EP1796507B1 - Brush, in particular toothbrush and associated production method - Google Patents

Abstract

The brush has a head part (10) with bristles (14) wherein in the head or neck part is a hollow area (22) with outlet opening (36) for an active cleaning substance. The hollow area matches the shape of the active substance element (24) with a defined outer shape. The volume of the hollow area is larger, preferably up to a maximum of 4 times larger than the volume of the active substance element so that this is rinsed round on all sides by water during use. The brush is preferably flexible in the region of the hollow area so that the latter deforms during use and water is sucked in and out of the hollow area. Independent claim describes method for making brush by providing hollow area in hard component .

Description

The invention relates to a toothbrush according to claim 1, and a method for the production thereof according to claim 19.

Disposable toothbrushes are known which already contain toothpaste in various ways. In the US 5,346,324 and US 5,909,977 is low-viscosity toothpaste in a reservoir in the grip area and is pushed by a piston in the head area, where it exits through openings in the region of the bristles. The disadvantage of this is the difficult dosage of toothpaste, the need to use very thin toothpaste, the cumbersome handle, the frequent drying and congestion of the fluid channel and the difficult to impossible refilling of the reservoir.

In addition, toothbrushes are known in which a predetermined amount of toothpaste is located in a hollow area in the head area and is pressed out prior to cleaning by manual deformation of the head area. In the US 1,947,720 is deformed by deforming the head area a slit-like, initially closed opening so that the toothpaste can escape. Multiple use by refilling or exact dosage is not possible. The delivery of toothpaste is also associated with relatively great effort. Show similar examples with toothpaste dispensing by manual squeezing FR 2 583 625 or US 5,865,195 , In the US 5,490,530 the outlet openings can be resealed by a slide become. The toothpaste is squeezed out by pressing a button located on the underside of the head and reducing the volume of the toothpaste reservoir. Exact dosing of the toothpaste is also difficult here. Refilling the reservoir is impossible. In the US 5,366,310 The toothpaste is in a sealed capsule, which is inserted into the brush head. After removing the seal, the toothpaste is released by manual squeezing. Refilling is possible here in principle, but the exact dosage is still difficult.

In all the above examples, the user has to act by hand on the brush to release toothpaste at all. Since this requires a certain amount of power and a certain amount of skill for the desired dosage, the known toothbrushes are not easy for anyone to handle.

In the WO 2004/021914 For example, a disposable toothbrush in the bristle area contains an encapsulated dose of liquid dentifrice. The capsule is broken by contact with the teeth. The problem here in addition to the restriction to single use, that the detergent can escape even with improper treatment. In addition, there is a certain potential for injury of the palate and gums at the undefined break points of the capsule.

The invention is therefore based on the object to provide a toothbrush with an active substance which is suitable for multiple use and / or refilling of the active substance and easy handling and simple dosage of the active substance allows. Furthermore, a method for producing such a toothbrush is to be specified.

The object is achieved by a brush with the features of claim 1 and by a method having the features of claim 19. Advantageous developments emerge from the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

A toothbrush according to the invention comprises a head part with a cleaning structure comprising in particular bristles, a grip part and a neck part, wherein a hollow area with at least one outlet opening or a corresponding recess for an active substance is located in the head or neck part, an active substance being present in the hollow area or the recess Element is arranged, which contains the active substance in a carrier material and wherein the carrier material consists of an injection-moldable polymer which releases the active substance in contact with water in a controlled manner.

The carrier material is preferably solid, but may also be a high viscosity paste. It is preferably largely dimensionally stable without contact with water.

Alternatively or additionally, the cavity is adapted to the shape of the active substance element with a defined external shape. The volume of the hollow region is greater than the volume of the active substance element, in particular by 1-2 times, at most 4 times greater. The active substance can also protrude out of the head to form sufficient attack surface for the release of active substances. This ensures that the active substance element is well bathed in water during use.

The delivery of the active substance is purely passive by flushing the active substance element with water, manual influence of the toothbrush is not necessary. The toothbrush would therefore already deliver significant active substances, if you would insert them at temperatures of 15 ° C or higher in water. Although the cleaning movement can additionally support the migration of the active substance through the improved liquid circulation, it is the goal that the toothbrush already releases active substances in the context of water without any mechanical action. The dosage can be adjusted and predefined by a suitable choice of the solubility or decomposability of the active substance element or its ability to deliver the active substance and the size of the outlet openings and thus likewise not dependent on the skill of the user.

In an advantageous development, the toothbrush is so flexible, at least in the area of the hollow area, that the hollow area is deformed during normal use, ie during cleaning, in such a way that water is sucked into the hollow area and pushed out again. In contrast to the prior art, in which a pasty mass is forced out by manual pressure before brushing, the invention exploits a pumping / suction effect made possible by the flexibility of the hollow region with respect to the solvent water. In this way, the entry of water into the hollow area and the rinsing out of the active substance can be intensified without the user having to manipulate the toothbrush beforehand. The hollow region is for this purpose preferably adapted to the shape of the active substance element, that this is at least partially spaced from the inner wall and is thus washed in use of water. Of the Hollow area is advantageously at least partially enclosed by thin-walled boundary elements with a wall thickness of less than 3 mm, preferably less than 1.5 mm, made of rubber-elastic soft material to generate said pumping action even at the slightest touch.

In addition to the flexible hollow region, the entire brush head may also have flexible, movable portions, e.g. a flexible brush head front. Due to the flexible deflection of this partial area, the volume of the hollow area is likewise influenced and in turn the pumping / suction effect described above arises. Preferably, the flexibility of the brush head is formed at the point at which the hollow region occupies the largest proportion of the cross section of the brush head. This has the advantage that only a small proportion of the head cross-section must be made flexible. This can be achieved by means of targeted material weakening, e.g. Film hinge, side tunnel, etc., done in the hard component or by combining the hard and soft component. It is also possible to completely form the flexible zone from soft material.

The active substance element is preferably a solid or a highly viscous, dimensionally stable paste, but may also be formed by an encapsulated liquid, pasty or granular substance with a water-soluble coating. By a suitable choice of the solubility or decomposability of the active substance element or its encapsulation, a well-defined dosing up to a uniform release of active substance during a Putzvorgangs succeeds. In the case of a solid or a highly viscous paste, a multiple use of the same active substance element is possible, if so dimensioned or its solubility or decomposability is chosen so that it survives several typical cleaning operations. The active substances are delivered depending on the purpose before, during or after the cleaning process. The risk of drying or clogging of openings does not exist in this case, since any residues can be rinsed off easily after use.

In another embodiment variant, the active substance element comprises a largely dimensionally stable carrier, from which the active substance is washed out, but which retains its original shape. Preferably, it contains an indicator by which it changes color or fades with the service life or the number of inserts.

In an advantageous development of the invention, the active substance element can be refilled by a resealable inlet opening. Thus, the step from the simply designed disposable toothbrush to the high-quality cleaning product can be completed.

1. (a) antibakterielle Wirkung innerhalb des Bürstenkopfes
2. (b) Anzeigen des Reinigungserfolges
3. (c) Einbringen von Reinigungssubstanzen, welche in konventionellen Reinigungsmitteln nicht enthalten sind
4. (d) Einbringen von Reinigungsmitteln, welche im Zusammenspiel mit konventionellen Reinigungsmitteln als Zweikomponentensystem wirken
5. (e) Zahnbleichung (,Bleaching')

The active substances fulfill, for example, the following tasks:

1. (a) Antibacterial action within the brush head
2. (b) displaying the cleaning success
3. (c) introduction of cleaning substances, which are not included in conventional detergents
4. (D) introduction of cleaning agents, which act in conjunction with conventional cleaning agents as a two-component system
5. (e) tooth bleaching ('whitening')

The toothbrush consists of a head part with a cleaning structure, usually bristles, a neck part and a handle part. All sub-elements can be off consist of at least one hard and one or more soft components. As hard components, for example, polystyrene (PS), styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), polyester (PET), polyethylene (PE) polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), Acrylbuthadienstyrol (ABS), etc., preferably polypropylene (PP) are used. The soft component used is a rubber-elastic material such as polyurethane (PUR) or polyethylene (PE), preferably a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE or TPU). Hardenings of less than 70 Shore A, preferably less than 40 Shore A, are used in the brush head. The bristle field is preferably formed at least partially with conventional bristles such as polyamide (PA) or polyester (PBT) and optionally with rubber-elastic cleaning or massage elements. The conventional bristles have, for example, a cylindrical geometry with a diameter of less than 0.25 mm, preferably between 0.1 mm - 0.2 mm and are combined into bundles. The rubber-elastic massage or cleaning elements usually have larger diameter with the smallest dimensions in the cross section of 0.5 to 5 mm, preferably 0.5 to 2 mm.

1. (a) abrasive Wirksubstanzen mit kürzeren Borsten zur Flächenreinigung (,Whitening' Effekt),
2. (b) antibakterielle Wirksubstanzen für Tiefenreinigung mit längeren Interdentalborsten,
3. (c) hautpflegende Wirksubstanzen im Bereich von gummielastischen Massage- oder Reinigungselementen zur Belebung von Zahnfleisch, Mundhöhle oder Zunge
4. (d) andere Kombinationen Wirksubstanzen und entsprechende Wirkborsten.

Preferably, in the immediate vicinity of the outlet openings cleaning elements, in particular bristles and / or soft elastic elements, arranged, the mechanical properties, such as dimensions, flexibility, material, are adapted to be achieved with the active substance to be introduced effect. Examples of toothbrushes are:

1. (a) abrasive active substances with shorter bristles for surface cleaning ('whitening' effect),
2. (b) antibacterial active substances for deep cleaning with longer interdental bristles,
3. (c) skin care active substances in the range of rubber-elastic massage or cleaning elements to stimulate the gums, oral cavity or tongue
4. (d) other combinations of active substances and corresponding active bristles.

The hollow area offers at least space for an active substance element, preferably the hollow area offers additional space so that the active substance element can be lapped with water and the active substance can thereby unfold its effect by means of partial or complete dissolution. In order to enable a sufficient circulation of water in the hollow region, it is preferably provided that the volume of the hollow region is maximally four times, more preferably one to two times larger than the size (the volume in original size) of the active substance element. In toothbrushes, the hollow region has a volume of 5 to 1500 mm ^3, preferably 100 to 500 mm ³ .

The active substance element can be clamped laterally or vertically in the hollow region. In order to ensure as complete as possible rinsing by means of water, projections or other geometric elements in the soft or / and hard component in the hollow area are preferably used for this purpose. This ensures that the active substance element during the cleaning process can not be beaten back and forth within the hollow area and at most prematurely break apart. However, the active substance element can also protrude outwardly through recesses in the boundary of the cavity and can be seen laterally or on the bristle-carrying side from the brush head.

The hollow region is preferably generally designed so that the active substance element is stably positioned despite continuous degradation in the hollow region. Preferably, for this purpose, the hollow region is provided with a flexible element, preferably made of soft material, which exerts a kind of spring action on the active substance element, e.g. an outer wall of the hollow portion is arched by inserting the active substance element to the outside. The active substance element in original size is fixed with a certain bias in the hollow area. The inner shape of the hollow portion follows, with the exception of the above-mentioned projections substantially the geometric shape of the active substance element, preferably with a predefined distance. Preferably, this results in a substantially spherical or ellipsoidal geometry of the hollow region, which is adapted to spherical or ellipsoidal active substance elements. As an alternative embodiment variant, the hollow region can be designed as a slot into which a plate-shaped or foil-shaped active substance element can be introduced. In a further embodiment variant, the active substance element can be introduced in a rod-shaped or cylindrical geometry into a correspondingly shaped hollow region.

The hollow area lies in the plan view of the cleaning structure, preferably within the bristle field, if conventional bristles are present. This makes it possible for the hollow region to be produced with a thin wall, but still enough conventional bristles can be anchored around the hollow region with a certain anchoring depth that is technically determined. Directly above the hollow area are preferably cleaning elements made of a soft component formed, which require less head volume or anchoring depth than conventional bristles for anchoring. In addition, conventional bristles require the hard component for secure anchoring. Since the hollow area on the bristle-carrying side of the brush head is preferably delimited by a membrane of soft material, it is technically very difficult to anchor conventional bristles in this area.

The hollow region is bounded by a wall of hard and / or soft component, but preferably at least in regions by soft component, since in this way the abovementioned flexibility can be achieved in a simple manner.

Bristle anchoring advantages are found when the hollow area is in a region adjacent to the brush head, e.g. in the brush neck or in the transition between the brush neck and the brush head, which comes into contact with water. This refinement has the advantage that consideration must not be given to the hollow region within the brush head with respect to the anchoring of the bristles. The fact that the active substance does not escape where it generally has the best effect, ie in the head area, is accepted.

The hollow region has at least one outlet opening for the entry of water, for the release of the active substance dissolved in water and for the rinsing out of the hollow area after use under the tap. In variants with refill option, at least one introduction opening for introduction of the active substance element by the user is additionally present. The insertion opening is larger than in the open state an outlet opening. The insertion opening is preferably located on the brush head back and the outlet opening on the brush head front. Alternative design variants show the insertion opening on the brush head side. The outlet openings may alternatively / additionally be applied on the side and / or rear side of the brush head.

The insertion opening is preferably reclosable. But it can also serve as an outlet opening and does not complete the hollow area completely sealed. The insertion opening may be formed by means of a removable or head-integrated lid or closure, e.g. by means of a molded directly on the head film hinge. More preferably, a membrane of soft material with a corresponding opening, e.g. with one or more crossed slots, which corresponds to the size of the active substance element, as a resealable element. The membrane can simultaneously represent a flexible wall of the hollow area and / or serve as a carrier of cleaning / massage elements. As an alternative to slots, other geometric elements may be provided which allow the introduction of the active substance element and prevent its escape as far as possible, e.g. an expandable hole in the membrane that is smaller than the active substance element.

In the case of a membrane, this has a thickness of less than 3 mm, preferably a thickness of 0, .7 - 1.5 mm. 2 to 6 slots are preferably used as the introduction opening. The length of the slots for toothbrushes is 3 - 15 mm, preferably around 6 - 10 mm.

The insertion opening may have a securing device which prevents or at least impedes the falling out of the active substance element during use. For example, the membrane is formed with slits or a funnel such that the introduction of the active substance takes place with little pressure (for example 10 to 300 g), but falling out by means of e.g. funnel-shaped geometry in the opening area requires more pressure. Less preferred but also possible are additional locking or securing elements.

The insertion opening may still be closed during the first use (first opening safeguard or seal). Upon first insertion of the active substance element, the first opening safeguard can be broken by the user, e.g. by cutting thin residual connections within the prefabricated slots.

The outlet openings allow a continuous, but limited exit of the active substance dissolved in water. The number of openings and their size (total surface of the outlet opening) and the water solubility of the active substance element or of the carrier material determine the actual exit of the active substance dissolved or dispersed in water. Since the water solubility of the active substance is rather a resulting size, the outlet openings (number and size) of the water solubility of the active substance are adjusted in order to determine the range of the active substance during use. Thus, the dissolution of the active substance element can also serve as a time indicator for the (total) cleaning time that has been carried out so far.

A single outlet opening preferably falls below a minimum area of 0.05 mm ^{2 is} not. Because smaller openings can easily pollute and thus affect the fluid exchange. Moreover, it is advantageous if the user examines the size of the hollow substance still existing active substance element through the outlet openings and possibly decide whether the active substance should be refilled. For these reasons, surfaces of 0.05 to 100 mm ² are preferably used for the outlet openings, preferably 1 to 20 mm ² . This ensures accurate dosing and prevents the active substance or fragments of the active substance element from being able to leave the hollow region in an uncontrolled manner.

The individual outlet openings on a brush head can have different sizes (areas) in order to weight outlet quantity and outlet location. Preferably, individual groups of outlet openings are provided at designated locations on the brush head. Thus, the exit of the active substances at different points of the bristle field with respect to quantity and location can be controlled. Preferably, as mentioned above, there is an interaction between the active substance and, especially in combination with it, intended active bristles. Preferably, one to five groups (clusters) are formed by outlet openings. These groups of exit openings may also be positioned asymmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis on the brush head. The different groups of outlet openings are preferably manufactured in one operation from the same material. In particular, when the outlet openings are embedded in the rubber-elastic material, this is operated from an injection point for all groups, ie the material side, these groups are interconnected. The outlet openings can be designed so that they have geometric elements which increase the surface in the vicinity of the outlet opening in order to keep the active substance as possible in the region of the brush head. For example, a substantially funnel-shaped or at least outwardly opening geometry can be used. This also favors a simple cleaning of the hollow area after use under the tap. Additional cleaning and massage elements in the area of the outlet openings have the same advantage. For the same reason but as an alternative design element, sponge-like and / or holey, soft elements can be placed in the region of the outlet openings, which also contribute to the better retention of the active substance.

The outlet openings can be formed in the hard material and / or in the soft material of the brush head. However, they are preferably integrated into the above-described membrane made of soft material. In this case, it preferably has a thickness of less than 3 mm, preferably from 0.7 to 1.5 mm.

The hollow region is preferably bounded by membranes of soft material as described above. These membrane (s) are flexible to adapt to the environment (gums, teeth, oral cavity, etc.) during use and to exert a certain pumping and suction effect on the hollow area during the cleaning process with the plastering pressure on the membrane. These effects can be enhanced by a domed shape of the membrane. Together with the outlet openings, the membrane can form a kind of expandable network structure. This network structure, as described above, minimum outlet openings of at least 0.05 mm ² area. Of course, network structures can be installed on all sides of the brush head. These preferably have a convex U-shaped or pan-shaped outer geometry for enlarging the surface and thus for maximizing the cavity. The cross webs of the network have a diameter of 0.1 - 2 mm, preferably 0.2 - 0.5 mm and made of soft material (eg TPE or PE).

1. (a) Die Membran(en) mit den Öffnungen sind vorzugsweise gewölbt/ ellipsoidförmig/ ballonförmig ausgeformt. Die Membrane mit den Austrittsöffnungen kann ein netzartige Struktur oder einfach nur einige Löcher aufweisen. Die gewölbten Membran(en) sind vorzugsweise auf der Bürstenkopfvorderseite und -rückseite platziert, können aber auch seitlich platziert werden.
2. (b) Die Membrane mit den Öffnungen bilden eine Art flexible Ziehharmonika- oder Balgstruktur auf der Bürstenkopfseite oder -rückseite. Die Spitzen der Ziehharmonikastruktur dienen als Reinigungs- und Massageelemente.
3. (c) Die Membrane mit den Öffnungen bilden eine Art Fischkiemenstruktur auf der Bürstenkopfseite. Die Austrittsöffnungen werden mittels Schlitzen in dieser Struktur gebildet.
4. (d) Die Membrane mit den Öffnungen bilden eine Art Warzen-/Noppenstruktur vorzugsweise auf der Bürstenkopfseite oder Bürstenkopfrückseite. Die Austrittsöffnungen werden innerhalb der Erhebungen trichterförmig ausgestaltet.

Preferably, the membrane (s) with the openings for the user recognizes or forms recognizable separate geometric elements within the brush head, which in particular stand out in color from the rest of the brush head. The user can thus quickly recognize where the active substances emerge from the brush head. In various design variants, the following geometric elements can be used for the membranes:

1. (a) The membrane (s) with the openings are preferably curved / ellipsoidal / balloon-shaped. The membrane with the outlet openings may have a net-like structure or just a few holes. The domed membrane (s) are preferably placed on the brush head front and back, but can also be placed laterally.
2. (b) The membranes with the openings form a kind of flexible concertina or bellows structure on the brush head side or rear side. The tips of the accordion structure serve as cleaning and massage elements.
3. (c) The membranes with the openings form a kind of fish gill structure on the brush head side. The outlet openings are formed by means of slots in this structure.
4. (d) The membranes with the openings form a kind of warts / nub structure preferably on the brush head side or brush head back. The outlet openings are funnel-shaped within the elevations.

Furthermore, cleaning and massage elements made of soft material are preferably formed on the flexible membranes which delimit the hollow region. This sub-aspect, a part of the brush head with a flexible membrane and this design with cleaning and / or massage elements made of soft material can be advantageously used for toothbrushes, which have no hollow area for active substances, but, for. only an empty or no hollow area. Preferably, the membrane and the cleaning and / or massage elements are manufactured in one operation, in particular by injection molding. It succeeds in the production of a toothbrush with a particularly elastic suspended cleaning / massage structure. Unless specifically related to the hollow region, the following preferred embodiments also apply to non-hollow toothbrushes not claimed in this application but having a membrane provided with a cleaning / massage structure.

1. (a) Die Oberfläche im Bereich der Austrittsöffnungen werden zusätzlich erhöht, damit werden die Wirksubstanzen möglichst lange am Bürstenkopf gehalten (Retention) und erlauben eine gleichmässige Abgabe während dem Putzvorgang.
2. (b) Es ist herstellungstechnisch schwierig, konventionelle Borsten in eine dünne Membrane zu verankern. Die weichelastischen Elemente erhöhen die Reinigungswirkung und damit Effizienz des Bürstenkopfes auf der borstentragenden Seite des Bürstenkopfes.
3. (c) Die Flexibilität der Membrane erhöht die Reinigungswirkung der darauf platzierten Reinigungselemente zusätzlich, da sich die flexibel gelagerten Reinigungs- und Massageelemente besser an die unregelmässige Oberfläche des Gebisses, der Mundhöhle, der Zunge oder des Zahnfleisches anpassen kann.
4. (d) Der Hohlbereich, welcher mittels flexiblen Membranen begrenzt ist, lässt sich einfacher reinigen (z.B. mit den Fingern oder mit einem Wattestäbchen), da sich die Membrane zur Reinigung in eine entsprechende Position biegen lässt.

In the case of the toothbrushes according to the invention, the molding of cleaning and / or massaging elements made of soft material on a flexible membrane has the following advantages:

1. (A) The surface in the region of the outlet openings are additionally increased, so that the active substances are kept as long as possible on the brush head (retention) and allow a uniform delivery during the cleaning process.
2. (b) It is difficult to manufacture, conventional To anchor bristles in a thin membrane. The soft-elastic elements increase the cleaning effect and thus efficiency of the brush head on the bristle-carrying side of the brush head.
3. (c) The flexibility of the membrane further increases the cleaning effect of the cleaning elements placed thereon, since the flexibly mounted cleaning and massage elements can better adapt to the irregular surface of the dentition, the oral cavity, the tongue or the gums.
4. (d) The hollow area, which is bounded by flexible membranes, is easier to clean (eg with your fingers or with a cotton swab), as the membrane can be bent into a suitable position for cleaning.

1. (a) eine borstenartige Struktur aus den Knotenpunkten einer netzartigen Membrane,
2. (b) Massagelappen, -lamellen oder -noppen auf der Bürstenkopfseite oder Bürstenkopfrückseite zur Massage von Zahnfleische, Mundhöhle oder Zunge.

The cleaning or massage elements in the region of the outlet openings preferably have a bristle, lobed, lamella or wart-shaped geometry. These elements are preferably conically shaped and are preferably formed from the same material in the same manufacturing step as the membrane out of the membrane. The following structures are suitable, for example:

1. (a) a bristle-like structure from the nodes of a reticular membrane,
2. (b) Massage lobes, lamellae or nubs on the brush head side or brush head back for gum, oral cavity or tongue massage.

Manufacturing technology is preferred if the cleaning and / or massage elements, which are located in the region of the outlet openings, are aligned parallel to the Entformungsrichtung of the brush head. Fabrication technically more complex, but in use more effective are cleaning or massage elements which are aligned at a certain angle, preferably substantially perpendicular, to the possibly curved membrane surface.

The cleaning or massage elements, which are located in the region of the outlet openings, are preferably less long than the conventional bristles in their environment, so that during use in the end of the cleaning or massage elements can form a kind of reservoir for the active substance dissolved in water.

In addition to the outlet openings of the membrane, the cleaning and massage elements may themselves have outlet openings, which may be e.g. with straw-shaped bristles, lamellae and warts with holes is the case. These have the advantage that they can bring the active substance directly to the site. By capillary action, the active substance can travel a relatively long way in this case.

In a further possible embodiment variant, the membrane can deliver or pass active substances even in the submicroscopic range, e.g. through microporosity, semipermeability.

The active substance element is preferably a solid which, in use, at least partially dissolves in the water. The active substance element in solid form is shaped in the form of a tablet, pill, a rod-shaped element, plate or foil corresponding to the hollow region. Alternatively, and less preferably, a paste or kneadable mass having a dynamic viscosity higher than conventional commercially available pastes (toothpaste) may also be used. be used. Thus, a spatially defined shape can be produced and the active substance stay as long as possible in the hollow area. The paste can harden after introduction into the hollow region in order to deliver the active substance in various applications.

The active substance can be easily portioned by the user. The solid is already pre-portioned in the sales packaging. The paste can be simply portioned by the consumer due to the given volume of the hollow area.

The active substances can be used together with conventional cleaning agents or independently of these. The toothbrush can generally also be used without active substances with conventional cleaning agents.

1. (a) Festkörper bestehend aus mehreren Schalen oder Schichten (Abbau einer Schale nach der anderen);
2. (b) Festkörper mit flüssigem oder körnigem Kern, welcher nach dem Abbau der Schale freigesetzt wird.

The active substance element can have several phases with different active substances, which can be released in a time sequence depending on the structure. The following alternatives can be used:

1. (a) solids consisting of several shells or layers (peel after shell);
2. (b) solid with liquid or granular core, which is released after the shell is broken down.

1. (a) Zahnpasteähnliche Wirkung, welche eine herkömmliche Pasten erübrigt. Folgende Inhaltstoffe kommen in Frage: Sorbitol, Aromen, Hydrated Silica, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Monofluorophophate, Kreatin, Zink Sulfate, Triclosan, Glycerin, Sodium Saccharin, Propylene Glycol, Disodium Phosphate, Alumina, Trisodium Phosphate, Sodium Fluoride, Betaine, Titanium Dioxide, Cellulose Gum, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate etc.
2. (b) Antibakterielle Wirkung zur gelegentlichen Reinigung des Bürstenkopfes im Zahnglas vor oder nach dem Zähneputzen. Folgende Inhaltstoffe kommen in Frage: Sodium Bicarbonate, Citric Acid, Phosphric Acid, Sodium Carbonate, Potassium Carbonate, Sodium Perborate, Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Stearate etc.
3. (c) Anzeigen des Putzerfolges mittels Einfärben des Plaques auf der Zahnoberfläche mittels Einfärben der Plaquerückstände. Folgende Inhaltstoffe kommen in Frage: Glucose, Maltodextrin, Magnesium Sterate, Aroma, Saccharin, Microcrystaline Cellulose etc.
4. (d) Zusatzwirkstoffe ,welche in herkömmlichen Pasten nicht vorkommen, deren Wirkung ergänzen oder verstärken. Inhaltstoffe aus (a - c).
5. (e) Inhaltsstoffe zur Zahnbleichung (,Bleaching') z.B. mit wasserstoffperoxidhaltigen Inhaltstoffen.
6. (f) Zweikomponentensystem aus Wirksubstanzen und speziell dazu entwickelter Zahnpaste. Beim Zusammentreffen entsteht eine chemische oder physikalische Reaktion. Diese Variante ist speziell für Wirksubstanzen vorgesehen, welche nicht in einer Paste integriert werden können, da sie unmittelbar miteinander reagieren würden.

The following types of active substances can be distinguished, which together with a suitable carrier material form the active substance element:

1. (a) Toothpaste-like effect, which does not require conventional pastes. Sorbitol, Flavors, Hydrated Silica, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Monofluorophophate, Creatine, Zinc Sulphate, Triclosan, Glycerin, Sodium Saccharin, Propylene Glycol, Disodium Phosphate, Alumina, Trisodium Phosphate, Sodium Fluoride, Betaine, Titanium Dioxide, Cellulose Gum, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate etc.
2. (b) Antibacterial action for occasionally cleaning the brush head in the tooth glass before or after brushing. Sodium Bicarbonate, Citric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Carbonate, Potassium Carbonate, Sodium Perborate, Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Stearate, etc.
3. (c) displaying the Putzerfolges by coloring the plaque on the tooth surface by means of coloring the plaque residues. The following ingredients are considered: glucose, maltodextrin, magnesium sterate, flavor, saccharin, microcrystaline cellulose etc.
4. (d) additional active ingredients, which do not occur in conventional pastes, complement or enhance their effect. Ingredients from (a - c).
5. (e) Ingredients for tooth bleaching ('whitening'), for example, with hydrogen peroxide-containing ingredients.
6. (f) Two-component system of active substances and specially developed toothpaste. When they meet, a chemical or physical reaction occurs. This variant is specifically intended for active substances, which can not be integrated in a paste, since they would react directly with each other.

Suitable carrier materials are, for example, biodegradable substances based on starch or plastics which are not chemically reactive with the active substances. A preferred support material is Polyox ^® of Dow Chemicals, a water-soluble resin on the basis of polyethylene oxide polymer which is suitable for forming a matrix or a carrier for an active substance and also, due to its thermoplastic properties can be processed in a variety of ways, eg cast, sprayed or extruded.

Basically, both the single use of an active substance element as well as the multiple use is possible. When used once, use of the toothbrush consumes an active substance element. The active substance element can be reintroduced before each use or even occasionally used. In multiple use, a use of the toothbrush consumes only a part of the active substance element. The user recognizes when the active substance is used up, and can then replenish the toothbrush by means of a new active substance element. It goes without saying that the concentration or amount of the active substance is set much lower in the intended single use than in multiple use. When used once, the concentration corresponds approximately to the concentration of the active ingredients of conventional pastes. In a possible multiple use, the corresponding concentration is increased by a multiple. In addition to the concentration, the range / duration of use of the active substance element is also influenced by the water solubility and water circulation / openings.

In single or multiple use, the system hollow area, openings and water solubility of the active substance element can be set so that the user can be displayed a certain duration of use (time indicator). For example, the properties for single use are chosen so that the active ingredient is used up after 3 minutes cleaning time. For multiple use, the active ingredient is for example after a typical use time of 3 months, which indicates that the entire toothbrush should be replaced due to wear. Under or in the active substance element at best even a lettering (eg, Change ') are hidden, which is exposed after the exhaustion of the active substance and visible to the user and the user to the upcoming change of the active substance element or the recommended change of the toothbrush draws attention.

In order to increase the surface, which is lapped with water, the active substance element can be provided with additional recesses, concave or convex elements on the surface.

The color of the active substance element is preferably chosen so that it differs significantly from brush head and the user can easily judge the consumption of the active substance.

The solubility or decomposability of the active substance and of the carrier material depends on the water temperature used. The user can control the delivery of the amount of active substance by controlling the water temperature. With a temperature increase from 10 ° C to 40 ° C, the delivered amount of active substance increases significantly.

The active substance is incorporated in an advantageous development in an effervescent tablet or paste with effervescence as a carrier material. This additional function allows the user to determine during use whether the active substance is already used up or is still present in the hollow area without removing the toothbrush from the mouth.

Preferably, the toothbrush is packaged such that the package unambiguously shows the toothbrush and drug element to the consumer. Preferably, the active substance element is placed next to the brush head. The active substance element is preferably provided in a part of the packaging which is independent of the opening of the brush packaging. Thus, the active substance element remains hygienically closed until the opening of the intended portion. A first active substance element is preferably already placed in the sales packaging in the hollow region of the brush head. The brush head is placed in the package so that the inlet and outlet openings can be shown. In particular, a so-called double blister offers itself, which allows the user to view both brush head sides. In addition to the sale of whole toothbrushes with active substance, only the active substance element can be provided as a replacement (refill). As an alternative embodiment variant, the active substance may be provided in a suitable carrier material in a dispenser for portionwise delivery. Alternatively to the introduction of the active substance element by hand, the brush head can be introduced in this embodiment variant in the dispenser and the active substance are then donated mechanically through the introduction opening into the hollow area.

1. (a) Varianten mit einteiligem Bürstenkopf:
   • (a1) Formen des Hohlbereiches mittels Formkernen/Schiebern von der Borstentragenden Kopfseite und/oder von der Bürstenkopfrückseite: Zusätzlich optional mindestens teilweise Zwangsentformung eines bewusst hinterschnittig gewählten Formkernes zur Bildung einer Membrane, welche den Hohlbereich begrenzt. Um deren Zwangsentformung zu vereinfachen, kann die Membrane mittels Luftdruck durch den Formkern aufgebläht und damit die verletzungsfreie Entformung vereinfacht werden. Alternativ kann die Membrane im Bereich der Einführungsöffnung bewusst geschlitzt werden (z.B. mechanisch im Werkzeug mittels Schiebern/Messern), was die Entformung des hinterschnittigen Formkerns ebenfalls begünstigt. Anspritzen optional vorhandener Reinigungs- und Massageelemente während der Herstellung der Membrane.
   • (a2) Gleich wie (a1) aber Formen eines Hohlraumes mittels Formkernen/Seitenschiebern zur Bildung eines Tunnels quer durch den Bürstenkopf. Analog kann für die Bildung von Schlitzen in der Einführungsöffnung ebenfalls oben beschriebene Zwangsentformung eingesetzt werden.
   • (a3) Der Hohlbereich kann mittels Überspritzen des Wirksubstanz-Elements gebildet werden. Dabei wird das Wirksubstanz-Element an der Hartkomponente im Kopfbereich form- und/oder kraftschlüssig fixiert und in einem weiteren Arbeitsschritt mindestens teilweise vorzugsweise mit der Weichkomponente überspritzt. Das Wirksubstanz-Element dichtet bei dieser alternativen Herstellungsvariante die Austrittöffnungen in der Hartkomponente gegenüber der Weichkomponente ab. Nachteilig bei dieser Variante ist, dass die Wirksubstanz und das Trägermaterial den hohen Temperaturen und Einspritzdrücke der Weichkomponente widerstehen muss und nur teilweise von Wasser umspült werden kann, da sich die Weichkomponente in den überspritzten Bereichen direkt an das Wirksubstanz-Element anschmiegt.
   • (a4) Als alternatives Herstellungsverfahren insbesondere bei Lösungen, in welchen das Wirksubstanz-Element für einen Mehrfachgebrauch vorgesehen ist, kann das Wirksubstanz-Element mittels Spritzguss in den Hohlbereich oder eine entsprechende Ausnehmung eingespritzt werden. Dazu werden die Wirksubstanzen vorzugsweise in eine Kunststoffmatrix als Trägermaterial eingebunden, welche sich mit der Hartkomponente des Bürstenkopfes in einem folgenden Spritzgussprozess verbindet. Der Bürstenkopf mit angespritzter Wirksubstanz kann somit in einem Mehrkomponentenspritzgussverfahren hergestellt werden. Das Trägermaterial ist in einer Variante der Erfindung wasserlöslich und kann im Gebrauch ebenfalls ganz oder teilweise aufgelöst werden. Zur Herstellung der Matrix aus dem Trägermaterial werden z.B. Stoffe auf der Basis von Stärke oder andere physiologisch unbedenkliche und abbaubare Stoffe, welche im Spritzgiessprozess verarbeitet werden können, eingesetzt, z.B. Maisstärke oder Polyox^®. Alternativ wird eine auf Wasser reagierende und dabei Wirkstoffe abgebende Kunststoffmatrix eingesetzt, welche sich nicht abbaut und ihre ursprüngliche Geometrie im wesentlichen beibehält. Hierfür kommen die oben genannten Hart- oder Weichmaterialien in Frage, denen die Wirksubstanz vor oder beim Spritzgussprozess als Additiv beigemischt wird. Bei dieser Variante ist es vorteilhaft, wenn das Wirksubstanzelement mit der Abgabe der Wirksubstanz seine Farbe ändert oder zumindest verbleicht, um dem Benutzer die Alterung anzuzeigen. Es wird vorzugsweise ein Material eingesetzt, welches sich mit der Hartkomponente oder der Weichkomponente des Bürstenkopfes verbindet. Da Polypropylen PP ein häufiges Hartmaterial zur Herstellung von Zahnbürsten ist, wird vorzugsweise ein Trägermaterial eingesetzt, welches sich mit PP verbindet. Beim Einsatz eines anderen Hartmaterials für den Bürstenkopf wird ein Trägermaterial eingesetzt, welches sich während dem Spritzgussprozess mit diesem Hartmaterial verbindet. Da geeignete Trägermaterialien im Vergleich zu den anderen eingesetzten Materialien relativ teuer sein können, wird vorgeschlagen, das Wirksubstanz-Element im Bürstenkopf oder im Bürstenhals anzuspritzen. Der Anspritzpunkt befindet sich vorzugsweise auf der Bürstenkopfrückseite. Das Wirksubstanz-Element wird bei dieser Ausgestaltungsvariante mittels Spritzguss in eine tabletten- oder pillenartige oder in eine andere oben beschriebene Form gebracht. Bevorzugt wird das Wirksubstanzelement in eine Art Sandwichposition zwischen zwei im Kopf verwendeten Materialen, z.B. einem Hart- und einem Weichmaterial oder zwei möglicherweise identischen Hartmaterialien, eingesetzt. Dabei wird vorteilhafterweise zuerst die Hartkomponente gespritzt, anschliessend das Wirksubstanzelement geformt bzw. gespritzt und anschliessend das Wirksubstanzelement mindestens teilweise mit dem Weich- oder Hartmaterial überdeckt. Alternativ kann das Trägermaterial auch Bestandteil der Borsten oder eventueller gummielastischer Reinigungs- und Massageelemente sein, oder letztere können damit beschichtet sein. Natürlich können auch verschiedene Wirksubstanzelemente mit verschiedenen Wirksubstanzen am oder im Zahnbürstenkopf an verschiedenen Orten angeformt werden. Vorteilhaft wird dann für die unterschiedlichen Elemente eine andere Farbe eingesetzt. Bei der Herstellung des Wirksubstanz-Elements mittels Spritzguss wird das Wirksubstanz-Element zwar nur teilweise mit Wasser umspült, es können jedoch optimale Hinterschneidungen zur Verankerung des Wirksubstanz-Elements gebildet werden.
2. (b) Varianten mit mehrteiligem Bürstenkopf:
   • (b1) Konventionelles Stopfen oder In Mould Tufting (IMT) und Deckel: Spritzgiessen der Zahnbürste inklusive der borstenseitigen Hälfte des Bürstenkopfes, dabei Formen der borstenseitigen Austrittsöffnungen und allenfalls vorhandener Reinigungselemente aus Weichkomponente - Verankern der konventionellen Borsten im Bürstenkopf - Spritzgiessen der bürstenkopfrückseitigen Hälfte (Deckel) inklusive Öffnungen - lösbares (Schnappen, Schieben, Rasten etc.) oder unlösbares (Kleben, Schweissen, Formschlüssiges Verrasten etc.) Verbinden des Deckels mit der Zahnbürste.
   • (b2) Beborsten mittels Anchor Free Tufting (AFT): Spritzgiessen der Zahnbürste inklusive der bürstenkopfrückseitigen Hälfte des Bürstenkopfes inklusive Formen der bürstenkopfrückseitigen Öffnungen - Spritzgiessen der borstenseitigen Hälfte (Borstenplatte) inklusive Öffnungen und allenfalls vorhandener Reinigungselemente aus Weichkomponente - Verankern der konventionellen Borsten in der Borstenplatte - lösbares (Schnappen, Schieben, Rasten etc.) oder unlösbares (Kleben, Schweissen, Formschlüssiges Verrasten etc.) Verbinden der Borstenplatte mit der Zahnbürste.
   • (b3) Die Borsten werden auf einer separaten Kopfplatte angebracht; der Hohlraum wird mit dieser und einem weiteren vorzugsweise wiederverschliessbaren Deckel versehen, weniger bevorzugte Variante, da dreiteilig.

The hollow region can be injection molded using the following technologies:

1. (a) Variants with one-piece brush head:
   • (a1) forming the hollow area by means of mold cores / sliders from the bristle-carrying head side and / or from the Brush head back: Additionally optionally at least partially forced removal of a deliberately undercut selected mold core to form a membrane which limits the hollow area. In order to simplify their forced removal, the membrane can be inflated by means of air pressure through the mandrel and thus the injury-free removal from the mold can be simplified. Alternatively, the membrane can be deliberately slotted in the region of the introduction opening (eg mechanically in the tool by means of slides / knives), which also favors the demoulding of the undercut mandrel. Injection of optionally existing cleaning and massage elements during the production of the membrane.
   • (a2) Same as (a1) but forming a cavity by means of mandrels / shifters to form a tunnel across the brush head. Similarly, for the formation of slots in the insertion opening also compulsory removal described above can be used.
   • (a3) The hollow region can be formed by overmolding the active substance element. In this case, the active substance element is fixed positively and / or non-positively to the hard component in the head region and, in a further working step, at least partially over-injected with the soft component. In this alternative production variant, the active substance element seals the outlet openings in the hard component with respect to the soft component. A disadvantage of this variant is that the active substance and the carrier material must withstand the high temperatures and injection pressures of the soft component and can only be partially washed by water, since the soft component in the overmolded regions conforms directly to the active substance element.
   • (a4) As an alternative manufacturing method, in particular in solutions in which the active substance element is intended for multiple use, the active substance element can be injected by means of injection molding into the hollow region or a corresponding recess. For this purpose, the active substances are preferably incorporated into a plastic matrix as carrier material, which connects to the hard component of the brush head in a subsequent injection molding process. The brush head with molded active substance can thus be produced in a multi-component injection molding process. The carrier material is water-soluble in a variant of the invention and can also be completely or partially dissolved in use. To prepare the matrix of the carrier material are, for example, materials based on starch or other physiologically acceptable and degradable materials which can be processed in the injection molding, is used, for example, corn starch, or Polyox ^®. Alternatively, a water-reactive and thereby active substance-releasing plastic matrix is used, which does not degrade and substantially retain its original geometry. For this purpose, the above-mentioned hard or soft materials in question, where the active substance before or during the injection molding process is added as an additive. In this variant, it is advantageous if the active substance element changes color with the delivery of the active substance or at least fades in order to indicate the aging to the user. It is preferably used a material which connects to the hard component or the soft component of the brush head. Since polypropylene PP is a common hard material for the production of toothbrushes, it is preferable to use a carrier material which combines with PP. When using another hard material for the brush head, a carrier material is used, which connects during the injection molding process with this hard material. Since suitable support materials can be relatively expensive compared to the other materials used, it is proposed to inject the active substance element in the brush head or in the brush neck. The injection point is preferably located on the brush head back. The active substance element is brought in this embodiment variant by injection molding in a tablet or pill-like or in another form described above. Preferably, the active substance element is used in a kind of sandwich position between two materials used in the head, for example a hard and a soft material or two possibly identical hard materials. In this case, the hard component is advantageously sprayed first, then molded or sprayed the active substance element and then the active substance element at least partially covered with the soft or hard material. Alternatively, the carrier material may also be part of the bristles or any rubber-elastic cleaning and massage elements, or the latter may be coated therewith. Of course, various active substance elements with different active substances can be formed on or in the toothbrush head at different locations. Advantageously, a different color is then used for the different elements. Although in the production of the active substance element by means of injection molding, the active substance element is only partially immersed in water, however, optimum undercuts for anchoring the active substance element can be formed.
2. (b) Variants with a multi-part brush head:
   • (b1) Conventional stuffing or in mold tufting (IMT) and lid: Injection molding of the toothbrush including the bristle side half of the brush head, forms of the bristle - side outlet openings and possibly existing cleaning components made of soft component - Anchoring of the conventional bristles in the brush head - Injection of the brush head side half (lid ) including openings - detachable (snapping, pushing, latching, etc.) or insoluble (gluing, welding, positive locking, etc.) Connecting the lid with the toothbrush.
   • (b2) Anchor Free Tufting (AFT): Injection molding of the toothbrush including the brush head back of the brush head including molds on the back of the brush head - Injection of the bristle side (bristle plate) including openings and any soft component cleaning elements - Anchoring the conventional bristles in the bristle plate - detachable (snapping, pushing, latching, etc.) or insoluble (gluing, welding, positive locking, etc.) Connecting the bristle plate with the toothbrush.
   • (b3) The bristles are mounted on a separate top plate; the cavity is provided with this and another preferably reclosable lid, less preferred variant, since three parts.

For all variants discussed, it is possible to apply the active substance and the carrier material in a state of aggregation other than in the brush head on or after use. The active substance can, for example, be poured or sprayed into the cavity in liquid form (for example by heating or with a solvent). After curing arises the active substance element, which emits the appropriate active ingredients in use with water. The active substance element is preferably introduced into the cavity before attaching the cleaning elements such as bristles etc.

Injection of the membrane with any existing cleaning and massage elements can be performed before or after the onset of conventional bristles.

1. (a) Ausformen der Segmente und Schlitze im getrennten Zustand mittels Spritzguss.
2. (b) Ausformen einer dünnen Materialbrücke innerhalb der Schlitze als Erstöffnungssicherung und zum Durchtrennen durch den Benutzer während des ersten Gebrauchs.
3. (c) Ausformen der Membrane im geschlossenen Zustand. Erstellen der Schlitze mittels einem mechanischem Verfahren (z.B. Schneiden, Stanzen etc.) in einem späteren Zeitpunkt (Z.B. im Spritzgusswerkzeug, bei der Montage des Bürstenkopfes oder während des Beborstungsprozesses).

The production of the slots for the inlet opening can be carried out by the following methods:

1. (A) molding of the segments and slots in the separated state by injection molding.
2. (b) forming a thin bridge of material within the slots as a first-opening safeguard and cut-through by the user during first use.
3. (c) forming the membrane in the closed state. Creating the slots by means of a mechanical process (eg cutting, punching, etc.) at a later time (eg in the injection mold, during assembly of the brush head or during the bristling process).

The injection points for the membrane and any cleaning or massage elements placed on it should be selected as far as possible within the head or in the neck region of the toothbrush. At most, areas of soft material can be made in the handle of the toothbrush in the same operation with the same material.

Preferably, the cleaning or massage elements, which are arranged in the region of the membrane, made with the same material in one operation with the membrane. With the choice of a soft component with a Shore A hardness of less than 70, preferably less than 40, a compromise can be found between the functionality of the membrane ((a) flexibility: pumping action, cleaning assistance, introduction of the active substance, (b) adhesion to hard material, etc.) and stiffness of the cleaning or massage elements (cleaning effect, massaging effect). The connection of the membranes of soft material to the hard component of the brush head is preferably carried out in multi-component injection molding. In order to ensure optimum adhesion of the membrane to the hard component, it is important to ensure that the membrane is not molded edge to edge on the hard component, but in the hard component of a phase / recess is provided, which is the common surface between hard and soft component the membrane increases. For this purpose, a geometry element of 0.1 to 2 mm depth / length is preferably formed on the predominant region of the connection of the membrane to the hard component for better connection of the membrane.

The first introduction of the active substance element into the brush head may be provided by the consumer during the first use or during the manufacturing process of the toothbrush. For this purpose, the methods with a two-part brush head, in particular by means of AFT, are particularly suitable. In the AFT procedure, the active substance element is placed in the toothbrush head before the bristled AFT plate is indissolubly welded with the toothbrush handle. The AFT procedure generally lends itself to placing an additional component or element between the bristled AFT plate and the toothbrush handle.

Fig. 1-4

verschiedene Darstellungen eines Kopfteils einer Zahnbürste;

Fig. 5-7

verschiedene Möglichkeiten zur Gestaltung des Hohlbereichs bei einer Zahnbürste gemäss Fig. 1-4;

Fig. 8, 9

verschiedene Darstellungen eines Kopfteils einer Zahnbürste mit einer flexiblen Biegezone;

Fig. 10, 11

verschiedene Darstellungen eines Kopfteils einer Zahnbürste mit einer in der Aufsicht kreisförmigen flexiblen Zone;

Fig. 12, 13

verschiedene Darstellungen eines Kopfteils einer Zahnbürste mit einer flexiblen Zone an der Bürstenkopfspitze;

Fig. 14, 15

verschiedene Darstellungen eines Kopfteils einer Zahnbürste mit mehreren Clustern von Austrittsöffnungen;

Fig. 16-21

Beispiele für verschiedene Formen des flexiblen Bereichs bei einer Zahnbürste;

Fig. 22, 23

verschiedene Darstellungen eines Kopfteils einer Zahnbürste mit Austrittsöffnungen an der Rückseite;

Fig. 24-27

Beispiele für verschiedene Formen des Wirksubstanz-Elements und daran angepasste Hohlbereiche;

Fig. 28

eines Kopfteils einer Zahnbürste mit trichterförmigen Austrittsöffnungen an der Rückseite;

Fig. 29

eine Zahnbürste mit einem Hohlbereich im Halsbereich;

Fig. 30-32

verschiedene Montagevarianten für eine Zahnbürste mit Hohlbereich;

Fig. 33

eine Zahnbürste mit einem bei der Herstellung umspritzten Wirksubstanz-Element;

Fig. 34, 35

ein Beispiel für eine selbsterklärende Verpackung für eine Zahnbürste;

Fig. 36

ein lediglich dem Vergleich dienendes Beispiel einer Haushaltsbürste.

Embodiments are shown in the drawings and described below. It shows purely schematically:

Fig. 1-4

various illustrations of a head portion of a toothbrush;

Fig. 5-7

various possibilities for the design of the hollow area in a toothbrush according to Fig. 1-4 ;

Fig. 8, 9

various illustrations of a head portion of a toothbrush with a flexible bending zone;

10, 11

various views of a head portion of a toothbrush with a circular in plan view flexible zone;

Fig. 12, 13

various illustrations of a head portion of a toothbrush with a flexible zone on the brush head tip;

Fig. 14, 15th

various views of a head portion of a toothbrush with multiple clusters of outlet openings;

Fig. 16-21

Examples of Various Forms of the Flexible Area on a Toothbrush;

Fig. 22, 23

various illustrations of a head portion of a toothbrush with outlet openings at the back;

Fig. 24-27

Examples of Various Forms of Active Ingredient Member and Hollow Regions Matched to Them;

Fig. 28

a head part of a toothbrush with funnel-shaped outlet openings on the rear side;

Fig. 29

a toothbrush with a hollow area in the neck area;

Fig. 30-32

various installation variants for a toothbrush with a hollow area;

Fig. 33

a toothbrush having an active substance element encapsulated in the preparation;

Fig. 34, 35th

an example of a self-explanatory package for a toothbrush;

Fig. 36

a merely comparative example of a household brush.

In the drawings, functionally identical elements are each provided with the same reference numerals. Fig. 1-4 show various views of a head portion 10 of a toothbrush. On the front side 18, a cleaning structure 12 consisting of conventional bristles 14, summarized in bundles, and soft elastic cleaning elements 16 is attached. Instead of the conventional bristles 14, in some cases only the anchoring areas 38 of the bristle bundles are indicated. The head region 10 consists of a hard component 30 that is solid (see also FIG Fig. 5-7 ) and in particular the conventional bristles 14 are anchored with a certain anchoring depth. Inside the hard component 30 there is a circular or elliptical recess 31 which is circular or elliptical in plan view and which is covered on the front and rear sides by a flexible wall 28 in the form of an elastic membrane 28 or 26 made of soft material 32. As a result, a hollow region 22 is formed within the head region 10. The soft elastic structure 16 is anchored in the front membrane 28. Preferably, the membrane and the soft elastic structure are formed together in one manufacturing step from the same material from the same injection point. The membrane 26 on the back 20 has two crossed slots, which serve as a reclosable insertion opening 34 for an active substance element 24. As in the sectional drawings Fig. 5-7 shown, the front side membrane 28 has outlet openings 36 through which water can enter the hollow region 22 and enriched with active substance can escape again. The wall region of the hollow region 22 formed of soft material 32 forms a flexible zone 29. Under cleaning pressure, the toothbrush deforms in this zone 29 such that water is sucked into the hollow region 22 and pushed out again.

Instead of a soft material, the membranes 26, 28 may also be made of a hard component with a correspondingly small wall thickness in order to achieve the necessary flexibility. However, the use of a soft component has advantages insofar as the anchoring of cleaning elements in a thin hard material layer is problematic in terms of manufacturing technology, the simultaneous injection of soft-elastic elements onto a soft one Membrane is unproblematic. Alternatively, a combination of hard and soft materials may form the membrane. The flexible elements of the membrane and cleaning elements are made of soft material. The hard component forms only structuring, stabilizing elements of the membrane or merely serves as a production-related material compound.

As in Fig. 4-7 illustrated, the hollow portion 22 is adapted to the shape of an active substance element 24 that this is at least partially spaced from the inner wall 23. For secure retention of the active substance element 24, inwardly projecting projections or edges 40 are formed out of the flexible membranes 26, 28 ( Fig. 5-7 ). Due to the flexibility of the membranes 26, 28, the active substance element 24 is well positioned even as the resolution progresses.

In the examples 6 and 7 is also ensured by a provided with intersecting or mutually inclined flaps 42 insertion opening 34, that the active substance element 24 does not emerge again under cleaning pressure from the insertion opening 34. The shutters 42 also serve as the above-mentioned projections 40.

In the examples according to Fig. 1-7 the outlet openings 36 are each located between the soft-elastic cleaning elements 16 within the front-side membrane 28. The membrane surface thus has a net-like perforated structure.

Fig. 8, 9 show another example of a hard and soft component 30, 32 existing toothbrush. in this connection the soft component 32 forms a flexible zone 29 which interconnects the two otherwise separate parts 10 ', 10 "of the hard component brush head 10. In contrast to the above examples, the entire brush head front 10' may deflect relative to the brush head rear 10". As in the above examples, the hollow region 22 is bounded on the front and rear side and additionally also laterally by thin material layers (membranes 26, 28) made of soft component 32 and in the longitudinal direction by the hard component 30. By this design, a special flexibility of the brush head 10 and increased pumping / suction effect in the hollow region 22 is achieved. Alternatively, a compound of hard component 30 can additionally be guided within the soft component 32, which makes it possible to produce the two brush head parts 10 ', 10 "from hard component 30 in one working step, preferably this connection is made very thin so that the flexibility is not adversely affected As in the above examples, conventional bristles 14 are anchored in the hard component 30, while the soft component 32 is provided with soft-elastic cleaning elements 16. The insertion opening 34 is as in FIG Fig. 1-7 designed as a cross slot.

10, 11 shows a substantially Fig. 1-7 corresponding example in which the flexible zone 29 with the hollow portion 22 is not centrally located within the bristle field, but rather the neck portion 52 faces. This has the advantage that the most heavily loaded zone in the brush head front can be formed from conventional bristles.

at Fig. 12, 13 The flexible zone 29 formed of soft material 32 occupies the entire brush tip and is designed to be substantially circular in plan view. In a concentric arrangement, it carries here from inside to outside soft elastic cleaning elements 16, outlet openings 36 and conventional bristles 14 (or their anchoring areas). Toward the neck region 52, a conventional bristle field embedded in the hard component 30 adjoins. The outlet openings 36 are so large that the underlying hollow area 22 is visible.

In the example off Fig. 14, 15th Although the part of the brush head formed from the hard component 30 is in one piece. However, it has recesses in such a way that a flexible zone 29 connected to the rear side 20 with three regions (clusters) 44 is formed by outlet openings 36. These are located at the top and on the sides of the head region 10 in a respective outwardly curved flexible wall / membrane 28, preferably made of soft material 32. The remaining area of the head part 10 is bristled on the front side 18 with conventional bristles 14; on the back there is again a cross-shaped insertion opening 34 as in Fig. 5-7 ,

Fig. 16-21 show examples of different shapes of the flexible zone 29 in a toothbrush in front and rear view ( Fig. 16-19 ) or only in front view ( Fig. 20, 21 ). On the back is in all examples, in turn, a cross-shaped insertion opening 34 as in Fig. 5-7 (only partially shown). at Fig. 16, 17 the flexible zone 29 has three laterally arranged, gill-like regions 46 (resp. Cluster 44) with lamellar cleaning / massage elements 16 and arranged therebetween outlet openings 36. The areas 46 are connected to each other at the rear via a material bridge of soft material 32 (see Fig. 17 ). at Fig. 18, 19 the lamellae / fish gills are less pronounced and only two lateral clusters 44 are present. Fig. 20 shows a modification thereof with asymmetrically curved geometry. at Fig. 21 the outlet openings 36 are uniformly distributed over the lateral edge of the head portion 10 and each knob-like surrounded by soft material, so that also here by the knobs during cleaning results in a massage effect.

Fig. 22, 23 show a toothbrush in front and rear view, in which the outlet openings 36 are located on the back facing away from the bristle 20 and thus the active substance is released mainly on the back 20. The back 20 is largely made of hard material 30 which is broken like a net and the view of the hollow portion 22 within the brush head 10 releases. The hollow portion 22 extends substantially over the entire surface of the head portion 10. The sufficient flexibility of the wall of the hollow portion 22 is achieved by a correspondingly thin material thickness and through the openings or outlet openings 36. A portion of the hollow portion 22 is covered on the back by a membrane 26 made of soft material 32, in which are arranged radially, serving as an insertion opening 34 slots.

When in Fig. 24 As shown, the brush head 10 consists of two parts (tip 10 'and neck-side region 10 ") made of a hard component 30, which pass through each other a flexible zone 29 of soft material 32 or a combination of hard and soft material are connected. In the flexible zone 29, a hollow portion 22 is formed in the form of a tubular recess with an elliptical cross-section. The hollow region 22 is limited to the front side 18 by three webs 48 made of soft material 32. Between the webs 48 are two outlet openings 36 with a total width of about half the head width. The underside of the hollow portion 22 is the entire surface of soft material 32 or a combination of hard and soft material. Soft elastic cleaning elements 16 are arranged on the webs 48, conventional bristles 14 are anchored on the hard areas at the top and in the neck area. Between the webs 48 and the bottom 66 of the hollow portion 22 an elliptical insertion opening 34 for the active substance element 24 is formed. This has essentially the shape of a cylinder with elliptical cross-section and rounded edges. The active substance element 24 is clamped between the webs and the bottom 66. Laterally, however, it is spaced from the inner wall of the hollow portion 22, so that it is washed around there and in the region of the outlet openings 36 of water. Due to the spatial shape with a substantially two-part hard component 30 and the parts connecting flexible zone 29 made of soft material 32 of the brush head is particularly flexible. Alternatively, the webs 48 may also be made of the hard component 30 and hingedly connect the tip and the neck-side region; the flexibility is ensured in this case by a correspondingly thin wall thickness of the webs 48.

Fig. 25-27 show variations of the example Fig. 24 also with a substantially two-parted Head region 10 of a hard component 30 and a flexible zone 29 of the soft component 32 connecting the parts 10 ', 10 "or a combination of hard and soft component, in which the hollow portion 22 is accommodated for receiving the active substance element 24. Bei FIGS. 25 and 26 For example, the hollow portion 22 and the active substance element 24 themselves are cylindrical with a circular cross section. The introduction opening 34 is likewise circular and may have a smaller diameter than the hollow area 22 itself, so that the active substance element 24 in the hollow area 22 can be at least partially washed around. The hollow region 22 is substantially surrounded by soft material 32 in its radial direction with the exception of the outlet openings 36 in the front-side membrane 28. In case of Fig. 25 are formed in the membrane 28 tubular soft-elastic cleaning elements 16, the interior of which communicates with the hollow portion 22, so that dissolved active substance is discharged via outlet openings 36 'at the upper end of the cleaning elements 16. The active substance delivery is enhanced by the capillary effect. In case of Fig. 26 No soft elastic cleaning elements are arranged on the soft component.

Fig. 27 shows an analogous example with an elongated in the longitudinal direction of the brush head elastic zone 29 in which a substantially cuboid hollow portion 22 is formed. This is adapted to a plate-shaped or foil-shaped active substance element 24. In this embodiment variant of the plate or sheet-shaped hollow portion 22 can be mounted as backpack-shaped structure on the brush head back. The active substance element 24 has a thickness of 0.01 to 5.0 mm, preferably 0.05 to 1.0 mm.

In all examples of the Fig. 24 - 27 For the formation of the tunnel-like cavity for the active substance element in the injection mold for the injection of the hard and / or the soft component, a corresponding side slide is used.

In the example off Fig. 28 the hollow region 22 on the rear side 20 of the brush head is covered by a flexible membrane 26 of soft material 32 and otherwise formed within the hard component 30. The outlet openings 36 are formed on the membrane 26 within knob-shaped or funnel-like elevations, which can simultaneously act as cleaning or massage elements 16, in particular for the palate and tongue. The existing of the hard component 30 front 18 can thus be bristled conventionally above the hollow portion 22. A combination of this embodiment with a previously shown flexible membrane on the front of the brush head is also conceivable. By the movement of the knobs when cleaning water is sucked into the hollow area and enriched with active substance expelled again.

Fig. 29 shows a toothbrush, wherein the hollow portion 22 is formed by a cage-like, adapted to a spherical or ellipsoidal shape of the active substance element thickening in the neck region 52. This has a plurality of outlet openings 36, through which the hollow portion 22 is visible. The boundary of the hollow region may be formed of hard and / or soft component, resulting in the latter case, a damping zone in the neck region 52. The flexibility of this zone favors the previously discussed pumping action around the active substance element.

Fig. 30-33 show schematically different production methods for toothbrushes. Of course, these manufacturing methods can be used for all design variants shown.

at Fig. 30 the toothbrush is made of two parts consisting of hard and / or soft component 30 by injection molding, on the one hand the bristle side upper half of the brush head and on the other hand the back cover 54. In the upper half is a recess for the active substance element 24th formed, which is later closed with the lid 54 to form the hollow portion 22. At the upper half of the outlet openings 36 and optionally cleaning elements 16 are formed of soft component 32. Conventional bristles are anchored laterally from the cleaning elements 16 by conventional plugging or In Mold Tufting (IMT). On the cover 54 further outlet openings 36 are formed in the hard component 30. Alternatively, the lid 54 may include a membrane of soft component, in which the outlet openings are formed in knob-like elevations. Lid 54 and remaining brush head are then connected to the inclusion of a flat active substance element 24 releasably (snapping, sliding, locking, etc.) or non-detachable (gluing, welding, positive locking, etc.).

at Fig. 31 The toothbrush is also made of two parts of a hard and / or soft component by injection molding. The brush head back half of the brush head has a plate-shaped recess which forms a cavity 22 in the assembled state with a support plate 56. The carrier plate is made including openings, which are closed in a further injection molding with soft component 32 to form a membrane 26 and possibly soft elastic cleaning elements 16 of soft component. The conventional bristles 14 are then anchored in the support plate 56. Alternatively, the support plate 56 can also be bristled in the Anchor Free Tufting process, which has the advantage that the support plate can be made thinner. The support plate is then releasably (snap, slide, clicks, etc.) or non-detachable (gluing, welding, positive locking, etc.) connected to the rest of the toothbrush, wherein an active substance element 24 is enclosed in the cavity 22.

Fig. 32 shows a combination of the examples FIGS. 30 and 31 with a three-part (annular body, support plate 56 and back cover 54) existing brush head.

Fig. 33 shows a further example in which the active substance in the manufacture of the toothbrush is inserted or injected into a recess in the hard component 30 and overmolded with the soft component 32. In this case, a cavity 22 is formed with a flexible wall in the form of a thin membrane 26 of soft component 32. In the membrane 26 openings 36 for the entry and exit of water or water-soluble active substance are present.

In all examples, the flexibility of the wall of the hollow portion 22 results from the choice of a wall material having a certain elasticity, in particular by having at least one membrane of soft material 32, and / or by the total existing bending elasticity of the existing hard and / or soft material toothbrush. As long as the sufficient contact with water or the sufficient dissolution of the active substance is ensured, it is sufficient if the pumping / suction effect or volume change of the hollow region is only slightly or not at all due to the plastering pressure.

FIGS. 34 and 35 show a self-explanatory package 58 for a toothbrush with active substance, in which in addition to a matched to the brush shape recess 60, a detachable area, each with an active substance element 24 is present. The user therefore immediately recognizes which product it is.

The embodiment variants shown above can of course also be used in electric toothbrushes. The mechanical movement or vibration of at least a part of the brush head additionally promotes the fluid exchange into and out of the hollow area. If the brush head is subdivided into a movable and a non-movable brush head segment, the hollow region, within the variants described above, is preferably accommodated in the non-movable segment.

Fig. 36 shows an unclaimed embodiment of a household brush with also a head, neck and handle portion 10, 52, 62. In the head portion 10 is a hollow portion 22 which is reclosable on the cleaning structure 12 side facing away by a flap 64 and an active substance element 24 can record. In the flap 64 are the outlet openings for the dissolved active substance. In the Dishwashing brush is preferably a solid soap used as an active substance element.

Further embodiments also include combinations of elements of the examples shown.

As a comparative example shows Fig. 36 a brush with a flexible membrane in the head part, which carries cleaning and / or massaging elements, even without an underlying hollow area or without an introduced in the hollow area active substance element advantages, in particular because of the flexible suspension of the cleaning and / or massaging elements. All the examples shown can be modified accordingly, for example by no hollow area or a hollow area not communicating with the outside world being provided. In particular, the in Fig. 1-27 shown examples, in which the flexible zone 29 is maintained, but with respect to the uptake and release of active substance has no function.

Claims (34)

1. A toothbrush with a head part (10) having a cleaning structure (12) that in particular comprises bristles (14), with a handle part (62) and with a neck part (52), a cavity (22) with at least one outlet opening (36) or a corresponding recess for an active substance being located in the head part (10) or the neck part (52), characterized in that an active substance element (24) is located in the cavity (22) or the recess, that the active substance element contains the active substance in a carrier material, and the carrier material releases the active substance upon contact with water in a controlled manner, the carrier material being an injection-moldable polymer.
2. The toothbrush as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the injection-moldable polymer is watersoluble.
3. The toothbrush as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the injection-moldable polymer is a thermoplastic polymer on the basis of polyethylene oxide.
4. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the basis of the injection-moldable polymer is starch.
5. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the carrier material is a plastic which, during injection into the recess of the head part (10) or the neck part (52), has been connected to a plastic material of the head part (10).
6. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the active substance element (24) contains flavoring agents, antibacterial substances and/or abrasive substances as the active substance.
7. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the active substance element (24) contains hydrated silica as the active substance.
8. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the active substance element (24) contains an indicator, such that the active substance element (24) changes its colour or fades as the period of use advances.
9. The toothbrush as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that the active substance element (24) has a period of use of 3 months and the need to replace the toothbrush is indicated by the exhaustion of the active substance.
10. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, on its inner wall, the cavity (22) has projections (40) or other geometric elements that position the inserted active substance element (24) in the cavity (22), preferably by clamping it.
11. The toothbrush as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that the geometric elements are undercuts that anchor the active substance element (24) by means of injection moulding.
12. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the cavity (22) is at least partially delimited by a flexible membrane (26, 28) that preferably curves at least partially outward.
13. The toothbrush as claimed claim 12, characterized in that the flexible membrane (26, 28) comprises a soft material (32) that preferably has a Shore A hardness of less than 70, particularly preferably of less than 40.
14. The toothbrush as claimed in claim 12 or 13, characterized in that massaging and/or cleaning elements (16), likewise comprising soft material (32), are arranged on the flexible membrane (26, 28) and are preferably produced along with the flexible membrane (26, 28) in one operating step and from the same material, wherein the outlet openings (36) are preferably located in the membrane (26, 28) between the massaging and/or cleaning elements (16) and/or in the massaging and/or cleaning elements (16).
15. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the flexible membrane (26, 28), in the area of the outlet openings (36), has a flat perforated structure, concertina-like structure, lamella-like structure and/or knob-like structure.
16. The toothbrush as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that the outlet openings (36) are arranged within the flat perforated structure, concertina-like structure, lamella-like structure and/or knob-like structure on the rear face of the brush head part.
17. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the outlet openings (36) in the area of the surface of the toothbrush are designed widening in particular in a funnel shape.
18. The toothbrush as claimed in one of claims 2 to 17, characterized in that the geometry of the outlet openings (36) is adapted to the active substance in such a way that, after a predetermined total duration of use of the toothbrush, the active substance element (24) is almost completely dissolved or disintegrated under the effect of water and is flushed out of the cavity (22).
19. Method for producing a toothbrush according to one of claims 1 to 18, in which method a shaping toothbrush body with a head part (10), neck part (52) and handle part (62) is produced from a hard component (30), a cavity (22) or a corresponding recess being formed in the head part (10) or neck part (52), into which cavity a carrier material with an active substance is injected in order to form an active substance element (24).
20. Method according to claim 19, characterized in that that the active substance element (24) is brought into the shape of a tablet, pill, rod-shaped element, plate or film by means of injection molding.
21. Method according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that a soft component (32) is injected in order to form a flexible membrane (26, 28) of the cavity (22) and preferably other pliable components, in particular of cleaning and massaging elements (16).
22. Method according to one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that the active substance element (24) is at least partially encapsulated by the soft component (32).
23. Method according to one of claims 19 to 22, characterized in that the active substance element (24) is at least partially covered with the hard component (30).
24. Method according to one of claims 19 to 23, characterized in that a toothbrush body with an aperture and a cover element (54, 56) that can be fitted onto the aperture, preferably with an exact fit, is formed from a hard component (30), and in that the cover element (54, 56) is fitted onto the aperture after inserting the active substance element (24) into the aperture.
25. Method according to claim 24, characterized in that characterized in that the cover element (54, 56) is provided with a cleaning structure (12) that in particular comprises bristles (14).
26. Method according to claim 25, characterized in that the active substance element (24) is introduced into the cavity (22) prior to the attachment of the cleaning structure (12), such as bristles (14).
27. Method according to one of claims 19 to 26, characterized in that the carrier material releases the active substance upon contact with water.
28. Method according to one of claims 19 to 27, characterized in that the carrier material is a water-soluble polymer.
29. Method according to claim 28, characterized in that the carrier material is composed of a physiologically safe and biodegradable material, in particular based on starch.
30. Method according to claim 28, characterized in that the carrier material is a water-soluble, thermoplastic polymer based on polyethylene oxide.
31. Method according to one of claims 19 to 27, characterized in that the carrier material is composed of a water-insoluble material.
32. Method according to one of claims 19 to 31, characterized in that the carrier material connects to the plastic material of the brush head part during injection into the recess of the head part (10) or the neck part (52).
33. Method according to one of claims 19 to 31, characterized in that the brush head with the active substance element (24) injected on is produced in a multi-component injection-moulding process.
34. Method according to one of claims 19 to 33, characterized in that the active substance element (24) is molded on the head part (10) or neck part (52), preferably on a rear face of the brush head.

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