TW201141419A - Fluid delivery system for an oral care implement - Google Patents

Abstract

A fluid delivery system usable in an oral care implement and a reservoir containing a flowable substance. A capillary channel formed of one or more wicking or capillary members extends through at least a portion of the oral care implement to deliver flowable substance(s) through one or more outlets via capillary action. In one embodiment, the rate of fluid flow through the capillary channel is different in at least a first flow section than in a second flow section. In another embodiment, the rate of flow between flow sections of the wicking member is different than in at least one of the flow sections. A variety of flowable substances can be administered for therapeutic, hygienic, and/or other benefits, such as fresh breath, tooth whitening, tooth sensitivity, plaque and/or tartar control, or producing sensations of heat, cool, or tingling.

Description

201141419 VI. Description of the Invention: [Technical Field] The present invention relates to an oral health care device which comprises a capillary delivery system for a flowable animal substance (e.g., an oral care fluid). [Prior Art 1 Oral health care devices (especially toothbrushes) are generally used by applying toothpaste to a brushing area (e.g., teeth, tongue and/or teeth) that is accompanied by oral cavity. Some toothbrushes have been provided with fluid storage tanks and systems for delivering oral health care agents such as whitening agents, breath fresheners and the like. There is an ongoing need for alternative oral health care devices for delivering auxiliary oral care fluids. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to an oral health care implement having a capillary delivery system. Alternatively, the oral care implement has a head that houses a tooth cleaning element on a first surface thereof. In one embodiment, an oral care implement comprises a storage tank containing at least one flowable substance. For therapeutic, hygienic and/or other oral health benefits, such as fresh breath, whitening of the teeth, or the feeling of heat, cold or tingling, a variety of flowable substances can be supplied. In another embodiment, an oral care implement includes a capillary channel extending through at least a portion of the implement to deliver the flowable material to the one or more outlets. In one embodiment, an outlet is located on a second surface of the head opposite the first surface of the tooth cleaning element of approximately 201141419. In still another embodiment, an oral care implement has a head for receiving a tooth cleaning element, a storage tank for storing a flowable substance, and an overflow chamber. The storage tank and the overflow chamber may be separated by a partition. A capillary channel formed of a fibrous material, ceramic, porous plastic, or a combination thereof extends through at least a portion of the implement to deliver the flowable material to the one or more outlets. 71 a head of the cleaning element, a storage tank containing at least one flowable substance, a capillary channel extending through at least a portion of the apparatus to deliver the flowable substance to the one or more outlets, and an action generating means. When activated, the action device vibrates n or a portion thereof (e.g., the head portion). The vibration-increasing tooth #cleaning function also promotes the transport of flowable material through the capillary channel, which together provide an enhanced cleaning action. According to another embodiment of the present invention, an oral health care device 2 is provided comprising: - a grip for gripping, and a cleaning comprising at least one tooth: a storage tank for storing a flowable substance, at least - the second hair::, the first Γ ° 'and the strip fluidly coupled to the storage tank in some embodiments, the capillary channel further contains a (four) material department, and is defined and defined , and - by - wicking material: " again - said suction member two core suction member. The second core defines - the second flow section, and the flowable substance is - differently: the body is coupled to the first - wicking member - flowing through the capillary flow through the dying; : = the flow rate must be in the member . In some embodiments 5 201141419, the first and second cores are constructed. D and the member are different materials having different capillary phenomena. According to another embodiment of the present invention, an oral health care device is provided comprising: a grip for grasping, and a head comprising at least one tooth cleaning element a storage tank for storing a flowable substance, at least one. It is also placed at the exit of the squad, and a capillary channel that is fluidly coupled to the outlet. The capillary channel further comprises a first wicking member composed of a wicking material and defining a first flow section, and a second wicking member consisting of a wicking material and defining a second flow section member. The second wicking member is fluidly coupled to the first wicking member, and the flowable substance passes through the capillary at a reduced rate of flow through the first or second micro-absorbent member. The suction member flows to the second core member and passes through a flow restrictor. In one embodiment, the flow restrictor is a reduced cross-sectional flow interval disposed between the first and first micro-absorbent members, and the flow restrictor operates to reduce the flow therebetween. In some embodiments, the flow restrictor may be formed between the first member and the first member. The first and second components may be separate members of the unit member or fluidly coupled together. Describing the second embodiment [Embodiment] Fig. 1 shows an outline - a toothbrush' which has a grip! And one or more tooth cleaning elements (four) bristles 6 and / or · cleaning elements 7)

S 6 201141419 head, 2. A storage tank U is used to store a flowable substance. The turbulent flow material is most often a fluid present in a liquid form, but may be present in other forms, such as semi-solids, pastes or gels. The storage tank u can include a liquid storage tank 11a in fluid communication with a delivery section 11b. A capillary channel Η extends generally in the longitudinal direction of the toothbrush for transporting the turbulent flow material from the storage tank 11 to the at least one outlet 15. In one embodiment, the outlet 15 can be located on a surface of the head 2 that is generally opposite the surface of the tooth cleaning elements 6 and 7. In another embodiment, the outlet 15 can be located within the bristles 6 and/or the elastic cleaning elements 7. Alternatively, a plurality of outlets may be provided on the surface of the head that houses the tooth cleaning elements and on the opposite surface of the head, for example, to deliver the same flowable material from a common supply source or from a separate supply The source delivers different flowable materials. The passage 14 uses capillary action to pour the flowable material from the storage tank n to the outlet 15. The outlet 15 can be configured as a non-woven liner, film or other construction that allows a media passage to contain the flowable material. Examples of materials that can be used for export include porous plastics and other porous materials, such as those described with reference to capillary channel 14. The capillary channel 14 generally has a capillary structure and is typically a porous material. Examples of suitable materials include fibrous materials, ceramics, and porous plastics such as those available from P〇rex Technologies, Inc. of Atlanta, Georgia. An example of a fiber material is a polypropylene material identified as Model C1001® available from Teibow Hanbai Co., Ltd. of Tokyo. A mixture of porosity and/or fiber material 201141419 may be supplied by k, which has a larger and smaller distribution of capillary. The channels may be formed by a number of small capillaries connected to one another or formed into a larger, earlier capillary tube. The reservoir 11 can be formed from any suitable material and can include a network of blister beds ranging from hydrophilic to hydrophobic. Hydrophobic foam may be used with non-aqueous liquids. One example of a reticulated foam is Bulpren S90 (Wetteren, Belgium) manufactured by Recticd. Bulpren S9® is an open-cell polyurethane foam based on polyester with an average of 90 pores per inch. Other examples of materials that can be used in the storage tank u include ceramics and porous plastics. In a preferred embodiment, the storage tank may be a bonded fiber component commercially available from Filtrona or p〇rex such as, but not limited to, poly(tetra), polyethylene, or hydrophobic depending on the selected component. A copolymer of a polymer in a range of properties. A non-limiting example of a capillary configuration that can be used is shown in Figure 4. The capillary device 1G has a substantially accommodating portion 2G including a storage tank 11 for storing the fluid 13 and an overflow chamber 25. Storage Tanks ^Investigation: The chambers 25 may be separated by a partition 21', for example, or vice versa: Figure 7 illustrates the manner in which the following is indicated. The storage tank u can be an integral part of the portion 20 or - connected to the housing portion 22 to allow air to flow freely into and out of the overflow chamber. -Entrance

The separator 2丨 may comprise-to be directly contacted by the capillary channel M channel 14 extending substantially from the opening 12 to the outlet 15 p12. Capillary reservoir 16 糸-capillary storage U-thousand capillary phenomenon is usually small 201141419 The average capillary phenomenon in channel 14. Although the capillary reservoir is placed around the capillary channel 14, it does not need to extend all the way around the channel. Strict separation of the capillary reservoir 16 from the channel 14 is not necessary. The capillary channel 14 can be press fitted into the opening in a grip 1, or the grip 1 can be overmolded around the capillary channel 14. In a preferred method of manufacture, the channel 14 is formed separately and inserted into the grip 1. The capillary channel 14 generally provides a unique path whereby the path air can enter a different closed storage tank 11. The finer capillary of the passage 14 transports the flowable material to the outlet 15. The larger capillary allows air to enter the storage tank 11. In general, air can enter at least the maximum capillary size in the passage. Referring to Figure 5 'exemplary', when air expansion occurs within the storage tank u, a portion of the flowable material 13 in the storage tank will be passed through an opening 12 and passage 14 into the capillary reservoir 16 Often in the part of the no-flowable substance. In other words, the capillary reservoir 16 accommodates excess flowable material and avoids uncontrolled leakage of the flowable material from the outlet 15 or other portions of the tool. When the fortune in the reservoir 11 is retracted, excess flowable material in the capillary reservoir 16 will return to the reservoir 11 via the passage 14. This procedure is repeated whenever the temperature changes, such as the volume of air that causes the reservoir η to vary. Since the flowable material stored in the capillary reservoir 16 is always returned to the storage tank u, when the air is expanded, the capacity of the capillary reservoir will not be corrected, even if the passage 14 ® can flow. The substance continuously thirsty, to: in the (4) of the mouth portion 12, as long as there is a turbulent flowing substance in the stored capillary (greater than the largest capillary in the channel ^ 9 201141419), the air cannot stop the flowable substance. 13 Return to the storage slot! . Although the outlets 15 in Figures 1, 3, 5 and 6 are shown as separate elements from the passage 14, we should assume that the outlet 15 may be integral with the passage 14, as shown generally in Figures 4 and 7. When the outlet 15 is formed of a porous material, its capillary pores should generally be smaller than those of the passage j 4 to ensure that the flowable material in the passage 14 will flow toward the outlet 15 during dispensing. Referring to Figures 4 and 6, the passage 14 may be configured to extend into the region 19 of the reservoir base 18 . In this configuration, the capillary reservoir and capillary channel 14 are typically enclosed by a flexible tube 24. The hose 24 provides additional protection against unwanted leakage. In the configuration shown in FIG. 4, the capillary reservoir 16 and the capillary channel μ are separate structural elements, and the channel 14 extends into the base region 19. In the configuration shown in Figure 6, a mixture of porous materials having the necessary combination of capillary dimensions forms an integral capillary reservoir 16 and channel enthalpy. In the configuration shown in Figure 5, the passage 14 is defined with the capillary reservoir 16 - a structural section similar to the one shown in Figure 6 as a whole. The body-like channel bristles are thinner in the rear of the reservoir 40, which makes it possible to be filled in the mouth. In order to ensure in the opening portion 12, there is a sufficient amount of the flowable material of the Umeda micro-portables, and the channel/reservoir of the combination can be clamped in the open σ portion. The rear portion 14A can also be configured as a separate component that is coupled to the capillary reservoir. As shown in Fig. 7, the capillary channel can be made to include the i-reading 丨丨 and He (4) (10) radiant ^ 201141419 extension. The passage 14 and the radial extension fill the opening between the storage tank u and the overflow chamber 25. The capillary pores in the radial extension may be substantially similar to those in the channel 14' and allow air to pass but impede the flow of the flowable material. Therefore, the radial extension may be used to adjust the air flow into the passage 14'. Examples of such a general type of capillary flow system are shown in, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 5,102,251; 5,352,052; 6, 6,89,776; 6,095,707; 6,164,858; 6,183,155; The disclosures of U.S. Patent No. 6, 322, 268, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In another embodiment, a vibrating device can be provided to vibrate the toothbrush or a portion thereof (e.g., the head 2 or a portion thereof). The vibration generating device can be used to vibrate the tooth cleaning elements 6 and 7 and/or the soft tissue cleaning element while facilitating the transport of the flowable material through the capillary channel to provide an enhanced cleaning action.

'Other values and waveforms are possible. — A variety of vibrating devices can be used to generate vibrations over a wide range of frequencies to meet the needs of a particular application. Various types of vibratory devices are commercially available, such as converters. - vibrating type ^ η < neck rate. Vibration, square, serrated A vibrating device can be ''vibrating device'' controlled by the electronic device and added to improve the position of the toothbrush or the head + detail. When activated, it is powered by the battery (and is made of electricity on the board or conversion system). 俾 can sense the vibration in the head of the toothbrush, 11 201141419 The teeth are cleaned by the teeth. In an alternate embodiment, the vibrating device can include a __to-axis micromotor that is coupled to an eccentric that rotates about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush. In still another embodiment, a vibratory generating device includes an eccentric that is driven by a micromotor in a translational manner. A switch such as a button, a toggle switch, a rotary dial or the like can be provided to activate the vibrating device. A vibrating device often has a power source, such as a battery. The activation switch can operate the vibration generating device for a user-defined interval (eg, during a time when a button is depressed or an open relationship is in an engaged position), or can activate a vibrating device for continued operation. A predetermined interval timing circuit. If a timed circuit is used, the associated interval may be preset or may be adjustable, for example, by a user activated rotary dial. Additional embodiments of the present invention include vibrating devices, bristles (or other tooth clearing >1; components) and other components, as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 1/768,363, filed on Jan. 30, 2004. And the title of "Toothbrush with Enhanced Cleaning Effect" is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 20050091769A1, which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, the neck of the toothbrush may be provided with a neck region formed by a resiliently compliant material that increases the elasticity of the neck. This will allow the head to be forced back to elastic during the use of the toothbrush in the direction of the force acting in the direction of the brushing surface. Alternatively, the neck section can be designed to extend over a portion of the circumference of the neck and fill the recess with a resiliently compliant material (e.g., thermoplastic elastomer). a, 12 201141419 The outlet 15 can be provided in an elastic material to provide a living device, which can be used, for example, to clean the tongue, lie, lip and/or brewing = tissue cleaner can use various suitable biological phases Capacitive elastic material synthetic rubber material. In order to provide optimum comfort and cleaning benefits, the material typically has a hardness of -AA25 (10) (d) hardness, such as styrene. Ethylene / butylene styrene (SEBS) - which is available from GLS . The object can be configured to have a plurality of tissue-fitted elements and can be formed as a nub. As used herein, a "bump" means a similar circle that is erected from the surface of a substrate (not limited to the cross-sectional shape of the protrusion). Generally, as measured in the middle. The bump may have a greater than or greater extent to the base of the bump. The bump may also include a protrusion having a width of approximately the same width as the height of the base. A slight test less than such a tissue engaging element may help reduce one bit and improve hygiene. Wei enough to read from the other occluded organisms in the mouth (10) and the fine halitosis known to the genus on the upper surface of most of the tongue-like small protrusions =: = = mouth: =: soft tissue surface was found, two Confrontation - When the surface of the tongue is pulled, for example, the secondary block can provide a light (four) fit with the soft tissue, and (iv) a concave bulge-like small protrusion that extends downward. - Tissue cleaner 2 = near bottom surface conforms to the mouth The natural contour of the iridescent surface (eg, one can make the base 13 201141419). In addition, the soft bump can be bent as needed to traverse and clean the soft tissue surface in the mouth and move along the mouth. Is conical 'For example a true cone, a frustoconical element and other shapes that taper into a narrow end to resemble a cone', regardless of whether their taper is uniform, continuous or has a circular cross section. The smaller width or diameter of the tip portion associated with the length enables the bump to sweep into the groove of the tongue and other surfaces to clean bacterial deposits and other debris from the soft tissue surface. When lateral pressure is applied during use The bumps can also flex and bend from their respective vertical axes. Such flexures enhance the comfort and cleanliness of the soft tissue surface. Alternatively, the tissue cleaning elements can have other shapes. For one example, the tissue cleaner can have different forms. Included in the form of a grid, for example, in the co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/566,479, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 'The medium containing the flowable substance can be incorporated into a sealed storage tank 11, in which case the toothbrush can be used after the supply of the flowable substance is exhausted Alternatively, the reservoir 11 may be refillable via an inlet (not shown) and/or may be replaceable, for example, by inserting a replaceable cartridge into one of the grooves in the toothbrush. The kakun can be elastically placed after being inserted to stay in a certain position, and can have a seal to avoid unnecessary leakage of the flowable substance. As shown in Fig. 1, the toothbrush can include a brushing section A and a storage tank. Section B, which is joined to each other, for example, by thread engagement, snap fit, etc. For example, storage tank section B may be disposable, refillable ^

14 201141419 and / or can be replaced with. The other storage tank sections B of different flowable substances are indicated), and the cocoa initiates the customs clearance, for example, the dial (not shown or multiple: Xing: and: 疋' is used to select one of several flowable substances) The second 'dial can have - a second setting for the treatment of the oxidizer/bleach for the treatment of the breath freshener' and a three setting. The toothbrush can be in the form of a set or multiple - έ, and 匕3 - a toothbrush or a brushing section A thereof, and a cartridge storage section B of a flowable substance. A multi-moving substance may be provided to provide a different flowable substance or a replacement supply of the same flowable material. 6 In Figure 1 'a toothbrush is shown schematically as having - head 2, brush grip 1. It should be understood that any bristle configuration can be used with any house handle, and the invention should not be considered limited In any particular configuration, the toothbrush can be used to brush the 'tooth or gums' and/or to massage the tongue, gums or cavity by using a tissue cleaner. Area is used. Flowable substances can pass one or more Applicable in or near the tooth cleaning element and/or in the tissue cleaner and/or at other locations on the toothbrush. Depending on the type of flowable material used and the location of the outlet, The flowable substance can be applied prior to brushing, during brushing or after brushing. Non-limiting examples of flowable materials that can be used include antibacterial agents, whitening W, anti-sensitizers, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-adhesive agents, tartar indications. Agents, seasonings 15 201141419 Agents, perceptions and pigments. Examples of these agents include metal ionic agents (eg tin ionic agent, copper ionic agent, ionic agent, silver ionic agent) triclosan (trilosan); three gas singles Triclosan monophosphate, chlorhexidine, alexidine, hexetidine, sanguinarine, benzalkonium, salicin Salicylanilide, domiphen bromide, cetylpyridinium chloride, tetradecylpyridinium chloride, N-tetradecene -4-ethyl gasification ° bite (TDEPC), octenidine octenidine, delmopinol, octapinol, nisin ' essential oil, biting Furanones, bacteriocins, flavans, flavinoids, folic acids, vitamins, hydrogen peroxide, urea peroxide, sodium percarbonate , PVP-H202, polymer-bound peroxides, potassium nitrate, occluding agent, bioactive glass, arginine, arginine bicarbonate, baicalin , polyphenols, ethyl pyruvate, guanidinoethyl disulfide, tartar control agent, anti-caries component, phosphate, polyvinylphosphonic acid, PVM /MA copolymer; enzyme, glucose oxidase, papaya, ficin, ethyl lauroyl arginate, menthol, carvone and anethole ' Various flavoring aldehydes, esters and Alcohol, Magnolia bark extract, spearmint oil, peppermint oil, winter green oil, sassafras oil, clove oil, rat 201141419 sedge oil, eucalyptus oil, marjoram oil, cinnamon oil, lemon oil, lime oil , grapefruit oil and / or sweet oil. The flowable material can be selected to complement a toothpaste formulation, for example, by coordinating odor, color, aesthetics or active ingredients. An odor can be applied to create a gradual odor change during brushing, which is currently not possible with toothpaste alone. The flowable material may be compatible with the toothpaste, or may be unstable and/or reactive with typical toothpaste ingredients. The flowable substance may also be a tooth cleaner to enhance the overall effectiveness of the brush. The flowable substance may be a carrier vehicle containing an oral health care agent, and the carrier medium may be in the form of a hydrolyzate or in the form of a colloid or paste. Non-limiting examples of carrier vehicles include water, such as one of ethanol, such as polyethylene glycol (e.g., from Union Carbide Corporation).

Union Carbide's PEG 2M, 5M, 7M, 14M, 23M, 45M and 90M) poly(ethylene oxide), carbonyl fluorene-based polymers (eg Carbopol® 934 available from BF Goodrich) With 974), and combinations thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the choice of a suitable carrier will depend, for example, on factors such as the nature of the flowable material and the desired properties of the medium (e.g., viscosity). Examples of teeth whitening ingredients are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,770,266 and 6,669,930, the disclosures of each of each of each of each The storage tank 11 may contain a specific amount of flowable material intended for single use or for a small number of uses, or may facilitate reuse for more than one extension time', e.g., up to months or years. The size of the reservoir 11 can be selected by 201141419 to be compatible with the desired overall size of the toothbrush, as well as factors such as the stability of the flowable material and the amount of media supplied during each application. The supply of flowable material in storage tank 11 is generally free or substantially free of ingredients that are incompatible with the flowable material and/or the medium containing the flowable material, such as toothpaste ingredients that were previously incompatible. The toothbrush can optionally be provided with compartments and/or access panels for access to various components such as power and storage slots. The power source can be, for example, a conventional replaceable or rechargeable battery. 8-13 show an oral health care implement such as a toothbrush 100 having a grip 1〇3 and a head 1〇5, which may be used to clean teeth and soft tissues in the mouth, such as the internal surfaces of the tongue and cheeks. , lips or gums. The grip 103 is designed for the user to easily grip and manipulate the toothbrush and may be composed of a number of different shapes and configurations. Although the head will normally widen relative to the neck of the grip, in some configurations it may simply be a continuous extension or narrowing of the grip. The head 105 can have a first side 106 (Figs. 12 and 13) supporting the tooth cleaning element 1〇7 and a second side 1〇8 (Figs. 9 and 10) supporting a tissue cleaner 300, which can have a Or a plurality of outlets for dispensing a flowable substance, as previously explained. The first and second faces 1 , 6 , 108 may be disposed on opposite sides of the head 1〇5. However, the tissue cleaner 3 can be mounted elsewhere, such as the proximal end 1〇4 of the grip 1〇3. The tissue cleaner 300, or portions thereof, may also be located on the surface of the surrounding side wall of the head 1〇5 or extending toward the proximal end 1〇4 of the grip 1〇3 that is further away than shown. The tissue cleaner 300 can be configured as a tissue engaging element 303 (Figs. 8-12)' which can be formed as a bump. 201141419 As shown in Figures 9 and U, the bumps 3〇3 may be conical. Referring to Fig. 1, the base portion 3〇5 of each conical group_combined member 3〇3 may be larger than the corresponding tip end portion 307. In this conical configuration, the base portion 3〇5 has a wider cross-sectional area to provide effective shear strength for resisting lateral movement of the tissue cleaner along the surface of the tongue or other soft tissue surface. As shown in Figure 10, the bumps 303 can be disposed in the column t in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis a_a. Further, the bumps 3〇3 are attached to the substrate surface in a staggered configuration in a staggered configuration in which the bumps 3〇3 disposed adjacent to the substrate surface 301 and the axis substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis a_a are disposed adjacent to the row R1 R2_L $ 3 (U. For example, the bumps ri and _ adjacent to the _ may have the bumps 3G3 not directly behind each other. Here, a first bump is in the direction of the longitudinal direction Within the lateral limits of the two bumps 4 4 are positioned behind the second bump." This configuration facilitates the removal of microorganisms and other debris (and particularly from the grooves of the tongue adjacent to the papillary projections). The cleaning of the soft tissue surface can be improved. However, the bumps can be arranged randomly or in a myriad of different patterns. Although other processes can be used, the tongue cleaner 3 can be formed by being molded to the head 邛 105. Referring to Figures 8 and 2, the tissue cleaner can be molded into one of the bottoms 1a of the head 1G5 or a receiving cavity 111. The receiving cavity m has a lower substrate surface 113 and an extended distance The surrounding side wall 115 of the lower substrate surface 113. In one installation Centered, the bumps 303 of the tissue cleaner 300 are exposed for use with the base surface 201141419 of the tissue cleaner 3 that is flush or recessed relative to the surface 114 of the head. However, other orientations are possible. Further, the base surface 301 can be buried in the head 1 〇 5 in the right cleaner. When the other layer of the 303 of the opening is covered by the ', there is a large pass, as can be seen in Figs. 8 and 11. The surface 1〇8 is also eight or more of _(four)117a_e disposed within the lower base 111. The pile member 117 forms a pressure against the opposing mold star to avoid the pressure of the head during injection molding, and the heart The scouring device 300 may include one or more exposed 椿 members ii7w, woven clean windows 3 ii ac. Although the piles are shown aligned along the middle line of the head (eg, longitudinally complementary), However, the pile can have many different positions. Further, the ^-a) portion can be included with the head 105, but can be used if there is another one. There may be none or not, although these configurations do not require the use of the cleaner, but the low lotus portion m and the pile member 117 and: and retains - the tissue cleaner that was previously molded. The bn depile members 117a-e can take on a variety of shapes and lengths. The 8 and 1 heads 105 include extensions away from the low hoods, and the pile members n:=, the surface of the height of the surrounding side (4) are shaped, but the other winding members 丨^t=2. The sizing molding process can be used to pre-form the tissue. By means of other known hand materials, the tissue cleaner fan can be formed as a cushion made of - "soft elastic material for comfort and cleanliness with 20 201141419 effect removal on the tongue The surface, the other soft tissues in the mouth, even the bacteria and debris disposed along the lips, and the previously described means for dispensing the flowable material. The tissue cleaner 300 also provides effective massage, stimulation, and removal. Bacteria, genus and epithelial cells from the surface of the tongue, cheeks, gums or lips. Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the tooth cleaning elements 1〇7 of the head 1〇5 can contain various types that can be used for wiping, cleaning and massage. A tooth cleaning element for the teeth and gums. Any suitable form of tooth cleaning element is used. The term "teeth cleaning element" is used in a generic sense to mean a single fiber bristles or elastic fingers having any desired shape. Part or wall. In the embodiment of Figure 12, the tooth cleaning element 1A7 includes a distal tooth cleaning = 203a-b disposed on the distal tip 121 of a head 105, a peripheral tooth cleaning element 205a-1, and a green along the longitudinal axis. A_a disposed longitudinal tooth cleaning elements 207a-c, arcuate tooth cleaning elements 2〇9a_d and 211a-b, and proximal cleaning elements 213a,b. The tooth cleaning elements 2〇5, 207, 211 and 213 can be provided as tufts' and the tooth cleaning elements 2〇9 can be formed as elastic walls. However, other forms and types of tooth cleaning elements may be used. According to other embodiments, the core suction system outlet 15 may be incorporated into a tissue cleaner such as the tissue cleaner 3 shown in Figures 8-11. Instead of the embodiment shown in Figures i and 3, wherein the capillary outlets 15 can be provided separately on the opposite side of the toothbrush head 2 of the tooth cleaning element, the tissue cleaner may be exposed and/or extended through various types of frozen tissue. A shaped aperture for dispensing a flowable substance from the toothbrush to the oral cavity of the user. Figures 17 and 18 21 201141419 shows one possible exemplary embodiment of such a tissue cleaner incorporating one or more capillary outlets 15. Figure 17 shows an enlarged side cross-sectional view of a toothbrush head 2 similar to that shown in Figure M. Figure 18 is a perspective view of the toothbrush head shown in Figure 17. Referring now to Figures 17 and 18, the head 2 of the toothbrush 1 comprises a tissue cleaner 500 which may be disposed, for example, opposite the tooth cleaning elements of the bristles 6 and/or the resilient members 7 as shown in one possible embodiment. One side of the head. The tissue cleaner 500 may be substantially similar to the tissue cleaner 300' and includes a plurality of bumps 3〇3 similar to those shown in Figure 8-n (but for the sake of clarity, omitted in Figures 17 and 18) and/or Other prominent tissue cleans the raised or textured surface. In a preferred embodiment, the capillary outlet 15 is again placed underneath at least a portion of the tissue cleaner 500. At least one, and preferably a plurality of apertures 501 may be formed in the tissue cleaner 5 through its capillary outlet extension 502 toward a direction generally transverse to the head and longitudinal axis of the toothbrush, and from the outlet 15 The toothbrush head 2 extends outward. The outlet extension 502 is in fluid communication with the capillary outlet 15 and may be constructed of the same or different capillary materials such as the outlet 15. The outlet extension 502 may be integrally formed with the outlet 15, or may be structurally separated and attached to the outlet 15 by any suitable means used in the art. In some embodiments, the free end 5〇4 of the outlet extension 5〇2 can be flush with the exposed surface 503 of the tissue cleaner 500, or in other embodiments as shown, the extension 502 can Tissue Cleaner 5〇〇 Surface 22 201141419 'Used to further enhance the capillary outlet extension, the monthly work, the contact of the face, and the flowable ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ to the extension of the extension 502 = The extension portion 502 is disposed on the group of the raw material, equal to or larger than 11 dry _ woven cleaning convex parts (for example, the figure stretches 7 eight can / ΛΓ. In some implementations, we consider the exit extension. The sickle has a smashing Height, and need not all the same. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 17 and 18, for the purposes of the illustration, the outlet extension 5〇2 (with the corresponding aperture 5(H) in the tissue cleaner 5 (9) It may be shaped to form a laterally extending rectangular strip. However, the mouth extension 502 may have any suitable shape or may be any combination of, but not limited to, a circular, elliptical, polygonal or other shape. Will understand many export extensions 5〇2 It can be provided, and the outlet extension portion 502 can be placed anywhere in the tissue cleaner 5〇〇. Therefore, the present invention is not particularly limited by the shape, number or configuration of the outlet extension portion 5〇2. Pulsating Delivery Rate Network According to another embodiment of the present invention, a multi-stage capillary or snorkeling flow delivery system is provided to regulate the rate of flow of a flowable substance to a user. In certain embodiments, for example As described above with respect to Figures 4-7, controlling the relative dose and delivery of a flowable substance from an oral care implement to a user depends primarily on the exposure time and the wicking speed through the capillary channel. Brush or clean the teeth in the same way (eg lip opening or closing, fast or slow brushing stroke, high or low pressure between brushing/splitting and teeth and/or tissue 23 201141419, etc.) or for the same period of time / or soft oral tissue (ie, the tongue, gums, the inside of the mouth, etc.), so this can produce variability in the rate of dosing, and does not allow flowable Accurate metrology. The conventional capillary or wicking system in the non-oral field has been primarily focused on stable continuous flow, which is often desirable in applications. For example, in writing pen and fluorescent pen marking applications, ideal The product delivery system is a stable continuous flow that does not decrease during use. In some cases, such continuous flow will also be desirable for certain oral health applications. However, including brushing/cleaning activities The high frequency or height adjusted flowable material will be delivered to the user's example, and it may be desirable to more accurately regulate the flow of the oral care material to avoid overdosing or overuse of the oral care material. A multi-stage capillary or wicking flow delivery system provides a discontinuous dispensing system that interrupts other continuous capillary action of the flowable material to provide greater metering and delivery rates for controlling the flowable material to the user. . The multi-stage capillary flowable material delivery system further reduces or eliminates the variability in agent delivery rate based on the user's brushing or cleaning habits. Figure 14 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary embodiment of a multi-stage capillary flow dispensing system in accordance with the present invention. The system includes a capillary device 100 having a capillary channel 14 that is in direct or indirect fluid communication with a flowable substance storage tank 11 containing a flowable substance 13. The storage tank u may comprise, for example, the capillary reservoir 16^, 24 201141419, and the reservoir, as shown in Figures 4-7, in fluid communication with the capillary channel 14. The capillary channel 14 preferably consists of a first core or capillary member 122 defining a flow section 120 and a second core or capillary member 123 defining a second flow section pi. The flow sections 120 and 121 are in fluid communication with each other to store the tank 11. In one possible embodiment, the flow section 12 〇 can be directly coupled to the flow section 121 as it is. In other embodiments, a relayed flow conduit (not shown) may be disposed between flow sections 120 and 121 (not shown). The parent wicking or capillary members 122 and 123 are constructed and composed of such a more progressive-step-like material, which is capable of flowing through the capillary or wicking force and through each of the wicking members. The material flow rate or throughput is different. Thus, in the preferred embodiment, the core member 122 forming the flow section 120 has a first flow rate ri and forms a flow section 121 < the core member 123 has a different flow rate than the first flow rate Two flow rates R2. In this exemplary embodiment, the flow rate is preferably lower/slower than the flow rate R2 (as indicated by the flow arrows in Figure 14). With continued reference to Figure 14, in one embodiment, the flow section 121 is preferably fabricated for a fast or high rate flow for rapid passage through a capillary or wicking action relative to the flow section 120. A short time transports and delivers a volume of flowable material stored therein. In some embodiments, the flow section 121 can accommodate a predetermined amount of a flowable substance and can emptied its volume completely when being acted upon by a user to apply the challenge dose. In contrast, it is preferred that the flow section 120, which is manufactured for a slower or lower rate of flow relative to the flow section 121 of 25 201141419, slowly replenishes the flowable portion of the section 121 via capillary or wicking action. substance. For example, in some representative embodiments, without limitation, it may take from a few minutes to about 1-2 hours or more for this purpose, depending on the flowable material to be dispensed to a user, and Occurs with dose limitations associated with flowable substances. The flow section 120 is preferably constructed to enable the replenishment of the flowable material in the flow section 12i to occur substantially simultaneously during use (i.e., during emptying of the section 121). Therefore, there is preferably a delay between when the contents of section 121 are completely discharged and when it is dispensed to a user, and when the section 121 is completely replenished by a newly filled flowable substance 13. Or supplement period. In some embodiments, this delay time may be from a few minutes to = one or more hours. This results in a maximum predetermined dose of flowable animal material being filled from the flowable material already stored in the flow section 121 to the user prior to use and ready for delivery to the user. In some embodiments, the flow section 120 can be further fabricated to have a larger volume of storage than the flow section 121 that can serve as the flowable mass dose portion of the capillary channel 14. Because in one embodiment, the flow section 120 has a slower flow rate than the section 121 and therefore a slower replenishment rate, the section 120 preferably has a larger storage capacity than the section 121. When the flowable substance content is emptied while delivering a dose to a user, there is sufficient flowable material readily available for section 121. Thus, in certain embodiments, the two-acting section 120 can have a longer axial length than the section 121 and/or a larger 26 201141419 cross section. The two will understand the capillary channel 14 and the flow section 12〇盥121 has any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as no limit circle:. Each flow section 120, 121 can further have a different cross-sectional position than the = active section. Thus, the present invention is not limited by any particular cross-sectional shape, size or length of the core or capillary channel 14 to be specified by the particular application to be used and the containment material. In certain embodiments, referring to Fig. 14, the flow section 121 may be fluidly coupled to an outlet of the applicator nG, for example, for direct application of a flowable substance to the user ◎ surface by contact with the applicator surface. The contact initiates via capillary action and stimulates the flow of the flowable material from the reservoir 113 through the capillary channel 14' and finally from the applicator 13 to the desired target delivery surface. In some embodiments, the delivery surface may be one of the teeth or tissue surfaces in the oral cavity of the user. In certain embodiments, the application state 130 may be a conventional nib composed of any suitable porous flowable material transfer material as described herein and familiar to those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, the flow section 121 may deliver its flowable substance content via a suitable outlet (e.g., outlet 15) of any other version already described herein with reference to Figures 1-13, which in certain embodiments may Into an oral care implement such as a toothbrush 100 or other dispensing device. Other suitable outlets that may be used in association with the flow sections 102, 121 and the capillary channel 14 may incorporate a tongue cleaner as described herein and otherwise associated with Figures 17 and 18. In still other possible embodiments, a separate applicator or outlet configuration' can be omitted altogether and the flow section 121 can be configured to use 27 201141419 and is suitable for direct application of a flowable substance dose to a user. It will be appreciated that the above exemplary exemplary multi-stage wicking configuration of the capillary device 100 and the capillary channel 14 having flow sections 120, 121 advantageously provides the ability to deliver a predetermined dose of flowable material 13 to a user. Compared to the continuous flow type of capillary and wicking system, this provides an intermittent flow mechanism and a larger period of time during a given treatment period, when it is desired to standardize and apply a specific dose of one of the flowable materials to a user. flow control. The core or capillary members 122, 123 forming the fluid flow sections 120, 121, respectively, may be constructed of any suitable wicking material having fluid capillary and wicking properties such as those already described elsewhere herein. Therefore, the differential flow rates R1 and R2 of the flow sections 120 and 121, respectively, are selected by various means (including the selection of the core material) by using the materials and techniques described herein with reference to FIG. And/or physical or structural design of the core members 122, 123). These include, but are not limited to, the difference in the materials used to construct the flow sections 12〇 and 121, including different = gap ratios (eg, various foam or fiber materials) and/or chemical composition (eg, 4° 匕, Sexual bauxite). This provides a specific capillary phenomenon or wicking property/feature of each of the core members 122 and 123 to conform to the desired flow rate. n, the flow rate of the flow section of each of the flow sections 12〇 and 121 of the multi-stage conveying system and the transmission of the channel section to another section, so that # may have different capillary Nature = is controlled. Some exemplary suitable (four) materials may be 3 鬈 & such as polyethylene, polypropylene, cellulose, wool, collagen, nylon and their mixed 0 polymer pore volume, pores: 七 4 pores 28 201141419 size, The density, size and shape can all be adjusted to provide the desired flowable material release or flow rate characteristics from one flow section 120 to another section ι21. In addition, the food-grade interface activators can be used to treat the wicking materials to alter their hydrophobicity and/or hydrophilicity, which will also help control the rate at which the flowable material is released/flowed from one flow segment to another. supplement. As shown in the summary in Fig. 14, from the '", the IT T-J 々 machine is controlled between the core members 122 and 123 by providing a flow restrictor 170 (in the 26 suction member) For example, there is no limitation - one-way or two-way flow, or a valve, a porous film, a porous separator or a membrane). The set limiter 170 regulates the flow rate of the flowable material 13 between the flow section ι2 and the reservoir, the tank 11, the flow sections 120 and 121, and/or the flow section 121 and the application state ii0 (if provided). In some embodiments, the flow restrictor I can be designed to open and/or allow the flowable material 13 to pass through it when a pre-pinch differential pressure or flow is obtained. j has the advantage, for example, that it releases more quickly - a larger volume and reduces the return of liquid to the storage tank. B In some embodiments, the wicking material for the capillary channel 14 can be used to define a flow section 12 along a core strip having a different capillary length and having a contiguous strip of chemical properties. In other embodiments t, each flow section 12〇, 121 can be a vertical component and a modular design, and there is a ^1疋疋#...Y 虿 different physical and/or chemical 忸 different capillary phenomenon - Each flow section of the material can be: simply combined by a means of knowing the art, such as mechanical, sputum or other means. In certain exemplary embodiments, the flow section 121 may be inserted or clicked into the section 120, or vice versa (via a reduced profile extension of any flow section), or only with a containment The portion or other support structure that maintains axial pressure between the two opposing abutting ends of the flow sections 120 and 121 is pressed together. By using the above principles of a multi-stage wicking or capillary system, it will be understood that certain embodiments of the capillary channel 14 may be made by more than two designers allowing the flowable material to pass through various portions of the capillary channel, and The flow section of the flowing material is delivered to the flow rate of the user. In addition, the core suction system may be designed in a concentric tube-like design similar to the onion layer, where each "onion" layer or tube has different flowable substances by using materials, construction, and the same design principles described herein. Release features. This embodiment of a core suction system may be configured as a combination of two or more concentric rings (similar to a trunk) of the core material. In some embodiments, the loops of the different layers can be molded from different types of core materials that create variable core characteristics. Variable wicking allows for faster delivery of certain flowable materials depending on density, selected material composition or layer thickness, and then slower delivery of certain flowable materials. An illustrative embodiment of the multilayer wicking system is shown in FIG. Figure 19 shows a cross section of a capillary channel 2 (8) comprising a combination of concentrically aligned core or capillary members having different wicking features or capillary phenomena. As shown, the capillary channel 200 includes an innermost first wicking or capillary member 201, a circumferentially disposed adjacent and in contact with the member 2 〇 γ 30 201141419 second wicking or capillary member 202, and a circumferentially disposed adjacent And contacting the third core or capillary member 203 of the member 202. In one possible embodiment, the capillary channel 200 may be fluidly coupled, directly or indirectly, to a storage tank 13 such as that shown in Figures 14-16 or a storage tank u as shown in Figures 4-7.

Hit price ...., - (4), called It匕, further constituting and/or consisting of a wicking material that enables fluid flow rate or transmission through each wicking member via capillary or wicking action. The amount is different. Therefore, in a preferred embodiment, the core member 2〇1 has a first fluid flow rate R1', the core member 2〇2 has a second body flow rate R2, and the core member 2G3 has Body flow ^ In the preferred embodiment, at least two flow rates are unpredictable, and the other embodiments of the two flow rates R1_R3 may be different to control and establish the expected flow rate. 5. The example may have more More or less concentric "Additional embodiments of at least one flow restrictor 22 or capillary delivery system that achieves the integration between the capillary channel and the device. See Figure = or condensate flow possible By physically reducing the contact area or profile flow interval between the capillary (four)-flow 1 limiter 150:: near-two-body flow section = fluid flow rate between sections. Figure = Ben = Road 14 In a possible embodiment, the capillary is not formed or disposed in each segment, and the separation flow W3 is defined by three moving segments (10), (6) and 162^"^:= Composed of. However, my sucking or capillary components will understand in it He implements the financial, may set 31 201141419 to set more or less flow sections and / or flow limiters. See also ==== fine channel or core suction two ====== 妾 164. The remaining cross-sectional area of the wicking member 163 is reduced, and the flow rate between the section (6) === the controller 150 is reduced between the section _ to the flow nu port 162. Therefore, the flow restriction is crying: Adjacent to the ribbed member 163 =: medium == cross-sectional flow area. In a possible implementation = the storage tank of the body-moving substance 13 passes through the wicking member (6). y In other embodiments, the flow sections 160, 161 slots may be retained in the flow section 162 according to the intended design and in the fluid storage. The mass 13 will be during the application process. More rapidly two oi; r /, 1 due to the flow restriction between the two flow sections, the slower flow rate from the adjacent flow section 161 animal matter to the core - a flow area Two =: the limiter 150 is decelerated, but the segment (eg, segment 162) +. Therefore, by displaying one or a k-th limiter and Therefore, the flow of the string 32 201141419 downstream of each of the flow sections is resistant to the flowable material 13 used to regulate the user to be provided during the application. For example, a groove or other series-fitted fire flow restriction The more upstream flow restrictor 150 of the device, the longer it takes to replenish the flow section 163 that is replenished. Figure 16 shows a pattern with a reduced contact flow surface area in the flow sections 16〇 and i6i. The flow restrictor 15 is another embodiment of the passage 14. In the present embodiment, the flow section = 161 is a bifurcated body defined by the split core members 163 and 165, respectively, which is adjacent to each other. In other ways - kicking up to form a flow path of the strip =. The adjacent portions of the stages 163 and 165 are bridged = 164 'hunting to allow fluid to pass from one flow section 16 to the second = 16 in one embodiment, the 'flow section 16 〇 ▼ can be as shown: Age slot U. The flow section (6) may be streamed to a k ^ a second _ middle 'which may be a conventional applicator 130, or other appropriate outlets associated with the ???M4 as described herein. In other ways, there are various ways to limit the flow rate between the different adjacent flow sections, including but not to reduce the at least part of the end portion of the thin part 2 2 = most (four) 'porous Sexual surface, used to narrow down the cross-sectional area or contact area in the flow area d; heat smear or apply one or eight, seal (four) to the end of the section of the flow section at least some of the capillary Cutting the I丨6^, the 丨 domain or its pure domain from the capillary channel 14 or the core; providing a smaller one between the pure segments of the stream. a more narrowly structured flow of the cross-sectional area of the ii surface flow 33 201141419 section; inserting a dividing wall between adjacent reducing sections, which has a lower (four) body than the adjacent flow section The transfer of the core material is formed. + The above-described capillary device H)0 having the core suction or capillary member of the capillary channel 14 shown in Figures 14-16 may be incorporated into any of the four-partitions shown in Figure '7, or in conjunction with It can be cut into the accommodating part of the wicking member. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that in certain embodiments, the capillary device is not required to be incorporated into an oral care implement such as the toothbrush shown in Figure 1. Thus, in some embodiments, a capillary device may be used on a pen-type applicator for applying a flowable substance, as otherwise described herein. In still other embodiments, the capillary device may be placed in any suitable containment for use in applications where the integrity is not related to oral care. Thus, the present invention is not limited to users who are alone in oral health care applications. It is to be understood that the invention has been described in connection with the specific embodiments thereof Other embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and such modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a toothbrush according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the head of the toothbrush shown in FIG. 1; 34 201141419 FIG. 3 is a view of FIG. Figure 3-7 shows an example of a capillary configuration that can be used with an oral care implement; Figure 8 is an exploded view of an oral care implement in accordance with one or more embodiments of an exemplary embodiment. Figure 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the head of one of the oral health care implements of Figure 8; Figure 10 is a plan view of the oral health care implement of Figure 8 showing a tongue cleaning feature, Figure 11 is a Figure 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the head of the oral care implement of Figure 8 taken along line 4-4 of Figure 10; Figure 12 is a plan view of the oral health care implement of Figure 8 showing at least one tooth cleaning arrangement; Figure 13 is a view showing exemplary tooth cleaning Figure 14 is a schematic view of a multi-stage capillary fluid dispensing system in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 15 is a multi-stage capillary fluid dispensing system Schematic diagram of an embodiment of a flow restrictor; Figure 16 is a schematic illustration of a multi-stage capillary fluid dispensing system having another embodiment of a flow restrictor; Figure 17 is a FIG. 18 is a rear perspective view thereof; and 35 201141419 FIG. 19 is a capillary channel including concentrically aligned capillary or wicking members. A cross-sectional perspective view. [Description of main component symbols] A·Brushing section aa. Vertical axis B: Storage tank section LA. Vertical axis IU, R2: Flow rate/Route R3: Flow rate 1: Toothbrush/grip 2: Toothbrush head Part 6: bristles/teeth cleaning elements 7: tooth cleaning elements/elastic elements/elastic cleaning elements 11: storage tank 11a: liquid storage tank lib: conveying section 12: opening 13: flowable substance/fluid 14, 14': Capillary channel 15 : Outlet 16 : Capillary reservoir 18 : Storage tank base 19 : Base area 36 201141419 20 : Containment 21 : Partition 22 : Inlet 24 : Hose 25 : Overflow chamber 100 : Capillary device / Toothbrush 101 : Side wall surface 103: grip 104: proximal end 105: head 106: first side 107: tooth cleaning element 108: second side 111: low jaw/accommodating hole/flowable substance 113: lower substrate surface/storage tank 114 : capillary channel / surface 115 : surrounding side walls 117a-c : pile member 120 . flow section 121 : flow section / distal tip 122, 123 : core suction or capillary member 130 : applicator 140 : rear section 150 : flow restriction 37 201141419 160. Flow section 161. Center flow section / first flow zone 162: flow section 163: core suction or capillary member/flow section 164: bridge 165: core member 170: flow restrictor 200: capillary channel 201: first core or capillary member 202: second core or Capillary member 203: third core or capillary member 203a-b: tooth cleaning elements 205, 207, 211, 213: tooth cleaning elements 205a-1: tooth cleaning elements 207a-c: tooth cleaning elements 209: tooth cleaning elements 209a- d, 211a-b: tooth cleaning elements 213a, b: proximal cleaning element 300: tongue cleaner/tissue cleaner 301: base surface 303: lug/tissue engaging element/conical tissue engaging element 305: base portion 307: Tip portion 311a-c: complementary aperture 38 201141419 500 tissue cleaner 501 aperture 502 outlet extension 503 exposed surface 504 free end

Claims (1)

201141419 Seven patent application scope···.f The wicking device of oral health care device has a capillary fluid dispensing system, which comprises: - 笛 ί " reading member's core (4) composed and defined a younger-flow section; a _f-subtractive member, which is composed of and defined by a wicking material - a second core is fluidly coupled to the sth and the member; and the body is spliced to its containment - a flowable substance, the storage tank being fluidly transferred to the first or second wicking member; a suction member = the flowable substance flowing through the first 2 via capillary action at a flow rate different from that of the X-forming member 3. ^: The core suction device of claim 1, wherein the second child suction member is connected to the recorder for applying the flowable substance to the first two suction member. By. The first flow rate of a wicking member is higher than the flow rate of the first wicking member, as described in claim 2 of the patent scope. The fourth aspect of the invention, wherein the wicking device of claim 1 further comprises an outlet disposed in the head of the oral health care device, which can be operated 201141419 to dispense from the wicking device The flowable substance. 5. The wicking device of claim 1, wherein the first flow section is fabricated to replenish the flowable substance substantially from the first flow section in the second flow section The above does not occur simultaneously with the release of the flowable material from the second flow section. 6. The wicking device of claim 1, wherein the second flow section receives and dispenses a predetermined volume of the flowable substance to a user, and the first flow section is in a The second flow section is replenished with a new flowable substance dose over a period of time that is slower than the time it takes to dispense the flowable substance from the flow section. 7. The wicking device of claim 1, wherein the first and second wicking members are selected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, cellulose, wool, polyester, collagen, nylon, and It is composed of a mixture of the absorbent materials of the group. 8. An oral health care appliance comprising: a grip for grasping; a head comprising at least one tooth cleaning element; a storage slot for storing a flowable substance; at least one outlet, the setting And on the head; and a capillary channel fluidly coupling the storage tank to the outlet, the hair 41 201141419 thin channel comprising: a core member comprising a first flow section and a second flow zone a segment, wherein the fluid flows through the first flow section at a flow rate different from the second flow section via capillary action. 9. The oral health care implement of claim 8 further comprising a fluid outlet in fluid communication with the second flow section of the wicking member and disposed on the head of the oral health care implement Used to dispense the fluid from the appliance. 10. The oral health care implement of claim 9, wherein the outlet is incorporated into a tongue cleaner formed in the head of the oral health care implement. 11. The oral health device of claim 8, wherein the second flow rate is higher than the first flow rate. 12. An oral health care device comprising: a grip for grasping; a head comprising at least one tooth cleaning element; a storage slot for storing a flowable substance; at least one outlet; Provided on the head; and a capillary channel fluidly coupling the storage tank to the outlet, the hair 42 201141419 thin channel comprising: a first wicking member consisting of a wicking material and defining a a first flow section; a second wicking member consisting of a wicking material and defining a second flow section, the second wicking member being fluidly coupled to the first wicking member; The flowable substance flows from the first wicking member to the second wicking member via a flow restrictor via capillary action at a flow rate different from the flow rate through the first or second wicking member. 13. The oral health care device of claim 12, further comprising an outlet in fluid communication with the second core member and disposed in the head of the oral health care device for The device dispenses the flowable substance. 14. The oral care implement of claim 13, wherein the outlet is incorporated into a tongue seal formed in the head of the oral care implement. The oral health care implement of claim 12, wherein the second flow rate of the second wicking member is higher than the first flow rate of the first wicking member. The oral health care device of claim 12, wherein the flow restrictor comprises a reduced profile flow area disposed between the first and second wicking members, Operate to reduce the flow between them. The oral health care implement of claim 12, wherein the flow restrictor comprises a mineral toothed section formed between the first and second wicking members. 44