
     In  FIG. 54 , another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral B 10   d . The cleaning tool B 10   d  is illustrated to include a power-and-drive unit B 200 , a removable head B 202  and a tool head B 216 , which is illustrated to be a rotary brush B 218 . The power-and-drive unit B 200  includes an output member B 220  that is received and meshingly engages an input member B 222  of the removable head B 202 . A conventional latch B 224  is employed to retain the removable head B 202  to the power-and-drive unit B 200 . The interface between the power-and-drive unit B 200  an the removable head B 202 , as well as the construction and operation of the latch B 224 , are similar to those that are commercially available and known in the art as is evidenced by U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,263,980; 6,206,107; 6,176,322; 6,170,579; and 6,153,838, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. 
     With additional reference to  FIGS. 55 and 56 , a second removable head B 202   a  and a third removable head B 202   b , respectively, are illustrated in operative association with the power-and-drive unit B 200 . The second removable head B 202   a  is operable for converting the rotational input that is provided by the power-and-drive unit B 200  into reciprocating motion. The tool head B 216   a  that is attached to the second removable head B 202   a  may be a brush, a sponge or a pad-like material of the types that are well known in the art for tasks such as scrubbing, buffing or polishing. 
     The third removable tool head B 202   b  has a generally triangular shape and is configured to provide a reciprocating output. Like the second removable tool head B 202   a , the third removable tool head B 202   b  may be employed for powering a brush, a sponge or a pad-like material of the types that are well known in the art for tasks such as scrubbing, buffing or polishing. The nose B 250  of the third removable tool head B 202   b  is configured to provide access in relatively tight areas, such as corners. Although the third removable tool head B 202   b  has been illustrated and described as being generally triangular in shape and providing a reciprocating output, those skilled in the art will appreciate that it may be configured somewhat differently in the alternative. For example, the third removable tool head B 202   b  may have a round shape and be configured to provide a rotational output similar to the removable tool head B 202 , but otherwise in a different orientation that may be better suited from an ergonomic perspective for some tasks than the removable tool head B 202 . Construction in this manner permits the user to select a removable tool head that not only fits into a desired area but which is also more tailored to accommodate the various human factors that are associated with a given cleaning task. 
     In  FIGS. 57 through 59 , another hand-held cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral C 10   b . The cleaning tool C 10   b  includes a handle portion C 12   b  and a head portion C 14   b , which are interconnected by a flexible joint C 70 . In the example provided, the handle portion C 12   b  operably houses a rechargeable battery C 26   b  and a power switch C 24   b , while the head portion C 14   b  houses an electric motor C 28   b  that is configured to provide a rotational output for powering the tool head C 22   b , which may be a brush, sponge or pad-like material of the types that are well known in the art for tasks such as cleaning, scrubbing, buffing, polishing and waxing. 
     In the example provided, the flexible joint C 70  includes a first portion C 72 , which is fixedly coupled to the handle portion C 12   b , a second portion C 74 , which is fixedly coupled to the head portion C 14   b , and an intermediate portion C 76 , which pivotably couples the first and second portions C 72  and C 74  to one another. The intermediate portion C 76  is similar to a conventional universal joint but includes a plurality of detents (not shown). The detents, upon engagement, serve to resist movement of the first and second portions C 72  and C 74  relative to one another. When a force in excess of a predetermined threshold is applied to the flexible joint C 70 , however, the detents are disengaged to permit the position of the first and second portions C 72  and C 74  to be selectively adjusted relative to one another. 
     Advantageously, the incorporation of the detents into the flexible joint C 70  aids the user to limit the force that is applied by the user to the cleaning tool C 10   b , since the application of a force that exceeds the predetermined threshold will cause the first and second portions C 72  and C 74  to be repositioned relative to one another. In this regard, the predetermined force may be sized so as to prevent the user from applying a force to the handle portion C 12   b  that would drain the rechargeable battery C 26   b  too rapidly or which would cause undue wear to either the motor C 28   b  or the tool head C 22   b . Alternatively, a lock or latch may be used to releasably fix the first and second portions C 72  and C 74  to one another. 
     In the embodiment of  FIG. 60 , another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral C 10   c . The cleaning tool C 10   c  includes a handle portion C 12   c  that is fixedly coupled to a head portion C 14   c . The handle portion C 12   c  houses a rechargeable battery C 26   c  and a power switch C 24   c , while the head portion C 14   c  houses a motor C 28   c  that is employed to provide rotary power for a tool head C 22   c . As with the tool heads of the above described cleaning tools, the tool head C 22   c  may be a brush, sponge or pad-like material of any of the various types that are known in the art for tasks such as scrubbing, cleaning, polishing, buffing and/or waxing. 
     The handle portion C 12   c  includes a first portion C 80  and a second portion C 82  that are pivotally coupled via a hinge C 84 . The hinge C 84  permits the second portion C 82  to be moved between a folded condition (shown in solid line) and an extended condition (shown in phantom line). In the example provided, a spring (not shown) biases the second portion C 82  toward the folded condition and a latch C 86  is employed to inhibit rotation of the second portion C 82  so as to retain the second portion C 82  in the extended condition. Alternatively, the spring may be omitted and the latching configuration changed to latch the second portion C 82  into the both the folded and extended conditions. In this regard, a second latch may be employed to releasably couple the second portion C 82  to the first portion C 80  when the second portion C 82  is placed in the folded condition or a two-position latch may be substituted for the latch C 86 . 
     In  FIG. 61 , an alternate embodiment of the cleaning tool C 10   c ′ is illustrated. The cleaning tool C 10   c ′ is generally similar to the cleaning tool C 10   c , except that the second portion C 82 ′ is arcuate in shape so as to form a hand guard C 90  when the second portion C 82 ′ is placed in the folded condition. This spacing apart of the first and second portions C 80 ′ and C 82 ′, respectively, when the second portion C 82 ′ is placed in the folded condition is advantageous in that the user must only grasp around one of the first and second portions C 80 ′ and C 82 ′ when using the cleaning tool C 10   c ′ (in contrast, the user must grasp around both the first and second portions C 80  and C 82  when using the cleaning tool C 10   c  of  FIG. 60  when the second portion C 82  is placed in the folded condition). 
     In  FIGS. 62 through 64 , another cleaning tool constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral C 10   d . The cleaning tool C 10   d  is illustrated as including a handle portion C 12   d , a head portion C 14   d  and an optional intermediate portion C 16   d . The handle portion C 12   d  operably houses a rechargeable battery C 26   d  and includes a first coupling stem C 100  onto which a pair of first contacts C 102   a  and C 102   b  are mounted. The first contacts C 102   a  and C 102   b  are electrically coupled to the opposite terminals of the rechargeable battery C 26   d.    
     The head portion C 14   d  includes a motor C 28   d , which provided rotational power for a tool head C 22   d , a power switch C 24   d  for selectively operating the motor C 28   d , a first coupling recess C 104 , which is sized to receive the first coupling stem C 100 , and a pair of second contacts C 106   a  and C 106   b , which are located in the coupling recess C 104 . The contact C 106   a  is electrically coupled to the power switch C 24   d  while the contact C 106   b  is electrically coupled to the motor C 28   d.    
     The intermediate portion C 16   d  is illustrated as including a housing C 110  and a pair of intermediate contacts C 112   a  and C 112   b . The housing C 110  defines a second coupling recess C 114  and a second coupling stem C 116 . The intermediate contacts C 112   a  and C 112   b  extend the length of the housing C 110 , terminating at their opposite end at locations in the second coupling recess C 114  and on the second coupling stem C 116 . 
     An optional reservoir C 40   d  is also housed in the housing C 110  and may be employed to hold and selectively dispense a cleaner, rinse agent or wax in a manner that is similar to that which is described above. Alternatively, a hollow interior portion of housing C 110  may define the reservoir C 40   d.    
     The modular configuration of the cleaning tool C 10   d  permits the user to convert between a compact configuration and an extended configuration. With the compact configuration, the handle portion C 12   d  is coupled directly to the head portion C 14   d . More specifically, the first coupling stem C 100  is lockably but releasably inserted into the first coupling recess C 104  such that the first contacts C 102   a  and C 102   b  are electrically coupled to the second contacts C 106   a  and C 106   b , respectively, to thereby electrically couple the power switch C 24   d  and the motor C 28   d  to the rechargeable battery C 26   d.    
     With the extended configuration, the first coupling stem C 100  is lockably but releasably inserted into the second coupling recess C 114  such that the first contacts C 102   a  and C 102   b  are electrically coupled to the intermediate contacts C 112   a  and C 112   b , respectively. Also, the second coupling stem C 116  is lockably but releasably inserted into the first coupling recess C 104  such that the second contacts C 106   a  and C 106   b  are electrically coupled to the intermediate contacts C 112   a  and C 112   b , respectively, to thereby electrically couple the power switch C 24   d  and the motor C 28   d  to the rechargeable battery C 26   d.    
     With reference to  FIGS. 65 and 66  of the drawings, a tool attachment D 10 , which is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, is illustrated in operative association with a mechanized tool D 12 . Exemplary mechanized tools include those described and illustrated in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,697,115; 5,718,014; 5,956,792; 5,978,999; 6,248,007; and 6,253,405, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein. While the tool attachment D 10  is illustrated as being used in a rotary manner, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the teachings of the present invention are applicable to tool attachments that are used in a reciprocating manner as well. 
     The tool attachment D 10  includes a base portion D 14 , a first or large surface cleaning portion D 16  and a second or detail cleaning portion D 18 . The base portion D 14  is configured from a suitable material, such as wood or plastic, and facilitates the coupling of the tool attachment D 10  to the mechanized tool D 12  as well as supports both the first and second portions D 16  and D 18 . Suitable means for coupling the base portion D 14  to the mechanized tool D 12  are well known in the art and need not be discussed in detail herein. Examples of several coupling means are disclosed in the above-referenced U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,697,115; 5,718,014; 5,956,792; 5,978,999; 6,248,007; and 6,253,405. 
     The first portion D 16  includes a plurality of bristles D 20  that are fixedly coupled to the base portion D 14 . The bristles D 20  extend outwardly from the base portion D 14  in a first direction. The second portion D 18  similarly includes a plurality of bristles D 22  that are fixedly coupled to the base portion D 14 , but the bristles D 22  extend outwardly from the base portion D 14  in a second direction that is skewed to the first direction by an amount that is greater than about 45°. In the particular example provided, the bristles D 20  of the first portion D 16  extend generally perpendicularly downward from a first surface or face D 26  of the base portion D 14 , while the bristles D 22  of the second portion D 18  extend from a second surface or edge D 28  of the base portion D 14  in a manner that is generally parallel to the face D 26 . 
     In the embodiment illustrated, the quantity of the bristles D 22  that extend from the edge D 28  is substantially smaller than the number of bristles D 20  that extend from the face D 26 , such that the first portion D 16  is suited for cleaning relatively large surfaces, such as the flat tiles D 36  of a shower enclosure, while the second portion D 18  is suited for detail cleaning, such as the grout lines D 38  between the flat tiles D 36 . 
     While the bristles D 20  and D 22  may be formed from any natural or synthetic material, the bristles D 20  and D 22  need not be made of identical materials, or have identical shapes, sizes or other characteristics, due to the nature of the tasks that they perform. In one embodiment, the bristles D 20  are formed of a relatively soft nylon whereas the bristles D 22  are formed from a relatively harder or stiffer nylon to provide the second portion D 18  with scrubbing capabilities that are relatively more aggressive that that of the first portion D 16 . In another embodiment, the bristles D 20  are formed from a material that is relatively harder or stiffer than that of the bristles D 22 , so that the bristles D 22  perform less aggressively than the bristles D 20 . 
     In  FIGS. 67 through 69 , a second tool head constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is generally indicated by reference numeral D 10   a . The tool head D 10   a  is shown in operative association with a mechanized tool D 12   a , which is generally similar to the mechanized tool D 12  of  FIGS. 65 and 66  except for the inclusion of an annular shroud D 50  that extends at least partially around the circumference of the head D 52  of the mechanized tool D 12   a . The shroud D 50  may be formed of any suitable material, such as a plastic or rubber material, and may be integrally formed with the housing D 54  of the head D 52  or discretely formed and coupled to the head D 52  in either a permanent or removable manner. The shroud D 50  forms a barrier between the tool head D 10   a  and the user of the mechanized tool D 12   a  that guards against the spattering or slinging of water, soap and/or cleanser off the tool head D 10   a  toward the user. 
     While the tool head D 10   a  is illustrated as being used in a rotary manner, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the teachings of the present invention are applicable to tool attachments that are used in a reciprocating manner as well. The tool head D 10   a  includes a base portion D 14   a , a first portion D 16   a  and a second portion D 18   a . The base portion D 14   a  and the second portion D 18   a  are generally similar to the base portion D 14  and second portion D 18 , respectively, discussed above. The first portion D 16   a  includes a set of first bristles D 60  and a set of second bristles D 62 . The first bristles D 60  extend from the base portion D 14   a  by a first length have a first set of characteristics, such as bristle diameter, bristle shape, bristle material and bristle hardness. The second bristles D 62  extend from the base portion D 14   a  by a second length, which is smaller than the first length, and have a second set of characteristics that are at least partially different from the first set of characteristics so that the second set of bristles D 62  provide a different scrubbing characteristic (e.g., more aggressive or abrasive than that of the first set of bristles D 60 ). In the particular example provided, the first set of bristles D 60  is relatively smaller in diameter and softer than the second set of bristles D 62 . 
     As best shown in  FIG. 69 , the second set of bristles D 62  are preferably arranged in a circular pattern while the first set of bristles D 60  are arranged uniformly about the perimeter of the second set of bristles D 62 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that the particular configuration of the first and second bristles D 60  and D 62  may be shaped in any desired pattern or that one of the sets of bristles may be interspersed (in a predetermined manner or randomly) throughout the other set of bristles as is illustrated in  FIG. 70 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 67 ,  68  and  71 , when the user of the mechanized tool D 12   a  desires to employ the characteristics of the first set of bristles D 60 , relatively light pressure is applied to the mechanized tool D 12   a  such that only the first set of bristles D 60  come into contact with the work surface D 70 . When the user of the mechanized tool D 12   a  desires to employ the characteristics of the second set of bristles D 62 , increased pressure is applied to the mechanized tool D 12   a  such that both the first and second sets of bristles D 60  and D 62  come into contact with the work surface D 70 . In the particular bristle arrangement provided, the first set of bristles D 60  deflect radially outwardly in response to the increased pressure applied to the mechanized tool to thereby permit the second set of bristles D 62  to contact the work surface D 70 . 
     An alternate form of the tool head is illustrated in  FIG. 72  and generally indicated by reference numeral D 10   a ′. The tool head is generally similar to the tool head D 10   a , except that a second portion D 18   a ′ has been substituted for the second portion D 18 . The second portion D 18   a ′ includes a plurality of bumper bristles D 22   a ′ that extend outwardly from the tool head D 10   a ′. The bumper bristles D 22   a ′ may be at least partially formed from or covered with a rubber or elastomeric material such that the distal ends of the bristles D 22   a ′ deflect in an immediately perceivable manner when the edge of the tool head D 10   a ′ is brought into contact with an object so as to alert the user of the tool head D 10   a ′ of its proximity to the object. 
     A second alternate form of the tool head is illustrated in  FIGS. 73 and 74  and generally indicated by reference numeral D 10   a ″. The tool head D 10   a ″ is generally similar to the tool head D 10   a  except that an abrasive pad D 76 , such as a SCOTCHBRITE® pad manufactured by the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, for example. In this embodiment, the abrasive pad D 76  is permanently mounted to the base portion D 14   a ″ through an adhesive material, but those skilled in the art will appreciate that any known method for permanently or removably coupling the abrasive pad D 76  to the base portion D 14   a ″ may be used, including fasteners, clips and/or Velcro®. The tool head D 10   a ″ is used in a manner that is similar to that which is described for the tool head D 10   a , above (i.e., relatively light pressure is used to employ only the first set of bristles D 60 , while increased pressure is used to employ the abrasive pad D 76 ). 
       FIG. 74  illustrates yet another alternative form of the tool head and is generally indicated by reference numeral D 10   a ′″. The tool head D 10   a′″  is somewhat similar to the tool head D 10   a ″, except that a second abrasive pad D 78  has been substituted for the first set of bristles D 60  and the (first) pad D 76 ′″ is movably mounted to the base portion D 14   a ′″ and biased away from the base portion D 14   a ′″. In the particular example provided, the first pad D 76 ′″ is secured to the base portion D 14   a ′″ via a conventional shoulder bolt D 82  and biased away from the base portion D 14   a ′″ via a conventional compression spring D 84 . The first pad D 76 ′″ may be made from an abrasive material, such as a SCOTCHBRITE® pad manufactured by the Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, for example, or a non-abrasive material, such as a sponge. The shoulder bolt D 82  facilitates and limits movement of the first abrasive pad D 76 ′″ along the rotational axis of the tool head D 10   a ′″. In addition to biasing the first abrasive pad D 76 ′″ away from the base portion D 14   a ′″, the compression spring D 84  serves to inhibit relative rotation between the base portion D 14   a ′″ and the first abrasive pad D 76 ′″. 
     The second abrasive pad D 78  is an annular pad that may be permanently or removably mounted to the base portion D 14   a ′″ via any known method, including adhesives, fasteners, clips and/or VELCRO®. In the particular embodiment provided, the first abrasive pad D 76 ′″ has a mildly abrasive characteristic that is relatively less abrasive than that of the second abrasive pad D 78 . When the user of the tool head D 10   a ′″desires to employ the second abrasive pad D 78 , sufficient pressure is applied to cause the compression spring D 84  to compress so that second abrasive pad D 78  may be lowered to the work surface. 
     With reference to  FIG. 75 , a third tool head D 10   b  constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is illustrated in operative association with the mechanized tool D 12 . The tool head D 10   b  includes a pad D 90 , which may be formed from an abrasive or non-abrasive material. The pad D 90  is configured with a relatively large bottom surface D 92 , which is especially suited for use in the cleaning of relatively large surfaces, and a contoured edge D 94 . In the example provided, the contoured edge D 94  includes a relatively sharp corner D 96  that facilitates employment of the tool head D 10   b  for detail cleaning tasks, such as at the intersection between two planar work surfaces or in and along grout lines. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the tool head D 10   b  may alternatively be constructed with bristles D 98 , as is illustrated in  FIGS. 76 and 77 . 
     In  FIGS. 78 and 79 , a fourth tool head D 10   c  is illustrated. The tool head D 10   c  includes a base portion D 14   c , a plurality of bristles D 100  that are fixedly coupled to the base portion D 14   c , and an adjustment mechanism D 102 . The bristles D 100  are coupled to the base portion D 14   c  such that they extend downwardly and radially outwardly therefrom. The adjustment mechanism D 102  is illustrated to be an annular ring D 104  that is fitted in frictional engagement around the bristles D 100 . The annular ring D 104  is translatable in a direction that is generally parallel to the rotational axis of the tool head D 10   c  between a raised position, which is illustrated in  FIG. 78 , and a lowered position, which is illustrated in  FIG. 79 . Placement of the annular ring D 104  in the lowered position constrains the bristles D 100  such that they are relocated radially inward relative to their location when the annular ring D 104  is in the raised position; as so positioned, the bristles D 100  are better suited for detail work, whereas the bristles D 100  are best suited for large surface cleaning when the annular ring D 104  is placed in the raised position. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the amount by which the bristles D 100  are moved radially inward is a function of the nominal angle of the bristles D 100  (i.e., the angle of the bristles D 100  relative to the base D 14   c  when the annular ring D 104  is in the raised position), the inner diameter of the annular ring D 104  and the amount by which the annular ring D 104  has been translated. 
     In  FIG. 80 , a sixth tool head D 10   e  is illustrated in association with a mechanized tool D 12   e . The tool head D 10   e  includes a first portion D 150 , which is well suited to cleaning relatively large surfaces, and a second portion D 152 , which is configured for detail cleaning as will be described in greater detail, below. The first and second portions D 150  and D 152  are preferably removably mounted on a drive axle D 154  that is driven by the mechanized tool D 12   e  (e.g., through a suitable gear train or drive pulley mechanism) such that the first and second portions D 150  and D 152  are rotatable about a longitudinal axis of the tool head D 10   e.    
     The first portion D 150  is shaped as a generally hollow cylinder, and may be formed with a plurality of bristles or from a suitable pad-type material, such as an abrasive pad or a sponge. The second portion D 152  is configured from a material and/or with a shape that facilitates detail cleaning. In the example provided, the second portions D 152   a , D 152   b  and D 152   c  are provided in a kit so that the user of the tool head D 10   e  may selectively attach a desired one to the mechanized tool D 12   e.    
     The second portion D 152   a  is illustrated to be an annular ring of fairly coarse bristles D 158  having relatively more aggressive cleaning characteristics than that of the first portion D 150 . The bristles D 158  of the second portion D 152   a  are relatively shorter than the bristles of the first portion D 150  so that the second portion D 152   a  is ordinarily not in contact with the work surface; increased pressure or tilting of the mechanized tool D 12   e  is required to bring the bristles D 158  into contact with the work surface. Alternatively, the second portion D 152   a  may be formed from an abrasive or sponge-like pad material. The second portion D 152   b  is formed of a desired material, which may or may not be identical to that of the first portion D 150 , and is shaped in a conical manner that permits the tool head D 10   e  to access corners and crevices. The second portion D 152   c  is formed from a suitable material that permits the user of the tool head D 10   e  to perform a buffing or polishing operation. Although the second portion D 152   c  is illustrated as being hollow and frustoconical in shape, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the second portion D 152   c  may formed to any desired shape. 
     In  FIGS. 81 and 82 , a seventh tool head D 10   f  constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is illustrated in operative association with a mechanized tool D 12   f . The mechanized tool D 12   f  includes a drive mechanism D 170  that includes flexible spine D 172 , a plurality of brush mounts D 174  that are fixedly coupled to the spine D 172  and a gear D 176 , such as a face gear, that is fixedly coupled to the spine and configured to receive a rotary input to facilitate rotation of the spine D 172 . 
     The tool head D 10   f  is a hollow cylinder that is preferably closed on one end in a spherical radius. In the embodiment provided, the tool head D 10   f  includes a plurality of bristles D 180  that extend outwardly from a flexible base portion D 182 , but as those skilled in the art will appreciate, any flexible pad-like material (e.g., a sponge or an abrasive pad) may be used in the alternative. In use, the tool head D 10   f  is ordinarily biased by the spine D 172  into a straight or in-line configuration. As best seen in  FIG. 82 , however, the flexible nature of the spine D 172  permits the tool head D 10   f  to be resiliently deformed so as to access corners and crevices. 
     In  FIG. 83 , a caddy E 10   a  constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is illustrated in operative association with a second hand-held motorized cleaning tool E 12   a . The cleaning tool E 12   a  includes a handle E 14   a  that is mounted to a cleaning head E 16   a . The handle E 14   a  includes a fluid reservoir E 50  from which a fluid (e.g., cleaner, rinse agent, wax, polish) may be selectively dispensed, either through a nozzle (not shown) or through the rotating or reciprocating tool head E 54  that is attached to the cleaning head E 16   a.    
     The caddy E 10   a  includes a reservoir portion E 60  and a coupling portion E 62 . With additional reference to  FIG. 84 , the reservoir portion E 60  includes a reservoir E 70 , for containing a desired fluid, such as a cleaner, rinse agent, wax or polish, a reservoir lid E 72  for covering the reservoir E 70 , and a value E 74  that is in fluid connection with the reservoir E 70 . The value E 74  is a normally closed value of the type that is well known in the art. 
     The coupling portion E 62  is configured to align a corresponding valve E 80  on the fluid reservoir E 50  of the cleaning tool El 2   a  to the valve E 74 . More specifically, alignment of the valve E 80  to the valve E 74  effects the opening of both valves E 74  and E 80  to permit fluid to drain from the reservoir E 70  in the caddy E 10   a  to the fluid reservoir E 50  in the cleaning tool El 2   a . In this manner, the fluid reservoir E 50  may be re-charged when ever the cleaning tool El 2   a  is replaced to the caddy E 10   a . In the particular embodiment provided, the coupling portion E 62  includes a pair of laterally spaced apart guide rails E 90  that cooperate with a mating geometric form on the handle El 4   a  to center the handle El 4   a  relative to the valve E 74  as well as to position the valve E 80  in a vertical direction relative to the valve E 74 . A blind wall (not shown) is employed to limit the amount by which the handle El 4   a  may be pushed into the coupling portion E 62 ; placement of the handle El 4   a  at the blind wall while it is engaged to the guide rails E 90  aligns the valve E 80  to the valve E 74 . In the particular embodiment provided, the caddy E 10   a  is supported via a strap E 92 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that any other known means for retaining the caddy E 10   a  to an appropriate (generally vertical) surface may alternatively be employed. 
     In  FIGS. 85 and 86 , a second caddy E 10   b  constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention is illustrated in conjunction with a motorized hand-held cleaning tool E 12   b . The cleaning tool E 12   b  includes a handle E 14   b  that is mounted to a cleaning head E 16   b . The handle E 14   b  includes a fluid reservoir E 50   b  from which a fluid (e.g., cleaner, rinse agent, wax, polish) may be selectively dispensed, either through a nozzle (not shown) or through the rotating or reciprocating tool head E 54   b  that is attached to the cleaning head E 16   b.    
     The caddy E 10   b  includes a housing E 100  that defines an aperture E 102  for receiving the tool head E 54   b . One or more seals E 104  extend around the perimeter of the aperture E 102  and are located vertically such that they sealingly engage the tool head E 54   b  or the cleaning head E 16   b  to thereby prevent the emission of undesirable odors from the caddy E 10   b.    
     Additionally or alternatively, the caddy E 10   b  may include a charger base E 110  and/or a sanitizing system E 112 . The charger base E 110  is of the type that whose construction and operation are well known in the art and as such, a detailed discussion of the charger base E 10  need not be provided herein. Briefly, the charger base E 10  includes a plurality of electrical contacts E 116  that engage mating contacts (not shown) on the cleaning tool E 12   b  when the cleaning tool E 12   b  is docked to the caddy E 10   b  to thereby facilitate the recharging of the battery E 118  in the cleaning tool E 12   b . The sanitizing system E 112  may be of a type that is known in the art and may utilize chemicals, ultraviolet light and/or ultrasound to effect the sanitizing of the tool head E 54   b.    
     Also additionally or alternatively, the caddy E 10   b  may be employed to replenish the reservoir E 50   b  in the cleaning tool E 12   b . In this regard, the caddy E 10   b  includes a caddy reservoir E 120  and a nozzle E 122  that is in fluid connection with the caddy reservoir E 120  and is employed to inject or dispense fluid into a valve (not shown) in the fluid reservoir E 50   b . The caddy reservoir E 120  and nozzle E 122  may be a discrete and disposable unit that is removably coupled to the housing E 100 . In such an embodiment, the caddy reservoir E 120  may be charged with a dispensing fluid that causes the fluid contained therein to be dispensed through the nozzle E 122  when the nozzle E 122  is coupled to the valve in the fluid reservoir E 50   b . Alternatively, the caddy reservoir E 120  may simply employ gravity to dispense the fluid contained therein through the nozzle E 122 . A pair of guide rails E 124  (only one of which is shown) or other alignment means may be employed to better control the alignment of the cleaning tool E 12   b  to the caddy E 10   b.    
     Also alternatively, the caddy reservoir E 120  may be defined by the housing E 100  and manually refillable. In such an embodiment, gravity may be used to dispense the fluid contained in the caddy reservoir E 120  or the action of inserting the cleaning tool E 12   b  to the caddy E 10   b  may be employed to generate fluid pressure within the caddy reservoir E 120  that is employed to inject the fluid through the nozzle E 122  and the valve in the reservoir E 50   b.    
     While the invention has been described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings with reference to various embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Furthermore, the mixing and matching of features, elements and/or functions between various embodiments is expressly contemplated herein so that one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate from this disclosure that features, elements and/or functions of one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment as appropriate, unless described otherwise, above. Moreover, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment illustrated by the drawings and described in the specification as the best mode presently contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include any embodiments falling within the foregoing description and the appended claims.