WO2020191568A1

WO2020191568A1 - Toothbrush

Info

Publication number: WO2020191568A1
Application number: PCT/CN2019/079436
Authority: WO
Inventors: Chun Yuen To
Original assignee: World Wide Daily Holdings Company Limited
Priority date: 2019-03-25
Filing date: 2019-03-25
Publication date: 2020-10-01

Abstract

A toothbrush (101) includes a handle (103) and a head (105) connected to an end of the handle (103). The head (105) has surface and a longitudinal axis. A plurality of bristles mounted on the head (105). The plurality of bristles are arranged in a plurality of sets comprising first (121), second (123), and third sets (125). The bristles in the first (121) and third sets (125) are oriented to angle outwardly from the bristles in the second set (123). The bristles of the first (121) and third sets (125) are arranged along the surface of the head (105) such that the first (121) and third sets (125) each have a length extending along the longitudinal axis of the head (105). The length of the first (121) and third sets (125) extends along at least about 70% of the length of the surface. The bristles in the first (121) and third sets (125) are arranged in tufts comprised of multiple bristles and all having the same configuration.

Description

TOOTHBRUSH

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to toothbrushes, and more particularly to a configuration of a toothbrush head.

BACKGROUND

People have used toothbrushes to clean their teeth for many years. In general, a conventional toothbrush includes a handle connected to a head at one end of the handle. The head of the toothbrush has a plurality of bristles or other cleaning structures that are designed to contact the surface of the tooth and scrub plaque and other material from the tooth. While the conventional toothbrushes are able to clean teeth in a generally satisfactory manner, the present inventor has developed an improved toothbrush, which will be described in detail below.

SUMMMARY

In one aspect, a toothbrush generally comprises a handle and a head connected to an end of the handle. The head has a surface and a longitudinal axis. The surface has a maximum length extending along the longitudinal axis. A plurality of bristles are mounted on the head so the bristles extend from the surface on only one side of the head. The plurality of bristles are arranged in a plurality of sets comprising first, second, and third sets. The bristles of each of the first, second, and third sets are substantially parallel to other bristles in the same respective set. The bristles in the first and third sets are oriented to angle outwardly from the bristles in the second set as they extend away from the surface of the head. The bristles of the first and third sets are arranged along the surface of the head such that the first and third sets each have a length extending along the longitudinal axis of the head. The length of the first and third sets extends along at least about 70%of the length of the surface. The bristles in the first and third sets are arranged in tufts comprised of multiple bristles. The tufts of the first and third sets all having the same configuration.

Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective of one embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 2;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation of the toothbrush in Fig. 1;

FIG. 5 is right end view of the toothbrush in Fig. 1;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 1 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 7 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 7 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 9 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 9;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 10;

FIG. 12 is a front elevation of the toothbrush in Fig. 9;

FIG. 13 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 12;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 9 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 15 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 15 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 17 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 17;

FIG. 19 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 18;

FIG. 20 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 17 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 21 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 21 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 23 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 23;

FIG. 25 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 24;

FIG. 26 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 26 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 28 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 28;

FIG. 30 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 29;

FIG. 31 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 28 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 32 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 32 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 34 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 35 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 34;

FIG. 36 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 35;

FIG. 37 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 38 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 37 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 39 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 40 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 39;

FIG. 41 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 40;

FIG. 42 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 39 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 43 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 44 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 43 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 45 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 46 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 45;

FIG. 47 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 46;

FIG. 48 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 49 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 48 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 50 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 51 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 50;

FIG. 52 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 51;

FIG. 53 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 50 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 54 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 55 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 54 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 56 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 57 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 56;

FIG. 58 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 57;

FIG. 59 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 60 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 59 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 61 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 62 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 61;

FIG. 63 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 62;

FIG. 64 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 61 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 65 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 66 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 65 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 67 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 68 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 67;

FIG. 69 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 68;

FIG. 70 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 71 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 70 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 72 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 73 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 72;

FIG. 74 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 73;

FIG. 75 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 72 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 76 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 77 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 76 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 78 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 79 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 78;

FIG. 80 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 79;

FIG. 81 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 82 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 81 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 83 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 84 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 83;

FIG. 85 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 84;

FIG. 86 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 83 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 87 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 88 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 87 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 89 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 90 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 89;

FIG. 91 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 90;

FIG. 92 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 93 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 92 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 94 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 95 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 94;

FIG. 96 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 95;

FIG. 97 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 94 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 98 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 99 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 98 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 100 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 101 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 100;

FIG. 102 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 101;

FIG. 103 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 104 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 103 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 105 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 106 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 105;

FIG. 107 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 106;

FIG. 108 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 105 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 109 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 110 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 109 showing the head of the toothbrush;

FIG. 111 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention;

FIG. 112 is a top plan view of the toothbrush in Fig. 111;

FIG. 113 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the toothbrush in Fig. 112;

FIG. 114 is a perspective of another embodiment of a toothbrush of the present invention; and

FIG. 115 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective of the toothbrush in Fig. 114 showing the head of the toothbrush.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring first to Figs. 1-6, one embodiment of a toothbrush is generally designated 101. The toothbrush 101 is sized and shaped for use by people to brush their teeth. The tooth brush 101 includes a handle 103 and a head 105 connected to an end of the handle. The handle 103 is suitably a conventional handle. The handle 103 is an elongate member sized and shaped to fit comfortably in a person's hand (not shown) while the person holds the toothbrush 101 so the head 105 is inside the person's mouth. The size and shape of the handle can vary from what is shown in the drawings if desired.

The head 105 of the toothbrush 101 includes a convex surface 111 (see Fig. 5) for carrying a plurality of bristles 107 thereon. The convex surface 111 may be referred to as an "upper" surface herein for convenience, but it is understood the orientation of the toothbrush 101 can be changed from what is shown in the drawings and that the convex surface can be on the side or bottom of the toothbrush depending on how it is held. The head 105 is suitably formed integrally with the handle 103. For example, the head 105 and handle 103 are suitably molded together as one-piece from a polymeric material. The end 109 of the head 105 opposite the handle 103 is suitably rounded, as illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3. Referring to Fig. 6, the head 105 suitably has relatively narrow flat sides 141. The sides 141 are suitably substantially parallel to one another and substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis LA of the handle 103 and head 105.

The head 105 also has a surface 143, which may be referred to herein as the "bottom" of the toothbrush head (see Figs. 4 and 5) that is opposite the convex "upper" surface 111. The shape of the bottom surface 143 can vary. However, in the illustrated embodiment, the bottom surface 143 is flat. Thus, the head 105 of the toothbrush 101 suitably has a cross sectional shape that is substantially rectangular with rounded corners. However, it is understood the cros s sectional shape may be different from what is illustrated in the drawings, including without limitation an elliptical or oval shape or traditionally rectangular shape.

The bristles 107 are mounted on the head 105 so the bristles extend from the convex surface 111. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the bristles 107 are arranged so they extend from only one side of the head 105. For example, there are suitably no bristles extending from the bottom surface 143 of the head 105. The bristles 107 each have a base 113 that extends through an opening 115 in the convex surface 111 and a distal end 117 spaced from the convex surface. The bristles 107 are suitably arranged in tufts 119. For example, each tuft 119 is suitably formed by a group of bristles 107 arranged so the multiple bristles in that group all extend through a single one of the openings 115 in the convex surface 111.

Referring to Fig. 6, the bristles 107 are arranged in multiple different sets. In particular, the bristles are arranged in first, second, and

third sets

121, 123, 125. It is understood that the number of sets can vary if desired. Also, one or more of the sets can be subdivided into subsets if desired. The bristles 107 of each of the first 121, second 123, and third 125 sets are substantially parallel to the other bristles in the same respective set. The bristles 107 in the first 121, second 123, and third 125 sets are also arranged so the bristles in each set are in a generally rectangular formation extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the head 105 and handle 103. For example, the tufts 119 of bristles 107 that form the first 121 and third 125 sets are both suitably arranged in a longitudinal row that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the head 105 and handle 103. Collectively, the tufts 119 in the first 121 and third 125 sets give each set a generally rectangular formation having rounded corners and ends or a stadium shape. Additionally, each tuft 119 of the first 121 and third 125 sets is held within an elongate opening 115 such that each tuft has a generally rectangular formation with rounded corners and ends or a stadium shape. The tufts 119 of bristles 107 that form the second set 123 are arranged in a random or scattered formation that extends generally parallel to the head 105 and handle 103. For example, a transverse line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis LA of the handle 103 does not pass through the center of more than two tufts 119 of the second set 123. Except for the top and bottom (as oriented in Fig. 3) two tufts 119, the transverse line does not pass through the center of more than one tuft of the second set 123. The transverse line passing through the center of at least some of the tufts 119 does not pass through the center of any other tuft. Moreover, a vertical line parallel to the longitudinal axis LA does not pass through the center of more than one tuft 119. The vertical line pass through the center of at least some of the tufts 119 does not pass through the center of any other tuft. Each tuft 119 of the second set 123 is held within a round opening 115 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. The tufts 119 of the first 121, second 123, and third 125 sets could have other configurations without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The bristles 107 of the second 123 set extend parallel to a vertical plane in the orientation of the toothbrush 101 shown in Fig. 5. The bristles 107 in the first 121 and third 125 sets are suitably oriented so they angle outwardly from the bristles in the second 123 set as they extend away from the upper surface 111. Accordingly, there is a significant gap 131 between the distal ends 117 of the bristles 107 in the first set 121 and the distal ends of the bristles in the second set 123, and another gap 131 between the distal ends 117 of the bristles 107 in the second set 123 and the distal ends of the bristles in the third set 125. The gaps 131 between the ends 117 of the bristles 107 in the second set 123 and the first and third sets 125 are suitably oriented to extend generally parallel to the head 105 and handle 103. In the illustrated embodiment, the gaps 131 are substantially equal in width.

Referring to Figs. 5 and 6, the bristles 107 in the first 121 set and third 125 set are arranged so they are angled with respect to the vertical plane at one or more angles α. For example, the angle α between a vertical plane and the bristles 107 in the first 121 and third 125 sets is between about 16 and about 28 degrees. The lengths of the bristles 107 in the first through

third sets

121, 123, 125 are different so that the distal ends 117 of the bristles 107 collectively form a planar brushing surface. However, the brushing surface could have other configurations such as concave or convex without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Referring to Fig. 3, the upper surface 111 of the head 105 from which the bristles 107 extend has a (maximum) length L1 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis LA of the handle 103 and head 105. The upper surface 111 begins where the rounded edge starts as shown by the innermost oval line circumscribing all of the bristles 107 in Fig. 3. Each of the first 121 and third 125 sets of bristles 107 have a length L2 that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis LA, and the second 123 set of bristles has a length L3 that extends parallel to the longitudinal axis. As shown, the first 121, second 123, and third 125 sets of bristles 107 extend along a substantial portion of the length L1 of the upper surface 111. For example, the first 121 and third 125 sets of bristles 107 may each have a length L2 that extends along at least about 70%of the length L1 of the upper surface 111. The second 123 set may have a length L3 that extends along at least about 80%of the length L1 of the upper surface 111. In another embodiment, the first 121 and third 125 sets of bristles 107 may have a length L2 that extends along at least about 75%of the length L1 of the upper surface 111, and the second 123 set may have a length L3 that extends along at least about 90%of the length L1 of the upper surface 111. In one embodiment, the first 121 and third 125 sets of bristles 107 have a length L2 that extends along about 80%of the length L1 of the upper surface 111, and the second 123 set of bristles has a length L3 that extends along about 95%of the length L1 of the upper surface. The first 121, second 123, and third 125 sets of bristles 107 could extend along the head 103 at other amounts without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

The arrangement of the bristles 107 described herein offers several advantages. For example, the bristles 107 are arranged so there are sets of

bristles

121, 123, 125, having the distal ends 117 positioned relatively closely to one another. At the same time, there are significant gaps 131 in between some of the bristles. The ends 117 of the bristles 107 that are spaced relatively closely to one another work collectively to provide a brushing action on the person's tooth. If one or a handful of these bristles contacts a tooth, gum, or piece of debris, it may flex and yield, but bristles that are adjacent the flexed bristle in the same set will also likely encounter the same object at the same time or shortly thereafter. On the other hand, the gaps 131 between the various sets of bristles 107 at their ends 117 provide multiple bristle-free spaces into which debris can fall after it has been dislodged by the ends 117 of the bristles 107, allowing for the debris to be more easily removed from the teeth. Having the first 121, second 123, and third 125 sets of bristles 107 extend substantially the entire length L1 of the upper surface 111 forms the gaps 131 along substantially the entire length of the brushing surface to provide sufficient space for capturing debris. The lengths of the first 121, second 123, and third 135 sets of bristles 107 also increase the overall brushing surface providing better coverage of the user's teeth.

Although there are substantial gaps 131 between the ends 117 of the bristles in the

different sets

121, 123, 125, the bases 113 of the bristles are arranged in a relatively dense pattern. This helps minimize the amount of material used in the head 105, which in turn helps keep the weight and cost of the toothbrush 101 to a minimum. This can also help the user manipulate the toothbrush head 105 better while it is inside the mouth.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 201, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except that upper surface 211 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 207 of this toothbrush 201 are arranged in first 221, second 223, and third 225 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above.

Figures 9-14 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 301, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 307 of this toothbrush 301 are arranged in first 321, second 323, and third 325 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the first 321 and third 325 sets of bristles 307 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 319 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 321 and third 325 sets of bristles 307 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 319 of bristles 307 that define the first 321 and third 325 sets are held within round openings 315 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 119 that define the first 121 and third 125 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 15 and 16 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 401, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 301 described above except that upper surface 411 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 407 of this toothbrush 401 are arranged in first 421, second 423, and third 425 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

321, 323, 325 described above.

Figures 17-20 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 501, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 507 of this toothbrush 501 are arranged in first 521, second 523, and third 525 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 523 set of bristles 507 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 523 set of bristles 507 comprises a center row 541 of tufts 519 of bristles that extends along a length of the head 505 of the toothbrush 501 parallel to a longitudinal axis of the head and handle 503 of the toothbrush. The tufts 519 that define the center row 541 are held within round openings 515 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. Each tuft 519 in the center row 541 is at least partially surrounded by a plurality of spaced apart arcuate teeth cleaning implements 543. The arcuate teeth cleaning implements 543 around each tuft 319 in the center row 541 form a discontinuous circular formation. The discontinuous circular formations are centered around respective tufts 519 in the center row 541 and thus themselves extend in a row along the length of the head 505 of the toothbrush 501 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the head 505 and handle 503 of the toothbrush. An outer ring 545 of bristles 507 is defined by a plurality of arcuate tufts 519 at least partially surrounding the center row 541 and arcuate teeth cleaning implements 543. The outer ring 545 includes first and second longitudinal portions on opposite sides of the center row 541 and arcuate teeth cleaning implements 543. The first and second longitudinal portions generally extend along the length of the head 505. Each arcuate tuft 519 of the first and second longitudinal portions extends partially around one of the discontinuous circular formations formed by the arcuate teeth cleaning implements 543. End portions of the outer ring 545 extend around the top and bottom ends of the center row 541 and arcuate teeth cleaning implements 543. Each end portion comprises a pair of arcuate tufts 519 of bristles 507 that extend partially around the discontinuous circular formations formed by the arcuate teeth cleaning implements 543.

Figures 21 and 22 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 601, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 501 described above except that upper surface 611 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 607 of this toothbrush 601 are arranged in first 621, second 623, and third 625 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

521, 523, 525 described above.

Figures 23-25 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 701, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 501 described above except as noted. The bristles 707 of this toothbrush 701 are arranged in first 721, second, 723 and third 725 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

521, 523, 525 described above. However, the first 721 and third 725 sets of bristles 707 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 719 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 721 and third 725 sets of bristles 707 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 719 of bristles 707 that define the first 721 and third 725 sets are held within round openings 715 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 519 that define the first 521 and third 525 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 26 and 27 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 801, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 701 described above except that upper surface 811 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 807 of this toothbrush 801 are arranged in first 821, second 823, and third 825 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

721, 723, 725 described above.

Figures 28-31 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 901, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 907 of this toothbrush 901 are arranged in first 921, second 923, and third 925 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 923 set of bristles 907 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 923 set of bristles 907 comprises a generally triangular tuft 919 of bristles at a bottom of the upper surface 911 and two rows of angled elongate tufts 919 of bristles extending from the triangular tuft generally to the top of the upper surface 911. The rows of tufts 919 are laterally spaced from a central longitudinal axis of the upper surface 911 and are angled downward.

Figures 32 and 33 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1001, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 901 described above except that upper surface 1011 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 1007 of this toothbrush 1001 are arranged in first 1021, second 1021, and third 1025 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

921, 923, 925 described above.

Figures 34-36 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1101, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 901 described above except as noted. The bristles 1107 of this toothbrush 1101 are arranged in first 1121, second 1123, and third 1125 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

921, 923, 925 described above. However, the first 1121 and third 1125 sets of bristles 1107 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 1119 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 1121 and third 1125 sets of bristles 1107 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 1119 of bristles 1107 that define the first 1121 and third 1125 sets are held within round openings 1115 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 919 that define the first 921 and third 925 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 37 and 38 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1201, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 1101 described above except that upper surface 1211 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 1207 of this toothbrush 1201 are arranged in first 1221, second 1223, and third 1225 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

1121, 1123, 1125 described above.

Figures 39-42 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1301, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 1307 of this toothbrush 1301 are arranged in first 1321, second 1323, and third 1325 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 1323 set of bristles 1307 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 1323 set of bristles 1307 comprises elongate transversely extending tufts 1319 of bristles. The tufts 1319 are arranged in staggered transversely extending rows with each row including two tufts.

Figures 43 and 44 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1401, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 1301 described above except that upper surface 1411 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 1407 of this toothbrush 1401 are arranged in first 1421, second 1423, and third 1425 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the sets 1321, 1323, 1325 described above.

Figures 45-47 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1501, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 1301 described above except as noted. The bristles 1507 of this toothbrush 1501 are arranged in first 1521, second 1523, and third 1525 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the sets 1321, 1323, 1325 described above. However, the first 1521 and third 1525 sets of bristles 11507 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 1519 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 1521 and third 1525 sets of bristles 1507 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 1519 of bristles 1507 that define the first 1521 and third 1525 sets are held within round openings 1515 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 1319 that define the first 1321 and third 1325 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 48 and 49 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1601, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 1501 described above except that upper surface 1611 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 1607 of this toothbrush 1601 are arranged in first 1621, second 1623, and third 1625 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

1521, 1523, 1525 described above.

Figures 50-53 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1701, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 1707 of this toothbrush 1701 are arranged in first 1721, second 1723, and third 1725 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 1723 set of bristles 1707 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 1723 set of bristles 1707 comprises a triangular tuft 1719 of bristles at a bottom right of the upper surface 1711, a triangular tuft at a top left of the upper surface, and a plurality of angled elongate tufts 1719 between the triangular tufts. The angled elongate tufts 1719 are arranged in angled rows where each row includes two tufts.

Figures 54 and 55 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1801, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 1701 described above except that upper surface 1811 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 1807 of this toothbrush 1801 are arranged in first 1821, second 1821, and third 1825 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the sets 1721, 1723, 1725 described above.

Figures 56-58 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 1901, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 1701 described above except as noted. The bristles 1907 of this toothbrush 1901 are arranged in first 1921, second 1923, and third 1925 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the sets 1721, 1723, 1725 described above. However, the first 1921 and third 1925 sets of bristles 1907 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 1919 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 1921 and third 1925 sets of bristles 1907 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 1919 of bristles 1907 that define the first 1921 and third 1925 sets are held within round openings 1915 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 1719 that define the first 1721 and third 1725 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 59 and 60 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2001, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 1901 described above except that upper surface 2011 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 2007 of this toothbrush 2001 are arranged in first 2021, second 2023, and third 2025 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

1921, 1923, 1925 described above.

Figures 61-64 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2101, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 2107 of this toothbrush 2101 are arranged in first 2121, second 2123, and third 2125 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 2123 set of bristles 2107 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 2123 set of bristles 2107 comprises a plurality of spaced apart arcuate tufts 2119 collectively forming a spiral shape extending from a bottom of the upper surface 2111 a top of the upper surface.

Figures 65 and 66 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2201, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2101 described above except that upper surface 2211 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 2207 of this toothbrush 2201 are arranged in first 2221, second 2221, and third 2225 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the sets 2121, 2123, 2125 described above.

Figures 67-69 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2301, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2101 described above except as noted. The bristles 2307 of this toothbrush 2301 are arranged in first 2321, second 2323, and third 2325 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the sets 2121, 2123, 2125 described above. However, the first 2321 and third 2325 sets of bristles 2307 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 2319 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 2321 and third 2325 sets of bristles 2307 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 2319 of bristles 2307 that define the first 2321 and third 2325 sets are held within round openings 2315 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 2119 that define the first 2121 and third 2125 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 70 and 71 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2401, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2301 described above except that upper surface 2411 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 2407 of this toothbrush 2401 are arranged in first 2421, second 2423, and third 2425 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

2321, 2323, 2325 described above.

Figures 72-75 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2501, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 2507 of this toothbrush 2501 are arranged in first 2521, second 2523, and third 2525 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 2523 set of bristles 2507 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 2523 set of bristles 2507 comprises multiple rows of elongate tufts 2519 arranged in a wave configuration. Each row generally extends longitudinally along the head 2505. Each row includes end tufts 2519 having a linear configuration and middle tufts 2519 having an arcuate configuration.

Figures 76 and 77 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2601, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2501 described above except that upper surface 2611 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 2607 of this toothbrush 2601 are arranged in first 2621, second 2621, and third 2625 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

2521, 2523, 2525 described above.

Figures 78-80 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2701, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2501 described above except as noted. The bristles 2707 of this toothbrush 2701 are arranged in first 2721, second 2723, and third 2725 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

2521, 2523, 2525 described above. However, the first 2721 and third 2725 sets of bristles 2707 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 2719 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 2721 and third 2725 sets of bristles 2707 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 2719 of bristles 2707 that define the first 2721 and third 2725 sets are held within round openings 2715 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 2519 that define the first 2521 and third 2525 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 81 and 82 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2801, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2701 described above except that upper surface 2811 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 2807 of this toothbrush 2801 are arranged in first 2821, second 2823, and third 2825 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

2721, 2723, 2725 described above.

Figures 83-86 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 2901, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 2907 of this toothbrush 2901 are arranged in first 2921, second 2923, and third 2925 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 2923 set of bristles 2907 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 2923 set of bristles 2907 comprises a center pattern 2941 of tufts 2919 of bristles 2907 comprising a plurality of elongate tufts in a zig zag arrangement. Within the open spaces of the center pattern 2941 are triangular tufts 2919 of bristles. Partial triangular tufts 2919 of bristles 2907 are located near ends of the center pattern 2941. The center pattern 2941 and the triangular and partial triangular tufts 2919 collectively have a generally rectangular arrangement.

Figures 87 and 88 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3001, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2901 described above except that upper surface 3011 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 3007 of this toothbrush 3001 are arranged in first 3021, second 3021, and third 3025 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

2921, 2923, 2925 described above.

Figures 89-91 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3101, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 2901 described above except as noted. The bristles 3107 of this toothbrush 3101 are arranged in first 3121, second 3123, and third 3125 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

2921, 2923, 2925 described above. However, the first 3121 and third 3125 sets of bristles 3107 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 3119 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 3121 and third 3125 sets of bristles 3107 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 3119 of bristles 3107 that define the first 3121 and third 3125 sets are held within round openings 3115 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 2919 that define the first 2921 and third 2925 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 92 and 93 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3201, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 3101 described above except that upper surface 3211 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 3207 of this toothbrush 3201 are arranged in first 3221, second 3223, and third 3225 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

3121, 3123, 3125 described above.

Figures 94-97 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3301, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 3307 of this toothbrush 3301 are arranged in first 3321, second 3323, and third 3325 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 3323 set of bristles 3307 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 3323 set of bristles 3307 comprises two rows of arcuate elongate tufts 3319 of bristles. The rows of tufts 3319 are laterally spaced from a central longitudinal axis of the upper surface 3311 and curve downward from the central axis.

Figures 98 and 99 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3401, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 3301 described above except that upper surface 3411 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 3407 of this toothbrush 3401 are arranged in first 3421, second 3421, and third 3425 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

3321, 3323, 3325 described above.

Figures 100-102 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3501, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 3301 described above except as noted. The bristles 3507 of this toothbrush 3501 are arranged in first 3521, second 3523, and third 3525 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

3321, 3323, 3325 described above. However, the first 3521 and third 3525 sets of bristles 3507 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 3519 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 3521 and third 3525 sets of bristles 3507 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 3519 of bristles 3507 that define the first 3521 and third 3525 sets are held within round openings 3515 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 3319 that define the first 3321 and third 3325 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 103 and 104 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3601, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 3501 described above except that upper surface 3611 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 3607 of this toothbrush 3601 are arranged in first 3621, second 3623, and third 3625 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

3521, 3523, 3525 described above.

Figures 105-108 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3701, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 101 described above except as noted. The bristles 3707 of this toothbrush 2901 are arranged in first 3721, second 3723, and third 3725 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

121, 123, 125 described above. However, the second 3723 set of bristles 3707 has a different configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the second 3723 set of bristles 3707 comprises a center pattern 3741 of tufts 3719 of bristles 3707 comprising a plurality of elongate tufts in a zig zag arrangement. In the illustrated embodiment, there are two zig zag patterns of tufts 3719 positioned side by side. Within the open spaces of the center pattern 3741 are circular tufts 3719 of bristles. The center pattern 3741 and the circular tufts 3719 collectively have a generally rectangular arrangement.

Figures 109 and 110 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3801, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 3701 described above except that upper surface 3811 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 3807 of this toothbrush 3801 are arranged in first 3821, second 3821, and third 3825 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

3721, 3723, 3725 described above.

Figures 111-113 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 3901, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 3701 described above except as noted. The bristles 3907 of this toothbrush 3901 are arranged in first 3921, second 3923, and third 3925 sets, which are positioned and arranged generally in the same way as the

sets

3721, 3723, 3725 described above. However, the first 3921 and third 3925 sets of bristles 3907 each comprise staggered longitudinal rows of tufts 3919 of bristles. In the illustrated embodiment, the first 3921 and third 3925 sets of bristles 3907 each include two staggered rows. Also, the tufts 3919 of bristles 3907 that define the first 3921 and third 3925 sets are held within round openings 3915 such that each tuft has a generally circular formation. This is in contrast to the tufts 3719 that define the first 3721 and third 3725 sets which are held within elongate openings, and each only include a single row of tufts.

Figures 114 and 115 illustrate another embodiment of a toothbrush, generally designated 4001, which is substantially identical to the toothbrush 3901 described above except that upper surface 34011 is flat rather than convex. The bristles 4007 of this toothbrush 4001 are arranged in first 4021, second 4023, and third 4025 sets, which are positioned and arranged in the same way as the

sets

3921, 3923, 3925 described above.

When introducing elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment (s) thereof, the articles "a" , "an" , "the" and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising" , "including" and "having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

As various changes could be made in the above apparatuses, systems, and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

A toothbrush comprising:

a handle;

a head connected to an end of the handle, the head having a surface and a longitudinal axis, the surface having a maximum length extending along the longitudinal axis; and

a plurality of bristles mounted on the head so the bristles extend from the surface on only one side of the head, the plurality of bristles being arranged in a plurality of sets comprising first, second, and third sets, the bristles of each of the first, second, and third sets being substantially parallel to other bristles in the same respective set, the bristles in the first and third sets being oriented to angle outwardly from the bristles in the second set as they extend away from the surface of the head, the bristles of the first and third sets being arranged along the surface of the head such that the first and third sets each have a length extending along the longitudinal axis of the head, the length of the first and third sets extending along at least about 70%of the maximum length of the surface, the bristles in the first and third sets being arranged in tufts comprised of multiple bristles, the tufts of the first and third sets all having the same configuration.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 1 wherein the bristles of the second set are arranged along the surface of the head such that the second set has a length extending along the longitudinal axis of the head, the length of the second set extending along at least about 80%of the maximum length of the surface.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 1 wherein the length of the first and third sets extends along at least about 80%of the maximum length of the surface.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 3 wherein the bristles of the second set are arranged along the surface of the head such that the second set has a length extending along the longitudinal axis of the head, the length of the second set extending along at least about 90%of the maximum length of the surface.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 1 further comprising openings and wherein the plurality of bristles each have a base that extends through one of the openings in the surface and a distal end spaced from the surface, wherein the bristles are arranged so that a distance between the bases of the bristles in the first set and the adjacent bases of the bristles in the second set is less than a distance between the distal ends of the bristles in the first set and the distal ends of the bristles in the second set, and so that a distance between the bases of the bristles in the third set and the adjacent bases of the bristles in the second set is less than a distance between the distal ends of the bristles in the third set and the distal ends of the bristles in the second set.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 5 wherein the bristles in the first, second, and third sets are arranged in tufts comprised of multiple bristles, the bristles of each tuft extending through a single one of the openings in the surface.
A toothbrush as set forth in any one of claim 6 wherein each tuft of the second set has a different configuration from the tufts of the first and third sets.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 6 wherein each tuft of the second set has the same configuration as the tufts of the first and third sets.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 6 wherein each tuft of the second set has the same configuration.
A toothbrush a set forth in claim 1 wherein the bristles in the first and third sets are angled with respect to a vertical plane when the bristles in the second set are oriented vertically.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 10 wherein the bristles in the first and third sets are angled with respect to the vertical plane at an angle between about 16 and about 28 degrees.
A toothbrush as set forth in claim 1 wherein the bristles in said first, second, and third sets have distal ends positioned to lie on one of a planar, concave, or convex brushing surface.