MX2012006557A

MX2012006557A - Toothbrush.

Info

Publication number: MX2012006557A
Application number: MX2012006557A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Jens Stoerkel; Tilmann Winkler; Kathi Ballmaier; Martin Vitt; Kathrin Schichtel
Original assignee: Braun Gmbh
Priority date: 2009-12-10
Filing date: 2010-12-10
Publication date: 2012-10-09
Also published as: KR101424365B1; IN2012DN05090A; HK1177120A1; US20110219558A1; WO2011070550A1; CA2784176C; CN102892328B; EP2509463A1; CA2784176A1; EP2509463B1; EP2509463B8; KR20120081242A; CN102892328A; USD762391S1; AU2010329479A1; AU2010329479B2

Abstract

A toothbrush having a toothbrush head with a top side at which cleaning elements for cleaning teeth are arranged. The cleaning elements and the head can facilitate the removal of foam, plaque and undesired particles.

Description

TOOTHBRUSH FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to a toothbrush having a toothbrush head with an upper side in which cleaning elements for cleaning teeth are arranged.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The use of toothbrushes for cleaning teeth has been widely known. Generally, toothbrushes include a head and a handle. The head includes a plurality of tufts of bristles extending from the upper surface of the head. The bristle bristles generally consist of a plurality of filaments that are attached to the head in a suitable manner. In addition to the tufts of bristles, some toothbrushes available on the market also provide elastomeric elements in an effort to achieve benefits such as gum massage, tongue cleaning, etc.

It is known to use elastomers at various points of the toothbrush heads. The elastomer in toothbrushes can be provided on the underside of the head or the side surface as a soft surface. As an example, lingual scrapers made of elastomer plastic on the bottom of the head. In addition, toothbrushes are known in which elastomer rows are arranged for massage on the lateral or laterally spaced surfaces of the teeth cleaning elements on the top of the head. Finally, the elastomers on the upper side of the head are also known as cleaning elements for cleaning teeth. Relevant examples are found in patent applications no. WO-A-2003/055351, WO-A-1999/037181, WO-A-2000/076369 and WO-A-1998/018364, and the US patent application. UU no. US-A-2007/0101525.

In an effort to increase efficiency, some toothbrushes use a much more densely populated cleaning element field. The tufts of bristles and / or elastomeric elements can be separated very close to each other. However, a disadvantage of such toothbrushes is that, during brushing, the plate and other unwanted substances can become trapped between the bristles, which then remain retained in the cleaning element field and, therefore, can be retained. have a harmful effect on the enamel of the teeth when cleaning and polishing the teeth.

Therefore, there is a need for a toothbrush that can facilitate the removal of plaque and other unwanted elements from the cleaning element field.

A toothbrush constructed in accordance with the present invention can facilitate the removal of plaque and / or unwanted substances from the field of the bristle. In some embodiments, removal of foam, removal of plaque and / or removal of unwanted particles can be achieved by using the lateral surface having a curvature that deviates from a straight line. An elastomeric region on the lateral surface may be provided with a constriction or a flat portion or a convex curvature and the provision of a section on the lateral surface consisting of hard plastic and which is provided with an external protrusion or a convex curvature You can facilitate this retreat.

In other embodiments, a toothbrush is provided with a toothbrush head in those first and second top cleaning elements for cleaning the teeth, wherein the first cleaning elements have first bristle tufts with a long side and a side short and, therefore, in cross section, an approximately oval or rectangular base. This creates, practically, foam and toothpaste carriers inside the elongated tufts, which makes it possible for the foam to escape at the corners of the base where no tufts are available. As an alternative, first tufts of bristles, also known as multiple tufts or composites, are provided, each having, conventionally, a circular cross section; however, because they are connected along a straight line, the result is a configuration of square or diamond bristles. Consequently, for a diamond, 4 straight lines are provided, each with different tufts of bristles. These locks are designed to be longer than the cleaning elements arranged within the polygon (eg, the diamond), which results in the formation of a grooved reservoir that receives toothpaste, particularly through a reservoir type " depression "that holds the toothpaste that is surrounded by strands. This contributes to the toothpaste being distributed, gradually, in the oral cavity during tooth brushing. In accordance with the alternative design, the "corners" of the rhombus, square or other polygon are formed by tufts of bristles and in accordance with the modality that has tufts with a short side and a long side by interstices without forming a corner in the direction strictly geometric.

In contrast to the conventional circular, possibly pot-shaped, design of a grooved region that retains toothpaste, the polygonal design of this reservoir that receives toothpaste in the bristle area makes it easier, after the toothbrush head has provided with bristles, molding the bristles bordering the receiving region on the side to their desired length and rounding their ends to achieve the desired topography of their ends of free bristles. Due to the polygonal design of the region that receives toothpaste that is grooved on the inside, the centers of the tuft of bristles that make up the polygon as a tuft or as a plurality of tufts fall in a straight line in each case, it is possible that the adjacent tufts that are not part of the polygon can be more easily pushed out of the way by means of baffle plates or shifters to mold certain regions of the bristle area to the desired length and / or round the ends separately from other tufts of hair. sows In this way, the baffle plate is screwed between the tufts of bristles of the compacted head and subsequently laterally rotated, which makes it possible to separately mold the tufts to the correct length in relation to the adjacent tufts. The polygonal design of the region that receives the toothbrush can certainly also be suitable for those toothbrushes that are not produced in this way by the use of looped threads with anchor wire but, for example, without an anchor thread A further advantageous design allows a plurality of first tufts of bristles to be arranged on the upper side in such a way that their combined circumferential surface forms an approximately triangular, square, rhombic or pentagonal base.

An additional advantageous design allows the first tufts of bristles to be arranged in such a way that four first tufts of bristles comprise a square base.

An additional advantageous design allows the second cleaning elements to have second tufts of bristles with a circular cross section and / or elastomeric cleaning elements.

A further advantageous design allows that the first tufts of bristles are designed to be longer than the second tufts of bristles and / or that the first tufts of bristles comprise the second tufts of bristles or the elastomeric cleaning elements.

An additional advantageous design allows the tufts of composite or multiple bristles of the first tufts of bristles and the tufts of bristles of the second and third cleaning elements, each having circular cross sections, wherein the tufts of immediately adjacent bristles are configured with the shortest lateral distance from each other; in the direction of the longitudinal central axis with a distance of less than 0 mm and in the direction of the transverse axis with a distance of 0 to 0.5 mm. A distance less than 0 mm along the longitudinal axis of the brush can be achieved by a shifted location of the polygon locks and the tufts within the polygon. Thus, if the brush is observed from the lateral longitudinal side it seems that the distance between the neighboring cheeks is superimposed and that it is less than 0 mm.

According to a further aspect, a toothbrush is provided with a toothbrush head with cleaning elements for cleaning teeth, which are grouped in various care areas in each case, with at least one pre-cleaning zone with elements of cleaning longer than the cleaning elements in the cleaning area, where the pre-cleaning zone is arranged at the free end of the toothbrush head, and which has a polishing zone or massage area consisting of elastomeric cleaning and a toothpaste reception area designed with a shape similar to a depression. In areas of known sows, multiple care areas are not separated from one another; rather, differently effective cleaning elements are mixed with nearby ones. Therefore, the care properties of the cleaning elements should be configured in accordance with the various functions in the head in local groupings.

The objectives, advantages, features and possible additional applications of the present invention result from the following descriptions of illustrative modalities by means of the figures. The subject matter of the present invention is formed from all the features described or represented, individually or in any coherent combination, and independently of this summary in the claims or their dependency relationships.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES It shows: Figure 1 A top view of the upper side of a toothbrush head in a schematic representation in accordance with the invention.

Figure 2 A schematic cross-sectional representation along line A-A in Fig. 4B of a toothbrush head in accordance with Fig. 1.

Figure 3 An enlarged representation of the section and in Fig. 1.

Figures 4A-4D A side view, top view of the upper side, top view in perceptual and perspective view of the underside of the toothbrush head in accordance with Fig. 1.

Figure 4E An enlarged view of section x in Fig. 4B.

Figure 4F An enlarged view of the terminal section of the toothbrush head in accordance with Fig. 4B.

Figure 5A-5E A side view, top view of the upper side, left side view, top view in perspective, and perspective view of the underside of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1 .

Figure 6A-6E A right side view, top view of the upper side, left side view, a top perspective view, and each additional perspective top view of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified in relation to the FIG. . 1.

Figure 7A-7D A side view, top view of the upper side, top view in perspective, and additional perspective top view of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 8A-8D A side view, top view of the upper side, top view in perspective, and rear perspective view of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 9A-9F A right side view, top view of the upper side, left side view, view of the lower side, top view in perspective, and additional top view of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified with respect to to Fig. 1.

Figure 10A-10D a side view, top view of the top side, top view in perspective, and rear perspective view of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 1 1 A top perspective view of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified with respect to Fig. 1.

Figure 12A-12B A perspective representation and cross-sectional representation of an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with a square base of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified with respect to Fig. 1.

Figure 13 A perspective representation of an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with an approximately triangular base of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 14A-14B A perspective representation and cross-sectional representation of an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with a circular base of a toothbrush head according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 15A-15C A perspective representation, a longitudinal cross-sectional representation and a top view of the upper side of a toothbrush head with an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with a circular base in accordance with the invention, modified with relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 16A-16C A perspective representation, a longitudinal cross-sectional representation and a top view of the upper side of a toothbrush head with an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with a circular base according to the invention, modified with reference to Fig. 1.

Figure 17A-17C A perspective representation, a longitudinal cross-sectional representation and a top view of the upper side of a toothbrush head with an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with a circular base in accordance with the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 18A-18C A perspective representation, a longitudinal cross-sectional representation and a top view of the upper side of a toothbrush head with an elastomeric cleaning element having a platform with an approximately triangular base in accordance with the invention , modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 19A-19C A perspective representation, a longitudinal cross section and a top view of the upper side of a dental brush head according to the invention modified with respect to Fig. 1.

Figure 20A-20B A perspective representation of the upper side and a top perspective view of the underside of a dental brush head according to the invention modified with respect to FIG. 1.

Figure 21A-21 B A perspective representation of the upper side and a perspective view of the lower side of a toothbrush head with a second spherical component according to the invention, modified in relation to FIG. 1.

Figure 22 A perspective representation of the upper side of a toothbrush head with a second spherical component according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 23 A perspective representation of the upper side of a toothbrush head with a second spherical component according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 24A-24B A perspective representation of a toothbrush head having a rhombic toothpaste reception area according to the invention, modified in relation to Fig. 1.

Figure 24C-24D A side view of a modified den-tal brush head having a rhombic toothpaste reception area in accordance with Fig. 24a), Figure 24E-24F A top view on the bristle area of the modified toothbrush head having a rhombic toothpaste reception area in accordance with Fig. 24A, Fig. 24F showing, in addition, schematically, a handle of the toothbrush. toothbrush, and Figure 24G A further top view on the bristle area of the modified toothbrush head having a rhombic toothpaste receiving area according to Fig. 24A with a representation of the used bristle sliders.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Figures 1-24 G show dental brush heads or sections thereof that connect with any toothbrush neck and handle to form a toothbrush. These heads are equally suitable for purely manual toothbrushes and electrically driven brushes. Each of the characteristics of the toothbrush heads shown in these embodiments can be designed in reduced form or in a different combination to those depicted. Although most modalities show a tongue scraper that has a specific structure of the head, all modalities can be performed, without a tongue scraper or be provided with another structure to clean the tongue. In addition, some embodiments have elastomeric cleaning elements 17 (shown in Figure 9F) (elastic cleaning elements 17 preferably made of a soft material) in combination with the cleaning elements of bristle tufts, at the same time that others have only elements of cleaning of bristle tufts.

With reference to Figures 1-4F, the toothbrush head 1 made of hard material or a first component 2 is provided with a lateral surface or an outer edge 3, which is interrupted by a single or various elastomeric regions that can be The narrowing, in some embodiments, may be a layer of soft overmoulded material or a second component made of an elastomeric plastic 5. With reference to Figure 4E, the bi-width of the narrowing corresponds to that of FIG. 55% to 85% of the width b2 of the outermost edge line remaining 6 of the head when viewed from above at center 7 of the constriction. The outer edge line 6 is generally parallel to a longitudinal central plane of the toothbrush head 1 and is tangent to an external edge of the head representing the largest width of the head 1. Center 7 of the head narrowing 4 represents the smallest width of head 1, in the related narrowing 4 that is measured.

The narrowing 4 proceeds in a concave manner 8 and is thus directed inwardly towards the longitudinal central plane of the toothbrush head. The concave curvature can be formed by the angle ß and different radii Rx¡. The effect of a narrow concave narrowing radius provided with elastomer may be that the foam 20 of the toothpaste is received very well. The passage of the foam 20 from an upper side 16 of the head 1 to the narrowing 4 can also be influenced by the angle a.

For example, when the upper side 16 is facing down towards the constriction 4, the plate 25 running under the cleaning elements 10 during brushing can be moved, more easily, with the foam 20 in the direction of the constriction 4. In As a result, the foam 20 migrates first, partially, from the cleaning elements 10 to the upper side 16 of the head 1 and then to a lateral surface of the head 3. Due to a change of direction during brushing, the foam 20 it can be retained, effectively, and then removed together with the plate 25 contained therein from the constrictions 4 to the preferably convexly curved sections of the same side surfaces 3, which can be made of hard plastic.

In accordance with various embodiments shown, see particularly Figures 5 to 10, each of the constrictions divides the brush into different tooth care areas. The care areas for various teeth care tasks are configured into specific local sections of the head, which can reduce the likelihood of mixing other cleaning elements for other cleaning purposes within an area. The tasks of the care areas can be determined by various types of cleaning elements, for example, different type of filaments, cross sections of tufts, size of cross sections of bristle tufts, elastomeric elements 17, or the effective length of the cleaning elements.

Each of the zones can be divided into two or more subzones. Each sub-zone is designed and equipped in such a way that different tasks are possible during the brushing process. As shown in Figures 5A to 5E, a pre-cleaning zone 500A may be present near a distal end 520 of a brush head 510 and close to a proximal end 530 of the head 510. As shown in Figure 5A, the pre-cleaning zone 500A may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements 511 which are configured as the end cleaning elements adjacent the distal end 520 and adjacent the proximal end 530.

The cleaning elements 511 of the pre-cleaning zones 500A can be configured in such a way that the heights vary. For example, as shown, the cleaning elements adjacent the distal end 720 can be configured in such a manner that the cleaning elements 511 decrease in a direction toward the handle. further, these cleaning elements 511 can be molded at an angle such that a peak is formed adjacent the cleaning elements 511 closest to the distal end 520. Similarly, the cleaning elements 511 in the pre-cleaning zone 500A adjacent to the end proximal 530 can be configured in such a way that the cleaning elements 511 have variable heights. As shown, the cleaning elements 511 can decrease in height from the proximal end 530 to the distal end 520. Furthermore, these cleaning elements 511 can be molded at an angle such that a peak is formed adjacent to the elements of the cleaning element 511. cleaning 511 closest to the proximal end 530.

A cleaning zone 500B can be located between the pre-cleaning zones 500A. In addition, an interdental zone 500D can be located, generally, in an area similar to the cleaning zone 500B. The interdental zone 500D may comprise cleaning elements 513 which are located on either side of the cleaning elements 512 for the cleaning zone 500B. As shown, the interdental zone 500D may comprise a convex arched molding.

As shown, a polishing zone 500C may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements 514 which are located between the cleaning elements 511 for the pre-cleaning zone 500A and the cleaning elements 512 for the cleaning zone 500B. The polishing zone 500C may comprise cleaning elements 514 having a larger cross section than those adjacent to it.

As shown in Figure 6A-6E, a pre-cleaning zone 600A located adjacent a distal end 620 of a brush head 610 and a proximal end 630 of the head 610 may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements 611. The cleaning elements 611 can be configured as the end cleaning elements adjacent to the end distal 620 and adjacent proximal end 630 of head 610. Pre-cleansing zones 600A can be configured similar to precleaner areas 500A described above.

A cleaning zone 600B can be located between the pre-cleaning zones 600A. In addition, an external zone 600E can be located, generally, in an area similar to the cleaning zone 600B. The outer zone 600E may comprise cleaning elements 615 which are located on either side of the cleaning elements 612 and 613.

As shown, the cleaning zone 600B may comprise a convex arched molding and, similarly, the outer zone 600E may comprise a convex arched molding. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements 615 of the outer zone 600E may have a lower height than the cleaning elements 613 of the cleaning zone 600B.

As shown, a polishing zone 600C may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements 614 which are located between the cleaning elements 611 for the pre-cleaning zone 600A and the cleaning elements 613 for the cleaning zone 600B. The polishing zone 600C may comprise cleaning elements 614 having a larger cross section than those adjacent thereto.

The zone 600D may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements 612 located adjacent to the periphery of the head. In addition, a portion of the plurality of cleaning elements 612 can be located towards the interior of the cleaning elements 615 of the outer zone 600E.

As shown in Figures 7A to 7D, in some embodiments, a brush head 710 can be divided into a pre-cleaning zone 700A, a cleaning zone 700B, a postcleaning zone 700C and a holding area the toothpaste 700D. As shown, the retention zone the toothpaste 700D can be located within the cleaning zone 700B. For example, as shown, the cleaning elements 713 of the cleaning zone 700B may surround, at least in part, the cleaning elements 712 of the holding area 700D. In some embodiments, the cleaning elements 712 of the holding area 700D may be shorter than the cleaning elements 713 of the cleaning area 700B. In this way a grooved area can be formed in the cleaning element field which can provide better retention of, for example, toothpaste.

The pre-cleaning zone 700A can be configured similar to the pre-cleaning zones described above, for example 500A and 600A. The after-cleaning zone 700C can be configured in such a manner that the cleaning elements 711 increase in height towards a proximal end 730 of the brush head 710. However, different from the pre-cleaning zone 700A, the gradual increase in height can be slightly smaller than that present for the cleaning elements 712 of the pre-cleaning zone 700A.

As shown in Figures 8A to 8D, similar to the configuration of the head 710 shown in Figures 7A-7D, a head 810 of Figures 8A to 8D may comprise similar areas, for example, 800A, 800B, 800C and 800D. The zone 800A can be configured similar to the pre-cleaning zones 500A, 600A and 700A described above. The zone 800B can be configured as described above in relation to the cleaning zone 500B, 600B and / or 700B. Zone 800C can be configured similar to the 700C postcleaning zone as described above. The zone 800D can be configured as described above in relation to the holding area 700D. In other embodiments, zone 800D can be configured, similarly, to zone 600D or interdental zone 500D.

Additionally, the head 810 may comprise a plurality of elastomeric elements 17 bordering a cleaning zone 800B on one or both sides. The elastomeric elements 17 can extend from a common base 817. The base 817, as shown in Figure 2, can be formed, integrally, with the elastomeric material of the tongue cleaner.

As shown in Figures 9A to 9F, a brush head 910 constructed in accordance with the present invention may comprise a pre-cleaning zone 900A adjacent a distal end 920 and a pre-cleaning zone 900A adjacent a proximal end 930. A cleaning zone 900B may be located between the pre-cleansing areas 900A . Additionally, a partition 945 may be present between the pre-cleaning zones 900A and the cleaning zone 900B. This separation 945 can facilitate the removal of foam 20 (shown in Figure 1) from the cleaning element field towards a constriction as previously described.

The pre-cleaning zone 900A can be configured similar to the pre-cleaning zones 500A, 600A, 700A and / or 800A as described above. The cleaning zone 900B can be configured similar to the cleaning zone 500B, 600B, 700B and / or 800B as described above. The pre-cleaning zone 900A may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements 9 1. The cleaning zone 900B may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements 912 which are located between the cleaning elements 911 of pre-cleaning areas 900A.

The cleaning elements 913 of an external zone 900D can be located between a first set of cleaning elements 912 and a second set of cleaning elements 912. The cleaning elements 913 can be oriented in any suitable way. As shown, the cleaning elements 913 can be configured in such a way that the cleaning elements 913 form a rhombus configuration in the head 910. Within the diamond configuration of the cleaning elements 913, the cleaning elements 914 of a retention area 900C can be located. The cleaning elements 914 can be configured, similarly, in a diamond configuration. As shown, the cleaning elements 913 and the cleaning elements 914 can be configured in such a way that they form an external rhombus and internal rhombus configuration. Additionally, the cleaning elements 913 may have a height that is less than the height of the cleaning elements 914.

The head 910 may further comprise a plurality of elastomeric elements 17. A first set of elastomeric elements 17A may extend from a first base 917A. The first base 917A can be integrally formed of an elastomeric material of the tongue cleaner. Similarly, the first set of elastomeric elements 17A can be integrally formed from the first base 917A. The brush head 910 may further comprise a second set of elastomeric elements 17B and may extend from a second base 917B. The second set of elastomeric elements 17B can be configured similar to the first set of elastomeric elements 17A and the second base 917B can be configured similar to the first base 917A.

As shown, the first set of elastomeric elements 7A and / or the second set of elastomeric elements 17B may have a height that is less than that of the cleaning elements 913 of the outer zone 900D. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first set of elastomeric elements 17A and / or the second set of elastomeric elements 17B may have a narrowing angle. The narrowing angle may be greater than about 0.5 degrees, greater than about 1 degree, greater than about 1.5 degrees, greater than about 2.0 degrees, greater than about 2.5 degrees, greater than about 3.0 degrees and / or less than about 3.0. degrees, less than about 2.5 degrees, less than about 2.0 degrees, less than about 1.5 degrees, less than about 1.0 degree, or any number or any interval within the values provided. The narrowing angle can be beneficial during the manufacturing process. For example, the narrowing angle may facilitate the removal of the elastomeric elements from an injection molding.

A third set of elastomeric elements 17C can be extended from a third base 917C. The third set of elastomeric elements 17C can be configured similar to the first set of elastomeric elements 917A, and the third base 917C can be configured similar to the first base 917A. A fourth set of elastomeric elements 17D may extend from a fourth base 917D. The fourth set of elastomeric elements 17D can be configured similar to the first set of elastomeric elements 17A, and the fourth base 917D can be configured similar to the first base 917A.

As shown in Figure 10, a brush head 1010 may comprise a pre-cleaning zone 1000A located adjacent the distal end 1020 and a pre-cleaning zone 1000A adjacent the proximal end 1030. A cleaning zone 1000B may be located between the zones of Pre-piece 1000A. The polishing zones 1000C may be surrounded, at least partially, by cleaning elements 101 of the precleaner areas 1000A. As shown, the cleaning elements 1013 of the polishing zones 1000C are completely surrounded by cleaning elements 1011.

An internal zone 1000D may be surrounded, at least partially, by cleaning elements 1012 of the cleaning zone 1000B. As shown, the cleaning elements 1014 of the inner zone 1000D can be completely surrounded by cleaning elements 1012 of the cleaning zone 1000B.

The brush head 1010 can be configured such that a plurality of constrictions 1004 is present along a periphery of the head 1010. The constrictions 1004 can be configured as described above with respect to the constrictions 4. Additionally, the pre-cleaning zones 1000A can be separated from the cleaning zone 1000B by a plurality of elastomeric elements 17. For example, as shown, a first set of elastomeric elements 1017A can separate the pre-cleaning zone 1000A adjacent the distal end 1020 from the zone of cleaning 1000B. Additionally, a second set of elastomeric elements 1017B can separate the cleaning zone 1000B from the pre-cleaning zone 1000A adjacent to the proximal end 1030 of the brush head 1010.

The precleaner zones 1000A can be configured as described above in relation to the precleaner zones 500A, 600A, 700A, 800A and 900A. Additionally, one or both precleaner zones 1000A can be configured similar to the aftercleaning zones 700C and 800C as described above. Cleaning zones 1000B can be configured similar to cleaning zones 500B, 600B, 700B, 800B or 900B.

The various care areas described above can be achieved in various ways. For example, as shown in Figure 1 1, a toothbrush head 11 10 could comprise different care areas by arranging shorter tufts 19 in the center of the upper side, mixed with tufts 21 having long filaments in them. a central region of the same tufts 21, and tufts 24 having tapered filaments.

In some embodiments, cleaning elements can be provided that perform multiple functions and as such, a dual care zone can be created. For example, as shown in Figures 12 to 14, the elastomeric cleaning elements 1226A to 1226C having a platform 1227A to 1227C that are injection molded in one piece, can perform a toothpaste retention function and a function of polished. To achieve the toothpaste retention function, the free ends of these elastomeric cleaning elements may fall lower than the adjacent bristles that exceed them in height, which creates a "depressive" structure. It is possible to attach the platforms 1227A to 1227C to the heads through the use of an injection molding process or other joining technology.

As shown in Figures 15A to 15C, a toothbrush head 1510 may comprise an elastomeric element described in Figures 12A-14B. For example, as shown, the toothbrush head 1510 may comprise an elastomeric element 1226C. The elastomeric element 1226C can be located, generally, at the center of the brush head 1510. As shown, the elastomeric element 1226C may be surrounded, at least partially, by a plurality of cleaning elements 1512. As described above, elastomeric element 1226C may have a height that is less than that of cleaning elements 1512 such that a retention zone is created similar to zones 700D, 800D and 900C.

As shown in Figures 16A to 16C, a toothbrush head 1610 may comprise an elastomeric element described in Figures 12A-14B. For example, as shown, the toothbrush head 1610 may comprise an elastomeric element 1226C. As shown, the elastomeric element 1226C may be surrounded, at least partially, by a plurality of cleaning elements 1612. As shown, the elastomeric element 1610 may be located longitudinally spaced from the center of the brush head 1610.

With reference to Figures 17A to 17C, a toothbrush head 1710 may comprise a plurality of elastomeric elements 1226A. The elastomeric elements 1226A can be separated longitudinally from one another and be separated by at least one cleaning element. The elastomeric elements 1226A can be configured in such a way that one or both of them form a retention area, for example, they have a lower height than the adjacent cleaning elements.

As shown, the brush head 1710 may comprise a first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 having a rectangular cross section. The first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can be joined in elongated openings of the head 1710 and can have various width to depth ratios. In horizontal cross section, each of the first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 may be approximately rectangular. The first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can be configured at an angle to a longitudinal axis of the head. In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can form a delta angle of between 30 to 60 degrees with the longitudinal axis.

As shown in Figures 18A to 18C, a toothbrush head 1810 may comprise an elastomeric element 1226B adjacent a distal end 1820 of the head 1810. The elastomeric element 1226B may form a portion or a whole pre-cleaning area as described previously. As shown, the elastomeric element 1226B can be oriented relative to an upper surface 1825 of the head 1810. The angle can be any suitable measure of degrees. The inclination may be far from a proximal end 1830. Modes are contemplated wherein a second elastomeric element similar to the elastomeric element 1226B is used adjacent the proximal end 1830. In such embodiments, the second elastomeric element may be tilted relative to the upper surface 1825 away from distal end 1820.

As shown in Figures 19A to 19C, a toothbrush head 1910 may comprise a plurality of cleaning elements that do not include elastomeric elements configured at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis 29 of the head 1910. As shown , the head 1910 may comprise a first plurality of cleaning elements 1928 joined in elongated openings of the head 1910 and may have various proportions of width to depth. In horizontal cross section, each of the first plurality of cleaning elements 1928 may be approximately rectangular. The first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can be configured at an angle to a longitudinal axis of the head. In some embodiments, the first plurality of cleaning elements 1728 can form a delta angle of between 30 to 60 degrees with the longitudinal axis 29.

With reference to Figures 20A and 20B, in some embodiments, a toothbrush head 2010 may comprise a first component 30 and a second component 31A. The first component 30 may comprise a first material and the second component may comprise a second material that is different from the first material. The first material can be harder than the second material in some modalities. The second material may comprise a hard material similar to the first material. When the second component 31 A comprises a soft material, modalities are contemplated wherein the second component 31A is formed, integrally, with the material of a tongue cleaner. The first component 30 may have an upper side or plate of flat bristles, and may be provided with cleaning elements. The second component 31A can be made of soft or hard plastic and movably or flexibly mountable in the first component 30. The second component 31A can be designed to be approximately partially spherical and can end with a flat upper side or, the same, spherical way in which the cleaning elements are configured.

As shown in Figures 21 A and 21 B, a toothbrush head 2110 may comprise a first component 2130 and a second component 31 B. In such embodiments, the first component 2130 and the second component 31B may comprise materials similar to those described in relation to Figures 20A and 20B. Additionally, the first component 2130 may comprise an opening extending from a top surface of the first component 2130 to a lower surface of the first component 2130. The second component 31 B may be located within the opening and have a plurality of elements of cleaning attached to him. The second component 31 B may have an upper surface that rises, slightly, on the upper surface of the first component 2130.

As shown in Figure 22, a toothbrush head 2210 may comprise a first component 2230 and a second component 31 C. The first component 2230 may have a distal portion 2220 and a proximal portion 2231. The distal portion 2220 and the proximal portion 2231 may be longitudinally spaced apart. The second component 31 C can be located between the distal portion 2220 and the proximal portion 2231. In said embodiments, the second component 31 C can be formed, integrally, from the material for a lingual cleanser. The first component 2230 and the second component 31 C can comprise the materials that were described above with respect to Figures 20A and 20B.

As shown in Figure 23, a toothbrush head 2310 may comprise a first component 2330 and a second component 31 B. The first component 2330 may be configured similar to the first component 2230 previously described. Primarily, the first component 2330 may comprise a distal portion 2320 and a proximal portion 2331 that are longitudinally spaced apart from one another. The second component 31 B can be located between the distal portion 2320 and the proximal portion 2331. The second component 31 B can be formed, integrally, with the lingual cleanser material, in some embodiments. The first component 2330 and the second component 3 B can comprise the materials described above in relation to Figures 20A and 20B.

Each of Figures 24A to 24G show different views of the same toothbrush head 100, which is another variant of the preceding toothbrush heads. The already described features of the other dental brush heads according to Figures 1 to 23 can be used in the embodiment according to Figures 24A to 24G. The toothbrush has a longitudinal central axis 110 and a lateral axis 111 perpendicular to it.

According to Figures 24A to 24G, the toothbrush head 100 as well as the neck 102 and the handle 101 of the toothbrush can be produced from a hard plastic first component in an injection molding process. On a rear side 2476 of the head 100 or the underside (optional), the head 100 may comprise cut outs on the side surfaces 107 and 108 between an upper side 2475 and the rear side 2476. In a second stage of the molding by Injection, the cutouts can be filled with a soft plastic component of an elastomer to provide a lingual scraper (optional) on the rear side 2476 and a soft to hard alternate structure on the lateral surfaces 107 and 108 of the head 100. according to this embodiment, the soft plastic on the side surfaces 107 and 108 may also be the base for soft lateral massage fingers 103, which are configured adjacent to the bristle area. Two pairs of massaging fingers 103 for massaging the gums can be provided on each side of the head. Optionally, the number of massaging fingers 103 may vary. The length of massaging fingers 103 may be shorter than that of adjacent bristles. The neck and handle can be designed in any way. In a variant, the head, neck and handle are supplied with a hard plastic component and at least one soft plastic component.

As shown in Figures 24E, 24F and 24G, the shape of the head 100 is designed in such a way that the head 100 narrows in relation to the width, toward the free end 104 and the opposite end 105 that borders the neck 102. An average region 106 on the upper side 2475 of the head 100 can be designed to have the largest width. Accordingly, the side surfaces 107 and 108 may be convexly curved. In some embodiments, the side surfaces 107, 108 comprise a hard plastic, then, in the base region of the first pair of massaging fingers 103 of soft plastic. In the neck direction at the widest point 106, the lateral surfaces 107 and 108 may comprise hard plastic and continuing in the direction of the neck, each side surface 107, 108 of the base region of each second pair of massaging fingers consists of plastic soft and, furthermore, in the direction of the neck again a region of hard plastic on each side surface 107 and 108 follows again. Thus, the soft and hard sections alternate, in each side surface 107, 108. As a consequence, there are sections alternating on the side surfaces 107 and 108 which have slightly adhesive properties and distribute the foam of the toothpaste in the mouth and the regions along which the foam of the toothpaste is not transported as easily as the side surfaces. This can create an effect that can be compared to that achieved by the constrictions, as shown in Figures 1 to 3. The non-linear shape of the head 100 having convex protuberances is also suitable for exerting a positive influence on the foam removal.

Additionally, the non-linear shape of the head 100 having convex side protuberances is also suitable for exerting a positive influence on the removal of foam, since the foam is more exposed due to the convex curvature and, therefore, remains the least amount of foam in this location. Figure 24d) shows that in the lateral surfaces, starting from the free end of the head 104, a hard plastic section 26 alternates an elastomer section 127, with a hard plastic section 128, with an additional elastomer section 129 and with a hard plastic section 103 adjacent to the neck . Advantageously, each of the soft and hard sections extends over the full height of the lateral surface.

By having massaging fingers 103 and a lingual scraper 109, the head 100 can offer at least two care areas, for example, one for the treatment of the tongue and cheeks and another for the treatment of the gums. As shown in Figure 24G, the cleaning area of the teeth of the head 100 can comprise additional care areas, which can be designed in such a manner that they clean, meticulously, regions of specifically determined teeth.

For example, cleaning elements are provided, which form a pre-cleaning zone 2400A, in a region adjacent to the free external 104 and adjacent to the neck 105. The pre-cleaning zone 2400A can be configured similar to the pre-cleaning zones described in the present description . These cleaning elements can be somewhat longer and designed to be slightly oriented compared to most typical bristle tufts. Because these cleaning elements are configured on each side of the head, these cleaning elements also preliminarily, automatically, the teeth.

After the pre-cleaning zone 2400A, a quantity of cleaning elements follow on each side of the upper side 2475 of the head 100, particularly cleaning elements for interdental cleaning 2400E. These cleaning elements can be designed to be longer than the immediately adjacent cleaning elements and can be arranged in a row parallel to the transverse axis.

In a central region of the head 100, the cleaning elements are configured to form the cleaning zone 2400B and the polishing zone 2400D. These cleaning elements can be particularly dense, separated one from the other in the transverse direction, and configured in the head in such a way that the bristles bend slightly, and provide a polishing and intense cleaning effect. In contrast, the bristles of the interdental and pre-cleaning areas 2400E and 2400A, respectively, are less densely shaped and can therefore be bent more easily, such that the larger length is not an unpleasant feeling.

The polishing zone 2400D in this embodiment can be formed by a first plurality of cleaning elements, which together form a rhombic configuration or span a rhombic base when viewed from above. The central points of the perforated holes of the first plurality of cleaning elements can fall on a straight line 112, 113, 114 and 115 in each case (see Figure 24E). These straight lines can encompass a polygon or a rhombus in the same way. In accordance with Figures 24, each of the cleaning elements that formed man the polygon is an approximately circular tuft in cross section, in such a way that different tufts form each side of the diamond. In contrast, some of the areas of Figures 17, 18 and 19 comprise tufts of approximately rectangular or oval bristles, seen in cross section, and in which one side of the diamond is designed of one or two tufts. In the internal part of the polishing zone 2400D there are cleaning elements, which form the areas that store the toothpaste 2400C. These are shorter than the tufts immediately adjacent to the 2400D rhombic polishing zone, such that a "depression" type recess is created to receive the toothpaste.

Figures 24C and 24D show that the free ends of the cleaning elements, with the exception of the tufts of protruding bristles used for interdental cleaning 2400E and the slotted tufts in the area that stores the toothpaste 2400C, form a concave curve approximately double along the longitudinal central axis 1 10. The interruption of the topography of this double concave curve when the tufts of bristles protrude in the interdental area 2400? it increases the interdental cleaning effect because the immediately adjacent strands are especially short, which makes interdental penetration possible.

The head is injection molded to have the holes of the tuft to be provided with tufts of bristles, inside which the tufts of bristles are provided and joined with an anchor thread, in some embodiments. In the region of the free ends, the tufts of bristles are molded, subsequently, to the correct length and rounded end. For the different tufts of bristles to be molded to the desired length, the sliders can be used, which pass, laterally, through the area of bristles and which move, laterally, or bend certain cleaning elements in such a way that the desired strands can be treated or molded at the same time that the strands that do not move are not treated. It can be assumed that the configuration of the head is, in addition, advantageous in insertion of looped threads with anchor wire (AFT method, for its acronym in English).

In Figure 24G the trajectories of the displacers 1 16-125 are shown, in some modalities. During the manufacturing process, the displacers 1 18, 119, 124 and 125 are used, which are movable in parallel to the transverse axis. The shifters 120, 121, 122 and 123 move, diago- nally, through the bristle area. Because the area that stores the 2400D toothpaste and the strands that cover it have the shape of a polygon or rhombus, a dense area of bristles with optimal topography can be supplied since the diagonal shifters can be guided in parallel to the straight lines of the diamond 112-115. In addition, displacers 116 and 117 are provided, which are guided substantially in the longitudinal direction along a curved path.

The following describes advantages and additional variants of the heads mentioned above.

In a variant, the toothbrush has: a toothbrush head having a first and a second component, in each of which is dispose the cleaning elements for cleaning teeth, wherein the second component has a ball-shaped or partially spherical geometry, wherein both the first and the second component, each, have a flat upper side in which they are arranged the cleaning elements and both of these upper sides are arranged to be inclined toward each other, wherein the second component movably mounts relative to the first component, wherein the first and second components are made of materials having different properties, particularly having different hardnesses, wherein the second component forms a raised platform relative to the upper side of the first component.

Advantageously, the constrictions or the different adhesive properties that alternate on lateral surfaces better remove the foam created during the brushing of the bristle area and, therefore, provide better moistening of the foam throughout the buccal cavity instead of retaining the foam in the bristle area. Furthermore, the continuous removal of newly created foam also makes it possible to create additional foam of the applied toothpaste without being hindered by the existing foam. From this it is understood that the constrictions make a greater amount of foam available for brushing throughout the brushing process compared to the toothbrush heads. As a result, the substances for the care of tooth enamel, gums, etc. Contained in the toothpaste can provide a better, faster and more lasting benefit to the desired locations than in the case of conventional toothbrush heads.

It has been shown that along the constrictions in conjunction with an elastomeric surface on the lateral surface of the toothbrush head, the foam and the plate are transported differently than on a smooth lateral surface that has no narrowing or coating. elastomeric treatment. This effect is further extended if the surface with quite different adhesive properties is designed on the same side surface. This is the case in which a part of foam retention elastomer and a part of a hard component that slides through the foam is provided.

By applying a soft material to the hard material at an angle of inclination of the transition region towards the constriction, the flow behavior of the foam can be influenced as if it could flow, slowly or rapidly, from the brush head.

In a further embodiment of the constriction, it extends over the entire bristle plate and, therefore, functions as a plug for the mixture of foam and dirt that occurs in the front and rear areas of cleaning of the cleaning elements. of the head. This mixture of foam and dirt is then eliminated, effectively, by the geometry of the constrictions. This effect can be extended, additionally, with the help of special stop and drain elements and the application of a well-directed channel geometry.

Due to the above-described embodiment, a multifunctional brushing process can be achieved which makes it possible to remove the plaque, optionally polishing the teeth, and provides active substances to the teeth and gums in a brushing movement of the teeth.

A further advantageous design allows the lateral surface having the nip to be partially covered with the elastomer and, partially, with the hard component.

An additional advantageous design allows the narrowing to be covered, at least partially, with the elastomer.

A further advantageous design allows the region of the side surface, which is disposed adjacent the constriction, to be supplied with the hard component and not with the elastomer.

A further advantageous design allows the side surfaces to be arranged along the longitudinal side of the toothbrush head, to be bent, convexly, outwardly and supplied with the hard component. A further advantage of the constrictions is a better removal of the dirt particles that are collected by the foam from the bristle area of the toothbrush. The convex curve adjacent to the constriction achieves that the dirt binder foam is continuously removed from the planing area and the dirty places can not, therefore, damage the teeth during the brushing and polishing process in progress.

In accordance with a further aspect, whenever a platform is arranged on the upper side of the toothbrush head, the elastomeric cleaning elements are attached to this platform and that the elastomeric cleaning elements and the platform are fabricated therefrom. elastomer The cleaning effect of the elastomeric cleaning elements joins the cleaning effect along the teeth. The cleaning surface of the bar-shaped cleaning element is increased when it is designed to be thinner. However, depending on the contact force, a negative effect can occur during brushing because the elastomeric cleaning elements are very flexible. Therefore, it is desired to determine the flexibility of the elastomeric cleaning elements not only in accordance with their hardness but also in accordance with how much is obtained over their total length. Additionally, long and thin elastomeric cleaning elements are more difficult to produce. It is suggested that elastomers be manufactured to have a platform or outlet in a single injection molding cycle.

A further advantageous design provided that the platform has a square, rectangular, oval or circular base and that an axis of symmetry of the platform base is disposed within the longitudinal central plane of the toothbrush.

A further advantageous design allows the platform to be vertically extended away from the upper side between 10% and 90%, particularly, from 10 to 50%, particularly, from 10 to 30% of the total longitudinal extent of the platform having elements of elastomeric cleaning. This leads to a positive cleaning behavior of the cleaning elements and efficiency at the same time.

A further advantageous design allows the upper side of the platform on which the elastomeric cleaning elements are configured to be flat and parallel to the upper side of the toothbrush head, or designed to be spherically arcuate.

A further advantageous design allows the elastomeric cleaning elements to be designed to be pin-shaped, particularly cylindrical, or tapering toward the free ends.

It is advantageous provided that the free ends of the elastomeric cleaning elements are arranged adjacent to the bristle cleaning elements and wherein the bristle cleaning elements project more from the upper side than the free elements of the elastomeric cleaning elements. , in such a way that both cleaning elements together create a "depression" cross-sectional area for receiving toothpaste. A recess type "depression" formed by the cleaning elements that leads, thus, to the uniform distribution of toothpaste in the mouth.

An additional aspect whenever the toothbrush head is made of a first and a second component, in each of which the cleaning elements are arranged, wherein the second component has a ball-shaped or partially spherical geometry. The ball-shaped geometry also causes a changed foam flow behavior of the toothpaste or plate along this geometry with the advantages described above.

A further advantageous design allows each first and second component to have a flat upper side, in which the cleaning elements are arranged and that these two upper sides are configured to be inclined toward each other. Said design of a second component makes it possible to simplify the manufacture of the cleaning elements, especially the inclined modes, while maintaining the advantages of brushing through the inclined cleaning elements.

A further advantageous design allows the second component to be mounted movably relative to the first component.

A further advantageous design allows the first and second components to be made of material having different properties, particularly having different hardnesses.

A further advantageous design allows the second component to form a raised platform relative to the upper side of the first component.

The dimensions and values described in the present description should not be understood as strictly limited to the exact numerical values mentioned. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each of these dimensions will mean both the aforementioned value and also an equivalent functional range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension expressed as "40 mm" will be understood as "approximately 40 mm".

Claims

NOVELTY OF THE INVENTION CLAIMS

1 . A toothbrush having a toothbrush head with an upper side in which teeth cleaning elements are arranged, with a lower side disposed opposite the upper side and connecting the upper side with the lower side with the side surfaces, characterized in that at least one side surface has a curvature and is characterized in that the toothbrush head has an elastomeric component and a hard plastic component, characterized in that the surface of the lateral surface having the curvature is covered. , partially, with the elastomer and, partially, with the hard component.

2. The toothbrush according to claim 1, further characterized in that the side surfaces are configured along the longitudinal side of the toothbrush head, which curves, convexly, outwardly or is supplied with an external protuberance and They are supplied with a hard plastic component.

3. The toothbrush according to claim 1, further characterized in that the region of the side surfaces which is adjacent to the convex curvature is supplied with elastomer on both sides.

4. The toothbrush according to any of the preceding claims, further characterized in that each side surface is designed to alternate hard plastic, elastomer, hard plastic, elastomer and hard plastic.

5. The toothbrush according to claim 1, further characterized in that the side surfaces are partially supplied with elastomer and partially with a hard plastic component over the entire height extending from the bottom side to the top side.

6. The toothbrush according to claim 1, further characterized in that the side surface has a cut close to the surface relative to the hard plastic component, which is filled with the elastomer.

7. The toothbrush according to claim 1, further characterized in that an elastomeric tongue scraper on the underside becomes a region with elastomer on the lateral surface and, further, elongated massage fingers made of the same elastomer.

8. A toothbrush having a handle and a toothbrush head on the upper side of which a first, second and third cleaning element for cleaning teeth is provided, characterized in that the first cleaning elements have first tufts of bristles which, like tufts unique, each has a long side and a short side and, therefore, an approximately rectangular or oval base in cross section, or, as composed of tufts separated from each other, they are arranged with their central points along a line Straight each one of a first tuft of bristles, in such a way that the area covering the composite tufts has first locks of bristles having an approximately rectangular or oval cross-sectional base, characterized in that a longitudinal central axis of the toothbrush comes from a free handle end to a free head end and a transverse axis is disposed perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis, characterized in that the various first tufts of bristles are arranged on the upper side in such a way that their combined circumferential surface forms a roughly triangular, square, rhombic or pentagonal base.

9. The toothbrush according to claim 8, further characterized in that the combined circumferential surface of the first tufts of bristles forms a square or rhombic base, further characterized in that two corners of the square or rhombus of the first cleaning elements are disposed throughout of the longitudinal central axis of the toothbrush and the two additional corners of the square or rhombus of the first cleaning elements are arranged on an axis transverse to the longitudinal central axis.

10. The toothbrush according to claim 8, further characterized in that the first cleaning elements surround the second cleaning elements, and the first cleaning elements are designed to be longer than the second cleaning elements, resulting in an area of depression type of toothpaste formed by the free ends of the second cleaning elements and the surrounding end areas of the first cleaning elements.

11. The toothbrush according to claim 8, further characterized in that the first cleaning elements are of different length and the second cleaning elements have the same length.

12. The toothbrush according to claim 8, further characterized in that the tufts of composite or multiple bristles of the first tufts of bristles and the tufts of bristles of the second and third cleaning elements each have circular cross sections, characterized in addition, because the tufts of immediately adjacent bristles are configured with the shortest lateral distance from each other; in the direction of the longitudinal central axis with a distance of less than 0 mm and in the direction of the transverse axis with a distance of 0 to 0.5 mm.

13. The toothbrush according to claim 8, further characterized in that the second cleaning elements have second tufts of bristles with a circular tuft cross section and / or elastomeric cleaning elements.

14. The toothbrush according to claim 8, further characterized in that the first tufts of bristles are designed to be longer than the second tufts of bristles and / or that the first tufts of bristles comprise the second tufts of bristles or the cleaning elements. elastomeric

15. A toothbrush having a handle and a toothbrush head, on whose surface first, second and third cleaning elements are provided for cleaning the teeth, characterized in that the first cleaning elements surround the second cleaning elements, characterized in that the second cleaning elements are designed to be shorter than first cleaning elements, characterized in that the free ends of the first cleaning elements and the second cleaning elements form a depression-like reception area of toothpaste, and characterized in that the first elements of cleaning form an enveloping area approximately triangular, square, rhombic or pentagonal of the base enclosed in it.

16. A toothbrush having a toothbrush head with an upper side having cleaning elements made of an elastomer for cleaning teeth, further characterized in that a platform is placed on the upper side of the toothbrush head, so that the elastomeric cleaning elements are coupled to the platform, and so that the elastomeric cleaning elements and the platform are made of the same elastomer.

17. The toothbrush according to claim 16, further characterized in that the platform has a square, rectangular, oval or circular base and such that an axis of symmetry of the platform base is disposed within the longitudinal central plane of the toothbrush.

18. The toothbrush according to claim 16, further characterized in that the platform extends vertically away from the upper side between 10% to 90% of the total longitudinal extent of the platform having elastomeric cleaning elements.

19. The toothbrush according to claim 16, further characterized in that the upper side of the platform on which the elastomeric cleaning elements are configured is designed to be flat and parallel to the upper side of the toothbrush head, or designed to be be spherically arched.

20. The toothbrush according to claim 16, further characterized in that the elastomeric cleaning elements are designed to be pin-shaped, particularly cylindrical, or tapering toward the free ends.