Patent Description:
Mops have been traditionally used to clean floors. Mops come in different styles, such as a string, strip, foam or flat mop for example. A flat mop has a generally planar end member with a flat microfiber pad coupled to one side. Further, one property of the microfiber pad is that it releases dirt when placed in a fluid (e.g. fluid). The microfiber pad is then wrung-out, such as by pressing the mop head against a plate. One issue with many mop and bucket combinations it that the same fluid is used to both clean and recharge the mop. However, this means that the fluid used for recharging is dirty after the first time the mop is cleaned. Thus, after only a short while the user is left with a bucket of dirty fluid. If the fluid in this bucket is continued to be used, dirty fluid will be spread on the floor being cleaned.

A second issue that arises with current flat mops is the amount of fluid contained in the microfiber pad. Depending on the type of floor being cleaned, the desired amount of fluid will change. For example, when cleaning wood floors, it is desired to have only a small amount of fluid when compared to cleaning tile floors. The technique of pressing the mop against a plate or in a press requires significant effort.

Accordingly, while existing floor cleaning systems are suitable for their intended purposes the need for improvement remains, particularly in providing a floor cleaning system having the features described herein. <CIT> discloses a cleaner for a floor mop having a cleaning fluid container and a drier for a mop. A filter with a dirt filter element is positioned between the tank and drier. The filter element can be replaceable and can be mounted in a drawer type slide. The filter can have a sensor to display a filter change required.

According to one aspect of the disclosure, a floor cleaning system having a flat headed mop is provided. The system includes a frame having a first portion and a second portion. At least one compartment removably coupled to the first portion a wringing assembly coupled to the frame. Wherein at least one of the frame or the wringing assembly includes at least one clip holder configured to receive at least one accessory item.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include at least one accessory holder coupled to the at least one clip holder, wherein the accessory holder includes at least one of a bottle holder, a toilet bowl brush holder, or a dust pan holder. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the at least one accessory holder being disposed vertically above the second portion. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the at least one accessory item having at least one of a storage bin, caddy, a garbage bin, or a storage container.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include a garbage bin removably coupled to the wringing assembly. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the garbage bin having a u-shaped handle coupled to the wringing assembly.

In accordance with another embodiment a floor cleaning system having a flat headed mop is provided. The system including a frame having a first portion and a second portion. At least one compartment is removably coupled to the first portion. A wringing assembly is fluidly coupled to the at least one compartment and disposed between the first portion and the second portion. A post extends from the wringing assembly. A handle is coupled to the end of the post.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the post being rotatable from a first position with the handle positioned at least partially over the wringing assembly to a second position. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the post having a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being coupled to the wringing assembly, the second portion being offset from the first portion. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the being extendable from a first length to a second length.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the handle being comprised of a c-shaped member. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the handle being comprised of a cross-member having a first c-shaped portion and a second c-shaped portion.

According to another embodiment, a floor cleaning system having a flat headed mop is provided. The system having at least one compartment. A wringing assembly is fluidly coupled to the at least one compartment, the wringing assembly having a housing with a slot, the slot being defined by a first wall, a second wall and a pair of side walls, the second wall extends vertically farther from the at least one compartment than the first wall.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the pair of sidewalls extending vertically farther from the at least one compartment than the first wall. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the wringer assembly further having at least one roller disposed at least partially within the slot and operably coupled to the housing to move from a first position to a second position when the flat headed mop is withdrawn from the slot. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include a blade disposed within the slot opposite the at least one roller.

According to another embodiment, a floor cleaning system having a flat headed mop is provided. The system including a frame and at least one compartment removably coupled to the frame, the at least one compartment having a length and a width. A member is disposed within the at least one compartment, the member having a plurality of walls spaced apart from each other along the length of the at least one compartment. A wringing assembly is fluidly coupled to the at least one compartment, the wringing assembly having a housing with a slot sized to receive the flat headed mop and configured to extract fluid therefrom.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the member having a scrubbing plate portion. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the member having a first wall and a second wall extending along the length of the at least one compartment, the second wall having a relief area sized to receive the handle of the flat headed mop. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the plurality of walls being parallel to the width of the at least one compartment.

According to the invention, a floor cleaning system having a flat headed mop is provided. The system including a frame and at least one compartment removably coupled to the frame. A wringing assembly is coupled to the frame, the wringing assembly comprising: a housing with a slot sized to receive the flat headed mop; an extractor element disposed within the slot and configured to extract fluid from the flat headed mop; and a drip tray disposed in fluid communication with the slot and the extractor element, the drip tray including at least one channel that at least partially defines a flow path from the slot to an outlet, the outlet being in fluid communication with the at least one compartment.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the at least one channel having a first channel and a second channel arranged on opposite sides of the outlet. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the drip tray having a surface that at least partially defines the outlet, the surface having at least one rib, the rib sized to space a mop head of the flat headed mop apart from a bottom of the at least one channel when the mop head is fully inserted into the wringing assembly.

According to another embodiment, a floor cleaning system having a flat headed mop is provided. The system including a frame and at least one compartment removably coupled to the frame, the at least one compartment having pair of sidewalls disposed on an angle relative to each other, the sidewalls defining a hollow interior with an open end that is sized to receive a mop head of the flat headed mop. A wringing assembly is fluidly coupled to the at least one compartment, the wringing assembly having a housing with a slot sized to receive the flat headed mop and configured to extract fluid therefrom.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the sidewalls at a first end are adjacent the open end are father apart than a second end distal from the open end. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include at least one of the side walls having indicia indicating a volume of the hollow interior. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the at least one compartment having a length and a width, the at least one compartment further including an element disposed on one side along the length, the element being sized and positioned engage the frame and prevent insertion of the at least one compartment onto the frame, when the side is facing the wringing assembly.

In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the at least one compartment further comprises an insert disposed in the hollow interior, wherein the element is coupled to the insert. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the insert having a scrubbing plate portion, the element being adjacent the scrubbing plate portion. In addition to one or more of the features described herein, or as an alternative, further embodiments of the system may include the insert having a wall having a relief portion sized to receive a handle of the flat headed mop, the relief portion being adjacent the element.

Technical effects of embodiments of the present disclosure include a floor cleaning system that allows a floor to be cleaned or mopped while reducing or eliminating the spreading of contaminated or dirty fluid.

Embodiments disclosed herein provide for a floor cleaning system having a flat mop with a microfiber pad and a bucket cleaning assembly. The bucket cleaning assembly includes a one or more compartments and provides advantages in separating the dirty fluid used to rinse the flat mop from the clean fluid used to recharge the mop pad. Embodiments disclosed herein provide advantages in providing a wringing assembly that removes dirty fluid from the mop pad. Still further embodiments disclosed herein provide advantages in providing a wringing assembly that defines a desired amount of fluid in the mop pad when the mop pad is recharged (based on number of times mop is wrung). Still further embodiments provide for a bucket cleaning assembly configured to receive accessories, such as cleaning fluid containers and receptacles. Still further embodiments provide for a bucket cleaning assembly that may be integrated into a larger cleaning system to facilitate transportation.

As discussed herein, it should be appreciated that previous floor cleaning systems do not clean as well as desired, add unnecessary time, and/or complexity to the process of cleaning a floor. These solutions either result in dirty fluid being spread on the surface resulting in floors that are not as clean. Further, they may increase the time and the number of steps used to clean and recharge the mop. Embodiments disclosed herein reduce the number of steps required for cleaning, which in turn reduces the time and complexity to clean the floor. In some embodiments, the time is also reduced as the end user does not need to go through the wringing process as often as prior art system.

Referring now to <FIG>, an embodiment of a bucket assembly <NUM> is shown for a floor cleaning system. The bucket assembly <NUM> is used with a flat headed mop <NUM>, such as that shown in <FIG> and <FIG> for example, having a microfiber pad disposed thereon. The mop <NUM> has a head <NUM> positioning assembly that allows the planar head <NUM> of the mop <NUM> to rotate between a vertical or a horizontal position. The mop <NUM> may be connected to the planar head <NUM> by a hinge assembly such as that described in commonly owned <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, each entitled "Floor Cleaning System" the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The mop <NUM> may further be that described in commonly owned and concurrently filed United States Patent Application entitled "Flat Headed Mop" (Attorney Docket UMI0007US6), the contents of which is incorporated by reference herein. The mop <NUM> will include a mop pad (not shown) that is removably coupled to the planar head. In an embodiment, the mop pad and the planar head are coupled by a hook and loop type fastener. When in the normal position, the planar head is generally parallel with the floor or surface that is being cleaned with the pole extending upward therefrom. As used herein, the term "vertical position" is where the mop head <NUM> is rotated to the position shown in <FIG> where the planar bottom surface head member <NUM> is generally or substantially parallel to the centerline of the mop handle <NUM>. As used herein, the term "operating position" or "horizontal position" is where the mop head <NUM> is rotated to the position shown in <FIG> where the planar bottom surface the head member <NUM> is generally perpendicular, or on an angle relative to the centerline of the mop handle <NUM>. It should be appreciated that while embodiments described herein may illustrate the mop head <NUM> rotated to the vertical or horizontal position, this for exemplary purposes and the claims should not be so limited.

The bucket assembly <NUM> includes a trolley <NUM> having a plurality of wheels <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the wheels <NUM> allow the bucket assembly <NUM> to be easily moved across the floor. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the trolley <NUM> includes a pair of recesses <NUM> (<FIG>) disposed on opposite sides of a center wall <NUM>. The recesses <NUM> are further defined by sidewalls <NUM>. The recesses <NUM> are sized to removably receive compartments <NUM>, <NUM> as will be discussed in more detail herein. The trolley <NUM> further includes a pair of upstanding posts or end walls <NUM>, <NUM> on either end of the center wall <NUM>. The end walls <NUM>, <NUM> are configured couple with a drain tray <NUM> that is positioned adjacent to and vertically above the center wall <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the drain tray receives extracted fluid from a wringing assembly <NUM> and defines a flow path into the first compartment <NUM>, sometimes referred to as the "dirty fluid" compartment. As used herein, the fluid may be water, a chemical cleaning solution or a combination of the foregoing. The compartments <NUM>, <NUM> may both include a fluid that is comprised of water, a cleaning solution or a combination of the foregoing.

In an embodiment, the drain tray <NUM> includes a plurality of walls 127a, 127b, 127c (<FIG>) that define a pair of opposing channels 129a, 129b. The channels 129a, 129b direct the extracted fluid towards the center of the drain tray where an outlet <NUM> extends over the first compartment <NUM> to allow the extracted fluid to drained into the first compartment. In an embodiment, the outlet is at least partially defined by a surface <NUM>. In an embodiment, the surface <NUM> may include at least one rib <NUM> that extends from the surface <NUM>. The rib <NUM> being sized to engage the mop head <NUM> when the mop head <NUM> is fully inserted into the wringing assembly <NUM>, such that the mop head <NUM> is spaced apart from the bottom of the channels 129a, 129b. Thus the rib <NUM> prevents or reduces the risk of the mop pad being in contact with fluids draining through the channels 129a, 129b.

In an embodiment, the end walls <NUM>, <NUM> each include a recess <NUM>. The recess <NUM> may be sized to receive a user's fingers and provide a location for the user to lift the bucket assembly <NUM>.

Also coupled to the end walls <NUM>, <NUM> is the wringing assembly <NUM>. In an embodiment, the wringing assembly <NUM> is removably coupled to the end walls <NUM>, <NUM> to facilitate cleaning of the wringing assembly. However, in an embodiment, when the wringing assembly <NUM> is coupled to the walls <NUM>, <NUM> or the trolley <NUM>, the connection is a rigid coupling and the wringing assembly functions as an integral part of the trolley. The wringing assembly <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> having a slot <NUM> on an end. The slot <NUM> is sized to receive the mop head <NUM> and a portion of the mop handle <NUM> that is adjacent the mop head. Coupled to the housing <NUM> is one or more roller assemblies <NUM> (<FIG>). The roller assemblies <NUM> include a frame <NUM> with movable wheels <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the wringing assembly <NUM> includes a pair of roller assemblies <NUM> each having three wheels <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the wringing assembly <NUM> may include more or fewer roller assemblies <NUM> or wheels <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing <NUM> includes an integral blade portion <NUM> (<FIG>). As will be discussed in more detail, as the mop head <NUM> is inserted into the slot <NUM>, the wheels <NUM> bias the mop head <NUM> to engage the mop pad against the blade portion <NUM>. The compression of the mop pad by the wringing assembly <NUM> extracts fluid/fluid from the mop pad. This extracted fluid/fluid flows through the wringing assembly <NUM> and the drain tray <NUM> into the first compartment <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the end walls <NUM>, <NUM> each further include a circular opening <NUM> on an end <NUM>. The openings <NUM> are aligned or co-axial with openings <NUM> in the housing <NUM>. The openings <NUM>, <NUM> are sized to receive a post <NUM>. Coupled to the post <NUM> is a grip or handle <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle <NUM> is "C" shaped such that it defines a slot sized to receive a portion of the mop handle <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this provides a convenient means to secure the mop handle when not in use. It should be appreciated that handles <NUM> having other shapes may also be used. In an embodiment, the post <NUM> may be of an adjustable length to allow the handle <NUM> to be placed at different heights relative to the floor to accommodate different users. In an embodiment, the post <NUM> may be telescopic, allowing the length to be changed. In another embodiment, the length of the post <NUM> may be changed by increasing or decreasing the amount of the post <NUM> that is inserted into the openings <NUM>, <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the housing <NUM> further includes at least one or a plurality of clip holders <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the clip holders <NUM> are configured to receive accessory items (e.g. buckets, receptacles, storage containers, caddy, bins, cleaning fluid containers, brushes, dust pan, etc.,) that a user may desire to use in connection with cleaning activities. Clip holders can be located on multiple surfaces on the system i.e. the side of the housing <NUM> (<FIG>) or on the ends of the housing <NUM> (<FIG>). It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, the clip holders <NUM> may be configured to receive a holding device, such as a bottle holder, a toilet bowl brush holder, a dust pan holder, storage containers, bins, a caddy, or a broom holder for example. In an embodiment, the holders are configured to position the accessory vertically above the recess <NUM>. In this way, any fluid or debris that accumulates on the accessory will fall into the recess <NUM> rather than onto the surface being cleaned.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the bucket assembly <NUM> includes a pair of compartments <NUM>, <NUM>. The compartments <NUM>, <NUM> are sized to fit within the recesses <NUM>. In an embodiment, the compartments <NUM>, <NUM> include a generally triangularly shaped interior area <NUM>. The interior area <NUM> is defined by a side walls <NUM>, <NUM> that are angled relative to each other such that a first end of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> adjacent the bottom are closer together than a second or opposite end at the entrance to the interior area. In an embodiment, the first ends of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> are connected by a curved surface. In this embodiment, the compartments <NUM>, <NUM> may include end walls <NUM>, <NUM> that have a flat bottom surface to allow the compartments <NUM>, <NUM> to remain stable when placed on a surface or in the recesses <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the angled side walls <NUM>, <NUM> allow for a reduced amount of fluid (e.g. to reduce weight) while still allowing the mop head <NUM> to be fully inserted into the compartments <NUM>, <NUM>. In another embodiment, a standard (rectangular) shaped bucket can be used.

In an embodiment, one side wall (e.g. side wall <NUM>) includes an optional cleaning element <NUM> (<FIG>). The cleaning element <NUM> may be a plurality of ribs that are integrally formed in the side wall <NUM>. The cleaning element <NUM> includes features (e.g. ribs) that engage the fibers of the microfiber mop pad when the mop head <NUM> is moved against the cleaning element <NUM>. This allows the cleaning of the mop pad and the removal of particles such as dirt/debris, hair and fur. It should be appreciated that while the illustrated embodiments show the cleaning element <NUM> as being a plurality of integral ribs arranged in saw-tooth configuration (e.g. a plurality of connected peaks and valleys), this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the ribs may be formed in a different shape for example.

In still other embodiments, in one or both compartments <NUM>, <NUM> the cleaning element may be formed from a separate member that is coupled to or placed within the compartment <NUM>, <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the separate cleaning element <NUM> includes a slot <NUM> that couples with the edge <NUM> of the compartment <NUM>. The separately formed cleaning element <NUM> may have a plurality of features, such as but not limited to ribs, projections, slots and holes for example. It should be appreciated that while the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate the separate cleaning element <NUM> as being installed within the second compartment <NUM>, with the first compartment <NUM> having an integral cleaning element <NUM>, this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the both compartments <NUM>, <NUM> may have a separate cleaning element <NUM>. In some embodiments, the separate cleaning element <NUM> may be a different color to assist the user in distinguishing the first compartment <NUM> (with dirty fluid) from the second compartment <NUM> (with the clean fluid or cleaning solution).

In the illustrated embodiment, first compartment <NUM> is used to remove contaminants (e.g. dirt and hair) from the mop pad after the mop has been used to clean a surface. The first compartment <NUM> may be referred to as the "dirty fluid" compartment because the fluid (e.g. fluid) within the first compartment will quickly become contaminated with dirt, particulates or debris during use. As described in more detail herein, the wringing assembly <NUM> removes fluid from the microfiber mop pad as the mop head <NUM> is moved through the wringing assembly <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the dirty fluid in the mop pad will be removed from the mop pad and drain back into the first compartment <NUM> via the drain tray <NUM>. In this way, when the mop pad is subsequently immersed in the fluid/cleaning-solution fluid in a second compartment <NUM>, either no or very little contamination of the fluid/cleaning-solution fluid will occur. In an embodiment, wringing mop pad <NUM> - <NUM> times through the wringing assembly provides sufficient level of fluid or cleaning-solution on the mop pad to clean a floor.

The second compartment <NUM>, sometimes referred to as the "clean" compartment, is used for recharging the mop pad with a fluid/cleaning-solution fluid. The second compartment <NUM> includes a generally hollow interior <NUM> having an open side sized to receive the mop head <NUM>. In an embodiment, the second compartment is identical in size and shape to the first compartment <NUM>. In another embodiment, the second compartment <NUM> may be a different shape from the first compartment <NUM>. For example, the second compartment <NUM> may have a flat bottom on which the mop pad is placed. The interior <NUM> contains a volume of fluid, cleaning-solution fluid, or a combination of the foregoing. In an embodiment, the wringing assembly <NUM> may be used to remove a least a portion of the fluid from the mop pad when the mop head <NUM> is moved through the wringing assembly <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this allows the user to adjust the amount of liquid contained within the mop pad. It should be appreciated that the more times the mop is wrung the less fluid/chemical is still held in the fibers of the mop.

In one embodiment, the first compartment <NUM> and the second compartment <NUM> may be made different colors to assist the user in quickly identifying which compartment to place the mop head <NUM>. In an embodiment, the first or "dirty" compartment <NUM> may be a red color and the second or "clean" compartment <NUM> may be made from a gray or blue color for example. In an embodiment, each compartment <NUM>, <NUM> further includes a handle <NUM> that is pivotally coupled to the end walls <NUM>, <NUM> to facilitate the lowering and picking up of the compartments <NUM>, <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a method <NUM> of using the floor cleaning system is shown. The method <NUM> begins in block <NUM> where the user mops the floor using mop <NUM> by wiping the mop pad across the surface. The method <NUM> then proceeds to block <NUM> where the user places the mop head <NUM> into the first compartment <NUM> which contains fluid. With the mop pad in the fluid, the user rubs the surface of the mop pad against the cleaning element <NUM> to loosen debris. The method then proceeds to block <NUM> where the user removes the mop head <NUM> from the first compartment <NUM> and inserts the mop head into the wringing assembly <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the mop head <NUM> is in the vertical position when it is inserted into the wringing assembly <NUM>. The user may wring or move the mop head <NUM> past the blade portion <NUM> one or more times to remove the dirty fluid from the mop pad. As fluid is extracted from the mop pad, the fluid flows along a flow path through the wringing assembly <NUM>, into the drain tray <NUM>, and into the first compartment <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the wringing assembly <NUM> is configured to allow the user to maintain a portion of the mop head <NUM> within the slot <NUM> when the mop head <NUM> is withdrawn. It should be appreciated that that allows the user to subsequently move the mop pad back across the blade portion <NUM> without having to completely remove the mop head from the wringer assembly and/or re-orient the mop head <NUM>.

With the dirty fluid extracted, the method <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> where the mop pad is recharged with fluid, cleaning solution or a combination thereof. This is accomplished by removing the mop head <NUM> from the wringing assembly <NUM> and placing the mop pad into the fluid contained in the second compartment <NUM>. When placed in the fluid of second compartment <NUM>, the microfiber mop pad absorbs fluid. It should be appreciated that different floor surfaces (e.g. tile vs. hard wood) may result in different levels of fluid loading in the mop pad. When a saturated mop pad is not desired, the method <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> where the user inserts the mop head <NUM> back into the wringing assembly <NUM>. The mop pad may be inserted one or more times until the desired fluid level or fluid volume in the mop pad is achieved. The method <NUM> then proceeds to block <NUM> where the user continues to mop the floor. It should be appreciated that this process continues until the user completes cleaning the floor, the cleaning fluid in the second compartment <NUM> is depleted, or the fluid/fluid level in the first compartment is above a desired level (e.g. full).

Referring now to <FIG>, an embodiment of a cleaning system <NUM> is shown. In this embodiment, the system <NUM> includes a cart <NUM>. The cart <NUM> includes a base <NUM> having an area <NUM> sized to receive and securely hold the bucket assembly <NUM>. A plurality of wheels <NUM> that allow the user to easily move the cleaning system <NUM> to locations where cleaning activities are to be performed. The cart <NUM> may include additional features, such as but not limited to: a handle <NUM>, a trash receptacle <NUM>, and shelves <NUM>. In an embodiment, the cart <NUM> may further include clip holders <NUM> that are configured similar to, or the same as, the clip holders <NUM>. The clip holders <NUM> allow for accessories to be easily coupled to the cart <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the cleaning system of <FIG> is shown with the mop <NUM> stored in the bucket assembly <NUM>. It should be appreciated that with the mop head <NUM> placed in one of the compartments <NUM>, <NUM>, the handle <NUM> may be placed in a slot defined by the bucket handle <NUM>. In an embodiment where the handle <NUM> is a "C" shape, the mop handle <NUM> is securely held during transportation and storage, but easily removed for use.

Referring now to <FIG>, another embodiment of a floor cleaning system having a bucket assembly <NUM> is shown. The bucket assembly <NUM> is similar to bucket assembly <NUM> of <FIG> and includes a trolley <NUM> having a plurality of wheels <NUM>. The trolley <NUM> includes a pair of recesses <NUM> disposed on either side of a center wall <NUM>. The recesses <NUM> are sized to removably receive a compartment <NUM>. In this embodiment, the bucket assembly <NUM> includes only a single compartment <NUM>. In this embodiment, the trolley <NUM> includes side walls <NUM>, <NUM> that support the drain tray <NUM> and the wringing assembly <NUM>. The wringing assembly <NUM> may be configured the same as wringing assembly <NUM> having a slot <NUM> that is sized to receive the mop head <NUM> and a blade portion <NUM> (<FIG>) that is positioned and configured to engage the mop pad. In one embodiment, the clip holders <NUM> are integrated into the trolley <NUM> instead of the housing <NUM> of the wringing assembly <NUM>.

It should be appreciated that since the bucket assembly <NUM> includes only a single bucket, the recess <NUM> on the opposite side of the center wall <NUM> is open. In an embodiment, one or more accessories may be mounted to the clip holders <NUM>. These accessories may include a first fluid container <NUM>, a second fluid container <NUM>, and a storage container <NUM> for example. In other embodiments, the clip holders <NUM> may be used hold tools (e.g. screwdrivers, hammers, pliers, wrenches), cleaning tools (sponges, brushes, brooms, dust pans), or cleaning supplies (e.g. wipes, mop pads, microfiber cloths, spray bottle with chemical, paper towels, soap, toilet paper, etc.), of a combination of any of the foregoing. In the illustrated embodiment, the clip holders <NUM>, <NUM> includes a pair of opposing arms that define an opening. In an embodiment, the opening is a dovetail shaped and sized to receive a complementary shaped projection on a retaining device <NUM>. In an embodiment, the clip holders and retaining devices may be the same as that described in commonly owned <CIT> entitled "Cleaning Cart", the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The clip holders may include a dovetail opening that receives a corresponding blade member on the accessory holder or tool.

The storage container <NUM> may be used for trash or debris, or to hold cleaning supplies or tools for example. In an embodiment, the storage container <NUM> may include an upper compartment 355a and a lower compartment 355b. It should be appreciated that the fluid containers <NUM>, <NUM> may contain cleaning solutions. Such as to clean different types of surfaces for example. The containers <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to couple with the mop <NUM> to allow cleaning solution or fluid to be applied adjacent the mop head <NUM>. In an embodiment, the containers <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to couple with the mop <NUM> in the same manner as is described in commonly owned <CIT> entitled "Hard Surface Cleaning and Conditioning Assemblies", the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

In one or more embodiments, the bucket assembly <NUM> may include other accessories or accessory holders as is shown in <FIG>. These accessory or accessory holders may include but are not limited to: a toilet bowl holder <NUM> and a toilet bowl brush <NUM>, a dust pan holder <NUM> and a dust pan <NUM> and/or a broom <NUM>, one or more bins <NUM>, a tote or caddy <NUM>, or a grabber device <NUM>. In an embodiment, the accessory holders are configured to keep the accessory over or within the recess <NUM>, such that any liquids or debris that may drip or fall off of the accessory is contained within the recess <NUM>. Further, in still one or more other embodiments, the trolley <NUM> may include one or more clip holders <NUM> arranged on the ends of the trolley (<FIG>) to provide locations for additional accessories, such as container <NUM> for example.

Referring now to <FIG>, another embodiment is shown of a bucket assembly <NUM>. The bucket assembly <NUM> is similar to bucket assembly <NUM> and bucket assembly <NUM> in that it has a trolley <NUM> having a plurality of wheels <NUM>. The trolley <NUM> may be configured in the same manner as trolley <NUM>, <NUM> and include a pair of recesses sized to receive a compartment <NUM>, <NUM>. It should be appreciated that that bucket assembly <NUM> may be configured in the same manner as bucket assembly <NUM> where the second compartment <NUM> is omitted to provide space to attach accessories such as brushes, brooms, bottles, dust pans, storage containers, tools, caddy, bins or a combination of the forgoing for example. In an embodiment, at least one of the sidewalls of the compartments <NUM>, <NUM> includes one or more indicia <NUM> that indicate a volume of fluid within the hollow interior of the compartment.

In an embodiment, each of the compartments <NUM>, <NUM> include an insert <NUM>, <NUM>. Each of the inserts <NUM>, <NUM> includes an element, such as tab <NUM> disposed on one side along the length of the insert. In the exemplary embodiment, the tab <NUM> engage the side of the compartment and couple the insert to the compartment <NUM>, <NUM>. In an embodiment the trolley <NUM> includes a center partition <NUM> that separates the recess portions <NUM>. The center partition <NUM> includes a protrusion <NUM> (<FIG>). The protrusion <NUM> and the tab <NUM> are sized and positioned to cooperate to prevent the compartment <NUM>, <NUM> from being inserted into the trolley <NUM> in the wrong orientation when the compartment is placed in the recesses <NUM>. In an embodiment, when the compartment is placed in the recess <NUM> in the undesired orientation, the tab <NUM> contacts the protrusion <NUM> to prevent insertion of the compartment <NUM>, <NUM>. In this way, the features of the inserts are positioned in a desired orientation during operation of the bucket assembly <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the insert <NUM> includes a u-shaped channel <NUM> that engages a lip of the compartment <NUM>. In an embodiment, the insert <NUM> includes a washboard portion <NUM> that may be used to agitate the microfibers of the mop pad as is described herein. The insert <NUM> further includes a plurality of walls <NUM> that are distributed along the length of the insert <NUM> (and thus the compartment <NUM>). In an embodiment, the walls <NUM> are disposed between the washboard portion <NUM> and the sidewall of the compartment <NUM>. The plurality of walls <NUM> act as a baffle or suppressor of fluid movement to reduce, prevent, or inhibit the movement or sloshing of the fluid within the compartment <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the insert <NUM> includes a channel or slot <NUM> (<FIG>) that is arranged parallel to the length of the insert <NUM> (and compartment <NUM>). The slot <NUM> is defined by a pair of sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. In an embodiment the sidewall <NUM> includes a relief area <NUM>. In an embodiment, the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> may include slots or holes. In an embodiment, the insert <NUM> further includes a u-shaped channel <NUM> sized and shaped to engage the lip of the compartment <NUM>. Similar to the insert <NUM>, the insert <NUM> may include a plurality of walls <NUM> that are spaced apart along the length of the insert <NUM>. In an embodiment, the walls <NUM> are disposed between the sidewall <NUM> and the sidewall of the compartment <NUM>. In an embodiment, the insert <NUM> includes a second plurality of walls <NUM> disposed between the sidewall <NUM> and the adjacent sidewall of the compartment <NUM> (when the insert is installed in the compartment <NUM>). The walls <NUM> act as a baffle or suppressor of fluid movement to reduce, prevent, or inhibit the movement or sloshing of the fluid within the compartment <NUM>.

The bucket assembly <NUM> further includes a wringing assembly <NUM> having a housing <NUM>. Coupled to the housing is a pole or post <NUM> having a handle <NUM> on an end opposite the housing <NUM>. In an embodiment, the post <NUM> includes an offset portion 548A. The handle <NUM> may be shaped in the same manner has handle <NUM>, <NUM> to allow for the securing of a mop or broom handle for example. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the handle <NUM> is formed by a cross-member 550A, with a pair of opposing c-shaped portions 550B, 550C. The ends of the c-shaped portions 550B, 550C are spaced apart to define gaps <NUM>. The gaps <NUM> are sized to allow a handle <NUM> of the mop <NUM> to pass therethrough. It should be appreciated that this allows the mop <NUM> to be secured to the bucket assembly <NUM> during transportation. Further, the arrangement of two opposing c-shaped portions 550B, 550C provides advantages in allowing the post <NUM> to be rotated <NUM> degrees between a first position where the offset portion 548A positions the handle <NUM> over the wringing assembly <NUM> as shown, or to a second position where the handle <NUM> extends beyond the side of the trolley <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the structure for offsetting the c-shaped portions 550B, 550C of the handle <NUM> relative to the post <NUM> may be incorporated into the cross-member 550A, rather than the post <NUM>.

In this embodiment, the housing <NUM> a slot <NUM> that is sized to receive the mop head <NUM>. In this embodiment, the opening of the slot <NUM> is defined by a first wall <NUM>, a second wall <NUM> and a pair of side walls <NUM>. In an embodiment, the internal components (e. g blade, rollers) of the wringing assembly <NUM> may be the same as that described with respect to bucket assembly <NUM>, <NUM> and as further described with reference to <FIG>. At the bottom of the wringing assembly <NUM> is a drain tray <NUM>. The drain tray <NUM> may be configured in the same manner as drain tray <NUM> and include an outlet <NUM> that extends over the first compartment <NUM> to allow the extracted fluid to drained into the first compartment.

In an embodiment, the second wall <NUM> extends (vertically) higher than the first wall <NUM>. In other words, the end surface of the second wall <NUM> is farther from the surface that the trolley <NUM> is resting the end surface of the first wall <NUM>. Similarly, the sidewalls <NUM> may extend past the first wall <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this defines a u-shaped opening. The first wall <NUM>, the second wall <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM> may be tapered or angled to assist in guiding the mop head <NUM> into the slot <NUM>. Providing the second wall <NUM> at a different height than the first wall <NUM> provides advantages in assisting the user in orienting the mop head <NUM> into the vertical position, such as when the mop pad is saturated with fluid. It should be appreciated that the different height walls are advantageous in aligning the mop head <NUM> in all scenarios, not just when the mop pad is saturated or partially saturated with fluid.

It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, when the mop pad is saturated with fluid, the weight of the fluid may overcome the biasing force of the biasing member in hinge assembly <NUM>. As a result, when the user removes the mop head <NUM> from the compartments <NUM>, <NUM>, the mop head <NUM> may be angled relative to the handle <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. As the mop head <NUM> is moved towards the wringing assembly <NUM>, the mop head <NUM> enters the u-shaped opening that that defines the entrance to the slot <NUM> (<FIG>). This movement continues until a surface on the mop head <NUM>, contacts the second wall <NUM> (<FIG>). As the handle <NUM> continues to move into the relief area <NUM>, the mop head <NUM> rotates to the vertical position (<FIG>), which aligns the mop head <NUM> with the slot <NUM>.

It should be appreciated that the configuration of the walls <NUM>, <NUM> and sidewalls <NUM> provides advantages in allowing the mop head to be automatically aligned with the slot <NUM> during the natural course of movement by the operator from the compartment <NUM>, <NUM> to the wringing assembly <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an embodiment is shown of the cleaning system having the bucket assembly <NUM> with the mop <NUM> stored thereon. In this embodiment, the mop head <NUM> is disposed in the first compartment <NUM> and the handle <NUM> is disposed within a slot on the handle <NUM>. As in the embodiment of <FIG>, the handle <NUM> may be "C" shaped and coupled to a post <NUM> that is secured to the wringing assembly <NUM>. It should be appreciated when the post <NUM> having the offset portion 548A is used, the handle <NUM> may be disposed on a more vertical orientation than is shown in <FIG>. Referring to <FIG>, an embodiment is shown of the cleaning system having a U-shaped handle <NUM> that is attached to opposite sides <NUM> of the wringing assembly housing <NUM>. The U-shaped handle <NUM> includes a pair of posts that extend vertically from the housing <NUM>. A u-shaped portion extends from the ends of the posts and defines a handle a at desired height from the floor that allows the user to push the bucket assembly <NUM>, <NUM>. In an embodiment the handle <NUM> may include a cross bar that includes a slot sized to receive the handle <NUM>.

In an embodiment, coupled to the handle <NUM> is a receptacle <NUM> that includes an open end <NUM> and a hollow interior for receiving trash or long handled cleaning tools for example. In the illustrated embodiment, the receptacle <NUM> includes a body <NUM> that extends from the open end <NUM> to a bottom end disposed in the recess <NUM>. In an embodiment, the body <NUM> may also attach to the clip holders <NUM>. In one embodiment, (<FIG>), the body 369a defines a hollow interior that extends to the bottom end. In another embodiment, the body 369b includes one or more shelves <NUM> that provide storage for the user, such as for cleaning supplies or tools for example.

It should be appreciated that the cleaning system disclosed herein provides advantages in allowing the user to configure the cleaning system for their application with different accessories or tools while remaining compact and mobile.

An embodiment of the mop <NUM> is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In <FIG>, the mop <NUM> is shown in the "horizontal" or operating position. In this position, the mop head <NUM> is positioned to place the mop pad <NUM> against the surface being cleaned (e.g. the floor). In an embodiment, the mop <NUM> may rotate in the same manner described in the aforementioned <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>. In other embodiments, the mop <NUM> may be the same as that described in aforementioned United States Patent Application entitled "Flat Headed Mop" (Attorney Docket UMI0007US6). It should be appreciated that the operating position of the mop <NUM> places the mop head <NUM> on an angle relative to the pole or handle <NUM>. In an embodiment, the angle is greater than zero degree. When the mop head <NUM> is folded to the position of <FIG>, sometimes referred to as the "vertical" position, the short axis or centerline of the mop head <NUM> is parallel or substantially parallel with the axis of the handle <NUM>. When in the vertical position, the mop head <NUM> may be placed into the slot <NUM>, <NUM> for wringing.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connection or hinge assembly <NUM> between the mop head <NUM> and the handle <NUM> is a swivel joint, allowing the mop head <NUM> and handle <NUM> to rotate relative to each other about two axes. As discussed herein, in an embodiment, the hinge assembly <NUM> is the same as the aforementioned <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> or the aforementioned United States Patent Application entitled "Flat Headed Mop" (Attorney Docket UMI0007US6). In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge assembly <NUM> is configured to bias the mop head <NUM> to the vertical position (<FIG>) when the mop head <NUM> is lifted from the surface being cleaned. Thus, the mop head <NUM> automatically moves to a position where it can be inserted into the slot <NUM>, <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mop head <NUM> is what is sometimes referred to as a flat headed mop, having a microfiber mop pad <NUM>. The mop pad <NUM>, when moved across the surface to be cleaned, acquires dirt, contaminants, hair, fur, other debris, or a combination of the forgoing from the surface being cleaned. It should be appreciated that while embodiments herein refer to the mop pad <NUM> as being a microfiber or microfiber cloth, this is for example purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the mop pad <NUM> may be made from other materials, such as but not limited to: cotton, polyester, textiles, foam materials, sponge materials, or a combination of the forgoing.

In an embodiment, the mop <NUM> is the same as that described in the afore mentioned <CIT> and includes a swivel handle having an upper portion <NUM> that rotates relative to the handle <NUM>. In an embodiment, the mop <NUM> may further include a container <NUM>, <NUM> that is connected to a dispensing system with an outlet port <NUM> that dispenses fluid from the container <NUM>, <NUM> adjacent the mop head <NUM>. The activation of the dispensing system may be via an actuator, such as trigger <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the combination of the mop <NUM>, having a dispensing system, in combination with the bucket assembly <NUM>, <NUM> provides advantages in reducing the amount of time used to clean and/or disinfect a floor. In some embodiments, the limiting parameter on how long a floor may be mopped before inserting the mop head into the compartment <NUM>, <NUM> and wringing in the wringing assembly <NUM>, <NUM> is the amount of fluid in the mop pad <NUM>. In some embodiments, the amount of fluid being released by the mop pad <NUM> will fall below a desired level before the mop pad <NUM> is dirty. This may occur, for example, in a hospital or medical environment where the disinfecting functionality is desirable. When the amount of disinfecting agent in the mop pad <NUM> is below a threshold, the disinfection function of the mopping may be inhibited. In this embodiment, the disinfecting solution may be contained within the container <NUM>, <NUM> and dispensed during the mopping operation. As a result, the amount of steps and time the user spends mopping relative to cleaning/wringing in bucket assembly <NUM>, <NUM> may be increased, thus embodiments disclosed herein reduce labor costs associated with cleaning an environment (e.g. a surgical center or operating room).

Referring now to <FIG>, a method <NUM> is shown for cleaning a floor with the cleaning system that includes the bucket assembly <NUM>. The method <NUM> begins in block <NUM> where the user mops the floor or surface to be cleaned by moving the mop head <NUM> and mop pad <NUM> across the surface. When the mop pad <NUM> becomes dirty, the method <NUM> proceeds to block <NUM> where the user inserts the mop head <NUM> into the compartment <NUM> that includes a fluid, such as fluid, a chemical cleaning solution, or a combination of the forgoing. The user engages the mop pad <NUM> against the cleaning element to agitate the microfibers and release the dirt or other contaminants therefrom. The method then proceeds to block <NUM> where the user inserts the mop head <NUM> into the wringing assembly <NUM> to extract fluids from the mop pad <NUM>. The extracted fluids flow along a fluid path via the wringing assembly <NUM> and drain tray <NUM> into the compartment <NUM>. The method <NUM> then proceeds to block <NUM> where the user continues cleaning the surface. These steps may be repeated until the user has completed cleaning floor.

Referring now to <FIG>, an embodiment is shown of a wringing assembly <NUM> that may be used on the bucket assembly <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The wringing assembly <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> that includes a slot <NUM>. The wringing assembly <NUM> and the slot <NUM> are in fluid communication with the first compartment <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> similar to the embodiment of <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>.

The housing <NUM> that includes a slot <NUM> having a pair of lead-in portions 433a, 433b. In the illustrated embodiment, the second lead-in portion 433b (<FIG>) is defined by surface <NUM> (<FIG>) on a plurality of ribs <NUM>. In an embodiment, the slot <NUM> further includes a relief area <NUM> that provides clearance for the mop handle as the mop head is inserted into the slot <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail herein, the housing <NUM> includes a fixed integrated blade or extractor element <NUM>. In an embodiment, the blade <NUM> is supported by the plurality of ribs <NUM>. Each pair of the plurality of ribs <NUM> define a slot <NUM> (<FIG>). As will be discussed in more detail herein, the slots <NUM> provide a flow path for the fluid extracted by the blade <NUM> from the mop pad.

In an embodiment, the blade <NUM> further includes a plurality of second ribs <NUM> (<FIG>) disposed on an opposite side of the edge <NUM> from the plurality of ribs <NUM>. The second plurality of ribs <NUM> define openings that allow fluids to flow therethrough. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of second ribs <NUM> are aligned with one of the plurality of ribs <NUM>. The ribs <NUM> may be supported by a wall <NUM> that in some embodiments extends substantially parallel to the slot <NUM> or perpendicular to blade edge <NUM>. The ribs <NUM> are angled away from the edge <NUM> such that a first end adjacent the edge <NUM> is closer to the centerline of the slot than the opposite end. In some embodiments function as a lead-in surface/element to slowly compress the mop pad as the mop head assembly is withdrawn from the wringing assembly <NUM>. This further provides advantages in reducing the forces on the connection between the mop pad <NUM> and the mop head <NUM>. In some embodiments, the blade <NUM> is positioned within the slot <NUM> so that as the user pulls upward on the mop head <NUM> from the slot <NUM>, the mop pad <NUM> will disengage from the blade <NUM> while the mop head <NUM> is still at least partially within the slot <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this allows the user to thereafter reverse the movement of the mop head into the downward direction without removing the mop head from the wringing assembly. This provides advantages in maintaining the mop head in the desired orientation during multiple wringing operations.

It should be appreciated that the integrated blade <NUM> is advantageous in reducing manufacturing costs and assembly time. In some embodiments, the integrated blade <NUM> may provide further advantages in strength and stiffness and may also be more precisely positioned relative to the slot <NUM>.

The wringing assembly <NUM> further includes at least one roller assembly <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment the wringer assembly includes two roller assemblies <NUM> that are coupled to the housing <NUM> and disposed on opposite sides of the relief area <NUM>. In an embodiment, each roller assembly <NUM> consists of a frame <NUM> and one or more rollers <NUM>. The frame <NUM> may be secured to the housing <NUM> by at least one fastener for example. In one embodiment, the frame <NUM> is disposed on an angle relative to the blade <NUM>. The angle of the frame <NUM> is selected to dispose the rollers <NUM> on a tangent to the surface of the cover of the mop head for example. As a result, in this embodiment the rollers <NUM> are offset to each other relative to the slot <NUM>. It should be appreciated that while the roller assemblies <NUM> are shown and described as being in pairs, this is for exemplary purposes and the claims should not be so limited. In other embodiments, the frame may have a single roller and the wringer assembly includes a single roller on each side of the relief area <NUM>. In still further embodiments, the wringer assembly may have a single long roller that extends along a substantial portion of the length of the slot <NUM>.

In an embodiment, the rollers <NUM> are movably coupled to the frame <NUM>. In an embodiment, each roller <NUM> includes an axle <NUM> (<FIG>) on either side of a wheel <NUM>. It should be appreciated that in the embodiment of <FIG>, the frame <NUM> is configured to have three rollers <NUM>, however the center roller is omitted for clarity. The axles <NUM> define the axis of rotation for the wheel <NUM>. The frame <NUM> includes a pair of slots <NUM>, each one sized to receive one of the rollers <NUM>. Each slot <NUM> includes a pair of recesses <NUM> disposed on either side of the slot <NUM>. The recesses <NUM> are sized to receive the axles <NUM> such that the axles <NUM> can rotate freely therein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the recesses <NUM> are defined by a wall <NUM>. The wall <NUM> includes a first rotation area <NUM> and a second rotation area <NUM> with an angled portion <NUM> therebetween. In operation, the rollers <NUM> rotate about their axis in the first rotation area <NUM> as the mop head is inserted into and moved through the slot <NUM> (<FIG>). As the mop head is withdrawn from the wringer assembly <NUM>, the rollers <NUM> move to the second rotation area <NUM> and rotate about their axis on this location (<FIG>). Without being constrained or bound to any theory, the rollers <NUM> move from the first position at first rotation area <NUM> to a second position at second rotation area <NUM> due to the frictional contact between the mop head cover and the wheels <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the operation of the bucket assembly <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> to wring, remove, or extract a fluid from a mop <NUM> having a mop head <NUM> with a mop pad <NUM> attached thereto. It should be appreciated that while the example of <FIG> is shown and described with reference to a wringing assembly housing <NUM>, the housing <NUM> may be configured in the same manner as housing <NUM> and have a u-shaped opening that guides the mop head <NUM> into the desired vertical alignment with the slot, such as when the mop head <NUM> is angled due to a saturated mop pad. Thus, it is easier for the end user to align the mop to the slot The mop head <NUM> also includes a cover <NUM> on a side of the mop head <NUM> opposite the mop pad <NUM>. In an embodiment, the mop pad <NUM> is made from a microfiber material. It should be appreciated that during the floor cleaning process, there are a number of instances where the user may desire wring, remove, or extract fluid from the mop pad. For example, after the user has cleaned the floor for a period of time, the mop pad may accumulate debris or otherwise become dirty or soiled. The user may then place the mop head <NUM> into the first compartment <NUM>, <NUM> to rinse the debris off, or optionally agitate the microfibers by rubbing the mop pad <NUM> against the cleaning element <NUM>. After rinsing the mop pad <NUM>, the user may desire to remove fluid (e.g. dirty fluid) before recharging the mop pad <NUM> in the second chamber <NUM>. Similarly, after recharging the mop pad <NUM>, the user may desire to remove excess fluid from the mop pad <NUM>.

To wring, remove, or extract fluid from the mop pad, the user rotates (or allows the rotation where the mop head is biased to rotate) to a position with the mop head <NUM> folded substantially flat against the pole, as is shown in <FIG>. In this position, the mop head <NUM>, cover <NUM>, and mop pad <NUM> are positioned to be inserted into the slot <NUM>. As the mop head assembly and end of the pole is inserted into the slot <NUM>, the lead-in portions 433a and 433b cooperate to guide the mop head assembly into the slot and initiate a gradual compression of the mop pad <NUM>. In the exemplary embodiment, the attachment mechanism between the mop pad <NUM> and the mop head <NUM> is a hook and loop fastener where the edges of the mop pad <NUM> may not be connected to the fastener (e.g. the fastener is offset from the edge of the mop pad). In an embodiment, the fastener is <NUM> - <NUM> from the edge of the mop head. These lead-in surfaces have been advantageously found to place less force on the leading edge of the mop pad <NUM> and reduces the risk of the mop pad <NUM> separating from the mop head <NUM> during insertion or when the mop pad comes in contact with the blade. As the mop head assembly continues to be inserted, the mop pad <NUM> engages the edge of the blade <NUM> and removed or extracted fluid flows through the openings or slots <NUM> and along a flow path, such as that indicated by arrow <NUM>, into the first compartment <NUM>, <NUM>. The mop pad <NUM> is held against the blade <NUM> by the rollers <NUM> which engage the cover <NUM>. The rollers <NUM> rotate (in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM>) as the mop head assembly moves through the slot <NUM>. The rollers <NUM> rotate in the first position (<FIG>) as the mop head assembly is inserted. In an embodiment, the end 104A of the mop head <NUM> contacts stop surface, such as surface <NUM> when in the fully inserted position (see <FIG>). In an embodiment, the surface <NUM> is part of the drain tray <NUM> and allow the wringing fluid to flow beneath the mop pad and reintroduction or reabsorption of the fluid is avoided. In an embodiment, the end 105A of the mop pad <NUM> remains above the edge of the blade <NUM> thus reducing or minimizing stress on the connection between the mop pad <NUM> and the mop head <NUM>. In other embodiments, the end 105A of the mop pad <NUM> moves past the blade <NUM> during insertion. In this embodiment, when the mop head <NUM> is withdrawn, the ribs <NUM> function as a lead-in to gradually compress the mop pad <NUM> during withdrawal and reduce the risk of the mop pad <NUM> separating from the mop head <NUM>.

After inserting the mop head assembly, the user may withdraw the mop head assembly by reversing the direction of movement by pulling up on the mop pole as indicated by arrow <NUM>. As a result, due to friction between the cover <NUM> and the rollers <NUM>, the rollers <NUM> will rotate in the direction indicated by arrow <NUM> (<FIG>). As a result, the rotation of the rollers <NUM> will cause the rollers <NUM> to move from the first position (<FIG>) to the second position (<FIG>). Once in the second position, the rollers <NUM> will continue to rotate as the mop head assembly is withdrawn. Once the mop head assembly is withdrawn from the bucket assembly <NUM>, <NUM>, the rollers <NUM> move back to the first position under the influence of gravity (<FIG>) as indicated by arrow <NUM>. It should be appreciated that if a roller <NUM> remains in the second position, the roller will move to the first position the next time the mop head assembly is inserted into the slot <NUM> and the roller contacts the cover <NUM>. It should be noted that when the mop pad <NUM> disengages from the blade <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the end 104A of the mop head <NUM> remains within the slot <NUM>. It should be appreciated that this allows the mop head to be moved through the wringer assembly again without the user reorienting the mop head <NUM>. It should be further appreciated that in the embodiment of <FIG>, the higher walls <NUM>, <NUM> also assist in maintaining the alignment of the mop head <NUM> as the mop head is withdrawn.

It should be appreciated that as the rollers <NUM> move from the first position to the second position, in addition to moving vertically, the rollers <NUM> move laterally in a direction away from the centerline of the slot <NUM>. This lateral movement of the rollers <NUM> allow the mop head <NUM> and hence the mop pad <NUM> to also move away from the blade <NUM> and thus reduce the amount of compression of the mop pad <NUM>. This advantageously reduces the amount of withdrawal force by the user. It should be appreciated that this movement between the first position and second position provides advantages in providing a desired level of fluid removal or extraction during the insertion and making it relatively easy for the user to withdraw. This arrangement provides further advantages in that the lower withdrawal force places less force on the connection between the mop pad and the attachment mechanism of the mop pad <NUM> to the mop head <NUM>. Thus, the reduced extraction force reduces the risk of the mop pad <NUM> separating from the mop head <NUM> during withdrawal.

It should also be noted that the terms "first", "second", "third", "upper", "lower", and the like may be used herein to modify various elements. These modifiers do not imply a spatial, sequential, or hierarchical order to the modified elements unless specifically stated.

Claim 1:
A floor cleaning system (<NUM>) having a flat headed mop (<NUM>), the system comprising:
a frame (<NUM>, <NUM>);
at least one compartment removably coupled to the frame (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
a wringing assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) coupled to the frame (<NUM>, <NUM>), the wringing assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a housing (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) with a slot (<NUM>) sized to receive the flat headed mop (<NUM>) and
an extractor element (<NUM>) disposed within the slot (<NUM>) and configured to extract fluid from the flat headed mop (<NUM>) characterized in that
a drip tray disposed in fluid communication with the slot (<NUM>) and the extractor element (<NUM>), the drip tray including at least one channel that at least partially defines a flow path from the slot (<NUM>) to an outlet (<NUM>, <NUM>), the outlet (<NUM>, <NUM>) being in fluid communication with the at least one compartment.