Insert unit for electric personal care device

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to an insert unit for a hand part of an electric personal care device, in particular an electric toothbrush, as well as a corresponding hand part and a corresponding personal care device, in particular an electric toothbrush.

[0002] The product structure of electric personal care devices, especially electric toothbrushes, nowadays includes in particular a housing, a slide-in unit (which consists of several components, one or more of which may at least partially penetrate the housing), a cover, and a brush head.

[0003] The assembly generally includes the manufacture of the housing, the fitting and provision of the insert unit, and the manufacture of the closure cover, whereby the insert unit is inserted into the housing and the closure cover is attached to the housing, thereby closing the interior of the housing.

[0004] In systems with direct charging (charging via a physical electrical connection), the charging socket is regularly located in the device and the housing is sealed with a lid to prevent water from entering the housing. State of the art

[0005] From WO 2016 / 117580 A1, an electric toothbrush is known in which the battery is inserted from the rear into a battery compartment of the carrier element with the cover open, or a rechargeable battery is located in the battery compartment of the carrier element, and the cover is then attached to the handle. Turning the cover locks it into place and closes the circuit. In the assembled state, the battery is indirectly connected to the printed circuit board via a first contact plate at the first terminal and a second contact plate on the cover. The circuit is closed via the cover.

[0006] The cover is therefore used not only to close the inside of the housing but also to physically close the circuit; the insert unit is therefore not functional on its own.

[0007] From WO 2019 / 072994 A1, an electric toothbrush is known in which the cover is fixed to the housing during assembly, thus securing the insert unit and sealing the interior of the housing. The cover can be screwed to the housing or locked, for example, by means of a bayonet fitting.

[0008] According to WO 2022 / 128 207 A1, the insert unit or its individual components are mounted on a frame unit (monoframe) consisting of two half-shell-like halves. First, the individual components are inserted into the first half-shell-like half and secured with the second half-shell-like half. Then, the frame unit is slid into the housing. Finally, the housing cover is screwed onto the housing and locked or secured.

[0009] These solutions each require a protective cover opposite the housing, since the electric toothbrushes are preferably charged inductively (i.e., not directly with a physical electrical connection) on a charging station.

[0010] Reference is also made to US 2017 / 007384 A1, which also reveals a plug-in unit for a handle of an electric toothbrush.

[0011] The present invention is therefore based on the objective of providing an electric toothbrush in which the number of components can be reduced. A further objective of the invention is to provide an electric toothbrush with simple charging handling. Description of the invention

[0012] The problem is solved according to the invention by a plug-in unit for a handpiece of an electric personal care device as defined in claim 1, as well as by a handpiece for an electric personal care device as defined in claim 19, and an electric personal care device, in particular an electric toothbrush, as defined in claim 20. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0013] The essence of the invention consists of the following: a plug-in unit for a handle of an electric personal care device, in particular an electric toothbrush, which has a plug-in carrier on which a drive unit, an on / off switch, a power source, a printed circuit board, and a charging device are arranged. The plug-in unit is configured such that a closed circuit can be established with it alone, and it is therefore functional on its own. In the area of ​​the charging device, the plug-in carrier includes a charging device carrier, and the charging device carrier and / or the charging device form part of the outer surface of the handle when assembled.

[0014] Charging takes place directly on the device, without the need to remove a cover or lid. This also reduces the number of components required, potentially eliminating one plastic cover part, one cover contact plate, one contact on the charging port, and one sealing ring, as the circuit no longer needs to be closed with the cover.

[0015] The term "insert carrier" in this context encompasses such structures, in particular frame-like holding structures, on which the individual components of the insert unit can be arranged with sufficiently secure support to ensure trouble-free insertion into the housing and subsequent safe use of the device.

[0016] The term "drive unit" encompasses all suitable motors, particularly electric motors such as DC or AC motors. Drive types for the device include, in particular, vibrating drives (e.g., a motor with an eccentric for vibrating movement with a standard head on the brush head), swiveling-oscillating drives (e.g., left-right swiveling movement with a standard head on the brush head), and oscillating-rotating drives (e.g., left-right rotary movement with a round head on the brush head).

[0017] In a vibrating drive, the movement involves a vibration generated by a motor with an attached eccentric. The motor speed ranges from 8,000 rpm to 15,000 rpm.

[0018] In the swiveling-oscillating drive, the movement of the drive shaft (from its home position) covers an angular range of + / - 1° to + / - 15°, preferably + / - 3° to + / - 10°. The motor speed under no load is from 7,000 rpm to 12,000 rpm, preferably from 9,000 rpm to 11,000 rpm. This results in 15,000 to 25,000 movements per minute.

[0019] In the oscillating-rotating drive, the movement of the drive shaft (from its home position) encompasses an angular range of + / - 10° to + / - 40°, preferably + / - 20° to + / - 30°, and most preferably + / - 25°. The movement of the brush head from its home position, i.e., the rotation angle of the bristle carrier, is + / - 15° to + / - 40°, preferably + / - 20° to + / - 30°, when unloaded. The motor speed when unloaded is 3,500 rpm to 10,000 rpm, preferably 4,000 rpm to 7,000 rpm, resulting in 7,000 to 10,000 movements per minute.

[0020] Movement is defined as left and right rotations from the brush head's neutral position. The bristle field is oriented differently relative to the drive shaft / axis of rotation depending on the drive type. In an oscillating-rotating drive, the bristle field is virtually perpendicular to the drive shaft, and the bristles are aligned parallel to the axis of rotation of the bristle carrier. In a pivoting-oscillating drive, the bristle field is oriented perpendicular to the drive shaft, which corresponds to the axis of rotation.

[0021] The term "printed circuit board" (PCB) refers specifically to structures such as circuit boards, printed circuit cards, and printed circuits. The PCB is connected to the charging device, the power source, the drive unit, and the on / off switch. All electrical connections within the device are made to the PCB. These connections can be implemented using electrical wires / cables or plug / contact connections, for example, in the case of the on / off switch, via a mechanical or electrical connection.

[0022] The term "on / off switch" in this context includes both (especially single-pole) mechanical and electronic push-button switches.

[0023] The term "energy source" in this context includes in particular all suitable accumulators (rechargeable batteries) or batteries (disposable or reusable batteries).

[0024] The phrase "a closed circuit can be created with it alone" is understood here to mean that a closed circuit can be created between the components arranged on the insert carrier via physical electrical lines / cables and / or suitable plug-in contact elements, without the need to insert the insert unit into the corresponding device.

[0025] The "part of the outer surface of the handpiece" refers in this context specifically to the rear part of the handpiece's surface, which includes the loading device. The outer surface can comprise, in particular, essentially horizontal (i.e., essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handpiece) or essentially vertical (i.e., essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handpiece) areas, but also outwardly curved areas. The loading device carrier and / or the loading device are, in any case, partially open to the outside.

[0026] In this context, the term "charging device" refers specifically to a device for directly charging the corresponding device, i.e., generally without the need for, for example, an inductive charging station. The charging device thus includes, in particular, charging sockets through which charging is carried out using a power supply unit that has a plug corresponding to the charging socket. However, the charging device can also be designed as an inductive device.

[0027] The term "charging device carrier" encompasses structures that ensure the secure mounting of the charging device on the insertion unit and at least partially enclose and / or partially support the charging device. The charging device carrier is also typically structurally configured to provide a seal between the insertion unit and the housing. The charging device is open to the outside.

[0028] Preferably, the charging device includes a plug-in device, in particular a charging socket for a corresponding plug of a power supply unit. This form of direct charging has proven to be particularly efficient in practice.

[0029] Preferably, the charging device comprises an inductive device, in particular a charging coil, for example for inserting a corresponding ferrite core.

[0030] A combination of the two variants is also possible.

[0031] The charging device carrier comprises a carrier body and an end piece. The carrier body typically encloses the charging device, at least partially, leaving the charging device open to the outside, and clamps it (when mounted) to ensure a secure hold. The end piece is typically the section of the carrier that forms part of the outer surface of the device, specifically the outer edge of the device or handpiece, where the charging device is located. The end piece can serve a protective function for the charging device as well as a handling function, for example, by being designed to allow the device to stand upright. This design also eliminates the need for a conventional cover.

[0032] Preferably, the charging device carrier is formed in one piece. This is particularly efficient in terms of manufacturing. However, a multi-part design of the charging device carrier is also provided, wherein the charging device carrier includes a separate end piece that can be snapped onto the charging device carrier body. The insertion unit, however, forms a single unit and is inserted into the housing of the handpiece of the corresponding device as a whole, i.e., with the end piece snapped onto the charging device carrier body.

[0033] On the other hand, in the multi-part design of the charging device carrier, a separate end piece can be included, which can be (straight) attached to the charging device carrier body, i.e., essentially positively, with a possible snap-fit ​​or clamping connection. The insertion unit can then be inserted as a whole, i.e., with the end piece attached to the charging device carrier body, into the housing of the handpiece of the corresponding device.

[0034] The multi-part construction allows for the installation of differently designed end pieces, i.e., different sized base surfaces or specific different designs.

[0035] The charging device comprises a locking mechanism, preferably hook-shaped, which, in the assembled state, is configured to lock the charging device against the charging device carrier body. Furthermore, the charging device is pressed into the charging device carrier body, creating a positive fit that seals the charging device against the carrier body. The inner surface of the charging device carrier body is preferably designed to correspond with this feature and thus supports the compression and sealing (e.g., by a taper in the insertion direction). This serves to protect the interior of the housing as well as the charging device itself.

[0036] Preferably, the charging device carrier body has a first sealing zone opposite a housing of a handle, preferably in the form of a first groove for receiving a first sealing element (e.g., an O-ring), which is configured to seal the insertion unit against the housing wall of the handle in the assembled state. In this way, the ingress of water, moisture, and contaminants can be effectively prevented.

[0037] Preferably, the charging device carrier body has a second sealing zone opposite the housing of a handle, preferably in the form of a second groove for receiving a second sealing element (e.g., an O-ring), which, in the assembled state, is configured to seal the insertion unit against the housing wall of the handle. This second sealing element is positioned in front of the first sealing element when viewed in the insertion direction of the insertion unit and may provide additional sealing. However, it is also conceivable to use only the second (inner) sealing element.

[0038] Preferably, in a multi-part design of the charging device carrier (i.e., particularly in the snap-on version for the end piece), the charging device carrier body has a sealing zone opposite the end piece, preferably in the form of a groove for receiving a sealing element (e.g., an O-ring), which, in the assembled state, is configured to provide an axial seal between the charging device carrier body and the end piece. In the multi-part design, this sealing zone provides additional protection. Furthermore, the end piece preferably also has a sealing zone opposite the housing of a handle, preferably in the form of a groove for receiving a sealing element (e.g., an O-ring), which, in the assembled state, is configured to provide a lateral seal between the insertion unit and the housing wall of the handle.This double seal provides optimal protection for this variant of the multi-part design of the loading device carrier.

[0039] In general, sealing elements can also be realized as injection-molded elements made of soft components, so that assembly of the sealing element can be dispensed with, since the element is already injection-molded in the injection molding process.

[0040] Preferably, the charging device and / or the charging device carrier body form part of the outer surface of the handpiece, which runs essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handpiece. This creates an effective base for upright positioning of the device and ensures easy access to the charging device.

[0041] Preferably, the end piece of the charging device carrier forms part of the outer surface of the handset. This allows the end piece to form a substantially ring-shaped protective element for the charging device (especially the charging socket pin), which simultaneously defines an insertion opening for, for example, a plug from a corresponding power supply. Here, too, the design is preferably such that upright placement of the device is reliably ensured.

[0042] Preferably, one or more locking lugs are arranged on the charging device carrier body, which, when assembled, are configured to engage in corresponding locking recesses in the housing wall of the handset. This ensures robust anchoring of the insertion unit to the housing.

[0043] Preferably, the locking lugs have a wedge-shaped form with an insertion ramp, a horizontally extending portion, and a substantially vertically terminating rear wall. This design has proven particularly effective because the locking lugs, with their rear wall (i.e., opposite to the insertion direction), abut the corresponding walls of the locking recesses in the housing wall.

[0044] Preferably, the loading device carrier is resiliently mounted on a support structure (the insertion unit) by means of a spring bearing. In particular, the spring bearing comprises a first spring bracket and a second spring bracket, which are preferably arranged independently of each other between the loading device carrier and the support structure. In this way, a particularly effective length compensation function can be provided (according to this embodiment, the loading device carrier presses against the end part and thus the insertion unit into the housing).

[0045] Preferred components without a drive, which can be implemented in the plug-in unit and installed in or on the device, include motion detectors such as gyroscopes or motion sensors, and lighting elements such as infrared lamps. Accordingly, a product without a drive can also be implemented with other electrical components using a suitable plug-in unit.

[0046] Another aspect of the invention comprises a handpiece for an electric personal care device, in particular for an electric toothbrush, which has a housing and a slide-in unit according to the above specifications.

[0047] A further aspect of the present invention comprises an electric personal care device, in particular an electric toothbrush, which has a handle according to the above specifications.

[0048] Further or supplementary preferred embodiments for the individual parts or components are described below.

[0049] The housing of the handset generally serves to position and guide the insertion unit, which is determined, at least in part, by the shape of the insertion carrier and / or the entire (i.e., populated) insertion unit and the layout of the space within the housing. Separate guides or positioning elements are not strictly necessary; rather, this can be achieved solely through the geometric design of the insertion carrier and / or the populated insertion unit itself.

[0050] Any positioning or guiding elements intended to ensure force transmission between the housing and the insertion unit must ensure that the insertion unit cannot rotate within the housing and that the insertion unit is positioned unambiguously.

[0051] The following statements apply in particular to the one-piece construction of the insert unit or the corresponding loading device carrier.

[0052] Preferred elements here are locking recesses in the housing or the inner wall of the housing, which are implemented in the hard component or the hard plastic shell and may optionally be provided with a soft component. The locking recesses are positioned longitudinally, measured from the side of the open housing end (insertion end), preferably in the rear 50% or rear 30% of the length of the insertion unit (i.e., along the longitudinal axis of the insertion unit).

[0053] The circumferential positioning is such that the locking recesses can be arranged regularly or irregularly along the circumference; however, a symmetrical arrangement (i.e., top opposite bottom or front opposite back) is preferred. The locking recesses are preferably arranged at the front (towards the top) and rear (towards the back); the angle between the locking recesses, measured from the longitudinal axis or baseline, is between 20° and 90°, preferably between 30° and 60°.

[0054] The dimensions of the locking recesses in the housing are, with respect to length in the longitudinal direction, from 0.3 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 0.5 mm to 2 mm. The width, measured in the transverse direction, is from 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably from 1.5 mm to 4 mm.

[0055] The hole or locking recess is preferably not open from the outside and is generally implemented in the hard component or hard plastic shell of the housing, for example as a blind hole. If it is implemented as a through hole in the hard component, the soft component can partially close the through hole; the soft component can be positioned in such a way that it is later at least partially displaced by the locking lug.

[0056] The depth in the finished housing is from 0.2 mm to 2 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 1 mm.

[0057] The number of recesses is from 2 to 8, preferably from 3 to 4.

[0058] The grid recesses preferably have a symmetrical structure (i.e., with respect to the longitudinal axis or a plane that includes the longitudinal axis) or a regular structure (i.e., with respect to the cross-sectional plane and the division into angles).

[0059] Regarding the shape of the locking recesses, it is essential that the manufacturing process allows for proper demolding. The recesses are typically rectangular, preferably oblong (i.e., they have a rounded, approximately rectangular shape). The recesses are preferably shaped such that a straight wall is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the handle or housing. In the assembled state, this wall engages with the corresponding locking lug.

[0060] In terms of depth, the preferred shape is a straight cylinder or a cylindrical shape on a rectangular or oblong base. A conical or frustoconical design is also conceivable.

[0061] Regarding guidance, positioning, and force transmission, it should be noted that the insertion unit is inserted into the housing of the handpiece, with positioning and the stop preferably being implemented in a single unit. Rotation of the insertion unit is prevented by its geometry or cross-sectional shape. In other words, a precise positioning is guaranteed; the shape of the front part of the insertion unit, in particular, largely determines the orientation.

[0062] The insert unit rests against the housing in various areas. Longitudinal guides are incorporated, with protruding elements defining the alignment of the insert. The final position is only reached when the unit is inserted correctly, with the (vibration) motor resting against the front of the housing. Specifically, the motor and housing are positioned at an angle, preferably an acute one, to the longitudinal axis, with the stop being a flat surface within the housing, also at an angle to the longitudinal axis.

[0063] When inserted correctly, the locking tabs engage in the corresponding locking recesses when the stop is reached, i.e., they make contact at the front of the housing and engage (preferably at the rear) in the locking recesses on the housing.

[0064] The insertion unit and its individual components are preferably secured by means of a clamping mechanism between the detent and the stop. Between these points, the insertion unit and its individual components are largely free-floating, meaning that contact with the housing occurs only at a single point, if at all.

[0065] The force transmission occurs via the geometry of the insert. The detents are laterally free, meaning the detent lugs preferably do not rest against the detent recesses laterally.

[0066] In one variant of the multi-part design of the insertion unit or the loading device carrier (especially with an oscillating-rotating drive), the insertion unit is preferably held in place by a clamping mechanism between the end piece and the housing. The end piece can have its own closure, e.g., a snap closure, and seals the housing and the insertion unit. The seal is preferably achieved by means of two O-rings, which, depending on the design, are arranged on the loading device carrier and / or on the end piece.

[0067] In another variant of the multi-part design of the insert unit, the insert unit is merely positioned and held in place, but not sealed against the end piece. The end piece is individually designed and preferably attaches to the insert unit or to the housing.

[0068] Other housing elements include interaction elements such as one or more soft-component switches (i.e., the on / off switch), which are designed for interaction with elements or components on the plug-in unit. A recess for a pressure equalization element may also be provided, i.e., a through-hole with a membrane for venting the housing interior.

[0069] Each plug-in unit is functional on its own; that is, no conventional cover or similar component is needed to complete the circuit. It can function without any additional elements.

[0070] The insertion unit comprises the insertion carrier for the functional elements and preferably also one or more sealing elements for sealing the interior of the housing. A portion of the insertion unit or the loading device carrier (preferably the end piece) also forms part of the outer product surface. The outer contour of the product is continued with the insertion unit or the loading device carrier, resulting in a continuous surface (i.e., in particular without indentations, etc.).

[0071] In a one-piece design (preferably with a swiveling-oscillating drive), the charging device carrier (together with the rest of the insertion carrier) is manufactured as a single piece, to which the various components are mounted. The insertion unit extends essentially over the entire length of the housing. Elements that form part of the external geometry, i.e., primarily the end piece of the charging device carrier, the charging device carrier body, or the charging device itself, are formed at the rear end, since the insertion unit is inserted into the insertion opening of the handpiece with the motor or eccentric leading the way.

[0072] The insert unit is anchored and secured to the housing. Installation consists of sliding the insert unit into the housing until it clicks into place. This creates an irreversible fix, meaning the insert cannot be removed without damage after installation. The anchoring and securing occur in the locking recesses in the housing wall.

[0073] The insert itself has corresponding locking lugs which engage in the recesses in or on the housing, with the recesses described above representing the counterpart to the locking lugs.

[0074] The design of the locking lugs is wedge-shaped when viewed from the opposite direction of insertion. The locking lugs initially comprise an insertion ramp or slope which defines an angle Alpha relative to the longitudinal axis (or a slope relative to the baseline in the solid material), in a range of 10° to 75°, preferably from 15° to 35°.

[0075] The length L 1 of the baseline of the insertion ramp is (measured in a straight line parallel to the longitudinal axis) from 0.3 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0076] The height H of the lead-in ramp is from 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm. The height increases continuously and then transitions into the horizontal section.

[0077] The horizontal part has a baseline (parallel to the insertion direction) with a length L2 of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.15 mm to 2 mm. The height H is between 0.1 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm (i.e., corresponding to the highest point of the insertion ramp).

[0078] The rear, vertical wall (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis or the insertion direction) serves for the actual locking into the locking recesses in the housing and accordingly also has the height H.

[0079] The overall dimensions of the insertion ramp or incline are therefore, in length L 1 plus L 2, from 0.4 mm to 4 mm, preferably from 0.65 mm to 3.5 mm, in width (i.e. transverse to the longitudinal axis or to the insertion direction) from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 0.8 mm to 2 mm, and in height from 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0080] The locking lugs can be spring-loaded. This springiness is achieved, if necessary, by mounting the locking lugs on a resilient surface. This means that the loading device carrier or the loading device carrier body has resilient elements or areas that support the locking lugs. For example, this could be achieved through a U-shaped recess in the surface that supports the locking lugs.

[0081] The number of locking lugs preferably corresponds to the number of locking recesses, but there can also be more locking recesses than locking lugs. Each locking lug snaps into a locking recess. The number of locking recesses is from 2 to 8, preferably from 3 to 4.

[0082] The position of the locking lugs is generally aligned with the locking recesses in or on the housing. On the insertion unit, the positioning depends on the position of the insertion unit relative to the housing and the other components on the insertion unit.

[0083] The insertion unit, or insertion carrier, comprises various support areas or zones for mounting different components. It is designed so that electrical elements are electrically connected to each other. The individual areas of the insertion carrier are described in detail below.

[0084] The motor mount (motor zone) is designed for mounting the motor, holding and fixing it, for example, in an inclined position. Installation is done from the front. The eccentric protrudes from the motor zone and thus from the mounting bracket.

[0085] The switch bracket (switch zone) is designed for mounting the on / off switch. It is mounted from the front. The switch bracket is typically located directly adjacent to the motor bracket or between the motor bracket and the battery holder.

[0086] The battery holder (battery zone) serves to mount the battery. The battery is connected to the circuit board, for example, via soldered contact plates, and is held in place by a clamping mechanism on the battery holder, which, when mounted, sits between the battery and the circuit board. The battery is mounted from the top. The battery holder is positioned between the switch carrier and the charging device carrier. A connecting carrier can also be attached to the battery holder; this carrier contains a space for routing the electrical wires or cables to the socket or for accommodating different battery lengths.

[0087] The charging device is mounted to the charging device carrier or carrier body along the longitudinal axis of the insertion unit. The charging socket is located on the inside, while the sealing elements and locking lugs are located on the outside. The sealing elements (O-rings) are mounted from the motor side along the longitudinal axis (i.e., opposite to the insertion direction), and the socket is mounted from the rear along the longitudinal axis (i.e., in the insertion direction). The charging device carrier also includes the end piece, which forms the rear end of the handle and is part of the outer surface.

[0088] The printed circuit board carrier (print zone) supports the printed circuit board, which extends across several of the other carrier zones. Assembly is therefore carried out from the back.

[0089] Regarding charging functionality, there are two options for the power source or battery: a plug-in solution and an inductive solution. In one case, the device is charged by direct connection (e.g., via a power adapter with a plug or via a plug from a PC, e.g., a USB plug). In the other case, an inductive charger can be provided with which the device can be charged (without a plug connection).

[0090] In the case of a charging port (the integration into the product is described), this can include a standard device, such as a standard socket for power adapter plugs. Possible options include USB, USB-C, and Lightning connectors. In principle, connectors of any size can be used. However, a seal with at least an IPX7 protection rating is required.

[0091] The charging device carrier is located at the rear end of the insertion unit. In the assembled state, the charging socket is preferably recessed within the charging device carrier body. The charging socket remains easily accessible. Its placement within the recess, preferably formed by the end piece, already provides a degree of protection against water, moisture, or contaminants.

[0092] The charging device carrier is preferably designed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing. The end cap is generally not sealed (unless the cover described above is provided) but remains accessible from the outside. The seal of the charging socket itself meets the IPX7 protection standard.

[0093] In principle, instead of a charging socket, a coil (for the plug-in unit) can be integrated into the charging device carrier, which can be used for inductive charging. In this case, the charging device carrier is closed, as no opening is required for the charging socket or the corresponding power supply connector. Therefore, no hole is needed in the end piece, and a corresponding sealing zone is thus eliminated.

[0094] The following section discusses sealing functions in connection with the present invention.

[0095] The aim is to provide a general seal against water and moisture ingress and contamination. The seal is applied directly to the insertion unit; with the one-piece design, no separate sealing element is required.

[0096] Depending on the design of the insert unit or the loading device carrier, the following sealing zones are possible.

[0097] Preferably, a seal is first provided between the charging device or the charging socket and the charging device carrier, with the seal forming a ring around the charging socket. The charging socket is pressed into the insert, creating a compression fit between the charging socket and the material. For this purpose, the charging socket preferably incorporates detent mechanisms or detent hooks. The charging socket is thus securely locked into the charging device carrier. The seal is further enhanced by the tight fit of the charging socket within the charging device carrier.

[0098] Furthermore, the insertion unit or the loading device carrier is preferably sealed against the housing, which is usually implemented as a groove with an inserted O-ring that presses against the housing wall and seals.

[0099] Furthermore, a version with a double seal is also possible. In this case, two grooves are provided on the insertion unit or on the loading device carrier, with an O-ring inserted into each groove, thus achieving a double seal.

[0100] Ideally, only one groove is required, preferably the one located towards the free or rear end of the insertion unit or loading device carrier. However, to improve sealing, a second seal can be provided as a precaution. Both grooves are typically present in the finished insertion unit or loading device carrier, but it is not absolutely necessary to use both.

[0101] Preferably, only the seal located closer to the free or rear end of the handle is used. However, it is also conceivable to use only the groove located furthest from the free or rear end of the handle.

[0102] In the embodiment with the two-part loading device carrier (plug-in variant), the loading device carrier body presses against the end piece, forming a seal between the insertion unit and the end piece. The seal can be achieved by a tight fit (via the contact surface) or by means of a sealing ring in a groove on the loading device carrier body, in which case the seal is achieved by compression. Furthermore, the end piece can seal against the housing. The sealing position is located either laterally opposite the housing wall or at the rear end of the housing.

[0103] Another seal includes a pressure equalization element, which is designed, for example, as a membrane placed over a hole in the housing. The function of the pressure equalization element is to allow the battery to vent gases; that is, it should create the possibility for gas to escape from the inside of the housing via the membrane.

[0104] The components of the pressure equalization element include a membrane with a diameter of approximately 5 mm and a through-hole through the housing with a diameter of approximately 1 mm. This allows gas to escape and prevents water from entering.

[0105] The pressure equalization element can be located laterally in the housing wall, although it should be noted that an application on a flat surface is preferable, as this allows for better adhesion than on a curved surface.

[0106] Alternatively, the pressure equalization element can also be located at the rear of or within the end piece.

[0107] For products where the drive unit protrudes from the housing, such as rotating-oscillating toothbrushes, two additional seals are provided: one between the housing and the insertion unit or insertion carrier in the exit area of ​​the drive unit, and another between the insertion unit or insertion carrier and the drive shaft in the exit area of ​​the drive unit.

[0108] For products with a multi-part design of the loading device carrier, an additional zone is provided between the end part and the housing.

[0109] Sealing options can include O-rings and / or injection-molded elements. The O-rings are made of silicone or, preferably, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR).

[0110] The dimensions of the O-rings of the seal in the rear area of ​​the insert carrier are, with regard to the diameter of the ring (i.e., in the middle of the strand), from 10 mm to 20 mm, preferably from 13 mm to 16 mm. The diameter of the strand itself is from 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably from 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm.

[0111] The molded-on elements, providing an additional sealing option, are located on the housing or the insertion unit / carrier, specifically as a second seal between the insertion unit / carrier and the housing (i.e., particularly in the case of a one-piece loading device carrier). The end piece rests against the housing. The soft component on the housing extends into the contact area, and the end piece rests against this soft component, thus creating an additional sealing option.

[0112] In general, sealing elements can also be realized as injection-molded elements made of soft components, so that assembly of the sealing element can be dispensed with, since the element is already injection-molded in the injection molding process.

[0113] The insert carrier is regularly formed from a hard component, preferably POM. This has the advantage of ensuring dimensional accuracy, preventing water absorption (which improves precision), and achieving a more consistent seal overall through more precise positioning.

[0114] Further optional features include the ability for the device to stand upright on its own. The rear end of the housing is designed so that the device can be placed on a flat surface with the longitudinal axis of the handpiece perpendicular to that surface. The rear end surface of the housing is therefore flat. Preferably, materials are applied to the rear end surface that enhance grip or provide a certain degree of surface adhesion.

[0115] Furthermore, a protective cap can be used, meaning no conventional cover, as the charging port should generally remain easily accessible. However, if a cover is necessary, a protective cap made of a soft material can be provided, which can be inserted into the opening to protect the charging port from water and dirt ingress.

[0116] The protective cap can be a separate part or it can be injection-molded onto the housing, in which case the protective cap is preferably connected to the housing via a material bridge. This connection is permanent and holds the protective cap to the housing.

[0117] In the following, we will also discuss essential aspects of the brush heads for electric toothbrushes or other brushes or personal care devices designed according to the present invention.

[0118] For the brush heads according to the invention, (conventional) extruded bristles are preferably used, i.e., both in pointed and cylindrical form, made of hard and / or soft components, preferably of polyamide (PA) or polyester (PBT).

[0119] The manufacturing process can be carried out by extruding a single material or by extruding more than one material (co-extrusion). Unlike injection-molded bristles or rubber-elastic massage and / or cleaning elements, which are manufactured using injection molding, conventional bristles are extruded, cut, and possibly processed before being attached to the bristle carrier using a suitable method.

[0120] The longitudinal shape of the bristles or bristle filaments can be cylindrical, mechanically or chemically pointed (especially in polyester (PBT)), wavy, twisted and / or helical.

[0121] Preferred cross-sectional shapes are circular, round, triangular, rectangular, square, elliptical, polygonal, trapezoidal, parallelogram-shaped or rhombus-shaped.

[0122] For oral hygiene products, the diameter is between 0.075 mm and 0.25 mm, and the cross-sectional area is between 0.002 mm² and 0.2 mm². The diameter describes the smallest circle that can be formed around the cross-sectional shape of the bristle.

[0123] For cosmetic products, which are also conceivable as brush heads in this context, a diameter of 0.025 mm to 0.2 mm and a cross-sectional area of ​​0.001 mm² to 0.15 mm² are sufficient.

[0124] The surface of the bristles is preferably smooth or textured. The bristles are regularly bundled together.

[0125] In preferred embodiments, tongue cleaners can also be provided on the brush heads, which are formed from hard components and / or soft components and / or combinations of hard and soft components and / or material for injection-molded bristles. The tongue cleaners are typically manufactured using injection molding.

[0126] The plastics preferably used as hard components within the scope of the present invention generally comprise styrene polymers such as styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene methyl methacrylate (SMMA) or styrene butadiene (SB); polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE) (preferably also in the form of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE)); polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in the form of acid-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETA) or glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (PETG), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), acid-modified polycyclohexylenedimethyl terephthalate (PCT-A) or glycol-modified polycyclohexylenedimethyl terephthalate (PCT-G); Cellulose derivatives such as cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose acetobutyrate (CAB), cellulose proprionate (CP), cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP) or cellulose butyrate (CB); Polyamides (PA) such as PA 6.6, PA 6.10 or PA 6.12; Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); Polycarbonate (PC); Polyoxymethylene (POM); Polyvinyl chloride (PVC); Polyurethane (PUR) and / or Polyamide (PA).

[0127] Polyethylene (PE) can be used in this case as both a hard and a soft component. Similarly, polyurethane (PU) can be used in both a hard and a soft component.

[0128] Polypropylene (PP) with a modulus of elasticity of 1000 to 2400 N / mm² is preferred, preferably 1200 to 2000 N / mm², and particularly preferably 1300 to 1800 N / mm².

[0129] Within the scope of the present invention, the hard component (or combinations thereof) is preferably used for or in unstable structural elements.

[0130] In the case of an electric toothbrush handle, these are basically the housing, the frame unit, the molded joint piece with the joint pin, the connecting rod, the eccentric, the key element and the housing cover.

[0131] For the brush attachment according to the invention, these are basically the head section, the attachment section, the neck section and the bristle carrier.

[0132] When several hard components are used (for example in two- or multi-component injection molding) or when materials are joined using ultrasonic welding, the hard components used preferably form a material bond with each other.

[0133] Alternatively, several materials can be used that do not form a material bond in two- or multi-component injection molding. In these pairings, a form-fit is achieved (e.g., through undercuts and / or openings, as well as partial and / or complete overmolding, etc.).

[0134] The second injected hard component then shrinks upon cooling onto the first injected hard component, forming a shrinkage bond. Examples of possible hard component pairings that do not form a material bond are polypropylene and polyester, or polypropylene and styrene acrylonitrile.

[0135] Within the scope of the present invention, the soft component(s) are generally formed from a thermoplastic styrene elastomer (TPE-S) (preferably a styreneethylenebutylene styrene copolymer (SEBS) or styrene butadiene styrene copolymer (SBS)); a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPE-U); a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer (TPE-A); a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer (TPE-O); a thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPE-E) and / or silicones.

[0136] Soft components are used within the scope of the present invention, for example, in injected bristles, in cleaning and massage elements on the bristle carrier of a brush head, in tongue cleaners on or at the bristle carrier of a brush head, or as grip-enhancing materials on the handle and / or in the area of ​​the switches of the handle.

[0137] Polyethylene (PE) and polyurethane (PU) can be used as both hard and soft components. In this case, the soft components are particularly preferably thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) with a Shore A hardness of less than 90, preferably less than 50, and even more preferably less than 30. The soft components preferably form a material bond with the hard components during overmolding in two- or multi-component injection molding processes.

[0138] Preferably, the material(s) for the injection-molded bristles are made from thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPE-U). These exhibit better flow properties than standard TPE and faster solidification (i.e., faster crystallization, with the molecular chains bonding even at high temperatures).

[0139] Alternative materials include polyethylene (PE), for example in the form of low density polyethylene (LDPE) or linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), or thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E), or thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPE-A).

[0140] The materials for injection-molded bristles further preferably comprise soft components, preferably thermoplastic elastomers, and have a Shore D hardness of 0 to 100, preferably 30 to 80. Special forms of soft components are used for injection-molded bristles, which generally have higher Shore hardnesses than the soft components used to manufacture soft-elastic cleaning / massage elements, handle zones, or tongue cleaners.

[0141] During the injection molding process (e.g., a two- or multi-component injection molding process), the materials for the injection-molded bristles generally do not bond directly with the other soft and / or hard components used (e.g., a carrier plate or bristle carrier). Consequently, a form-fit connection is provided for any necessary connections with other hard or soft materials (e.g., through undercuts and / or openings, as well as partial and / or complete overmolding, etc.). The material injected second for the injection-molded bristles shrinks upon cooling onto the first injected hard or soft component, thus forming a shrinkage bond.

[0142] In general, special materials that can also be used include so-called bioplastics (i.e., plastics made from renewable raw materials) or water-soluble polymers.

[0143] Bioplastics consist at least partially of the following raw materials. Examples of suitable raw materials include corn, hemp, sugar, castor oil, palm oil, potatoes, wheat, sugar cane, rubber, wood, and castor oil plants. Examples of base materials include cellulose, starch, PLA, glucose, chitin, and chitosan.

[0144] The main groups of preferred bioplastics include starch-based bioplastics, cellulose-based bioplastics, polyhydroxyalkanoates (e.g., polyhydroxybutyric acid (PHB)), polylactic acid (PLA), and aliphatic / aromatic copolyesters. Other preferred bioplastics include lignin-based bioplastics.

[0145] The present invention is particularly applicable to brush products for personal care. With regard to oral hygiene, electric toothbrushes are especially relevant. These employ various forms of movement, such as oscillating, pivoting, translational, and vibrating movements. Combinations and superpositions of these movements are also possible.

[0146] Other electric personal care devices relate particularly to the cosmetics sector, such as mascara brushes, nail polish brushes, facial brushes, applicators and massage devices.

[0147] Electric toothbrushes primarily use mechanical drives with a gearbox (1:1 gearbox or gearbox with reduction or gearing), a vibrating armature, or an electric motor. The exact design depends on the desired speed.

[0148] Disposable batteries or accumulators (lithium-ion batteries or nickel-metal hydride batteries) are used as energy storage devices; charging may be inductive or direct via a plug connection.

[0149] The following section describes relevant manufacturing and bristle-coating processes in general, as well as various preferred design variants.

[0150] Injection molding is generally carried out in an injection mold (or a corresponding machine), preferably in the form of multi-component injection molding. The materials can bond through either material bonding or material bonding. However, it is also possible for the materials not to bond; for example, a shrinkage joint with movement or a hinge is created using a form-fit connection. Hot runner, cold runner, or co-injection processes can generally be used. The location of the injection points can vary depending on the component; that is, the injection points can be located at the front, in the middle, or at the rear of the component.

[0151] The preferred bristle-bristle methods for the brush heads described here are in particular anchor punching methods and anchorless bristle-bristle methods.

[0152] In the anchor stamping process, the base body is first injection-molded with corresponding blind holes for the bristles. The bristles are then folded and attached in the blind holes using anchors, which are regularly formed from (or cut from) stamping wire. Accordingly, in addition to the bristles, the anchor stamping process requires a stamping unit, a stamping die, stamping wire or anchors, and corresponding mold inserts.

[0153] One variant of anchor punching, which can also be used here, is the so-called loop punching. In this process, the bristles are constricted by means of wire loops, which are also made from punching wire, and inserted into the blind holes.

[0154] In contrast, anchorless bristle-stitching methods involve the bristles not being folded and no punch wire being used. Therefore, compared to bristles from anchor or loop punching methods, these bristles are only half the length.

[0155] The process of a first preferred variant is as follows: First, the bristle bundles are separated, then the bristle ends are fused, and finally, the bristle ends are directly overmolded. The bristle bundles can generally be combined here, i.e., merged into a larger bundle. If the overmolding also includes the injection molding of the handle, this is referred to as the "In-Mold Tufting" (IMT) process. If the bristles are first overmolded with platelets, and then the platelets are overmolded with the handle, this is called Integrated Anchorless Production.

[0156] The process of a second preferred variant is as follows: First, (separate) carrier plates for the bristles with through holes are injection molded. Then, the bristles are prepared and guided through the carrier plate. Next, the bristles are melted at their rear ends and fused to the carrier plate. Finally, the bristle-covered carrier plate is ultrasonically welded to the separately manufactured handle. Bristle bundles can be joined together during this process or not.

[0157] The process of a third preferred variant is as follows: First, the base body is injection molded with through-holes for bristles in the head region. Then, the bristles are prepared and guided through the through-holes in the head region. Next, the bristles are fused to the back of the head region, and finally, the bristle melt is overmolded with soft material. Known processes include methods in which the fusion of bristles is not possible, as well as methods in which the fusion of bristles is possible.

[0158] The fourth process variant proceeds as follows: First, a base body with blind holes or recesses for the bristles in the head region is injection-molded. The bristles are then provided in bundles. Next, the bristles are fused together in bundles. The base body (i.e., the bristle carrier) is then heated to approximately glass transition temperature in the head region. Finally, the fused bristle ends are inserted into the blind holes or recesses, and the bristle bundles are anchored in the bristle carrier under pressure. In other words, the size of the blind holes is reduced, or the geometry of the bristle carrier is deformed to anchor the bristle bundles.

[0159] Another preferred bristle-making method is the twisting method. Here, the bristle filaments are first fed in, bundled, and drawn forward. In particular, the bristle filaments are fed from a spool. Several filament strands can be wound onto a single spool. For machine feeding, several spools are pre-tensioned, as each bristle filament in the brush corresponds to a filament strand. The filaments are spread out to the appropriate width for insertion into the brush. The filaments are then drawn forward so that they are free for the next step, allowing the wire to be guided over them.

[0160] The wire is then fed in, cut, and bent. It is fed from a wire spool to the bristle-stitching machine (i.e., unwound) and fed into the process. The wire is cut to a length greater than the unwound length of the twisted bristle filaments (the final cut to length is made after twisting). The wire is then bent into a U-shape so that the open end can later be slipped over the filaments (this is also known as threading the bristles).

[0161] Now the filaments and the bent wire are brought together. The wire is pushed over the filaments from the outside, held in the bend or at the base of the U. The open end of the wire is then clamped so that the filaments are held between the wire pieces. The filaments are then cut to a length greater than the final length in the brush, so that the brush can be trimmed correctly after the filaments are wound in.

[0162] Next, the filaments are twisted and profiled. This means the wire is twisted so that the filaments are clamped or fixed within it. Once the filaments are clamped or fixed, they are cut to the desired length or profiled accordingly. After the corresponding brush section is finished, the excess wire is finally cut off. Brief description of the drawings

[0163] Further advantageous embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention with the aid of the schematic drawings. In particular, the inventive drive unit, the inventive electric toothbrush handle, the inventive manufacturing method, the inventive brush heads, and the inventive electric toothbrushes are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and exemplary embodiments. The drawings show: Fig. 1: A perspective view of an electric toothbrush according to the invention with a vibrating drive from the front; Fig. 2: A perspective view of the electric toothbrush according to the invention. Fig. 1 from the rear; Fig. 3: a side view of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 Fig. 4: a top view of the upper side of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1Fig. 5: a top view of the back of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 ; Fig. 6: a longitudinal section through the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 3 in side view; Fig. 7: a perspective view of a handle of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 from the front; Fig. 8: a perspective view of a handle of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 from the rear; Fig. 9: a longitudinal section through a handle of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 in side view without insertion unit; Fig. 10: a perspective view of an insertion unit for a handle of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 without front wiring; Fig. 11: a perspective view of a slide-in unit for a handle of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 without rear wiring; Fig. 12: a side view of a slide-in unit for a handle of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1without cabling; Fig. 13: a longitudinal section through a plug-in unit with schematically represented components according to Fig. 12 in the side view for a handle of the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 1 with wiring; Fig. 14: a detailed view of an alternative embodiment of the electric toothbrush analogous to Fig. 1 with a separate end piece in longitudinal section with wiring; Fig. 15: a detailed view of another alternative embodiment of the electric toothbrush analogous to Fig. 1 with a separate end piece in longitudinal section with wiring; Fig. 16: a perspective view of an alternative variant of an electric toothbrush with oscillating-rotating drive from the front; Fig. 17: a perspective view of the alternative electric toothbrush according to Fig. 16 from the rear; Fig. 18: a side view of an electric toothbrush according to Fig. 16Fig. 19: a top view of the upper side of an electric toothbrush according to Fig. 16 Fig. 20: a top view of the back of an electric toothbrush according to Fig. 16 Fig. 21: a side-section detail view of the rear end of an electric toothbrush according to Fig. 18 with wiring; Fig. 22: a perspective view of a plug-in unit for an electric toothbrush according to Fig. 16 From the front; Fig. 23: a perspective view of a slide-in unit for an electric toothbrush according to the Fig. 16 from the rear; Fig. 24: a side view of a slide-in unit for an electric toothbrush according to Fig. 16 Fig. 25: a detailed view of the rear end of a slide-in unit for an electric toothbrush according to Fig. 16 . Way(s) to implement the invention

[0164] Certain terms are used in the following description for practical reasons and are not to be understood restrictively. The words "right," "left," "below," and "above" denote directions in the drawing to which reference is made. The terms "inward," "outward," "below," "above," "left," "right," "front," "back," or similar are used to describe the arrangement of designated parts relative to one another, the movement of designated parts relative to one another, and the directions toward or away from the geometric center of the invention and of designated parts thereof, as shown in the figures. These spatial relative terms also include positions and orientations other than those shown in the figures. For example, if a part shown in the figures is reversed, elements or features described as "below" are then "above."The terminology includes the words explicitly mentioned above, derivatives of the same, and words of similar meaning.

[0165] To avoid repetition in the figures and the associated descriptions of the various aspects and embodiments, certain characteristics should be understood as common to different aspects and embodiments. The omission of an aspect in the description or a figure does not imply that this aspect is missing in the corresponding embodiment. Rather, such an omission may serve to improve clarity and prevent repetition. In this context, the following rule applies to all subsequent descriptions: If a figure contains reference symbols for the purpose of graphical clarity, but these are not mentioned in the immediately associated descriptive text, reference is made to their explanation in preceding figure descriptions.Furthermore, if the descriptive text directly pertaining to a figure mentions reference symbols that are not included in the figure itself, reference is made to the preceding and following figures. Similar reference symbols in two or more figures represent similar or identical elements.

[0166] In the Figs. 1 to 15 In general, an electric toothbrush 1 in accordance with the present invention is illustrated with an alternative embodiment (vibrating drive).

[0167] In the Figs. 1-5The electric toothbrush 1 is shown from different sides. The electric toothbrush comprises a handle 2, which has a housing made of hard component 2a. In some areas, this housing is coated with soft component 2b to improve grip. The toothbrush 1 has an on / off switch 4 on its top surface, which is also overmolded with soft component 2b. A brush head 3 is attached to the front end of the handle 2. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 has no bristles, so that only the bristle holes 5a are visible on the bristle carrier 5 or brush head, which in this case are designed as blind holes.

[0168] In the Figs. 3 and 4 The brush head has bristles 5b which, in this embodiment, are of the same length. At the rear end of the handle 2, the end piece 26b closes the housing of the handle 2 and surrounds the charging socket 16 as a kind of protective structure.

[0169] As in Fig. 5 As can be seen, the brush head 3 has a recess 8 on its back, into which a corresponding cam 7 of the handle 2 engages, allowing a predefined pull-off force of the brush head 3 to be set. On the back, opposite the on / off switch 4, the handle 2 has a surface with a soft component 2b, which provides a better grip. Furthermore, a through-hole with a pressure equalization element 6 for degassing the housing interior 19 is provided in the rear end area on the back of the handle 2.

[0170] According to the sectional view in Fig. 6The bristles 5b arranged in the blind holes (bristle holes 5a) of the bristle carrier 5 are clearly visible. Furthermore, the insertion unit 20, which is integrated into the handpiece 2 and comprises the insertion carrier 21, is visible. The motor 11 with the eccentric 11a, the on / off switch 4, the battery 12, the printed circuit board 15, and the charging socket 16 with the charging socket housing 16b and the charging socket pin 16a are arranged on the insert carrier 21. The charging socket 16, or the charging socket housing 16b, and the charging socket pin 16a are connected to the printed circuit board 15 via the electrical lines 14, which in turn is connected to the battery 12. The motor 11 is connected to the circuit board 15 via the electrical lines 13, and the on / off switch 4 is arranged on the circuit board 15 such that it can close or open the circuit. The plug-in unit 20 is thus configured so that a closed circuit can be established with it alone.The rear end of the handpiece 2 is formed by the end piece 26b. The front of the handpiece 2 is inserted with its plug-like coupling structure 10 into the corresponding, socket-like coupling structure 9 of the brush head 3.

[0171] The Figs. 7 to 9 Illustrating the handpiece 2 or its housing, i.e. without the attachment brush and without the insertion unit 20. Fig. 7 This shows in particular the through-hole with pressure equalization element 6 in the rear area of ​​the hand part 2 as well as the cam 7 and the plug-like coupling structure 10, which forms the interface to the attachment brush 3.

[0172] In Fig. 8The on / off switch 4, overmolded with a soft component, is shown in particular, as is the housing wall 17 with a locking recess 18 for a corresponding locking lug 29 of the insertion unit 20, which is described below. As a rule, at least two (in this case, four) locking recesses 18 are provided in the rear housing area, as shown in Fig. 9 The housing wall 17 is shown, arranged opposite each other towards the top and rear sides. In this embodiment, the housing interior 19 contains positioning aids 19a and 19b for the insertion unit 20 and the insertion carrier 21, respectively, as well as the stop 19c for the motor 11. The insertion direction for the insertion unit 20 is indicated by arrow E.

[0173] In Fig. 10A plug-in unit 20 according to the invention is shown separately. The plug-in unit 20 comprises the plug-in carrier 21, which is subdivided into several sections for the individual components. At the front, the motor carrier 22 is provided for the motor 11. Adjoining this is the switch carrier 23, which surrounds the on / off switch 4 (the switch itself is located on the printed circuit board). This is followed by the battery carrier 24, into which the battery 12 is inserted. The battery 12 is in electrical contact with the printed circuit board 15 via soldered contact plates 27 (only the front contact plate is visible here). Following this is the connecting carrier 25, through which, in the final device, the electrical lines 14 from the printed circuit board 15 to the charging socket 16 are routed. The charging socket 16 is accommodated in the charging device carrier 26.The charging socket carrier 26 also has locking lugs 29, which engage in the previously described recesses 18 in the housing wall 17 of the handset 2.

[0174] In the detailed view according to Fig. 10 A locking lug 29, or rather its wedge-shaped structure (opposite the insertion direction E), is illustrated in a side view. The locking lug 29 comprises an insertion ramp 29a which extends at an angle α from the base of the locking lug 29 and has a length L1. Adjoining the insertion ramp 29a is the horizontal part 29b, which has a base with a length L2, and a vertical wall 29c with a height H, which corresponds to the maximum height of the insertion ramp 29a.

[0175] The angle α defined by the insertion ramp 29a relative to the baseline lies in a range of 10° to 75°, preferably from 15° to 35°.

[0176] The length L 1 of the baseline of the insertion ramp 29a is from 0.3 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0177] The height H of the insertion ramp 29a is from 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm. The height H increases continuously and then transitions into the horizontal part 29b.

[0178] The horizontal part 29b comprises the baseline with a length L2 of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably of 0.15 mm to 2 mm. The height H is between 0.1 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably of 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm (i.e., corresponding to the highest point of the insertion ramp 29a).

[0179] The rear, vertical wall 29c serves for the actual locking into the locking recesses 18 in the housing and accordingly also has the height H.

[0180] The overall dimensions of the insertion ramp 29a are therefore, in length L 1 plus L 2, from 0.4 mm to 4 mm, preferably from 0.65 mm to 3.5 mm, in width (i.e. perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X or to the insertion direction E) from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 0.8 mm to 2 mm, and in height from 0.1 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably from 0.25 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0181] In the perspective rear view according to Fig. 11The charging device carrier 26, which accommodates the charging socket 16 with the charging socket pin 16a and the charging socket housing 16b, can be seen. The end part 26b of the charging device carrier 26 surrounds the charging socket 16, or rather its front end, in the form of a ring-shaped protective element, which is also configured for vertical positioning of the device by having a flat outer surface 46. Furthermore, the vertical wall 29c of the locking lug 29, a flattened area 31 on the charging device carrier 26, and a through-opening 28 in the area of ​​the connecting carrier 25 can be seen. The contact ends of the contact plates 27 protrude through corresponding openings in the printed circuit board 15. These contact plates are soldered to the printed circuit board 15 and provide the connection between the battery 12 and the printed circuit board 15. The printed circuit board 15 is held by brackets 30 of the insert carrier.The motor carrier 22 has two adjacent through-openings 22a on its rear side with a partition wall arranged between them.

[0182] The side view of the insertion unit according to Fig. 12 Essentially, it illustrates once again the points related to Fig. 10 described components of the insert unit according to the invention 20.

[0183] In Fig. 13 A sectional view through the equipped insertion unit 20 is shown according to Fig. 12 represented with schematically depicted components. InThis view particularly reveals the one-piece construction of the charging device carrier 26 according to this embodiment, i.e., the charging device carrier body 26a and the end part 26b merge seamlessly into one another. The charging device carrier body 26a encloses the charging socket 16 or the charging socket housing 16b, which surrounds the charging socket pin 16a. A corresponding plug of a power supply can be connected to the charging socket pin 16a for charging the device. The end part 26b surrounds the charging socket 16 or its front end in the manner of an annular protective element, which is simultaneously configured for vertical positioning of the device by having a flat outer surface 46 (cf. Fig. 11 ).

[0184] One electrical conductor 14 is connected to the charging socket housing 16b, and the other electrical conductor 14 is connected to the charging socket pin 16a. The electrical conductors 14 are routed from the printed circuit board 15 through the connecting carrier 25 to the charging socket housing 16b and the charging socket connector 16a, respectively. The charging socket housing 16b also includes hook-shaped locking features 16c by means of which the charging socket 16 is held in the charging device carrier body 26a. When the charging socket 16 is inserted into the charging device carrier body 26a, it is pressed into place, thus creating a seal to the outside. The end piece 26b includes a circumferential projection 45 at its end facing the charging device carrier body 26a, which, together with an adjacent soft component area 2b of the housing, can act to create a seal.The charging device carrier body 26a has two circumferential grooves 33a and 34a on its outer circumference, each serving to receive a corresponding sealing element or O-ring. In the present embodiment, only the groove 34a, located towards the end part 26b, is fitted with an O-ring 34b. This form of sealing between the housing and the charging device carrier is generally sufficient. However, for added safety, the groove 33a can also be fitted with an additional sealing element or O-ring 33b. It is also conceivable that only the groove 33a is fitted with a sealing element or O-ring 33b. The printed circuit board 15 is held in position by the brackets 30 of the insert carrier 21. The electrical leads 13 are routed from the printed circuit board 15 under the switch carrier 23 into the motor carrier 22 and are preferably connected there to a terminal on the rear of the motor 11.

[0185] In Fig. 14 An embodiment of the insertion unit 20 according to the invention is shown, in which the loading device carrier 26 has a two-part structure. The end part 26b is latched to the loading device carrier body 26a by means of locking devices 47 and can thus be inserted into the handle 2 together with it, i.e., as part of the insertion unit 20. In the inserted state, an additional seal is created between the projection 45 and the adjacent soft component 2b at the rear end of the handle, i.e., in addition to the circumferential seal between the sealing element or O-ring 34b and the inside of the housing wall 17.

[0186] The charging socket 16 is freely accessible from the outside through the charging opening 35. A through-hole with a pressure equalization element is provided in the housing wall 17 towards the rear. The flattened section 31 supports the connecting carrier 25 against the inside of the housing wall 17. The charging device carrier body 26a is supported circumferentially against the inside of the housing wall 17. The end piece 26b closes off the handset 2 to the outside and thus forms part of the outer surface of the handset, particularly in the horizontal direction with its outer circumference 49, but also in the vertical direction by means of the flat outer surface 46. The charging socket 16, with the outer part of the charging socket housing 16b and the rear end of the charging socket pin 16a, also forms part of the outer surface in the vertical direction.

[0187] In Fig. 15A further embodiment of the insertion unit 20 according to the invention is shown, in which the charging device carrier has a two-part structure. Here, the end part 26b is laterally attached to the charging device carrier body 26a, preferably creating a clamping effect, and the end part 26b, as part of the insertion unit 20, is inserted into the handle. Here, too, in the inserted state, a seal is created between the projection 45 and the adjacent soft component 2b at the rear end of the handle 2, i.e., in addition to the seals between the end part 26b and the inside of the housing wall 17 and between the end part 26b and the charging device carrier body 26a in the axial direction. The circumferential seal between the end part 26b and the inside of the housing wall 17 is achieved by means of the sealing element 36b or O-ring in the groove 36a at the front end of the end part.The axial seal between the end part 26b and the loading device carrier body 26a is achieved by means of the sealing element 37b or O-ring in the groove 37a at the rear end of the loading device carrier body 26a, wherein the end part 26b presses against the O-ring 37b with a retaining projection 48.

[0188] In this case as well, the end piece can be inserted into the device together with the charging device carrier body or the remaining insertion unit 20. The charging socket 16 is freely accessible from the outside through the charging opening 35. The through-hole with pressure equalization element 6 is provided in the housing wall 17 towards the rear. The flattened section 31 supports the connecting carrier 25 against the inside of the housing wall 17. The charging device carrier body 26a is in turn supported circumferentially against the inside of the housing wall 17. The end piece 26b also closes off the handset 2 to the outside and thus forms part of the outer surface of the handset 2, particularly in the horizontal direction with its outer circumference 49, but also in the vertical direction by means of the flat outer surface 46.The charging socket 16, together with the outer part of the charging socket housing 16b and approximately the rear end of the charging socket pin 16a, also forms part of the outer surface in a vertical direction.

[0189] In the Figs. 16 to 25 An embodiment of an electric toothbrush 1 with an oscillating-rotating drive is now shown, into which an alternative insert unit 20 can be inserted.

[0190] In the Figs. 16 to 20The electric toothbrush 1 is shown from various sides. The electric toothbrush 1 comprises a handle 2, which has a housing made of a hard component 2a. The toothbrush 1 has an on / off switch 4 on its upper side. Above the on / off switch 4, signal elements 38, such as LED lights, are arranged in the housing, which may indicate the operating and / or charging status of the device. A brush head 3 with a round bristle carrier 5, or brush head, on which the bristles 5b are arranged, is attached to the handle 2. At the rear end of the handle 2, a cap 26b is arranged, which has an opening for the charging socket 16 and which closes off the handle 2 externally, thus forming part of the outer surface of the handle, particularly in the longitudinal direction with its flat outer surface 50, but also perpendicular to the longitudinal direction with its outer circumference 51.In this embodiment, the through-hole with pressure equalization element 6 is also arranged in the end section 26b, towards the flat outer surface 50. Furthermore, storage structures 39 for safe placement of the handpiece 2 on its back, i.e., with the bristles 5b facing upwards, can be seen on the back of the handpiece 2.

[0191] Fig. 21 shows a cross-sectional view of the rear end of the handle of an electric toothbrush with an inserted insert unit according to the Figs. 16 to 20The end piece 26b lies flush with the rear end of the housing wall 17, with its flat outer surface 50 forming part of the outer surface of the handle 2 in the longitudinal direction, and with its outer circumference 51 forming part of the outer surface of the handle perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. For lateral sealing against the housing wall 17, the end piece 26b has a sealing element or an O-ring 36b, which is inserted into a corresponding groove 36a. For axial sealing of the loading device carrier body 26a against the end piece 26b, the loading device carrier body 26a has a groove 37a into which a sealing element 37b or an O-ring is inserted, against which the end piece 26a presses axially with its inner surface.

[0192] The end piece 26b locks into the housing and is not inserted into the handset along with the insertion unit 20, but is attached separately to the rear end of the handset, preferably locking onto the housing wall 17. In other words, the end piece 26b as such is not part of the insertion unit 20 or the charging device carrier 26b in this embodiment. The charging device carrier body 26a is resiliently mounted on a support structure 52 of the insertion unit 20, which adjoins the battery 12 or the battery holder 24, by means of a spring bearing 40. The electrical lines 14 are connected from the printed circuit board 15 to the contacts of the charging socket 16.

[0193] In the Figs. 22 to 24 The insert unit 20 for the electric toothbrush will be installed according to the Figs. 16 to 21The illustration is shown in perspective views from the front and rear, as well as in a side view. In this embodiment of the insert unit 20, the printed circuit board 15 is arranged on the top of the insert carrier 21, which here is constructed as a monoframe comprising a gear carrier 43 (for the gear unit that generates the rotary-oscillating movement), a motor carrier or motor zone 22, a battery carrier or battery zone 24, and a charging device carrier 26 or charging device carrier zone. At the front end of the insert unit 20, the key element 42 (as the interface to the brush head 3) is arranged, which encloses the drive shaft 41. Seals are provided in this front area between the drive shaft 41 and the key element 42 on the one hand, and between the key element 42 and the housing on the other (neither of which are shown).According to this embodiment as well, the plug-in unit 20 is configured in such a way that a closed circuit can be produced with it alone.

[0194] In Fig. 25 Finally, a detailed view of the rear end of the insertion unit 20 will be shown according to the Figs. 22 to 24The illustration shows that the charging device carrier 26 is resiliently mounted on the support structure 52 of the insertion unit 20 via a first spring clip 40a of the spring bearing 40 and a second spring clip 40b of the spring bearing 40. The spring clips 40a and 40b are arranged independently of each other between the support structure 52 and the charging device carrier 26. In this way, a particularly effective length compensation function can be provided (in this embodiment, the end piece 26b presses the insertion unit 20 into the housing). Furthermore, the mountings 30 on the battery carrier 24, which engage with the top surface of the printed circuit board 15, can also be seen. In addition, a contact plate 27 with one contact end protrudes through the printed circuit board 15. List of reference symbols:

[0195] 1 Electric personal care device or electric toothbrush 2 Handle 2a Hard component (housing) 2b Soft component 3 Brush head 4 On / off switch 5 Bristle holder 5a Bristle holes 5b Bristles 6 Through hole with pressure equalization element 7 Cam (handle) 8 Recess (brush head) 9 Socket-type coupling structure (brush head) 10 Plug-type coupling structure (handle) 11 Drive unit or motor 11a Eccentric 12 Power source or battery 13 Electrical leads (to motor) 14 Electrical leads (to charging socket) 15 Printed circuit board 16 Charging device or charging socket 16a Charging socket pin 16b Charging socket housing (metal) 16c Snap-in geometry (hook-shaped) 17 Housing wall (handle) 18 Snap-in recesses in housing wall (open or blind hole) 19 Housing interior 19a Positioning aids 19b Positioning aids 19c Stop for the motor 20 Insertion unit 21 Insertion carrier 22 Motor carrier 22a Through openings 23 Switch carrier 24 Battery carrier 25 Connecting carrier 26 Charging device carrier (charging socket carrier)26a Charging device carrier body 26b End cap 27 Contact plates 28 Through opening 29 Locking lugs (charging device carrier) 29a Lead-in chamfer 29b Horizontal part 29c Vertical wall 30 Mounting brackets for printed circuit board 31 Flattened section 33a First groove 33 First sealing element (O-ring) 34a Second groove 34b Second sealing element (O-ring) 35 Charging opening 36a Groove 36b Sealing element (O-ring) 37a Groove 37b Sealing element (O-ring) 38 Signal elements 39 Storage structures 40 Spring bearing (for charging socket) 40a Spring bracket 40b Spring bracket 41 Drive shaft 42 Key element 43 Gear carrier 45 Circumferential projection End cap 46 Flat outer surface End cap 47 Locking devices End part 48 Holding projection End part 49 Outer circumference End part 50 Flat outer surface 51 Outer circumference End part 52 Support structure E Arrow Insertion direction Insertion unit XL Longitudinal axis (Hand part) L1 Length of slope (locking lug) L2 Length of horizontal part (locking lug) H Height (locking lug) α Angle (slope)

Claims

1. Insertion unit (20) for a handpiece (2) of an electric personal care device, in particular an electric toothbrush (1), comprising an insertion carrier (21) on which a drive unit (11), an on / off switch (4), a power source (12), a printed circuit board (15) and a charging device (16) are arranged, wherein the insertion unit (20) is configured such that a closed circuit can be established via physical electrical lines / cables (13, 14) and / or suitable plug-in contact elements between the components (4, 11, 12, 15, 16) arranged on the insertion carrier (21) without the insertion unit (20) having to be inserted into the corresponding device, wherein the insertion carrier (21) comprises a charging device carrier (26) in the area of the charging device (16), and wherein the charging device carrier and / or the charging device form part of the outer surface of the handpiece (2) when assembled, wherein the charging device carrier (26) comprises a charging device carrier body (26a) and an end piece (26b), characterized in that the charging device (16) has one or more locking geometries which are configured to seal the charging device (16) against the charging device carrier body (26a) by pressing when assembled, whereby a form fit occurs which causes the charging device to be sealed relative to the charging device carrier body.

2. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 1, wherein the charging device (16) comprises a plug-in device, in particular a charging socket for a power supply unit with a corresponding plug.

3. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the charging device (16) comprises an inductive device, in particular a charging coil for inserting a corresponding ferrite core.

4. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 1, wherein the charging device carrier (26) is formed in one piece.

5. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 1, wherein the charging device carrier (26) is designed in multiple parts.

6. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 5, wherein, in the case of a multipart design of the charging device carrier (26), the latter comprises a separate end piece (26b) which can be locked into place with the charging device carrier body (26a).

7. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 5, wherein, in the case of a multipart design of the charging device carrier (26), the latter comprises a separate end piece (26b) which can be attached to the charging device carrier body (26a).

8. Insertion unit (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the charging device carrier body (26a) has a first sealing zone opposite a housing of a handpiece (2), preferably in the form of a first groove (33a) for receiving a first sealing element (33b), which are configured to seal the insertion unit (20) against the housing wall (17) of the handpiece (2) when assembled.

9. Insertion unit (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the charging device carrier body (26a) has a second sealing zone opposite a housing of a handpiece (2), preferably in the form of a second groove (34a) for receiving a second sealing element (34b), which are configured to effect a seal of the insert unit (20) relative to the housing wall (17) of the handpiece (2) when assembled.

10. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 7, wherein the charging device carrier body (26a) has a sealing zone opposite the end piece (26b), preferably in the form of a groove (36a) for receiving a sealing element (36b), which is configured to seal the charging device carrier body (26a) against the end piece (26b) when assembled.

11. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 7 or 10, wherein the end piece (26b) has a sealing zone opposite the housing of a handpiece (2), preferably in the form of a groove (37a) for receiving a sealing element (37b), which are configured to effect a seal of the insert unit (20) relative to the housing of the handpiece (2) when assembled.

12. Insertion unit (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the charging device (16) and / or the charging device carrier body (26a) form a part of the outer surface of the handpiece (2) which runs essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (X) of the handpiece (2).

13. Insertion unit (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the end part (26b) of the charging device carrier (26) forms a part of the outer surface of the handpiece (2) which runs essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis (X) of the handpiece (2).

14. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 13, wherein the end piece (26b) of the charging device carrier (26) forms a substantially ring-shaped protective element for the charging device (16).

15. Insertion unit (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more locking tabs (29) are arranged on the charging device carrier body (26a), which are configured to lock into corresponding locking recesses (18) in the housing wall (17) of the handpiece (2) when assembled.

16. Insertion unit (20) according to claim 15, wherein the locking tabs (29) have a wedge-like shape with an insertion bevel (29a), a horizontally extending part (29b) and a substantially vertical rear wall (29c).

17. Insertion unit (20) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the charging device carrier (26) is resiliently mounted on a support structure (52) by means of a spring bearing (40).

18. Insert unit according to claim 17, wherein the spring bearing (40) comprises a first spring clip (40a) and a second spring clip (40b), which are preferably arranged independently of each other between the charging device carrier (26) and the support structure (52).

19. Handpiece (2) for an electric personal care device, in particular for an electric toothbrush (1), comprising a housing and an insertion unit (20) according to any one of the preceding claims insertable therein.

20. Electric personal care device, in particular electric toothbrush (1), comprising a handpiece (2) according to claim 19.