EP1996043B1 - Toothbrush and method for producing it - Google Patents

Toothbrush and method for producing it Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1996043B1
EP1996043B1 EP07723235.3A EP07723235A EP1996043B1 EP 1996043 B1 EP1996043 B1 EP 1996043B1 EP 07723235 A EP07723235 A EP 07723235A EP 1996043 B1 EP1996043 B1 EP 1996043B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
joint
head part
toothbrush
cover
grip part
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.)
Not-in-force
Application number
EP07723235.3A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP1996043A1 (en
Inventor
Ulrich Kaczmarek
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.)
Interbros GmbH
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Interbros GmbH
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Interbros GmbH filed Critical Interbros GmbH
Publication of EP1996043A1 publication Critical patent/EP1996043A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1996043B1 publication Critical patent/EP1996043B1/en
Not-in-force legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B5/00—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware
    • A46B5/002—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware having articulations, joints or flexible portions
    • A46B5/0054—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware having articulations, joints or flexible portions designed to allow relative positioning of the head to body
    • A46B5/0062—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware having articulations, joints or flexible portions designed to allow relative positioning of the head to body being flexible or resilient during use
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46—BRUSHWARE
    • A46B—BRUSHES
    • A46B5/00—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware
    • A46B5/002—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware having articulations, joints or flexible portions
    • A46B5/0054—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware having articulations, joints or flexible portions designed to allow relative positioning of the head to body
    • A46B5/0075—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware having articulations, joints or flexible portions designed to allow relative positioning of the head to body being adjustable and stable during use
    • A46B5/0087—Mechanical joint featuring a ball and socket
    • 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 toothbrush with a handle part and a head part, which carries a bristle trim, wherein the handle part is connected to the head part via a hinge, which is associated with a spring device made of an elastic plastic material. Moreover, the invention relates to a method for producing a corresponding toothbrush.
  • the stem of a toothbrush is formed as a one-piece plastic component, which has a lower resistance moment and thus a higher deformability in a transition region between the rear grip portion and the front head portion by special cross-sectional configurations and / or material combinations.
  • the rear handle part and a front head part of the toothbrush as an independent components and connect to each other via a joint. The invention relates to a toothbrush of the latter construction.
  • a corresponding toothbrush is for example from the WO99 / 39610 A1 known.
  • the toothbrush described therein has a handle portion which has a J-shaped hook portion at its front, the bristle facing end facing.
  • a head part also has a J-shaped hook section at its rear end facing the handle part. The two hook sections engage with each other to form a gap and the gap is filled with an elastic plastic material. In this way, it is possible that the head part in use of the toothbrush performs a pivoting relative to the handle portion, wherein the elastic plastic material is deformed and generates the reaction forces required for the recovery of the head part.
  • the deformation properties of the head part relative to the handle part are substantially dependent on the thickness of the plastic material and thus on the size of the gap between the head part and the handle part. Since the size of the gap is structurally predetermined, toothbrushes with different deformation properties can only be achieved by using different elastic plastic materials. This is disadvantageous in terms of production technology. In addition, it has been shown that the known toothbrush has an undefined rigidity perpendicular to the desired direction of movement of the head part, so that it can come to buckling when using the toothbrush.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a toothbrush of the type mentioned, with the defined deformation properties can be achieved in use.
  • a method is to be created with which a corresponding toothbrush can be produced in a simple and cost-effective manner.
  • the spring device is formed by an at least partial outer envelope of the joint, wherein the envelope preferably consists of a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • the basic idea is to not arrange the elastic plastic material forming the spring device within the joint, but to arrange it in the form of an at least partial outer covering of the joint on its outside.
  • the joint can be optimally adapted to the desired deformation movements of the head part relative to the handle part in its shape and its possibilities of movement.
  • the joint is a ball joint or a hinge joint.
  • a spherical joint body sits snugly in a complementarily configured joint receptacle, so that a pivoting movement of the head part relative to the grip part in any direction through 360 ° is possible.
  • a cylindrical joint body is provided in a corresponding complementary joint receptacle, so that a pivoting of the head part relative to the grip part is possible only in one direction or one plane.
  • the joint may also have another structural design, for example as a saddle joint.
  • the outer cover can be easily applied to the joint and in particular spray on and determines the deformation properties of the head part relative to the Handle portion.
  • the reaction forces produced during deformation of the toothbrush in the elastic plastic material of the sheath and thus the spring rate of the spring device can be determined by the shape and / or the thickness of the sheath and / or by the material properties and in particular the Shore hardness of the plastic material set as desired.
  • the joint permits movement of the head part relative to the handle part in only one predetermined plane, as is the case for example with a hinge joint
  • the cover is formed by at least two tendon parts, each with one end on the handle part and attached to the headboard at the other end.
  • exactly two tendon parts should be provided, which are arranged on those opposite sides of the toothbrush, in the direction of the head part can dodge.
  • the envelope completely surrounds the joint and encapsulates it in relation to the environment.
  • a joint which allows movement of the head part relative to the handle part in several planes, for example in a ball joint, ensures sufficient spring action in all directions.
  • the complete covering of the joint for reasons of hygiene is to be preferred, since in this way reliably ruled out that dirt and / or bacteria can enter the joint and settle there.
  • the construction according to the invention of a toothbrush makes it possible to produce the grip part and the head part as separate components or in succession.
  • the handle part and the head part may consist of the same material and in particular of the same plastic.
  • the handle part and the head part made of different materials. This may be useful for cost reasons, since only the head part is inserted into the mouth of the user when using the toothbrush and thus has to meet higher hygienic requirements than the handle part.
  • the head part made of plastic and in particular consists of polypropylene.
  • the grip part may also consist of plastic and in particular of polystyrene or ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers).
  • the head part can consist of one piece, but in an alternative embodiment of the invention it can also be provided that the head part is subdivided into a first head part section carrying the bristle trim and a second head part section connected to the handle part via the joint. Head portion and the second head portion are connected to each other via another joint.
  • the further joint can have an embodiment, as has already been described above in connection with the other joint, and reference should be made to avoid repetition.
  • the further joint is associated with a further spring device in the form of a further, at least partially outer sheath, wherein the sheath may consist of a thermoplastic elastomer in the manner mentioned.
  • the further envelope may be formed in the manner mentioned by at least two tendon parts, but preferably the further envelope encapsulates the further joint completely against the environment.
  • the two head portions may be made of the same material or of different materials, but preferably for both head portions of the same plastic and in particular polypropylene is used.
  • the further joint may be a ball joint or a hinge joint.
  • the grip part and the head part are produced as separate components and then joined together to form the joint and, in particular, assembled. Subsequently, the joint is encapsulated to form the envelope with an elastic plastic material and in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • the handle part and the head part are preferably each formed as a plastic injection molded part, which are brought together and encapsulated in an injection molding machine with the envelope.
  • the head part from two head part sections, wherein for the formation of the head part first a first head part section and a second head part section are produced independently of each other and then connected together to form another joint whereupon the further joint is at least partially encapsulated to form a further envelope with an elastic and in particular elastomeric plastic material.
  • a first component in the form of the grip part or the head part is produced.
  • the other of these components ie the head part or the handle part, molded to form the joint.
  • the materials of the grip part and the head part do not enter into a cohesive connection, but are only positively connected to one another, ie the head part remains relative to the grip part movable.
  • the joint is at least partially and in particular completely encapsulated to form the envelope with an elastic plastic material and in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • the grip part, the head part and the sheath are produced in a three-step injection molding process in a common injection molding tool. If, in a first step, the grip part is injected, in the second step, the head part is sprayed onto the grip part, while maintaining the relative mobility. Alternatively, in the first step, first the head part and then in the second step, the handle part are molded. Finally, in the third step, the envelope is sprayed, which forms the spring device.
  • the sheath should completely surround the joint and thus encapsulate it from the environment.
  • FIG. 1 shows a toothbrush according to the invention 10, which has a substantially rod-shaped handle portion 13 and a rod-shaped head portion 11, which are arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction and connected to each other at the ends facing each other to form a joint 14, wherein the joint 14 according to FIG. 1 surrounded by a sheath 19 forming a spring device 17 and is completely encapsulated from the environment.
  • a bristle trim 12 is provided at the end remote from the handle portion 13 of the head portion 11, in a conventional manner.
  • FIG. 2 shows the head part 11 as a single component. It can be seen that at the handle part 3 facing the lower end of a spherical joint body 15 is formed.
  • FIG. 3 shows the handle portion 13 as a single component having on its head portion 11 facing the upper end of a hinge seat 16, in which the hinge body 15 of the head part 11 can engage.
  • the head part 11 is preferably prefabricated from plastic and provided with a bristle trim 12. Regardless, the handle 13 is also prefabricated from plastic. These two components are then mounted together by the hinge body 15 is inserted into the joint receptacle 16, where he preferably in a positive manner, in particular by cogging forces from falling out is hindered. This condition is in FIG. 4 shown. When the joint body 15 is a ball, the head part 14 can be freely pivoted relative to the grip part 13 in all directions.
  • the joint 14 of in FIG. 4 The preassembled toothbrush shown is then completely encapsulated in an injection mold with the sheath 19 made of a thermoplastic elastomer.
  • the envelope 19 forms the spring device 17, the reaction force and restoring moments generated during pivoting of the head part 11 relative to the handle portion 13 in use of the toothbrush through which the head part 11 returns to its original position relative to the handle portion 13 when the load is no longer present is.
  • the head part 11 and the handle part 13 were produced independently of each other, then mounted on each other and encapsulated in the region of the joint 14 with the sheath 19.
  • the handle part 13 can be produced, to which then the head part 11 is molded.
  • the envelope 19 is then injected in the region of the joint 14. All three process steps can take place in the same injection molding machine.
  • the joint 14 is formed as a ball joint, so that the head part 11 can pivot relative to the handle part 13 in many different directions. Accordingly, the joint 14 is complete surrounded by the sheath 19 to generate upon pivoting of the head portion 11 in any direction always corresponding reaction forces in the sheath 19.
  • FIG. 5 shows a modified embodiment in which the joint body 15 of the joint 14 is formed as a cylindrical body which sits in a complementarily shaped joint seat 16. In this way, the head part 11 can only be pivoted about a pivot axis A extending in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical joint body 15 in only one predetermined plane relative to the grip part 13.
  • the sheath 19 is formed by two tendon parts 18a and 18b disposed on opposite sides of the toothbrush 10.
  • Each tendon part 18a, 18b is fastened with its one end to the grip part 13 and with its other end to the head part 11.
  • the head part 11 is pivoted relative to the handle part 13 about the axis A, one of the tendon parts 18a, 18b is subjected to a tensile force, while the other tendon part is subjected to a corresponding compressive force.
  • the tendon parts 18a and 18b generate the reaction forces that determine the resilient deformation properties of the head part.
  • the toothbrush (10) build up in three parts, the three parts are arranged one behind the other and connected via two joints to a brush handle.
  • the handle part 13 has the structure mentioned in connection with the previous embodiments.
  • the head part 11 is subdivided into a bristle trim 12 bearing upper first head portion 11a and a via the joint 14 with the handle portion 13 in the manner mentioned connected lower 2nd head portion.
  • first head portion and the second head portion section another joint 20 is formed, which in the context having structure described with the joint 14 and is configured in the illustrated embodiment as a ball joint, which is surrounded by a further outer sheath 22 made of an elastomeric plastic and completely encapsulated in relation to the environment.
  • the further envelope 22 forms a further spring device 21, which determines the extent of the adjustment of the upper first head portion 11a relative to the lower second head portion 11b in use of the toothbrush.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Brushes (AREA)

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Zahnbürste mit einem Griffteil und einem Kopfteil, das einen Borstenbesatz trägt, wobei das Griffteil mit dem Kopfteil über ein Gelenk verbunden ist, dem eine Federvorrichtung aus einem elastischen Kunststoff-Material zugeordnet ist. Darüber hinaus betrifft die Erfindung ein Verfahren zur Herstellung einer entsprechenden Zahnbürste.The invention relates to a toothbrush with a handle part and a head part, which carries a bristle trim, wherein the handle part is connected to the head part via a hinge, which is associated with a spring device made of an elastic plastic material. Moreover, the invention relates to a method for producing a corresponding toothbrush.

Es ist seit langem bekannt, dass es sinnvoll ist, den Stiel einer Zahnbürste so elastisch auszubilden, dass der Borstenbesatz bei Verwendung der Zahnbürste eine Relativbewegung zu dem vom Benutzer mit der Hand ergriffenen Griffabschnitt ausführen kann. Auf diese Weise kann der Borstenbesatz bei Aufbringung übermäßiger Putzkräfte unter elastischer Verformung der Zahnbürste ausweichen, so dass die Gefahr der Verletzung der Mundschleimhaut und des Zahnfleisches verringert ist. Es ist bekannt, die elastische Verformbarkeit der Zahnbürste auf zwei unterschiedliche konstruktive Arten zu erreichen. Einerseits wird der Stiel der Zahnbürste als einstückiges Bauteil aus Kunststoff ausgebildet, das in einem Übergangsbereich zwischen dem hinteren Griffabschnitt und dem vorderen Kopfabschnitt durch spezielle Querschnittsgestaltungen und/oder Materialkombinationen ein geringeres Widerstandsmoment und somit eine höhere Verformbarkeit besitzt. Andererseits ist es bekannt, ein hinteres Griffteil und ein vorderes Kopfteil der Zahnbürste als eigenständige Bauteile auszubilden und über ein Gelenk miteinander zu verbinden. Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Zahnbürste des letztgenannten Aufbaus.It has long been known that it makes sense to make the stem of a toothbrush so elastic that the bristle trim can perform a relative movement to the gripped by the user by hand when using the toothbrush. In this way, the bristle stock can be avoided by applying excessive cleaning forces under elastic deformation of the toothbrush, so that the risk of injury to the oral mucosa and the gum is reduced. It is known to achieve the elastic deformability of the toothbrush in two different constructive ways. On the one hand, the stem of the toothbrush is formed as a one-piece plastic component, which has a lower resistance moment and thus a higher deformability in a transition region between the rear grip portion and the front head portion by special cross-sectional configurations and / or material combinations. On the other hand, it is known a form the rear handle part and a front head part of the toothbrush as an independent components and connect to each other via a joint. The invention relates to a toothbrush of the latter construction.

Eine entsprechende Zahnbürste ist beispielsweise aus der WO99/39610 A1 bekannt. Die dort beschriebenen Zahnbürste besitzt ein Griffteil, das an seinem vorderen, dem Borstenbesatz zugewandten Ende einen J-förmigen Hakenabschnitt aufweist. Ein Kopfteil weist an seinem hinteren, dem Griffteil zugewandten Ende ebenfalls einen J-förmigen Hakenabschnitt auf. Die beiden Hakenabschnitte greifen unter Bildung eines Spaltes ineinander und der Spalt ist mit einem elastischen Kunststoff-Material ausgefüllt. Auf diese Weise ist es möglich, dass das Kopfteil bei Gebrauch der Zahnbürste eine Schwenkung relativ zu dem Griffteil ausführt, wobei das elastische Kunststoff-Material verformt wird und die für die Rückstellung des Kopfteils erforderlichen Reaktionskräfte erzeugt.A corresponding toothbrush is for example from the WO99 / 39610 A1 known. The toothbrush described therein has a handle portion which has a J-shaped hook portion at its front, the bristle facing end facing. A head part also has a J-shaped hook section at its rear end facing the handle part. The two hook sections engage with each other to form a gap and the gap is filled with an elastic plastic material. In this way, it is possible that the head part in use of the toothbrush performs a pivoting relative to the handle portion, wherein the elastic plastic material is deformed and generates the reaction forces required for the recovery of the head part.

Bei der bekannten Zahnbürste sind die Verformungseigenschaften des Kopfteils relativ zum Griffteil wesentlich von der Dicke des Kunststoff-Materials und somit von der Größe des Spaltes zwischen dem Kopfteil und dem Griffteil abhängig. Da die Größe des Spaltes konstruktiv vorgegeben ist, lassen sich Zahnbürsten mit unterschiedlichen verformungseigenschaften nur durch Verwendung unterschiedlicher elastischer Kunststoff-Materialien erzielen. Dies ist produktionstechnisch nachteilig. Darüber hinaus hat es sich gezeigt, dass die bekannte Zahnbürste senkrecht zu der gewünschten Bewegungsrichtung des Kopfteils eine undefinierte Steifigkeit besitzt, so dass es bei Benutzung der Zahnbürste zum Ausknicken kommen kann.In the known toothbrush, the deformation properties of the head part relative to the handle part are substantially dependent on the thickness of the plastic material and thus on the size of the gap between the head part and the handle part. Since the size of the gap is structurally predetermined, toothbrushes with different deformation properties can only be achieved by using different elastic plastic materials. This is disadvantageous in terms of production technology. In addition, it has been shown that the known toothbrush has an undefined rigidity perpendicular to the desired direction of movement of the head part, so that it can come to buckling when using the toothbrush.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Zahnbürste der genannten Art zu schaffen, mit der sich definierte Verformungseigenschaften bei Gebrauch erzielen lassen. Darüber hinaus soll ein Verfahren geschaffen werden, mit dem sich eine entsprechende Zahnbürste in einfacher und kostengünstiger Weise herstellen läst.The invention has for its object to provide a toothbrush of the type mentioned, with the defined deformation properties can be achieved in use. About that In addition, a method is to be created with which a corresponding toothbrush can be produced in a simple and cost-effective manner.

Hinsichtlich der Zahnbürste wir die oben genannte Aufgabe erfindungsgemäß dadurch gelöst, dass die Federvorrichtung von einer zumindest teilweisen äußeren Umhüllung des Gelenkes gebildet ist, wobei die Umhüllung vorzugsweise aus einem thermoplastischen Elastomer besteht.With regard to the toothbrush, we achieved the above-mentioned object according to the invention in that the spring device is formed by an at least partial outer envelope of the joint, wherein the envelope preferably consists of a thermoplastic elastomer.

Gemäß der Erfindung wird von der Grundüberlegung ausgegangen, das elastische Kunststoff-Material, das die Federvorrichtung bildet, nicht innerhalb des Gelenks anzuordnen, sondern in Form einer zumindest teilweisen äußeren Umhüllung des Gelenkes auf dessen Außenseite anzuordnen. Auf diese Weise ist der Vorteil gegeben, dass das Gelenk in seiner Formgebung und seinen Bewegungsmöglichkeiten optimal an die gewünschten Verformungsbewegungen des Kopfteils relativ zum Griffteil angepasst werden kann.According to the invention, the basic idea is to not arrange the elastic plastic material forming the spring device within the joint, but to arrange it in the form of an at least partial outer covering of the joint on its outside. In this way, the advantage is given that the joint can be optimally adapted to the desired deformation movements of the head part relative to the handle part in its shape and its possibilities of movement.

In bevorzugter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, dass das Gelenk ein Kugelgelenk oder ein Scharniergelenk ist. Bei einem Kugelgelenk sitzt ein kugelförmiger Gelenkkörper unter enger Passung in einer komplementär ausgestalteten Gelenkaufnahme, so dass eine Schwenkbewegung des Kopfteils relativ zu dem Griffteil in beliebige Richtung um 360° möglich ist. Bei einem Scharniergelenk hingegen ist ein zylinderförmiger Gelenkkörper in einer entsprechenden komplementären Gelenkaufnahme vorgesehen, so dass eine Schwenkung des Kopfteils relativ zu dem Griffteil nur in einer Richtung bzw. einer Ebene möglich ist. Das Gelenk kann auch eine andere konstruktive Ausgestaltung, beispielsweise als Sattelgelenk aufweisen.In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the joint is a ball joint or a hinge joint. In a ball and socket joint, a spherical joint body sits snugly in a complementarily configured joint receptacle, so that a pivoting movement of the head part relative to the grip part in any direction through 360 ° is possible. In contrast, in a hinge joint, a cylindrical joint body is provided in a corresponding complementary joint receptacle, so that a pivoting of the head part relative to the grip part is possible only in one direction or one plane. The joint may also have another structural design, for example as a saddle joint.

Die äußere Umhüllung läßt sich in einfacher Weise auf das Gelenk aufbringen und insbesondere aufspritzen und bestimmt die Verformungseigenschaften des Kopfteils relativ zu dem Griffteil. Die bei Verformung der Zahnbürste in dem elastischen Kunststoff-Material der Umhüllung hervorgerufenen Reaktionskräfte und somit die Federrate der Federvorrichtung lassen sich durch die Formgebung und/oder die Dicke der Umhüllung und/oder über die Materialeigenschaften und insbesondere die Shore-Härte des Kunststoff-Materials in gewünschter Weise festlegen.The outer cover can be easily applied to the joint and in particular spray on and determines the deformation properties of the head part relative to the Handle portion. The reaction forces produced during deformation of the toothbrush in the elastic plastic material of the sheath and thus the spring rate of the spring device can be determined by the shape and / or the thickness of the sheath and / or by the material properties and in particular the Shore hardness of the plastic material set as desired.

Wenn das Gelenk eine Bewegung des Kopfteils relativ zu dem Griffteil in nur einer vorgegebenen Ebene zuläßt, wie es beispielsweise bei einem Scharniergelenk der Fall ist, ist es ausreichend, wenn die Umhüllung von zumindest zwei Sehnenteilen gebildet ist, die jeweils mit einem Ende am Griffteil und am anderen Ende am Kopfteil befestigt sind. Insbesondere sollten genau zwei Sehnenteile vorgesehen sein, die auf denjenigen entgegengesetzten Seiten der Zahnbürste angeordnet sind, in deren Richtung das Kopfteil ausweichen kann.If the joint permits movement of the head part relative to the handle part in only one predetermined plane, as is the case for example with a hinge joint, it is sufficient if the cover is formed by at least two tendon parts, each with one end on the handle part and attached to the headboard at the other end. In particular, exactly two tendon parts should be provided, which are arranged on those opposite sides of the toothbrush, in the direction of the head part can dodge.

In besonders bevorzugter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, dass die Umhüllung das Gelenk vollständig umgibt und gegenüber der Umgebung abkapselt. Auf diese Weise ist einerseits bei einem Gelenk, das eine Bewegung des Kopfteils relativ zu dem Griffteil in mehreren Ebenen erlaubt, beispielsweise bei einem Kugelgelenk, in alle Richtungen eine ausreichende Federwirkung sichergestellt. Darüber hinaus ist die vollständige Umhüllung des Gelenkes aus hygienischen Gründen zu bevorzugen, da auf diese Weise zuverlässig ausgeschlossen ist, dass Schmutz und/oder Bakterien in das Gelenk eintreten und sich dort festsetzen können.In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the envelope completely surrounds the joint and encapsulates it in relation to the environment. In this way, on the one hand in a joint which allows movement of the head part relative to the handle part in several planes, for example in a ball joint, ensures sufficient spring action in all directions. In addition, the complete covering of the joint for reasons of hygiene is to be preferred, since in this way reliably ruled out that dirt and / or bacteria can enter the joint and settle there.

Der erfindungsgemäße Aufbau einer Zahnbürste ermöglicht es, das Griffteil und das Kopfteil als separate Bauteile oder nacheinander herzustellen. Dabei können das Griffteil und das Kopfteil aus dem gleichen Material und insbesondere aus dem gleichen Kunststoff bestehen. In Weiterbildung der Erfindung ist jedoch vorgesehen, dass das Griffteil und das Kopfteil aus unterschiedlichen Materialien bestehen. Dies kann aus Kostengründen sinnvoll sein, da nur das Kopfteil bei Gebrauch der Zahnbürste in den Mund des Benutzers eingeführt wird und somit höheren hygienischen Anforderungen als das Griffteil genügen muss. In bevorzugter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist vorgesehen, dass das Kopfteil aus Kunststoff und insbesondere aus Polypropylen besteht. Auch das Griffteil kann aus Kunststoff und insbesondere aus Polystyrol oder ABS (Acrylnitril-Butadien-Styrol-Copolymere) bestehen.The construction according to the invention of a toothbrush makes it possible to produce the grip part and the head part as separate components or in succession. The handle part and the head part may consist of the same material and in particular of the same plastic. In development of the invention However, it is provided that the handle part and the head part made of different materials. This may be useful for cost reasons, since only the head part is inserted into the mouth of the user when using the toothbrush and thus has to meet higher hygienic requirements than the handle part. In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that the head part made of plastic and in particular consists of polypropylene. The grip part may also consist of plastic and in particular of polystyrene or ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers).

Das Kopfteil kann aus einem Stück bestehen, in einer alternativen Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kann jedoch auch vorgesehen sein, dass das Kopfteil in einen den Borstenbesatz tragenden 1. Kopfteilabschnitt und einen über das Gelenk mit dem Griffteil verbundenen 2. Kopfteilabschnitt unterteilt ist, wobei der 1. Kopfteilabschnitt und der 2. Kopfteilabschnitt über ein weiteres Gelenk miteinander verbunden sind. Das weitere Gelenk kann eine Ausgestaltung aufweisen, wie es im Vorhergehenden im Zusammenhang mit dem anderen Gelenk bereits beschrieben ist und worauf zwecks Vermeidung von Widerholungen verwiesen werden soll. Insbesondere ist dem weiteren Gelenk eine weitere Federvorrichtung in Form einer weiteren, zumindest teilweisen äußeren Umhüllung zugeordnet, wobei die Umhüllung in genannter Weise aus einem thermoplastischen Elastomer bestehen kann. Die weitere Umhüllung kann in genannter Weise von zumindest zwei Sehnenteilen gebildet sein, vorzugsweise kapselt die weitere Umhüllung das weitere Gelenk jedoch vollständig gegenüber der Umgebung ab.The head part can consist of one piece, but in an alternative embodiment of the invention it can also be provided that the head part is subdivided into a first head part section carrying the bristle trim and a second head part section connected to the handle part via the joint. Head portion and the second head portion are connected to each other via another joint. The further joint can have an embodiment, as has already been described above in connection with the other joint, and reference should be made to avoid repetition. In particular, the further joint is associated with a further spring device in the form of a further, at least partially outer sheath, wherein the sheath may consist of a thermoplastic elastomer in the manner mentioned. The further envelope may be formed in the manner mentioned by at least two tendon parts, but preferably the further envelope encapsulates the further joint completely against the environment.

Die beiden Kopfteilabschnitte können aus dem gleichen Material oder auch aus unterschiedlichen Materialien bestehen, wobei jedoch vorzugsweise für beide Kopfteilabschnitte der gleiche Kunststoff und insbesondere Polypropylen verwendet wird.The two head portions may be made of the same material or of different materials, but preferably for both head portions of the same plastic and in particular polypropylene is used.

Das weitere Gelenk kann ein Kugelgelenk oder ein Scharniergelenk sein.The further joint may be a ball joint or a hinge joint.

Hinsichtlich des Verfahrens kann die oben genannte Aufgabe auf unterschiedliche Weise gelöst werden. In einer ersten Ausgestaltung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens ist vorgesehen, dass das Griffteil und das Kopfteil als separate Bauteile hergestellt und dann unter Bildung des Gelenkes miteinander verbunden und insbesondere zusammengebaut werden. Anschließend wird das Gelenk unter Bildung der Umhüllung mit einem elastischen Kunststoff-Material und insbesondere einem thermoplastischem Elastomer umspritzt. Das Griffteil und das Kopfteil sind vorzugsweise jeweils als Kunststoff-Spritzgussteil ausgebildet, die zusammengeführt und in einer Spritzgussmaschine mit der Umhüllung umspritzt werden.With regard to the method, the above-mentioned object can be achieved in different ways. In a first embodiment of the method according to the invention, it is provided that the grip part and the head part are produced as separate components and then joined together to form the joint and, in particular, assembled. Subsequently, the joint is encapsulated to form the envelope with an elastic plastic material and in particular a thermoplastic elastomer. The handle part and the head part are preferably each formed as a plastic injection molded part, which are brought together and encapsulated in an injection molding machine with the envelope.

Das Kopfteil kann als einstückiges Bauteil hergestellt werden, es ist jedoch auch möglich, das Kopfteil aus zwei Kopfteilabschnitten herzustellen, wobei zur Bildung des Kopfteils zunächst ein 1. Kopfteilabschnitt und ein 2. Kopfteilabschnitt unabhängig voneinander hergestellt und dann unter Bildung eines weiteren Gelenkes miteinander verbunden werden, woraufhin das weitere Gelenk unter Bildung einer weiteren Umhüllung mit einem elastischen und insbesondere elastomeren Kunststoff-Material zumindest teilweise umspritzt wird.However, it is also possible to manufacture the head part from two head part sections, wherein for the formation of the head part first a first head part section and a second head part section are produced independently of each other and then connected together to form another joint whereupon the further joint is at least partially encapsulated to form a further envelope with an elastic and in particular elastomeric plastic material.

Bei einer alternativen Ausgestaltung des Verfahrens wird zunächst ein erstes Bauteil in Form des Griffteils oder des Kopfteils hergestellt. An dieses erste Bauteil wird in einer Spritzgussmaschine dann das andere dieser Bauteile, d.h. das Kopfteil oder das Griffteil, unter Bildung des Gelenkes angespritzt. Dabei gehen die Materialien des Griffteils und des Kopfteils aber keine stoffschlüssige Verbindung ein, sondern stehen nur formschlüssig miteinander in Verbindung, d.h. das Kopfteil bleibt relativ zu dem Griffteil beweglich. Anschließend wird das Gelenk unter Bildung der Umhüllung mit einem elastischen Kunststoff-Material und insbesondere einem thermoplastischem Elastomer zumindest teilweise und insbesondere vollständig umspritzt.In an alternative embodiment of the method, first a first component in the form of the grip part or the head part is produced. At this first component in an injection molding machine then the other of these components, ie the head part or the handle part, molded to form the joint. However, the materials of the grip part and the head part do not enter into a cohesive connection, but are only positively connected to one another, ie the head part remains relative to the grip part movable. Subsequently, the joint is at least partially and in particular completely encapsulated to form the envelope with an elastic plastic material and in particular a thermoplastic elastomer.

In einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung dieses Verfahrens ist vorgesehen, dass das Griffteil, das Kopfteil und die Umhüllung in einem dreistufigen Spritzguss-Verfahren in einem gemeinsamen Spritzgusswerkzeug hergestellt werden. Wenn in einem ersten Schritt das Griffteil gespritzt wird, wird in dem zweiten Schritt an das Griffteil das Kopfteil unter Beibehaltung der relativen Beweglichkeit angespritzt. Alternativ kann in dem ersten Schritt auch zunächst das Kopfteil und in dem zweiten Schritt dann das Griffteil angespritzt werden. Abschließend wird in dem dritten Schritt die Umhüllung aufgespritzt, die die Federvorrichtung bildet.In a preferred embodiment of this method, it is provided that the grip part, the head part and the sheath are produced in a three-step injection molding process in a common injection molding tool. If, in a first step, the grip part is injected, in the second step, the head part is sprayed onto the grip part, while maintaining the relative mobility. Alternatively, in the first step, first the head part and then in the second step, the handle part are molded. Finally, in the third step, the envelope is sprayed, which forms the spring device.

In allen Verfahrensausgestaltungen sollte die Umhüllung das Gelenk vollständig umgeben und somit gegenüber der Umgebung abkapseln.In all of the process designs, the sheath should completely surround the joint and thus encapsulate it from the environment.

Weitere Merkmale der Verfahren insbesondere hinsichtlich der zur Verwendung kommenden Materialien sind aus der oben stehenden Beschreibung der Zahnbürste zu entnehmen.Further features of the method, in particular with regard to the materials used for use, can be taken from the above description of the toothbrush.

Weitere Einzelheiten und Merkmale der Erfindung sind aus der folgendenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen unter Bezugnahme auf die Zeichnung ersichtlich. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine erfindungsgemäße Zahnbürste in Seitenansicht
Fig. 2
ein Kopfteil als separates Bauteil,
Fig. 3
ein Griffteil als separates Bauteil,
Fig. 4
das Kopfteil und das Griffteil nach dem Zusammenfügen,
Fig. 5
eine Zahnbürste gemäß einem alternativen Ausführungsbeispiel und
Fig. 6
eine Weiterbildung der Zahnbürste gemäß Figur 1.
Further details and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing. Show it:
Fig. 1
a toothbrush according to the invention in side view
Fig. 2
a head part as a separate component,
Fig. 3
a grip as a separate component,
Fig. 4
the head part and the handle part after assembly,
Fig. 5
a toothbrush according to an alternative embodiment and
Fig. 6
a development of the toothbrush according to FIG. 1

Figur 1 zeigt eine erfindungsgemäße Zahnbürste 10, die ein im wesentlichen stabförmiges Griffteil 13 und ein stabförmiges Kopfteil 11 aufweist, die in Längsrichtung hintereinander liegend angeordnet und an den einander zugewandten Enden unter Bildung eines Gelenks 14 miteinander verbunden sind, wobei das Gelenk 14 gemäß Figur 1 von einer eine Federvorrichtung 17 bildenden Umhüllung 19 umgeben und vollständig gegenüber der Umgebung abgekapselt ist. An dem dem Griffteil 13 abgewandten Ende des Kopfteils 11 ist in herkömmlicher Weise ein Borstenbesatz 12 vorgesehen. FIG. 1 shows a toothbrush according to the invention 10, which has a substantially rod-shaped handle portion 13 and a rod-shaped head portion 11, which are arranged one behind the other in the longitudinal direction and connected to each other at the ends facing each other to form a joint 14, wherein the joint 14 according to FIG. 1 surrounded by a sheath 19 forming a spring device 17 and is completely encapsulated from the environment. At the end remote from the handle portion 13 of the head portion 11, a bristle trim 12 is provided in a conventional manner.

Figur 2 zeigt das Kopfteil 11 als einzelnes Bauteil. Dabei ist ersichtlich, dass an dem dem Griffteil 3 zugewandten, unteren Ende ein kugelförmiger Gelenkkörper 15 angeformt ist. FIG. 2 shows the head part 11 as a single component. It can be seen that at the handle part 3 facing the lower end of a spherical joint body 15 is formed.

Figur 3 zeigt das Griffteil 13 als einzelnes Bauteil, das auf seinem dem Kopfteil 11 zugewandten oberen Ende eine Gelenkaufnahme 16 aufweist, in die der Gelenkkörper 15 des Kopfteils 11 eingreifen kann. FIG. 3 shows the handle portion 13 as a single component having on its head portion 11 facing the upper end of a hinge seat 16, in which the hinge body 15 of the head part 11 can engage.

Das Kopfteil 11 wird vorzugsweise aus Kunststoff vorgefertigt und mit einem Borstenbesatz 12 versehen. Unabhängig davon wird das Griffteil 13 ebenfalls aus Kunststoff vorgefertigt. Diese beiden Bauteile werden anschließend aneinander montiert, indem der Gelenkkörper 15 in die Gelenkaufnahme 16 eingesetzt wird, wo er vorzugsweise in formschlüssiger Weise insbesondere durch Rastkräfte an einem Herausfallen gehindert ist. Dieser Zustand ist in Figur 4 dargestellt. Wenn der Gelenkkörper 15 eine Kugel ist, kann das Kopfteil 14 relativ zu dem Griffteil 13 in alle Richtungen frei verschwenkt werden.The head part 11 is preferably prefabricated from plastic and provided with a bristle trim 12. Regardless, the handle 13 is also prefabricated from plastic. These two components are then mounted together by the hinge body 15 is inserted into the joint receptacle 16, where he preferably in a positive manner, in particular by cogging forces from falling out is hindered. This condition is in FIG. 4 shown. When the joint body 15 is a ball, the head part 14 can be freely pivoted relative to the grip part 13 in all directions.

Das Gelenk 14 der in Figur 4 dargestellten vormontierten Zahnbürste wird anschließend in einem Spritzgusswerkzeug vollständig mit der Umhüllung 19 aus einem thermoplastischem Elastomer umspritzt. Die Umhüllung 19 bildet die Federvorrichtung 17, die bei einer Schwenkung des Kopfteils 11 relativ zu dem Griffteil 13 bei Gebrauch der Zahnbürste Reaktionskräfte und Rückstellmomente erzeugt, durch die das Kopfteil 11 wieder in seine Ausgangsstellung relativ zum Griffteil 13 zurückkehrt, wenn die Belastung nicht mehr vorhanden ist.The joint 14 of in FIG. 4 The preassembled toothbrush shown is then completely encapsulated in an injection mold with the sheath 19 made of a thermoplastic elastomer. The envelope 19 forms the spring device 17, the reaction force and restoring moments generated during pivoting of the head part 11 relative to the handle portion 13 in use of the toothbrush through which the head part 11 returns to its original position relative to the handle portion 13 when the load is no longer present is.

Bei der dargestellten Verfahrensvariante wurden das Kopfteil 11 und das Griffteil 13 unabhängig voneinander hergestellt, dann aneinander montiert und im Bereich des Gelenkes 14 mit der Umhüllung 19 umspritzt. Alternativ ist es auch möglich, zunächst nur das Kopfteil 11 in einem ersten Verfahrensschritt herzustellen und dann das Griffteil 13 in einer Spritzgussmaschine so an das Kopfteil 11 anzuspritzen, dass die beiden Teile formschlüssig miteinander verbunden, jedoch relativ zueinander schwenkbar sind. Selbstverständlich läßt sich auch zunächst das Griffteil 13 herstellen, an das dann das Kopfteil 11 angespritzt wird.In the illustrated variant of the method, the head part 11 and the handle part 13 were produced independently of each other, then mounted on each other and encapsulated in the region of the joint 14 with the sheath 19. Alternatively, it is also possible initially to produce only the head part 11 in a first method step and then to inject the handle part 13 in an injection molding machine to the head part 11 in such a way that the two parts are positively connected to one another but pivotable relative to one another. Of course, first, the handle part 13 can be produced, to which then the head part 11 is molded.

In einem dritten Verfahrensschritt wird dann im Bereich des Gelenkes 14 die Umhüllung 19 angespritzt. Alle drei Verfahrensschritte können in der selben Spritzgussmaschine stattfinden.In a third method step, the envelope 19 is then injected in the region of the joint 14. All three process steps can take place in the same injection molding machine.

Bei dem oben beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispiel ist das Gelenk 14 als Kugelgelenk ausgebildet, so dass das Kopfteil 11 relativ zum Griffteil 13 in viele unterschiedliche Richtungen schwenken kann. Entsprechend ist das Gelenk 14 vollständig von der Umhüllung 19 umgeben, um bei Schwenkung des Kopfteils 11 in eine beliebige Richtung immer entsprechende Reaktionskräfte in der Umhüllung 19 zu erzeugen. Figur 5 zeigt eine abgewandelte Ausgestaltung, bei der der Gelenkkörper 15 des Gelenks 14 als Zylinderkörper ausgebildet ist, der in einer komplementär geformten Gelenkaufnahme 16 sitzt. Auf diese Weise kann das Kopfteil 11 nur um eine in Längsrichtung des zylindrischen Gelenkkörpers 15 verlaufende Schwenkachse A in nur einer vorbestimmten Ebene relativ zum Griffteil 13 geschwenkt werden. Bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel ist es ausreichend, das Gelenk 14 nicht vollständig mit der Umhüllung 19 zu umgeben, sondern die Umhüllung 19 ist durch zwei Sehnenteile 18a und 18b gebildet, die auf entgegengesetzten Seiten der Zahnbürste 10 angeordnet sind. Jedes Sehnenteil 18a, 18b ist mit seinem einen Ende am Griffteil 13 und mit seinem anderen Ende am Kopfteil 11 befestigt. Wenn das Kopfteil 11 relativ zum Griffteil 13 um die Achse A geschwenkt wird, wird eines der Sehnenteile 18a, 18b mit einer Zugkraft beaufschlagt, während das andere Sehnenteil entsprechend mit einer Druckkraft beaufschlagt wird. Die Sehnenteile 18a und 18b erzeugen die Reaktionskräfte, die die federnden Verformungseigenschaften des Kopfteils bestimmen.In the embodiment described above, the joint 14 is formed as a ball joint, so that the head part 11 can pivot relative to the handle part 13 in many different directions. Accordingly, the joint 14 is complete surrounded by the sheath 19 to generate upon pivoting of the head portion 11 in any direction always corresponding reaction forces in the sheath 19. FIG. 5 shows a modified embodiment in which the joint body 15 of the joint 14 is formed as a cylindrical body which sits in a complementarily shaped joint seat 16. In this way, the head part 11 can only be pivoted about a pivot axis A extending in the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical joint body 15 in only one predetermined plane relative to the grip part 13. In this embodiment, it is sufficient not to completely surround the hinge 14 with the sheath 19, but the sheath 19 is formed by two tendon parts 18a and 18b disposed on opposite sides of the toothbrush 10. Each tendon part 18a, 18b is fastened with its one end to the grip part 13 and with its other end to the head part 11. When the head part 11 is pivoted relative to the handle part 13 about the axis A, one of the tendon parts 18a, 18b is subjected to a tensile force, while the other tendon part is subjected to a corresponding compressive force. The tendon parts 18a and 18b generate the reaction forces that determine the resilient deformation properties of the head part.

Bei den bisher dargestellten Ausführungsbeispielen ist nur ein Gelenk vorgesehen, jedoch ist es in Weiterbildung der Erfindung auch möglich (siehe Figur 6), die Zahnbürste (10) dreiteilig aufzubauen, wobei die drei Teile hintereinander liegend angeordnet und über zwei Gelenke zu einem Bürstenstiel verbunden sind. Dabei besitzt das Griffteil 13 den im Zusammenhang mit den vorherigen Ausführungsbeispielen genannten Aufbau. Das Kopfteil 11 ist in einen den Borstenbesatz 12 tragenden oberen 1. Kopfteilabschnitt 11a und einen über das Gelenk 14 mit dem Griffteil 13 in genannter Weise verbundenen unteren 2. Kopfteilabschnitt unterteilt. Zwischen dem 1. Kopfteilabschnitt und dem 2. Kopfteilabschnitt ist ein weiteres Gelenk 20 ausgebildet, das den im Zusammenhang mit dem Gelenk 14 beschriebenen Aufbau aufweist und im dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel als Kugelgelenk ausgestaltet ist, das von einer weiteren äußeren Umhüllung 22 aus einem elastomeren Kunststoff umgeben und vollständig gegenüber der Umgebung abgekapselt ist. Die weitere Umhüllung 22 bildet eine weitere Federvorrichtung 21, die das Maß der Verstellung des oberen 1. Kopfteilabschnitts 11a gegenüber dem unteren 2. Kopfteilabschnitt 11b bei Gebrauch der Zahnbürste bestimmt.In the embodiments shown so far, only one joint is provided, but it is also possible in the invention (see FIG. 6 ), the toothbrush (10) build up in three parts, the three parts are arranged one behind the other and connected via two joints to a brush handle. In this case, the handle part 13 has the structure mentioned in connection with the previous embodiments. The head part 11 is subdivided into a bristle trim 12 bearing upper first head portion 11a and a via the joint 14 with the handle portion 13 in the manner mentioned connected lower 2nd head portion. Between the first head portion and the second head portion section another joint 20 is formed, which in the context having structure described with the joint 14 and is configured in the illustrated embodiment as a ball joint, which is surrounded by a further outer sheath 22 made of an elastomeric plastic and completely encapsulated in relation to the environment. The further envelope 22 forms a further spring device 21, which determines the extent of the adjustment of the upper first head portion 11a relative to the lower second head portion 11b in use of the toothbrush.

Claims (24)

  1. Toothbrush (10) with a grip part (13) and a head part (11) carrying a set of bristles (12), wherein the grip part (13) and the head part (11) are independent parts being connected to each other via a joint (14) which is associated with a spring element (17) from an elastic plastic material, characterized in that the spring element (17) is formed by an at least partial outer cover (19) of the joint (14).
  2. Toothbrush according to the claim 1, characterized in that the cover (19) is made of a thermoplastic elastomer.
  3. Toothbrush according to either one of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the cover (19) is formed by at least two tendon parts (18a, 18b) that are attached to the grip part (13) and the head part (11).
  4. Toothbrush according to the claim 3, characterized in that two tendon parts (18a, 18b) are provided that are located on opposite sides of the toothbrush (10).
  5. Toothbrush according to either one of the claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the cover (19) completely encloses the joint (14) and seals it off relative to the surroundings.
  6. Toothbrush according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the grip part (13) and the head part (11) consist of different materials.
  7. Toothbrush according to any one of the claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the head part (11) consists of plastic and, in particular, polypropylene.
  8. Toothbrush according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the grip part (13) consists of plastic and, in particular, of polystyrene or ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymers).
  9. Toothbrush according to any one of the claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the joint (14) is a ball-and-socket joint.
  10. Toothbrush according to any one of the claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the joint (14) is a hinged joint.
  11. Toothbrush according to any one of the claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the head part (11) is divided into a first head part section (11a) carrying the set of bristles (12) and a second head part section (11b) connected to the grip part (13) via the joint (14), wherein the first head part section (11a) and the second head part section (11b) are interconnected via a further joint (20), that is associated with a further spring element (21) in the form of a further, at least partial outer cover (22).
  12. Toothbrush according to the claim 11, characterized in that the further cover (22) consists of a thermoplastic elastomer.
  13. Toothbrush according to either one of the claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the further cover (22) completely encloses the further joint (20) and seals it off relative to the surroundings.
  14. Toothbrush according to any one of the claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the further joint (20) is a ball-and-socket joint or a hinged joint.
  15. Method for producing a toothbrush, wherein a grip part (13) and a head part (11) are produced as separate components and then interconnected to form a joint (14) and wherein the joint (14) is then at least partially overmolded with an elastic plastic material to form a cover (19).
  16. Method according to the claim 15, characterized in that, to form the head part (11), a first head part section (11a) and a second head part section (11b) are initially produced independently and are interconnected to form a further joint (20) and that the further joint (20) is then at least partially overmolded with an elastic plastic material to form a further cover (22).
  17. Method for producing a toothbrush, wherein a first component in the form of a grip part (13) or a head part (11) is initially produced and the other of these components is then molded on the first component to form a joint (14) in such a way that only a positive-action connection is provided between the components, wherein the joint (14) is then at least partially overmolded with an elastic plastic material to form a cover (19).
  18. Method according to either one of the claims 15 or 17, characterized in that the grip part (13) and the head part (11) are each produced by a plastic injection-molding.
  19. Method according to the claim 17, characterized in that the grip part (13), the head part (11) and the cover (19) are produced in a three-stage injection-molding process in a common mold.
  20. Method according to any one of the claims 15 to 19, characterized in that the cover (19) consists of a thermoplastic elastomer.
  21. Method according to any one of the claims 15 to 20, characterized in that the cover (19) is produced in such a way that it completely encloses the joint (14) and seals it off relative to the surroundings.
  22. Method according to any one of the claims 15 to 21, characterized in that the grip part (13) and the head part (11) consist of different materials.
  23. Method according to any one of the claims 15 to 22, characterized in that the head part (11) consists of plastic and, in particular, of polypropylene.
  24. Method according to any one of the claims 15 to 23, char acterized in that the grip part (13) consists of plastic and, in particular, of polystyrene or ABS.
EP07723235.3A 2006-03-21 2007-03-14 Toothbrush and method for producing it Not-in-force EP1996043B1 (en)

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DE102006013272A DE102006013272A1 (en) 2006-03-21 2006-03-21 Toothbrush and method for its manufacture
PCT/EP2007/002225 WO2007107270A1 (en) 2006-03-21 2007-03-14 Toothbrush and method for producing it

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EP (1) EP1996043B1 (en)
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ES2327984T3 (en) * 1997-02-24 2009-11-05 Smithkline Beecham Consumer Healthcare Gmbh TOOTHBRUSH.
WO1999016332A2 (en) * 1997-09-26 1999-04-08 Smithkline Beecham Gmbh & Co. Kg Toothbrush
DE29721004U1 (en) * 1997-11-27 1998-02-12 Garnjost, Achim, Dr.med., 53721 Siegburg Pressure-limited toothbrush
GB9802248D0 (en) * 1998-02-04 1998-04-01 Smithkline Beecham Gmbh & Co Toothbrush
DE29820735U1 (en) * 1998-11-20 2000-03-23 M + C Schiffer GmbH, 53577 Neustadt Brush, especially toothbrush
GB0014495D0 (en) * 2000-06-15 2000-08-09 Smithkline Beecham Gmbh & Co Process
DE10055930A1 (en) * 2000-11-10 2002-05-23 Geyer Bruno Werkzeugbau Manual tooth brush has handle and head, sideways protruding bristles, pivot link detachable and self locking by means of arrangement of catches.
US6931688B2 (en) * 2002-08-09 2005-08-23 Colgate-Palmolive Company Toothbrush

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP1996043A1 (en) 2008-12-03
US20100313371A1 (en) 2010-12-16
WO2007107270A1 (en) 2007-09-27
DE102006013272A1 (en) 2007-10-04

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