JP2011036658A - Bristle configuration - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a bristle configuration providing enhanced cleaning of teeth. <P>SOLUTION: The bristle pattern includes large tufts having a greater cross-sectional area than standard toothbrush bristle tufts. The large tufts are contoured so that the top ends of the bristles comprising the large tufts are not all at the same height. More than one raised section is provided, the raised sections being spatially isolated from one another to function independently of one another. Preferably, at least one of the raised sections has a sufficient brushing surface area with bristles extending a sufficient height above surrounding bristles such that that raised section can reach into and clean interdental tooth surfaces, preferably while the remaining bristles in the large tuft clean other tooth surfaces. Another aspect of the invention relates to a zig-zag or sawtooth bristle profile, wherein each tuft making up the profile has its own unique substantially conical or frustoconical profile. In one embodiment, the height of conical or frustoconical bristle tufts increases from the sides of the head towards the midline of the head. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a bristle contour of a toothbrush. More specifically, the present invention relates to unique hair tuft contours.

  Toothbrushes generally have a plurality of tufts to remove plaque and debris from the tooth surface, and each tuft has a plurality of bristles. Typically, the tuft is configured to brush the outer surface of the tooth, ie, the buccal side of the tooth (facing the cheek), the lingual side (multiple hairs facing the tongue), and the occlusal (chewing) surface. The Dental floss is effective in removing plaque and debris from the interproximal or adjacent interproximal surface. However, not all individuals use dental floss on a daily basis, and some individuals use very little floss at all. Thus, the toothbrush bristle profile (free cleaning / brushing / curve shape of the edge that fits the bristle teeth as seen from the side view) is not only from the outer surface of the tooth but also the interdental surface of the tooth It is also desirable to be designed to remove plaque and debris. It is also believed that massaging and stimulating gingiva is advantageous for good dental health. Therefore, it is also desirable that the toothbrush provide gingival and interdental stimulation in addition to excellent cleaning between teeth.

  Commercial toothbrushes with a flat bristle profile (ie, all free ends of the bristles are on substantially the same level, or in other words, on the same plane) are suitable for the outer surface of the tooth. However, the cleaning of the interdental surface and the provision of interdental stimulation is not as good as a toothbrush with a curvilinear bristle profile (having different height free ends). Various bristle contours, such as repeated “V” shaped (ie sawtooth or zigzag) contours, are known to increase toothbrush cleaning and gingival stimulation effectiveness.

Commercial toothbrushes are typically approximately 25.4 to 35.8 mm (1 to 1.25 inches) long and 7.9 to 9.5 mm (5/16 to 3/8 inches) wide Has a brushing surface area (surface area occupied by the free ends of the hair). The bristles generally have 5-14 tufts per row and have approximately 20-50 bristles per tuft extending longitudinally (ie, from the distal end of the head to the proximal end, or in other words In this case, they are arranged in 4 to 6 rows of hair tresses (from the tip of the head toward the handle). A typical tuft is approximately 1.6 mm (0.063 inches) in diameter and has a cross-sectional area of approximately 2 mm ² (0.079 inches ² ). Commonly used hair diameters are 0.15 mm (0.006 inch) for soft hair, 0.2 mm (0.008 inch) for medium hair, and 0.25 mm for firm hair ( 0.010 inch). Increasing the diameter of the hair used in the brush, or increasing the tuft area, generally increases the hardness of the hair or tuft, and generally increases the life of the brush. However, such an increase generally adversely affects brush interdental cleaning, as well as gingival friction, because the hair is not easily moved or bent to fit into the interdental space.

  Therefore, there is a continuing desire to improve the ability of the toothbrush to clean between teeth, especially since many individuals do not use dental floss. Furthermore, there is a desire to increase the useful life of the brush.

  In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a toothbrush is formed having a bristle profile that provides excellent interdental cleaning. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided at least one tress having more hair than a typical tress and having a brushing surface area greater than a typical tress, such large tress being In order to provide excellent interdental cleaning, it is curved. Specifically, large tresses are separated from each other by shorter hairs and have at least two raised sections in these hairs. Large tufts have a sufficient number of hairs to provide the increased stiffness, stiffness, and cleaning power typical of larger tufts. However, because the raised sections are separated from each other, such sections have the flexibility and interproximal reach typical of a tuft with fewer hairs than a larger area of tufts. The raised section of the large tuft can wipe around the teeth and reach the interproximal region, while the lower section of the large tuft brushes the outer surface of the tooth.

  In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the toothbrush may be formed of standard brushing surface area tresses that are curvilinear such that each tress has a substantially conical or frustoconical profile. . Furthermore, the tallest or highest bristle height within the conical tuft varies along the brushing surface area of the toothbrush. Thus, such tufts are curvilinear to facilitate interdental cleaning, and at different heights for a better opportunity to reach the interdental surface of the user's teeth And spaced apart from each other.

This specification concludes with claims that particularly point out and distinctly claim the invention, but the invention is read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals identify like elements, The description of some particularly preferred embodiments will be better understood and the accompanying drawings are as follows.
1 is a perspective view of an exemplary toothbrush to which the principles of the present invention may be applied. FIG. 2 is a separated side view of the head of the toothbrush shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the head shown in FIG. 2. 1 is a schematic isolated side view of an exemplary hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 5 is a schematic isolated plan view of the exemplary hair tress of FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view of another exemplary hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. 1 is a schematic isolated plan view of a first exemplary tri-lobal tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic isolated plan view of a second exemplary tri-lobal hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic isolated plan view of a third exemplary tri-lobal hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. 1 is a schematic isolated plan view of a first multi-branch exemplary hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic isolated plan view of a second multi-branch exemplary hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic isolated plan view of a third multi-branch exemplary hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. 1 is a schematic isolated plan view of a first circular exemplary hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic isolated plan view of a second circular exemplary hair tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. FIG. 3 is another exploded perspective view of the head shown in FIG. 2 taken from the distal end.

  An exemplary toothbrush 100 having a head 110 shown separately in FIGS. 2 and 3 to which the principles of the present invention may be applied is illustrated in FIG. The handle portion 102 and neck portion 104 of the exemplary toothbrush 100 are angled with respect to each other, but not necessarily for the purposes of the present invention. Toothbrush 100 has, along longitudinal direction L, a proximal end 106 (provided with a handle 102 for gripping by a user) and a distal end 108 (provided with a head 110). The longitudinal direction L is generally defined herein as the direction extending along the length between the proximal end 106 and the distal end 108 of the toothbrush 100. The longitudinal direction L may extend along the handle portion 102 or the neck portion 104 or along the direction therebetween. A transverse direction T is defined herein as a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction L, such as a direction extending across the width of the toothbrush head 110. For applications such as electric toothbrushes, the handle portion 102 may have suitable attachment means (not shown) located at the proximal end 106 for securing the toothbrush 100 to a power source or drive means.

  The toothbrush head 110 has a head surface 112 from which the bristles 114 extend. The bristles 114 may include a toe tuft 116 configured to reach the user's back teeth at the proximal end of the head surface 112. Typically, the toe tuft is preferably a larger tuft having an angled curvilinear shape such as that illustrated in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. Optionally, extends from the head surface 112 and is configured to massage the user's gums and / or to indicate whether the toothbrush is being used with excessive pressure on the gums and teeth. A gingival massager 118 may be provided. The gingival massager 118 is preferably formed from a soft and elastic material such as an elastomer. The height of the gingival massager 118 may be selected to be lower than any height of the cleaning hair extending from the head surface 112.

  The exemplary toothbrush illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 is a normal size head for adults. It will be appreciated that the principles of the present invention described in detail below may be applied to other types of heads, such as small heads or smaller sized heads used in children's toothbrushes. By way of example, a smaller head design may be obtained by not including toe tufts, by eliminating various tufts, and / or by eliminating some or all of the gingival massaging section. .

  The toothbrush bristle profile (ie, the bristle cleaning or free end profile as seen from the side view) formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention is configured to provide superior interdental cleaning. The The individual bristles used to achieve the tuft profile of the present invention are generally circular in cross-section, and the diameter of the individual bristles is about 0.1 mm (0.004 inch) to about 0.4 mm (. 014 inches). However, other hair cross-sectional shapes such as elliptical, square, rectangular, hexagonal, cross-shaped, star-shaped, etc. are also contemplated. Hair is typically made of synthetic fibers such as nylon 6.12. The free-cleaning end of the hair may be formed into any desired shape, such as straight cut, rounded, tapered or otherwise curved. It will be appreciated that the individual hairs need not all be identical to one another. By way of example, bristles of different diameters or cross-sectional shapes may be provided on the toothbrush head 112 of the toothbrush 100 formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

A typical average or standard tuft of multiple hairs is approximately 1.6 mm (0.063 inches) in diameter and has a cross-sectional area of approximately 2 mm ² (0.079 inches ² ). Larger tufts may generally be provided as toe tufts at the most distal end of the toothbrush head (or as heel tufts at the proximal end of the toothbrush head closest to the handle), and standard bristle with fewer hairs It may be found in other locations along the toothbrush head to provide a stronger cleaning ability than the tuft. In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, at least one such large tuft having a brushing surface area (surface area occupied by bristle brushing or free ends) greater than a standard or typical toothbrush tuft is a tooth It is curvilinearly shaped to form a large curvilinear tuft 120 with raised sections configured to reach the surface of the teeth in between. The large curvilinear tuft 120 formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention has a larger area than the average tuft on a toothbrush known in the art. The average tuft has a cross-sectional area of about 2 mm ² . The curvilinear tufts of the present invention preferably have a cross-sectional area of at least about 4 mm ² , more preferably at least about 5 mm ² , and most preferably at least about 10 mm ² .

  Because the large tuft 120 with a curved shape has a brushing surface area greater than that provided by the average or standard tuft, the large tuft 120 with a curved shape will have more hair than is typically provided in a standard tuft. And therefore have a standard surface area and do not bend as easily or as much as a tuft formed of bristles of the same diameter as that in a large tuft 120 with a curved shape. Thus, the curly large tuft 120 bristles allow a more targeted cleaning action than was previously possible with larger tufts because of the lateral reinforcement provided by the curls that create the curvilinear large tufts 120. On the other hand, it has greater tuft hardness, stiffness, and detergency. The large curvilinear tuft 120 has at least one raised section 122 on these hairs having a height that extends above the height of the remaining hairs in the lower section 124 of the curvilinear large tuft 120. Curved shape. A sufficient number of bristles in the raised section 122 are not laterally supported by the other shorter bristles of the large curvy tuft 120 and reach the interdental space, effectively removing the interdental surface of the teeth. For cleaning, it has a brushing end that extends above the height of these other hairs in the large tuft 120 with a curved shape. Thus, the hair of the raised section 122 has less tuft flexibility and interdental reach. Nevertheless, the hair of the raised section 122 is at a level close to the head surface 112 (ie, in the lower region or adjacent to the base of these hairs) by other hairs of the large curvy tuft 120. Because of the lateral support, lateral movement is still on average less than can occur when such a raised section is an independently formed interdental chamber.

  As will be appreciated, the large tuft 120 with a curved shape, formed according to the principles of the present invention, can sweep around the teeth and reach the adjacent interproximal region (via the raised section 122), while At the same time, the outer surface of the teeth can also be polished (via the lower section 124). For the purposes of the present invention, a raised section 122 of a curvy large tuft 120 formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention is a section having a free wash end that extends above the other hairs of the tuft. is there. Also, for the purposes of the present invention, the lower section 124 of the curvilinear large tuft 120, formed according to the principles of the present invention, is free below the free wash ends of these other hairs in the tuft. A section having a cleaning end. A large tuft 120 of curvilinear shape has various hair heights (all hairs need not be either the tallest or the lowest, but the tallest and the lowest The lowest section can also be referred to as the base section.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the cross-sectional cleaning area provided by the raised section 122 of the curved large tuft 120 is sufficient to achieve the desired cleaning, particularly interdental cleaning. Preferably, a raised section 122 having a brushing surface area of at least about 0.25 mm ² is believed to provide the desired interdental cleaning. Preferably, the raised section 122 has a brushing surface area less than about 4 mm ² . A raised section 122 having a brushing surface area of about 1.5 mm ² has been shown to provide the desired improved cleaning effectiveness.

  In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, which may or may not be combined with the above-described aspects, more than one raised section 122 is provided in a large tuft 120 having a curved shape. In order for the raised sections 122 to have the desired interdental cleaning capability, the raised sections 122 are preferably separated from each other by the bristles in the lower section 124. More specifically, the free wash ends of the raised sections 122 are preferably spatially separated from each other such that each raised section 122 can function independently of the other raised sections 122. Preferably, a sufficient number of lower bristles are provided between the raised sections to allow separate raised sections to act independently. Alternatively or additionally, the spacing between the separate and independent raised sections 122 may be determined by the brushing surface area provided between the separate and independent raised sections 122. If desired, and the lower bristle number or surface area provided between the separate and independent raised sections 122, the raised sections clean the interdental surface, while the lower bristle is effective on the outer surface of the teeth. Selected so that it can be washed. Preferably, the raised sections are spaced from each other by at least 0.2 mm, and preferably at least 0.5 mm. It will also be appreciated that the lower sections 124 may have regions that are separated from each other, as the lower section 124 may also be described as having one or more sections. However, for the sake of simplicity, with the understanding that such a reference includes an interconnected group of single lower hairs, as well as two or more separate sections of lower hairs, “more Only the “lower section” is referenced.

  Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, to further illustrate various principles of the present invention, an illustrative curved large tuft 220 of FIGS. 1-3 will now be described. As can be seen from the schematic side view of FIG. 4, the hair in the raised section 222 (shown schematically and not an exact depiction) is above the free-cleaning end 225 of the hair in the lower section 224. Has a free-cleaning end 223 that extends to More specifically, all free wash ends 223 of raised section 222 are not the same height, but all free wash ends 223 are nevertheless free free end 225 of lower section 224. taller than. The free-cleaning ends 223 of the raised sections 222 are not all at the same level or height, but are tapered inward and downward, but all the free-cleaning ends 223 are at the same level or height. Is understood to be within the scope of the present invention. Similarly, the free-cleaning ends 225 of the lower section 224 are not all shown to be at the same level or height (but are all less than the lowest free-cleaning end 224 of the raised section 222). Low) and thus substantially inwardly and downwardly tapered contours, but it is within the scope of the present invention to have the free section end 225 of the lower section at the same level or height. Is understood.

  As can be seen from the schematic plan view of FIG. 5 (the hair is shown schematically, not an exact depiction), the exemplary curvilinear large tuft 220 is generally “X” or “+” shaped. It has an installation area (brushing surface area shape that can be seen from the plan view) having a shape (for the sake of convenience, without intending to limit it, hereinafter referred to as “cross shape”). As can be understood at least with reference to FIG. 3, the free end of the arm or foot or branch 230 need not be square, but may instead be rounded. The bristles that create the cruciform-shaped branch 230 form the raised section 222 of the large curvilinear tuft 220, while the bristles that create the central region 232 from which the branch 230 extends are A lower section 224 is formed. As can be appreciated, the raised sections 222 are at least partially separated by void regions 234 where no hair is provided. As such, the raised sections 222 are separated from each other by gap regions 234 to allow each raised section 222 to function independently of the other raised sections 222 and to achieve a desired interdental cleaning function. Separated from. The presence of a lower section 224 adjacent to each of the raised sections 222 imparts the desired support and / or rigidity to each raised section 222 to improve the cleaning effectiveness of each raised section 222.

  Of course, instead of having a void area 234 in which no bristles are provided, such as to form a substantially square footprint shape as in the exemplary schematic embodiment of FIG. Shorter hairs may be provided. The corners of the square footprint may be rounded, as may be formed from the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5, or may be made more square as illustrated in FIG. Similar to the large curvilinear 220 of FIGS. 4 and 5, the large curvilinear tuft 320 having a square footprint is preferably at least the corner region, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. And between the raised sections 322 (and, if desired, in the central region 334 as well) with taller hairs (as compared to other hairs that create large tufts 320 having a curved shape) that form the raised sections 322. And) having shorter hairs (compared to other hairs that create large curvilinear tufts 320) forming lower sections 324. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the raised sections 322 are preferably provided separately and independently of each other so that they are substantially spatially separated from each other and function independently of each other. The raised section 322 achieves effective cleaning along line AA, such as a tuft contour, such as the tuft contour of the large tuft 220 of the curved shape shown in FIG. 4, or preferably in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Any other desired contour may be formed. Each footprint area shape of the raised section 322 may be a square or any other desired shape within the substantially square footprint area shape of the large tuft 320 having a curved shape. One or more hairs of the raised section 322 may be of different heights (such as those that form a tapered profile) or all may be the same height.

  The large curvilinear tuft 120 formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention has a footprint area shape other than the “X” or “+” shape of the exemplary curvilinear tuft 120 of FIGS. 3 and 5. It is understood that it may be. By way of example, the exemplary large curvy tuft 220 may be said to have four branches 230. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a large curvilinear tuft may be formed with less than four or more branches of the large curvilinear tuft 220. When formed with fewer than two branches, a large tuft 220 with a curved shape is substantially straight (forming a bar-like footprint area) or curved (bow or sinusoidal, so on) If not, it may be said that it has an elongated installation area in any form of a curve or the like. Two or more raised sections having any desired footprint shape are provided along the extent of such footprint area, preferably separated from each other by at least one lower section May be.

  A branch-like large tuft of curved shape may be formed having a number of branches other than those described above. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, each of the exemplary curvilinear large tufts 420a, 420b, and 420c of FIGS. 7-9 is each provided with three branches 430 (eg, a “tri-lobal” installation). Area pattern) only. The branches 430 of the embodiment schematically illustrated in FIGS. 7-9 are spaced equidistant from each other and are shown with substantially the same length, but variations on the spacing and length of the branches 430 are It is understood that it is within the scope of the present invention. Preferably, the raised section has any desired footprint shape along at least some or all of one or more of the branches 430 of the large tufts 420a, 420b, 420c having a curved shape. Formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention and preferably separated by a lower section 424. Variations in the position and shape of the raised sections are illustrated in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. By way of example, the exemplary curvy tuft 420a of FIG. 7 is larger than the circular raised section 422b in the exemplary curvilinear tuft 420b of FIG. 8 and closer to the center of the curvilinear tuft 420a. A circular raised section 422a. In contrast, the raised section 422c in the exemplary curvilinear large tuft 420c of FIG. 9 occupies the respective tip area of the branch 430 and therefore does not have a circular footprint shape. A raised section may also be provided in the central region (preferably spaced from the other raised sections 422b), such as the central raised section 434b of the large tuft 420b in FIG. Preferably, the lower sections 424 from the remaining areas of the large curvilinear tufts 420a, 420b, 420c preferably separate the raised sections from each other.

In the exemplary embodiment schematically illustrated in FIGS. 10-12, each exemplary curvilinear large tuft 520a, 520b, 520c substantially forms an asterisk ( ^* ) footprint pattern or the like. Thus, it is formed with more than four branches 530. Although the branches 530 of the embodiment of FIGS. 10-12 are spaced equidistant from each other and are shown with substantially the same length, variations in the spacing and length of the branches 530 are within the scope of the present invention. It is understood that Preferably, the raised section has any desired footprint shape along at least part or all of one or more of the branches 530 of the large tufts 520a, 520b, 520c having a curved shape. Formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, preferably separated by a lower section 524. Variations in the position and shape of the raised sections are illustrated in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. By way of example, the exemplary curvilinear large tufts 520a of FIGS. 10 and 11 each have raised sections 522a and 522b at the tips of their respective branches 530, with each raised section 522a, 522b being substantially It has a rectangular installation area shape. In the exemplary curvilinear large tuft 520b of FIG. 11, an additional central raised section 534b is provided in the central region of the curvilinear large tuft 520b and is preferably spaced from the other raised sections 522b. In contrast, the raised section 522c of the exemplary curvilinear large tuft 520c of FIG. 12 occupies substantially all of the respective footprint area of the branch 530, while the lower section 524 has a curvilinear large tuft. It is formed only in the central region 534c of 520c. The lower section 524 preferably forms the remaining regions of the large curvilinear tufts 520a, 520b, 520c and preferably separates the raised sections from each other.

  Thus, as will be appreciated, the curved bunched footprint area shape, as well as the individual raised sections of such curved bunched, formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, provide the desired effective cleaning and Preferably, any desired shape (e.g., rectangular, oval, star shape, ring shape, etc.) that achieves simultaneous cleaning between teeth in addition to the outer surface of the teeth may be preferred. By way of example, large curvilinear tufts formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention are substantially similar to exemplary curvilinear tufts 620a, 620b, etc., schematically illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, respectively. You may have a circular installation area shape. Similar to the exemplary curvilinear tufts described above, the curvilinear tufts 620a and 620b of FIGS. 13 and 14 form raised sections 622a and 622b as illustrated in FIGS. , Raised or taller hairs (compared to other hairs, creating large tufts 620a, 620b) and shorter hairs forming lower sections 624 (curved tufts) 620a, 620b, compared to other hair). Each raised section 622a, 622b can have any desired footprint area shape (a large curvy raised section of a given curvilinear shape, all having the same footprint area shape, or each having a different footprint area shape). The oval shape illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 is merely exemplary and not essential. The raised sections 622a or 622b may be equidistant from each other, as in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 13 and 14, or any other desired spacing. However, as described above, it is understood that the raised sections 622a and 622b are preferably at least spaced from each other by the lower section 624 so that they are substantially spatially separated from each other. The raised sections 622a and 622b are illustrated as being provided along the outer perimeter of the exemplary curvilinear large tufts 620a and 620b. However, the raised section may additionally or alternatively be provided inside the outer periphery. In the exemplary curvilinear large tuft 620b schematically illustrated in FIG. 14, the central raised section 634b is provided within the central region of the curvilinear large tuft 620.

  In accordance with the principles of the present invention, the raised sections 122, 222, 322, 422a, 422b, 422c, 522a, 522b, 522c, 622a, and 622b (for simplicity, similar principles or descriptions may be used in other embodiments Understand that it can be applied to a raised section, hereinafter only the raised section 122 will be referred to), but each lower section 124, 224, 324, 424, 424, 424, 524, 524, 524, 624, 624, Fully raised above 624 (for simplicity, similar principles or explanations can be applied to other lower sections of other embodiments, hereinafter only refer to the lower section 124) By giving these two sections different functional performance, these two sections It is desirable to distinguish emissions functionally from each other. The bristle portion of the raised section 122 that extends above the free-cleaning end of the lower section 124 is preferably long enough to properly reach the interdental space between the teeth (and Preferably, at the same time, the free-cleaning end of the hair of the lower section 124 reaches the outer surface of the tooth. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, there is sufficient brushing surface area due to the raised section 122 extending far enough to reach the interdental space and clean the interdental surface so that the hair around the curvy large tuft 120 reaches the interdental space. Provided. The highest hair in at least one of the raised sections 122 of the curved large tuft 120 formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention is the lowest of the hairs in the lower section 124 of the curved tuft 120. Preferably higher than the group by at least about 0.5 mm and no more than about 4 mm, more preferably at least about 1 or 2 mm, and most preferably about 1.8 mm.

  As can be understood from the above description of an exemplary curvilinear large tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, the heights of these hairs in the raised section of the curvilinear large tuft are all the same. It doesn't have to be high. Alternatively, one or more of the raised sections may have a tapered profile. Such tapering may be performed in any desired direction, such as to achieve a specific functional effect. The tuft profile of the curved section of the large tuft formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention may be selected to increase the number of hairs that simultaneously contact the user's teeth. As an example, at least the tuft profile of the raised section is such that when the raised section bristles reach between the teeth, the raised section taper allows the bristles to contact the curved tooth surface simultaneously. In order to do so, it may be curved. In other words, the brush head 112 generally has a distance from one point on the tooth surface that is not the same as for another point on the tooth surface, but a different bristle length differs from the brush head 112. Compensate for such varying distances between points along the tooth surface. Regardless of the brushing direction, more than one taper in different directions may be provided to increase the free-cleaning end of the hair that contacts the teeth during cleaning. As an example, as seen in FIG. 3, the large curvilinear tuft 120 has a tapered raised section 122 that tapers downward from the outer periphery towards a lower central section 124. Further, the taper processing may be performed from side to side (for example, in the circumferential direction around the periphery of a large tuft having a curved shape). Preferably, the taper angle of a given raised section 122 is at least about 20 degrees, more preferably at least about 27 degrees from horizontal (such as relative to the head surface 112). The taper angle of a given raised section 122 is preferably less than about 70 degrees, more preferably less than about 50 degrees, and most preferably less than about 45 degrees. If desired, the hairs in the lower section 124 need not all be the same height. Some tapering of the lower section 124 bristles, such as about at least about 10 degrees, preferably about 40 degrees or less, and preferably about 20 degrees, etc. is within the scope of the present invention. A substantially continuous curve as long as sufficient brushing surface area extends above the other hairs of the large tuft 120 in a curved shape, sufficient to reach the interdental space and clean the interdental surface of the teeth. A shape, or an inward and downward taper, may be provided.

  In accordance with separate and independent aspects of the present invention, the plurality of tufts may each be formed with a curvilinear contour, and the various curvilinear tufts may be at different heights from one another. . Such tufts may have a standard cross-sectional area. The tufts may be curved into any desired shape to achieve the desired cleaning effect or effectiveness. As an example, the hair in a given tuft may be of different heights to form a substantially conical or frustoconical profile that facilitates cleaning between teeth. The hairs in the other tufts may be of different heights so as to form a concave profile that can better match the convex buccal and lingual tooth surfaces. The difference in the height of the various curvilinear tresses may be selected to also achieve the desired cleaning effect or effectiveness. As an example, longer or higher tufts are desirable for interdental cleaning, while shorter or lower tufts are used for cleaning the outer surface of the teeth, particularly the buccal and lingual tooth surfaces. desirable. The height difference between such curvilinear tresses may be measured, for example, by comparing the highest hairs of the curvilinear tress. The height difference between curvilinear tresses 140 of various heights may be at least about 1.5 mm, and preferably about 1 mm. Curved tresses 140 of various heights are disposed within the central area of the brushing surface area or within the footprint of the toothbrush head 110, as illustrated in the exemplary toothbrush head of FIGS. Also good. Preferably, curvilinear tresses 140 of varying heights are provided in the central region, located within the center 70% -90% of the brush head 110, and are the most distal ends (ridges known as toe tufts). A section may be provided) or spaced from the proximal end (a raised section known as the heel tuft may be provided). Such an arrangement is provided at the distal end of the toothbrush head to clean the back teeth (such as in place of a toe tuft) and is easily arranged to clean the teeth in the front area of the user's mouth. In contrast to the more restrictive typical use of curvilinear tresses of different heights, which are not provided, curvilinear tresses can be used during normal or typical use of the toothbrush 100. Allow the outermost surface of the tooth to be cleaned.

  Alternatively, or in addition, the curvilinear bristles 140 of various heights are not only along the longitudinal direction L of the toothbrush head 110 (such as a sawtooth pattern common in the prior art), but a toothbrush. It may be arranged so as to occur along the transverse direction T of the head 110. The exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 3 and 15 increases the height of the curvilinear tuft toward the center or midline M of the toothbrush head 110 (substantially equidistant from both sides of the head). FIG. 4 illustrates one arrangement of curvilinear hair tufts 140 of various heights, the arrangement having a substantially serrated profile in side view (such as can be understood with reference to FIG. 2). ).

  In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, the curvilinear tress 140 of varying heights has a different curvilinear shape or no curvilinear shape (i.e., the free free ends of all hairs are substantially May be interspersed with tresses having different brushing surface areas, such as tresses that are at the same height) and / or large tresses (such as the large tress shape 120). The hair arrangements of FIGS. 2, 3 and 15 are exemplary and various other hair arrangements to achieve the improved effectiveness provided by applying the principles of the present invention. It is understood that the arrangement and bristle profile may be formed according to the principles of the present invention.

  The toothbrush was developed in G. B. Boucherie N. V. Similar to those described in US Pat. No. 5,609,890 issued to U.S. Pat. No. 6,582,028 issued to MC Schiffer GmbH on June 24, 2003. Methods may be used in accordance with the principles of the present invention and these patents are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

  Various embodiments of toothbrushes formed in accordance with the principles of the present invention have been described above. Each embodiment is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. By way of example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used in another embodiment to yield a further embodiment. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to embrace such modifications and changes as fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

  The invention can be better understood with reference to the following examples.

  Three toothbrushes were constructed. The first toothbrush was constructed with three cruciform tufts, as presented in FIG. 3, with all bristles substantially the same height (9.2 mm). The second toothbrush was constructed using three cruciform tufts of the same configuration and bristle density as the first brush, but with a raised hair section and 1.2 mm (9.2 mm, 8.0 mm) With a lowered hair section having a height difference. The third toothbrush was constructed using the tufts presented in FIGS. 1-3, but without a gingival massager. Toe tufts, frustoconical hairs, and cruciform tufts repeatedly produced an inverted “V” shaped pattern throughout. The fourth toothbrush was constructed using the frustoconical tufts and toe tufts presented in FIGS. 1-3 and 15 but without a gingival massager or a large cross-shaped tuft.

Simulated plaque was applied between the teeth of the human jaw model. To each head, 300 grams of force was applied, the hair was pressed against the teeth, and the toothbrush was moved back and forth by the machine for 8 seconds to simulate brushing. The amount of simulated plaque left behind was then evaluated and compared to a control to determine how much was removed based on the toothbrush head design. The following table summarizes the results.

  The table shows a significant improvement when cruciform tufts with bristles with a height difference of 1.2 mm are used to clean teeth. The addition of toes and conical tufts shows a slight improvement in plaque removal.

  The exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures have several distinct and independent inventive features, each of which is unique, at least alone, desirable to the present invention but not essential. Have a profit. Accordingly, the various distinct features of the present invention need not all be present in order to achieve at least some of the desired features and / or benefits of the present invention. Whether explicitly indicated or not, in a toothbrush formed according to the principles of the present invention, one or more separate features may be combined, or only one of the various features. May need to be present. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to only the embodiments specifically described herein.

  While the foregoing description and drawings represent representative embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that various additions, modifications, and substitutions may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In particular, the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms, structures, arrangements, proportions and using other elements, materials, and components without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is adapted to the particular environment and operating requirements without departing from the principles of the invention, the structures, arrangements, ratios, materials, and components used in the practice of the invention. It will be appreciated that it can be used with many modifications, as well as in other ways. For example, an element shown as being integrally formed may be constructed with multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts that may be integrally formed, and the operation of the element is reversed or otherwise changed. The size or dimensions of the elements may be varied. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed herein are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims, The present invention is not limited to the above description.

Embodiment
(1) Toothbrush,
A handle extending longitudinally and having a proximal end and a distal end;
A head at the distal end of the handle;
And at least one curvilinear tuft extending from the head,
here,
The curvilinear tufts are single tufts of hair bundled together, having two or more raised sections in these hairs and lower sections in these hairs, the raised sections The inner hair is higher than the hair in the lower section,
The two or more raised sections of the curvilinear tress are still part of the same curvilinear tress while being separated from each other by the lower section to act independently of each other. Toothbrush.
(2) the raised sections each have a brushing surface area of at least about 0.25 mm ^2, toothbrush according to claim 1.
(3) each raised section has a brushing surface area of less than about 4 mm ^2, toothbrush according to claim 2.
(4) each raised section has a brushing surface area of at least about 1.5 mm ^2, toothbrush according to claim 3.
5. The toothbrush according to embodiment 1, wherein the raised sections are at least 0.2 mm away from each other.
6. The toothbrush according to embodiment 5, wherein the raised sections are at least 0.5 mm away from each other.
7. The toothbrush according to embodiment 1, wherein lower sections separate each raised section from another raised section to separate the raised sections from each other.
(8) The raised section bristles are bundled with the lower section bristles so as to provide lateral support from the lower section to the raised sections, while the raised sections act independently. Embodiment 9. The toothbrush of embodiment 7, wherein the toothbrushes are separated from each other.
9. The toothbrush according to embodiment 1, wherein the highest bristle in the raised section is at least about 0.5 mm higher than the lowest bristle in the lower section.
10. The toothbrush of embodiment 9, wherein the highest bristle in the raised section is no more than about 4 mm higher than the lowest bristle in the lower section.

11. The toothbrush according to embodiment 1, wherein the highest bristle in the raised section is at least about 1 or 2 mm higher than the lowest bristle in the lower section.
12. The toothbrush according to embodiment 1, wherein the two or more raised sections include four raised sections.
(13) The toothbrush according to embodiment 1, wherein the curvilinear tuft has an installation area having three or more branches extending from a central region.
14. The toothbrush according to embodiment 13, wherein the raised section is provided in one or more of the branches and the lower section is provided in the central area.
15. The toothbrush of embodiment 14, wherein at least one of the raised sections has a tapered profile that tapers downward toward the lower section.
(16) The toothbrush according to embodiment 1, further comprising an additional tuft having a contour different from the contour of the curvilinear tuft.
(17) A curvy tuft formed of a plurality of hairs bundled together,
The curly hair tuft is
A cross-sectional area exceeding about 4 mm ² ;
Two or more raised sections in these hairs separated from each other by lower sections in these hairs;
A curvilinear tuft in which the highest hair in the raised section is at least about 0.5 mm higher than the lowest hair in the lower section.
18. The curvilinear hair tuft of embodiment 17, wherein the highest hair in the raised section is no more than about 4 mm higher than the lowest hair in the lower section.
19. The curvilinear hair tuft of embodiment 17, wherein the highest hair in the raised section is at least about 1 or 2 mm higher than the lowest hair in the lower section.
(20) The raised section bristles are bundled with the lower section bristles so as to provide lateral support from the lower section to the raised sections, while the raised sections act independently 18. The curvilinear hair tuft of embodiment 17, wherein the curly hair tresses are spatially separated from each other by being spaced apart by at least about 0.2 mm.

21. The curvilinear hair tuft of embodiment 20, wherein the raised sections are spatially separated from each other by being spaced apart by at least about 0.5 mm.
(22) A toothbrush,
A handle extending longitudinally and having a proximal end and a distal end;
A head at the distal end of the handle;
A plurality of curvy tresses extending from the head;
here,
Each curvilinear tuft comprises a plurality of bristles of different heights, forming a substantially frustoconical curvilinear tuft profile;
The plurality of curvilinear tresses have a height defined by the highest hair within the curvilinear tress;
The plurality of curvilinear tresses include curvilinear tresses of different heights,
A toothbrush in which the curvilinear tufts together form a serrated tuft profile in the central region of the head.
(23) the serrated follicle profile extends in the longitudinal direction;
23. A toothbrush according to embodiment 22, wherein the height of the curvilinear tuft increases from both sides of the head toward the midline of the head.
24. The toothbrush according to embodiment 23, further comprising a large tuft having a brushing surface area greater than any brushing surface area of the curvilinear tuft.
(25) A toothbrush according to embodiment 24, wherein the large tufts have curvilinear tuft contours.
26. The toothbrush according to embodiment 22, further comprising a toe tuft at the distal most end of the head, wherein the curvy tuft is spaced proximally from the toe tuft.

Claims (12)

A toothbrush,
A handle extending longitudinally and having a proximal end and a distal end;
A head at the distal end of the handle;
And at least one curvilinear tuft extending from the head,
here,
The curvilinear tufts are single tufts of hair bundled together, having two or more raised sections in these hairs and lower sections in these hairs, the raised sections The inner hair is higher than the hair in the lower section,
The two or more raised sections of the curvilinear tress are still part of the same curvilinear tress while being separated from each other by the lower section to act independently of each other. Toothbrush. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein each raised section has a brushing surface area of at least about 0.25 mm ² . The toothbrush of claim ² , wherein each raised section has a brushing surface area of less than about 4 mm ² . The toothbrush of claim 3, wherein each raised section has a brushing surface area of at least about 1.5 mm ² .   The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the raised sections are at least 0.2 mm away from each other.   The toothbrush according to claim 5, wherein the raised sections are at least 0.5 mm away from each other.   The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein lower sections separate each raised section from another raised section to separate the raised sections from each other.   The raised section bristles are bundled with the lower section bristles so as to provide lateral support from the lower section to the raised sections, while the raised sections act independently, The toothbrush of claim 7, wherein the toothbrushes are separated from each other.   The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein a highest bristle in the raised section is at least about 0.5 mm higher than a lowest bristle in the lower section.   The toothbrush of claim 9, wherein a highest bristle in the raised section is no more than about 4 mm higher than a lowest bristle in the lower section. A curvy tuft formed of a plurality of hairs bundled together,
The curly hair tuft is
A cross-sectional area exceeding about 4 mm ² ;
Two or more raised sections in these hairs separated from each other by lower sections in these hairs;
A curvilinear tuft in which the highest hair in the raised section is at least about 0.5 mm higher than the lowest hair in the lower section. A toothbrush,
A handle extending longitudinally and having a proximal end and a distal end;
A head at the distal end of the handle;
A plurality of curvy tresses extending from the head;
here,
Each curvilinear tuft comprises a plurality of bristles of different heights, forming a substantially frustoconical curvilinear tuft profile;
The plurality of curvilinear tresses have a height defined by the highest hair within the curvilinear tress;
The plurality of curvilinear tresses include curvilinear tresses of different heights,
A toothbrush in which the curvilinear tufts together form a serrated tuft profile in the central region of the head.

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