CA2383917A1 - A handle for a toothbrush - Google Patents
A handle for a toothbrush Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2383917A1 CA2383917A1 CA002383917A CA2383917A CA2383917A1 CA 2383917 A1 CA2383917 A1 CA 2383917A1 CA 002383917 A CA002383917 A CA 002383917A CA 2383917 A CA2383917 A CA 2383917A CA 2383917 A1 CA2383917 A1 CA 2383917A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- grip portion
- handle
- major axis
- grooming
- handle according
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B5/00—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware
- A46B5/02—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware specially shaped for holding by the hand
- A46B5/026—Grips or handles having a nonslip section
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B5/00—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware
- A46B5/02—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware specially shaped for holding by the hand
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
- A46B2200/10—For human or animal care
- A46B2200/1066—Toothbrush for cleaning the teeth or dentures
Landscapes
- Brushes (AREA)
Abstract
The handle of the present invention is for a personal care implement, especially for a toothbrush. The handle has distal and proximal ends, the distal end being connected to, or adapted to connect to, a grooming head. The handle comprises: a) a first grip portion (2), adjacent the proximal end of the handle, for holding in the user's hand, the first grip portion having an ovoid cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis; b) a second grip portion (3), for manipulation by the user's fingers, extending from the first grip portion in the direction of the distal end of the handle, and having, at least in a region adjacent the first grip portion, an elliptical cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis. The major axis of the second grip portion is perpendicular to the major axis of the first grip portion. The handle is comfortable to hold, provides a firm grip and facilitates manipulation, particularly rotation, by the user.
Description
wo omr~ ~.t,~~~
A HANDLE FOR A TOOTHBRUSH
Field Of The Invention The present invention relates to handles for personal care implements, more especially for toothbrushes.
Background Of The lnvendon In order to function effectively, toothbrushes and other such hand held implements require to be gripped firmly. However they ofttn require the grip to be ficquently changed, such as by rotating the handle within the user's hand, in order, for example, to reach different parts of the mouth, to adjust to brushing of diffetcat tooth surfaces or to employ varying bnishing orientations as recommended by dental professionals.
Surprisingly, most toothbrushes still have a rather conventional handle which is typically rectangular, circular, or rounded rectangular in cross-section, with the cross-section being more or less the same shape along the length of the handle, Improvements to the grip are generally confined to the inclusion of elastomeric insects. Nevertheless, the patent literature documents several attempts to improve upon the basic design.
US 4,780,924 describes an ergonomically designed toothbrush with a shaped handle which is comfortable to grasp in numerous ways with either hand. Although the handle has a distinctive shape in side view, it is described as being substantially rectangular in cross-section throughout its length.
US 5,191,671 descn'bes a toothbrush with a handle having a trapezoidal cross-section which both aids is orientation of the bristles in the mouth and provides stren 8~
WO 96101577 describes a toothbmsh with a radial anti-slip st<vcdu~e protruding from sad circuanscn'bing the bottom and lateral surFaces ofthe handle. A stated advantage of this arrangement is that it does not force gripping at any Predisposed orientation but allows for holding the toothbrush in the user's most habitual manner.
WO 97/07706, in the name of CoIgate-Palmolive Company, describes a toothbrush with a handle which has an end portion, a shoulder and a waist, the waist being naaower is plan view than the end portion or the shoulder. The handle preferably also comprises grip-enhancing mats. A stated objective of the handle configurations is the provision of a toothbrush which is easier for the user to manipulate. The Applicant also markets a corrcaponding brush in Europe under the 'Sensation' name, fiuthcr described on the applicant's web site as the 'Wave' toothbn~sh and said to be very comfortable to hold and manoeuvre. Although the patent application discloses diffr~nt ratios of end portion wo omr~z ~t,.r~soo~ls~
A HANDLE FOR A TOOTHBRUSH
Field Of The Invention The present invention relates to handles for personal care implements, more especially for toothbrushes.
Background Of The lnvendon In order to function effectively, toothbrushes and other such hand held implements require to be gripped firmly. However they ofttn require the grip to be ficquently changed, such as by rotating the handle within the user's hand, in order, for example, to reach different parts of the mouth, to adjust to brushing of diffetcat tooth surfaces or to employ varying bnishing orientations as recommended by dental professionals.
Surprisingly, most toothbrushes still have a rather conventional handle which is typically rectangular, circular, or rounded rectangular in cross-section, with the cross-section being more or less the same shape along the length of the handle, Improvements to the grip are generally confined to the inclusion of elastomeric insects. Nevertheless, the patent literature documents several attempts to improve upon the basic design.
US 4,780,924 describes an ergonomically designed toothbrush with a shaped handle which is comfortable to grasp in numerous ways with either hand. Although the handle has a distinctive shape in side view, it is described as being substantially rectangular in cross-section throughout its length.
US 5,191,671 descn'bes a toothbrush with a handle having a trapezoidal cross-section which both aids is orientation of the bristles in the mouth and provides stren 8~
WO 96101577 describes a toothbmsh with a radial anti-slip st<vcdu~e protruding from sad circuanscn'bing the bottom and lateral surFaces ofthe handle. A stated advantage of this arrangement is that it does not force gripping at any Predisposed orientation but allows for holding the toothbrush in the user's most habitual manner.
WO 97/07706, in the name of CoIgate-Palmolive Company, describes a toothbrush with a handle which has an end portion, a shoulder and a waist, the waist being naaower is plan view than the end portion or the shoulder. The handle preferably also comprises grip-enhancing mats. A stated objective of the handle configurations is the provision of a toothbrush which is easier for the user to manipulate. The Applicant also markets a corrcaponding brush in Europe under the 'Sensation' name, fiuthcr described on the applicant's web site as the 'Wave' toothbn~sh and said to be very comfortable to hold and manoeuvre. Although the patent application discloses diffr~nt ratios of end portion wo omr~z ~t,.r~soo~ls~
andlor shoulder to the waist between plan and side views, there is no disclosure of non-circular sections having different orientations. The marketed brush has a substantially constant shaped cross-section along its length.
WO 99123910, in the name of Crillette Canada Inc., illustrates a toothbrush con-esponding to the Oral-B~ Cross-Actions toothbrush which has a grip portion of the handle having a rounded rectangular section and a narrower waist portion with an approximately square section .
Despite the foregoing, there remains a need for fiuther improvement in the ergonomics of handle design for toothbrushes and the like. It has now been found that a hand3e which is comfa~table to hold, provides a faro grip and facilitates manipulation, particularly rotation, by the user can be provided by arranging for adjacent first and second grip portions which have respectively ovoid and elliptical cross-sections having perpendicular major axes.
S~marv Of The lnvention The presciat imrcntion provides a handle for a personal care implement, especially for a toothbrush, the handle having distal and proximal ends, the distal end being connectad to, or adapted to oonaect to, a grooming head. The handle comprises:
a) a first grip portion, adjacent the proximal end of the handle, for holding in the user's hand, the first grip portion having an ovoid cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis; and b) a second grip portion, for manipulation by the user's fingers exten from the first grip portion in the direction of the distal end of the handle, and having, at least in a region adjacent the first grip portion, an elliptical cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis;
characterised in that the major axis of the second grip portion is peapeodicular to the maj or axis of the first grip portion.
An implement with a handle as described herein is comfortable to hold and easy to adjust within the hand. It is particularly suited for the manipulations required of a toothbrush but it is envisaged that it world also be suitable for similar personal care implements such as razors, hairbrushes, tongue scrapers and the like.
~et~ilod Description of the Invention wo omr~n The longitudinal axis of the handle is that which extends between the distal and proximal ends thereof. Other references to longitudinal should be taken to refea to directions slang or parallel to the longitudinal axis unless specified otherwise.
lJnless specified otherwise, handle cross-sections referenced herein should be taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle.
Major axes refer to the longest dimensions of the cross-sections to which they refer.
Minor axes refer to the longest dimensions of the same cross-sections drawn perpendicular to the major axes. A minor axis will always be shorter than the corresponding major axis, By "ovoid" is meant a 2-dimensional figure approximately Gornsponding to the typical lengthwise cross-section of an egg, that is a generally rounded figure having one end which is more pointed than the other. It includes, for example, figures which may have partially flattened portions provided that the overall ovoid impression is retained.
Handle The handle of the invention has distal and proximal ends. The distal end is connected to, or is adapted to connect to, a grooming head. That is, the grooming hsad is integrally formed with or can be datachably connected to the handle, for example to permit replacement of a worn head or to allow substitution of a different type of head, such as a gum massager, tongue s«aper, tooth pick, compact brush or interdental brush for a regular brush head. The form of the head is not critical to the invention, although a correlation between the shape of the head and the first grip portion of the handle can provide additional benefits as discussed below.
In a prefernd embodiment the handle has a head integrally moulded with it, the head bearing bristles or being subsequently fitted with bristles, such that it foams a toothbrush.
The head, extruding bristles and massaging elements, can lx of single constnution or it can be mufti-segmcated as set out in WQ-A-98127846, incorporated herein by reference.
Prefrrably it is of single ca~nsrruction. In a further particularly preferred embodiraeart the head co~rises both bristles and massaging elements as disclosed in co-pending application 99GB-013717, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In the preferred embodiment the distal end of the handle has a primly grooming head integrally or releasably attached thea~cto, wherein the grooming head has bristles attending therefrom in a direction generally parallel to the major axis of the first grip portion and most preferably in the direction drawn towards the more pointed end of the ovoid cross-section, wo mnr~s The handle herein comprises at least first and second grip Portions. The first grip Portion, adjacent the proximal end of the handle, is for holding in the palm of the user's hand. It has ~ ovoid cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis.
The Fret grip portion has a longitudinal length of from about 50 to about I00 nvn, preferably fiom about 60 to about 90 mm. In order to achieve a smooth transition into the second grip portion of the handle, the cross-section of the first grip portion may not be ovoid along its entire length but typically it will be ovoid along 50~/0 or more, preferably 65% or more of its length. The ovoid cross-section has a major axis and a minor axis which ace generally in the ratio of from 1.4:I to L1:1, preferably in the ratio of fiom 1.3:1 to 1.1:1, and more preferably from 1.2:1 to 1.1:1. Again the precise values of the ratio may vary along the length of the fast grip portion but this will generally be true along 50~/0 or more, preferably 65% or more of its length. The first grip portion has a top surface which, in side profile, is preferably arcuate to provide a more comfortable grip. The proximal end of the first grip portion is also preferably rounded for the same reason. A
bottom surface of the 5rst grip portion, opposed to the top surface thereof, is preferably flattened along at least part of its length so that the handle can rest in a stable position when placed on a flat surface, for example in order to avoid bristle contact with the surface.
The maximum value of the major axis of the first grip portion, at about 40% to b0% along its longitudinal axis , is preferably in the range from about 15 to about 20 mm, mare preferably fiom about 16.5 to about I9 mm. The maximum value of the minor axis of ~ ~ 8nP P~u~ ~~Y ~u~8 ~ hut the same longitudinal position as that of the major axis, is generally in the range from about 11.5 to about I7 mm, preferably in the range from about 13 to about I7 mm, more preferably from about 14 to about 16 mm.
In an espocially preferred embodiment the first grip Portion is entirely coated with elastomer, this makes it comfortable to hold and allows greater flexibility in providing a disrinctive appearance. The elastomer coating comrprises part of the first grip portion and should be included in any dimensional analysis thereof. In order to reduce the friction between the brush and machinery parts during manufacturing, a 'stripe' of plastic can optionally be allowod to pratiude through the elastomer at parts where the handle co~acts guide chapels when the handle is conveyed from one manufacturing station to another. Generally the 5rst grip portion will be a~n integral part of the handle. ~ It is also envisaged however that at least an outer part of the first grip portion could be removable, preferably with a scoop on/off or friction fit, in order to conceal a storage area for a removable head; auxiliary ding heads which can optionally be permanently attached or releasably attachod to the proximal end of the handle; auxiliary materials such as toothpaste, other cleaning materials or diagnostic elements; or merely a thi~er skeleton wo om~~z ~.,USOOVts~a which more easily fits into a conventional toothbrush holder. Alternatively, or additionally a removable first grip portion, or outer part thereof, can be adapted to provide a cap which can fit over the head which is attached to the distal end of the handle. In this way the whole implement can be adapted to occupy a smaller space when not being used and/or the head can be kept clean, malting it particularly suited for travel usage. Suitable auxiliary grooming heads herein include, but are not limited to a gum massager, tongue scraper, tooth pick, compact brush or interdeatal brush.
The socond grip portion of the handle extends from the first grip portion in the direction of the distal end of the handle. It is particularly for manipulation by the user's fingers and has, at least in a region adjacent the first grip portion, an elliptical cross-section having major and minor axes. The second grip portion typically has a longitudinal length of from about 20 to about 45 mm, preferably from about 25 to about 35 mm.
Suitably the cross-section of the second grip portion is elliptical along 70% or more, preferably 90~/0 or more of its length. The elliptical cross-section has a major axis and a minor aids which are preferably in the ratio of firm 1.3:1 to 1.1:1, preferably from 1.2;1 to 1.t:1.
Again the precise values of the ratio may vary along the length of the second grip portion but this will generally be true along 70% or more, pr~efexably 90% or more of its length.
The maximum value of the major axis of the second grip portion is preferably in the range from about 8 to about 14 mm, more preferably from about 10 to about 12 mm. The maximum value of the minor axis of the second grip portion is preferably in the range from about 8 to about 10 mm.
The major axis of the second grip portion is perpendicular to the major axis of the first grip portion The minor axis of the aa:ond grip portion extends behveen top and bottom surfaces thereof. In preferred embodiments at least one of the top and bottom surfaces, preferably both, has gripping ridges thereon. These are preferably formed from an clastomer and can readily be incorporated using conventions! moulding techniques. The ridges, which preferably extend in a transverse direction along the surface(s), do not generally project from the surfaces) by more than about 1 mm and may also extend amend the sides of the second grip portion. In measvaing or calculafing dimensions or ratios of the second grip portion any ridges present should be ~celuded.
In prefemcd embodiments herein the handle fzuther comprises a third grip portion distal the second grip portion, the bird grip portion being both wider and deeper than the saond grip portion. The third grip Portion can act as a thumb stop and is preferably WO Ol/I'139~ pL~t/USOW15~4 coated with au elastamer. The third grip portion can coraprise a means for releasably attaching a head and/or neck to the handle.
The handle may further compaxse a neck region at its proximal end, the neck region being generally of smaller cross-section than the rest of the handle and usually devoid of grip elemeats.
The bulk of the beadle (and head where appmpaiate) is g~raIly made of relatively non compn~ible materials, preferably with a modules of elasticity of at least about 500 MPs, more preferably at least about 1000 MPs, which are conventional in tire manufachu~e of toothbrushes, especially plastics materials. Suitable plastics materials include, for example, polyamides, polypropylenes, polyurethanes, poly(methylmethacrylates), and cellulose acetate propionates. Polypropylene is preferred. Suitable polypropylenes include 'Polypropylene Molten 52945' (marketed by Schulman), having a modules of elasticity (ISO 178) of 1500 MPs and Apryl 3400 MAl from Elf Atochem.
The handle (aad head where appropriate) is typically made by injxtion moulding.
Bristles and massaging elements can be attached to the head by art known methods such as stapling and anchorless manufacturing technologies.
Elastomeric portions of the handle herein are preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer having a hardness fmm about 10 to about 90 Shore A, more preferably from about 50 to about 80 Shore A and most preferably about 70 Shore A. Suitable materials include those available under the tradenames Mcgol, S~toprtne and Multibase.
Silicone elastomers arc also useful. Preferably the handle comprise a unitarily moulded skeleton onto which the elastomer areas are moulded in - a separate injation moulding step.
Preferably all the elastomer areas are intemannected to allow singl-pint inja;ion moulding.
Brief Descr~nion 4f They While the specification concludes with claims particularly poring out aad distinctly claiming the subject inventiarn, it is believed the same will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure I is a perspxtive view of an embodiment of a handle of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a top view of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a bottom view of F'~re 1.
Figure 4 is a side view of Figure 1.
Figure 5 is a cross-section through the socond grip portion at S-S.
wo omr.~
Figure 6 is a cross-section through the first grip portion at F-F.
Figure 7 is a side view of a second esnbodimmt of a handle of the present invention.
Detailed Description Of The Dra~ari;nas Referring now to the drawings in detail wherein like numerals indicate the same element throughout the views there is shown in Figures I to 6 a handle according to the invention generally indicated as 1. The handle comprises first, second and third grip Portions indicated r~pxtively as 2, 3 and 4. The handle feather comprises a slim neck 5 and has a head 6 integrally attached to distal end of the handle 1. 1n the preferred emhodim~t the head 6 has bristles Wctending from the upper face of the head G, these are not shown however. In this embodiment the head, neck and second grip~portion are all part of eon unitarily formed polypropylene skeleton which extends the entire length of the brush.
First and third grip portions, 2 and 4, have an outer coating of elastomntr.
The second grip Portion finther comprises grippiu,g edges 7 which extend transversely across and prroject from the upper and lower stufl~. A channel 8 running longitudinally along the handle connects the various elastomaic areas so that they can be manufactw~od by single_ point injection moulding.
The 5rgt grip portion 2 has an ovoid croea~ection, as best seo~n in Figure 6.
A fled portion 9 on the lower surface of the first grip portion allows the handle to rest in a stable position on a flat surfacx with bristle-bearing face of head 6 uppermost.
Viewed in side profile, as in Figure 4, the first grip portion has an arcuate upper au~rfa~ce along the longitudinal direction. The proximal end IO of the handle is munded. As described above, the first grip portion can be detaclu4ble from the main body of the handle.
The second grip Portion 3 has an elliptical cross-section, as best seen in Figure 5. Its major and minor axes, 11 and I2, are perpendicular to the major and minor axes, 13 and 14, of the fast grip portion.
This embodiment comprises a third grip Portion 4 which can act as a rest for the nser's thumb sad has a flat landing area 15 for that purpose.
In Figure 7, a second embodiment of the handle is shown in which portions 1b of the polypropylene part of the brush handle protrude through the elastomer coating of the ~trst and third grip portions both slang the sides of the handle and at its proximal end. The exposed polypropylene portions assist in the smooth ruamag of the handle along menufacriuing production lines.
WO 99123910, in the name of Crillette Canada Inc., illustrates a toothbrush con-esponding to the Oral-B~ Cross-Actions toothbrush which has a grip portion of the handle having a rounded rectangular section and a narrower waist portion with an approximately square section .
Despite the foregoing, there remains a need for fiuther improvement in the ergonomics of handle design for toothbrushes and the like. It has now been found that a hand3e which is comfa~table to hold, provides a faro grip and facilitates manipulation, particularly rotation, by the user can be provided by arranging for adjacent first and second grip portions which have respectively ovoid and elliptical cross-sections having perpendicular major axes.
S~marv Of The lnvention The presciat imrcntion provides a handle for a personal care implement, especially for a toothbrush, the handle having distal and proximal ends, the distal end being connectad to, or adapted to oonaect to, a grooming head. The handle comprises:
a) a first grip portion, adjacent the proximal end of the handle, for holding in the user's hand, the first grip portion having an ovoid cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis; and b) a second grip portion, for manipulation by the user's fingers exten from the first grip portion in the direction of the distal end of the handle, and having, at least in a region adjacent the first grip portion, an elliptical cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis;
characterised in that the major axis of the second grip portion is peapeodicular to the maj or axis of the first grip portion.
An implement with a handle as described herein is comfortable to hold and easy to adjust within the hand. It is particularly suited for the manipulations required of a toothbrush but it is envisaged that it world also be suitable for similar personal care implements such as razors, hairbrushes, tongue scrapers and the like.
~et~ilod Description of the Invention wo omr~n The longitudinal axis of the handle is that which extends between the distal and proximal ends thereof. Other references to longitudinal should be taken to refea to directions slang or parallel to the longitudinal axis unless specified otherwise.
lJnless specified otherwise, handle cross-sections referenced herein should be taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle.
Major axes refer to the longest dimensions of the cross-sections to which they refer.
Minor axes refer to the longest dimensions of the same cross-sections drawn perpendicular to the major axes. A minor axis will always be shorter than the corresponding major axis, By "ovoid" is meant a 2-dimensional figure approximately Gornsponding to the typical lengthwise cross-section of an egg, that is a generally rounded figure having one end which is more pointed than the other. It includes, for example, figures which may have partially flattened portions provided that the overall ovoid impression is retained.
Handle The handle of the invention has distal and proximal ends. The distal end is connected to, or is adapted to connect to, a grooming head. That is, the grooming hsad is integrally formed with or can be datachably connected to the handle, for example to permit replacement of a worn head or to allow substitution of a different type of head, such as a gum massager, tongue s«aper, tooth pick, compact brush or interdental brush for a regular brush head. The form of the head is not critical to the invention, although a correlation between the shape of the head and the first grip portion of the handle can provide additional benefits as discussed below.
In a prefernd embodiment the handle has a head integrally moulded with it, the head bearing bristles or being subsequently fitted with bristles, such that it foams a toothbrush.
The head, extruding bristles and massaging elements, can lx of single constnution or it can be mufti-segmcated as set out in WQ-A-98127846, incorporated herein by reference.
Prefrrably it is of single ca~nsrruction. In a further particularly preferred embodiraeart the head co~rises both bristles and massaging elements as disclosed in co-pending application 99GB-013717, incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In the preferred embodiment the distal end of the handle has a primly grooming head integrally or releasably attached thea~cto, wherein the grooming head has bristles attending therefrom in a direction generally parallel to the major axis of the first grip portion and most preferably in the direction drawn towards the more pointed end of the ovoid cross-section, wo mnr~s The handle herein comprises at least first and second grip Portions. The first grip Portion, adjacent the proximal end of the handle, is for holding in the palm of the user's hand. It has ~ ovoid cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis.
The Fret grip portion has a longitudinal length of from about 50 to about I00 nvn, preferably fiom about 60 to about 90 mm. In order to achieve a smooth transition into the second grip portion of the handle, the cross-section of the first grip portion may not be ovoid along its entire length but typically it will be ovoid along 50~/0 or more, preferably 65% or more of its length. The ovoid cross-section has a major axis and a minor axis which ace generally in the ratio of from 1.4:I to L1:1, preferably in the ratio of fiom 1.3:1 to 1.1:1, and more preferably from 1.2:1 to 1.1:1. Again the precise values of the ratio may vary along the length of the fast grip portion but this will generally be true along 50~/0 or more, preferably 65% or more of its length. The first grip portion has a top surface which, in side profile, is preferably arcuate to provide a more comfortable grip. The proximal end of the first grip portion is also preferably rounded for the same reason. A
bottom surface of the 5rst grip portion, opposed to the top surface thereof, is preferably flattened along at least part of its length so that the handle can rest in a stable position when placed on a flat surface, for example in order to avoid bristle contact with the surface.
The maximum value of the major axis of the first grip portion, at about 40% to b0% along its longitudinal axis , is preferably in the range from about 15 to about 20 mm, mare preferably fiom about 16.5 to about I9 mm. The maximum value of the minor axis of ~ ~ 8nP P~u~ ~~Y ~u~8 ~ hut the same longitudinal position as that of the major axis, is generally in the range from about 11.5 to about I7 mm, preferably in the range from about 13 to about I7 mm, more preferably from about 14 to about 16 mm.
In an espocially preferred embodiment the first grip Portion is entirely coated with elastomer, this makes it comfortable to hold and allows greater flexibility in providing a disrinctive appearance. The elastomer coating comrprises part of the first grip portion and should be included in any dimensional analysis thereof. In order to reduce the friction between the brush and machinery parts during manufacturing, a 'stripe' of plastic can optionally be allowod to pratiude through the elastomer at parts where the handle co~acts guide chapels when the handle is conveyed from one manufacturing station to another. Generally the 5rst grip portion will be a~n integral part of the handle. ~ It is also envisaged however that at least an outer part of the first grip portion could be removable, preferably with a scoop on/off or friction fit, in order to conceal a storage area for a removable head; auxiliary ding heads which can optionally be permanently attached or releasably attachod to the proximal end of the handle; auxiliary materials such as toothpaste, other cleaning materials or diagnostic elements; or merely a thi~er skeleton wo om~~z ~.,USOOVts~a which more easily fits into a conventional toothbrush holder. Alternatively, or additionally a removable first grip portion, or outer part thereof, can be adapted to provide a cap which can fit over the head which is attached to the distal end of the handle. In this way the whole implement can be adapted to occupy a smaller space when not being used and/or the head can be kept clean, malting it particularly suited for travel usage. Suitable auxiliary grooming heads herein include, but are not limited to a gum massager, tongue scraper, tooth pick, compact brush or interdeatal brush.
The socond grip portion of the handle extends from the first grip portion in the direction of the distal end of the handle. It is particularly for manipulation by the user's fingers and has, at least in a region adjacent the first grip portion, an elliptical cross-section having major and minor axes. The second grip portion typically has a longitudinal length of from about 20 to about 45 mm, preferably from about 25 to about 35 mm.
Suitably the cross-section of the second grip portion is elliptical along 70% or more, preferably 90~/0 or more of its length. The elliptical cross-section has a major axis and a minor aids which are preferably in the ratio of firm 1.3:1 to 1.1:1, preferably from 1.2;1 to 1.t:1.
Again the precise values of the ratio may vary along the length of the second grip portion but this will generally be true along 70% or more, pr~efexably 90% or more of its length.
The maximum value of the major axis of the second grip portion is preferably in the range from about 8 to about 14 mm, more preferably from about 10 to about 12 mm. The maximum value of the minor axis of the second grip portion is preferably in the range from about 8 to about 10 mm.
The major axis of the second grip portion is perpendicular to the major axis of the first grip portion The minor axis of the aa:ond grip portion extends behveen top and bottom surfaces thereof. In preferred embodiments at least one of the top and bottom surfaces, preferably both, has gripping ridges thereon. These are preferably formed from an clastomer and can readily be incorporated using conventions! moulding techniques. The ridges, which preferably extend in a transverse direction along the surface(s), do not generally project from the surfaces) by more than about 1 mm and may also extend amend the sides of the second grip portion. In measvaing or calculafing dimensions or ratios of the second grip portion any ridges present should be ~celuded.
In prefemcd embodiments herein the handle fzuther comprises a third grip portion distal the second grip portion, the bird grip portion being both wider and deeper than the saond grip portion. The third grip Portion can act as a thumb stop and is preferably WO Ol/I'139~ pL~t/USOW15~4 coated with au elastamer. The third grip portion can coraprise a means for releasably attaching a head and/or neck to the handle.
The handle may further compaxse a neck region at its proximal end, the neck region being generally of smaller cross-section than the rest of the handle and usually devoid of grip elemeats.
The bulk of the beadle (and head where appmpaiate) is g~raIly made of relatively non compn~ible materials, preferably with a modules of elasticity of at least about 500 MPs, more preferably at least about 1000 MPs, which are conventional in tire manufachu~e of toothbrushes, especially plastics materials. Suitable plastics materials include, for example, polyamides, polypropylenes, polyurethanes, poly(methylmethacrylates), and cellulose acetate propionates. Polypropylene is preferred. Suitable polypropylenes include 'Polypropylene Molten 52945' (marketed by Schulman), having a modules of elasticity (ISO 178) of 1500 MPs and Apryl 3400 MAl from Elf Atochem.
The handle (aad head where appropriate) is typically made by injxtion moulding.
Bristles and massaging elements can be attached to the head by art known methods such as stapling and anchorless manufacturing technologies.
Elastomeric portions of the handle herein are preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer having a hardness fmm about 10 to about 90 Shore A, more preferably from about 50 to about 80 Shore A and most preferably about 70 Shore A. Suitable materials include those available under the tradenames Mcgol, S~toprtne and Multibase.
Silicone elastomers arc also useful. Preferably the handle comprise a unitarily moulded skeleton onto which the elastomer areas are moulded in - a separate injation moulding step.
Preferably all the elastomer areas are intemannected to allow singl-pint inja;ion moulding.
Brief Descr~nion 4f They While the specification concludes with claims particularly poring out aad distinctly claiming the subject inventiarn, it is believed the same will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure I is a perspxtive view of an embodiment of a handle of the present invention.
Figure 2 is a top view of Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a bottom view of F'~re 1.
Figure 4 is a side view of Figure 1.
Figure 5 is a cross-section through the socond grip portion at S-S.
wo omr.~
Figure 6 is a cross-section through the first grip portion at F-F.
Figure 7 is a side view of a second esnbodimmt of a handle of the present invention.
Detailed Description Of The Dra~ari;nas Referring now to the drawings in detail wherein like numerals indicate the same element throughout the views there is shown in Figures I to 6 a handle according to the invention generally indicated as 1. The handle comprises first, second and third grip Portions indicated r~pxtively as 2, 3 and 4. The handle feather comprises a slim neck 5 and has a head 6 integrally attached to distal end of the handle 1. 1n the preferred emhodim~t the head 6 has bristles Wctending from the upper face of the head G, these are not shown however. In this embodiment the head, neck and second grip~portion are all part of eon unitarily formed polypropylene skeleton which extends the entire length of the brush.
First and third grip portions, 2 and 4, have an outer coating of elastomntr.
The second grip Portion finther comprises grippiu,g edges 7 which extend transversely across and prroject from the upper and lower stufl~. A channel 8 running longitudinally along the handle connects the various elastomaic areas so that they can be manufactw~od by single_ point injection moulding.
The 5rgt grip portion 2 has an ovoid croea~ection, as best seo~n in Figure 6.
A fled portion 9 on the lower surface of the first grip portion allows the handle to rest in a stable position on a flat surfacx with bristle-bearing face of head 6 uppermost.
Viewed in side profile, as in Figure 4, the first grip portion has an arcuate upper au~rfa~ce along the longitudinal direction. The proximal end IO of the handle is munded. As described above, the first grip portion can be detaclu4ble from the main body of the handle.
The second grip Portion 3 has an elliptical cross-section, as best seen in Figure 5. Its major and minor axes, 11 and I2, are perpendicular to the major and minor axes, 13 and 14, of the fast grip portion.
This embodiment comprises a third grip Portion 4 which can act as a rest for the nser's thumb sad has a flat landing area 15 for that purpose.
In Figure 7, a second embodiment of the handle is shown in which portions 1b of the polypropylene part of the brush handle protrude through the elastomer coating of the ~trst and third grip portions both slang the sides of the handle and at its proximal end. The exposed polypropylene portions assist in the smooth ruamag of the handle along menufacriuing production lines.
Claims (15)
1. An elongated handle (1), for a personal care implement such as a toothbrush, having distal and proximal ends, the distal end being connected to, or adapted to connect to, a grooming head (6); the handle comprising:
a) a first grip portion (2), adjacent the proximal end of the handle, for holding in the user's hand, the first grip portion having an ovoid cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis; and b) a second grip potion (3), for manipulation by the user's fingers, extending from the fist grip portion in the direction of the distal end of the handle, and having, at least in a region adjacent the fast grip portion, an elliptical cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis;
characterised in that the major axis of the second grip portion is perpendicular to the major axis of the first grip portion.
a) a first grip portion (2), adjacent the proximal end of the handle, for holding in the user's hand, the first grip portion having an ovoid cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis; and b) a second grip potion (3), for manipulation by the user's fingers, extending from the fist grip portion in the direction of the distal end of the handle, and having, at least in a region adjacent the fast grip portion, an elliptical cross-section which has a major axis and a minor axis;
characterised in that the major axis of the second grip portion is perpendicular to the major axis of the first grip portion.
2. A handle according to Claim 1 wherein the ratio of the maximum length of major axis of the first grip portion to the maximum length of the major axis of the second grip portion is from 1.2:1 to 1.8:1, preferably from 13:1 to 1.6:1.
3. A handle according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 wherein the ratio of the major axis of the first grip portion to the minor axis of the first grip portion is from 1.4:1 to 1.1:1.
4. A handle according to Claim 3 wherein the ratio of the major axis of the first grip portion to the minor axis of the first grig portion is from 1.3:1 to 1.1:1, preferably from 1.2:1 to 1.1:1.
5. A handle according to any preceding claim wherein the first grip portion has a longitudinal length of from 50 to 100 mm, preferably from 60 to 90 mm.
6. A handle according to airy preceding claim wherein the first grip portion is coated with elastomer.
7. A handle according to air preceding claim wherein the ratio of the major axis of the second grip portion to the minor axis of the second grip portion is from 13:1 to 1.1:1, preferably from 1.2:1 to 1.1:1.
8. A handle secardiag to any preceding claim wherein the major axis of the second grip portion has a maximum length of from 8 to 14 mm, preferably from 10 to 12 mm.
9. A handle according to any preceding claim wherein the minor axis of the second grip portion extends between top and bottom surfaces thereof and at least one of the top and bottom surfaces has gripping ridges (7) thereon.
10. A handle according to any preceding claim further a third grip portion (4) distal the second grip portion (3), the third grip portion being both wider and deepen than the second grip portion.
11. A handle according to claim 9 wherein the third grip portion is coated with elastomer.
12. A handle according to any preceding claim which has a primary grooming head (6) integrally or releasably attached to the distal end thereof, and wherein the grooming head has bristles extending therefrom in a direction generally parallel to the major axis of the first grip portion.
13. A personal grooming implement according to Claim 12 wherein the first grip portion is removable.
14. A personal grooming implement according to Claim 13 wherein the primary grooming head is releasably attached and the first grip portion conceals auxiliary grooming heads or a thinner skeleton.
15. A personal grooming implement according to Claim 13 or Claim 14 wherein the removable first grip portion is adapted to provide a cap which can fit over the primary grooming head.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US1999/020606 WO2001017391A1 (en) | 1999-09-08 | 1999-09-08 | A handle for a toothbrush |
| USPCT/US99/20606 | 1999-09-09 | ||
| PCT/US2000/015534 WO2001017392A1 (en) | 1999-09-08 | 2000-06-05 | A handle for a toothbrush |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2383917A1 true CA2383917A1 (en) | 2001-03-15 |
Family
ID=22273565
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002383917A Abandoned CA2383917A1 (en) | 1999-09-08 | 2000-06-05 | A handle for a toothbrush |
Country Status (8)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1211962B9 (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1182808C (en) |
| AT (1) | ATE273638T1 (en) |
| AU (2) | AU5913299A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2383917A1 (en) |
| DE (1) | DE60013145T2 (en) |
| ES (1) | ES2226851T3 (en) |
| WO (2) | WO2001017391A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (35)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6601272B2 (en) * | 1998-05-08 | 2003-08-05 | John O. Butler Company | Dental hygiene system handle |
| US7228583B2 (en) | 2002-09-13 | 2007-06-12 | Church & Dwight Co., Inc. | Electric toothbrush housing design |
| DE50313511D1 (en) | 2003-11-18 | 2011-04-14 | Trisa Holding Ag | toothbrush body |
| DE102006005616A1 (en) * | 2006-02-06 | 2007-08-09 | Synpart Ag | Cleaning- or application-appliance for oral hygiene and cosmetics, has brush or application appliance fixed in support and retention-structure |
| DE102006024874A1 (en) * | 2006-05-24 | 2007-11-29 | Bürstenmann GmbH | Toothbrush for operating a multipart brush head has an elongated brush handle verging into a tapering brush neck holding the brush head |
| US8631534B2 (en) | 2006-06-08 | 2014-01-21 | Dr. Fresh, Llc | Toothbrush |
| AU2009356710B2 (en) | 2009-12-18 | 2014-06-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having a body disposed within the handle |
| CH703696B1 (en) | 2010-09-02 | 2014-06-13 | Dr Roland Zettel | Handle of a toothbrush. |
| CN106659290A (en) * | 2014-06-19 | 2017-05-10 | 高露洁-棕榄公司 | Oral care implement |
| CN113197418A (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2021-08-03 | 高露洁-棕榄公司 | Oral care implement |
| USD780457S1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2017-03-07 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| US11291293B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2022-04-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| WO2016105368A1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2016-06-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having multi-component handle |
| BR112017010942B1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2021-10-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | INSTRUMENT FOR ORAL HYGIENE |
| BR112017010792B1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2021-10-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | ORAL HYGIENE INSTRUMENT |
| EP3223651B1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2023-05-31 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having multi-component handle |
| WO2016105356A1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2016-06-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| MX2017007858A (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2017-09-19 | Colgate Palmolive Co | Oral care implement. |
| RU2647813C1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2018-03-19 | Колгейт-Палмолив Компани | Oral care implement, having multi-component handle |
| CA2970676A1 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2016-06-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| US10426250B2 (en) | 2014-12-23 | 2019-10-01 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| US9802347B2 (en) | 2015-02-02 | 2017-10-31 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Method of forming an oral care implement |
| US9894986B2 (en) * | 2015-07-17 | 2018-02-20 | Live-Right, Llc | Toddler toothbrush assembly and methods |
| USD777446S1 (en) | 2015-07-23 | 2017-01-31 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement handle |
| CA2986138A1 (en) | 2015-07-23 | 2017-01-26 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| JP6775979B2 (en) * | 2016-03-28 | 2020-10-28 | 株式会社コーセー | Cosmetic application |
| US10485330B2 (en) | 2017-02-20 | 2019-11-26 | Israel Harry Zimmerman | Self-righting toothbrush |
| US10517386B2 (en) | 2017-03-30 | 2019-12-31 | Israel Harry Zimmerman | Self-righting toothbrush |
| JP2019030583A (en) * | 2017-08-09 | 2019-02-28 | ライオン株式会社 | toothbrush |
| US10709533B2 (en) | 2017-12-12 | 2020-07-14 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement and handle and refill head thereof |
| US10631964B2 (en) | 2017-12-12 | 2020-04-28 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
| USD874832S1 (en) | 2018-03-23 | 2020-02-11 | Israel Harry Zimmerman | Toothbrush handle |
| USD876097S1 (en) | 2018-03-23 | 2020-02-25 | Israel Harry Zimmerman | Toothbrush handle |
| USD891784S1 (en) | 2018-12-18 | 2020-08-04 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Electric toothbrush handle |
| USD960582S1 (en) | 2020-12-10 | 2022-08-16 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care refill head |
Family Cites Families (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4780924A (en) | 1987-10-20 | 1988-11-01 | Hansen Paul D | Tooth brush with removable brush head |
| US4850735A (en) * | 1987-10-20 | 1989-07-25 | Hansen Paul D | Latching mechanism with integral key member |
| US5191671A (en) | 1991-08-22 | 1993-03-09 | Rudnick Martin E | Toothbrush handle |
| US5398369A (en) | 1994-07-07 | 1995-03-21 | Chesebrough-Pond's Usa Co., Division Of Conopco, Inc. | Toothbrush with pliable pressure pad |
| ES2137904T3 (en) | 1995-08-22 | 2002-09-16 | Colgate Palmolive Co | TOOTHBRUSHES. |
| GB9626880D0 (en) | 1996-12-24 | 1997-02-12 | Procter & Gamble | A grooming implement |
| CN1120682C (en) | 1997-11-12 | 2003-09-10 | 加拿大吉勒特公司 | Toothbrush |
-
1999
- 1999-09-08 WO PCT/US1999/020606 patent/WO2001017391A1/en active Application Filing
- 1999-09-08 AU AU59132/99A patent/AU5913299A/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2000
- 2000-06-05 CN CNB008125538A patent/CN1182808C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2000-06-05 AU AU51803/00A patent/AU5180300A/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-06-05 CA CA002383917A patent/CA2383917A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-06-05 ES ES00936496T patent/ES2226851T3/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2000-06-05 EP EP00936496A patent/EP1211962B9/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2000-06-05 WO PCT/US2000/015534 patent/WO2001017392A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2000-06-05 DE DE60013145T patent/DE60013145T2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2000-06-05 AT AT00936496T patent/ATE273638T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| DE60013145T2 (en) | 2005-04-14 |
| EP1211962A1 (en) | 2002-06-12 |
| EP1211962B1 (en) | 2004-08-18 |
| ES2226851T3 (en) | 2005-04-01 |
| WO2001017392A1 (en) | 2001-03-15 |
| AU5913299A (en) | 2001-04-10 |
| EP1211962B9 (en) | 2005-02-02 |
| CN1372444A (en) | 2002-10-02 |
| WO2001017391A1 (en) | 2001-03-15 |
| CN1182808C (en) | 2005-01-05 |
| DE60013145D1 (en) | 2004-09-23 |
| ATE273638T1 (en) | 2004-09-15 |
| AU5180300A (en) | 2001-04-10 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| EP1211962B9 (en) | A handle for a toothbrush | |
| EP1240848B1 (en) | Toothbrush with improved efficacy | |
| CA2373365C (en) | Gum-massaging toothbrush | |
| AU2007334061B2 (en) | Oral care implement | |
| US6886207B1 (en) | Toothbrush | |
| EP1009253B1 (en) | A toothbrush with flexibly mounted bristles | |
| US20040255416A1 (en) | Toothbrush with tongue cleaning member | |
| US20020162183A1 (en) | Toothbrush with flossing functionality | |
| EP0957708A1 (en) | A toothbrush with flexibly mounted bristles | |
| JP2008006282A (en) | Toothbrush | |
| CN1708248B (en) | Toothbrush | |
| US5345647A (en) | Toothbrush | |
| US20040084058A1 (en) | Multifunctional disposable oral hygiene appliance | |
| EP3932252A1 (en) | Handle for a personal care implement and personal care implement | |
| JP4515650B2 (en) | toothbrush | |
| CA2215904C (en) | Toothbrush with improved efficacy | |
| EP1661486A2 (en) | Improvements in the design of toothbrushes |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Discontinued |