CH712546A2 - Oral hygiene agents. - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an oral hygiene device, in particular a travel hygiene, in particular a travel toothbrush, with at least one application unit (10) and with at least one handle unit (12), which at least one lower shell (14) and at least one movably mounted on the lower shell (14) Upper shell (16), which together define at least one storage space (18) for the application unit (10). It is proposed that the handle unit (12) completely surrounds at least one longitudinal axis (19) of the application unit (10) in at least one stowage position and in at least one application position, at least in sections.

Description

Description: PRIOR ART [0001] The invention relates to an oral hygiene device according to the preamble of claim 1.

From DE 29 914 169 U a travel toothbrush with a brush neck is known, which can be folded into a handle open along a bottom handle.

Furthermore, from EP 2 702 897 A2 a travel toothbrush with a swiveling brush neck and a handle with a storage area for the brush neck is known. The handle includes a flap which covers a brush portion of the brush neck in a stowage position.

In addition, from EP 2 229 073 B1, a travel toothbrush with a pivotable brush neck and a handle with a storage area for the neck of the brush is known. The handle comprises a flap which covers a majority of the brush neck in a stowed position of the brush neck.

The object of the invention is in particular to provide a generic oral hygiene with advantageous properties in terms of ergonomics. The object is achieved by the features of claim 1, while advantageous embodiments and modifications of the invention can be taken from the dependent claims.

The invention is based on an oral hygiene device, in particular a travel hygiene, in particular a travel toothbrush, with at least one application unit and with at least one handle unit, which at least one lower shell and at least one movable, preferably rotatable about at least one axis of rotation on the lower shell mounted upper shell, which together define at least one storage space for the application unit.

It is proposed that the handle unit at least partially completely surrounds at least a longitudinal axis of the application unit in at least one stowed position and in at least one application position.

The inventive design particularly advantageous properties in terms of ergonomics and / or handling and / or handling can be achieved. Advantageously, an application element of an oral hygiene agent can be stored safely and / or protected, in particular for transport. Furthermore, an oral hygiene device may be provided having a geometry advantageous in terms of retention and / or application by a user. Furthermore, a safe oral hygiene product can be provided. In addition, a high level of user-friendliness and / or a high level of operating comfort can be achieved. Advantageously, a high level of comfort can be achieved when opening and / or closing a storage area of an oral hygiene agent. Furthermore, advantageous properties can be achieved in terms of modularity. In addition, a simple and / or inexpensive to produce oral hygiene can be provided. Furthermore, a high flexibility with regard to a combination of components with hard and / or soft components can be made possible.

Under a "oral hygiene" should be understood in particular a toothbrush and / or an interdental cleaner and / or a flosser and / or a tongue cleaner and / or a toothpick. A "travel hygiene device" should be understood to mean, in particular, an oral hygiene device which has at least one transport element a geometry and / or at least one element that at least partially shields an application area of the travel hygiene device to an environment and / or at least one state of use a user is applicable to at least one oral hygiene application. Advantageously, the oral hygiene agent is intended to be transported in a transport state, in particular free from additional packaging and / or storage, for example in a negligee or in a suitcase or in a bag or the like without damage and / or contamination. By "intended" should be understood in particular specially designed and / or equipped. The fact that an object is intended for a specific function should in particular mean that the object fulfills and / or executes this specific function in at least one application and / or operating state. Preferably, the handle unit and the application unit, in particular the upper shell, the lower shell and the application unit, jointly form the oral hygiene means. Particularly preferably, the oral hygiene agent is formed to at least a major part of plastic. The term "at least a large part" should be understood to mean in particular at least 55%, advantageously at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85% and particularly advantageously at least 95%.

Advantageously, the handle unit is provided for holding by a user with one hand. Preferably, the handle unit has a front end and a rear end facing away from the front end. Particularly preferably, the front end is arranged in a view parallel to a main extension direction of the handle unit in front of the rear end. Advantageously, the front end or the rear end defines at least one front end surface or one rear end surface, which is arranged at least substantially perpendicular to the main extension direction of the handle unit. The front / rear end surface may be a physical surface or as an imaginary, for example, defined by an opening surface. Preferably, the front end and / or the rear end is formed as a three-dimensional part of the grip portion extending from the corresponding end face over about 5% to 20% of a length of the handle unit along the main extension direction of the handle unit. Particularly advantageously, the lower shell and the upper shell together form the handle unit. Preferably, the upper shell defines at least one upper side of the handle unit, which is arranged at least in sections at least substantially parallel to the main extension direction of the handle unit. Particularly preferably, the lower shell defines at least one underside of the handle unit, which is arranged at least in sections, at least substantially parallel to the main extension direction of the handle unit. Advantageously, the upper side of the handle unit and the underside of the handle unit face away from each other. Particularly advantageously, the handle unit is intended to be held in at least one regular application by a user such that a thumb of the user on the top and / or the bottom in a palm and / or a finger inside of the user comes to rest.

Advantageously, the handle unit has at least one side surface, which is formed jointly by the upper shell and the lower shell. Preferably, the side surface is divided along a longitudinal direction of the side surface at a contact line between the upper shell and the lower shell. Particularly preferably, the handle unit is provided to be opened by folding, in particular the upper shell relative to the lower shell, advantageously along the contact line. Advantageously, the upper shell defines at least one upper subspace and / or the lower shell at least one lower subspace. Particularly advantageously, the upper subspace and the lower subspace together form the stowage space. Preferably, the upper shell and / or the lower shell is formed like a trough. However, it is also conceivable that the upper shell or the lower shell completely defines the stowage space and the stowage space can be closed by the respective other shell, wherein the respective other shell forms in particular only a cover and / or a cover flap. Preferably, the upper shell and / or the lower shell in a view parallel to the main extension direction of the handle unit has at least one U-shaped cross section. Particularly preferably, the upper shell and the lower shell form in a view parallel to the main direction of extension of the handle unit at least one common annular cross-section which surrounds the stowage space and preferably at least one central axis of the stowage space. A "central axis" of an object should be understood to mean, in particular, an imaginary axis that runs parallel to a main extension direction of the object within the object and intersects the object at a maximum of two points. A "main extension direction" of an object should be understood to mean, in particular, a direction which runs parallel to a longest edge of a smallest imaginary cuboid which just completely encloses the object. Preferably, a volume of the stowage space is at least 30%, more preferably at least 40% and advantageously at least 50% of a volume of the handle unit.

Preferably, the lower shell and the upper shell form a common pivot, which supports the upper shell movable, in particular rotatable on the lower shell. Preferably, the hinge of the handle unit is arranged at the rear end of the handle unit. Preferably, the axis of rotation extends at least substantially perpendicular to a main extension direction of the handle unit. By "at least substantially perpendicularly" is meant in particular an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, in particular in a reference plane, wherein the direction and the reference direction include an angle, in particular less than 8 °, advantageously less than 5 ° and particularly advantageously deviates less than 2 ° from a right angle.

In particular, the upper shell has a maximum length of at least 50 mm, advantageously of at least 70 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 100 mm and / or a maximum length of at most 160 mm, advantageously of at most 140 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 120 mm on. Advantageously, the maximum length of the upper shell extends in a common plane with and in particular parallel to a main extension direction of the upper shell. In particular, the upper shell has a maximum width of at least 10 mm, advantageously of at least 12 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 14 mm and / or a maximum width of at most 25 mm, advantageously of at most 20 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 18 mm. Advantageously, the maximum width of the upper shell extends at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum length of the upper shell. In particular, the upper shell has a maximum height of at least 8 mm, advantageously of at least 10 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 15 mm and / or a maximum height of at most 30 mm, advantageously of at most 25 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 20 mm. Advantageously, the maximum height of the upper shell extends at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum length of the upper shell and / or to the maximum width of the upper shell. Preferably, the upper shell has a varying width and is formed in particular waisted. Preferably, a width of a waisted region of the upper shell is at least 0.5 mm, advantageously at least 1 mm and particularly advantageously at least 2 mm narrower than the maximum width of the upper shell.

In particular, the lower shell has a maximum length of at least 50 mm, advantageously of at least 70 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 100 mm and / or a maximum length of at most 160 mm, advantageously of at most 140 mm and more preferably of at most 120 mm on. Advantageously, the maximum length of the lower shell extends in a common plane with and in particular parallel to a main extension direction of the lower shell. In particular, the lower shell has a maximum width of at least 10 mm, advantageously of at least 12 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 14 mm and / or a maximum width of at most 25 mm, advantageously of at most 20 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 18 mm. Advantageously, the maximum width of the lower shell extends at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum length of the lower shell. In particular, the lower shell has a maximum height of at least 8 mm, advantageously of at least 10 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 15 mm and / or a maximum height of at most 30 mm, advantageously of at most 25 mm and FITS advantageous of at most 20 mm. Advantageously, the maximum height of the lower shell extends at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum length of the lower shell and / or to the maximum width of the lower shell. Preferably, the lower shell has a varying width and is formed in particular waisted. Preferably, a width of a waisted region of the lower shell is at least 0.5 mm, advantageously at least 1 mm, and particularly advantageously at least 2 mm narrower than the maximum width of the lower shell. In particular, a waisting of the upper shell at least partially corresponds to a waisting of the lower shell. Preferably, the contact line between the upper shell and the lower shell at least partially follows a waisted course.

In particular, the upper shell and / or the lower shell has a maximum material thickness of at least 0.5 mm, advantageously of at least 1 mm and more preferably of at least 1.5 mm and / or a maximum material thickness of at most 5 mm, advantageously of at most 3.5 mm and most advantageously of at most 2.5 mm.

Advantageously, the application unit is movably mounted on the handle unit, in particular on the lower shell. Particularly advantageously, the application unit is pivotally mounted about at least one pivot axis. Preferably, the pivot axis extends at least substantially parallel to the axis of rotation. Particularly preferably, the application unit between the application position and the stowed position about the pivot axis back and forth pivotally mounted. By "at least substantially parallel" is meant in particular an alignment of a direction relative to a reference direction, in particular in a plane, wherein the direction relative to the reference direction a deviation in particular less than 8 °, advantageously less than 5 ° and particularly advantageously smaller than 2 °. Particularly preferably, the further axis of rotation is arranged at the front end of the handle unit. Advantageously, the rear end of the application unit on at least a part of another rotary joint, which supports the application unit about the pivot axis pivotally mounted on the handle unit, in particular on the lower shell.

Preferably, the application unit comprises at least one in particular at least a major part of a plastic and / or at least one hard component formed neck member. Particularly preferably, the neck element forms at least part of the further pivot joint. Advantageously, the application unit has at least one cleaning area which is provided for a tooth cleaning application, in particular in a mouth of the user. The cleaning area preferably comprises at least one cleaning element. Particularly preferably, the cleaning element is in particular integrally connected to the neck element. By "one-piece" should in particular at least cohesively or materially connected material, for example, by a welding process, a bonding process, an injection process and / or another, the skilled person appear useful process, and / or advantageously formed in one piece, such as by a production from a casting and / or by a production in a one- or multi-component injection molding process and advantageously from a single blank. It is conceivable that the cleaning element is attached to the neck element by means of an extrusion coating process and / or insertion and / or screwing and / or gluing. The cleaning element is advantageously arranged on a front end of the application unit facing away from the rear end.

In particular, the application unit has a maximum length of at least 50 mm, advantageously of at least 80 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 85 mm and / or a maximum length of at most 150 mm, advantageously of at most 120 mm and more preferably of at most 105 mm on. Advantageously, the maximum length of the application unit extends in a common plane with and in particular parallel to the main extension direction of the application unit and / or of the neck element. In particular, the application unit has a maximum width of at least 9 mm, advantageously of at least 10 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 11 mm and / or a maximum width of at most 17 mm, advantageously of at most 15 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 13 mm, in particular in a region of the application element. Advantageously, the maximum width of the application unit extends at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum length of the application unit. In particular, the neck element has a maximum width of at least 3.5 mm, advantageously of at least 4 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 4.5 mm and / or a maximum width of at most 7 mm, advantageously of at most 6 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 5 mm up. Advantageously, the maximum width of the neck element extends at least substantially parallel to the maximum width of the application unit. In particular, the application unit has a maximum height of at least 7 mm, advantageously of at least 8 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 10 mm and / or a maximum height of at most 18 mm, advantageously of at most 16 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 14 mm, in particular in an area of the back end of the application unit. Advantageously, the maximum height of the application unit extends at least substantially perpendicular to the maximum length of the lower shell and / or to the maximum width of the lower shell.

Advantageously, the longitudinal axis is at least substantially parallel to a main extension direction of the application unit and / or the neck member. Particularly advantageously, the longitudinal axis extends through a center of gravity of the application unit and / or the neck element. Preferably, the longitudinal axis runs at least in sections within the application unit, advantageously over at least 50%, particularly advantageously over at least 70% and preferably over at least 90% of a particular maximum length of the application unit and / or the neck element, advantageously measured at least substantially parallel to the main extension direction of Application unit and / or the neck element.

In particular, the handle unit engages around the longitudinal axis in the stowed position and / or in the application position in a section having a length of at least 50%, preferably at least 70% and more preferably at least 90% of the length of the application unit and / or Neck element, in particular in a view parallel to the longitudinal axis, completely. Advantageously, the longitudinal axis in the storage position and / or in the application position through the opening of the handle unit in the storage space and / or cuts the handle unit, preferably only, in a region of the hinge of the upper shell and the lower shell. In particular, in the stowage position, the handle unit completely engages around the neck element and / or the application unit in a view parallel to a main extension direction of the neck element and / or the application unit.

Advantageously, the cleaning element is arranged in the stowed position in particular completely within the storage space. Particularly advantageously, the cleaning element is arranged in the application position, in particular completely outside the storage space. Preferably, the application unit is arranged in the stowed position completely within the storage space. Preferably, a position of the upper shell relative to the lower shell in the application position and in the stowed position is at least substantially identical. Particularly preferably, the application unit of the stowed position in the application position by means of opening the handle unit and / or by means of a particular subsequent swinging out of the application unit from the stowage compartment and / or by means of a particular subsequent closure of the handle unit movable.

In particular, the cleaning element is designed as a brush, advantageously as a toothbrush head or designed as a toothbrush change head. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that the cleaning element is designed as an interdental brush head and / or as a dental floss attached in particular to a retaining clip and / or as a toothpick and / or as a tongue cleaning element. The cleaning element can each be designed to be replaceable.

Preferably, the cleaning element has a plurality of particular conventional bristles, which are at least partially fixed, for example by means of an anchor punching in a bristle receiving area of the cleaning element. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that at least some of the bristles are fastened by means of anchorless punching in the bristle receiving area, for example by means of Anchor Free Tufting (AFT), In Mold Tufting (IMT), Integrated Anchorless Production (IAP) or anchorless with round holes (AMR ). Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that at least some of the bristles are formed as molded bristles.

When anchor punching blind holes are formed in the application unit in the cleaning area during the manufacture of the body for later bristle attachment. In a corresponding Beborsten bundles of bristles are folded and fastened in the fold with a metallic anchor plate in the blind hole.

In the AFT method (Anchor Free Tufting), the conventional, cylindrical or tapered bristles or the bristle bundles are fastened without the aid of an anchor on the head part or on a carrier plate. The rounded bristles are thereby profiled in bundles and guided with their ends opposite the free end through passages in the bristle carrier, so that an end region of the bristle bundles protrudes beyond the underside of the bristle carrier. At this over the underside of the bristle carrier protruding end portion of the bristles they are fixed by melting, gluing or welding. The bristle carrier is then anchored in the recess of the head region of the toothbrush with the conventional bristles fastened therein, for example by ultrasonic welding. The recess in the head area is specially adapted to the geometry of the bristle carrier. In addition to conventional bristles, the bristle carrier or even the head area of the toothbrush may contain soft-elastic massage and cleaning elements.

In the IMT process, the conventional nursing bristles are encapsulated in an injection molding machine for anchoring by means of plastic (In Mold Tufting IMT).

Another type of Beborstungsmaschine for producing anchorless toothbrushes is known from DE 102006 026712. This combines the methods already mentioned above. A bristle carrying plate provided with bristle tufts (analogous to a bristled bristle carrying plate from the AFT process) is placed in a cavity of an injection mold into which plastic is subsequently injected for anchoring and forming the remaining part of the brush head.

In the PTT method, the conventional, cylindrical or tapered bristles or bristle bundles are fastened without the aid of an anchor on the head part or on a carrier plate. In this case, the rounded bristles are profiled in bundles and, with their end opposite the free end, passed through passages in a transfer unit, so that one end region of the bundles of bristles projects beyond the underside of the transfer unit. At this over the underside of the transfer unit protruding end portion of the bristles they are welded together in bundles by melting. In parallel, a handle body is formed, which has recesses for the bristles in the head region. For the union of bristle bundles with the handle body of the handle body is warmed, the zusammengeschweissten bundles are introduced and by means of pressure on the handle body, the bundles are anchored in the handle body.

Of course, the application unit, in particular the cleaning area, must be designed to suit the process, for example, in the AFT method, the neck member must have a recess in the head area and it must also be formed a bristle carrier, which is finally inserted into the recess.

The conventional extruded bristles used are preferably formed from polyamide (PA) or polyester (PBT). This also ensures a good cleaning effect (for example in the case of toothbrushes) and good durability. Conventional extruded bristles typically have a substantially cylindrical shape. The use-side end is processed before, during and / or after the bristle anchoring process in order to remove any sharp edges and to obtain a hemispherical bristle end as possible. The conventional, extruded bristles can also have a tapered shape (cone-shaped) to develop a high interdental cleaning with the pointed ends. Injected and conventional bristles have cross-sectional areas of similar dimensions (e.g., 0.02 mm 2 to 0.5 mm 2).

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, sprayed bristles (bristles produced by injection molding) are used in the cleaning element. The bristle material used has a Shore D hardness of 0 to 100, preferably from 30 to 80 and more preferably from 40 to 70. In these areas, a particularly effective cleaning effect can be achieved. Further preferably, the sprayed bristles are formed from a polyamide arrestor, preferably Grillflex EG 5930 from EMS Chemie AG; a polyester elastomer, preferably Riteflex 672 AF Nat or Riteflex RKX 193 RF Nat from Ticona Polymers or Hytrel 7248 from DuPont; and particularly preferably from a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), preferably Ellastollan from BASF or Desmopan from Bayer. These materials have u.a. a high wear and abrasion resistance.

The rubber-elastic massage cleaning elements, which are possibly integrated in the cleaning element, are, moreover, preferably formed from one of the aforementioned soft component. They usually have significantly larger cross-sections (cross-sectional area> 0.5 mm2) than the sprayed bristles and are made of materials with significantly lower Shore hardness.

Advantageously, the upper shell and / or the lower shell and / or the application unit has at least one hard component. Particularly advantageously, the upper shell, the lower shell and the application unit each have a hard component, from which in each case a corresponding basic body of the upper shell, the lower shell and the application unit is formed. The upper shell and / or the lower shell and / or the application unit preferably has at least one soft component. It is conceivable that the hard components used and / or soft components are each formed differently, so that, for example, in the event that the upper shell, the lower shell and the application unit each have exactly one hard component and each exactly one soft component, up to six different material components used namely, in particular three different hard components and three different soft components. Of course, other combinations are conceivable, whereby in particular a composition of the parts of the oral hygiene can be flexibly adapted to a need and / or application.

A "hard component" is in particular a plastic from the field of thermoplastics, for example a hard plastic of a styrene polymer, such as styrene acrylonitrile (SAN) or polystyrene (PS) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or styrene methyl methacrylate (SMMA) or styrene butadiene ( SB), and / or a polyolefin, such as polypropylene (PP), or a polyethylene (PE), in particular high-density or low-density polyethylene (HDPE / LDPE), and / or a polyester, such as, in particular acid-modified or glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETA / PETG) or polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or acid-modified polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT-A) or glycol-modified polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT-G) and / or a cellulose derivative such as cellulose acetate (CA) or cellulose acetobutyrate (CAB) or Cellulose propionate (CP) or cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) or cellulose ebutyral (CB), and / or a polyamide (PA), such as PA 6.6 or PA 6.10 or PA 6.12, and / or polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and / or polycarbonate (PC) and / or polyoxy-methylene (POM) and / or Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and / or polyurethane (PUR) are understood. In particular, the hard component has a modulus of elasticity of at least 500 N / mm 2, advantageously of at least 1000 N / mm 2, and particularly advantageously of at least 1300 N / mm 2. In particular, the hard component has a modulus of elasticity of at most 3000 N / mm 2, preferably of at most 2400 N / mm 2, and more preferably of at most 1800 N / mm 2. As a hard component, a PP is particularly preferably used.

By a "soft component" is intended in particular a soft plastic, advantageously a plastic from the field of thermoplastics, such as a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPE-U), a thermoplastic styrene elastomer (TPE-S), such as a styrene Ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymer (SEBS) or a styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymer (SBS), and / or a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer (TPE-A) and / or a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer (TPE-O) and / or a thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPE-E) and / or a polyethylene (PE) and / or a polyurethane (PU) are understood. A Shore A hardness of the soft component is advantageously less than 200, particularly advantageously less than 90. The soft component used is particularly preferably a TPE-S.

Polyethylene (PE) and polyurethane (PU) can be used as a hard component as well as a soft component.

In general, so-called bioplastics can be used as hard and / or soft component, which are made from renewable resources.

Particularly preferred is at least one oral hygiene blank, in particular a top shell blank and / or a bottom shell blank and / or an application unit blank, produced in at least one injection molding process, wherein the respective hard and / or soft component (s) after spraying the soft component (n) preferably enter into a material conclusion on the hard component (s). But it is also conceivable to realize the geometric design of bodies so that the components are connected by positive engagement.

The upper shell and / or the lower shell and / or the application unit may contain an active substance element. The active substance may be an element which during dental care, for. B. under the action of a liquid, such as water or saliva, dissolved and released, or which emits an active substance by grasping and touching.

The active substance element may contain several phases with different active substances, which can be released in a time sequence depending on the structure. The following alternatives can be used: carrier material consisting of several shells or layers (dismantling one shell after the other); - Carrier material with liquid or granular core, which is released after the degradation of the shell.

The following types of active substances can be distinguished, which together with a suitable carrier material form the active substance element: (a) toothpaste-like action which can be dispensed with by conventional pastes. Sorbitol, Flavors, Hydrated Silica, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Monofluorophophate, Creatine, Zinc Sulfate, Triclosan, Glycerol, Sodium Saccharin, Propylene Glycol, Disodium Phosphate, Alumina, Trisodium Phosphate, Sodium Fluoride, Betaine, Titanium Dioxide , Cellulose gum, tetrasodium pyrophosphate etc. (b) Antibacterial action for occasional cleaning of the brush head in the tooth glass before or after brushing, or even in the brush handle.

Sodium bicarbonate, Citric Acid, Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Carbonate, Potassium Carbonate, Sodium Perborate, Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Stearate, etc. (c) Display of the Putzerfolges by coloring the plaque on the tooth surface by coloring the plaque residues.

The following ingredients are: glucose, maltodextrin, Magnesiun Sterate, flavoring, saccharin, Microcry-staline cellulose, etc. (d) additional active ingredients which do not occur in conventional pastes, their effect or enhance. Ingredients from (a-c). (e) ingredients for tooth whitening ("bleaching"), e.g. with hydrogen peroxide-containing ingredients. (f) Two-component system of active substances and specially developed toothpaste. When they meet, a chemical or physical reaction occurs. This variant is specifically intended for active substances, which can not be integrated in a paste, since they would react directly with each other.

As a carrier material, for example, biodegradable substances based on starch or with the active substances non-chemically reactive plastics come into question. A preferred carrier material is Polyox® from Dow Chemicals - a water soluble synthetic resin based on polyethylene oxide polymers which is suitable for forming a matrix or carrier for an active substance and, moreover, can be processed in a variety of ways due to its thermoplastic properties, e.g. cast, sprayed or extruded.

The active substance element may consist of a water-soluble thermoplastic polymer, such as PVA (polyvinyl alcohol). Furthermore, cellulose ethers such as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) are also suitable.

Accordingly, the upper shell and / or lower shell and / or application unit can be provided completely or partially with the corresponding active ingredient. That the active substance element may include the whole part, but only a specifically selected and defined part for a specific application.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the handle unit completely surrounds the longitudinal axis of the application unit in the stowage position at least in a section in which the longitudinal axis extends within the application unit. Preferably, the portion is located at the rear end of the application unit. Particularly preferably, the section is arranged in a region of the further rotary joint. As a result, a geometry with advantageous properties with respect to stowage of an application area can be provided.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention it is proposed that the upper shell and the lower shell form at least one passage through which the application unit passes in the application position of the stowage ago ago. Advantageously, the passage includes the front end surface of the handle unit. Particularly advantageously, the storage space is accessible from a front side of the handle unit through the passage, in particular along the main extension direction of the handle unit. Particularly preferably, a rear end of the application unit is arranged in the stowed position in a view from the front of the handle unit behind the passage. Advantageously, a cross section of the bushing advantageously corresponds to a cross-section of the application unit, in particular of the neck element, in a region of the application unit which passes through the bushing in the application position. In particular, the upper shell and / or the lower shell are in the application position in a region of the implementation of a form-fitting manner on the application unit, in particular on the neck member to. In this way, advantageously, a storage area of an oral hygiene agent can be safely and / or tightly closed in an application. Furthermore, the concerns of the application unit on the lower shell improves the stability of the parts, the lower shell supports the application unit in the application. Furthermore, a simple opening of the handle unit can be made possible by an intervention in the implementation, in particular, when the neck member is in stowed position. If the neck element is in the use position, the bushing can be used for the same purpose by moving the neck element relative to the lower shell.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is proposed that the oral hygiene agent has at least one handle element with at least one soft component. Preferably, the grip element is designed as a handle element. It is conceivable that the grip element has a plurality of different soft components which differ, for example, with respect to a color, a material, an elasticity or another property and in particular are at least partially sprayed on one another. Particularly preferably, the grip element is formed to at least a major part of the soft component. Advantageously, the grip element is formed flat. In particular, the grip element has a maximum thickness which corresponds to at least 30% and advantageously at least 40% and / or at most 70% and advantageously at least 55% of the material thickness of the upper shell and / or the lower shell. Preferably, the grip element defines a preferably three-dimensional and / or curved grip surface, which corresponds in particular to at least a part of a surface of the oral hygiene agent. It is conceivable that the oral hygiene device has several, in particular, different grip elements which may differ with respect to their geometry and / or their color and / or their material composition. In this way, an advantageous ergonomics can be achieved, in particular when holding the oral hygiene agent.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the handle element extends over at least 50%, advantageously over at least 60%, particularly advantageously over at least 70% and preferably over at least 80% of a length of the handle unit. Preferably, a main extension direction of the grip element extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension direction of the grip unit. Particularly preferably, the grip element is spaced apart from the front side and / or a rear side of the grip unit opposite the front side.

It is also proposed that the grip element is part of the upper shell. In particular, the grip element is arranged on an upper side of the grip unit. Advantageously, the grip element forms at least a major part of the upper side of the grip unit. Particularly advantageously, the grip element is intended to be held in the regular application with a thumb and / or a palm by the user. Preferably, the gripping element is intended to transmit a holding force of a user to the handle unit. As a result, advantageously a high level of user comfort and / or easy handling, in particular with regard to a secure holding of the oral hygiene agent and / or a uniform distribution of holding force, can be achieved.

It is conceivable that the upper shell has at least one further grip element, in particular with at least one soft component, which is arranged for example on one side of the upper shell. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the lower shell and / or the application unit, in particular the neck element, has at least one further grip element, in particular with at least one soft component. For example, the lower shell may have at least one grip element, which is intended to be gripped by the user with a palm and / or a finger inside. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that the application unit has at least one gripping element, which is provided for a fixed pressing of the application unit in a specific position, for example in the application position and / or in the stowage position.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the grip element comprises at least one grip region with at least one surface structuring. Advantageously, the surface structuring is formed by the grip element. The surface structuring is particularly advantageously a structuring which can be produced by means of injection molding. Preferably, the grip area comprises exactly the surface structuring. In particular, the surface structuring extends over a region having a maximum length of at least 4 mm, advantageously of at least 5 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 7 mm and / or over a region having a maximum length of at most 60 mm, advantageously of at most 50 mm and particularly advantageous of at most 35 mm. In particular, the surface structuring extends over a region having a maximum width of at least 3 mm, advantageously of at least 4 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 5 mm and / or over a region having a maximum width of at most 25 mm, advantageously of at most 20 mm and particularly advantageous of at most 15 mm. In particular, the surface structuring extends over a region having an area which corresponds to at least 5% or at least 10% or at least 15% or at least 20% or at least 25% or at least 30% or at least 50% or at least 80% of a surface of the grip element. In particular, the surface structuring advantageously has a flea and / or a flea difference of at least 0.3 mm, advantageously of at least 0.5 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 0.7 mm and / or a fleas and / or a flea difference of at most 3 mm of not more than 2 mm, and more preferably not more than 1.2 mm. By way of this, it is advantageously possible to ensure a secure holding and / or to prevent slippage during a holding.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the surface structuring comprises at least one nub and / or at least one rib. Preferably, the nub has an at least substantially circular and / or elliptical and / or polygonal cross section. The fact that an object has an "at least substantially ellipsoidal / circular cross section" is to be understood in particular to mean that at least 60%, advantageously at least 70%, particularly advantageously at least 80% and preferably at least 90% of all cross sections of the Object along at least one direction, a surface area of a differential area of the cross section and a smallest circle surrounding the cross section / a smallest ellipse surrounding the cross section a maximum of 30%, preferably at most 20%, more preferably at most 10% and preferably at most 5% of the area of the circle / Ellipse is. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the nub has an irregular geometry and / or any other shape. Preferably, the rib has an at least substantially constant width. Particularly advantageously, the rib is linear in a view perpendicular to a main extension direction of the grip element and in particular follows an at least partially straight and / or curved and / or tortuous and / or twisted course. The surface structuring preferably comprises in one area a plurality of identical or at least substantially identical ribs which extend at least partially parallel and / or at an at least substantially constant distance from one another. But there are also different ribs conceivable. The term "at least substantially identical" is intended to be understood to mean, in particular, apart from manufacturing tolerances and / or within the scope of production engineering possibilities. In this context, an "at least essentially constant value" is to be understood in particular to mean a value that varies by at most 20%, advantageously by at most 15%, particularly advantageously by at most 10% and preferably by at most 5%. As a result, it is advantageously possible to provide a surface that is secure and / or easy to grasp and / or to be held in a grip area.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the grip region comprises at least two different surface structures. Preferably, the grip region comprises at least a first surface structuring with nubs and a second surface structuring with ribs.

Particularly preferably, the grip region comprises a centrally arranged first surface structuring with nubs. Advantageously, the grip region comprises at least one second surface structuring with ribs, which at least partially surrounds and / or framing the first surface structuring and / or adjoins the first surface structuring on at least one side. Particularly advantageously, the different surface structures jointly form at least one thumb support surface. If the oral hygiene means has a plurality of gripping elements, it is conceivable that the gripping elements have different and at least partially several surface structuring. As a result, properties of a grip area can advantageously be adapted precisely and for a specific intended use.

It is also proposed that the upper shell has at least one gripping element which is provided for transmitting a force and / or a torque to the upper shell in an opening of the handle unit. Advantageously, the gripping element is arranged at a front end of the upper shell, preferably parallel next to the grip area. In particular, a minimum distance between a center and / or a center of gravity of the gripping element and the front end surface of the handle unit is at least 10 mm, advantageously at least 15 mm and particularly advantageously at least 20 mm. In particular, the gripping element is arranged on a side facing away from the hinge advantageously along the main extension direction of the handle unit side of the upper shell, whereby in particular an advantageously large lever can be provided upon opening of the handle unit. Particularly advantageously, a main extension direction of the gripping element extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension direction of the handle unit and / or at least substantially parallel to at least a portion of the contact line between the upper shell and the lower shell. Preferably, the gripping element forms at least a portion of the contact line. Particularly preferably, the gripping element bears against the lower shell. Advantageously, the gripping element is arranged in a region of the further rotary joint of the application unit. In this way, advantageously, a simple opening of a storage space can be made possible.

In an advantageous embodiment of the invention it is proposed that the gripping element is designed as a rib-like elevation. Preferably, the gripping element is formed from a hard component. Particularly preferably, the gripping element is integrally connected to the upper shell and in particular produced by means of a common injection-molding. Advantageously, the gripping element is at least substantially parallelepiped-shaped. An "at least substantially cuboid object" should be understood to mean in particular an object having the property that a difference volume of the object and a smallest cuboid surrounding the object is at most 30%, advantageously at most 20%, particularly advantageously at most 10% and preferably at most 5 % of the volume of the cuboid is.

In particular, the gripping element has a minimum length of at least 3 mm, advantageously of at least 4 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 5 mm and / or a maximum length of at most 25 mm, advantageously of at most 20 mm and particularly advantageously of at most 15 mm. In particular, the gripping element has a maximum width of at least 0.2 mm, advantageously of at least 0.3 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 0.5 mm and / or a maximum width of at most 2.5 mm, advantageously of at most 2 mm and especially advantageously of at most 1.2 mm. In particular, the gripping element has a minimum height of at least 0.1 mm, advantageously of at least 0.2 mm and particularly advantageously of at least 0.3 mm and / or a maximum height of at most 3 mm, advantageously of at most 2 mm and particularly advantageously of not more than 1 mm. It is also conceivable that a plurality of gripping elements are arranged in particular directly and / or advantageously in a row and / or form at least one common gripping area. In particular, in this case, other dimensions for a gripping element are conceivable. As a result, it is advantageously possible to provide a gripping element which is easy to grip when the handle unit is opened. Furthermore, this makes it possible to grasp, for example, by means of a fingernail and / or a fingertip.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the lower shell in a preferably lateral region below the gripping element forms at least one flattening. Preferably, the flattening is arranged in a region of the front pivot joint. Particularly preferably, the swivel joint is arranged in a center of the flattening. Advantageously, the flattening is formed as an uncurved and / or planar surface of the lower shell. Particularly advantageously, the flattening adjoins the contact line between the upper shell and the lower shell. Alternatively or additionally, it is also conceivable that the lower shell in the region below the gripping element forms a depression and / or a depression. As a result, the gripping element can advantageously be easily achieved.

It is also conceivable that the lower shell forms a flattening, whereby an easily gripped area of the upper shell is formed, wherein the upper shell in this case does not necessarily have a rib-like gripping element. In this case, grasping upon opening of the handle unit is made possible, for example, directly on a surface of the upper shell facing the contact line.

Furthermore, it is proposed that the upper shell has at least one further gripping element which defines, at least in sections, a width of the upper shell together with the gripping element in a view parallel to a longitudinal direction of the upper shell, in particular in a region of the contact line between the upper shell and the lower shell , Advantageously, the width, which is defined by the gripping element and the further gripping element, greater than a width of the lower shell in an area below the gripping element and the further gripping element. Preferably, the gripping element is arranged in a view perpendicular to the upper side of the upper shell and / or the main extension direction of the upper shell on a left side of the upper shell. Particularly preferably, the further gripper element is arranged in a viewing perpendicular to the upper side of the upper shell and / or the main extension direction of the upper shell on a right side of the upper shell. Advantageously, the gripping element and the further gripping element are arranged on opposite sides of the upper shell, particularly advantageously on a left and a right side of the upper shell. As a result, a comfortable gripping with at least two fingers can advantageously be made possible when the handle unit is opened.

The gripping element is preferably arranged offset from the latching element. Advantageously, the distance is at least 15 mm and at most 25 mm measured between the elements (center-center).

In order to simplify the manipulations with the gripping element or the gripping elements, it is possible that further holding structures on the shells, in particular, if the gripping element is realized on the upper shell, are formed on the lower shell. These further holding structures may be, for example, further gripping elements or effective structures in the material, which improve the holding and thus make it possible for a force necessary for releasing the detent to be built up between the upper shell and the lower shell.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the application unit has at least one element which is arranged in the application position and in the stowage position within the stowage space. Advantageously, the element is a part of the neck element. Particularly advantageous is the element of a part of a joint, in particular of the other rotary joint, differently formed. As a result, a geometry with advantageous properties with regard to stowing a field of application of an oral hygiene agent can be provided.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the element is designed as a latching element which is locked in the stowed position and in the application position with the lower shell. Advantageously, the lower shell has two detent positions designed in particular as recesses for the detent element, in which the detent element engages positively in the application position or in the stowage position. Preferably, the application unit comprises a further, in particular the latching element oppositely arranged latching element, and advantageously two corresponding further latching positions. Particularly preferably, the latching element and the further latching element are mirror-symmetrical with respect to a plane in which the main extension direction of the application unit extends. Advantageously, the upper shell and / or the lower shell has a greater material thickness in a region of the latching positions and / or of the further rotary joint than in a region of the upper shell and / or the lower shell that is different from the region of the latching position and / or the further rotary joint. As a result, a stable fixation of the application unit in the application position and in the stowed position can advantageously be made possible. Furthermore, a contaminant-proof latching mechanism can thereby be provided.

The application unit or the Flalselement is volumi-nöser / massive designed in the area of said interface and detent to allow the elements and interfaces the necessary stable hold.

In a further embodiment of the invention, it is proposed that the upper shell and the lower shell are connected to one another in at least one application state and in at least one stowed state by means of at least one latching connection. Advantageously, the application state corresponds to a state in which the application unit is in the application position. Particularly advantageously, the stowed state corresponds to a state in which the application unit is in the stowed position. Advantageously, the upper shell and / or the lower shell comprises at least one latching lug, which engages in at least one corresponding latching position of the lower shell and / or the upper shell. Particularly advantageously, the latching connection is provided to be opened when opening the handle unit and / or to be closed at a closing of the handle unit. The upper shell preferably has at least one protruding latching element with at least one latching lug. Particularly preferably, the latching element extends perpendicular to the contact line between the upper shell and the lower shell. Advantageously, the latching element when the handle unit is closed is arranged within the lower subspace. Particularly advantageously, the lower shell has at least one recess which forms a latching position for the latching element. The upper shell preferably has a further detent element arranged opposite the detent element, which is designed in particular mirror-symmetrically to the detent element, preferably with respect to a plane in which the main extension direction of the upper shell runs. Particularly preferably, the lower shell has a corresponding further recess for the further locking element. Preferably, the latching connection is viewed from the front end surface of the handle unit, in particular parallel to the main extension direction of the handle unit, arranged behind the further hinge and / or behind the gripping element. This can advantageously be achieved a reliable closure of the handle unit.

In principle, it is conceivable that elements and / or parts of an oral hygiene agent have surface structures which are formed by hard components. For example, a surface structuring may be arranged on a neck element, in order to prevent slippage during pivoting of an application unit, for example. Furthermore, for example, a cleaning element, in particular on a rear side, may have structures with at least one soft component and / or with at least one hard component, which provide a particularly additional cleaning function. Preferably, such structures can form a tongue cleaner.

Additional soft components may for example be provided for damping and / or for providing flexibility. It is conceivable that a neck element at least in sections has at least one soft component which forms a flexible mounting of a cleaning element. Furthermore, a cleaning element may comprise additional cleaning sub-elements of at least one soft component, which in particular provide additional cleaning functions.

It is also conceivable that at least one soft component is arranged in a region of a passage of a handle unit in order to achieve a tight seal to an application unit passing through the passage. In addition, it is conceivable that at least one soft component is arranged in a region of a latching connection in order to enable a soft opening and / or closing and / or snapping. In principle, at least one element with at least one soft component can be arranged on an inner side and / or on an outer side of components of an oral hygiene product.

In principle, it is conceivable that the oral hygiene agent has elements with hard components that pass through elements with soft components. For example, elements made of hard components with soft components can be formed at least partially encapsulated.

It is also conceivable a handle element with at least one soft component, which forms a contact line between an upper shell and a lower shell at least in sections. In this case, due to a flexibility of the soft component, along the contact line, for example, a high impermeability to the stowage space can be achieved.

Furthermore, it is conceivable that at least a part of an application unit in a stowed position is flush with a passage through which the application unit passes in an application position concludes. In addition, it is conceivable that a handle unit has at least one, in particular laterally arranged ventilation opening, which allows ventilation of a storage space. Such a ventilation opening may for example be slit-shaped or round or angular. The position of the ventilation is preferably set in the area in which the cleaning element is stored in the stowed position.

Further, it is conceivable that the handle unit has at least one foot element and / or training, which allows a shutdown of the oral hygiene on a surface such as a table or a sink. Preferably, such a foot element is arranged at a rear end of the handle unit. Alternatively, a support element can be realized, which is designed as a simple surface, this also allows a shutdown.

Of course, an oral hygiene agent may be at least partially transparent and / or at least partially translucent. In particular, viewing windows on possible labeling areas and / or in a

Lower shell and / or in an upper shell and / or to a storage space conceivable. The position of the corresponding transparent / translucent part can be selected on all sides of the corresponding shells. By at least partially "transparent" is meant in particular at least partially transparent to visible light, in particular a transparency of at least 5%, preferably of at least 10%, more preferably of at least 20%, advantageously of at least 50% and particularly advantageously of at least 80% %, wherein a transmitted light is at least substantially parallel to an incident light. By at least partially "translucent" is meant in particular at least partially translucent for visible light, in particular a permeability of at least 5%, preferably of at least 10%, more preferably of at least 20%, advantageously of at least 50% and particularly advantageously of at least 80 % for an incident light, wherein an emergent light is scattered at least substantially at a different angle from 0 relative to the incident light.

In principle, injection points of components made of at least one hard component are advantageously arranged on the inside, for example on a side facing the stowage space of the upper shell and / or the lower shell and / or below of soft components, so that the injection points are covered by the corresponding elements. Furthermore, an injection point of the neck element is advantageously arranged on its rear side, which faces away from the cleaning area in particular. In addition, injection points of components made of at least one hard component in the longitudinal direction of the handle unit are advantageously arranged after at least 2% and particularly advantageously after at least 3% and / or after at most 30% and advantageously after at most 10% of the length of the handle unit, in particular starting from one end of the handle unit handle unit. In the transverse direction, the injection points are preferably centered, i. arranged on the longitudinal axis. In particular, injection points of soft components are advantageously integrated into surface structures so that any superficial elements that point to the injection point are hidden.

Further, the upper shell and / or the lower shell may be provided with additional functions. Preferably, the upper shell is provided with an additional function, which allows a specific application in the opened or partially opened state of the oral hygiene or the handle unit. For example, a tongue cleaner, a toothpick, a toothpick holder, an interdental brush, an interdental brush holder, a flosser, a finned holder, etc., may be integrated.

The additional function can be configured as a holder, which makes it possible to use change parts and replace after consumption or to arrange so that the oral hygiene can be supplied together with the removable part in the handle.

The oral hygiene agent according to the invention should not be limited to the application and embodiment described above. In particular, in order to fulfill a mode of operation described herein, the oral hygiene product according to the invention may have a number deviating from a number of individual elements, components and units mentioned herein.

Of course, the design variants shown in this document are exemplary. In the context of the invention, the individual forms and elements of these design variants can be combined with other design variants, without departing from the scope of this invention.

Drawings Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of drawings. In the drawings, an embodiment of the invention is shown. The drawings, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. The skilled person will conveniently consider the features individually and summarize meaningful further combinations.

The descriptions made for specific figures can of course be applied to other figures that show the same or similar expressions and in which the characteristics are not described in the same detail.

They show: [0083]

1 shows an oral hygiene device in an application state in a perspective view,

2 shows the oral hygiene agent in the application state in a schematic plan view,

3 shows the oral hygiene agent in the application state in a schematic side view,

4 shows a bottom side of the oral hygiene agent in the application state in a schematic illustration,

5 shows a rear end of a handle unit of the oral hygiene agent in a closed state in a schematic representation,

6 the oral hygiene means in an opened state of the handle unit in a perspective view,

7 shows the oral hygiene device in an opened state in a schematic plan view,

8 the oral hygiene agent in the opened state in a schematic side view,

9 shows the oral hygiene agent in a half-opened state in a schematic side view,

10 the oral hygiene agent in a stowed state in a perspective view,

11 shows an upper shell of the oral hygiene means in a schematic sectional illustration along the section line XI-XI in FIG. 2, FIG.

12 shows the upper shell of the oral hygiene agent in a sectional view along the section line XII-XII in FIG. 2 and FIG

13 shows the upper shell of the oral hygiene agent in a sectional view along the section line XIII-XIII in FIG. 2.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT FIGS. 1 to 5 show various illustrations of an oral hygiene device 58 in an application state. In the present case, the oral hygiene device 58 is designed as a travel toothbrush. The oral hygiene device 58 has an application unit 10, which is in an application position in the application state. The oral hygiene means 58 has a handle unit 12 which comprises at least one lower shell 14 and at least one upper shell 16 movably mounted on the lower shell 14. The upper shell 16 and the lower shell 14 jointly define a storage space 18 (see Figures 6 and 7) for the application unit 10. The application unit 10 is stowed in a stowage position in the storage space 18 (see Figures 9 and 10). The storage space 18 is arranged within the handle unit 12. The handle unit 12 encloses a longitudinal axis 19 of the application unit 10 in the application position at least partially completely.

The longitudinal axis 19 extends at least in sections within the application unit 10. The longitudinal axis 19 extends through a center of gravity of the application unit 10. The longitudinal axis 19 extends at least substantially parallel to a main extension direction 82 of the application unit 10. In the application position, the longitudinal axis 19 extends at least in Substantially parallel to a main extension direction 84 of the handle unit 12.

The application unit 10 comprises a neck element 60. Furthermore, the application unit 10 comprises a cleaning area 62 with a cleaning element 64. In the present case, the cleaning element 64 is designed as a toothbrush head with a varying bristle length. However, as stated above, other cleaning elements and correspondingly other oral hygiene devices are also conceivable.

The handle unit 12 has an upper side 66, a lower side 68, a left side 70, a right side 72, a front end 74 and a rear end 76 which, for reasons of clarity, are shown only in FIGS. 2, 4 and 10 are provided with reference numerals. The upper shell 16 and the lower shell 14 abut one another along a contact line 128.

The upper shell 16 and the lower shell 14 form at least one passage 22, through which the application unit 10 passes in the application position of the storage space 18 ago. A cross section of the passage 22 is adapted to a cross section of the neck member 60. The bushing 22 is in the application state in a form-fitting manner to the neck element 60.

The upper shell 16 has a hard component. The lower shell 14 has a hard component. The application unit 10 has a hard component. In the present case, the upper shell 16, the lower shell 14 and the neck member 60 have a hard component having an identical composition. Furthermore, in the present case, the upper shell 16, the lower shell 14 and the application unit 10 are produced by means of at least one injection molding. The cleaning element 64 is also made in the present case by means of an anchor punching of bristles.

The oral hygiene device 58 has at least one grip element 24 with at least one soft component. In the present case, the grip element 24 is formed entirely from the soft component. Furthermore, in the present case, the grip element 24 is sprayed onto a top shell body 122 (see FIG. The gripping element 24 extends over at least 50% of a length 26 of the handle unit 12, which is shown only in FIG. 4 for reasons of clarity. In the present case, the grip element 24 extends over at least 90% of the length 26 of the handle unit 12.

The grip element 24 has an area 78 in the present case. Within the area 78, in the present case, a labeling area 80 is provided, which is provided for labeling by a user. The labeling area 80 is formed in one case by the upper shell main body 122 of a hard component that passes through the grip element 24 in a region 78 (not shown). But it is also conceivable that a labeling area is at least partially formed by a soft component (and the label by means of

Forming of the soft material happens) and / or is formed as a coated coating or embossing, as provided in the present case.

The grip element 24 is part of the upper shell 16. The grip element 24 comprises at least one grip region 28 with at least one surface structuring 30, 32, 34. In the present case, the grip region 28 comprises three different surface structures 30, 32, 34 which, for the sake of a Clarity only in Fig. 2 are provided with reference numerals. A first surface structuring 30 comprises at least one rib 38. In the present case, the first surface structuring 30 comprises a plurality of ribs 38 which, for reasons of clarity, are not all provided with reference numerals. A second surface structuring 32 comprises at least one nub 36. In the present case, the second surface structuring 32 comprises a plurality of nubs 36 which, for reasons of clarity, are not all provided with reference numerals. A third surface structuring 34 comprises a plurality of ribs, which are not provided with reference numerals for reasons of clarity. The second surface structuring 32 is arranged between the first surface structuring 30 and the third surface structuring 34. The surface structures 30, 32, 34 form a common thumb rest. The ribs of the first surface structuring 30 are circular-arc-shaped and / or elliptical in shape, with center points of the corresponding circles and / or focal points of the corresponding ellipses being arranged behind the second surface structuring 32 as viewed from the first surface structuring 30. The ribs of the third surface structuring 34 are circular-arc-shaped and / or elliptical-arc-shaped, wherein centers of the corresponding circles and / or focal points of the corresponding ellipses are arranged behind the second surface structuring 32 as viewed from the third surface structuring 34. The nubs of the second surface structuring 32 are arranged on circular arcs and / or elliptical arcs. In the present case, the second surface structuring 32 comprises two oppositely curved rows of nubs. The oppositely curved rows of nubs of the second surface structuring 32 surround an injection point of the grip element 24.

The upper shell 16 has at least one gripping element 40 which is provided for transmitting a force and / or a torque to the upper shell 16 when the grip unit 12 is opened. The gripping member 40 is formed as a rib-like elevation. To open the handle unit 12, a user can grip the upper shell 16 on the gripper element 40 and unfold the upper shell 16 relative to the lower shell 14. The gripping element 40 is arranged in a view perpendicular to the main extension direction 84 of the handle unit 12 adjacent to the grip region 28. The gripping member 40 is disposed on the left side 70 of the handle unit 12.

In the present case, the upper shell 16 has a further gripping element 42 which, together with the gripping element 40 in a view parallel to a longitudinal direction 48 of the upper shell 16 at least partially defines a width 50 of the upper shell 16, which for reasons of clarity only in of Fig. 4 is located. The further gripper element 42 is designed mirror-symmetrically to the gripping element 40. The further gripping element 42 is arranged on the right side 72 of the handle unit 12. A user may grip the upper shell 16 to open with two fingers on the gripping members 40, 42.

The lower shell 14 forms at least one flattening 46 in a region 44 below the gripping element 40. From the flattening 46 ago the gripping member 40 is easy to grip as a supernatant of the upper shell 16 on the lower shell 14. The same is also done for the gripping element 42 on the right side 72 of the handle unit 12.

Figs. 6 to 8 show the oral hygiene means 58 in an opened state. In the opened state, the handle unit 12 of the oral hygiene device 58 is opened. In the opened state, the upper shell 16 is unfolded relative to the lower shell 14. The upper shell 16 and the lower shell 14 form a common pivot joint 86 which rotatably supports the upper shell 16 about the lower shell 14 about an axis of rotation 88. The lower shell 14 forms two axis pieces 90, 92 through which the rotation axis 88 passes, i. the two axis pieces 90, 92 are arranged concentrically with respect to the axis of rotation 88. The axle pieces 90, 92 have a maximum diameter of at least 1 mm and advantageously of at least 1.5 mm and / or a maximum diameter of at most 4 mm and advantageously of at most 2.5 mm. The upper shell 16 forms two hook elements 94, 96, which are designed to be slidable over the axle pieces 90, 92. In an assembled state, the upper shell 16 is latched to the two axis pieces 90, 92 of the lower shell 14. The upper shell 16 rests against the lower shell 14 in a form-fitting manner in a region of the axle pieces 90, 92. The upper shell 16 can be clicked on the axle pieces 90, 92 by means of the hook elements 94, 96. When opening the handle unit 12, the upper shell 16 is pivoted relative to the lower shell 14 about the axis of rotation 88.

The axle pieces 90, 92 are not connected in their length at both ends with the lower shell 14, thereby tolerances in the rotary joint 86 and its components can be collected. The clearance between the end of the axis piece 90, 92 and the wall of the lower shell 14 is at least 0.2 mm and advantageously at least 0.3 mm and / or at most 2 mm and advantageously at most 0.7 mm.

In the pivot joint 86, in addition to the connection of the upper shell 16 and lower shell 14, a guidance of these elements is realized opposite each other. By the side surfaces of the hook elements 96 and the corresponding counter contours on the shell bottom creates an additional guidance of the parts opposite each other.

The upper shell 16 can be gripped by a user on the gripping elements 40, 42 and / or in an area of the bushing 22. It is also conceivable that a handle unit, in particular a lower shell, additional

Has gripping elements by means of which a counter force to a force applied to an opening of the handle unit force can be transmitted to the handle unit. Alternatively or additionally, it is conceivable that an upper shell and / or a lower shell has at least one recess, via which such a counterforce can be transmitted to the grip unit.

As shown in Fig. 5, the lower shell 14 forms two recesses 98, 100, in which the hook elements 94, 96 are arranged. An extension of the recesses 98, 100 is in this case at least 1 mm, advantageously at least 2 mm and / or at most 4 mm and advantageously at most 3 mm greater than an extension of arranged in the recesses 98, 100 areas of the hook elements 94, 96th As a result, the storage space 18 can advantageously be ventilated in order, for example, to allow the cleaning element 64 to be dried after an oral hygiene application.

The upper shell 16 forms an upper subspace 102. The lower shell 14 forms a lower subspace 104. The upper subspace 102 and the lower subspace 104 together form the storage space 18. The upper shell 16 is formed like a trough. The lower shell 14 is formed like a trough.

The application unit 10 and the lower shell 14 together form another pivot 106, which supports the application unit 10 pivotably about an axis of rotation 108 on the lower shell 14. The pivot 106 is disposed at the front end 74 of the handle unit 12. The application unit 10 has an axis piece 110 which is arranged in a recess 112 of the lower shell 14 (cf., FIG. 10). The axis of rotation 108 passes through the axis piece 110. The axis piece 110 is a part of the neck element 60. The axis piece 110 has a circular cross section. The axis piece 110 is preferably cambered on an outer surface and / or has rounded edges. The axis piece 110 is disposed at a rear end of the neck member 60. The axis piece 110 has a diameter of at least 2 mm and advantageously of at least 3.5 mm and / or a diameter of at most 6 mm and advantageously of at most 4.5 mm. The axis piece 110 has a height of at least 1.5 mm and advantageously of at least 2 mm and / or a height of at most 3.5 mm and advantageously of at most 3 mm.

Furthermore, the application unit 10 has a further axis piece 114 formed symmetrically to the axis piece 110, which is arranged in a further recess 116 of the lower shell 14. The further recess 116 is disposed opposite the recess 112. The further recess 116 and the recess 112 are mirror-symmetrical. The two axis pieces 110, 114 form with the recesses 112, 116, the further rotary joint 106, that is, the axis pieces 110 and 112 lie on the same axis of rotation or together form an axis of rotation and are matched in terms of dimensions.

In a region of the rotary joint 106, the neck element 60 has an outer contour which is adapted to an inner contour of the upper shell 16 and / or the lower shell 14 and / or the grip unit 12. In the present case, an outer contour of the neck member 60 at least partially corresponds to an inner contour of the handle unit 12. The neck member 60 is thus at least partially guided by inner walls of the handle unit 12, in particular the lower shell 14 at a folding or unfolding of the application unit.

Fig. 9 shows the oral hygiene means 58 in a half opened state. The handle unit 12 is partially opened in the half-opened state. The upper shell 16 is unfolded in the half-opened state with respect to the lower shell 14. In order to transfer the application unit 10 from the storage position to the application position, the handle unit 12 must be opened at least to a degree which allows the application unit 10 to be pivoted past the upper shell 16. After pivoting the application unit 10 in the application position, the upper shell 16 is pivoted back to the lower shell 14 and the handle unit 12 are closed.

The pivoting of the application unit 10 from the lower shell 14 can pass on different variants. On the one hand, the front end of the application unit can be gripped so that swiveling out becomes possible. Further, depending on the configuration of the lower shell 14 and the shape of the application unit 10, viewed laterally, a free space is realized between the two parts, which in turn makes it possible for the two parts to be gripped and pivoted.

Fig. 10 shows the oral hygiene means 58 in a stowed state in a perspective view. In the stowed state, the application unit 10 is in the stowed position. The application unit 10 is arranged completely in the stowage space 18 in the stowage position. The handle unit 12 engages around the longitudinal axis 19 of the application unit 10 in the stowage position at least in sections completely. The handle unit 12 completely surrounds the longitudinal axis 19 of the application unit 10 in the stowage position at least in a section 20 (see FIG. 1) in which the longitudinal axis 19 extends within the application unit 10.

The application unit 10 has at least one element 52, which is arranged in the application position and in the storage position within the storage space 18 (see Fig. 7). The element 52 is formed as a latching element, which is locked in the stowed position and in the application position with the lower shell 14. The lower shell 14 has a first latching position 118, in which the element 52 is locked in the application position. Furthermore, the lower shell 14 has a second latching position 120, in which the element 52 is latched in the stowed position. The detent positions 118, 120 each include a recess, not shown, which is adapted to a shape of the element 52. Upon pivoting of the application unit 10 from the stowage position to the application position

Claims (16)

the element 52 is first given from the latching position 120 and then pressed into the latching position 118. The element 52 has an elongated shape in the present case. The element 52 is formed in the present case as an elongated nub. But there are also oval or round or square or any other shapes conceivable. Elongated shapes are each formed radially to the associated axis of rotation, in this case to the axis of rotation 108, and the elements 52 are each rounded so far that they provide a support while locking, but at the same time are rounded so far that results in the least possible abrasion. The element 52 has a maximum length of at least 1 mm and advantageously of at least 2 mm and / or a maximum length of at most 5 mm and advantageously of at most 4 mm. The element 52 has a maximum width of at least 1 mm and advantageously of at least 1.5 mm and / or a maximum width of at most 4 mm and advantageously of at most 2.5 mm. The element 52 has a maximum height of at least 0.3 mm and advantageously at least 0.5 mm and / or a maximum height of at most 2 mm and advantageously of at most 1.5 mm. The application unit 10 has a mirror-symmetrical to the element 52 formed further element 54 which is locked in the application position or in the stowed position in corresponding locking positions of the lower shell 14, which are not provided with reference numerals for reasons of clarity. 11 to 13 show various sectional views of the upper shell 16 of the handle unit 12. The handle member 24 is connected over its entire length with the upper shell main body 122 and sprayed as mentioned above on this. The upper shell 16 and the lower shell 14 are connected in the application state and in the stowed state by means of at least one latching connection 56 (see Fig. 10). The latching connection 56 is formed in the present case by two latching elements 124, 126 of the upper shell 16 together with two latching positions, not shown, of the lower shell 14. The locking elements 124, 126 are formed as projecting plate-like elevations, each with a latching nub. In a closed state of the handle unit 12, the latching elements 124, 126 are arranged in the lower part space 104. Upon opening the handle unit 12, the latching connection 56 is released by moving the upper shell 16 relative to the lower shell 14. When the handle unit 12 is closed, the latching connection 56 is produced by pressing the upper shell 16 and the lower shell 14 against each other. The hook elements 94, 96 are constructed symmetrically, in FIG. 11 only the hook element 96 is shown. It can easily be seen that the hook element 96 or the space created by it can be divided into threading portion, guiding and single-click portion. claims 1. oral hygiene means, in particular travel sanitizing means, in particular travel toothbrush, with at least one application unit (10) and with at least one handle unit (12) comprising at least one lower shell (14) and at least one upper shell (16) movably mounted on the lower shell (14), together define at least one storage space (18) for the application unit (10), characterized in that the handle unit (12) at least partially completely surrounds at least a longitudinal axis (19) of the application unit (10) in at least one stowed position and in at least one application position. 2. oral hygiene means according to claim 1, characterized in that the handle unit (12) the longitudinal axis (19) of the application unit (10) in the stowage position completely surrounds at least in a section (20), in which the longitudinal axis (19) within the application unit ( 10). 3. oral hygiene means according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the upper shell (16) and the lower shell (14) form at least one passage (22) through which the application unit (10) in the application position of the storage space (18) passes forth , 4. Oral hygiene according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one grip element (24) with at least one soft component. 5. oral hygiene product according to claim 4, characterized in that the grip element (24) extends over at least 50% of a length (26) of the handle unit (12). 6. Oral hygiene according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the grip element (24) is a part of the upper shell (16). 7. Oral hygiene according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the grip element (24) comprises at least one grip region (28) with at least one surface structuring (30, 32, 34). 8. Oral hygiene according to claim 7, characterized in that the surface structuring (30, 32, 34) comprises at least one nub (36) and / or at least one rib (38). 9. Oral hygiene according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the handle region (28) comprises at least two different surface structures (30, 32, 34). 10. Oral hygiene according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper shell (16) has at least one gripping element (40, 42), which results in a transmission of force and / or torque to the upper shell (16) upon opening of the handle unit (12) is provided. 11. Oral hygiene according to claim 10, characterized in that the gripping element (40, 42) is designed as a rib-like elevation. 12. Oral hygiene according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the lower shell (14) in a region (44) below the gripping element (40) at least one flattening (46) is formed. 13. Oral hygiene according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that the upper shell (16) has at least one further gripping element (42), which together with the gripping element (40) in a view parallel to a longitudinal direction (48) of the upper shell (48). 16) defines a width (50) of the upper shell (16) at least in sections. 14. Oral hygiene according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the application unit (10) has at least one element (52, 54), which is arranged in the application position and in the storage position within the storage space (18). 15. oral hygiene product according to claim 14, characterized in that the element (52, 54) is designed as a latching element which is locked in the stowed position and in the application position with the lower shell (14). 16. Oral hygiene according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper shell (16) and the lower shell (14) in at least one application state and in at least one stowed state by means of at least one latching connection (56) are interconnected.