CN105188470A

CN105188470A - Oral care system

Info

Publication number: CN105188470A
Application number: CN201280077409.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: D.霍尔贝恩
Original assignee: Colgate Palmolive Co
Current assignee: Colgate Palmolive Co
Priority date: 2012-11-30
Filing date: 2012-11-30
Publication date: 2015-12-23
Also published as: AU2012395805A1; EP2925187A1; TW201440688A; US20150296966A1; RU2015120378A; BR112015012407A2; IN2015DN02068A; WO2014084840A1; MX2015006483A

Abstract

An oral care system is provided. The system comprises a head having a surface from which a cleaning element extends; a handle connected to the head, the handle comprising a grip structure forming at least a portion of an exterior surface of the handle; and a lock movable between a first state and a second state; wherein, when the lock is in the first state, the grip structure is freely rotatable about an axis relative to the head and, when the lock is in the second state, the grip structure is prevented from rotating relative to the head.

Description

Oral care systems

Background technology

Oral care implement, especially toothbrush, many people are using daily.Typical oral care implement comprises microscler shank and is connected to the head of shank one end.Shank provides user during use and grasps via it and handle the structure of oral care implement.Head generally includes the one or more elements being designed to perform its expectation function, such as tooth cleaning components, soft tissue cleaning elements, and/or oral cavity nursing agent.

In recent years, people make great efforts the handle designs improving oral care implement, to strengthen user to the control of utensil with improve touching the element be included in head, what make oral care implement during the MC period can improve user oral cavity is clean.This type of effort comprises exploitation and has multimember shank, comprises hard cores body structure and softer grasping lid or grasp body, to try hard to strengthen user to the control of utensil.Other existing oral care implement have relative to each other and relative to appliance head portion with some sections of selected angle orientation to try hard to touching property of improvement, before making in the oral cavity, the surface that is difficult to touch can utilize element to touch now.

No matter these effort how, and still need a kind of oral care systems, it has the structure improved during use user's oral cleaning.Such as, need a kind of oral care systems, its element (or multiple element) guaranteeing on appliance head portion preferably can touch oral surfaces and recess wherein and undulation portion, so that it is clean to improve oral surfaces.

Summary of the invention

A first aspect of the present invention provides a kind of oral care systems, and it comprises: head, and this head has the surface that cleaning element extends from it; Be connected to the shank of head, this shank comprise formed handle outer surface at least partially grasp structure; And movable locking piece between a first state and a second state; Wherein, when locking piece is in the first state, grasping structure freely can rotate around axis relative to head, and when locking piece is in the second state, grasps structure and stoped relative to end rotation.

" freely rotate " and refer to that grasping structure is not biased to specific angle position relative to head.Preferably, the rotation of structure relative to head is grasped not by the constraint of other parts any of system.

Preferably, oral care systems comprises the oral care implement with head and shank; And locking piece; Wherein, locking piece comprises the locking member being attached to and maybe can being attached to oral care implement.

Optionally, in the first state, locking member is separated with oral care implement, and in the second state, locking member on oral care implement, stop and grasp structure and be attached to oral care implement relative to the second position of end rotation.

Optionally, in the first state, the first position of locking member on oral care implement is attached to oral care implement, and in the second state, the second position of locking member on oral care implement is attached to oral care implement.

Optionally, when locking member is attached to oral care implement in second position, locking member is arranged on head and relative in the not revolvable shank body of head, and engages and grasp structural feature structure, thus stops and grasp structure relative to end rotation.

Optionally, when locking member is attached to oral care implement in second position, locking member is arranged on and grasps in structure, and engages head and relative to the feature structure in the not revolvable shank body of head, thus stops and grasp structure relative to end rotation.

Preferably, what feature structure comprised in groove, passage, hole, gap and projection is one or more.

Preferably, locking member comprises C shape clip or the collar (collar).

Preferably, locking member can move along the direction of paralleling to the axis between the first and second positions on oral care implement.

Optionally, cleaning element has apart from head surface far-end farthest; And the some place between the surface at head of axis on cleaning element and the far-end of cleaning element is through cleaning element.

Preferably, grasp structure to rotate around axis relative to cleaning element.

Preferably, the far-end of this point and cleaning element is spaced apart.This comparability in the surface close to head closer to the far-end of cleaning element.

Preferably, grasp structure can relative to head around axis rotate past at least 90 degree or at least 180 degree or at least 270 degree 360 degree or at least 360 spend.Optionally, grasp structure axially to fix relative to head.

Shank can comprise the body being connected to head.When locking piece is in the first state, grasps structure and can be connected to body can rotate relative to body around axis.Preferably, grasp structure axially to fix relative to body.

Body can comprise two parts.Grasp structure can be arranged between these two parts, make to grasp structure and axially fixed relative to body by these two parts.These two parts can be two parts of the body linked together, or can be single, overall parts.

Grasp structure connect by snap fit and be connected to body.

Preferably, grasp structure and comprise the sleeve with internal cavity, and a part for body is arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.Alternatively, body can comprise the sleeve with internal cavity at least partially, and the part grasping structure is arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.

Preferably, body can not relative to head movement.Preferably, body and head are overall.

Shank connects by snap fit and is connected to head.

Preferably, axis is the longitudinal axis of oral care implement and/or shank.

Grasp structure manually to rotate relative to shank and/or body about axis by user.Alternatively, utensil can comprise electric rotator, such as motor, for realizing the rotation grasping structure.Electric rotator can by user operation to realize the rotation grasping structure.

Optionally, grasp structure to be made up of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and/or SEBS at least in part.Optionally, grasp structure to be made up of hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics at least in part.Grasp structure and can comprise the Part I be made up of elastomeric material and the Part II be made up of hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics.Grasp structure and be connected to this body by the Part II grasping structure is connected to the mode of body.

Optionally, head is made up of hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics at least in part.Optionally, body is made up of hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics at least in part.Hard or rigid material can comprise in polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyester, cellulosic plastics, SAN, acrylic acid, ABS and thermoplastic one or more.

Preferably, cleaning element comprises one or the other in tooth cleaning components and soft tissue cleaning elements.Preferably, multiple cleaning element extends from head.The plurality of cleaning element can comprise one or more tooth cleaning components and/or one or more soft tissue cleaning elements.

A second aspect of the present invention provides a kind of external member for oral care systems, and this external member comprises: head, and this head has the surface that cleaning element extends from it; The shank of head can be connected to, this shank comprise formed shank outer surface at least partially grasp structure; And the locking piece that can move between a first state and a second state when shank is connected to head; Wherein, when locking piece is in the first state, grasping structure freely can rotate around axis relative to head, and when locking piece is in the second state, then grasps structure and stoped relative to end rotation.

Preferably, locking piece comprises the locking member of c-shaped clip or collar form.

Optionally, cleaning element has the far-end of the most portionafrom theasurface apart from head; And the some place head surface and the far-end of cleaning element between of axis on cleaning element is through cleaning element.

External member or the oral care systems provided when external member is assembled, can comprise any one or more in the above-mentioned optional of oral care systems according to a first aspect of the invention and preferred feature structure.

A third aspect of the present invention provides a kind of method manufacturing oral care systems, and this method comprises the steps: that (a) provides head; B () provides cleaning element to head, this cleaning element extends from the surface of head; C shank is connected to head by (), this shank comprise formed shank outer surface at least partially grasp structure; And (d) provides the locking piece that can move between a first state and a second state; Wherein, when locking piece is in the first state, grasping structure freely can rotate around axis relative to head, and when locking piece is in the second state, then grasps structure and stoped relative to end rotation.

A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a kind of method manufacturing oral care systems, and this method comprises the steps: that (a) provides head and be connected to the body of head; B () provides cleaning element to head, this cleaning element extends from the surface of head; C () will grasp anatomical connectivity to body, this grasps structure and forms the outer surface of shank at least partially; And (d) provides the locking piece that can move between a first state and a second state; Wherein, when locking piece is in the first state, grasping structure freely can rotate relative to body about axis, and when locking piece is in the second state, then grasps structure and stoped relative to body rotation.

According in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, preferably step (b) comprises provides cleaning element to head, and this cleaning element extends from the surface of head and has the far-end of the most portionafrom theasurface apart from head; And the some place preferably between the surface at head of axis on cleaning element and the far-end of cleaning element is through cleaning element.

According in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, optionally step (c) performs after the step (b).Alternatively, according in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, optionally step (b) performs after step (c).

According in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, preferably the far-end of this point and cleaning element is spaced apart.Preferably, this comparability in the surface close to head closer to the far-end of cleaning element.

According in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, preferably grasp structure and axially fix relative to head.

According in the method for fourth aspect, optionally step (c) comprises and will grasp vibrational power flow between two parts of body, makes to grasp structure and is axially fixed relative to body by these two parts.

According in the method for fourth aspect, optionally step (c) is comprised and is connected by snap fit and will grasp anatomical connectivity to body.

According in the method for fourth aspect, what optionally grasp structure comprises the sleeve limiting internal cavity at least partially, and step (c) comprises and a part for body being arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.Step (c) can comprise between two sections this part of body being clamped in and grasping structure, and is preferably then connected to each other by these two sections grasping structure.Alternatively, comprising at least partially of body limits the sleeve of internal cavity, and step (c) comprises and the part grasping structure being arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.

According in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, preferably axis is the longitudinal axis of oral care implement or the longitudinal axis of shank.

According in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, preferably cleaning element comprises one or the other in tooth cleaning components and soft tissue cleaning elements.Preferably, step (b) comprises provides multiple cleaning element to head, and this cleaning element extends from the surface of head.The plurality of cleaning element can comprise one or more tooth cleaning components and/or one or more soft tissue cleaning elements.

According in the method for the third aspect or the method for fourth aspect, oral care systems obtained when carried out in this manner can comprise any one or more in the above-mentioned optional and preferred feature structure of oral care systems according to a first aspect of the invention.

Accompanying drawing explanation

Fig. 1 is the front view of the oral care systems according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is the longitudinal cross-section view of the oral care systems of Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is the longitudinal cross-section view of oral care systems according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 is the longitudinal cross-section view of oral care systems according to the third embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 5 is the longitudinal cross-section view of oral care systems according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 6 is the longitudinal cross-section view of oral care systems according to a fifth embodiment of the invention;

Fig. 7 is the longitudinal cross-section view of oral care systems according to a sixth embodiment of the invention; And

Fig. 8 (a) to Fig. 8 (d) is the serial front view according to oral care systems of the present invention, and these views are presented at the relative motion grasped between structure and head of the oral care implement of this system.

Detailed description of the invention

Hereafter description of preferred embodiments be only exemplary in essence and exhausted not intended to limit the present invention, its application or purposes.Be intended to read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings for the description of exemplary embodiments in accordance with the principles of the present invention, these accompanying drawings should regard as a part for whole written description.In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed in literary composition, direction or orientation any is mentioned and is only convenient description of intention and is intended to absolutely not limit the scope of the invention.Relativity term such as " low ", " height ", " level ", " vertically ", " top ", " below ", " on ", D score, " top " and " end " and its derivative (such as, " flatly ", " down ", " up " etc.) be interpreted as referring to as describe subsequently or as the orientation as shown in the figure that discusses.These relativity terms are only convenient description and do not require that equipment should construct with certain orientation or operate, but except pointing out so clearly.Term such as " attachment ", " attached ", " connection ", " connection ", " interconnection " etc. refer to wherein by multiple structure directly or the relation being indirectly fixed to one another by structure between two parties or being attached, and activity or the attachment of rigidity or relation, but except separately doing clearly to describe.In addition, characteristic sum beneficial effect of the present invention is illustrated with reference to preferred embodiment.Therefore, the present invention clearly should not be limited to illustrate can individualism or this type of exemplary embodiment of some possible nonrestrictive Feature Combinations of being present in further feature combination.

In the following description, the invention process be comprise manually operable oral care implement, be more specifically the system of manually operable toothbrush.But in other embodiments, the invention process is the system comprising electric toothbrush, wherein, the one or more cleaning elements being provided to appliance head portion are drivable to move relative to the shank of utensil.In the embodiment also had, the present invention can be embodied as the system of the oral care implement comprising other form, such as tooth flusher, dental floss tooth-cleaning instrument, dental plaque scaler between soft tissue cleanser tool, neighbour, or other being designed for MC has handle utensil.Should be appreciated that other embodiment also can adopt, and the change on 26S Proteasome Structure and Function can be carried out without departing from the scope of the invention.

Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 display is according to the oral care systems of the first embodiment of the present invention.This system comprises the locking piece generally with the oral care implement of reference number 100 mark (in the present case for toothbrush) and the locking member 200 containing c-shaped clip form.Toothbrush 100 comprises shank 110 and head 120 generally.Shank 110 provides a kind of mechanism to user, and he/her easily grasps by this mechanism and handles toothbrush 100.Shank 110 comprises ergonomic architectural feature, and it provides the control of higher degree while keeping comfort level to user.Head 120 has portions of proximal 121 and distal part 122.Head 120 comprises at its portions of proximal 121 place the neck 123 be connected on the far-end 104 of shank 110.Neck 123 at least has narrower area of section compared to the far-end 104 of shank 110 usually, and in certain embodiments, neck 123 has narrower area of section compared to whole shank 110 usually.Head also comprises the multiple tooth cleaning components 130 being generally depicted as block in its distal portion office.

Usually, toothbrush 100 along the longitudinal axis A-A proximally 101(its be also the near-end 103 of shank 110) it is positioned at the far-end of the distal part 122 of head 120 to extend to far-end 102().Although shank 110 is nonlinear organization in the embodiment shown, the longitudinal axis A-A of utensil 100 is linear in the embodiment shown.But the present invention is not limited thereto, but in certain embodiments, utensil 100 can have simple linear shank 110, and this linear shank longitudinally aligns along the linear longitudinal axis A-A of utensil 100.

Head 120 is connected to shank 110.As being hereafter discussed in more detail, the body 140(that head 120 is connected to the shank 110 of toothbrush 100 in this embodiment is hereafter discussed in more detail), and the structure that head 120 and body 140 adopt injection molding process to form as one.Body 140 can not move relative to head 120.Body 140 and head 120 are single, overall structures.But, in other embodiments, head 120 and body 140 can be formed as independent component, these components are operably connected by arbitrary appropriate technology as known in the art at the subsequent stage of manufacture process, include but not limited to thermal weld, ultra-sonic welded, the assembly that closely cooperates, coupling sleeve, adhesion, fastener, and snap fit connect.No matter whether head 120 and body 140 are configured to single parts or multipart assembly (comprising interconnection technique), are not all limitation of the present invention in all embodiments.In addition, replace and/or except injection-molded, also can adopt other manufacturing technology to generate shank 110 and/or head 120(or its component), such as milling and/or machined.

In this embodiment, each in head 120 and body 140 is formed by hard or rigid material, particularly hard plastic polypropylene (PP).But, in the modification of this embodiment, head 120 can instead or be additionally made up of one or more in following hard or rigid material: polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyester, cellulosic plastics, styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), acrylic acid, acronitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and thermoplastic.And, in the modification of this embodiment, body 140 can instead or be additionally made up of one or more in following hard or rigid material: polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyester, cellulosic plastics, styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), acrylic acid, acronitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and thermoplastic.

It should be noted that, relativity term such as far away, middle, near, high and low, top, the end, side direction, front, rear, left and right etc. are only used to each component relative position relative to each other describing utensil 100, and are not intended in any further mode to limit the present invention.

Head 120 generally includes front surface 124 and rear surface 125.The front surface 124 of head 120 and rear surface 125 can adopt various shape and profile widely, but these shapes and profile are not limitation of the present invention.Such as, front surface 124 and rear surface 125 can be plane, (or contoured) or their combination that become profile.Front surface 124 and rear surface 125 are connected by the periphery surface of head 120 or lateral surface 126.

The front surface 124 that the multiple tooth cleaning components 130 showing for block are generally provided in head 120 stretches out clean contact oral surfaces, to be preferably tooth from it.Although cleaning element in groups 130 is specially adapted to brushing teeth, this cleaning element 130 in groups also can be used for oral cavity cleaning soft tissue, replaces or such as tongue, gum or cheek in addition to the teeth.As used herein, term " cleaning element " is used in reference in general sense and is used for clean or massaging oral surperficial such as tooth or soft tissue any structure by relative surface contact.

In this embodiment, multiple cleaning element 130 is provided.But, in the modification of the present embodiment, provide only a cleaning element 130.And in this embodiment, cleaning element 130 comprises multiple bristle.But, in the modification of this embodiment, cleaning element can additionally or alternatively include but not limited to following in any one or more: filament bristle, fiber bristles, nylon brush hair, covered with spiral brush, rubber bristles, elastomeric protrusions, flexible polymer projection, coextrusion filament, flag bristle, crimped bristles, antibacterium bristle and their combination and/or the structure containing this type of material or combination.

Multiple cleaning element 130 can adopt any mode as known in the art to be connected to head 120.Such as, plant bunch (AFT) without anchor to can be used for connecting cleaning element 130.In AFT, such as, by ultra-sonic welded, plate or film are fixed to brushhead 120.Bristle (or other element, such as elastomer element) extends through plate or film.The free distal end 131 of the bristle 130 on the side of plate or film performs cleaning function.The end of the bristle 130 on the opposite side of plate or film by heat fusion in place with grappling together.In broad practice of the present invention, the cleaning element 130 of any applicable form can be adopted.Alternatively, cleaning element 130 is mounted to bunch block or section by the applicable opening extended through in bunch block, and the base portion of cleaning element 130 is arranged in bunch block or below it.Instead, staple technology can be adopted.

Regardless of about the type of provided cleaning element 130 and number, this cleaning element or each cleaning element 130 all have its front surface 124 far-end 131 farthest apart from head 120.As shown in fig. 1, at least one cleaning element 130 extends from the front surface 124 of head 120, make the longitudinal axis A-A of utensil 100 through this cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130, wherein some or each.For longitudinal axis A-A through for each in its cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130, axis A-A on cleaning element 130, some place between the front surface 124 and the free distal end 131 of cleaning element 130 of head 120 is through cleaning element 130.The importance of this feature structure is hereafter being set forth.

If needed, the rear surface 125 of head 120 can comprise the one or more structures for oral cleaning, such as one or more soft tissue cleanser (as shown in Fig. 8 (b) to Fig. 8 (d)).This type of soft tissue cleanser can be formed by thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) (" TPE ") and can be comprised one or more protuberance, such as knob (nub) and/or convex ridge, such as, to engage and massage soft tissue surfaces, tongue.

The shank 110 of the utensil 100 of this embodiment also comprises and grasps structure 150 except body 140, or " grasping part ".Grasp the part that structure 150 forms the outer surface 111 of shank 110, and comprise multiple projection 158, such as, in knob, protuberance, convex ridge and rib one or more.Projection 158 provides texturizing surfaces to grasping structure 150, and this surface helps user grip during the MC period and handle utensil 100.

In this embodiment, grasp structure 150 to be only made up of parts.In this embodiment, grasp structure 150 and be made up of elastomeric material, this elastomeric material comprises thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).In other embodiments, elastomeric material can instead or also comprise styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS).In the embodiment also had, grasping structure 150 can instead or be additionally made up of one or more hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics.Hard or rigid material can comprise any one or multiple in polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyester, cellulosic plastics, styrene-acrylonitrile (SAN), acrylic acid, acronitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) and thermoplastic.Such as, as shown in Figure 3 (hereafter discussing in more detail), comprise according to the second embodiment of oral care implement 100 of the present invention and grasp structure 150, this grasps structure and has the first component or part 151 that are made up of elastomeric material (being thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) in this second embodiment), and be connected to first component 151 and the second component such as, be made up of hard or rigid material (being rigid plastics, polypropylene in this second embodiment) or part 152.

Get back to first embodiment of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, grasp structure 150 and comprise the sleeve with inner surface 153, this inner surface limits the internal cavity of sleeve.Grasp structure 150 and body 140 is relatively arranged so that the Part I 145 of body 140 is arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.The outer surface 143 grasping the inner surface 153 of structure 150 and the Part I 145 of body 140 is positioned to and moves relative to body 140 to allow grasping structure 150.That is, the interval of gap form is provided between inner surface 153 and outer surface 143 ringwise.In the present embodiment, the outer surface 143 wherein grasping the inner surface 153 of structure 150 and the above-mentioned part of body 140 is all columniform, and the diameter of inner surface 153 is a bit larger tham the diameter of outer surface 143.

Grasp structure 150 connect or be mounted to body 140 can rotate relative to body 140.In addition, grasp structure 150 and connect or be mounted to body 140 can rotate relative to head 120, and therefore can rotate relative to cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130.Grasp structure 150 to rotate relative to head 120 around the longitudinal axis A-A of oral care implement 100 relative to body 140.In this embodiment, grasp structure 150 to rotate past 360 degree (in fact, through more than 360 degree) around longitudinal axis A-A relative to head 120 relative to body 140.In addition, grasping structure 150 is freely, to rotate around longitudinal axis A-A relative to head 120 relative to body 140.That is, grasp structure 150 is not subject to other parts any in utensil 100 constraint relative to body 140 and relative to the rotation of head 120, therefore such as grasp structure 150 and be not biased to relative to body 140 or the special angle position relative to head 120.

Show in FIG and grasp the rotation of structure 150 relative to head 120.Head 120 is shown in broken lines relative to the alternate location grasping structure 150, and this position reaches at head 120 with after grasping between structure 150 relative rotary motion.This rotates display in Fig. 8 (a) to Fig. 8 (d) further relatively.At Fig. 8 (a) in each in Fig. 8 (d), grasp structure 150 and be in same position relative to the page, and head 120(and body 140) between continuous print accompanying drawing, rotate past 90 degree.Those skilled in the art will can understand head 120 and the similar relative rotary motion that grasps between structure 150 in the embodiment (the 5th embodiment such as hereafter discussed) of the utensil 100 getting rid of body 140.

The body 140 of the utensil 100 of this embodiment comprises first component 141 and second component 142, and wherein this first component comprises the Part I 145 of the body 140 with outer surface 143 as discussed above.Two parts of body 140 of these two parts 141,142 for linking together, but in the distortion of this embodiment, these two parts 141,142 can be single, overall part.First component 141 has surperficial 141a uneven relative to longitudinal axis A-A, and the first axial end portion 150a grasping structure 150 abuts against this surperficial 141a.When the first axial end portion 150a grasping structure 150 adjoins the surperficial 141a of first component 141, the Part II 146 of first component 141 be not arranged on grasp structure 150 internal cavity in, but instead from grasp structure 150 the second axial end portion 150b give prominence to.The second component 142 of body 140 is by any mode such as adhesive, welding, the first component 141 that bonding, snap fit connects, coupling screw thread etc. is connected to body 140.Second component 142 has relative to longitudinal axis to the uneven surperficial 142a of A-A, and the second axial end portion 150b grasping structure 150 abuts against this surperficial 142a.Therefore, grasp structure 150 and be arranged between two parts 141,142 of body 140, making to grasp structure 150 these two parts 141,142 by body 140 relative to body 140 axially fixes relative to head 120.

In the modification of described embodiment, the axial length grasping structure 150 can be slightly smaller than the axial distance between the surperficial 141a of the first component 141 and surperficial 142a of second component 142, adjoin the surperficial 141a of first component 141 while making the first axial end portion 150a grasping structure 150 can not adjoin the surperficial 142a of second component 142 at the second axial end portion 150b grasping structure 150, allow to grasp the moving axially of less degree of structure 150 relative to body 140 thus.Preferably, the axial length grasping structure 150 is at least 90% of the axial distance between the surperficial 141a of the first component 141 and surperficial 142a of second component 142.More preferably, the axial length grasping structure 150 is at least 95% of the axial distance between the surperficial 141a of the first component 141 and surperficial 142a of second component 142.

In the modification of shown first embodiment, grasp structure 150 and connected by snap fit and be connected to body 140, still freely can rotate around axis A-A relative to body 140 and head 120 simultaneously.

As discussed above, therefore grasp structure 150 freely can to rotate around longitudinal axis A-A relative to cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 relative to head 120.In addition, as discussed above equally, this at least one cleaning element 130 extends from the front surface 124 of head 120, make the longitudinal axis A-A of utensil 100 through this cleaning element 130, wherein some or each.For longitudinal axis A-A through for each in its cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130, the some place between the front surface 124 at head 120 of axis A-A on cleaning element 130 and the free distal end 131 of cleaning element 130 is through cleaning element 130.Therefore, oral care implement 100 has between the operating period in the MC period " oral surfaces autotracking function ".That is, when cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 moves across tooth, soft tissue or other oral surfaces, head 120 and cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 rotate to follow oral surfaces relative to grasping structure 150, and user is grasping grasping in structure 150 without the need to changing it.Therefore, when user is without the need to moving the surface of its hand and/or finger relative to the outer surface grasping structure 150, cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 is freely to follow profile and the undulation portion of just cleaned oral surfaces.Which improve cleaning, because it ensures that the cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 on the head 120 of utensil 100 can reach and contact oral surfaces to be cleaned better user oral cavity.

In the present embodiment, axis A-A through its, the position of point far-end 131 and the front surface 124 of head 120 on cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130.For at least some in cleaning element 130, this point can be positioned at respective distal end 131 place of cleaning element 130, and this can ensure that the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130 follows the tracks of just cleaned oral surfaces better.For other the cleaning elements one or more in cleaning element 130, respective distal end 131 in this point and cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 is spaced apart, this can ensure that cleaning element 130 applies power, if especially cleaning element 130 is flexible situation to just cleaned oral surfaces better.In any case, preferably this compared to the front surface 124 close to head 120 closer to the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130.

As described above, the oral care systems of the first embodiment also comprises locking piece.Locking member 200 can move between a first state and a second state, as hereafter described in more detail.In fig. 1 and 2, the first position of locking member 200 on oral care implement 100 is attached to oral care implement 100, and this is the first state of locking piece.More specifically, locking member 200 is arranged on the second component 142 of the body 140 of shank 110, and this second component can not rotate relative to head 120.Locking member 200 comprises the inner projection 201 of the groove in the outer surface of the second component 142 engaging shank 140, stops locking member 200 to rotate around axis A-A relative to head 120 thus.When locking piece is in this first state, when also namely locking member 200 is in the primary importance shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, grasping structure 150 freely can rotate around axis A-A relative to head 120, as discussed above.

But, by grasping the outer surface 211 of locking member 200, user can along headward 120 and locking member 200 is moved to the second place oral care implement 100 by the direction of the A-A that parallels to the axis from primary importance, locking piece to be placed in its second state.This movement relative to shank 110, body 140, grasp structure 150 and head 120.When locking member 200 is in the second place, also when namely locking piece is in its second state, engage the groove in second component 142 in the projection 201 at the inside place of locking member 200 and grasping the groove 159 formed in the outer surface of structure 150, stoping grasping structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120 thus.That is, locking member 200 stops and grasps structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120.

Subsequently, user can make locking member 200 move to its primary importance from its second place, thus projection 201 is removed from groove 159 and allow to grasp structure 150 and freely rotate relative to head 120.

Fig. 8 (a) shows locking member 200 and is in its second place, and Fig. 8 (b) to Fig. 8 (d) shows locking member 200 and is in its primary importance, allows head 120 and grasps the relative of structure 150 and rotate freely.

The oral care systems of the first embodiment can manufacture as described below.As first step, provide the body 140 of head 120 and shank 110.They can be formed together during manufacture as single, overall parts, such as, adopt injection molding process, milling process and/or process for machining.Alternatively, head 120 and body 140 initially can be formed as two independent parts, such as by any one in injection molding process, milling process and/or process for machining, and be connected to each other by any applicable technology well known in the art in the later phases of manufacturing process subsequently, include but not limited to thermal weld, ultra-sonic welded, the assembly that closely cooperates, coupling sleeve, adhesion, fastener, and snap fit connect.

As second step, head 120 is provided with at least one cleaning element 130 extended from the front surface 124 of head 120.This by above any one in discussion technology, such as by AFT, by adopting staple etc.This at least one cleaning element 130 or wherein each all can adopt above any one in discussion form, such as tooth cleaning components, soft tissue cleaning elements, bristle, elastomer element etc.

As third step subsequently, there is provided and grasp structure 150(and comprise groove 159) and be connected to body 140, connect preferably by snap fit, freely can rotate around the longitudinal axis A-A of utensil 100 relative to body 140, this grasps structure 150 and forms the outer surface 111 of shank 110 at least partially simultaneously.As discussed above, the some place of axis A-A between the front surface 124 and the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130 of head 120 on cleaning element 130 is through this at least one cleaning element 130.Grasp structure 150 to be arranged between two parts 141,142 of body 140, make to grasp structure 150 and axially fixed relative to body 140 and head 120 by these two parts 141,142.That is, the sleeve grasping structure 150 slips over body 140, the Part I 145 of body 140 is become and is positioned in the internal cavity of sleeve.Then the second component 142 of body is connected to the first component 141 of body by any one in mechanism as discussed above, be trapped between these two parts 141,142 will grasp structure 150.Grasp structure 150 to provide by being made up of any one in injection molding process, milling process and/or process for machining.

In the modification of the method, third step can carry out before second step or with it simultaneously.

Finally, locking is provided by locking member 200 is attached to utensil 100 in primary importance or the second place.

Now with reference to Fig. 3, the second embodiment of the present invention is described.Second embodiment comprises above-mentioned whole element of the first embodiment of the present invention, and same element represents with identical reference number used in such as Fig. 1 with Fig. 2 in figure 3.For for purpose of brevity, Fig. 3 will not be referred again to for the element that two embodiments are identical and describe in detail.Above-mentioned possible whole modification for the first embodiment are similarly applicable to the second embodiment.

The utensil 100 that the oral care implement 100 of the system of the second embodiment is different from the first embodiment is only to grasp form and the formation of structure 150.In a first embodiment, grasp structure 150 to be only made up of parts.In a second embodiment, grasp structure to be made up of the two or more parts linked together.More specifically, grasp structure 150 and there is the first component 151 be made up of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and/or SEBS, and the second component 152 be made up of hard or rigid material (when rigid plastics such as polypropylene).Hard or rigid material alternatively or additionally can comprise any one in plastics as discussed above.

First component 151 forms the major part grasping the outer surface of structure 150.In the modification of this embodiment, first component 151 can form the whole outer surface grasping structure 150.Can provide this type of first component 151 multiple, wherein each is connected to second component 152.In this kind of modification, first component (or multiple first component) 151 all can comprise the projection from second component, such as knob, protuberance, convex ridge or rib, is grasping grasping in structure 150 to help user.

Grasp structure 150 by be connected by second component 152 or the mode be installed on body 140 is connected to body 140.First component 151 is not only directly connected to body 140, but also is indirectly connected to body 140 via second component 152.Grasping structure 150 is arranged between two parts 141,142 of body 140, as above for the first embodiment discussed.Because body 140 and the second component 152 that grasps structure are both formed by hard material, therefore grasp structure 150 when body 140 and second component 152 contact with each other and can easily freely rotate relative to body 140.But, because first component 151 is made up of elastomeric material, therefore grasp structure 150 and there is comfortable outer surface to grasp.Preferably, the coefficient of friction of the outer surface of first component 151 is greater than the coefficient of friction of the inner surface 153 of second component 152.

The locking member 200 of the system of the second embodiment is substantially identical with the locking member 200 of the first embodiment, and difference is that groove 159 is only formed in and grasps in the first component 151 of structure 150.In the modification of this embodiment, groove 159 may extend past both the first and second parts 151,152 grasping structure 150.

The oral care systems of the second embodiment can manufacture according to the manufacture method of above-mentioned first embodiment substantially, and difference is only to provide the mode grasping structure 150.According to the second embodiment, grasp structure 150 by first such as making by means of a kind of second component 152 forming hard material in injection molding process, milling process and/or process for machining.Second component 152 can be rotational symmetric and preferably has cylindrical symmetry.Then the material of first component (or multiple first component) 151 is molded on second component 152, such as, by injection-molded.And, groove 159 be formed in the first and second parts 151,152 one or both on.

Now with reference to Fig. 4, the third embodiment of the present invention is described.3rd embodiment comprises a lot of said elements of the first embodiment of the present invention, and same element represents with identical reference number used in such as Fig. 1 with Fig. 2 in the diagram.For for purpose of brevity, Fig. 4 will not be referred again to for the element that two embodiments are identical and describe in detail.Above-mentioned possible whole modification for the first and second embodiments are similarly applicable to the 3rd embodiment.

In the third embodiment, shank 110 still comprises body 140 and grasps structure 150, but body 140 does not have the part being equivalent to second component 142.Body 140 only comprises parts 141 and is made up of hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics.The part 145 of body 140 comprises the sleeve with inner surface 146, and this inner surface limits the internal cavity of sleeve, and the Part I 155 grasping structure 150 is arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.The Part II 157 grasping structure 150 comprises outer surface so that by user's handling, and this outer surface forms a part for the outer surface 111 of shank 110.

The inner surface 146 of body 140 is positioned to the outer surface 156 of the Part I 155 grasping structure 150 and moves relative to body 140 to allow grasping structure 150.That is, the interval of gap form is provided between inner surface 146 and outer surface 156 ringwise.In the present embodiment, wherein the inner surface 146 of body 140 is all columniform with the outer surface 156 of the Part I 155 grasping structure 150, and the diameter of inner surface 146 is a bit larger tham the diameter of outer surface 156.

Grasp structure 150 by being connected with the snap fit between body 140 grasping between structure 150 with body 140, more specifically grasping the second component 152 of structure 150 and being connected to body 140.But, in the modification of this embodiment, also can adopt the connection of other form.Grasp structure 150 can freely rotate relative to body 140.In addition, grasp structure 150 connect or be mounted to body 140 therefore freely to rotate relative to cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 relative to head 120.Grasp structure 150 freely to rotate relative to head 120 around the longitudinal axis A-A of oral care implement 100 relative to body 140.

In the third embodiment, grasp structure 150 to be made up of two parts 151,152 linked together.More specifically, grasp structure 150 and there is the first component 151 be made up of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and/or SEBS, and the second component 152 be made up of hard or rigid material (when rigid plastics such as polypropylene).Hard or rigid material alternatively or additionally can comprise any one in plastics as discussed above.

First component 151 forms the major part grasping the outer surface of structure 150.In the modification of this embodiment, first component 151 can form the whole outer surface grasping structure 150.Grasp structure 150 by be connected by second component 152 or the mode be installed on body 140 is connected to body 140.First component 151 is not only directly connected to body 140, but also is indirectly connected to body 140 via second component 152.Because body 140 and the second component 152 that grasps structure are both formed by hard material, therefore grasp structure 150 when body 140 and second component 152 contact with each other and can easily rotate relative to body 140.But, because first component 151 is made up of elastomeric material, therefore grasp structure 150 and there is comfortable outer surface to grasp.Preferably, the coefficient of friction of the outer surface of first component 151 is greater than the coefficient of friction of the outer surface 156 of second component 152.

In the modification of shown 3rd embodiment, grasp structure 150 and can comprise only parts, and can by above-mentioned grasping any one in the material of structure 150 or multiplely to form for the first and second embodiments.

The oral care systems of the 3rd embodiment also comprises the locking piece containing locking member 200.In the diagram, the first position of locking member 200 on oral care implement 100 is attached to oral care implement 100, and this is the first state of locking piece.More specifically, locking member 200 is arranged on and grasps in structure 150, and it can rotate relative to head 120.Locking member 200 comprises the inner projection 201 engaging the groove grasped in the outer surface of structure 150, stops locking member 200 to rotate around axis A-A relative to grasping structure 150 thus.When locking piece is in this first state, when also namely locking member 200 is in the primary importance shown in Fig. 4, grasping structure 150 freely can rotate around axis A-A relative to head 120, as discussed above.

But, by grasping the outer surface 211 of locking member 200, user can along headward 120 and locking member 200 is moved to the second place oral care implement 100 by the direction of the A-A that parallels to the axis from primary importance, locking piece to be placed in its second state.This movement relative to shank 110, body 140, grasp structure 150 and head 120.When locking member 200 is in the second place, also when namely locking piece is in its second state, projection 201 at the inside place of locking member 200 engages the groove grasped in structure 150 and the groove 149 be formed in the outer surface of body 140, and it can not rotate relative to head 120.Therefore, grasp structure 150 to rotate relative to head 120 and become and stoped.That is, locking member 200 stops and grasps structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120.

Subsequently, locking member 200 can be moved to its primary importance from its second place by user, thus projection 201 is removed from groove 149 and allow to grasp structure 150 and freely rotate relative to head 120.The oral care systems of the 3rd embodiment can manufacture according to the manufacture method of above-mentioned second embodiment substantially, and difference is only to grasp the mode that structure 150 is connected to body 140.According to the second embodiment, a part for body 140 be arranged on grasp structure 150 sleeve in.Comparatively speaking, in the third embodiment, the Part I 155 grasping structure 150 is arranged in the sleeve of body 140, and is connected to body 140 optionally by snap fit connects.In addition, in the third embodiment, groove 159 be provided in grasp structure 150, the end of the first component 141 of adjacent body 140.In the third embodiment, locking is provided by locking member 200 is attached to utensil 100 in primary importance or second position.

Now with reference to Fig. 5, the fourth embodiment of the present invention is described.4th embodiment comprises many said elements of the second embodiment of the present invention, and same element represents with reference number identical as used in fig. 3 in Figure 5.For for purpose of brevity, Fig. 5 will not be referred again to for the element that two embodiments are identical and describe in detail.Above-mentioned possible whole modification for the first to the 3rd embodiment are similarly applicable to the 4th embodiment.

In the fourth embodiment, shank 110 still comprises body 140 and grasps structure 150, but compared with the second embodiment, body 140 does not have the part being equivalent to second component 142.Body 140 only comprises parts 141 and is made up of hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics.

As for the second embodiment, grasp structure 150 and there are two parts 151,152.First component 151 is made up of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and/or SEBS, and second component 152 is made up of hard or rigid material (when rigid plastics such as polypropylene).Hard or rigid material alternatively or additionally can comprise any one in plastics as discussed above.First component 151 forms the major part grasping the outer surface of structure 150.In the modification of this embodiment, first component 151 only can form the whole outer surface grasping structure 150.Grasp structure 150 by be connected by second component 152 or the mode be installed on body 140 is connected to body 140.First component 151 is not only directly connected to body 140, but also is indirectly connected to body 140 via second component 152.Because body 140 and the second component 152 that grasps structure are both formed by hard material, therefore grasp structure 150 when body 140 and second component 152 contact with each other and can easily rotate relative to body 140.But, because first component 151 is made up of elastomeric material, therefore grasp structure 150 and there is comfortable outer surface to grasp.Preferably, the coefficient of friction of the outer surface of first component 151 is greater than the coefficient of friction of the inner surface 153 of second component 152.

In the modification of shown 4th embodiment, grasp structure 150 and can comprise only parts, and can by above-mentioned grasping any one in the material of structure 150 or multiplely to form for first, second, and third embodiment.

The oral care systems of the 4th embodiment also comprises the locking piece containing locking member 200.In Figure 5, the first position of locking member 200 on oral care implement 100 is attached to oral care implement 100, and this is the first state of locking piece.More specifically, locking member 200 is arranged on the first component 141 of the body 140 of shank, and it can not rotate relative to head 120.Locking member 200 comprises the inner projection 201 of the groove in the outer surface of the first component 141 engaging body, stops locking member 200 to rotate around axis A-A relative to head 120 thus.When locking piece is in this first state, when also namely locking member 200 is in the primary importance shown in Fig. 5, grasping structure 150 freely can rotate around axis A-A relative to head 120, as discussed above.

But, by grasping the outer surface 211 of locking member 200, user can along away from head 120 and locking member 200 to be moved to the second place oral care implement 100 by the direction of the A-A that parallels to the axis from primary importance, locking piece to be placed in its second state.This movement relative to shank 110, body 140, grasp structure 150 and head 120.When locking member 200 is in the second place, also when namely locking piece is in its second state, engage groove in first component 141 in the projection 201 at the inside place of locking member 200 and be formed in the groove 159 in the outer surface grasping structure 150, stop grasping structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120 thus.That is, locking member 200 stops and grasps structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120.

The oral care systems of the 4th embodiment can manufacture according to the manufacture method of above-mentioned second embodiment substantially, and difference is only to grasp the mode that structure 150 is connected to body 140.According to the second embodiment, grasp structure 150 and arrange or be trapped between two parts 141,142 of body 140.Comparatively speaking, in the fourth embodiment, the second component 142 of body is not provided, and by connecting or structure 150 will be grasped by still allowing to grasp other applicable connection that structure 150 rotates relative to head 120 and body 140 and be connected to body 140 grasping the snap fit between structure 150 and body 140.Groove 159 be formed in grasp structure 150, the end of the first component 141 of adjacent body 140.

In the fourth embodiment, locking is provided by locking member 200 is attached to utensil 100 in primary importance or second position.

Now with reference to Fig. 6, the fifth embodiment of the present invention is described.5th embodiment comprises a lot of said elements of the third embodiment of the present invention, and same element represents with reference number identical as used in fig. 4 in figure 6.For for purpose of brevity, Fig. 6 will not be referred again to for the element that two embodiments are identical and describe in detail.Above-mentioned possible whole modification for first to fourth embodiment are similarly applicable to the 5th embodiment.

In the 5th embodiment, shank 110 no longer has the part being equivalent to body 140.Shank 110 only comprises and grasps structure 150, and it is rotationally attached to head 120.Head 120 comprises the sleeve with inner surface 127, and this inner surface limits the internal cavity of sleeve, and the Part I 155 grasping structure 150 is arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.The Part II 157 grasping structure 150 comprises outer surface so that by user's handling, and this outer surface forms a part for the outer surface 111 of shank 110.

The inner surface 127 of head 120 is positioned to the outer surface 156 of the Part I 155 grasping structure 150 and moves relative to head 120 to allow grasping structure 150.That is, the interval of gap form is provided between inner surface 127 and outer surface 156 ringwise.In the present embodiment, wherein the inner surface 127 of head 120 is all columniform with the outer surface 156 of the Part I 155 grasping structure 150, and the diameter of inner surface 127 is a bit larger tham the diameter of outer surface 156.

Grasp structure 150 by being connected with the snap fit between head 120 grasping between structure 150 with head 120, more specifically grasping the second component 152 of structure 150 and being connected to head 120.But, in the modification of this embodiment, also can adopt the connection of other form.Grasp structure 150 mutually therefore freely to rotate relative to cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 around the longitudinal axis A-A of oral care implement 100 relative to head 120.

Grasp structure 150 to be made up of two parts 151,152 linked together.More specifically, grasp structure 150 and there is the first component 151 be made up of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and/or SEBS, and the second component 152 be made up of hard or rigid material (when rigid plastics such as polypropylene).Hard or rigid material alternatively or additionally can comprise any one in plastics as discussed above.

First component 151 forms the major part grasping the outer surface of structure 150.In the modification of this embodiment, first component 151 can form the whole outer surface grasping structure 150.Grasp structure 150 by be connected by second component 152 or the mode be installed on head 120 is connected to head 120.First component 151 is not only directly connected to head 120, but also is indirectly connected to head 120 via second component 152.Because head 120 and the second component 152 that grasps structure 150 are both formed by hard material, therefore grasp structure 150 when head 120 and second component 152 contact with each other and can easily rotate relative to head 120.But, because first component 151 is made up of elastomeric material, therefore grasp structure 150 and there is comfortable outer surface to grasp.Preferably, the coefficient of friction of the outer surface of first component 151 is greater than the coefficient of friction of the outer surface 156 of second component 152.

In the modification of shown 5th embodiment, grasp structure 150 and can comprise only parts, and can by above-mentioned grasping any one in the material of structure 150 or multiplely to form for first to fourth embodiment.

The oral care systems of the 5th embodiment also comprises the locking piece containing locking member 200.In figure 6, the first position of locking member 200 on oral care implement 100 is attached to oral care implement 100, and this is the first state of locking piece.More specifically, locking member 200 is arranged on and grasps in structure 150, and it can rotate relative to head 120.Locking member 200 comprises the inner projection 201 engaging the groove grasped in the outer surface of structure 150, stops locking member 200 to rotate around axis A-A relative to grasping structure 150 thus.When locking piece is in this first state, when also namely locking member 200 is in the primary importance shown in Fig. 6, grasping structure 150 freely can rotate around axis A-A relative to head 120, as discussed above.

But, by grasping the outer surface 211 of locking member 200, user can along headward 120 and locking member 200 is moved to the second place oral care implement 100 by the direction of the A-A that parallels to the axis from primary importance, locking piece to be placed in its second state.This movement relative to shank 110, grasp structure 150 and head 120.When locking member 200 is in the second place, when also namely locking piece is in its second state, the projection 201 at the inside place of locking member 200 engages the groove 129 in the outer surface of the groove grasped in structure 150 and the portions of proximal 121 being formed in head 120.Therefore, grasp structure 150 to rotate relative to head 120 and become and stoped.That is, locking member 200 stops and grasps structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120.

Subsequently, user can make locking member 200 move to its primary importance from its second place, thus projection 201 is removed from groove 129 and allow to grasp structure 150 and freely rotate relative to head 120.

The oral care implement 100 of the 5th embodiment can manufacture according to the manufacture method of above-mentioned 3rd embodiment substantially, and difference is only that the structure 150 that grasps of shank 110 is the bodies being connected to head 120 but not being connected to shank 110.According to the 5th embodiment, the Part I 155 grasping structure 150 of shank 110 is arranged in the sleeve of head 120.

More specifically, the oral care implement 100 of the 5th embodiment can manufacture according to following step.The first, head 120 is provided, comprises groove 129.Then, as second step, head 120 is provided with at least one cleaning element 130 extended from the first surface 124 of head 120.As third step, shank 110 is connected to head 120, shank 110 comprise formed shank 110 outer surface 111 at least partially grasp structure 150, shank 110 is connected to head 120 and makes to grasp structure 150 and freely can rotate relative to head 120 around axis A-A, wherein axis A-A on cleaning element 130, some place between the surface 124 and the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130 of head 120 is through cleaning element 130.

Finally, locking is provided by locking member 200 is attached to utensil 100 in primary importance or second position.

In the 5th embodiment, the connection between head 120 and shank 110 can make head 120 be attachable, and preferably can disconnect with shank 110 subsequently, and when damaging with box lunch, head 120 can be replaced.In fact, in each modification of above-mentioned each embodiment, shank 110 can be connected to head 120 and preferably can disconnect subsequently.The present invention can be embodied as the external member for oral care systems, this external member comprises: one or more head 120, this head has the surface 124 that at least one cleaning element 130 extends from it, and this cleaning element 130 preferably has surface 124 far-end 131 farthest apart from head 120; The shank 110 of head 120 can be connected to, this shank 110 comprise formed shank 110 outer surface 111 at least partially grasp structure 150; And locking piece, when shank 110 is connected to head 120, this locking piece can move between a first state and a second state; Wherein, when locking piece is in the first state, grasp structure 150 freely to rotate around axis A-A relative to head 120, this axis A-A preferably on cleaning element 130, some place between the surface 124 and the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130 of head 120 is through cleaning element 130, and when locking piece is in the second state, then stops and grasp structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120.

Now with reference to Fig. 7, the sixth embodiment of the present invention is described.6th embodiment comprises the above-mentioned many elements in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and same element represents with identical reference number used in such as Fig. 5 in the figure 7.For for purpose of brevity, Fig. 7 will not be referred again to for the element that two embodiments are identical and describe in detail.Above-mentioned possible whole modification for the first to the 5th embodiment are similarly applicable to the 6th embodiment.

In this embodiment, head 120 is connected to the shank 110 of utensil 100.More specifically, head 120 is connected to the body 140 of shank 110.Except body 140, shank 110 also comprises and grasps structure 150 or " grasping part ", and it forms the outer surface 111 of shank 110.Grasp structure 150 and comprise the sleeve with inner surface 153, this inner surface limits the internal cavity of sleeve.Grasp structure 150 and body 140 is relatively arranged so that the Part I 145 of body 140 is arranged in the internal cavity of sleeve.The outer surface 143 grasping the inner surface 153 of structure 150 and the Part I 145 of body 140 is positioned to and moves relative to body 140 to allow grasping structure 150.That is, the interval of gap form is provided between inner surface 153 and outer surface 143 ringwise.In the present embodiment, the outer surface 143 wherein grasping the inner surface 153 of structure 150 and the above-mentioned part of body 140 is all columniform, and the diameter of inner surface 153 is a bit larger tham the diameter of inner surface 143.

Grasp structure 150 connect or be mounted to body 140 freely can rotate relative to body 140.In addition, grasp structure 150 connect or be mounted to body 140 therefore freely to rotate relative to cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130 relative to head 120.Grasp structure 150 freely to rotate relative to head 120 around the longitudinal axis A-A of oral care implement 100 relative to body 140.It is noted that the some place of longitudinal axis A-A not between the surface 124 and the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130 of head 120 on cleaning element 130 is through any cleaning element 130.But, in the modification of this embodiment, also can pass cleaning element by contrast.

Grasp structure 150 and comprise first and second section 152a, 152b, each in them is all preferably made up of one or more hard or rigid material such as rigid plastics.Hard or rigid material can comprise any one or multiple in discussed material above.Each in first and second section 152a, 152b all has corresponding inner surface 153a, 153b.Grasp structure 150 by the Part I 145 of body 140 being clamped in the mode between first and second section 152a, 152b and being connected to body 140, make inner surface 153a, 153b of first and second section 152a, 152b in the face of the outer surface 143 of the Part I 145 of body 140.Jointly, inner surface 153a, 153b forms the inner surface 153 grasping structure 150.First and second section 152a, 152b be parallel to that longitudinal axis A-A extends, junction surface (join) place between first and second section 152a, 152b is connected to each other by adhesive, welding or alternate manner.

The outer surface 143 of the Part I 145 of body 140 has annular projection 147, and axis A-A is through the center of anchor ring (annulus).Each inner surface 153a, 153b include recess 154a, 154b of adopting semi-ring surface shape, thus when first and second section 152a, 152b are connected to each other and the Part I 145 of body 140 is placed between said two devices, the inner surface 153 grasping structure 150 has the annular recess 154 receiving annular projection 147.Being combined in body 140 and grasping between structure 150 of annular recess 154 and annular projection 147 produces interference fit, and grasping structure 150 thus can not move relative to body 140 on the direction of axis A-A.In the modification of this embodiment, recess 154 and projection 147 can be other than ring types.

The oral care systems of the 6th embodiment also comprises the locking piece containing locking member 200.This locking piece constructs in the mode substantially the same with the locking piece in the 4th embodiment and operates, and therefore will omit detailed description for simplicity's sake.But in the sixth embodiment, the difference of locking piece is that groove 159 is only formed in and grasps in the second section 152b of structure 150.In the modification of this embodiment, groove 159 may extend into and grasps in first and second section 152a, 152b of structure 150.

The oral care implement 100 of the 6th embodiment manufactures by following manner: provide head 120 and shank 110, and wherein shank 110 has the body 140 being connected to head 120; There is provided the one or more cleaning elements 130 extended from the surface 124 of head 120 to head 120, this cleaning element has surface 124 far-end 131 farthest apart from head 120 respectively; And by the Part I 145 of body 140 is clamped in grasp structure 150 first and second section 152a, 152b between and first and second section 152a, 152b are interconnected and structure 150 will be grasped are connected to body 140.It is noted that the second section 152b comprises groove 159.Grasp structure 150 and be connected to the outer surface 111 of body 140 so that its formation shank 110 at least partially, and make it be connected to body 140 freely can rotate around axis A-A relative to body 140, this axis A-A cleaning element 130 some or all on, some place between the surface 124 and the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130 of head 120 is through cleaning element 130.Finally, locking is provided by locking member 200 is attached to utensil 100 in primary importance or the second place.

In other modification of above-described embodiment, head 120 can comprise various oral surface engaging elements, such as tooth flusher, brush, flossing elements, dental plaque scaler, tongue cleaner and soft tissue massages device between neighbour.

In above-mentioned each embodiment, grasping structure 150 can around longitudinal axis A-A relative to head 120(and relative to body 140, if provided) manually rotate.That is, the rotation grasping structure 150 is not actuated by any parts of utensil 100 itself or is implemented, the rotation making to grasp structure 150 must by user relative to head 120(and body 140, if provided) rotate and grasp structure 150 and implement.In the phase strain type of above-described embodiment, utensil 100 self can comprise electric rotator, such as motor, to implement the rotation grasping structure 150.Electric rotator can by user operation to realize the rotation grasping structure 150.

The first, second, third, fourth, the 5th and the 6th embodiment discussed above each in, at least one cleaning element 130 extends from the front surface 124 of head 120, make the longitudinal axis A-A of utensil 100 through this cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130, wherein some or each.For longitudinal axis A-A through for each in its cleaning element (or multiple cleaning element) 130, the some place between the front surface 124 at head 120 of axis A-A on cleaning element 130 and the free distal end 131 of cleaning element 130 is through cleaning element 130.But in the phase strain type of these embodiments, the some place of longitudinal axis A-A not between the surface 124 and the far-end 131 of cleaning element 130 of head 120 on cleaning element 130 is through any cleaning element 130.Respective manufacture method will correspondingly be revised.

In above-mentioned each embodiment, locking piece provides the device rotated freely relative to head 120 for optionally allowing to grasp structure 150 to user.In above-mentioned each embodiment, locking member 200 comprises C shape clip.In other embodiments, locking member 200 comprises the collar, the preferably circumferential collar that are attached to utensil 100.

In above-mentioned each embodiment, locking member 200 can move between the first and second positions on utensil 100.In other embodiments, possibility need not be like this.In this type of other embodiment, in the first state, locking member 200 can be separated with oral care implement 100, and in the second state, locking member 200 one of them place of said second position on oral care implement 100 can be attached to oral care implement 100, thus stops and grasp structure 150 and rotate relative to head 120.

In above-mentioned often kind of manufacture method, locking all provides by locking member 200 is attached to utensil 100 in primary importance or second position.In the method for other embodiment, locking member 200 is not attached to utensil 100, and has instead only been to provide utensil, and such as packaging has utensil 100, and can be attached to utensil 100.

In above-mentioned each embodiment, locking member 200 all has projection 201, and it engages the feature structure in channel form in utensil 100.In other embodiments, what this feature structure additionally or alternatively comprised in groove, passage, hole, gap and projection is one or more.Manufacture method is incited somebody to action suitably and is correspondingly revised.

Although describe the present invention about comprising the particular instance implementing current preference pattern of the present invention, those skilled in the art will know that said system and technology also have multiple modification and change.Should be appreciated that other embodiment also can adopt, and the change on 26S Proteasome Structure and Function can be carried out without departing from the scope of the invention.Therefore, scope of the present invention broadly should be explained as described in claims.

Claims

1. an oral care systems, comprising:

Head, described head has the surface that cleaning element extends from it;

Be connected to the shank of described head, described shank comprise the outer surface forming described shank at least partially grasp structure; And

Locking piece movable between a first state and a second state;

Wherein, when described locking piece is in described first state, described in grasp structure and freely can rotate around axis relative to described head, and when described locking piece is in described second state, then grasps structure described in and stoped relative to described end rotation.

2. oral care systems according to claim 1, is characterized in that, described oral care systems comprises:

There is the oral care implement of described head and described shank; And

Described locking piece;

Wherein, described locking piece comprises the locking member being attached to or can being attached to described oral care implement.

3. oral care systems according to claim 2, it is characterized in that, in described first state, described locking member is separated with described oral care implement, and wherein, in described second state, described locking member on described oral care implement, stop described in grasp structure and be attached to described oral care implement relative to the second position of described end rotation.

4. oral care systems according to claim 2, it is characterized in that, in described first state, the first position of described locking member on described oral care implement is attached to described oral care implement, and wherein, in described second state, the second position of described locking member on described oral care implement is attached to described oral care implement.

5. according to claim 3 or oral care systems according to claim 4, it is characterized in that, when described locking member is attached to described oral care implement in described second position, described locking member is arranged on described head and relative in the body of not revolvable, the described shank of described head, and grasp structural feature structure described in engaging, thus grasp structure relative to described end rotation described in stoping.

6. according to claim 3 or oral care systems according to claim 4, it is characterized in that, when described locking member is attached to described oral care implement in described second position, grasp described in described locking member is arranged in structure, and engage and be arranged in described head and relative to the feature structure on of body of not revolvable, the described shank of described head, thus grasp structure relative to described end rotation described in stoping.

7. according to claim 5 or oral care systems according to claim 6, it is characterized in that, it is one or more that described feature structure comprises in groove, passage, hole, gap and projection.

8. the oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, described locking member comprises C shape clip.

9. oral care systems according to any one of claim 1 to 7, is characterized in that, described locking member comprises the collar.

10. according to the oral care systems when being subordinated to claim 4 according to any one of claim 5 to 9, it is characterized in that, described locking member can move along between the described primary importance of the direction being parallel to described axis on described oral care implement and the second place.

11. oral care systems according to any one of claim 2 to 10, it is characterized in that, described cleaning element has the far-end of the described most portionafrom theasurface apart from described head; And

Wherein, described axis on described cleaning element, some place between the described surface and the described far-end of described cleaning element of described head is through described cleaning element.

12. oral care systems according to claim 11, is characterized in that, the described far-end of described point and described cleaning element is spaced apart.

13., according to claim 11 or oral care systems according to claim 12, is characterized in that, described point compared to the described surface close to described head closer to the described far-end of described cleaning element.

14. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, when described locking piece is in described first state, described in grasp structure and can freely rotate past at least 360 degree relative to described head around described axis.

15. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and axially fix relative to described head.

16. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, it is characterized in that, described shank comprises the body being connected to described head, and grasp anatomical connectivity wherein, to described body can rotate around described axis relative to described body when described locking piece is in described first state.

17. oral care systems according to claim 16, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and axially fix relative to described body.

18. oral care systems according to claim 17, it is characterized in that, described body comprise two parts and described in grasp vibrational power flow between described two parts, grasp structure described in making and axially fixed relative to described body by described two parts.

19. oral care systems according to claim 18, is characterized in that, described two parts are described bodies, two parts linking together.

20., according to claim 16 to the oral care systems according to any one of 19, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and connected by snap fit and be connected to described body.

21., according to claim 16 to the oral care systems according to any one of 20, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure comprise the sleeve with internal cavity at least partially, and wherein, a part for described body is arranged in the internal cavity of described sleeve.

22., according to claim 16 to the oral care systems according to any one of 21, is characterized in that, described body comprise the sleeve with internal cavity at least partially, and wherein, described in grasp structure a part be arranged in the internal cavity of described sleeve.

23., according to claim 16 to the oral care systems according to any one of 22, is characterized in that, described body can not move relative to described head.

24., according to claim 16 to the oral care systems according to any one of 23, is characterized in that, described body and described head are overall.

25. oral care systems according to any one of claim 1 to 23, it is characterized in that, described shank is connected by snap fit and is connected to described head.

26. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, it is characterized in that, described axis is the longitudinal axis of described oral care implement.

27. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and manually can rotate around described axis relative to described head.

28. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and be made up of elastomeric material such as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and/or SEBS at least in part.

29. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and be made up of hard material or rigid material such as rigid plastics at least in part.

30. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, it is characterized in that, described head is made up of hard material or rigid material such as rigid plastics at least in part.

31., according to claim 16 to the oral care systems according to any one of 30, is characterized in that, described body is made up of hard material or rigid material such as rigid plastics at least in part.

32. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and comprise the Part I be made up of elastomeric material and the Part II be made up of hard material or rigid material such as rigid plastics.

33. according to when being subordinated to any one of claim 16 to 31 oral care systems according to claim 32, it is characterized in that, described in grasp structure pass through the described Part II grasping structure is connected to the mode of described body and is connected to described body.

34. oral care systems according to any one of claim 29 to 32, it is characterized in that, described hard material or rigid material comprise in polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyester, cellulosic plastics, SAN, acrylic acid, ABS and thermoplastic one or more.

35. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, is characterized in that, it is one or another kind of that described cleaning element comprises in tooth cleaning components and soft tissue cleaning elements.

36. oral care systems according to arbitrary aforementioned claim, it is characterized in that, multiple cleaning element extends from described head.

37. 1 kinds of external members for oral care systems, described external member comprises:

Head, described head has the surface that cleaning element extends from it;

The shank of described head can be connected to, described shank comprise the outer surface forming described shank at least partially grasp structure; And

Locking piece, when described shank is connected to described head, described locking piece can move between a first state and a second state;

38., according to external member according to claim 37, is characterized in that, described locking piece comprises the locking member of c-shaped clip or collar form.

39., according to claim 37 or external member according to claim 38, is characterized in that, described cleaning element has the far-end of the described most portionafrom theasurface apart from described head; And

40. 1 kinds of methods manufacturing oral care systems, described method comprises the steps:

A () provides head;

B () provides the multiple cleaning elements extended from the surface of described head to described head;

C shank is connected to described head by (), described shank comprise the outer surface forming described shank at least partially grasp structure; And

D () provides can the locking piece of movement between a first state and a second state, wherein, when described locking piece is in described first state, the described structure that grasps freely can rotate around axis relative to described head, and when described locking piece is in described second state, then grasps structure described in and stoped relative to described end rotation.

41. 1 kinds of methods manufacturing oral care systems, described method comprises the steps:

A () provides head and is connected to the body of described head;

B () provides the cleaning element extended from the surface of described head to described head;

C () will grasp anatomical connectivity to described body, described in grasp structure and form the outer surface of shank at least partially; And

D () provides can the locking piece of movement between a first state and a second state, wherein, when described locking piece is in described first state, the described structure that grasps freely can rotate relative to described body about axis, and when described locking piece is in described second state, then grasps structure described in and stoped relative to described body rotation.

42., according to claim 40 or method according to claim 41, is characterized in that,

Step (b) comprises provides cleaning element to described head, and described cleaning element extends from the described surface of described head and has the far-end of the described most portionafrom theasurface apart from described head; And

43. methods according to any one of claim 40 to 42, it is characterized in that, step (c) performs after the step (b).

44. methods according to any one of claim 40 to 42, it is characterized in that, step (b) performs after step (c).

45. methods according to any one of claim 42 to 44, it is characterized in that, the described far-end of described point and described cleaning element is spaced apart.

46. methods according to any one of claim 42 to 45, is characterized in that, described point compared to the described surface close to described head closer to the described far-end of described cleaning element.

47. methods according to any one of claim 40 to 46, is characterized in that, described in grasp structure and axially fix relative to described head.

48. methods according to any one of claim 41 to 47, it is characterized in that, step (c) comprises the described vibrational power flow that grasps between two parts of described body, grasps structure and axially fixed relative to described body by described two parts described in making.

49. methods according to any one of claim 41 to 48, is characterized in that, step (c) is comprised and to be connected by snap fit and by the described anatomical connectivity that grasps to described body.

50. methods according to any one of claim 41 to 49, it is characterized in that, described grasp structure comprise the sleeve with internal cavity at least partially, and wherein, step (c) comprises and a part for described body being arranged in the internal cavity of described sleeve.

51. methods according to claim 50, is characterized in that, step (c) comprise a described part for described body is clamped in described in grasp structure two sections between, and then described described two sections grasping structure to be interconnected.

52. methods according to any one of claim 41 to 49, it is characterized in that, described body comprise the sleeve with internal cavity at least partially, and wherein, step (c) comprises and the described part grasping structure being arranged in the internal cavity of described sleeve.

53. methods according to any one of claim 40 to 52, it is characterized in that, described axis is the longitudinal axis of described oral care implement.

54. methods according to any one of claim 40 to 53, is characterized in that, described cleaning element comprises one in tooth cleaning components and soft tissue cleaning elements or another kind.

55. methods according to any one of claim 40 to 54, is characterized in that, step (b) comprises provides to described head the multiple cleaning elements extended from the described surface of described head.