HK1177120B - Toothbrush - Google Patents

Abstract

A toothbrush having a toothbrush head with a top side at which cleaning elements for cleaning teeth are arranged. The cleaning elements and the head can facilitate the removal of foam, plaque and undesired particles.

Description

Tooth brush

Technical Field

The invention relates to a toothbrush having a toothbrush head with a top side on which cleaning elements for cleaning teeth are arranged.

Background

It has long been known to use toothbrushes to clean teeth. Generally, a toothbrush includes a head and a handle. The head includes a plurality of bristle tufts extending from a top surface of the head. The bristle tufts generally comprise a plurality of filaments joined to the head in a suitable manner. In addition to bristle tufts, some toothbrushes available in the market also provide elastomeric elements in an attempt to obtain benefits such as gum massaging, tongue cleaning, and the like.

The use of elastomers at various points on the head of a toothbrush is known. The elastomer in the toothbrush can be provided as a soft surface at the bottom and side surfaces of the head. For example, tongue scrapers made of elastomeric plastic on the bottom side of the head are known. Additionally, toothbrushes are known in which elastomeric massage rods are disposed at the side surfaces or laterally spaced from the tooth cleaning elements on the top side of the head. Finally, elastomers as cleaning elements for cleaning teeth at the top side of the head are also known. Relevant examples are WO-A-2003/055351, WO-A-1999/037181, WO-A-2000/076369, WO-A-1998/018364 and US-A-2007/0101525.

To increase efficiency, some toothbrushes utilize a denser field of cleaning elements. The bristle tufts and/or the elastomeric elements are spaced very close to each other. However, a disadvantage of such toothbrushes is that during brushing plaque and other undesirable substances can be trapped between the bristles, which can then be retained in the field of cleaning elements and can thus have a damaging effect on the enamel when cleaning and polishing the teeth.

Accordingly, there is a need for a toothbrush that can facilitate the removal of plaque and other undesirable materials from a field of cleaning elements.

Disclosure of Invention

Toothbrushes constructed in accordance with the present invention can facilitate the removal of plaque and/or undesirable materials from the bristle field. In some embodiments, foam removal, plaque removal, and/or undesired particle removal may be achieved by utilizing side surfaces with curvature that face away from a straight line. The elastomer zone at the side surface may be provided with a constriction or with a flat portion or with a convex curvature, and providing a portion at the side surface consisting of hard plastic and having an outwardly convex or convex curvature may facilitate such removal.

In a further embodiment, a toothbrush is provided having a toothbrush head provided at its top side with first and second cleaning elements for cleaning teeth, wherein the first cleaning elements have first bristle tufts having long and short sides and thus a base which is approximately rectangular or oval in cross-section. This essentially forms a toothpaste and foam carrier inside the elongated tufts, which for foam makes it possible for it to come off at the corners of the base where no tufts are disposed. As an alternative, there is provided a first tuft of bristles, also referred to as a compound or multiple tufts, each of which generally has a circular cross-section; however, because they are each strung along a straight line, the result is a square or diamond shaped bristle array. Thus, for a diamond shape, there are 4 straight lines, each with a plurality of bristle tufts. The tufts are designed to be longer than the cleaning elements arranged inside the polygon (e.g., diamond), resulting in the formation of a recessed, in particular trough-like, toothpaste receiving reservoir surrounded by tufts. This helps to gradually dispense toothpaste in the mouth during brushing. According to an alternative design, the "corners" of the rhombus, square or other polygon are each formed by a tuft of bristles, and according to the described embodiment, the short and long sides of the tufts are given gaps without forming corners in a strict geometrical sense.

The polygonal design of this toothpaste receiving reservoir in the bristle field makes it easier to trim the bristles bordering the receiving areas on the sides to their desired length and round their ends in order to obtain the desired topography of the free bristle ends after the toothbrush head has been tucked into the bristles, compared to the conventional circular (possibly cavernous) design of concave toothpaste receiving areas. Since in the polygonal design of the toothpaste receiving area inside the recess the centers of the bristle tufts, which are tufts or form a polygon as a plurality of tufts, are in each case located on a straight line, it is possible that adjacent tufts which are not part of the polygon can be pushed apart more easily by means of the deflecting plate or the displacer in order to trim certain parts of the bristle field to the desired length and/or round the ends spaced apart from other bristle tufts. In this case, passing the deflector plate between the tufts of bristles of the tamping head and then pivoting laterally makes it possible to trim the tufts individually to the correct length with respect to the adjacent tufts. For toothbrushes which are not produced in this way using anchor line tufting but which, for example, have no anchor lines, the polygonal design of the toothbrush receiving region can of course also have advantages.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that a plurality of first bristle tufts are arranged on the top flank such that their combined circumferential surface forms an approximately triangular, square, rhomboid or pentagonal base.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the first bristle tufts are arranged such that four first bristle tufts enclose the square base.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the second cleaning elements have second bristle tufts with a circular cross section and/or elastomer cleaning elements.

An advantageous further design provides that the first bristle tufts are designed longer than the second bristle tufts and/or that the first bristle tufts enclose the second bristle tufts or the elastomeric cleaning elements.

An advantageous further design provides that the compound/multiple bristle tufts of the first bristle tuft and the bristle tufts of the second and third cleaning elements each have a circular cross section, wherein directly adjacent bristle tufts are arranged at the shortest lateral distance from one another; having a distance in the direction of the longitudinal centre axis of less than 0mm and a distance in the direction of the transverse axis of 0-0.5 mm. Distances of less than 0mm along the longitudinal axis of the brush can be achieved by varying the layout of the polygonal tufts and the tufts inside the polygons. Thus, if the toothbrush is viewed from the lateral longitudinal sides, the distance between adjacent tufts appears to overlap and be less than 0 mm.

According to a further aspect, the invention provides a toothbrush having a toothbrush head with cleaning elements for cleaning teeth, which are grouped in various care zones in each case, which cleaning elements have at least one pre-cleaning zone with cleaning elements which are longer relative to the cleaning elements in the cleaning zone, wherein the pre-cleaning zone is arranged at the free end of the toothbrush head and has a polishing or massaging zone composed of elastomer cleaning elements and a toothpaste receiving zone designed in the shape of a trough. In the known bristle field, the plurality of care regions are not arranged spaced apart from one another; but rather mixes cleaning elements of different efficiencies with other cleaning elements in the vicinity. Thus, the care characteristics of the cleaning elements should be arranged in front in the partial grouping according to their various functions.

Further objects, advantages, features and possible applications of the present invention result from the following exemplary embodiments, which are described by way of illustration. The subject matter of the invention consists of all described or depicted features alone or in any meaningful combination and independently of the summary or the dependency in the claims.

Drawings

It was shown that:

figure 1 is a top view of the top side of a toothbrush head according to the present invention in schematic view,

figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the toothbrush head according to figure 1 along the line a-a in figure 4B,

figure 3 is an enlarged view of section y in figure 1,

figures 4A-4D are each a side view, a top view of a top side, a perspective top view and a perspective view of a bottom side of a toothbrush head according to figure 1,

figure 4E is an enlarged view of section x in figure 4B,

figure 4F is an enlarged view of the end section of the toothbrush head according to figure 4B,

figures 5A-5E are each a right side view, a top view of a top side, a left side view, a perspective top view and a perspective view of a bottom side of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 6A-6E are each a right side view, a top side view, a left side view, a perspective top view and another perspective top view of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 7A-7D are each a side view, a top view of a bottom side, a perspective top view and another perspective top view of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 8A-8D are each a side view, a top side view, a perspective top view and a perspective back view of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 9A-9F are each a right side view, a top side view, a left side view, a bottom side view, a perspective top view and another top view of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 10A-10D are each a top view, side view, perspective top view and perspective back view of the top side of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figure 11 is a perspective top view of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified from figure 1,

figures 12A-12B are perspective and cross-sectional views of an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with a square base of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figure 13 is a perspective view of an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with an approximately triangular base of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 14A-14B are perspective and cross-sectional views of an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with a circular base of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 15A-15C are perspective, longitudinal cross-sectional and top-down views of a toothbrush head in accordance with the present invention having elastomeric cleaning elements modified relative to figure 1, wherein the elastomeric cleaning elements have a platform with a circular base,

figures 16A-16C are perspective, longitudinal cross-sectional and top-down views of a toothbrush head in accordance with the present invention having elastomeric cleaning elements modified relative to figure 1, wherein the elastomeric cleaning elements have a platform with a circular base,

figures 17A-17C are perspective, longitudinal cross-sectional, and top-down views of a toothbrush head in accordance with the present invention having elastomeric cleaning elements modified relative to figure 1, wherein the elastomeric cleaning elements have a platform with a circular base,

figures 18A-18C are perspective, longitudinal cross-sectional, and top-down views of a toothbrush head in accordance with the present invention having elastomeric cleaning elements modified relative to figure 1, wherein the elastomeric cleaning elements have a platform with an approximately triangular base,

figures 19A-19C are perspective, longitudinal cross-sectional and top-side views of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 20A-20B are perspective views of the top side and bottom side of a toothbrush head according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 21A-21B are perspective views of the top side and bottom side of a toothbrush head having a spherical second component in accordance with the present invention modified from figure 1,

figure 22 is a perspective view of the top side of a toothbrush head having a spherical second component according to the present invention modified from figure 1,

figure 23 is a perspective view of the top side of a toothbrush head having a spherical second component according to the present invention modified from figure 1,

figures 24A-24B are each a perspective view of a toothbrush head having a diamond-shaped toothpaste receiving area according to the present invention modified relative to figure 1,

figures 24C-24D are each side views of a modified toothbrush head having a diamond-shaped toothpaste receiving area according to figure 24a,

FIGS. 24E-24F are each a top view of a bristle field of an improved toothbrush head having a diamond-shaped toothpaste receiving area according to FIG. 24A, FIG. 24F also schematically shows the handle of the toothbrush, and

fig. 24G is another top view of the bristle field of the improved toothbrush head having a diamond-shaped paste receiving area according to fig. 24A, showing the bristle shifter used.

Detailed Description

Figures 1-24 show the head of the toothbrush or any of its components connected to the neck and handle of the toothbrush to form a toothbrush. These heads are equally suitable for purely manual toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes. Each of the features of the toothbrush heads shown in these embodiments can be designed in simplified form or in different combinations than those presented. Although most embodiments show the tongue cleaner as having a particular configuration on the underside of the head, all embodiments may be made without a tongue cleaner or provided with another tongue cleaner configuration. Furthermore, some embodiments have elastomeric cleaning elements 17 (shown in fig. 9F) combined with bristle tuft cleaning elements (the elastomeric cleaning elements 17 are preferably made of a soft material), while other embodiments have only bristle tuft cleaning elements.

Referring to fig. 1-4F, a toothbrush head 1 made of a hard material or first component 2 has side or outer edges 3 interrupted by a single or multiple elastomeric regions that may be designed as necks 4. In some embodiments, the constriction may be an over-molded layer of soft material or a second component made of elastomeric plastic 5. Referring to fig. 4E, the width b of the constriction, when viewed from above at the centre 7 of the constriction₁Corresponding to the width b of the remaining widest outer edge line 6 of the head₂55 to 85 percent of the total weight of the composition. The outer edge line 6 is generally parallel to the longitudinal center plane of the toothbrush head 1 and tangent to the outer edge of the head representing the maximum width of the head 1. In the relevant constriction 4 where the measurement is made, the centre 7 of the constriction 4 represents the minimum width of the head 1.

The constriction 4 starts in a concave manner 8 and is thus directed inwards towards the longitudinal centre plane of the brush head. The concave curvature may be defined by an angle beta and different radii R_XiThereby forming the composite material. The effect of having a narrow concave necking radius of the elastomer is that the toothpaste foam 20 is well received. The passage of foam 20 from the top side 16 of the head 1 to the constriction 4 is also affected by the angle alpha.

For example, where the top side 16 slopes downwardly towards the constriction 4, plaque 25 sliding off the cleaning element 10 during brushing can more easily move with the foam 20 in the direction of the constriction 4. Thus, the foam 20 first migrates partially from the free end of the cleaning element 10 to the top side 16 of the head 1 and then to the side surface 3 of the head. Due to the change of direction during brushing, the foam 20 can be effectively retained and then removed from the constriction 4 together with the plaque 25 contained therein to a preferably convex curvature of the same side surface 3, which may be made of hard plastic.

According to the various embodiments shown-see in particular figures 5 to 10-respective constrictions divide the toothbrush into different tooth care zones. The treatment zones for various tooth care tasks are arranged at specific local sections of the head, which may reduce the possibility of mixing other cleaning elements inside one zone for other cleaning purposes. The task of the care area can be determined by the type of cleaning elements, for example the different types of filaments, tuft cross-sections, the size of the bristle tuft cross-sections, the effective length of the elastomer elements 17 or the cleaning elements.

Each region may be divided into two or more sub-regions. Each sub-area is designed and equipped by various tasks possible during brushing. As shown in fig. 5A-5E, near the distal end 520 of the head 510 and near the proximal end 530 of the head 510 may have a pre-cleaning zone 500A. As shown in fig. 5A, the pre-cleaning zone 500A can include a plurality of cleaning elements 511 configured as the outermost cleaning elements adjacent the distal end 520 and adjacent the proximal end 530.

The cleaning elements 511 of the pre-cleaning zone 500A may be configured such that their heights vary. For example, as shown, the cleaning elements adjacent the distal end 720 can be configured such that the height of the cleaning elements 511 decreases in a direction toward the handle. In addition, the cleaning elements 511 may be trimmed at an angle such that a peak is formed adjacent the cleaning element 511 closest to the distal end 520. Similarly, the cleaning elements 511 in the pre-cleaning region 500A adjacent the proximal end 530 can be configured such that the cleaning elements 511 have different heights. As shown, the cleaning elements 511 may decrease in height from the proximal end 530 toward the distal end 520. In addition, the cleaning elements 511 may be trimmed at an angle such that a peak is formed adjacent the cleaning element 511 closest to the proximal end 530.

A cleaning zone 500B is disposed in the middle of the pre-cleaning zone 500A. Further, an interdental area 500D may be generally provided in an area similar to the cleaning area 500B. The interdental area 500D may include cleaning elements 513 disposed on either side of the cleaning elements 512 of the cleaning area 500B. As shown, the interdental area 500D may include a convex arcuate trim.

As shown, the polishing zone 500C can include a plurality of cleaning elements 514 disposed intermediate the cleaning elements 511 for the pre-cleaning zone 500A and the cleaning elements 512 for the cleaning zone 500B. The polishing zone 500C can include cleaning elements 514 that have a larger cross-section than those adjacent thereto.

As shown in fig. 6A-6E, a pre-cleaning zone 600A disposed adjacent a distal end 620 of the head 610 and a proximal end 630 of the head 610 may include a plurality of cleaning elements 611. The cleaning elements 611 may be configured as the outermost cleaning elements adjacent the distal end 620 and adjacent the proximal end 630 of the head 610. The precleaning zone 600A may be configured similar to the precleaning zone 500A previously described.

A cleaning region 600B is provided in the middle of the pre-cleaning region 600A. Further, an outer region 600E may be generally disposed in a region similar to the clean region 600B. Outer region 600E may include cleaning elements 615 disposed on both sides of cleaning elements 612 and 613.

As shown, cleaning zone 600B may include a convex arcuate trim, and similarly, outer zone 600E may include a convex arcuate trim. In some implementations, the cleaning elements 615 of the outer region 600E can have a shorter height than the cleaning elements 613 of the cleaning region 600B.

As shown, the polishing zone 600C can include a plurality of cleaning elements 614 disposed intermediate the cleaning elements 611 for the pre-cleaning zone 600A and the cleaning elements 613 for the cleaning zone 600B. The polishing zone 600C may include cleaning elements 614 having a larger cross-section than those adjacent thereto.

Zone 600D may include a plurality of cleaning elements 612 disposed adjacent the periphery of the head. Further, a portion of the plurality of cleaning elements 612 may be disposed inside of the cleaning element 615 of the outer region 600E.

As shown in fig. 7A-7D, in some embodiments, the brush head 710 can be divided into a pre-cleaning zone 700A, a cleaning zone 700B, a post-cleaning zone 700C, and a toothpaste retention zone 700D. As shown, the toothpaste retention zone 700D may be disposed inside the cleaning zone 700B. For example, as shown, cleaning elements 713 of cleaning zone 700B may at least partially surround cleaning elements 712 of holding zone 700D. In some embodiments, cleaning elements 712 of holding zone 700D may be shorter than cleaning elements 713 of cleaning zone 700B. In this way, recessed areas can be formed in the field of cleaning elements, which can provide better retention of toothpaste, for example.

The preclean zone 700A may be configured similar to the preclean zones previously discussed, e.g., 500A and 600A. The rear cleaning zone 700C can be configured such that the cleaning elements 711 increase in height toward the proximal end 730 of the head 710. However, unlike pre-clean zone 700A, the gradual increase in height may be slightly less than that exhibited by cleaning elements 712 of pre-clean zone 700A.

As shown in fig. 8A-8D, the head 810 of fig. 8A-8D may include similar regions such as 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D, similar to the configuration of the head 710 shown in fig. 7A-7D. The zone 800A may be configured similarly to the pre-clean zones 500A, 600A, and 700A described previously. Zone 800B may be configured as previously described with respect to cleaning zones 500B, 600B, and/or 700B. Zone 800C may be configured similarly to post-cleaning zone 700C described previously. Zone 800D may be constructed as previously described with respect to holding zone 700D. In other embodiments, zone 800D may be configured similarly to zone 600D or interdental zone 500D.

In addition, the head 810 may include a plurality of elastomeric elements 17 that border the cleaning zone 800B on one or both sides. Elastomeric member 17 may extend from common base 817. As shown in fig. 2, the base 817 may be integrally formed with the elastomeric material of the tongue cleaner.

As shown in fig. 9A-9F, a brush head 910 constructed in accordance with the present invention may include a pre-cleaning zone 900A adjacent the distal end 920 and a pre-cleaning zone 900A adjacent the proximal end 930. A cleaning region 900B may be disposed in the middle of the pre-cleaning region 900A. Further, there may be a gap 945 between the pre-clean zone 900A and the clean zone 900B. This gap 945 can facilitate removal of the foam 20 from the cleaning element field toward necking as previously described (shown in fig. 1).

The preclean zone 900A may be configured similarly to the preclean zones 500A, 600A, 700A, and/or 800A previously discussed. The cleaning zone 900B may be configured similarly to the cleaning zones 500B, 600B, 700B, and/or 800B previously described. The pre-cleaning zone 900A may include a plurality of cleaning elements 911. Cleaning zone 900B can include a plurality of cleaning elements 912 disposed intermediate cleaning elements 911 of pre-cleaning zone 900A.

Cleaning elements 913 of outer zone 900D may be positioned intermediate first set 912 and second set 912. The cleaning elements 913 may be oriented in any suitable shape. As shown, the cleaning elements 913 may be arranged such that the cleaning elements 913 form a diamond shape on the head 910. Within the diamond shape of cleaning elements 913, cleaning elements 914 of holding zone 900C can be disposed. The cleaning elements 914 may be similarly configured in a diamond shape. As shown, the cleaning elements 913 and 914 can be configured such that they form an outer diamond shape and an inner diamond shape. Further, the cleaning elements 913 may have a height that is less than the height of the cleaning elements 914.

The head 910 may also include a plurality of elastomeric elements 17. A first set of elastomeric elements 17A may extend from the first base 917A. The first base 917A may be integrally formed with the elastomeric material of the tongue cleaner. Similarly, the first set of elastomeric elements 17A may be integrally formed with the first base 917A. The head 910 may also include a second set of elastomeric elements 17B that may extend from a second base 917B. The second set of elastomeric elements 17B can be configured similarly to the first set of elastomeric elements 17A, and the second seat 917B can be configured similarly to the first seat 917A.

As shown, the first set of elastomeric elements 17A and/or the second set of elastomeric elements 17B may have a height that is shorter than the height of the cleaning elements 913 of the outer region 900D. Further, in some embodiments, the first set of elastomeric elements 17A and/or the second set of elastomeric elements 17B may have a taper angle. The taper angle can be greater than about 0.5 °, greater than about 1 °, greater than about 1.5 °, greater than about 2.0 °, greater than about 2.5 °, greater than about 3.0 °, and/or less than about 3.0 °, less than about 2.5 °, less than about 2.0 °, less than about 1.5 °, less than about 1.0 degree, or any number or any range within the provided values. The taper angle may be beneficial during the machining process. For example, the taper angle may facilitate removal of the elastomeric element from the injection mold.

A third set of elastomeric elements 17C may extend from the third base 917C. The third set of elastomeric elements 17C can be configured similarly to the first set of elastomeric elements 917A, and the third seat 917C can be configured similarly to the first seat 917A. A fourth set of elastomeric elements 17D may extend from the fourth base 917D. The fourth set of elastomeric elements 17D may be configured similarly to the first set of elastomeric elements 17A, and the fourth susceptor 917D may be configured similarly to the first susceptor 917A.

As shown in fig. 10, the head 1010 may include a pre-cleaning region 1000A adjacent the distal end 1020 and a pre-cleaning region 1000A disposed adjacent the proximal end 1030. The cleaning region 1000B may be disposed in the middle of the cleaning region 1000A. The polishing zone 1000C may be at least partially surrounded by the cleaning elements 1011 of the pre-cleaning zone 1000A. As shown, the cleaning element 1013 of the polishing zone 1000C is completely surrounded by the cleaning element 1011.

The inner region 1000D is at least partially surrounded by the cleaning elements 1012 of the cleaning region 1000B. As shown, cleaning elements 1014 of inner zone 1000D may be completely surrounded by cleaning elements 1012 of cleaning zone 1000B.

The brush head 1010 may be configured such that there are a plurality of constrictions 1004 along the perimeter of the head 1010. The constriction 1004 may be constructed as previously discussed with respect to constriction 4. Further, the pre-cleaning zone 1000A may be separated from the cleaning zone 1000B by a plurality of elastomeric elements 17. For example, as shown, a first set of elastomeric elements 1017A can separate a pre-cleaning zone 1000A adjacent the distal end 1020 from a cleaning zone 1000B. In addition, the second set of elastomeric elements 1017B can separate the cleaning zone 1000B from the pre-cleaning zone 1000A adjacent the proximal end 1030 of the head 1010.

The preclean zone 1000A may be configured as previously discussed with respect to preclean zones 500A, 600A, 700A, 800A, and 900A. Further, either or both of the pre-cleaning zones 1000A may be configured similarly to the post-cleaning zones 700C and 800C previously described. The cleaning zone 1000B may be configured similarly to the cleaning zones 500B, 600B, 700B, 800B, or 900B.

The various care areas previously described may be obtained in a variety of ways. For example, as shown in fig. 11, the toothbrush head 1110 may achieve different treatment zones by a shorter tuft 19 disposed in the center of the top side, a mixed tuft 21 having filaments in the core region and shorter filaments in the edge region of the same tuft 21, and a tuft 24 having tapered filaments.

In some embodiments, cleaning elements may be provided that perform multiple functions, and dual care zones may be formed as well. For example, as shown in fig. 12-14, elastomeric cleaning elements 1226A-1226C having integrally injection molded platforms 1227A-1227C can perform a toothpaste retention function and a polishing function. To achieve the paste retaining function, the free ends of the cleaning elements may be lower than adjacent bristle tufts, which are formed in a trough-like configuration above them in height. It is possible to attach the platforms 1227A to 1227C to the head using injection molding or another attachment technique.

As shown in fig. 15A-15C, the toothbrush head 1510 can include elastomeric elements as described in fig. 12A-14B. For example, as shown, the toothbrush head 1510 can comprise elastomeric elements 1226C. The elastomeric element 1226C may be disposed substantially in the center of the head 1510. As shown, elastomeric element 1226C may be at least partially surrounded by a plurality of cleaning elements 1512. As described above, elastomeric element 1226C may have a height that is less than the height of cleaning elements 1512, such that retention zones are formed similar to zones 700D, 800D, and 900C.

As shown in fig. 16A-16C, the toothbrush head 1610 can include elastomeric elements as described in fig. 12A-14B. For example, the toothbrush head 1610 may include elastomeric elements 1226C. As shown, elastomeric element 1226C may be at least partially surrounded by a plurality of cleaning elements 1612. As shown, elastomeric elements 1610 may be positioned longitudinally offset from the center of head 1610.

Referring to fig. 17A-17C, the toothbrush head 1710 can include a plurality of elastomeric elements 1226A. Elastomeric elements 1226A may be longitudinally offset from each other and separated by at least one cleaning element. Elastomeric elements 1226A can be configured such that either or both form a retention zone, e.g., having a height less than an adjacent cleaning element.

As shown, the brush head 1710 may include a first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 having a rectangular cross-section. A first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can be attached in the elongated opening of the head 1710 and can have various width to depth ratios. In a horizontal cross-section, each of the first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can be approximately rectangular. The first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 may be arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the head. In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can form an included angle Δ with the longitudinal axis between 30 and 60 °.

As shown in fig. 18A-18C, the toothbrush head 1810 can include an elastomeric element 1226B adjacent a distal end 1820 of the head 1810. Elastomeric member 1226B may form a portion or all of a pre-clean zone as previously described. As shown, the elastomeric element 1226B may be angled relative to the top surface 1825 of the head 1810. The angle may be any suitable angle measurement. The bevel may be distal to the proximal end 1830. Embodiments are contemplated in which a second elastomeric element similar to elastomeric element 1226B is utilized adjacent proximal end 1830. In such embodiments, the second elastomeric element may be angled away from distal end 1820 relative to top surface 1825.

As shown in fig. 19A-19C, the toothbrush head 1910 can include a plurality of cleaning elements that do not include elastomeric elements arranged at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis 29 of the head 1910. As shown, head 1910 can include a first plurality of cleaning elements 1928 attached in elongated openings of head 1910 and can have various width to depth ratios. In a horizontal cross-section, each of the first plurality of cleaning elements 1928 can be approximately rectangular. The first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 may be arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the head. In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can form an angle Δ with the longitudinal axis 29 of between 30 and 60 °.

Referring to fig. 20A and 20B, in some embodiments, a toothbrush head 2010 can include a first component 30 and a second component 31A. The first component 30 may include a first material and the second component may include a second material different from the first material. In some embodiments, the first material may be harder than the second material. The second material may comprise a hard material similar to the first material. Where the second component 31A comprises a soft material, embodiments are contemplated in which the second component 31A is integrally formed with the material of the tongue cleaner. The first component 30 may have a flat top side or bristle plate and may be provided with cleaning elements. Second component 31A may be made of a hard or soft plastic and may be flexibly or removably mounted in first component 30. The second component 31A may be designed to be partially approximately spherical and may terminate in a flat or likewise spherical top side where the cleaning elements are arranged.

As shown in fig. 21A and 21B, the toothbrush head 2110 can include a first component 2130 and a second component 31B. In such embodiments, first component 2130 and second component 31B can comprise similar materials to those components described with respect to fig. 20A and 20B. In addition, first component 2130 can include an opening that extends from a top surface of first component 2130 to a bottom surface of first component 2130. The second component 31B may be disposed inside the opening and have a plurality of cleaning elements attached thereto. Second component 31B may have a top surface that is slightly raised above the top surface of first component 2130.

As shown in fig. 22, a toothbrush head 2210 can include a first component 2230 and a second component 31C. The first component 2230 can have a distal portion 2220 and a proximal portion 2231. The distal portion 2220 and the proximal portion 2231 may be longitudinally separated. Second component 31C may be positioned intermediate distal portion 2220 and proximal portion 2231. In such embodiments, the second component 31C may be integrally made of the material used for the tongue cleaner. First component 2230 and second component 31C can include materials previously described with respect to fig. 20A and 20B.

As shown in FIG. 23, the toothbrush head 2310 may include a first component 2330 and a second component 31B. First component 2330 can be constructed similarly to first component 2230 described previously. In other words, first component 2330 can include a distal portion 2320 and a proximal portion 2331 that are longitudinally separated from one another. Second component 31B may be disposed intermediate distal portion 2320 and proximal portion 2331. In some embodiments, the second component 31B may be integrally formed with the material of the tongue cleaner. First component 2330 and second component 31B can comprise the materials described previously with respect to fig. 20A and 20B.

Each of fig. 24A through 24G show a different view of the same toothbrush head 100, which is another variation of the toothbrush heads described previously. The already described features of the other toothbrush heads according to fig. 1 to 23 can be utilized in the embodiment according to fig. 24A to 24G. The toothbrush has a longitudinal central axis 110 and a transverse axis 111 perpendicular thereto.

According to fig. 24A to 24G, the toothbrush head 100 and the neck 102 and the handle 101 of the toothbrush can be produced in an injection molding process from a first hard plastic component. On the rear side 2476 or bottom side (optional) of the head 100, the head 100 may include cutouts on the side surfaces 107 and 108 between the top side 2475 and the rear side 2476. In a second injection molding step, the cut-outs may be filled with a soft plastic composition consisting of an elastomer in order to provide a tongue scraper (optional) on the rear side 2476 and an alternating hard-soft structure on the side surfaces 107 and 108 of the head 100. According to this embodiment, the soft plastic at the side surfaces 107 and 108 may also be the base of the lateral soft massage fingers 103 arranged adjacent to the bristle field. Two pairs of massage fingers 103 for massaging the gums may be arranged on each side of the head. The number of massage fingers 103 may optionally be varied. The length of the massage fingers 103 may be shorter than the length of the adjacent bristles. The neck and handle may be designed in any manner. In one variant, the head, neck and handle are each provided with a hard plastic component and at least one soft plastic component.

As shown in fig. 24E, 24F and 24G, the shape of the head 100 is designed to taper through the width of the head 100 in both directions toward the free end 104 and the opposite end 105 bordering the neck 102. The middle zone 106 on the top side 2475 of the head 100 may be designed to have a maximum width. Thus, the side surfaces 107 and 108 may be convex in curvature. In some embodiments, the side surfaces 107, 108 comprise hard plastic, and further, in the base region of the first pair of soft plastic massage fingers 103. In the direction of the neck at the widest point 106, the side surfaces 107 and 108 may comprise hard plastic, and continuing in the direction of the neck, each side surface 107, 108 of the base region of each second pair of massaging fingers consists of soft plastic, and also in the direction of the neck, a hard plastic region follows at each side surface 107 and 108. The hard and soft segments thus repeatedly alternate at each side surface 107, 108. Thus, there are alternating segments at the side surfaces 107 and 108 (which have slight adhesive properties and dispense toothpaste foam in the mouth) and zones along which toothpaste foam is not readily transported through the side surfaces. This may produce an effect which may be equivalent to that achieved by means of necking as shown in figures 1 to 3. The non-linear shape of the head 100 with a convex protrusion is also suitable for exerting a positive influence on the removal of foam.

Furthermore, the non-linear shape of the head 100 with a lateral convex protrusion is also suitable for exerting a positive influence on the removal of foam, since due to the convex curvature the foam is more exposed and thus a minimum amount of foam remains in this position. Fig. 24d shows that at the side surface, starting from the free end of the head 104, hard plastic segments 126 alternate with elastomer segments 127, with hard plastic segments 128, with another elastomer segment 129 and with hard plastic segments 103 adjacent to the neck. Advantageously, each of the hard and soft segments extends over the entire height of the side surface.

With the massaging fingers 103 and tongue scraper 109, the head 100 may provide at least two treatment zones, e.g., one with a treatment tongue and cheeks and another for treating the gums. As shown in fig. 24G, the tooth cleaning zone of the head 100 may include other treatment zones that may be designed in such a way that a particular determined tooth zone is thoroughly cleaned.

For example, provided in one region adjacent to the free end 104 and adjacent to the neck 105 are cleaning elements forming a pre-cleaning region 2400A. Precleaned region 2400A can be configured similarly to the precleaned regions described herein. These cleaning elements may be slightly longer and designed to be slightly angled compared to most typical bristle tufts. Because the cleaning elements are disposed on each end of the head, the cleaning elements also automatically pre-clean the teeth.

Following the pre-cleaning zone 2400A, next to both sides of the top side 2475 of the head 100 are a number of cleaning elements, in particular cleaning elements for interdental cleaning 2400E. The cleaning elements may be designed to be longer than immediately adjacent cleaning elements and may be arranged in a row parallel to the transverse axis.

In the central region of the head 100, cleaning elements are arranged to form a cleaning region 2400B and a polishing region 2400D. These cleaning elements may be particularly dense, laterally offset from one another, and arranged on the head in such a way that the bristles are slightly curved and provide enhanced cleaning and polishing effects. In contrast, the respective bristle arrangements of the interdental and pre-cleaning areas 2400E and 2400A are not tight and can therefore be bent more easily, so that the greater length is not unpleasant to feel.

In this embodiment, the polishing zone 2400D can be formed by a first plurality of cleaning elements that collectively form a diamond-shaped configuration or envelope a diamond-shaped base when viewed from above. The center points of the bores of the first plurality of cleaning elements can lie in each case on straight lines 112, 113, 114 and 115 (see fig. 24E). These straight lines may also enclose polygons or diamonds. According to fig. 24, each cleaning element forming the polygon is a tuft that is approximately circular in cross-section such that a plurality of tufts form one of the sides of the diamond. In contrast, some of the regions in fig. 17, 18 and 19 comprise approximately rectangular or oval shaped clusters as seen in cross-section, and wherein one side of the diamond is designed by one or two clusters. Inside polishing zone 2400D are cleaning elements that form a dentifrice retaining zone 2400C. These cleaning elements are shorter than the immediately adjacent tufts of diamond polishing zone 2400D, which creates a trough-like recess for receiving dentifrice.

Fig. 24C and 24D demonstrate that the free ends of the cleaning elements (except for the protruding bristle tufts for interdental cleaning 2400E and the recessed tufts in the paste retention area 2400C) form an approximately biconcave curvature along the longitudinal central axis 110. This biconcave curvature profile is interrupted by projecting bristle tufts in the interdental region 2400E, which enhances the interdental cleaning effect, since the directly adjacent tufts are particularly short, deep interdental penetration being possible.

In some embodiments, the head is injection molded to have tuft holes to be stuffed with bristle tufts, which are then stuffed therein and joined with anchor lines. In the region of the free ends, the bristle tufts are then trimmed to the correct length and the ends are rounded off. In order to allow the different bristle tufts to be trimmed to the desired length, displacers can be used which traverse the bristle field in such a way that the desired tufts can be treated or trimmed and which move or bend certain cleaning elements laterally, while the moved tufts are untreated. It can also be assumed that the configuration of the head in anchor-free tufting (AFT method) is also advantageous.

Shown in figure 24G is the path of the shifter 116 and 125 in some embodiments. During the machining process, displacers 118, 119, 124 and 125 are used, which are movable parallel to the transverse axis. The shifters 120, 121, 122, and 123 move diagonally through the bristle field. Because the paste retention area 2400D and the tufts enclosing the same area are both in the form of polygons or diamonds, a dense bristle field with an optimal topography can be provided because the diagonal shifter can be directed parallel to line 112 of the diamond 115. Furthermore, displacers 116 and 117 are provided which are substantially guided in the longitudinal direction along a curved path.

Further advantages and variations of the above-described head are described below.

In one variation, the toothbrush has: toothbrush head having a first and a second component at each of which cleaning elements for cleaning teeth are arranged, wherein the second component has a partially spherical or spherical geometry, wherein each of the first and second components has a flat top side on which the cleaning elements are arranged and two of these top sides are arranged inclined towards one another, wherein the second component is movably mounted with respect to the first component, wherein the first and second components are made of materials having different properties, in particular different hardnesses, wherein the second component forms a convex platform with respect to the top side of the first component.

Advantageously, the constriction or different adhesive properties on the side surfaces remove the foam generated during brushing better from the bristle field and thus provide better wetting of the foam throughout the oral cavity rather than retaining the foam in the bristle field. Furthermore, the continuous removal of newly generated foam makes it possible that additional foam from the applied toothpaste is generated rather than being stopped by already existing foam. It follows that these necks make a greater amount of foam available for brushing during the entire brushing process than in conventional toothbrush heads. Therefore, the care substance contained in the toothpaste for tooth enamel, gum, etc. can provide a better, faster, and longer-lasting property to a predetermined position than the case of using the conventional toothbrush head.

It has been demonstrated that along the necking in combination with the elastomer surface at the side surface of the toothbrush head, foam and plaque are transported very differently than on a smooth side surface lacking necking or elastomer coating. This effect is amplified considerably if surfaces with very different adhesive properties are designed at the same side surface. This is the case when the foam retaining elastomer is provided in part and the hard component is provided in part to slide through the foam.

By applying the soft material to the hard material with the inclination of the transition towards the neck, the flow behaviour of the foam is influenced, whether or not it can flow slowly or quickly from the brush head.

In another embodiment of the constriction, it extends over the entire bristle plate and thus acts as a barrier to the foam and dirt mixture generated in the front and rear cleaning zones of the cleaning elements of the head. This mixture of foam and dirt is then effectively removed by the necked geometry. This effect can be further amplified by means of special blocking and draining elements and the application of well-guided slot geometries.

Because of the above-described embodiments, a multi-functional brushing process is achieved, making it possible to eliminate plaque, optionally polish the teeth, and provide actives to the teeth and gums in one brushing motion.

An advantageous further design provides that the side surface with the constriction is partly covered with elastomer and partly with the hard component.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the constriction is at least partially covered with an elastomer.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the region of the side surface which is arranged adjacent to the constriction is provided with a hard component — and is free of elastomer.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the lateral surface is arranged along a longitudinal side of the toothbrush head, is convexly curved to the outside, and has a hard component. A further advantage of the constriction is a better removal of dirt particles received by the foam from the toothbrush bristle field. The convex curvature adjacent to the constriction enables continuous removal of the dirt-bound foam from the brushing zone, and dirt particles do not damage the teeth during the continued brushing and polishing process.

According to another aspect, provision is made for a platform to be arranged on the top side of the toothbrush head, for the elastomeric cleaning elements to be joined to this platform, and for both the elastomeric cleaning elements and the platform to be made of the same elastomer. The cleaning effect of the elastomeric cleaning elements is correlated with the wiping effect along the teeth. The wiping surface of the rod-shaped cleaning element is increased when it is designed to be thinner. However, depending on the contact force, a negative effect may occur during brushing due to the less flexible elastomeric cleaning elements. It is therefore desirable to determine the flexibility of elastomeric cleaning elements not only in terms of their hardness, but also in terms of how much they yield over their overall length. In addition, thin, long elastomeric cleaning elements are more difficult to produce. It is suggested to process the elastomer with a platform or socket in a single injection molding cycle.

An advantageous further design provides that the platform has a square, rectangular, oval or circular base and that the axis of symmetry of the platform base is arranged within the longitudinal center plane of the toothbrush.

An advantageous further design provides that the platform extends perpendicularly away from the top side between 10% and 90%, in particular 10% to 50%, in particular 10% to 30%, of the total longitudinal extension of the platform with the elastomeric cleaning elements. This results in a positive wiping behavior of the cleaning element and at the same time a good producibility.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the top side of the platform on which the elastomer cleaning elements are arranged is designed to be planar and parallel to the top side of the toothbrush head, or to be spherically arched.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the elastomeric cleaning elements are designed in the form of needles, in particular cylinders, or that they taper conically towards the free end.

It is advantageous if the free ends of the elastomeric cleaning elements are arranged adjacent to the bristle cleaning elements and wherein the bristle cleaning elements project farther from the top side than the free ends of the elastomeric cleaning elements, so that the two cleaning elements together form a trough-like cross-section for receiving toothpaste. The groove-like recesses formed by the cleaning elements thus result in an even distribution of the toothpaste in the mouth.

In another aspect, the toothbrush head is made of a first and a second component, at each of which cleaning elements are arranged, wherein the second component has a partially spherical or spherical geometry. The spherical geometry also causes the toothpaste foam or plaque to change flow properties along this geometry with the advantages described above.

An advantageous further design provides that each of the first and second components has a flat top side on which the cleaning elements are arranged, and that the two top sides are arranged inclined towards one another. Such a design of the second component allows for simplified manufacturing of the cleaning elements in particularly angled embodiments, while maintaining the brushing benefits through the angled cleaning elements.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the second component is movably mounted relative to the first component.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the first and the second component are each made of materials having different properties, in particular having different hardnesses.

An advantageous further embodiment provides that the second component forms a raised platform relative to the top side of the first component.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, the disclosed dimension "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

Claims (20)

1. A toothbrush having a toothbrush head with a top side at which elements for cleaning teeth are arranged and a bottom side arranged opposite the top side, which connects the top side and the bottom side by means of side surfaces, wherein at least one side surface has a curvature, and wherein the toothbrush head has an elastomer component and a hard plastic component, wherein the surfaces of the side surfaces having the curvature are partly covered with elastomer and partly with hard component, wherein each side surface is designed to alternate hard plastic, elastomer, hard plastic, elastomer and hard plastic.

2. The toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein side surfaces are arranged along the longitudinal sides of the toothbrush head, which are convexly curved or provided with outward bulges to the outside and are provided with a hard plastic component.

3. The toothbrush of claim 2 wherein the area of the side surface adjacent the convex curve is provided with elastomer on both sides.

4. The toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein the side surfaces are provided partly with elastomer and partly with a hard plastic component over the entire height extending from the bottom side to the top side.

5. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the side surfaces have cutouts adjacent the side surfaces relative to the hard plastic component, the cutouts being filled with an elastomer.

6. The toothbrush of claim 1 wherein the elastomeric tongue scraper on the bottom side is formed as a region having an elastomer at the side surface and further formed as an elongated massaging finger made of the same elastomer.

7. A toothbrush according to claim 1 having a handle and a toothbrush head at the top side of which first, second and third cleaning elements for cleaning teeth are provided, wherein the first cleaning elements have first bristle tufts which, as single tufts, each have a long side and a short side and thus have a base which is approximately rectangular or elliptical in cross section, or as compound tufts which are separate from one another, each first bristle tuft being arranged with their center point along a line in each case, such that the envelope region of a compound tuft has a first bristle tuft which has a base which is approximately rectangular or elliptical in cross section, wherein a longitudinal central axis of the toothbrush extends from the handle free end to the head free end and a transverse axis is arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, wherein a plurality of first bristle tufts are arranged on the top side, such that their combined circumferential surfaces form a base that approximates a triangle, square, diamond, or pentagon.

8. The toothbrush of claim 7, wherein the combined circumferential surfaces of the first bristle tufts form a square or diamond-shaped base, wherein two corners of the square or diamond shape of the first cleaning elements are arranged along a longitudinal central axis of the toothbrush and two other corners of the square or diamond shape of the first cleaning elements are arranged on an axis transverse to the longitudinal central axis.

9. The toothbrush of claim 7 wherein said first cleaning elements surround said second cleaning elements and are designed to be longer than said second cleaning elements resulting in a trough-like toothpaste receiving zone formed by the free ends of said second cleaning elements and the surrounding end regions of said first cleaning elements.

10. The toothbrush of claim 7 wherein said first cleaning elements are of different lengths and said second cleaning elements are of the same length.

11. The toothbrush according to claim 7, wherein the compound bristle tufts of the first bristle tufts and the bristle tufts of the second and third cleaning elements each have a circular cross-section, wherein directly adjacent bristle tufts are arranged at a shortest lateral distance from each other; having a distance of 0 to 0.5mm in the direction of the transverse axis.

12. The toothbrush according to claim 7, wherein the second cleaning elements have second bristle tufts with a circular tuft cross section and/or elastomeric cleaning elements.

13. The toothbrush according to claim 12, wherein the first bristle tufts are designed to be longer than the second bristle tufts and/or the first bristle tufts surround the second bristle tufts or the elastomeric cleaning elements.

14. A toothbrush having a toothbrush head as claimed in claim 1, said toothbrush head having a top side with cleaning elements made of an elastomer for cleaning teeth, wherein a platform is disposed on the top side of the toothbrush head, said elastomeric cleaning elements being joined to said platform, and said elastomeric cleaning elements and said platform being both made of the same elastomer.

15. The toothbrush of claim 14, wherein the platform has a square, rectangular, oval, or circular base, and an axis of symmetry of the platform base is disposed within a longitudinal center plane of the toothbrush.

16. The toothbrush of claim 14 wherein said platform extends perpendicularly away from said top side, said extension being between 10% and 90% of the total longitudinal extension of said platform with elastomeric cleaning elements.

17. The toothbrush according to claim 14, wherein the elastomeric cleaning elements are arranged at a top side of the platform, which is designed to be planar and parallel to a top side of the toothbrush head or is designed to be spherically arched.

18. The toothbrush of claim 14, wherein said elastomeric cleaning elements are designed to be needle-shaped.

19. The toothbrush of claim 14 wherein said elastomeric cleaning elements are designed to be cylindrical.

20. The toothbrush of claim 14 wherein said elastomeric cleaning elements are designed to taper conically towards the free end.