EP2605683B1 - Toothbrush with brush topography structuring - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a method for producing anchorless bristled toothbrushes.

Toothbrushes usually have a brush head with a bristle field formed from bristle bundles. Such toothbrushes are known from the prior art. The bristle fields of the toothbrushes have been diversified over time to improve their application, that is, on the one hand the cleaning effect and on the other hand the handling for the user. One of these developments relates to the use of profiled bristle fields and bristle bundles with bristles of different heights.

US 5,926,897 discloses a toothbrush having a bristle field composed of bristle bundles. This bristle field is designed profiled and the individual bristle bundles have a number of higher standing bristles, which form a higher end surface.

DE 198 32 436 describes a method for making brushes, in particular toothbrushes. The method shows the processing of bristle bundles with different lengths bristles, wherein the processing of the bristles is performed in different steps by means of lateral deflection.

US design 425,306 shows an ornamental bristle field with substantially triangular bristle bundles, at the corners of higher standing bristles are arranged.

EP 1 425 989 discloses toothbrushes with pointed bristles and a method of making the same. The bristles can have two identical pointed ends or different, ie, one not pointed and one pointed end.

WO 2009/000903 describes a toothbrush with bristle bundles, these bristle bundles on the one hand have shorter non-pointed bristles and on the other hand longer pointed bristles. The longer bristles may be randomly distributed in the bristle bundle or centrally located in an inner region of the bristle bundle.

In the US 2003/132661 A1 there is described a method of making a brush which comprises introducing bristles into a bristle insertion hole and, after insertion, implanting the bristles into a resin material; the method further comprising preparing independent sleeves corresponding to the cross-sectional shapes and cross-sectional areas in the bristle insertion hole; inserting the bristles into the sleeve; and independently introducing the bristles within the sleeve into the respective bristle insertion holes, each through an extruding means.

EP 1 449 458 A1 discloses a method of making brushes wherein bundles of bristles are provided in a brush body, which method also includes a step of subjecting the free ends of the bristles to working by being brought into contact with a processor, wherein during the above Step the bristles and the processing device are brought into contact with each other, wherein the bristles are loosely held together. Finally, in EP 0 972 465 A1 a method of manufacturing brushes is described in which a device is used which consists of at least one support with openings arranged in a specific pattern relative to one another, whereby the bristle bundles to be provided in a brush body are introduced into this support and in which this method further consists in the combination of at least four steps, namely the lateral separation of bristle bundles from at least one number of loose bristles; the mechanical provision of the aforementioned bristle bundles in the aforementioned carrier; the transfer of bristle bundles, which are arranged in the carrier by means of this carrier on a holder; and by means of this support the fixation of the bundles of bristles in the brush body or at least in a part of the brush body, this being done by introducing the bristle bundles with one of its ends in a mold, wherein the bundles of bristles extend through the support and then, after having one or more Intermediate steps have been carried out by injecting synthetic material into the mold to form at least a portion of the brush body.

The object underlying the present invention is to provide a toothbrush which is easy to produce and which has a very good cleaning effect and is easy to handle.

The object is achieved by a method having the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims.

In the method according to the invention for producing anchorless brushed toothbrushes, a bundle of bristles with cylindrical bristles and / or sharpened bristles is introduced into a receiving recess of a tool of a bristling machine. By means of a guided in the receiving recess profile pin is acted on the pin facing the end of the bristles of the bristle bundle to their orientation, so that the bristles of the bristle bundle are aligned by means of an end face of the profiled pin and thereby form the topography of the end face of the profiled pin complementary topography, said the profile pin on the end face acting on the bristles has a non-continuous surface which forms several levels. The bristles impacted by the profiled pins protrude with an end portion over the upper underside of a bristle support plate, and the bristle end portions thereof are fused to secure the bristles to the bristle support plate. To produce a bristle bundle which is circular in plan view and has a centrally arranged raised bristle bundle part and a lower bristle bundle part, wherein the higher bristle bundle part is completely surrounded by the lower bristle bundle part, the profiled pin has a depression corresponding to the raised bristle bundle part.

Not continuous means that the surface has an edge transition, i. an edge.

An apparatus for carrying out the method according to the invention for producing a toothbrush comprises a matrix with profile pins guided therein, wherein the Profile pins have a highly polished or lapped surface.

A toothbrush produced by the method according to the invention is produced regularly from plastic and comprises at least one hard component and / or one or more soft components. Furthermore, the main body of the toothbrush comprising a head part, a grip part and a neck part connecting the head part and the grip part comprises a carrier element. The carrier element is preferably a bristle carrier plate. The bristle field formed from bristle bundles is arranged on the carrier element.

Both the head, the neck, the handle part and also the carrier element comprise at least one hard component and / or at least one soft component. Of course, simpler embodiments can be selected in which the head, the neck, and the handle part and / or the support member is made exclusively of one or more hard components.

With the soft component soft elastic cleaning and massage elements are usually molded onto the support member before the support member is equipped with cylindrical, extruded bristles. Thanks to the injection molding technology, these cleaning and massage elements can have a wide variety of shapes.

A special form of cleaning and massage elements are very fine sprayed bristles which are modeled on the cylindrical, extruded bristles. The sprayed bristles are usually as the cleaning and massage elements molded onto the hard component support member and, like the cylindrical, extruded bristles in the bundles of bristles, arranged in different shapes or bases (circular, elliptical, sickle-shaped, rectangular, etc.).

Bundles of molded bristles have from 1 to 20 individual molded bristles, preferably from 3 to 15 molded bristles, and more preferably from 5 to 10 molded bristles.

In contrast to the conventional, extruded and cylindrical bristles, the injection-molded bristles, due to the demoldability in the injection molding tool, have an embodiment that is essentially tapered towards the utility-side end (substantially stepped, conical or frustoconical).

Like the conventional extruded and cylindrical bristles, the sprayed bristles have fine end areas with a diameter of about 0.15 mm to 0.25 mm. Sprayed bristles are in the patent application with application number EP 11 000 032.0 described in detail. The revelation of EP 11 000 032.0 is thus fully incorporated into this document.

Preferably, the head part or the interface to the carrier element and the carrier element itself are made of the same hard component. The following thermoplastics are preferably used as hard components: styrene polymers, eg styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene (PS) acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styromethyl methacrylates (SMMA) and styrene butadiene; Polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE), both in the form of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and in the form of low density polyethylene (LDPE); Polyester, eg polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in the mold acid modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETA) or in the form of glycol modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), acid modified polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT-A) and glycol modified polycyclohexylenedimethylene ether terephthalate (PCT-G); Cellulose derivatives, eg, cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose acetobutyrate (CAB), cellulose propionate (CP), cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP), and cellulose butyrate (CB); Polyamides (PA), eg PA6.6, PA6.10 and PA6.12; Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); Polycarbonate (PC); Polyoxymethylene (POM); Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PUR). Particularly preferred is polypropylene having an E-modulus in the range of 1000 N / mm ² to 2400 N / mm ² , most preferably in the range of 1300 N / mm ² to 1800 N / mm ² .

As soft components, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) are preferably used: thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPE-U); thermoplastic styrene elastomers (TPE-S), e.g. Styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymer (SEBS) or styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymer (SBS); thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPE-A); thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers (TPE-O); thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E). In addition, the thermoplastics polyurethanes (PUR) and polyethylenes (PE) can also be used as a soft component. Preferably, a TPE-S is used. The Shore A hardness of the soft components used is preferably less than 90 Shore A.

Although the sprayed bristles are preferably also made of a soft component, they constitute an exception to the Shore hardness. Preferably, due to the improved resilience Soft materials of Shore hardness D 20 to 80, preferably 40 to 70 are used.

The hard and soft components used are preferably processed in a two- or multi-component injection molding process. As a rule, a material and / or positive connection is formed between the components.

The term bristles refers to the individual filaments of which bundles of bristles are made up. The terms bristle, bristle filament or filament are used synonymously and all refer to the above-mentioned individual filaments of a bristle bundle.

Conventional extruded cylindrical bristles can be made of different materials. For example, polyamides (PA) or polyesters (PBT) are used. An example of a polyamide used is PA6.12.

In this case, polyamides are preferably used for cylindrical bristles, while polyesters are preferably used for one-sided or double-sided sharpened bristles. The conventional, extruded, cylindrical bristles made of polyester are brought into a sharpened shape by means of a chemical process. The tapered bristles typically have a cylindrical portion with a substantially constant diameter and a tapered tapered portion. The cone tip is aligned on the use side.

The conventional extruded bristles may have different diameters. As a rule, these bristles have a cylindrical shape over at least part of their length. Preferably, the cross section is at least approximately circular cylindrical and over a substantial portion of the length of the bristle constant, in this way a circular cylinder is formed. Other cross-sectional shapes are possible, for example, square, rectangular or diamond-shaped.

Tapered bristles have on the one hand a cylindrical part in which they have a constant cross-section, on the other hand, these bristles taper over a certain range to at least one payload end. In one-sided sharpened bristles, as they can be used in toothbrushes, the adjoining the tapered region and thus the free end opposite region of the sharpened bristles on a cylindrical cross-section.

Furthermore, conventional bristles may have different types of ends. The bristle end of cylindrical bristles is usually rounded on the one hand at least approximately hemispherical or frustoconical, while on the other hand, the bristle end of tapered bristles terminates to a point. The bristle ends of cylindrical bristles are usually machined to avoid any sharp edges at the bristle end, which may for example result from cutting. Machining means that the ends of the cylindrical bristles are rounded, for example, after being cut to a length for further processing. In this case, mechanical and / or thermal methods are used. This breaks sharp edges of the bristle ends of the cylindrical bristles and achieves an at least approximately hemispherical bristle end. In general, the bristles are cut and processed prior to insertion into the carrier element.

The bristles may be at least partially colored. Polyester (PBT) bristles are dyed chemically. If the bristles are made of polyamide (PA), food colors can also be used for coloring. For example, Aluminum Lake of 3,3'-dioxo-2,2'-diindolinydene-5,5'-disulfonic acid for a blue color, aluminum lake of 5-hydroxy-1- (4-sulfophenyl) -4- (4- sulfophenylazo) -3-pyrazolecarboxylic acid for yellow staining or aluminum lake of 6-hydroxy-5- (4-sulfophenylazo) -2-naphthalenesulfonic acid also used for yellow staining. Wholly or partially colored bristles must be painted in order to ensure their machinability. For example, to reduce the friction between the bristles and the machine parts. In general, the bristles are colored before insertion into the carrier element.

In contrast to the sprayed bristles which are injection-molded onto the carrier element, conventional extruded bristles are anchored thereto only after the carrier element has been produced.

Preferred bristle bundles include conventional bristles having at least two different lengths. This means that the free ends of the bristles are at different heights from the bristle-carrying upper side of the head part or support element and, in the case of bristle bundles with bristles of two different lengths, form two different usable surfaces. The portion of the bundle of bristles which contains all the bristles in cross-section is called the bundle of bristles. The section of the bundle of bristles, which in cross-section only comprises the bristles with the bristle ends projecting upwards, becomes a reduced part of the bristle bundle designated. The above-mentioned two effective surfaces are formed on the one hand by the bristle ends of the bristles of shorter length and on the other hand by the bristle ends of the bristles of greater length, that is, with the higher bristle ends.

Extensive studies have shown that the exposure of the higher bristle ends in the reduced portion of the bristle bundle, the number of bristles standing higher, the differences in length to the remaining bristles and their arrangement within the bristle bundle and other cleaning elements, such as sprayed bristles or soft-elastic cleaning and massage elements, have a significant influence on the cleaning effect of the brush head.

The bristle bundle trunk preferably has a height of 6 mm to 11 mm, particularly preferably 8 mm to 10 mm. The height of the reduced portion of the bristle bundle is preferably 9 mm to 15 mm, particularly preferably 10 mm to 12 mm. The height is measured in each case from the top of the head part or the support element, actually from the exit point of the bristle from the surface.

The distance of the end surface of the bristle bundle trunk to the end surface of the reduced part is 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably 2 mm to 3 mm. As will be described in detail later, several steps can be formed with end surfaces within a bristle bundle. The distances between the steps or end surfaces preferably behave as described above. The end surfaces within a bundle of bristles usually do not form a continuous profile and are clearly offset from each other.

As described above, bristle bundles comprise conventional extruded bristles with bristle ends of different height, forming at least two effective surfaces. The bristles can also have different bristle ends. On the one hand, the bristle ends may be rounded, as has been described for cylindrical bristles, on the other hand, bristles may have a tapering region towards their free end, which has a sharpened bristle end.

In one embodiment, all bristles have pointed bristle ends. In a preferred variant, only bristles with a higher bristle end have a sharpened bristle end. This means that only the reduced part of a bundle of bristles has bristles with pointed bristle ends. The remaining bristles of this bristle bundle with a lower bristle end are cylindrical bristles with a rounded bristle end. Thus, the higher usable area is formed by bristles with pointed bristle ends, whereas the lower lying useful area is formed by bristles with a rounded bristle end.

In another embodiment, it is the other way around. The bristles with higher bristle ends have rounded bristle ends. In contrast, in this embodiment, the remaining bristles with a lower bristle end have pointed bristle ends. Consequently, in this embodiment, the higher usable space is formed by free, rounded bristle ends and the lower effective area is formed by free, pointed bristle ends. These embodiments may also relate only to a substantial proportion of the bristles of the usable areas. Both conventional, cylindrical bristles with a rounded bristle end and conventional bristles with a sharpened bristle end can be wholly or preferably only partially colored. The colored area of a bristle extends over a length of 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably 3 mm to 8 mm. Also preferably only bristles are colored with higher standing bristle end. In addition, in the case of only partially colored bristles, the colored part of the bristles preferably extends toward the free bristle ends thereof. As an alternative embodiment, only bristles having a lower bristle end have a colored area, which area preferably extends toward the free bristle ends.

The at least partial coloring of the bristles can bring other benefits in addition to design and aesthetic aspects. An embodiment of the coloration or of the color itself entails that the fading of the colored area of a bristle or the washing out of the color as the use period progresses are used by the user as an efficient indicator for the shorter service life of a toothbrush. This gives the user an advantageous consumption display.

The bristle field is formed by the bristle bundles arranged on the carrier element. The bristle bundles can be arranged in a grid on the support element. The bristle field may be formed by one or preferably two or more different types of bristle bundles. In addition to bristle bundles with bristles, which have at least two bristle ends of different heights, can also Bristle bundles with cylindrical bristles or bristle bundles with bristles, which have a pointed free end, or bristle bundles which consist of a combination of cylindrical and pointed bristles, be present.

In the bristle field, the bristle bundles with bristles of bristles of different heights can be arranged exclusively in the outermost regions or edge regions, while in the interior of the bristle field bristle bundles are formed, which are formed according to the known state of the art. For example, in the interior of the bristle field cylindrical bristles with a height of bristle ends may be attached, which may be configured shorter in their bristle length than the bristle bundles with bristles having at least two bristle ends of different height. Also possible are alternating longitudinal or transverse regions of the above-mentioned different types of bristle bundles. The bristle bundles can generally, that is also the bristle bundles with bristles, which have at least two bristle ends of different heights, be designed in the most varied cross sections. Examples of these are circular, approximately circular, curved, angular, rectangular, elliptical, trapezoidal, sickle-shaped or freeform structures or basic shapes.

The bristle bundles and also the higher-lying bristle ends in the bristle bundle are preferably arranged substantially perpendicular to the upper side of the head part or the support element. An inclination relative to the carrier element can also be realized. The projecting ends protrude at an angle the carrier element from the bristle bundle. The orientation of the skew is not limited, the bristles are affected by the inclination, can take any angle in the projection perpendicular to the support member relative to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush. Bristle bundles with inclined bristles can be combined in the same bristle field with vertical bristle bundles. Experiments have shown that angles between 3 ° - 15 °, preferably 5 ° -10 ° unfold the most effective cleaning effect.

Further, in a bristle field, the lengths of the lower-lying bristle ends and also the lengths of the higher bristle ends can be varied. In a bristle field, it is therefore possible to vary with one length or the other length or both lengths and form a profile surface or an inclined plane.

In a further embodiment, the ends of the differently long, conventional bristles within a bundle of bristles essentially form two or more planar regions. It can be formed 2 to 5, preferably 2 or 3 substantially parallel, planar areas or stages.

Preferably, the bristle field has different types of such bundles, that is, for example, bristle fields with bundles of 2, 3, 4, or 5 levels or levels.

Instead of the flat, parallel areas, even and oblique areas can be formed. Furthermore, the ends can also form individual areas with a profile these profiles can be within the Bundles again parallel to each other or crooked. However, the different end regions (planes or profiles) of the individual bristle lengths within a bundle of bristles are preferably greatly offset. The various end regions or steps of a bristle bundle generally do not form a coherent profile and are offset significantly in the longitudinal direction of the bristles.

As already described, preferably different bristle bundles are used within the bristle field. The stepped bristle bundles can be combined with conventional bristle bundles. The conventional bundles of bristles do not have multiple stages, the bristle ends do not form clearly distinct end portions but a substantially continuous continuous profile within the bundle. This profile may have a flat and parallel to the support element or to the support element oblique shape. Alternatively, the bristles within a simple bundle of bristles may also form a conical, truncated or spherical end region. Of course, the bristles can also form a three-dimensional freeform surface as the end region. Conventional bundles of bristles are preferably used in the rear and front region of the bristle field (seen in the longitudinal direction). Preferably, we thus formed the so-called power tip. Stepped bundles of bristles tend not to be used in these areas.

Bristle bundles are preferably also combined in groups of a plurality of such bristle bundles. These groups consist of at least 2 bristle bundles. In a further embodiment, 2 to 5 adjacent bristle bundles, preferably 2 to 3 bristle bundles, form one smaller group of these bundles of bristles. Alternatively, a larger number of these bristle bundles form groups that cover a substantial portion of the bristle field, possibly even the whole bristle field is occupied with such bundles. In this embodiment, more than 30%, preferably more than 50% of the bundles form a group.

Summed up in groups, the different end regions (planes or profiles) or stages of the bundles of bristles together can form a substantially coherent profile. This profile can form an oblique or undulating plane parallel to the carrier plate. Alternatively, this profile can also form a three-dimensional freeform surface. Preferably, as in the individual bristle bundles themselves, 2-5, preferably 2 or 3 superimposed profiles are formed.

One of these profiles is preferably designed flat and parallel to the carrier element. Preferably, the lowermost and / or topmost profile is flat and parallel to the carrier element.

Of course, it is also conceivable that different end regions (planes or profiles) or stages of groups of bundles of bristles together do not form a coherent, continuous profile. It is also conceivable to combine bundles of bristles with end sections with a continuous profile and end sections without a coherent, continuous profile.

In addition, the bristle bundles can be combined with additional soft elastic structures arranged on the carrier element or directly on the head part, wherein the soft elastic structures consist of at least one of the soft components described above. Such soft elastic structures are preferably designed as soft-elastic cleaning or massage elements. The soft-elastic cleaning or massage elements can have very different shapes due to the great freedom of design. Below are some examples of possible design variants.

In addition to a scraper-like configuration, the cleaning or massage elements can also be present as corner-mounted, wing-like or pin-shaped cleaning or massage elements. Also possible are scraper-like, in their plan view, wavy designed cleaning or massage elements or curved, possibly approximately circular or sickle-shaped curved cleaning or massage elements. The approximately circular or sickle-shaped cleaning or massage elements may together or individually form a substantially closed circle or be arranged in segments in a circle.

The soft-elastic cleaning or massage elements complement the cleaning effect of the bristles by enhancing the removal of dental plaque and the polishing of the tooth surface or effect. In addition, soft-elastic structures, in particular the soft-elastic cleaning or massage elements, also serve to dampen cleaning movements and not least the massage of the gums.

Analogous to how the different types of bristle bundles are combined or arranged with each other can, the anchorless Beborsten the toothbrush by means of the support member allows a very large freedom of design in the arrangement soft elastic structures, in particular the cleaning or massage elements. For example, scraper-like, curved in their plan view and arranged on a circle soft elastic cleaning or massage elements enclosing one or more bristle bundles, the soft elastic cleaning elements are in turn surrounded by bristle bundles or can be. In addition, the AFT method allows the realization of bristle bundles with an example arcuate cross section, since no anchor is necessary which limits the width and shape of the bristle bundle.

Preferred bristle bundles include bristles having at least two different lengths. The bristles with the higher bristle ends form a (second) effective area. This useful surface may be a plane extending substantially parallel to the top of the head part. However, the effective area may also be a plane inclined with respect to the upper side of the head part, or the usable area may have a, for example wave-shaped, roof-shaped or serrated profile.

The bristle-carrying head portion may comprise a bristle field formed of different types of bristle bundles. In addition to the bristle bundles with bristles which have bristle ends of different heights and thus form at least two use levels, it is also possible for there to be further bristle bundles with cylindrical bristles or with exclusively sharpened bristles. In addition, soft-elastic structures, for example in the form of soft-elastic cleaning and massage elements, to be available. The soft-elastic structures can be formed directly on the head part or on a carrier element which is inserted into the head part and connected to it. A special type of soft-elastic structures are, as previously discussed, the sprayed bristles.

With regard to the height of the soft-elastic cleaning and massage elements, or sprayed bristles, extensive studies show that the ends of these elements are preferably chosen to be deeper than the ends of the stepped bristle bundles. Preferably, the ends of these elements are selected deeper than the last utilization side step of the stepped bristle bundles. Particularly preferably, the ends of these elements are chosen to be lower than the lowest level or effective area of the stepped bristle bundles.

With regard to the position of the soft-elastic cleaning and massage elements or of the sprayed bristles, the stepped bristle bundles are arranged in the periphery of the bristle field. The soft-elastic cleaning and massage elements or the sprayed bristles are preferably arranged between two or more stepped bristle bundles.

In addition, it is proposed to arrange stepped bundles of bristles even within soft-elastic structures. In this case, the soft-elastic structures surround or support a substantial part along the circumference of the stepped bristle bundles. In this case, at least 30%, preferably over 50% of the circumference of the stepped bundles of bristles is affected.

In the Anchor Free Tufting (AFT) process, the conventional, cylindrical or tapered bristles or bundles of bristles are fastened to the head portion or to a support member, e.g. a bristle tinsel attached. In the case of a bristle carrying plate, the bristles are thereby guided in bundles with their blunt end opposite the free use end through passages in the bristle carrying plate, so that an end region of the bristle bundles protrudes beyond the underside of the bristle carrying plate. At this over the underside of the bristle carrying plate protruding end portion of the bristles they are attached by melting, gluing or welding on the carrier element or on the bristle carrier platelets. The Brostentragplättchen is then anchored with the attached conventional bristles in a recess of the head portion of the toothbrush. Alternatively, the bristle carrier plate is over-molded in an injection mold with hard or soft material to form the brush body.

In another method, a tool having or consisting of a block-like base body, also called a die, and a funnel plate is used in a bristle machine. Through the die of the tool passes in the vertical direction, a receiving recess. The cross section of this receiving recess is constant over the entire length of the rectilinear receiving recess in the die. In the receiving recess is a pin, a so-called profile pin, guided in sliding fit.

The profile pins must be in the area in which they come into contact with bristles, that is, on their End face, a scratch-free polished, preferably have a lapped or highly polished surface. The roughness values R _a are in this case between 0.025 to 0.4, preferably 0.025 to 0.15.

Depending on the shape of the existing on the front side of the profiled pin recesses these must have sharp and burr-free edges, otherwise there is a risk that the bristle filaments when inserting into the hole or in subsequent processing or jamming. Moreover, it is advantageous if the diameter at the bristle end, which bears against the profile pin, is not smaller than the tolerance range between the profile pin and the receiving recess.

The diameter of the deepest depression in the profile pin implies that between 1 and 15, preferably between 3 and 8, bristles occupy the corresponding profile. That the stated number of bristles is higher in the bundle of bristles than the rest. These bristle ends form the highest bristle ends. If several stages are formed, it is such that the last stage, i. the level to the highest rising bristle ends or the uppermost reduced portion of the bristle bundle must comply with this minimum mass.

If more than two stages, ie two levels of ends of use of bristle ends, are designed, a reduction of the number of bristles takes place per stage. Each stage contains a maximum of 80%, preferably a maximum of 70%, of the bristles of the previous stage. The stage contains in each case between 30% and 80%, preferably between 45% and 70%, of bristles compared to the previous stage. In the final bundle of bristles in this way between 5% and 25%, preferably between 10% and 15%, the ends of the bristles are higher than the remainder, ie this number of bristle ends forms the uppermost step. In this case, profile pins can be used in the final bristle bundle, which have no receiving recess and so the bristle ends are shaped as known.

The higher bristle ends are preferably arranged centrally in the bristle bundle, the arrangement at the edge of the contour of the bristle bundle is another possibility of the arrangement.

The depth of the recess is between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 3 mm.

In the course of the process, the die, or its receiving recesses with the associated pins, is filled with bundles of cylindrical or sharpened bristles from a circular arc of the bristle machine. Wherein the circular arc of the die or the receiving recess per passage 20 to 50, preferably 35 to 45, bristles. A finished bristle bundle may comprise bristles of only one passage as well as of several passes of the circular arc.

Furthermore, there is the possibility of using a variable circular arc. This allows the number of bristles fed per pass to be adjusted. In this way a variability of approximately +/- 35% can be achieved starting from a starting burst amount (100%). Accordingly, different sized receiving recesses may be arranged in a die, which lead to the toothbrush to different sized bristle bundles. After filling in another station the Bristle machine set the funnel plate on the die.

The sliding fit between the die and the profiled pins is designed such that the tips of the sharpened bristles have a larger diameter than the tolerance range of the sliding fit. The movement of the profile pins is limited so that they are movable only within the die.

The profile pin is provided, for example, with a blind hole-like depression at its upper end located in the die, against which the tips of the bristles abut, in order to give the bristle bundle in question a topography in which a part of the bristles has a higher bristle end having. The final shape of the bundles of bristles is decisively influenced by the shape of the face of the profile pin. Instead of a blind hole-like depression, however, other arbitrary topographies of the end face of the profile pin are possible.

Subsequently, the funnel plate is placed on the die and, if this is provided in the method, a bristle carrying plate such that the passage of the bristle carrying plate associated with this bristle bundle is aligned with the corresponding guide passage in the funnel plate. The upper side of the bristle carrying plate comes to rest on the funnel plate, so that the underside of the bristle carrying plate is exposed upwards. For the sake of completeness it should be mentioned that this guide passage of the funnel plate on the other hand with the receiving recess corresponds. By moving the profiled pin in an upward direction on the bristle support plate, the bristles are moved upwards and pushed with their blunt end through the funnel plate and the passage until an end region adjoining the blunt end in the cylindrical section of cylindrical or tapered bristles over the bristle Projecting underside of the bristle carrying plate. Subsequently, for example, a heating die is lowered onto the bristles or in the vicinity thereof, so that the end region of the bristles melts and forms a bristle carpet covering the underside at least partially covering the bristles and thereby fixing the bristles to one another and to the bristle support platelet.

In an analogous manner, as shown above, the die of the tool can have a further receiving recess with profile pins guided therein. In turn, bristles, e.g. cylindrical bristles introduced; These come with their possibly previously mechanically machined ends on the front side of the other profile pins to the plant. In this case, depending on the shape of the front side of the profile pins in turn a topography, that is, a bristle field with different upstanding bristle ends generated.

Simultaneously with the profiled pin described above, the further profile pins are displaced to push the respective bristle bundles through the further passages of the bristle carrying plate until the bristle bundles project with one end section over the underside of the bristle carrying plate. The melting of the End sections are as described above or in any other known manner.

If different plastics are used for the production of the cylindrical or pointed bristles, a bristle melt carpet of the corresponding plastics is produced. In particular, this bristle melt carpet may consist of polyester (pointed bristles) and polyamide (cylindrical bristle). Since these two types of plastic do not combine in the bristle melt, it is preferable to ensure that groups of bundles of bristles are formed with the individual materials, in which case the bristle melt can combine within a group. The similar bristle bundles are placed in this regard preferably in groups with immediate proximity. In this case, therefore, preferably the bristle bundles of tapered bristles or cylindrical bristles are introduced into receiving recesses or further receiving recesses, which are arranged adjacent to one another and form a group.

The present invention can be used for bristle fields of different products. For example, manual toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes with rotating, oscillating, pivoting or translational movement (as sideways or longitudinal movement), vibrating motion or a combination of these movements may be provided with bristle bundles having the bristles with at least two bristle ends of different heights.

It is expressly pointed out at this point that a bristle field next to the stepped bristle bundles also all, only a part or none of the additionally described cleaning elements (such as soft elastic cleaning and massage elements, sprayed bristles, simple bundles without steps) may have. The arrangement and height of the additional cleaning elements or bundles has a significant influence on the overall cleaning performance of the bristle field.

Fig. 1

in perspektivischer Sicht ein Trägerelement in der Form eines Borstentragplättchens;

Fig. 2

ebenfalls in perspektivischer Ansicht das Borstentragplättchen mit einem Borstenfeld;

Fig. 3

ebenfalls in perspektivischer Ansicht einen Kopfbereich und einen Teil eines Halsbereichs eines Zahnbürstenkörpers mit einer Ausnehmung im Kopfbereich;

Fig. 4

in perspektivischer Ansicht den Zahnbürstenkörper aus Figur 3 mit in die Ausnehmung eingesetztem borstentragenden Borstentragplätt-chen aus Figur 2;

Fig. 5

den vollständig montierten Bürstenkopf aus Figur 4 im Längsschnitt;

Fig. 6a

einen Schnitt durch ein Werkzeug mit einer Aufnahmeausnehmung für die zugespitzten Borsten und einer weiteren Aufnahmeausnehmung für zylindrische Borsten, einem in der Aufnahmeausnehmung geführten Stift und einem in der weiteren Aufnahmeausnehmung geführten weiteren Stift für das Bewegen und Ausrichten der Borsten, einem auf der Trichterplatte angeordneten Borstentragplättchen, wobei die Trichterplatte die zugespitzten und zylindrischen Borsten zu einem gemeinsamen Durchlass des Borstentragplättchens leitet, und einem Heizstempel;

Fig. 6b

eine Draufsicht auf die Matrize aus Figur 6a;

Fig. 6c

eine Draufsicht auf die Trichterplatte aus Figur 6a;

Fig. 7a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen für Borsten in einer Matrize;

Fig. 7b

eine Draufsicht auf das fertige Borstenbündel gefertigt mit einer Matrize gemäss Figur 7a;

Fig. 7c

eine Seitenansicht des fertigen Borstenbündels aus Figur 7b;

Fig. 8a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen für Borsten in einer weiteren Matrize;

Fig. 8b

eine Draufsicht auf das fertige Borstenbündel gefertigt mit einer Matrize gemäss Figur 8a;

Fig. 8c

eine Seitenansicht des fertigen Borstenbündels aus Figur 8b;

Fig. 9a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen für Borsten in einer weiteren Matrize;

Fig. 9b

eine Draufsicht auf das fertige Borstenbündel gefertigt mit einer Matrize gemäss Figur 9a;

Fig. 9c

eine Seitenansicht des fertigen Borstenbündels aus Figur 9b;

Fig. 10a

eine Draufsicht auf eine Aufnahmeausnehmung für Borsten in einer Matrize;

Fig. 10b

eine Draufsicht auf das fertige, erfindungsgemäss herstellbare, Borstenbündel gemäss Figur 10a;

Fig. 10c

eine Draufsicht auf den entsprechenden, im erfindungsgemässen Verfahren verwendbaren, Profilstift für das fertigen eines Borstenbündels gemäss Figur 10b;

Fig. 10d

eine Seitenansicht auf das Borstenbündel gefertigt gemäss Figur 10a bis 10c;

Fig. 10e

eine Seitenansicht des Profilstifts aus Figur 10c;

Fig. 11a

eine Draufsicht auf eine Aufnahmeausnehmung für Borsten in einer Matrize;

Fig. 11b

eine Draufsicht auf das fertige Borstenbündel gemäss Figur 11a;

Fig. 11c

eine Draufsicht auf den entsprechenden Profilstift für das fertigen eines Borstenbündels gemäss Figur 11b;

Fig. 11d

eine Seitenansicht auf das Borstenbündel gefertigt gemäss Figur 11a bis 11c;

Fig. 11e

eine Seitenansicht des Profilstifts aus Figur 11c;

Fig. 12a

eine Draufsicht auf eine Aufnahmeausnehmung für Borsten in einer Matrize;

Fig. 12b

eine Draufsicht auf das fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 12c

eine Draufsicht auf den entsprechenden Profilstift für das fertigen eines Borstenbündels gemäss Fig. 12b;

Fig. 12d

eine Seitenansicht auf das Borstenbündel gefertigt gemäss Figur 12 a bis c;

Fig. 12e

eine Seitenansicht des Profilstifts aus Figur 11c;

Fig. 13

eine Draufsicht auf einen weiteren möglichen Profilstift;

Fig. 14

eine Draufsicht auf einen weiteren möglichen Profilstift;

Fig. 15

eine Draufsicht auf einen weiteren möglichen, gemäss dem erfindungsgemässen Verfahren verwendbaren, Profilstift;

Fig. 16a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 16b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 16a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 16c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 16b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 16d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 16b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 17a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 17b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 17a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 17c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 17b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 17d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 17b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 18a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 18b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 18a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 18c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 18b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 18d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 16b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 19a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 19b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 19a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 19c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 19b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 19d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 19b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 19e

ein Querschnitt durch das Borstenbündel gemäss Figur 19d entlang der Linie A-A;

Fig. 20a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 20b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 20a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 20c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 20b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 20d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 20b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 20e

ein Querschnitt durch das Borstenbündel gemäss Figur 20d entlang der Linie B-B;

Fig. 21a

die Form des Endbereichs einer zylindrischen abgerundeten Borste; und

Fig. 21b

die Form des Endbereichs einer zugespitzten Borste.

Fig. 22a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 22b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 22a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 22c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 22b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 22d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 22b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 22e

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 22b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel in einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsvariante;

Fig. 22f

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 22b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel in einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsvariante;

Fig. 22g

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 22b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel in einer weiteren Ausgestaltungsvariante;

Fig. 23a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 23b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 23a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 23c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 23b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 23d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 23b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 23e

ein Querschnitt durch das Borstenbündel gemäss Figur 23d entlang der Linie C-C;

Fig. 24a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 24b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 24a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 24c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 24b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 24d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 24b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 24e

ein Querschnitt durch das Borstenbündel gemäss Figur 24d entlang der Linie D-D;

Fig. 25a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 25b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 25a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 25c

eine Draufsicht auf die mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 25b erzeugten, fertigen Borstenbündel;

Fig. 25d

eine Seitenansicht auf die mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 25b erzeugten, fertigen Borstenbündel;

Fig. 25e

ein Querschnitt durch ein Borstenbündel gemäss Figur 25d entlang der Linie E-E;

Fig. 26a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 26b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 26a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 26c

eine Draufsicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 26b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 26d

eine Seitenansicht auf das mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 26b erzeugte, fertige Borstenbündel;

Fig. 27a

eine Draufsicht auf die Aufnahmeausnehmungen einer Matrize;

Fig. 27b

eine Draufsicht auf die den Aufnahmausnehmungen gemäss Figur 27a zugeordneten Profilstiften;

Fig. 27c

eine Draufsicht auf die mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 24b erzeugten, fertigen Borstenbündel;

Fig. 27d

eine Seitenansicht auf die mittels den Profilstiften gemäss Figur 24b erzeugten, fertigen Borstenbündel;

Fig. 28a

eine Schnittansicht auf erfindungsgemäss hergestellte Borstenbündel in Kombination mit Massage- und Reinigungselementen;

Fig. 28b

eine Schnittansicht auf weitere erfindungsgemäss hergestellte Borstenbündel in Kombination mit Massage- und Reinigungselementen.

The figures show purely schematically:

Fig. 1

in perspective view, a carrier element in the form of a bristle carrying plate;

Fig. 2

likewise in perspective view, the bristle carrying plate with a bristle field;

Fig. 3

also in perspective view a head portion and a portion of a neck portion of a toothbrush body with a recess in the head area;

Fig. 4

in a perspective view of the toothbrush body FIG. 3 with inserted into the recess bristle-bearing bristle tinsel from FIG. 2 ;

Fig. 5

the fully assembled brush head FIG. 4 in longitudinal section;

Fig. 6a

a section through a tool having a receiving recess for the sharpened bristles and a further receiving recess for cylindrical bristles, a guided in the receiving recess pin and a in the further receiving recess guided further pin for moving and aligning the bristles, a arranged on the funnel plate bristle support plate, wherein the funnel plate directs the tapered and cylindrical bristles to a common passage of the bristle carrying plate, and a heating punch;

Fig. 6b

a plan view of the die FIG. 6a ;

Fig. 6c

a plan view of the funnel plate FIG. 6a ;

Fig. 7a

a plan view of the receiving recesses for bristles in a die;

Fig. 7b

a plan view of the finished bristle bundle made with a die according to Figure 7a ;

Fig. 7c

a side view of the finished bristle bundle FIG. 7b ;

Fig. 8a

a plan view of the receiving recesses for bristles in another die;

Fig. 8b

a plan view of the finished bristle bundle made with a die according to FIG. 8a ;

Fig. 8c

a side view of the finished bristle bundle FIG. 8b ;

Fig. 9a

a plan view of the receiving recesses for bristles in another die;

Fig. 9b

a plan view of the finished bristle bundle made with a die according to FIG. 9a ;

Fig. 9c

a side view of the finished bristle bundle FIG. 9b ;

Fig. 10a

a plan view of a receiving recess for bristles in a die;

Fig. 10b

a plan view of the finished, according to the invention producible, bristle bundle according to FIG. 10a ;

Fig. 10c

a plan view of the corresponding, usable in the inventive method, profile pin for the manufacture of a bristle bundle according to FIG. 10b ;

Fig. 10d

a side view of the bristle bundle according to FIGS. 10a to 10c ;

Fig. 10e

a side view of the profile pin FIG. 10c ;

Fig. 11a

a plan view of a receiving recess for bristles in a die;

Fig. 11b

a plan view of the finished bristle bundle according to FIG. 11a ;

Fig. 11c

a plan view of the corresponding profile pin for the finished of a bristle bundle according to FIG. 11b ;

Fig. 11d

a side view of the bristle bundle according to FIGS. 11a to 11c ;

Fig. 11e

a side view of the profile pin FIG. 11c ;

Fig. 12a

a plan view of a receiving recess for bristles in a die;

Fig. 12b

a plan view of the finished bristle bundle;

Fig. 12c

a plan view of the corresponding profile pin for the finished of a bristle bundle according to Fig. 12b ;

Fig. 12d

a side view of the bristle bundle according to Figure 12 a to c ;

Fig. 12e

a side view of the profile pin FIG. 11c ;

Fig. 13

a plan view of another possible profile pin;

Fig. 14

a plan view of another possible profile pin;

Fig. 15

a plan view of another possible, according to the inventive method usable, profile pin;

Fig. 16a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 16b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 16a associated profile pins;

Fig. 16c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 16b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 16d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 16b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 17a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 17b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to Figure 17a associated profile pins;

Fig. 17c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 17b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 17d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 17b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 18a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 18b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 18a associated profile pins;

Fig. 18c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 18b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 18d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 16b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 19a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 19b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 19a associated profile pins;

Fig. 19c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 19b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 19d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 19b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 19e

a cross section through the bristle bundle according to Figure 19d along the line AA;

Fig. 20a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 20b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 20a associated profile pins;

Fig. 20c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 20b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 20d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 20b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 20e

a cross section through the bristle bundle according to FIG. 20d along the line BB;

Fig. 21a

the shape of the end portion of a cylindrical rounded bristle; and

Fig. 21b

the shape of the end portion of a sharpened bristle.

Fig. 22a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 22b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 22a associated profile pins;

Fig. 22c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 22b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 22d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 22b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 22e

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 22b produced, finished bristle bundles in a further embodiment variant;

Fig. 22f

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 22b produced, finished bristle bundles in a further embodiment variant;

Fig. 22g

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 22b produced, finished bristle bundles in a further embodiment variant;

Fig. 23a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 23b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 23a associated profile pins;

Fig. 23c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 23b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 23d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 23b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 23e

a cross section through the bristle bundle according to FIG. 23d along the line CC;

Fig. 24a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 24b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 24a associated profile pins;

Fig. 24c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 24b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 24d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 24b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 24e

a cross section through the bristle bundle according to Figure 24d along the line DD;

Fig. 25a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 25b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to FIG. 25a associated profile pins;

Fig. 25c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 25b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 25d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 25b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 25e

a cross section through a bristle bundle according to FIG. 25d along the line EE;

Fig. 26a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 26b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to Figure 26a associated profile pins;

Fig. 26c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according to FIG. 26b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 26d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 26b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 27a

a plan view of the receiving recesses of a die;

Fig. 27b

a plan view of the receiving recesses according to Figure 27a associated profile pins;

Fig. 27c

a plan view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 24b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 27d

a side view of the means of the profile pins according FIG. 24b produced, finished bristle bundles;

Fig. 28a

a sectional view of the present invention prepared bristle bundles in combination with massage and cleaning elements;

Fig. 28b

a sectional view of further inventively produced bristle bundles in combination with massage and cleaning elements.

In FIG. 1 is a possible carrier element in the form of a bristle carrying plate 10 in a perspective view obliquely from above. From the upper side 12 to the lower side 14, a number of passages 16 extend. In the example shown, these have a kidney-shaped or oval cross-section. The passages may also have a circular or any other cross section in the form of a closed contour. Of the Bottom 14 is in the direction towards below a ring-shaped Zentrierungswulst 18, which extends at a small distance from the side edge of the bristle carrier plate 10 along this and is preferably formed wedge-shaped tapering towards the free end. Directly adjacent to the centering bead 18, on the underside 14 of the bristle carrier plate 10 between the Zentrierungswust 18 and the side edge of the bristle carrier plate 10, a circumferential and along the side edge extending welding edge 19 is attached. This serves in the process of connecting bristle carrier plate 10 and toothbrush body 28. The welding edge 19 can of course also be provided at any other location laterally or on the underside of the bristle carrier plate 10. In particular, it is also possible to attach the welding edge to the centering bead 18. Of course, these alternative arrangements of the welding edge necessitate adjustments to the counter-geometry of the bristle carrying plate 10, that is, to the recess 32.

Alternatively, the bristle carrier plate 10 can be used with the bristles used again in an injection mold and the handle or the handle portion can then be formed by over-injection of at least a portion of the bristle carrier plate 10 of one or more plastic components.

FIG. 2 shows in the same representation as FIG. 1 the bristle support plate 10, which is provided with a schematically indicated bristle facing 20. The bristle facing 20 consists of bundles of bristles 22, that is, a bristle bundle 22 per passage 16. Each of the Bristle bundle 22 consists of a plurality of bristles 39, 40; these are described in detail below.

FIG. 3 shows a head portion 24 and a portion of an adjoining neck portion 26 of a toothbrush body 28. At the neck portion 26 connects at the side facing away from the head portion 24 in a well-known manner, the handle portion. The head area 24 is of his in the FIG. 3 upper side 30 ago provided with a recess 32 which corresponds to the shape of the bristle carrying plate 10 and is limited by a bottom 34 substantially. The side wall of this recess 32 has a circumferential shoulder, which forms a welding shoulder 35. The back 36 of the toothbrush body 28 is located on the opposite side of the front 30 and is lying in the view shown below.

FIG. 4 shows the bristle carrier plate 10 provided with the bristle stock 20 inserted into the recess 32. The insertion is facilitated by the Zentrierungswulst 18. The upper surface 12 of the bristle carrier plate 10 is aligned in the finished state of the toothbrush in a preferred manner with the front side 30 of the toothbrush body 28. The bristle carrier plate 10 is firmly connected to the toothbrush body 28, preferably by means of ultrasonic welding. In this case, a weld is performed in the region of the welding edge 19 and the welding paragraph 35. The bristle facing 20 projects beyond the top 12. FIG. 4 thus shows the head portion and a portion of the neck portion of a toothbrush 28. Of course, at this point, other Procedures such as gluing, caulking or overmolding are used for bristle or bristle platelet anchoring.

The bristle carrier plate 10 is preferably made of a hard component, as already described above.

In the example shown, the head region 24 and the neck region 26 of the toothbrush body 28 are also made of at least one of these hard components. Preferably, the same hard component is used for the bristle carrier plate 10 and the toothbrush body 28, at least in the contact area of the two parts.

However, for the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned here that both the bristle carrier plate 10 and the toothbrush body 28 can be produced in a multi-component injection molding process. In this case, both the bristle carrier plate 10 and the toothbrush body 28 may each be composed of one or more hard components and / or of one or more soft components. An excerpt of possible hard and soft components is listed earlier in this document.

If the bristle carrier plate 10 consists of one or more hard components and one or more soft components, the passages 16 are preferably arranged in the hard component. The soft component can be used both for the formation of additional soft-elastic cleaning elements or sprayed bristles on the bristle carrier plate 10 or on the head region 24 or on the toothbrush body 28 for functional, haptic or decorative purposes are attached.

The FIG. 5 shows a longitudinal section along a central longitudinal plane, wherein this central longitudinal plane is perpendicular to the front side 30 of the head part 24. The central longitudinal plane or the sectional plane extends through the five in FIG. 4 In the transverse direction of the toothbrush, the bristle bundles 22 are arranged centrally. The bristles 39, 40 are not detailed in detail but are shown schematically in bundles as area or volume. The reflowed end regions 70 form a readily discernable bristle feltsheet 21, which in the embodiment shown extends over virtually the entire underside 14 of the bristle carrier lamina 10.

The bristle carpet 21 may be subdivided into different segments, thereby covering only individual groups of bristle bundles 22.

The bristle carrier plate 10 is connected via its welding edge 19 fixed to the welding shoulder 35 of the head part 24. A welding area 41 is in the Fig. 5 shown schematically with a line as a delimitation. Adjacent to the head part 24 and fixedly connected thereto, the neck part 26 of the toothbrush body 28 is arranged.

FIG. 6a shows a way to equip a bristle carrier plate 10 with a bristle bundle 22 having both conventional pointed bristles 40 and conventional cylindrical bristles 39. A die 62 has a receiving recess 64 into which pointed bristles 40 are introduced, and close to another receiving recess 64 ', in which cylindrical bristles 39 are introduced or have become, on.

The guide passages 69 and 69 'associated with these receiving recesses 64 and 64' of a funnel plate 63 arranged on the die 62 run toward each other in the direction of the bristle carrier plate 10 arranged on the funnel plate 63 in such a way that they have a single common outlet for the latter Bristles 40 and 39 form. It is also possible that the two passages 69 and 69 'still form separate outlets, but which lie directly next to each other. The outlet or the directly adjacent outlets are aligned with a bristle 40 and 39 common passage 16 of the bristle carrying plate 10th

In the receiving recess 64 and in the further receiving recess 64 'is ever a profiled pin 66, 66' out. When the pins 66, 66 'are simultaneously moved towards the funnel plate 63, the bundle 22 is sharpened and the bundle 22 of cylindrical bristles 40, 39 are pushed through the common passage of the bristle support plate 10 until their end portions 70, 70' cross over here projecting upper side 14 of the bristle carrying plate 10. By subsequently melting the end regions 70 and 70 ', for example by means of the heating punch 72, the bristles 40, 39 are fastened to the bristle carrier plate 10, the bristle melt carpet 21 is formed.

In a corresponding manner, it is possible to have several individual bundles 22 of bristles 39, 40 of different ones To unite receiving recesses 64 by means of the funnel plate 63 and thus together to form a bristle tufts in a common passage 16. In the same way as in Fig. 5 it is also possible to supply bundles 22 of bristles 40 or 39 of the same kind to a common passage 16.

The bristle carrier plate 10 provided with the bristle trim 20 is removed from the tool 60 and brought together with the toothbrush body 28 in a manner known from the prior art and fastened there.

In bristles without bristle support plates 10, as already described, the bristles 40, 39 instead of through the bristle carrier plate 10 passed through into a mold cavity. Plastic is then injected into this mold cavity to form the brush head and to anchor the bristles 40, 39 in this way. This alternative manufacturing method without carrier plates can be applied to all described embodiments of this document.

The FIG. 6b shows a plan view of a section of the die 62 with the receiving recesses 64 and 64 '. The guide passages 69 and 69 'associated with the receiving recesses 64, 64' combine to form the side of the funnel plate 63 facing the bristle carrying plate 10, to form a single common outlet 65, as in FIG FIG. 6c shown. It is so that the sum of the cross-sectional areas of Fig. 6b , which together form a bundle of bristles 22, is substantially the same size as the cross-sectional area of the common outlet 65. The Figures 7a-c, 8a-c and 9a-c each show a possible manufactured bristle bundle 22 with bristles 39, 40, which have a higher bristle end and thus form two different effective surfaces 67 in this example. Analogously, of course, with further steps in the profile pins 66, three or more usable areas can be generated.

The bristle bundles 22 shown are formed by bristles 39, 40 of a plurality of receiving recesses 64. In this case, the bristle bundles 22 or their higher-lying parts are each formed by a receiving recess 64 or a single profiled pin 66. That is, all bristles which originate from a receiving recess 64 have the same length in the final product. The receiving recesses 64 and the corresponding profile pins 66 are each configured circular, while the corresponding final bristle bundles 22 may have different shapes (circular, elliptical, rectangular, square trapezoidal, sickle-shaped, freeform, etc.).

The final bristle bundles 22 have bristles 39, 40 of 1 to 15, preferably 1 to 7 receiving recesses 64. The receiving recesses 64, which belong to a final bundle of bristles 22, may have two or more different diameters and thus different cross-sectional areas. The ratio of the cross-sectional area of the smallest to the largest receiving recess 64 for a final bundle 22 is 1: 3, this is in connection with Fig. 26a to 26d explained in more detail.

By skillful adaptation of the diameter of the various receiving recesses 64 so that the number of bristles 39, 40 of the different heights, or end or usable surfaces 67 can be determined. Thus, different types of bristles within the receiving recesses 64 for a final bundle of bristles 22 can be brought together with this method. For example, pointed bristles 40 in one part of the receiving recesses 64 and conventional cylindrical bristles 39 in another part of the receiving recesses 64 may be used. Consequently, with the different bristle types, the different end regions 71 of the final bundle 22 are formed. The same applies to bristles 39, 40 of different color and / or different diameters and / or bristles 39,40 with differently colored end portions 71. Since several receiving recesses 64 are used in this method, this is used rather for larger bundles with more than 40 bristles ,

In the Figures 7a, 8a and 9a the corresponding arrangement of the receiving recesses 64 of the die 62 is shown. In the Figure 7a the receiving recesses 64 are arranged at the tips of an equilateral triangle. In FIG. 7b is a plan view of the finished bristle bundle 22 to see, with the part of the bristle bundle 22, the bristles 39, 40 having upstanding bristle ends 73 is shown in gray and comes from the receiving recess 64, which in Figure 7a is arranged on the left. The bristle bundle 22 has in its plan view the shape of an equilateral triangle, wherein the higher part 75 of the bristle bundle 22 to extends apex of the triangle. In FIG. 7c is a side view of the bristle bundle 22 from FIG. 7b shown.

FIG. 8a shows 7 receiving recesses 64 which are arranged at the vertices and in the center of a regular hexagon. In the FIG. 8b is a substantially circular (it may also be elliptical) bristle bundles 22 shown with a gray, centrally arranged higher standing bristle bundle portion 77. The higher-lying bristle bundle part 77 is separated from the middle recess 64 (FIG. FIG. 8a ) educated. The FIG. 8c shows a side view of the in FIG. 8b illustrated bristle bundle.

Another possible embodiment of a bristle bundle 22 is shown in FIG FIG. 9b shown. The bristle bundle 22 has a rectangular or square shape and the receiving recesses 64 in FIG. 9a are arranged according to the corner points of a square. In this case, three of the four of the bundles of bristles divided into quadrants have bristles with a higher bristle end 73 '. The lower right receiving recess 64 off FIG. 9a takes the bristles 39, 40 with the lower-lying bristle ends 73 "on. FIG. 9c shows a side view of the in FIG. 9b illustrated bristle bundle 22nd

In the Figs. 7a-c and 8a-c Bristle bundles 22 are shown in which the smaller proportion of the total cross-section is higher. In Fig. 9a-c the opposite situation is shown. The larger proportion of the cross section is higher and a smaller proportion is lower.

In Fig. 7a-c and Fig. 8a-c another detail is highlighted. The higher-lying parts 75 of the bristle bundles 22 can be arranged both at the edge of the bristle bundle 22, as well as in the middle of lower-lying bristles 39, 40 surrounded in the bristle bundle 22. The same is of course also possible with lower parts of a bristle bundle 22.

In the Figures 10a-e a single bristle bundle 22 produced according to the invention is shown, which is made of bristles 39, 40, which originate from only a single receiving recess 64. The FIG. 10a shows the receiving recess 64 of the die 62. The in the FIG. 10b shown, produced according to the invention, bristle bundles 22 has in plan view a circular shape with a gray, centrally arranged elevated bristle bundle portion 77 on. The corresponding side view of the bristle bundle is in FIG. 10d displayed.

In the FIG. 10c is a plan view of the bristle bundle 22 corresponding, used in the inventive method, profile pin 66 is shown. Like from the FIG. 10e it can be seen, the profiled pin 66 has a recess 68 corresponding to the raised bristle bundle part 77. The circular shape of the recess 68 preferably has a diameter of 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm. This embodiment shows the variant in which the higher bristle bundle part 77 is completely surrounded by the lower bristle bundle part 77 '.

In this embodiment with only a single receiving recess 64, the mixing is different Borstenarten (color, diameter, end, tapered or conventional) for the final bundle 22 not possible. This method is mainly used for fine bristle bundles 22 with less than 70 bristles.

In the FIGS. 11a-e a further possible embodiment of a single bristle bundle 22 is shown, which is made of bristles 39, 40, which originate from only one receiving recess 64. The FIG. 11a shows the receiving recess 64 of the die 62. The in the FIG. 11b shown bristle bundles 22 has in plan view in turn a circular shape with a gray, circular segment shaped raised bristle bundle portion 77 on. The raised bristle bundle portion 77 is bounded on the one hand by the circular arc of the circumference of the bristle bundle 22 and on the other hand by a secant. The corresponding side view of the bristle bundle is in FIG. 11d displayed.

In the FIG. 11c is a plan view of the bristle bundle 22 corresponding profiled pin 66 is shown. Like from the FIG. 11e it can be seen, the profiled pin 66 has a recess 68 corresponding to the raised bristle bundle part 77. In this case, the recess 68 is limited in certain parts of the receiving recess 64, since the profile pin 66 is known to be guided in the receiving recess 64. This embodiment shows the variant in which the higher-lying bristle bundle part 77 lies partially on the edge of the bristle bundle 22 and on the other hand is surrounded by the lower-lying bristle bundle part 77.

In the Figures 12a-e is another possible embodiment of a bristle bundle 22 shown. The FIG. 12a shows the receiving recess 64 of the die 62.

That in the FIG. 12b shown bristle bundles 22 has in plan view a circular shape with a raised bristle bundle part 77 shown in gray. In contrast to the embodiments shown above, that in the FIGS. 12b and 12d in bristle bundle 22 shown in plan view or side view not only one but two higher bristle bundle parts 77, 77 'in the same bundle of bristles. The two higher-order bristle bundle parts 77, 77 ', like the bristle bundle 22 itself, have a circular shape and are arranged symmetrically on a diameter line of the bristle bundle.

In the FIG. 12c is a plan view of the bristle bundle corresponding profiled pin 66 is shown. Like from the FIG. 12e it can be seen, the profiled pin 66 has two depressions 68 corresponding to the raised bristle bundle part 77.

The example is intended to show that a plurality of elevated bristle bundle parts 77, 77 'can be formed in a bristle bundle 22. In this case, a variant is not shown, the higher bristle bundle parts 77, 77 ', on the one hand within the same higher standing bristle bundle part 77, 77' have different bristle lengths. On the other hand, of course, the higher bristle bundle portions 77, 77 'can have a total of different bristle lengths.

The FIGS. 13, 14 and 15 show further exemplary embodiments of profile pins 66, each with a different shaped recess 68. During the profile pin 66 according to FIG. 13 a groove-shaped, along a diameter line of the circular profiled pin 66th extending recess 68 has the in FIG. 14 Profile pin 66 shown a cross-shaped recess 68. The in FIG. 15 Pictured, usable in the inventive method, profile pin 66 has a centrally disposed triangular recess 68 on. By the exemplified embodiments of profile pins 66 it is clear that almost any configuration of the bristle bundles 22 with respect to their higher-part 75 are possible, in particular with respect to their cross-sections.

The Figures 16a-d show a further embodiment of a bristle bundle 22 with bristles 39, 40, of which at least a part has a higher bristle end 73 '. In the FIG. 16a the four corresponding to the bristle bundle 22, arranged at the vertices of a square receiving recesses 64 of the die 62 are shown. Of the exception receptacles 64 assigned in FIG. 16b shown profile pins 66 have two (diagonally opposite) a centrally disposed recess 68. Accordingly, in the in FIG. 16c shown top view of the finished bristle bundle 22 two gray areas 79 can be seen on a diagonal of the square bristle bundle 22 with higher bristle ends 73. The FIG. 16d shows the finished bristle bundle 22 in side view. The higher parts 75 of the bristle bundle 22 are achieved in this embodiment by a plurality of profiled pins 66. Depending on a recess in the profile pin 66 is associated with a higher part 75.

The FIGS. 17a-d show a further embodiment of a bristle bundle 22 with bristles, of which at least one part has a higher bristle end 73. In the Figure 17a the three receiving recesses 64 of the die 62 corresponding to the bristle bundle 22 are shown; they are located at the corners of an equilateral triangle. Of the exception receptacles 64 assigned, in FIG. 17b Profile pins 66 shown all have a circular sector-shaped, in each case the other two profiled pins 66 facing recess 68. Accordingly, in the in FIG. 17c shown top view of the finished bristle bundle 22 a gray, triangular region of the bristle bundle 22 can be seen with higher bristle ends 73. The triangular higher part 75 of the bristle bundle 22 is arranged centrally in the likewise triangular bristle bundle 22. The FIG. 17d shows the finished bristle bundle 22 in side view. The higher part of the bristle bundle 22 is achieved in this embodiment by a plurality of profile pins 66. In this case, the circular-sector-shaped recesses 68 of the individual profile pins 66 each represent only one part, which as a whole ultimately forms the raised portion of the bristle bundle 22.

The Figures 18a-d represent a further embodiment of a bristle bundle 22 with bristles, of which at least one part has a higher bristle end 73. In the FIG. 18a the four receiving recesses 64 of the die corresponding to the bristle bundle 22 are shown, these being arranged at the corner points of a square. Of the exception receptacles 64 assigned, in FIG. 18b shown profile pins 66 have two (each other diagonally opposite) a groove-shaped, along a diameter line (diagonal) extending recess 68, whereas the recesses 68 of the other two profile pins 66 are each circular segment-shaped. In the in FIG. 18c shown Top view of the finished bristle bundle 22 result in the recesses of the profile pins 66 complementary elevated portions of the bristle bundle 22 a diagonally across the square bristle bundle 22 extending comb. The FIG. 18d shows the finished bristle bundle in side view. The higher-standing parts 75 of the finished bristle bundle 22 are achieved in this embodiment by the combination of the depressions of a plurality of profile pins 66.

This embodiment again has a receiving recess 64 for a bundle of bristles 22. The mixing of different types of bristles (color, diameter, end, tapered or conventional) can not be assigned to the individual end regions in this variant, since the bristles of the individual receiving recesses 64 the different end regions assigned. Since several receiving recesses 64 per bundle of bristles 22 are used in this method again, this is used rather for larger bundles 22 with more than 40 bristles.

The Figures 19a-e show a possible embodiment of an elongated bristle bundle 22. In the FIG. 19a the receiving recesses 64 of the die 62 can be seen. The profile recesses 64 associated with the receiving recesses 64 are in the FIG. 19b shown. The profile pins 66 all have a straight, groove-shaped recess 68 which extends through the center of the respective profile pin 66. Both the receiving recesses and the corresponding profiled pins 66 are arranged along an arcuate line in such a way that the straight, groove-shaped recesses 68 of the individual profiled pins 66 form a continuous recess 68. The FIG. 19c shows a plan view of the corresponding, elongated bristle bundle 22. The raised portion 75 of the bristle bundle 22 is shown in turn gray. The combination of the straight, groove-shaped recesses 68 of the individual profile pins 66 in the finished bristle bundle 22, a centrally disposed continuous higher part 75 of the bristle bundle 22 is achieved in the form of a comb.

The Figure 19d shows a side view of the finished bristle bundle 22 according to the FIG. 19c , In the Figure 19e is a cross section along the line AA in Figure 19d shown. Good to see the higher in the form of a comb part 75 of the bristle bundle 22nd

One possibility that can be used in connection with this embodiment is that although the profiled pins 66 are provided with straight recesses 66, in the final product but a circular arc-shaped contour is to be created. In the process, it is possible to make the transition continuous by designing the funnel plate 63 accordingly. With it, the transition from straight to round and continuous can be created easily.

The Figures 20a-e show a further possible embodiment of an elongated bristle bundle 22. In the FIG. 20a again, the receiving recesses 64 of the die 62 can be seen. The profile recesses 64 associated with the receiving recesses 64 are in the FIG. 20b shown. The profile pins 66 all have a groove-shaped recess 68, which does not necessarily pass through the center of the circular profile pin 66. Both the receiving recesses 64 and the corresponding profile pins 66 are arranged along a straight line. The groove-shaped recesses 68 are arranged such that a slightly meandering line is formed.

The FIG. 20c shows a plan view of the corresponding, elongated bristle bundle 22. The raised portion 75 of the bristle bundle 22 is shown in turn gray. As a result of the combination of the groove-shaped recesses 68 of the individual profile pins 66, in the finished bristle bundle 22 a continuous, higher-lying part 75 of the bristle bundle 22 in the form of a meandering comb is achieved. The FIG. 20d shows a side view of the finished bristle bundle 22 according to the FIG. 20c , In the FIG. 20e is a cross section along the line BB in FIG. 20d shown. Good to see the higher in the form of a comb part 75 of the bristle bundle 22nd

In the context of in the Fig. 19a to 20e It should be noted that bristle bundles 22 with their bristle bundle portions 77 projecting higher can also vary within the final bundle 22, the bristle length of the raised portion 75 of the bristle bundle 22. In this way, a height profile can be realized in the designed comb. This is in the Fig. 24a to 24e shown. The Figs. 23a to 23e show the opposite situation in which the plane of the lower bristle ends 73 'form a profile.

The FIGS. 22a to 22g show receiving recesses 64, profile pins 66 and bristle bundles 22. Die FIG. 22c shows a plan view of the finished bristle bundle 22. Die Figures 22d to 22g show various possible embodiments of the bristle bundles 22, wherein the Profile pins 66 are each provided with correspondingly shaped forms. The bristle bundles according to Figures 22d to 22g have two stages 83. The corresponding effective surfaces 67 of these steps 83 can be oriented obliquely, wavy or even at right angles to the longitudinal direction of the bristles 39, 40. The FIGS. 22a to 22g show that any variations and shapes of bristle bundles 22 can be made.

In the Figs. 23a to 23e a bristle bundle 22 is shown which has higher and lower bristle ends. The higher bristle ends 73 form a plane, the lower bristle ends 73 'form a profile 85. As a result, the distance between the higher and the lower bristle ends 73, 73' is not constant.

The receiving recesses 64 are arranged by way of example on a straight line, as in Fig. 23a shown. In the Fig. 23b Profile pins 66 shown are guided in the receiving recesses 64. The depressions 68 in this case form a contour 87 which is continuous in the final bristle bundle 22. The configuration of the depth of the recesses 68 determines in this case how large the difference between the higher and the lower bristle ends 73, 73 'is. The profile pins 66 with the receiving recesses 64 are designed so that the lowest points of the receiving recesses 64 with respect to the top 12 bristle carrier plate 10 have the same distance when the bristles 39, 40 are passed through the bristle carrier plate 10 therethrough. This ensures that all the higher bristle ends 73 have the same distance to the top of the bristle carrier plate 10.

The Fig. 24a to 24e show a variant in which the comb of the bristle bundle 22 has a variable height. The plane 89 with the lower-lying bristle ends 73 'is configured parallel to the upper side 12 of the bristle carrying plate 10. The higher bristle ends 73 form the profile 85, so that the reduced portion of the bristle bundle 22, ie the distance between the higher and the lower bristle ends 73, 73 'varies. All lower-lying bristle ends 73 'have the same distance to the top 12 of the bristle carrying plate 10. Accordingly, the receiving recesses 64 are designed with the profile pins 66, these are in Figs. 24a and 24b shown.

The statements made concerning the profiling of the lower-lying bristle ends 73 'as well as the higher-lying bristle ends 73 can also be applied mutatis mutandis if more than 2 levels, i. more than two stages 83 in the bristle bundle 22 are designed. Each level can be profiled or leveled out.

The in the in the Fig. 23a to 24e Of course, bristle bundles 22 shown may be combined with bristle bundles 22 of the other embodiments described. For example, an embodiment as in Figs. 23a to 23e also shown with a profile like in Fig. 20a to 20e be provided shown.

In addition to those in the Fig. 19a to 20e and Fig. 23a to 24e Of course, it is also possible in the mentioned method to design individual bundles. These can then be like in Fig. 25a to 25e also have a profiling that is about the various bristle bundles 22 continues. The structure of the device for manufacturing is the same as before. The receiving recesses 64 are in Fig. 25a shown in the guided profiled pins 66 in Fig. 25b , These are then merely merged in the process to form a bristle bundle 22 together, but the bristles 39, 40 of each individual receiving recess 64 form a bundle of bristles 22. The funnel plate 63 accordingly has guide passages 91 which extend in a straight line to the corresponding ones Receiving recesses 64 are arranged on.

Fig. 25c shows the top view of the bristle bundles 22 while 25d, the side view of the bristle bundles 22 shows. Gray hatched is again the area with the higher bristle ends 73. Fig. 25d also shows the lower-lying bristle ends 73 ', which form a plane. The upstanding bristle ends 73 form a corrugated profile 85. The individual bristle bundles 22 are spaced longitudinally from one another. So that the profile 85 or the plane is not continuous. In Fig. 25e is a section through a bundle of bristles 22 along the line EE FIG. 25d shown. The upstanding bristle ends 73 arranged transversely in the middle and the lower bristle ends 73 'arranged transversely on both sides of the upstanding bristle ends 73 are clearly visible.

The higher-order bristle bundle parts 77 formed in this way preferably form a continuous, stepless contour 87. However, it is also possible to make the contour 87 discontinuous or even unsteady. By combining recesses 68 in individual profile pins 66 can be on the one hand by the arrangement of the profile pins 66, for example along a curved line, and on the other hand by the shape and arrangement of the recesses 68 in the individual profile pins 66 a "composite" shape of the finished bristle bundle achieve increased part.

Of course, all described forms of higher-standing parts 75 of bristle bundles 22 also at lower parts 75 'of bristle bundles 22 can be realized and vice versa.

Previously, it has already been stated that a variable circular arc for the provision of the bristles 39, 40 can be used. The details of the arc are also described there. In the Fig. 26a to 26d now receiving recesses 64, profile pins 66 and bristle bundles 22 are shown. The bristle bundles 22 off FIGS. 26c and 26d are made by means of a variable circular arc. In this case, two larger receiving recesses 64 of the die 62 and two smaller receiving recesses 64 'of the die 62 form the basis for the later bristle bundle 22. The receiving recesses 64, 64' are arranged at the corners of a rhombus. In the production, it is possible by the use of the variable circular arc that the different sized receiving recesses 64, 64 'are filled by the same arc. The variability is ultimately reflected in the fact that with one stroke of the circular arc different numbers of bristles can be promoted. A hub fills a receiving recess 64.

The profile pins 66 may be configured like the profile pins 66 already described, wherein profile pins 66 'with a smaller diameter and profile pins 66 with a larger diameter, corresponding to the receiving recesses 66, 66' are used. It does not matter whether the profile pin 66 is formed with the larger diameter with a recess 68 or whether the profile pin 66 'is formed with the smaller diameter corresponding to the profiled pin 66 with the larger diameter (ie with recesses 68), there are always the same design options possible. In the example shown, the higher bristle ends 73 are formed by the profile pins 66 with the larger diameter. Of course, these Bostenbündel 22 with the higher bristle ends 73 could also be formed by profile pins 66 'of smaller diameter.

In FIGS. 27a to 27e It is shown that the higher bristle ends 73 seen together over the entire bristle field 93 need not form a continuous profile 85. It is possible that the higher-standing bristle ends 73 are aligned randomly or relatively randomly or freely in inclined planes with different orientations and the lower-lying bristle ends 73 'form a continuous plane lying parallel to the upper side 12 of the bristle carrying plate 10. This is shown. In addition, it would also be possible for the irregularity to be realized only at the lower-lying bristle ends 73 'and the higher bristle ends 73 forming a plane 89. Furthermore, both the higher bristle ends 73 and the lower bristle ends 73 'may be arranged randomly or relatively randomly or freely.

In Figs. 28a and 28b the combined use of flexible massage and cleaning elements 95 together with the bristle bundles 22 produced according to the invention is shown. The massage and cleaning elements 95 can stand between simple or bristle bundles 22 produced according to the invention, as shown in section in FIG Fig. 28b is shown. Further, the soft elastic massage and cleaning elements 95, the bristle bundles 22 completely or partially enclose, as in Fig. 28a shown. The design variants in terms of height, shape, etc. are described earlier in the text.

For the realization of toothbrushes produced according to the invention, a wide variety of bristle types can be used. Preferably, cylindrical bristles 39 or pointed bristles 40 are used.

Fig. 21a shows the bristle end of a cylindrical bristle 39. The cylindrical bristles 39 are preferably made of polyamide (PA). They have over the bristle length a substantially constant nominal diameter _Δnenn (diameter at the thickest point of the bristle), which is for example 0.15 to 0.25 mm, on. The tip 22a of the bristle 40 is rounded in the final state in the brush. The cross section of the cylindrical bristle 39 is preferably circular. But there are also other cross-sectional shapes possible, for example, square, rectangular or diamond-shaped.

Topped bristles 40 are in Fig. 21b outlined. Topped bristles 40 are preferably made of polyester (PBT) and also have a constant diameter over a range of their length, eg also a nominal diameter of 0.15-0.25 mm. To the top 40a The bristle 40 tapers, beginning at a distance a from the tip 40a. Measured from the top 40a corresponds to the diameter at the appropriate location, for example, the following values: Distance (mm) % of the nominal diameter Average tolerance 0.1 8th% 5-15% 1 25% 15-35% 2 45% 30-60% 3 60% 50-80% 4 75% 60-90% 5 80% 70-90% 6 85% > 75% 7 90% > 80%

The tapering process is based on the reduction of the diameter by means of a chemical process. Depending on the length of the stay of the bristle in the chemical substance, the plastic degrades and reduces the diameter. The shape of the tip is so influenceable.

Basically, there are two types of pointed bristles 40. Those which have a taper at only one end and those which have a taper at both bristle ends. The taper is dimensioned in both cases as stated above. The unilaterally tapered bristles 40 have at one end a taper and at the other end they are cylindrical and can be rounded. The double-sided sharpened bristles 40 are configured at both ends with a taper.

From the cross section, the pointed bristles 40 can be made the same as the cylindrical bristles 40.

In order to maintain sufficient stability of the individual filaments, the nominal diameter is over a large part the length left over 75%. The above table shows that the tapering of the filaments is predominantly on the last 4 to 5 mm. With this configuration, the tip 23a can optimally achieve the smallest fissures and the interdental spaces with sufficient filament stability.

In the present case, preferably cylindrical or unilaterally tapered bristles are used.

For all types of bristles, in order to achieve sufficient flexibility of the filaments, a length, starting from the brush head, is selected between 7 mm and 13 mm.

In general, the bristles 39, 40 may be completely or partially colored. Accordingly, in the case of partially colored bristles, for example, only the bristle ends or only one bristle end or else all but the bristle ends can be colored. The coloration itself may be used as an indicator color, i.e. the color wears away in use and thus serves as a usage indicator or as a permanent coloration.

The cylindrical bristles 39, which are made of polyamide, for example, be colored with food colors and be provided on the paint with a paint. Possible food grade food colors are exemplified by blue "aluminum lake of 3,3'-dioxo-2,2'-diindolinyidenes-5,5'-disulfonic acid", for yellow "aluminum lake of 5-hydroxy-1- (4-" sulfophenyl) -4- (4-sulfophenylazo) -3-pyrazolecarboxylic acid "or" aluminum lake of 6-hydroxy-5- (4-sulfophenylazo) -2-naphthalenesulfonic acid ". These colors are designed so that they are suitable for Food-Contact. When the colors are applied to bristles, the surface is usually no longer of the quality that allows for automatic processing on toothbrush bristles 97. Therefore, the entire bristles or at least the colored portions of the bristles are provided with a varnish. This varnish makes the surface smoother and allows automatic processing.

Topped bristles 40, which are made of polyester, can not be colored in this way. The coloring of these bristles requires a chemical process, which is not discussed here.

The advantage of coloring may be that the technical aspect of bristles of different lengths can be visualized, for example, when only the higher-lying bristle ends are colored, or when only the lower-lying bristle ends are colored. Furthermore, the use of the indication of use (consumption indication) can be created by the design as an indicator game for the customer.

Preferably, the part of the bristles 39, 40 is colored, which comprises the higher-standing bristle ends. The coloring of the two-sided ends is still possible.

The coloring has, if it concerns only the bristle tips, on the finished toothbrush a length of 2 mm to 10 mm, preferably between 3 mm and 8 mm. Due to the processing, the coloring on the unprocessed bristles is longer or adapted, since at most certain parts of the coloring are ground away or cut away. Accordingly, the coloration in the raw material need not be the same length at both ends of the bristles as it may vary in the final product. Preferably, the coloration in the final product is the same length at both bristle ends, if both bristle ends are colored.

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

The profile pin 66 has a non-continuous surface 105 on an end face 101. By means of this embodiment of the profile pin 66, two or more planes 89 of bristle ends 73 can be designed. This is sometimes in the FIGS. 6a . 10e as well as 12e clearly visible.

The continuous parts 109 of the surface 105 of the profiled pin 66 are scratch-free that is polished, highly polished or lapped. This is in turn in the FIGS. 6a . 10e as well as 12e clearly visible.

The mentioned, non-continuous transitions 111 in the surface 105 of the profiled pin 66 are formed as sharp edges 112.

The device or the bristle machine 97 for producing a toothbrush 8 comprises the die 62 with the profiled pins 66 guided therein, the profiled pins 66 having a highly polished or lapped surface 105.

The discontinuous transitions 111 of the surface 105 are designed sharp-edged.

Claims (5)

1. Process for producing toothbrushes covered with bristles in an anchor-free manner, in which a tuft of bristles (22) with cylindrical bristles (39) and/or pointed bristles (40) is introduced into a receiving recess (64) of a mould (60) of a bristle-providing machine (97) and, by means of a profiled pin (66) guided in the receiving recess (64), force is applied to the end facing the pin (66) of the bristles (39, 40) of the tuft of bristles (22) for the alignment thereof, so that the bristles (39, 40) of the tuft of bristles (22) are aligned by means of an end face (101) of the profiled pin (66) and, as a result, form the topography that complements the topography of the end face (101) of the profiled pin (66), wherein the profiled pin (66) has on the end face (103) that acts on the bristles (39, 40) a discontinuous surface (105), which forms multiple levels (107), wherein the bristles (39, 40) pushed up by the profiled pins (66) project with an end region (70) beyond the upward-lying underside (14) of a bristle-carrying plate (10) and the end regions (70) of the bristles (39, 40) on this side are melted, in order to fasten the bristles (39, 40) to the bristle-carrying plate (10), and wherein, to produce a tuft of bristles (22) which is circular in plan view and has a centrally arranged raised tuft part (77) and a lower-lying tuft part (77'), wherein the higher tuft part (77) is completely surrounded by the lower tuft part (77'), the profiled pin (66) has a depression (68) corresponding to the raised tuft part (77) .
2. Process according to Claim 1, characterized in that the continuous parts (109) of the surface (105) of the profiled pin (66) are scratch-free, that is to say polished, highly polished or lapped.
3. Process according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the discontinuous transitions (111) in the surface (105) of the profiled pin (66) are formed as sharp edges (112).
4. Process according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the depression (68) has a depth of between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, preferably between 2 mm and 3 mm.
5. Process according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the depression (68) has a diameter of 0.3 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm.

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