US20170135461A1

US20170135461A1 - Oral Care Implement

Info

Publication number: US20170135461A1
Application number: US15/319,406
Authority: US
Inventors: Wen Jin Xi; Kimberly FAULKNER; Guang Sheng Guo
Original assignee: Colgate Palmolive Co
Current assignee: Colgate Palmolive Co
Priority date: 2014-06-19
Filing date: 2014-06-19
Publication date: 2017-05-18
Also published as: AU2014398050A1; EP3148370A4; EP3148370A1; AU2014398050B2; WO2015192349A1; RU2016149105A3; CN106659290A; MX2016015529A; BR112016028542A2; RU2016149105A

Abstract

Disclosed is an oral care implement, comprising: an elongate handle having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis; and a head at the distal end of the handle, the head comprising one or more oral care elements on a first side of the oral care implement; wherein the handle comprises first and second visibly demarcated grip regions on the first side of the oral care implement, wherein the first grip region is between the second grip region and the proximal end of the handle, wherein the first grip region is between 60 and 100 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle, and wherein the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by between 50 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to oral care implements, such as toothbrushes, and more particularly to oral care implements suitable for use by a child.
It is known to provide oral care implements, such as toothbrushes, for use by children. When teaching a child or student how to carry out effective and safe oral care, it is necessary for the adult or teacher to give instruction to the child or student verbally. That is, the adult or teacher has to explain how to use the oral care implement by speaking to the child or student. Such verbal communication can be ineffective, if the adult or teacher is unable to sufficiently express themselves and/or if the child or student is unable to comprehend the communication. This can lead to frustration or disappointment for either or both of the adult/teacher and child/student, and could cause the child or student to lose interest in effective and safe oral care, with the possible result that the child or student fails ever to learn how to adequately take care of their oral cavity.
There is a need for an oral care implement that better enables an adult or teacher to teach a child or student how to carry out effective and safe oral care using the oral care implement.

BRIEF SUMMARY

An embodiment of the present invention provides a first oral care implement, comprising: an elongate handle having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis; and a head at the distal end of the handle, the head comprising one or more oral care elements on a first side of the oral care implement; wherein the handle comprises first and second visibly demarcated grip regions on the first side of the oral care implement, wherein the first grip region is between the second grip region and the proximal end of the handle, wherein the first grip region is between 60 and 100 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle, and wherein the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by between 50 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.
Optionally, the first grip region is between 70 and 90 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle. Further optionally, the first grip region is about 79 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle.
Optionally, the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by between 65 and 85 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. Further optionally, the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by about 74 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.
Optionally, the first grip region has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle surrounding the first grip region, and/or the second grip region has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle surrounding the second grip region.
Optionally, the handle comprises a body, a first member fixed to the body and comprising the first grip region, and a second member fixed to the body and comprising the second grip region.
Optionally, the first member is out of contact with the second member at an exterior surface of the handle.
Optionally, the first member is softer than the body and/or the second member is softer than the body.
Optionally, an exterior surface of the first member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body and/or an exterior surface of the second member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body.
Optionally, the first member and/or the second member are made of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomer.
Optionally, the first member is of a different color to the body and/or the second member is of a different color to the body, and/or the second member is of a different color to the first member.
Optionally, the handle comprises a body and a member fixed to the body, the member comprising the first and second grip regions. Further optionally, the member is softer than the body.
Optionally, an exterior surface of the member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body.
Optionally, the member is made of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomer.
Optionally, the member is of a different color to the body.
Optionally, at least a portion of the head is formed by the body.
Optionally, one or both of the first and second grip regions comprises one or more depressions, ridges, nubs, bumps or grooves.
Optionally, the first grip region is of a different color and/or texture to a portion of the handle surrounding the first grip region, and/or the second grip region is of a different color and/or texture to a portion of the handle surrounding the second grip region, and/or the second grip region is of a different color and/or texture to the first grip region.
Optionally, the second grip region comprises an image.
Optionally, a first section of the handle comprising the first grip region is detachable from a second section of the handle comprising the second grip region.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides a second oral care implement, comprising: an elongate handle having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis; and a head at the distal end of the handle, the head comprising one or more oral care elements on a first side of the oral care implement; wherein the handle has an exterior surface profile that defines first and second peaks on the first side of the oral care implement, wherein the first peak is between the second peak and the proximal end of the handle, wherein the first peak is between 75 and 125 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle, and wherein the first and second peaks are spaced apart by between 60 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.
Optionally, the first peak is between 90 and 110 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle. Further optionally, the first peak is about 98 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle.
Optionally, the first and second peaks are spaced apart by between 70 and 90 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. Further optionally, the first and second peaks are spaced apart by about 77 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.
Optionally, the handle comprises a body, a first member fixed to the body and comprising the first peak, and a second member fixed to the body and comprising the second peak.
Optionally, the first member is out of contact with the second member at an exterior surface of the handle.
Optionally, the first member is softer than the body and/or the second member is softer than the body.
Optionally, an exterior surface of the first member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body and/or an exterior surface of the second member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body.
Optionally, the first member and/or the second member are made of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomer.
Optionally, the first member is of a different color to the body and/or the second member is of a different color to the body, and/or the second member is of a different color to the first member.
Optionally, the handle comprises a body and a member fixed to the body, the member comprising the first and second peaks. Further optionally, the member is softer than the body.
Optionally, an exterior surface of the member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body.
Optionally, the member is made of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomer.
Optionally, the member is of a different color to the body.
Optionally, at least a portion of the head is formed by the body.
Optionally, the first peak is of a different color to a portion of the handle surrounding the first peak, and/or the second peak is of a different color to a portion of the handle surrounding the second peak, and/or the second peak is of a different color to the first peak.
Optionally, in either one of the first and second oral care implements, the head comprises a base portion, to which the one or more oral care elements are attached, and a neck portion, wherein the neck portion of the head has a smaller cross sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis than each of the handle and the base portion of the head, and wherein a length of the handle between the proximal end of the handle and the distal end of the handle is at least 170 millimeters, optionally at least 185 millimeters, further optionally at least 200 millimeters.
Optionally, a first section of the handle comprising the first peak is detachable from a second section of the handle comprising the second peak.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides a third oral care implement, comprising: an elongate handle having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis; and a head at the distal end of the handle, the head comprising a base portion, one or more oral care elements attached to the base portion, and a neck portion; wherein the neck portion of the head has a smaller cross sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis than each of the handle and the base portion of the head; and wherein a length of the handle between the proximal end of the handle and the distal end of the handle is at least 170 millimeters.
Optionally, the length of the handle is at least 185 millimeters. Further optionally, the length of the handle is at least 200 millimeters.
Optionally, the handle comprises first and second visibly demarcated grip regions. Further optionally, the one or more oral care elements are attached to the base portion on a first side of the oral care implement, and the first and second grip regions are on the first side of the oral care implement.
Optionally, the first grip region is between the second grip region and the proximal end of the handle, and wherein the first grip region is between 60 and 100 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle. Further optionally, the first grip region is between 70 and 90 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle.
Optionally, the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by between 50 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. Further optionally, the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by between 65 and 85 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.
Optionally, a first section of the handle comprising the first grip region is detachable from a second section of the handle comprising the second grip region.
Optionally, in any one of the first to third oral care implements, a length of the oral care implement between the proximal end of the handle and a distal end of the head furthest from the handle is at least 200 millimeters. Further optionally, the length of the oral care implement is at least 225 millimeters. Still further optionally, the length of the oral care implement is at least 250 millimeters.
Optionally, in any one of the first to third oral care implements, the oral care implement is a toothbrush and the one or more oral care elements comprise one or more tooth cleaning elements.
Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a side view of an oral care implement according to one embodiment of the present invention,

FIG. 2 shows a front view of the oral care implement of FIG. 1,

FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the oral care implement of FIG. 1,

FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the oral care implement of FIG. 1,

FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of an oral care implement according to another embodiment of the present invention, and

FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of an oral care implement according to a further embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.
As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range. In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by referenced in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.
In the following description, each of the exemplary embodiments of the oral care implement of the invention comprises a manually-operated oral care implement, more specifically a manually-operated toothbrush. However, in variations to these embodiments, the oral care implement could instead comprise a powered oral care implement, such as a powered toothbrush, wherein one or more oral care elements provided to the head of the implement are drivable so as to be moved relative to the handle of the implement. In still further embodiments, the oral care implement could instead comprise other forms of oral care implement, such as a soft-tissue cleaner, a tooth polisher, an interdental brush, a tongue scraper, or another implement designed for oral care. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilised, and that structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
FIGS. 1 to 4 illustrate an oral care implement, in this case a toothbrush, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral 1.
The toothbrush 1 comprises an elongate handle 100, which handle 100 has a proximal end 101 and a distal end 102 and is elongate between the proximal and distal ends 101, 102. The handle 100 has a longitudinal axis A-A. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 4, the longitudinal axis A-A extends approximately through each of the proximal and distal ends 101, 102 of the handle 100. The handle 100 is formed in part by a body 10, in part by a first member 20 fixed to the body 10, and in part by a second member 30 fixed to the body 10, as will be described in more detail below. That is, the handle 100 comprises the body 10, the first member 20 and the second member 30.
Preferably, a length of the handle 100 between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 102 of the handle 100 is at least 170 millimeters, such as between 170 and 250 millimeters. More preferably, the length of the handle 100 between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 102 of the handle 100 is at least 185 millimeters, such as between 185 and 225 millimeters, and still more preferably is at least 200 millimeters. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the handle 100 between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 102 of the handle 100 is about 200 millimeters.
The toothbrush 1 also comprises a head 200 at the distal end 102 of the handle 100. The head 200 has a proximal end 201 connected directly to the distal end 102 of the handle 100 and a distal end 202 remote from the handle 100. The head 200 is formed in part by a first portion 205 that is unitary with the body 10, in part by a second portion 206 that is unitary with the second member 30, and in part by a plurality of oral care elements 40. That is, the head 200 comprises the first portion 205, the second portion 206, and the oral care elements 40. The head 200 comprises a base portion 220, to which the oral care elements 40 are attached, and a neck portion 210 that has a smaller cross sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A than each of the handle 100 and the base portion 220 of the head 200. A majority of the neck portion 210 and a majority of the base portion 220 of the head 200 are formed by the first portion 205. The remainder of the neck portion 210 and base portion 220 are formed by the second portion 206, and includes a gum guard at the distal end 202 of the head 200. The neck portion 210 includes the proximal end 201 of the head 200, which is that portion of the head 200 fixed to and closest to the distal end 102 of the handle 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the head 200 is non-detachable from the handle 100. However, in variations to the illustrated embodiment, the head 200 may be detachable from the handle 100, such as for replacement of the head 200 when the oral care elements 40 become worn.
The proximal end 101 of the handle 100 forms a proximal end 2 of the toothbrush 1, and the distal end 202 of the head 200 forms a distal end 3 of the toothbrush 1. Preferably, a length of the toothbrush 1 between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 202 of the head 200 is at least 200 millimeters, such as between 200 and 300 millimeters. More preferably, the length of the toothbrush 1 between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 202 of the head 200 is at least 225 millimeters, such as between 225 and 275 millimeters, and still more preferably is at least 250 millimeters. In the illustrated embodiment, the length of the toothbrush 1 between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 202 of the head 200 is about 251 millimeters.
In the illustrated embodiment, the oral care elements 40 are on a first, front side 4 of the toothbrush 1. More specifically, the oral care elements 40 are on a first, front side of the head 200, and are for cleaning or polishing surfaces in a user's mouth, such as surfaces of their teeth. As used herein, the term “oral care element” is used in a generic sense to refer to any structure that can be used to clean, massage or polish an oral surface, such as teeth or soft tissue, through relative surface contact. In this embodiment, the oral care elements comprise a plurality of tooth cleaning elements, preferably a plurality of flexible bristles arranged in tufts. However, in variations to this embodiment, the oral care elements may additionally or alternatively comprise one or more tooth polishing elements, preferably in the form of elastomeric tooth polishing elements, such as elastomeric protrusions, elements, fingers, or prophylactic (prophy) cups. In some embodiments, the oral care elements 40 may comprise at least one of any one or more of the following, without limitation: bristles, rigid bristles, flexible bristles, filament bristles, fibre bristles, nylon bristles, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) bristles, tapered bristles, spiral bristles, rubber bristles, elastomeric protrusions, elastomeric elements, flexible polymer protrusions, co-extruded filaments, flag bristles, crimped bristles, anti-bacterial bristles and combinations thereof and/or structures containing such materials or combinations.
In a variation to the illustrated embodiment, a soft tissue cleaner may be provided on a second side of the toothbrush 1, such as a second, rear side 5 of the toothbrush 1 opposite to the front side 4 of the toothbrush 1. Such a soft tissue cleaner may be provided on a second, rear side of the head 200 opposite to the front side of the head 200. Such a soft tissue cleaner may be formed by the second portion 206 of the head 200.
The handle 100 provides a user with a mechanism by which he/she can readily grip and manipulate the toothbrush 1, includes ergonomic features which provide a high degree of control for the user while maintaining comfort, and may be formed of many different shapes and with a variety of constructions. On the other hand, the head 200 is that portion of the toothbrush 1 intended to be inserted into a user's oral cavity for carrying out oral care.
The handle 100 comprises first and second visibly demarcated grip regions 21, 31 on the first side 4 of the toothbrush 1. Herein, by “visibly demarcated” it is meant that a finite extent of each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 within the surrounding environment is visible to a human. In the illustrated embodiment, the second grip region 31 comprises an image of a bowtie, and each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 has a groove or bump forming a visible perimeter or outline of the grip region 21, 31. Moreover, in the illustrated embodiment, the first grip region 21 comprises a plurality of parallel alternating grooves and bumps, and respective portions of the handle surrounding the first and second grip regions 21, 31 are substantially free of images, grooves and bumps. That is, the first and second grip regions 21, 31 have different textures to an exterior surface of the respective portions of the handle 100 surrounding the first and second grip regions 21, 31. Herein, by “exterior surface” it is meant a surface forming at least part of an exterior of the toothbrush 1, so that the surface is visible to, and touchable by, a user. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the second grip region 31 is of a different color to a portion of the handle 100 surrounding the second grip region 31.
The first grip region 21 is between the second grip region 31 and the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. It is intended that the first grip region 21 be gripped by an adult or teacher while the second grip region 31 is gripped by a child or student, when the child or student is learning how to carry out effective and safe oral care using the toothbrush 1. Alternatively, the first grip region 21 could be gripped by a caregiver while the second grip region 31 is gripped by a different sort of dependent person who needs assistance in carrying out effective and safe oral care using the toothbrush 1, such as an elderly person or a person who is mentally and/or physically disabled. In any case, the spacing of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 relative to each other and relative to the rest of the toothbrush 1 needs to be considered.
Preferably, the first grip region 21 is between 60 and 100 millimeters from the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. More preferably, the first grip region 21 is between 70 and 90 millimeters from the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the first grip region 21 is about 79 millimeters from the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. Accordingly, when the thumb of an adult, teacher or caregiver is gripping the first grip region 21, a portion, or all, of a first part of the handle 100 between the first grip region 21 and the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 lies in the palm of the adult, teacher or caregiver, and one or more fingers of the adult, teacher or caregiver wrap around the first part of the handle 100, thereby enabling the adult, teacher or caregiver to hold the toothbrush 1 stably and comfortably.
Preferably, the first and second grip regions 21, 31 are spaced apart by between 50 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 100. More preferably, the first and second grip regions 21, 31 are spaced apart by between 65 and 85 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second grip regions 21, 31 are spaced apart by about 74 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 100. Accordingly, when the thumb of the adult, teacher or caregiver is gripping the first grip region 21, a child, student or dependent person is able to place their own thumb on the second grip region 31 to hold the toothbrush 1 in common with the adult, teacher or caregiver. Preferably, a portion, or all, of a second part of the handle 100 between the second grip region 31 and the first grip region 21 lies in the palm of the child, student or dependent person, and one or more fingers of the child, student or dependent person wrap around the second part of the handle 100, thereby enabling the child, student or dependent person to hold the toothbrush 1 stably and comfortably.
As will be appreciated from FIGS. 1 to 4, the first member 20 comprises the first grip region 21, and the second member 30 comprises the second grip region 31. By comprising the first and second grip regions 21, 31 in the first and second members 20, 30, as opposed to in the body 10, it is possible to provide the first and second grip regions 21, 31 with properties different to those that would be possible were the first and second grip regions 21, 31 instead formed by the body 10. In some embodiments of the present invention, one or each of the first and second members 20, 30 is softer than the body 10. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second members 20, 30 is softer than the body 10. In some embodiments of the present invention, one or each of the first and second members 20, 30 has an exterior surface with a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body 10. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second members 20, 30 has an exterior surface with a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body 10. In some embodiments of the present invention, one or each of the first and second members 20, 30 is made from an elastomeric and/or resilient material, such as an elastomer (e.g. a thermoplastic elastomer). In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second members 20, 30 is made from an elastomeric resilient material. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 10 is formed of a thermoplastic polymer, e.g. polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene (PP). Accordingly, the relatively rigid material of the body 10 provides the handle 100 with strength and rigidity, whereas the relative soft and resilient materials of the first and second members 20, 30 enhance the ability of a user to grip the first and second grip regions 21, 31.
By comprising the first and second grip regions 21, 31 in the first and second members 20, 30, as opposed to in the body 10, it is also possible easily to indicate to users the positions and intended uses of the first and second grip regions 21, 31. In some embodiments of the present invention, one or each of the first and second members 20, 30 is of a different color to the body 10. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second members 20, 30 is of a different color to the body 10. Accordingly, a user is able readily to determine the location on the handle 100 of the first and second members 20, 30 comprising the first and second grip regions 21, 31. In some embodiments of the present invention, as is the case in the illustrated embodiment, the first member 20 also is of a different color to the second member 30. More specifically, the body 10 is blue, the first member 20 is yellow, and the second member 30 is green. Herein, “color” is intended to encompass all of color, hue, shade, saturation, and brightness. Moreover, the first member 20 is out of contact with the second member 30 at an exterior surface of the handle 100. Accordingly, the first and second grip regions 21, 31 clearly are distinguished from each other to indicate that one is for gripping by an adult, teacher or caregiver and the other is for gripping by a child, student or dependent person.
In some embodiments of the present invention, one or each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle 100 surrounding that grip region 21, 31. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle 100 surrounding that grip region 21, 31. That is, the first grip region 21 has a higher coefficient of friction than the portion of the first member 20 surrounding the first grip region 21 due to the provision of the plurality of parallel alternating grooves and bumps of the first grip region 21, and the second grip region 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than the portion of the body 10 surrounding the second grip region 31 due to the difference in materials of the second member 30 and the body 10.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the handle 100 comprises first and second palm grip regions 22, 32 on the second side 5 of the toothbrush 1. As will be appreciated from FIGS. 1 to 4, the first member 20 comprises the first palm grip region 22, and the second member 30 comprises the second palm grip region 32. As shown in FIG. 4, the first palm grip region 22 is connected to the first grip region 21 via a passage through the body 10, and the second palm grip region 32 is connected to the second grip region 31 via a passage through the body 10. The first palm grip region 22 is unitary with the first grip region 21, and the second palm grip region 32 is unitary with the second grip region 31. However, the first palm grip region 22 and the first grip region 21 are not in contact with, or unitary with, the second palm grip region 32 and the second grip region 31. Moreover, the first palm grip region 22 is out of contact with the second palm grip region 32 at the exterior surface of the handle 100.
The handle 100 has an exterior surface profile that that defines first and second peaks P1, P2 on the first side 4 of the toothbrush. That is, the exterior surface of the handle 100 is contoured so as to define the first and second peaks P1, P2. The first and second peaks P1, P2 are portions of the handle 100 that are further from the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 100 than portions of the handle 100 surrounding the first and second peaks P1, P2. The first and second peaks P1, P2 may be distanced from the longitudinal axis A-A by equal distances. Alternatively, the first and second peaks P1, P2 may be distanced from the longitudinal axis A-A by different distances, such as in the illustrated embodiment where the first peak P1 is further from the longitudinal axis A-A than the second peak P2.
The first peak P1 is between the second peak P2 and the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. The first grip region 21 extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A from the first peak P1 towards the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 along a portion of the handle 100 that is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. The second grip region 31 is coincident with the second peak P2 and also surrounds the second peak P2, so that at least part of the second grip region 31 also extends along a portion of the handle 100 that is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis A-A. It is intended that the first peak P1 aids application of longitudinal forces to the handle 100 by an adult, teacher or caregiver while the second peak P2 is gripped by a child, student or dependent person, when the child, student or dependent person requires assistance when carrying out effective and safe oral care using the toothbrush 1, and that the second peak P2 emphasizes the presence of the second grip region 31 to the child, student or dependent person and may aid handling and control of the toothbrush 1 by the child, student or dependent person. For this reason, the spacing of the first and second peaks P1, P2 relative to each other and relative to the rest of the toothbrush 1 needs to be considered.
Preferably, the first peak P1 is between 75 and 125 millimeters from the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. More preferably, the first peak P1 is between 90 and 110 millimeters from the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the first peak P1 is about 98 millimeters from the proximal end 101 of the handle 100. Accordingly, when the thumb of an adult, teacher or caregiver is gripping the first grip region 21 with a portion, or all, of a part of the handle 100 between the first grip region 21 and the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 lying in the palm of the adult, teacher or caregiver and one or more fingers of the adult, teacher or caregiver wrapping around that part of the handle 100, the adult, teacher or caregiver is able to apply a longitudinal force to the side of the first peak P1 to control movement of the toothbrush 1.
Preferably, the first and second peaks P1, P2 are spaced apart by between 60 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 100. More preferably, the first and second peaks P1, P2 are spaced apart by between 70 and 90 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second peaks P1, P2 are spaced apart by about 77 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A-A of the handle 100. Accordingly, when the thumb of the adult, teacher or caregiver is gripping the first grip region 21 adjacent the first peak P1, a child, student or dependent person is able to place their own thumb on the second grip region 31 at the second peak P2 to hold the toothbrush 1 in common with the adult, teacher or caregiver. Preferably, a portion, or all, of a part of the handle 100 between the second peak P2 and the first peak P1 lies in the palm of the child, student or dependent person, and one or more fingers of the child, student or dependent person wrap around that part of the handle 100, thereby enabling the child, student or dependent person to move and control the toothbrush 1 safely.
As will be appreciated from FIGS. 1 to 4, the first member 20 comprises the first peak P1, and the second member 30 comprises the second peak P2. By comprising the first and second peaks P1, P2 in the first and second members 20, 30, as opposed to in the body 10, it is possible to provide the first and second peaks P1, P2 with properties different to those that would be possible were the first and second peaks P1, P2 instead formed by the body 10. Indeed, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second peaks P1, P2 is softer than the body 10, which makes contact with the peaks by a user comfortable, and each of the first and second peaks P1, P2 has a higher coefficient of friction than the exterior surface of the body 10, thus aiding transmission of longitudinal forces applied to the first and second peaks P1, P2 to the rest of the toothbrush 1.
Moreover, by comprising the first and second peaks P1, P2 in the first and second members 20, 30, as opposed to in the body 10, it is also possible easily to indicate to users the positions of the first and second peaks P1, P2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second peak P2 is of a different color to a portion of the handle 100 surrounding the second peak P2. In variations to the illustrated embodiment, the first peak P1 additionally or alternatively is of a different color to a portion of the handle 100 surrounding the first peak P1.
In a variation to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, and as shown in FIG. 5, in another embodiment, the handle 100 comprises a body 10 and a member 50 fixed to the body 10, the member 50 comprising both the first and second visibly demarcated grip regions 21, 31 and both the first and second peaks P1, P2. That is, the handle 100 is formed in part by the body 10 and in part by the member 50. The member 50 may have any of the above-described properties of the first member 20 discussed above. That is, the member 50 may be softer than the body 10. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the member 50 is softer than the body 10. In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the member 50 has an exterior surface with a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body 10. In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the member 50 is made from an elastomeric and/or resilient material, such as an elastomer (e.g. a thermoplastic elastomer). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the body 10 is formed of a thermoplastic polymer, e.g. polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene (PP). Accordingly, the relatively rigid material of the body 10 provides the handle 100 with strength and rigidity, whereas the relative soft and resilient material of the member 50 makes the first and second grip regions 21, 31 suitable for gripping by a user.
By comprising the first and second grip regions 21, 31 in the member 50, as opposed to in the body 10, it is also possible easily to indicate to users the positions and intended uses of the first and second grip regions 21, 31. In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the member 50 is of a different color to the body 10. Accordingly, a user is able readily to determine the location on the handle 100 of the member 50 comprising the first and second grip regions 21, 31. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the first and second grip regions 21, 31 are the same colour as each other. More specifically, the body 10 is blue, and the member 50 is green. However, by blending materials or colorants when injection molding the member 50 onto the body 10, in some embodiments the first grip region 21 may be of a different color to the second grip region 31. By comprising the first and second grip regions 21, 31 in a common member 50, manufacture of the toothbrush 6 is simplified, as fewer components need to be assembled or molded.
In some embodiments, one or each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle 100 surrounding that grip region 21, 31. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle 100 surrounding that grip region 21, 31. That is, the first grip region 21 has a higher coefficient of friction than the portion of the member 50 surrounding the first grip region 21 due to the provision of the plurality of parallel alternating grooves and bumps of the first grip region 21, and the second grip region 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than the portion of the body 10 surrounding the second grip region 31 due to the difference in materials of the member 50 and the body 10.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the member 50 comprises the first palm grip region 22 and the second palm grip region 32, and the first and second palm grip regions 22, 32 are unitary with the first and second grip regions 21, 31 via passages through the body 10. However, the first palm grip region 22, the first grip region 21, the second palm grip region 32 and the second grip region 31 are out of contact with each other at the exterior surface of the handle 100.
The handle 100 of the embodiment of FIG. 5 has an exterior surface profile that that defines the first and second peaks P1, P2 on the first side 4 of the toothbrush 6. Other than both being defined by the member 50, the first and second peaks P1, P2 of the embodiment of FIG. 5 are the same as the first and second peaks P1, P2 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 4. By comprising the first and second peaks P1, P2 in the member 50, as opposed to in the body 10, it is possible to provide the first and second peaks P1, P2 with properties different to those that would be possible were the first and second peaks P1, P2 instead formed by the body 10. Indeed, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second peaks P1, P2 is softer than the body 10, which makes contact with the peaks by a user comfortable, and each of the first and second peaks P1, P2 has a higher coefficient of friction than the exterior surface of the body 10, thus aiding transmission of longitudinal forces applied to the first and second peaks P1, P2 to the rest of the toothbrush 1. Moreover, by comprising the first and second peaks P1, P2 in the member 50, as opposed to in the body 10, it is also possible easily to indicate to users the positions of the first and second peaks P1, P2. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the second peak P2 is of a different color to a portion of the handle 100 surrounding the second peak P2. In variations to the illustrated embodiment, the first peak P1 additionally or alternatively is of a different color to a portion of the handle 100 surrounding the first peak P1.
In a variation to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5, and as shown in FIG. 6, in another embodiment, the handle 100 comprises a body 10, the body 10 comprising both the first and second visibly demarcated grip regions 21, 31 and both the first and second peaks P1, P2. That is, the handle 100 may be formed entirely, or substantially entirely, by the body 10. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the body 10 is formed of a thermoplastic polymer, e.g. polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polypropylene (PP).
In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the positions and intended uses of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 may be indicated to users by including paint(s) on the body 10 at the location of the first and second grip regions 21, 31, which paint is of a different color to the body 10. In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the body 10 has a first paint of a first color at the location of the first grip region 21 and a second paint of a second color at the location of the second grip region 31, which second color is different to the first color and the color of the body 10. In some embodiments, including the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the positions and intended uses of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 also are indicated by providing that the first and second grip regions 21, 31 have different textures to an exterior surface of the respective portions of the handle 100 surrounding the first and second grip regions 21, 31.
In some embodiments, one or each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle 100 surrounding that grip region 21, 31. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle 100 surrounding that grip region 21, 31. That is, the first grip region 21 has a higher coefficient of friction than the portion of the body 10 surrounding the first grip region 21, and the second grip region 31 has a higher coefficient of friction than the portion of the body 10 surrounding the second grip region 31.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the body 10 also comprises the first palm grip region 22 and the second palm grip region 32. The first and second palm grip regions 22, 32 may be of different colors and/or textures to respective portions of the body 10 surrounding the first and second palm grip regions 22, 32.
The handle 100 of the embodiment of FIG. 6 has an exterior surface profile that that defines the first and second peaks P1, P2 on the first side 4 of the toothbrush 7. Other than both being defined by the body 10, the first and second peaks P1, P2 of the embodiment of FIG. 6 are the same as the first and second peaks P1, P2 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 4.
Whereas in the illustrated embodiments the second grip region 31 comprises an image of a bowtie, in variations to these embodiments the second grip region 31 may comprise an image of something other than a bowtie, such as an image of one or more of a cartoon character or famous person, an object, or a geometrical shape. In other variations to the illustrated embodiment, the second grip region 31 does not comprise an image.
In variations to the illustrated embodiments, the first grip region 21 additionally or alternatively is of a different color to a portion of the handle 100 surrounding the first grip region 21. In variations to the illustrated embodiments, the first grip region 21 additionally or alternatively comprises an image. In variations to the illustrated embodiments, the second grip region 31 additionally or alternatively comprises a plurality of parallel alternating grooves and bumps.
Whereas in the illustrated embodiments the first grip region 21 comprises a plurality of parallel alternating grooves and bumps, in variations to the illustrated embodiments, one or each of the first and second grip regions 21, 31 comprises one or more depressions, ridges, nubs, bumps or grooves. Herein, a “nub” is generally meant to include a column-like protrusion (without limitation to the cross-sectional shape of the protrusion) which is upstanding from a base surface. In a general sense, the nub, in the preferred construction, has a height that is greater than the width at the base of the nub (as measured in the longest direction). Nevertheless, nubs could include projections wherein the widths and heights are roughly the same or wherein the heights are somewhat smaller than the base widths. Moreover, in some circumstances (e.g., where the nub tapers to a tip or includes a base portion that narrows to a smaller projection), the base width can be substantially larger than the height.
In respective variations to the illustrated embodiments, the handle 100 may comprise first and second sections, wherein the first section is detachable from the second section. The first section may comprise the first grip region 21 and/or the first peak P1. The second section may comprise the second grip region 31 and/or the second peak P2. The first section may be detachably attached to the second section by a mechanical connection, which may comprise one of a friction fit connection, a snap fit connection, a bayonet connection, and a threaded connection. Accordingly, if and when the adult, teacher or caregiver considers that the child, student or dependent person is capable of carrying out oral care effectively and safely without requiring assistance, they are able to detach the first section of the handle 100 from the second section of the handle 100 in order to permit the child, student or dependent person to perform oral care on their own.
Whereas in the illustrated embodiments the handle 100 of each of the oral care implements 1, 6, 7 comprises first and second visibly demarcated grip regions 21, 31, in variations to the illustrated embodiments the first visibly demarcated grip region 21 is omitted, or the second visibly demarcated grip region 31 is omitted, or both the first and second visibly demarcated grip regions 21, 31 are omitted. Whereas in the illustrated embodiments the handle 100 of each of the oral care implements 1, 6, 7 comprises first and second peaks P1, P2, in variations to the illustrated embodiments the first peak P1 is omitted, or the second peak P2 is omitted, or both the first and second peaks P1, P2 are omitted.
In embodiments in which some or all the first and second visibly demarcated grip regions 21, 31 and some or all of the first and second peaks P1, P2 are omitted, preferably a length of the handle 100 between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 102 of the handle 100 is at least 170 millimeters, more preferably the length of the handle 100 is at least 185 millimeters, and more preferably the length of the handle 100 is at least 200 millimeters. Accordingly, the handle still is simultaneously grippable by an adult, teacher or caregiver and a child, student or dependent person, when the child, student or dependent person requires assistance when carrying out effective and safe oral care using the toothbrush.
In embodiments in which some or all the first and second visibly demarcated grip regions 21, 31 and some or all of the first and second peaks P1, P2 are omitted, preferably a length of the toothbrush between the proximal end 101 of the handle 100 and the distal end 202 of the head 200 is at least 200 millimeters, more preferably the length of the toothbrush is at least 225 millimeters, and more preferably the length of the toothbrush is at least 250 millimeters.
Other modifications and embodiments of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the present disclosure.

Claims

We claim:

1. An oral care implement, comprising:

an elongate handle having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis; and

a head at the distal end of the handle, the head comprising one or more oral care elements on a first side of the oral care implement;

wherein the handle comprises first and second visibly demarcated grip regions on the first side of the oral care implement, wherein the first grip region is between the second grip region and the proximal end of the handle, wherein the first grip region is between 60 and 100 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle, and wherein the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by between 50 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

2. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the first grip region is between 70 and 90 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle.

3. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the first and second grip regions are spaced apart by between 65 and 85 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

4. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the first grip region has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle surrounding the first grip region, and/or wherein the second grip region has a higher coefficient of friction than a portion of the handle surrounding the second grip region.

5. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the handle comprises a body, a first member fixed to the body and comprising the first grip region, and a second member fixed to the body and comprising the second grip region.

6. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein the first member is out of contact with the second member at an exterior surface of the handle.

7. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein the first member is softer than the body and/or wherein the second member is softer than the body.

8. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein an exterior surface of the first member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body and/or wherein an exterior surface of the second member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body.

9. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein the first member and/or the second member are made of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomer.

10. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein the first member is of a different color to the body and/or wherein the second member is of a different color to the body, and/or wherein the second member is of a different color to the first member.

11. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the handle comprises a body and a member fixed to the body, the member comprising the first and second grip regions.

12. The oral care implement of claim 11, wherein the member is softer than the body.

13. The oral care implement of claim 11, wherein an exterior surface of the member has a higher coefficient of friction than an exterior surface of the body.

14. The oral care implement of claim 11, wherein the member is made of an elastomeric material, such as an elastomer.

15. The oral care implement of claim 11, wherein the member is of a different color to the body.

16. The oral care implement of claim 5, wherein at least a portion of the head is formed by the body.

17. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein one or both of the first and second grip regions comprises one or more depressions, ridges, nubs, bumps or grooves.

18. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the first grip region is of a different color and/or texture to a portion of the handle surrounding the first grip region, and/or wherein the second grip region is of a different color and/or texture to a portion of the handle surrounding the second grip region, and/or wherein the second grip region is of a different color and/or texture to the first grip region.

19. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein the second grip region comprises an image.

20. The oral care implement of claim 1, wherein a first section of the handle comprising the first grip region is detachable from a second section of the handle comprising the second grip region.

21. An oral care implement, comprising:

wherein the handle has an exterior surface profile that defines first and second peaks on the first side of the oral care implement, wherein the first peak is between the second peak and the proximal end of the handle, wherein the first peak is between 75 and 125 millimeters from the proximal end of the handle, and wherein the first and second peaks are spaced apart by between 60 and 100 millimeters in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

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39. An oral care implement, comprising:

a head at the distal end of the handle, the head comprising a base portion, one or more oral care elements attached to the base portion; and a neck portion;

wherein the neck portion of the head has a smaller cross sectional area perpendicular to the longitudinal axis than each of the handle and the base portion of the head; and

wherein a length of the handle between the proximal end of the handle and the distal end of the handle is at least 170 millimeters.

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