EP3598920A1 - Marking/printing on method for application and/or cleansing elements - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning device, in particular a toothbrush, with a handle part (4), a head part (2) and a neck part (3) connecting the handle part to the head part. On the head part (2) one or more application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) are applied, which form a bristle field (6) which has at least one outer side (8) and / or has an upper side (9). At least one of the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the at least one outer side (11) and / or one upper side (9) of the bristle field is provided with an identification / color medium (7) marked or printed. The invention further relates to a corresponding method and a corresponding arrangement.

Description

The present invention has the labeling or printing of application and / or cleaning elements, i.e. not just of conventional bristles. The labeling / printing is used in particular for communication with the user. With the labeling / printing, for example, instructions for use and other instructions can be given, benefits, advantages or benefits conveyed, logos applied and advertising space generated. The invention relates in particular to a correspondingly printed or labeled cleaning device (e.g. a brush, toothbrush, floss or tongue cleaner etc.), a corresponding method for identifying or printing such a cleaning device and an arrangement for carrying out the method.

In EP 0 366 100 A1 describes a toothbrush with a handle and a bristle holder and with a device that indicates the end of the usability of the toothbrush. The device is formed in that at least part of the toothbrush consists of a material component that gradually decomposes, dissolves or changes in color. At least part of the toothbrush is made from a material component or is provided with a material component that gradually decomposes, dissolves or changes in color during use. This process can be done by air, water or light. For this purpose there are a variety of Known plastics, for example polymers with acid or amino groups, for example a polymer with methacrylic acid as a copolymer. Such plastics are soluble in water or in slightly acidic or basic liquids. Non-lightfast dyes and non-lightfast colored plastics are suitable for a color change. On the one hand, the transition area between the bristle holder and the handle can be made at least partially from a plastic that decomposes or dissolves through water. Since this transition area regularly comes into contact with water when brushing your teeth, the material component dissolves here, so that after a while the bristle holder is no longer stable, but is only soft and therefore unsuitable for cleaning the handle. Another possibility is to provide the bristle carrier and / or the stem with a display field which is covered with a decomposing or dissolving material component. After the possible period of use of the toothbrush has expired, this material component, for example the plastic mentioned, has dissolved so that the display field is visible and effectively shows the period of use. However, this solution does not concern the bristles or application and / or cleaning elements as such, but only the neck area of a toothbrush.

From the WO 00/01275 is a process for the production of bristle goods with bristles made of plastic, which are endlessly extruded as monofilaments, cut to the desired length and attached individually or in groups in bundles as bristle trimmings to a bristle holder, as is the case with toothbrushes. The monofilament or the bristles made therefrom are extruded with at least one on the Provide bristle trimmings of the finished bristle goods as a color-marked marking, essentially a line-shaped delimitation or marking line at a distance from the end of the bristles on the use side that represents the state of use. In this way, regardless of the actual wear and tear when using the bristle goods, the user of the bristle goods is constantly given visual information about the current state of use and the degree of current wear. The monofilament used to produce the bristles is extruded from a plastic filled with pigments, which react to laser beams with a change in color, the delimitation being produced by the action of laser beams on the monofilament or the bristles produced therefrom. If the marking is finally reached due to the progressive wear of the end of the bristles on the use side, the brush or toothbrush is no longer usable.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a solution with which different types of application and / or cleaning elements, possibly consisting of different material components, for different cleaning devices can be optically processed in such a way that a more varied and efficient communication / interaction with Users can be achieved.

This object is achieved according to the invention by a cleaning device, in particular a toothbrush, with a handle part, a head part and a neck part connecting the handle part to the head part, one or more application and / or cleaning elements being applied to the head part Form bristle field, which has at least one outer side and / or an upper side, at least one of the application and / or cleaning elements on the at least one outer side and / or an upper side of the bristle field being marked or printed with an identification / color medium; and by a method for marking / printing a cleaning device, in particular a toothbrush, with a grip part, a head part and a neck part connecting the grip part to the head part, one or more application and / or cleaning elements which having a bristle field being applied to the head part form, which has at least one outside and / or an upper side, with the steps: (a) feeding the cleaning device with the application and / or cleaning elements (or alternatively: a bristle puck) to a marking / printing medium (e.g. to a Printhead or laser) by means of a transport device (under a bristle puck bristles are summarized in their raw form in a puck (semi-finished products) as they are fed to a bristle machine - in the bristle puck, these are arranged side by side close together) (b ) Marking / printing at least one of the application and / or cleaning elements elements on the at least one outside and / or an upper side of the bristle field (or alternatively: a bristle puck) with an identification / color medium, (c) optional identification / printing of the handle, head and / or neck part; and by an arrangement for marking / printing a bristle field of a cleaning device comprising a marking / printing means (for example a laser or printhead) with a marking / printing field within which one Marking / printing of the bristle field can take place with a marking / color medium and with a holding device by means of which the cleaning device is held and positioned opposite the marking / printing means and which is preferably arranged on a transport device.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the application and / or cleaning elements marked or printed with the marking / color medium are made of a thermoplastic elastomer, in particular a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPE-U), a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer (TPE- A), a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer (TPE-O), or a thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPE-E), a polyamide (PA), a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and / or a silicone. This selection of material components has shown particularly good results with regard to labeling / printing and the cleaning effect, while protecting the gums and oral tissue.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the application and / or cleaning elements identified or printed with the identification / color medium have a plurality of colors. In this way, different functionalities, intensities of the individual application and cleaning elements can be made clear to the user.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the application and / or cleaning elements are with one indicator or one Indicator color marked or printed. These are preferably indicators which show reactions in use. Examples are so-called usage indicators, in which the marking / printing wears off during use due to friction or mechanical abrasion and thus indicates the condition of the application and / or cleaning elements (e.g. in the case of an applied indicator color: if none There is more color means that the brush changes).

The indicators or indicator colors can be activated with water or by washing them off (e.g. after 3 months the labeling / color medium is gone or completely faded after daily use); use with water or washing up then corresponds to a consumption process. It is also possible that after the first activation an independent, independent consumption process takes place, i.e. the indicator is used automatically and automatically from that point in time (i.e. without any further third party influence).

The activation of an indicator or an indicator color implemented with a marking / printing can also be controlled jointly by various processes, for example by a combination of use by friction or mechanical abrasion and use with water or washing up.

The intensity or duration of the indicator or the indicator color is determined, for example, by the layer thickness of the application or the percentage admixture of the Additive in the respective medium (larger proportion corresponds to longer or greater effect) controlled.

Another indicator that can be applied with the labeling / printing is the so-called bacterial measurement. Here the condition in the mouth is detected and checked for the bacteria content.

In an analogous manner, bad breath can be detected and displayed in color by marking / printing an indicator or indicator color provided for this purpose. Finally, thermochromic marking media / thermochromic colors can also be applied to the application and cleaning elements, which reversibly change their color image when the temperature changes. In this way, the water temperature and / or the period of use (residence time in the mouth) can be determined; e.g. if the application and / or cleaning elements or a sub-zone thereof are blue and if they are washed off with hot water, they will turn red accordingly. Furthermore, a changing image can also be created in this way, e.g. through a tree with leaves, the leaves change color with warm water so that only the tree trunk or tree is visible.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the application and / or cleaning elements are marked or printed with a graphic which produces an optical effect. Graphics can in particular serve as a visual support of the properties of a product or represent anticipated properties of a product, such as by continuing the pattern of the brush handle; Illustrations that support or suggest device function (e.g. visualization of the movement patterns of electric toothbrushes, for example of vibration by waves / rings in sonic sound toothbrushes or an animation of the rotation for oscillating toothbrushes). In the case of electrical devices in particular, it is very interesting for the user to recognize the anticipated movement of the application and / or cleaning elements without the device having to be started (for example in the sales packaging).

Color or volume-supporting color elements are also conceivable; e.g. lines, etc. can be applied in the 3D profile or in the topography of the bristle field, which make the contour more visible or emphasize it. In this way, the special advantages of the 3D profile or the topography of the bristle field can be emphasized to the user.

In addition, the color gradient of the marking can be designed according to the degree of hardness of the bristle bundles in the bristle field. This means bundles with bristles of larger diameter are given a different identification than bundles with bristles of smaller diameter. The same considerations also apply, of course, to the material hardness used for application and / or cleaning elements that are manufactured by injection molding (e.g. application and / or cleaning elements made of different soft components with different shore hardness can also be marked with different colors).

The purpose of the brush can also be communicated. This can be described using text or communicated with a corresponding image (eg «Sensitive» eg with a feather, «Whitening» eg with a polar bear, «Interdental» eg with an illustrated dental floss thread or with a tooth space shown).

In addition, optical illusions or optical effects can be used, which are caused by movement (i.e. especially with oscillating brushes or sonic brushes).

Finally, patterns can also be applied, which are only visible or changed by the movement of the electric toothbrush (e.g. outside on the bristle field of an oscillating toothbrush or at the top and / or front on the bristle field of a pivoting toothbrush or a Sonic toothbrush). That Through the operation of the electrical device, the marking through the movement takes on an alternative meaning to the non-operation. For example, a lettering or a pattern or a graphic appears on the application and / or cleaning elements during operation, which would not be directly recognizable without movement.

Also possible as graphics in the form of textures or patterns that make the product unique are, for example: coat of arms, children's motifs, icons / pictograms, snow mountain motif (i.e. white bristles / filaments are used, to which blue mountains are applied) ).

In addition, shaky images (images that take on a different shape depending on the viewing angle and thus suggest a 3-dimensional and / or movable effect) are also conceivable.

Furthermore, geometric graphics or geometric shapes can also be applied. Products can also be visually upgraded and / or modified using graphics. To make a brush unique, individual labeling / printing can be applied (e.g. mom, dad, Philipp, Adrian, etc.) or a standardized individuality (e.g. male, female, zodiac sign, western or eastern characteristics / symbols or age details such as Junior, Kid, Adults, 0 to 6 years, etc.).

In order to create, reinforce and / or design the desired effect of the marking / printing mentioned in this document, the shape of the application and / or cleaning elements can be e.g. the bristles and / or bundles of bristles are advantageously used. That The marking / printing can preferably be adapted within an application and / or cleaning element in such a way that the marking / printing follows the contour of the application and / or cleaning elements at least in part and thus, if desired, a different marking / printing depending on the viewing angle leaves.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the identification / color medium is applied to the application and / or cleaning elements in a layer thickness of 0.001 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.001 mm to 0.2 mm. In this way, a certain “minimum durability” with regard to abrasion and / or washing off can be guaranteed.

If the laser method (ie not laser printing) is used for marking, it cannot be used with layer thicknesses To be defined. The marking can be a color change in the respective material component (eg the application and / or cleaning elements), which does not result in a height difference. However, material can be removed, which is preferably between 0.01 mm and 0.5 mm.

The respective material component can also foam up as a result of the laser treatment, which results in a color change in the surface and also a certain feel. The structure felt in this way has a height of 0.01 mm to 0.5 mm.

So-called carbonization can also be achieved with the laser, which brings about a change in the respective material component, which can be perceived by the eye as a dark discoloration.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the packing density of the application and / or cleaning elements, in particular the bristles, is from 12 pieces / mm ² to 25 pieces / mm ² , preferably from 16 pieces / mm ² to 20 pieces / mm ² . In this way, the labeling / printing can be further optimized. A higher packing density of the application and / or cleaning elements allows a higher resolution of the identification, in particular when the application and / or cleaning elements are identified on the end face.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the number of marking points / printing points or the printing resolution or the resolution of the marking is greater than the number of marked application and / or Cleaning elements. More preferably, the print resolution is from 20 dpi to 3000 dpi, preferably from 150 dpi to 1500 dpi. These measures ensure particularly good visibility or legibility of the marking or the print. As a result, the small bristle areas (for example at the free bristle end on the top of the bristle field) are better or more marked. This means that the area is provided with more marking points / pressure points due to the higher resolution, which serves for a "better" marking.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the case of a (for example round) bristle field with at least one outer side and a top side, at least one application and cleaning element is on the outside of the bristle field and at least one cleaning and application element is on the top side of the bristle field with a marking Provide printing. With this form of labeling / printing, for example, individual bristle bundles (or larger areas across several bristle bundles) can be marked or printed around the corner, ie across the top edge. This creates a continuous, continuous marking / printing from the outside to the top of at least individual application and cleaning elements. In this way, interesting optical effects can be created and a different exposure with regard to use can be generated. It is expected that the wear on the label will be higher on the top than on the outside.

In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the case of an elongated (for example rectangular, kite-shaped, elliptical, etc.) bristle field with at least one front side, one long side and one top side, at least one application and / or cleaning element on the front side of the bristle field is at least one Application and / or cleaning element on the long side of the bristle field and at least one cleaning and application element on the top of the bristle field marked / printed. Again, individual bristle bundles (or larger areas across several bristle bundles) can be marked / printed on corners, i.e. over their top, front and / or longitudinal / outer edge. The bristle field can thus be marked / printed as desired in the X, Y and Z directions (contiguous and non-contiguous). Of course, only combinations between front and top, longitudinal and top or front and long side "over a corner" are also conceivable.

In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the marking / printing means is a print head, in particular an inkjet print head. Particularly good print quality can be achieved inexpensively in the inkjet process.

Another preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention comprises a laser as the marking / printing means.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the marking / printing means (for example the print head) is along at least one axis, preferably two axes, more preferably three axes, arranged movably and / or rotatably relative to the cleaning device. In this way, the aforementioned variable identification of the bristle field on the upper, longitudinal / outer, front and / or also the rear can be achieved. Furthermore, it is thus possible to follow the contour of the cleaning and application element, for example of bristles and / or bristle bundles. Of course, the marking / printing means can also be fixed and the product is moved with the corresponding axes relative to the marking / printing means.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the transport device has holding means with which the brush can be pivoted and / or rotated relative to the marking / printing means. This measure also serves for the variable marking / printing of the bristle field, in particular a 360 ° marking / printing of the outside or outer surface of a bristle field of mascara and interdental brushes (i.e. around the brush).

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, at least one application and / or cleaning element on the outside of the bristle field and at least one cleaning and / or application element on the top in the case of a (for example round or elliptical) bristle field with at least one outside and an upper side of the bristle field marked / printed. With this form of labeling / printing, individual bristle bundles or larger areas can be spread over several Bristle bundles on the outside following the respective shape of the brush head) and / or marked / printed over a corner, ie over the top edge. With this type of labeling / printing, it is possible to generate a surrounding text or graphic, which the user only recognizes as a whole when he rotates the product accordingly. As a result, the user can be encouraged to get to know the product better with all its possibilities and advantages through a multi-page view.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, in the case of a (preferably rectangular) bristle field with at least one front side, one long side and one top side, at least one application and / or cleaning element on the front side of the bristle field, at least one application and / or cleaning element on the Long side of the bristle field and at least one cleaning and / or application element printed / marked on the top of the bristle field. Again, individual bundles of bristles (or larger areas across several bundles of bristles) can be printed / labeled around the corner, i.e. over their top, front and / or longitudinal outer edge. The bristle field can thus be printed / labeled as desired in the X, Y and Z directions (contiguous and non-contiguous).

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the marking / printing means (for example the print head) has a height of 5 mm to 100 mm, preferably 10 to 50 mm. This height indicates the width of the marking / printing. More preferably, the print head has 5 to 500 nozzles, preferably 10 to 300 nozzles. This ensures the aforementioned resolution.

The labeling / printing per product can be carried out in several steps by the labeling / printing medium (e.g. the print head). Furthermore, the marking / printing can also take place in parallel or in succession by means of a plurality of marking / printing means.

In a further preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the marking / printing speed is from 2 m / min to 100 m / min, preferably from 5 m / min to 60 m / min. This enables efficient and high-quality marking / printing to be generated.

In a preferred embodiment of the arrangement according to the invention, the marking / printing means is along at least one axis (for example X, Y or Z), preferably two axes (for example two axes of X, Y and Z), more preferably three axes (for example X, Y, Z) movably and / or rotatably arranged relative to the cleaning device. As a result, the aforementioned variable marking / printing of the bristle field on the top, lengthways / outside, front and / or also on the back can be achieved.

In a variant, the marking / printing means is arranged rigidly or fixedly and the holding means with the cleaning device moves laterally on the marking / printing means, ie along the Z axis. In this way, an outer or long side of the bristle field can be identified. The labeling / printing medium can also be arranged rigidly or fixedly above the bristle field in order to identify / print on the top of the bristle field. This variant is also particularly suitable for the marking / printing of bristle pucks (ie bristles in their raw form combined in a puck or semi-finished products such as are fed to a bristle machine).

In a further variant, the marking / printing means is arranged such that it can move relative to the cleaning device on the holding device. The marking / printing medium moves laterally past the bristle field of the brush, i.e. along the Z axis. In this way, an outer or long side of the bristle field can in turn be marked / printed. However, the marking / printing means can also be arranged movably above the bristle field in order to mark / print on the top of the bristle field.

In yet another variant, the marking / printing means is preferably arranged to be movable relative to the cleaning device and the cleaning device is arranged to be movable relative to the marking / printing means. The marking / printing means can move laterally past the bristle field of the brush (ie along the Z-axis), transversely to the bristle field of the cleaning device (ie along the X-axis) and / or it can be in a dome-like rotary movement with respect to the Z -Axis (ie movement in the X and Y planes) is brought into a position above the bristle field or on the other side of the bristle field. At the same time, the holder means with the cleaning device on the side of the marking / printing means be moved past, ie along the Z axis. In this way, the top and both outer and long sides of the bristle field, as well as the head, neck and handle part of the brush can be marked / printed in high number of cycles (but there is also the possibility of arranging the holding means rigidly).

The marking / printing means can also be brought into a position in front of or behind the bristle field or on the other side of the bristle field in a dome-like rotary movement with respect to the Z axis (ie movement in the X and Y planes) that the front or back and both outer and long sides of the bristle field and, if applicable, the front and side edges of the cleaning device can be marked / printed. A corresponding rotary movement with respect to the Y axis is also conceivable (i.e. movement in the X and Z planes for labeling / printing on the top, front and back).

In yet another variant, both the marking / printing means are arranged so as to be movable relative to the cleaning device and the cleaning device on the holding device is movable relative to the marking / printing means. The marking / printing means moves laterally past the bristle field of the cleaning device, ie along the Z axis. The cleaning device (here preferably a mascara or interdental brush) is arranged such that it can rotate relative to the marking / printing means, ie rotation about the Z axis. The brush is pivoted and / or rotated by the holding means in relation to the marking / printing means. To this In particular, the outside of the bristle field can be marked / printed with mascara and interdental brushes (360 ° printing / marking). The marking / printing means can, however, also be arranged movably above the bristle field in order to mark / print on the outside or outer surface of the bristle field.

It is also particularly advantageous to use the same labeling / printing means, in addition to application and / or cleaning elements, to label further elements of the product (for example the handle part).

In the context of the present invention, it is particularly preferably marked or printed with waxy ink. The ink can be water soluble or water insoluble. The wax-like ink is warmed up or melted and is viscous to solid when not warmed. It can only be processed regularly in the liquid state. The ink solidifies very quickly when it comes into contact with the surface to be marked / printed. Color changes are fundamentally complex because the ink is led to the print head over long distances (in hoses (line)).

The drying time of the waxy ink is preferably less than 2 seconds, more preferably less than 1.5 seconds. The ink can be touched after drying.

Wax-like ink has the advantage that it adheres to different material components and application and / or cleaning elements consisting of different material components can thereby be identified.

For example, food wax 5012 from Markem Imaje (a Dover Company) can be used.

When marking in the laser process, there is no actual material application and therefore no marking medium is required. The labeling is done by color changes etc. as described above.

Other preferred applications

The present invention relates primarily to personal care brush products. With regard to oral hygiene, manual toothbrushes can be used, for example as reusable toothbrushes (e.g. replaceable head toothbrushes) or as disposable toothbrushes or as single-tufted brushes (brushes with only one large bristle bundle).

Electric toothbrushes with different types of brush heads and different forms of movement (e.g. oscillating, swiveling, translational, vibrating or combinations or superimpositions thereof) are also suitable. Electric toothbrushes can have a mechanical gear with 1: 1 reduction or gear ratio, an oscillating armature motor or an electric motor. The electric toothbrushes can be operated at different speeds and have, for example, single-use batteries or accumulators (e.g. nickel-metal hydride batteries or lithium-ion batteries) as energy stores. Charging can be done inductively or directly with a plug connection.

The toothbrushes, which are the subject of the present application, consist regularly of a head part with application and / or cleaning elements, a neck part and a handle part. All sub-elements can consist of at least one hard and / or one or more soft components. The head part can also have a recess for a corresponding head plate, which is covered with application and / or cleaning elements. The application and / or cleaning elements can comprise, for example, conventional, extruded bristles (pointed as cylindrical) and / or rubber-elastic massage and / or cleaning elements.

Another preferred area of application is interdental cleaners. These can be designed as interdental cleaners with screwed-in bristles, and / or with sprayed cleaning elements, or as interdental cleaners with dental floss and possibly toothpicks (also referred to as flossers or dental fiddle).

Tongue cleaners are also cleaning devices in the sense of the present invention, as well as tongue cleaner sections applied to toothbrushes. Appropriate application and / or cleaning elements can be marked / printed on tongue cleaners. Often these are only relatively small structures such as knobs, ribs, tenons, surface structures. These can consist of hard and / or soft components.

It is clear that different application and / or cleaning elements can be marked / printed on a product. The different application and / or cleaning elements can be in a different position on the product, serve a different purpose and / or have different properties.

With a toothbrush, for example, the tongue cleaners on the back and the bristles on the front can be marked / printed. The same or different labeling / printing means or labeling / printing methods can be used for this.

Dental floss can also be marked / printed accordingly. In particular dental floss which is clamped in a plastic part (like the flossers / dental violins described above).

In the cosmetics sector, mascara brushes, nail polish brushes, face brushes, applicators, make-up or lip gloss brushes are preferably marked / printed.

Further areas of application are shaving brushes and wet razors (hair removal), highlight brushes (hair coloring) or hair brushes.

For the household sector, there are washing-up brushes, toilet brushes, clothes brushes, floor mops, brooms as well as brushes and paint rollers.

Preferred material components hard components

The following are preferably used as hard components: styrene polymerizates such as styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene methyl methacrylate (SMMA) or styrene butadiene (SB); Polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE), for example also in the forms of high density polyethylene (HDPE) or low density polyethylene (LDPE); Polyester such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in the form of acid-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETA) or glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), acid-modified polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT-A) or glycol-modified polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate (PCT-G); Cellulose derivatives such as cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose acetate butyrate (CAB), cellulose propionate (CP), cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) or cellulose butyrate (CB); Polyamides (PA) such as PA 6.6, PA 6.10 or PA 6.12; Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); Polycarbonate (PC); Polyoxymethylene (POM); Polyvinyl chloride (PVC); Polyutherane (PUR); Polyamide (PA); Polyethylene (PE) can be used both as a hard component and as a soft component; Polyurethane (PU) can be used both as a hard component and as a soft component; polypropylene (PP) is preferably used as the hard component with an elastic modulus which is preferably between 1000 to 2400 N / mm ² , particularly preferably between 1300 to 1800 N / mm ² .

The hard component is preferably used for / in stable, structure-bearing elements, for example in the handle, the neck or head part. If several hard components are used, for example in the two- or multi-component injection molding process or material components are connected with ultrasonic welding, the hard components used preferably form a material connection with one another.

Alternatively, several hard components can be used, which do not form a material connection in two- or multi-component injection molding. In these pairings, a form fit is provided, for example in the form of undercuts and / or openings and / or partially and / or full extrusion coating (etc.). The second sprayed hard component then shrinks on cooling to the first sprayed hard component and thus forms a shrinkage connection. Examples of possible hard component pairings that do not form a material bond are polypropylene and polyester, polypropylene, styrene acrylonitrile, etc.

soft components

Soft components preferably form a material connection with the hard components by means of overmolding in a two- or multi-component injection molding process. The following are preferably used as soft components: thermoplastic styrene elastomers (TPE-S), such as, for example, a styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymer (SEBS) or styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymer (SBS); but also thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPE-U); Thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPE-A); Thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers (TPE-O); Thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E) and silicones. Polyethylene (PE) can be used both as a hard component and as a soft component. Polyurethane (PU) can also be used both as a hard component and as a soft component. The preferred thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) have a Shore A hardness <90, preferably <50, particularly preferably <30.

Preferred material components for sprayed bristles

In contrast to conventional, extruded bristles, sprayed bristles are produced by injection molding. Preferred material components for the sprayed bristles are thermoplastic Polyurethane elastomers (TPE-U). Preferred modifications to the TPE-U standard can include: better flow properties and faster solidification or crystallization (ie the molecular chains bond even at high temperatures).

Alternative material components include polyethylene (PE), for example in the forms of low density polyethylene (LDPE) or linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) as well as thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E) and thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPE-A).

The material components for sprayed bristles are preferably thermoplastic elastomers and have a Shore D hardness of 0 to 100, preferably 30 to 80. Special shapes of soft components are used for sprayed bristles, which generally have higher Shore hardness than other soft components from which flexible cleaning / massage elements or handle zones or tongue cleaners can be produced.

During the injection molding process (two- or multi-component injection molding), material components for sprayed bristles generally do not form a material connection with the other soft and / or hard components used. Consequently, a form fit is provided for any connections with other hard or soft components, for example in the form of undercuts and / or openings and / or partial and / or complete overmolding / wrapping (etc.). The second sprayed material component for sprayed bristles shrinks on cooling to the first sprayed hard or soft component and thus forms a shrinkage connection.

Special material components

As special material components, which are preferably used, in particular bioplastics should be mentioned, i.e. Plastics that are made from renewable raw materials.

The raw materials for the bioplastics consist, for example, at least partially of corn, hemp, sugar, castor oil, palm oil, potatoes, wheat, sugar cane, rubber, wood and the castor bean plant or the miracle tree. Examples of possible raw materials obtained from the raw materials are: cellulose, starch, lactic acid (PLA), glucose, chitin and chitosan.

The main groups of bioplastics include starch-based bioplastics, cellulose-based bioplastics, polyhydroxyalkanoates (e.g. PHB, polyhydroxybutyric acid), PLA (polylactic acid, e.g. ecovio®), aliphatic / aromatic copolyesters (e.g. Ecoflex® or infinito®). Other preferred bioplastics include, for example, lignin-based bioplastics. Water-soluble polymers are also suitable.

Preferred application and / or cleaning elements

In the context of the present invention, the application and / or cleaning elements can comprise the following configurations:

Conventional, extruded bristles

Conventional, extruded bristles can generally be made up of hard and / or soft components. Conventional, extruded bristles (pointed or cylindrical) are preferably made of polyamide (PA) or polyester (PBT).

The production is preferably carried out by means of extrusion (one material component) or by means of co-extrusion (more than one material component). In contrast to sprayed bristles or rubber-elastic massage and cleaning elements, which are produced by injection molding, conventional bristles are extruded, cut, machined (for example rounded or tapered) and used on the brush handle using an adapted process (anchor punching, AFT, IMT, Etc.). The processing of conventional bristles is usually carried out before marking / printing.

The longitudinal shape of the conventional, extruded bristles is preferably cylindrical or tapered (e.g. chemically tapered, especially for bristles made of polyester (PBT)), wavy or twisted or helical.

The cross-section of the conventional, extruded bristles is approximately circular, triangular, rectangular, square, elliptical, polygonal, trapezoidal, parallelogram-shaped or rhombus-shaped.

Preferred dimensions for oral hygiene include a diameter of 0.075 mm to 0.25 mm and an area of 0.002 mm ² to 0.2 mm ² .

For cosmetics, preferred dimensions include a diameter of 0.025 mm to 0.2 mm and an area of 0.001 mm ² to 0.15 mm ² .

The surface is smooth or textured. The conventional, extruded bristles are also preferably summarized in bundles.

tongue cleaner

Preferred tongue cleaners, which are integrated, for example, in toothbrushes, are regularly constructed from hard components and / or from soft components or from a combination of hard components and soft components. Tongue cleaners can also be constructed from a material component for sprayed bristles, which in turn can be combined with hard and / or soft components. Tongue cleaners are regularly injection molded.

Cleaning / massage elements

Cleaning / massage elements are preferably constructed from soft components. They are preferably manufactured using the injection molding process.

Sprayed bristles

Sprayed bristles consist of one of the above Material components for sprayed bristles and are also preferably made by injection molding.

Preferred manufacturing process injection molding

The process or the manufacturing method for toothbrushes in particular initially comprises the injection molding of a base body, which in any case regularly comprises a handle or a grip part, a neck part and a head part (with or without a recess for a head plate). An injection molding tool or a Machine. In two- or multi-component injection molding, the material components can connect by means of a material or material bond. If the material components do not connect, a form fit is usually sought, for example in the form of a shrinkage connection. Depending on the configuration, mobility is also possible, for example by means of a joint (formed by the non-connecting material components).

Both hot runner and cold runner processes or co-injection processes are used.

The location of the injection point is preferably chosen so that no injuries to the oral tissue or gums can occur during use due to the material residues that regularly remain there (which, however, can possibly be overmoulded by another material component).

Beborstungsverfahren

For the bristling of the head part, the anchor punching method, anchorless method and screwing-in method come into question in the present case, each of which is briefly explained below.

In the anchor punching process, the base body is first injected with blind holes and then the bristles are folded and fastened in the head part by means of anchors. The anchor punching is carried out by means of a punching device or a punching tool and corresponding format sets. A similarly applicable process is loop punching.

The bristles are not folded in the anchorless processes, which is why the bristles here are only half the length of the bristles in the anchor punching process.

According to a first method variant, the bristle bundles are first separated. The bristle ends are then melted and then directly encapsulated with plastic components. With this method, several bundles of bristles can be brought together. Known processes include what is known as in mold tufting (IMT), in which the encapsulation also includes the injection molding of the base body, and so-called integrated anchorless production, in which bristles are first encapsulated with (head) platelets and then the platelets with the base body or be molded around the headboard.

According to a second process variant, (head) platelets with through holes are first injected. The bristles are then provided and passed through the (head) plate. The bristles are then melted on the back and thus also melted with the (head) plate. The bristled (head) plate is now ultrasonically welded to the separately produced base body. Known methods include the V-Air and Zahoransky Z. Vamp 1 methods, in which it is not possible to combine bundles. Other known processes include the Boucherie Anchor Free Tufting (AFT) - and the Zahoransky Z. Vamp 3 process, in which bundles can be combined.

According to a third method variant, a base body with through holes for bristles in the head part is first injected. The bristles are then provided and passed through the through holes in the head part. Then the bristles are melted on the back. Finally, the bristle melt is overmolded with soft components. Known methods include the Boucherie AMR method, in which the bundling of bundles is not possible. Another known method is the Boucherie AMR + method, in which bundles can be brought together.

According to a fourth method variant, a base body with blind holes for the bristles in the head part is first injected. The bristles are then made available in bundles. The bristles are then fused in bundles. Now the handle body at the head area is heated to glass temperature. The bristles are then inserted into blind holes and anchored in the head part by means of pressure (i.e. the size of the blind holes is reduced or the base body is deformed in order to anchor the bristles). A so far known method is the Boucherie PTt method.

In the screwing-in process, which is used for example for interdental or mascara brushes, the filaments are fed from a roll, with several filament strands being wound on a roll. Several rolls are pretensioned for the machine assembly, because each filament in the brush corresponds to a filament strand. The filaments are spread out appropriately so that they have the width in which they are inserted into the brush. The filaments are also drawn out so that they are then free for the next step, ie the wire can be passed over them. The wire is on a roll on the Machine fed, ie unwound and introduced into the process. The wire is cut to a length which is greater than the unwound length of the screwed-in brush, because the final cutting takes place only after screwing in. The wire is then bent into a U so that the open side can then be pushed over the filaments (threading in the bristles). The wire is held on the curve or at the bottom of the U. The wire is then pushed over the filaments over the outside. Then the open wire end is clamped so that the filaments hold between the pieces of wire. The filaments are then cut to a length that is greater than the final length in the brush so that the brush can be cut correctly afterwards (when the filaments are screwed in). Finally, the wire is rotated so that the filaments are clamped between the wire, that is, fixed. A spiral of filaments is formed. After the filaments are fixed in the wire, they are cut to the correct length (ie profiled). After the brush part is finished, the excess wire is cut off.

Following the appropriate bristles, the toothbrushes can be decorated if necessary and then packed.

Preferred forms of marking / function

The function of the marking / printing according to the invention is mostly a form of communication and can be divided into the categories marking, user support, product functionality and benefits for dealers / manufacturers or combinations thereof.

• Produktbezeichnung/Marke/Werbetext u.ä.: hiermit sind umfasst Logos und Werbung, wie etwa Firmenlogos, Vereinslogos oder Anlasslogos. Es können auch Marken bzw. Brands beispielsweise an einem Applikations- und/oder Reinigungselement (z.B. einem Borstenbündel) vertikal aufgebracht werden. Weiterhin können Recycling-Infos aufgebracht werden (z.B. Recycling Möbiusband oder Recycling Icons). Die erfindungsgemässe Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung bringt diese Inhalte neu an einen Ort, an welchem die Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung noch nicht üblich ist: zu den Applikations- und Reinigungselementen.
• Produktions-Codes: diese können Identifikations-/Fabrikationsnummern umfassen, welche beispielsweise als Diebstahlschutz dienen. Dabei hat jede Bürste ihren eigenen Code, was insbesondere für teure Bürsten von Interesse ist. Die Produktionscodes können aber auch der Rückverfolgbarkeit dienen, wie es etwa bei Lot Codes der Fall ist.

The following aspects are particularly important when marking:

• Product name / brand / advertising text, etc.: This includes logos and advertising, such as company logos, club logos or event logos. Brands or brands can also be applied vertically, for example on an application and / or cleaning element (for example a bristle bundle). Furthermore, recycling information can be applied (e.g. recycling Möbius tape or recycling icons). The marking / printing according to the invention brings this content to a place where the marking / printing is not yet common: to the application and cleaning elements.
• Production codes: these can include identification / manufacturing numbers, which serve, for example, as protection against theft. Each brush has its own code, which is of particular interest for expensive brushes. The production codes can also be used for traceability, as is the case with lot codes.

Sales code / product information: this includes roughly the EAN code. This can be legible through the packaging so that a benefit is generated. In the case of neutral packaging, the code is applied to the application and / or cleaning elements.

The QR code primarily serves as a link to the manufacturer, ie to the manufacturer's website, for example, for reordering the product (address of the online shop). The QR code can preferably also be combined with a wear indicator, ie the QR code for the (re) order can only be read after it has worn out. The QR code can also serve as a link to a consulting website on which the application is communicated (ie how the product is used correctly).

Of course, other machine-readable codes can also be applied according to the invention.

Furthermore, product properties can also be applied, e.g. the number of filament ends. These are counted individually by a camera, for example, and the number is then applied (e.g. 4241). Of course, a previously determined average value can also be used.

Properties of the application and / or cleaning elements can also be communicated by means of applied text and / or a pictogram or a graphic, such as the bristle hardness (i.e. "soft", "medium", "hard", etc.).

In addition, the ingredients or additives of the application and / or cleaning elements can be described, such as Charcoal, Antibac or Bamboo etc. In addition, special properties of the application and / or cleaning elements can be described, such as e.g. rounded, tapered, diamond cross-section, wave cut etc.

In the case of electrical devices, performance information is also applied, such as the number of oscillations (tours) or the speed. The image can be designed so that different speeds represent different images (eg electric toothbrush with cleaning mode (1) with a first number of revolutions and in cleaning mode (2) with another trip number).

Products can also be visually upgraded and / or changed using graphics. In order to make a cleaning device or a brush unique, individual labeling / printing can be applied (e.g. mom, dad, names, years, etc.) or a standardized individuality (e.g. male, female, zodiac sign, western or eastern characteristics / Symbols or ages such as junior, kid, adult, 0 to 6 years, etc.).

Graphics can also serve as visual support for the properties or effect of a product, e.g. through the continuation of the pattern of the brush handle and illustrations that support or suggest a device function (e.g. visualization of vibration by waves / rings in sonic toothbrushes or other electrical devices).

Color or volume-supporting color elements are also conceivable; e.g. lines can be applied in the 3D profile of the bristle field, which make the contour more visible. In addition, the color gradient can be designed according to the degree of hardness of the bristle bundles in the bristle field. The intended use of the brush can also be communicated accordingly ("sensitive", e.g. with a feather, "whitening" e.g. with a polar bear, "interdental" e.g. with an illustrated dental floss or illustrated interdental spaces).

In addition, optical illusions or optical effects can be used, which are caused by movement (ie in particular with oscillating brushes or sonic brushes). After all, you can too Patterns are applied which are visible or changed by the movement of the electric toothbrush (for example on the outside of the bristle field of an oscillating toothbrush or above and / or on the front of the bristle field of a pivoting toothbrush or a Sonic toothbrush.

Examples of graphics in the form of textures or patterns are: coat of arms, children's motifs, icons / pictograms or snow mountain motifs (i.e. white bristles / filaments are used, to which blue mountains are laterally applied). Shake images are also conceivable. Furthermore, geometric graphics or geometric shapes can also be applied.

A copy protection or a seal of authenticity can also be provided, e.g. in the form of a scannable code, an individual code or a code for product registration.

The main focus of user support is on the following:
Recommended use or effect or note for a suitable add-on product: in the case of “sensitive” application and / or cleaning elements, for example, a note on a “sensitive” toothpaste can be applied. Likewise, in the case of “whitening” application and / or cleaning elements, a reference to a “whitening” toothpaste can be applied. The same applies to the "Interdental" recommendation for use.

In the case of a face brush, an indication of a corresponding cleaning gel can also be applied (eg by specifying the brand name and / or the product name).

It is also conceivable that the labeling / printing indicates the amount, or the space provided, of the toothpaste required, e.g. by means of a circle or a strip which is to be filled. This can also be supported by the contour or the profile of the application and / or cleaning elements.

In addition, instructions for use or instructions for use can be applied to the user. In oral hygiene this can include, for example: careful use of resources: e.g. "Shut off water", recommendation for the cleaning time, for example: "3 minutes of cleaning", hygiene recommendations, for example: "Rinse before use" and / or "Dry after use", and / or "Replace after three months", etc. For a multi-stage treatment the recommendation of the next treatment level can be applied (e.g. treatment 1-2-3-4). In oral hygiene, the following instructions can be applied: 1) toothbrush, 2) dental floss and 3) mouthwash. As with all labels, a textual description or a corresponding graphic instruction is conceivable.

Another user support are first-time or novelty seals. These can e.g. be washable, i.e. when the product is in use, the label / color media comes off. This can also include a covered image, for example, which is exposed.

It is also possible to print an indicator for the contact pressure. In a conceivable variant A, a wobble image changes with the flexibility the brush handle (from smiley to no smiley). In another variant, there is a change in color if too much pressure is applied (for example color change or discoloration to red). In this case, however, the identification medium must be applied over a movable point at which the corresponding parameters can be detected or ascertained, so that, for example, a color change takes place.

The product functionality also includes chemical reactions of the labeling / printing (e.g. with ions), the release of active substances (substances are integrated in the labeling / color medium) and / or the change in the physical properties of the product. For example, the labeling / printing can change the surface structure of the application and / or cleaning elements (e.g. increase roughness, change coefficient of friction). Different roughnesses can also be provided in the application area (i.e. zones with / without marking / printing). This can also be done, for example, by adding additives to the labeling / color medium (e.g. the printer ink).

Furthermore, the physical properties of the labeled / printed medium or the application and / or cleaning elements can be changed. For example, thick marking / printing (layer thickness) can be provided so that the properties of the base material no longer have an effect at the corresponding point.

A benefit for traders or manufacturers can be in the product differentiation for one product for several different customers lie (ie the same products for different customers are distinguished by means of labeling / printing). In this way, special editions can be created with little effort (for example, seasonal motifs or major events such as the World Cup or the Olympic Games).

It is also possible to produce very small series. The labeling / printing for small series can be quickly adapted using digital processes. It is also possible to label each product individually (lot size 1)

Preferred labeled / printed media

The labeled / printed medium preferably comprises semi-finished or raw materials, processed products and variants.

Extruded filaments can be considered as semi-finished or raw materials (see under Massage and cleaning elements). Two- or three-component filaments are also possible. Coal (charcoal), metal flakes and the like can be used as additives in the filaments. be included.

Bristles bundled into a bristle puck (here not puck tufts are meant, but rather the semi-finished product or the batch in which the bristles are brought to the bristling machine) can be identified at their tips. These can be cylindrical or tapered filaments. These can be colored on one or both sides. The labeling / printing must of course depend on the (Post) processing, ie grinding / cutting / profiling the bristles or rounding or tapering (physical and / or chemical processing) of the bristle ends must be taken into account. As a rule, the processing of extruded bristles is done before marking. Alternatively, the marking / printing can take place before processing, but the marked / printed part of the bristles is no longer processed or is not damaged by the processing.

A tight packing of the application and / or cleaning elements e.g. Bristles only bring a superficial marking / printing on their ends. A less dense package also brings in depth labeling, i.e. not only in the area of the ends of the application and / or cleaning elements or the bristles. The density ratio, depending on the properties of the marking / color medium, results in the depth of the marking / printing.

In this context, the capillary action must also be checked. It depends on the labeling / color medium used, i.e. about the ink used. Viscous identification / color media, e.g. a waxy ink, bring little to no capillary action, but also little depth of penetration. For the length of the coloring in the longitudinal direction of the bristles, see below.

An optimal process of bristle processing including labeling includes preliminary rounding, labeling / printing and the subsequent insertion of the bristles. Other subsequent edits such as Tapering, rounding, cuts and / or grinding can also result in a removal of the labeling / printing and thus a deliberate change or weakening of the labeling / printing in this area.

Processed products can of course also be marked / printed. The sprayed cleaning elements comprise sprayed bristles and sprayed, rubber-elastic cleaning elements (e.g. in the form of lamellae, knobs or the like). In the case of bristle bundles, the individual bristle is preferably not marked / printed, but rather a bundle or a group of bristles. A tongue cleaner on the toothbrush, which is formed from a hard component and / or from a soft component, can also be marked / printed.

In addition, within the scope of the present invention, a marking / marking / printing of the brush body, the bristle melt (in the case of brushes bristle-free from anchors), the bristle area (the area in which the bristle holes are made) and / or the bristle holes (for example for covering) can of course also be carried out of unsightly geometries or a bristle melt with transparent brushes). This can be done separately or before the bristles.

Elements that are manufactured by means of additive manufacturing (eg 3D printing), such as cleaning elements, can also be labeled or printed. In addition, pure tongue cleaners can be marked / printed which have no further cleaning elements, but only one scraping edge; or but flocked elements, in which the base element is reworked with flocking.

Preferred location for the application Form of the marked / printed medium

The marked / printed medium preferably comprises individual bundles, several bundles or large bundles (so-called puck tufts), as produced without anchor in the AFT or PTt process, which have large marked / printed areas. These surfaces can be flat, curved, fan-shaped, conical, undulating or have another non-planar topography.

When labeling / printing bundles consisting of several picks, logos can be marked / printed and picks consisting of bristles with different colors, i.e. bristles of different colors are marked / printed in a bundle.

A pick is understood to be a separation process for a bundle of bristles in the bristle machine. A pick corresponds to a bundle of bristles in a conventional brush or a brush manufactured using the anchor punching method. For example, in anchor-free bristling processes, it is at least partially possible to produce a bundle of bristles (viewed in the finished product) from several picks.

In the present case, a puck tuft is understood to mean a large coherent bundle with a high bristle density in the bristle field and preferably with a large number of bristles in the corresponding individual bundle of one finished product such as a toothbrush. The individual bristles lie against each other in high density. The bristles of the bundle are generally connected to one another via a coherent melt carpet or a bristle melt, and the puck tuft is made up of several picks during manufacture.

In the case of a very large bundle which has, for example, a carpet structure or a so-called puck tuft, it is possible to mark / print only a part, for example only bristles which are higher in the bundle are marked.

Form of labeling / printing

Marking / printing can be done on the side of the application and / or cleaning elements (i.e. on the jacket). It can take place partially or 360 ° around the application and / or cleaning elements. For example, in the case of an oscillating round or elliptical electric toothbrush or a face brush, the marking / printing can take place laterally around the bristle field.

The marking / printing can also (additionally or alone) on top of the application and / or cleaning elements, i.e. on the contact surface or on the end area of the application and / or cleaning elements on the use side.

Furthermore, a topography can also be marked / printed, ie a 3D shape with an X, Y, and a Z component. This topography can be through the use-side end areas and / or laterally through the application and / or cleaning elements be formed.

The marking / printing can also include different zones in the bristle field, e.g. in the middle a carpet structure, for example in the form of a puck tuft, and outside, normal, single bristle bundles. Various prints / printing methods / marking methods can also be used, such as high-resolution markings / prints in the dense part or deep markings / prints penetrating into the bristle field in the less dense part.

The resolution, the color, the surface structure and / or the composition of the marking / printing can thus vary depending on the packing density of the bristles.

Criteria with which the marking / printing can change are the length, color, shape, cross-section, material and / or the type of processing of the end area of the application and / or cleaning elements.

The bristle melt in AFT brushes can also be marked / printed (e.g. in neon color so that the color shines through the tips). In this way, for example, the not so beautiful bristle melt can be covered at the same time.

Bristle bundles which are conical upwards (ie which have bristles which diverge upwards in the manner of a bouquet) can also be marked / printed. This is better for lettering, cf. below regarding the distances between the bristle ends or the distances between the areas to be marked / printed. The bristle bundles, which are conical at the top, form a more continuous surface consisting of bristle ends.

The labeling / printing can also take place at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the bristles, i.e. the marking leads laterally from the bristles against the bristle tips. This works particularly well with brushes, but is also possible with the other brushes mentioned. For example, one or more bundles of bristles can be marked / printed on corners, i.e. over their top, front and / or longitudinal edge.

360 ° marking / printing in the form of an image is also possible. For example, a spiral shape can be applied around a bundle or around a screwed-in brush etc. In this case, the marking / printing goes over 360 °, the beginning and end of the marking lie together or in the same degree of angle (0 ° = 360 °).

Labeling / printing is also possible over several bundles. Different types of application and / or cleaning elements can be combined with one another with labeling / printing. For example, simultaneous marking / printing over bristles and / or application and / or cleaning elements made of soft component and / or sprayed bristles is possible.

In a further combination, application and / or cleaning elements made of soft components, for example in the form of lamellae or knobs on the inside and bundles with conventional bristles on the outside, can be provided on a brush head. Both the application and / or cleaning elements made of conventional bristles and those made of soft components be marked / printed before anchoring the conventional bristles. This is possible with various bristle methods, for example with the anchor punch method as well as with the PTt method.

Electrical devices are a special case: Here, the design can be such that the actual communication / marking or printing etc. is only visible when the device is switched on (e.g. vibration, oscillation or swiveling). That the movement of the marked application and / or cleaning elements results in a different image / pattern than in the idle state.

With an electrical device, fixed and / or movable application and / or cleaning elements can be marked / printed. In this case, the labeling can continue via the application and / or cleaning elements via the fixed to the moving part, and the movement then results in different images with a fixed and a moving part. This can make the movement visible through optical effects (e.g. for small movements). For example, the labeling / printing of the application and / or cleaning elements of an oscillating electric toothbrush can have a punctiform pattern, which becomes a line due to the movement. This means that the oscillation angle can be clearly shown to the user.

Preferred parameters

In the following, particularly preferred parameters for labeling / printing are given.

The preferred width / length of the marking / printing on the surface of the bristle field of the cleaning devices according to the invention is from 0.01 mm to 50 mm, preferably from 1 mm to 20 mm.

The depth of the marking / printing (e.g. into the bristle field) depends on the density of the bristle pack and the properties of the medium to be marked / printed.

With regard to a packing density of the application and / or cleaning elements with which a marking / printing is possible, the bristle distances or the distances of the surfaces to be marked / printed are first dealt with.

The bristle density is understood to be the number of filament ends that occur in a certain area. Regarding the counting method, it should also be said that in the case of an anchor stamping process, two filament ends are formed from one filament on a brush.

• Beispiel A: hier beträgt der Borstenloch-Durchmesser ca. 1,77 mm, der Borstendurchmesser ca. 3 mils, bei 220 Borsten welche 440 Borstenenden (Bedruckungsfläche/Kennzeichnungsfläche) entsprechen.
• Beispiel B: hier beträgt der Borstenloch-Durchmesser ca. 2,3 mm, der Borstendurchmesser ca. 2,5 mils, bei 146 Borsten welche 292 Borstenenden (Bedruckungsfläche/Kennzeichnungsfläche) entsprechen. Bei einem konischen Borstenloch (d.h. die Borsten sträusseln) entspricht dies auf der zu kennzeichnenden/bedruckenden Fläche einer Dichte von 18,25 Borsten/mm².

Two preferred examples are given for a high bristle density (as is achieved, for example, with face brushes):

• Example A: Here the bristle hole diameter is approx. 1.77 mm, the bristle diameter approx. 3 mils, for 220 bristles which correspond to 440 bristle ends (printing area / marking area).
• Example B: Here the bristle hole diameter is approx. 2.3 mm, the bristle diameter approx. 2.5 mils, for 146 bristles which correspond to 292 bristle ends (printing area / marking area). at a conical bristle hole (ie the bristles sprinkle) corresponds to a density of 18.25 bristles / mm ² on the area to be marked / printed.

With a low density (i.e. large bristle spacing), the marking / printing goes deeper into the bristle field than with a dense package. The looseness to pressure depth ratio cannot be determined directly, since it depends on the bristle component, the pressure medium and the bristle density.

The resolution of the printhead compared to the bristle density plays a role in the labeling / printing options. With a high resolution of the means for marking the printhead, for example, the bristle density can be lower, so that a more legible marking / printing is produced.

In the present case, the bristle density for the marking / printing is preferably from 12 bristles / mm ² to 25 bristles / mm ^2, preferably from 16 bristles / mm ² to 20 bristles / mm ² .

It can also be provided to realize different bristle densities in a bristle field. This means, for example, that different labeling qualities, e.g. Print qualities or different possibilities for the displayed object can be achieved. For example, partly a photo-realistic image in the area of the high densities and on the other hand a simpler printing in the area of the lower densities.

The marking / printing can be single-colored, two-colored, three-colored, four-colored or generally multi-colored or photorealistic. It can be one or more have different properties besides color or instead of color. It can also have various courses, such as a color course or a layer thickness course.

With a multi-layer marking / printing e.g. In a multi-layer print, several layers with different properties, different images (e.g. depending on the age of use of a brush you have a different image) or different chemical properties can be applied. The application and / or cleaning elements to be printed are marked / printed in several passes.

The resolution of the marking / printing in the present case is preferably 20 dpi to 3,000 dpi, further preferably 150 dpi to 1,500 dpi. The ratio of dpi to the number of bristles / mm ² is preferably 1: 0.8 to 1: 250, preferably 1: 7.5 to 1: 93.75

The following applies to the minimum size of an individually identifiable / printing area (i.e. so that the representation can be recognized): the area must be large enough so that marking points / pressure points can be "caught". In particular, the number of marking points / pressure points must be higher than the number of bristles in order to mark or print on a surface.

In the context of the present invention, the minimum size of the area to be marked / printed is preferably 0.0001 mm ² .

The application surface for the labeling / color medium can be on the surface of the application and Be cleaning elements, ie the application can be done by gluing or powder (no liability). The color medium or the identification medium can also penetrate into the application and cleaning elements (for example by lasering or migration of the identification / color medium).

With regard to the visibility of the marking / printing or the necessary color contrast, the chromaticity or the chromaticity difference is specified as a parameter. By definition, chromaticity describes the relative color effect in relation to the reference white, i.e. in comparison to a certain brightest point in a color space. The chromaticity is suitable as a measurement value for conical color spaces, for example, where measurements can be taken from the top. These systems are practical in printing where the paper white is the zero color and the same amount of ink is required for rich black as for rich red. White has a chroma of 0, the color tones (colorful tones) and deep black up to 100%, medium gray 50%.

To achieve visibility on a white base, the colourfulness must have a value of at least 40%, preferably at least 50%.

To achieve visibility on colors other than white, the difference in color must be at least 40%, preferably at least 50% (if the same colors are used). When using different colors, however, it is not possible to measure with the difference in color.

Preferred labeling / printing processes Labeling procedures / printing process

In the context of the present invention, the preferred labeling method or printing method is the inkjet method. Printing with wax-like ink is particularly preferred. The ink can be water soluble or water insoluble.

The wax-like ink is warmed up or melted and is viscous to solid when not warmed. It can only be processed regularly in the liquid state. The ink solidifies on contact with the surface to be marked / printed. Color changes are always complex because long distances have to be covered in hoses (or lines). The drying time of the waxy ink is usually less than 2 seconds. The ink can then be touched. For example, food wax 5012 from Markem Imaje (a Dover Company) can be used.

Another preferred variant is the UV direct printing process. The ink does not dry out in the ambient air, as for example on a sheet of paper, but is cured with ultraviolet light immediately after application to the surface of the material to be labeled / printed (substrate). The dried ink has a slightly satin appearance that comes very close to high quality printed paper. This results in a disadvantage in durability under sunlight or adverse weather conditions. The UV curing increases the strength of the print on the one hand and on the other hand creates a slight protection against yellowing.

The laser method is also preferred in the present case. On the one hand, laser marking can be carried out under the surface of application and / or cleaning elements. The advantage of marking under the surface of the application and / or cleaning elements is that the deep gloss is not impaired. In another variant of the laser method, the surface of the application and / or cleaning elements is changed mechanically / thermally. The actual color comes from the substrate and depends on the laser treatment. The surface is preferably foamed or "burned". So it is not an actual application of paint, but a stoving.

Another preferred method is screen printing. The printing form of screen printing consists of a frame that is covered with a fabric. A stencil is photographically applied (sometimes by hand in the case of artistic work). The stencil prevents the application of color at those points on the print image that should not be printed. The printing form is then fastened in a printing machine over the material to be printed (printing material). Then printing ink is applied to the fabric and spread with a rubber squeegee through the open areas of the stencil on the substrate. The color is pressed through the mesh of the fabric and applied to the surface to be printed. After printing, the printed material is removed from the machine or laid out to dry.

The pad printing process can also be used in the context of the present invention. Here will the printed image to be transferred is exposed on a cliché using a positive film (offset film). This cliché is then washed out and the exposed printed image remains recessed on the surface of the cliché. A basic distinction is made between steel clichés and plastic clichés. In the case of steel clichés, the printed image is etched into the steel surface. Steel clichés are used in particular in the case of recurring print images with very large numbers. In the present case, plastic clichés are preferred because they adapt well to the surface to be printed. This also enables non-flat printing / marking areas.

Pad printing usually requires a solid surface. In the context of the present invention, it can be used above all for the marking / printing of bristle pucks, since the bristles can be well fixed or held here. Application and / or cleaning elements can also be marked / printed with the necessary tools.

Different labeling / printing methods can be combined for labeling / printing.

In addition to the application and / or cleaning elements, other elements and zones on the product can also be marked / printed using the same labeling / printing method. For example, the hand part can be marked / printed using the same method as the application and / or cleaning elements.

Depending on the process, variants are possible (e.g. one individualized production with batch size 1).

Properties of preferred labeling / color media such as inks / toners / varnishes etc.

In addition to the standard components, flavors, cosmetics (elements that support the application), abrasive elements (synthetic or natural, such as corundum) and / or, in particular, in the ink that is preferably used here - but also in the toners, varnishes or other identification / color media Active substance may be included.

An active substance is understood here to mean a substance which has an effect in the respective area of application.

1. (A) Mundhygiene-Wirksubstanzen mit zahnpastaähnlicher Wirkung, welche eine herkömmliche Zahnpasta überflüssig machen können. Folgende Inhaltsstoffe kommen hierfür in Frage: Sorbitol, Aromen, Hydrated Silicia, Sodium, Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Monofluorphosphate, Kreatin, Zinc Sulfate, Triclosan, Glycerin, Sodium Saccharin, Propylen Glykol, Disodium Phosphate, Alumina, Trisodium Phosphate, Sodium Fluoride, Betaine, Titanium Dioxide, Cellulose Gum, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, etc.
2. (B) Wirksubstanzen mit antibakterieller Wirkung zur gelegentlichen Reinigung des Bürstenkopfes im Zahnputzglas vor oder nach dem Zähneputzen. Folgende Inhaltsstoffe kommen hierfür in Frage: Sodium Bicarbonate, Citric Acid, Phosphor Acid, Sodium Carbonate, Potassium Carbonate, Sodium Perborate, Sodium Hexamethaphosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Stearate, etc.
3. (C) Wirksubstanzen, welche den Putzerfolg mittels Einfärben des Plaques auf der Zahnoberfläche anzeigen (d.h. mittels Einfärben der Plaquerückstände). Folgende Inhaltsstoffe kommen hierfür in Frage Glucose, Maltodextrin, Magnesium Sterate, Aroma, Saccharin, Mikrokristalline Cellulose, etc.
4. (D) Zusatzwirksubstanzen, welche in herkömmlichen Pasten nicht vorkommen, deren Wirkung aber ergänzen oder verstärken (vgl. jeweils Inhaltsstoffe aus (A) bis (C)).
5. (E) Wirksubstanzen zur Zahnbleichung («Bleaching»), wie z.B. solche mit wasserstoffperoxidhaltigen Inhaltstoffen.
6. (F) Zweikomponentensysteme aus Wirksubstanzen und speziell dazu entwickelter Zahnpasta, bei deren Zusammentreffen eine chemische oder physikalische Reaktion entsteht.

A distinction is made between the following types of active substances:

1. (A) Oral hygiene active substances with toothpaste-like effects, which can make a conventional toothpaste superfluous. The following ingredients are suitable for this: Sorbitol, flavors, hydrated silicon, sodium, lauryl sulfate, sodium monofluorophosphate, creatine, zinc sulfate, triclosan, glycerin, sodium saccharin, propylene glycol, disodium phosphate, alumina, trisodium phosphate, sodium fluoride, betaines, Titanium Dioxide, Cellulose Gum, Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate, etc.
2. (B) Active substances with antibacterial effect for occasional cleaning of the brush head in the toothbrush glass before or after brushing your teeth. The following ingredients can be used: sodium bicarbonate, citric acid, phosphoric acid, sodium carbonate, potassium carbonate, Sodium Perborate, Sodium Hexamethaphosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Stearate, etc.
3. (C) Active substances which indicate the cleaning success by coloring the plaque on the tooth surface (ie by coloring the plaque residues). The following ingredients are suitable for this: glucose, maltodextrin, magnesium sterate, aroma, saccharin, microcrystalline cellulose, etc.
4. (D) additional active substances which do not occur in conventional pastes, but which supplement or enhance their effect (cf. ingredients from (A) to (C)).
5. (E) Active substances for tooth bleaching («bleaching»), such as those with substances containing hydrogen peroxide.
6. (F) Two-component systems made of active substances and specially developed toothpaste, which, when they come together, produce a chemical or physical reaction.

In principle, both single use of an active substance and multiple use are possible. For single use, one insert consumes one serving of active substance. When used multiple times, one insert only consumes part of the active ingredient portion.

It goes without saying that the concentration or the amount of the active substance is set much lower for the intended single use than for multiple use. When used once, the concentration corresponds approximately to the concentration of the active substances of conventional pastes. In the event of multiple use, the corresponding concentration is increased several times. In addition to Concentration, the range / duration of use of the active substance portion can also be influenced via the water liquid and water flushing or corresponding openings.

The essential requirements for such active substance additives in the marking / color medium are that they have to be processed by the marking / printing process, for example the active substance dissolved in the marking / color medium in an ink must fit through the nozzle of an inkjet or the corresponding process and it must be compatible with the carrier of the labeling medium (e.g. the wax). Depending on the field of application, there are of course also food suitability, cosmetic suitability and the like. provided.

Regarding the strength, permanent or waterproof marking / color media e.g. Inks etc. are used or non-permanent. The non-permanent identification / color media e.g. Inks etc. are preferably water-soluble or soluble due to abrasion.

The drying time for the aforementioned labeling / color media e.g. Inks etc. should be as short as possible, i.e. preferably less than 2 seconds or matched to the clock of the respective machine (or faster). If necessary, a post-treatment must be carried out so that the labeling / printing dries well (e.g. by means of air, heat and / or light) or that it becomes firm to the touch.

For compliance reasons, the labeling / color media must be suitable for consumption, ie be food-safe.

The labeling / color media can basically have any color (white, black, colorful, etc.). The choice of color also depends on the respective labeling or printing process. In terms of visibility, opaque colors or translucent colors are preferred.

In the case of the labeling / color media, there must in particular be liability on the material components of the application and / or cleaning elements. In addition, the identifiability or printability of the material components of the application and / or cleaning elements must be guaranteed.

Preferred installation of the marking / printing medium or printhead installation

The marking / printing means or the print head is preferably installed so that it can be moved over three axes (X, X, Z). In addition, it can preferably also be rotated or pivoted about these axes. In this way, the same distance to the product can always be kept and 3D bodies can also be marked / printed i.e. Bodies in which the corresponding surfaces have a 3D contour. As a variant, the brush handle can also be marked / printed in parallel.

Preferred heights of the areas to be marked (the marking / printing field) or printhead heights range from 5 mm to 100 mm, further preferably from 10 mm to 50 mm. The preferred number of nozzles of the print head regularly ranges from 5 to 500, more preferably from 10 to 300.

The preferred marking / printing speed ranges from 2 m per minute to 100 m per minute, more preferably from 5 m per minute to 60 m per minute.

• Variante (A) : das Mittel für die Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung (z.B. der Druckkopf) ist fix, die Kette bzw. das Band (als Transportvorrichtung für das Produkt) mit dem Produkt bewegt sich. Oder das Mittel für die Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung bzw. der Druckkopf bewegt sich und das Produkt ist fix. Hier ist eine Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung nur auf der Breite (d.h. über die Höhe) des Kennzeichnungs-/Bedruckungsmittels möglich.
• Variante (B) : das Kennzeichnungs-/Bedruckungsmittel (z.B. der Druckkopf) ist beweglich (3D), die Kette bzw. Band (als Transportvorrichtung für das Produkt) mit Produkt bewegt sich. Hier ist eine Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung einer Fläche mit einer Topographie möglich (grösserer Kennzeichnungs-/Druckbereich) .
• Variante (C) : das Kennzeichnungs-/Bedruckungsmittel (z.B. der Druckkopf) ist beweglich (3D), das Produkt ist fix. Hier ist ebenfalls eine Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung einer Fläche mit einer Topographie möglich (grösserer Kennzeichnungs-/Druckbereich) .
• Variante (D) : das Kennzeichnungs-/Bedruckungsmittel (z.B. der Druckkopf) ist beweglich, das Produkt rotiert. Dies ist beispielsweise nötig für eine spiralförmige Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung bzw. für eine 360° Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung einer eingedrehten Bürste.

The following preferred variants are specified with regard to the movement during the marking / printing process:

• Variant (A): the means for labeling / printing (e.g. the print head) is fixed, the chain or the belt (as a transport device for the product) moves with the product. Or the means for marking / printing or the print head moves and the product is fixed. Here, labeling / printing is only possible on the width (ie over the height) of the labeling / printing medium.
• Variant (B): the labeling / printing medium (e.g. the print head) is movable (3D), the chain or belt (as a transport device for the product) with the product moves. Here a marking / printing of a surface with a topography is possible (larger marking / printing area).
• Variant (C): the labeling / printing medium (e.g. the print head) is movable (3D), the product is fixed. It is also possible to mark / print a surface with a topography (larger marking / printing area).
• Variant (D): the labeling / printing medium (e.g. the print head) is movable, the product rotates. For example, this is necessary for a spiral Labeling / printing or for 360 ° labeling / printing of a screwed-in brush.

In the process, a maximum of 30 cycles are generally provided for integration into the punching machine (e.g. in the AFT process, PTt process or in conventional punching). In the present case, 15 to 30, more preferably 20 to 30, cycles are preferably provided. The number of cycles in the stamping process depends on the bristle field, i.e. on the number of picks, the bundles of bristles that have to be provided.

In one variant, several brushes are processed in parallel, i.e. in / printed. In this way the cycle time can be kept but the number of brushes can be increased.

Preferred process integration

The integration into the manufacturing process can take place as follows:
Before attaching the bristles: when the raw material or semi-finished product is marked / printed. It should be noted here that post-processing may rub off the marking / pressure (e.g. on the bristles or on the brush handle).

After attaching the bristles: when the bristle field is marked / printed. This means with sprayed bristles, flexible cleaning elements and AFT head platelets after injection molding.

In the case of punched bristles / screwed-in bristles, this means after bristling or before packaging. The preferred process is: punching - cutting - rounding - Marking / printing. The marking / printing medium (eg the print head) is moved directly on the punching machine while the product is moving in the process step. The punching process is open, e.g. conventional, anchorless (AFT, PTt, IMT process), screwing machine or brush production, etc.

The processing during punching comprises the following steps: punching - cutting - marking / printing - rounding (grinding) (i.e. the bristles are at least partially colored). A variant in a double punching machine comprises punching in several steps: punching - cutting - rounding - marking / printing - punching - cutting - rounding (- marking / printing). Side marking / printing is possible here, but 3D effects or several marking / printing levels in the same bristle field are also possible.

The integration before packaging can also provide an intermediate step on the packaging machine.

The process integration can be done inline, i.e. directly on the existing production machines (with additional work step) or offline, i.e. with a separate device only for carrying out the labeling / printing step. The offline variant is intended for individual design in the shop, for example.

The medium to be marked / printed can be held fixed or moving in the process, depending on whether the print head is installed fixed or moving and of course also depending on the motif and the printing area / marking area.

Tools for accurate marking / printing include, among other things, screens for covering non-marking / printing parts.

Furthermore, deformation elements can be provided, which align the medium to be marked / printed before the marking / printing and after the marking / printing have it returned to the original position. This can include the displacement of application and / or cleaning elements, i.e. the pushing away of non-marking / printing application and / or cleaning elements (i.e. bristle bundles and / or TPE elements are bent). In this way, a marking / printing in depth, e.g. behind other application and / or cleaning elements. Of course, the application and / or cleaning elements for marking / printing can also be pressed together.

Finally, a template can be provided in the bristle field, which is removed after the marking / printing. Such a template is used, for example, when individual bundles are to be marked / printed in a bristle field. For this purpose, a cover element is arranged over the surface to be bristled before punching. Then it is punched through the cover element. Before marking / printing, the cover element is raised so that only the tips of the bristle bundles look out of the cover element and can then be marked / printed. Then the template is removed by extending. In this way, labeling / printing in addition to the desired bundles can be avoided.

In principle, the handle can be marked / printed in the same method step as the application and / or cleaning elements within the scope of the present invention.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the accompanying drawings for purposes of illustration.

Fig. 1:

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines erfindungsgemässen Zahnbürstenkopfs mit Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung auf der Ober-, Längs- und auf der Vorderseite des Borstenfelds;

Fig. 2:

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines erfindungsgemässen Zahnbürstenkopfs analog Fig. 1 mit einem gekennzeichneten/bedruckten Zungenreinigerelement auf der Rückseite;

Fig. 3:

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines weiteren erfindungsgemässen Zahnbürstenkopfs mit Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung über Eck auf der Ober-, Längs- und auf der Vorderseite des Borstenfelds;

Fig. 4a:

eine Seitenansicht eines erfindungsgemässen (runden) Zahnbürstenkopfs für eine elektrisch oszillierende Zahnbürste mit einem konventionell gestanzten Borstenfeld mit einem seitlich aufgebrachten Muster im Ruhezustand;

Fig. 4b:

den erfindungsgemässen Zahnbürstenkopf gemäss Fig. 4a in Bewegung;

Fig. 5a:

eine Draufsicht auf einen weiteren erfindungsgemässen (runden) Zahnbürstenkopf mit einem konventionell gestanzten Borstenfeld für eine elektrisch oszillierende Zahnbürste mit einem oben auf dem Borstenfeld aufgebrachten Muster im Ruhezustand;

Fig. 5b:

den erfindungsgemässen Zahnbürstenkopf gemäss Fig. 5a in Bewegung;

Fig. 6a:

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines erfindungsgemässen Zahnbürstenkopfs für eine elektrisch schwenkende Zahnbürste mit einem oben auf das Borstenfeld aufgebrachtem Muster im Ruhezustand;

Fig. 6b:

den erfindungsgemässen Zahnbürstenkopf gemäss Fig. 6a in Bewegung;

Fig. 7a:

eine Seitenansicht einer erfindungsgemässen Interdental- oder Mascarabürste mit einem aufgebrachten Längsmuster bzw. Längsstreifen;

Fig. 7b:

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Interdental- oder Mascarabürste gemäss Fig. 7a;

Fig. 8a:

eine Seitenansicht einer erfindungsgemässen Interdental- oder Mascarabürste mit einem aufgebrachten Wellenmuster;

Fig. 8b:

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Interdental- oder Mascarabürste gemäss Fig. 8a;

Fig. 9a:

eine Seitenansicht einer erfindungsgemässen Interdental- oder Mascarabürste mit einem aufgebrachten 360° Muster in Form einer Spirale;

Fig. 9b:

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Interdental- oder Mascarabürste gemäss Fig. 9a;

Fig. 10:

eine perspektivische Ansicht einer erfindungsgemässen Interdental- oder Mascarabürste mit einem aufgebrachten Logo;

Fig. 11:

eine Draufsicht auf einen erfindungsgemässen Flosser mit gekennzeichneter/bedruckter Zahnseide;

Fig. 12a:

eine Draufsicht auf einen erfindungsgemässen Interdentalreiniger mit quer gekennzeichneten/bedruckten Reinigungselementen;

Fig. 12b:

eine Seitanansicht des Interdentalreinigers gemäss Fig. 12 a;

Fig. 13a:

eine Draufsicht auf eine erfindungsgemässe Gesichtsbürste mit einem oben auf das Borstenfeld aufgebrachten Muster;

Fig. 13b:

eine Seitanansicht der Gesichtsbürste gemäss Fig. 13a, welche eine zusätzliche, seitlich umlaufende Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung (360°) zeigt;

Fig. 14:

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines erfindungsgemässen Pinsels mit einer Kennzeichnung/Bedruckung über Eck;

Fig. 15

eine schematische Vorderansicht einer Anordnung zum Kennzeichnen/Bedrucken des Borstenfelds eines Reinigungsgeräts;

Fig. 16

eine Draufsicht auf eine schematische Anordnung zum Kennzeichnen/Bedrucken des Borstenfelds eines schematisch dargestellten Reinigungsgeräts gemäss einer ersten Variante;

Fig. 17

eine Draufsicht auf eine schematische Anordnung zum Kennzeichnen des Borstenfelds eines schematisch dargestellten Reinigungsgeräts gemäss einer zweiten Variante;

Fig. 18

eine Draufsicht auf eine schematische Anordnung zum Kennzeichnen des Borstenfelds eines schematisch dargestellten Reinigungsgeräts gemäss einer dritten Variante;

Fig. 19

eine Draufsicht auf eine schematische Anordnung zum Kennzeichnen des Borstenfelds eines schematisch dargestellten Reinigungsgeräts gemäss einer vierten Variante; und

Fig. 20

eine Draufsicht auf eine schematische Anordnung zum Kennzeichnen des Borstenfelds eines schematisch dargestellten Reinigungsgeräts gemäss einer fünften Variante.

Show it:

Fig. 1:

a perspective view of an inventive toothbrush head with marking / printing on the top, length and on the front of the bristle field;

Fig. 2:

a perspective view of an inventive toothbrush head analog Fig. 1 with a marked / printed tongue cleaner element on the back;

Fig. 3:

a perspective view of another toothbrush head according to the invention with labeling / printing on corners on the top, length and front of the bristle field;

Fig. 4a:

a side view of an inventive (round) toothbrush head for an electrically oscillating toothbrush with a conventionally punched bristle field with a laterally applied pattern in the idle state;

Fig. 4b:

the toothbrush head according to the invention Fig. 4a moving;

5a:

a top view of another (Round) toothbrush head according to the invention with a conventionally stamped bristle field for an electrically oscillating toothbrush with a pattern applied on top of the bristle field in the idle state;

Fig. 5b:

the toothbrush head according to the invention Fig. 5a moving;

Fig. 6a:

a perspective view of an inventive toothbrush head for an electrically pivoting toothbrush with a pattern applied to the bristle field at rest;

Fig. 6b:

the toothbrush head according to the invention Fig. 6a moving;

Fig. 7a:

a side view of an inventive interdental or mascara brush with an applied longitudinal pattern or longitudinal stripes;

Fig. 7b:

a perspective view of the interdental or mascara brush according Fig. 7a ;

8a:

a side view of an inventive interdental or mascara brush with an applied wave pattern;

8b:

a perspective view of the interdental or mascara brush according Fig. 8a ;

Fig. 9a:

a side view of an inventive interdental or mascara brush with an applied 360 ° pattern in the form of a spiral;

Fig. 9b:

a perspective view of the interdental or mascara brush according to Fig. 9a ;

Fig. 10:

a perspective view of an inventive interdental or mascara brush with an applied logo;

Fig. 11:

a plan view of a floss according to the invention with marked / printed dental floss;

Fig. 12a:

a plan view of an inventive interdental cleaner with cross-labeled / printed cleaning elements;

Fig. 12b:

a side view of the interdental cleaner according to Fig. 12 a;

Fig. 13a:

a plan view of an inventive facial brush with a pattern applied to the top of the bristle field;

Fig. 13b:

a side view of the face brush according to 13a , which shows an additional, circumferential marking / printing (360 °);

Fig. 14:

a perspective view of a brush according to the invention with a marking / printing on a corner;

Fig. 15

a schematic front view of an arrangement for labeling / printing the bristle field of a cleaning device;

Fig. 16

a plan view of a schematic arrangement for labeling / printing the bristle field of a schematically illustrated cleaning device according to a first variant;

Fig. 17

a plan view of a schematic arrangement for characterizing the bristle field of a schematically illustrated cleaning device according to a second variant;

Fig. 18

a plan view of a schematic arrangement for identifying the bristle field of a schematically illustrated cleaning device according to a third variant;

Fig. 19

a plan view of a schematic arrangement for identifying the bristle field of a schematically illustrated cleaning device according to a fourth variant; and

Fig. 20

a plan view of a schematic arrangement for identifying the bristle field of a schematically illustrated cleaning device according to a fifth variant.

In Fig. 1 a head part 2 for a manual toothbrush 1 is illustrated. Various application and / or cleaning elements 5a, 5b and 5c protrude from the top 2a of the approximately rectangular head part 2, which together form the bristle field 6.

On the front side 10 of the bristle field 6 there are arranged bristle bundles 5a which flare conically from the upper side 2a of the head part 2 in the direction of their free end. In the present case, the sprinkling bristle bundles 5a extend approximately to the center of the bristle field 6 or of the head part 2. They include the front ones Rows on the head part 2 and are arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2.

The approximately middle row of application and / or cleaning elements is formed by lamellar rubber elements 5b, which are also arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2.

This is followed by conventional (cylindrical) bristle bundles 5c, which are likewise arranged in rows transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2 and which also form the rear side 14 of the bristle field 6. The back 14 of the bristle field 6 faces the handle part 3 of the toothbrush.

The bristle field 6 is marked / printed on its upper side 9, its front side 10 and its long side 11 with an identification / color medium 7. The marking / printing can include, for example, a logo, a picture, instructions for use or a code etc. (the "text" serves as a placeholder in the present case). The marking / printing can be made 360 ° around the bristle field 6, i.e. completely along the outer sides 11, as well as the front and back 10, 14. Each of the outer application and / or cleaning elements 5a, 5b, 5c can be marked or printed with the color medium in whole or in part in the region of its outer side. However, gaps can also be left (i.e. an unprinted or unmarked application and / or cleaning element 5a, 5b, 5c between two marked / printed).

In principle, each of the application and / or All or part of the cleaning elements must be marked / printed with the identification / color medium 7. Depending on the hole geometry, different densities can be present in the bristle field 6 (ie in particular the brushing bristle bundles 5a and the conventional bristle bundles 5c which have preferably been applied here using the anchor stamping method). For example, the bristle field 6 can be denser at the front than at the rear, but the reverse arrangement is also possible.

The label / color medium 7, as in all of the other embodiments shown, is preferably a waxy and quick drying ink. The pattern shown basically also serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

This in Fig. 2 The head part 2 shown has on its back 2b a tongue cleaner 12 made of soft component, which has a plurality of knobs 12a and fins 12b. The soft component of the tongue cleaner 12 covers almost the entire back 2b of the head part 2, except for the edge 2c. To this extent, the tongue cleaner 12 forms an island of soft components on the back 2b of the head part 2.

The tongue cleaner 12 is marked / printed with an identification / color medium 7. The labeling / printing can include, for example, a logo, instructions for use or a code etc. (the "text" serves as a placeholder in the present case). The marking / printing runs over the slats 12b, which are arranged in the front area of the tongue cleaner 12, as well as over flat areas in the central region of the tongue cleaner 12. However, the marking / printing can also go over the knobs 12a.

The marking / color medium 7 is also preferably a wax-like and quick-drying ink. In addition to the marked / printed tongue cleaner 12, the head part 2 can also have marked / printed application and / or cleaning elements 5a, 5b, 5c (as in FIG Fig. 1 ), ie ruffling bristle bundles 5a, lamellar rubber elements 5b and conventional bristle bundles 5c. The knobs 12 a are arranged in the present case on the outer or longitudinal sides of the tongue cleaner 12. The slats 12b are preferably arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2.

In principle, the text pattern also serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

In Fig. 3 A further head part 2 is illustrated for a toothbrush 1, which in turn has various application and / or cleaning elements 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, which form the bristle field 6. The front side 10 of the bristle field 6 is formed by a large bristle bundle or a puck tuft 5d, which is arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2. This is followed by a plurality of brushing bristle bundles 5a, which in turn are arranged in several rows transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2. Approximately in the middle of the head part 2 are then lamella-like Rubber elements 5b also arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2. The back 14 of the bristle field 6 is formed by a puck tuft 5e, which is approximately smaller than the front puck tuft 5d.

It can be seen that the front puck tuft 5d has a marking / printing applied across corners, here in the form of a ring-like marking / printing, for example, which is located on the outside 11, the front 10 and the top 9 of the puck tuft 5d (or of the bristle field 6) extends. The marking / printing thus runs over the top, front and the longitudinal or outer edge 8a, 8b, 8c of the puck tuft 5d (or the bristle field 6). On the conventional bristle bundles 5c and the rear puck tuft 5e, markings / prints are also applied in each case, in each case from the outside 11 to the top 9, i.e. over the longitudinal or outer edge 8c of these elements.

In particular, the puck tufts 5d, 5e have preferably been applied by means of the AFT process. As can be seen, the labeling / printing can also be done asymmetrically. In addition, large bundles, such as the puck tufts 5d, 5e, each deliver large printing areas.

The patterns shown basically also serve as placeholders for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

The 4a and 4b illustrate a round head part 2 for, in particular, electrically oscillating toothbrushes with a stamped bristle field 6 made from preferably conventional bristle bundles 5c. On the outside 11 a pattern is applied to the bristle field 6 by means of an identification / color medium 7. The pattern shows at rest, which in Fig. 4a the shape of a point is shown purely by way of example. This pattern changes its shape when in motion, ie when the toothbrush is in operation. In the present case, as in Fig. 4b to see an elongated / line / line shape for the pattern. In principle, such a pattern can also be marked / printed over a corner, ie over the upper edge 16 of the bristle field 6.

In principle, the pattern also serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

In the 5a and 5b illustrates a round head part 2 for in particular electrically oscillating toothbrushes with a stamped bristle field 6 made of preferably conventional bristle bundles 5c. On the top 9 of the bristle field 6 or on the top of individual conventional bristle bundles 5c, a marking / printing medium 7 is applied by means of a marking / color medium. The marking / printing can cover the top of the individual conventional bristle bundles 5c in whole or in part. Here are at rest, which in Fig. 5a is shown, in the outer ring a number of conventional bristle bundles 5c are partially marked or printed on the top (ie on their inner half lying towards the center M of the head part 2). In a ring located further inwards (ie towards the center M of the head part 2) there are several conventional bristle bundles 5c completely marked / printed on their top. This pattern changes in the moving state, ie in the operating state of the toothbrush ( Fig. 5b ), again its shape. In the present case there are concentric circles of different diameters.

This pattern also basically serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

In the Fig. 6a and 6b a head part 2 is shown for, for example, an electrically pivoting toothbrush. Various application and / or cleaning elements 5a, 5b and 5c protrude from the top 2a of the approximately rectangular head part 2, which together form the bristle field 6. On the front 10 of the bristle field 6 are arranged bristle bundles 5a, which flare conically from the top 2a of the head part 2 in the direction of its free end.

In the present case, the sprinkling bristle bundles 5a extend up to approximately the middle of the bristle field 6 or the head part 2. They include the front rows on the head part 2 and are arranged transversely to the longitudinal or pivot axis L of the head part 2. The approximately middle row of application and / or cleaning elements is formed by lamellar rubber elements 5c, which are also arranged transversely to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2.

This is followed by conventional (cylindrical) bristle bundles 5c, which are likewise arranged in rows transverse to the longitudinal axis L of the head part 2 and which also form the rear side 14 of the bristle field 6. The The back 14 of the bristle field 6 faces the handle part 3 of the toothbrush.

The bristle field 6 is only marked / printed on its top 9 with an identification / color medium 7. In the present case, several of the oozing bristle bundles 5a are marked / printed on their upper side with an identification / color medium 7 in such a way that a dotted diagonal results. Furthermore, several of the conventional bristle bundles 5c are marked / printed on the upper or lower side 11 of the bristle field 6 on their upper side with an identification / color medium 7, so that there is a dotted line parallel to the pivot axis L. This pattern gives the in Fig. 6a shown hibernation again.

In the in Fig. 6b shown moving or operating state of the toothbrush changes the pattern to a cloud-like structure. Here, too, the pattern basically serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description. The pattern can in turn change the state in such a way that the representation in the state without movement does not reveal anything special, while the effective pattern is only formed with the movement.

Furthermore, depending on the hole geometry, different densities can be present in the bristle field 6 (ie, in particular, the sprinkling bristle bundles 5a and the conventional bristle bundles 5c are preferably applied here using the anchor stamping method). The bristle field 6 can for example be denser at the front than at the rear and vice versa.

In the 7a and 7b a screwed-in brush 1 is shown, which can be used, for example, as an interdental or mascara brush. A double wire 13 extends from the neck part 3 of the brush 1, in which bristles 5f are screwed in spirally. To this extent, the wire 13 with the bristles 5f corresponds to the head part of the brush 1. The spirally screwed-in bristles 5f form a bristle field 6 which is approximately cylindrical in side view.

A longitudinal stripe or a longitudinal pattern is applied along the longitudinal or outer side 11 of the bristle field 6 by means of an identification medium / color medium 7. Again, the longitudinal stripe or the longitudinal pattern basically also serves as placeholders for various other configurations of the marking, which are listed above in the general description.

In the 8a and 8b a further screwed-in brush 1 is shown, which can be used, for example, as an interdental or mascara brush. From the neck part 3 of the brush 1 in turn extends a double wire 13 in which bristles 5f are spirally screwed. To this extent, the wire 13 with the bristles 5f corresponds to the head part of the brush 1. The spirally screwed-in bristles 5f form a bristle field 6 which is approximately cylindrical in side view.

A wavy pattern is applied along the longitudinal or outer side 11 of the bristle field 6 by means of an identification medium / color medium 7. The wavy pattern basically also serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling, which are described above in the general Description are listed.

In the 9a and 9b A further screwed-in brush 1 is shown, which can be used, for example, as an interdental or mascara brush. From the neck part 3 of the brush 1 in turn extends a double wire 13 in which bristles 5f are spirally screwed. To this extent, the wire 13 with the bristles 5f corresponds to the head part of the brush 1. The spirally screwed-in bristles 5f form a bristle field 6 which is approximately cylindrical in side view.

A 360 ° pattern approximately in the manner of a spiral is applied along the outside 11 of the bristle field 6 by means of an identification / color medium 7. The spiral-like 360 ° pattern basically also serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing, which are listed above in the general description.

In Fig. 10 a further screwed-in brush 1, which can be used, for example, as an interdental or mascara brush, is shown schematically. The picture is intended to show how the turned-in brushes 1 usually look due to the bristling of the bristles 5f. The bristle field is a cylinder rather than a spiral. From the neck part 3 of the brush 1, in turn, a double wire 13 extends into which brushing bristles 5f are screwed. To this extent, the wire 13 with the bristles 5f corresponds to the head part of the brush 1. The bristles 5f normally sprinkle automatically, which is why they are shown in the present figure as a (continuous) cylindrical bristle field 6.

On the outside 11 of the bristle field 6 is by means of an identification / color medium 7 applied a text sample. In principle, the text pattern also serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

The Fig. 11 shows a flosser (dental violin) 1 with a handle part 4, a U-shaped head part 2 and a neck part 3 connecting the handle part 4 with the head part 2. Between the free ends of the U-shaped head part 2, a thread of dental floss 5g is clamped. The thread made of dental floss 5g is marked / printed here with a dashed pattern by means of a marking / color medium 7.

This can serve as a novelty seal for the dental floss, for example, by the medium e.g. the color wears off in use. A taste can also be applied in this way. In principle, however, the pattern also serves as a placeholder for various other configurations of the marking / printing, which are listed above in the general description.

The 12a and 12b show an interdental brush 1 with a handle part 4, a conically tapering head part 2 and a neck part 3 connecting the handle part 4 with the head part 2. The handle part 4 has mounting projections 4a, preferably made of soft component. Cleaning elements 5h (again preferably made of soft component) are injection molded onto the tapered head part 2, which preferably protrude upwards and laterally on the head part 2 (ie from a layer of soft component 15) and face in the direction of the also taper the free end of the headboard. The cleaning elements 5h form a bristle field 6.

In the present case, several of the cleaning elements 5h protruding upwards are marked / printed in a type of zebra pattern at least on their upper side (i.e. transversely) by means of an identification / color medium 7. This can serve the user, for example, as an orientation aid during use. In principle, however, this pattern also serves as a placeholder for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

In the 13a and 13b a head part 2 for a face brush is shown. From the front 2a of the head part 2 there are preferably sprinkling bristle bundles 5a, which together form the bristle field 6. As in 13a can be seen, on the top 9 of the bristle field 6, along the longitudinal axis L of the substantially oval brush head 2, by means of an identification / color medium 7, a wavy pattern is applied over a plurality of juxtaposed bristle bundles 5a. In the case of extreme sprinkles, it is possible for the bristle field 6 to form a continuous surface on the top 9. Some of the bristling bristle bundles lying outside in the undulating pattern are only partially marked on their surface, for example printed (ie as a rule only the halves lying inwards are marked / printed).

Furthermore, as in Fig. 13b to see the bristle field 6 on its outside 11 by means of a Labeling / color medium 7 marked / printed with several wavy lines, which preferably run around the entire outside 11 (ie 360 °). In principle, however, the aforementioned patterns also serve as placeholders for various other types of labeling / printing which are listed above in the general description.

Fig. 14 illustrates a brush-like brush 1, which can also be used as a mascara or nail polish brush, for example. The neck part 3 is adjoined by an annular head part 2, to which one or more bristle bundles 5a, which are preferably sprinkling, are applied. The corresponding bristle field 6 preferably has a barrel-shaped or, as in this case, conical contour.

A text pattern is applied to the bristle field 6 by means of a marking / color medium 7, which extends from the outside 11 over the upper edge 16 to the top 9 of the bristle field 6 (i.e. a marking / printing on a corner). In principle, the text pattern also serves here as a placeholder for various other configurations of the marking / printing, which are listed above in the general description.

Fig. 15 shows purely schematically a front view along the movement axis Z of an arrangement for marking / printing on the bristle field 6 of a brush 1. The arrangement comprises a marking / printing means 20 (for example a print head or laser) which has a specific identification field / printing field 21 within which an identification / printing of the bristle field 6 with an identification / color medium can be done. The brush 1 with the handle part 4 is held by a holding means 23 which is arranged on a transport device 22 (for example a conveyor belt). The coordinate system specifies the axes X, Y and Z, along which and possibly around which the marking / printing means 20 and possibly the brush 1 can preferably move. The coordinate system also applies to all other figures, the Z axis corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the brush 1 and the X and Y axes perpendicular to it.

In the variant according to Fig. 16 the marking / printing means 20 is preferably arranged rigidly or fixedly and the holding means 23 with the brush 1 moves laterally (arrows P1) past the marking / printing means 20, ie along the Z axis. The transport device 20 is omitted here for reasons of clarity. In this way, an outer or long side 11 of the bristle field 6 can be marked or printed. The marking / printing means 20 can, however, also be arranged rigidly or fixedly above the bristle field 6 in order to mark / print on the top 9 of the bristle field 6. The variant according to Fig. 16 is also particularly suitable for marking / printing bristle pucks (ie semi-finished, cut, bundled bristles).

In the variant according to Fig. 17 the marking / printing means 20 is preferably arranged such that it can move relative to the brush 1 on the holding device 23 (opposite movement situation compared to) Fig. 16 ). The marking / printing means 20 moves laterally (arrows P1 ') on the bristle field 6 of the brush 1 over, ie along the Z axis. The transport device 20 is omitted here for reasons of clarity. In this way, an outer or longitudinal side 11 of the bristle field 6 can in turn be marked or printed. The marking / printing means 20 can, however, also be arranged movably above the bristle field 6 in order to mark / print on the top 9 of the bristle field 6.

In the variant according to Fig. 18 both the marking / printing means 20 are preferably arranged to be movable relative to the brush 1 and the brush 1 is movable relative to the marking / printing means 20. The marking / printing means 20 can move laterally (arrows P1 ') past the bristle field 6 of the brush 1 (ie along the Z axis), transversely (arrow P2') to the bristle field 6 of the brush 1 (ie along the X Axis), high with respect to the bristle field 6 (ie along the Y axis, not shown) and / or it can move in a dome-like manner (arrow P3 ') with respect to the Z axis (ie movement in the X and Y planes) ) are brought into a position above the bristle field 6 or on the other side of the bristle field 6. At the same time, the holder means 23 with the brush 1 can be moved laterally (arrows P1) past the marking / printing means 20, ie along the Z axis. The transport device 22 is again omitted here for reasons of clarity.

In this way, the top 9 and both outer and long sides 11 of the bristle field 6 and also the head, neck and handle parts 2, 3, 4 of the brush 1 can be marked, for example, printed in high number of cycles.

However, the marking / printing means 20 can also be in a dome-like rotary movement with respect to the X axis (ie movement in the Y and Z planes, not shown) into a position in front of the bristle field 6 (front side) or on the other side of the bristle field 6 (rear side) are brought so that the front side 10 and both outer and long sides 11 of the bristle field 6 (and possibly also the rear side thereof) as well as the front and side edges of the brush 1 can be marked or printed (from Not shown for reasons of clarity).

In the Fig. 19 variant shown corresponds to that in Fig. 18 variant shown; however, the holder means 23 is not movable with the brush 1 here. The labeling and printing options are the same here.

In the variant according to Fig. 20 the marking / printing means 20 is preferably arranged to be movable relative to the brush 1 and the brush 1 on the holding device is movable relative to the marking / printing means 20. The marking / printing means 20 moves laterally (arrows P1 ') on the bristle field 6 of the brush 1 over, ie along the Z axis. The brush 1 (preferably a mascara or interdental brush) is arranged such that it can rotate (arrow P4) with respect to the marking / printing means 20 (ie rotation about the Z axis). The transport device 22 is omitted here for reasons of clarity.

In this way, in particular the outside 11 of the bristle field 6 of mascara and interdental brushes marked or printed (360 ° marking / printing). The marking / printing means 20 can, however, also be arranged so as to be movable above the bristle field 6 in order to identify / print on the outside or outer surface 11 of the bristle field 6.

The design variants shown and described in the present application are only examples. In particular, the individual forms and elements of these design variants can be combined with other design variants without leaving the scope of the present invention.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Cleaning device (e.g. brushes, toothbrushes, flossers or dental violins, tongue cleaners etc.)

2

headboard

2a

Top of headboard

2 B

Back of the headboard

2c

Edge back of headboard

3

neck

4

handle part

4a

holding projections

5a

bunches of bristles

5b

lamellar rubber elements

5c

conventional bristle bundles

5d

Puck tuft (front)

5e

Puck tuft (back)

5f

twisted bristles (spiral)

5g

floss

5h

injected cleaning elements

6

bristle

7

Labeling / color medium (labeling / printing)

8a

Top edge of the bristle field or individual element

8b

Front edge of bristle field or individual element

8c

Longitudinal / outer edge bristle field or individual element

9

Top of the bristle field or individual element

10

Front of bristle field or individual element

11

Long side / outside bristle field or individual element

12

Tongue cleaner (toothbrush on the back)

12a

burl

12b

slats

13

(double) wire

14

Back of the bristle field or individual element

15

Layer of soft component

16

Top edge (round)

20

Labeling / printing media (e.g. printhead or laser)

21

Label / pressure field

22

transport device

23

support means

M

Focus

P1

Arrow (direction of movement of the product)

P1 '

Arrow (direction of movement of the marking / printing medium)

P2 '

Arrow (direction of movement of the marking / printing medium)

P3 '

Arrow (direction of movement of the marking / printing medium)

P4

Arrow (direction of movement of the product)

L

longitudinal axis

X

axis

Y

axis

Z

axis

Claims (23)

Cleaning device, in particular a toothbrush, with a handle part (4), a head part (2) and a neck part (3) connecting the handle part (4) to the head part, one or more application and / or cleaning elements ( 5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) are applied, which form a bristle field (6) which has at least one outer side (8) and / or one upper side (9), at least one of the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the at least one outer side (8) and / or one upper side (9) of the bristle field is marked / printed with an identification / color medium (7). Cleaning device according to claim 1, characterized in that the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) marked / printed with the marking / color medium (7) made of a thermoplastic elastomer, in particular one Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, or a thermoplastic polyester elastomer, a polyamide, a polybutylene terephthalate and / or a silicone are formed. Cleaning device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the marked / printed application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) are marked / printed with an indicator or an indicator color. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the marking / color medium (7) with a layer thickness of 0.001 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.001 mm to 0.2 mm, on the application and / or cleaning elements (5a , 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) is applied. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the packing density of the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h), in particular the bristles, of 12 pieces / mm ² to 25 pieces / mm ² , preferably from 16 pieces / mm ² to 20 pieces / mm ² . Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the marking / printing resolution is from 20 dpi to 3000 dpi, preferably from 150 dpi to 1500 dpi. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the case of a bristle field (6) with at least one outer side (8) and one upper side (9) at least one application and / or cleaning element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f , 5h) on the outside (8) of the bristle field (6) and at least one cleaning and application element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) are marked / printed on the top side (9) of the bristle field (6) is. Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that individual application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) or larger areas over several application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c , 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) across the corner, ie across the upper edge, are marked / printed so that there is a continuous, continuous marking / printing from the outside to the top of at least individual application and / or cleaning elements (5a , 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h). Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the case of a bristle field (6) with at least one front side (10), one long side (11) and one upper side (9) at least one application and / or cleaning element (5a, 5b, 5c , 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the front (10) of the bristle field (6), at least one application and / or cleaning element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the long side (11) of the bristle field (6) and at least one cleaning and / or application element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) is marked / printed on the upper side (9) of the bristle field (6). Cleaning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the marking / printing within an application and / or cleaning element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) is adapted so that the marking / printing of the contour of the Application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) follows at least in part, preferably to leave a different marking / printing, depending on the viewing angle. Method for marking / printing a cleaning device (1), in particular a toothbrush, with a handle part (4), a head part (2) and a neck part (3) connecting the handle part (4) with the head part (2), with the head part (2) one or more application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) are applied, which form a bristle field (6) which has at least one outer side (8) and / or one upper side (9), with the steps: (a) supplying the cleaning device (1) with the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) to an identification / printing means (20), preferably a print head, by means of a transport device ( 22); (b) Marking / printing at least one of the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the at least one outer side (11) and / or one upper side (9) of the bristle field ( 6) with an identification / color medium (7); (c) optional marking / printing of the handle (4), head (2) and / or neck part (3). A method according to claim 11, characterized in that the marking / printing means (20) is preferably an inkjet print head. Method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the marking / printing means (20) along at least one axis (X, Y, Z), preferably two axes (X, Y, Z), more preferably three axes (X, Y, Z) is arranged to be movable and / or rotatable relative to the brush (1). Method according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the transport device has holding means (23) with which the cleaning device (1) can be pivoted and / or rotated relative to the marking / printing means (20). Method according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that in the case of a bristle field (6) with at least one outer side (8) and one upper side (9) at least one application and / or cleaning element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e , 5f, 5h) on the outside (8) of the bristle field (6) and at least one cleaning and / or application element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the top side (9) of the bristle field (6 ) is marked / printed. Method according to one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that in the case of a bristle field (6) with at least one front side (10), one long side (11) and one upper side (9), at least one application and / or cleaning element (5a, 5b , 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the front (10) of the bristle field (6), at least one application and / or cleaning element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the long side (11) of the bristle field (6) and at least one cleaning and / or application element (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h) on the top side (9) of the bristle field (6) / is printed. Method according to one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that the marking / printing means (20) has 5 to 500 nozzles, preferably 10 to 100 nozzles. Method according to one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the marking / printing speed is from 2 m / min to 100 m / min, preferably from 5 m / min to 60 m / min. Method according to one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that physical and / or chemical processing of the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h), in particular in the case of extruded bristles, is carried out before marking / printing. Method according to one of claims 11 to 18, characterized in that physical and / or chemical processing of the application and / or cleaning elements (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d, 5e, 5f, 5h), in particular in the case of extruded bristles, is carried out after the marking / printing, but the marked / printed part is not printed or is only printed in a harmless manner. Arrangement for marking / printing a bristle field (6) of a cleaning device (1) comprising a marking / printing means, preferably a print head (20) with an identification / printing field (21) within which the bristle field (6) is identified / printed with a color medium (7) and with a holding device (23) by means of which the cleaning device (1) is held and is positioned opposite the marking / printing means (20) and which is preferably arranged on a transport device (22). Arrangement according to claim 21, characterized in that the marking / printing means (20) along at least one axis (X, Y, Z), preferably two axes (X, Y, Z), more preferably three axes (X, Y, Z) is arranged movably and / or rotatably relative to the cleaning device (1). Arrangement according to one of claims 21 or 22, characterized in that the cleaning device (1) can be pivoted and / or rotated relative to the marking / printing means (20) by means of the holding means (23).

Images