CN117322725A - Toothbrush with tooth brush - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention aims to provide a toothbrush which can inhibit deformation of a bristle part during manufacturing even if manufactured by adopting a 3D printing technology, can be manufactured simply and has excellent usability. A toothbrush (1) is provided with a head (12) and a grip (14) provided on the rear end side of the head (12), wherein a plurality of bristle parts (20) are provided on the front surface (12 a) of the head (12), and a coupling part (22) is provided between at least one group of adjacent bristle parts (20), wherein both ends of the coupling part are respectively coupled with the adjacent bristle parts (20) and separated from the front surface (12 a) of the head (12).

Description

Toothbrush with tooth brush

Technical Field

The present invention relates to toothbrushes.

Background

The oral state varies from person to person, and the requirements for the function and performance of toothbrushes are varied, so that it is desired to provide toothbrushes of various types suitable for individual users.

In recent years, a 3D printing technique (three-dimensional lamination modeling technique) for manufacturing a three-dimensional shaped object based on data such as CAD has been attracting attention. Patent document 1 discloses a technique for shaping a filament-like molded body using a 3D printing technique.

Prior art literature

Patent literature

Patent document 1: japanese patent laid-open No. 2020-1257

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

If the 3D printing technique is used for the manufacture of toothbrushes, it is possible to easily manufacture various toothbrushes suitable for individual users.

However, the present inventors have studied and found that when an elongated molded article such as a plurality of brush parts is to be arranged to form a plurality of toothbrushes, the brush parts are deformed or adjacent brush parts come close to or are closely adhered to each other in the molding step, and thus the molding is difficult and usability of the toothbrushes is also lowered.

If the bristle part is made thicker, deformation of the bristle part in the molding process can be suppressed, but if the bristle part is made thicker, it becomes hard to flex, and therefore, it becomes a factor of deterioration in usability.

The invention aims to provide a toothbrush which can inhibit deformation of a bristle part in manufacturing, can be manufactured simply and conveniently and has excellent usability even when a 3D printing technology is adopted.

Means for solving the problems

The present invention includes the following structures.

[1] A toothbrush comprising a head and a grip portion provided on the rear end side of the head,

a plurality of bristle parts are arranged on the front surface of the head part,

between at least one group of adjacent bristle parts, there are provided bonding parts of which both ends are bonded with the adjacent bristle parts respectively,

the junction is spaced apart from the front face of the head.

[2] The toothbrush according to item [1], wherein the number of the coupling parts extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head is 3 or more or the number of the coupling parts extending in a direction intersecting the long axis direction of the head is 3 or more when viewed from the front view of the head from the bristle tip side of the bristle part.

[3]In [1]]Or [2]]In the toothbrush, the number N of the combined parts extending along the direction crossing the short axis direction of the head part under the front view of the head part from the hair tip side of the brush head part _A A ratio of the total number N of the bristle parts to the total number N of the bristle parts is 30% or more and 150% or less, or the number N of the joint parts extending in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis direction of the head part when the head part is viewed from the bristle tip side of the bristle part _B The ratio of the total number n of the bristle parts is 30% to 150%.

[4] The toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein a ratio of the total number of the bonded portions to the total number of the bristle portions is 30% or more and 150% or less.

[5]In [1]]～[4]In the toothbrush according to any one of the preceding claims, the length of the bristle part is L (mm), and the distance from the tip of the bristle part to the upper end of the joint part is d ₁ (mm) the distance from the bristle tips of the bristle part to the lower end of the joint part is d ₂ In the case of (mm), the number of the holes is,

distance d ₁ The ratio of the length L to the hair length is 10% or more and 50% or less, and the distance d ₂ The ratio of the yarn length L is 20% to 60%.

Effects of the invention

According to the present invention, it is an object to provide a toothbrush which can suppress deformation of a bristle part during manufacturing even in manufacturing using 3D printing technology, can be manufactured easily, and is excellent in usability.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a toothbrush according to an example of the embodiment.

Fig. 2 is a front view showing the vicinity of the head of the toothbrush of fig. 1 in an enlarged manner.

Fig. 3 is a side view showing a state in which adjacent bristle parts are bonded by bonding parts.

Fig. 4 is a side view showing another example of a manner in which adjacent bristle parts are joined by a joining part.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the count as number N _A In the explanatory diagram of the joint portion of (a), fig. 5 (a) shows a case where the arrangement pattern of the bristle parts is staggered, and fig. 5 (B) shows a case where the arrangement pattern of the bristle parts is lattice-arranged.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the count as number N _B In the explanatory diagram of the joint portion of (a), fig. 6 (a) shows a case where the arrangement pattern of the bristle parts is staggered, and fig. 6 (B) shows a case where the arrangement pattern of the bristle parts is lattice-arranged.

Fig. 7 is an explanatory view illustrating a pattern in which adjacent bristle parts are bonded by bonding parts.

Fig. 8 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of the toothbrush, which shows another example.

Fig. 9 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of the toothbrush, which shows another example.

Fig. 10 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of the toothbrush, which shows another example.

Fig. 11 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of another example toothbrush.

Fig. 12 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of the toothbrush, which shows another example.

Fig. 13 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of another example toothbrush.

Fig. 14 is an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of the toothbrush, which shows another example.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, an example of the toothbrush of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The dimensions of the drawings illustrated in the following description are examples, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to these, and may be appropriately modified within a scope not changing the gist of the present invention.

Fig. 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a toothbrush 1 according to an example of the embodiment.

Fig. 2 shows an enlarged front view of the vicinity of the head of the toothbrush 1.

The toothbrush 1 of the present embodiment includes a head 12, a grip 14 provided on the rear end side of the head 12, and a handle body 10 having a neck 16 connecting the head 12 and the grip 14. A plurality of bristle parts 20 rising from the front face 12a are provided on the front face 12a of the head 12 in the handle body 10.

Hereinafter, a direction from the front end of the head 12 of the handle body 10 toward the rear end of the grip 14 is referred to as a "long axis direction".

The direction parallel to the front face 12a of the head 12 and perpendicular to the major axis direction is referred to as "minor axis direction".

The direction perpendicular to the front face 12a of the head 12 is referred to as "thickness direction".

In the example shown in fig. 2, a plurality of bristle parts 20 are provided at positions of respective points of a square lattice formed of lattice lines parallel to the major axis direction and lattice lines parallel to the minor axis direction, in a front view of the front face 12a of the head 12 as viewed from the hair tip side of the grip part 14. The arrangement pattern of the plurality of bristle parts 20 on the front surface 12a of the head 12 is not limited to the regular lattice pattern, and may be, for example, a regular triangle lattice (staggered arrangement), a diamond lattice, a rectangular lattice, a parallel lattice, or the like.

The total number n of the bristle parts 20 is preferably 10 or more, more preferably 25 or more, further preferably 50 or more, particularly preferably 75 or more, and most preferably 100 or more. When the total number n of the bristle parts 20 is equal to or greater than the above-described lower limit value, a sufficient cleaning force can be easily obtained.

The total number n of the bristle parts 20 is preferably 500 or less, more preferably 400 or less, further preferably 300 or less, and particularly preferably 200 or less.

If the total number n of the bristle parts 20 is equal to or less than the upper limit value, the head 12 does not become excessively large and the oral cavity operation is easy, as in a general manual toothbrush, even if the size of the head 12 increases according to the total number n of the bristle parts 20. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the total number n of the bristle parts 20 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 75 to 300 are preferable.

The distance between the adjacent bristle parts 20 is preferably 0.1mm or more, more preferably 0.2mm or more, further preferably 0.3mm or more, and further preferably 1.0mm or less, more preferably 0.75mm or less, further preferably 0.5mm or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the distance between the adjacent bristle parts 20 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.1 to 1.0mm is preferable.

The shape of each bristle part 20 is not particularly limited, and may be a shape used as a bristle of a toothbrush. For example, the bristle part may be tapered so that the tip portion becomes thinner toward the tip, or may be branched toward the tip side.

The cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 when cut in a direction perpendicular to the height direction thereof is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a circle, an ellipse, a quadrangle, and a polygon other than a quadrangle.

The length L (fig. 3) of the bristle part 20, that is, the length from the front face 12a of the head 12 to the tip of the bristle part 20 is preferably 6mm or more, more preferably 8mm or more, further preferably 9mm or more, and further preferably 20mm or less, more preferably 15mm or less, further preferably 12mm or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the bristle length L of the bristle part 20 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 8 to 15mm is preferable.

The thickness t of the bristle part 20 can be appropriately set according to the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20.

When the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is a circle, the thickness t of the bristle part 20 is the diameter of the circle.

When the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is an ellipse, the thickness t of the bristle part 20 is the major and minor diameters of the ellipse.

In the case where the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is a quadrangle (for example, square or rectangle) on two orthogonal sides, the thickness t of the bristle part 20 is the length of the two orthogonal sides.

In the case where the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is a polygon other than the quadrangle described above (a polygon having 2 or more non-orthogonal sides (for example, a triangle, a parallelogram, a diamond or other polygon)), the thickness t of the bristle part 20 is the diameter of a circumscribed circle circumscribing the polygon.

When the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is a circle, the thickness t of the bristle part 20 is preferably 0.20mm or more, more preferably 0.25mm or more, still more preferably 0.30mm or more, and further preferably 2.0mm or less, more preferably 1.0mm or less, still more preferably 0.50mm or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the thickness t of the bristle part 20 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.20 to 2.0mm is preferable.

When the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is elliptical, the minor axis is preferably 0.20mm or more, more preferably 0.25mm or more, still more preferably 0.30mm or more, and further preferably 2.0mm or less, more preferably 1.0mm or less, still more preferably 0.50mm or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the minor diameter may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.20 to 2.0mm is preferable.

The long diameter is preferably 0.30mm or more, more preferably 0.35mm or more, further preferably 0.40mm or more, and further preferably 2.1mm or less, more preferably 1.1mm or less, further preferably 0.60mm or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the long diameter may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.30 to 2.1mm is preferable.

When the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is quadrangular, the lengths of both sides are each independently preferably 0.20mm or more, more preferably 0.25mm or more, still more preferably 0.30mm or more, and further preferably 2.1mm or less, more preferably 1.1mm or less, still more preferably 0.60mm or less. The lower limit and the upper limit may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.20 to 2.1mm is preferable.

When the cross-sectional shape of the bristle part 20 is a polygon other than a quadrangle, the thickness t of the bristle part 20 is preferably 0.20mm or more, more preferably 0.25mm or more, still more preferably 0.30mm or more, and further preferably 3.0mm or less, more preferably 2.0mm or less, still more preferably 1.0mm or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the thickness t of the bristle part 20 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.20 to 3.0mm is preferable.

If the dimensions of the bristle part 20 such as the bristle length L and the thickness t are within the above-described ranges, the bristle part 20 having a proper elastic force can be easily formed, and the toothbrush 1 excellent in cleaning force and use feeling can be easily obtained.

As shown in fig. 1 to 3, in the toothbrush 1, between all groups of 2 bristle parts 20 adjacent in the longitudinal direction, coupling parts 22, both ends of which are coupled to the adjacent bristle parts 20, are provided.

Further, between all groups of 2 bristle parts 20 adjacent in the short axis direction, coupling parts 22, both ends of which are coupled with the adjacent bristle parts 20, respectively, are also provided.

The engaging portions 22 are each provided separately from the front face 12a of the head 12.

The coupling portion 22 may be provided only between a part of the groups of 2 bristle parts 20 adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction. Similarly, the joint 22 may be provided only between a part of the group of 2 bristle parts 20 adjacent in the short axis direction. That is, the toothbrush of the present invention may have a bristle part where no joint is provided.

When the adjacent bristle parts 20 are joined by the joining part 22, the adjacent bristle parts 20 are supported by the joining part 22 with a constant distance from each other, and are less likely to deform than 1 individual bristle part.

In the molding by the 3D printing technique, when the molded plurality of bristle parts 20 are taken out from the tray in which the uncured resin is placed, the uncured resin enters between the bristle parts 20 and the bristle parts 20 due to the surface tension to reduce the exposed area, and therefore, the bristle parts 20 tend to be pulled and concentrated by this influence. However, the distance between the bristle parts 20 is kept constant by the joint parts 22, so that the bristle parts 20 can be prevented from adhering to each other even when the tray is taken out from the tray in which the uncured resin is placed.

In addition, even when the brush part 20 lifted up from the tray is immersed in a solvent such as alcohol to dissolve the uncured unnecessary resin, and then air is blown to scatter the solvent, the brush part 20 is less likely to be bent by the air.

When heat is applied to the thermostatic bath to cure the same, the bristle part 20 is not easily bent even if the bristle part 20 is disposed downward.

In this way, since deformation of the bristle part 20 in the molding process can be suppressed, the toothbrush 1 can be easily manufactured using the 3D printing technique.

Further, when the toothbrush 1 is used, the bristle parts 20 joined by the joining parts 22 flex in conjunction with each other, and thus the toothbrush 1 excellent in usability is obtained.

As shown in fig. 3, the bonding portion 22 of this example is provided between the adjacent bristle parts 20 in such a manner as to extend in a direction parallel to the front face 12a of the head 12. That is, the coupling parts 22 of this example are provided in such a manner as to be coupled perpendicularly with respect to the bristle parts 20 of both sides. Such a way has the advantage of being easy to build with high accuracy using 3D printing techniques.

The joint 22 may be provided so as to be inclined with respect to the front face 12a of the head 12.

As shown in fig. 3, the length of the bristle part 20 is L (mm), and the distance from the tip of the bristle part 20 to the upper end of the joint part 22 is d ₁ (mm) the distance from the tip of the bristle part 20 to the lower end of the joint part 22 is d ₂ (mm). In addition, the distance d ₁ The ratio (%) with respect to the hair length L is Q ₁ (Q ₁ ＝d ₁ L×100), distance d ₂ The ratio (%) with respect to the hair length L is Q ₂ (Q ₂ ＝d ₂ /L×100)。

Ratio Q ₁ It is preferably 10% or more, more preferably 20% or more, further preferably 30% or more, and further preferably 50% or less, further preferably 45% or less, further preferably 40% or less.

If the ratio Q ₁ In this range, deformation of the bristle part 20 in the molding process is easily suppressed. In addition, the bristle parts 20 connected by the coupling parts 22 are easily deflected in a linked manner, and the workability of the toothbrush 1 is improved. In particular, a stable and accurate shape is easy, moderate elasticity is easily provided to the bristle part 20, and both good brushing force and good feeling in use are easily achieved. Ratio Q ₁ The preferable lower limit and upper limit of (c) may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 10 to 50% is preferable.

Based on the proportion of Q ₁ For the same reason, the ratio Q ₂ Preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, further preferably 40% or more, and further preferably 60% or less, more preferably 55% or less, further preferably 45% or less. Ratio Q ₂ The preferable lower limit and upper limit of (c) may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 20 to 60% is preferable.

The length of the coupling portion 22 between the bristle parts 20 may be set according to the distance between the adjacent bristle parts 20. The length of the joint 22 is preferably 0.10mm or more, more preferably 0.15mm or more, further preferably 0.20mm or more, and further preferably 1.0mm or less, more preferably 0.75mm or less, further preferably 0.50mm or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the length of the joint 22 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.10 to 1.0mm is preferable.

The cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 when cut in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction thereof is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a circle, an ellipse, a quadrangle, and a polygon other than a quadrangle.

The thickness T of the joint 22 can be appropriately set according to the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22.

When the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a circle, the thickness T of the joint 22 is the diameter of the circle.

When the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is elliptical, the thickness T of the joint 22 is the major and minor diameters of the ellipse.

In the case where the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a quadrangle (for example, square or rectangle) on two sides orthogonal to each other, the thickness T of the joint 22 is the length of the two sides orthogonal to each other of the quadrangle.

In the case where the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a polygon other than the quadrangle (a polygon having 2 or more non-orthogonal sides (for example, a triangle, a parallelogram, a diamond or other polygon)), the thickness T of the joint 22 is the diameter of a circumscribed circle circumscribing the polygon.

When the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is circular, the thickness T of the joint 22 is preferably 0.1mm or more, more preferably 0.2mm or more, still more preferably 0.3mm or more, and further preferably 2.0mm or less, more preferably 1.5mm or less, still more preferably 1.0mm or less. The lower limit and the upper limit of the thickness T of the joint 22 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, are preferably 0.1 to 2.0mm.

When the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is elliptical, the minor axis is preferably 0.10mm or more, more preferably 0.20mm or more, still more preferably 0.30mm or more, and further preferably 1.5mm or less, more preferably 1.0mm or less, still more preferably 0.50mm or less. The lower limit and the upper limit of the minor diameter of the joint 22 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.10 to 1.5mm is preferable.

The long diameter is preferably 0.15mm or more, more preferably 0.25mm or more, further preferably 0.35mm or more, and further preferably 2.0mm or less, more preferably 1.5mm or less, further preferably 1.0mm or less. The lower limit and the upper limit of the major axis of the joint 22 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.15 to 2.0mm is preferable.

When the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is quadrangular, the lengths of both sides are each independently preferably 0.10mm or more, more preferably 0.20mm or more, still more preferably 0.30mm or more, and further preferably 2.0mm or less, more preferably 1.5mm or less, still more preferably 1.0mm or less. The lower limit and the upper limit may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.10 to 2.0mm is preferable.

When the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a polygon other than a quadrangle, the thickness T of the joint 22 is preferably 0.15mm or more, more preferably 0.2mm or more, still more preferably 0.3mm or more, and further preferably 2.0mm or less, more preferably 1.5mm or less, still more preferably 1.0mm or less. The lower limit and the upper limit of the thickness T of the joint 22 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, are preferably 0.15 to 2.0mm.

If the dimensions such as the length and the thickness T of the coupling portion 22 are within the above-described ranges, even if the coupling portion 22 and the bristle part 20 are made of materials having different elastic forces, the molding can be stably and accurately performed, and appropriate elasticity can be imparted to the bristle part 20.

The ratio (T/T) of the thickness T of the bristle part 20 to the thickness T of the joint part 22 is preferably 0.5 or more, more preferably 0.7 or more, and even more preferably 1.0 or more.

If T/T is not less than the lower limit, the coupling portion 22 can easily and firmly support the bristle parts 20 on both sides, and the bristle parts 20 coupled by the coupling portion 22 can easily flex in a linked manner.

T/T is preferably 2.0 or less, more preferably 1.5 or less, and still more preferably 1.2 or less.

If T/T is equal to or less than the upper limit, the deflection of the joint 22 is easily reduced as compared with the deflection of the bristle part 20, and deformation of the bristle part 20 in the molding step is easily suppressed. the preferable lower limit and upper limit of T/T may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 0.5 to 2.0 is preferable.

When at least one of the bristle part 20 and the coupling part 22 has an elliptical cross-sectional shape or a rectangular cross-sectional shape, the T/T value calculated using the lengths of the shorter diameter, longer diameter, or two orthogonal sides thereof is preferably within a range represented by the lower limit and the upper limit.

The number of the coupling parts 22 coupling a group of adjacent bristle parts 20 is 1 in the example shown in fig. 3 and fig. 4 (a), but is not limited to 1, and may be 2 or more as shown in fig. 4 (B) and fig. 4 (C). The number of the bonding portions 22 to bond a group of adjacent bristle portions 20 is preferably 1 to 5, more preferably 1 to 3, and even more preferably 1 to 2. When the number of the coupling parts 22 is equal to or less than the upper limit value, it is easy to suppress the brush parts 20 coupled by the coupling parts 22 from being hard to flex during brushing, and the usability of the toothbrush 1 is improved.

The total number N of the coupling portions 22 is preferably 3 or more, more preferably 8 or more, further preferably 15 or more, particularly preferably 20 or more, and most preferably 30 or more. If the total number N of the coupling parts 22 is equal to or greater than the lower limit value, the bristle part 20 is less likely to be deformed in the molding step.

The total number N of the coupling portions 22 is preferably 750 or less, more preferably 600 or less, further preferably 450 or less, and particularly preferably 300 or less. When the total number N of the coupling parts 22 is equal to or less than the upper limit value, the coupling parts 22 are increased, so that the entire bristle part 20 tends to be hardened, but a proper deflection occurs when the bristle part 20 is pressed against the teeth and gums, and a comfortable feeling of use can be obtained. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the total number N of the joint portions 22 may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 20 to 600 are preferable.

The ratio P (p=n/n×100) of the total number N of the coupling parts 22 to the total number N of the bristle parts 20 is preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, and still more preferably 40% or more. When the ratio P is equal to or greater than the lower limit, deformation of the bristle part 20 in the molding step is easily suppressed. The ratio P is preferably 175% or less, more preferably 150% or less, and further preferably 100% or less. When the ratio P is equal to or less than the upper limit, the brush part 20 is easily deflected, and the load during brushing is easily reduced. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the ratio P may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 30 to 150% is preferable.

In a front view of the head 12 as viewed from the tip side of the bristle part 20, the number N of the joint parts 22 extending in a direction intersecting with the short axis direction of the head 12 is preferably _A The number N of the joint portions 22 is 3 or more or extends in a direction intersecting with the long axis direction of the head 12 _B More than 3. Thus, the coupling portion 22 can suppress deformation of the bristle part 20 in the molding process, and the coupled bristle parts 20 can be easily and sufficiently deflected in association with each other during use.

For example, in the example shown in fig. 5 (a) and 5 (B), the number N of the joint portions 22 extending in the direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head 12 among the 4 joint portions 22 joining the adjacent bristle parts 20 _A 3.

In the example shown in fig. 6 (a) and 6 (B), the number N of the coupling parts 22 extending in the direction intersecting the long axis direction of the head 12 among the 4 coupling parts 22 coupling the adjacent bristle parts 20 _B 3.

In addition, the coupling portions 22 extending in the direction parallel to the minor axis direction of the head 12 (for example, the leftmost coupling portion 22 in fig. 5 (a) and fig. 5 (B), the lower left coupling portion 22 in fig. 6 (a), and the second coupling portion 22 from left in fig. 6 (B)) are counted as the number N because they extend in the direction intersecting the major axis direction _B But is not counted as the number N because it does not intersect the short axis direction _A 。

The joint portions 22 extending in the direction parallel to the major axis direction of the head 12 (for example, the second joint portion 22 from the left in fig. 5 (a) and 5 (B), the upper-left joint portion 22 in fig. 6 (a) and 6 (B)) are counted as the number N because they extend in the direction intersecting the minor axis direction _A But does not intersect the long axis direction, so is not counted as the number N _B 。

In a direction intersecting the minor axis of the head 12The joint portions 22 extending in the direction intersecting the longitudinal direction as well (for example, the right 2 joint portions 22 in fig. 5 (a), 5 (B), 6 (a) and 6 (B)) are counted as the number N _A And number N _B Both of which.

As shown in fig. 4 (B) and 4 (C), the number of the coupling parts is 1 in front view, and the number of the coupling parts is 2 in side view. The same counting is performed in the case of 3 or more.

The bristle parts 20 joined by the joining parts 22 are more likely to flex in conjunction with each other in the "direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the joining parts" than in the "direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the joining parts". That is, it is possible to show flexure having anisotropy.

Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the minor axis direction _A Preferably 3 or more, more preferably 10 or more, and even more preferably 20 or more. If number N _A Above the lower limit, the brush part 20 coupled by the coupling part 22 is likely to be deflected in a short axis direction in association with each other during brushing.

Number N _A Preferably 50 or less, more preferably 40 or less, and even more preferably 30 or less. If number N _A If the upper limit is less than or equal to the above, excessive deflection in the short axis direction is easily suppressed during brushing, and the brushing load in the long axis direction is reduced. Number N _A The preferable lower limit and upper limit of (c) may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 3 to 50 are preferable.

Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the major axis direction _B Preferably 3 or more, more preferably 5 or more, and still more preferably 10 or more. If number N _B Above the lower limit, the brush part 20 coupled by the coupling part 22 is likely to be deflected in association with each other in the longitudinal direction during brushing.

Number N _B Preferably 30 or less, more preferably 25 or less, and even more preferably 20 or less. If number N _B If the upper limit is less than or equal to the above-mentioned upper limit, excessive deflection in the long axis direction is easily suppressed during brushing, and the short axis direction is reducedIs a brush load of the brush. Number N _B The preferable lower limit and upper limit of (c) may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 3 to 30 are preferable.

Number N _A And number N _B May be the same or different.

Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the minor axis direction _A Ratio P relative to the total number n of bristle parts 20 _A (P _A ＝N _A N×100), is preferably 30% or more, more preferably 40% or more, and still more preferably 75% or more.

If ratio P _A Above the lower limit, the brush part 20 coupled by the coupling part 22 is likely to be deflected in a short axis direction in association with each other during brushing. Ratio P _A Preferably 150% or less, more preferably 125% or less, and still more preferably 100% or less. If ratio P _A If the upper limit is less than or equal to the above, excessive deflection in the short axis direction is easily suppressed during brushing, and the brushing load in the long axis direction is reduced. Ratio P _A The preferable lower limit and upper limit of (c) may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 30 to 150% is preferable.

Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the major axis direction _B Ratio P relative to the total number n of bristle parts 20 _B (P _B ＝N _B N×100), is preferably 30% or more, more preferably 40% or more, and still more preferably 75% or more.

If ratio P _B Above the lower limit, the brush part 20 coupled by the coupling part 22 is likely to be deflected in association with each other in the longitudinal direction during brushing. Ratio P _B Preferably 150% or less, more preferably 125% or less, and still more preferably 100% or less. If ratio P _B If the upper limit is less than or equal to the above, excessive deflection in the long axis direction is easily suppressed during brushing, and the brushing load in the short axis direction is reduced. Ratio P _B The preferable lower limit and upper limit of (c) may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 30 to 150% is preferable.

In the present invention, the ratio P is more preferable _A 30 to 150% and a ratio P _B 30-150%. This enables a more stable and accurate molding, and the joint 22 remains after the moldingWhen the brush member 20 is used for brushing teeth in a state, the brush member is easily provided with a proper elasticity. As a result, the brush 20 is appropriately deflected when pressed against the teeth and gums, and both the brushing force and the comfortable feeling of use are easily achieved.

In the toothbrush 1 illustrated in fig. 1 to 3, the total number N of the bristle parts 20 is 127, and the number N of the joint parts 22 extending in the direction intersecting the minor axis direction _A 118 number of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the major axis direction _B 112, ratio P _A 92.9%, ratio P _B 88.2%.

As a method for manufacturing the toothbrush 1, a method using 3D printing technology can be exemplified.

For example, after the handle body 10 is molded by injection molding, the bristle part 20 and the joint part 22 may be molded on the front face 12a of the head 12 by a 3D printing technique, or the entire toothbrush 1 may be molded by a 3D printing technique.

In the toothbrush 1 described above, the coupling portions 22, which are coupled to the bristle parts 20 at both ends, are provided between the adjacent bristle parts 20. The bristle part 20 bonded by the bonding part 22 is less likely to be deformed than 1 individual bristle part 20, and thus the toothbrush 1 is easily manufactured using the 3D printing technique. Further, since the bristle part 20 does not need to be made thick in order to suppress deformation, the bristle part 20 coupled by the coupling part 22 is deflected in association when the toothbrush 1 is used, and thus the usability of the toothbrush 1 is excellent.

In addition, the toothbrush of the present invention is not limited to the toothbrush 1 described above.

For example, the toothbrush of the present invention is not limited to a structure in which adjacent bristle parts 20 are coupled by 1 coupling part 22 extending in a direction parallel to the front face 12a of the head 12. As shown in fig. 4 (a), the adjacent bristle parts 20 may be joined by joining parts 22 extending in a direction inclined with respect to the front surface 12a of the head 12. As shown in fig. 4 (B), the adjacent bristle parts 20 may be joined by 2 joining parts 22 extending in a direction parallel to the front surface 12a of the head 12. As shown in fig. 4 (C), the adjacent bristle parts 20 may be joined by joining parts 22 intersecting in an X-shape. In fig. 4 (a) to 4 (C), the same parts as those in fig. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

The structure illustrated in (a) of fig. 4 has the following advantages: even in the case where the coupling portion 22 has to be thickened to some extent due to the influence of the molding accuracy of the 3D printing, the elasticity of the bristle part 20 is easily ensured.

The structure illustrated in (B) of fig. 4 has the following advantages: even if the coupling parts 22 are thin, deformation of the bristle part 20 is easily suppressed.

The structure illustrated in (C) of fig. 4 has the following advantages: the elasticity of the bristle part 20 can be adjusted in a wide range.

In the toothbrush 1, all groups of the brush sections 20 adjacent in the major axis direction and all groups of the brush sections 20 adjacent in the minor axis direction are joined by the joining section 22, but the structure is not limited thereto. Among the brush parts adjacent in the longitudinal direction, there may be brush parts not bonded by the bonding part. Among the brush parts adjacent in the short axis direction, there may be brush parts not bonded by the bonding part. In addition, there may be bristle parts that are not joined to any adjacent bristle part by a joining part.

The pattern in which the plurality of bristle parts provided on the head are joined by the joining part is not particularly limited. For example, the following patterns (i) to (iv) or a combination pattern of 2 or more of them can be exemplified.

(i) As shown in fig. 7 (a) and 7 (B), 1 bristle part 20 is bonded to only 1 bristle part 20 by bonding portions 22, as viewed from the bristle tip side of the bristle part 20. Fig. 7 (a) corresponds to a "lattice arrangement" in the bristle part arrangement of a general toothbrush, and fig. 7 (B) corresponds to a "staggered arrangement".

(ii) As shown in fig. 7 (C) and 7 (D), 2 or more bristle parts 20 are continuously connected in a straight or curved line shape by the connecting part 22 as seen from the bristle tip side of the bristle part 20.

(iii) As shown in fig. 7 (E) to 7 (H), 3 or more bristle parts 20 are continuously joined by the joining part 22 so as to form a region surrounded by the joining part 22, as viewed from the bristle tip side of the bristle part 20.

(iv) As shown in fig. 7 (I) and 7 (J), the brush section 20 includes a pattern of brush sections 20 joined to 3 or more brush sections 20 via joining sections 22, as viewed from the tip side of the brush sections 20.

For example, according to the total number N of the combined parts relative to the total number N of the bristle parts with the combined parts ₁ Is a ratio of (a=n/N) ₁ X 100), the arrangement pattern of the bristle parts bonded by the bonding parts can be classified into, for example, the following arrangement patterns (1) to (3).

(1) The ratio a is less than 100% and there is no arrangement pattern of the regions surrounded by the bonding portions.

(2) The ratio a is 100% and has an arrangement pattern of regions surrounded by the bonding portions (wherein the number of bristle portions 20 bonded to 1 bristle portion 20 through the bonding portion 22 is 2 or less).

(3) The ratio a exceeds 100%, and the arrangement pattern of the regions surrounded by the bonding portions (including the bristle portions 20 bonded to 3 or more bristle portions 20 via the bonding portions 22) is provided.

The higher the ratio a, the higher the bristle hardness of the bristle part 20, and the less the deflection tends to be. In addition, even if the bristle part 20 coupled by the coupling part 22 is flat, it is easy to insert into a narrow interdental space while maintaining high bristle hardness. In addition, the plurality of bristle parts 20 are easily formed into one large tuft by the coupling parts 22, and the tooth surface is easily cleaned with high bristle hardness.

The proportion a is preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, further preferably 40% or more, preferably 175% or less, more preferably 150% or less, further preferably 100% or less. The preferable lower limit and upper limit of the proportion A may be arbitrarily combined, and for example, 30 to 150% is preferable.

The arrangement pattern (1) is preferably arranged on the head so that the portions where the coupling portions 22 are not provided are substantially equally spaced from each other in the front view of the head. This can suppress deformation of the bristle part 20 due to the difference between the sparse and dense intervals.

The arrangement pattern (2) is preferably line-symmetrical with respect to an axis (not shown) in the longitudinal direction in the arrangement of the region surrounded by the joint portion in front view of the head. Thus, each part in the oral cavity can be brushed without conscious of the orientation of the toothbrush, regardless of which hand is used for holding the toothbrush. The arrangement pattern (2) may be integrally formed of 1 head, or may be plural.

The outer periphery of the shape formed by the joint portion of the arrangement pattern (3) is preferably located near the outer periphery of the head (outer edge of the head) in front view of the head. Thus, even in the case of a small-sized head, the brush parts near the outer periphery of the head can flex in a linked manner, and therefore a sufficient brushing force can be exerted.

For example, the overall shape of the joint portion as seen from the front of the head may be exemplified by a disposition pattern having a honeycomb structure, a disposition pattern having a triangular structure, and a combination thereof, in addition to a disposition pattern having a quadrangular structure such as the toothbrush 1.

More specifically, for example, the toothbrush 2 shown in fig. 8 can be exemplified.

In the toothbrush 2, when the head 12 is seen from the front, the plurality of bristle parts 20 are arranged in a square lattice pattern, and all of the bristle parts 20 arranged in the short axis direction and the bristle parts 20 arranged in the long axis direction at both ends in the short axis direction are joined by the joining parts 22, and the other bristle parts 20 arranged in the long axis direction are joined by the joining parts 22 for each group.

In the toothbrush 2, the total number N of the bristle parts 20 is 127, and the number N of the joint parts 22 extending in the direction intersecting the short axis direction _A 71 number N of joint portions 22 extending in the direction intersecting the major axis direction _B 120, ratio P _A 55.9%, ratio P _B 94.5%.

Further, the toothbrush 3 shown in fig. 9 can be exemplified.

In the toothbrush 3, when the head 12 is seen from the front, the plurality of bristle parts 20 are arranged in a square lattice pattern, all of the bristle parts 20 arranged in the short axis direction are joined by the joining parts 22, and the bristle parts 20 arranged in the long axis direction are not joined by the joining parts 22.

In the toothbrush 3, the total number n of the bristle parts 20 is 127, along the short axis directionNumber N of joint portions 22 extending in the intersecting direction _A 0 number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the major axis direction _B 120, ratio P _A 0% of the ratio P _B 94.5%.

Further, the toothbrush 4 shown in fig. 10 can be exemplified.

In the toothbrush 4, when the head 12 is seen from the front, the plurality of bristle parts 20 are arranged in a square lattice pattern, all of the bristle parts 20 arranged in the long axis direction are joined by the joining parts 22, and the bristle parts 20 arranged in the short axis direction are not joined by the joining parts 22.

In the toothbrush 4, the total number N of the bristle parts 20 is 127, and the number N of the joint parts 22 extending in the direction crossing the short axis direction _A 71 number N of joint portions 22 extending in the direction intersecting the major axis direction _B 0, ratio P _A 55.9%, ratio P _B 0%.

Further, the toothbrush 5 shown in fig. 11 can be exemplified.

In the toothbrush 5, when the head 12 is seen in front view, the plurality of bristle parts 20 are arranged in a regular triangular lattice (staggered arrangement) pattern, and all of the bristle parts 20 arranged in the major axis direction, the bristle parts 20 arranged in the minor axis direction, and the bristle parts 20 arranged obliquely to both the major axis direction and the minor axis direction are joined by the joining part 22.

In the toothbrush 5, the total number N of the bristle parts 20 is 123, and the number N of the joint parts 22 extending in the direction intersecting the short axis direction _A 113 number N of joint portions 22 extending in the direction intersecting the major axis direction _B 208, ratio P _A 91.9%, ratio P _B 169%.

Further, the toothbrush 6 shown in fig. 12 can be exemplified.

In the toothbrush 6, when the head 12 is seen from the front, the plurality of bristle parts 20 are arranged in a regular triangle lattice (staggered arrangement) pattern, and the plurality of bristle parts 20 are partially joined by the joining part 22 so that the shape of the region surrounded by the joining part 22 becomes a combined hexagonal and triangular shape.

In the toothbrush 6, the total number n of the bristle parts 20 is 123, and the sum of the edges isThe number N of the joint portions 22 extending in the direction intersecting the minor axis direction _A 58 number N of joint portions 22 extending in the direction intersecting the major axis direction _B 112, ratio P _A 47.2%, ratio P _B 91.1%.

Further, the toothbrush 7 shown in fig. 13 can be exemplified.

In the toothbrush 7, when the head 12 is seen from the front, the plurality of bristle parts 20 are arranged in a regular triangle lattice (staggered arrangement) pattern, and the plurality of bristle parts 20 are partially coupled by the coupling parts 22 such that the area surrounded by the coupling parts 22 becomes hexagonal and the hexagons are continuously arranged in the long axis direction.

In the toothbrush 7, the total number N of the bristle parts 20 is 123, and the number N of the joint parts 22 extending in the direction crossing the short axis direction _A The number N of the joint portions 22 extending in the direction crossing the major axis direction is 42 _B 76, ratio P _A 34.1% of the ratio P _B 61.8%.

The bristle part 20 may be arranged in a lattice pattern other than square lattices, regular triangular lattices (staggered arrangement), or the like.

However, when the head is viewed from the front, the bristle parts are not arranged in a lattice pattern, and when the head is viewed from the front, the bristle parts are regarded as bristle parts arranged in the same row in the longitudinal direction, wherein 50% or more of the bristle parts overlap each other in the longitudinal direction in the cross section of the base part of the bristle part.

Similarly, when the head is viewed from the front end side, the bristle parts in which 50% or more of the cross sections of the bases of the bristle parts overlap in the short axis direction are regarded as bristle parts arranged in the same row in the short axis direction. In the case where the bristle parts overlap each other by less than 50%, it is considered that there is a gap between the bristle parts.

As a specific example of a toothbrush in which the respective bristle parts are not arranged in a lattice pattern, for example, a toothbrush 8 shown in fig. 14 can be exemplified.

For example, as shown in fig. 14, the following toothbrush 8 may be used: when the head 12 is viewed from the front, the bristle parts 20 are arranged on the circumferences of a plurality of concentric circles, and the adjacent bristle parts 20 arranged on the circumferences are joined by the joint parts 22.

The components in the above embodiments may be replaced with known components as appropriate within a range not departing from the gist of the present invention, and the above modifications may be appropriately combined.

Symbol description

1-8 … toothbrush, 10 … handle body, 12 … head, 12a … front face, 14 … grip, 16 … neck, 20 … brush head, 22 … joint.

Claims (5)

1. A toothbrush comprising a head and a grip portion provided on the rear end side of the head,

a plurality of bristle parts are arranged on the front surface of the head part,

a combination part with two ends respectively combined with the adjacent bristle parts is arranged between at least one group of adjacent bristle parts,

the junction is spaced apart from the front face of the head.

2. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein,

the number N of the joint portions extending in a direction intersecting with a short axis direction of the head portion in a front view of the head portion as viewed from a hair tip side of the brush hair portion _A 3 or more or the number N of the joint parts extending in a direction crossing the long axis direction of the head part _B More than 3.

3. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein,

the number N of the joint portions extending in a direction intersecting with a short axis direction of the head portion in a front view of the head portion as viewed from a hair tip side of the brush hair portion _A A ratio of the total number N of the bristle parts to the total number N of the bristle parts is 30% or more and 150% or less, or the number N of the joint parts extending in a direction intersecting the longitudinal axis direction of the head part when the head part is viewed from the bristle tip side of the bristle part _B Ratio relative to the total number n of bristle partsIs 30% to 150%.

4. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein,

the ratio of the total number of the bonding portions to the total number of the bristle portions is 30% or more and 150% or less.

5. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein,

setting the length of the bristle part as L and the distance from the bristle tip of the bristle part to the upper end of the joint part as d ₁ Setting the distance from the bristle tips of the bristle part to the lower end of the joint part as d ₂ And L, d ₁ And d ₂ When the unit of (a) is mm,

distance d ₁ The ratio of the length L to the hair length is 10% or more and 50% or less, and the distance d ₂ The ratio of the yarn length L is 20% to 60%.