CA2106991C - Toothbrush having a flexibly linked zone in its head - Google Patents
Toothbrush having a flexibly linked zone in its head Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2106991C CA2106991C CA002106991A CA2106991A CA2106991C CA 2106991 C CA2106991 C CA 2106991C CA 002106991 A CA002106991 A CA 002106991A CA 2106991 A CA2106991 A CA 2106991A CA 2106991 C CA2106991 C CA 2106991C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- head
- handle
- extended portion
- toothbrush
- socket
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 239000013536 elastomeric material Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000011435 rock Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000001680 brushing effect Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000009826 distribution Methods 0.000 description 3
- 239000004952 Polyamide Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229920002647 polyamide Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- -1 polypropylenes Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 244000043261 Hevea brasiliensis Species 0.000 description 1
- 229920011250 Polypropylene Block Copolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920006097 Ultramide® Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 208000027418 Wounds and injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000003086 colorant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000037123 dental health Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001519 homopolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 208000014674 injury Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000004816 latex Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920000126 latex Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920003052 natural elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001194 natural rubber Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001084 poly(chloroprene) Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920005629 polypropylene homopolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B9/00—Arrangements of the bristles in the brush body
- A46B9/02—Position or arrangement of bristles in relation to surface of the brush body, e.g. inclined, in rows, in groups
- A46B9/04—Arranged like in or for toothbrushes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B5/00—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware
- A46B5/002—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware having articulations, joints or flexible portions
- A46B5/0025—Brushes with elastically deformable heads that change shape during use
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B7/00—Bristle carriers arranged in the brush body
- A46B7/06—Bristle carriers arranged in the brush body movably during use, i.e. the normal brushing action causing movement
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
- A46B2200/10—For human or animal care
- A46B2200/1066—Toothbrush for cleaning the teeth or dentures
Abstract
A toothbrush, having a handle (11) and a bristle bearing head (1'3), the head (13) being flexibly and resiliently linked to an extended portion (12) of the handle, the extended portion (12) either surrounding the head (13) or the head (44) partly surrounding the extended portion (42), the head (13, 44) being capable of rocking motion relative to the extended portion (12, 42),
Description
2 PCT/EP92/OOb45 ~~~~a~~~
TOOTHBRUSH ~iAVING A FLEXIBLY LINKED ZONE IN ITS HEAD
The present invention relates to a novel article, being a toothbrush, and in particular to a toothbrush having a flexibly linked zone in its head.
When brushing one's teeth, particularly with a conventional toothbrush having a rigid head, it can be difficult to reach all parts of the teeth in order to brush the teeth satisfactorily. Tt is also difficult with such brushes to maintain an optimum angle between the teeth and the head of the toothbrush for effective brushing and cleaning, necessitating continual repositioning of the brush in the hand throughout the brushing process.
Consequently, there is a tendency to apply excess brushing pressure to some teeth and insufficient pressure to other teeth. The resultant combination o.f excess brushing pressure and inadequate cleaning or bad cleaning technique can result in damage to both teeth and gums.
Although angled-head toothbrushes have been suggested as an attempt to overcome some of these difficulties, they do not satisfactorily meet all the requirements.
Proposals have also been made for toothbrushes having flexible handles or flexible zones in their handles to assist in accommodating the orientation of the bristle-bearing head of the brush to the profile of a user's teeth and gums. Such toothbrushes are disclosed far example in EP-A-0336641, US 4520526, DE-OL-3640898, DE-OL-3612108, CH-0155730 and rT-485'723.
In some circumstances it is desirable to further improve the flexibility of the head relative to the direction of the handle of the toothbrush.
Accordingly the present invention provides a toothbrush, having a handle and at one end thereof a bristle-bearing portion which comprises a bristle-bearing head which is flexibly and resiliently linked to an extended portion of the handle, the extended portion either surrounding wholly or partly the head, or the head at least partly surrounding the extended portion, the head being capable of rocking motion relative to the extended portion.
w0 92/17092 PCT/EPL)2/OOb45 - 2 ° r ...~
The toothbrush head of this invention can move, particularly in a rocking movement, relative to the handle and can thereby accommodate itself better to the shape of the teeth than might be the case with a completely rigid toothbrush. lVIoreover the ability of the head to "float" relative to the handle enables a much more gentle brushing action, reducing the likelihood of injury to the gums of the user.
In a first embodiment the extended portion is in the form of a frame wholly or partly surrounding the head, the head being flexibly and resiliently linked to the frame, and being capable of rocking motion relative to the frame.
The frame in this embodiment preferably completely surrounds the head and is preferably integral with the handle.
The head in this first embodiment is preferably in the form of an undivided elongate rectangular or lozenge-shaped portion within the frame. The bristles on the head may be distributed over the head in a pattern which is conventional in toothbrush manufacture. The bristles may be distributed uniformly over the head but are preferably in discrete tuffs each containing a number of bristles.
The frame in this first embodiment may also be bristle-bearing. Bristles on the frame are also preferably distributed in discrete tufts, and may have the same or difT'erent colour, distribution, length, orientation or stifT'ness to those on the head. Conveniently bristles on the frame are shorter than those on the head so that the bristles on the frame do not interfere with the.movement of the head.
Tn a second embodiment the head partly surrounds the extended portion, the head being flexibly and resiliently linked to the extended portion, and being capable of rocking motion relative to the extended portion.
The head in this second embodiment may comprise a head provided with an aperture or socket within which the extended portion of the handle may fit. Such a head may be a frame of a generally, "U", "V" or "C" shape, allowing the extended portion of the handle to fit into a socket formed by, or located between the arms of the U, V or C. The bristles on the head w0 92/17092 n a PCT/EP92/OOb45 _3_ may be distributed over the head in a pattern which is conventional in toothbrush manufacture. The bristles may be distributed uniformly over the frame~shaped head but are preferably in discrete tufts each containing a number of bristles.
The extended portion of the handle in this second embodiment may also be bristle bearing. Bristles on the extended portion of the handle are also preferably distributed in discrete tufts, and may have the same or different colour, distribution, length, orientation or stiffness to those on the head. Conveniently bristles on this extended portion are shorter than those on the head. It may be convenient for the region of the extended portion which fits within the frame shaped head to be tapered, or narrower relative to the immediately adjacent regian of the handle to facilitate fitting of the extended portion within the aperture or socket.
In both of these embodiments the head and extended portion of the handle may have different colours for aesthetic appeal or to emphasise the construction of the toothbrush.
In both of these embodiments, suitably the second embodiment, it may be convenient to provide the frame-shaped head with one or more grooves in the reverse face to that from which the bristles project, to introduce some flexibility into the head. Such grooves may for example be aligned perpendicular to, parallel to or diagonally to the longitudinal axis of the handle.
In both of these embodiments the flexible and resilient linking of the head and the extended portion may be achieved in a number of ways.
In one way for example, the relative dimensions of the head and surrounding frame, or of the extended portion and the aperature or socket, may be such as to leave a gap between the head and the extended portion, the dimensions of the gap being such that the head and extended portion are,capable of relative rocking motion about the gap, the gap being wholly or partially closed with a flexible and resilient material, suitably in the form of a thin diaphragm. The flexibility and resilience of such a diaphragm will depend upon the materials of which it is made, its thickness and the extent to which it closes the gap between the head and WO 92/17092 . PCT/EP92/00645 _4_ the extended portion. Suitably the flexible and resilient matezzal may be ari elastomeric material and may be coloured differently to the head and/or extended portion and/or the handle for aesthetic reasons or to emphasize the construction of the toothbrush.
In another way for example, there may be a gap as above between the head and the extended portion, and the head may be linked to the extended portion by one or more thin, flexible and resilient spines bridging the gap between the head and the extended portion.
In one such embodiment there are preferably at least two such spines positioned diametrically opposite to each other relative to the head and extended portion.
In another embodiment, such a spine may be positioned at an end of the extended portion, and extends in a direction generally in line with the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, linking the extended portion and the head and/or the extended portion and the handle. A variant of this embodiment is that in which the extended portion is itself in the form of a thin, flexible, resilient spine extending in a direction generally in line with the longitudual axis of the toothbrush between the handle and the head.
In the above-mentioned toothbrushes in which the head and/or handle of the toothbrush is linked to the extended portion by one or more spines, or if the extended portion is itself in the form of a spine, the space between the head and the extended portion and/or the spines) may itself be wholly or partly closed with a flexible and resilient material which may be an elastomeric material arid may be coloured differently to the head and/or extended portion and/or the handle for aesthetic reasons or to emphasise the construction of the toothbrush.
The flexibility and resilience of these spines will depend upon the materials of which they are made and their dimensions, eg length and width. The overall moveability of the head relative to the extended portion will also depend upon the number of these spines, and their distribution around the space between the head and the extended portion.
w0 92117092 I'CT/EF'92/00645 The linking of the head to the extended portion in the above-described ways allows rocking of the head relative to the handle about a numbex of axes. Preferably the head is at least able to rock in the plane that contains the longitudinal axis of the handle.
The diaphragm or spines may be made integrally with the extended portion and/or head or as separate paws. For example if the extended portion and/or head are made of a plastics material the diaphragm or spines may be made in the same moulding operation as the frame and/or head. If the diaphragm is made of an elastomeric material it may be necessary to make and fit this separately.
The handle, head and bristles of the toothbrush of the invention may be made of materials which are conventional in the manufacture of toothbrushes, especially plastics materials. Suitable plastics materials include, for example, polyamides and polypropylenes. An example of a suitable polyamide is the material 'Ultramid B3' (Trade mark, marketed by BASF, Federal Republic of Germany), having a modulus of elasticity (DIN 53452) of 3000. An example of a suitable polypropylene is the material 'Novolene 1100 HX' (Trade mark, marketed by BASF, Federal Republic of Germany), which is a homopolymer and has a modulus of elasticity (DIN 53457) of 1400. Such a polypropylene homopolymer may optionally be used in admixture with a polypropylene block co-polymer, such as the material 'Novolene 2500 HX' (Trade mark, marketed by BASF, Federal Republic of Germany), for example in an 80 : 20 mixture by weight (1100 HX : 2500 HX). Suitable elastomeric materials include natural or synthetic latex type elastomers, in particular polychloroprene, natural rubber and silicones.
The handle may be of a shape which is conventional in the manufacture of toothbrushes. It may however be advantageously made in the form described in EP-0336641-A, the contents of which are included by reference, morn particularly as described in column 1 lines 36 - 49 thereof.
In use, the toothbrush of this invention may be used for cleaning the teeth by an entirely conventional toothbrushing hand action, preferably in a manner recommended by dental health authorities. The toothbrush of the invention may also be used in electrically driven toothbrushes.
WO ~2117~92 PCT/EP92/00645 ~~~1~~~~.~
The invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig 1 shows a toothbrush of the invention having an extended portion in the form of a frame in which 'the linking of the head and frame is by a diaphragm.
Fig 2 shows a toothbrush of the invention having an extended portion in the form of a bristle-bearing frame.
Fig 3 shows a toothbrush of the invention having an extended portion in the form of a frame, in which the linking of the head and frame is by thin spores.
x5 Fig 4 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head partly surrounding an extended portion.
Fig 5 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head partly surrounding a bristle-bearing extended portion.
Fig 6 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head linked by spines to an extended portion.
Fig 7 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head linked to the handle by an extended portion in the form of a spine.
Referring to Fig 1, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig lA, in an underside view in Fig 1B, in an overall side view in Fig 1C, in long section and long section view about the line A-A in Figs 1D and 1F respectively, and in a cross sectional view about the line B-B in Fig lE.
In the toothbrush of Fig 1, the handle (part shown (11)) of a toothbrush is extended to form an integral frame (12) which surrounds a rigid head (13).
The upper surface of the head (13) bears bristles (14) distributed in a number of discrete tufts. The relative sizes of the frame (~2) and head (13) are such that a narrow gap (15) lies between them.
WO 92/17092 PC'1'/EP92/00645 'rhe~ gap (15) is open on its lower side, but its upper side is closed with a thin diaphragm (16) of an elastomeric material. The thickness of the diaphragm (16) is such that it is flexible a.nd resilient.
In Figs lE and 1F the rocking movement of the head (13) relative to the frame (12) is slzown, as pressure is applied to the bristles (14) at the points indicated by the arrow, the diaphragm (16) being thin enough and the gap (15) being of dimensions such as to allow this movement.
Referring to Fig 2, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 2A, in an underside view in Fig 2B, in an overall side view in Fig 2C, in long section and long sectional view about the line A-A in Figs 2D and 2F respectively, and in cross sectional view about the line B-B in Fig 2E.
In the toothbrush of Fig 2, the handle (part shown (21)) is extended into an integral frame (22) surrounding a rigid head (23) which bears bristles (24), there being a narrow gap (25) between frame (22) and head (23). The lower side of the space (25) is open, and the upper side is closed with a diaphragm of an elastomeric material (26), thin enough to be flexible and resilient. The construction, disposition and rocking movement under applied pressure of these features of the toothbrush of Fig 2 are identical to the corresponding features of Fig 1.
In the upper surface of the frame (22) are mounted bristles (2?), distributed in discrete tufts around the frame (22). These bristles (27) are shorter than the bristles (24) on the head (23).
Referring to Fig 3, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 3A, in a long sectional view about line A-A in Fig 3B, and in a cross section about B-B in Fig 3C.
In the toothbrush of Fig 3, the handle (part shown (31)) is extended into an integral frame (32), surrounding a head (33), in the upper face of which are mounted bristles (34) distributed in discrete tufts, in a construction identical to the frame, head and bristle assembly of Fig 1, leaving a narrow gap (35) between the frame (32~ and head (33i.
8 _ f.:.-.-, The gap (35) between the frame (32) and the head (33) is bridged by two integral thin spines (36) arranged diametrically opposite each other at approximate mid-points along the length of the head (32).
As shown in Fig 3B, the application of pressure of the point indicated by the arrow causes rocking of the head (33) within the frame (32) about the axis of the two spines (36). By the use of'spines (36) which are thin enough it is also possible for some rocking of the head (33) within the frame (32) to occur in the plane of Fig 3C.
Referring to Fig 4, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 4A, in a bottom view in Fig 4B, in an overall side view in Fig 4C, in long sectional view about the line A-A in Figs 4I7 and 4F, and in a cross sectional view about the line B-B in Fig 4E.
In the toothbrush of Fig 4, the handle (41) is formed into a narrowed extended portion (42). The extended portion (42) fits within a socket (43), in a frame-shaped head (44) of a generally "U" shape. :In the upper face of the head (44) are mounted bristles (45) distributed in discrete tufts. The relative sizes of the extended portion (42) and socket (43) are such as to leave a narrow gap between the extended portion (42) and head (44).
The gap (43) is open on its lower side, but its upper side is closed with a thin diaphragm (46) of elastomeric material which is of a thickness such as to be flexible and resilient.
rn Figs 4E and 4F the rocking movement of the head (44) relative to the handle (41) is shown, as pressure is applied to the bristles (45) at.the points indicated by the arrow, the dimensions of the gap between head (44) and extended portion (42) being such as to allow this rocking.
Refernng to Fig 5, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 5A, in a bottom view in Fig 5B, in an overall side view in Fig 5C, in long sectional views about the line A-A
in Figs 5D and 5F, and in a cross-sectional view about the line B-B in Fig 5E.
('CT/EP92/00645 w0 92/17092 In the toothbrush of Fig 5, the arrangement of head (51) and narrowed extended portion (52) of the handle (53) is similar to that of Fig 4. The shape of the extended portion (52) is tapered relative to the handle (53) so as to fit into a socket (54) in the generally 'V' shaped head (51), the relative sizes of extended portion (52) and socket (54) are again such as to leave a narrow gap between the extended portion (52) and head (5:1).
The toothbrush of Fig 5 differs from that shown in Fig 4 in that bristles (55) are mounted on the extended portion (52) as well as on the head (51).
The bristles (55) on the extended portion being shorter than those (56) on the head (51).
In Figs 5E and 5F the rocking motion of the head (51) relative to the handle (53) is shown, as pressure is applied to the bristles (56) at the points indicated by the arrow.
Referring to Fig 6, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 6A, in a bottom view in Fig 6B, and in a cross section about line B-B in Fig 6C.
In the toothbrush of Fig 6, the arrangement of frame-shaped head (61), extended portion (62), socket (63) and bristles (64) is identical to that of Fig 4. The flexible and resilient linking between the head (61) and extended portion (62) is by means of two spines (65) positioned diametrically opposite each other on either side of the head (61) which bridge the gap (63) between the head (61) and extended portion (62).
These spines (65) are of dimensions such that the head (61) may undergo a rocking motion relative to the extended portion (42) similar to that shown in Fig 4F, and optionally also as shown in Fig 4E.
Referring to Fig ?, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 7A, in an underside view in Fig ?B, and in an overall side view in Fig 7C.
In the toothbrush of Fig ?, the handle (part shown ?1), has an end which is integrally formed into an extended portion (?2) in the shape of a thin flexible, resilent spine, The spine (72) extends into a socket (73) in the head (74), and is integrally joined to the head (?4) at the bottom of the w0 92/17092 PCT/EP92/OOG45 2~ Q~~~~ w-socket (73), thereby linking handle (?1) and (?4). The spine (?2) is thin enough to allow the head (?4) to rock relative to the handle (?1). The head (?4) bears bristles (?5) distributed in discrete tufts.
The space between the spine (?2) and the head (?4), i.e. including the socket (?3) is filled with an elastomeric material (76). The material (?6) modifies the rocking characteristics of head (?4) relative to handle (71), and is also of a different colour to the material of the handle (71) and head (?4) for aesthetic reasons and to emphasis the construction of the toothbrush.
TOOTHBRUSH ~iAVING A FLEXIBLY LINKED ZONE IN ITS HEAD
The present invention relates to a novel article, being a toothbrush, and in particular to a toothbrush having a flexibly linked zone in its head.
When brushing one's teeth, particularly with a conventional toothbrush having a rigid head, it can be difficult to reach all parts of the teeth in order to brush the teeth satisfactorily. Tt is also difficult with such brushes to maintain an optimum angle between the teeth and the head of the toothbrush for effective brushing and cleaning, necessitating continual repositioning of the brush in the hand throughout the brushing process.
Consequently, there is a tendency to apply excess brushing pressure to some teeth and insufficient pressure to other teeth. The resultant combination o.f excess brushing pressure and inadequate cleaning or bad cleaning technique can result in damage to both teeth and gums.
Although angled-head toothbrushes have been suggested as an attempt to overcome some of these difficulties, they do not satisfactorily meet all the requirements.
Proposals have also been made for toothbrushes having flexible handles or flexible zones in their handles to assist in accommodating the orientation of the bristle-bearing head of the brush to the profile of a user's teeth and gums. Such toothbrushes are disclosed far example in EP-A-0336641, US 4520526, DE-OL-3640898, DE-OL-3612108, CH-0155730 and rT-485'723.
In some circumstances it is desirable to further improve the flexibility of the head relative to the direction of the handle of the toothbrush.
Accordingly the present invention provides a toothbrush, having a handle and at one end thereof a bristle-bearing portion which comprises a bristle-bearing head which is flexibly and resiliently linked to an extended portion of the handle, the extended portion either surrounding wholly or partly the head, or the head at least partly surrounding the extended portion, the head being capable of rocking motion relative to the extended portion.
w0 92/17092 PCT/EPL)2/OOb45 - 2 ° r ...~
The toothbrush head of this invention can move, particularly in a rocking movement, relative to the handle and can thereby accommodate itself better to the shape of the teeth than might be the case with a completely rigid toothbrush. lVIoreover the ability of the head to "float" relative to the handle enables a much more gentle brushing action, reducing the likelihood of injury to the gums of the user.
In a first embodiment the extended portion is in the form of a frame wholly or partly surrounding the head, the head being flexibly and resiliently linked to the frame, and being capable of rocking motion relative to the frame.
The frame in this embodiment preferably completely surrounds the head and is preferably integral with the handle.
The head in this first embodiment is preferably in the form of an undivided elongate rectangular or lozenge-shaped portion within the frame. The bristles on the head may be distributed over the head in a pattern which is conventional in toothbrush manufacture. The bristles may be distributed uniformly over the head but are preferably in discrete tuffs each containing a number of bristles.
The frame in this first embodiment may also be bristle-bearing. Bristles on the frame are also preferably distributed in discrete tufts, and may have the same or difT'erent colour, distribution, length, orientation or stifT'ness to those on the head. Conveniently bristles on the frame are shorter than those on the head so that the bristles on the frame do not interfere with the.movement of the head.
Tn a second embodiment the head partly surrounds the extended portion, the head being flexibly and resiliently linked to the extended portion, and being capable of rocking motion relative to the extended portion.
The head in this second embodiment may comprise a head provided with an aperture or socket within which the extended portion of the handle may fit. Such a head may be a frame of a generally, "U", "V" or "C" shape, allowing the extended portion of the handle to fit into a socket formed by, or located between the arms of the U, V or C. The bristles on the head w0 92/17092 n a PCT/EP92/OOb45 _3_ may be distributed over the head in a pattern which is conventional in toothbrush manufacture. The bristles may be distributed uniformly over the frame~shaped head but are preferably in discrete tufts each containing a number of bristles.
The extended portion of the handle in this second embodiment may also be bristle bearing. Bristles on the extended portion of the handle are also preferably distributed in discrete tufts, and may have the same or different colour, distribution, length, orientation or stiffness to those on the head. Conveniently bristles on this extended portion are shorter than those on the head. It may be convenient for the region of the extended portion which fits within the frame shaped head to be tapered, or narrower relative to the immediately adjacent regian of the handle to facilitate fitting of the extended portion within the aperture or socket.
In both of these embodiments the head and extended portion of the handle may have different colours for aesthetic appeal or to emphasise the construction of the toothbrush.
In both of these embodiments, suitably the second embodiment, it may be convenient to provide the frame-shaped head with one or more grooves in the reverse face to that from which the bristles project, to introduce some flexibility into the head. Such grooves may for example be aligned perpendicular to, parallel to or diagonally to the longitudinal axis of the handle.
In both of these embodiments the flexible and resilient linking of the head and the extended portion may be achieved in a number of ways.
In one way for example, the relative dimensions of the head and surrounding frame, or of the extended portion and the aperature or socket, may be such as to leave a gap between the head and the extended portion, the dimensions of the gap being such that the head and extended portion are,capable of relative rocking motion about the gap, the gap being wholly or partially closed with a flexible and resilient material, suitably in the form of a thin diaphragm. The flexibility and resilience of such a diaphragm will depend upon the materials of which it is made, its thickness and the extent to which it closes the gap between the head and WO 92/17092 . PCT/EP92/00645 _4_ the extended portion. Suitably the flexible and resilient matezzal may be ari elastomeric material and may be coloured differently to the head and/or extended portion and/or the handle for aesthetic reasons or to emphasize the construction of the toothbrush.
In another way for example, there may be a gap as above between the head and the extended portion, and the head may be linked to the extended portion by one or more thin, flexible and resilient spines bridging the gap between the head and the extended portion.
In one such embodiment there are preferably at least two such spines positioned diametrically opposite to each other relative to the head and extended portion.
In another embodiment, such a spine may be positioned at an end of the extended portion, and extends in a direction generally in line with the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, linking the extended portion and the head and/or the extended portion and the handle. A variant of this embodiment is that in which the extended portion is itself in the form of a thin, flexible, resilient spine extending in a direction generally in line with the longitudual axis of the toothbrush between the handle and the head.
In the above-mentioned toothbrushes in which the head and/or handle of the toothbrush is linked to the extended portion by one or more spines, or if the extended portion is itself in the form of a spine, the space between the head and the extended portion and/or the spines) may itself be wholly or partly closed with a flexible and resilient material which may be an elastomeric material arid may be coloured differently to the head and/or extended portion and/or the handle for aesthetic reasons or to emphasise the construction of the toothbrush.
The flexibility and resilience of these spines will depend upon the materials of which they are made and their dimensions, eg length and width. The overall moveability of the head relative to the extended portion will also depend upon the number of these spines, and their distribution around the space between the head and the extended portion.
w0 92117092 I'CT/EF'92/00645 The linking of the head to the extended portion in the above-described ways allows rocking of the head relative to the handle about a numbex of axes. Preferably the head is at least able to rock in the plane that contains the longitudinal axis of the handle.
The diaphragm or spines may be made integrally with the extended portion and/or head or as separate paws. For example if the extended portion and/or head are made of a plastics material the diaphragm or spines may be made in the same moulding operation as the frame and/or head. If the diaphragm is made of an elastomeric material it may be necessary to make and fit this separately.
The handle, head and bristles of the toothbrush of the invention may be made of materials which are conventional in the manufacture of toothbrushes, especially plastics materials. Suitable plastics materials include, for example, polyamides and polypropylenes. An example of a suitable polyamide is the material 'Ultramid B3' (Trade mark, marketed by BASF, Federal Republic of Germany), having a modulus of elasticity (DIN 53452) of 3000. An example of a suitable polypropylene is the material 'Novolene 1100 HX' (Trade mark, marketed by BASF, Federal Republic of Germany), which is a homopolymer and has a modulus of elasticity (DIN 53457) of 1400. Such a polypropylene homopolymer may optionally be used in admixture with a polypropylene block co-polymer, such as the material 'Novolene 2500 HX' (Trade mark, marketed by BASF, Federal Republic of Germany), for example in an 80 : 20 mixture by weight (1100 HX : 2500 HX). Suitable elastomeric materials include natural or synthetic latex type elastomers, in particular polychloroprene, natural rubber and silicones.
The handle may be of a shape which is conventional in the manufacture of toothbrushes. It may however be advantageously made in the form described in EP-0336641-A, the contents of which are included by reference, morn particularly as described in column 1 lines 36 - 49 thereof.
In use, the toothbrush of this invention may be used for cleaning the teeth by an entirely conventional toothbrushing hand action, preferably in a manner recommended by dental health authorities. The toothbrush of the invention may also be used in electrically driven toothbrushes.
WO ~2117~92 PCT/EP92/00645 ~~~1~~~~.~
The invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig 1 shows a toothbrush of the invention having an extended portion in the form of a frame in which 'the linking of the head and frame is by a diaphragm.
Fig 2 shows a toothbrush of the invention having an extended portion in the form of a bristle-bearing frame.
Fig 3 shows a toothbrush of the invention having an extended portion in the form of a frame, in which the linking of the head and frame is by thin spores.
x5 Fig 4 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head partly surrounding an extended portion.
Fig 5 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head partly surrounding a bristle-bearing extended portion.
Fig 6 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head linked by spines to an extended portion.
Fig 7 shows a toothbrush of the invention having a frame-shaped head linked to the handle by an extended portion in the form of a spine.
Referring to Fig 1, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig lA, in an underside view in Fig 1B, in an overall side view in Fig 1C, in long section and long section view about the line A-A in Figs 1D and 1F respectively, and in a cross sectional view about the line B-B in Fig lE.
In the toothbrush of Fig 1, the handle (part shown (11)) of a toothbrush is extended to form an integral frame (12) which surrounds a rigid head (13).
The upper surface of the head (13) bears bristles (14) distributed in a number of discrete tufts. The relative sizes of the frame (~2) and head (13) are such that a narrow gap (15) lies between them.
WO 92/17092 PC'1'/EP92/00645 'rhe~ gap (15) is open on its lower side, but its upper side is closed with a thin diaphragm (16) of an elastomeric material. The thickness of the diaphragm (16) is such that it is flexible a.nd resilient.
In Figs lE and 1F the rocking movement of the head (13) relative to the frame (12) is slzown, as pressure is applied to the bristles (14) at the points indicated by the arrow, the diaphragm (16) being thin enough and the gap (15) being of dimensions such as to allow this movement.
Referring to Fig 2, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 2A, in an underside view in Fig 2B, in an overall side view in Fig 2C, in long section and long sectional view about the line A-A in Figs 2D and 2F respectively, and in cross sectional view about the line B-B in Fig 2E.
In the toothbrush of Fig 2, the handle (part shown (21)) is extended into an integral frame (22) surrounding a rigid head (23) which bears bristles (24), there being a narrow gap (25) between frame (22) and head (23). The lower side of the space (25) is open, and the upper side is closed with a diaphragm of an elastomeric material (26), thin enough to be flexible and resilient. The construction, disposition and rocking movement under applied pressure of these features of the toothbrush of Fig 2 are identical to the corresponding features of Fig 1.
In the upper surface of the frame (22) are mounted bristles (2?), distributed in discrete tufts around the frame (22). These bristles (27) are shorter than the bristles (24) on the head (23).
Referring to Fig 3, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 3A, in a long sectional view about line A-A in Fig 3B, and in a cross section about B-B in Fig 3C.
In the toothbrush of Fig 3, the handle (part shown (31)) is extended into an integral frame (32), surrounding a head (33), in the upper face of which are mounted bristles (34) distributed in discrete tufts, in a construction identical to the frame, head and bristle assembly of Fig 1, leaving a narrow gap (35) between the frame (32~ and head (33i.
8 _ f.:.-.-, The gap (35) between the frame (32) and the head (33) is bridged by two integral thin spines (36) arranged diametrically opposite each other at approximate mid-points along the length of the head (32).
As shown in Fig 3B, the application of pressure of the point indicated by the arrow causes rocking of the head (33) within the frame (32) about the axis of the two spines (36). By the use of'spines (36) which are thin enough it is also possible for some rocking of the head (33) within the frame (32) to occur in the plane of Fig 3C.
Referring to Fig 4, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 4A, in a bottom view in Fig 4B, in an overall side view in Fig 4C, in long sectional view about the line A-A in Figs 4I7 and 4F, and in a cross sectional view about the line B-B in Fig 4E.
In the toothbrush of Fig 4, the handle (41) is formed into a narrowed extended portion (42). The extended portion (42) fits within a socket (43), in a frame-shaped head (44) of a generally "U" shape. :In the upper face of the head (44) are mounted bristles (45) distributed in discrete tufts. The relative sizes of the extended portion (42) and socket (43) are such as to leave a narrow gap between the extended portion (42) and head (44).
The gap (43) is open on its lower side, but its upper side is closed with a thin diaphragm (46) of elastomeric material which is of a thickness such as to be flexible and resilient.
rn Figs 4E and 4F the rocking movement of the head (44) relative to the handle (41) is shown, as pressure is applied to the bristles (45) at.the points indicated by the arrow, the dimensions of the gap between head (44) and extended portion (42) being such as to allow this rocking.
Refernng to Fig 5, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 5A, in a bottom view in Fig 5B, in an overall side view in Fig 5C, in long sectional views about the line A-A
in Figs 5D and 5F, and in a cross-sectional view about the line B-B in Fig 5E.
('CT/EP92/00645 w0 92/17092 In the toothbrush of Fig 5, the arrangement of head (51) and narrowed extended portion (52) of the handle (53) is similar to that of Fig 4. The shape of the extended portion (52) is tapered relative to the handle (53) so as to fit into a socket (54) in the generally 'V' shaped head (51), the relative sizes of extended portion (52) and socket (54) are again such as to leave a narrow gap between the extended portion (52) and head (5:1).
The toothbrush of Fig 5 differs from that shown in Fig 4 in that bristles (55) are mounted on the extended portion (52) as well as on the head (51).
The bristles (55) on the extended portion being shorter than those (56) on the head (51).
In Figs 5E and 5F the rocking motion of the head (51) relative to the handle (53) is shown, as pressure is applied to the bristles (56) at the points indicated by the arrow.
Referring to Fig 6, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 6A, in a bottom view in Fig 6B, and in a cross section about line B-B in Fig 6C.
In the toothbrush of Fig 6, the arrangement of frame-shaped head (61), extended portion (62), socket (63) and bristles (64) is identical to that of Fig 4. The flexible and resilient linking between the head (61) and extended portion (62) is by means of two spines (65) positioned diametrically opposite each other on either side of the head (61) which bridge the gap (63) between the head (61) and extended portion (62).
These spines (65) are of dimensions such that the head (61) may undergo a rocking motion relative to the extended portion (42) similar to that shown in Fig 4F, and optionally also as shown in Fig 4E.
Referring to Fig ?, the bristle-bearing portion of a toothbrush of the invention is shown in a top view in Fig 7A, in an underside view in Fig ?B, and in an overall side view in Fig 7C.
In the toothbrush of Fig ?, the handle (part shown ?1), has an end which is integrally formed into an extended portion (?2) in the shape of a thin flexible, resilent spine, The spine (72) extends into a socket (73) in the head (74), and is integrally joined to the head (?4) at the bottom of the w0 92/17092 PCT/EP92/OOG45 2~ Q~~~~ w-socket (73), thereby linking handle (?1) and (?4). The spine (?2) is thin enough to allow the head (?4) to rock relative to the handle (?1). The head (?4) bears bristles (?5) distributed in discrete tufts.
The space between the spine (?2) and the head (?4), i.e. including the socket (?3) is filled with an elastomeric material (76). The material (?6) modifies the rocking characteristics of head (?4) relative to handle (71), and is also of a different colour to the material of the handle (71) and head (?4) for aesthetic reasons and to emphasis the construction of the toothbrush.
Claims (7)
1. A toothbrush having a handle and at one end thereof a bristle-bearing portion which comprises a bristle bearing head, the handle and bristle bearing portion being made of a plastics material, the head being flexibly and resiliently linked to an extended portion of the handle, the head being capable of rocking motion relative to the handle, wherein the head is provided with a socket open on the side of the head facing the handle, into which socket the extended portion extends so that the extended portion is partly surrounded by the head, the extended portion being flexibly and resiliently linked to the head by a link within the socket, the relative dimensions of the extended portion and the socket being such as to leave a gap in the plastics material between the head and the extended portion the gap being wholly or partly closed with an elastomeric material.
2. A toothbrush according to claim 1 wherein the side of the head facing the handle is in the form of a frame of generally "U", "V" or "C" shape, allowing the extended portion to extend into a socket formed by, or located between the arms of the U, V or C.
3. A toothbrush according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the extended portion is linked to the head within the aperture or socket by one or more flexible resilient spines bridging the gap between the head and the extended portion to link the extended portion and the head.
4. A toothbrush according to claim 3 wherein the spine is positioned at an end of the extended portion and the spine extends in a direction generally in line with the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, to link the extended portion and the head.
5. A toothbrush according to claim 3 wherein the extended portion is itself in the form of a spine which extends from the handle into the socket in a direction generally in line with the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush to link the extended portion and the head within the socket.
6. A toothbrush according to claim 1 characterised in that the handle has an end which is integrally formed into an extended portion in the shape of a thin flexible resilient spine, and the head has a socket therein open on the side of the head facing the handle, and the spine extends into the socket in the head and is integrally joined to the head at the end of the spine remote from the handle thereby linking the handle and head, the spine being thin enough to allow the head to rock relative to the handle, the dimensions of the spine and the socket being such as to form a gap in the plastics material between the spine and the sides of the socket, the gap being filled with an elastomeric material.
7. A toothbrush having a handle and a bristle-bearing head, the handle and the bristle-bearing head being made of a plastic material, the handle and the bristle-bearing head being integrally connected to each other by the plastic material, wherein between the handle and the head there is an aperture in the plastic material, wherein the aperture extends between the end of the handle adjacent the head and the end of the head adjacent the handle and extends into the head, said aperture containing an elastomeric material.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB9106493.1 | 1991-03-27 | ||
| GB919106493A GB9106493D0 (en) | 1991-03-27 | 1991-03-27 | Novel article |
| GB919126380A GB9126380D0 (en) | 1991-12-12 | 1991-12-12 | Novel article |
| GB9126380.6 | 1991-12-12 | ||
| PCT/EP1992/000645 WO1992017092A1 (en) | 1991-03-27 | 1992-03-21 | Toothbrush having a flexibly linked zone in its head |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2106991A1 CA2106991A1 (en) | 1992-09-28 |
| CA2106991C true CA2106991C (en) | 2000-10-17 |
Family
ID=26298642
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002106991A Expired - Fee Related CA2106991C (en) | 1991-03-27 | 1992-03-21 | Toothbrush having a flexibly linked zone in its head |
Country Status (25)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5813079A (en) |
| EP (3) | EP0613636B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP3392864B2 (en) |
| KR (1) | KR100210638B1 (en) |
| AT (3) | ATE200960T1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU667806B2 (en) |
| BR (1) | BR9205849A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2106991C (en) |
| CZ (1) | CZ282998B6 (en) |
| DE (3) | DE69231824T2 (en) |
| DK (2) | DK0613636T3 (en) |
| ES (3) | ES2141192T3 (en) |
| FI (2) | FI104356B (en) |
| GR (2) | GR3024148T3 (en) |
| HK (3) | HK1007267A1 (en) |
| HU (1) | HU218562B (en) |
| IE (1) | IE920955A1 (en) |
| MX (1) | MX9201360A (en) |
| NO (1) | NO316252B1 (en) |
| NZ (2) | NZ264908A (en) |
| PL (1) | PL170488B1 (en) |
| PT (1) | PT100292B (en) |
| SG (1) | SG49902A1 (en) |
| SK (1) | SK94893A3 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1992017092A1 (en) |
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| CN103284454A (en) * | 2013-05-30 | 2013-09-11 | 昆山市优鸿电子有限公司 | Cleaning brush head and production method thereof |
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1992
- 1992-03-21 AT AT96116165T patent/ATE200960T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1992-03-21 DK DK94200569T patent/DK0613636T3/en active
- 1992-03-21 BR BR9205849A patent/BR9205849A/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1992-03-21 AT AT94200569T patent/ATE186820T1/en active
- 1992-03-21 WO PCT/EP1992/000645 patent/WO1992017092A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1992-03-21 SK SK948-93A patent/SK94893A3/en unknown
- 1992-03-21 EP EP94200569A patent/EP0613636B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-03-21 JP JP50598892A patent/JP3392864B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1992-03-21 DE DE69231824T patent/DE69231824T2/en not_active Revoked
- 1992-03-21 SG SG1996008722A patent/SG49902A1/en unknown
- 1992-03-21 AT AT92906554T patent/ATE152590T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1992-03-21 ES ES94200569T patent/ES2141192T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-03-21 PL PL92300756A patent/PL170488B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
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- 1992-03-21 CA CA002106991A patent/CA2106991C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1992-03-21 ES ES96116165T patent/ES2158208T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-03-21 DK DK92906554.8T patent/DK0604425T3/en active
- 1992-03-21 DE DE69230340T patent/DE69230340T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-03-21 EP EP92906554A patent/EP0604425B1/en not_active Revoked
- 1992-03-21 ES ES92906554T patent/ES2103936T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1992-03-21 DE DE69219608T patent/DE69219608T2/en not_active Revoked
- 1992-03-21 EP EP96116165A patent/EP0756836B1/en not_active Revoked
- 1992-03-21 AU AU13737/92A patent/AU667806B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1992-03-21 HU HU9302544A patent/HU218562B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1992-03-21 KR KR1019930702907A patent/KR100210638B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1992-03-25 IE IE095592A patent/IE920955A1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1992-03-25 NZ NZ264908A patent/NZ264908A/en unknown
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- 1992-03-25 PT PT100292A patent/PT100292B/en active IP Right Grant
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1993
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1996
- 1996-09-12 US US08/712,780 patent/US5813079A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
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1997
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1998
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Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN103284454A (en) * | 2013-05-30 | 2013-09-11 | 昆山市优鸿电子有限公司 | Cleaning brush head and production method thereof |
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