Toothbrush head of an oral care implement and oral care implement.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a head of an oral care implement comprising at least one first row of tufts comprising a plurality of filaments having free ends and fixed ends that are opposite the free ends and are secured to a mounting surface of the head. The filaments of the at least first row of tufts extend from the head supporting surface for different lengths, thereby defining, with the free ends of the filaments, an upper top cleaning surface in the form of a wave shape. to be continued. The tufts of at least the first row are inclined with respect to the mounting surface.

Description

Descriptive Report of the Invention Patent for a TOOTHBRUSH HEAD OF AN ORAL TREATMENT IMPLEMENT AND AN ORAL TREATMENT IMPLEMENT. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present description refers to a head of an implement for oral treatment and, in particular, to such a head comprising at least one row of tufts having an upper top cleaning surface in the form of a continuous wave shape. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Tufts composed of a plurality of filaments for oral care implements, such as manual or electric toothbrushes, are well known in the art. In general, the tufts are fixed to a mounting surface of a head intended for insertion into a user's oral cavity. A handle for the user to hold during brushing is attached to the head. The head is permanently attached or can be attached and removed from the handle.

[0003] Toothbrushes comprising a plurality of filaments extending to different lengths relative to the mounting surface from which they extend are also known in the art. For example, a toothbrush with a bristle holder head containing a plurality of densely implanted bristles is known. A brushing surface is formed by the ends of the bristles, the brushing surface having a wave shape to increase the contact area between the teeth and the brushing surface of the filaments to remove contaminants from interdental spaces more effectively.

[0004] Although toothbrushes that include this type of filament assembly can clean the outer oral surface of the teeth adequately, they are not as suitable for Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 6 / 35 2 / 21 provide adequate removal of plaque and debris from the gingival margin, interproximal areas, lingual surfaces, and other hard-to-reach areas of the mouth, in a sensitive and gentle manner.

[0005] It is an object of the present description to provide a head for an oral treatment implement, which provides optimized cleaning properties, particularly in relation to the gingival margin and interproximal regions of the teeth. This object of the present description also provides an oral treatment implement comprising this head. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] According to one aspect, the implement head for oral treatment is provided comprising: - at least one first row of tufts comprising a plurality of filaments having free ends and fixed ends that are opposite the free ends, and being fixed onto a mounting surface of the head, - the filaments of at least the first row of tufts extending from the mounting surface of the head by different length extensions, thus defining with the free ends of the filaments a top cleaning surface in the form of a continuous wave shape, wherein the tufts of at least the first row are inclined relative to the mounting surface.

[0007] According to one aspect, an implement for oral treatment comprising such a head is provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the various embodiments and figures, in which:

[0009] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an implement for oral treatment comprising an exemplary embodiment of a head; Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 7 / 35 3 / 21

[0010] Figure 2 shows a schematic side view of the head in Figure 1; and

[0011] Figure 3 shows a schematic top-down view of the head in Figure 1; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] A head of an oral treatment implement according to the present description comprises at least one first row of tufts, each tuft comprising a plurality of filaments. Each filament has a fixed end and a free end that is opposite the fixed end. The fixed ends of the filaments are fixed / attached to a mounting surface of the head, and extend from it by a length extension of the filaments. The free ends of the filaments of the tufts of said at least one first row define an upper top cleaning surface that can contact the dental surfaces during a brushing / cleaning action. The filaments extend from the mounting surface by different length extensions, so that the upper top cleaning surface has the shape of a continuous wave.

[0013] In the context of this description, the length extension or length of a filament can be defined as the distance measured from the mounting surface of the head to the free / upper / loose end of the filament that can come into contact with the dental surfaces during the brushing / cleaning action.

[0014] In the context of the present description, the term waveform can be defined as any shape or configuration of the top top cleaning surface that has the form of a wave along the length of the tuft row, when the tuft row is viewed from a side view. In other words, the top top cleaning surface of the tuft row can have the form of a longitudinal wave. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 8 / 35 4 / 21

[0015] In the context of the present description, the term continuous waveform means that the waveform configuration of the top cleaning surface is formed in a substantially homogeneous manner, that is, substantially without any steps, interruptions or platforms. In other words, the filaments extend from the mounting surface in such a way that the transition between one filament length extension to the next longer or shorter filament length extension is smooth, and does not present any significant step. For example, the wave may have a substantially sinusoidal waveform configuration. In other words, the shorter filaments in the tuft row form a wave trough, and the longer filaments form a wave crest, wherein the transition between the wave trough and the wave crest is continuous.A difference in height / length between two adjacent / neighboring tufts can be from about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm. Additionally, or alternatively, a difference in height / length between two adjacent / neighboring filaments can be from about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm.

[0016] The wave-shaped formation of the top cleaning surface can increase the contact area between the free ends of the filaments and the teeth, and can facilitate the adaptation of the tufts to the contour of the teeth to clean the teeth more effectively.

[0017] The tufts of at least the first row are angled relative to the mounting surface of the head, thus defining an angle of inclination α between the respective tuft and the mounting surface. In other words, the tufts can be angled relative to an imaginary line that is tangent or coplanar with the mounting surface of the head, through which the tuft is attached to the head. Such a specific arrangement of the tufts can optimize the cleaning properties of the head of an oral treatment implement, in particular Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 9 / 35 5 / 21 lar in relation to interdental areas, since the inclination of the tufts can facilitate the interdental filaments to slide into the small spaces between the teeth to clean the interdental areas / spaces. The inclined alignment of the tufts can force at least the longer filaments to perform a poking, rotating, and sliding motion in and into the interproximal areas. Once the filaments enter the interdental spaces, they can straighten, lengthen, and thus reach deep into said spaces. The inclined arrangement of the filaments can ensure access to narrow spaces, and the filaments can penetrate deeply into the spaces between the teeth, removing plaque and other debris more effectively.

[0018] The superior, continuous wave-shaped cleaning surface of at least the first row of angled tufts may not only provide better adaptation of the tufts to the contour of the teeth to increase the contact area, but may also ensure that at least the larger / longer filaments can easily slide into small gaps between the teeth to clean the interdental areas / gaps, while the shorter filaments can clean the occlusal, buccal and lingual surfaces of the teeth. The longer filaments may ensure access to narrow spaces and may be able to penetrate deeply into the gaps between the teeth, removing plaque and other debris more effectively.

[0019] The tufts of at least the first row may be angled relative to the mounting surface in a direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent of the head. The longitudinal extent of the head may be defined as the extent between a proximal end of the head, which is fixed or attachable to a cable, and a distal end that is opposite the proximal end. This Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 10 / 35 6 / 21 specific tuft arrangement can improve the cleaning properties of the head, as the inclination of the tufts can facilitate the filaments to slide into the small gaps between the teeth to clean the interdental areas / gaps more efficiently, when the head moves in a back and forth motion along a row of teeth.

[0020] The tufts can be angled relative to the mounting surface at an angle of inclination α of about 65° to about 80°, optionally from about 70° to about 80°, also optionally from about 74° to about 78°, and even more optionally from about 74° to about 75°. Experiments revealed that filaments with an angle of inclination α of about 65° to about 80°, optionally from about 70° to about 80°, are more likely to penetrate the interdental spaces. Filaments with an angle of inclination α of more than about 80° showed a low probability of interdental penetration, since these filaments flex in the opposite direction to the direction of travel or jump over the teeth.Surprisingly, it was also discovered that filaments with an inclination angle α of approximately 74° to approximately 78°, optionally from approximately 74° to approximately 75°, or even more optionally from approximately 74° or approximately 75°, can further optimize the cleaning performance of the oral treatment implement head. Experiments revealed that these filaments are even more likely to penetrate the interdental spaces.

[0021] A length difference between the longer and shorter filament extensions can be from about 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, optionally about 1.7 mm. This length difference can allow good penetration of the longer filaments into the interdental spaces, while the shorter filaments can adequately clean the buccal, lingual, and occlusal surfaces of the teeth. Surprisingly Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 11 / 35 7 / 21 te, it was discovered that a length difference of approximately 1.5 mm to approximately 1.7 mm provides both enhanced interdental cleaning properties through the longer filaments, and good cleaning performance of the buccal, lingual, and occlusal surfaces of the teeth through the shorter filaments.

[0022] Each filament has a longitudinal axis that extends along the length of the filaments, and a cross-sectional area that extends in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cross-sectional area of ​​filaments with the longer length extension may be smaller in size when compared to the cross-sectional area of ​​filaments with the shorter length extension. In other words, due to the smaller cross-sectional area, longer filaments may have a lower bending stiffness value compared to filaments of the same length and larger cross-sectional area. In this way, longer filaments may provide relatively soft and smooth brushing properties.

[0023] Since the longer filaments that form the crest of the wave may have a smaller cross-sectional area compared to the shorter filaments that form the trough of the wave, the longer filaments may exhibit greater flexibility, i.e., less bending stiffness, compared to the shorter filaments. The decrease in bending stiffness can result in a smoother / softer feel and therefore a better feeling of cleanliness during brushing. The relatively long and thin filaments can provide a gentle cleaning action; a burning / unpleasant sensation on the gums during brushing can be substantially avoided. Additionally, the increased flexibility and fine dimension can also facilitate penetration. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 12 / 35 8 / 21 of the longer filaments can more easily reach interdental spaces, gingival marginal regions / pockets, and other hard-to-reach areas. In other words, longer filaments can still guarantee access to narrow spaces and may be able to penetrate the gaps between teeth even more easily, while shorter filaments, with greater flexural rigidity, can effectively clean the buccal, lingual, and occlusal surfaces of the teeth. Additionally, the shorter filaments, which have greater flexural rigidity, can provide a counterforce to the longer, softer filaments. This counterforce can allow the longer filaments to transmit sufficient contact pressure to effectively clean the teeth and force the filaments to penetrate the interproximal areas.In this way, relatively thin filaments can be used in the row of tufts to access and clean narrow interdental spaces with sufficient contact pressure during a brushing process.

[0024] Additionally, the continuous and smooth transition from longer filaments with lower bending stiffness to shorter filaments with higher bending stiffness can also provide a smooth transition from interdental penetration of the filaments to a greater scrubbing effect on the substantially flat surface when the head is moved, for example, along the longitudinal extent of the tuft row. In other words, a head of an oral care implement is presented which provides both interdental cleaning properties and effective cleaning on substantially flat dental surfaces, while the transition from one cleaning property to another is relatively smooth, which can result in an enhanced brushing sensation. The longer and shorter filaments in a tuft row can work together synergistically. A head can provide Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 13 / 35 9 / 21 provides gentle and efficient brushing performance and can remove plaque and other debris more effectively on both substantially flat surfaces and interdental spaces.

[0025] Filaments can have a circular or non-circular cross-sectional area. For example, the shape of the cross-sectional area can be ellipsoidal, square, rectangular, triangular, cross-shaped, or it can be a prolate ellipsoid with flattened long sides, although other shapes can also be considered.

[0026] For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the longer filaments may be substantially circular, with a diameter of about 0.15 mm to about 0.18 mm, optionally about 0.152 mm (6 mil), or about 0.178 mm (7 mil). In addition or alternatively, the cross-sectional area of ​​the shorter filaments may be substantially circular, with a diameter of about 0.20 mm to about 0.23 mm, optionally about 0.203 mm (8 mil), or about 0.229 mm (9 mil).

[0027] Filaments may be made of nylon with or without an abrasive such as kaolin clay, polyethylene terephthalate (PBT) with or without an abrasive such as kaolin clay, and / or colored nylon indicator material on the outer surface. The coloration on the nylon indicator material wears off slowly as the filament is used over time, indicating the amount of filament wear. Filaments may comprise one or two different materials, for example, filaments may comprise an island-in-sea structure or a core-sheath structure.

[0028] At least some of the filaments, for example, the longer filaments, may be tapered filaments that have a pointed tip. Tapered filaments can achieve optimal penetration in the areas between two teeth and in gingival pockets. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 14 / 35 10 / 21 brushes are used during brushing and can provide optimized cleaning. The tapered tip may be needle-shaped and may include a split, pointed, or beveled end. The tapered portion may be produced by a chemical and / or mechanical tapering process.

[0029] Additionally, the filaments may have a textured outer surface which may be crimped, notched, wavy, flocked, or may comprise a series of ribs, for example. Textured filaments tend to enhance the teeth cleaning effects.

[0030] In addition or alternatively, the top cleaning surface of each tuft in said at least one first row may have a specific topography / geometry, which may be shaped to efficiently adapt to the continuous wave-shaped formation of the tuft row. For example, the top cleaning surface of a tuft in the row may have a topography that is chamfered, concave, or convex to contribute to the continuous wave-shaped configuration of the tuft row. This may provide a smoother transition from the longer filaments with lower bending stiffness to the shorter filaments with higher bending stiffness, resulting in an even more enhanced brushing feel.

[0031] Each group of at least the first row may have a longitudinal axis and a cross-sectional area extending in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cross-sectional area of ​​each tuft within at least one first row may be substantially the same size, and the tuft comprising the filaments of the longer length extension may comprise a greater number of filaments than the tuft comprising the filaments of the shorter length extension. In other words, the tufts arranged within a row may have substantially the same diameter, resulting in a uniform / homogeneous appearance. Additionally, since the tuft of longer filaments with Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 15 / 35 11 / 21 tufts contain a greater number of filaments; these relatively soft filaments can provide a counterforce toward each other during a brushing action. This counterforce allows the longer, softer filaments to transmit sufficient contact pressure to effectively clean the teeth and to force the filaments to penetrate the interproximal areas. The tufts can have a circular or non-circular cross-sectional area. For example, the shape of the cross-sectional area can be ellipsoid, square, rectangular, triangular, cross-shaped, or it can be a prolate ellipsoid with flattened long sides, although other shapes can also be considered. In the case of a circular cross-sectional area, the diameter of the tufts can be from about 1.5 mm to about 2 mm.

[0032] The head may comprise at least a second row of tufts comprising a plurality of filaments. The second row may be substantially parallel to the first row, and the filaments of the tufts of the second row may extend from the mounting surface by different length extensions, thus defining, with the free ends of the filaments, a top top cleaning surface in the form of a continuous wave, as discussed above with respect to the first row of tufts. The tufts of the first row may be inclined relative to the mounting surface in one direction, and the tufts of the second row may be inclined relative to the mounting surface in the opposite direction. The at least two rows of tufts may be oriented in different directions, thus describing the so-called cross pattern when the head is viewed from a side view.The at least two rows of tufts may be oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent, i.e., along the length of the head and / or orthogonal to it, i.e., along the width of the head and / or partially. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 16 / 35 12 / 21 effectively between the length and width of the head. Additionally, the tufts of at least two rows can also be oriented at different angles α. Since at least two rows of tufts are inclined in opposite directions, at least the penetration of the longer filaments into the interdental areas can be achieved every time the head moves in said respective opposite directions. In this way, interdental cleaning is provided more frequently during a brushing process compared to an oral treatment implement that has tufts that are inclined in only one specific direction.

[0033] The tufts of the second row may be arranged so that the waveform is countercyclic to the waveform of the first row, to further improve the brushing performance of the head of an oral care implement. For example, the waveform configuration of both rows may be substantially sinusoidal, and a phase shift / difference between the first and second rows may be from about 90° to about 180°. A phase shift of about 180° may provide effective cleaning performance when the brush is moved in opposite directions relative to the length of the tuft rows, improving the brushing feel. When the head is viewed from a side view, a wave crest may alternate with a wave trough. In cases where the head is moved along a row of teeth, different cleaning actions may be performed simultaneously.Longer filaments can provide interdental cleaning properties, while shorter filaments can clean substantially flat dental surfaces. Additionally, the overall appearance of the tuft pattern on the head can be improved.

[0034] Each filament of the tufts in the second row can have a Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 17 / 35 13 / 21 longitudinal axis and a cross-sectional area extending in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The filaments of the longer length extension may have a cross-sectional area that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the filaments of the shorter length extension. The second row of tufts may further improve the cleaning properties of the head, as even more tufts are provided to clean substantially flat tooth surfaces and interproximal areas in a pleasant manner.

[0035] The head may further comprise a third row of tufts comprising a plurality of filaments, and a fourth row of tufts comprising a plurality of filaments. The third and fourth rows of tufts may be substantially parallel to the first and second rows of tufts.The third and fourth rows may each have a wave-shaped top cleaning surface, as discussed above in relation to the first row of tufts.

[0036] The tufts in the first row and the tufts in the fourth row can be angled towards the proximal end of the head, while the tufts in the second row and the tufts in the third row can be angled in a direction towards the distal end of the head. For example, both outer rows arranged along the outer edge of the mounting surface can be angled towards the proximal end of the head, and both rows can be angled towards the distal end of the head, thus describing a so-called cross-tuft pattern from a side perspective view of the head. Such a tuft arrangement can further improve the cleaning efficiency of the head.When the head of an oral treatment implement moves in a forward motion along its longitudinal extension, at least the longest filaments that are inclined in the direction towards the distal end of the head can perform a motion. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 18 / 35 14 / 21 movement to poke, rotate and slide, thus penetrating the interproximal areas from an advancing direction. When the head moves in a backward motion, that is, in the opposite direction to the forward motion, at least the longer filaments that are inclined towards the proximal end of the head can perform a poking, rotating and sliding motion, thus penetrating the interproximal areas from the backward direction. In this way, a cross-tuft pattern can allow the longer filaments to penetrate the interproximal areas with each forward and backward brushing motion along the occlusal, buccal and lingual surfaces of the teeth.

[0037] The continuous wave-shaped top cleaning surface of the third row of tufts may have the same configuration as the top cleaning surface of the second row of tufts, while the continuous wave-shaped top cleaning surface of the fourth row of tufts may have the same configuration as the top cleaning surface of the first row of tufts. The first and fourth rows may be arranged on the outer edges of the head mounting surface, respectively, while the second and third rows may be arranged between the first and fourth rows, i.e., along the longitudinal extent of the head in the central part of the mounting surface. In other words, each row of tufts may be arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal extent of the head.A phase shift / difference between the first and second rows can be approximately 180°, and a phase shift / difference between the fourth and third rows can also be approximately 180°. The two inner rows, that is, the second and third rows, can clean substantially flat tooth surfaces by means of shorter filaments, while the first and fourth rows can clean... Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 19 / 35 15 / 21 interdental spaces can be created using the longer filaments simultaneously, and vice versa. Additionally, the overall appearance of the tuft pattern on the head can be improved.

[0038] The tufts of at least the first row can be attached to the head by means of a hot tufting process. One method of manufacturing the oral treatment implement may include the following steps: in the first step, the tufts are formed by supplying a desired quantity of filaments. In the second step, the tufts are placed in a mold cavity so that the ends of the filaments that are to be attached to the head extend into this cavity. The opposite ends of the filaments that do not extend into this cavity may be rounded or unrounded. For example, the filaments may have unrounded ends if the filaments are tapered with a pointed tip.In a third step, the head or body of an oral treatment implement comprising the head and handle can be formed around the filament ends extending into the mold cavity by an injection molding process, thus anchoring the tufts to the head. Alternatively, the tufts can be anchored by forming a first part of the head – called a sealing plate – around the filament ends extending into the mold cavity by the injection molding process before forming the remaining part of the oral treatment implement. Before beginning the injection molding process, the ends of the tufts extending into the mold cavity can optionally be fused or fused together to join the filaments into a molten mass or ball, so that the molten masses or balls are located within the cavity.The tufts can be held in the mold cavity by a mold bar with blind holes that correspond to the desired position of the tufts. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 20 / 35 16 / 21 tufts on the finished head of the oral treatment implement. In other words, the tufts attached to the head via the hot tufting process are not duplicated in the central portion along their length and are not mounted on the head using an anchor / clamp. The tufts are mounted on the head via an anchor-free tufting process.

[0039] Alternatively, the tufts of at least the first row can be fixed to the head by means of a conventional stapling process using anchor wires that can be pushed into the respective tuft holes provided on the mounting surface of the head.

[0040] Optionally, the head of the oral treatment implement may also comprise at least one thermoplastic elastomer element for cleaning and / or massaging the teeth and / or soft tissues of the oral cavity. The thermoplastic elastomer element may be made of a unitary structure or of several substructures. For example, the thermoplastic elastomer element may comprise a large unitary bristle, i.e., a central bristle, or several smaller bristles. The thermoplastic elastomer element may also have a fin, a container, such as a prophylactic cup, or a curved or straight wall.

[0041] The oral care implement may be a toothbrush with a handle and head, according to any of the modalities described above. The head extends from the handle and may be repeatedly attachable and removable from the handle, or the head may be attached to the handle in a non-removable manner. The toothbrush may be electric or manual.

[0042] The following is a non-limiting discussion of an exemplary embodiment of an implement for oral treatment, according to the present description, with reference to the Figures. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, p. 21 / 35 17 / 21

[0043] Figures 1 to 3 show an embodiment of an oral treatment implement 10, which may be a manual or electric toothbrush 10 comprising a handle 12 and a head 14 extending from the handle 12 in a longitudinal direction. A plurality of tufts 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52, 26 are attached to the head 14 by means of a hot tufting process, or a conventional stapling process. Each tuft 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52, 26 comprises a plurality of filaments having free ends 30 and fixed ends 32 that are opposite the free ends 30 and fixed to a mounting surface 22 of the head 14.

[0044] Four rows 16, 18, 19, 20 of tufts 46, 47, 48, 50, 51 are arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension 28 of the head 14. The longitudinal extension 28 of the head 14 extends between a proximal end 23 of the head 14 that is fixed or fixable to the cable 12, and a distal end 24 that is opposite the proximal end 23. A first row 16 of tufts 46, 47, 48 and a fourth row 20 of tufts 46, 47, 48 (hereinafter also referred to as outer rows 16, 20) are arranged along the outer edge 38 of the mounting surface 22, while a second row 18 of tufts 50, 51, 52, and a third row 19 of tufts 50, 51, 52 (hereinafter also referred to as inner rows 18, 19) are arranged in the central part of the mounting surface 22, that is, between the first row 16 and the fourth row 20.

[0045] The filaments of each row 16, 18, 19, 20 extend from the mounting surface 22 of the head 14 by different length extensions, so that the free ends 30 of the filaments of each row 16, 18, 19, 20 define a top top cleaning surface 34 in the form of a continuous wave 36. A length difference between the longest length extension 42 and the shortest length extension 44 can be from 1.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, optionally about 1.7 mm. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 22 / 35 18 / 21

[0046] Each row 16, 18, 19, 20, comprises seven tufts 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52, each tuft 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52 being composed of filaments that have a longitudinal axis and a cross-sectional area that extends in a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The filaments of the longer length extension 42 have a cross-sectional area that is smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the filaments of the shorter length extension 44.

[0047] With respect to the outer rows 16, 20, the first tuft 47 arranged closest to the proximal end 23, that is, closest to the cable 12, may be composed of filaments that have a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.178 mm (7 mil).The two tufts 48 that follow the first tuft 47 may be composed of filaments that have a substantially cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.203 mm (8 mil), the next tuft 47 may be composed of filaments that have a substantially cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.178 mm (7 mil), and the following three tufts 46, which are furthest from cable 12, may be composed of filaments that have a substantially cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.152 mm (6 mil).

[0048] The two tufts 48 that follow the first tuft 47 positioned closest to the proximal end 23 of the head 14 comprise the filaments with the shortest length extension 44, while the three tufts 46 that are furthest from the handle 12 comprise the filaments with the longest length extension 42. The distance 42 between the free ends 30 of the longer filaments and the mounting surface 22 may be about 11.2 mm, while the distance 44 between the free ends 30 of the shorter filaments and the mounting surface 22 may be about 9.5 mm. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 23 / 35 19 / 21

[0049] With respect to the inner rows 18, 19, the first tuft 51 located closest to the distal end 24, i.e., furthest from cable 12, may be composed of filaments having a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.178 mm (7 mil). The two tufts 52 following the first tuft 51 may be composed of filaments having a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.203 mm (8 mil), the next tuft 51 may be composed of filaments having a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.178 mm (7 mil), and the next three tufts 50, which are closest to cable 12, may be composed of filaments having a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 0.152 mm (6 mil).

[0050] The two tufts 52 that follow the first tuft 51 and are arranged closer to the distal end 24 of the head 14 include the filaments with the shortest length extension 44, while the three tufts 50 closest to the handle 12 comprise the filaments with the longest length extension 42. The distance 42 between the free ends 30 of the longer filaments and the mounting surface 22 may be about 11.2 mm, while the distance 44 between the free ends 30 of the shorter filaments and the mounting surface 22 may be about 9.5 mm.

[0051] In other words, tufts 50, 51, 52 of the inner rows 18, 19 are arranged in such a way that the continuous waveform is countercyclical with respect to the continuous waveform of the outer rows 16, 20.

[0052] Tufts 46, 47, 48 of the outer rows 16, 20 may have a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 1.5 mm, and tufts 50, 51, 52 of the inner rows 18, 19 may have a substantially circular cross-sectional area. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, page 24 / 35 20 / 21 cular with a diameter of approximately 2 mm. Considering that the diameters of tufts 46, 47, 48 of the outer rows 16, 20 and of tufts 50, 51, 52 of the inner rows 18, 19, respectively, have substantially equal dimensions, tufts 46, 50, which comprise filaments with a smaller cross-sectional area, comprise a higher number of filaments compared to tufts 47, 48, 51, 52, which have filaments with a larger cross-sectional area.

[0053] All tufts 46, 47, 48 of the first outer rows 16 are angled towards the proximal end 23 of the head 14, that is, towards the handle 12 in relation to an imaginary line that is tangent or coplanar with the mounting surface 22 of the head 14. Tufts 50, 51, 52 of the inner rows 18, 19 are angled in the opposite direction, that is, towards the distal end 24 of the head 14. In other words, rows 16, 18, 19, 20 of tufts 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52 define a cross pattern, when the head is viewed from a side view, to improve cleaning properties when the toothbrush 10 is moved in the respective opposite directions.

[0054] The tufts 46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52 of rows 16, 18, 19, 20 can be inclined relative to the mounting surface 22 at an angle of inclination α of about 65° to about 80°, optionally from about 70° to about 80°, still optionally from about 74° to about 78°, even more optionally around 74° or around 75° to provide optimized cleaning properties of the toothbrush 10.

[0055] In the tip region of the distal end 24 of the head 14, that is, the furthest from the handle 12, a crescent-shaped cluster 40 of tufts 26 is attached to the head 14. The tufts 26 may have a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 2 mm, and may comprise filaments that have a substantially circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of about 2 mm. Petition 870220092975, dated 10 / 10 / 2022, p. 25 / 35 21 / 21 meter of approximately 0.203 mm (8 mil). Each tuft 26 of the half-moon shaped cluster 40 can be positioned at an angle of approximately 80° or less to an imaginary line that is tangent to, or in the same plane as, the mounting surface 22 of the head 14, through which the tuft 26 is attached to the head 14. The tufts 26 of the half-moon shaped cluster 40 are angled / angled in the opposite direction to the handle 12 and extend beyond the distal end 24 of the toothbrush head 14, and thus are able to clean the molars (e.g., wisdom teeth and second molars) at the back of the oral cavity more effectively.

[0056] In the present context, the term substantially refers to an arrangement of elements or characteristics that, while in theory would be expected to exhibit exact correspondence or behavior, may, in practice, encompass something somewhat less than exact. As such, the term denotes the degree to which a value, measurement, or other related quantitative representation may vary from an established reference without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject under discussion.

[0057] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed in the present invention should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​mentioned. Instead, except where otherwise specified, each of these dimensions is intended to mean both the mentioned value and a range of functionally equivalent values ​​around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as 40 mm is intended to mean approximately 40 mm.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Toothbrush head (14) of an oral care implement (10) comprising: at least one first row (16) of tufts (46, 47, 48) comprising a plurality of filaments having free ends (30) and fixed ends (32) which are opposite the free ends (30) and which are fixed to a mounting surface (22) of the head (14), and the filaments of the at least first row (16) of tufts (46, 47, 48) extending from the mounting surface (22) of the head (14) by different length extensions (42, 44), thus defining with the free ends (30) of the filaments, an upper top cleaning surface (34) in the form of a continuous wave (36) comprising at least one wave crest and at least one wave trough located between a first tuft and a last tuft from at least the first row (16) of tufts and the tufts (46, 47,48) of at least the first row (16) are inclined relative to the mounting surface (22), at least a second row (18) of tufts (50, 51, 52) comprising a plurality of filaments, the second row (18) being parallel to the first row (16) and the filaments of the second row (18) extending from the mounting surface (22) in different length extensions (42, 44) thus defining, with the free ends (30) of the filaments, an upper top cleaning surface (34) in the form of a continuous wave (36) comprising at least one wave crest and at least one wave trough located between a first tuft and a last tuft of the at least second row (18) of tufts (50, 51, 52) and the tufts (50, 51, 52) of the second row (18) are inclined relative to the mounting surface (22), characterized in that the tufts (50, 51, 52) of the second row (18) are arranged in a way that the waveform is Petition 870220092975, of 10 / 10 / 2022,pg. 27 / 35 2 / 4 countercyclic in relation to the waveform of the first row (16), wherein the countercyclic waveform is a phase shift between the first row (16) and the second row (18) of 120 to 180 degrees., 2. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 1, characterized in that the tufts (46, 47, 48) of at least the first row (16) are inclined relative to the mounting surface (22) in a direction parallel to a longitudinal extension (28) of the head (14), the longitudinal extension (28) of the head (14) extending between a proximal end (23) of the head (14) that is fixed or fixable to a handle (12) and a distal end (24) that is opposite the proximal end (23).

3. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 1, characterized in that the tufts (46, 47, 48) of at least the first row (16) are inclined relative to the mounting surface (22) at an angle of inclination (α) of 65° to 80°.

4. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 1, characterized in that the difference between the length of the longer extension (42) and the length of the shorter extension (44) is 1.5 mm to 2.0 mm.

5. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 1, characterized in that the longer filaments have a circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of 0.15 mm to 0.18 mm.

6. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 1, characterized in that the shorter filaments have a circular cross-sectional area with a diameter of 0.20 mm to 0.23 mm.

7. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 1, characterized in that the tufts (50, 51, 52) of the second row (18) are inclined in the opposite direction with respect to the inclination direction of the first row (16). Petition 870220092975, of 10 / 10 / 2022, page 28 / 35 3 / 4 8. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a third row (19) of tufts (50, 51, 52) comprising a plurality of filaments, and a fourth row (20) of tufts (46, 47, 48) comprising a plurality of filaments, the third row (19) and the fourth row (20) being parallel to the first row (16) and the second row (18), and the tufts (46, 47, 48) of the first row (16) and the tufts (46, 47, 48) of the fourth row (20) being inclined towards the proximal end (23) of the head (14), and the tufts (50, 51, 52) of the second row (18) and the tufts (50, 51, 52) of the third row (19) being inclined towards the end distal (24) of the head (14).

9. Toothbrush head (14), according to claim 8, characterized in that the third row (19) has a continuous wave-shaped top cleaning surface (34) with the same configuration as the top cleaning surface (34) of the second row (18), and the fourth row (20) has a continuous wave-shaped top cleaning surface (34) with the same configuration as the top cleaning surface (34) of the first row (16), and the first row (16) and the fourth row (20) are arranged on the respective outer edges (38) of the mounting surface (22) of the head (14), and the second row (18) and the third row (19) are arranged between the first row (16) and the fourth row (20).

10. Oral treatment implement (10) characterized in that it comprises: a handle (12); a toothbrush head as defined in claim 1, extending from the handle (12) in a longitudinal direction; and a plurality of tufts (46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52) that is attached to the head (14), wherein each tuft of the plurality of tufts (46, 47, 48, 50, 51, 52) comprises a plurality of filaments having free ends (30) and fixed ends (32), opposite the free ends (30), and fixed to a mounting surface (22) of the head (14);wherein four rows (16, 18, 19, 20) of the plurality of tufts (46, 47, 48, 50, 51) are arranged parallel to a longitudinal extension (28) of the head (14), the longitudinal extension (28) of the head (14) extending between a proximal end (23) of the head (14) that is fixable to the handle (12), and a distal end (24) that is opposite the proximal end (23), the first row (16) of the plurality of tufts (46, 47, 48) and the fourth row (20) of the plurality of tufts (46, 47, 48) being arranged along an outer edge (38) of the mounting surface (22), while the second row (18) of the plurality of tufts (50, 51, 52), and the third row (19) of the plurality of tufts (50, 51, 52) are arranged in the central part of the mounting surface (22).;

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