EP1318735A1 - Method for producing bristle products - Google Patents

Method for producing bristle products

Info

Publication number
EP1318735A1
EP1318735A1 EP01980341A EP01980341A EP1318735A1 EP 1318735 A1 EP1318735 A1 EP 1318735A1 EP 01980341 A EP01980341 A EP 01980341A EP 01980341 A EP01980341 A EP 01980341A EP 1318735 A1 EP1318735 A1 EP 1318735A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
bristles
bristle
structured
shortened
jacket
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP01980341A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1318735B1 (en
Inventor
Georg Weihrauch
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Coronet Werke GmbH
Original Assignee
Coronet Werke GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Coronet Werke GmbH filed Critical Coronet Werke GmbH
Publication of EP1318735A1 publication Critical patent/EP1318735A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1318735B1 publication Critical patent/EP1318735B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46D—MANUFACTURE OF BRUSHES
    • A46D1/00—Bristles; Selection of materials for bristles
    • A46D1/08—Preparing uniform tufts of bristles
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46D—MANUFACTURE OF BRUSHES
    • A46D9/00—Machines for finishing brushes
    • A46D9/02—Cutting; Trimming
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B9/00—Arrangements of the bristles in the brush body
    • A46B9/02—Position or arrangement of bristles in relation to surface of the brush body, e.g. inclined, in rows, in groups
    • A46B9/04—Arranged like in or for toothbrushes
    • A46B9/045—Arranged like in or for toothbrushes specially adapted for cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces simultaneously
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
    • A46B2200/10—For human or animal care
    • A46B2200/1066—Toothbrush for cleaning the teeth or dentures

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a process for the production of bristle goods, in which individual or grouped bristles are fastened to a carrier in a predetermined arrangement to form the desired bristle trimmings, at least some of the bristles of the bristle trimmings being structured on their jacket by machining ,
  • the invention relates to a method for the production of bristle goods, in which individual or grouped bristles are attached to a carrier in a specific arrangement to form the desired bristle stock, the free ends of at least some of the bristles being shortened by machining.
  • Bristle goods usually consist of a more or less regular bristle stock, in which they form the bristles have a smooth surface on their jacket, while the free bristle ends lie in a flat or in a continuously or discontinuously curved envelope surface.
  • the bristle ends primarily fulfill the task of producing a cleaning, grinding or polishing effect by mechanical attack on the surface, while the sheath of the bristles primarily fulfills a wiping effect.
  • the need to provide a large number of bristles within a bristle stock essentially results from the requirement for effective and, above all, flat cleaning.
  • the sheath of the bristles is essentially only effective as intended during the brushing process, as it concerns the bristles lying on the outside in the bristle stock, while the inside bristles essentially only provide a supporting effect for the bristles with one another and fulfill the additional task of application media or media that are important for the brushing effect in the narrow capillaries between the bristles.
  • the monofilaments are then gathered into strands.
  • the bristles are cut to length from the strand as desired. Since the monofilaments move axially to one another when they are brought together to form the strand, no locally defined structure can be produced on the bristles assembled to form bristles.
  • the bristles which are somewhat rough due to their structure, are difficult to handle in the usual division into groups, for example bundles. As a result, the number of bristles in a bundle fluctuates greatly. With this method, it is also not possible to arrange the structured bristles only in the outer region of a bristle stock, where they have the greatest effect. In contrast, the internal bristles with their structure are less effective or even ineffective. In this respect, unnecessarily much material is structured and possibly also weakened in monofilament treatment. In addition, the production process in the manufacture of monofilaments is slowed down by laser processing.
  • the invention is based on the object of proposing a method for producing bristle products with the aid of which the sheath of the bristles can be structured in any, but reproducible, manner before or after they are attached to the bristle carrier. Furthermore, it should be possible to shorten the bristle ends to form any, but reproducible, envelope surfaces of the bristle ends.
  • the first part of the object of the invention is achieved in that at least some of the bristles are structured in a contactless manner by means of laser beams on the predetermined arrangement or on the attached bristle stock.
  • Today's laser technology enables the effects of the laser beam to be localized very precisely and the effect on the smallest areas down to individual points or Focus lines. Furthermore, it gives the possibility of an adaptation to the material to be treated and allows an exact adjustment of the depth effect depending on the material.
  • the use of laser energy according to the invention consequently enables defined and regular structures, preferably in a geometric arrangement, to be produced on the sheath of the bristles of a bristle set.
  • the mechanical effect of the structures can also be influenced by precise control of the depth effect of the laser beams. Since the process works without contact, reproducible structures can be created regardless of the flexibility of the bristles. This applies in particular to bristles made of plastic, even if the invention is not limited to this material.
  • Laser technology also gives the possibility of structuring the type and
  • the structures also improve the absorption capacity for cleaning or application media, which are emitted perfectly due to the smooth surface of the structures and can also be washed out without any problems.
  • the structures also increase the effect of massage on toothbrushes and body brushes and on technical brushes with abrasive substances in the bristles the abrasive effect on the structure edges.
  • the method according to the invention can also be used for the formation of "topographies" of the bristle stock in that the bristles are shortened at their free ends by means of laser beams without contact.
  • the finest structures for example punctiform or linear depressions
  • the envelope surface Has steps of any kind that have an additional scraping or scratching effect when brushing.
  • the laser source is controlled in such a way that the bristles are rounded at their free ends during the laser treatment by thermal stress. While the structuring takes place essentially by evaporation or gasification of the plastic by means of the laser energy introduced, it has surprisingly been found that when the bristles are shortened from the free bristle end, the bristle end is - as always desired - rounded like a dome. The reason for this is that the molecules in the bristle, which are linearly oriented due to the monofilament production, are thermally stressed at the point exposed to laser beams and the molecules reorient themselves into their rearranged shape.
  • the laser source is also designed depending on the respective material, preferably a plastic, in such a way that the bristles on their jacket are profiled by material removal due to thermal decomposition of the plastic.
  • a plastic preferably a plastic
  • This has the advantage over all mechanical processing methods that no frayed structures that lead to material tears when using the bristle goods, which in turn can lead to incompatibilities with hygienic brushes, especially toothbrushes, with foreign brush inclusions and irregularities in the application layer.
  • machining always removed material residues remain on the bristles, which require a subsequent cleaning and cleaning process without is there ⁇ guaranteed by a one hundred percent success.
  • Such a cleaning can also be omitted in the method according to the invention.
  • the bristles are structured on their jacket by foaming the plastic. Practical tests have shown that the laser treatment in the plastic leads to the formation of bubbles, which shows up as bumps on the surface of the mantle of the bristle. This foaming can be controlled by fillers, laser guidance, etc.
  • Two- or multi-component bristles consist of a core and a shell. They are used in particular to display consumption, in that the core and shell are of different colors and the initially single-colored bristles reveal a different color effect with increasing wear at the bristle end, which is representative of the degree of wear.
  • the shell is structured by the laser beams. The shell can be structured down to the core by locally removing the shell material.
  • the invention provides that the bristles are structured on their jacket only to a depth of up to 10% of the bristle cross section.
  • the depth and the local arrangement of the structures within the bristle stock can be selected so that the static properties of the individual bristle and of the entire bristle stock are retained to the extent required in each case.
  • the free ends of the bristles can be in a substantially linear shape Patterns are cut.
  • This linear pattern can be adapted to the usual directions of movement for the respective bristle product in order to bring the "topography” to optimum effect.
  • the method according to the invention can be carried out on the prepared bristle arrangement or on the attached bristle stock. Only external bristles can be structured on their jacket.
  • bristles lying further inside by dividing and laterally deflecting bristles (DE 198 32 436, EP 0 736 270) and to structure these on their jacket.
  • bristles Even if the majority of the plastics suitable for bristles can be structured to a greater or lesser extent by laser radiation, it may be advisable to use bristles with fillers which absorb laser beams, as a result of which the structuring can be controlled more easily and in a more targeted manner.
  • the fillers can also be provided only in certain cross-sectional areas of the bristles, for example close to the jacket, or in the case of bristles with a profiled cross-section in the outer profile areas. This results in particular with polygonal cross cut shapes in connection with the structuring according to the invention in the area of the polygon edges particularly intensive mechanical effects when brushing.
  • the structuring generated during the laser treatment can be carried out simultaneously. discoloration of the plastic, the structure can be visualized. Instead or in addition, the structure generated during laser treatment can be visualized by fillers in the plastic of the bristles that react to laser beams with a color change.
  • Fig. 7 u. 8 shows a toothbrush head in side view with structures on the bristle jacket and a topography in the bristle ends;
  • FIGS. 12 to 14 are perspective views of a toothbrush head with different structures or "topographies";
  • 22 to 24 are each a view of a structured
  • 25 is a perspective view of a round brush.
  • the toothbrush 1 reproduced in detail in the drawings forms with its head 2 a carrier for bristles 3 which, in the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 1 to 12, are only attached to the carrier 2 standing individually, so that the bristle stock 4 consists of a relatively dense pack of bristles with narrow capillaries between them.
  • structures 5 in the form of parallel lines have been produced by means of laser beams by removing material from the bristle shell.
  • the structuring according to Fig.l results in particularly favorable effects with the so-called red and white cleaning method.
  • FIG. 2 which likewise shows a bristle stocking 4 consisting of individually standing bristles 3
  • structures 5 in the form of wavy lines are incorporated by means of laser beams, which have a smaller width than in FIG.
  • the structures 5 are incorporated on the outer bristles of the bristle trimmings 4 in the manner of oblique hatching and in the exemplary embodiment in accordance with FIG. 4 in the manner of cross hatching.
  • the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 2 to 4 are suitable for any tooth brushing method.
  • FIG. 5 shows structures 5 on the external bristles in the form of circular, flat depressions
  • FIG. 6 shows structures 5 in the form of circular lines.
  • the bristles 3 of the bristle trimmings 4 are of different lengths, namely longer in the region of the front end of the brush head 2 than in the remaining region of the bristle trimmings, so that a "topography" with a step in the front region is formed , Structures 5, similar to FIG. 1, are worked into the jacket of the exposed bristles only in this front area.
  • the bristle stock 4 has a "topography", in which the ends of part of the bristles 3 in one plane and the ends of the other part of the bristles, which each form a group 6, in one opposite the bristle carrier 2 are higher level.
  • the projecting bristles of group 6 are provided with linear structures.
  • FIG. 9 to 11 show a toothbrush head 2 with the bristle trim 4 each in a top view of the free ends of the bristles 3.
  • the outer contour of the bristle stock 4 roughly follows the contour of the toothbrush head 2.
  • the bristles 3 are shortened in a regular pattern in the manner of a cross hatch for 8, while in the embodiment according to FIG. 11 they are shortened along the line 9.
  • FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a toothbrush head 2, in which the outer bristles in turn have a structure 5 of parallel lines on their jacket and at the same time the bristles in the region of the front end of the head are shortened in the form of a cross hatch.
  • the bristle trim 4 consists of groups 9 of bristles which are designed as round bundles.
  • the brush head has two groups 10 and 11, in which the free bristle ends have been shortened to different extents by means of laser beams, so that the groups 10 and 11 taper differently at their free ends.
  • the bristles lying on the conical surface can also be structured on their jacket.
  • the bristle stock 1 again consists of groups 9 of bristles in the form of cylindrical bundles, while a group 12 of individually standing bristles is arranged in the front region of the bristle head.
  • a group 12 of individually standing bristles is arranged in the front region of the bristle head.
  • only the bristles 3 of this group 12 are provided with linear structures 5 which run parallel to one another.
  • 15 to 17 show the top view of the bristle trimmings 4 of round-head brushes, such as are used in particular for electric toothbrushes.
  • the bristles 3 are shortened along concentric rings 13, while in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 16 the bristles 3 are shortened in such a way that a spiral topography arises.
  • the bristles are shortened along radial 15.
  • the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 16 and 17 particularly support the effect of the free bristle ends when the brush head rotates about its central axis.
  • FIGS. 13 and 14 show a toothbrush head 2 similar to FIGS. 13 and 14, the bristle trim 4 of which is formed from groups 9 of bristles, which are designed as round bundles, and a bristle group 12 arranged at the front end.
  • the front bristle group 12 consists of individual bristle strips which are arranged in a star shape, the individual strips having parallel structures 5 which are arranged essentially perpendicular to the bristle axis.
  • the individual structures 5, which have been produced on the jacket of the outer bristles of the bristle set 4 by laser beams, are irregular, but are regularly arranged in the statistical distribution over the entire side surface of the bristle set.
  • the sheath can be structured in the same way as has been described above for an entire bristle stock or for bristle groups of such a stock.
  • the jacket of the bristle 3 is provided with obliquely running structures 5, while in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 23 a zigzag-shaped line structure 5 is shown.
  • the bristle 3 can be structured in a cross hatch. 25 shows a round brush with a cylindrical carrier 1. This can be, for example, the head of a hairbrush, a technical brush or the like.
  • Radial cylindrical groups 16 of bristles are attached to the carrier 1 and are provided with parallel structures 5 from their free end.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Dentistry (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Brushes (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for producing bristle products. Individual bristles or groups of bristles consisting of synthetic material are fixed to a carrier in a predetermined arrangement, forming the desired bristle area. At least one part of the bristles in the predetermined arrangement or in the fixed bristle area is structured by means of laser beams in a contactless and preferably regular manner. Furthermore, the bristles are shortened in a contactless manner at the free ends thereof by means of laser beams. In this way, structures are produced in a reproducible form on the outer and upper side of the bristle area, said structures assisting the cleaning action.

Description

Verfahren zur Herstellung von Borstenwaren Process for the production of bristle goods
Die Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zur Herstellung von Borstenwaren, indem einzelne oder zu Gruppen zusammengefaßte Borsten in einer vorgegebenen Anordnung unter Bildung des gewünschten Borstenbesatzes an einem Träger befestigt werden, wobei wenigstens ein Teil der Borsten des Borsten- besatzes an ihrem Mantel durch eine Bearbeitung strukturiert werden.The invention relates to a process for the production of bristle goods, in which individual or grouped bristles are fastened to a carrier in a predetermined arrangement to form the desired bristle trimmings, at least some of the bristles of the bristle trimmings being structured on their jacket by machining ,
Des weiteren betrifft die Erfindung ein Verfahren zur Herstellung von Borstenwaren, indem einzelne oder zu Gruppen zusammengefaßte Borsten in einer bestimmten Anordnung unter Bildung des gewünschten Borstenbesatzes an einem Träger befestigt werden, wobei die freien Enden wenigstens eines Teils der Borsten durch eine Bearbeitung gekürzt werden.Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for the production of bristle goods, in which individual or grouped bristles are attached to a carrier in a specific arrangement to form the desired bristle stock, the free ends of at least some of the bristles being shortened by machining.
Üblicherweise bestehen Borstenwaren aus einem mehr oder minder regelmäßigen Borstenbesatz, bei dem die ihn bilden- den Borsten an ihrem Mantel eine glatte Oberfläche aufweisen, während die freien Borstenenden in einer ebenen oder in einer kontinuierlich oder diskontinuierlich gekrümmten Hüllfläche liegen. Die Borstenenden erfüllen in erster Li- nie die Aufgabe, eine Reinigungs-, Schleif- oder Polierwirkung durch mechanischen Angriff an der Oberfläche zu erzeugen, während der Mantel der Borsten vornehmlich eine Wisch- Wirkung erfüllt. Die Notwendigkeit, eine Vielzahl von Borsten innerhalb eines Borstenbesatzes vorzusehen, ergibt sich im wesentlichen aus der Forderung nach einer wirksamen und vor allem flächigen Reinigung. Hingegen ist der Mantel der Borsten im wesentlichen nur insoweit bei dem Bürstvorgang bestimmungsgemäß wirksam, als es sich um die im Borstenbesatz außenliegenden Borsten handelt, während die in- nenliegenden Borsten im wesentlichen nur für eine Stützwirkung der Borsten untereinander sorgen und die zusätzliche Aufgabe erfüllen, Auftragsmedien oder Medien, die für den Bürsteffekt bedeutsam sind, in den engen Kapillaren zwischen den Borsten zu halten.Bristle goods usually consist of a more or less regular bristle stock, in which they form the bristles have a smooth surface on their jacket, while the free bristle ends lie in a flat or in a continuously or discontinuously curved envelope surface. The bristle ends primarily fulfill the task of producing a cleaning, grinding or polishing effect by mechanical attack on the surface, while the sheath of the bristles primarily fulfills a wiping effect. The need to provide a large number of bristles within a bristle stock essentially results from the requirement for effective and, above all, flat cleaning. On the other hand, the sheath of the bristles is essentially only effective as intended during the brushing process, as it concerns the bristles lying on the outside in the bristle stock, while the inside bristles essentially only provide a supporting effect for the bristles with one another and fulfill the additional task of application media or media that are important for the brushing effect in the narrow capillaries between the bristles.
Es hat nicht an Versuchen gefehlt, auch dem Borstenmantel beim Bürstvorgang eine Reinigungs-, Polier- oder Schleif - Wirkung zuzuweisen, indem beispielsweise die außenliegenden Borsten des Borstenbesatzes nach Fertigstellung der Bor- stenware durch mechanische Materialabtragung strukturiert werden (US 5,678,275). Diese Art der Bearbeitung führt nicht zu befriedigenden Ergebnissen, insbesondere lassen sich keine einwandfreie lokalisierte und geometrisch vorgegebene Strukturen erzeugen, da die Borsten aufgrund ihrer Flexibilität ausweichen und zudem je nach Stellung innerhalb des Borstenbesatzes und je nach Abstand vom Befestigungspunkt am Träger unterschiedliche Flexibilität besitzen. Ein anderer Vorschlag der Anmelderin geht dahin (WO 99/66111) , die für die Herstellung von Borsten im Wege des Extrudierens erzeugten Monofile durch Laserbehandlung am Monofilmantel zu strukturieren. Die Monofile werden an- schließend zu Strängen zusammengetragen. Von dem Strang werden die Borsten auf Wunschmaß abgelängt. Da die Monofile sich beim Zusammentragen zu dem Strang axial zueinander verschieben, läßt sich an den zu einem Borstenbesatz zusammengestellten Borsten keine lokal definierte Struktur er- zeugen. Hinzu kommt, daß sich die aufgrund der Struktur etwas rauhen Borsten bei dem üblichen Abteilen zu Gruppen, z.B. Bündeln, schlecht handhaben lassen. Dies führt dazu, daß in einem Bündel die Anzahl der Borsten stark schwankt. Bei diesem Verfahren ist es auch nicht möglich, die struk- turierten Borsten nur im außenliegenden Bereich eines Borstenbesatzes anzuordnen, wo sie die größte Wirkung entfalten. Die innenliegenden Borsten mit ihrer Struktur sind demgegenüber weniger wirksam oder gar wirkungslos. Insoweit wird also bei der Monofilbehandlung unnötig viel Material strukturiert und gegebenenfalls auch geschwächt. Hinzu kommt, daß der Produktionsprozeß bei der Herstellung der Monofile durch die Laserbearbeitung verlangsamt wird.There has been no lack of attempts to also assign a cleaning, polishing or grinding effect to the bristle jacket during the brushing process, for example by structuring the external bristles of the bristle trimmings by mechanical material removal after the bristle goods have been finished (US Pat. No. 5,678,275). This type of processing does not lead to satisfactory results, in particular it is not possible to produce perfectly localized and geometrically predetermined structures, since the bristles dodge due to their flexibility and, moreover, have different flexibility depending on the position within the bristle trim and on the distance from the attachment point on the carrier. Another proposal by the applicant goes there (WO 99/66111) to structure the monofilaments produced for the production of bristles by extrusion by laser treatment on the monofilament jacket. The monofilaments are then gathered into strands. The bristles are cut to length from the strand as desired. Since the monofilaments move axially to one another when they are brought together to form the strand, no locally defined structure can be produced on the bristles assembled to form bristles. In addition, the bristles, which are somewhat rough due to their structure, are difficult to handle in the usual division into groups, for example bundles. As a result, the number of bristles in a bundle fluctuates greatly. With this method, it is also not possible to arrange the structured bristles only in the outer region of a bristle stock, where they have the greatest effect. In contrast, the internal bristles with their structure are less effective or even ineffective. In this respect, unnecessarily much material is structured and possibly also weakened in monofilament treatment. In addition, the production process in the manufacture of monofilaments is slowed down by laser processing.
Es ist frühzeitig erkannt worden, daß eine ebene Borsten- fläche (Hüllfläche der freien Borstenenden) in vielen Anwendungsfällen, insbesondere bei Zahnbürsten, eine nur unzureichende Reinigung ermöglicht. Bei Zahnbürsten folgen die Borsten eines solchen Borstenbesatzes der sehr unterschiedlichen Krümmung der Zähne nur unzulänglich und blei- ben die Interdentalräume weitgehend unbearbeitet. Es sind deshalb bei Zahnbürsten schon sehr unterschiedliche "Topographien" für den Borstenbesatz vorgeschlagen worden. Auch diese Topographien werden in der Regel durch nachträgliches mechanisches Abtragen des Kunststoffs an den Borstenenden, also durch Kürzen der Borsten erzeugt (US 2,227,126, DE 198 32 436, EP 0 736 270) . Hierbei handelt es sich um eine Schleif- oder Schnittbearbeitung mit relativ aufwendiger Mechanik. Auch ist die Variationsmöglichkeit sehr stark eingeschränkt. Bessere Ergebnisse werden dadurch erzielt, daß die Borsten vor Ihrer Befestigung an dem Träger axial gegeneinander verschoben werden (EP 0 346 646) , so daß theoretisch beliebige "Topographien" erzeugt werden können. Dieses Verfahren setzt eine zusätzliche Bearbeitungsstufe vor dem Befestigen der Borsten am Träger voraus. Auch müs- sen die topographierten Borsten anschließend in Position gehalten und in dieser Position mit dem Borstenträger verbunden werden.It was recognized at an early stage that a flat bristle surface (envelope surface of the free bristle ends) in many applications, in particular with toothbrushes, enables inadequate cleaning. In the case of toothbrushes, the bristles of such bristle trimmings only insufficiently follow the very different curvature of the teeth and the interdental spaces remain largely unprocessed. Therefore, very different "topographies" for the bristle trimming have been proposed for toothbrushes. These topographies are also usually created by subsequent mechanical removal of the plastic at the bristle ends, i.e. by shortening the bristles (US 2,227,126, DE 198 32 436, EP 0 736 270). This is a grinding or cutting process with relatively complex mechanics. The possibility of variation is also very limited. Better results are achieved in that the bristles are axially displaced relative to one another prior to their attachment to the carrier (EP 0 346 646), so that theoretically any "topographies" can be generated. This procedure requires an additional processing step before attaching the bristles to the carrier. The topographed bristles must then be held in position and connected to the bristle holder in this position.
Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, .ein Verfahren zur Herstellung von Borstenwaren vorzuschlagen, mit dessen Hilfe der Mantel der Borsten vor oder nach deren Befestigung am Borstenträger in beliebiger, jedoch reproduzierbarer Weise strukturiert werden kann. Ferner sollen die Borstenenden zur Bildung beliebiger, jedoch reproduzierbarer Hüll- flächen der Borstenenden gekürzt werden können.The invention is based on the object of proposing a method for producing bristle products with the aid of which the sheath of the bristles can be structured in any, but reproducible, manner before or after they are attached to the bristle carrier. Furthermore, it should be possible to shorten the bristle ends to form any, but reproducible, envelope surfaces of the bristle ends.
Der erste Teil der Erfindungsaufgabe wird dadurch gelöst, daß wenigstens ein Teil der Borsten an der vorgegebenen Anordnung oder am befestigten Borstenbesatz mittels Laser- strahlen berührungslos strukturiert wird.The first part of the object of the invention is achieved in that at least some of the bristles are structured in a contactless manner by means of laser beams on the predetermined arrangement or on the attached bristle stock.
Es ist zwar bekannt (DE 198 29 943) , an einem fertigen Borstenbesatz mittels Laserstrahlen eine Markierung anzubringen, die als Verbrauchsanzeige dienen soll. Indes findet hierbei keine Strukturierung statt, da das Borstenmaterial selbst nicht abgetragen wird.It is known (DE 198 29 943) to use laser beams to make a marking on a finished bristle stock which is to serve as a consumption indicator. However, there is no structuring here, since the bristle material itself is not removed.
Die heutige Lasertechnik gibt die Möglichkeit, die Wirkungen des Laserstrahls sehr genau zu lokalisieren und die Wirkung auf kleinste Flächen bis zu einzelnen Punkten oder Linien zu konzentrieren. Ferner gibt sie die Möglichkeit einer Anpassung an den zu behandelnden Werkstoff und erlaubt eine exakte Einstellung der Tiefenwirkung in Abhängigkeit von dem Werkstoff. Durch den erfindungsgemäßen Ein- satz von Laserenergie lassen sich folglich am Mantel der Borsten eines Borstenbesatzes definierte und regelmäßige Strukturen in vorzugsweise geometrischer Anordnung erzeugen. Ebenso läßt sich die mechanische Wirkung der Strukturen durch exakte Steuerung der Tiefenwirkung der Laser- strahlen beeinflussen. Da das Verfahren berührungslos arbeitet, lassen sich reproduzierbare Strukturen unabhängig von der Flexibilität der Borsten erzeugen. Dies gilt insbesondere für Borsten aus Kunststoff, auch wenn die Erfindung nicht auf diesen Werkstoff beschränkt ist, Die Lasertechnik gibt ferner die Möglichkeit, die Strukturen nach Art undToday's laser technology enables the effects of the laser beam to be localized very precisely and the effect on the smallest areas down to individual points or Focus lines. Furthermore, it gives the possibility of an adaptation to the material to be treated and allows an exact adjustment of the depth effect depending on the material. The use of laser energy according to the invention consequently enables defined and regular structures, preferably in a geometric arrangement, to be produced on the sheath of the bristles of a bristle set. The mechanical effect of the structures can also be influenced by precise control of the depth effect of the laser beams. Since the process works without contact, reproducible structures can be created regardless of the flexibility of the bristles. This applies in particular to bristles made of plastic, even if the invention is not limited to this material. Laser technology also gives the possibility of structuring the type and
Anordnung an den Anwendungszweck anzupassen. Die Strukturen verbessern auch das Aufnahmevermögen für Putz- oder Auftragsmedien, die aufgrund der glatten Oberfläche der Strukturen einwandfrei abgegeben werden und auch problemlos aus- gewaschen werden können.Adapt arrangement to the application. The structures also improve the absorption capacity for cleaning or application media, which are emitted perfectly due to the smooth surface of the structures and can also be washed out without any problems.
Die Strukturen erhöhen ferner bei Zahn- und Körperbürsten die Massagewirkung und bei technischen Bürsten mit Abrasiv- stoffen in den Borsten die Abrasivwirkung an den Struktur- kanten.The structures also increase the effect of massage on toothbrushes and body brushes and on technical brushes with abrasive substances in the bristles the abrasive effect on the structure edges.
Auch für die Bildung von "Topographien" des Borstenbesatzes läßt sich das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren dadurch einsetzen, daß die Borsten an ihren freien Enden mittels Laserstrahlen berührungslos gekürzt werden.The method according to the invention can also be used for the formation of "topographies" of the bristle stock in that the bristles are shortened at their free ends by means of laser beams without contact.
Mit diesem Verfahren gemäß der Erfindung lassen sich in die Oberfläche der Borstenanordnung oder des Borstenbesatzes feinste Strukturen, beispielsweise punkt- oder linienförmi- ge Vertiefungen erzeugen mit der Folge, daß die Hüllfläche Stufen jeder Art aufweist, die beim Bürsten eine zusätzliche Schabe- oder Kratzwirkung entfalten.With this method according to the invention, the finest structures, for example punctiform or linear depressions, can be produced in the surface of the bristle arrangement or the bristle stock, with the result that the envelope surface Has steps of any kind that have an additional scraping or scratching effect when brushing.
In einer bevorzugten Ausführung wird die Laserquelle so ge- steuert, daß die Borsten an ihren freien Enden anläßlich der Laserbehandlung durch thermische Beanspruchung gerundet werden. Während das Strukturieren im wesentlichen durch Verdampfen oder Vergasen des Kunststoffs mittels der eingebrachten Laserenergie erfolgt, hat sich überraschenderweise gezeigt, daß beim Kürzen der Borsten vom freien Borstenende her das Borstenende -wie stets erwünscht- domartig gerundet ist. Der Grund dürfte darin liegen, daß die in der Borste aufgrund der Monofilherstellung linear orientierten Moleküle an der mit Laserstrahlen beaufschlagten Stelle thermisch beansprucht werden und sich dadurch die Moleküle in ihre umgeordnete Knäuelform reorientieren.In a preferred embodiment, the laser source is controlled in such a way that the bristles are rounded at their free ends during the laser treatment by thermal stress. While the structuring takes place essentially by evaporation or gasification of the plastic by means of the laser energy introduced, it has surprisingly been found that when the bristles are shortened from the free bristle end, the bristle end is - as always desired - rounded like a dome. The reason for this is that the molecules in the bristle, which are linearly oriented due to the monofilament production, are thermally stressed at the point exposed to laser beams and the molecules reorient themselves into their rearranged shape.
Die Laserquelle wird ferner in Abhängigkeit von dem jeweiligen Werkstoff, vorzugsweise einem Kunststoff so gestal- tet, daß die Borsten an ihrem Mantel durch Materialabtragung aufgrund thermischer Zersetzung des Kunststoffs profiliert werden. Auch hier handelt es sich um Verdampfungs - und Vergasungsprozesse, die zu dem Materialabtrag führen. Dies hat gegenüber allen mechanischen Bearbeitungsverfahren den Vorteil, daß keine ausgefransten Strukturen, die bei Benutzung der Borstenware zu Materialabrissen führen, die wiederum bei Hygienebürsten, insbesondere Zahnbürsten, zu Unverträglichkeiten, bei Auftragsbürsten zu Fremdeinschlüssen und Unregelmäßigkeiten in der Auftragsschicht führen können. Beim mechanischen Bearbeiten verbleiben stets abgetragene Materialreste an den Borsten, die einen anschließenden Putz- und Reinigungsvorgang erfordern, ohne daß da¬ durch ein hundertprozentiger Erfolg garantiert ist. Auch eine solche Reinigung kann beim erfindungsgemäßen Verfahren entfallen. Gemäß einer weiteren Ausführung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens werden die Borsten an ihrem Mantel durch Aufschäumen des Kunststoffs strukturiert. Praktische Versuche haben nämlich gezeigt, daß es aufgrund der Laserbehandlung im Kunststoff zur Blasenbildung kommt, die sich an der Oberfläche des Mantels der Borste als Unebenheiten zeigt. Dieses Aufschäumen läßt sich durch Füllstoffe, Laserführung etc. steuern.The laser source is also designed depending on the respective material, preferably a plastic, in such a way that the bristles on their jacket are profiled by material removal due to thermal decomposition of the plastic. Here, too, there are evaporation and gasification processes that lead to material removal. This has the advantage over all mechanical processing methods that no frayed structures that lead to material tears when using the bristle goods, which in turn can lead to incompatibilities with hygienic brushes, especially toothbrushes, with foreign brush inclusions and irregularities in the application layer. When machining always removed material residues remain on the bristles, which require a subsequent cleaning and cleaning process without is there ¬ guaranteed by a one hundred percent success. Such a cleaning can also be omitted in the method according to the invention. According to a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, the bristles are structured on their jacket by foaming the plastic. Practical tests have shown that the laser treatment in the plastic leads to the formation of bubbles, which shows up as bumps on the surface of the mantle of the bristle. This foaming can be controlled by fillers, laser guidance, etc.
Es sind Zwei- oder Mehrkomponentenborsten bekannt, die aus einem Kern und einer Hülle bestehen. Sie werden insbesondere zur Verbrauchsanzeige eingesetzt, indem Kern und Hülle verschiedenfarbig sind und die zunächst einfarbigen Borsten mit zunehmender Abnutzung am Borstenende eine andere Farb- wirkung erkennen lassen, die für den Abnutzungsgrad repräsentativ ist. Bei Borstenwaren mit solchen Borsten ist gemäß einer Ausführung der Erfindung vorgesehen, daß nur die Hülle durch die Laserstrahlen strukturiert wird. Dabei kann die Hülle bis auf den Kern durch lokales Abtragen des Hüllenwerkstoffs strukturiert werden.Two- or multi-component bristles are known, which consist of a core and a shell. They are used in particular to display consumption, in that the core and shell are of different colors and the initially single-colored bristles reveal a different color effect with increasing wear at the bristle end, which is representative of the degree of wear. In the case of bristle goods with such bristles, it is provided according to one embodiment of the invention that only the shell is structured by the laser beams. The shell can be structured down to the core by locally removing the shell material.
Um die durch den Borstenquerschnitt und den ausgewählten Kunststoff vorgegebenen Eigenschaften durch das nachträgli- ehe Strukturieren nicht zu ungünstig zu beeinflussen, ist erfindungsgemäß vorgesehen, daß die Borsten an ihrem Mantel nur bis in eine Tiefe von bis zu 10% des Borstenquerschnittes strukturiert werden. Im übrigen können die Tiefe und die lokale Anordnung der Strukturen innerhalb des Borsten- besatzes so gewählt werden, daß die statischen Eigenschaften der einzelnen Borste und des gesamten Borstenbesatzes in dem jeweils geforderten Umfang erhalten bleiben.In order not to adversely affect the properties given by the bristle cross section and the selected plastic by the subsequent structuring, the invention provides that the bristles are structured on their jacket only to a depth of up to 10% of the bristle cross section. In addition, the depth and the local arrangement of the structures within the bristle stock can be selected so that the static properties of the individual bristle and of the entire bristle stock are retained to the extent required in each case.
Bei der Herstellung von "Topographien" können die freien Enden der Borsten in einem im wesentlichen linienförmigen Muster gekürzt werden. Dieses linienförmige Muster kann an die für die jeweilige Borstenware üblichen Bewegungsrichtungen angepaßt werden, um die "Topographie" optimal zur Wirkung zu bringen.When producing "topographies", the free ends of the bristles can be in a substantially linear shape Patterns are cut. This linear pattern can be adapted to the usual directions of movement for the respective bristle product in order to bring the "topography" to optimum effect.
Es kann ferner vorgesehen sein, daß die freien Enden nebeneinanderliegender Borsten unter Bildung einer stufenförmigen Hüllfläche gekürzt werden.It can also be provided that the free ends of adjacent bristles are shortened to form a step-shaped envelope surface.
Ferner ist es möglich, die freien Enden nur einzelner Gruppen von Borsten durch die Laserstrahlen zu kürzen, wie es auch möglich ist, die freien Enden der Borsten einer einzelnen Gruppe von Borsten unter Bildung einer von einer E- bene abweichenden Hüllfläche zu kürzen, beispielsweise ein Bündel an seinem Ende zu konifizieren.Furthermore, it is possible to shorten the free ends of only individual groups of bristles by means of the laser beams, just as it is also possible to shorten the free ends of the bristles of a single group of bristles to form an envelope surface which deviates from a plane, for example one Butt bundle at its end.
Wie schon erläutert, kann das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren an der vorbereiteten Borstenanordnung oder am befestigten Borstenbesatz durchgeführt werden. Es können dabei nur au- ßenliegende Borsten an ihrem Mantel strukturiert werden.As already explained, the method according to the invention can be carried out on the prepared bristle arrangement or on the attached bristle stock. Only external bristles can be structured on their jacket.
Statt dessen oder zusätzlich ist es auch möglich, durch Abteilen und seitliches Auslenken von Borsten (DE 198 32 436, EP 0 736 270) weiter innen liegende Borsten freizulegen und diese an ihrem Mantel zu strukturieren.Instead or in addition, it is also possible to expose bristles lying further inside by dividing and laterally deflecting bristles (DE 198 32 436, EP 0 736 270) and to structure these on their jacket.
Auch wenn die Mehrzahl der für Borsten in Frage kommenden Kunststoffe durch Laserbestrahlung in mehr oder minder großem Umfang strukturiert werden können, kann es sich empfehlen, Borsten mit Laserstrahlen absorbierenden Füllstoffen zu verwenden, wodurch die Strukturierung einfacher und gezielter gesteuert werden kann. Die Füllstoffe können auch nur in bestimmten Querschnittsbereichen der Borsten, z.B. nahe dem Mantel, oder bei Borsten mit profiliertem Querschnitt in den außenliegenden Profilbereichen vorgesehen sein. So ergeben sich insbesondere bei polygonalen Quer- schnittsformen in Verbindung mit der erfindungsgemäßen Strukturierung im Bereich der Polygonkanten besonders intensive mechanische Wirkungen beim Bürsten.Even if the majority of the plastics suitable for bristles can be structured to a greater or lesser extent by laser radiation, it may be advisable to use bristles with fillers which absorb laser beams, as a result of which the structuring can be controlled more easily and in a more targeted manner. The fillers can also be provided only in certain cross-sectional areas of the bristles, for example close to the jacket, or in the case of bristles with a profiled cross-section in the outer profile areas. This results in particular with polygonal cross cut shapes in connection with the structuring according to the invention in the area of the polygon edges particularly intensive mechanical effects when brushing.
Schließlich kann durch die bei der Laserbehandlung erzeugte Strukturierung durch ein gleichzeitig. stattfindendes Verfärben des Kunststoffs die Struktur visualisiert werden. Statt dessen oder zusätzlich kann die bei der Laserbehandlung erzeugte Struktur durch auf Laserstrahlen mit einem Farbumschlag reagierende Füllstoffe im Kunststoff der Borsten visualisiert werden.Finally, the structuring generated during the laser treatment can be carried out simultaneously. discoloration of the plastic, the structure can be visualized. Instead or in addition, the structure generated during laser treatment can be visualized by fillers in the plastic of the bristles that react to laser beams with a color change.
Nachstehend ist die Erfindung anhand einiger in der Zeichnung wiedergegebener Ausführungsbeispiele .beschrieben. In der Zeichnung zeigen:The invention is described below with the aid of some exemplary embodiments shown in the drawing. The drawing shows:
Fig. 1 bis Fig. 6 einen Zahnbürstenkopf in Seitenansicht mit verschiedenen Strukturen am Borstenmantel;1 to 6 a toothbrush head in side view with different structures on the bristle jacket;
Fig. 7 u. 8 einen Zahnbürstenkopf in Seitenansicht mit Strukturen am Borstenmantel und einer Topographie in den Borstenenden;Fig. 7 u. 8 shows a toothbrush head in side view with structures on the bristle jacket and a topography in the bristle ends;
Fig. 9 bis 11 eine Draufsicht auf einen Zahnbürstenkopf mit verschiedenen linienförmigen Topographien;9 to 11 a top view of a toothbrush head with different linear topographies;
Fig. 12 bis 14 perspektivische Ansichten eines Zahn- bürstenkopfs mit verschiedenen Strukturen bzw. "Topographien";12 to 14 are perspective views of a toothbrush head with different structures or "topographies";
Fig. 15 bis 17 eine Draufsicht auf den Borstenbesatz eines Wechselkopfs für Elektrozahnbür- sten mit verschiedenen "Topographien";15 to 17 a plan view of the bristle trim of an interchangeable head for electric toothbrushes. with different "topographies";
Fig. 18 eine den Fig.13 und 14 entsprechende18 a corresponding to FIGS. 13 and 14
Darstellung einer anderen Ausführungs- form;Representation of another embodiment;
Fig. 19 bis 21 je ein den Fig.l bis 8 entsprechende19 to 21 each corresponding to Figs. 1 to 8
Darstellung abgewandelter Ausführungs- beispiele;Representation of modified exemplary embodiments;
Fig. 22 bis 24 je eine Ansicht einer strukturierten22 to 24 are each a view of a structured
Einzelborste undSingle bristle and
Fig. 25 eine Rundbürste in perspektivischer An- sieht.25 is a perspective view of a round brush.
Die in den Zeichnungen ausschnittsweise wiedergegebene Zahnbürste 1 bildet mit ihrem Kopf 2 einen Träger für Borsten 3, die bei den Ausführungsbeispielen gemäß Fig.l bis 12 ausschließlich einzeln stehend am Träger 2 befestigt sind, so daß der Borstenbesatz 4 aus einer relativ dichten Packung von Borsten mit engen Kapillaren zwischen ihnen besteht. Mittels Laserstrahlen sind bei dem Ausführungsbei- spiel gemäß Fig.l Strukturen 5 in Form von parallelen Li- nien durch Abtragen von Material am Borstenmantel erzeugt worden. Die Strukturierung gemäß Fig.l ergibt besonders günstige Wirkungen bei der sog. Rot-Weiß-Putzmethode.The toothbrush 1 reproduced in detail in the drawings forms with its head 2 a carrier for bristles 3 which, in the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 1 to 12, are only attached to the carrier 2 standing individually, so that the bristle stock 4 consists of a relatively dense pack of bristles with narrow capillaries between them. In the embodiment according to FIG. 1, structures 5 in the form of parallel lines have been produced by means of laser beams by removing material from the bristle shell. The structuring according to Fig.l results in particularly favorable effects with the so-called red and white cleaning method.
Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.2, die gleichfalls einen Borstenbesatz 4 aus einzeln stehenden Borsten 3 zeigt, sind mittels Laserstrahlen Strukturen 5 in Form von Wellenlinien eingearbeitet, die gegenüber Fig.l eine geringere Breite aufweisen. Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.3 sind die Strukturen 5 an den außenliegenden Borsten des Borstenbesatzes 4 nach Art einer Schrägschraffür und bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.4 nach Art einer Kreuzschraffür eingearbei- tet. Die Ausführungsbeispiele gemäß Fig.2 bis 4 sind für jede Zahnputzmethode geeignet.In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 2, which likewise shows a bristle stocking 4 consisting of individually standing bristles 3, structures 5 in the form of wavy lines are incorporated by means of laser beams, which have a smaller width than in FIG. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 3, the structures 5 are incorporated on the outer bristles of the bristle trimmings 4 in the manner of oblique hatching and in the exemplary embodiment in accordance with FIG. 4 in the manner of cross hatching. The exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 2 to 4 are suitable for any tooth brushing method.
Das Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.5 zeigt Strukturen 5 an den außenliegenden Borsten in Form von kreisförmigen, flä- chigen Vertiefungen, während Fig.6 Strukturen 5 in Form von Kreislinien zeigt.The exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 5 shows structures 5 on the external bristles in the form of circular, flat depressions, while FIG. 6 shows structures 5 in the form of circular lines.
Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.7 sind die Borsten 3 des Borstenbesatzes 4 unterschiedlich lang, nämlich im Be- reich des vorderen Endes des Bürstenkopfs 2 länger als im übrigen Bereich des Borstenbesatzes, so daß eine "Topographie" mit einer Stufe im vorderen Bereich gebildet wird. Nur in diesem vorderen Bereich sind Strukturen 5 ähnlich der Fig.l in den Mantel der ausliegenden Borsten ein- gearbeitet.In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 7, the bristles 3 of the bristle trimmings 4 are of different lengths, namely longer in the region of the front end of the brush head 2 than in the remaining region of the bristle trimmings, so that a "topography" with a step in the front region is formed , Structures 5, similar to FIG. 1, are worked into the jacket of the exposed bristles only in this front area.
Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.8 weist der Borstenbesatz 4 eine "Topographie" auf, bei der die Enden eines Teils der Borsten 3 in einer Ebene und die Enden des ande- ren Teils der Borsten, die jeweils eine Gruppe 6 bilden, in einer gegenüber dem Borstenträger 2 höheren Ebene liegen. Bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel sind nur die überstehenden Borsten der Gruppe 6 mit linienförmigen Strukturen versehen.In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 8, the bristle stock 4 has a "topography", in which the ends of part of the bristles 3 in one plane and the ends of the other part of the bristles, which each form a group 6, in one opposite the bristle carrier 2 are higher level. In this exemplary embodiment, only the projecting bristles of group 6 are provided with linear structures.
In den Fig.9 bis 11 ist ein Zahnbürstenkopf 2 mit dem Borstenbesatz 4 jeweils in Draufsicht auf die freien Enden der Borsten 3 gezeigt. Die Außenkontur des Borstenbesatzes 4 folgt etwa der Kontur des Zahnbürstenkopfs 2. Bei dem Aus- führungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.9 sind mittels Laserstrahlen die Borsten nur im Bereich des vorderen Endes des Bürstenkopfs gekürzt, und zwar auf konzentrischen Linien 7 eines Polygons. Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.10 sind die Borsten 3 in einem regelmäßigen Muster nach Art einer Kreuzschraffür 8 gekürzt, während sie in der Ausführungs- form gemäß Fig.11 entlang der Linie 9 gekürzt sind.9 to 11 show a toothbrush head 2 with the bristle trim 4 each in a top view of the free ends of the bristles 3. The outer contour of the bristle stock 4 roughly follows the contour of the toothbrush head 2. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG Bristles shortened only in the area of the front end of the brush head, namely on concentric lines 7 of a polygon. In the embodiment according to FIG. 10, the bristles 3 are shortened in a regular pattern in the manner of a cross hatch for 8, while in the embodiment according to FIG. 11 they are shortened along the line 9.
Fig.12 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Zahnbürstenkopfs 2, bei dem die außenliegenden Borsten an ihrem Mantel wiederum eine Struktur 5 aus parallelen Linien aufweisen und zugleich die Borsten im Bereich des vorderen Endes Kopfs in Form einer Kreuzschraffür gekürzt sind.12 shows a perspective view of a toothbrush head 2, in which the outer bristles in turn have a structure 5 of parallel lines on their jacket and at the same time the bristles in the region of the front end of the head are shortened in the form of a cross hatch.
Bei der Ausführungsform gemäß Fig.13 besteht der Borstenbe- satz 4 aus Gruppen 9 von Borsten, die als runde Bündel ausgebildet sind. Im vorderen Bereich weist der Bürstenkopf 2 Gruppen 10 und 11 auf, bei denen die freien Borstenenden mittels Laserstrahlen unterschiedlich stark gekürzt worden sind, so daß die Gruppen 10 und 11 an ihrem freien Ende un- terschiedlich konisch zulaufen. Ferner können die auf der konischen Fläche liegenden Borsten an ihrem Mantel auch strukturiert sein.In the embodiment according to FIG. 13, the bristle trim 4 consists of groups 9 of bristles which are designed as round bundles. In the front area, the brush head has two groups 10 and 11, in which the free bristle ends have been shortened to different extents by means of laser beams, so that the groups 10 and 11 taper differently at their free ends. Furthermore, the bristles lying on the conical surface can also be structured on their jacket.
Bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.14 besteht der Bor- stenbesatz 1 wiederum aus Gruppen 9 von Borsten in Form von zylindrischen Bündeln, während im vorderen Bereich des Borstenkopfs eine Gruppe 12 von einzeln stehenden Borsten angeordnet ist. Bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel sind nur die Borsten 3 dieser Gruppe 12 mit linienförmigen Strukturen 5 versehen, die parallel zueinander verlaufen.In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 14, the bristle stock 1 again consists of groups 9 of bristles in the form of cylindrical bundles, while a group 12 of individually standing bristles is arranged in the front region of the bristle head. In this exemplary embodiment, only the bristles 3 of this group 12 are provided with linear structures 5 which run parallel to one another.
In den Fig.15 bis 17 ist die Draufsicht auf den Borstenbesatz 4 von Rundkopfbürsten, wie sie insbesondere für Elek- tro- Zahnbürsten verwendet werden, gezeigt. Gemäß Fig.15 sind die Borsten 3 entlang konzentrischer Ringe 13 gekürzt, während beim Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.16 die Borsten 3 in der Weise gekürzt sind, daß eine spiralige Topographie entsteht. Schließlich sind beim Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.17 die Borsten entlang Konradialen 15 gekürzt. Die Aus- führungsbeispiele gemäß Fig.16 und 17 unterstützen insbesondere die Wirkung der freien Borstenenden beim Umlauf des Bürstenkopfs um seine zentrale Achse.15 to 17 show the top view of the bristle trimmings 4 of round-head brushes, such as are used in particular for electric toothbrushes. 15, the bristles 3 are shortened along concentric rings 13, while in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 16 the bristles 3 are shortened in such a way that a spiral topography arises. Finally, in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 17, the bristles are shortened along radial 15. The exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 16 and 17 particularly support the effect of the free bristle ends when the brush head rotates about its central axis.
Fig.18 zeigt einen Zahnbürstenkopf 2 ähnlich den Fig.13 und 14, dessen Borstenbesatz 4 aus Gruppen 9 von Borsten, die als runde Bündel ausgebildet sind, und einer am vorderen Ende angeordneten Borstengruppe 12 gebildet ist. Die vordere Borstengruppe 12 besteht aus einzelnen Borstenstreifen, die sternförmig angeordnet sind, wobei die einzelnen Strei- fen parallele Strukturen 5 aufweisen, die im wesentlichen senkrecht zur Borstenachse angeordnet sind.18 shows a toothbrush head 2 similar to FIGS. 13 and 14, the bristle trim 4 of which is formed from groups 9 of bristles, which are designed as round bundles, and a bristle group 12 arranged at the front end. The front bristle group 12 consists of individual bristle strips which are arranged in a star shape, the individual strips having parallel structures 5 which are arranged essentially perpendicular to the bristle axis.
Bei den Ausführungsbeispielen gemäß Fig.19 bis 21 sind die einzelnen Strukturen 5, die am Mantel der außenliegenden Borsten des Borstenbesatzes 4 durch Laserstrahlen erzeugt worden sind, zwar unregelmäßig, in der statistischen Verteilung über die gesamte Seitenfläche des Borstenbesatzes jedoch regelmäßig angeordnet.In the exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 19 to 21, the individual structures 5, which have been produced on the jacket of the outer bristles of the bristle set 4 by laser beams, are irregular, but are regularly arranged in the statistical distribution over the entire side surface of the bristle set.
Bei einzeln stehenden Borsten, insbesondere wenn diese einen größeren Durchmesser aufweisen, kann deren Mantel in gleicher Weise strukturiert werden, wie dies vorstehend für einen gesamten Borstenbesatz oder für Borstengruppen eines solchen Besatzes beschrieben worden ist. Bei dem Ausfüh- rungsbeispiel gemäß Fig.22 ist der Mantel der Borste 3 mit schräg verlaufenden Strukturen 5 versehen, während beim Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig. 23 eine zickzackförmige Linienstruktur 5 wiedergegeben ist. Ebenso kann die Borste 3, wie Fig.24 zeigt, in einer Kreuzschraffür strukturiert sein. Fig.25 zeigt eine Rundbürste mit einem zylindrischen Träger 1. Hierbei kann es sich beispielsweise um den Kopf einer Haarbürste, um eine technische Bürste oder dergleichen handeln. An dem Träger 1 sind strahlenförmig zylindrische Gruppen 16 von Borsten befestigt, die von ihrem freien Ende her mit parallel verlaufenden Strukturen 5 versehen sind. In the case of individually standing bristles, especially if they have a larger diameter, their sheath can be structured in the same way as has been described above for an entire bristle stock or for bristle groups of such a stock. In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 22, the jacket of the bristle 3 is provided with obliquely running structures 5, while in the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 23 a zigzag-shaped line structure 5 is shown. Likewise, as shown in FIG. 24, the bristle 3 can be structured in a cross hatch. 25 shows a round brush with a cylindrical carrier 1. This can be, for example, the head of a hairbrush, a technical brush or the like. Radial cylindrical groups 16 of bristles are attached to the carrier 1 and are provided with parallel structures 5 from their free end.

Claims

Patentansprüche claims
1. Verfahren zur Herstellung von Borstenwaren (1), indem einzelne oder zu Gruppen (9) zusammengefaßte Borsten (3) in einer vorgegebenen Anordnung unter Bildung des gewünschten Borstenbesatzes an einem Träger (2) befestigt werden, wobei wenigstens ein Teil der Borsten des Borstenbesatzes an ihrem Mantel durch eine Bearbeitung strukturiert wird, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß an der vorgegebenen Anordnung oder an dem befestigten Borstenbesatz (4) wenigstens ein Teil der Borsten (3) mittels Laserstrahlen berührungslos strukturiert wird.1. A method for the production of bristle goods (1) by individual or group (9) combined bristles (3) in a predetermined arrangement to form the desired bristle trimmings on a carrier (2), at least some of the bristles of the bristle trimmings is structured on its jacket by processing, characterized in that at least a part of the bristles (3) is structured in a contactless manner by means of laser beams on the predetermined arrangement or on the attached bristle stocking (4).
2. Verfahren nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Borsten regelmäßig strukturiert werden.2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that the bristles are structured regularly.
3. Verfahren zur Herstellung von Borstenwaren, indem einzelne oder zu Gruppen zusammengefaßte Borsten in einer bestimmten Anordnung unter Bildung des gewünschten Borstenbesatzes an einem Träger befestigt werden, wobei die freien Enden wenigstens eines Teils der Borsten durch eine Bearbeitung gekürzt werden, insbesondere nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Borsten (3) an der vorgegebenen Anordnung oder an dem befestigten Borstenbesatz an ihren freien Enden mittels Laserstrahlen berührungslos gekürzt werden.3. A process for the production of bristle goods by fastening individual or grouped bristles in a specific arrangement to form the desired bristle stock on a carrier, the free ends of at least some of the bristles can be shortened by machining, in particular according to claim 1, characterized in that the bristles (3) on the predetermined arrangement or on the attached bristle trimmings are shortened contactlessly at their free ends by means of laser beams.
4. Verfahren nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Borsten (3) an ihren freien Enden anläßlich der Laserbehandlung durch thermische Beanspruchung gerundet werden.4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that the bristles (3) are rounded at their free ends during the laser treatment by thermal stress.
5. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Borsten (3) durch Materialabtragung aufgrund thermischer Zersetzung des Kunststoffs an ihrem Mantel profiliert oder an ihren Enden gekürzt werden.5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the bristles (3) are profiled by material removal due to thermal decomposition of the plastic on their jacket or shortened at their ends.
6. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Borsten (3) an ihrem Mantel durch Aufschäumen des Kunststoffs strukturiert werden.6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the bristles (3) are structured on their jacket by foaming the plastic.
7. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß bei Zweikomponentenborsten, die aus wenigstens einem Kern und einer diesen konzentrisch um- gebenden Hülle bestehen, nur die Hülle durch die Laserstrahlen strukturiert wird.7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that in the case of two-component bristles which consist of at least one core and a shell concentrically surrounding it, only the shell is structured by the laser beams.
8. Verfahren nach Anspruch 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Hülle bis auf den Kern durch lokales Abtragen des Hüllenwerkstoffs strukturiert wird.8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that the shell is structured down to the core by local removal of the shell material.
9. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die Borsten an ihrem Mantel bis in eine Tiefe von etwa 10% des Borstenquerschnitts struk- turiert werden. 9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the bristles are structured on their jacket to a depth of about 10% of the bristle cross section.
10. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die freien Enden der im wesentlichen auf Linien (7,8,9,13,14,15) der Oberfläche der vorgegebenen Anordnung oder des befestigten Borstenbesatzes liegenden Borsten (3) gekürzt werden.10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the free ends of the bristles (3) lying essentially on lines (7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15) of the surface of the predetermined arrangement or of the attached bristle stocking be shortened.
11. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die freien Enden nebeneinanderliegender Borsten (3) unter Bildung einer stufenförmigen Hüllfläche (6) der Borstenenden gekürzt werden.11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the free ends of adjacent bristles (3) are shortened to form a step-shaped envelope surface (6) of the bristle ends.
12« Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die freien Enden einzelner Gruppen (6) von Borsten (3) gekürzt werden.12 «Method according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the free ends of individual groups (6) of bristles (3) are shortened.
13. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die freien Enden der Borsten (3) einer einzelnen Gruppe (10, 11) von Borsten (3) unter Bildung einer von einer Ebene abweichenden Hüllfläche gekürzt werden.13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the free ends of the bristles (3) of a single group (10, 11) of bristles (3) are shortened to form an envelope surface deviating from a plane.
14. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 13, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß an der vorgegebenen Anordnung oder an dem befestigten Borstenbesatz nur die außenliegenden Borsten an ihrem Mantel strukturiert werden.14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that only the outer bristles are structured on their jacket on the predetermined arrangement or on the attached bristle stocking.
15. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 14, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß an der vorgegebenen Anordnung oder an dem befestigten Borstenbesatz durch Abteilen und seitliches Auslenken von Borsten innen liegende Borsten freigelegt und diese Borsten an ihrem Mantel strukturiert werden.15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that on the predetermined arrangement or on the attached bristle trimmings exposed by dividing and lateral deflection of bristles bristles inside and these bristles are structured on their jacket.
16. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 15, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß Borsten (3) mit Laserstrahlen ab- sorbierenden Füllstoffen zur Herstellung der Borstenware verwendet werden.16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that bristles (3) with laser beams from sorbent fillers are used to manufacture the bristle goods.
17. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 16, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die bei der Laserbehandlung erzeugte Struktur (5) durch Verfärbung des Kunststoffs visualisiert wird.17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the structure (5) generated in the laser treatment is visualized by discoloration of the plastic.
18. Verfahren nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 16, dadurch gekennzeichnet, daß die bei der Laserbehandlung erzeugte Struktur (5) durch auf Laserstrahlen mit einem Farb- umschlag reagierende Füllstoffe im Kunststoff der Borsten (3) visualisiert wird. 18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the structure (5) generated during the laser treatment is visualized by fillers in the plastic of the bristles (3) which react to laser beams with a color change.
EP01980341A 2000-09-19 2001-09-05 Method for producing bristle products Expired - Lifetime EP1318735B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE10046536 2000-09-19
DE10046536A DE10046536A1 (en) 2000-09-19 2000-09-19 Brushware-production method involves assembling single bristles or in groups on supports and structuring their ends by laser treatment.
PCT/EP2001/010218 WO2002024026A1 (en) 2000-09-19 2001-09-05 Method for producing bristle products

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1318735A1 true EP1318735A1 (en) 2003-06-18
EP1318735B1 EP1318735B1 (en) 2004-07-28

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EP01980341A Expired - Lifetime EP1318735B1 (en) 2000-09-19 2001-09-05 Method for producing bristle products

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EP (1) EP1318735B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2004508863A (en)
KR (1) KR20030032040A (en)
CN (1) CN1461191A (en)
AR (1) AR041492A1 (en)
AT (1) ATE271807T1 (en)
AU (1) AU2002212206A1 (en)
BR (1) BR0113947A (en)
CA (1) CA2422001A1 (en)
DE (2) DE10046536A1 (en)
EG (1) EG23017A (en)
ES (1) ES2225618T3 (en)
HU (1) HUP0302267A3 (en)
IL (1) IL154757A0 (en)
MX (1) MXPA03002336A (en)
NO (1) NO20031229L (en)
PL (1) PL360545A1 (en)
RU (1) RU2283607C2 (en)
SK (1) SK3282003A3 (en)
WO (1) WO2002024026A1 (en)
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ZA (1) ZA200301747B (en)

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CN1461191A (en) 2003-12-10
AU2002212206A1 (en) 2002-04-02
KR20030032040A (en) 2003-04-23
SK3282003A3 (en) 2003-07-01
CA2422001A1 (en) 2003-03-12
ATE271807T1 (en) 2004-08-15
PL360545A1 (en) 2004-09-06
EP1318735B1 (en) 2004-07-28
DE10046536A1 (en) 2002-03-28
US20060186725A1 (en) 2006-08-24
YU19403A (en) 2004-09-03
IL154757A0 (en) 2003-10-31
DE50103033D1 (en) 2004-09-02
US20030178885A1 (en) 2003-09-25
JP2004508863A (en) 2004-03-25
NO20031229D0 (en) 2003-03-17
BR0113947A (en) 2003-07-29
HUP0302267A2 (en) 2003-10-28
EG23017A (en) 2003-12-31
AR041492A1 (en) 2005-05-18
ZA200301747B (en) 2004-03-03
NO20031229L (en) 2003-03-17
ES2225618T3 (en) 2005-03-16
HUP0302267A3 (en) 2005-01-28
MXPA03002336A (en) 2003-06-24
WO2002024026A1 (en) 2002-03-28
RU2283607C2 (en) 2006-09-20

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