U.S. patent application number 15/039114 was filed with the patent office on 2016-12-08 for oral care implement.
The applicant listed for this patent is COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY. Invention is credited to Guang Sheng Guo, Wen Jin Xi, Bo Zhang.
Application Number | 20160353871 15/039114 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 53178835 |
Filed Date | 2016-12-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160353871 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Xi; Wen Jin ; et
al. |
December 8, 2016 |
ORAL CARE IMPLEMENT
Abstract
An oral implement comprises a head (10) and a handle (12). The
head (10) comprises a first face (14) and a plurality of cleaning
elements (34, 36) extending therefrom, a proximal section (16)
adjacent to the handle (12) and a distal section (18) remote from
the handle (12). The head (10) further comprises a flexible bridge
(20) coupling the distal section (18) to the proximal section (16),
so that the distal section (18) is flexibly moveable relative to
the proximal section (16). The flexible bridge (20) further
comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element extending from
the first face (14); wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element extends along the flexible bridge (20) in a direction
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head (10).
Inventors: |
Xi; Wen Jin; (Shanghai,
CN) ; Guo; Guang Sheng; (Yangzhou, CN) ;
Zhang; Bo; (Yangzhou, CN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY |
|
|
|
|
|
Family ID: |
53178835 |
Appl. No.: |
15/039114 |
Filed: |
November 25, 2013 |
PCT Filed: |
November 25, 2013 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/CN2013/087758 |
371 Date: |
May 25, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 9/04 20130101; A46B
7/06 20130101; A46B 5/0037 20130101; A46B 2200/1066 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A46B 9/04 20060101
A46B009/04; A46B 5/00 20060101 A46B005/00 |
Claims
1. An oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head
comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements
extending from the first face; wherein the head comprises a
proximal section adjacent to the handle and a distal section remote
from the handle; wherein the head further comprises a flexible
bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that
the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal
section, the flexible bridge further comprising at least one
elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein
the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the
flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis
of the head.
2. (canceled)
3. (canceled)
4. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the proximal section
and the distal section each have a straight linear edge extending
in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head,
wherein the straight linear edge of the distal section faces the
straight linear edge of the proximal section, and wherein the
flexible bridge couples the straight linear edge of the distal
section to the straight linear edge of the proximal section so that
the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal
section.
5. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the flexible bridge
comprises an elastomeric material.
6. (canceled)
7. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein the at least one
elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric
material of the flexible bridge.
8. (canceled)
9. (canceled)
10. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the flexible bridge
comprises a bridging section formed from a rigid plastic or resin
material, the bridging section joining the proximal section to the
distal section, wherein a ratio of a depth of the bridging section
at its narrowest point to a depth of the proximal section is from
1:3 to 1:7.
11. The oral care implement of claim 10, wherein the bridging
section extends across an entire width of the head.
12. The oral care implement of claim 10, wherein the head further
comprises a second face on an opposite side of the head to the
first face, and wherein the bridging section is located between the
first face and the second face, wherein a distance between the
bridging section and the first face is greater than a distance
between the bridging section and the second face.
13.-16. (canceled)
17. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the flexible bridge
comprises an elastomeric material, and wherein the at least one
elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the elastomeric
material of the flexible bridge.
18. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the at least one
elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall extending along
the flexible bridge in a straight, linear configuration.
19. (canceled)
20. The oral care implement of claim 18, wherein the elastomeric
wall has a distal edge remote from the first face, the elastomeric
wall comprising at least one notch extending from the distal edge
of the elastomeric wall towards the first face of the head, wherein
the elastomeric wall has a height measured from the first face to
the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the least one notch
extending from the distal edge towards the first face by a distance
of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the elastomeric wall.
21.-33. (canceled)
34. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the distal section
has a length which is less than a length of the proximal
section.
35.-40. (canceled)
41. An oral care implement comprising a head and a handle, the head
comprising a first face and a plurality of cleaning elements
extending from the first face; wherein the head comprises a
proximal section adjacent to the handle and a distal section remote
from the handle; wherein the head further comprises a flexible
bridge coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that
the distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal
section; wherein the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a
first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal
section, and a second plurality of cleaning elements extending from
the distal section, at least one of the first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered bristles.
42. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the first
plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles.
43. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the second
plurality of cleaning elements comprises tapered bristles.
44. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the tapered
bristles are tufted in square tuft holes.
45. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein a height of the
first plurality of cleaning elements is equal to a height of the
second plurality of cleaning elements.
46. (canceled)
47. (canceled)
48. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the flexible
bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element
extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric
cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the at
least one elastomeric cleaning element is an elastomeric wall that
extends along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear
configuration.
49.-52. (canceled)
53. The oral care implement of claim 48, wherein the at least one
elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is equal to a
height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning
elements.
54. The oral care implement of claim 48, wherein the at least one
elastomeric cleaning element has a height which is less than a
height of the first and second pluralities of cleaning
elements.
55. (canceled)
56. (canceled)
57. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the flexible
bridge comprises an elastomeric material, wherein the flexible
bridge further comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element
extending from the first face, wherein the at least one elastomeric
cleaning element extends along the flexible bridge in a direction
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head, and wherein the
at least one elastomeric cleaning element is integral with the
elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.
58.-67. (canceled)
68. The oral care implement of claim 41, wherein the head further
comprises a second face located on an opposite side of the head to
the first face, the second face comprising a tissue cleanser,
wherein the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric material, and
wherein the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric material and
wherein the tissue cleanser is integral with the flexible
bridge.
69.-79. (canceled)
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] Oral care implements with various handle and head structures
are known. However, it would be desirable to provide an oral care
implement which can provide increased ease of access to the back
teeth for cleaning, while avoiding problems caused by excess
brushing pressure.
BRIEF SUMMARY
[0002] In one aspect, the present invention provides an oral care
implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a
first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the
first face;
[0003] wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjacent to
the handle and a distal section remote from the handle;
[0004] wherein the head further comprises a flexible bridge
coupling the distal section to the proximal section so that the
distal section is flexibly moveable relative to the proximal
section, the flexible bridge further comprising at least one
elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face, wherein
the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along the
flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis
of the head.
[0005] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is
tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis of the proximal section
by an angle of from 8.degree. to 15.degree..
[0006] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is
substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal
section.
[0007] Optionally the proximal section and the distal section each
have a straight linear edge extending in a direction perpendicular
to a longitudinal axis of the head, wherein the straight linear
edge of the distal section faces the straight linear edge of the
proximal section, and wherein the flexible bridge couples the
straight linear edge of the distal section to the straight linear
edge of the proximal section so that the distal section is flexibly
moveable relative to the proximal section
[0008] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric
material. Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises
thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
[0009] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is
integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.
[0010] Optionally the proximal section and the distal section are
formed from a rigid plastic or resin material.
[0011] Optionally the rigid plastic or resin material comprises
polypropylene.
[0012] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises abridging section
formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging
section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein
a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point
to a depth of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:7.
[0013] Optionally the bridging section extends across an entire
width of the head.
[0014] Optionally the head further comprises a second face on an
opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the
bridging section is located between the first face and the second
face.
[0015] Optionally a distance between the bridging section and the
first face is greater than a distance between the bridging section
and the second face. Further optionally, the distance between the
bridging section and the first face is from 2 to 4 times greater
than the distance between the bridging section and the second
face.
[0016] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises an
elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging
section.
[0017] Optionally the elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic
elastomer (TPE).
[0018] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is
integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge.
[0019] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is
an elastomeric wall.
[0020] Optionally the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible
bridge in a straight, linear configuration.
[0021] Optionally the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote
from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one
notch extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall
towards the first face of the head.
[0022] Optionally the elastomeric wall has a height measured from
the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the
least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first
face by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the
elastomeric wall.
[0023] Optionally the plurality of cleaning elements comprises a
first plurality of cleaning elements extending from the proximal
section, and a second plurality of cleaning elements extending from
the distal section.
[0024] Optionally the first plurality of cleaning elements
comprises tapered bristles.
[0025] Optionally the second plurality of cleaning elements
comprises tape red bristles.
[0026] Optionally the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft
holes.
[0027] Optionally a height of the first plurality of cleaning
elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning
elements.
[0028] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has
a height which is equal to the height of the first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements.
[0029] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has
a height which is less than the height of the first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements.
[0030] Optionally the head further comprises a second face located
on an opposite side of the head to the first face, the second face
comprising a tissue cleanser.
[0031] Optionally the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric
material.
[0032] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric
material and wherein the tissue cleanser is integral with the
flexible bridge.
[0033] Optionally the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.
[0034] Optionally the head has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15
mm.
[0035] Optionally the distal section has a length which is less
than a length of the proximal section. Further optionally, the
ratio of the length of the distal section to the length of the
proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:1.2.
[0036] Optionally the handle includes a body portion, and a neck
portion connecting the head to the body portion.
[0037] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the neck portion is
substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal
section of the head.
[0038] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the body portion is tilted
with respect to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion by an angle
of from 5.degree. to 15.degree..
[0039] Optionally the neck portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm
to 7 mm.
[0040] Optionally the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm
to 15 mm.
[0041] In another aspect, the present invention provides oral care
implement comprising a head and a handle, the head comprising a
first face and a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the
first face; wherein the head comprises a proximal section adjacent
to the handle and a distal section remote from the handle; wherein
the head further comprises a flexible bridge coupling the distal
section to the proximal section so that the distal section is
flexibly move able relative to the proximal section; wherein the
plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first plurality of
cleaning elements extending from the proximal section, and a second
plurality of cleaning elements extending from the distal section,
at least one of the first and second pluralities of cleaning
elements comprising tapered bristles.
[0042] Optionally the first plurality of cleaning elements
comprises tape red bristles.
[0043] Optionally the second plurality of cleaning elements
comprises tapered bristles.
[0044] Optionally the tapered bristles are tufted in square tuft
holes.
[0045] Optionally a height of the first plurality of cleaning
elements is equal to a height of the second plurality of cleaning
elements.
[0046] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is
tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis of the proximal section
by an angle of from 8.degree. to 15.degree..
[0047] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the distal section is
substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal
section.
[0048] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least
one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face,
wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along
the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal
axis of the head.
[0049] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element is
an elastomeric wall.
[0050] Optionally the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible
bridge in a straight, linear configuration.
[0051] Optionally the elastomeric wall has a distal edge remote
from the first face, the elastomeric wall comprising at least one
notch extending from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall
towards the first face of the head.
[0052] Optionally the elastomeric all has a height measured from
the first face to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall, the
least one notch extending from the distal edge towards the first
face by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the
elastomeric wall.
[0053] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has
a height which is equal to a height of the first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements.
[0054] Optionally the at least one elastomeric cleaning element has
a height which is less than a height of the first and sec and
pluralities of de ailing elements.
[0055] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises an elastomeric
material. Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises
thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
[0056] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least
one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face,
wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along
the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal
axis of the head, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible
bridge.
[0057] Optionally the proximal section and the distal section are
formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. Further optionally,
the rigid plastic or resin material comprises polypropylene.
[0058] Optionally the flex Dole bridge comprises abridging section
formed from the rigid plastic or resin material, the bridging
section joining the proximal section to the distal section, wherein
a ratio of a depth of the bridging section at its narrowest point
to a depth of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:7.
[0059] Optionally the bridging section extends across an entire
width of the head.
[0060] Optionally the head further comprises a second face on an
opposite side of the head to the first face, and wherein the
bridging section is located between the first face and the second
face.
[0061] Optionally, a distance between the bridging section and the
first face is greater than a distance between the bridging section
and the second face. Further optionally, the distance between the
bridging section and the first face is from 2 to 4 times greater
than the distance between the bridging section and the second
face.
[0062] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises an
elastomeric material surrounding the at least one bridging section.
Further optionally, the elastomeric material comprises
thermoplastic elastomer (ME).
[0063] Optionally the flexible bridge further comprises at least
one elastomeric cleaning element extending from the first face,
wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning element extends along
the flexible bridge in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal
axis of the head, wherein the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flex Dole
bridge.
[0064] Optionally the head further comprises a second face located
on an opposite side of the head to the first face, the second face
comprising a tissue cleanser.
[0065] Optionally the tissue cleanser comprises an elastomeric
material.
[0066] Optionally the flexible bridge comprises the elastomeric
material and the tissue cleanser is integral with the flexible
bridge.
[0067] Optionally the head has a length of from 20 mm to 40 mm.
[0068] Optionally the head has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15
mm.
[0069] Optionally the distal section has a length which is less
than a length of the proximal section.
[0070] Optionally the ratio of the length of the distal section to
the length of the proximal section is from 1:3 to 1:1.2.
[0071] Optionally the handle includes a body portion, and a neck
portion connecting the head to the body portion.
[0072] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the neck portion is
substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis of the proximal
section of the head
[0073] Optionally a longitudinal axis of the body portion is tilted
with respect to a longitudinal axis of the neck portion by an angle
of from 5.degree. to 15.degree..
[0074] Optionally the neck portion has a maximum width of from 3 mm
to 7 mm.
[0075] Optionally the body portion has a maximum width of from 9 mm
to 15 mm.
[0076] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will
become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter.
It should be understood that the detailed description and specific
examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the
invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are
not intended to limit the scope of the invention. In particular,
any of the various features of the oral care implement as discussed
below in connection with various embodiments could be combined.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0077] The present invention will become more fully understood from
the detailed description and the accompanying drawings,
wherein:
[0078] FIG. 1A illustrates a side view of a toothbrush in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0079] FIG. 1B illustrates a front view of the toothbrush of FIG.
1A.
[0080] FIG. 1C illustrates a rear view of the toothbrush of FIG.
1A.
[0081] FIGS. 2A to 2F illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance
with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0082] FIG. 2A shows a front view of the head.
[0083] FIG. 2B shows a rear view of the head.
[0084] FIG. 2C shows a side vie w of the head.
[0085] FIG. 2D is a perspective view of the toothbrush head,
illustrating the flexible movement of the distal section with
respect to the proximal section.
[0086] FIG. 2E shows a perspective view of the toothbrush head in
which the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge has be en
omitted in order to show the bridging structure.
[0087] FIG. 2F shows a side view of the toothbrush head of FIG. 2E,
in which the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements have
been omitted.
[0088] FIGS. 3A to 3E illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance
with another embodiment of the present invention.
[0089] FIG. 3A shows a front view of the head.
[0090] FIG. 3B shows a rear view of the head.
[0091] FIG. 3C shows a side view of the head.
[0092] FIG. 3D is a perspective vie w of the toothbrush head,
illustrating the flexible movement of the distal section with
respect to the proximal section.
[0093] FIG. 3E shows a perspective view of the toothbrush head in
which the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge has be en
omitted in order to show the bridging structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0094] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is
merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the
invention, its application, or uses.
[0095] As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for
describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value
within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. In
addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by
referenced in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a
definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference,
the present disclosure controls.
[0096] The description of illustrative embodiments according to
principles of the present invention is intended to be read in
connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be
considered part of the entire written description. In the
description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any
reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for
convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit
the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as "lower,"
"upper," "horiziontal," "Vertical," "above," "below," "up," "down,"
"top" and "bottom" as well as derivatives thereof (e.g.,
"horizontally" "downwardly" "upwardly," etc.) should be construed
to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the
drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience
of description only and do not require that the apparatus be
constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless
explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as "attached," "affixed,"
"connected," "coupled," "interconnected," and similar refer to a
relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one
another either directly or indirectly through intervening
structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or
relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the
features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference
to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention
expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments
illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features
that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the
scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended
hereto.
[0097] In the following description, the invention is discussed in
terms of a manual toothbrush, and method of manufacturing the same,
having the inventive multi-component handle. However, in other
forms, the invention could be in the form of other oral care
implements including a soft-tissue cleansing implement, an
inter-proximal pick, a flossing tool, a plaque scraper, a powered
toothbrush, or other ansate implement designed for oral care. It is
also to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and
that structural and functional modifications maybe made without
departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0098] FIGS. 1A to 1C illustrate a toothbrush in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention, wherein a distal section 18 of
the head 10 (the distal section 18 being remote from the handle 12)
is coupled to a proximal section 16 of the head 10 (the proximal
section 16 being adjacent to the handle 12) by a flexible bridge 20
so that the distal section 18 is flexibly movable with respect to
the proximal section 16 (as illustrated in FIG. 2D). In this
embodiment, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is
tilted by an angle .alpha. with respect to the longitudinal axis
Y-Y of the proximal section 16, the angle .alpha. being
approximately 13.degree.. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1A, the
longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 of the handle 12 is
tilted by an angle .beta. with respect to the longitudinal axis Z-Z
of the neck portion 24 of the handle 12. In this embodiment, the
angle .beta. is approximately 10.degree.. The longitudinal axis Z-Z
of the neck portion is substantially aligned with the longitudinal
axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 of the head 10.
[0099] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A to 1C, the ratio
of the length of the distal section 18 to the length of the
proximal section 16 is approximately 1:1.3, the distal section 18
having a length of 11.6 mm and the proximal section 16 having a
length of 15.3 mm. The total length of the head 10 (as measured
along the direction of the Y-Y axis) is 29.1 mm. The distal section
18 has a width of 9.3 mm and the proximal section 16 has a width of
10.7 mm.
[0100] The head 10 of the toothbrush of FIGS. 1A to 1C is shown in
more detail in FIGS. 2A to 2F. However, the head as shown in FIGS.
2A to 2F could also be used in other embodiments of the present
invention. It is also noted that the head as shown in FIGS. 3A to
3E could be used with the handle as illustrated in FIGS. 1A to
1C.
[0101] As illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2F, the head 10 comprises a
first face 14, with a plurality of cleaning elements extending
therefrom. The plurality of cleaning elements comprises a first
plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the proximal
section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36
extending from the distal section 18. The first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles
tufted in square tuft holes 38, which tuft holes 38 have dimensions
of 1.40 mm.times.1.40 mm. The first plurality of cleaning elements
34 have a length which is equal to that of the second plurality of
cleaning elements 36.
[0102] The head 10 includes square tuft holes 38 which are
positioned in a grid arrangement of columns and rows on the
proximal and distal sections 16, 18. The centres of tuft holes 38
in adjacent columns are spaced apart by 2.50 mm in the distal
section 18 and by 2.20 mm in the proximal section 16. The centres
of tuft holes 38 in adjacent rows are spaced apart by 2.55 mm in
both the proximal and distal sections 16, 18. The distal section 18
includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes 38, wherein the centres
of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 are spaced apart from
one another by 2.23 mm. The distance between the centres of the
tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 and a line joining the centres
of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the distal-most row 40 is
2.43 mm. The proximal section 16 includes a proximal-most row 42 of
tuft holes, wherein the centres of the tuft holes in the
proximal-most row 42 are spaced apart from one another by 2.20 mm.
The distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the
proximal-most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft
holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is 2.66 mm.
In the distal- and proximal-most rows 40, 42 the tuft holes 38 are
offset with respect to the columns. The centres of the tuft holes
in the distal-most row 40 are spaced at a distance of 1.10 mm from
a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column disposed
on the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. The centres
of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 are spaced at a
distance of 1.10 mm from lines joining the centres of the tuft
holes of each column of the proximal section 16.
[0103] The head 10 further comprises a second face 32, which second
face 32 comprises a tissue cleanser 44. The tissue cleanser 44
comprises a plurality of nubs 46 for cleansing soft tissues of the
mouth.
[0104] In this embodiment, the distal section 18 and the proximal
section 16 are fanned of polypropylene. As illustrated in FIGS. 2D
to 2F, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a bridging section 30
formed from the polypropylene, which bridging section 30 joins the
proximal and distal sections 16, 18 and is located between the
first face 14 and the second face 32. The ratio of the depth of the
bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to the depth of the
proximal section 16 is approximately 1:6. The depth of the proximal
section 16 is equal to the depth of the distal section 18, and is
5.3 mm. The distance between the bridging section 30 and the first
face 14 is approximately 4 times the distance between the bridging
section 30 and the second face 32. The flexible bridge 20 further
comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the bridging section
30, and the tissue cleanser 44 is integral with the flexible bridge
20.
[0105] FIGS. 3A to 3E illustrate a toothbrush head in accordance
with another embodiment of the present invention. In this
embodiment, the head 10 includes a proximal section 16 adjacent to
the handle 12, and a distal section 18 remote from the handle 12.
The proximal section 16 and the distal section 18 are joined by a
flexible bridge 20. In the embodiment shown, the longitudinal axis
X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially aligned with a
longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16. The proximal
section 16 and distal section 18 each have a straight linear edge
extending in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of
the head 10, wherein the straight linear edge 48 of the distal
section 18 faces the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal
section 16. The flexible bridge 20 couples the straight linear edge
48 of the distal section 18 to the straight linear edge 50 of the
proximal section 16, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly
movable with respect to the proximal section 16 (as illustrated in
FIG. 3D). The ratio of the length of the distal section 18 to the
length of the proximal section 16 is approximately 1:1.3, the
distal section 18 having a length of 11.6 mm and the proximal
section 16 having a length of 15.4 mm. The total length of the head
10 is 30.1 mm. The distal section 18 has a width of 9.3 mm and the
proximal section 16 has a width of 10.7 mm.
[0106] The flexible bridge 20 further comprises an elastomeric
cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14, which
elastomeric cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible bridge
20 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the
head 10.
[0107] The elastomeric cleaning element 26 is an elastomeric wall
extending along the flexible bridge in a straight, linear
configuration, and has a distal edge remote from the first face.
The elastomeric wall comprises a notch 28 extending from the distal
edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of about 618 of the
height of the elastomeric wall.
[0108] The proximal and distal sections 16, 18 are formed of
polypropylene and the flexible bridge comprises a bridging section
30 formed of the polypropylene. The bridging section joins the
proximal section 16 to the distal section 18, and is located
between the first face 14 and the second face 32. The second face
32 comprises a tissue cleanser 44. The flexible bridge 20 further
comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the bridging section
30, and the tissue cleanser 44 is integral with the flexible bridge
20. The tissue cleanser 44 comprises a plurality of nubs, 46.
[0109] The proximal section 16 comprises a first plurality of
cleaning elements 34 extending from the first face 14, and the
distal section 18 comprises a second plurality of cleaning elements
36 extending from the first face 14. The first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles
tufted in square tuft holes 38, which tuft holes have dimensions of
1.40 mm.times.1.40 mm. The first plurality of cleaning elements 34
have a length which is equal to that of the second plurality of
cleaning elements 36. The head 10 includes square tuft holes 38
which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns and rows on
the proximal and distal sections 16, 18 (as described above in
relation to the arrangement of tuft holes 38 in FIGS. 2A to 2F).
The distal section 18 includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes
38 and the proximal section 16 includes a proximal-most row 42 of
tuft holes wherein, in the distal- and proximal-most rows 40, 42,
the tuft holes 38 are offset with respect to the columns (as
described above in relation to the arrangement of tuft holes 38 in
FIGS. 2A to 2F).
[0110] The elastomeric cleaning element 26 has a height which is
less than the height of the first and second pluralities of
cleaning elements 34, 36.
[0111] In one aspect, the present invention provides an oral care
implement comprising a head 10 and a handle 12, the head 10
comprising a first face 14 and a plurality of cleaning elements
extending from the first face 14. The head 10 comprises a proximal
section 16 adjacent to the handle 12, a distal section 18 remote
from the handle 12, and a flexible bridge 20 coupling the distal
section 18 to the proximal section 16 so that the distal section 18
is flexibly movable relative to the proximal section 16. The
flexible bridge 20 further comprises at least one elastomeric
cleaning element 26 extending from the first face 14. The at least
one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible
bridge 20 in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of
the head 10. The elastomeric cleaning element 26 acts to polish the
tooth surfaces and clean the teeth.
[0112] The flexible bridge 20 allows the distal section 18 to move
forward and backward relative to the proximal section 16 during use
of the oral care implement, allowing the oral care implement to
reach deep into the mouth to clean the back teeth. This flexibility
also reduces or prevents excess pressure being applied to the back
teeth when brushing.
[0113] In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis X-X of the distal
section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the
proximal section 16 by an angle a of from 8.degree. to 15.degree.,
from 9.degree. to 14.degree., from 10.degree. to 13.degree., or of
about 13.degree.. In these embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X
of the distal section 18 is tilted by the above angle a with
respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16
when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no
force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the
distal section 18 to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such
as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can
move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of
force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis
X-X inclined by angle a with respect to the axis Y-Y once any
applied force has been removed. The longitudinal axis X-X of the
distal section being tilted by angle .alpha. with respect to the
longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 allows the head to
fit to the curve of the teeth, and the flexible bridge allows the
head to adapt to the contours of the teeth/tooth surface.
[0114] In other embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the
distal section 18 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal
axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16. In these embodiments, the
longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially
aligned with the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16
when the oral care implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no
force is being applied to the implement in order to cause the
distal section 18 to move relative to the proximal section 16 (such
as when the implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can
move with respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of
force during use, but returns to its initial position with the axis
X-X substantially aligned with the axis Y-Y once any applied force
has been re moved.
[0115] In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal
section 18 each have a straight linear edge extending in a
direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head 10,
wherein the straight linear edge 48 of the distal section 18 faces
the straight linear edge 50 of the proximal section 16. In these
embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 couples the straight linear
edge 48 of the distal section 18 to the straight linear edge 50 of
the proximal section 16 so that the distal section 18 is flexibly
moveable relative to the proximal section 16.
[0116] In some embodiments, the handle 12 includes a body portion
22, and a neck portion 24 connecting the head 10 to the body
portion 22. In various embodiments, a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the
neck portion 24 is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis
Y-Y of the proximal section 16 of the head 10. In various
embodiments, a longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22 is
tilted with respect to the longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck
portion 24 by an angle .beta. of from 5.degree. to 15.degree., from
6.degree. to 14.degree., from 7.degree. to 13.degree., from
8.degree. to 12.degree., from 9.degree. to 11.degree., or of about
10.degree.. The provision of this angle .beta. between the
longitudinal axes A-A and Z-Z of the body portion 22 and the neck
portion 24, respectively results in an ergonomic handle which
allows the user to reach the back teeth more easily.
[0117] In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal
section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the
proximal section 16 by an angle .alpha. of from 8.degree. to
15.degree., from 9.degree. to 14.degree., from 10.degree. to
13.degree., or of about 13.degree., and the longitudinal axis A-A
of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal
axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle .beta. of from 5.degree.
to 15.degree., from 6.degree. to 14.degree., from 7.degree. to
13.degree., from 8.degree. to 12.degree., from 9.degree. to
11.degree., or of about 10.degree.. The provision of both angle
.beta. between the longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 and
the longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22, and angle .alpha.
between the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 and the
longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, provides for
improved reach of the oral care implement to clean the back teeth
and rear-most areas of the mouth.
[0118] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 comprises a thumb
grip 52 located adjacent to the area of connection of the body
portion 22 to the neck portion 24. In one embodiment, the body
portion 22 comprises the thumb grip 52 on one side thereof and a
finger grip area 54 on an opposite side thereof; wherein the thumb
grip 52 is located on the same side of the oral care implement as
the lust face 14 of the head 10. The thumb grip 52 maybe
embossed/textured so as to provide an anti-slip area for increased
ease of gripping of the oral care implement by a user. Where the
thumb grip 52 is embossed or textured, this may also provide a
massaging effect on the thumb of a user. In some embodiments, the
thumb grip 52 comprises an elastomeric material in order to provide
a comfortable gripping area. In such embodiments, the elastomeric
material provides a yipping surface which is softer than the
material (such as a rigid plastic or resin material e.g.
polypropylene) from which the body portion and/or neck portion are
formed.
[0119] In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length
which is less than a length of The proximal section 16. In some
embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 9 mm to 13
mm, from 10 mm to 12.5 mm, from 11 mm to 12 mm or of about 11.5 mm.
In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a length of from
14.5 mm to 17 mm, from 15 mm to 16 mm, or of about 15.4 mm. In some
embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 11 mm to 12
mm and the proximal section 16 has a length of from 15 to 16 mm.
The distal section 18 is thus able to cover the surface of a single
tooth, thus providing improved ease of reach of the oral care
implement to the back teeth in the mouth, while the proximal
section 16 ensures an acceptable total length of the head.
[0120] In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the
distal section 18 to the length of the proximal section 16 is from
1:3 to 1:1.2, from 1:2.5 to 1:1.2, from 1:2 to 1:1.3 or about
1:1.3.
[0121] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises an
elastomeric material. Suitable elastomeric mate rials include, but
are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
[0122] In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric
cleaning element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of
the flexible bridge 20.
[0123] In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric
cleaning element 26 is an elastomeric wall. In some embodiments,
the elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a
straight, linear configuration.
[0124] In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a distal edge
remote from the first face 14, the elastomeric wall comprises at
least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge of the
elastomeric wall towards the first face 14 of the head 10. The
notch 28 ensures that the elastomeric cleaning wall is of the
correct level of softness to provide acceptable mouthfeel to the
consumer. In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a height
measured from the first face 14 to the distal edge of the
elastomeric wall, the least one notch 28 extending from the distal
edge towards the first face 14 by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of
the height of the elastomeric wall. The further the notch 28
extends from the distal edge of the elastomeric wall towards the
first face, the greater the level of softness of the elastomeric
wall.
[0125] In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal
section 18 are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. In
various embodiments, the rigid plastic or resin material comprises
polypropylene.
[0126] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a
bridging section 30 formed from the rigid plastic or resin
material. The bridging section 30 joins the proximal section 16 to
the distal section 18. The presence of the bridging section 30 can
provide increased ease of manufacture, for example if the head is
injection-molded then the bridging section allows the proximal
section 16 and the distal section 18 to be formed integrally
connected by the bridging section 30. A ratio of a depth D.sub.1 of
the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to a depth D.sub.2
of the proximal section 16 is from 1:3 to 1:7, from 1:3.5 to 1:6,
or from 1:4 to 1:5, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly
movable relative to the proximal section 16, despite being
connected thereto by the bridging section 30. In some embodiments,
the depth D.sub.2 of the proximal section is from 4 mm to 6 mm,
from 4.5 mm to 6 mm, or from 5 mm to 5.5 mm. The depth of the
distal section 18 maybe the same as the depth of the proximal
section 16. In some embodiments, the bridging section 3U extends
across an entire width of the head 10.
[0127] The length of the flexible bridge (in a direction parallel
to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16) maybe from
1.7 mm to 3.2 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, or from 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm. In
some embodiments, a ratio of the length of the flexible bridge 20
to the length of the distal section 18 is from 1:3 to 1:5, from
1:3.5 to 1:4.5, from 1:3.8 to 1:4.2, or about 1:4. This allows for
the oral care implement to have sufficient bristle density along
the length of the head for effective cleaning of the teeth, while
providing an acceptable level of flexibility of the distal section
18 relative to the proximal section 16.
[0128] In some embodiments, the head 10 further comprises a second
face 32 on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14,
and the bridging section 30 is located between the first face 14
and the second face 32. In some embodiments, a distance between the
bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is greater than a
distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32,
providing the desired flexibility of movement of the distal section
18 relative to the proximal section 16. In some embodiments, the
distance between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is
from 2 to 4 times greater, from 2.5 to 3.5 times greater, or about
3 times greater than the distance between the bridging section 30
and the second face 32.
[0129] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further
comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one
bridging section 30. Examples of such elastomeric materials
include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
[0130] In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element 26 is integral with the elastomeric material of the
flexible bridge 20.
[0131] In some embodiments, the plurality of cleaning elements
comprises a first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from
the proximal section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning
elements 36 extending from the distal section 18.
[0132] In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning
elements 34 comprises tapered bristles. In certain embodiments, the
second plurality of cleaning elements 36 comprises tapered
bristles. In various embodiments, both the first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered bristles.
In some embodiments, portions of the first plurality of cleaning
elements 34 are tapered. In some embodiments, portions of the
second plurality of cleaning elements 36 are tapered. In some
embodiment, portions of the first and second pluralities of
cleaning elements 34, 36 are tapered.
[0133] In some embodiments, the first and/or second pluralities of
cleaning elements 34, 36 are tapered.
[0134] In some embodiments, the tapered bristles are tufted in
square tuft holes 38. The provision of the tapered bristles in the
square tuft holes 38 allows the bristles to reach deep into the
interdental areas in order to provide effective cleaning, whilst
providing bristle softness for optimal gum care. The provision of
square tuft holes enhances cleaning of the tooth surfaces, as the
contact area of the bristles of a particular tuft on the tooth
surface is greater for a square tuft hole than for a round tuft
hole of similar dimensions. In some embodiments, the tuft holes on
the first face 14 have dimensions of 0.8 mm.times.0.8 mm to 2.0
mm.times.2.0 mm; of 1.0 mm.times.1.0 mm to 1.8 mm.times.1.8 mm; of
1.2 mm.times.1.2 mm to 1.5 mm.times.1.5 mm; or of about 1.4
mm.times.1.4 mm. In various embodiments, the head comprises tuft
holes 38 which are positioned in a grid arrangement of columns
(parallel to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal
section 16 and the distal section 18) and rows (perpendicular to
the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and
the distal section 18). In some embodiments, the distance between
the centres of tuft holes in successive rows is from 2.0 mm to 3.0
mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm.
In some embodiments, the distance between the centres of tuft holes
in successive columns on the distal section is from 2.0 mm to 3.0
mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm, or about 2.5 mm,
and the distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive
columns on the proximal section is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8
mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm. In some
embodiments, the head includes a distal-most row 40 of tuft holes
38 and a proximal-most row 42 of tuft holes 38, in which rows the
tuft holes are not aligned with the columns fanned by tuft holes of
other rows. In some embodiments, the tuft holes of the proximal-
and distal-most rows 40, 42 are offset with respect to the columns.
In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the
distal-most row 40 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5
mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10 mm
from a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column
disposed on the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. In
some embodiments, the centres of the tun holes in the proximal-most
row 42 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm, from 0.8
mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10 mm from lines
joining the centres of the tuft holes of the columns of the
proximal section 16 from which the tuft holes of the proximal-most
row are offset. In some embodiments, the distance between the
centres of the tuft holes in the distal-mast row 40 and a line
joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to the
distal-most row 40 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm,
from 2.3 mm to 2.5 mm, or about 2.4 mm. In some embodiments, the
distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most
row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row
adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from
2.2 mm to 2.9 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.8 mm, or about 2.6 mm. In some
embodiments, the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in
the distal-most row 40 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5
mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm, and the distance between
the centres of the tuft holes in the proximal-most row 42 is from
1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or
about 2.2 mm.
[0135] In some embodiments, a height of the first plurality of
cleaning elements 34 is equal to a height of the second plurality
of cleaning elements 36.
[0136] In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric
cleaning element 26 has a height which is equal to the height of
the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.
[0137] In other embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element 26 has a height which is less than the height of the first
and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.
[0138] In some embodiments, head 10 further comprises a second face
32 located on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14,
the second face 32 comprising a tissue cleanser 44. In some
embodiments, the tissue cleanser comprises a plurality of nubs 46
for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth e.g. the insides of the
cheeks and lips, and the tongue. The inclusion of the tissue
cleanser 44 allows the oral care implement to provide thorough
cleaning of the oral cavity, with cleansing of soft tissues as well
as cleaning of the teeth.
[0139] In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser 42 comprises an
elastomeric material. Examples of suitable elastomeric material
which maybe used for the tissue cleanser 42 include, but are not
limited to thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
[0140] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises the
elastomeric material and the tissue cleanser 42 is integral with
the flexible bridge 20.
[0141] In certain embodiments, the head 10 has a length of from 20
mm to 40 mm, from 25 mm to 35 mm, from 27 mm to 33 mm, or about 30
mm, or about 29 mm. In some embodiments, the head 10 has a maximum
width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12
mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has
a maximum width of from 5 mm to 13 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from 8
mm to 11 mm, or of about 9 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal
section 16 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to
13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the
maximum width of the distal section 18 is less than the maximum
width of the proximal section 16. The compact head (and
particularly the compact size of the distal section 18) also
assists in reaching of hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, such as
the back teeth, particularly for users having a smaller oral cavity
size than that for which many oral care implements are
designed.
[0142] In some embodiments, the neck portion 24 has a maximum width
of from 3 mm to 7 mm, from 4 mm to 6 mm, or of about 5 mm.
[0143] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 has a maximum width
of from 9 mm to 15 mm, from 10 mm to 14 mm, from 11 mm to 13 mm, or
of about 15 mm.
[0144] In another aspect, the present invention provides an oral
care implement comprising a head 10 and a handle 12, the head 10
comprising a first face 14 and a plurality of cleaning elements
extending from the first face 14. The head 10 comprises a proximal
section 16 adjacent to the handle 12 and a distal section 18 remote
from the handle 12. The head 10 further comprises a fie :dole
bridge 20 coupling the distal section 18 to the proximal section 16
so that the distal section 18 is flexibly moveable relative to the
proximal section 18. The plurality of cleaning elements comprises a
first plurality of cleaning elements 34 extending from the proximal
section 16, and a second plurality of cleaning elements 36
extending from the distal section 18, at least one of the first and
second pluralities of cleaning elements comprising tapered
bristles.
[0145] In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning
elements 34 comprises tapered bristles. In certain embodiments, the
second plurality of cleaning elements 36 comprises tapered
bristles. In various embodiments, both the first and second
pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36 comprise tapered
bristles.
[0146] In some embodiments, the tapered bristles are tufted in
square tuft holes 38. The provision of square tuft holes enhances
cleaning of the tooth surfaces, as the contact area of the bristles
of a particular tuft on the tooth surface is greater for a square
tuft hole than for a round tuft hole of similar dimensions. In some
embodiments, the tuft holes on the first face 14 have dimensions of
0.8 mm.times.0.8 mm to 2.0 mm.times.2.0 mm; of 1.0 mm.times.1.0 mm
to 1.8 mm.times.1.8 mm; of 1.2 mm.times.1.2 mm to 1.5 mm.times.1.5
mm; or of about 1.4 mm.times.1.4 mm. In various embodiments, the
head comprises tuft holes 38 which are positioned in a grid
arrangement of columns (parallel to the longitudinal axes X-X and
Y-Y of the proximal section 16 and the distal section 18) and rows
(perpendicular to the longitudinal axes X-X and Y-Y of the proximal
section 16 and the distal section 18). In some embodiments, the
distance between the centres of tuft holes in successive rows is
from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 22 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6 mm,
or about 2.5 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the
centres of tuft holes in successive columns on the distal section
is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.6
mm, or about 2.5 mm, and the distance between the centres of tuft
holes in successive columns on the proximal section is from 1.6 mm
to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2
mm. In some embodiments, the head includes a distal-most row 40 of
tuft holes 38 and a proximal-most row 42 of tuft holes 38, in which
rows the tuft holes are not aligned with the columns formed by tuft
holes of other rows. In some embodiments, the tuft holes of the
proximal- and distal-most rows 40, 42 are offset with respect to
the columns. In some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in
the distal-most row 40 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to
1.5 mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10
mm from a line joining the centres of the tuft holes of a column
disposed on the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18. In
some embodiments, the centres of the tuft holes in the
proximal-most row 42 are spaced by a distance of from 0.5 mm to 1.5
mm, from 0.8 mm to 1.3 mm, from 1.2 mm to 1.3 mm, or about 1.10 mm
from lines joining the centres of the tuft holes of the columns of
the proximal section 16 from which the tuft holes of the
proximal-most row are offset. In some embodiments, the distance
between the centres of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 and
a line joining the centres of the tuft holes in the row adjacent to
the distal-most row 40 is from 2.0 mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.8
mm, from 2.3 mm to 2.5 mm, or about 2.4 mm. In some embodiments,
the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the
proximal-most row 42 and a line joining the centres of the tuft
holes in the row adjacent to the proximal-most row 42 is from 2.0
mm to 3.0 mm, from 2.2 mm to 2.9 mm, from 2.4 mm to 2.8 mm, or
about 2.6 mm. In some embodiments, the distance between the centres
of the tuft holes in the distal-most row 40 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6
mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5 mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm, and
the distance between the centres of the tuft holes in the
proximal-most row 42 is from 1.6 mm to 2.6 mm, from 1.8 mm to 2.5
mm, from 2.0 to 2.3 mm, or about 2.2 mm.
[0147] In some embodiments, a height of the first plurality of
cleaning elements 34 is equal to a height of the second plurality
of cleaning elements 36.
[0148] In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis X-X of the distal
section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the
proximal section 16 by an angle .alpha. of from 8.degree. to
15.degree., from 9.degree. to 14.degree., from 10.degree. to
13.degree., or of about 13.degree.. In these embodiments, the
longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 is tilted by the
above angle .alpha. with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of
the proximal section 16 when the oral care implement is in a
stressless state i.e. when no force is being applied to the
implement in order to cause the distal section 18 to move relative
to the proximal section 16 (such as when the implement is not in
use). The distal section 18 can move with respect to the proximal
section 16 upon application of force during use, but returns to its
initial position with the axis X-X inclined by angle cc with
respect to the axis Y-Y once any applied force has been removed.
The longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section being tilted by
angle cc with respect to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal
section 16 allows the head to fit to the curve of the teeth, and
the flexible bridge allows the head to adapt to the contours of the
teeth/tooth surface.
[0149] In other embodiments, a longitudinal axis X-X of the distal
section 18 is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis Y-Y of
the proximal section 16. In these embodiments, the longitudinal
axis X-X of the distal section 18 is substantially aligned with the
longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16 when the oral care
implement is in a stressless state i.e. when no force is being
applied to the implement in order to cause the distal section 18 to
move relative to the proximal section 16 (such as when the
implement is not in use). The distal section 18 can move with
respect to the proximal section 16 upon application of force during
use, but returns to its initial position with the axis X-X
substantially aligned with the axis Y-Y once any applied force has
been removed.
[0150] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further
comprises at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 extending
from the first face 14, wherein the at least one elastomeric
cleaning element 26 extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a
direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the head 10.
The elastomeric cleaning element 26 acts to clean the teeth and
polish the tooth surface.
[0151] In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element 26 is an elastomeric wall. In some embodiments, the
elastomeric wall extends along the flexible bridge 20 in a
straight, linear configuration.
[0152] In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a distal edge
remote from the first face 14, the elastomeric wall comprising at
least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge of the
elastomeric wall towards the fist face 14 of the head 10. The notch
28 ensures that the elastomeric cleaning wall is of the correct
level of softness to provide acceptable mouthfeel to the consumer.
In some embodiments, the elastomeric wall has a height measured
from the first face 14 to the distal edge of the elastomeric wall,
the least one notch 28 extending from the distal edge towards the
first face 14 by a distance of from 5/8 to 7/8 of the height of the
elastomeric wall. The further the notch 28 extends from the distal
edge of the elastomeric wall towards the first face, the greater
the level of softness of the elastomeric wall.
[0153] In various embodiments, the at least one elastomeric
cleaning element 26 has a height which is equal to the height of
the first and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.
[0154] In other embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element 26 has a height which is less than the height of the first
and second pluralities of cleaning elements 34, 36.
[0155] In various embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises an
elastomeric material. Suitable elastomeric materials include, but
are not limited to, thermoplastic elastomer.
[0156] In some embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning
element is integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible
bridge 20.
[0157] In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 and the distal
section 18 are formed from a rigid plastic or resin material. In
various embodiments, the rigid plastic or resin material comprises
polypropylene.
[0158] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises a
bridging section 30 formed from the rigid plastic or resin
material, the bridging section 30 joining the proximal section 16
to the distal section 18. The presence of the bridging section 30
can provide increased ease of manufacture, for example if the head
is injection-molded then the bridging section allows the proximal
section 16 and the distal section 18 to be formed integrally
connected by the bridging section 30. A ratio of a depth D.sub.1 of
the bridging section 30 at its narrowest point to a depth D.sub.2
of the proximal section 16 is from 1:3 to 1:7, from 1:3.5 to 1:6,
or from 1:4 to 1:5, so that the distal section 18 is flexibly
movable relative to the proximal section 16, despite being
connected thereto by the bridging section 30. In some embodiments,
the depth D.sub.2 of the proximal section is from 4 mm to 6.5 mm,
from 4.5 mm to 6 mm, or from 5 mm to 5.5 mm. The depth of the
distal section 18 maybe the same as the depth of the proximal
section 16. In some embodiments, the bridging section 30 extends
across an entire width of the head 10.
[0159] The length of the flexible bridge (in a direction parallel
to the longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16) maybe from
1.7 mm to 3.2 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, or from 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm. In
some embodiments, a ratio of the length of the flexible bridge 20
to the length of the distal section 18 is from 1:3 to 1:5, from
1:3.5 to 1:4.5, from 1:3.8 to 1:4.2, or about 1:4. This allows for
the oral care implement to have sufficient bristle density along
the length of the head for effective cleaning of the teeth, while
providing an acceptable level of flexibility of the distal section
18 relative to the proximal section 16.
[0160] In some embodiments, the head 10 further comprises a second
face 32 on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first face 14,
and wherein the bridging section 30 is located between the first
face 14 and the second face 32. In some embodiments, a distance
between the bridging section 30 and the first face 14 is greater
than a distance between the bridging section 30 and the second face
32. In some embodiments, the distance between the bridging section
30 and the first face 14 is from 2 to 4 times greater, from 2.5 to
3.5 times greater, or about 3 times greater than the distance
between the bridging section 30 and the second face 32.
[0161] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 further
comprises an elastomeric material surrounding the at least one
bridging section 30. Examples of such elastomeric materials
include, but are not limited to thermoplastic elastomer. In some
embodiments, the at least one elastomeric cleaning element 26 is
integral with the elastomeric material of the flexible bridge
20.
[0162] In some embodiments, he ad 10 further comprises a second
face 32 located on an opposite side of the head 10 to the first
face 14, the second face 32 comprising a tissue cleanser 44. In
some embodiments, the tissue cleanser comprises a plurality of nubs
46 for cleansing soft tissues of the mouth e.g. the insides of the
cheeks and lips, and the tongue. The inclusion of the tissue
cleanser 44 allows the oral care implement to provide thorough
cleaning of the oral cavity, with cleansing of soft tissues as well
as cleaning of the teeth.
[0163] In some embodiments, the tissue cleanser 42 comprises an
elastomeric material. Examples of suitable elastomeric material
which maybe used for the tissue cleanser 42 include, but are not
limited to thermoplastic elastomer.
[0164] In some embodiments, the flexible bridge 20 comprises the
elastomeric material and the tissue cleanser 42 is integral with
the flexible bridge 20.
[0165] In certain embodiments, the head 10 has a length of from 20
mm to 40 mm, from 25 mm to 35 mm, from 27 mm to 33 mm, or about 30
mm, or about 29 mm.
[0166] In some embodiments, the he ad 10 has a maximum width of
from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to 13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or
about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a
maximum width of from 5 mm to 13 mm, from 7 mm to 12 mm, from 8 mm
to 11 mm, or of about 9 mm. In some embodiments, the proximal
section 16 has a maximum width of from 5 mm to 15 mm, from 7 mm to
13 mm, from 9 mm to 12 mm, or about 11 mm. In some embodiments, the
maximum width of the distal section 18 is less than the maximum
width of the proximal section 16. The compact head (and
particularly the compact size of the distal section 18) also
assists in reaching of hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, such as
the back teeth, particularly for users having a smaller oral cavity
size than that for which many oral care implements are
designed.
[0167] In some embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length
which is less than a length of the proximal section 16. In some
embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 9 mm to 13
mm, from 10 mm to 12.5 mm, from 11 mm to 12 mm or of about 11.5 mm.
In some embodiments, the proximal section 16 has a length of from
14.5 mm to 17 mm, from 15 mm to 16 mm, or of about 15.4 mm. In some
embodiments, the distal section 18 has a length of from 11 mm to 12
mm and the proximal section 16 has a length of from 15 to 16 mm.
The distal section 18 is thus able to cover the surface of a single
tooth, thus providing improved ease of reach of the oral care
implement to the back teeth in the mouth, while the proximal
section 16 ensures an acceptable total length of the head.
[0168] In various embodiments, the ratio of the length of the
distal section 18 to the length of the proximal section 16 is from
1:3 to 1:1.2, from 1:2.5 to 1:1.25, from 1:2 to 1:1.3 or about
1:1.3.
[0169] In some embodiments, the handle 12 includes a body portion
22, and a neck portion 24 connecting the head 10 to the body
portion 22.
[0170] In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck
portion 24 is substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis Y-Y of
the proximal section 16 of the head 10.
[0171] In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis A-A of the body
portion 22 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Z-Z of the
neck portion by an angle .beta. of from 5.degree. to 15.degree.,
from 6.degree. to 14.degree., from 7.degree. to 13.degree., from
8.degree. to 12.degree., from 9.degree. to 11.degree., or of about
10.degree.. The provision of this angle .beta. between the
longitudinal axes of the body portion 22 and the neck 24 provides
an ergonomic handle which allows the user to reach the back teeth
more easily.
[0172] In some embodiments, the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal
section 18 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal axis Y-Y of the
proximal section 16 by an angle .alpha. of from 8.degree. to
15.degree., of from 9.degree. to 14.degree., from 10.degree. to
13.degree., or of about 13.degree., and the longitudinal axis A-A
of the body portion 22 is tilted with respect to a longitudinal
axis Z-Z of the neck portion by an angle .beta. of from 5.degree.
to 15.degree., from 6.degree. to 14.degree., from 7.degree. to
13.degree., from 8.degree. to 12.degree., from 9.degree. to
11.degree., or of about 10.degree.. The provision of both angle
.beta. between the longitudinal axis Z-Z of the neck portion 24 and
the longitudinal axis A-A of the body portion 22, and angle .alpha.
between the longitudinal axis X-X of the distal section 18 and the
longitudinal axis Y-Y of the proximal section 16, provides for
improved reach of the oral care implement to clean the back teeth
and rear-most areas of the mouth.
[0173] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 comprises a thumb
grip 52 located adjacent to the area of connection of the body
portion 22 to the neck portion 24. In one embodiment, the body
portion 22 comprises the thumb grip 52 on one side thereof and a
finger grip area 54 on an opposite side thereof, wherein the thumb
grip 52 is located on the same side of the oral care implement as
the first face 14 of the head 10. The thumb grip 52 maybe
embossed/textured so as to provide an anti-slip area for increased
ease of gripping of the oral care implement by a user. Where the
thumb grip 52 is embossed or textured, this may also provide a
massaging effect on the thumb of a user. In some embodiments, the
thumb grip 52 comprises an elastomeric material in order to provide
a comfortable gripping area. In such embodiments, the elastomeric
material provides a gripping surface which is softer than the
material (such as a rigid plastic or resin material e.g.
polypropylene) from which the body portion and/or neck portion are
fanned.
[0174] In some embodiments, the neck portion 24 has a maximum width
of from 3 mm to 7 mm, from 4 mm to 6 mm, or of about 5 mm
[0175] In some embodiments, the body portion 22 has a maximum width
of from 9 mm to 15 mm, from 10 mm to 14 mm, from 11 mm to 13 mm, or
of about 15 mm.
[0176] The inventive aspects discussed above may be practiced for a
manual toothbrush or a powered toothbrush. In operation, the
previously described features, individually and/or in any
combination, may improve the control, performance, aesthetics and
cost point of oral implements. Other constructions of toothbrush
are possible. For example, the head may be replaceable or
interchangeable on the handle. The head may include various oral
surface engaging elements, such as inter-proximal picks, brushes,
flossing element plaque scrapper, tongue cleansers and soil tissue
massages. While the various features of the toothbrush work
together to achieve the advantages previously described, it is
recognized that individual features and sub-combinations of these
features can be used to obtain some of the aforementioned
advantages without the necessity to adopt all of these features in
an oral care implement.
[0177] While the invention has been described with respect to
specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying
out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that
there are numerous variations and permutations of the above
described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other
embodiments maybe utilized and structural and functional
modifications maybe made without departing from the scope of the
present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention
should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended
claims.
* * * * *