U.S. patent application number 12/115775 was filed with the patent office on 2009-01-08 for oral hygiene implements.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Gillette Company. Invention is credited to Christopher Charles Blain, Alexander Timothy Chenvainu, Thomas Aurele Christman, Karen Lynn Claire-Zimmet, Jose Tadeo DeCastro, Mark Stephen Meadows.
Application Number | 20090007357 12/115775 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39720157 |
Filed Date | 2009-01-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090007357 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Meadows; Mark Stephen ; et
al. |
January 8, 2009 |
Oral Hygiene Implements
Abstract
Oral hygiene implements, such as manual or electric toothbrushes
or refills, include a head portion sized for insertion into a human
mouth that includes a base and a plurality of elastomeric elements
extending from the base to define a field of elastomeric bristles.
The field can include a first elastomeric element that includes a
first elastomeric material and a second elastomeric element
different than the first elastomeric element that includes a second
elastomeric material. The elastomeric elements extending from the
base can define many "sharp," yet compliant edges, such as those
having a tip radius of less than about 0.006 inch, for enhanced
cleaning with reduced abrasion.
Inventors: |
Meadows; Mark Stephen;
(Boston, MA) ; Chenvainu; Alexander Timothy;
(Sudbury, MA) ; Blain; Christopher Charles;
(Petaluma, CA) ; Christman; Thomas Aurele;
(Lexington, MA) ; Claire-Zimmet; Karen Lynn;
(Waltham, MA) ; DeCastro; Jose Tadeo; (Newton
Center, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THE PROCTER & GAMBLE COMPANY;Global Legal Department - IP
Sycamore Building - 4th Floor, 299 East Sixth Street
CINCINNATI
OH
45202
US
|
Assignee: |
The Gillette Company
Cincinnati
OH
|
Family ID: |
39720157 |
Appl. No.: |
12/115775 |
Filed: |
May 6, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60928012 |
May 7, 2007 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
15/167.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 9/005 20130101;
A46D 1/00 20130101; A46B 15/0075 20130101; A46D 1/0253 20130101;
A46B 2200/1066 20130101; A61C 17/222 20130101; A46B 9/06 20130101;
A46B 15/0055 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/167.1 |
International
Class: |
A46B 9/04 20060101
A46B009/04 |
Claims
1. An oral hygiene implement comprising: a head portion sized for
insertion into a human mouth, the head portion comprising: a base;
and a plurality of elastomeric elements extending from the base,
each elastomeric element defining one or more edges, wherein a
total number of edges defined by the plurality of elastomeric
elements having a tip radius of less than about 0.006 inch is
greater than about 250.
2. The implement of claim 1, wherein the total number of edges is
greater than about 300.
3. The implement of claim 1, wherein the one or more edges are
substantially exposed, having an intra- and/or inter-element
spacing to its nearest neighbor of about 0.010 inch or more.
4. The implement of claim 1, wherein one or more elastomeric
elements have a long axis running in a direction of extension, and
wherein the edges are defined along the direction of extension.
5. The implement of claim 1, wherein one or more elastomeric
elements have a long axis running in a direction of extension, and
wherein the edges are defined in a direction perpendicular to
extension.
6. The implement of claim 1, wherein the plurality of elastomeric
elements comprise a first elastomeric element comprising a first
elastomeric material and a second elastomeric element comprising a
second elastomeric material.
7. The implement of claim 6, wherein the plurality of elastomeric
elements further comprise a third elastomeric element comprising a
third elastomeric material.
8. The implement of claim 7, wherein the plurality of elastomeric
elements further comprise a fourth elastomeric element comprising a
fourth elastomeric material.
9. The implement of claim 8, wherein the plurality of elastomeric
elements further comprise a fifth elastomeric element comprising a
fifth elastomeric material.
10. The implement of claim 9, wherein the plurality of elastomeric
elements further comprise a sixth elastomeric element comprising a
sixth elastomeric material.
11. The implement claim 10, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements has a Shore A
hardness of about 8 Shore A to about 95 Shore A.
12. The implement of claim 11, wherein the Shore A hardness is from
about 35 Shore A to about 92 Shore A.
13. The implement of claim 10, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements comprises a
thermoplastic or a crosslinked material, and wherein the
thermoplastic material is selected from the group consisting of a
styrenic block copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a silicone,
a polyether amide, a polyether polyester, and mixtures thereof.
14. The implement of claim 10, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements comprises a filler,
and wherein the filler is selected from the group consisting of
oil, abrasives, tackifiers, plasticizers, and mixtures thereof.
15. The implement of claim 10, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements has a first maximum
transverse cross-sectional thickness of between about 0.003 inch
and about 0.250 inch.
16. The implement of claim 10, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements is of a form
selected from the group consisting of rings, projections, ladders,
cups, fins, and curtains.
17. The implement of claim 10, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements has a transverse
cross-section, taken perpendicular to a direction of extension,
that is circular, triangular, rectangular, square or sinusoidal in
form.
18. The implement of claim 10, wherein each head portion includes
more than a single first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth
element.
19. The implement of claim 1, wherein the base further comprises
one or more bristles, such as bristles arranged in one or more
turfs, extending from the base.
20. The implement of claim 1, wherein the head portion and/or base
portion is configured to be vibrated and/or oscillated, such as by
an electrically driven motor in communication with the head portion
and/or base portion.
21. The implement of claim 1, wherein the implement is in the form
of a manual toothbrush.
22. An oral hygiene implement comprising: a head portion sized for
insertion into a human mouth, the head portion comprising: a base;
and a plurality of elastomeric elements extending from the base
defining a field of elastomeric elements, wherein the field
comprises a first elastomeric element comprising a first
elastomeric material and a second elastomeric element different
than the first elastomeric element and comprising a second
elastomeric material.
23. The implement of claim 22, wherein the first and second
elastomeric elements differ in shape.
24. The implement of claim 22, wherein the first and second
elastomeric materials are different.
25. The implement of claim 22, wherein each elastomeric element
defines one or more edges, and wherein a total number of edges
defined by the plurality of elastomeric elements having a tip
radius of less than about 0.006 inch is greater than about 250.
26. The implement of claim 25, wherein the total number of edges is
greater than about 300.
27. The implement of claim 22, wherein the field further comprises
a third elastomeric element comprising a third elastomeric
material, such as one that is different from the first and second
elastomeric material.
28. The implement of claim 27, wherein the field further comprises
a fourth elastomeric element comprising a fourth elastomeric
material.
29. The implement of claim 28, wherein the field further comprises
a fifth elastomeric element comprising a fifth elastomeric
material.
30. The implement of claim 29, wherein the field further comprises
a sixth elastomeric element comprising a sixth elastomeric
material.
31. The implement of claim 30, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements has a Shore A
hardness of about 6 Shore A to about 95 Shore A.
32. The implement of claim 31, wherein the Shore A hardness is from
about 35 Shore A to about 92 Shore A.
33. The implement of claim 30, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements comprises a
thermoplastic or crosslinked material, and wherein the
thermoplastic material is selected from the group consisting of a
styrenic block copolymer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, a silicone,
a polyether amide, a polyether polyester, and mixtures thereof.
34. The implement of claim 30, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements comprises a filler,
and wherein the filler is selected from the group consisting of
oil, abrasives, tackifiers, plasticizers, and mixtures thereof.
35. The implement of claim 30, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements has a maximum
transverse cross-sectional thickness of between about 0.003 inch
and about 0.250 inch.
36. The implement of claim 30, wherein one or more of the first,
second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth elements is in the form
selected from the group consisting of rings, projections, ladders,
cups, fins, and curtains.
37. The implement of claim 30, wherein each brush portion includes
more than a single first, second, third, fourth, fifth or sixth
element.
38. The implement of claim 22, wherein the field further comprises
one or more bristles, such as bristles arranged in one or more
turfs, extending from the base.
39. The implement of claim 22, wherein the head portion and/or base
portion is configured to be vibrated and/or oscillated, such as by
an electrically driven motor in communication with the head portion
and/or base portion.
40. The implement of claim 22, wherein the implement is in the form
of a manual toothbrush.
41. An oral hygiene implement comprising: a head portion sized for
insertion into a human mouth, the head portion comprising: a base;
and a plurality of elastomeric elements extending from the base
defining a field of elastomeric elements, wherein the field
comprises a first elastomeric element comprising a first
elastomeric material and a second elastomeric material surrounding
the first elastomeric material.
42. The implement of claim 41, wherein the second elastomeric
material completely surrounds the first elastomeric material.
43. The implement of claim 41, wherein the second elastomeric
material surrounds a terminal end of the first elastomeric
material.
44. The implement of claim 41, wherein the first elastomeric
material has a Shore A hardness greater than the second elastomeric
material.
45. An oral hygiene implement comprising: a head portion sized for
insertion into a human mouth, the head portion comprising: a base;
and a plurality of elastomeric elements extending from the base
defining a field of elastomeric elements, wherein the field
comprises a first elastomeric element comprising a first
elastomeric material and a second elastomeric element comprising a
second elastomeric material, and wherein the first elastomeric
element has a first coefficient of friction and the second
elastomeric element has a second coefficient of friction different
than the first coefficient of friction.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/928,012, filed May 7, 2007, and entitled
"ORAL HYGIENE IMPLEMENTS", the entirety of which is incorporated
herein by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates to oral hygiene implements that
include elastomeric elements.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Most humans suffer or have suffered from tooth decay and/or
gingivitis caused by bacteria in the mouth. As a result, decreasing
the amount of bacterial plaque in the mouth has long been a target
of persons working in the oral care field. A common way of
minimizing the plaque in the mouth is to brush and floss the teeth
regularly. Mouthrinses are often used to augment flossing and
brushing.
[0004] The benefits of frequent brushing can be accompanied by, in
some instances, deleterious side effects, such as irritation, soft
and hard tissue abrasion and even recession of the gums. In part,
these side effects result from an excessive force applied by the
user to their gums via their toothbrush.
SUMMARY
[0005] This disclosure relates to oral hygiene implements that
include elastomeric elements and to methods of making the same.
[0006] The oral hygiene implements described herein can include
many elastomeric elements that include a large number of "sharp"
edges (edges having a small tip radius) formed of a compliant
elastomeric material for enhanced cleaning with reduced irritation
and/or abrasion. The implements can include several-to-many
different shaped elastomeric elements, e.g., two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight, or even ten or more different shaped
elements. Each element can be formed of the same material or each
element can be formed of a different material such that the entire
field of elements includes several-to-many different materials,
e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or even ten or
more different materials. The many different textures that are
provided by such a construction can provide a feeling that can be
reminiscent of more traditional bristled implements, allowing for
the new implements to be readily accepted into a consumer's
routine.
[0007] In one aspect, the disclosure features oral hygiene
implements, such as toothbrushes or toothbrush refills, that
include a head portion sized for insertion into a human mouth. The
head portion includes a base and a plurality of elastomeric
elements extending from the base that each define one or more
edges. A total number of edges defined by the plurality of
elastomeric elements having a tip radius of less than about 0.006
inch is greater than about 250.
[0008] In another aspect, the disclosure features oral hygiene
implements that include a head portion sized for insertion into a
human mouth that includes a base and a plurality of elastomeric
elements extending from the base that define a field of elastomeric
elements. The field includes a first elastomeric element that
includes a first elastomeric material and a second elastomeric
element different than the first elastomeric element and including
a second elastomeric material. Optionally, the total number of
edges defined by the plurality of elastomeric elements having a tip
radius of less than about 0.006 inch is greater than about 250.
[0009] In another aspect, the disclosure features oral hygiene
implements that include a head portion sized for insertion into a
human mouth. The head portion includes a base and a plurality of
elastomeric elements extending from the base defining a field of
elastomeric elements. The field includes a first elastomeric
element including a first elastomeric material and a second
elastomeric material surrounding the first elastomeric material.
For example, second elastomeric material, which can be a relatively
soft elastomeric material, can completely surround the first
elastomeric material, which can be a harder elastomeric
material.
[0010] In another aspect, the disclosure features oral hygiene
implements that include a head portion sized for insertion into a
human mouth. The head portion includes a base and a plurality of
elastomeric elements extending from the base defining a field of
elastomeric elements. The field includes a first elastomeric
element that includes a first elastomeric material and a second
elastomeric element that includes a second elastomeric material.
The first elastomeric element has a first coefficient of friction
and the second elastomeric element has a second coefficient of
friction different than the first coefficient of friction. For
example, the first elastomeric element can have a lower wet
coefficient of friction, as measured using human saliva and an
atomic force microscope, than the second elastomeric element. A
lower coefficient of friction can be advantageous for sliding
between teeth, which the higher coefficient of friction can be
advantageous for scrubbing the teeth.
[0011] In some implementations, the total number of edges is
greater than about 300, such as greater than about 400, 500, 600,
700, 800, 900, 1000, 1250, 1500, or even more, such as greater than
about 2000 or 3000. Sharp edges can enhance the cleaning ability of
the implements, but since the edges are formed of an elastomeric
material, they are also generally gentle on tissues.
[0012] In some implementations, e.g., to maximize the exposure of
the edges, an intra- and/or inter-element spacing of an edge to its
nearest neighbor is from about 0.010 inch or more, such as greater
than 0.015 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.025 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch, or
0.050 inch or more, such as greater than about 0.060 inch, 0.075
inch, 0.085 inch, 0.10 inch, 0.125 inch, 0.150 inch, 0.175 inch, or
even greater than 0.20 inch.
[0013] In some embodiments, one or more elastomeric elements have a
long axis running in a direction of extension, and the edges are
defined along the direction of extension. In other embodiments, one
or more elastomeric elements have a long axis running in a
direction of extension, and the edges are defined in a direction
perpendicular to extension. In still other embodiments, edges are
defined along and perpendicular to the long axis running in the
direction of extension.
[0014] Generally, the elastomeric elements are configured to
maximize cleaning and/or gum massaging, while minimizing trauma to
the oral cavity.
[0015] The plurality of elastomeric elements can include, e.g.,
one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or even ten
different elastomeric elements, e.g., that differ in shape, size,
length/height, and/or material.
[0016] For example, in some implementations, all the elements can
have the same shape, but can each be formed of a different material
and/or a different material hardness.
[0017] In some implementations, the plurality of elastomeric
elements can include, e.g., a first elastomeric element that
includes a first elastomeric material and a second elastomeric
element that includes a second elastomeric material. The plurality
of elastomeric elements can, e.g., further include a third
elastomeric element that includes a third elastomeric material, a
fourth elastomeric element that includes a fourth elastomeric
material, a fifth elastomeric element that includes a fifth
elastomeric material or even a sixth elastomeric element that
includes a sixth elastomeric material.
[0018] Any one or more of the elastomeric elements described herein
can have, e.g., a Shore A hardness of about 8 Shore A to about 95
Shore A, such as between about 35 Shore A to about 92 Shore A.
[0019] Any elastomeric element described herein can be formed of a
thermoplastic or a crosslinked material (a thermoset material). For
example, the elastomer can be one or more styrenic copolymers,
thermoplastic polyurethanes, silicones, polyether-amides,
polyether-polyesters, or mixtures of these and other
elastomers.
[0020] Any elastomeric material described herein can include one or
more fillers. For example, the filler can be or can include oil,
e.g., mineral oils, abrasives, tackifiers, plasticizers or mixtures
of these and even others.
[0021] For example, any elastomeric element can have a first
maximum transverse cross-sectional thickness of between about 0.003
inch and about 0.250 inch, such as between about 0.010 inch and
about 0.10 inch. In some implementations, elements also include a
second maximum transverse dimension perpendicular to the first
dimension of between about 0.003 inch and about 0.10 inch.
[0022] The elements are not limited in shape. For example, any
element can be in the form of a ring, a projection, a fin, a
ladder, a cup, or a curtain.
[0023] For example, any elastomeric element can have a transverse
cross-section (taken perpendicular to the direction of extension)
that is generally or substantially circular, triangular,
rectangular, square or sinusoidal in form.
[0024] Any oral implement described herein can also further include
one or more bristles, such as bristles arranged in one or more
turfs, extending from the base.
[0025] Any oral implement described herein can be in the form of a
manual or power toothbrush. For example, in some advantageous
implementations, the implement is a power product in which the head
portion and/or base portion is configured to be vibrated and/or
oscillated, such as by an electrically driven motor in
communication with the head portion and/or base portion.
[0026] As used herein, "an edge" is a line at which two surface
intersect, or a border at which a surface terminates.
[0027] As used herein, "an elastomer" is a material that has an
elongation at break or greater than about fifty percent and a Shore
A hardness of less than about 97.
[0028] Aspects and/or implementations may have any one or more of
the following advantages. The oral hygiene implements described
herein can include elastomeric elements that include a large number
of "sharp" edges (edges having a small tip radius) formed of a
compliant material for enhanced cleaning with reduced abrasion. The
edges can be defined on tips and along the elastomeric element,
providing a cleaning structure that cleans at its tips and along
its sides. The implements can include several different shaped
elastomeric elements, e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven,
eight, or even ten or more different shaped elements, that are
optionally formed of several different materials, e.g., one, two,
three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or even ten or more different
materials. Such a construction can provide many different textures
in a user's mouth. The many different textures provided can be
reminiscent of more traditional bristled implements, allowing for
the novel implements to be readily accepted into a consumer's
routine. The geometry and texture of each element can be optimized
for location in a brushing field, which can lead to enhanced
massaging and/or cleaning. The oral hygiene implements can work
synergistically with cleaning and polishing materials, such as
toothpastes, for enhanced polishing and cleaning. For example, an
elastomeric element in the shape of a cup can enhance polishing
and/or whitening by holding the abrasives to tooth surfaces. The
implements described herein can have only elastomeric elements,
which can be relatively easily molded, e.g., cast or injection
molded, or extruded. Due to their compliant nature, elastomeric
elements tend to self-regulate stresses applied to cleaning sites,
which can minimize damage from excessive brushing forces, e.g.,
that can lead to gum recession. When the oral hygiene implements,
e.g., toothbrushes, include only elastomeric elements in their
head, they can provide comparable (or even better) plaque removal
in comparison to a fully bristled brush, but with enhanced gum
massaging, and less soft and hard tissue abrasion.
[0029] The details of several embodiments are set forth in the
accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and
advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description
and drawings, and from the claims.
DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0030] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a brush refill.
[0031] FIG. 1B is an enlarged perspective view of the head portion
of the refill of FIG. 1A.
[0032] FIG. 1C is an enlarged side view of the head portion of the
refill of FIG. 1A.
[0033] FIG. 2 is an enlarged perspective view of the field of
elongated projections having circular transverse cross-sections
shown in FIG. 1A.
[0034] FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of the ring structure
shown in FIG. 1A.
[0035] FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the field of
elongated projections having triangular transverse cross-sections
shown in FIG. 1A.
[0036] FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of the field of
curtains shown in FIG. 1A.
[0037] FIG. 6A is an enlarged perspective view of the ladder fin
shown in FIG. 1A, while FIG. 6B is a perspective view illustrating
attachment of the ladder fin to the head of the refill of FIG.
1A.
[0038] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternative head.
[0039] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an alternative head.
[0040] FIG. 9 is perspective view of a prophy cup elastomeric
element.
[0041] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a rocking, elastomeric
textured fin element.
[0042] FIG. 11 is a photograph taken from the top of a brush head
utilizing the elements of FIGS. 9 and 10.
[0043] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another brush head
utilizing the elements of FIGS. 9 and 10.
[0044] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a elastomeric curtain
element, illustrating its slicing to form a slit curtain
element.
[0045] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a brush head including the
split curtain element of FIG. 13.
[0046] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an alternative fin/tube
element.
[0047] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an alternative elastomeric
element.
[0048] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a dual-material
elastomeric element.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0049] Oral hygiene implements, such as toothbrushes, are described
that include many elastomeric elements. The implements can include
a large number of "sharp" edges formed of compliant elastomeric
materials for enhanced cleaning with reduced abrasion. The
implements can provide many different textures in a user's mouth
and can be reminiscent of the more traditional bristled implements,
allowing for the novel implements to be readily accepted into a
consumer's daily routine.
[0050] By way of example, and by reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, a refill
10 for a power toothbrush, such as one driven by electrical energy,
includes a head portion 12 sized for insertion into a human mouth
that includes a base 14 and a plurality of elastomeric elements
extending from the base to define a field of elastomeric elements.
The entire refill itself and/or the head portion 12 can be
configured to be oscillated, e.g., rotationally oscillated, and/or
vibrated, to provide powerful cleaning and/or massaging action to a
user's oral cavity. In the particular implementation shown in FIGS.
1A-1C, the field of elastomeric elements includes (1) a portion 11
that includes a plurality of first elastomeric elements 16 in the
form of rod-like projections that are each substantially circular
in transverse cross-section and taper along their length to their
respective terminal end 18; (2) a second elastomeric element 20 in
the form of a concentric ring; (3) two portions 21 and 23 that each
include a plurality of third elastomeric elements 22 in the form of
projections that are each substantially triangular in transverse
cross-section; (4) two portions 25 and 26 that each include a
plurality of fourth elastomeric elements 24 in the form of curtains
or sinuous walls; and (5) four portions 27, 29, 31 and 33 that each
include a fifth elastomeric element (in this case each portion
includes three elements) in the form of fins 30 that have a
ladder-like appearance and texture along a length of their
sides.
[0051] FIGS. 2-6 show the elastomeric elements of refill 10 in more
detail.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, portion 11 (shown disassembled from
refill 10) includes a base portion 31 from which the projections
extend 16 extend. The base portion can be formed of the same
material as the projections (or not) and can be solid. If more
compliance is desired, especially vertically in the direction of a
user's teeth, the base can be hollow to provide a more flexible
base. Generally, projections 16 are configured to present numerous
"sharp" edges 32 to the surface of the teeth to overcome the
adhesion of plaque to the surface of the teeth. While projections
16 are shown in FIG. 2 as having a substantially circular
transverse cross-section, they can be formed in a variety of
cross-sections, such triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal or
octagonal.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 3, concentric elastomeric ring 20 presents
only two edges 34 and 34' to the teeth and gums, and so is
generally not as efficient of a plaque removing element (when
compared to element 16), especially in harder to reach places, such
as between the teeth. Nevertheless, ring 20 provides sound
structural support and stability to other elements in the brush
head, and provides good buccal surface cleaning, as well as a
powerful massaging effect. In addition, elastomeric element 20 can
work synergistically with tooth cleaning formulations, such as
tooth powders and pastes, by acting to hold or contain various
formulations against tooth surfaces. This action can improve the
polishing and/or whitening effect of a particular formulation.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 4, portion 21 (shown disassembled from
refill 10) includes a base portion 38 from which the elastomeric
projections extend 22. The base portion can be formed of the same
material as the projections (or not) and can be solid (if desired).
If more compliance is desired, especially vertically in the
direction of a user's teeth, the base can be hollow to provide a
more flexible base. Generally, projections 22 (much like
projections 16) are configured to present numerous "sharp" edges,
such as edges 36, 36' and 36'', to the surface of the teeth to
overcome the adhesion of plaque to the surface of the teeth.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 5, portion 26 (shown disassembled from
refill 10) includes a base portion 42 from which the elastomeric
projections extend 24. The base portion can be formed of the same
material (or not) as the projections and can be solid (if desired).
If more compliance is desired, especially vertically in the
direction of a user's teeth, the base can be hollow to provide a
more flexible base. Generally, projections 24 (much like
projections 16 and 22) are configured to present numerous "sharp"
edges, such edges 50, 50' and 50'', to the surface of the teeth to
overcome the adhesion of plaque to the surface of the teeth.
[0056] Referring to FIG. 6A, elastomeric element 30 (shown
disassembled from refill 10) are configured to present numerous
"sharp" edges, such edges 52 defined at terminal ends of each
element 30 and edges 53-57 defined by wedge-shaped features along
sides 58 and 60 of element 30, to the surface of the teeth to
overcome the adhesion of plaque to the surface of the teeth.
Elastomeric fin elements 30 serve at least two functions. First,
they provide excellent cleaning power with their numerous "sharp"
edges. Secondly, they provide interdental registration for both
cleaning and sensory cues.
[0057] More generally now, the shapes utilized, the total number of
"sharp" edges, the material used to form each element, the hardness
of the elastomer used to form each element, the length of extension
from the base of each element, and the dimensions the elastomeric
elements are chosen to maximize cleaning and massaging action of
the oral hygiene implement, while minimizing trauma to tissues of
the mouth, such as the soft tissue on the gums.
[0058] Not only can each elastomeric element have a unique
three-dimensional shape, but each element can be formed of a
different elastomeric material. For example, each elastomeric
element can be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer or crosslinked
elastomer.
[0059] Examples of elastomers include styrenic block copolymers,
e.g., styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymer (SEBS),
styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymers, polyurethanes, e.g.,
polyether or polyester-based polyurethanes, such as those available
under the tradename PELLETHANE.RTM., silicones, polyether amides,
such as those available under the tradename PEBAX.RTM., polyether
polyesters, such as those available under the tradename
HYTREL.RTM., or mixtures of any of these or other elastomers. In
some implementations, elastomers can be blended with various
thermoplastics that are considered to be non-elastomers to provide
an elastomeric blend. For example, polypropylene can be mixed with
styrenic elastomers, such as SEBS, to provide an elastomeric
blend.
[0060] For example, the elastomeric material used to form the
elastomeric elements described herein can have a Shore A hardness
of from about 6 Shore A to about 95 Shore A, e.g., from about 10
Shore A to about 93 Shore A, or from about 35 Shore A to about 92
Shore A. In some implementations, the elastomeric material used to
form the elements has a Shore A hardness of less than about 95,
e.g., less than 85, 75, 65, 55, 45, 35, 25, 15, or even less than
10 Shore A.
[0061] Any elastomeric material used to form the elastomeric
elements can be filled with one or more fillers. Examples of
fillers include oils, e.g., mineral oil, abrasives, e.g., alumina,
silica or kaolin, tackifiers, e.g., rosins, plasticizers or
mixtures of any of these fillers or others.
[0062] While the refill head of FIG. 1A includes five different
three-dimensional shapes of elastomeric elements, many other
configurations are possible. For example, and more generally, oral
hygiene implements, such as toothbrushes (manual or electric) or
refills, can include several-to-many different shaped elastomeric
elements, e.g., two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or even
ten or more different three-dimensionally shaped elements. If
desired, each elastomeric element can be made of the same or a
different material. In some implementations, each elastomeric
element is formed of a different material. In some implementations,
the elastomeric elements in a field of elastomeric elements may be
formed of several different materials, e.g., two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight, or even ten or more different materials.
The combination of the different shapes and materials can, e.g.,
provide many different textures in a user's mouth that can be
reminiscent of more traditional bristled implements, allowing for
the novel implements to be readily accepted into a consumer's daily
routine.
[0063] Generally, the elastomeric elements in a field of
elastomeric elements in an oral hygiene implement define a total of
more than 250 edges that have a tip radius of less than about 0.006
inch. The number of "sharp" edges can be determined by using an
optical comparator and manually counting the number of edges
meeting this condition, or, alternatively, the number of edges can
be determined by taking photographs and using an image analysis
software, such as OPTIMAS, to count the number of edges meeting
this condition. In still another procedure, the implement can be
scanned in three dimensions to create a three-dimensional database,
and then the database, e.g., an IGES file, can be analyzed for
edges meeting this condition. In some implementations, there are
many more total edges. For example, the total number of edges can
be greater than about 300, such as greater than about 400, 500,
600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1250, 1500, or even more, such as greater
than about 2000 or 3000. Generally, elastomeric edges have a lower
plaque removing efficacy when compared on a one-to-one basis to
relatively hard plastic bristle edges (bristle tips) because of the
compliant nature of the elastomeric edges. Nevertheless, the oral
hygiene implements fashioned from elastomeric elements, as
described herein, generally are as effective or more effective than
hard-bristled toothbrushes because of the number of cleaning edges,
especially spaced-apart cleaning edges, and because, unlike
hard-bristle edges, the elastomeric elements can clean from their
sides as well as from their tips.
[0064] In some implementations, the one or more edges are
substantially exposed so that they may contact a surface of the
oral cavity. One way to control exposure of the edges is to control
intra- or inter-element edge spacing. In some embodiments, the
edges can have an intra- and/or inter-element spacing to its
nearest neighbor of about 0.010 inch or more, such as greater than
0.015 inch, 0.020 inch, 0.025 inch, 0.030 inch, 0.040 inch, or
0.050 inch or more, such as greater than about 0.060 inch, 0.075
inch, 0.085 inch, 0.10 inch, 0.125 inch, 0.150 inch, 0.175 inch, or
even greater than 0.20 inch.
[0065] One way to control the aggressiveness of the elements is to
control their transverse cross-section. In some implementations,
any elastomeric element described herein can have a first maximum
transverse cross-sectional thickness of between about 0.003 inch
and about 0.250 inch, such as between about 0.010 inch and about
0.10 inch. In some implementations, the elastomeric elements also
have a second maximum transverse dimension perpendicular to the
first direction of about 0.003 inch and about 0.250 inch, such as
between about 0.010 inch and about 0.10 inch.
[0066] One way to control the flexibility, and thus aggressiveness
of the elements is to control their maximum length of extension
from a top surface of the base from which they extend. For example,
the maximum length of extension can be from about 0.20 inch to
about 0.75 inch, such as between about 0.250 inch and about 0.50
inch.
[0067] Referring back now to FIGS. 1A-1C, in the particular
embodiment shown, the number of edges having tip radii of less than
0.006 inch is about 756, while the surface area of the ends of the
elements is approximately 5-15 times that of a bristled head having
roughly the same nominal base area. Each element of the refill 10
is formed of an oil-filled SEBS, a thermoplastic
polyether-polyurethane or a silicone. The hardness of the elastomer
of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth elements, 16, 20, 22,
24 and 30 is 65 Shore A, 50 Shore A, 90 Shore A, 40 Shore A and 82
Shore A, respectively. Referring particularly to FIG. 1C, first,
second, third, fourth and fifth elements, 16, 20, 22, 24 and 30
extend from a top surface 14' of base 14 a distance of 9.250 inch,
0.249 inch (H.sub.2), 0.281 inch (H.sub.3), 0.236 inch (H.sub.4)
and 0.288 (H.sub.5), respectively.
[0068] Referring back now to FIGS. 2 and 4, in some embodiments,
the diameter of the circles or inscribed circles of elements 16 or
22 can be as large as 0.020 inch, 0.030 inch or even 0.040 inch. In
some implementations, the diameter is 0.020 inch or less. In some
embodiments, a center-to-center spacing between elements ranges
from about 0.025 inch to about 0.040 inch. In some embodiments,
edge radii are maintained at less than 0.003 inch to maximize
cleaning, while material hardness is maintained between about 40
Shore A and about 90 Shore A to maintain gentleness. In some
implementations, elements 16 or 22 extend from a support structure
that is solid or hollow.
[0069] Referring back now to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, ring
element 20 has a wall thickness of from about 0.015 inch to about
0.050 inch, e.g., from about 0.020 inch to about 0.040 inch. In
some implementations, the hardness of the material used to form
element 20 is from about 15 Shore A to about 60 Shore A. In some
embodiments, the ring is open (as shown), while in other
embodiments, the ring can be configured with its open end down,
such that a closed elastomeric surface presents itself to tissue
and tooth surfaces.
[0070] Referring back now to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, sinuous
wall elements 24 can have amplitude of from about 0.005 inch to
about 0.030 inch, such as between about 0.010 inch to about 0.020
inch. In some implementations, the peak-to-peak distance may be
from about 0.010 inch to about 0.075 inch, such as between about
0.015 inch and about 0.060 inch. For example, the wall element can
be formed of an elastomer that has a hardness of between about 10
Shore A and about 80 Shore A, such as between about 20 and about 60
Shore A.
[0071] Referring back now to FIG. 6A, in some embodiments,
elastomeric textured fin element 30 can have a rectangular
cross-section, e.g., with a 3/1 aspect ratio. For example, the
smaller dimension can be 0.030 inch or less. For example, the
center-to-center spacing between wedge shaped elements can be
between about 0.010 inch and about 0.075 inch, while a maximum
depth between wedged shaped elements can be, e.g., between about
0.010 inch and about 0.075 inch. For example, the hardness of the
material used to form the element can be between about 50 Shore A
and about 95 Shore A.
[0072] The elastomeric elements described herein can be formed
using a variety of techniques. For example, the elements can be
extruded, injection molded and or cast. Extrusion can be
advantageous in some embodiments because of its high speed and
because it can impart molecular orientation to the element, which
can enhance wear resistance. On the other hand, injection molding
can be advantageous in other embodiments because of its versatility
to provide many different shapes and configurations.
[0073] The elastomeric elements described herein can be assembled
into the implements using a variety of techniques. For example,
they can be overmolded onto a substrate, such as a base, or they
can be assembled by using an adhesive or solvent bonding. The
elements can also be formed such that they can be press-fit into a
platform. Overmolding can be advantageous in some implementations
because of its high speed and general applicability to large scale
manufacturing processes.
[0074] As can be seen from FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, groups of elements can
extend from a base, which can be bonded, e.g., by using an adhesive
or a solvent, to a complementary head portion to form a flat upper
surface 14'. As can be seen from FIG. 6B, elements can be formed so
that they can be press fit into a complementary portion 59 of the
brush head. Such as press fit can optionally be made permanent by
applying an adhesive. These types of techniques can be
advantageously utilized to rapidly make prototypes that can be
tested in the laboratory and with consumers.
[0075] Many other brush head configurations and/or elastomeric
elements are possible.
[0076] For example, FIG. 7 shows an alternative brush head 70 that
includes five different shaped elastomeric elements 72, 74, 76, 78
and 80. Much like the brush head of FIG. 1A, brush head 70 includes
an inner field that includes elongated projections that have a
circular transverse cross-section, which are surrounded by annular
ring 74. Also, much like the head shown in FIG. 1A, the outer field
includes elongated projections 76 that are triangular in shape,
sinuous curtain or wall elements 78, and textured fin elements 80.
Relative to the head of FIG. 1A, the head of FIG. 7 includes more
curtain elements and (12 versus 8) and fewer textured fin elements
(8 versus 12).
[0077] FIG. 8 shows another alternative brush head 80 that includes
five different shaped elastomeric elements 92, 94, 96, 98 and 100.
Much like the brush heads of FIGS. 1A and 7, brush head 90 includes
an inner field that includes elongated projections that have a
circular transverse cross-section, which are surrounded by annular
ring 94. Also, much like the heads shown in FIGS. 1A and 7, the
outer field includes elongated projections 96 that are triangular
in shape, sinuous curtain or wall elements 98, and textured fin
elements 100. Relative to the head of FIG. 1A, the head of FIG. 8
includes more curtain elements and (12 versus 8) and fewer
elongated projections that are triangular in cross-section (26
versus 44).
[0078] FIGS. 9 and 10 show several alternative elastomeric
elements, while FIGS. 11 and 12 show head embodiments that include
the elements of FIGS. 9 and 10. In particular, FIG. 9 shows an
elastomeric prophy cup element 102 that has an open end 104
configured to accept a tooth for cleaning and polishing. Element
102 includes a number of cleaning features 104 and 106 and also a
number of edges. FIG. 10 shows an elastomeric pivoting textured fin
element 110 that includes a body portion 112 that extends and
tapers from a base portion 114 to a thin terminal end 116. The body
portion carries a textured element 118 that includes a plurality of
textures ridges 120. The base portion 114 is connected to a snap
122 that allows the element to be fixed to a oral hygiene
implement, such as a toothbrush. Rocking or pivoting turfs and
elements are described in Braun et al., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,993,804
and 6,553,604, and Chenvainu, Published U.S. Patent Application No.
2005/0060822, the disclosure of each of which is hereby
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. FIG. 11 shows a
power refill 130 that incorporates the prophy element 104 of FIG. 9
and the pivoting element 110 of FIG. 10, along with elastomeric
curtain elements 132 and elastomeric rod elements 134. FIG. 12
shows a brush head 140 that incorporates the prophy element 104 of
FIG. 9 and the rocking element of FIG. 10, along with rod elements
134, elastomeric projections 141 that have radiused triangular
cross-sections, and elastomeric curtain or wall elements 142.
[0079] Any of the elements described herein can be slit to create a
number of independent elements along with a number of "sharp"
edges. Referring now to FIG. 13, a sinuous curtain can be slit
along the lines shown to produce an elastomeric slit curtain
element 152 that includes six independent elements 154, 155, 156,
156, 158 and 160. FIG. 14 shows a brush head 170 with such a spit
curtain.
[0080] Referring now to FIG. 15, another type of elastomeric
element that can be utilized is a tubular fin element 172. The
element includes a hollow interior 174, a tubular body 176 and a
fin 180 extending from and tapering from a closed top surface 182
of the tubular body to a thinned terminal end 184.
[0081] Referring now to FIG. 16, yet another type of elastomeric
element that can be utilized is a tree type element 190 that
includes a central shaft 192 and a plurality of projections 194
extending outwardly from the shaft. In the embodiment shown, a long
axis of each projection is generally perpendicular to a long axis
of the shaft. In other embodiments, the long axis of one or more
projections makes an angle with respect to the long axis of the
shaft that other than 90 degrees.
OTHER EMBODIMENTS
[0082] A number of embodiments have been described. Nevertheless,
it will be understood that various modifications may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.
[0083] For example, any oral hygiene implement can include hollow
elastomeric tubular structures, e.g., that are open on an end. For
example, the tubular structures can have a circular in transverse
cross-section. For example, the hollow tubular structures can have
a wall thickness of about 0.005 inch to about 0.020 inch, e.g.,
0.008 inch to about 0.015 inch. Material hardness of the tubes can
be, e.g., from about 30 Shore A to about 85 Shore A, e.g., from
about 40 Shore A to about 80 Shore A.
[0084] While embodiments have been described that are in the form
of a power toothbrush, other forms are possible for the oral
hygiene implements. For example, the implements can be in the form
of a manual toothbrush.
[0085] While embodiments have been described that include only
elastomeric elements, embodiments are possible that include
bristles, such as those formed of a nylon, e.g., nylon 6,12 or
polyester, in addition to the elastomeric bristles.
[0086] While embodiments have been described in which the elements
are formed of a single material throughout its cross-section, in
some embodiments, the elements are formed of more than a single
material, e.g., two, three, or even four different materials, e.g.,
that are arranged in discrete portions, such as layers of the
element. For example, a central portion of an element can be formed
of a first material having a first hardness and an outer portion of
the element, such as one that contacts oral tissues and/or teeth,
can be formed of a second material having a second hardness, that
is more or less than the first hardness. An implementation in which
a softer material 210 surrounds a harder material 212 is shown in
FIG. 17. For example, the first material can have a hardness of
about 75 Shore A, while the second material can have a hardness of
about 30 Shore A.
[0087] Some of the elements can have a different coefficient of
friction, as measured when wet with human saliva using an atomic
force microscope. For example, some of the elements can be formed
of an elastomer that has a relatively high coefficient of friction
when wet, e.g., 0.5 to about 0.9, while others can have a
relatively low coefficient of friction, e.g., 0.05 to about 0.3.
High coefficients of friction can be obtained, e.g., by adding a
rosin to an elastomer from which an element is formed, and low
coefficients of friction can be obtained, e.g., by adding an oil to
an elastomer from which the element is formed. Low coefficients can
be advantageous for slipping between teeth, while high coefficients
of friction can be advantageous for scrubbing the teeth.
[0088] Still other embodiments are within the scope of the
following claims appended claims.
* * * * *