U.S. patent application number 17/099835 was filed with the patent office on 2021-04-01 for flosser.
This patent application is currently assigned to TRISA HOLDING AG. The applicant listed for this patent is TRISA HOLDING AG. Invention is credited to Roger KIRCHHOFER, Martin ZWIMPFER.
Application Number | 20210093427 17/099835 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005266248 |
Filed Date | 2021-04-01 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210093427 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ZWIMPFER; Martin ; et
al. |
April 1, 2021 |
FLOSSER
Abstract
A flosser includes a grip body and a holder which is connected
to the grip body and has a first and a second holder arm, and with
an interdental space cleaning element which is fastened on the
first and second holder arm and extends between the two holder
arms, wherein the flosser includes a tongue cleaner for oral
hygiene which is arranged in the grip body and which is in the form
of a rib-like scraper edge.
Inventors: |
ZWIMPFER; Martin; (Luzern,
CH) ; KIRCHHOFER; Roger; (Reitnau, CH) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TRISA HOLDING AG |
Triengen |
|
CH |
|
|
Assignee: |
TRISA HOLDING AG
Triengen
CH
|
Family ID: |
1000005266248 |
Appl. No.: |
17/099835 |
Filed: |
November 17, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14785177 |
Oct 16, 2015 |
10869740 |
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PCT/CH2014/000046 |
Apr 10, 2014 |
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17099835 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 15/046 20130101;
A61C 15/02 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61C 15/04 20060101
A61C015/04; A61C 15/02 20060101 A61C015/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 16, 2013 |
EP |
13405046.7 |
Claims
1. A flosser comprising a grip body and a holder which is connected
to the grip body and has a first and a second holder arm, and with
an interdental space cleaning element which is fastened on the
first and second holder arm and extends between the two holder
arms, wherein the flosser comprises a tongue cleaner for oral
hygiene which is arranged in the grip body and which is in the form
of a rib-like scraper edge.
2. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is
arranged in the end section of the grip body which is opposite to
the holder.
3. A flosser according to claim 2, wherein the scraper edge is
arranged at the outermost free end of the grip body.
4. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the rib-like scraper
edge forms a continuous cleaning edge.
5. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge runs
transversely to the longitudinal axis of the grip body.
6. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein at least a section of
the scraper edge runs parallel to the longitudinal axis of the grip
body.
7. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge extends
in a direction perpendicular to a plane of the grip body.
8. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the rib-like scraper
edge is triangular-shaped in the cross-section.
9. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is
arched.
10. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the grip body having a
first arm and a second arm enclosing an intermediate space and the
first arm and second arm are connected to one another in the end
section of the grip body that is remote from the holder by forming
a connection area being part of the grip body.
11. A flosser according to claim 10, wherein the scraper edge is
arranged in the connection area.
12. A flosser according to claim 10, wherein the two arm sections
are connected to one another in an arched manner.
13. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is
connected to the gip body via the two end sections of the scraper
edge and the middle section of the scraper edge lying between the
two end sections is not connected to the grip body.
14. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is led
over an opening in the grip body.
15. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is led
over an opening in the end section of the grip body.
16. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge in
cross section is formed completely of hard material.
17. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge in
cross section is of a hard material core and a soft material
coating.
18. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is
formed completely of a soft material.
19. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is a
lamella.
20. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the scraper edge is
flexible and compliant.
21. A flosser according to claim 1, wherein the flosser further
comprises a toothpick that is arranged in the grip body and that is
configured to be folded out of the grip body from a passive
position, where the tip of the toothpick is directed towards the
holder into a functional position, where the tip of the toothpick
is directed away from the holder via an integrated hinge which is
arranged on an end section of the grip body that is remote from the
holder.
22. A flosser according to claim 20, wherein a first connection
means is arranged on the toothpick, and a second connection means
is arranged on the grip body, and the first and second connection
means are designed for forming a friction connection and/or
positive connection between the toothpick and the grip body, in the
functional position, when the toothpick at least partially overlays
the grip body.
23. A flosser according to claim 20, wherein the grip body having a
first arm and a second arm enclosing an intermediate space and the
first arm and second arm are connected to one another in the end
section of the grip body that is remote from the holder by forming
a connection area being part of the grip body and that is arranged
between the two end sections of the first and second arm and
between the hinge and the free end of the grip body, and wherein
the toothpick is arranged in the intermediate space in its passive
position.
24. A flosser according to claim 22, wherein the connection area in
the end section of the gip body that is remote from the holder has
a first side and a second side, wherein the first side lies
opposite the second side and wherein the toothpick bears on the
second side in its functional position.
25. A flosser according to claim 23, wherein the second connection
means is arranged on the second side of the connection area.
26. A flosser according to claim 21, wherein the second connection
means is arranged on the rear side of the scraper edge.
27. A flosser according to claim 21, wherein one connection means
comprises a recess or an opening, and the other connection means
comprises a prominence, and wherein the prominence engages into the
recess or into the opening with a positive fit on reaching the
functional position of the toothpick.
Description
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 14/785,177 filed Oct. 16, 2015, which in turn
is the U.S. national phase of PCT Application No. PCT/CH2014/000046
filed Apr. 10, 2014, and claims priority to European Patent
Application No. 13405046.7 filed Apr. 16, 2013, the entire
disclosures of these applications being incorporated herein by
reference.
[0002] The invention relates to the field of oral hygiene. It
concerns a dental cleaning apparatus, in particular a flosser with
a grip body, with a holder which is connected to the grip body and
has a first and a second holder arm, and with an interdental space
cleaning element which is fastened on the first and second holder
arm and extends between the two holder arms.
[0003] Flossers are small holders for fixing or mounting dental
floss, for the care of interdental spaces. Flossers in particular
should simplify the application of the dental floss. Flossers are
mostly offered as a ready-strung disposable product. Flossers are
also known under the terms flossette or dental bow.
[0004] Thus DE 20 2012 008 171 U1 describes a flosser with a hand
grip and a holder which are connected to one another. The holder
comprises two limbs, between which dental floss is tensioned. A
toothpick is moreover integrated into the hand grip.
[0005] WO 2012 116451 A1 likewise describes a flosser with a
handgrip and a holder for dental floss, and these are connected to
one another. The holder comprises two limbs, between which dental
floss is tensioned. A toothpick is moreover integrated in the hand
grip and can be angled away from the grip body by way of
bending-away via a hinge.
[0006] With known flossers, the premanufactured dental floss is
connected to the holder arms of the holder during the manufacturing
process. As a rule, the dental floss during an injection moulding
method is enclosed at its end sections by the plastic mass forming
the holder arms.
[0007] The thus arising interconnection between the dental floss
and the holder arm however is often not sufficient, so that the
dental floss is torn out of the holder arm quite often when being
used. One has attempted to achieve a mechanical anchoring in the
holder arm by way of creating a knot in the dental floss, so as to
avoid this. The incorporation of knots into dental floss however is
effected manually as was hitherto the case, and therefore requires
much effort. This disproportionately increases the manufacturing
costs of the flosser conceived as a disposable article.
[0008] Apart from the dental floss being torn out of the holder
arm, breakages of the thread at the exit point of the dental floss
out of the holder arm also occur again and again. This is the
result of an increased change of stiffness at the exit point on
use.
[0009] It is the object of the present invention, to provide a
multifunctional flosser with several functional elements for
fulfilling different tasks in the field of oral hygiene. The
flosser moreover should be able to be manufactured with as little
as possible expense with regard to material, and as simply as
possible. The flosser should moreover be reliable in its
application.
[0010] The object is achieved by the features of the independent
claim 1. Advantageous further developments and embodiments of the
invention are to be deduced from the dependent claims, the
description and the drawings.
[0011] The holder or its holder arms can be arranged such that the
interdental space cleaning element runs at a right angle to the
grip body. Moreover, the holder or its holder arms with respect to
the grip body can also be arranged in a manner such that the
interdental space cleaning element runs at an angle of smaller than
90.degree. and 0.degree. or larger, with respect to the grip
body.
[0012] The interdental space cleaning element in particular is an
elongate body which can be inserted into the interdental space. The
interdental space cleaning element connects the two holder arms to
one another and in particular is tensioned between these.
[0013] The holder can form a bow section, via which the holder arms
are connected to one another. The grip body is connected to the
holder via the bow section.
[0014] The holder arms can moreover lead to into the grip body, and
partly form this grip body. The holder arms for example can enclose
an intermediate space in the grip body. The holder arms can
moreover be connected to one another in the grip body via
connection webs. A connection web can moreover delimit the grip
body from the actual holder.
[0015] The flosser in a transition section between the holder arms
and grip body can comprise a flexible, compliant section, which
e.g. yields when the interdental space cleaning element is led with
too much pressure. The transition section can therefore be designed
in an elastically resilient manner.
[0016] The transition section in particular can be a neck section
between the holder arms and the grip body. The flexible design of
the transition section can be achieved by way of the material
and/or the geometry.
[0017] The transition section can consist of an elastic material or
comprise this, e.g. a rubber-elastic plastic. Moreover, the
transition section can also comprise a spring element. This for
example can be integrated into the flosser as an insert in the
injection moulding method.
[0018] Spring-elastic characteristics can also be achieved by way
of particular geometries. Thus the transition section can have a
smaller cross-sectional size compared to the grip body, or comprise
narrowing locations or grooves.
[0019] The transition section can be designed such that this is
compliant or elastic in the longitudinal direction and/or
transverse direction of the flosser. Moreover, the transition
section can as be compliant or elastic with respect to a rotation
or twisting about the longitudinal axis of the flosser.
[0020] The length of the holder arms of the holder can e.g. be 10
to 25 mm, in particular 14 to 20 mm. The width of the holder arms
can e.g. be 1 to 3 mm, preferably 1.5 to 2.3 mm. The depth of the
holder arms can e.g. be 1.5 to 2.3 mm.
[0021] The holder arms can have a round cross section, for example
circular or oval, or a polygonal cross section, such as for example
square or rectangular with rounded corners.
[0022] The cross-sectional geometry and the cross-sectional size of
the holder arms can be designed in a constant or changing manner
along their longitudinal extension. The holder arms can e.g. taper
towards their free end.
[0023] The cross-sectional geometry and/or the cross-sectional size
of the two holder arms can moreover be equal or different. Thus
e.g. at least one holder arm can be designed more thinly, in order
to simplify the care/cleaning of interdental spaces, even with
those who wear braces.
[0024] The holder can be connected to the grip body via an
integrated hinge and be able to be bent or pivoted with respect to
the grip body via the hinge, from a passive position into a
functional position. Thus the holder and grip body can be arranged
in a common plane in the passive position of the holder. The holder
is pivoted via the hinge out of the plane into the functional
position. The hinge can be an integrated film hinge
[0025] The use of a film hinge has advantages with regard to the
manufacture. This is therefore less expensive. Moreover, the
ergonomics during applications are improved. Further functional
elements such as tongue cleaner, polishing element, mirror,
interdental brush, stand, stand foot or toothpicks for example can
likewise be brought into a different position via the film hinge.
The mentioned functional elements in particular can be pivoted or
folded out via the film hinge.
[0026] Thereby, it is possible to accommodate several different
pivotable or foldable functional elements in a holder, and several
pivot directions can be realised thereby. I.e. the rotation axes of
the film hinges are not necessarily parallel.
[0027] Moreover, connection means, as described further below, can
be provided, by way of which the holder can be releasably or
non-releasably locked (retained) on the grip body, in its passive
position and/or functional position. Thus a first connection means
can be arranged on the holder, and a second connection means on the
grip body, via which connection means the connection is
created.
[0028] The connection means in particular are designed for forming
a frictional and/or positive connection. The connection means e.g.
can be designed for manufacturing a snap-in connection or detent
connection and comprise corresponding detent means or snap-in
means. The connection can accordingly be realised in a releasable
or non-releasable manner,
[0029] The flosser preferably consists of plastic or comprises
plastic. The flosser can e.g. be manufactured in a single-stage or
multi-stage injection moulding method. Individual elements of the
flosser, in particular functional elements such as tongue cleaners,
or its cleaning elements, interdental space cleaning elements,
polishing elements, mirrors, interdental brushes or toothpicks can
consist of a different material or comprise a material different to
other elements of the flosser, such as holder, holder arms or grip
body.
[0030] It is further possible for the basic elements of the
flosser, specifically the holder, the holder arms and the grip
body, to be manufactured in more than one injection moulding step
and from more than one material.
[0031] The flosser can comprise one or more hard components as well
as one or more soft components. The soft component can e.g. be a
rubber-elastic plastic material.
[0032] The flosser for example is designed with it functional
elements in a single-part manner. The functional elements as well
as any hinges, predetermined breaking locations and connection
means of the flosser can be integrally manufactured with the
flosser in an injection moulding method.
[0033] The flosser thus for example can be manufactured in a
so-called co-injection method. With the co-injection method, at
least two material components, e.g. a hard component and a soft
component are simultaneously of successively injected into a common
tool cavity through a common or through different gating
points.
[0034] The second component can thereby penetrate the first
component or envelope this.
[0035] Thus according to one variant, a first material component
can be injected into the tool cavity e.g. via a hot-runner nozzle,
wherein the tool cavity is partially filled with the first material
component. The injected first material component is subsequently
cooled in the tool cavity, wherein at least a free-flowing core is
retained.
[0036] A second material component is subsequently injected through
the same hot-runner nozzle into the same tool cavity of the
injection moulding tool, wherein the tool cavity is filled further,
which is to say filled to a complete manner, with the second
material component.
[0037] The still free-flowing core of the first material component
injected previously into the tool cavity, e.g. in the region of the
holder arms or the grip body, is displaced in the material flow
direction during the injection moulding of the second material
component, wherein the at least partly solidified first material
component which in particular bears on the cavity wall, at least
partly surrounds the second material component flowing in.
[0038] Thus gating points can e.g. be arranged in the region of the
holder, e.g. in the holder arms, and/or in the region of the grip
body. The injection moulding method is preferably carried out such
that no flow fronts meet in the interdental space cleaning element
and/or in the holder arms, since these parts are mechanically
loaded to a high extent during use.
[0039] It is also possible to apply so-called core-back technology,
in order to accordingly control the filling of the injection
moulding cavity, in order to achieve this.
[0040] With core-back technology, also called composite injection
moulding, the different materials are successively injected. A
change of the cavity is produced after the cavity is filled with
the first component. The already filled cavity regions is opened or
extended to a still unfilled cavity region. The remaining filling
of the component is effected through a further gating with a second
component. The same components as well as different components can
be applied. A precondition of the core-back method is a mould part
geometry which permits the cavity to be released to the second
component via suitable means, and that both components bond to one
another.
[0041] The interdental space cleaning element can be inserted into
the tool mould prior to the injection moulding and be cut before
the ejection of the flosser, in the case that the interdental space
cleaning element is not injection moulded.
[0042] Thus e.g. an interdental space cleaning element can be
inserted into the injection mould, and subsequently a first
component, in particular a soft material can be injected in a
co-injection method. A second material, in particular a hard
material is injected in a further step. The flosser is thereafter
removed from the mould.
[0043] The holder arms can thus consist of a hard material or
comprise this. The hard material fixes the interdental space
cleaning element. The grip body can also consist of a soft material
or comprise this, e.g. as an outer-lying layer.
[0044] The different material components during the manufacture
form a material(-fit) connection and/or positive(-fit) connection
for example. However, with certain applications, as yet specified
further below, one can envisage the material components not
connecting to one another.
[0045] One can e.g. envisage a connection section of a flexible, in
particular elastic material component (e.g. a soft component) being
arranged between the holder and the grip body, so that the holder
and the grip body can be moved to one another. One can further also
envisage dimensioning the hard component in a slimmer manner and/or
covering this with a soft component, in order to achieve the
mentioned elasticity.
[0046] The flosser can be designed such that this can be divided
into two or more than two parts for use. This is usefully effected
by way of abruptly bending or tearing the parts along a
predetermined breaking location. The predetermined breaking
location can be a zone of weakening. Functional elements, such as
e.g. toothpicks, tongue cleaners, polishing elements, mirrors,
interdental brushes, etc. can be released by way of separating way
parts of the flosser, in particular of the grip body.
[0047] One can envisage two parts separated from one another, e.g.
a stand foot separated from the flosser, being able to be rejoined
in another position relative to one another, by way of sticking
together. This e.g. one can envisage the holder being separable
from the grip body and being able to be stuck together again.
[0048] Functional elements can also be separated from the flosser
and be able to be stuck together with this again.
[0049] Functional elements can moreover be pivoted or folded out
from the flosser.
[0050] The flosser can be designed in a flat manner and comprise a
flat grip body. Flat means that the height of the flosser or of the
grip body is significantly smaller than the length and width of the
flosser or grip body. The holder with its holder arms e.g. can lie
with the grip body in one plane. Functional elements can also lie
with the grip body in one plane, at least in their passive
position.
[0051] The flosser can also be designed as a volume body. A volume
body means that the width and height of this lie within a similar
magnitude range. The volume body can also be designed as a solid
body or as a hollow body. A volume body designed as a hollow body
can comprise openings to the outside through the body wall.
[0052] Openings through the body can be realised in parts of the
flosser, and these openings permit a significant reduction of the
material expense.
[0053] Parts of the flosser, in particular the grip body can e.g.
comprise (reinforcement) ribs which permit a stable but lightweight
volume body with as little as possible material expense.
[0054] Moreover, it is also possible to create a volume body by way
of folding individual elements of the flosser which e.g. are
designed in a flat manner. Thus for example a volume body
simplifying the handling of the flosser can be created from a flat
base body by way of folding individual elements. A grip body can be
manufactured as a volume body in this manner, in particular by way
of folding and possibly snapping in elements of the flosser again.
For this, the flosser, in particular in the grip body, can for
example comprise a plurality of sheet segments which can be folded
to one another.
[0055] The folding of the elements for example is effected along
predetermined crease locations, which e.g. form film hinges. The
elements or the sheet segments in the folded condition as the case
may be can be connected to one another via connection means, as are
described in the context of the toothpick.
[0056] One can also succeed in the connections means locking into
one another, but being movable, for example guided, in one another,
on account of the folding. No or only a limited movement is
possible in the functional position on account of this, for example
by way of the body being able to be shaped in a flat as well as
voluminous manner.
[0057] The functional elements of a flosser can be arranged next to
one another or over one another, e.g. in the grip body. Certain
parts of the functional elements can have several functions. Thus
the elements of the tongue cleaner, e.g. one or more lamellae or
one or more nubs can form a connection means for a positive and/or
frictional connection between a functional element, such as
toothpick or interdental brush, and the grip body. The functional
element for this is applied over the tongue cleaner which is
provided e.g. in the grip body.
[0058] The two functional elements lie over one another with this.
Generally, the connection elements can lie in the region of another
functionality, for example in the functionality or at the rear side
of the mentioned functionality.
[0059] The interdental space cleaning element according to an
embodiment variant is designed in an integral manner together with
the two holder arms of the flosser. The holder arms and interdental
space cleaning element in particular are integrally manufactured.
Thus the holder arms and the interdental space cleaning element can
be manufactured integrally in one or more injection moulding
methods or injection moulding steps. One can make do without a
feeding and processing-technological integration of dental floss in
this manner, and this reduces the manufacturing effort and
accordingly the manufacturing costs.
[0060] The holder or the holder arms and the interdental space
cleaning element can be manufactured in a single injection moulding
step, wherein the holder or the holder arms and the interdental
space cleaning element can consist of the same or different
materials.
[0061] The holder or the holder arms and the interdental space
cleaning element can also be manufactured in two or more injection
moulding steps, wherein the holder or holder arms and the
interdental space cleaning element can e.g. consist of different
materials.
[0062] Thus the holder or the holder arms and the interdental space
cleaning element can be manufactured in a two-stage injection
moulding method, in particular in a co-injection method described
above.
[0063] Moreover, a first material component can be injected into
the tool cavity which forms the holder or the holder arms as well
as the grip body, in the co-injection method, in a first injection
moulding step.
[0064] The second material component forming the interdental space
cleaning element is injected in a second injection moulding step.
This in particular is effected before the first material component
is completely solidified.
[0065] The second material component in particular flows through
the first material component and thus fills the part of the cavity
which is still free and which forms the interdental space cleaning
element.
[0066] The two material components can be injected into the tool
cavity via a common gating point (co-injection method). The gating
point can lie in the holder arms.
[0067] Thereby, a part of the first material component can be
displaced in the holder arm or holder arms when injecting the
second material component. I.e., the second material component
forming the interdental space cleaning element breaks through in
the region of the holder arms.
[0068] A further application possibility of the co-injection method
lies in the interdental space cleaning element already being
applied into the cavity for the first injection moulding step. A
soft component is then brought into the cavity in a first injection
moulding step. A hard component is incorporated in the second
injection moulding step. One is to succeed in the interdental space
cleaning element being anchored in the hard component by way of a
suitable timing in the method. The flosser in the grip body has a
surface of a soft component which is for a good gripping.
[0069] The holder arms and the interdental space cleaning element
preferably assume a material fit with one another. The material of
the holder arms and of the interdental space cleaning element can
be matched to one another for the purpose of forming an optimal
material fit (adhesive bond), so that the interdental space
cleaning element is not torn away from the holder arm or torn out
of this, on use.
[0070] A positive fit is envisaged at the interface in the case
that this is not possible due to the material selection.
[0071] Thus for example the interdental space cleaning element can
be manufactured in a first step, optionally together with anchoring
interfaces.
[0072] The holder or the holder arms and, as the case may be, also
the grip body can be manufactured in a second step by way of
peripherally injecting the flosser part from the first injection
moulding step.
[0073] The separately manufactured interdental space cleaning
element for example can be a film, for example of plastic. The film
can be a two-component or multi-component film. The film can be a
PET film or contain such. The film can be structured and e.g. have
a surface topography.
[0074] The separately manufactured interdental space cleaning
element can also be a dental floss. Hereby, it is possible for the
first step to be the actual manufacture of a conventionally known
dental floss which e.g. is provided with knots at the end.
[0075] The term fibre body is hereinafter used instead of dental
floss. Fibre body in the present document is to be understood as
follows: [0076] A fibre body is a formation which is thin in
comparison with the length and is flexible, in particular a linear
textile formation which can only accommodate tensile forces in the
longitudinal direction, but no compressive forces, since this bends
in the case of a compression loading; [0077] A fibre body can be
dental floss or a dental thread from or with one or more fibres
(e.g. volume dental floss); [0078] A fibre body can be a textile
formation, such as a woven; [0079] A fibre body can be manufactured
as a single-part body in the injection moulding method, thus
comprise no fibres or be designed as a single fibre, for example
manufactured in the form of a single fibre by way of injection
moulding.
[0080] One can also envisage the interdental space cleaning
element, in particular a fibre body, together with connection
elements arranged laterally of the interdental space cleaning
element, being manufactured in a single-part manner in an injection
moulding method. The flosser with the grip body and holder arms is
preferably likewise manufactured in an injection moulding method
and in particular in a single-part manner. The holder arms and
connection elements comprise connection interfaces which permit the
interdental space cleaning element to be connected to the holder
arms via the connection elements by way of a positive and/or
non-positive connection, e.g. a click or snap connection. A
material connection such as bonding or welding as well as a
material fit by way of peripheral injecting the interface which is
to say injecting around the interface, are likewise possible.
[0081] The interdental space cleaning element can be manufactured
of a soft component or a combination of soft and hard component.
The interdental space cleaning element can e.g. be manufactured by
way of core-back technology.
[0082] The interdental space cleaning element is designed at least
in sections as a fibre body. The interdental space cleaning element
can also be designed as a fibre body in a continuous manner between
both holder arms.
[0083] The outer diameter of the fibre body can be 0.08 to 0.3 mm,
preferably 0.1 mm to 0.25 mm, if it is manufactured in the
injection moulding method. The diameter of fibre bodies of
conventional, known dental floss corresponds to the diameter of
common dental floss.
[0084] The cross section of the fibre body can be round, such as
for example be circular or oval, or also polygonal, for example
rectangular or triangular. Several cross-sectional shapes can be
combined and thus form a cross section. The cross section can be
designed in a symmetrical as well as asymmetrical manner. The outer
contour of the cross section is preferably closed.
[0085] The cross section can change over the length of the fibre
body and form a cross-sectional course. Thus the cross section at
the ends for example can be larger than in the middle section. The
cross section can also have a wave-like cross-sectional profile
increasing and reducing over the length.
[0086] A different cross-sectional profiling accordingly entails a
correspondingly changing longitudinal profiling, which can again be
designed in a wave-like, straight-lined or other manner dependent
on cross section.
[0087] The interdental space cleaning element can comprise cleaning
elements, such as bristles, nubs or lamellae which project radially
from a central base body or fibre body. The cleaning elements can
be arranged e.g. annularly, over the whole periphery, thus
360.degree. (angle degrees) or over one or more part peripheries of
the base body. The lamellae can surround the base body as a
lamellae ring or in a spiral-shaped manner.
[0088] The interdental space cleaning element or its central base
body can moreover be provided with a special surface. The surface
can be designed for example as a texture such as a serration,
erosion structure, alternating smooth/polished surface and
roughened surface or also in a combination of the above mentioned
possibilities.
[0089] The exit location of the interdental space cleaning element
out of the holder arms is a key location in the case of the
interdental space cleaning element being manufactured by way of
injection moulding or being anchored in the holder arms by way of
injection moulding. This transition is preferably not designed in a
sharp-edged manner and is provided with generous transition radii.
A funnel-like narrowing away from the holder arms in each case is
also possible.
[0090] The cleaning elements can be arranged between the two holder
arms, in sections or over the complete longitudinal extension of
the interdental space cleaning element. Cleaning elements can also
be provided in sections, as well as a fibre body in sections,
between the two holder arms. Thus for example cleaning elements can
be provided only in a middle region of the interdental space
cleaning element.
[0091] The cleaning elements can be integrally formed with the base
body or fibre body. Thus the holder arms, cleaning elements and
base body can be integrally manufactured in an injection moulding
method.
[0092] The interdental space cleaning element can also be designed
as a separate component which is connected to the holder arms
within the framework of the manufacturing process, e.g. in the
injection moulding method, or a mechanical assembly step. According
to this embodiment, the interdental space cleaning element can also
be designed as a fibre body in the form of a dental thread which
consist of one or a plurality of fibres, e.g. plastic fibres. Such
interdental space cleaning elements for cleaning interdental spaces
are also known under the term dental floss.
[0093] The fibre body with its end sections can be integrated into
the holder arms in an injection moulding method. Anchoring elements
which are designed for example in a spherical or cylindrical manner
can be provided in the end sections of the dental floss, for
anchoring the dental floss in the holder arms during the
manufacture of these. The anchoring elements can be injected onto
the fibre body in an injection moulding method. The anchoring
elements can also be knots which are incorporated into the fibre
body, in particular into the dental floss.
[0094] Moreover, it is also possible for the connection elements to
be laterally attached onto the interdental space cleaning element,
e.g. on a fibre body, such as dental floss. These e.g. can be
injected on with an injection moulding method. The connection
elements and the holder arms of the flosser comprise connection
interfaces for creating a positive and/or non-positive or material
connection. The interdental space cleaning element then in a
mechanical assembly step can be connected to the holder arms via
the connection elements by way of a positive and/or non-positive
connection or also a material connection.
[0095] The interdental space cleaning element, in particular the
fibre body can be pretensioned or non-tensioned, between the holder
arms. On fashioning (shape) the flosser for example, one can make
sure that the holder arms exert a (tensile) stress, which is to say
tension, upon the fibre body after the solidification of the
plastic mass and the shrinkage resulting therefrom, independently
of the type of the fibre body.
[0096] The connection locations between the holder arms and the
interdental space cleaning element are preferably arranged at the
outermost end of the holder arm.
[0097] The interdental space cleaning element and the end points of
the holder arms preferably lie on a line, in particular in the case
in which the interdental space cleaning element is injection
moulded. The holder arms in particular do not form end sections
going beyond the interdental space cleaning element.
[0098] A distance can also be formed between the outermost end or
between the free end of the holder arm, and the connection
location. The distance from the outermost, free end of the holder
arm to the connection location of the interdental space cleaning
element, in particular of the fibre body can e.g. be 1 to 3 mm and
in particular 1 to 2.5 mm.
[0099] These dimensions are preferably only valid in variants, in
which the outer end of the holder arms are not manufactured with
the interdental space cleaning element in the same step, since
sufficient volume of the holder arms must be present around the
connection location, in order to create an optimal connection.
[0100] The connection location to the holder arm preferably lies on
the middle plane which goes through the holder arms.
[0101] Moreover, several interdental space cleaning elements, in
particular fibre bodies, which are arranged at a distance to one
another, can be provided. The interdental space cleaning elements
in each case form connection locations to the holder arms, said
locations being distanced to one another along the holder arms.
[0102] Thus two, three or more than three interdental space
cleaning elements can be provided.
[0103] The interdental space cleaning elements can be arranged
parallel to one another. The interdental space cleaning elements
can be arranged in a crossing manner. The interdental space
cleaning elements can be arranged running at an angle to one
another.
[0104] The distance between the interdental space cleaning elements
or between their connection locations can be 0.5 to 3 mm,
preferably 1 to 2 mm.
[0105] The several interdental space cleaning elements can be
arranged on a line along the holder arms. The several interdental
space cleaning elements can be arranged in a plane.
[0106] The interdental space cleaning elements, considered
transversely to the holder arms, can be arranged laterally offset
to one another and as a result not in a common plane, in particular
of three or more of these are provided. The connection locations on
the holder arm accordingly do not lie in a line.
[0107] The interdental space cleaning elements can be designed in
the same or in a different manner. Thus a first, outer interdental
space cleaning element can be designed as a film of a PTFE, and a
second, inner interdental space cleaning element as a volume dental
floss. The first interdental space cleaning element assists the
simplified penetration into the interdental space. Both interdental
space cleaning elements together serve for cleaning the interdental
space.
[0108] The interdental space cleaning element which is manufactured
in the injection moulding method can consist of hard material
and/or soft material or a mixture of hard and soft material. An
application of material which is used for the manufacture of
injected bristles is also possible.
[0109] The distance between the holder arms or the length of the
interdental space cleaning element is between 10 and 25 mm,
preferably between 12 and 18 mm.
[0110] According to this further embodiment variant, the holder
comprises at least one damping element. This can be important if
the holder and in particular the holder arms are manufactured from
a hard component. As explained hereinafter, the damping element
serves for reducing knocks or impacts on the gums and teeth caused
by the flosser during its use.
[0111] The damping element preferably has elastic characteristics.
The elastic characteristics can be created by way of the material
and/or by way of the shaping.
[0112] The damping element can consist of a soft component or
comprise this. This is particularly the case if the elastic
characteristics of the damping element are created by way of the
material.
[0113] The damping element can be designed as a solid body, in
particular if the elastic characteristics are created by way of the
material.
[0114] The damping element can consist of a hard component or
comprise this. This is particularly the case of the elastic
characteristics of the damping element are created by way of the
shaping.
[0115] Elastic characteristics due to the shaping are achieved for
example by way of the design of the damping element as a hollow
body, or by way of a design similar to an accordion. A hollow body
comprise elastic walls for example. The damping element can
moreover also be designed as an elongate element of a comparatively
small diameter. The damping element can e.g. be designed as a
bow.
[0116] The damping element can be shaped with a geometry which is
inherently closed, half open or open.
[0117] The damping element can be integrally formed with the arms
or the bow section. The damping element and the arms or bow section
can be integrally manufactured in an injection moulding method. The
manufacture of the flosser with a damping element can e.g. be
effected in a multi-component injection moulding method.
[0118] The damping element for example can be injected onto the
holder in a separate injection moulding step, in a multi-stage
injection moulding method.
[0119] According to a first aspect, a damping element is arranged
between the two arms and at a distance to the interdental space
cleaning element in the direction of the grip body. The damping
element with its damping section is directed to the interdental
space cleaning element. The damping element in particular can be
arranged in the bow section which connects the holder arms to one
another, or can form this bow section.
[0120] The damping element serves as a protection from injuries
caused by the element of the flosser which is manufactured of a
hard component, with a sudden penetration of the interdental space
cleaning element into the interdental space, or also as a
protection from too deep a penetration of the interdental space
cleaning element into the interdental space which is to say into
the gums.
[0121] The damping element can e.g. be designed concavely or
convexly towards the interdental space cleaning element.
[0122] The damping element can also be designed as an elastically
deformable bow which is arranged in the bow section and extends
between the holder arms. The bow e.g. can be designed in a flat
manner. In this case, the damping material can also consist of a
hard component. The bow is preferably designed in a convex manner.
It is also possible for the damping element to be designed in a
wave-like, holed, lamella-like manner, etc.
[0123] The damping element can also be arranged on a connection web
connecting the arms to one another, in the transition to the grip
body, or form this.
[0124] According to a second aspect, the damping element is
arranged on the holder arm at the inner side and/or at the outer
side. The damping element departing from the bow section can extend
up to the connection locations of the interdental space cleaning
element on the holder arms. "At the inner side" means that the
damping element is directed towards the interdental space cleaning
element.
[0125] The damping element in particular damps impacts of the
flosser against teeth and gums as can occur when moving the flosser
to and fro.
[0126] According to a particular embodiment, the interdental space
cleaning element preferably leads through the damping element, at
the connection location of this interdental space cleaning element
to the holder arm. I.e. the damping element is arranged around the
connection location of the interdental space cleaning element. The
interdental space cleaning element can also be connected to the
damping element, and in particular it can be integrally
connected.
[0127] The diameter of the damping element can e.g. be 1 to 6 mm,
preferably 2 to 4 mm. The diameter preferably reduces departing
from the holder arm, in the direction of the opposite holder
arm.
[0128] The length of the damping element in the direction of the
interdental space cleaning element for example is 1 to 4 mm,
preferably 2 to 3 mm.
[0129] The damping element for example can be arranged around the
interdental space cleaning element in a rotationally symmetrical
manner. The damping element can also have a shape adapted to dental
geometry.
[0130] The damping element can be designed as a hollow body or as a
solid body, and a shaping in the manner of an accordion is
particularly possible.
[0131] The damping element can be fixed on the respective holder
arm, for example injected on, bonded on or mechanically locked. The
damping element can moreover also be arranged in a loose manner,
i.e. in a manner movable in the longitudinal direction of the
interdental space cleaning element.
[0132] According to a third aspect, the damping element is arranged
on the end section of the holder arms. Knocks caused by the ends of
the holder hitting the teeth and gums are damped by way of this.
The damping element can e.g. be arranged in a cap-like manner over
the end section. The end section can be coated with a soft
component.
[0133] The length of the coating in the direction of the holder
arms can e.g. be 1 to 5 mm, preferably 1 to 3.5 mm. The layer
thickness can e.g. be 0.1 to 1.5 mm, in particular 0.3 to 1 mm.
[0134] According to a fourth aspect, the damping element is
arranged in an arched manner along the inner bow formed by the bow
section and the holder arms, i.e. along the bow section and the
holder arms. The damping element can further extend around the end
sections of the holder arms to their outer sides and cover the end
surfaces of the holder arms.
[0135] The damping element in particular is designed as a type of
lip.
[0136] According to a first variant, the damping element is
fastened on the bow section and the holder arms, in particular
fastened in a continuous manner.
[0137] According to a second variant, the damping element is
designed as an exposed, lip-like element along the inner bow. Thus
the damping element can be fastened e.g. only with its end
sections, onto the holder arms on the outer side of these and in
the region of their end sections.
[0138] Intermediate forms between the first and second variant are
also possible by way of the damping element e.g. being fastened on
the inner bow in a pointwise manner or in sections, and being
designed in an exposed manner in sections.
[0139] Damping elements according to the first, second, third,
fourth and fifth aspect can be infinitely combined with one
another.
[0140] The flosser can moreover comprise a tensioning element for
tensioning the interdental space cleaning element, in particular
the fibre body. The tensioning element can be a finger rest on one
of the holder rms. The tensioning of the interdental space cleaning
element is effected by way of the application of pressure onto the
finger rest by a finger.
[0141] The holder arm which is applied for tensioning preferably
comprises an elastic zone, so that this is suitably elastically
bendable for tensioning the interdental space cleaning element.
This e.g. can be a tapering in the holder arm, or an arm section
from or with a soft component.
[0142] The tensioning element is preferably arranged on the holder
arm which is arranged on the grip body side.
[0143] According to a further embodiment variant, the flosser in
the grip body comprises at least one or more further functional
element for oral hygiene. The further functional element or
elements are preferably integrally formed with the grip body. The
further functional element or elements in particular are integrally
manufactured with the grip body in an injection moulding method.
Accordingly, it can consist of the same material component as the
grip.
[0144] The further functional element can consist of or comprise a
material component such as e.g. a soft component, which is
different with respect to the grip body.
[0145] Moreover, it is also possible for the functional element to
be manufactured from the same material component as the grip body,
but in a separate injection moulding step. A different colour for
example can be realised in the manner, or other additives can be
admixed to the material component.
[0146] The further functional element can be bent away out of the
grip body and angled away from this via a hinge which is integrated
between the grip body and the functional element. Moreover, it is
also possible for the hinge to be arranged in the grip body, and a
part of the grip body to be able to be pivoted away via the hinge,
by which means the functional element is released from the grip
body. The hinge for example can be a film hinge.
[0147] The pivot angle can be infinite and is fixed by the
geometric constraints. The pivot angle in particular can be 30, 60,
90, 120, 150 and 180 degrees.
[0148] The further functional element can comprise a first
connection means. Preferably, a second connection means is also
arranged on the grip body. The connection means are designed for
forming a releasable or non-releasable connection between the
functional element and the grip body in the pivoted-out condition
of the functional element when this is in its functional
position.
[0149] A possible design of the connection means mentioned above is
hereinafter disclosed of example in the context of the toothpick.
The connection means can be applied to different functional
elements such as toothpicks, tongue cleaners, polishing elements,
mirrors, interdental brushes etc.
[0150] A predetermined breaking location can also be provided
instead of a hinge, via which predetermined breaking location the
functional element can be broken away from the grip body and be
used as a separated part.
[0151] Moreover, a connection element can be provided on the grip
body, and this element permits the functional element which is
broken away from the grip body to be assembled or fastened on this
again. This can be accomplished by way of a positive-fit
connection, such as a detent connection for example.
[0152] The further functional element for example can be a
toothpick. The toothpick can be attached on the flosser in a fixed
manner or, as already described, can be folded out of the flosser
or be separated from the flosser.
[0153] The toothpick comprises a cleaning tip at its free end.
[0154] The flosser can comprise a cover cap for covering the
cleaning tip or the toothpick. The cover cap can be stuck on the
toothpick or the cleaning tip. The cover cap can be manufactured in
the injection moulding method. The cover cap can be manufactured
from a different plastic material than the toothpick.
[0155] The cover cap in particular can be manufactured of a
material which does not connect to the material of the toothpick.
The manufacture of the cover cap can thus be effected in the same
injection moulding method as the toothpick.
[0156] The cover cap itself can form a functional element. This
functional element can be a brush such as a twisted brush, or a
mini toothbrush. The toothpick thereby serves as a basic structure
for the functional element. The cover cap is stuck on for the
application of the functional element on the cover cap. The
toothpick in particular is not pivotably mounted according to this
embodiment variant.
[0157] The cross-sectional shape of the toothpick can be round,
such as circular or oval, or polygonal, such a rectangular or
triangular. The toothpick can be designed in a flat manner, with
two flat sides lying opposite one another and two narrow side edges
lying opposite one another.
[0158] The cross section of the toothpick can reduce from the exit
point towards the cleaning tip and run into a tip or point. The
cross section can moreover also be shaped in a constant manner over
the length and taper to a point in an end section.
[0159] The surface of the toothpick can be smooth or rough. The
surface can comprise a texture and e.g. be serrated or have a
different roughness pattern, such as an erosion structure. The
toothpick can also comprise projecting elements, for example in the
form of geometric figures such as crosses or lines.
[0160] The toothpick can be straight-lined or arcuate, e.g.
designed in a sickle-shaped manner. Straight-lined means that the
cleaning tip lies in the longitudinal axis of the toothpick.
[0161] The toothpick can be pivoted from a passive position into a
functional position, away from the grip body and in particular out
of its plane and be angled away from this, via a hinge which is
arranged between the grip body and the toothpick. A predetermined
breaking location, via which the toothpick can be broken away from
the grip body, can also be provided instead of a hinge.
[0162] The toothpick in the passive position can lie in the plane
of the grip body.
[0163] The toothpick or generally the functional elements can be
pivoted in different directions. The toothpick for example can be
placed over the interdental space cleaning element or also onto the
side which is opposite to the interdental space cleaning
element.
[0164] The toothpick, departing from the hinge or from the
predetermined breaking location preferably forms side edges which
taper to one another into a tip/point. The toothpick can moreover
form an upper and a lower base surface, between the side edges. The
base surfaces of the toothpick for example are arranged parallel to
the plane of the grip body.
[0165] According to a preferred further development of this aspect
of the invention, at least the tip of the toothpick and preferably
the whole toothpick is surrounded along the side edges at least
partly, preferably completely, by the grip body, in the passive
position. The grip body or parts thereof form a protection for the
toothpick, in particular for the cleaning tip.
[0166] The toothpick and in particular the tip of the toothpick, in
the pivoted-out condition, i.e. in the functional position, is
preferably pivoted out of the plane of the grip body and in
particular projects away from this. The cleaning tip of the
toothpick points away from the grip body. The toothpick in its
functional position can still lie in the plane of the grip body or
form an angle to this.
[0167] The grip body for example can form an intermediate space.
The grip body for example can comprise a first arm and a second arm
which enclose the intermediate space. The arms for example are
connected to one another in the end section of the grip body which
is remote from the holder. The arms can also be the continuation of
the holder arms.
[0168] The toothpick can then be arranged in the mentioned
intermediate space in its passive position and be connected to the
grip body via the hinge or the predetermined breakage location. The
hinge or the predetermined breaking location can be arranged on the
end section of the grip body which is remote from the holder, or on
one of the arms or on a connection web between the two arms. The
connection web for example can be arranged towards the holder.
[0169] The toothpick can also be arranged laterally on the grip
body, so that the one side edge of the toothpick is directed
towards the grip body and the other side end of the toothpick forms
a section of the outer contour of the grip body.
[0170] A first connection means can be arranged on the toothpick,
and a second connection means on the grip body. The connection
means are designed for forming a releasable or non-releasable
connection between the toothpick and the grip body in the
pivoted-out condition of the toothpick, when this is in the
functional position. The toothpick is held in the functional
position by way of the described connection.
[0171] The connection means in particular are designed for forming
a frictional and/or positive connection. The connection means e.g.
can be designed for creating a snap connection or detent connection
and comprise suitable detent or snap means.
[0172] Thus the one connection means can comprise a recesses or an
opening, such as a pocket hole or through-hole, and the other
connection means a prominence, e.g. nub or pin. The prominence
engages into the recess or into the opening with a positive fit on
reaching the functional position, when pivoting out the toothpick.
The connection e.g. is created by a click effect.
[0173] The toothpick can also be broken way from the grip body via
a predetermined breaking location and be put together again with
the grip body in the functional position via the mentioned
connection means, instead of pivoting out via a hinge.
[0174] The nub and recess or opening can be designed in a
cylinder-shaped manner. The nub can have a rounding at the end
side. The nub can also be designed as a hemisphere. The nub can be
designed conically. I.e. the diameter at the free end is smaller
than the diameter at the attachment. The nub can also be designed
conically only towards the end section. The height of the conically
designed end section is e.g. maximal 50% of the total height.
[0175] The recess or the opening can have a diameter of 0.5 to 2
mm, preferably 0.8 to 1.5 mm. The nub can have a diameter of 0.5 to
2 mm, preferably 0.8 to 1.5 mm. The nub can have a height of 0.8 to
3 mm, preferably from 1.2 to 1.8 mm.
[0176] Preferably, a clamping or locking-in (detent) takes place
with the interaction of the two elements of the recess and nub. The
clamping is produced by an overdimension, which is to say that the
two elements "overlap". The overlapping is 0.005 to 0.2 mm,
preferably from 0.01 to 0.06 mm. A detent locking can be achieved
by way of geometric undercuts and corresponding projections on the
counter-element.
[0177] One can also envisage the hinge or the predetermined
breaking location being arranged in the grip body, and one or more
parts of the grip body, hereinafter protective parts, being able to
be pivoted away or broken away via the hinge and the predetermined
breaking location respectively, by which means the toothpick is
released. The mentioned protective parts form a protection for the
toothpick in its passive position.
[0178] The protection in the functional position can be fixed by
one or more connection means, but it can also be designed without
fixation. The same applies to the toothpick which is bent into the
functional position.
[0179] The protective parts themselves can comprise a functional
element such as tongue cleaner.
[0180] The grip body at least in regions can be designed in an at
least two-layered manner. The one layer forms a functional element
such as toothpick which in the described manner can be pivoted out
of the grip body via a hinge, or can be broken away from the grip
body via a predetermined breaking location.
[0181] A protective cap which can be removed for use can be
arranged over the toothpick, in particular over the cleaning tip.
The protective cap is preferably stuck on via a positive and/or
friction connection. The protective cap can be of a soft component,
for example with elastic characteristics and which jams on the
toothpick. The protective cap can also be of a hard component.
[0182] The protective cap is preferably manufactured in a
multi-component injection moulding method, in order to avoid an
additional assembly step on manufacture, wherein the plastics of
the protective cap and of the toothpick or its surface are
preferably non-connecting.
[0183] The toothpick can further be provided with a soft surface,
and the core consists of a hard material and the surface of soft
material. The hard material and soft material in this case have a
material fit.
[0184] If present, the various zones (toothpick, tongue cleaner,
damping element, grip surfaces, bristle body, polishing body etc.)
consisting of soft material are preferably created on the flosser
in the same manufacturing step by way of a gating point.
[0185] The flosser as a further functional element can comprise a
tongue cleaner. The tongue cleaner can for example comprise one or
more equal or differently designed cleaning elements.
[0186] The tongue cleaner or its cleaning elements can be arranged
in the grip body, in particular in its end section which is remote
from the holder.
[0187] The tongue cleaner or its cleaning elements can be arranged
on one or more receiving elements which are integrally formed on
the grip body. The receiving element can be part of the grip
body.
[0188] The receiving element can e.g. be a spring arm which on use
provides a certain elasticity. The elasticity in this case for
example can also be realised by locations on the spring arms, and
these locations are realised as material weakenings.
[0189] The receiving element can e.g. be pivoted out of the grip
body from a passive position into a functional position via a
hinge, in particular a film hinge. The receiving element can also
be broken way from the grip body via a predetermined breaking
location.
[0190] The spring arms are preferably U-shaped contours which are
closed. A realisation of spring arms which are not closed is
possible, but such a design is not optimal for oral hygiene due to
the risk of injury by way of piercing.
[0191] The mentioned spring elements for example permit the
realisation of different cleaning elements on different spring arms
and thus of a tongue cleaner constructed with spring arms. Such a
construction for example would be possible by way of several
U-shaped spring arms which lie in one another. The cross section of
the individual spring arm can change over the length, for example
from the spring arm profile to the scraper edge profile.
[0192] The tongue cleaner or its cleaning element can also be
arranged on the holder or on its holder arms, on the bow section,
on the toothpick or on another functional element.
[0193] Thus the tongue cleaner or its projecting cleaning elements,
such as nubs or lamellae, can be arranged on the outer side of the
holder arm. The cleaning elements can e.g. be arranged on the
holder arm in a row next to one another. The cleaning of the tongue
is effected in a movement direction transversely to the
longitudinal direction of the flosser.
[0194] The cleaning elements can be arranged and aligned such that
the cleaning movement can be carried out transversely to the
longitudinal axis of the grip body or in the longitudinal axis of
the grip body.
[0195] The cleaning element can e.g. be a lamella. The lamella can
e.g. be arranged in the longitudinal axis of the grip body,
transversely thereto or at an angle to the longitudinal axis. The
lamella can comprise an end-edge. The lamella e.g. is flexibly,
i.e. compliantly designed. The lamella in particular can have
elastic characteristics. The lamella or the previously described
spring arm can be manufactured from a soft component or a
combination of a soft component and hard component.
[0196] Thus the lamella e.g. can comprise a support body of a hard
component and on the support body can comprise a cleaning part of a
soft component.
[0197] The lamella can have a width of 0.25 to 1.2 mm, preferably
from 0.6 to 0.9 mm. The lamella can have a height of 0.4 to 3 mm,
preferably from 1 to 2 mm. The lamella can have a length of 0.5 to
2.5 cm, preferably from 1.5 to 2 cm.
[0198] The tongue cleaner can comprise several lamellae, which are
e.g. arranged successively in a row. The lamellae can also form a
lamellae field. The lamellae can be of the same type or be
different with regard to the geometry and/or material. Thus soft
and hard lamellae can alternate.
[0199] An individually standing lamella which is set apart from the
rest of the tongue cleaner is also called a scraper edge. Scraper
edges are manufactured of hard material or of a combination of hard
material and soft material, preferably of hard material.
[0200] The cleaning element can also be a nub. A nub is to be
understood as a bump-like, conical or ball-like prominence on a
surface.
[0201] The nub e.g. is designed in a flexible, i.e. compliant
manner. The nub in particular can have elastic characteristics. The
nub can be manufactured from a soft component, a hard component or
a combination of hard and soft component.
[0202] Thus the nub can e.g. comprise a support body of a hard
component, and a cleaning part of a soft component which is on the
support body.
[0203] The nub can have a diameter of 0.25 to 1.2 mm, preferably
0.6 to 0.9 mm. The nub can have a height of 0.25 to 0.6 mm,
preferably from 0.3 to 0.45 mm.
[0204] The tongue cleaner can comprise several nubs, which are
arranged one after the other in a row or next to one another in a
line. The nubs can moreover form a nub field.
[0205] Nubs and/or lamellae and/or scraper edges can be
manufactured integrally with the flosser or with the grip body in
an injection moulding method, in particular in a multi-component
injection moulding method.
[0206] The cleaning element can also comprise a bristle body. The
bristle body comprises a plurality of bristles. The bristles can be
integrally manufactured with the flosser, i.e. injected, in an
injection moulding method.
[0207] The diameter of an individual bristle is e.g. 0.25 to 1.2
mm, preferably 0.6 to 0.9 mm. The length of an individual bristle
is e.g. 1.5 to 4 mm, preferably 2 to 3 mm.
[0208] The cross-sectional contour of the individual bristles can
e.g. be closed or open. The bristle can also be designed as a
hollow body. The cross-sectional contour however should be capable
of being injection moulded.
[0209] The individual bristle can comprise a closure cap. This can
be designed in a polygonal or round manner. The bristle body can
contain individual rows of bristles. The bristle body can also
comprise a bristle field.
[0210] Combinations of different cleaning elements such as
lamellae, bristle bodies and nubs, are also possible. Thus nubs and
lamellae can alternate with one another. The lamellae and bristle
bodies can also alternate with one another.
[0211] The flosser can comprise a polishing element as a further
functional element. The polishing element serves for polishing
surfaces of the teeth, in order e.g. to free these from
deposits.
[0212] The polishing surface preferably consists of a soft
component. The polishing element can be a solid body, e.g. of a
soft component. The polishing element can also be a base body, e.g.
of a hard component, and a polishing part, e.g. of a soft
component, which is arranged on the base body. Furthermore, it is
possible to design the polishing element as a spherically shaped
membrane of a soft component, wherein the membrane is fixed on a
frame of a hard component. The soft component preferably has
elastic characteristics.
[0213] The polishing part can also be designed as a membrane of a
soft component, wherein the membrane is fixed on a frame of a hard
component forming a part of the base body. The membrane is
preferably designed in an elastic manner.
[0214] The polishing element can be arranged in the end section of
the grip body which is remoter from the holder.
[0215] The polishing element can form a polishing surface which is
arranged in an elevated or raised manner with respect to the grip
body. The polishing element for example can be designed in a
bump-like manner.
[0216] The polishing element can have a diameter of 3 to 15 mm,
preferably 4 to 8 mm. The polishing element can have a height of 1
to 5 mm, preferably from 2 to 3 mm. A polishing part which is
designed as a membrane can have a thickness of 0.3 to 1.2 mm,
preferably from 0.5 to 0.8 mm.
[0217] The flosser can also comprise a mirror as a further
functional element. The mirror, analogously to the toothpick can be
folded out via a hinge or be separable from the flosser via a
predetermined breaking location. The disclosure with respect to
this is referred to.
[0218] The mirror can be integrated into the flosser as an insert,
in the injection moulding method.
[0219] The flosser as a further function element can comprise a
mini toothbrush, in particular a disposable toothbrush, with a
bristle field. The bristles in particular are injected in the
injection moulding method. The mini toothbrush can be folded out
via a hinge, such as a film hinge. The mini toothbrush can be
separable from the flosser e.g. via a predetermined breaking
location.
[0220] The flosser as a further functional element can comprise an
interdental brush. The interdental brush can be attached on the
grip body and, analogously to the toothpick, for example via a
hinge is pivotable or foldable out of the grip body from a passive
position into a functional position. The interdental brush can also
be broken away from the grip body also via a predetermined breaking
location. The grip body or parts thereof, analogously to the
toothpick, can form a protection for the interdental brush in the
passive position.
[0221] The interdental brush can also be integrated into the
interdental space cleaning element which is arranged between the
holder arms and is held by these. The interdental space cleaning
element comprises the bristles as described above for this.
[0222] The interdental brush comprises a plurality of bristles. The
bristles or the interdental brush can be injected in an injection
moulding method and be an integral part of the flosser.
[0223] The interdental brush can also be arranged as a so-called
single tuft and be attached on the flosser by way of a tufting
method.
[0224] The interdental brush can also be a brush which is twisted
in.
[0225] The interdental brush can comprise a base body, such as e.g.
a rod-like element, from which the bristles lead away. The bristles
can be aligned in the plane of the base body.
[0226] The flosser as a further functional element can comprise a
suction cup. The suction cup can be attached on the grip body. The
suction cup serves for fastening the flosser on a surface. The
flosser can thus be hung on a bathroom mirror or be securely placed
in a standing manner on a surface, by way of the suction cup.
[0227] The flosser as a further functional element can comprise a
foot element or a support element for supporting the flosser on a
surface. The foot or the support element can be attached on the
grip body.
[0228] The foot can be folded out, e.g. via a film hinge. The foot
can also be separable from the flosser, e.g. via predetermined
breaking location, and can be fastened onto the flosser via a
positive connection, e.g. plug-in connection, for carrying out its
function.
[0229] The support element can e.g. be designed as a stand. The
stand e.g. can be folded out. The stand e.g. with the flosser can
form a tripod. The stand can be folded out via a film hinge,
analogously to the toothpick. The description with regard to this
is referred to.
[0230] The foot or the support element permits the flosser to be
set up for drying, The suction cup or the foot element or a support
element can be integrally manufactured together with the flosser or
the grip body in an injection moulding method, in particular in a
multi-component injection moulding method.
[0231] The flosser can comprise one or more functional elements for
dispensing at least one active substance. The at least one active
substance, e.g. together with a suitable carrier material forms the
functional element.
[0232] The functional element for example can be an active body, in
particular an active bead. The active body can be a solid body.
[0233] The active bead can e.g. comprise a mouthwash or a
tooth-cleaning substance.
[0234] An "active bead" in this description is to be understood as
a round body with an active substance.
[0235] The active substance, in particular together with a carrier
material can be present in a granular, powdery, fluid, pasty or
gel-like form. The active substance of the functional element for
example can be water-soluble.
[0236] The active substance can serve for cleaning, disinfection,
for flavouring and/or for perfuming in the context of oral hygiene.
The activate substance can also serve for indicating the successive
of cleaning. The active substance can also serve for bleaching the
teeth.
[0237] For this reason, the following types of active substances
can be differentiated: [0238] Active substances for cleaning teeth.
These can develop an effect similar to toothpaste. The active
substances can be: sorbitol, aromas, hydrated silica, sodium lauryl
sulphate, sodium monoflourophosphate, creatine, zinc sulphate,
tricolsan, glycerine, sodium saccharine, propylene glycol, disodium
phosphate, alumina, trisodium phosphate, sodium fluoride, betaine,
titanium dioxide, cellulose gum, tetrasodium pyrophosphate, etc.;
[0239] Active substances with an antibacterial effect: The active
substances can be: sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, phosphoric
acid, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, sodium perborate,
sodium hexametaphosphate, sodium benzoate, sodium stearate, etc.;
[0240] Active substances for indicating the success of cleaning,
e.g. by colouring the plaque on the tooth surface. The active
substances can be: glucose, maltodextrin, magnesium sterate, aroma,
saccharin, microcrystalline cellulose, etc.; [0241] active
substances with additional active ingredients, which assist the
previously mentioned effects; [0242] active substances for
bleaching/whitening the teeth. The active substances can contain
hydrogen peroxide.
[0243] The cleaning substance in cooperation with conventional
cleaning means, in particular toothpastes, can also acts as a
two-component system. A chemical or physical reaction arises when
the active substances come together. This system in particular is
envisaged for active substances which cannot be integrated together
into a cleaning means, such as toothpaste, since they would
otherwise directly react with one another.
[0244] The functional element can comprise one or more different
active substances. The functional element can comprise several
active substances which are released one after the other in a
temporal sequence and thus develop different active phases.
[0245] The functional element for this purpose can be an active
body in the form of a solid body which comprises several shells or
layers, in each case with different active substances, wherein one
shell or layer after the other is broken down (decomposed) over the
course of time.
[0246] The active body can comprise a shell and a fluid or powdery
or grainy core, which is released after the breakdown of the
shell.
[0247] The functional element with its release region for active
substances in particular is arranged in the proximity of cleaning
elements, such as bristles and/or soft elastic elements, and these
have the effect that the active substances develop their optimal
effect in interaction with the mechanical movements of the cleaning
elements.
[0248] Moreover, the cleaning elements can be designed such that
the functional element for active substances is part of the
cleaning element.
[0249] The cleaning elements can be adapted to the characteristics
of the active substances, in order to achieve optimal results. For
example: [0250] with mini toothbrushes, abrasive active substances
in combination with short bristles for surface cleaning with a
"whitening" effect; [0251] antibacterial active substances for deep
cleaning in combination with longer interdental bristles; [0252]
skin-care active substances in combination with rubber-elastic
polishing elements, massage elements or cleaning elements for
revitalising gums, oral cavity or tongue.
[0253] The active body is e.g. attached on the flosser. The active
body can e.g. be arranged in a recess in the flosser, e.g. in a
deepening in the holder arm.
[0254] The functional element, in particular active body can be
arranged on a tongue cleaner, on a polishing element, on a
toothpick, on an interdental brush, on a mini toothbrush, on the
holder arms, on the interdental space cleaning element, on the
damping element or directly on the grip body.
[0255] The mini toothbrush in particular in the region of the
bristle field can comprise an active body, in particular an active
bead, with a cleaning-effective active substance.
[0256] Thus the active substance can have e.g. an antibacterial
effect in the brush head of an interdental brush or a mini
toothbrush.
[0257] The functional element can also be attached as a coating,
i.e. by spraying on, immersing, brushing, vapour deposition, etc.
The functional element can be attached in an injection moulding
procedure. The functional element can also be attached by way of
bonding, e.g. as a label. The functional element can also be
assembled or attached in an undercut. The functional element can
also be attached by a positive-fit connection, such as a rivet
connection.
[0258] Materials having an active ingredient often do not assume a
material connection with other plastics, so that a mechanical
connection, in particular by a positive fit becomes necessary in
these cases.
[0259] The active substance for example can be a mouthwash,
toothpaste or a tooth cleaning extract.
[0260] It is moreover possible to integrate this functionality in
another functional element. The functional element with the active
substance can thus be attached on a tongue cleaner or a polishing
element, and specifically on a side which lies opposite to the
cleaning-effective or polishing-effective side.
[0261] The flosser can comprise a sensor element as a further
functional element. The sensor element can be attached on the grip
body. The sensor element for this can be designed to detect certain
parameters such as halitosis, pH-value or bacteria. The sensor
element can be attached on the flosser as a sensor strip.
[0262] The grip body can form special grip surfaces, in particular
grip recesses, for improving the grip. These are characterised by a
special structuring or texture of the surface (roughness pattern)
and/or by a special material selection (bonding characteristics).
The grip surface can therefore comprise grooves, lamellae or nubs.
Writing or logos (raised or sunk in the body) can also be
incorporated into this structure and these of course also serve for
an improved gripping.
[0263] The material can also have good adhesion characteristics.
Such adhesion characteristics are achieved e.g. with the use of a
soft component or a rubber-like material. Thus in particular the
grip body can comprise a thumb grip. The surface of the thumb grip,
i.e. the grip surfaces, can be designed as described above and e.g.
be of a soft component or comprise these.
[0264] The cleaning elements such as nubs and lamellae can moreover
form grip surfaces for the fingers, in particular for the thumb.
Thus for example the tongue cleaner can also serve as a thumb
grip.
[0265] The grip body moreover can comprise openings or recesses for
the purpose of saving material and or optimising the weight.
[0266] The flosser can moreover comprise means for tensioning the
interdental space cleaning element. These means, which are
described hereinafter by way of two embodiments, can be applied to
any flossers.
[0267] The interdental space cleaning element, in particular a
dental floss, often loses a pretensioning incorporated before and
during the injection moulding step, due to the cooling and
shrinkage of the plastic of the flosser, in particular of the
holder arms, subsequently to the injection moulding step. The means
for tensioning, in particular should then counteract the loss of
the pretensioning due to the material shrinkage.
[0268] According to a first variant with regard to this aspect of
the invention, at least one holder arm or both holder arms comprise
at least two different materials, in particular plastic materials.
The at least two materials are characterised in particular by way
of a different shrinkage behaviour on cooling. An effect similar to
the bimetallic principle is achieved by way of this.
[0269] The materials are then arranged in the at least one holder
arm such that the pretensioning of the interdental space cleaning
element is retain during the cooling, or is broken down to a lesser
extent, or the tension is even increased, subsequent to the
injection moulding process with the cooling of the flosser.
[0270] The at least one holder arm for example is designed in a
multi-layer manner transversely to its longitudinal direction. Thus
a plastic material with a higher shrinkage can be arranged on the
outer side of the holder arm, and a plastic material with a lower
shrinkage in a comparison between the two plastic materials can be
arranged on the inner side of the holder arm.
[0271] Thus an outwardly directed force counteracting a reduction
of the pretensioning, can act upon the holder arm during the
cooling due to the special arrangement of at least two different
plastic materials.
[0272] The at least one holder arm in particular can be bent
outwards during the cooling, and thus tension the interdental space
cleaning element.
[0273] The at least two plastic components in the holder arm can be
connected to one another via a material connection or positive
connection.
[0274] According to a second variant, the flosser comprises a
tension element. The tension element can e.g. be a rib or web, in
particular connection rib or connection web. The tension element in
particular is connected to a holder arm. The tension element can be
designed and arranged on the flosser such that this, on cooling,
exerts a tensile stress or tension acting outwards away from the
interdental space cleaning element, upon the holder arm due to the
shrinkage. This tensile stress has the effect that the
pretensioning of the interdental space cleaning element is retained
during the cooling or is broken down to a lesser extent, or the
tension is even increased.
[0275] The tension element can even have the effect that it bends
the holder arm outwards away from the interdental space cleaning
element during the cooling, and thus increases the tension of the
interdental space cleaning element.
[0276] The tension element in particular is attached on the holder
arm at the outside. The tension element in particular at the outer
side connects the holder arm to the grip body or to a neck section.
The tension element in particular spans a bending or bow, which is
formed by the holder arm and the grip body. The tension element in
particular can be arranged on the inner holder arm of a flosser
designed in a bent or angled manner, said inner holder arm facing
the grip body.
[0277] The tension element in particular is likewise manufactured
of plastic and by way of injection moulding. The tension element in
particular is manufactured together with the flosser in an
injection moulding method. The tension element can be of the same
plastic as the holder arm or the grip body.
[0278] A further embodiment of a flosser is characterised by the
particular type of its manufacture.
[0279] A flat or two-dimensional component of plastic or containing
plastic is manufactured in a first step. The flat component can be
plate-like. The flat component in particular is a flat extrusion
profile of plastic. The component in particular is designed in a
tape-like manner. The component in particular is a longitudinal
component.
[0280] The component in particular comprises a longitudinal groove.
This can be incorporated into the component at a later stage. The
longitudinal groove can also be co-extruded with the extrusion
profile.
[0281] In a second step, recesses which are open to the
longitudinal side are incorporated into the component next to one
another on the one longitudinal side of the component and at a
distance to one another. The recesses e.g. can be incorporated by
punching out. The recesses in particular are arched. The recesses
in particular are identical in each case.
[0282] The finger-like integral formations result between two
recesses in each case. These form the later holder arms. The
recesses between the finger-like integral formations form an
intermediate space which is spanned by the interdental space
cleaning element which is incorporated at a later stage.
[0283] The longitudinal groove after this step is arranged in the
form of longitudinal groove sections in the finger-like integral
formations. The longitudinal groove is no longer continuous but
interrupted.
[0284] The interdental space cleaning element, in particular a
fibre body or a dental thread, is inserted into the longitudinal
groove sections in the finger-like integral formations and fixed in
these, in a third step. The fixation can be effected by way of
locking, clamping, bonding, welding or pressing.
[0285] According to an alternative embodiment, a film hinge can be
provided instead of a longitudinal groove, to which film hinge a
pivot section connects towards the longitudinal side. The pivot
section in particular forms a later end section of the finger-like
integral formation. The interdental space cleaning element is now
inserted in the region of the pivot section and is clamped by way
of pivoting the pivot section. The interdental space cleaning
element alternatively to this can also be additionally bonded or
welded.
[0286] In a fourth step, the individual flossers are separated from
the prepared component along a predefined partition line, e.g. by
way of punching out. The partition line in each case leads through
the finger-like integral formations and divides these in each case
into a holder arm of two adjacent flossers.
[0287] The separated-away flosser comprises two holder arms, an
interdental space cleaning element running between these, and a
grip body.
[0288] The present embodiment is characterised by a favourable and
extremely rational manufacturing process which is perfectly
suitable for mass production. The flossers which are manufactured
in this manner have an optimal tension of the interdental space
cleaning element, since here the pretensioning is not broken down
by way of the effects of shrinkage, in comparison to the injection
moulding method, and this is due to the fact that the processing of
the extruded component preferably takes place in the cooled-down
condition.
[0289] A further embodiment of a flosser is likewise characterised
by the particular type of manufacture.
[0290] Two flat components of plastic or containing plastic are
manufactured in a first step. The components can be films or
plates. The components can be extrusion components.
[0291] In a second step, recesses are incorporated into the
components on the one longitudinal side of the two flat components,
next to one another and at a distance to one another, said recesses
being open to the longitudinal side. The recesses can be
incorporated e.g. by way of punching out. The recesses e.g. are
arched. The recesses in particular are identical in each case.
[0292] Finger-like integral formations result between two arched
recesses in each case. These form the later holder arms. The
recesses between the finger-like integral formations form an
intermediate space which is spanned by the interdental space
cleaning element which is introduced later.
[0293] In the third step, the two components are led together and
connected in a surfaced manner. The recesses or the finger-like
integral formations in the two components are thereby aligned to
one another, e.g. in a register.
[0294] The interdental space cleaning element in the region of the
end sections of the finger-like integral formations is inserted
between the two components on or before joining the two components
together, and connected to the two components. The connection of
the two components and accordingly the fastening of the interdental
space cleaning element can be effected by way of bonding or
welding.
[0295] The connection of the two components can either be effected
over the whole surface, i.e. over the whole identical surface of
the components, or only partially, i.e. over a part of the whole
identical surface.
[0296] In a fourth step, individual flossers are separated out of
the prepared component along a predefined partition line, e.g. by
punching out. The partition line leads through the finger-like
integral formation and subdivides this in each case into a holder
arm of two adjacent flossers.
[0297] The flosser which is separated out comprises two holder
arms, a dental thread running between these, and a grip body.
[0298] A three-dimensional structure with prominences and recesses
in the component, in particular in the later grip body of the
flosser, can be incorporated into the flat components by way of a
deep-drawing method or an embossing method. The three-dimensional
structures can improve the haptics and the stability of the
flosser.
[0299] The three-dimensional structures can be brought into one or
both of the components before the connection of the components. The
three-dimensional structures can also be brought into one or both
of the components after the connection.
[0300] The incorporation of three dimensional structures in the
region of the thread holding/mounting can serve for improving the
holding or mounting of the thread.
[0301] Moreover, it is possible to apply haptics labels on the
surface, in order to improve the haptics, wherein these haptics
labels give the surface more structure and thus improve the
ergonomy or the grip.
[0302] The present embodiment in characterised by a favourable and
extremely rational manufacturing process which is particularly
suitable for mass production. The flossers which are manufactured
in this manner have an optimal tension of the interdental space
cleaning element, since here the pretensioning is not broken down
due to the effects of shrinkage, in comparison to injection
moulding methods.
[0303] It can occur that sharp edges arise at the punch
edges/cutting edges after the punching and cutting respectively,
with those embodiments, with which the flossers are punched out or
cut out. It is therefore possible to post-treat these edges. This
can be effected for example by way of grinding or heat
treatment.
[0304] A further post-treatment possibility relates to the
interdental space cleaning element. Certain characteristics which
the interdental space cleaning element is supposed to have can have
negative effects with regard to the manufacturing process. For this
reason, it is possible to provide the interdental space cleaning
element with these characterises not until in a post-treatment.
Hereby, the possibilities in particular are the later deposition of
substances for changing the sliding properties or of aromas or
active ingredients.
[0305] The interdental space cleaning element can be of polyamide
(PA), in particular PA6, PA6.6, PPA6.10, PA6.12, of
polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), of polyethylene (PE) or of
polyester. The interdental space cleaning element can be coated or
non-coated. Thus the interdental space cleaning element can be
waxed or non-waxed. Bees wax (Cera Alba), Cera Microcristallina or
Vinpas.RTM. of the company Wacker Chemie AG are considered as waxes
for example.
[0306] The interdental space cleaning element can moreover be
impregnated or comprise a further coating. The impregnation or
coating can serve for providing an aroma (e.g. mint). Moreover, the
impregnation or coating can also comprise an active ingredient such
as fluoride (sodium fluoride or ammonium fluoride) or
chlorhexidine.
[0307] The flosser can have a total length of 6 to 11 cm,
preferably of 7 to 9 cm. The flosser can have a total width of 2 to
4 cm, preferably 2.5 to 3.5 cm. The flosser can have a height of 1
to 3 mm, preferably of 1.5 to 2.3 mm. The details regarding the
height only relate to the grip body but not the functional elements
which are arranged thereon and whose dimension can vary therefrom.
The ratio of the height to length can be 1:11 to 3:11, preferably
3:18 to 2.3:7.
[0308] The soft components can e.g. be a thermoplastic elastomer
(TPE). The soft component can for example be a: [0309]
thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPE-U); [0310] thermoplastic
styrene elastomer (TPE-S), such as for example a styrene ethylene
butylene styrene copolmer (SEBS) or styrene butadiene styrene
copolymer (SB S): [0311] thermoplastic polyamide elastomer (TPE-A);
[0312] thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer (TPE-O) [0313]
thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPE-E) or [0314] a polyethylene
which is softer than the hard component (PE).
[0315] The hard component can for example be a: [0316] styrene
polymerisate, such a styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene (PS),
acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene methyl methacrylate
(SMMA) or styrene butadiene (S B); [0317] polyolefin, such as
polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE) for example also in the
forms of high density polyethylenes (HDPE) or low density
polyethylenes (LDPE) [0318] polyester, such as polyethylene
terephthalate (PET) in the form of acid-modified polyethylene
terephthalate (PETA) or glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate
(PETG), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), acid-modified
polycyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate (PCT-A) or
glycol-modified polycyclohexylene dimethylene terephthalate
(PCT-G); [0319] cellulose derivative such as cellulose acetate
(CA), cellulose acetobutyrate (CAB), cellulose propionate (CP),
cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) or cellulose butyrate (CB);
[0320] polyamide (PA) such a PA 6.6, PA 6.10 or PA 6.12; [0321]
polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); [0322] polycarbonate (PC); [0323]
polyoxymethylene (POM); [0324] polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or a [0325]
polyurethane (PUR).
[0326] A polypropylene (PP) with a modulus of elasticity of
1000-2400 N/mm.sup.2, preferably from 1300 to 1800 N/mm.sup.2 is
preferably applied as a hard component. A TPE-S is preferably
applied as a soft component. The shore A harness of the soft
component preferably lies below 90 Shore A, preferably below 40
Shore A.
[0327] The thermoplastics polyethylene (PE) and polyurethane (PU)
can be applied as hard or soft components.
[0328] The applied hard and soft components are preferably
processed in the injection moulding method and preferably form a
material fit.
[0329] If the bristles of the interdental brush, of the tongue
cleaner or of the interdental space cleaning element are injected
in the injection moulding method, then these can be of the
following material: [0330] polyamide elastomer (e.g. Grilflex ELG
5930 of the company Ems-Chemie AG) [0331] polyester elastomer (e.g.
Riteflex 672 RF Nat or Riteflex RKX 193 RF Nat of the company
Ticona Polymers or Hytrel 7248 of the company DuPont).
[0332] These materials for bristle elements e.g. have a Shore
hardness of 0 to 100, preferably 30 to 80.
[0333] Of course, it is possible to apply so-called bio-plastics
(organic plastics), thus plastics which are manufactured from
renewable raw materials, for all applied components.
[0334] The material components can also be biologically degradable.
The material components in particular can be biologically
degradable plastics.
[0335] Moreover, material components which are water-soluble can be
applied for manufacturing the flosser. The material components can
moreover be edible.
[0336] The material components can e.g. comprise hydrocolloids,
starches, rubber arabicum, polyvinyl alcohol or Polyox.RTM. or
consist thereof.
[0337] The material components can also comprise Polyox.RTM. or
consist thereof. Plyox.RTM. is marketed by Dow Chemical. It is a
water-soluble artificial resin based on polyethylene oxide
polymers. Polyox.RTM. has thermoplastic characteristics and can
therefore be processed in a varied manner, e.g. moulding, injection
moulding, extrusion, etc.
[0338] Poylox.RTM. is also suitable for forming matrix or a carrier
(active body) for an active substance.
[0339] The manufacture of the dental cleaning apparatus is
preferably effected in one or more steps in one or more injection
moulding tools.
[0340] The manufacture in particular is effected in one or more
manufacturing steps which in particular are integrated into a
common process sequence or course.
[0341] If the interdental space cleaning element is likewise
injected in an injection moulding method, then this can be effected
by way of an injection compression moulding method. With this
method, the tool cavity is not completely closed until after the
injection of the plastic mass, which is to say the cavity is
further restricted, i.e. reduced in size in the closed
condition.
[0342] The material is thus injected into the cavity with pressure.
Fine structures can be incorporated into the interdental space
cleaning element in an improved manner by way of this. The
precision of the interdental space cleaning element which per se is
quite delicate is greater.
[0343] Moreover, the tool cavity can be treated in special manner
in the region of the interdental space cleaning element to be
injected, and e.g. comprise erosion structures or etching
structures (i.e. the tool cavity is treated with acid on certain
surface parts). Such structures increase the roughness of the tool
cavity and can therefore provide the interdental space cleaning
element with a special surface texture.
[0344] If the interdental space cleaning element, such as fibre
body or dental fibre is not manufactured in the injection moulding
method, then this in particular is inserted into the tool mould as
an insert.
[0345] A tool mould can thus contain several cavities, in each case
for one flosser. The interdental space cleaning element is then
tensioned at one go over several cavities. The interdental space
cleaning element can be tensioned on the movable tool mould part or
on the fixed tool mould part. The tool mould is closed and the
flosser injection moulded after the insertion of the interdental
space cleaning element.
[0346] The interdental space cleaning element in particular is
separated from the tool mould directly before or during the
ejection of the flosser from the tool mould, so that the individual
flossers are no longer connected to one another via the interdental
space cleaning element. The interdental space cleaning element in
particular is cut before the flosser is ejected from the cavity. A
precise step can be carried out due to the fact that the flosser is
positioned in the cavity in a precise manner, and this would no
longer be possible in such a simple manner after the ejection of
the flosser. The cutting can be effected by way of a cutting
tool.
[0347] In a further method step, anchoring elements can be attached
or created on the interdental space cleaning element, and these
effect the anchoring of the interdental space cleaning element in
the subsequently injection moulded holder arms.
[0348] If the interdental space cleaning element consists of
plastic, then a thickening acting as an anchoring element can be
formed by way local singeing-on or melting-on. The singeing or
melting can be effected by way of a flame or a heated punch. The
singeing or the melting can be effected before the injection
moulding, when the interdental space cleaning element is tensioned
in the tool mould.
[0349] The problem of the good sliding characteristics being of a
hindrance for the optimal holding in the holder arm exists if the
interdental space cleaning element consists of PTFE dental floss.
The good sliding characteristics however are advantageous for the
application of the interdental space cleaning element in the
interdental spaces.
[0350] Starting from this problem, the interdental space cleaning
element can be provided with through-openings such as a
perforations, in the anchoring regions, independently of its
material or geometric nature. The through-openings have the effect
that the injected plastic material of the holder arm penetrates the
through-openings and thus creates an anchoring
[0351] A loop, windings or a knotcan moreover be applied in the
anchoring regions. These too effect an anchoring of the interdental
space cleaning element.
[0352] Moreover, the surface can be roughened in the anchoring
regions of the interdental space cleaning element. This for example
can be effected by way of etching or sand blasting.
[0353] The interdental space cleaning element can moreover also be
a volume dental floss. This is characterised by a fibre body which
on use fluffs up or swells out and thus becomes voluminous. The
volume dental floss can then be fluffed up or swelled in the
anchoring regions beforehand. The subsequently injected plastic
components of the holder arms create an optimal anchoring in the
fluffed-up or swelled up region. In this case, the injected plastic
component likewise flows through the dental floss.
[0354] The dental cleaning apparatus can be manufactured by way of
different injection moulding technologies.
[0355] A first injection moulding technology is the core-back
multi-component, in particular two-component injection moulding
technology which has already been described further above.
[0356] A multi-component, in particular two-component injection
moulding method can also be carried out by way of a so-called
transfer injection moulding tool. With this method, a first
component is moulded in a first working region in a first tool
cavity of the injection moulding tool. The preform is thereafter
removed from the mould and transferred. A second component is
moulded in a second mould cavity of a second working region of the
injection moulding tool.
[0357] The transfer is effected by way of a transfer device. The
transfer device forms a part-cavity of the first tool cavity. On
transfer, the preform (premoulding) is then held by the part-cavity
and is laterally displaced with the part-cavity. The laterally
displaced part-cavity subsequent to the transfer is complemented by
a stationary cavity part into a second tool cavity. The second
component in particular is thereby injected into the stationary
cavity part.
[0358] In the case that the interdental space cleaning element is
designed in a separate manner, then this at the first tool cavity
in a first working region is tensioned into the tool mould before
the first injection moulding step. The interdental space cleaning
element is cut by way of a cutting tool before the transfer for the
purpose of carrying out the second injection moulding step.
[0359] Such a transfer tool for example is described in the patent
publications EP-B1 166 992. This patent publication is referred to
concerning further details of this injection moulding
technology.
[0360] Moreover, servo cavity positioning system (SCPS) injection
moulding tools, as are described in the patent publications DE-A10
2004 056433 and DE-A-10 2005 029365 are also suitable for
multi-component injection moulding methods. These patent
publications are referred to with regard to further details of this
injection moulding technology.
[0361] A multi-component, in particular two-component injection
moulding method can also be carried out by way of a so-called
rotary table injection moulding tool. According to this injection
moulding method, arising preforms are arranged in movable tool
parts which are arranged on a rotary table of the injection
moulding tool and are led to various injection stations for
injecting several materials, by way of rotating the rotary table.
The movable tool parts form tool cavities which unite with the tool
cavities on the stationary tool parts of the injection station into
a closed cavity, for carrying out an injection moulding step.
[0362] One does not necessarily need to carry out an injection
moulding step at all stations. Thus other processing steps, such as
cooling of the preforms or of the completed flosser, cutting a
interdental space cleaning element inserted into the tool mould or
an ejection of the finished flosser can also be carried out at a
station.
[0363] An inserted interdental space cleaning element in particular
is inserted on the stationary part of the tool mould of the
injection moulding tool. The preform or the completed flosser in
particular is held by the movable part of the tool mould.
[0364] Such a rotary table tool for example is described in the
patent publication EP-A-0 671 251. This patent publication is
referred to concerning further details of this injection moulding
technology.
[0365] A further possibility for the application of the
multi-component injection moulding method is so-called helicopter
technology, with which so-called helicopter tools are applied.
[0366] With this technology, plastic parts are injection moulded in
several injection moulding stations. The transfer of the plastic
parts or the preforms is effected by a transfer robot, which forms
rotor blades. Cavities are formed on the rotor blades. The preforms
are held in the cavities on the rotor blades and are brought to the
next processing step in this manner on transfer. The rotor blades
are rotated about a rotor axis for this.
[0367] A significant advantage of this tool technology is the fact
that one succeeds in the finished plastic parts being able to be
removed during which the injection moulding procedure runs, on
account of the arrangement of the rotor blades and the release of
certain cavities.
[0368] Such a helicopter tool is described in the published
document DE 103 35 223. This publication is referred to with regard
to further details of this injection moulding technology.
[0369] A multi-component, in particular two-component injection
moulding method can also be carried out by way of a so-called index
plate injection moulding tool. The index plate injection moulding
tool is characterised by a stationary tool plate which e.g. is at
the nozzle side, and by a movable tool plate, and these comprise
tool cavities which face one another and complement one another
into closed injection moulding cavities.
[0370] The movable tool plate is linearly movable to the stationary
tool plate and away from this, for opening and closing the
injection moulding tool.
[0371] An index plate which is movable relative to the movable tool
plate is contained in this movable tool plate. The index plate in a
linear movement can be retracted out of the plane of the tool plate
and extended back into this. The index plate is rotatable about a
rotation axis in the retracted condition.
[0372] The index plate forms co-moved part-cavities which amongst
other things serve for holding and transporting the preforms from a
first injection station to a subsequently arranged injection
station. The part-cavities compliment the tool cavities in the
movable tool plate.
[0373] The preforms which are held in the part-cavities of the
index plate can now be transferred to different injection stations
and/or processing stations in the tool plate by way of
retractinging the index plate out of the movable tool plate and
rotating the index plate about the rotation axis.
[0374] The injection moulding tool comprises a feed runner system
with an injection nozzle which runs out into the mould hollow
formed from the cavities, in particular a hot runner system with at
least one hot runner nozzle.
[0375] Such an index plate tool is described for example in the
patent publication DE-A-10 2006 037954 and DE-C-4127621. These
patent publications are referred to concerning further details of
this injection moulding technology.
[0376] A multi-component, in particular two-component injection
moulding method can also be designed by way of a so-called cube
injection moulding tool. This injection moulding method compared to
the methods which have been mentioned above is characterised in
that this comprises four working regions arranged in several
planes. Different method steps are carried out in each of the
working regions. These method steps can be: insertion of an
interdental space cleaning element into the tool mould, a first
injection moulding step, a second injection moulding step, cutting
the interdental space cleaning element, cooling the mould part,
ejecting the mould part. The planes of the working regions in
particular are vertically aligned.
[0377] If an injection moulding step is carried out in one working
region, then the plane corresponds to a mould partition plane for
example. Suitable tool cavities are formed in the mentioned working
region.
[0378] The cube injection moulding tool comprises a central tool
body with four working regions, of which two in each case lie
opposite one another and parallel to one another. The planes of
adjacent working regions are in each case arranged at a right angle
to one another. The central tool body can be cube-shaped.
[0379] The central tool body can be rotatable about one, in
particular a vertical rotation axis. The planes of the processing
regions are accordingly arranged around this rotation axis. In this
case, the central tool body also forms the transfer device for the
transfer of the preforms between the individual working stations or
working regions.
[0380] The injection moulding tool can comprise a transfer device
with mould part holders which can be extended out of the central
tool body and retracted back into this, in a linear manner, in the
case that the central tool body cannot be rotated. The mould part
holders hold or mount the mould parts or preforms for the purpose
of transfer between two working regions. The extended mould part
holders are rotatable in particular about a vertical rotation axis,
for the purpose of transferring the mould parts about a rotation
axis.
[0381] The injection moulding tool further comprises tool bodies
which can be linearly displaced to the working regions on the
central tool body. If an injection moulding step is carried out in
a working region, then the linearly displaceable tool body assigned
to this likewise comprises cavities which unify with the tool
cavities in the working region of the central tool body into closed
injection moulding cavities.
[0382] Thus the interdental space cleaning element is inserted in a
first working region which is arranged in a first plane, and the
first plastic component injected.
[0383] The preforms can be cooled in a second working region which
is assigned to a second plane. Moreover, one or more of the
following working steps can be carried out in a second working
region alternatively to the cooling or additionally to the cooling:
[0384] cutting the interdental space cleaning element: [0385]
attaching a label; [0386] positive, non-positive or material
attachment of a functional element, in particular one described
above, such as interdental brush; [0387] positive, non-positive or
material attachment of additional parts, e.g. by way of a clip
connection; [0388] attaching a cap for the toothpick; [0389]
assembly steps, such as pivoting parts of the flosser along film
hinges, assembling the interdental space cleaning element if this
has not been peripherally injected around in a first station,
assembling a part with the interdental space cleaning element to a
further part of the grip; [0390] treatment steps on the preform;
[0391] treating the interdental space cleaning element, in
particular the dental thread, such as e.g. coating with wax, with
an active ingredient (aroma). The coating can be effected by way of
spraying, immersing, tampon-printing; [0392] blowing hot air for
making the dental thread fluffy; [0393] melting the thread ends, in
order e.g. to carry out a mushroom-like end.
[0394] A second plastic component can be injected in a third
working region which is arranged in a third plane arranged for
example parallel to the first one and at right angles to the
second. The second plastic component is injected around the first
plastic component or penetrates it.
[0395] The finished flosser can be removed from the injection
moulding device in a fourth working region, which is preferably
arranged in a fourth plane which is parallel to the second one.
[0396] The individual preforms or the completed flossers in
particular are moved from one to the next working region by way of
a movably arranged transfer device of the injection moulding tool.
The working regions one and three, as well as two and four in
particularly run simultaneously.
[0397] Such a cube tool is described for example in the patent
publications WO-A-2007 082394 (cube injection moulding tool not
rotatable) and EP-B-1 628 819 (rotatable cube injection moulding
tool). These patent publications are referred to concerning further
details of this injection moulding technology.
[0398] If the interdental space cleaning element, in particular a
dental thread, is inserted into the tool mould, then this in
particular is effected in the first working region, i.e. in the
first step, before injecting the first component.
[0399] If the interdental space cleaning element is likewise
injection moulded, then this is e.g. likewise effected in the first
working region, i.e. in the first step. Thus the preform which
forms the base body of the flosser, as well as the interdental
space cleaning element can be injected in the first working
region.
[0400] The two mould parts can be assembled or joined together in a
second working region, i.e. in a second step. A cooling can also be
effected in this step.
[0401] The injection moulding, in particular peripheral injection
of a second component can be effected in a third working region,
i.e. in the third step. The second injection moulding step can
create the material-fit connection between the interdental space
cleaning element and the preform.
[0402] The flosser can be removed from the mould in a fourth
working region, i.e. in the fourth step.
[0403] According to an alternative embodiment, the interdental
space cleaning element, in particular a dental thread can be
inserted into the tool mould in a first working region, i.e. in the
first step, before the injection of the first component.
[0404] Then two mould parts can be injected with a first component
in the first working region, wherein the one mould part comprises
the interdental space cleaning element.
[0405] The two mould parts can be assembled or led together in a
second working region, i.e. in a second step. A cooling can also be
effected in this step.
[0406] The injection moulding, in particular peripheral injection
of a second component can be effected in a third working region,
i.e. in the third step. The second injection moulding step can
create the material connection between the two mould parts. An
improved anchoring of the interdental space cleaning element can be
achieved by way of a targeted selection of the geometry of the two
mould parts.
[0407] The flosser can be removed from the mould in a fourth
working region, i.e. in the fourth step.
[0408] The injection moulding technologies which are described
above are characterised in that the preforms are transferred
between different working regions. The preforms must be held by a
transfer device with a holding mechanism for the transfer of these.
The transfer device or its holding mechanism itself can form a part
of a tool cavity.
[0409] Thus the transfer device can be designed such that the
preform forming the later flosser is held in the region of the
holder arms on transfer.
[0410] The preform can also comprise a holding notch, e.g. in the
grip body. A holding notch in particular is suitable with an index
tool or cube tool.
[0411] A further possibility for holding the preforms for the
transfer between the stations of the injection moulding tools is
the use of the thread recess for holding/mounting.
[0412] According to one variant, a first component is injection
moulded in a first step in a first working region. A second
component is injected in a second working region in a second step
after transfer of the preform. This second component peripherally
injects an interdental space cleaning element, such as a dental
thread for example, which was previously inserted into the tool
mould in the second working region.
[0413] The interdental space cleaning element is subsequently cut
and the individual flossers are ejected.
[0414] The second component in particular can peripherally inject
around the first component in the region of the holder arms and
thus better fix the interdental space cleaning element, in
particular a dental thread. The additional fixation for example can
be achieved by a shrinkage effect which occurs on cooling.
[0415] The tooth cleaning apparatus preferably requires no further
manufacturing steps after the injection moulding process, for
achieving the functionality. Any occurring further manufacturing
steps serve essentially only for packaging. Thus the finished tooth
cleaning apparatus can be ejected from the injection moulding tool
and fed to a packaging device in an inline manner, which is to say
into the continuous manufacturing process.
[0416] The individual process steps can be coupled in a direct
manner for a manufacture which is optimal with regard to costs.
I.e. the flossers are packaged directly (inline production) after
their completion.
[0417] The numerous aspects of the invention of the flosser as are
described above can otherwise be infinitely combined with one
another, without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0418] The subject-matter of the invention is hereinafter described
in more detail by way of preferred embodiment examples which are
represented in the accompanying drawings. In these are shown
schematically in:
[0419] FIG. 1a-1b: a plan view of the front side of a first
embodiment of a flosser;
[0420] FIG. 2a-2b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS.
1a and 1b;
[0421] FIG. 3a-3b: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 1a, 1b and 2a, 2b;
[0422] FIG. 4a-4b: a perspective view from the front side and rear
side of the flosser according to FIGS. 1a, 1b, 2a, 2b and 3a,
3b;
[0423] FIG. 5a-5b: a plan view onto the front side of a second
embodiment of a flosser;
[0424] FIG. 6a-6b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIGS.
5a and 5b;
[0425] FIG. 7a-7b: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 5a, 5b and 6a, 6b;
[0426] FIG. 8a-8b: a perspective view from the front side and rear
side of the flosser according to FIGS. 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b and 7a,
7b;
[0427] FIG. 9a-9b: a plan view onto the front side of a third
embodiment of a flosser;
[0428] FIG. 10a-10b: a lateral view of the flosser according to
FIGS. 9a and 9b;
[0429] FIG. 11a-11b: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 9a, 9b and 10a, 10b;
[0430] FIG. 12a-12b; a perspective view from the front side and
rear side of the flosser according to FIG. 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b and 11a
11b;
[0431] FIG. 13a-13b: a plan view onto the front side of a fourth
embodiment of a flosser;
[0432] FIG. 14a-14b: a lateral view of the flosser according to
FIGS. 13a and 13b;
[0433] FIG. 15a-15b: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 13a, 13b and 14a, 14b;
[0434] FIG. 16a-16b: a perspective view from the front side and
rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 13a, 13b, 14a, 14b and
15a, 15b;
[0435] FIG. 17a-17b a plan view onto the front side of a fifth
embodiment of a flosser;
[0436] FIG. 18a-18b a lateral view of the flosser according to
FIGS. 17a and 17b;
[0437] FIG. 19a-19b a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 17a, 17b and 18a, 18b;
[0438] FIG. 20a-20b a perspective view from the front side and rear
side of the flosser according to FIGS. 17a, 17b, 18a, 18b and 19a,
19b;
[0439] FIG. 21a-21b: a plan view onto the front side of a sixth
embodiment of a flosser;
[0440] FIG. 22a-22b: a lateral view of the flosser according to
FIGS. 21a and 21b;
[0441] FIG. 23a-23b: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 21a, 21b and 22a, 22b;
[0442] FIG. 24a-24b: a perspective view from the front side and the
rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 21a, 21b, 22a, 22b and
23a, 23b;
[0443] FIG. 25a: a plan view onto the front side of a seventh
embodiment of a flosser;
[0444] FIG. 25b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
25a;
[0445] FIG. 26a: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 25a and 25b;
[0446] FIG. 26b: a cross-sectional view through the polishing
element according to FIG. 26a;
[0447] FIG. 27a-27b: a perspective view from the front side and
rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, and
26b;
[0448] FIG. 28a: a plan view onto the front side of an eighth
embodiment of a flosser;
[0449] FIG. 28b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
28a;
[0450] FIG. 28c: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 28a and 28b;
[0451] FIG. 29a-29b: a perspective view from the front side and
rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 28a to 28c;
[0452] FIG. 30a: a plan view onto the front side of a ninth
embodiment of a flosser;
[0453] FIG. 30b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
30a;
[0454] FIG. 30c: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 30a and 30b;
[0455] FIG. 31a-31b: a perspective view from the front and rear
side of the flosser according to FIGS. 30a to 30c;
[0456] FIG. 32a: a plan view of a tenth embodiment of a flosser in
its passive position;
[0457] FIG. 32b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
32a;
[0458] FIG. 32c: a perspective view of the flosser according to
FIGS. 32a and 32b;
[0459] FIG. 33a: a plan view of the flosser according to FIG. 32,
folded into its functional position;
[0460] FIG. 33b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
33a;
[0461] FIG. 33c: a perspective view of the flosser according to
FIGS. 33a and 33b;
[0462] FIG. 34a: a plan view of the front side of an eleventh
embodiment of a flosser in the passive position;
[0463] FIG. 34b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
34a;
[0464] FIG. 34c: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 34a and 34b;
[0465] FIG. 35a: a plan view of the front side of the flosser
according to FIG. 34 in the part-assembled position;
[0466] FIG. 35b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
35a;
[0467] FIG. 35c: a plan view of the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 35a and 35b;
[0468] FIG. 36a: a perspective view of the flosser according to
FIG. 34 in the passive position;
[0469] FIG. 36b: a perspective view of the flosser according to
FIG. 35 in the part-assembled position;
[0470] FIG. 36c: a perspective view of the flosser in the
functional position;
[0471] FIG. 37a: a front view of the flosser according to FIG.
36c;
[0472] FIG. 37b: a plan view of the flosser according to FIG. 36c
and FIG. 37c;
[0473] FIG. 37c: a rear side view of the flosser according to FIG.
36c, FIG. 37a and FIG. 37b;
[0474] FIG. 38: a plan view of the front side of a twelfth
embodiment of a flosser;
[0475] FIG. 39a: a perspective view of the flosser according to
FIG. 38;
[0476] FIG. 39b a perspective view of the flosser according to FIG.
39a in a non-assembled condition;
[0477] FIG. 40: a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of a
flosser;
[0478] FIG. 41: a plan view of the interdental space cleaning
element of a flosser according to FIG. 40;
[0479] FIG. 42: a plan view of the front side of the flosser
according to FIG. 40;
[0480] FIG. 43a-47b: different embodiments of dental threads, in
each case in a lateral view and in a cross-sectional view;
[0481] FIG. 48: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser in
different production stages;
[0482] FIG. 49: a plan view of a further embodiment of a flosser in
different production stages;
[0483] FIG. 50: a plan view of a further embodiment of a
flosser;
[0484] FIG. 51: a plan view of a further embodiment of a
flosser;
[0485] FIG. 52: a plan view of a further embodiment of a
flosser;
[0486] FIG. 53: a plan view of a further embodiment of a
flosser;
[0487] FIG. 54a: a plan view onto the front side of a further
embodiment of a flosser;
[0488] FIG. 54b: a lateral view of the flosser according to FIG.
54a;
[0489] FIG. 55a: a plan view onto the rear side of the flosser
according to FIGS. 54a and 54b;
[0490] FIG. 55b: a cross-sectional view through the polishing
element according to FIG. 55a;
[0491] FIG. 56a-56b: a perspective view from the front side and
rear side of the flosser according to FIGS. 54a, 54b, 55a and
55b.
[0492] Basically, the same parts in the figures are provided with
the same reference numerals. The described embodiment examples are
exemplary for the subject-matter of the invention and have no
limiting effect.
[0493] The embodiment example according to FIGS. 1 to 4 shows a
flosser 1 which is manufactured of a hard component. The embodiment
examples according to FIGS. 5 to 8, 9 to 12 and 13 to 16 in each
case show a flosser which comprises a hard component as well as a
soft component. The soft component is thereby designed on both
sides of the flosser 1. It is the case for all embodiments that the
specified soft components can also be substituted by hard
components.
[0494] The flosser 1, 21, 41, 61 according to the embodiments
according to FIGS. 1 to 4, FIGS. 5 to 8, FIGS. 9 to 12 and FIGS. 13
to 16 comprises a grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 and a holder 3, 23, 43,
63 which is connected to the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 via a neck
section 5, 25, 45, 65. The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 is designed in a
flat manner. I.e., its length and width are significantly greater
than its height. The holder 3, 23, 43, 63 comprises a first and
second holder arm 6a, 6b; 26a, 26b; 46a, 46b; 66a, 66b which are
connected to one another via a bow section.
[0495] A dental floss 4, 24, 44, 64 extends between the two holder
arms 6a, 6b; 26a, 26b; 46a, 46b; 66a, 66b. The dental floss 4, 24,
44, 64 is connected to the holder arms 6a, 6b; 26a, 26b; 46a, 46b;
66a, 66b via connection locations. The holder arms 6a, 6b; 26a,
26b; 46a, 46b; 66a, 66b are angled (bent) with respect to the
longitudinal axis L of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62. Grip surfaces
for the fingers are formed in the neck section 5, 25, 45, 65.
[0496] The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 forms two arm sections, which
enclose a closed intermediate space 13, 33, 53, 73. A toothpick 7,
27, 47, 67 is arranged in this intermediate space 13, 33, 53, 73,
in its passive position. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 in the passive
position lies in the plane of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 and is
aligned in its longitudinal axis L. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67
forms a cleaning tip which is directed to the holder 3, 23, 43, 63
in the passive position. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 with its end
which is remote from the cleaning tip is connected to the grip body
2, 22, 42, 62 via a film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72. The toothpick 7, 27,
47, 67 forms two base surfaces which lie opposite one another, as
well as two laterally arranged narrow side edges.
[0497] The side edges including the cleaning tip are laterally
framed or encompassed by the arm sections of the grip body 2, 22,
42, 62. The pivot movement of the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 7 67 runs
along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 2, 22 42, 62, to its
end section which lies opposite the holder 3, 23, 43, 63.
Accordingly, the rotation axis of the film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 is
arranged perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis L.
[0498] The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 with its base surfaces lies in
the plane of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62, in the passive position
as well as in the functional position. The pivot angle is
accordingly 180.degree.. The toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 in its
functional position is applied over the end section of the grip
body.
[0499] An opening 9, 29, 49, 69 is arranged on the base surface of
the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67. A nub 10, 30, 50, 70 corresponding to
the opening 9, 29, 49, 69 is arranged on the grip body 2, 22, 42
62. The film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 is located at half the distance
between the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 and the opening, so that the nub 10,
30, 50, 70 and the opening 9, 29, 49, 69, on pivoting the toothpick
7, 27, 47, 67 about the hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 into its functional
position, meet one another or lie over one another on reaching the
functional position. The nub 10, 30, 50, 70 locks in the opening 9,
29, 49, 69 of the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 with a positive fit. The
thus arising positive connection holds the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67
in its functional position.
[0500] The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 in the mentioned end section
forms a groove-like recess which is orientated in the longitudinal
axis L of the grip body 2, 22, 42, 62. The nub 10, 30, 50, 70 is
arranged in the groove-like recess. The toothpick is positioned in
the groove-like recess on pivoting the toothpick 7 27, 47, 67 into
its functional position. The width and height of the groove-like
recess is designed such that the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 fits into
the groove-like recess in a flush or approximately flush manner,
and the toothpick section overlapping with the grip body is at
least partly sunk in the groove-like recess.
[0501] The arrangement of the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 and the opening 9,
29, 49, 69 can also be the other way round. Thus the nub can be
arranged on the toothpick and the opening or a corresponding recess
in the grip body. The arrangement of the nub 10, 30, 50, 70 in the
recess in the grip body entails the advantage that this is arranged
in a somewhat protected manner and essentially does not project out
of the body.
[0502] The grip body 2, 22, 42, 62 furthermore in its end sections
which lies opposite the holder 3, 23, 43, 63 forms an opening 11,
31, 51, 71 which is arranged between the film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72
and the free end.
[0503] Moreover, a tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68 is arranged in the
mentioned end section. The tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68 is arranged
between the film hinge 12, 32, 52, 72 and the free end. The tongue
cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68 is arranged on that side of the end section
which lies opposite the side, on which the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67
bears in its functional position.
[0504] In its functional position, the toothpick 7, 27, 47, 67 is
arranged above the tongue cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68. The elements
considered over the cross section lie directly above one another,
The nub 10, 30, 50, 70 can be formed on an element of the tongue
cleaner 8, 28, 48, 68, for example on the rear side of the scraper
edge 8b, 28b, 48c, 68c.
[0505] The scraper edge 8b, 28b, 48c, 68c in cross section is
preferably formed completely of hard material. In any case, the
side of the scraper edge 8b, 28b, 48c, 68c which comprises the nub
10, 30, 50, 70 is formed of hard material. The actual scraper edge
8b, 28b, 48c, 68c in the individual case in cross section can be
completely of soft material or of a hard material core and a soft
material coating.
[0506] The tongue cleaner 8 according to the embodiment example
according to FIGS. 1 to 4 comprises cleaning elements in the form
of nubs 8a which are arranged in a nub field and the scraper edge
8b. The nub field is arranged on the grip body 2, between the film
hinge 12 and the opening 11.
[0507] A scraper edge 8b as a further element of the tongue cleaner
8 is arranged at the free end. The design of the nubs in the region
of the grip likewise entails the advantage that these can serve for
the use of the flosser as an anti-slip element, and the tooth
cleaning apparatus can be securely held by the fingers during
use.
[0508] The tongue cleaner 28 according to the embodiment example
according to FIGS. 5 to 8 comprises cleaning elements in the form
of lamellae 28a which are arranged one after the other along the
longitudinal axis L, and a scraper edge 28b. The lamellae 28a are
aligned transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body
22. The lamellae 28a are arranged over the opening 31. A scraper
edge 28b as a further element of the tongue cleaner 28 is arranged
at the free end. A tongue cleaner 28 thus consists of a combination
of lamellae 28 and a scraper edge 28b.
[0509] A sickle-shaped damping element 35 is moreover arranged in
the bow section of the holder 23, between the two holder arms 26a,
26b. The damping element 35 consists of a soft component.
[0510] The tongue cleaner 48 according to the embodiment example
according to FIGS. 9 to 12 comprises cleaning elements in the form
of nubs 48a which are arranged in a nub field, combined with a
soft-elastic lamella 48b as well as a scraper edge 48c. The further
cleaning element in the form of a lamella 48b which extends
transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 42 and
delimits the nub field to this side is arranged at the end of the
nub field which is remote from the holder 43. The nubs 48a and the
lamella 48b are arranged over the opening 51 and are designed from
a hard or soft component, preferably a soft component. A scraper
edge 48c as a further element of the tongue cleaner 48 is arranged
at the free end.
[0511] The tongue cleaner 68 according to the embodiment example
according to FIGS. 13 to 16 comprises cleaning elements in the form
of nubs 68a, lamellae 68b and a scraper edge 68c. The nubs 68a are
arranged in a nub field. The lamellae 68b are arranged one after
the other along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 62 and
extend transversely to the longitudinal axis L. The lamellae 68b in
the mentioned end section are arranged between the film hinge 72
and the nub field, above the opening 71. The nubs 68a are arranged
in the end section between the free end and the lamellae 68b or
between the scraper edge 68c and the lamellae 68b. The scraper edge
68c is located at the free end of the body.
[0512] The flosser 81, 101 according to the embodiments according
to FIGS. 17 to 20 and FIGS. 21 to 24 comprises a grip body 82, 102
and a holder 83, 103 which is connected to the grip body 82, 102
via a neck section 85, 105. The grip body 82, 102 is designed in a
flat manner. I.e., its length and width are significantly larger
than its height.
[0513] The holder 83, 103 comprises a first and a second holder arm
86a, 86b; 106a, 106b. A dental floss 84, 104 extends between the
two holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b. The dental floss 84, 104 is
connected to the holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b via connection
locations. The holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a, 106b are angled or bent
with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 82,
102.
[0514] The grip body 82, 102 forms a laterally arranged recess 93,
113. A toothpick 87, 107 is arranged in this recess 93, 113 in its
passive position. The toothpick 87, 107 forms two base surfaces
which lie opposite one another as well as two laterally arranged
narrow side edges.
[0515] The one exposed side edge of the toothpick 87, 107 thereby
forms a section of the outer contour of the grip body 82, 102. The
toothpick 87, 107 in the passive position lies in the plane of the
grip body 82, 102 and is aligned essentially in its longitudinal
axis L. The toothpick 87, 107 forms a cleaning tip which in the
passive position is directed towards the holder 83, 103. The
toothpick 87, 107 with its end remote to the cleaning tip is
connected to the grip body 82, 102 via a film hinge 92, 112.
[0516] The second side edge of the toothpick 87, 107 is adjacent
the grip body 82, 102. The pivot movement of the toothpick 87, 107
runs along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 82, 102 to its
end section which lies opposite the holder 83, 103. Accordingly,
the rotation axis of the film hinge 92, 112 is arranged
transversely to the longitudinal axis L.
[0517] The toothpick 87, 107 in the passive position as well as in
the functional position lies in the plane of the grip body 82, 102.
The pivot angle is accordingly 180.degree.. The toothpick 87, 107
in its functional position is applied over the end section of the
grip body 82, 102.
[0518] A nub 89, 109 is arranged on the base surface of the
toothpick 87, 107. An opening 90, 110 corresponding to the nub 89,
109 is arranged on the grip body 82, 102. The film hinge 92, 112 is
located at half the distance between the nub 89, 109 and the
opening 90, 110, so that on pivoting the toothpick 87, 107 into its
functional position about the film hinge 92, 112, the nub 89, 109
and the opening 90, 110 meet or lie over one another on reaching
the functional position. The nub 89, 109 of the toothpick 87, 107
snaps or clicks in the opening 90, 110 of the grip body 82, 102
with a positive fit. The thus arising connection holds the
toothpick 87, 107 in its functional position.
[0519] The arrangement of the nub 89, 109 and the opening 90, 110
can also be the other way round. Thus the nub can be arranged on
the grip body, and the opening or a corresponding recess can be
arranged on the toothpick.
[0520] An arched lamella or scraper edge 94, 114 is arranged around
the round terminating contour of the end section of the grip body
82, 102, in the end section of the grip body 82 which lies opposite
the holder 83, 103. The lamella or scraper edge 94, 114 is arranged
on that side of the end section which lies opposite the side, on
which the toothpick 87, 107 bears in its functional position. The
lamella or scraper edge 94, 114 forms a tongue cleaner which is
supplemented with a second lamella 116.
[0521] A grip surface 88 is which is formed by a nub field is
moreover formed on the mentioned end section of the grip body 82,
102. The grip surface 88 is arranged on that side of the end
section, on which the toothpick 87, 107 bears in its functional
position.
[0522] The holder 83, 103 moreover comprises a damping element 95,
115 in the bow section between the two holder arms 86a, 86b; 106a,
106b.
[0523] According to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 17 to
20, the damping element 95 is designed in a disc-like manner and
has a convex contour towards the dental floss 84. The damping
element 95 is preferably formed from of a soft component.
[0524] According to the embodiment example according to FIGS. 21 to
24, the damping element 115 is designed as a bow which has a convex
curvature towards the dental floss 104. The bow is flexible per se
and is preferably formed from a soft component.
[0525] The embodiment example according to FIGS. 21 to 24 moreover
comprises a second lamella 116 which is likewise arranged in the
end section on the side of the first lamella or scraper edge 114.
The second lamella 116 in the longitudinal axis L is arranged in a
manner offset towards the holder 103 with respect to the first
lamella or scraper edge 114. The second lamella 116 is led over an
opening 111 in the end section. Nubs of the nub filed are arranged
on the second lamella 116 on the opposite side of the opening 111.
These nubs form a nub row.
[0526] The flosser 121 according to the embodiment example
according to FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, 27a and 27b comprises a grip
body 122 and a holder 123 which is connected to the grip body 122.
The grip body 122 is designed in a flat manner. I.e., its length
and width are significantly greater than its height. The holder 123
comprises a first and second holder arm 126a, 126b. A dental floss
124 extends between the two holder arms 126a, 126b. The dental
floss 124 is connected to the holder arms 126a, 126b via connection
locations. The holder arms 126a, 126b are arcuate with respect to
the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 122.
[0527] The grip body 122 forms two arm sections which enclose a
closed intermediate space 133. The arm sections correspond to the
extension of the holder arms 126a, 126b. The arm sections together
with the holder arms 126a, 126b form a sickle-like curvature. The
transition from the holder 123 to the grip body 122 is formed by a
connection web 135 which connects the two holder arms 126a, 126b to
one another and delimits the intermediate space 133 to the holder
123. The arm sections run together into an end section, at the end
of the grip body 122 which is remote from the holder 123.
[0528] A toothpick 127 is arranged in the mentioned intermediate
space 133 in its passive position. The toothpick 127 in the passive
position lies in the plane of the grip body 122 and is aligned in
its longitudinal axis L. The toothpick 127 forms a cleaning tip
which is directed away from the holder 123 towards the end section
of the grip body 122. The toothpick with its end remote to the
cleaning tip is connected to the connection web 135 via a film
hinge 132. The toothpick 127 forms two opposite base surfaces as
well as two laterally arranged narrow side edges.
[0529] The side edges including the cleaning tip are framed by the
arm sections of the grip body 122. The pivot movement of the
toothpick 127 runs essentially along the longitudinal axis L of the
grip body 122 towards the holder 123. The cleaning tip is thereby
pivoted towards the holder 123. Accordingly, the rotation axis of
the film hinge 132 is arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis
L of the grip body 122.
[0530] The toothpick 127 lies in the plane of the grip body 122 in
the passive position as well as in the functional position. The
pivot angle accordingly is 180.degree.. The toothpick 127 in its
functional position is applied over the connection web 135. The
toothpick lies above the dental floss 124 in its functional
position on account of this.
[0531] The grip body 122 moreover in its end section which lies
opposite the holder 123 comprises a polishing element 128. The
polishing element 128 comprises a bump-like polishing part 128b
which is attached on a base body 128a and which for example is of a
soft component. The base body 128a is part of the grip body 122 or
part of its end section. According to a variant which is not shown,
the polishing element 128 is designed as a membrane and is only
carried by a base body 128a in the end regions. The polishing
element 128 is thus very flexible and adaptable with respect to the
surface.
[0532] The flosser 141 according to the embodiments according to
FIGS. 28 and 29 comprises a grip body 142 and a holder 143 which is
connected to the grip body 142 via a neck section 145. The holder
143 and the neck section 145 are designed as sheet components. A
sheet component in this description means that the length and width
are significantly greater than the height of the component.
[0533] The grip body 142 comprises an elongate volume body 153 with
a bulgy middle part and two end sections which taper in a
projectile-like manner. The volume body is designed as a hollow
body which comprises round openings 151 through the body wall. The
openings 151 accordingly form passages to the cavity. The present
design of the volume body 153 amongst other things serves for the
weight reduction and material saving. The holder 143 is connected
to the volume body 153 via the neck section 145.
[0534] A mounting element 154 which is likewise designed as a sheet
component is arranged at that end section of the volume body 153
which is arranged opposite to the holder 143.
[0535] The holder 143 comprises a first and second holder arm 146a,
146b which are connected to one another via a bow section. An
interdental space cleaning element 144 in the form of a fibre body
extends between the two holder arms 146a, 146b. The fibre body is
connected to the holder arms 146a, 146b via connection locations.
The holder arms 146a, 146b are angled with respect to the
longitudinal axis L of the grip body 142.
[0536] A toothpick 147 is moreover arranged in the grip body 142.
The toothpick 147 is connected to the mounting element 154 via a
film hinge 152. The toothpick 147 forms two base surfaces which lie
opposite one another as well as two laterally arranged narrow side
edges.
[0537] The toothpick 147 in the passive position lies in the plane
of the grip body 142 and is aligned in its longitudinal axis L. The
one exposed side edge of the toothpick 147 in the passive position
of the toothpick 147 forms a section of the outer contour of the
grip body 142. The toothpick 147 forms a cleaning tip which is
directed towards the holder 143 in the passive position. The second
side edge of the toothpick 147 is adjacent the volume body 153.
[0538] The toothpick 147 is pivoted out of the longitudinal axis L
of the grip body 142 into is functional position for use. The pivot
movement of the toothpick 147 runs along the longitudinal axis L of
the grip body 142 to its end section which lies opposite the holder
143. Accordingly, the rotation axis of the film hinge 152 is
arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L.
[0539] The flosser 161 according to FIGS. 30 and 31 comprises a
grip body 162 and a holder 163 which is connected to the grip body
162 via a neck section 165. The flosser 161 is designed as a sheet
component.
[0540] The grip body 162 comprises two arm sections 167a, 167b,
which are connected to one another in an arched manner in the end
section of the grip body 162 which is remote from the holder 163.
The arm sections 167a, 167b unite into a loop-like formation,
towards the neck section.
[0541] The holder 163 comprises a first and a second holder arm
166a, 166b which are connected to one another via a bow section. An
interdental space cleaning element 164 in the form of a fibre body
extends between the two holder arms 166a, 166b. The fibre body 164
is connected to the holder arms 166a, 166b via connection
locations. The holder arms 166a, 166b are angled or bent with
respect to the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 162.
[0542] The arm sections 167a, 167b of the grip body 162 run
together into a type of knot in the neck section 165. The arm
sections 167a, 167b are optically continued on the other side of
the neck section 165 in the holder 163, as holder arms 166a,
166b.
[0543] The flosser according to FIGS. 30 and 31 with regard to the
functioning principle is directed to those in FIGS. 32 and 33. A
grip body 162 which is no longer flat, but is present as a volume
shape can be bent by way of parts of the grip body 162 which are
connected via film hinges 168a, 168b. If the two arm sections 167a,
167b are pressed against one another, then the film hinges 168a,
168b are actuated and the two arm sections are bent out of the
plane, so that an angle sets in between the grip and the holder
163. This is not shown, but with regard to the principle is evident
in FIG. 33. The flosser 161 is manufactured in a flat manner and is
deformed by the user if required.
[0544] The flosser 181 according to FIGS. 32 and 33 comprises a
grip body 182 and a holder 183 which is connected to the grip body
182 via a connection section 185. The flosser 181 is designed as a
sheet component.
[0545] The flosser 181 comprises a plurality of sheet segments
191a, 191b, 192a, 192b which are connected to one another via fold
hinges 193 which are designed as film hinges. The sheet segments
191a, 191b, 192a, 192b in the passive position lie in one plane
together with the holder 183 which is likewise designed in a
two-dimensional or sheet-like manner.
[0546] The grip body 182 comprises two sheet segments in the form
of a first and a second fold arm 192a, 192b which can be folded to
one another along the longitudinal axis L of the grip body 182 via
a fold hinge 193. The fold hinge 193 which is designed as a film
hinge accordingly forms a fold axis, which runs parallel to the
longitudinal axis L of the grip body 182.
[0547] The holder 183 comprises a first and a second holder arm
186a, 186b which are connected to one another via a bow section. An
interdental space cleaning element 184 in the form of a fibre body
extends between the two holder arms 186a, 186b. The fibre body 184
is connected to the holder arms 186a, 186b via connection
locations.
[0548] A connection section 185 lies between the holder 183 and the
grip body 182. This comprises two triangular sheet segments 191a,
191b which via fold hinges 193 are connected on the one hand to the
fold arms 192a, 192b and on the other hand to the bow section of
the holder arms 186, 186b. The triangular sheet segments 191a, 191b
run to one another into a tip or point.
[0549] The grip body 182 can be brought from the passive position
into a functional position, in which the flosser 181 is brought out
of the plane into a three-dimensional shape, by way of folding the
sheet segments 191a, 191b, 192a, 192b to one another along the fold
hinges 193.
[0550] With this procedure, the fold arms 192a, 192b are bent
downwards. Thereby, the holder 183 is likewise creased downwards
with its holder arms 186a, 186b over the triangular sheet segments
191a, 191b and assumes its functional position.
[0551] The flosser 201 according to the embodiments according to
FIGS. 34 to 37 comprises a grip body 202 and a holder 203 which is
connected to the grip body 202 via a connection section 205. The
flosser 201 is designed as a sheet component.
[0552] The flosser 201 comprises a holder 203, onto which arms
sections 211a, 211b of a grip body 202 are articulated via a
connection section 205. The arm sections 211a, 211b are pivotably
articulated on the connection section 205 via film hinges.
[0553] The sheet-like arm sections 211a, 211b in the passive
position lie together with the holder 203 likewise designed in a
surface-like manner, in one plane. The two arm sections 211a, 211b
in this position lie in a common axis which corresponds to the
longitudinal axis A1, A2 of the arm sections 211a, 211b (see FIGS.
34a to 34c, 36a). The connection section 205 is hereby arranged
between the arm sections 211a, 211b.
[0554] A connection pin 212 is arranged in a first arm section
211a. A receiving slot 213 running parallel to the longitudinal
axis A2 of the arm section 211b is arranged in the second arm
section 211b.
[0555] The holder 203 comprises a first and a second holder arm
206a, 206b which are connected to one another via a bow section.
The bow section is an integral part of the connection section 205.
An interdental space cleaning element 204 in the form of a thread
body extends between the two holder arms 206a, 206b. The fibre body
204 is connected to the holder arms 206a, 206b via connection
locations.
[0556] The first arm section 211a is pivoted to the second arm
section 211b or vice versa, for bringing the flosser 201 from its
passive position into its functional position, with which procedure
the flosser 201 is brought out of the plane into a
three-dimensional shape. With this procedure, the connection pin
212 meets the receiving slot 213 and locks into this. The arm
sections 211a, 211b with this step are still aligned parallel to
one another (see FIGS. 35a to 35c and 36b).
[0557] The connection pin 212 slides in the receiving slot 213 to
the outer-lying slot end by way of setting up the two arm sections
211a, 211b out of the plane of the passive position. The two arm
sections 211a, 211b together with the connection section 205 in a
plan view form a triangular arrangement (see FIGS. 36c and 37a to
37c). With this procedure, the end regions of the arm sections
211a, 211b which lie remote to the connection section 205, are
brought together. The flosser 201 is in its functional position in
this position.
[0558] A further functional position is shown in FIG. 35. The
flosser 201 in the locked-in situation can also assume this shown
position of use.
[0559] The connection pin 212 can be moved in the receiving slot
213, so that apart from the shown positions of FIGS. 34 and 35,
positions lying between these positions in the figures can also be
realised.
[0560] The flosser 221 according to FIGS. 38 and 39 has an elongate
grip body 222 and a holder 223 which is connected to the grip body
222. The holder 223 and the grip body 222 are designed as sheet
components.
[0561] The holder 223 comprises a first and a second holder arm
226a, 226b which are connected to one another via a bow section.
The holder arms 226a, 226b are bent with respect to the
longitudinal axis L of the grip body 222.
[0562] An interdental space cleaning element 24 in the form of a
fibre body extends between the two holder arms 226a, 226b (FIG. 38,
39a). The fibre body 224 is connected laterally in each case to a
connection section 227. The two connection sections 227 each
comprise a connection pin 228. The connection sections 227 are
connected to the respective holder arm 226a, 226b via the
connection pin 228. For this, the connection pin 228 of the
connection section 227 positively engages into a corresponding
recess 2299 at the face-side end of the respective holder arm 226a,
226b. The connection section 227 thereby forms a continuation of
the holder arm 226a, 226b (FIG. 39a).
[0563] The fibre body 224, the connection sections 227 as well as
the connection pins 228 are preferably designed in a single-part
manner. The holder 223 and the grip body 222 are likewise
preferably designed in a single-part manner.
[0564] An injection moulding method is particularly suitable for
the manufacture. The manufacture can be effected in a
single-component or multi-component method. Accordingly, the
mentioned assembly components can consist of one or more plastic
components.
[0565] The flosser 241 according to FIGS. 40 to 42 comprises an
elongate grip body 242 and a holder 243 which is connected to the
grip body 242. The holder 242 and the grip body 242 are designed as
sheet components.
[0566] The holder 243 comprises a first and second holder arm 246a,
246b which are connected to one another via a bow section. The
holder arms 246a, 246b are angled (bent) with respect to the
longitudinal axis L of the grip body 242.
[0567] An interdental space cleaning element 244 in the form of a
fibre body (FIG. 40) extends between the two holder arms 246a,
246b. The fibre body 244 is connected laterally in each case to an
anchoring element 247. The anchoring element 247 is designed in a
spherical manner.
[0568] The fibre body 244 together with the anchoring element 247
is manufactured separately for example in a prior injection
moulding step (FIG. 41). The previously separately manufactured
fibre body 244, with the anchoring elements 247 is inserted into a
tool mould on manufacture of the flosser 241. The grip body and the
holder are subsequently injected in an injection moulding method.
The holder arms 246a, 246b are hereby injected around the anchoring
elements 247. The anchoring elements 247 are anchored in the holder
arms 246a, 246b by way of this (FIG. 42).
[0569] The fibre body 244 and the anchoring elements 247 are
preferably designed in a single-part manner. The holder 243 and the
grip body 242 are preferably likewise designed in a single-part
manner.
[0570] An injection moulding method is particularly suitable for
manufacture. The manufacture can be effected in a single-component
or multi-component method. Accordingly, the mentioned assembly
components can consist of one or of several plastic components.
[0571] FIGS. 43 to 47 show different embodiments of interdental
space cleaning elements.
[0572] The interdental space cleaning element 304 according to
FIGS. 43a and 43b comprises nubs 305 which are arranged annularly
around a fibre body. A plurality of such annular nub arrangements
are arranged at a distance to one another in the longitudinal
direction of the fibre body.
[0573] The interdental space cleaning element 324 according to
FIGS. 44a and 44b comprises individual lamellae 325 which are
formed in an annular manner about the fibre body. A plurality of
such lamellae 325 are arranged at a distance to one another in the
longitudinal direction of the fibre body.
[0574] The interdental space cleaning element 344 according to
FIGS. 45a and 45b comprises bristles 345 which are arranged
annularly about the fibre body. A plurality of such annular bristle
arrangements are arranged at a distance to one another in the
longitudinal direction of the fibre body
[0575] The interdental space cleaning element 364 according to
FIGS. 46a and 46b is only formed from a fibre body and has no
functional elements.
[0576] The interdental space cleaning element 384 according to
FIGS. 47a and 47b comprises a combination of bristles 385 according
to the embodiment example according to FIG. 45 and nubs 386
according to the embodiment example according to FIG. 43. A
plurality of annular bristle arrangements and annular nub
arrangements are thus alternately provided on the fibre body.
[0577] The interdental space cleaning elements together with their
functional elements are preferably designed in a single-part
manner. An injection moulding method is particularly suitable for
manufacture. The manufacture can be effected in a single-component
or multi-component method. Accordingly, the interdental space
cleaning element with functional elements can consist of one or
more plastic components.
[0578] The steps for the production of a further embodiment of a
flosser 501 which are represented by way of FIG. 48, in a first
step comprise the manufacture of a sheet-like (two-dimensional)
extrusion component 500.1 of plastic. The extrusion profile 500.1
is designed in a tape-like manner and comprises a co-extruded
longitudinal groove 503.
[0579] In a second step, arched recesses are punched out on the one
longitudinal side of the extrusion profile 500.2 next to one
another and at a distance to one another. Finger-like integral
formations which form the later holder arms 506a, 506b result in
each case between two arched recesses. The longitudinal groove 503
in now arranged in the form of longitudinal groove sections in the
finger-like integral formations.
[0580] In a third step, the dental thread 504 is inserted into the
longitudinal groove 503 of the extrusion profile 500.3 and is
locked or fixed in this, e.g. by locking in, bonding etc.
[0581] In a fourth step, individual flossers 501 are punched out of
the prepared extrusion profile 500.4 along the partition line 505.
The partition line 505 leads through the finger-like integral
formation and divides this in each case into a holder arm 506a,
506b of two adjacent flossers 501. The partition line 505
corresponds to the contour of the punching knife when punching
out.
[0582] The punched-out flosser 501 comprises two holder arms 506a,
506b, a dental thread 504 running between these, and a grip body
502.
[0583] The steps for production of a further embodiment of a
flosser 521 which are represented by FIG. 49, in a first step
comprise the manufacture of two plastic films.
[0584] Identical arched recesses are punched out on the one
longitudinal side of the films, next to one another and at a
distance to one another, in a second step. The film sections 520.1,
520.2 arise. Finger-like integral formations which form the later
holder arms 526a, 526b result between two arched recesses in each
case.
[0585] The two film sections 520.1, 520.1 are led together and
connected in a surfaced manner in a third step. The recesses in the
two film sections 520.1, 520.2 are thereby aligned to one another,
e.g. in a register.
[0586] The dental thread 524 in the region of the end sections of
the finger-like integral formations is inserted between the two
film sections 520.1, 520.1 and connected to the two film sections
520.1, 520.2, before or on leading together the two film sections
520.1, 520.2. The connection of the two film sections 520.1, 520.2
and accordingly the fastening of the dental thread can be effected
by way of bonding or welding.
[0587] In a fourth step, the individual flossers 521 are punched
out of the prepared extrusion profile 520.3 along the partition
line 525. The partition line 525 leads through the finger-like
integral formation and subdivides this in each case into a holder
arm 526a, 526b of two adjacent flossers 521.
[0588] The punched-out flosser 521 comprises two holder arms 526a,
526b, a dental thread 525 running between these, and a grip body
522.
[0589] The embodiments of flossers 451, 481 which are shown in
FIGS. 50 and 51 comprise a grip body 451, 482 as well as a holder
453, 483 which is arranged in an angled manner with respect to the
grip body 452, 482. The holder 453, 483 comprises a first and a
second holder arm 456a, 456b; 486a, 486b, between which a dental
floss 454, 484 is tensioned.
[0590] The flosser 451, 481 moreover comprises a tension (pull)
element 455, 485 in the form of a tension rib. The tension element
455, 485 with one end is arranged on the inner holder arm 456a,
486a of the holder 452, 483 which is angled with respect to the
grip body 452, 482, said inner holder arm facing the grip body 452,
482. The tension element 455, 485 is attached on the grip body 452,
482 with the other end. The tension element 455, 485 spans the
bending which is formed by the holder arm 456a, 486a and the grip
body 452, 482. The tension element 455, 485 is injection moulded
together with the flosser 451, 481.
[0591] The tension element 455, 485 on cooling and on account of
shrinkage produces a tensile stress (tension) upon the holder arm
456a, 486a, and this tensile stress acts outwards away from the
dental thread 454, 484. This tensile stress has the effect that the
prestressing of the dental thread 454, 484 is retained or even
increases, during the cooling.
[0592] The flosser 401, 431 according to the embodiments according
to FIGS. 52 and 53 comprises a grip body 402, 432 and a holder 403,
433 which is connected to the grip body 402, 432. The holder 403,
433 comprises a first and a second holder arm 406a, 406b; 436a,
436b which are connected to one another via a bow section.
[0593] A dental floss 404, 434 extends between the two holder arms
406a, 406b; 436a, 436b. The holder arms 404, 434 are angled with
respect to a longitudinal axis of the grip body 402, 432. The
holder 403, 433 moreover comprises a damping element 405, 435.
[0594] The damping element 405 according to the embodiment
according to FIG. 52 is arranged in an arched manner along the
inner bow which is formed by the bow section and the holder arms
406a, 406b. The damping element is thereby attached on the bow
section and the holder arms 406a, 406b. The damping element 405
moreover extends around the end sections of the holder arms 406a,
406b to their outer sides and covers the end-surfaces of the holder
arms 406a, 406b. The damping element 405 is designed as a type of
lip.
[0595] The damping element 435 according to the embodiment
according to FIG. 53 is likewise arranged in an arched manner along
the inner bow which is formed by the bow section and the holder
arms 436a, 436b, i.e. along the bow section and the holder arms
436a, 436b. The damping element 435 moreover likewise extends
around the end sections of the holder arms 436a, 436b to their
outer sides and covers the end-surfaces of the holder arms 436a,
436b
[0596] In contrast to the embodiment according to FIG. 52, the
damping element 435 along the inner bow is formed as an exposed,
lip-like element which is only fastened with its end sections on
the outer side of the holder arms 436a, 436b in the region their
end sections, on these holder arms.
[0597] The damping element 405, 435 according to FIGS. 52 and 53
consist for example of a soft component of the type mentioned
above. The damping element 405, 435 in particular is injected in a
separate injection moulding step.
[0598] The dental floss penetrates the damping element 405, 435 or
is at least partly surrounded by this.
[0599] The flosser 121' according to the embodiment example
according to FIGS. 54a, 54b, 55a, 55b, 56a and 56b with the
exception of the subsequently described features corresponds to the
embodiment according to FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, 27a and 27b.
Accordingly, the same features are provided with identical
reference numerals in the present figures. The description
concerning the mentioned figures FIGS. 25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, 27a and
27b is referred to regarding the description of these features.
[0600] A further tongue cleaner is arranged on the inner holder arm
126a of the flosser 121' curved in a sickle-like manner, said
holder arm facing the grip body 122. This tongue cleaner is
designed in the form of a row of nubs 137 which are arranged in a
row next to one another on the holder arm 126a.
[0601] The descriptions made with regard to the specific figures
can of course also be conferred to the other figures, which show
the same or similar fashions, and in which the fashions are not
described with the same detail.
* * * * *