Cleaning unit and oral hygiene device for oral hygiene equipment

Abstract

The cleaning part for an electric oral hygiene device comprises a carrier attached for driven rotation and / or oscillating rotation around a rotation axis, and at least a plurality of first cleaning elements and a plurality of second cleaning elements, the cleaning elements being attached to the attachment surface of the carrier. The carrier has an outer edge and an inner part. The plurality of first cleaning elements are arranged on the inner part of the carrier, and the plurality of second cleaning elements are arranged on the outer edge of the carrier. The plurality of first cleaning elements have a longitudinal axis and a substantially cross-shaped cross-sectional area extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the cross-shaped cross-sectional area having four protrusions and four channels, the protrusions and channels being arranged alternately.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cleaning part for an electric oral hygiene device, which comprises a carrier attached for driven rotation and / or oscillating rotation about a rotation axis, and at least a plurality of first cleaning elements and a plurality of second cleaning elements, wherein the cleaning elements are attached to the attachment surface of the carrier. The present disclosure further relates to an electric oral hygiene device comprising such a cleaning part and a handle, wherein the cleaning part is repeatedly detachable from the handle.

Background Art

[0002] Bristle bundles composed of a plurality of filaments for oral care appliances such as manual and electric toothbrushes are well known in the art. Generally, the bristle bundles are attached to a bristle carrier of a head intended to be inserted into a user's oral cavity. Usually, a gripping part handle is attached to the head, and this handle is grasped by the user during toothbrushing. The head is permanently connected to the handle or is repeatedly detachable from the handle.

[0003] To effectively clean teeth, appropriate contact pressure must be applied between the free end of the filament and the tooth. Generally, the contact pressure depends on the bending stiffness and displacement of the filament, while the bending stiffness of a single filament depends on its length and cross-sectional area. Typically, longer filaments exhibit lower bending stiffness compared to shorter filaments. However, relatively thin filaments tend to bend and detach easily, and their relatively low bending stiffness reduces the efficiency of plaque removal on the tooth surface, as well as decreasing interdental penetration and cleaning performance. To compensate for the reduced bending stiffness of longer filaments, the size of the filament's cross-sectional area can be increased. However, relatively thicker filaments can result in an unpleasant brushing sensation and are more likely to irritate the gums, especially when using an electric toothbrush. In addition, thicker filaments may exhibit lower bending recovery, and after relatively short periods of use, the bristle pattern may appear worn out due to the use of the filament.

[0004] Furthermore, filaments having contours along their elongated portions, resulting in non-circular cross-sectional areas, such as polygonal or cruciform cross-sectional areas, are also well known in the art. Such filaments should improve the cleaning properties of oral care instruments during normal use. In particular, contoured edges should provide a more robust frictional action during the brushing process, improving the removal of plaque and other residues from the tooth surface.

[0005] While toothbrushes with conventional types of bristles adequately clean the buccal surfaces of the outer teeth, they are generally not well-suited for the proper removal of plaque and debris from interdental spaces and other hard-to-reach oral areas, as penetration into interdental spaces remains relatively difficult. In particular, they are not well-suited for thoroughly cleaning the gum line, where plaque typically begins to grow. Therefore, to obtain and maintain good oral health and to prevent gingivitis, it is important to clean along the gum line, especially the space between the tooth and periodontal tissue, the so-called gingival sulcus. It is known that a lack of proper plaque removal in the gingival sulcus can lead to gingivitis, or inflammation of the gum tissue. Standard bristles do not provide sufficient capillary effect to remove plaque and debris from the tooth and gum surface during brushing. However, to obtain good cleaning results, the bristles / filaments must reach the plaque, then break it down, and finally remove it. Furthermore, the bristles shall provide a good sensory feel to the gums during brushing, especially when an electric toothbrush that performs rotational and / or vibrating motion is used.

[0006] Furthermore, during the brushing process, the mechanical stress generated within the cross-shaped filaments results in stronger stress at the tips of the cross-shaped filaments compared to the round-shaped filaments. This means that, in a bristle bundle with similar overall rigidity, the cross-shaped filaments must withstand a higher maximum stress value compared to the round-shaped filaments. This increased stress in individual cross-shaped filaments can lead to increased wear behavior during use. This wear is characterized by increased outward spreading of the bristle bundle, reducing consumer tolerance. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] An object of this disclosure is to provide a cleaning unit for an electric oral hygiene device that overcomes at least one of the aforementioned drawbacks. Another object of this disclosure is to provide an electric oral hygiene device equipped with such a cleaning unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] According to one embodiment, a cleaning unit for an electric oral hygiene device is provided, the cleaning unit comprising a carrier mounted for driven rotation and / or oscillating rotation around a rotation axis, and at least a plurality of first cleaning elements and a plurality of second cleaning elements, the cleaning elements being mounted on a mounting surface of the carrier, the carrier having an outer edge and an inner portion, the plurality of first cleaning elements being arranged in the inner portion of the carrier, and the plurality of second cleaning elements being arranged on the outer edge of the carrier, each of the plurality of first cleaning elements having a longitudinal axis and a substantially cruciate cross-sectional region extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the cruciate cross-sectional region having four projections and four channels, the projections and channels being arranged alternately.

[0009] According to one embodiment, an electric oral hygiene device is provided, which comprises such a cleaning unit and a handle, the cleaning unit being repeatedly detachable from the handle. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] The present invention will be described in more detail below with respect to various embodiments and drawings. [Figure 1] A schematic perspective view is shown of an electric oral hygiene device comprising a handle and a first exemplary embodiment of the cleaning unit according to this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of the cleaning section. [Figure 3] A schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the cleaning section of an electric oral hygiene device according to this disclosure is shown. [Figure 4] A schematic perspective view of a third embodiment of the cleaning section of the electric oral hygiene device according to this disclosure is shown. [Figure 5] A schematic perspective view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of the cleaning unit for an electric oral hygiene device according to the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 6] A schematic perspective view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of the cleaning unit for an electric oral hygiene device according to the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 7] A schematic cross-sectional view of the first cleaning element is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The electric oral hygiene device (also called an "oral care device") according to this disclosure may be an electric toothbrush comprising a handle and a cleaning unit. Such a cleaning unit is also called a "head." The cleaning unit extends from the handle and is repeatedly detachable from the handle.

[0012] The cleaning section may include a carrier / bristle carrier that may have a substantially circular or elliptical shape. The carrier has an outer edge and an inner portion. Such a carrier can be provided for an electric toothbrush capable of rotational oscillating motion. The bristle carrier of the electric toothbrush can be driven to move axially in a manner that it rotates around a motion axis and oscillates along the motion axis, and such a motion axis may extend substantially perpendicular to a plane defined by the upper surface of the upper bristle carrier.

[0013] At least a plurality of first cleaning elements and a plurality of second cleaning elements are attached to the mounting surface of the carrier. The plurality of first cleaning elements are positioned / attached to the inner portion of the carrier, while the plurality of second cleaning elements are positioned / attached to the outer edge of the carrier, i.e., in close proximity to the outer edge.

[0014] Each of the multiple first cleaning elements has a longitudinal axis and a substantially cross-shaped cross-sectional area extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to this longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of the cleaning element is defined by the main extension of the cleaning element. The cross-shaped cross-sectional area of ​​the first cleaning element has four projections and four channels, the projections and channels arranged alternately.

[0015] The first cleaning element may be an elastomer element or a filament. Such a filament may be made from a thermoplastic polymer, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Multiple such first cleaning elements / filaments can be bundled together to form a filamentous tuft mounted on a carrier. Such a filamentous tuft of first cleaning elements / filaments may be referred to as a "first type of tuft." Optionally, such a first type of tuft may include not only the first cleaning elements but also mixtures of the first cleaning elements and some other types of cleaning elements / filaments. For example, a number of first cleaning elements / filaments and a number of circular and / or trefoil filaments may be bundled together to form a first type of tuft.

[0016] A second cleaning element positioned on the outer edge of the carrier has a longitudinal axis and a substantial cross-sectional area extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cross-sectional area of ​​the second cleaning element differs from that of the first cleaning element. For example, the cross-sectional area of ​​the second cleaning element may be substantially circular, trefoil-shaped, or have a shape including multiple depressions. Such a second cleaning element may be an elastomer element, or a filament that is bundled together to form a filament tuft. Such a tuft of second cleaning element / filament may be called a “second type of tuft”.

[0017] Such arrangement of the first and second cleaning elements provides excellent toothbrushing / cleaning effects. The first cleaning element, positioned on the inner part of the carrier, can provide a deep cleaning effect by having its projections scrape against the teeth, thereby removing plaque and other residues from the tooth surface, while the second cleaning element, positioned on the outer edge, can provide a gentler cleaning action along the more sensitive gum line. In addition, the projections of the first cleaning element can more easily penetrate interdental areas and hard-to-reach areas during the rotational vibration motion of the head, which can give further improved cleaning characteristics. Plaque and other residues can be loosened by the vibrational action of the first cleaning element, while plaque and further residues can be removed by the rotational motion.

[0018] Since the first cleaning element is positioned on the inner part of the carrier, it rotates and moves less during the brushing motion compared to the second cleaning element positioned on the outer edge. This has the advantage that the first cleaning element bends and flexes less during use. Therefore, the mechanical stress generated within the cross-shaped filament during the brushing process, which would result in stronger stress at the tip of the cross-shaped filament (compared to a circular filament), is mitigated. Wear of the cross-shaped filament during use can be significantly reduced. This wear is typically characterized by increased spreading of the bristle bundle, which reduces consumer tolerance. Also, thinner cleaning elements can be applied, creating a more comfortable brushing sensation / experience. When such thin filaments are positioned on the inner part of the carrier, such elements produce the impression of less wear. For example, each of the first cleaning elements may have a cross-sectional area with an outer diameter, and the outer diameter of at least some of the first cleaning elements may be about 0.1 mm to about 0.3 mm, or about 0.256 mm. Surprisingly, it was found that cruciform filaments with a diameter of approximately 0.256 mm provided an improved tooth-brushing sensation compared to cruciform filaments with a larger diameter.

[0019] In relation to this disclosure, the outer diameter of the first cleaning element is defined by the length of a straight line passing through the center of the element's cross-sectional area, the endpoint of which lies on the outermost circumference of the cross-sectional area. In other words, the cross-shaped cross-sectional area has a virtual outer circumference (i.e., an outer circle) in the shape of a circle, and the outer diameter is defined as the longest straight line segment of the circle passing through the center of the circle.

[0020] The cross-shaped filaments of the first type of tuft may have a relatively low packing ratio within the range of about 45% to about 57%, or within the range of about 45% to about 55%, or within the range of about 48% to about 50%. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "packing ratio" is defined as the total cross-sectional area of the filaments in the tuft pore divided by the cross-sectional area of the tuft pore. In embodiments where a fixture such as a staple is used to attach the tuft within the tuft pore, the fixing means area is excluded from the cross-sectional area of the tuft pore.

[0021] While the cross-sectional shape filaments still have contact with each other along a part of the outer lateral surface, a packing ratio of about 45% to about 57%, or about 45% to about 55%, or about 48% to about 50% maintains a specific interstitial volume within the tuft. The interstitial volume can deliver more dentifrice to the brushing process, allowing the dentifrice to interact with the teeth for a longer time and contributing to an improved brushing effect. In addition, the interstitial volume, i.e., the voids between the filaments, enables an increased uptake of loosened dental plaque due to improved capillary action. In other words, such a low packing ratio results in more dentifrice / dentifrice being retained on / attached to the filaments for a longer time during the brushing process. Furthermore, a lower tuft density may avoid the possibility that the dentifrice diffuses and results in an improved overall brushing process. When cleaning by contacting the teeth, the dentifrice is better received and directly delivered in the channels, thereby achieving a greater polishing effect, which is desirable especially with respect to the removal of tooth discoloration.

[0022] In other words, a relatively low packing ratio within the range of about 45% to about 57%, or about 45% to about 55%, or about 48% to 50% can provide an improved brushing effect, i.e., better removal of dental plaque and debris from the tooth surface and tooth gingiva, due to the improved capillary effect. These capillary effects allow the dentifrice to flow towards the tips / free ends of the filaments, and thus, during brushing, the dentifrice can be more effectively applied to the teeth and gingiva. At the same time, the uptake of dental plaque and debris from the surfaces of the teeth and gingiva is improved.

[0023] Note that due to the cross-shaped configuration of the filaments, each individual filament is stiffer than a filament having a circular configuration when manufactured from the same amount of material. However, due to the low packing density within the range of about 45% to about 57%, or about 45% to about 55%, or about 48% to 50%, the overall stiffness of the tuft manufactured from the cross-shaped filaments is reduced as compared to the tuft of circular filaments. Surprisingly, it has been found that such tufts provide an improved cleaning efficiency while providing an improved sensory experience, i.e., a softer feel in the oral cavity during brushing. The projections of the cross-shaped filaments can easily access the gingival sulcus and other hard-to-reach areas, such as the surface of the teeth between adjacent teeth, scrape across the surface to dislodge plaque, and due to the improved capillary effect of the overall tuft, the plaque can be removed more readily. Due to the special configuration, the cross-shaped filaments can penetrate deeply into the gingival sulcus and adjacent interdental areas. Note that the relatively low packing density of the first type of tuft allows the individual cross-shaped filaments to better conform to the contours of the gingival line and gingival sulcus.

[0024] Since at least one second type of tooth cleaning element is disposed at the outer edge of the carrier / head, i.e., the outer edge of the bristle area, the aforementioned second tooth cleaning element can provide the first type of tuft with improved stability to prevent a wide spread of the first type of tuft. Thus, the second tooth cleaning element can significantly improve the wear behavior and wear appearance of the first type of tuft, which has a relatively low packing density and thus low stability while providing improved tooth cleaning efficiency. Particularly over a long period of time, a brush that appears to have been used only slightly after brushing provides a higher acceptance by consumers.

[0025] The second cleaning element may be filaments grouped together to form at least one bristle bundle of a second type, which may have higher bending stiffness / stability than the bristle bundle containing the first cleaning element. The aforementioned second type of bristle bundle may have a packing ratio of about 70% to about 80%, thereby providing higher bending stiffness and stability of the entire bristle bundle compared to the first type of bristle bundle. If the second tooth cleaning element is an elastomer element, it may be made of TPE material and / or have the shape of an elastomer wall extending along the length-extending portion of the head. Such an elastomer wall may provide an abrasive effect on the outer surface of the tooth, allowing for more complete removal of tooth discoloration. Alternatively, the elastomer element may have the shape of a rubber nub or rubber finger for stimulating and massaging the gums.

[0026] At least some of the first cleaning elements may be arranged at least partially in a circle around the axis of rotation.

[0027] Furthermore, at least some of the second cleaning elements may be arranged at least partially in a circle around the axis of rotation along the outer edge of the carrier. Such a carrier / head configuration can further enhance the effectiveness and advantages, as described above.

[0028] At least some of the first cleaning elements may be inclined circumferentially with respect to the axis of rotation to improve interdental penetration of the cleaning elements, and thus the toothbrushing / cleaning effect. Furthermore, at least some of the first cleaning elements may be positioned at the center of the carrier.

[0029] At least some of the first cleaning elements and some of the second cleaning elements may be arranged alternately in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0030] Each channel of the cruciform first cleaning element may have a concave curve formed by adjacent, converging projections. The aforementioned concave curve may have a radius in the range of approximately 0.02 mm to approximately 0.09 mm, or approximately 0.03 mm to approximately 0.06 mm. In other words, two adjacent projections, i.e., two adjacent lateral edges of the projections, may converge at the bottom of the channel and define a "convergence region". The adjacent projections may converge in the aforementioned convergence region in the manner of a concave curve, i.e., in the manner that an inwardly curved radius is formed at the bottom of the channel. Radii within this range are relatively large compared to those of a standard cruciform filament.

[0031] In the past, conventional cross-shaped filaments have been observed to have the drawback that these types of filaments can easily tangle with each other, both during manufacturing and during brushing. However, surprisingly, it has been found that the specific shape / contour of the outer surface of the first brushing element according to this disclosure enables improved manufacturability, as the likelihood of the filaments / brushing elements tangling is significantly reduced when multiple filaments twist together to form a single bundle during the so-called "picking process."

[0032] Furthermore, the relatively large radius at the bottom of the channel increases the stability of the filament / first cleaning element, thus reducing filament damage that occurs during the brush manufacturing process, for example, when the filament is poked and fixed onto the mounting surface of the brush head during stapling or high-temperature bristle bundling processes. In the past, it has been observed that a relatively large number of conventional cross-shaped filaments are damaged during the picking process. In particular, the projection may break off from the filament, or the filament may twist together in the confluence area at the bottom of the channel. Twisted filaments can provide relatively sharp edges, which may injure or damage oral tissues during brushing.

[0033] Furthermore, surprisingly, it was found that, due to the specific shape of the radius of the concave curvature, when the gap between two adjacent filaments can be maximized, the filaments within the bristle bundle can be better filled within relatively low packing ratios, i.e., within the range of approximately 45% to 57%, 45% to 55%, or 48% to 50%. It was found that it is important for the filaments to maintain gaps in specific void regions while still having contact with each other. In order to manufacture toothbrushes that meet the specified requirements and are well-received by consumers in terms of overall appearance, typically high packing ratios (approximately 70% to 80% for circular filaments, approximately 80% for diamond-shaped filaments, and approximately 89% for trefoil-shaped filaments) are required. For toothbrushes manufactured by the stapling process, packing ratios below approximately 70% result in insufficiently compressed filaments within the bristle bundle pores, and therefore insufficient bristle bundle retention. Therefore, if circular filaments are used with a packing ratio below approximately 70%, the specified requirements are not met. Regarding toothbrushes with bristles bonded at high temperatures, a packing ratio lower than approximately 70% can allow the molten plastic to penetrate the bristle bundle during the molding process, as the pressure of the molten material pushes the filaments of the bristle bundle toward each other until they come into contact. This can result in the formation of so-called splinters, which can irritate / injure the gums, thus making the product unsafe. Aside from regulatory and safety considerations, low-packing bristle bundles of circular filaments may have a "crude" and broken appearance that is unacceptable to consumers. However, low packing ratios can be achieved in compliant and safe products with an acceptable overall appearance while providing improved cleaning properties by using cross-shaped filaments with a concave curvature of the channel within a radius of approximately 0.02 mm to 0.09 mm.

[0034] Each projection in the cross-shaped cross-sectional area has two outer lateral edges along the longitudinally extending portion of the filament. These outer edges can generate relatively high concentrated stress on the tooth surface, thereby breaking down and removing plaque. The outer edges can provide a frictional effect, allowing plaque and other debris to loosen more effectively. The relatively large radius of the concave curvature at the bottom of the channel provides a projection with increased rigidity / stability, which loosens / removes plaque from the tooth surface more easily / effectively. The channel can then capture and remove the broken-down plaque from the tooth.

[0035] Surprisingly, it has been found that this filament shape provides even greater cleaning performance while maintaining brush comfort in the mouth. In addition, it has been found that this shape further reduces the likelihood of the filaments getting tangled during brushing, thus further helping to reduce wear on the appearance of the filaments / bristle bundles. Furthermore, the feasibility of manufacturing such filaments during the toothbrush manufacturing process can be further improved.

[0036] Each projection in the cruciate cross-sectional region of the first cleaning element has a distal end that may be rounded at the end, thereby forming a curve with a specific radius. The radius of the curve of the projection may be about 0.01 mm to about 0.02 mm, or about 0.015 mm.

[0037] The ratio of the radius of curvature of the projection to the radius of curvature of the channel may be in the range of approximately 0.1 to approximately 1.0 or approximately 0.2 to approximately 0.5. The aforementioned ratio is relatively small compared to standard cross-shaped filaments in the prior art. In other words, with respect to the diameter of the curvature of the projection, i.e., with respect to the width-extending portion of the projection, the radius of the concave curvature of the channel may be relatively large, or in other words, the diameter of the curvature of the projection may be relatively small compared to the radius of the concave curvature of the channel. For example, each projection of the first cleaning element may have a maximum thickness, and the maximum thickness of each projection may be approximately 0.025 mm to approximately 0.045 mm, or approximately 0.037 to approximately 0.041 mm. A relatively large radius provides a relatively thin projection with increased stability. Thus, during the brush manufacturing process, in particular when the filament is poked, there is less chance of the filament / projection being damaged, or the relatively thin projection being less likely to break off. In other words, the manufacturability of such filaments during the toothbrush manufacturing process is further improved.

[0038] Furthermore, surprisingly, it was found that this filament shape provides even greater cleaning performance while maintaining brush comfort in the mouth. In addition, it was found that this shape further reduces the likelihood of the filaments getting tangled during brushing, thus further contributing to reduced wear on the appearance of the filaments / bristle bundles.

[0039] The diameter of the curvature of the projection may be in the range of approximately 5% to 12% of the outer diameter of the filament. Surprisingly, it has been found that such filaments conform more well to the contour of the tooth, penetrate more easily into the interdental space, and remove plaque and debris more completely.

[0040] The projections of the cross-shaped first cleaning element may taper radially in the outward direction, i.e., away from the center of the cross-sectional area and toward the outer circumference. Such tapered projections can further ensure access to narrow gaps and other hard-to-reach areas, enabling deeper and more effective penetration / entry into interdental regions. Compared to a circular filament manufactured from the same amount of material, the cross-shaped filament / cleaning element has higher bending stiffness, and this higher bending stiffness strengthens the filament projections, allowing them to slide more easily into the interdental region.

[0041] The projections can taper outward radially at angles ranging from approximately 6° to 25°, or from approximately 8° to 20°. Surprisingly, it has been found that such tapering enables optimal interdental penetration characteristics. Furthermore, such filaments can be bundled more easily into hair tufts without becoming entangled on the contours of adjacent filaments.

[0042] The first cleaning element / filament may be substantially cylindrical; that is, the filament may have a substantially cylindrical outer lateral surface. In other words, the shape and size of the cross-sectional area of ​​the filament along its longitudinal axis may not change substantially; that is, the shape and size of the cross-sectional area may be substantially constant over the longitudinally extending portion of the filament. In connection with this disclosure, the term “outer lateral surface of the filament” means the outer surface or outer surface of the filament on its side. This type of filament may offer increased bending stiffness compared to tapered filaments. Higher bending stiffness may further facilitate the penetration of the filament into interdental gaps / spaces. Furthermore, cylindrical filaments generally wear out slowly, which may provide a longer service life for the filament.

[0043] Cylindrical filaments, having substantially rounded tips / free ends, may provide gentle cleaning properties. Rounded tips may prevent injury to the gums during brushing. In connection with this disclosure, rounded-end filaments may still fall under the definition of substantially cylindrical filaments.

[0044] Alternatively, the first cleaning element / filament may comprise a substantially cylindrical portion and a tapered portion along its longitudinal axis, wherein the tapered portion tapers longitudinally toward the free end of the filament, and the cylindrical portion has the cross-sectional area according to the disclosure. In other words, the filament of the first type of bristle bundle may be a tapered filament having a pointed tip. The tapered filament can optimally penetrate into the area between two teeth and into the periodontal pocket during brushing, and thus can provide improved cleaning characteristics. The tapered filament may have an overall length extending over the mounting surface of the head in the range of about 8 mm to about 16 mm, optionally about 12.5 mm, and a tapered portion in the range of about 5 mm to about 10 mm measured from the tip of the filament. The pointed tip may be needle-shaped and may have branched or feather-shaped ends. The tapered portion can be manufactured by a chemical and / or mechanical tapering process.

[0045] The first and / or second cleaning element may be made from a polyamide with or without an abrasive material such as kaolin clay, e.g., nylon, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) with or without an abrasive material such as kaolin clay, and / or a polyamide indicator material colored on its outer surface, e.g., a nylon indicator material. The coloring of the polyamide indicator material may gradually wear away as the filament is used over time, indicating the degree of filament wear.

[0046] The first and / or second cleaning element may comprise at least two sections of different materials. At least one section may comprise a thermoplastic elastomer material (TPE), and at least one section may comprise a polyamide with or without an abrasive, such as nylon, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) with or without an abrasive, such as kaolin clay, or a polyamide indicator material colored on the outer surface, such as a nylon indicator material. These at least two sections may be arranged in a parallel structure or in a core-outer structure, which may result in a reduction in the overall rigidity of the filament. A core-outer structure comprising an inner / core section containing a harder material, e.g., polyamide or PBT, and an outer / outer section surrounding the core section, containing a softer material, e.g., TPE, may provide a filament with a relatively soft outer lateral surface that can provide milder cleaning properties.

[0047] The first and / or second cleaning element may comprise components selected from fluoride, zinc, strontium salts, fragrances, silica, pyrophosphates, hydrogen peroxide, potassium nitrate, or combinations thereof. For example, fluoride may provide a mineralizing effect and thus prevent tooth decay. Zinc may strengthen the user's immune system. Hydrogen peroxide may bleach / whiten teeth. Silica may have an abrasive effect that more effectively removes plaque and debris from teeth. Pyrophosphates may inhibit the formation of new plaque, tartar, and calculus along the gum line. Cleaning elements / filaments containing pyrophosphates may provide sustained protection against inflammation of the gums and oral mucosa.

[0048] When multiple such filaments are bundled together to form a bristle bundle, they may be arranged such that the filaments on the outer lateral surface of the bristle bundle contain pyrophosphate to inhibit the formation of plaque, calculus, and dentin lithotripsy along the gum line, while the filaments located in the center of the bristle bundle contain fluoride to mineralize the teeth during the brushing process.

[0049] At least one of the components listed above may be coated onto the outer surface, i.e., onto the outer portion of the filament. In other words, at least some first and / or second cleaning elements / filaments of a bristle bundle may have a core-outer structure in which the inner / core portion may contain TPE, polyamide, or PBT, and the outer / outer portion may contain at least one of the components listed above. Such a core-outer structure can allow the component(s) to be directly effective on the teeth at relatively high concentrations, i.e., the component(s) may come into direct contact with the teeth during brushing.

[0050] Alternatively, at least one of the components listed above may be co-extruded with TPE, polyamide, such as nylon, and / or PBT. Such embodiments may allow the component(s) to gradually become effective on the tooth as the filament material slowly wears away during use.

[0051] The heads for oral care instruments according to this disclosure may include a bristle carrier that may have bristle bundle holes, such as blind-end holes. The bristle bundles according to this disclosure may be fixed / anchored in the aforementioned bristle bundle holes by a stapling process / fixed bristle bundle attachment method. This means that the filaments of the bristle bundle are bent / folded in a substantially U-shape around a fastener, such as a metal fastening wire or fastening plate. The filaments are pushed into the bristle bundle hole together with the fastener, thereby penetrating into the opposite wall of the bristle bundle hole, thereby anchoring / fixing / fastening the filaments to the bristle carrier. The fastener may be fixed to the opposite wall by positive engagement and friction engagement. If the bristle bundle hole is a blind-end hole, the fastener holds the filaments against the bottom of the hole. In other words, the fastener may be positioned in a substantially vertical manner across the U-shaped curve. Because the filaments of the bristle bundle are curved around the fastener in a substantially U-shaped configuration, the first and second rims of each filament extend from the bristle carrier in the direction of the filament. The type of filament that may be used in a stapling process / suitable for use in a stapling process is also referred to as "double-ended filaments". Heads for oral care instruments manufactured by a stapling process can be provided in a relatively low-cost and time-efficient manner. Due to the improved shape of the filaments of at least one first type of bristle bundle according to this disclosure, when the filaments are stashed and fixed onto the mounting surface of the brush head during the stapling process, only a few filaments are damaged, such as by cutting. Furthermore, when multiple filaments are stashed to form a single bristle bundle, only a few filaments become entangled on the outer surface of adjacent filaments.

[0052] Alternatively, the bristles may be attached / secured to the head by means of a high-temperature bristling process. One method for manufacturing the head of an oral care device may include the following steps: Firstly, the bristles may be formed by providing a desired amount of filament according to the present disclosure. Secondly, the bristles may be placed in a mold hole so that the ends of the filaments to be attached to a carrier extend into the hole. Thirdly, a carrier may be formed by an injection molding process around the ends of the filaments extending into the mold hole so that the bristles can be secured within the carrier. Before initiating the injection molding process, the ends of at least one bristles extending into the mold hole may be optionally melted / fused together to form a molten aggregate or molten sphere which is linked with the filament, so that the molten aggregate or molten sphere is placed in the hole. The bristles may be held in the mold hole by mold supports having blind holes corresponding to desired positions of the bristles on the finished head of the oral care device. In other words, the filaments of a bristle bundle attached to a carrier by means of a high-temperature bristle bundle process do not need to overlap in the middle along their length, nor do they need to be attached to the head by means of a fastener / staple. The bristle bundle may be attached to the carrier by means of a bristle bundle process without fasteners. The high-temperature bristle bundle manufacturing process enables complex bristle bundle shapes. For example, the bristle bundle may have a specific topography / shape at its free end, i.e., its upper surface, and may be shaped to best fit the contour of a tooth, or to further enhance interdental penetration. For example, the topography may be rounded or angular in one or two directions, pointed, or linear, concave, or convex. The improved shape of the filament / first cleaning element according to this disclosure reduces the likelihood of damage to the filament, such as by cutting, when the filament is poked and fixed onto the mounting surface of the brush head during the high-temperature bristle bundle process. Furthermore, when multiple filaments are poked to form a single bundle of hair, fewer filaments become entangled on the outer surface of adjacent filaments.

[0053] The following is a non-limiting discussion of exemplary embodiments of oral hygiene devices and components thereof according to the present disclosure, with reference to the drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the electric oral hygiene device 10. In this example, the electric oral hygiene device 10 is an electric toothbrush comprising a handle 12 and a cleaning unit 14. The cleaning unit 14 comprises a toothbrush head or bristle carrier 16 and a shaft 18 that can be repeatedly attached to and detached from the handle 12.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2, the carrier 16 of the cleaning unit 14 is mounted on the head 20 so as to rotate driven and / or oscillate around a rotation axis 22. As can be derived from the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2 to 6, at least a plurality of first cleaning elements 24 and a plurality of second cleaning elements 26 are mounted on the mounting surface 28 of the carrier 16. The carrier 16 has an outer edge 30 and an inner portion 32. The plurality of first cleaning elements 24 are arranged in the inner portion 32 of the carrier 16, while the plurality of second cleaning elements 26 are arranged on the outer edge 30 of the carrier 16. The first and / or second cleaning elements 24, 26 may be bundled filaments or elastomer cleaning elements. The first and / or second cleaning elements may be made from a thermoplastic polymer, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0056] As shown in Figure 7, the first cleaning element 24 has a substantially cross-shaped cross-sectional region 34 extending along its longitudinal axis and in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The cross-shaped cross-sectional region 34 has four projections 36 and four channels 38, the projections 36 and channels 38 being arranged alternately. Similarly, each of the second cleaning elements 26 has a longitudinal axis. However, the cross-sectional region extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis may be, for example, circular.

[0057] The cross-sectional area 34 of the first cleaning element 24 has an outer diameter 40, and the outer diameter of at least some of the first cleaning elements may be about 0.1 mm to about 0.3 mm, or about 0.256 mm.

[0058] Each projection 36 of the first cleaning element 24 has a maximum thickness 42, which may be about 0.025 mm to about 0.045 mm, or about 0.037 mm to about 0.041 mm. Furthermore, each projection 36 of the first cleaning element 24 has a distal end 48. The aforementioned distal end 48 can be rounded, thereby forming a curve 50 having a radius 52 of about 0.01 mm to about 0.02 mm, or about 0.015 mm.

[0059] Each channel 38 of the first cleaning element 24 has a concave curve 44 formed by adjacent and converging protrusions 36. The aforementioned concave curve 44 may have a radius 46 in the range of about 0.02 mm to about 0.09 mm, or about 0.03 mm to about 0.06 mm.

[0060] Using such a shape of the first cleaning element 24, multiple such first cleaning elements 24 can be bundled together to form a tuft 54 ​​of cleaning elements / filaments 24. The tuft 54 ​​may have a packing rate in the range of about 45% to about 57%, or about 45% to about 55%, or about 48% to about 50%.

[0061] As shown in Figures 2 to 5, at least some of the first cleaning elements 24 bundled in the first type of hair bundle 54 can be positioned at least partially in a circle around the axis of rotation 22. Furthermore, at least some of the first cleaning elements 24 bundled in the first type of hair bundle 54 can be positioned at the center 58 of the carrier 16 (see Figures 5 and 6).

[0062] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, at least some of the first cleaning elements 24 bundled in the first type of hair bundle 54 can be tilted circumferentially with respect to the rotation axis 22 in the same circumferential direction.

[0063] As shown in Figures 2 to 6, at least some of the second cleaning elements 26 bundled in the second type of hair bundle 56 can be at least partially positioned in a circle around the rotation axis 22 along the outer edge 30 of the carrier 16.

[0064] As shown in Figure 2, the first type of hair bundle 54 and the second type of hair bundle 56 can also be arranged alternately in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis 22.

[0065] In relation to this disclosure, the term “substantially” means the configuration of an element or mechanism that is expected to exhibit a precise agreement or behavior in theory, but which may be embodied in practice as being slightly less precise. Thus, the term indicates the extent to which quantitative values, measurements, or other related expressions may deviate from the described standard without altering the fundamental function of the object in question.

[0066] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values ​​listed. Instead, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the listed value and the functionally equivalent range encompassing that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as "40 mm" is intended to mean "approximately 40 mm."

Claims

1. A cleaning unit (14) for an electric oral hygiene device (10), wherein the cleaning unit (14) is A carrier (16) is attached for driven rotation and / or oscillating rotation around a rotating axis (22), The system includes at least a plurality of first cleaning elements (24) and a plurality of second cleaning elements (26), which are attached to the mounting surface (28) of the carrier (16), and the carrier (16) has an outer edge (30) and an inner portion (32), The plurality of first cleaning elements (24) are arranged in the inner portion (32) of the carrier (16), and the plurality of second cleaning elements (26) are arranged in the outer edge (30) of the carrier (16), and each of the plurality of first cleaning elements (24) has a longitudinal axis and a substantially cross-shaped cross-sectional region (34) extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the cross-shaped cross-sectional region (34) has four projections (36) and four channels (38), and the projections (36) and channels (38) are arranged alternately. A cleaning unit (14) wherein at least some of the first cleaning elements (24) are at least partially arranged in a circle around the rotation axis (22), and the some first cleaning elements (24) are inclined circumferentially in the same circumferential direction with respect to the rotation axis (22).

2. The cleaning unit (14) according to claim 1, wherein each second cleaning element (26) has a longitudinal axis and a cross-sectional region extending in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and the cross-sectional region is different from the cross-sectional region of the first cleaning element.

3. The cleaning section (14) according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectional area includes a substantially trefoil shape or a shape having a plurality of depressions.

4. The cleaning unit (14) according to claim 1, wherein the first and / or second cleaning elements (24, 26) are filaments or elastomer cleaning elements arranged in a bundle of hair (54, 56).

5. The cleaning unit (14) according to claim 1, wherein the first cleaning element (24) is a filament arranged in a bundle of hairs (54) having a filling rate in the range of about 45% to about 57%.

6. The cleaning unit (14) according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the second cleaning elements (26) are at least partially arranged in a circle around the rotation axis (22) along the outer edge (30) of the carrier (16).

7. The cleaning unit (14) according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the first cleaning elements (24) are located at the center (58) of the carrier (16).

8. The cleaning unit (14) according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the first cleaning elements (24) and some of the second cleaning elements (26) are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction with respect to the rotating shaft (22).

9. The cleaning section (14) according to claim 1, wherein each of the first cleaning elements (24) has a cross-sectional region (34) with an outer diameter (40), and at least some of the outer diameters (40) of the first cleaning elements (24) are about 0.1 mm to about 0.3 mm.

10. The cleaning section (14) according to claim 1, wherein each projection (36) of the first cleaning element (24) has a maximum thickness (42), and the maximum thickness (42) of each projection (36) is approximately 0.025 mm to approximately 0.045 mm.

11. The cleaning section (14) according to claim 1, wherein each channel (38) of the first cleaning element (24) has a concave curve (44) formed by being adjacent to and converging with a projection (36), the concave curve (44) has a radius (46), and the radius (46) of the concave curve (44) of the channel (38) is in the range of about 0.02 mm to about 0.09 mm.

12. The cleaning section (14) according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the projections (36) of the first cleaning element (24) have a distal end (48), and the distal end (48) is rounded at the end to form a curved portion (50) having a radius (52) of about 0.01 mm to about 0.02 mm.

13. The cleaning unit (14) according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the first cleaning elements (24) are made from a thermoplastic polymer.

14. An electric oral hygiene device (10) comprising a handle (12) and a cleaning unit (14) as described in claim 1, wherein the cleaning unit (14) is repeatedly attachable to and detachable from the handle (12).

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