brush

Abstract

A brush comprises a bristle retainer body (1) with a first bristle retainer body area (4) having a first transverse dimension (D1) and holding a plurality of first bristles (9). The bristle retainer body (1) also has a second bristle retainer body area (6) having a second transverse dimension (D2) that differs from the first transverse dimension (D1) and holding a plurality of second bristles (11).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a brush, such as an applicator brush, in particular a cosmetic applicator brush, preferably a mascara applicator brush, a cleaning brush, a medical brush, in particular an interdental brush, or the like. Furthermore, the invention is directed to a method for producing such a brush.

[0002] Brushes are known from the prior art through public prior use in a wide variety of designs for various applications. Furthermore, cosmetic or mascara applicator brushes are also described, for example, in DE 197 01 119 A1 and EP 1 549 173 B1, and interdental brushes are described, for example, in EP 0 800 781 A2 and EP 1 470 765 B1. However, the desired result achieved with the brush is often unsatisfactory. For example, its absorption, dispensing, or cleaning effect is poor.

[0003] The invention is based on the object of eliminating the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it is intended to provide an improved brush. A corresponding method for producing a brush is also to be provided.

[0004] This object is achieved according to the invention by the features specified in independent claims 1 and 14. The core of the invention lies in a bristle holding body having bristle holding body regions with different transverse dimensions, in particular outer transverse dimensions. This results, for example, in a different arrangement or spreading of the bristles in the different bristle holding body regions, which in turn has a positive influence, depending on the application, on the brush's absorption capacity, dispensing or application capacity, cleaning effect, or the like.

[0005] Such a brush, for example, has particularly good transfer properties. For example, liquids such as mascara can be distributed extremely evenly. When designed as a cleaning brush or medical brush, such as an interdental brush, the brushes exhibit extremely high strength and rigidity. For example, their resilience is also high. When designed as a cosmetic application brush or medical brush, for example, the bristle tips are spatially spread and distributed. Such brushes have an extremely high absorption and dispensing capacity.

[0006] The bristle holding body is preferably constructed in one piece. It is expedient if it is made of metal, plastic, or the like. The bristle holding body is preferably elongated. It is advantageous if it extends along a longitudinal central axis in a straight and / or curved manner, at least in some areas.

[0007] The bristle holding body preferably has a (substantially) constant first transverse dimension, in particular an outer transverse dimension, in the first bristle holding body region. It advantageously has a (substantially) circular, consistent outer contour in cross-section in the first bristle holding body region.

[0008] The bristle holding body preferably has a (substantially) constant second transverse dimension, in particular an outer transverse dimension, in the second bristle holding body region. It advantageously has a (substantially) circular, consistent outer contour in cross-section in the second bristle holding body region.

[0009] The first bristle holding body region and the second bristle holding body region are arranged at a distance from each other, for example. They have different lengths, for example. Alternatively, they are the same length.

[0010] It is expedient if the first bristles are arranged in first bristle clusters. Advantageously, the second bristles are also arranged in second bristle clusters. The first and second bristles are, for example, identically configured. They consist, for example, of an identical material and are of the same dimensions. Alternatively, they differ from one another, for example, in material, strength, treatment, cross-sectional shape, and / or dimensioning, such as length and / or thickness.

[0011] It is expedient if the brush has a grip region for gripping the brush or a coupling region for coupling the brush to a device, such as an electrical device, which is in direct or indirect connection with the bristle holding body.

[0012] The brush is, for example, a small brush.

[0013] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0014] The bristle-holding body transition region according to dependent claim 2 preferably adjoins, advantageously directly, the first bristle-holding body region and / or second bristle-holding body region. It is expedient if the transition transverse dimension changes (essentially) continuously or steplessly in the bristle-holding body transition region. The bristle-holding body transition region is, for example, (significantly) shorter than the first bristle-holding body region and / or second bristle-holding body region. It is advantageous if the bristle-holding body has a (essentially) round outer contour in cross-section in the bristle-holding body transition region. The third bristles are preferably arranged in third bristle tufts. It is advantageous if they are identical to the first and / or second bristles. They are preferably designed and dimensioned identically. The changing transition transverse dimension results, for example, in a different arrangement orSpreading of the third bristles in comparison with the first and / or second bristles, which in turn has a positive influence on the absorption capacity, dispensing or application capacity, cleaning effect or the like of the brush, depending on the application.

[0015] The bristle tufts are preferably arranged at least partially spaced apart from one another along the brush and / or in its circumferential direction.

[0016] The first bristle-holding body region according to dependent claim 3 is preferably a front bristle-holding body region. Preferably, the free tip faces away from the grip region or coupling region, if present.

[0017] The design according to subclaim 4 results in a particularly user-friendly and functionally reliable brush. The bristle holding body is thus thicker in the second bristle holding body region than in the first bristle holding body region.

[0018] According to subclaim 5, the second transverse dimension is between 10% and 400%, preferably between 20% and 250%, larger than the first transverse dimension.

[0019] The retaining part according to subclaim 6 is preferably constructed in one piece. It extends, for example, originally, as before deformation, straight or curved. It is advantageous if the retaining part is deformable, in particular plastically or permanently. It is advantageously painted at least in some areas.

[0020] Preferably, the first holding part section according to dependent claim 7 is arranged at a distance from the second holding part sections. It is expedient if a holding part transition section of the holding part with a continuously changing, in particular continuously variable, transverse dimension is arranged between the first holding part section and a second holding part section. In the finished, deformed state, the holding part is, for example, round, oval, or elliptical in cross-section in the first holding part section. It is, for example, round in the second holding part sections.

[0021] According to subclaim 9, the holding part is folded or folded over centrally in / in the (finished) bristle holding body. The folding is performed, for example, manually or mechanically.

[0022] According to subclaim 10, the holding part is twisted or twisted in / in the (finished) holding part. It is advantageously twisted over a large part of its length, preferably over its entire length. Sections of the holding part are preferably wound around one another in a helical manner. It is advantageous if the bristles are thus fixed to the bristle holding body or aligned with respect to it.

[0023] The solid body according to subclaim 12 advantageously has a constant outer contour or transverse extension initially, as before deformation. It is preferably circular in cross-section.

[0024] The retaining part according to dependent claim 13 has, at least initially, as before deformation, preferably at least in some regions, advantageously over its entire length, a consistent outer and inner contour in cross-section. It is preferably circular in cross-section, at least in some regions, preferably over its entire length.

[0025] The deformation bodies according to dependent claim 15 are preferably identical in design. It is expedient if they can be driven in rotation independently of one another or coupled together, for example continuously. Preferably, the distance between the deformation bodies is adjustable, in particular continuously, to allow, for example, adaptation to different holding parts or blank holding parts. It is advantageous if each deformation body is designed as a deformation roller, roll, or the like. Each deformation region is formed, for example, by a deformation groove, in particular a deformation groove base, in the respective deformation body.

[0026] Subclaims 2 to 13 also form preferred embodiments of the method according to independent claim 14.

[0027] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings: Fig. 1 a simplified sectional view of a brush according to the invention, Fig. 2 a side view of a deformed holding part of the Fig. 1 illustrated brush, Fig. 3 a view that Fig. 2 shown holding part in folded state including bristles for producing the Fig. 1 illustrated brush, Fig. 3A a Fig. 3 corresponding view, in which an alternative folded holding part including bristles is shown, Fig. 4 a sectional view of an alternative deformed holding part, Fig. 5 a cross section through a deformation body for producing a holding part of the illustrated brush by means of a method according to the invention, Fig. 6 a side view of a part of the Fig. 5 shown deformation body, Fig. 7 a partial section along the section line VII-VII in Fig. 5, which illustrates a deep / large deformation groove area, Fig. 8 a partial section along the line VIII-VIII in Fig. 5, which shows a shallow / small deformation groove area, Fig. 9 is a schematic view showing two deformation bodies arranged in pairs and a holding part to be deformed, Fig. 10 a view corresponding Fig. 9, whereby the holding part is already partially deformed, and Fig. 11 a simplified view of an alternative brush according to the invention, which is designed as a mascara brush

[0028] Below, initially referring to Fig. 1, a brush comprises a central bristle holding body 1 that extends straight along a longitudinal central axis 2. The bristle holding body 1 forms a free tip 3. It has a first bristle holding body region 4 and a bristle holding body transition region 5 immediately adjacent thereto, as well as a second bristle holding body region 6 immediately adjacent thereto.

[0029] In the first bristle-holding body region 4, the bristle-holding body 1 has a first outer diameter D1 perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis 2, which is (essentially) constant. The first bristle-holding body region 4 has a first axial length L1 along the longitudinal central axis 2, which extends from the tip 3 to the bristle-holding body transition region 5.

[0030] In the second bristle-holding body region 6, the bristle-holding body 1 has a second outer diameter D2 perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis 2, which is (essentially) constant. The second bristle-holding body region 6 has a second axial length L2 along the longitudinal central axis 2, which extends from the bristle-holding body transition region 5 away from the tip 3 to a handle region 7 of the brush.

[0031] The first outer diameter D1 is smaller, in particular significantly smaller, than the second outer diameter D2. In particular, the second outer diameter D2 is between 10% and 400% larger than the first outer diameter D1. The first length L1 is, for example, as long as the second length L2. Other configurations are possible.

[0032] In the bristle-holding body transition region 5, the bristle-holding body 1 has a transition outer diameter DU perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis 2, which changes along the longitudinal center axis 2. The bristle-holding body transition region 5 extends between the first bristle-holding body region 4 and the second bristle-holding body region 6 and has an axial transition length LU along the longitudinal center axis 2.

[0033] In the bristle-holding body transition region 5, the transition outer diameter DU expands continuously from the first outer diameter D1 in the direction of the second bristle-holding body region 6 to the second outer diameter D2. In the bristle-holding body transition region 5, the transition outer diameter DU thus increases continuously from the first bristle-holding body region 4 in the direction of the grip region 7 or the second bristle-holding body region 6.

[0034] How Fig. 1, the brush also comprises a plurality of bristles held by the bristle holding body 1. The bristles are each grouped into bristle tufts. The bristle tufts are arranged along the longitudinal central axis 2 and spaced from one another around this axis on the bristle holding body 1.

[0035] In the first bristle holding body region 4, the bristle holding body 1 holds a plurality of first bristle tufts 8, each of which in turn comprises a plurality of first bristles 9. The first bristles 9 or bristle tufts 8 extend away from the bristle holding body 1 or (essentially) radially outward.

[0036] In the second bristle holding body region 6, the bristle holding body 1 holds a plurality of second bristle tufts 10, each of which in turn comprises a plurality of second bristles 11. The second bristles 11 or bristle tufts 10 extend away from the bristle holding body 1 or (essentially) radially outward.

[0037] In the bristle-holding body transition region 5, the bristle-holding body 1 holds a plurality of transition bristle tufts 12, each of which in turn comprises a plurality of transition bristles 13. The transition bristles 13 or transition bristle tufts 12 extend away from the bristle-holding body 1 or (essentially) radially outward.

[0038] The first bristles 9 are identically designed and dimensioned, in particular long and thick. In each first bristle tuft 8 they are (essentially) identically oriented to one another and have an identical cross-section. Alternatively, differently designed first bristles 9 are present. They have, for example, different properties. The second bristles 11 are also identically designed and dimensioned, in particular long and thick. In each second bristle tuft 10 they are (essentially) identically oriented to one another and have an identical cross-section. Alternatively, differently designed second bristles 11 are present. They have, for example, different properties. The transition bristles 13 are also identically designed and dimensioned, in particular long and thick. In each transition bristle tuft 12 they are (essentially) identically oriented to one another and have an identical cross-section.Alternatively, differently shaped transition bristles 13 are available. They have, for example, different properties.

[0039] The first bristles 9 and second bristles 11 as well as the transition bristles 13 are, for example, identically designed and dimensioned, in particular they are of the same length and thickness ( Fig. 3). For example, they remain untrimmed. Alternatively, the first bristles 9, second bristles 11, and / or the transition bristles 13 are at least partially trimmed or cut to length. For example, the first and second bristles 9, 11, and the transition bristles 13 in the respective bristle tufts 8, 10, and 12 are (essentially) identically oriented to one another.

[0040] For example, the first bristles 9 and second bristles 11, as well as the transition bristles 13, are alternatively designed or dimensioned differently, in particular with different thicknesses and / or lengths. Alternatively or additionally, they are oriented differently relative to one another in the respective bristle tufts 8, 10, or 12 and / or have different cross-sections, stiffnesses, strengths, or the like.

[0041] The bristle holding body 1 is formed from an elongated holding part 14. According Fig. 2, the holding part 14 is formed by a metallic, cold-formable wire body. It is made, for example, of steel, such as those with material numbers 1.4301, 1.4303, 1.4306, 1.4401, or 1.4404. The steel is preferably stainless.

[0042] In its original, undeformed state, the holding part 14 has a constant circular cross-section.

[0043] In a deformed state, which is Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the holding part 14 has a central first holding part section 15. Furthermore, it comprises a second holding part section 16 at each end. The deformed holding part 14 also has a transition holding part section 17 between the first holding part section 15 and a second holding part section 16. It is symmetrical in cross-section, in particular circular. Furthermore, it is symmetrical with respect to a plane of symmetry running perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the holding part 14, which plane extends centrally perpendicularly through the first holding part section 15.

[0044] In the first holding part section 15, the deformed holding part 14 has a constant first holding part outer diameter D1H. In each second holding part section 16, the deformed holding part 14 has a constant second holding part outer diameter D2H. The second holding part outer diameter D2H is in each case larger, in particular substantially larger, than the first holding part outer diameter D1H. In each transition holding part section 17, the deformed holding part 14 has a transition outer diameter DUH that changes along the holding part 14. In each transition holding part section 17, the transition outer diameter DUH transitions continuously from the second holding part outer diameter D2H to the first holding part outer diameter D1H. Starting from every second holding part section 16, the transition outer diameter DUH continuously decreases to the first holding part outer diameter D1H.

[0045] In the finished bristle holder body 1 ( Fig. 1), the deformed holding part 14 is folded centrally to form two identical holding part halves. The holding part halves extend parallel and adjacent to each other. Fig. 3 shows, the first holding part section 15 and the second holding part sections 16 as well as the transition holding part sections 17 remain (essentially) unchanged in their cross section when folded over.

[0046] According to Fig. 3A, the formed holding part 14 is folded over using a, for example, web-like or plate-like, folding ruler (not shown). The holding part halves created during the folding process come into contact with the folding ruler with their mutually facing sides or surfaces, thereby deforming them, in particular flattening them. After folding, each holding part half has a flattened portion in the first holding part section 15, the second holding part section 16, and the transition holding part section 17.

[0047] The first bristles 9, second bristles 11 and the transition bristles 13 are defined in the respective region 4, 5 or 6 of the bristle-holding body 1, forming tufts 8, 10 or 12 between the mutually twisted holding part halves. The free tips of the bristles 9, 11, 13 are each turned away from the bristle-holding body 1. The twisted first holding part section 15 forms the first bristle-holding body region 4, while the mutually twisted second holding part sections 16 together form the second bristle-holding body region 6. The mutually twisted transition-holding part sections 17 together form the bristle-holding body transition region 5.

[0048] In the alternative embodiment according to Fig. 4, the holding part 14a is formed by an original tubular body. The tubular body 14a originally has a constant outer diameter and a constant inner diameter. It delimits an inner space 18 radially outward. It is expedient if, in the deformed state, the holding part 14a in the first holding part section 15a has an outer dimension reduced to twice the wall thickness of the tubular body 14a. In the first holding part section 15a, the holding part 14a is (essentially) oval or elliptical in cross-section. The second holding part sections 16a, for example, remain undeformed. In the transition holding part sections 17a, the inner space 18 or cross-section changes accordingly. In the finished bristle holding body 1, the deformed holding part 14a is folded over again and twisted. It holds the bristles 9, 11, 13.

[0049] The following is based on the Fig. 5 to 10 the deformation or reshaping of the holding body 14, 14a for the production of the brush is described in more detail.

[0050] A manufacturing device (not shown in its entirety) comprises two paired forming rollers 19, each of which is essentially circular in cross-section and mounted for rotation or rotational drive about its central longitudinal axis 20. Each forming roller 19 is cylindrical. Each longitudinal axis 20 forms a rotation axis. The longitudinal axis 20 runs parallel to each other.

[0051] For example, a forming roller 19 can be driven in rotation about its longitudinal center axis 20 by a drive means 21, such as a drive wheel. The forming rollers 19 are, for example, coupled to one another, so that during operation the other forming roller 19 is also driven in rotation synchronously about its longitudinal center axis 20.

[0052] Each deformation roller 19 has a continuous deformation groove 22 formed circumferentially around the associated longitudinal center axis 20 and open radially outward. Each deformation groove 22 lies in a main plane extending perpendicular to the respective longitudinal center axis 20. Each deformation groove 22 is (essentially) symmetrical in cross-section and U-shaped or semicircular. Each deformation groove 22 has a curved radially inner base 23 and adjoining, opposing side flanks 24.

[0053] Each deformation groove 22 has a changing cross-section or a changing shape in the circumferential direction around the respective longitudinal center axis 20. Each deformation groove 22 has a first groove region 25 with a constant minimum radial first groove depth NT1 and a constant minimum axial first groove width NB1 with respect to the respective longitudinal center axis 20. In addition, each deformation groove 22 has a second groove region 26 with a constant maximum radial second groove depth NT2 and a constant maximum axial second groove width NB2 with respect to the respective longitudinal center axis 20. Between the first groove region 25 and the second groove region 26 there is a transition groove region 27 of the respective deformation groove 22, which directly adjoins the first groove region 25 and the second groove region 26.Thus, there are a total of two transition groove regions 27, i.e., a first transition groove region 27 and a second transition groove region 27, which are arranged at a distance from one another. In each transition groove region 27, a radial groove depth NTU and an axial groove width change continuously with respect to the respective longitudinal center axis 20. In each transition groove region 27, the axial groove width and radial groove depth NTU decrease, for example, starting from the second groove region 26, from the maximum radial second groove depth NT2 and maximum axial second groove width NB2 continuously in the direction of the first groove region 25 to its minimum radial first groove depth NT1 and minimum axial first groove width NB1, respectively. Each deformation groove 22, in particular its base 23, extends eccentrically around the respective longitudinal center axis 20, in a manner of speaking.

[0054] During operation, the two deformation rollers 19 are continuously and synchronously driven in opposite directions about their axes of rotation 20. They are positioned along their axis of rotation 20 such that the deformation grooves 22 each have an adjacent circumferential region and together form or spatially delimit a deformation region or gap. The main planes passing through the deformation grooves 22 coincide. In the circumferential direction around the respective axis of rotation 20, the deformation rollers 19 are arranged such that identically designed groove regions 25, 26, and 27 of the deformation rollers 19 face one another or are arranged adjacent to one another. They operate together during use.

[0055] A raw holding part 28, which according to Fig. 9, Fig. 10 has a constant circular cross-section and is preferably endless or very long, is fed to the rotating deformation rollers 19 in the region of the deformation grooves 22 to form the holding part 14. The raw holding part 28 is a wire body.

[0056] The raw holding part 28 is drawn into the deformation grooves 22 by the rotating deformation rollers 19.

[0057] Initially, the second groove areas 26 of the deformation rollers 19 are jointly effective and both deform accordingly, for example slightly, the raw holding part 28 to form a second holding part section 16. The raw holding part 28 is thus squeezed or deformed by the deformation rollers 19 to the second holding part outer diameter D2H ( Fig. 9). Alternatively, such deformation is omitted, and the second groove regions 26 merely guide, for example, in a clamping manner, the blank retaining part 28, which is preferred. The blank retaining part 28 is then provided with the second retaining part outer diameter D2H.

[0058] The deformation rollers 19 continue to rotate. The first transition groove regions 27 of the deformation rollers 19 then act together and both deform the blank holding part 28 accordingly. The blank holding part 28 is squeezed or deformed by the deformation rollers 19 in such a way that a first transition holding part section 17 with the changing transition outer diameter DUH is created.

[0059] The deformation rollers 19 continue to rotate. The first groove areas 25 of the deformation rollers 19 then act together and both deform the blank holding part 28 accordingly, forming the first holding part section 15. The blank holding part 28 is thus squeezed or deformed by the deformation rollers 19 to the first holding part outer diameter D1H ( Fig. 10).

[0060] The deformation rollers 19 continue to rotate. The second transition groove regions 27 of the deformation rollers 19 then act together and both deform the blank holding part 28 accordingly. The blank holding part 28 is squeezed or deformed by the deformation rollers 19 in such a way that a second transition holding part section 17 with the changing transition outer diameter DUH is created.

[0061] The deformation rollers 19 continue to rotate. The second groove areas 26 of the deformation rollers 19 then act together and both deform the blank holding part 28 accordingly, for example slightly, to form a second holding part section 16. The blank holding part 28 is thus squeezed or deformed by the deformation rollers 19 to the second holding part outer diameter D2H ( Fig. 9). Alternatively, a corresponding deformation is omitted here, and the second groove regions 26 only guide, for example, in a clamping manner, the blank retaining part 28, which is preferred. The blank retaining part 28 is provided with the second retaining part outer diameter D2H.

[0062] The forming rollers 19 continue to rotate. The blank holding part 28 is discharged opposite the feed side.

[0063] In the first groove regions 25 and the transition groove regions 27 as well as the second groove regions 26, if a deformation of the raw holding part 28 occurs there, in particular the respective side flanks 24 and the respective base 23 have a deforming effect on the raw holding part 28.

[0064] This deformation process is performed cyclically on the raw holding part 28. Holding parts 14 are cut out of the thus deformed raw holding part 28 by appropriate cutting.

[0065] Preferably, a single revolution of each forming roller 19 is sufficient to form a holding part 14 from the raw holding part 28.

[0066] As mentioned, the holding part 14 is then folded over in the middle ( Fig. 3, Fig. 3A).

[0067] By twisting the folded, deformed holding part 14, the bristles 9, 11, and 13 are then fixed in place accordingly. Bristle tufts 8, 10, and 12 are formed from the bristles 9, 11, and 13, respectively.

[0068] Subsequently, the bristles 9, 11, 13 are cut, for example at least in regions, to a desired outer contour of the brush, such as cylindrical, conical, frustoconical or the like.

[0069] To form the holding part 14a, a blank holding part with a constant circular cross-section is supplied. It is designed as a tubular part. The blank holding part preferably already has the desired length. A plurality of individual blank holding parts are supplied and deformed accordingly to form the holding parts 14a. Otherwise, the brush is manufactured (essentially) in a similar manner.

[0070] The bristles 9, 11, 13 are preferably formed from monofilaments. The monofilaments are spun from single-hole dies, for example, by extrusion melt spinning and then cooled, as in a coolant bath. Drawing is preferably carried out, advantageously in several stages. The drawing process can be influenced, for example, by a withdrawal speed. If the withdrawal speed is higher than the extrusion speed, the monofilament is stretched and becomes stronger. The drawing process achieves mechanical properties in the longitudinal direction, such as strength and elastic modulus, that are significantly higher than those of undrawn base polymers. Soft and squeezable monofilaments are therefore preferably drawn off at almost the same speed as they are extruded.

[0071] Polyamide and polyester monofilaments are particularly popular here. Thermoplastic elastomers can also be used if they are soft, squeezable monofilaments.

[0072] Since handling and storage also play a role in the industrial sector, it is advantageous for applications in cosmetics and the medical field to obtain the necessary strength of the bristles 9, 11, 13 by stretching. Therefore, a cross-sectional geometry of the filaments is advantageously used to compress the filaments. In particular, hollow, C-shaped, and other open cross-sectional geometries for compressing the bristles 9, 11, 13 have advantages over closed, round cross-sections made of solid material. The bristles 9, 11, 13 and filaments are preferably designed accordingly.

[0073] In the first bristle-holding body region 4, for example, extremely fine first bristles 9 made of highly stretched polyester or polyamide are used if the brush is an interdental brush. In particular, corresponding monofilaments with a respective thickness or circumferential dimension between 2.0 mil and 4.0 mil are used. 1 mil corresponds to 0.0254 mm. The Shore hardness D is preferably greater than 90. In the bristle-holding body transition region 5, extremely fine transition bristles 13 made of highly stretched polyester or polyamide are then advantageously used. In particular, corresponding monofilaments with a respective thickness or circumferential dimension between 3.0 mil and 5.5 mil are used. The Shore hardness D is greater than 90. In the second bristle-holding body region 6, extremely fine second bristles 11 made of highly stretched polyester or polyamide are used. In particular, corresponding monofilaments with a respective thickness or circumferential dimension betweenA circumference dimension between 2.0 mil and 5.5 mil is used. The Shore D hardness is preferably greater than 90. Bristle tips of bristles 9, 11, and / or 13, for example, are rounded.

[0074] If the brush is a mascara brush or medical brush, for example, highly stretched first bristles 9 with a respective thickness or circumferential dimension between 2.0 mil and 6.0 mil are used in the first bristle holding body region 4. The Shore hardness D is advantageously less than 82. Alternatively, stretched first bristles 9 with a Shore hardness D greater than 85 are used. Open cross-sectional geometries are then preferably present. Bristle tips of the first bristles 9 are optionally processed, such as by flagging. The transition bristles 13 are then preferably highly stretched bristles and have a respective thickness or circumferential dimension between 2.0 mil and 8.0 mil. Their Shore hardness D is advantageously less than 82. In the case of stretched transition bristles 13, the Shore hardness D is preferably greater than 85. However, open cross-sectional geometries are then preferably used.For example, the tips of the transition bristles 13 are processed, such as by flagging. The second bristles 11 are then preferably highly stretched bristles with a respective thickness or circumferential dimension between 2.0 mil and 8.0 mil. The Shore hardness D is preferably less than 82. Alternatively, stretched second bristles 11 with a Shore hardness D of more than 85 are used, although open cross-sectional geometries are then employed. For example, the tips of the second bristles 11 are processed, such as by flagging.

[0075] If the brush is designed as a cleaning brush, the first bristles 9 are preferably very fine bristles made of highly stretched polyester or polyamide. In particular, corresponding monofilaments with a respective thickness or circumferential dimension between 2.0 mil and 5.0 mil are used. The Shore hardness D is preferably greater than 90. Bristle tips of the first bristles 9 are optionally rounded. The transition bristles 13 are preferably very fine bristles made of highly stretched polyester or polyamide monofilament. In particular, corresponding monofilaments with a thickness or circumferential dimension between 3.0 mil and 8.0 mil are used. Their Shore hardness D is preferably greater than 90. Bristle tips of the transition bristles 13 are optionally rounded. The second bristles 11 are preferably very fine bristles made of highly stretched polyester or polyamide. In particular, corresponding monofilaments with a respective thickness or circumferential dimension between 2.0 and 8.0 mil are used.Their Shore hardness D is preferably greater than 90. Bristle tips of the second bristles 11 are optionally rounded.

[0076] When the brush is designed as an interdental brush, for example, the first bristle holding body region 4 has a length between 2 mm and 8 mm. The first outer diameter D1 is, for example, between 0.45 mm and 1.10 mm. The bristle holding body transition region 5 then has, for example, a length between 2 mm and 8 mm. The transition outer diameter DU there is, for example, between 0.45 mm and 2.90 mm. The second bristle holding body region 6 has, for example, a length between 4 mm and 12 mm. The second outer diameter D2 there is, for example, between 0.65 mm and 2.90 mm. The total brush length is, for example, between 10 mm and 25 mm.

[0077] The first holding part outer diameter D1H is preferably between 0.20 mm and 0.45 mm before the holding part 14 is folded over after its forming. Each second holding part outer diameter D2H is then, for example, between 0.30 mm and 1.30 mm, while each transition outer diameter DUH is advantageously between 0.20 mm and 1.30 mm.

[0078] Before deformation, the starting wire / solid body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.25 mm and 0.70 mm. A corresponding starting tubular body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.30 mm and 1.30 mm. Its inner diameter is, for example, between 0.10 mm and 0.90 mm. The wall thickness of the starting tubular body is advantageously between 0.10 mm and 0.40 mm.

[0079] When the brush is designed as a mascara brush, for example, the first bristle holding body region 4 has a length between 4 mm and 12 mm. The first outer diameter D1 is, for example, between 0.50 mm and 1.70 mm. The bristle holding body transition region 5 then has, for example, a length between 4 mm and 8 mm. The transition outer diameter DU there is, for example, between 0.50 mm and 4.50 mm. The second bristle holding body region 6 has, for example, a length between 8 mm and 18 mm. The second outer diameter D2 there is, for example, between 0.95 mm and 4.50 mm. The total brush length is, for example, between 15 mm and 35 mm.

[0080] The first holding part outer diameter D1H is preferably between 0.25 mm and 0.70 mm before the holding part 14 is folded over after its forming. Each second holding part outer diameter D2H is then, for example, between 0.40 mm and 1.80 mm, while each transition outer diameter DUH is advantageously between 0.25 mm and 1.80 mm.

[0081] Before deformation, the starting wire / solid body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.30 mm and 1.50 mm. A corresponding starting tubular body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.40 mm and 1.80 mm. Its inner diameter is, for example, between 0.20 mm and 0.70 mm. The wall thickness of the starting tubular body is advantageously between 0.10 mm and 0.45 mm.

[0082] When the brush is designed as a cleaning brush, for example, the first bristle holding body region 4 has a length between 5 mm and 30 mm. The first outer diameter D1 is, for example, between 0.75 mm and 1.80 mm. The bristle holding body transition region 5 then has a length between 4 mm and 8 mm. The transition outer diameter DU there is, for example, between 0.75 mm and 6.00 mm. The second bristle holding body region 6 has a length between 8 mm and 18 mm. The second outer diameter D2 there is, for example, between 1.20 mm and 6.00 mm. The total brush length is, for example, between 15 mm and 35 mm.

[0083] The first holding part outer diameter D1H is preferably between 0.30 mm and 0.70 mm before the holding part 14 is folded over after its forming. Each second holding part outer diameter D2H is then, for example, between 0.50 mm and 2.50 mm, while each transition outer diameter DUH is advantageously between 0.30 mm and 2.50 mm.

[0084] Before deformation, the starting wire / solid body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.40 mm and 2.50 mm. A corresponding starting tubular body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.50 mm and 2.50 mm. Its inner diameter is, for example, between 0.20 mm and 1.60 mm. The wall thickness of the starting tubular body is advantageously between 0.10 mm and 0.45 mm.

[0085] When the brush is designed as a medical brush, for example, the first bristle holding body region 4 has a length between 2 mm and 12 mm. The first outer diameter D1 is, for example, between 0.50 mm and 1.70 mm. The bristle holding body transition region 5 then has a length between 2 mm and 8 mm. The transition outer diameter DU there is, for example, between 0.50 mm and 4.50 mm. The second bristle holding body region 6 has a length between 6 mm and 12 mm. The second outer diameter D2 there is, for example, between 0.95 mm and 4.50 mm. The total brush length is, for example, between 20 mm and 80 mm.

[0086] The first holding part outer diameter D1H is preferably between 0.20 mm and 0.70 mm before the holding part 14 is folded over after its forming. Each second holding part outer diameter D2H is then, for example, between 0.40 mm and 1.80 mm, while each transition outer diameter DUH is advantageously between 0.20 mm and 1.80 mm.

[0087] Before deformation, the starting wire / solid body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.30 mm and 1.50 mm. A corresponding starting tubular body preferably has an outer diameter between 0.40 mm and 1.80 mm. Its inner diameter is, for example, between 0.20 mm and 0.70 mm. The wall thickness of the starting tubular body is advantageously between 0.10 mm and 0.45 mm.

[0088] The following is based on reference to Fig. 11 a preferred embodiment of a mascara brush is described. The bristle holding body 1 extends in comparison with the embodiment according to Fig.1, to which reference is made, is curved at least in some areas, preferably at least for the most part. In particular, it is curved in the first bristle-holding body region 4 and the bristle-holding body transition region 5, as well as the second bristle-holding body region 6. The curvature is preferably different. For example, in the second bristle holding body region 6, the bristle holding body 1 extends from the grip region 6 in the direction of the bristle holding body transition region 5, away from the longitudinal center axis 2. In the bristle holding body transition region 5, it extends, for example, at a distance from the longitudinal center axis 2. This distance changes along the bristle holding body transition region 5. Adjacent to the first bristle holding body region 4, the distance of the bristle holding body 1 in the bristle holding body transition region 5 to the longitudinal center axis 2 decreases in the direction of the first bristle holding body region 4.The bristle holding body 1 intersects the longitudinal central axis 2 in the first bristle holding body region 4, forming a front end of the brush, and extends in a twisted manner so that the bristle holding body 1 intersects the longitudinal central axis 2 again adjacent to the tip 3. The bristle holding body 1 again carries bristles 9, 11, 13. This makes applying mascara particularly easy and precise.

[0089] The bristle holding body 1 can be deformed accordingly, for example, by a user. Alternatively, it can be provided in a machine-shaped / deformed form. The deformation is preferably plastic. Subsequent changes to the deformation are preferably possible.

[0090] Other curvatures or other twisted courses of the bristle holding body 1 are alternatively possible.

[0091] The terms "axial," "radial," or the like used here with reference to the brush refer in particular to the longitudinal center axis 2 of the bristle-holding body 1. The term "diameter" with reference to the brush is also used here for bodies that deviate from a perfectly circular shape, for example, due to their manufacturing process, such as twisting. It then describes, for example, a circumferential circumference.

[0092] The drawings are not to scale. They are for illustrative purposes only. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 197 01 119 A1

[0002] EP 1 549 173 B1

[0002] EP 0 800 781 A2

[0002] EP 1 470 765 B1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Brush, comprising a) a bristle holding body (1) i) with a first bristle holding body region (4) which - has a first transverse dimension (D1), and - holds a plurality of first bristles (9), and ii) with a second bristle holding body region (6) which - has a second transverse dimension (D2) which differs from the first transverse dimension (D1), and - holds a plurality of second bristles (11). [2] Brush according to claim 1, characterized by in that the bristle holding body (1) has a bristle holding body transition region (5) between the first bristle holding body region (4) and the second bristle holding body region (6), wherein the bristle holding body transition region (5) holds a plurality of third bristles (13) and has a changing transition transverse dimension (DU). [3] Brush according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat the first bristle holding body region (4) extends from a front free tip (3). [4] Brush according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the second transverse dimension (D2) is greater than the first transverse dimension (D1). [5] Brush according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the second transverse dimension (D2) is between 10% and 400% larger than the first transverse dimension (D1). [6] Brush according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the bristle holding body (1) is formed from an elongate holding part (14; 14a) which has a first holding part transverse extension (D1H) for forming the first transverse dimension (D1) of the bristle holding body (1) and a second holding part transverse extension (D2H) which differs from the first holding part transverse extension (D1H) for forming the second transverse dimension (D2) of the bristle holding body (1). [7] Brush according to claim 6, characterized bythat a first holding part section (15; 15a) of the holding part (14; 14a) having the first holding part transverse extension (D1H) is located between two second holding part sections (16; 16a) of the holding part (14; 14a), each of which has the second holding part transverse extension (D2H). [8] Brush according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by that the second holding part transverse extension (D2H) is greater than the first holding part transverse extension (D1H). [9] Brush according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized by that in the bristle holding body (1) the holding part (14; 14a) is folded over in the middle. [10] Brush according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized by that in the bristle holding body (1) the holding part (14; 14a) is twisted at least in some areas. [11] Brush according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized by that in the bristle holding body (1) the holding part (14; 14a) is cold-formed at least in some areas. [12] Brush according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized by that the holding part (14) is a solid body, such as a wire body. [13] Brush according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized by that the holding part (14a) is at least originally at least partially a hollow body, such as a tubular body. [14] A method of manufacturing a brush, comprising the steps - Creating a bristle holding body (1) -- with a first bristle holding body area (4) which --- has a first transverse dimension (D1), and --- holds a plurality of first bristles (9), and -- with a second bristle holding body area (6), which --- has a second transverse dimension (D2) which differs from the first transverse dimension (D1), and --- holds a plurality of second bristles (11). [15] Method according to claim 14, characterized by - providing an elongated holding part (14; 14a) for producing the bristle holding body (1), - providing two paired, rotationally drivable deformation bodies (19) forming a deformation gap, each having an eccentrically extending deformation region (22, 23, 24), and - Deforming the holding part (14; 14a) by means of the deformation bodies (19) to produce a first holding part transverse extension (D1H) for forming the first transverse dimension (D1) of the bristle holding body (1) and to produce a second transverse extension (D2H) different from the first transverse extension (D1H) for forming the second transverse dimension (D2) of the bristle holding body (1).

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