CA2628351C - Contouring toothbrush head - Google Patents
Contouring toothbrush head Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2628351C CA2628351C CA2628351A CA2628351A CA2628351C CA 2628351 C CA2628351 C CA 2628351C CA 2628351 A CA2628351 A CA 2628351A CA 2628351 A CA2628351 A CA 2628351A CA 2628351 C CA2628351 C CA 2628351C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- head
- toothbrush
- elastomeric
- sections
- fingers
- 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
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B15/00—Other brushes; Brushes with additional arrangements
- A46B15/0002—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B15/00—Other brushes; Brushes with additional arrangements
- A46B15/0002—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process
- A46B15/0016—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process with enhancing means
- A46B15/0032—Arrangements for enhancing monitoring or controlling the brushing process with enhancing means with protrusion for polishing teeth
-
- 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
-
- 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
- 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
- A46B9/026—Position or arrangement of bristles in relation to surface of the brush body, e.g. inclined, in rows, in groups where the surface of the brush body or carrier is not in one plane, e.g. not flat
-
- 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
- A46B9/028—Bristle profile, the end of the bristle defining a surface other than a single plane or deviating from a simple geometric form, e.g. cylinder, sphere or cone
-
- 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
- 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
- A46B9/045—Arranged like in or for toothbrushes specially adapted for cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces simultaneously
-
- 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
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
- B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
- B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
- B29L2031/42—Brushes
- B29L2031/425—Toothbrush
Abstract
The present invention discloses a toothbrush having a handle and an articulated head coupled to the handle. The articulated head includes two sections and each of the head sections has a bottom surface and a side surface. Each of the head sections includes a plurality of bristles extending from the bottom surface of that head section and at least one of the head sections includes a plurality of elastomeric fingers partially defining the side surface of that head section and partially extending from the bottom surface of that head section. The head section most remote from the handle, in a normal configuration of the articulated head, is angled with respect to the other head section.
Description
CONTOURING TOOTHBRUSH HEAD
This is a divisional of application serial number 2,479,904.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a toothbrush and more particularly to a toothbrush head construction wherein the head is designed and configured to yield a brushing surface conforming to curved sections of teeth and which is bendable to conform to straight teeth sections.
Prior toothbrush constructions include toothbrush heads having pivoted or articulated sections joined together in a variety of constructions, such as a resilient strip of metal or the like, and also Include pivoted or hinged articulated sections to provide a curved bristle configuration-A curved/angled bristle surface configuration offers improved access to hard-to-reach areas such as the lingual surfaces of the front teeth, and behind the roar molars, placing more bristles in contact with the outer surfaces of the' front teeth.
Many current brushes which have rigidly mounted bristles and a rigid curvedlangled bristle surface exhibit an inherent disadvantage when brushing both flat as well as concave tooth surfaces. Placing a curved/angled bristle surface on flat tooth surfaces results in fewer bristles making contact with the teeth. These fewer bristles must support the brushing forces applied through the handle, which will result in premature splaying of the bristles. Some current toothbrushes have a "power tip"
configuration (elongated rigidly mounted tip bristles) which are claimed to have improved access benefits.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the invention, an articulated toothbrush head is defined by two head sections joined by one or more thin bridges of the same resin from which the toothbrush is formed, as by molding, to produce an Integral construction.
These thin bridges permit limited flexing between the two head sections, the two sections normally being at a small angle with respect to each other. That portion of the head 3" PCT/US03m9754 between the two head sections may be, in one embodiment, In the general form of a T
shaped slot running transversely of the top surface of the head, from one side head side edge to another. The slot is filled, as by injection, with an elastomer to control and enhance flexing, The construction is such that the head section most remote from the handle is normally tilted with respect to the head section nearest the handle, the latter head section located at one end of the handle. In a second embodiment, the head section may assume the form of a narrow cylindrical portion, or In a third embodiment two thin bridges may be employed, both having elastomer.
An advantage of the present flexible configuration is, in addition to the above noted features of a curved configuration, its inherent gentleness on the gums.
When one brushes along the gumline with a power tip configuration, one focuses much of the force through the concentrated area at the raised tip. With the present configuration, this force is more evenly distributed There are considerable manufacturing efficiencies with having the Qlastomer material of this invention used In the flex area being the same elastic material as that which may be used as a grip material in the handle area. Therefore, a configuration which allows flexing under the loads typically encountered during brushing with materials which are suitable for use as a grip would be desirable.
To achieve the flexibility described above, the cross section of elastomer may be convoluted, with one or more convolutes. To aid in fixing the elastomer to the toothbrush head sections, the elastomer may be configured to fit into one or more slots at both ends of the flexing area.
To minimize the gap between bristle tufts when the head is flexed Into a flat configuration, it is desirable to position the plastic (resin) bridge between the tip and 26 handle portions as near the bristle tips as possible. This bridge is straightened during flexing. and directly controls the gap between bristle tufts on each aide of the flex area.
The present invention also provides a toothbrush including a handle and an articulated head coupled to the handle, the head including two sections. Each of the head sections has a bottom surface and a aide surface and each of the head sections bLJUl-L4Ly includes a plurality of bristles extending from the bottom surface of that head section. In one embodiment, at least one of the head sections includes a plurality of elastomeric fingers partially defining the side surface of that head section and partially extending from the bottom surface of that head section. The head section most remote from the handle, in a normal configuration of the head, may be angled with respect to the other head section. The elastomeric fingers are adapted, for example, to provide a massaging action against the gums when the toothbrush is applied along the gumline and the elastomeric fingers are contacted with the gums.
In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; and an articulated head coupled to the handle, the articulated head including two sections each of the head sections having a bottom surface and a side surface, the head sections being connected by an elastomeric material extending between the two sections, and the elastomeric material being disposed around the side surface of the head section most remote from the handle and partially into the side surface of the head section closest to the handle, each of the head sections including a plurality of bristles extending from the respective bottom surface thereof, at least one of the head sections including a plurality of elastomeric fingers partially defining the side surface of that head section and partially extending from the bottom surface of that head section, wherein the head section most remote from the handle, in a normal configuration of the articulated head, is angled with respect to the other head section; wherein the plurality of elastomeric fingers are composed of the same elastomeric material as the material extending between the two sections; wherein the head section most remote from the handle has the side surface partially defined by a lower portion of the elastomeric fingers.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from a lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein, at least some of the tufts extending from the lower surface of one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface and a side surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from a lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material that extends between said head sections and forms at least a portion of the side surface, wherein, at least some of the tufts extending from the lower surface of one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between - 3a -the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface; the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head; the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head; a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head; the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising ridges formed into each of the first side surface and the second side surface.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface; the head comprising a hard plastic and an elastomeric material, the elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head; a - 3b -plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head; a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head, the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic; each of the first side surface and the second side surface comprising ridges formed into the elastomeric material; wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface; the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head; the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head; a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the - 3c -head; at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extending a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head; at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts being slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers; the plurality of elastomeric fingers having substantially rounded top ends; the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic; the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprising a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the exposed portion of the hard plastic being disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers; the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, said handle area having a molded-in channel that may be used to introduce elastomeric material into said head.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein at least some of the tufts extending from the bottom surface of -3d-one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths, wherein at least some of the free ends of the tufts extending from one of said head sections form a slant with respect to the lower surface of said head section, wherein the length of the elastomer between the facing ends of said two head sections varies, said length being measured along the toothbrush longitudinal axis.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein the length of the elastomer between the facing ends of said two head sections varies, said length being measured along the toothbrush longitudinal axis.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a head and a handle, the head having an area comprising a first elastomeric material and having tooth cleaning elements, the handle having an area comprising a second elastomeric material, the first elastomeric material and second elastomeric materials being composed of different elastomers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side elevational view illustrating the toothbrush head of this invention according to a first embodiment.
Figure 2 is a top plan view of the toothbrush head shown at Figure 1.
Figure 3 is an elevational view showing the head and tufts of bristles as brushing the inside surfaces of the lower teeth.
-3e-Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 1 and shows a second embodiment.
Figure 5 is a view similar to Figure 1 and shows a third embodiment.
Figure 6 is a side elevational view of a fourth embodiment.
Figure 7 is a side elevational view of a fifth embodiment.
Figure 8 is a side elevational view of a sixth embodiment.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a side view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of a toothbrush head in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
-3f-WO 03105.1364 PCT1US031097.4 Figure 13 is a side view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 14 is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush In a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 15 = is a view of the top surface of a toothbrush according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 18 Is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 18 is a perspective view of a toothbrush head in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 19 Is a side view of a toothbrush head in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present Invention.
figure 20 is a side view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present Invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to Figure 1, a side elevational view of a toothbrush embodying the features and construction of this invention Is shown In a vertical position, with a portion of the handle designated as 12. While not completely shown, the reader will understand that the handle extends downwardly and has a longitudinal axis.
That portion of the head nearest the handle is designated as section 14 and is oollinear with the handle, while that portion of the head most remote.from the handle is designated 26 as section 16. An elastomer section or joint between facing ends of sections 14 and 16 is denoted generally as 18. A plurality of tufts of bristles 20 extends at right angles to section 14. while a similar plurality of tufts of bristles 22 extends at right angles from section 16. Tufts of bristles 22 are thus at right angles to lower surface 24 of head wo 0310913" PCTFUSO3/09741 section 16, while tufts of bristles 20 are perpendicular to lower or bottom surface 26 of head section 14.
A generally T-shaped groove. In a longitudinal cross section, extends transversely across the upper or top surface of the head and is thus located between 6 sections 14 and 16. The bottom of the central or main part of the groove is spaced from the lower surface of the composite head, leaving a thickness or bridge section designated as 30 which joins the lower portions of the two head sections.
Bridge or zone 30 is typically of a thickness between 20 and 40 thousandths of an inch.
The handle and head sections are molded from a plastic or resin such as polypropylene.
The generally T shaped groove is filled with a resilient and soft thermoplastic elastomer. The T groove has two symmetrical wing portions 32, each terminating in an enlarged portion 34, the latter extending towards respective groups of tufts of bristles.
The Middle of the T shaped resin Insert section 18 includes an Integral ridge 36, while the lower portion or base portion of the T section is designated as 38, The thermoplastic elastomer which forms section 18 may be a thermoplastic vulcanate (TPV) consisting of a mixture of polypropylene and EPOM (ethylene propylene diene monomers) which is available as SANTOPRENE (brand), described in US patent 5,393,796 issued to Halberstadt et al. or VYRAM (brand), another TPV
consisting of a mixture of polypropylene and natural rubber, both SANTOPRENE and VYRAM
(brands) being elastomers marketed by Advanced Elastomer Systems. Other suitable elastomers include KRATON, a brand of styrene block copolymer (SBC) marketed by Shell, and DYNAFLEX G 6725 (brand), a thermoplastic elastomer marketed by GLS
Corporation and which is made with KFIATON (brand) polymer. These and other suitable elastomers have. typically, a Shore A hardness of from about 13 to 94, with 23 to 28 being a preferred hardness. Grooves 40, on the top surface of the composite head, extend on both sides of raised rib or ridge 36, and border sections 32.
Figure 2 further illustrates the construction. It Is seen that elastomer section 18 spans the width of the head sections-in the normal configuration of the head, it is soon that head section 16 is tilted with respect to head section 14 at an angle, typically about 18'. Thus, a force exerted on the brush during brushing Is required to tilt section 16 If it is to be more nearly or completely aligned with section 14. The two head sections may be molded in their angled configuration as shown at Figure 1, with the elastomer then added.
Alternatively, the two head sections may be molded aligned with each other and than angled upon locating or Injecting the elastomer between them.
Referring now to Figure 3, It Is seen that the effective curvature of the two head sections 14 and 16 offers improved access to inner and rear surfaces of the teeth.
Thus, handle 12 need not be inclined as much as otherwise In order for forward section 16 and its bristles 22 to engage Interior surfaces of the lower front teeth. In brushing a straight section of teeth, the deformability of the elastomer section 18 permits section 16 to partially or completely align itself with handle 12 and section 14.
Figure 4 illustrates a second embodiment of the invention, there shown as horizontally disposed, and similar to that of Figures 1 and 2 except for a different construction for angularly joining the two head sections. The elastomer joint Is again denoted as 18, with the elastomer Itself denoted as 50 and being of the same composition as previously set out, and extends across the width of the head, and is located between the facing ends of sections 14 and 16. A thin integral bridge connection centrally between the two sections Is designated as 62, typically being of cylindrical form in transverse cross section. Each end is Integral with a respective head section. The elastomer is seen as completely surrounding bridge 52_ This bridge connection may be, in transverse cross section. of any desired form. A top plan view of the head would be similar to Figure 2, except for the absence of grooves 40 and rib 36. As seen at Figure 4, the extent of the elastomer along the toothbrush longitudinal axis is shorter than that of Figures 1 and 2. Integral connection or bridge 52 performs the same function as bridge 30 of Figure 1, namely, integrally joining the two head sections.
This is a divisional of application serial number 2,479,904.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a toothbrush and more particularly to a toothbrush head construction wherein the head is designed and configured to yield a brushing surface conforming to curved sections of teeth and which is bendable to conform to straight teeth sections.
Prior toothbrush constructions include toothbrush heads having pivoted or articulated sections joined together in a variety of constructions, such as a resilient strip of metal or the like, and also Include pivoted or hinged articulated sections to provide a curved bristle configuration-A curved/angled bristle surface configuration offers improved access to hard-to-reach areas such as the lingual surfaces of the front teeth, and behind the roar molars, placing more bristles in contact with the outer surfaces of the' front teeth.
Many current brushes which have rigidly mounted bristles and a rigid curvedlangled bristle surface exhibit an inherent disadvantage when brushing both flat as well as concave tooth surfaces. Placing a curved/angled bristle surface on flat tooth surfaces results in fewer bristles making contact with the teeth. These fewer bristles must support the brushing forces applied through the handle, which will result in premature splaying of the bristles. Some current toothbrushes have a "power tip"
configuration (elongated rigidly mounted tip bristles) which are claimed to have improved access benefits.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the invention, an articulated toothbrush head is defined by two head sections joined by one or more thin bridges of the same resin from which the toothbrush is formed, as by molding, to produce an Integral construction.
These thin bridges permit limited flexing between the two head sections, the two sections normally being at a small angle with respect to each other. That portion of the head 3" PCT/US03m9754 between the two head sections may be, in one embodiment, In the general form of a T
shaped slot running transversely of the top surface of the head, from one side head side edge to another. The slot is filled, as by injection, with an elastomer to control and enhance flexing, The construction is such that the head section most remote from the handle is normally tilted with respect to the head section nearest the handle, the latter head section located at one end of the handle. In a second embodiment, the head section may assume the form of a narrow cylindrical portion, or In a third embodiment two thin bridges may be employed, both having elastomer.
An advantage of the present flexible configuration is, in addition to the above noted features of a curved configuration, its inherent gentleness on the gums.
When one brushes along the gumline with a power tip configuration, one focuses much of the force through the concentrated area at the raised tip. With the present configuration, this force is more evenly distributed There are considerable manufacturing efficiencies with having the Qlastomer material of this invention used In the flex area being the same elastic material as that which may be used as a grip material in the handle area. Therefore, a configuration which allows flexing under the loads typically encountered during brushing with materials which are suitable for use as a grip would be desirable.
To achieve the flexibility described above, the cross section of elastomer may be convoluted, with one or more convolutes. To aid in fixing the elastomer to the toothbrush head sections, the elastomer may be configured to fit into one or more slots at both ends of the flexing area.
To minimize the gap between bristle tufts when the head is flexed Into a flat configuration, it is desirable to position the plastic (resin) bridge between the tip and 26 handle portions as near the bristle tips as possible. This bridge is straightened during flexing. and directly controls the gap between bristle tufts on each aide of the flex area.
The present invention also provides a toothbrush including a handle and an articulated head coupled to the handle, the head including two sections. Each of the head sections has a bottom surface and a aide surface and each of the head sections bLJUl-L4Ly includes a plurality of bristles extending from the bottom surface of that head section. In one embodiment, at least one of the head sections includes a plurality of elastomeric fingers partially defining the side surface of that head section and partially extending from the bottom surface of that head section. The head section most remote from the handle, in a normal configuration of the head, may be angled with respect to the other head section. The elastomeric fingers are adapted, for example, to provide a massaging action against the gums when the toothbrush is applied along the gumline and the elastomeric fingers are contacted with the gums.
In accordance with an aspect of the invention, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; and an articulated head coupled to the handle, the articulated head including two sections each of the head sections having a bottom surface and a side surface, the head sections being connected by an elastomeric material extending between the two sections, and the elastomeric material being disposed around the side surface of the head section most remote from the handle and partially into the side surface of the head section closest to the handle, each of the head sections including a plurality of bristles extending from the respective bottom surface thereof, at least one of the head sections including a plurality of elastomeric fingers partially defining the side surface of that head section and partially extending from the bottom surface of that head section, wherein the head section most remote from the handle, in a normal configuration of the articulated head, is angled with respect to the other head section; wherein the plurality of elastomeric fingers are composed of the same elastomeric material as the material extending between the two sections; wherein the head section most remote from the handle has the side surface partially defined by a lower portion of the elastomeric fingers.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from a lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein, at least some of the tufts extending from the lower surface of one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface and a side surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from a lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material that extends between said head sections and forms at least a portion of the side surface, wherein, at least some of the tufts extending from the lower surface of one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between - 3a -the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface; the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head; the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head; a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head; the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising ridges formed into each of the first side surface and the second side surface.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface; the head comprising a hard plastic and an elastomeric material, the elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head; a - 3b -plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head; a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head, the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic; each of the first side surface and the second side surface comprising ridges formed into the elastomeric material; wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising: a handle; an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface; the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head; the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head; a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the - 3c -head; at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extending a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head; at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts being slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers; the plurality of elastomeric fingers having substantially rounded top ends; the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic; the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprising a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the exposed portion of the hard plastic being disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers; the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, said handle area having a molded-in channel that may be used to introduce elastomeric material into said head.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein at least some of the tufts extending from the bottom surface of -3d-one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths, wherein at least some of the free ends of the tufts extending from one of said head sections form a slant with respect to the lower surface of said head section, wherein the length of the elastomer between the facing ends of said two head sections varies, said length being measured along the toothbrush longitudinal axis.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein the length of the elastomer between the facing ends of said two head sections varies, said length being measured along the toothbrush longitudinal axis.
In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a toothbrush comprising a head and a handle, the head having an area comprising a first elastomeric material and having tooth cleaning elements, the handle having an area comprising a second elastomeric material, the first elastomeric material and second elastomeric materials being composed of different elastomers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a side elevational view illustrating the toothbrush head of this invention according to a first embodiment.
Figure 2 is a top plan view of the toothbrush head shown at Figure 1.
Figure 3 is an elevational view showing the head and tufts of bristles as brushing the inside surfaces of the lower teeth.
-3e-Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 1 and shows a second embodiment.
Figure 5 is a view similar to Figure 1 and shows a third embodiment.
Figure 6 is a side elevational view of a fourth embodiment.
Figure 7 is a side elevational view of a fifth embodiment.
Figure 8 is a side elevational view of a sixth embodiment.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 10 is a side view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of a toothbrush head in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
-3f-WO 03105.1364 PCT1US031097.4 Figure 13 is a side view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 14 is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush In a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 15 = is a view of the top surface of a toothbrush according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 18 Is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 is a view of the bottom surface of a toothbrush head according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 18 is a perspective view of a toothbrush head in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 19 Is a side view of a toothbrush head in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present Invention.
figure 20 is a side view of a toothbrush in a normal configuration according to an embodiment of the present Invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to Figure 1, a side elevational view of a toothbrush embodying the features and construction of this invention Is shown In a vertical position, with a portion of the handle designated as 12. While not completely shown, the reader will understand that the handle extends downwardly and has a longitudinal axis.
That portion of the head nearest the handle is designated as section 14 and is oollinear with the handle, while that portion of the head most remote.from the handle is designated 26 as section 16. An elastomer section or joint between facing ends of sections 14 and 16 is denoted generally as 18. A plurality of tufts of bristles 20 extends at right angles to section 14. while a similar plurality of tufts of bristles 22 extends at right angles from section 16. Tufts of bristles 22 are thus at right angles to lower surface 24 of head wo 0310913" PCTFUSO3/09741 section 16, while tufts of bristles 20 are perpendicular to lower or bottom surface 26 of head section 14.
A generally T-shaped groove. In a longitudinal cross section, extends transversely across the upper or top surface of the head and is thus located between 6 sections 14 and 16. The bottom of the central or main part of the groove is spaced from the lower surface of the composite head, leaving a thickness or bridge section designated as 30 which joins the lower portions of the two head sections.
Bridge or zone 30 is typically of a thickness between 20 and 40 thousandths of an inch.
The handle and head sections are molded from a plastic or resin such as polypropylene.
The generally T shaped groove is filled with a resilient and soft thermoplastic elastomer. The T groove has two symmetrical wing portions 32, each terminating in an enlarged portion 34, the latter extending towards respective groups of tufts of bristles.
The Middle of the T shaped resin Insert section 18 includes an Integral ridge 36, while the lower portion or base portion of the T section is designated as 38, The thermoplastic elastomer which forms section 18 may be a thermoplastic vulcanate (TPV) consisting of a mixture of polypropylene and EPOM (ethylene propylene diene monomers) which is available as SANTOPRENE (brand), described in US patent 5,393,796 issued to Halberstadt et al. or VYRAM (brand), another TPV
consisting of a mixture of polypropylene and natural rubber, both SANTOPRENE and VYRAM
(brands) being elastomers marketed by Advanced Elastomer Systems. Other suitable elastomers include KRATON, a brand of styrene block copolymer (SBC) marketed by Shell, and DYNAFLEX G 6725 (brand), a thermoplastic elastomer marketed by GLS
Corporation and which is made with KFIATON (brand) polymer. These and other suitable elastomers have. typically, a Shore A hardness of from about 13 to 94, with 23 to 28 being a preferred hardness. Grooves 40, on the top surface of the composite head, extend on both sides of raised rib or ridge 36, and border sections 32.
Figure 2 further illustrates the construction. It Is seen that elastomer section 18 spans the width of the head sections-in the normal configuration of the head, it is soon that head section 16 is tilted with respect to head section 14 at an angle, typically about 18'. Thus, a force exerted on the brush during brushing Is required to tilt section 16 If it is to be more nearly or completely aligned with section 14. The two head sections may be molded in their angled configuration as shown at Figure 1, with the elastomer then added.
Alternatively, the two head sections may be molded aligned with each other and than angled upon locating or Injecting the elastomer between them.
Referring now to Figure 3, It Is seen that the effective curvature of the two head sections 14 and 16 offers improved access to inner and rear surfaces of the teeth.
Thus, handle 12 need not be inclined as much as otherwise In order for forward section 16 and its bristles 22 to engage Interior surfaces of the lower front teeth. In brushing a straight section of teeth, the deformability of the elastomer section 18 permits section 16 to partially or completely align itself with handle 12 and section 14.
Figure 4 illustrates a second embodiment of the invention, there shown as horizontally disposed, and similar to that of Figures 1 and 2 except for a different construction for angularly joining the two head sections. The elastomer joint Is again denoted as 18, with the elastomer Itself denoted as 50 and being of the same composition as previously set out, and extends across the width of the head, and is located between the facing ends of sections 14 and 16. A thin integral bridge connection centrally between the two sections Is designated as 62, typically being of cylindrical form in transverse cross section. Each end is Integral with a respective head section. The elastomer is seen as completely surrounding bridge 52_ This bridge connection may be, in transverse cross section. of any desired form. A top plan view of the head would be similar to Figure 2, except for the absence of grooves 40 and rib 36. As seen at Figure 4, the extent of the elastomer along the toothbrush longitudinal axis is shorter than that of Figures 1 and 2. Integral connection or bridge 52 performs the same function as bridge 30 of Figure 1, namely, integrally joining the two head sections.
wO 03/084364 ICr/U303/O9754 Figure 5 shows a third embodiment, again shown as horizontal. There, the lower surfaces 24 and 26 of bristled head sections 14 and 16 are Joined by an Intermediate arcuate bottom surface 27 having tufts of bristles 23 extending orthogonally and downwardly therefrom. An elastomer section 18 is generally C shaped and has a bight part 60 and tips or ends 62, the latter located in respective complementary double troughs or double grooves which extend transversely across the head. The elastomer tips are separated by head portion 64, with thin bridges 66, again formed from the molded resin forming the toothbrush, joining the two head sections at the tower surface of the whole head- The C shaped elastomer thus surrounds portion 64 across the width of the head.
The second and third embodiments yield the same cleaning action as shown at Figure 3. The thickness of bridges 52 and 66 is the same 'as that of bridge 30 of Figure 1.
It is seen that the bridges 30, 52 and 66 of the respective embodiments inhibit longitudinal separation of the two head sections by resisting tensile or other forces which might result In such separation, while the elastomer also controls the degree of flexing when head section 16 Is subject to brushing forces. The function of the bridges Is thus to tether the two head sections together, as well as to set them at an initial angle. When the sections move toward straightening or alignment, each elastomer section is deformed. Such deformation Is resisted by the elastomer and to a lesser extent by the resin (polypropylene) bridges so that the sections revert to their normal, angled relationship upon the cessation of brushing force on forwardmost section 16.
Figure 6 illustrates a fourth embodiment which differs from that shown In Figure 1 only in the absence of bridge 30 of Figure 1. Instead of bridge 30, the two head sections are coupled by T shaped elastomer section 39, the latter being of the same form as that of section 38 of Figure 1, except that it extends all the way to the lower surface of the head-Figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment, here the two head sections 14 and 16 being normally aligned. A generally T shaped elastomeric section 41 forms a joint 18 which WO 03/8"M PCTWS03/09754 fills the spaces between the ends of the two head sections 14 and 16, except for bridge 30, identical with bridge 30 of Figure 1, which integrally tethers the two heed sections together. Tufts of bristles 70 are slanted with respect to lower head surface 24 of head section 16, the slanting being towards handle 12. Tufts 70 are of successively different lengths. with the longest being near the most remote free end or tip of the head section 16. It is seen that the tips of bristle tufts 70 and 20 form a generally concave brushing surface which is at times, during brushing, flattened upon bending of joint 18.
Figure- 8 illustrates a sixth embodiment, similar to that of Figure 7, and differs therefrom only in that the head section 16 tufts, here denoted as 72, extend orthogonally from surface 24. These latter tufts are, as tufts 70, of uniformly different lengths. The longest are near the free and of head section 16.
Again, the free ends of tufts 72 and 20 form a generally concave brushing surface which is at times, during brushing, flattened upon bending of joint 1 a.
Many toothbrushes available in the marketplace today are "dual component.' by which is meant that an elastomerio material is used to a greater or lesser extent, particularly in the finger gripping portion of the brush. The method of manufacture of such dual component brushes by injection molding is thus exceedingly well known in the art today. The toothbrushes according to the present invention may be made by use of such conventional dual component technology. For example. In accordance with a first method of manufacturing brushes according to the present invention, the elastomeric material may be introduced into the head area from the handgrip area via a molded-In channel (assuming a handgrip area is required). Alternatively, the elastomer could be introduced into the head area via a second injection point or gate located at the head, thereby eliminating the need for a molded-in channel. The head may then be tufted using conventional staple technology.
In accordance with a second method of manufacturing brushes according to the present Invention, the handle and elastomer for the grip and the head areas are molded using a three-shot molding technique. The elastomer is introduced Into the head area separately from the handgrip area. This process is especially useful if the elastomer for the head section of the brush and the hand grip section are different elastomeric materials, such as elastomers having two different Shore hardness values.
For example, in some circumstances, it may be desired to use a softer elastomer for the head area than fore the handgrip portion of the brush. As above, the head may then be tufted using conventional staple technology.
in another embodiment as illustrated in Figure 9, the present invention provides a toothbrush 80 having=a handle 81 and an articulated head 93 coupled to handle 81.
Bead 93 Includes a bottom surface 85, a first side surface 87, a second side surface 96 (not shown) and a top surface 94. A plurality of bristles 86 extends from the bottom surface 85 of head 93 in a direction generally orthogonal to the bottom surface 85. As Illustrated in Figure 10, head 93 may include two sections 93a and 93b.
Head section 93a includes a bottom surface 65a, a first side surface 87a, a second side surface 96a (not shown), and a top surface 94a. Head section 93b Includes a bottom surface 85b. a first side surface 87b, a second side surface 96b (not shown);
and a top surface 94b. Each of the head sections 93a/93b has a respective plurality of bristles 86e/86b extending from the respective bottom surface 85a/85b thereof. In particular, head section 93a has a plurality of bristles 86a extending from bottom surface 85a and head section 93b has a plurality of bristles 86b extending from bottom surface 85b. As seen in Figure 11, at least one of the head sections has a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 partially defining the first and/or second side surface of the head section and partially extending from the bottom surface of the first and/or second side surface.
The plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 is adapted to provide, for example, massaging action to the gums when toothbrush 80 is applied.., along the gumline and the elastomeric fingers 88 are contacted with the gum.
As seen in Figures 9-20, the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may extend In a direction generally orthogonal to the bottom surface. As seen in Figures 9-20, the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may also extend In a direction substantially parallel to either the plurality of bristles 86a or the plurality of bristles 86b. In one embodiment, there is about a 150 angle between each of the fingers of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 and each of the bristles of the plurality of bristles 86.
The plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may partially define a first and/or second side surface of one head section or both head sections. Figure 10 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a partially defining first side surface 87a of head section 93a.
Figure 12 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a partially defining second side surface 96a of head section 93a in addition to first side surface 87a. Figure 13 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 partially defining second side surface 96a of head section 93a and second side surface 96b of head section 93b. Figure 11 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 partially defining first side surface 87 (not shown) and second side surface 96 of head 93 (elastomeric fingers 88 partially define both side surfaces of both head sections). It will be understood that the present invention contemplates any combination of arrangement of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88. By partially defining the side surface of head section 93, the plurality of elastomerio fingers does not sacrifice the amount or surface area of the plurality of bristles 86_ As shown In Figure 14, head 93 may have a primary brushing area 99, and the plurality of elastomerio fingers 88 may be outside or outboard the primary brushing area 99 of head 93. Top surface 94 of head 93 may be defined by a periphery 100, and elastomeric fingers 88 may extend outside of periphery 100 of top surface 94 as illustrated in Figure 15. In an embodiment, positioning the elastomeric fingers 88 outside of the primary brushing area 99 may allow the elastomeric fingers 88 to better hit the gumiine of a user. in addition, the elastomeric fingers 88 may not use any, or as much of, the tooth-cleaning bristle area, In addition, positioning the elastomeric fingers 88 outside of the primary brushing area 99 may facilitate the stapling, trimming and end rounding manufacturing process, especially where the tips of the elastomeric fingers 88 are the same height as the tufts of bristle behind each finger. As depicted in Figure 10 and Figure 13, head section 93a, in a normal configuration of head 93, may be angled with respect to head section 93b. The angled configuration of head section 93a may allow toothbrush 80 greater aooess to hard-to-reach areas, such as the lingual surfaces of the front teeth and behind the rear molars, and place more bristle in contact with the outer surface of the front teeth.
With respect to the dimensions of the elastomeric fingers 88, the plurality of elastomeric fingers may be of uniform length, of uniformly different lengths, or of non-uniformly different lengths. In a preferred embodiment. as Illustrated In Figures 10 and 13, the lengths of the elastomeric fingers 88 approximately follow the curved contour of the free ends of the plurality of bristles 86. In particular, the elastomerio fingers 88a follow the curved contour of the free ends of the plurality of bristles 86a and the elastomeric fingers 88b follow the curved contour of the free ends of the plurality of bristles 86b. - The elastomeric fingers 88 may be configured in any slfape.
For example, as Illustrated in Figure 16. each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a/88b is C-shaped. Due to this C-shape, a finger 88 may partially encircle a tuft of bristles 88a/88b and may aid in a flossing ability of the tuft of bristles by enabling the tuft of bristles 86a/86b to remain substantially rigid or preventing the bristles from substantially flexing. This flossing ability refers to the ability of bristles 86a/86b to access areas between teeth. The C-shape of each of the elastomeric fingers 88s/88b Is only one example of a configuration that may facilitate the flossing ability of the bristles 8fa/8eb. If such a function is desired, the elastomeric fingers 68a/88b may be configured in any shape suitable to promote the flossing ability of the bristles 86a/86b.
In an alternative embodiment. as illustrated In Figure 17. each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a/88b is D-shaped. In such a configuration, a side surface 98 of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a/88b facing the plurality of bristles 86a/86b is substantially fiat, to provide extra clearance between the bristles and the elastomeric fingers.
Each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be discrete as illustrated In Figures 9-16, or the bottom ends of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be attached or connected to other elastomerio fingers 88 in some manner. By "bottom end,'" what is meant is the portion of the elastomeric fingers 88 closest to top surface 94. If each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers is discrete, the bottom ends of the etastemerio fingers 88 may be at varying distances from top surface 94. The top end of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be substantially rounded or flat. By "top end," what is meant Is the portion of the elastomeric fingers 88 farthest from top surface 94. The top end may be configured In any shape and may be suitable for the function of providing a massaging action to the gums when toothbrush 90 is applied along the gumilne and the elastomeric fingers 88 are contacted with the gums.
The plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be composed of an elastomeric material, such as, for example, TPV and other elastomeric materials previously mentioned and discussed. Preferably, the shore hardness value of the elastomeric material is less than 30. More preferably, the shore hardness value of the elastomeric material is between about 23 and 28.
In an embodiment of present Invention as Illustrated In Figure 18, toothbrush includes a handle 81 (partially shown) and an articulated head 93 coupled to the handle 81. Head 93 includes a bottom surface 85, a first side surface 87,' a second side surface 96 (not shown), and a top surface 84. Although not specifically illustrated in Figure 15, head 93 may Include two sections 93a and 93b. Each of the head sections 93a/93b may have a plurality of bristles 86 (not shown) extending from the respective bottom surface thereof. At least one of the head sections has a plurality of claotomerlo fingers 88 partially defining ridges 90 of a respective side surface thereof.
The ridges 90 form a convoluted side surface adapted to provide, for example, a massaging action to gingival or oral tissue such as the inner cheeks and tongue when toothbrush 80 is applied to teeth and ridges 90 are contacted with the oral tissue. In one embodiment head section 93a, in a normal configuration of head 93, is angled with respect to head section 93b. In another embodiment as illustrated In Figure 19, the plurality of elastomeric fingers Be defines a smooth side surface 87.
In an embodiment as Illustrated in Figure 12 and Figure 13, toothbrush 80 includes a flex area 91, which may include an elastomeric material. In an embodiment as illustrated in Figure 13. wherein head section 93a is angled with respect to head WO 03m84341 PCT/US03/097;4 section 93b, the deformability of flex area 91 permits head section 93a to partially or completely align itself with handle 81 and head section -93D. In another embodiment as depicted in Figure 10. head section 93a includes an elastomeric area 92, which for = example includes first side surface 87a, second side surface 98a (not shown), and top surface 94a. Handle 81 may also include an elastomeric section 97. as Illustrated in Figure 9. The elastomeric fingers 88, the flex area 91, the elastomeric area 92 of head section 93a, and the elastomeric section 97 of handle 81 may be composed of the same elastomer or different elastomers. In an embodiment, the elastomeric fingers 88 extend from the slastomeric area 92 of head section 93a. This embodiment may provide improved fit and control of the brush head when used to brush teeth. In an embodiment, the elastomerio fingers 88 may generate more motion, and may generate more movement along the gum line, when the head is straightened.
With respect to bristles 86. in one embodiment, at least of some of the bristles 86a/86b extending from bottom surface 85a/85b of head section 93a/93b. are of uniformly different lengths as Illustrated in Figures 10 and 13. As seen from these Figures, the tips of bristles 85a/86b may form a generally concave brushing surface, which is at times during brushing, flattened upon bending of the head. In an alternative embodiment, at least some free ends of the plurality of bristles extending from one of the head sections forms a slant with respect to the bottom surface of the head section. For example, as seen in Figure 10, the plurality of bristles 86a extending from bottom surface 85a of head section 93a forms a slant with respect to bottom surface 85a of head section 93a.
In an embodiment as illustrated in Figure 13, the geometry of Toothbrush 80 is such that if toothbrush 80 is In a resting position on a flat surface and bottom surface 85 of head 93 is lacing the flat surface, the plurality of eiastomerio fingers 88 do not contact the flat surface. By "resting position," what Is meant Is a position such that no = external pressure Is applied to the plurality of eiastomerio fingers 88 other than the pressure applied by the flat surface. According to one manufacturing method of toothbrush 80, after toothbrush 80 has been molded via an Injection molding machine, - 13' WO 0310843" PCT/USO31097$4 the molded toothbrush 80 (without bristles) drops from the molding machine onto a flat surfnoe of a cooling conveyor. Handle 81 then rolls either onto a table or in a bin. The plurality of bristles 86 is then stapled into head 93. According to this embodiment, the geometry of toothbrush 80 Is such that handle 81 may lay in any position without resulting in the eiastomoric fingers 88 being bent by the pressure exerted on the elastomeric fingers 88 by the flat surface of the conveyor.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in Figure 20, toothbrush 80 includes a handle 81 (partially shown) and an articulated head 93 joined to handle 81. The articulated head 93 may include a first section 93a and a second section 93b_ At least pan of the handle 81, the first section 93a and the second section 93b is Integrally molded of the same material. The first section 93a includes a first plurality of bristles 86a and the second section 93b includes a second plurality of bristles 86b. The first plurality of bristles 86a extends generally orthogonally from first section 93a and the second plurality of bristles 86b extends generally orthogonally from second section 93b. At least one of the first section 93a and the second section 93b includes a plurality of etastomeric fingers 88a/88b defining a respective slue eurfaoe thereof. The first section 93a and the second section 93b are the only sections of the articulated head 93 that include bristles. First Section 93b Is the only one of the sections joined to handle 81. Second section 93a is joined to first section 93b by at least one bridge 84. Second section 93a, in a normal configuration of articulated head 93, is angled with respect to first section 93b.
The second and third embodiments yield the same cleaning action as shown at Figure 3. The thickness of bridges 52 and 66 is the same 'as that of bridge 30 of Figure 1.
It is seen that the bridges 30, 52 and 66 of the respective embodiments inhibit longitudinal separation of the two head sections by resisting tensile or other forces which might result In such separation, while the elastomer also controls the degree of flexing when head section 16 Is subject to brushing forces. The function of the bridges Is thus to tether the two head sections together, as well as to set them at an initial angle. When the sections move toward straightening or alignment, each elastomer section is deformed. Such deformation Is resisted by the elastomer and to a lesser extent by the resin (polypropylene) bridges so that the sections revert to their normal, angled relationship upon the cessation of brushing force on forwardmost section 16.
Figure 6 illustrates a fourth embodiment which differs from that shown In Figure 1 only in the absence of bridge 30 of Figure 1. Instead of bridge 30, the two head sections are coupled by T shaped elastomer section 39, the latter being of the same form as that of section 38 of Figure 1, except that it extends all the way to the lower surface of the head-Figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment, here the two head sections 14 and 16 being normally aligned. A generally T shaped elastomeric section 41 forms a joint 18 which WO 03/8"M PCTWS03/09754 fills the spaces between the ends of the two head sections 14 and 16, except for bridge 30, identical with bridge 30 of Figure 1, which integrally tethers the two heed sections together. Tufts of bristles 70 are slanted with respect to lower head surface 24 of head section 16, the slanting being towards handle 12. Tufts 70 are of successively different lengths. with the longest being near the most remote free end or tip of the head section 16. It is seen that the tips of bristle tufts 70 and 20 form a generally concave brushing surface which is at times, during brushing, flattened upon bending of joint 18.
Figure- 8 illustrates a sixth embodiment, similar to that of Figure 7, and differs therefrom only in that the head section 16 tufts, here denoted as 72, extend orthogonally from surface 24. These latter tufts are, as tufts 70, of uniformly different lengths. The longest are near the free and of head section 16.
Again, the free ends of tufts 72 and 20 form a generally concave brushing surface which is at times, during brushing, flattened upon bending of joint 1 a.
Many toothbrushes available in the marketplace today are "dual component.' by which is meant that an elastomerio material is used to a greater or lesser extent, particularly in the finger gripping portion of the brush. The method of manufacture of such dual component brushes by injection molding is thus exceedingly well known in the art today. The toothbrushes according to the present invention may be made by use of such conventional dual component technology. For example. In accordance with a first method of manufacturing brushes according to the present invention, the elastomeric material may be introduced into the head area from the handgrip area via a molded-In channel (assuming a handgrip area is required). Alternatively, the elastomer could be introduced into the head area via a second injection point or gate located at the head, thereby eliminating the need for a molded-in channel. The head may then be tufted using conventional staple technology.
In accordance with a second method of manufacturing brushes according to the present Invention, the handle and elastomer for the grip and the head areas are molded using a three-shot molding technique. The elastomer is introduced Into the head area separately from the handgrip area. This process is especially useful if the elastomer for the head section of the brush and the hand grip section are different elastomeric materials, such as elastomers having two different Shore hardness values.
For example, in some circumstances, it may be desired to use a softer elastomer for the head area than fore the handgrip portion of the brush. As above, the head may then be tufted using conventional staple technology.
in another embodiment as illustrated in Figure 9, the present invention provides a toothbrush 80 having=a handle 81 and an articulated head 93 coupled to handle 81.
Bead 93 Includes a bottom surface 85, a first side surface 87, a second side surface 96 (not shown) and a top surface 94. A plurality of bristles 86 extends from the bottom surface 85 of head 93 in a direction generally orthogonal to the bottom surface 85. As Illustrated in Figure 10, head 93 may include two sections 93a and 93b.
Head section 93a includes a bottom surface 65a, a first side surface 87a, a second side surface 96a (not shown), and a top surface 94a. Head section 93b Includes a bottom surface 85b. a first side surface 87b, a second side surface 96b (not shown);
and a top surface 94b. Each of the head sections 93a/93b has a respective plurality of bristles 86e/86b extending from the respective bottom surface 85a/85b thereof. In particular, head section 93a has a plurality of bristles 86a extending from bottom surface 85a and head section 93b has a plurality of bristles 86b extending from bottom surface 85b. As seen in Figure 11, at least one of the head sections has a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 partially defining the first and/or second side surface of the head section and partially extending from the bottom surface of the first and/or second side surface.
The plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 is adapted to provide, for example, massaging action to the gums when toothbrush 80 is applied.., along the gumline and the elastomeric fingers 88 are contacted with the gum.
As seen in Figures 9-20, the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may extend In a direction generally orthogonal to the bottom surface. As seen in Figures 9-20, the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may also extend In a direction substantially parallel to either the plurality of bristles 86a or the plurality of bristles 86b. In one embodiment, there is about a 150 angle between each of the fingers of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 and each of the bristles of the plurality of bristles 86.
The plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may partially define a first and/or second side surface of one head section or both head sections. Figure 10 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a partially defining first side surface 87a of head section 93a.
Figure 12 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a partially defining second side surface 96a of head section 93a in addition to first side surface 87a. Figure 13 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 partially defining second side surface 96a of head section 93a and second side surface 96b of head section 93b. Figure 11 depicts a plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 partially defining first side surface 87 (not shown) and second side surface 96 of head 93 (elastomeric fingers 88 partially define both side surfaces of both head sections). It will be understood that the present invention contemplates any combination of arrangement of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88. By partially defining the side surface of head section 93, the plurality of elastomerio fingers does not sacrifice the amount or surface area of the plurality of bristles 86_ As shown In Figure 14, head 93 may have a primary brushing area 99, and the plurality of elastomerio fingers 88 may be outside or outboard the primary brushing area 99 of head 93. Top surface 94 of head 93 may be defined by a periphery 100, and elastomeric fingers 88 may extend outside of periphery 100 of top surface 94 as illustrated in Figure 15. In an embodiment, positioning the elastomeric fingers 88 outside of the primary brushing area 99 may allow the elastomeric fingers 88 to better hit the gumiine of a user. in addition, the elastomeric fingers 88 may not use any, or as much of, the tooth-cleaning bristle area, In addition, positioning the elastomeric fingers 88 outside of the primary brushing area 99 may facilitate the stapling, trimming and end rounding manufacturing process, especially where the tips of the elastomeric fingers 88 are the same height as the tufts of bristle behind each finger. As depicted in Figure 10 and Figure 13, head section 93a, in a normal configuration of head 93, may be angled with respect to head section 93b. The angled configuration of head section 93a may allow toothbrush 80 greater aooess to hard-to-reach areas, such as the lingual surfaces of the front teeth and behind the rear molars, and place more bristle in contact with the outer surface of the front teeth.
With respect to the dimensions of the elastomeric fingers 88, the plurality of elastomeric fingers may be of uniform length, of uniformly different lengths, or of non-uniformly different lengths. In a preferred embodiment. as Illustrated In Figures 10 and 13, the lengths of the elastomeric fingers 88 approximately follow the curved contour of the free ends of the plurality of bristles 86. In particular, the elastomerio fingers 88a follow the curved contour of the free ends of the plurality of bristles 86a and the elastomeric fingers 88b follow the curved contour of the free ends of the plurality of bristles 86b. - The elastomeric fingers 88 may be configured in any slfape.
For example, as Illustrated in Figure 16. each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a/88b is C-shaped. Due to this C-shape, a finger 88 may partially encircle a tuft of bristles 88a/88b and may aid in a flossing ability of the tuft of bristles by enabling the tuft of bristles 86a/86b to remain substantially rigid or preventing the bristles from substantially flexing. This flossing ability refers to the ability of bristles 86a/86b to access areas between teeth. The C-shape of each of the elastomeric fingers 88s/88b Is only one example of a configuration that may facilitate the flossing ability of the bristles 8fa/8eb. If such a function is desired, the elastomeric fingers 68a/88b may be configured in any shape suitable to promote the flossing ability of the bristles 86a/86b.
In an alternative embodiment. as illustrated In Figure 17. each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a/88b is D-shaped. In such a configuration, a side surface 98 of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88a/88b facing the plurality of bristles 86a/86b is substantially fiat, to provide extra clearance between the bristles and the elastomeric fingers.
Each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be discrete as illustrated In Figures 9-16, or the bottom ends of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be attached or connected to other elastomerio fingers 88 in some manner. By "bottom end,'" what is meant is the portion of the elastomeric fingers 88 closest to top surface 94. If each of the plurality of elastomeric fingers is discrete, the bottom ends of the etastemerio fingers 88 may be at varying distances from top surface 94. The top end of the plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be substantially rounded or flat. By "top end," what is meant Is the portion of the elastomeric fingers 88 farthest from top surface 94. The top end may be configured In any shape and may be suitable for the function of providing a massaging action to the gums when toothbrush 90 is applied along the gumilne and the elastomeric fingers 88 are contacted with the gums.
The plurality of elastomeric fingers 88 may be composed of an elastomeric material, such as, for example, TPV and other elastomeric materials previously mentioned and discussed. Preferably, the shore hardness value of the elastomeric material is less than 30. More preferably, the shore hardness value of the elastomeric material is between about 23 and 28.
In an embodiment of present Invention as Illustrated In Figure 18, toothbrush includes a handle 81 (partially shown) and an articulated head 93 coupled to the handle 81. Head 93 includes a bottom surface 85, a first side surface 87,' a second side surface 96 (not shown), and a top surface 84. Although not specifically illustrated in Figure 15, head 93 may Include two sections 93a and 93b. Each of the head sections 93a/93b may have a plurality of bristles 86 (not shown) extending from the respective bottom surface thereof. At least one of the head sections has a plurality of claotomerlo fingers 88 partially defining ridges 90 of a respective side surface thereof.
The ridges 90 form a convoluted side surface adapted to provide, for example, a massaging action to gingival or oral tissue such as the inner cheeks and tongue when toothbrush 80 is applied to teeth and ridges 90 are contacted with the oral tissue. In one embodiment head section 93a, in a normal configuration of head 93, is angled with respect to head section 93b. In another embodiment as illustrated In Figure 19, the plurality of elastomeric fingers Be defines a smooth side surface 87.
In an embodiment as Illustrated in Figure 12 and Figure 13, toothbrush 80 includes a flex area 91, which may include an elastomeric material. In an embodiment as illustrated in Figure 13. wherein head section 93a is angled with respect to head WO 03m84341 PCT/US03/097;4 section 93b, the deformability of flex area 91 permits head section 93a to partially or completely align itself with handle 81 and head section -93D. In another embodiment as depicted in Figure 10. head section 93a includes an elastomeric area 92, which for = example includes first side surface 87a, second side surface 98a (not shown), and top surface 94a. Handle 81 may also include an elastomeric section 97. as Illustrated in Figure 9. The elastomeric fingers 88, the flex area 91, the elastomeric area 92 of head section 93a, and the elastomeric section 97 of handle 81 may be composed of the same elastomer or different elastomers. In an embodiment, the elastomeric fingers 88 extend from the slastomeric area 92 of head section 93a. This embodiment may provide improved fit and control of the brush head when used to brush teeth. In an embodiment, the elastomerio fingers 88 may generate more motion, and may generate more movement along the gum line, when the head is straightened.
With respect to bristles 86. in one embodiment, at least of some of the bristles 86a/86b extending from bottom surface 85a/85b of head section 93a/93b. are of uniformly different lengths as Illustrated in Figures 10 and 13. As seen from these Figures, the tips of bristles 85a/86b may form a generally concave brushing surface, which is at times during brushing, flattened upon bending of the head. In an alternative embodiment, at least some free ends of the plurality of bristles extending from one of the head sections forms a slant with respect to the bottom surface of the head section. For example, as seen in Figure 10, the plurality of bristles 86a extending from bottom surface 85a of head section 93a forms a slant with respect to bottom surface 85a of head section 93a.
In an embodiment as illustrated in Figure 13, the geometry of Toothbrush 80 is such that if toothbrush 80 is In a resting position on a flat surface and bottom surface 85 of head 93 is lacing the flat surface, the plurality of eiastomerio fingers 88 do not contact the flat surface. By "resting position," what Is meant Is a position such that no = external pressure Is applied to the plurality of eiastomerio fingers 88 other than the pressure applied by the flat surface. According to one manufacturing method of toothbrush 80, after toothbrush 80 has been molded via an Injection molding machine, - 13' WO 0310843" PCT/USO31097$4 the molded toothbrush 80 (without bristles) drops from the molding machine onto a flat surfnoe of a cooling conveyor. Handle 81 then rolls either onto a table or in a bin. The plurality of bristles 86 is then stapled into head 93. According to this embodiment, the geometry of toothbrush 80 Is such that handle 81 may lay in any position without resulting in the eiastomoric fingers 88 being bent by the pressure exerted on the elastomeric fingers 88 by the flat surface of the conveyor.
In yet another embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in Figure 20, toothbrush 80 includes a handle 81 (partially shown) and an articulated head 93 joined to handle 81. The articulated head 93 may include a first section 93a and a second section 93b_ At least pan of the handle 81, the first section 93a and the second section 93b is Integrally molded of the same material. The first section 93a includes a first plurality of bristles 86a and the second section 93b includes a second plurality of bristles 86b. The first plurality of bristles 86a extends generally orthogonally from first section 93a and the second plurality of bristles 86b extends generally orthogonally from second section 93b. At least one of the first section 93a and the second section 93b includes a plurality of etastomeric fingers 88a/88b defining a respective slue eurfaoe thereof. The first section 93a and the second section 93b are the only sections of the articulated head 93 that include bristles. First Section 93b Is the only one of the sections joined to handle 81. Second section 93a is joined to first section 93b by at least one bridge 84. Second section 93a, in a normal configuration of articulated head 93, is angled with respect to first section 93b.
Claims (43)
1. A toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface and a side surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from a lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material that extends between said head sections and forms at least a portion of the side surface, wherein, at least some of the tufts extending from the lower surface of one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths.
2. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the head has a primary brushing area, and wherein at least one of the head sections includes a plurality of elastomeric fingers positioned outboard the primary brushing area.
3. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein a plurality of elastomeric fingers partially defines a convoluted elastomer edge of at least one of the head sections.
4. A toothbrush comprising:
a handle;
an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface;
the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head;
the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head;
a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head;
the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising ridges formed into each of the first side surface and the second side surface.
a handle;
an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface;
the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head;
the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head;
a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head;
the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising ridges formed into each of the first side surface and the second side surface.
5. The toothbrush of claim 4 wherein at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extend a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head.
6. The toothbrush of claim 4 wherein at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts are slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
7. The toothbrush of claim 4 wherein the plurality of elastomeric fingers have substantially rounded top ends.
8. The toothbrush of claim 4 wherein the plurality of bristle tufts extend from an exposed portion of the hard plastic.
9. The toothbrush of claim 8 wherein the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprise a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the exposed portion of hard plastic being disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers.
10. The toothbrush of claim 4 wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
11. The toothbrush of claim 1 wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
12. The toothbrush of claim 4 wherein the toothbrush has a geometry such that if the toothbrush is in a resting position on a flat surface and the bottom surface of the head is facing the flat surface, the plurality of elastomeric fingers will not contact the flat surface.
13. The toothbrush of claim 4 further comprising:
at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extending a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head;
at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts being slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers having substantially rounded top ends;
wherein the plurality of bristle tufts extend from an exposed portion of the hard plastic;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprising a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the plurality of bristle tufts disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extending a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head;
at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts being slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers having substantially rounded top ends;
wherein the plurality of bristle tufts extend from an exposed portion of the hard plastic;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprising a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the plurality of bristle tufts disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
14. A toothbrush comprising:
a handle;
an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface;
the head comprising a hard plastic and an elastomeric material, the elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head;
a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head;
a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head, the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic;
each of the first side surface and the second side surface comprising ridges formed into the elastomeric material;
wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
a handle;
an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface;
the head comprising a hard plastic and an elastomeric material, the elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head;
a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head;
a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head, the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic;
each of the first side surface and the second side surface comprising ridges formed into the elastomeric material;
wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers; and wherein the plurality of bristle tufts comprise a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
15. The toothbrush of claim 14 wherein the plurality of elastomeric fingers and the elastomeric material is an integral mass.
16. The toothbrush of claim 14 wherein the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprise a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the exposed portion of the hard plastic disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers.
17. The toothbrush of claim 14 wherein the toothbrush has a geometry such that if the toothbrush is in a resting position on a flat surface and the bottom surface of the head is facing the flat surface, the plurality of elastomeric fingers will not contact the flat surface.
18. The toothbrush of claim 14 wherein at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extend a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head.
19. The toothbrush of claim 18 wherein at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts are slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
20. The toothbrush of claim 19 wherein the plurality of elastomeric fingers have substantially rounded top ends.
21. A toothbrush comprising:
a handle;
an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface;
the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head;
the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head;
a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head;
at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extending a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head;
at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts being slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers having substantially rounded top ends;
the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprising a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the exposed portion of the hard plastic being disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers;
and the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
a handle;
an articulated head having a bottom surface, a top surface opposite the bottom surface, and a peripheral surface extending between the bottom surface and the top surface, the peripheral surface comprising a first side surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, and a distal side surface extending between the first side surface and the second side surface;
the head comprising a hard plastic and an integral mass of elastomeric material, the integral mass of elastomeric material forming at least a portion of the top surface of the head, at least a portion of the bottom surface of the head, at least a portion of the first side surface of the head, at least a portion of the second side surface of the head, and at least a portion of the distal side surface of the head;
the integral mass of elastomeric material comprising a plurality of elastomeric fingers extending from the bottom surface of the head;
a plurality of bristle tufts extending from the bottom surface of the head;
at least some of the plurality of elastomeric fingers extending a height from the bottom surface of the head that is substantially equal to a height at which at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts extend from the bottom surface of the head;
at least some of the plurality of bristle tufts being slanted with respect to the plurality of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers having substantially rounded top ends;
the plurality of bristle tufts extending from an exposed portion of the hard plastic;
the plurality of elastomeric fingers comprising a first set of elastomeric fingers and a second set of elastomeric fingers, the exposed portion of the hard plastic being disposed between the first and second sets of elastomeric fingers;
the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a distal-most bristle tuft, wherein the distal-most bristle tuft is closer to a distal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers;
and the plurality of bristle tufts comprising a proximal-most bristle tuft, wherein the proximal-most bristle tuft is closer to a proximal end of the head than all of the plurality of elastomeric fingers.
22. The toothbrush of claim 21 wherein the toothbrush has a geometry such that if the toothbrush is in a resting position on a flat surface and the bottom surface of the head is facing the flat surface, the plurality of elastomeric fingers will not contact the flat surface.
23. The toothbrush of claim 22 wherein the integral mass of elastomeric material comprises ridges formed into each of the first side surface and the second side surface.
24. A toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, said handle area having a molded-in channel that may be used to introduce elastomeric material into said head.
25. The toothbrush of claim 24, wherein the handle includes a grip, and wherein elastomeric material may be introduced into said molded-in channel though said grip.
26. The toothbrush of claim 24, wherein at least some of the tufts extending from the bottom surface of one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths.
27. The toothbrush of claim 24, wherein the free ends of at least some of the tufts extending from one of said head sections form a slant with respect to the lower surface of said head section.
28. The toothbrush of claim 27, wherein the elastomer between the facing ends forms at least one wing portion along the longitudinal axis of the upper surface of the head.
29. The toothbrush of claim 24 or 27, wherein the elastomer between the facing ends is generally T shaped.
30. The toothbrush of claim 24, wherein said at least two head sections are normally at an angle relative to each other.
31. A toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein at least some of the tufts extending from the bottom surface of one of said head sections are of uniformly different lengths, wherein at least some of the free ends of the tufts extending from one of said head sections form a slant with respect to the lower surface of said head section, wherein the length of the elastomer between the facing ends of said two head sections varies, said length being measured along the toothbrush longitudinal axis.
32. The toothbrush of claim 31, wherein the elastomer between the facing ends forms at least one wing portion along the longitudinal axis of the upper surface of the head.
33. The toothbrush of claim 32, wherein the elastomer between the facing ends is generally T shaped.
34. A toothbrush comprising a handle and an articulated head, said head having at least two sections to thereby define a composite head having an upper surface and a lower surface, said at least two sections having respective longitudinally spaced ends facing each other, each of said head sections having a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the lower surface thereof, said facing ends having an elastomeric material therebetween, wherein the length of the elastomer between the facing ends of said two head sections varies, said length being measured along the toothbrush longitudinal axis.
35. The toothbrush of claim 34, wherein the elastomer between the facing ends forms at least one wing portion along the longitudinal axis of the upper surface of the head.
36. The toothbrush of claim 34, wherein the elastomer between the facing ends is generally T shaped.
37. A toothbrush comprising a head and a handle, the head having an area comprising a first elastomeric material and having tooth cleaning elements, the handle having an area comprising a second elastomeric material, the first elastomeric material and second elastomeric materials being composed of different elastomers.
38. A toothbrush according to claim 37, wherein the first and second elastomeric materials have different Shore hardness values.
39. A toothbrush according to claim 37 or 38, wherein the first elastomeric material is softer than the second elastomeric material.
40. A toothbrush according to claim 37, wherein the head is articulated and the first elastomeric material comprises a flex area between two head sections, said first elastomeric material positioned between facing ends of said two head sections.
41. A toothbrush according to claim 40, wherein each of said two head sections has a lower surface from which said tooth cleaning elements extend, said lower surfaces enclosing an angle in an unstressed state.
42. The toothbrush of claim 41, wherein at least some free ends of the tooth cleaning elements extending from one of said head sections form a slant with respect to the lower surface of said head section.
43. A toothbrush according to claim 40 or 41, wherein said two head sections are connected by a thin bridge, said thin bridge being surrounded by said first elastomeric material between said two head sections.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/109,637 US6996870B2 (en) | 1995-12-29 | 2002-04-01 | Contouring toothbrush head |
US10/109,637 | 2002-04-01 | ||
CA002479904A CA2479904C (en) | 2002-04-01 | 2003-03-31 | Contouring toothbrush head |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002479904A Division CA2479904C (en) | 2002-04-01 | 2003-03-31 | Contouring toothbrush head |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2628351A1 CA2628351A1 (en) | 2003-10-16 |
CA2628351C true CA2628351C (en) | 2012-11-27 |
Family
ID=28041013
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA2628351A Expired - Fee Related CA2628351C (en) | 2002-04-01 | 2003-03-31 | Contouring toothbrush head |
CA002479904A Expired - Fee Related CA2479904C (en) | 2002-04-01 | 2003-03-31 | Contouring toothbrush head |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002479904A Expired - Fee Related CA2479904C (en) | 2002-04-01 | 2003-03-31 | Contouring toothbrush head |
Country Status (19)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (3) | US6996870B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1350442B1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR100993119B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN100372488C (en) |
AR (1) | AR039216A1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE477722T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003228404B2 (en) |
BR (2) | BRPI0308869B1 (en) |
CA (2) | CA2628351C (en) |
CO (1) | CO5611074A2 (en) |
DE (1) | DE60333811D1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2349688T3 (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA04009475A (en) |
MY (1) | MY131879A (en) |
NO (1) | NO20044686L (en) |
PL (1) | PL371369A1 (en) |
RU (1) | RU2286705C2 (en) |
TW (1) | TWI282727B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2003084364A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (126)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6996870B2 (en) | 1995-12-29 | 2006-02-14 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Contouring toothbrush head |
US6408476B1 (en) * | 1996-01-18 | 2002-06-25 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Toothbrush with elastomer filled flexible head |
US6886207B1 (en) * | 1999-06-14 | 2005-05-03 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Toothbrush |
US7975339B2 (en) * | 1999-06-11 | 2011-07-12 | Gavney Jr James A | Aquatic scrubber |
US20070033755A1 (en) * | 1999-06-11 | 2007-02-15 | Gavney James A Jr | Squeegee device and system |
US6574820B1 (en) * | 1999-10-22 | 2003-06-10 | The Gillette Company | Brush head for toothbrush |
US7908699B2 (en) | 2001-07-03 | 2011-03-22 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US7143462B2 (en) | 2002-09-20 | 2006-12-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
GB0123939D0 (en) * | 2001-10-05 | 2001-11-28 | Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healt | Toothbrush |
DE10164336A1 (en) | 2001-12-28 | 2003-07-17 | Trisa Holding Ag Triengen | Toothbrush and method of making such a toothbrush |
US8876221B2 (en) | 2002-08-09 | 2014-11-04 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US8990996B2 (en) | 2002-08-09 | 2015-03-31 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
US7757326B2 (en) | 2003-10-30 | 2010-07-20 | Cologate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush with enhanced cleaning effects |
US7614111B2 (en) | 2002-08-09 | 2009-11-10 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US8806695B2 (en) | 2002-08-09 | 2014-08-19 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having flexibly supported cleaning elements extending in opposite directions |
US20060026784A1 (en) | 2002-08-09 | 2006-02-09 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US8151397B2 (en) | 2002-08-09 | 2012-04-10 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having flexibly supported cleaning elements extending in opposite directions |
US7721376B2 (en) † | 2002-09-20 | 2010-05-25 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US7841041B2 (en) | 2002-08-09 | 2010-11-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US7137163B2 (en) | 2002-09-27 | 2006-11-21 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Power toothbrush and power source |
KR100456100B1 (en) * | 2002-10-31 | 2004-11-16 | 권영준 | Toothbrush Having Soft And Hard Bristles Together |
US8141194B2 (en) * | 2002-11-09 | 2012-03-27 | Gavney Jr James A | Absorbent structures with integrated contact elements |
US8250698B2 (en) | 2002-11-09 | 2012-08-28 | Gavney Jr James A | Hybrid cleaning device including absorbent and contact elements |
DE10259723A1 (en) * | 2002-12-19 | 2004-07-01 | Trisa Holding Ag | Toothbrush and process for making it |
US7934284B2 (en) | 2003-02-11 | 2011-05-03 | Braun Gmbh | Toothbrushes |
CN1764423B (en) | 2003-04-23 | 2010-07-28 | 宝洁公司 | Electric toothbrushes |
US7273327B2 (en) | 2003-06-20 | 2007-09-25 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US8448285B2 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2013-05-28 | Loops, Llc | Toothbrush and methods of making and using same |
US20060064833A1 (en) * | 2004-09-29 | 2006-03-30 | Scott Jacobs | Mouth brush |
NO20044434D0 (en) * | 2004-10-19 | 2004-10-19 | Nuclear Prot Products As | Long-term storage container and process for making it |
US8042217B2 (en) * | 2004-11-02 | 2011-10-25 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush and method of making the same |
DE102004060089A1 (en) * | 2004-12-13 | 2006-06-14 | Kaltenbach & Voigt Gmbh | Medical oblong handpiece |
BRPI0519884B1 (en) * | 2005-02-03 | 2019-08-06 | Bic-Violex Sa | Shaving Cord & Shaver |
CA2616518A1 (en) * | 2005-07-27 | 2007-02-08 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement comprising an elastomeric polypropylene-ethylene copolymer |
US8156602B2 (en) | 2005-10-14 | 2012-04-17 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Generating a chemical agent in situ |
US8281448B2 (en) | 2005-10-24 | 2012-10-09 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having one or more moving sections |
US20070265555A1 (en) * | 2006-05-12 | 2007-11-15 | Deng Connie Z | Hand tool for enhancing blood circulation of tooth root and gum |
US8075315B2 (en) | 2006-12-13 | 2011-12-13 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having user-interactive display |
US8137109B2 (en) * | 2006-12-13 | 2012-03-20 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Interactive oral care implement system |
CN102058239B (en) * | 2007-02-02 | 2015-05-13 | 吉列公司 | Oral hygiene implements having flexible elements, and methods of making the same |
US8201295B2 (en) | 2007-02-16 | 2012-06-19 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having user-interactive display and moving head |
US7975341B2 (en) | 2007-10-02 | 2011-07-12 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Bio-activated oral care instrument |
USD645252S1 (en) | 2008-08-15 | 2011-09-20 | Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. | Toothbrush |
US8776302B2 (en) * | 2008-08-29 | 2014-07-15 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
USD655916S1 (en) | 2008-08-29 | 2012-03-20 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD632084S1 (en) | 2008-08-29 | 2011-02-08 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD642803S1 (en) | 2008-08-29 | 2011-08-09 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD642802S1 (en) | 2008-08-29 | 2011-08-09 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD680747S1 (en) | 2008-09-30 | 2013-04-30 | Dr. Fresh, Llc | Toothbrush feature |
GB0822855D0 (en) * | 2008-12-15 | 2009-01-21 | Glaxosmithkline Consumer Health | Novel device |
USD651407S1 (en) | 2009-01-23 | 2012-01-03 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD658884S1 (en) | 2009-05-27 | 2012-05-08 | Mcneil-Ppc, Inc. | Toothbrush |
US8387196B2 (en) * | 2009-08-26 | 2013-03-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having a turbine-like arrangement of cleaning elements |
US20110047736A1 (en) * | 2009-08-26 | 2011-03-03 | Colgate Palmolive | Oral Care Implement Having Diverging Cleaning Elements |
US20110078867A1 (en) * | 2009-10-01 | 2011-04-07 | Michael Liangco | Flexible toothbrush |
US20130067670A1 (en) * | 2009-10-01 | 2013-03-21 | Michael Liangco | FlexibleToothbrush |
US20110138560A1 (en) * | 2009-12-10 | 2011-06-16 | Martin Vitt | Toothbrush |
DE102009057483A1 (en) * | 2009-12-10 | 2011-06-16 | Braun Gmbh | Toothbrush, has side surface provided with neck part, and toothbrush head provided with elastomer or hard component, where side surface is covered partially by elastomer and partially by hard component |
USD655918S1 (en) | 2009-12-15 | 2012-03-20 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD655917S1 (en) | 2009-12-15 | 2012-03-20 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD671325S1 (en) | 2009-12-15 | 2012-11-27 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD642804S1 (en) | 2009-12-15 | 2011-08-09 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD631257S1 (en) | 2009-12-15 | 2011-01-25 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD675830S1 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2013-02-12 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD654696S1 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2012-02-28 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush handle with tissue cleaner |
USD654695S1 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2012-02-28 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
US8863345B2 (en) * | 2009-12-18 | 2014-10-21 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having a closed-loop arrangement of cleaning elements |
USD632484S1 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2011-02-15 | Eduardo Jimenez | Toothbrush handle with tissue cleaner |
USD654270S1 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2012-02-21 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush handle |
US8500766B2 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2013-08-06 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement multiple soft tissue cleaner components |
USD657569S1 (en) | 2010-02-26 | 2012-04-17 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Head portion of an oral care implement |
USD657568S1 (en) | 2010-02-26 | 2012-04-17 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
USD782196S1 (en) * | 2010-04-30 | 2017-03-28 | Braun Gmbh | Manual toothbrush |
US9167887B2 (en) | 2010-12-21 | 2015-10-27 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
AU2010366254B2 (en) | 2010-12-21 | 2015-01-29 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
CA2822141C (en) * | 2010-12-21 | 2016-07-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
MX336375B (en) * | 2010-12-21 | 2016-01-06 | Colgate Palmolive Co | Oral care implement. |
EP3539417B1 (en) * | 2011-01-04 | 2021-03-03 | Trisa Holding AG | Toothbrush with injection-moulded bristles |
GB201104024D0 (en) | 2011-03-09 | 2011-04-20 | Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healt | Novel device |
CN104010546A (en) | 2011-10-27 | 2014-08-27 | 葛兰素史密斯克兰消费者保健股份有限公司 | Toothbrush |
USD724324S1 (en) * | 2012-06-20 | 2015-03-17 | Braun Gmbh | Toothbrush head with tongue cleaner |
EP2866610A1 (en) | 2012-07-02 | 2015-05-06 | Trisa Holding AG | Method for producing brushes, in particular interdental brushes, and brush, in particular interdental brush, and product group comprising a plurality of brushes |
USD734909S1 (en) * | 2012-08-30 | 2015-07-21 | Carl Freudenberg Kg | Broom head |
EP3057466B1 (en) * | 2013-11-05 | 2018-04-11 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
EP2873343B1 (en) * | 2013-11-13 | 2024-01-24 | The Gillette Company LLC | Oral care implement and method for manufacturing the same |
US11089862B2 (en) | 2013-11-13 | 2021-08-17 | The Gillette Company Llc | Oral-care implement and method for manufacturing the same |
RU2016120317A (en) * | 2013-11-25 | 2018-01-09 | Колгейт-Палмолив Компани | ORAL CARE DEVICE |
EP3181091B1 (en) | 2014-03-06 | 2019-10-09 | Tepe Munhygienprodukter AB | Interdental cleaner |
CN106572745B (en) * | 2014-07-30 | 2019-12-24 | 高露洁-棕榄公司 | Oral care implement and method of manufacturing an oral care implement |
KR101486003B1 (en) * | 2014-10-10 | 2015-01-26 | 이희돈 | Toothbrush |
US10750850B2 (en) | 2014-10-20 | 2020-08-25 | Ultra Industries Llc | Double action cleaning tool |
US9609939B2 (en) * | 2014-10-20 | 2017-04-04 | Alvarez & Casias, Llc | Double action push broom |
US11317705B2 (en) | 2014-10-20 | 2022-05-03 | Ultra Industries Llc | Double action cleaning tool |
CN104352056B (en) * | 2014-11-19 | 2016-03-02 | 济南大学 | A kind of toothbrush being convenient to dry |
US10660430B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2020-05-26 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having multi-component handle |
AU2014414810B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2018-04-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US10182644B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2019-01-22 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
MX2017007842A (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2017-09-19 | Colgate Palmolive Co | Oral care implement having multi-component handle. |
EP4023106A1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2022-07-06 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
USD780457S1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2017-03-07 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
MX2017007626A (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2017-09-18 | Colgate Palmolive Co | Oral care implement. |
AU2014414825B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2018-04-12 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
US11291293B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2022-04-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
WO2016105372A1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2016-06-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
CA2970676A1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2016-06-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
RU2647813C1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2018-03-19 | Колгейт-Палмолив Компани | Oral care implement, having multi-component handle |
FR3039115B1 (en) * | 2015-07-20 | 2018-05-18 | Jean Max Yao Dibi | BRUSH RIM |
EP3571956A1 (en) * | 2015-10-22 | 2019-11-27 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
EP4233640A3 (en) | 2015-12-01 | 2023-12-13 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
WO2017096568A1 (en) * | 2015-12-09 | 2017-06-15 | 深圳市海达贝尔实业有限公司 | Functional and effective tooth-cleaning brush |
CA3021605A1 (en) | 2016-04-20 | 2017-10-26 | Trisa Holding Ag | Brush product and method for the production thereof |
EP3262974A1 (en) | 2016-06-27 | 2018-01-03 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Toothbrush heads comprising a two-component-cleaning element and method for producing the same |
EP3262975B1 (en) | 2016-06-28 | 2019-02-20 | The Procter and Gamble Company | Method of making brush |
US10709533B2 (en) | 2017-12-12 | 2020-07-14 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement and handle and refill head thereof |
US10631964B2 (en) | 2017-12-12 | 2020-04-28 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
EP3735502A4 (en) * | 2018-01-03 | 2021-06-23 | Minnich Manufacturing Company, Inc. | Speed control concrete vibrator with endcaps |
USD891784S1 (en) | 2018-12-18 | 2020-08-04 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Electric toothbrush handle |
EP3753447A1 (en) | 2019-06-21 | 2020-12-23 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method for producing a toothbrush head or a part thereof |
EP3753446A1 (en) | 2019-06-21 | 2020-12-23 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Cleaning element carrier and toothbrush head comprising it |
EP3753449A1 (en) | 2019-06-21 | 2020-12-23 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Hole perforation plate for manufacturing of a toothbrush head and part thereof |
EP3753448A1 (en) | 2019-06-21 | 2020-12-23 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Method for producing a toothbrush head |
USD950960S1 (en) | 2019-11-12 | 2022-05-10 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush |
USD973366S1 (en) * | 2020-11-16 | 2022-12-27 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush handle |
USD974043S1 (en) * | 2020-11-16 | 2023-01-03 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush handle |
USD960582S1 (en) | 2020-12-10 | 2022-08-16 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care refill head |
CN113351531B (en) * | 2021-05-21 | 2022-07-08 | 安徽环美刷业股份有限公司 | Flexible combined strip brush for cleaning curved surface |
Family Cites Families (181)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US301644A (en) | 1884-07-08 | thompson | ||
US301664A (en) * | 1884-07-08 | boyehn | ||
US279424A (en) * | 1883-06-12 | Buckle | ||
US758764A (en) | 1901-12-21 | 1904-05-03 | William A Macleod | Tooth-brush. |
US759490A (en) | 1902-12-08 | 1904-05-10 | Florence Mfg Company | Tooth-brush. |
US803995A (en) | 1905-06-10 | 1905-11-07 | William S Davenport | Tooth-brush. |
US846900A (en) * | 1906-02-06 | 1907-03-12 | William O Bloom | Tooth-brush. |
US914501A (en) | 1908-04-06 | 1909-03-09 | Donald Mceachern | Tooth-brush. |
US958371A (en) | 1909-06-12 | 1910-05-17 | David H Danek | Tooth-brush. |
US1007328A (en) | 1909-12-15 | 1911-10-31 | Joseph J Brandstetter | Brush. |
US1022920A (en) | 1911-10-12 | 1912-04-09 | Rufus L Anderson | Brush. |
FR442832A (en) | 1912-04-18 | 1912-09-10 | Georges Prevost | Flexible toothbrush |
US1125532A (en) * | 1913-02-03 | 1915-01-19 | Earl Himmel | Tooth-brush. |
US1251250A (en) | 1914-05-13 | 1917-12-25 | Arthur A Libby | Tooth-brush. |
US1327757A (en) | 1916-08-10 | 1920-01-13 | William J Eggers | Rubber toothbrush |
US1327807A (en) | 1918-10-26 | 1920-01-13 | Paul B Burleigh | Toothbrush |
US1369966A (en) | 1919-03-05 | 1921-03-01 | Cosens Arthur | Toothbrush |
GB189335A (en) | 1921-11-11 | 1922-11-30 | Riichiro Izawa | Improvements in tooth or like brushes |
US1466723A (en) | 1921-11-12 | 1923-09-04 | Izawa Riichiro | Toothbrush |
FR567187A (en) | 1923-06-09 | 1924-02-26 | Toothbrush | |
US1639880A (en) | 1925-02-20 | 1927-08-23 | Butler Joseph Bernard | Toothbrush |
GB304459A (en) | 1928-01-12 | 1929-01-24 | Joseph Bernard Butler | Improvements in and relating to articles manufactured from plastic compounds |
FR707727A (en) | 1930-03-19 | 1931-07-11 | Brushes improvement | |
US1860924A (en) | 1931-05-18 | 1932-05-31 | Cooke Rupert George | Toothbrush |
US1924152A (en) | 1931-11-02 | 1933-08-29 | David M Coney | Toothbrush |
US1928328A (en) | 1931-11-25 | 1933-09-26 | Erik Dempster Lindegren | Toothbrush |
US1976271A (en) | 1932-07-01 | 1934-10-09 | Vachoux William | Tooth cleaning appliance |
GB412414A (en) | 1932-07-01 | 1934-06-28 | William Vachoux | Improvements in teeth-cleaning appliances |
US1927365A (en) * | 1933-03-15 | 1933-09-19 | Frolio Natal | Toothbrush |
FR777340A (en) | 1933-06-14 | 1935-02-16 | New toothbrush | |
US2003243A (en) | 1933-07-29 | 1935-05-28 | Ann Watson | Toothbrush |
US2028011A (en) | 1933-08-21 | 1936-01-14 | James Halpin | Safety razor handle |
US2042239A (en) | 1934-01-18 | 1936-05-26 | Andrew J Planding | Tooth brush |
US2097987A (en) | 1935-02-18 | 1937-11-02 | Thomas Clarke Greene | Tooth brush |
US2043898A (en) | 1935-05-04 | 1936-06-09 | James A Malcolm | Tooth brush |
US2129082A (en) * | 1935-09-13 | 1938-09-06 | Ralph W Byrer | Gum massaging appliance |
US2088839A (en) | 1936-05-27 | 1937-08-03 | David M Coney | Tooth brush |
US2117174A (en) * | 1936-11-13 | 1938-05-10 | James M Jones | Tooth brush |
US2209173A (en) | 1936-12-22 | 1940-07-23 | Russell Allie Young | Toothbrush |
US2139245A (en) | 1937-01-25 | 1938-12-06 | Floyd H Ogden | Tooth brush attachment |
US2225331A (en) | 1938-10-18 | 1940-12-17 | Pauline Campbell | Rubber bristled toothbursh |
US2266195A (en) | 1938-12-13 | 1941-12-16 | Hallock Robert Lay | Toothbrush |
US2254365A (en) | 1939-06-06 | 1941-09-02 | Edward E Griffith | Convertible toothbrush |
US2326632A (en) | 1941-10-03 | 1943-08-10 | Friedman Benjamin | Interchangeable toothbrush |
US2438268A (en) | 1946-06-03 | 1948-03-23 | Louis R Bressler | Flexible bristle head toothbrush |
US2443297A (en) | 1947-02-08 | 1948-06-15 | Louis R Bressler | Toothbrush |
GB647924A (en) | 1948-05-01 | 1950-12-28 | Louis Richard Bressler | Improvements in and relating to tooth brushes |
US2685703A (en) | 1949-04-27 | 1954-08-10 | Edward F Dellenbach | Toothbrush |
US2631320A (en) | 1950-05-12 | 1953-03-17 | Louis R Bressler | Toothbrush |
US2702914A (en) | 1950-11-04 | 1955-03-01 | Levi O Kittle | Toothbrush |
US2650383A (en) | 1952-03-07 | 1953-09-01 | Louis R Bressler | Toothbrush with a flexible head |
DE1657299U (en) | 1953-02-07 | 1953-06-11 | Egid Natter | FRAMELESS WIRE GLASS BARN WINDOW. |
US2676350A (en) | 1953-03-16 | 1954-04-27 | Stanley Home Products Inc | Toothbrush with a flexible head |
FR1100290A (en) | 1954-05-07 | 1955-09-19 | Toothbrush | |
US2797424A (en) | 1954-10-20 | 1957-07-02 | Olson Alfred | Toothbrush |
US2796620A (en) | 1955-01-17 | 1957-06-25 | Louis R Bressler | Brush |
FR1247433A (en) | 1959-10-21 | 1960-12-02 | Improvements to toothbrushes | |
US3103027A (en) * | 1960-11-30 | 1963-09-10 | Marjorie A Birch | Combined tooth brush and gum massager |
US3174174A (en) | 1963-06-17 | 1965-03-23 | Dengler Rudolf | Tooth brush with disposable head |
US3230562A (en) | 1963-07-19 | 1966-01-25 | Marjorie A Birch | Tooth brush and gum massager |
US3152349A (en) | 1963-07-22 | 1964-10-13 | Du Pont | Toothbrush |
US3188672A (en) | 1963-12-18 | 1965-06-15 | Johnson & Johnson | Brush |
US3253292A (en) | 1964-05-15 | 1966-05-31 | Arthur M Herschensohn | Hair brushes |
DE1233821B (en) | 1964-10-02 | 1967-02-09 | Du Pont | Toothbrush |
US3320225A (en) | 1965-02-08 | 1967-05-16 | Electric Storage Battery Co | Method for manufacturing a plastic hinge |
FR1453829A (en) | 1965-03-05 | 1966-07-22 | Method of manufacturing brushes and the like | |
FR1524055A (en) | 1966-05-18 | 1968-05-10 | Leclerc Sa Des Ets | Improvements made to the production of brush heads and in particular toothbrush heads |
US3398421A (en) | 1967-03-28 | 1968-08-27 | Rashbaum Abraham | Toothbrush having pivotal bristle carrying members |
US3553759A (en) | 1968-09-24 | 1971-01-12 | Charles M Kramer | Toothbrush |
US3643282A (en) | 1969-12-02 | 1972-02-22 | Fab Fibre Co | Bristle mat assembly for brushes |
US3900550A (en) | 1970-04-24 | 1975-08-19 | Dow Chemical Co | Method of enhancing flexure of plastic hinges |
US3739419A (en) | 1970-12-07 | 1973-06-19 | Stance Ind Inc | Non-snagging hairbrush |
US3722020A (en) | 1971-01-04 | 1973-03-27 | J Hills | Toothbrush with concavity formed by bristle ends |
DE2410175A1 (en) | 1974-03-04 | 1975-09-25 | Patra Patent Treuhand | Gum massager with toothbrush-type handle - has mouth inserted end designed with undulating transverse and-or longitudinal ribs |
US5336708A (en) | 1977-03-17 | 1994-08-09 | Applied Elastomerics, Inc. | Gelatinous elastomer articles |
US4369284A (en) | 1977-03-17 | 1983-01-18 | Applied Elastomerics, Incorporated | Thermoplastic elastomer gelatinous compositions |
US5633286B1 (en) | 1977-03-17 | 2000-10-10 | Applied Elastomerics Inc | Gelatinous elastomer articles |
US5508334A (en) | 1977-03-17 | 1996-04-16 | Applied Elastomerics, Inc. | Thermoplastic elastomer gelatinous compositions and articles |
US4618213A (en) | 1977-03-17 | 1986-10-21 | Applied Elastomerics, Incorporated | Gelatinous elastomeric optical lens, light pipe, comprising a specific block copolymer and an oil plasticizer |
US5262468A (en) | 1977-03-17 | 1993-11-16 | Applied Elastomerics, Inc. | Thermoplastic elastomer gelatinous compositions |
USD255511S (en) | 1978-10-10 | 1980-06-24 | Johnson & Johnson | Toothbrush |
DE2847261C2 (en) | 1978-10-31 | 1985-08-22 | Josef Dr. 8960 Kempten Dolinsky | toothbrush |
US4274174A (en) | 1979-01-19 | 1981-06-23 | G.R.P. Gesellschaft Fur Rationelle Psychologie Ohg | Toothbrush |
US4277862A (en) * | 1979-01-25 | 1981-07-14 | Alexander E. Vowles | Toothbrush |
JPS6029527Y2 (en) | 1979-10-03 | 1985-09-06 | 小林ブロツク工業株式会社 | ventilation block |
US4339482A (en) * | 1980-08-29 | 1982-07-13 | Lucitron, Inc. | Flat-panel display and method of manufacture |
JPS592224Y2 (en) | 1980-10-31 | 1984-01-21 | 栄 河原 | Pile for water passage |
US4535014A (en) | 1981-10-01 | 1985-08-13 | Frederick Bugay | Method of molding a multi-colored article |
US4488328A (en) | 1983-01-24 | 1984-12-18 | Hyman Richard M | Floating head toothbrush |
FR2547709B1 (en) | 1983-06-23 | 1985-11-29 | Celluloid Sa | HAIR BRUSH |
US4520526A (en) | 1984-06-22 | 1985-06-04 | Peters Charles W | Resiliently flexible toothbrush |
US4563381A (en) | 1984-11-05 | 1986-01-07 | Petro Plastics Company, Inc. | Plastic hinge |
DE3571916D1 (en) | 1985-03-14 | 1989-09-07 | Boucherie Nv G B | Brush body holder carrier for brush manufacturing machines |
US4654922A (en) | 1985-05-28 | 1987-04-07 | Chen Horng Y | Brush with universal joints |
DE8690081U1 (en) | 1985-06-18 | 1988-02-18 | Haeusser, Manfred, 7506 Bad Herrenalb, De | |
US4691405A (en) | 1985-07-29 | 1987-09-08 | Reed Joseph C | Toothbrush having adjustable bristle-mounted tabs |
US4712266A (en) | 1985-08-09 | 1987-12-15 | Fan Out Co., Ltd. | Whisk pick |
USD301644S (en) | 1985-11-15 | 1989-06-13 | American Sterilizer Company | Headworn imaging unit |
US4829621A (en) | 1986-07-09 | 1989-05-16 | Phenegar John S | Toothbrush |
DE3628722C5 (en) | 1986-08-23 | 2005-04-14 | Coronet-Werke Gmbh | Dental cleaning device |
US4712267A (en) | 1986-12-04 | 1987-12-15 | Cheng Peter S C | Convertible toothbrush |
US4800608A (en) | 1987-10-05 | 1989-01-31 | Key John R | Toothbrush |
US4898760A (en) | 1987-11-17 | 1990-02-06 | Amesbury Industries, Inc. | Process and apparatus for extruding a low density elastomeric thermoplastic foam |
GB8807673D0 (en) | 1988-03-31 | 1988-05-05 | Lingner & Fischer Gmbh | Novel article |
EP0360766A1 (en) * | 1988-09-19 | 1990-03-28 | Antonio Marino | Improved toothbrush |
AU582098B3 (en) | 1988-11-04 | 1989-02-10 | Robert Martin McCusker | Toothbrush with deformable handle |
DE3840136C1 (en) | 1988-11-29 | 1990-05-17 | Blendax Gmbh, 6500 Mainz, De | |
SU1687243A1 (en) | 1988-12-12 | 1991-10-30 | Я.Ш. Фейгин, В.С.Игнатович и И.В.Игнатович | Tooth brush |
WO1990006701A1 (en) | 1988-12-13 | 1990-06-28 | Rolf Barman | Process for producing toothbrushes and blanks for use for same |
US5040260A (en) | 1989-03-16 | 1991-08-20 | Michaels George G | Tooth cleaning and polishing device |
US5001803A (en) | 1989-03-20 | 1991-03-26 | Discko John Jr | Disposable dental brush |
DE3923495C1 (en) | 1989-07-15 | 1991-01-24 | M + C Schiffer Gmbh, 5466 Neustadt, De | |
FR2652245A1 (en) * | 1989-09-25 | 1991-03-29 | Camilieris Thomas | Articulated toothbrush |
EP0454625A1 (en) | 1990-04-27 | 1991-10-30 | Warner-Lambert Company | Adjustable curvature toothbrush |
JPH05501221A (en) * | 1990-06-15 | 1993-03-11 | ハンプリーズ、ヴィクター アルフレッド | toothbrush |
US5371915A (en) * | 1991-01-28 | 1994-12-13 | Key; John R. | Angular headed toothbrush |
USD335579S (en) | 1991-03-11 | 1993-05-18 | Karson Chuang | Toothbrush |
SK94893A3 (en) | 1991-03-27 | 1994-05-11 | Lingner & Fischer Gmbh | Toothbrush having a flexibly linked in its head |
GB9106511D0 (en) * | 1991-03-27 | 1991-05-15 | Lingner & Fischer Gmbh | Novel article |
US5269038A (en) | 1991-03-29 | 1993-12-14 | Bradley Terry G | Rocker toothbrush |
US5398366A (en) | 1991-03-29 | 1995-03-21 | Bradley; Terry | Rocker toothbrush |
GB9517450D0 (en) | 1995-08-25 | 1995-10-25 | Lingner & Fischer Gmbh | Toothbrush |
AU675646B2 (en) | 1992-05-13 | 1997-02-13 | Raychem Limited | Gels |
US5339482A (en) * | 1992-07-21 | 1994-08-23 | Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products, Inc. | Toothbrush having non-slip surface |
US5351358A (en) | 1992-08-27 | 1994-10-04 | Larrimore Babatu | Toothbrush |
DE4229152A1 (en) | 1992-09-01 | 1994-03-03 | Jordan As Oslo | Toothbrush and manufacturing process for toothbrushes |
CN2167603Y (en) * | 1992-10-27 | 1994-06-08 | 汤国权 | Health-care massage tooth-brush series |
IL107381A (en) | 1992-11-02 | 1998-01-04 | Gillette Canada | Toothbrush |
US5742972A (en) * | 1993-11-02 | 1998-04-28 | Gillette Canada Inc. | Toothbrush |
US5355546A (en) * | 1992-12-11 | 1994-10-18 | Scheier Paul A | Toothbrush with resilient flexible bristle support |
NO180145C (en) | 1993-09-10 | 1997-02-26 | Harald Berge | Toothbrush and formation of the same |
CN2180108Y (en) * | 1993-09-18 | 1994-10-26 | 徐世华 | Massage and health care toothbrush |
US5774923A (en) * | 1993-09-27 | 1998-07-07 | Smithkline Beecham Plc | Toothbrush having a flexibly linked zone in its head |
IT1271530B (en) | 1993-10-14 | 1997-05-30 | Ponzini Spa | TOOTHBRUSH WITH VARIABLE ANGLE HEAD |
AU1088495A (en) | 1993-11-05 | 1995-05-23 | James A. Simonds | Toothbrush |
DE4339829A1 (en) | 1993-11-23 | 1994-04-07 | Gerard Brozio | Toothbrush with handle and bristled head - has connection between handle and head enabling head to be turned and locked in different positions |
US5373602A (en) * | 1993-12-15 | 1994-12-20 | Bang; Kook B. | Toothbrush |
US5502930A (en) | 1993-12-30 | 1996-04-02 | Stellar Holdings, Inc. | Living hinge panel connector providing stackability of levels of panels |
DE9402125U1 (en) | 1994-02-09 | 1994-06-09 | Wenig Ernst Dr Ing | Toothbrush with separate bristle fields |
US5438726A (en) | 1994-05-09 | 1995-08-08 | Leite; Francisca P. | Tooth cleaning system with timer and signaling means |
GB2289236B (en) | 1994-05-09 | 1997-08-06 | Boucherie Nv G B | A brush making machine |
US5398369A (en) | 1994-07-07 | 1995-03-21 | Chesebrough-Pond's Usa Co., Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Toothbrush with pliable pressure pad |
US6219874B1 (en) * | 1994-07-13 | 2001-04-24 | The Procter & Gamble Co. | Resiliently flexible bristle bearing head toothbrush |
GB9414140D0 (en) | 1994-07-13 | 1994-08-31 | Procter & Gamble | Toothbrush |
GB9423421D0 (en) | 1994-11-19 | 1995-01-11 | Smithkline Beecham Plc | Novel device |
US5628082A (en) | 1995-03-22 | 1997-05-13 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush with improved efficacy |
GB9513883D0 (en) | 1995-07-07 | 1995-09-06 | Lingner & Fischer Gmbh | Toothbrush |
US5743972A (en) | 1995-08-29 | 1998-04-28 | Kawasaki Steel Corporation | Heavy-wall structural steel and method |
US5987688A (en) | 1995-11-09 | 1999-11-23 | Gillette Canada Inc. | Gum-massaging oral brush |
TW384214B (en) | 1995-12-29 | 2000-03-11 | Colgate Palmolive Co | Contouring toothbrush head |
US6996870B2 (en) * | 1995-12-29 | 2006-02-14 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Contouring toothbrush head |
US5630244A (en) * | 1996-01-02 | 1997-05-20 | Chang; Ching-Min | Elastic toothbrush |
US5946759A (en) * | 1996-01-18 | 1999-09-07 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Brush head |
GB9601013D0 (en) | 1996-01-18 | 1996-03-20 | Procter & Gamble | Brush invention |
US6065176A (en) | 1996-02-29 | 2000-05-23 | Watanabe; Takayuki | Toothbrush |
US5930860A (en) | 1996-03-27 | 1999-08-03 | Shipp; Anthony D. | Prophy bristle toothbrush |
US5673452A (en) * | 1996-08-12 | 1997-10-07 | Chang; Ching-Min | Toothbrush |
JP2000516507A (en) | 1996-08-22 | 2000-12-12 | スミスクライン・ビーチャム・コンシューマー・ヘルスケア・ゲゼルシャフト・ミット・ベシュレンクテル・ハフツング | toothbrush |
GB9620092D0 (en) * | 1996-09-26 | 1996-11-13 | Unilever Plc | A brush and method for producing same |
WO1998018364A1 (en) * | 1996-10-30 | 1998-05-07 | The Procter & Gamble Company | Toothbrush with combination of bristles, soft cleansing pad, and/or polishing fingers |
RU2107448C1 (en) | 1997-02-10 | 1998-03-27 | Евгений Петрович Еремин | Toothbrush |
US5946758A (en) * | 1997-06-24 | 1999-09-07 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Toothbrush having contouring multi-component head with peel-resistant joint and limited flexibility |
FR2773962B1 (en) | 1998-01-26 | 2000-03-03 | Synthelabo | TOOTHBRUSH HAVING GENCIVE MASSAGE RODS |
FR2773961B1 (en) * | 1998-01-26 | 2000-03-10 | Synthelabo | TOOTHBRUSH COMPRISING IMPROVED MEANS FOR FIXING FRICTION ELEMENTS |
US6081820A (en) * | 1998-02-20 | 2000-06-27 | Siemens Energy & Automation | Method and apparatus for filtering a signal using a window value |
JP3308226B2 (en) | 1998-09-25 | 2002-07-29 | 花王株式会社 | toothbrush |
DE29818046U1 (en) * | 1998-10-13 | 2000-02-17 | Schiffer Fa M & C | Brush, especially toothbrush |
WO2000049911A1 (en) | 1999-02-24 | 2000-08-31 | Susumu Inoue | Rubber-nylon-mixture bristle toothbrush |
CN1347290A (en) * | 1999-04-22 | 2002-05-01 | 花王株式会社 | Toothbrush |
GB9913717D0 (en) * | 1999-06-14 | 1999-08-11 | Procter & Gamble | A toothbrush |
DE20107614U1 (en) | 2001-05-04 | 2002-09-12 | Buerstenmann Gmbh | toothbrush head |
DE10122987B4 (en) | 2001-05-11 | 2007-07-12 | Bürstenmann GmbH | toothbrush head |
US7266765B2 (en) * | 2001-08-31 | 2007-09-04 | Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. | Detection and processing of annotated anchors |
GB0123939D0 (en) * | 2001-10-05 | 2001-11-28 | Glaxosmithkline Consumer Healt | Toothbrush |
US6599048B2 (en) * | 2001-10-18 | 2003-07-29 | Youti Kuo | Toothbrush for massaging and protecting gums |
US7536713B1 (en) * | 2002-12-11 | 2009-05-19 | Alan Bartholomew | Knowledge broadcasting and classification system |
DE202005009026U1 (en) | 2005-06-01 | 2005-10-20 | Bürstenmann GmbH | Cleaning device for tongue, located a back of toothbrush and comprising elevations of different levels of rigidity |
WO2008031625A2 (en) * | 2006-09-15 | 2008-03-20 | Exbiblio B.V. | Capture and display of annotations in paper and electronic documents |
US8554731B2 (en) * | 2010-03-31 | 2013-10-08 | Microsoft Corporation | Creating and propagating annotated information |
US20120084634A1 (en) * | 2010-10-05 | 2012-04-05 | Sony Corporation | Method and apparatus for annotating text |
US8959102B2 (en) * | 2010-10-08 | 2015-02-17 | Mmodal Ip Llc | Structured searching of dynamic structured document corpuses |
-
2002
- 2002-04-01 US US10/109,637 patent/US6996870B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
2003
- 2003-03-28 MY MYPI20031147A patent/MY131879A/en unknown
- 2003-03-31 CA CA2628351A patent/CA2628351C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-03-31 AU AU2003228404A patent/AU2003228404B2/en not_active Ceased
- 2003-03-31 TW TW092107208A patent/TWI282727B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-03-31 RU RU2004131848/12A patent/RU2286705C2/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-03-31 KR KR1020047015658A patent/KR100993119B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-03-31 CA CA002479904A patent/CA2479904C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-03-31 MX MXPA04009475A patent/MXPA04009475A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2003-03-31 BR BRPI0308869A patent/BRPI0308869B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-03-31 BR BR122012020165A patent/BR122012020165B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-03-31 DE DE60333811T patent/DE60333811D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-03-31 CN CNB038126583A patent/CN100372488C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-03-31 PL PL03371369A patent/PL371369A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-03-31 AT AT03075927T patent/ATE477722T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2003-03-31 ES ES03075927T patent/ES2349688T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-03-31 WO PCT/US2003/009754 patent/WO2003084364A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2003-03-31 EP EP03075927A patent/EP1350442B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2003-04-01 AR ARP030101137A patent/AR039216A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
-
2004
- 2004-10-28 CO CO04108748A patent/CO5611074A2/en active IP Right Grant
- 2004-10-29 NO NO20044686A patent/NO20044686L/en unknown
-
2006
- 2006-01-26 US US11/341,225 patent/US20060117508A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2008
- 2008-08-18 US US12/193,379 patent/US8857003B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
MY131879A (en) | 2007-09-28 |
DE60333811D1 (en) | 2010-09-30 |
EP1350442B1 (en) | 2010-08-18 |
CA2628351A1 (en) | 2003-10-16 |
CA2479904A1 (en) | 2003-10-16 |
RU2004131848A (en) | 2005-05-10 |
MXPA04009475A (en) | 2005-01-25 |
EP1350442A1 (en) | 2003-10-08 |
KR100993119B1 (en) | 2010-11-08 |
US8857003B2 (en) | 2014-10-14 |
BRPI0308869B1 (en) | 2016-03-08 |
US20020152570A1 (en) | 2002-10-24 |
US20060117508A1 (en) | 2006-06-08 |
AU2003228404B2 (en) | 2009-07-16 |
AU2003228404A1 (en) | 2003-10-20 |
KR20040102066A (en) | 2004-12-03 |
NO20044686L (en) | 2004-12-28 |
TWI282727B (en) | 2007-06-21 |
RU2286705C2 (en) | 2006-11-10 |
CN1658777A (en) | 2005-08-24 |
US20080307596A1 (en) | 2008-12-18 |
CO5611074A2 (en) | 2006-02-28 |
BR0308869A (en) | 2005-03-22 |
PL371369A1 (en) | 2005-06-13 |
CN100372488C (en) | 2008-03-05 |
AR039216A1 (en) | 2005-02-09 |
BR122012020165B1 (en) | 2015-11-03 |
US6996870B2 (en) | 2006-02-14 |
ES2349688T3 (en) | 2011-01-10 |
CA2479904C (en) | 2008-08-19 |
TW200403034A (en) | 2004-03-01 |
WO2003084364A1 (en) | 2003-10-16 |
ATE477722T1 (en) | 2010-09-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
CA2628351C (en) | Contouring toothbrush head | |
CA2240894C (en) | Contouring toothbrush head | |
US6219874B1 (en) | Resiliently flexible bristle bearing head toothbrush | |
HU221448B (en) | Tooth brush with flexible toothbrush head | |
JP3305329B2 (en) | toothbrush | |
JP2002515789A (en) | toothbrush | |
EP0966901B1 (en) | Contouring toothbrush head | |
AU766382B2 (en) | A toothbrush | |
AU2004200311B2 (en) | Contouring toothbrush head | |
AU770286B2 (en) | Contouring toothbrush head |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
EEER | Examination request | ||
MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20220301 |
|
MKLA | Lapsed |
Effective date: 20200831 |