Applicator device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an applicator device with a top and a bottom and with at least one holding section (2), at least one working tip (4) and a neck section (3) connecting the holding section (2) and the working tip (4), comprising a base body (10) which is at least partially formed from a first plastic component, wherein the base body (10) is at least partially overmolded by at least a second plastic component which is softer than the first plastic component, wherein in the region of the working tip (4) the at least one second plastic component at least partially encases the base body (10) and wherein the encasement (33) comprises outwardly projecting cleaning elements (35a, 35b).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to cleaning or applicator devices manufactured by injection molding, such as interdental cleaners or mascara applicators, comprising at least one holding section, at least one working tip and a neck section connecting the holding section and the working tip, and which have a base body which is at least partially formed from a first plastic component, wherein the base body is at least partially overmolded by a second plastic component, a manufacturing method for such applicator devices and a corresponding tool.

[0002] Known interdental cleaners and applicators are described in US 2015 / 0282601 A1, WO 2015 / 147076 A1, US 2015 / 0257861 A1, US 2016 / 0135932 A1, US 2016 / 0058531 A1, US 2015 / 0257523 A1, US 9,173,479 B2, WO 2016 / 113928 A1, WO 2016 / 199834 A1, WO 2016 / 199835 1I and DE 11 2013 002 612 T5.

[0003] These products can sometimes be disadvantageous in use. For example, anatomically unfavorable designs of the working tips can lead to injuries of the gums during use. Furthermore, the well-known products are often not very versatile and are expensive to manufacture.

[0004] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide an applicator device that is efficient and versatile in use, in particular ensuring a high cleaning effect while simultaneously protecting the gums, and which is inexpensive to manufacture – as well as a corresponding method and tool. Furthermore, such applicators can be supplemented with effective additional functions.

[0005] This problem is solved according to the invention by an applicator device with at least one holding section, at least one working tip, and a neck section connecting the holding section and the working tip, comprising a base body which is at least partially formed from a first plastic component, wherein the base body is at least partially overmolded by at least a second plastic component which is softer than the first plastic component, wherein in the region of the working tip the at least one second plastic component at least partially encases the base body and wherein the encasement comprises outwardly projecting cleaning elements, and by a method for manufacturing an applicator device or a comb of applicator devices by injection molding, wherein the applicator device(s) has at least one holding section,at least one working tip and a neck section connecting the holding section and the working tip, wherein in a first step one or more base bodies are injection molded which (r) are at least partially formed from a first plastic component and wherein, after a folding process, in a second step the base body(s) is / are at least partially overmolded by at least a second plastic component which is softer than the first plastic component, wherein in the area of ​​the working tip (n) the second plastic component at least partially encases the base body and wherein the encasement forms outwardly projecting cleaning elements (or application elements),and by a tool for producing a comb of applicator devices by injection molding, comprising at least one first cavity for injection molding the first plastic component for the base body and a second cavity for overmolding the base body with the second plastic component, wherein the first cavity for the first plastic component is modularly constructed from at least one rear section for at least the base body holding section and at least one front section for at least the base body tip, and wherein the second cavity for the second plastic component is modularly constructed from at least one rear section for at least the holding cover and at least one front section for at least the sheathing.

[0006] In this context, the term applicator device encompasses, in particular, interdental cleaners and mascara applicators, but also toothbrushes and tongue cleaners. The holding section can be shaped, for example, as a handle, and the working tip as a head or toothbrush head, or as a (pure) tongue cleaner. The cleaning elements can include not only bristle-like structures but also special tongue cleaner textures (e.g., nubs, lamellae, scraping edges, etc.). Modular in this context means that different designs of the main body holding section can be combined with different designs of the main body tips, and correspondingly, different designs of the holding cover can be combined with different designs of the casing (the neck section is preferably fixed in each case – i.e.,Designed identically for all models – as it is specifically designed for the transfer function in the injection mold, from the first cavity to the second cavity. In this preferred design of the tool, the base body of the applicator device and the corresponding injection mold thus consist of three sections: . (i) modular, i.e. interchangeable base body holding section, (ii) fixed (i.e. preferably the same in all modular models of the applicator device) neck section used during transfer to the 2nd cavity, and (iii) modular, i.e. interchangeable base body tip section.

[0007] This also applies analogously to possible additional plastic components in a second (without overmolding) or third (with overmolding) and further cavities of the injection mold. In this preferred mold configuration, the overmolded body of the applicator device and the corresponding injection mold thus consist of three sections: (i) modular, i.e. interchangeable overmold holder section, (ii) fixed (i.e. preferably the same for all modular models of the applicator device) neck section and (iii) modular, i.e. interchangeable overmold tip section .

[0008] Alternatively, the applicator device and the corresponding injection mold can also consist of only two sections. In this case, the neck section described above would occupy part of the holding section and / or part of the tip section, and the base body would accordingly have a fixed (i.e., preferably the same for all modular models of the applicator device) base body holding section used during transfer to the second cavity, or a fixed base body tip.

[0009] The separation of the modular parts of the injection-molded cavities is visible as a fine parting line (or venting line) on both the base body and the overmolded part. The cavity separation is positioned to allow venting. The parting line is preferably located between the retaining section and the neck section, as well as between the neck section and the working tip.

[0010] Regarding terminology, it should be noted that in this case, the overmolded part comprises the entire second plastic component with which the base body is overmolded. The overmold is that part of the overmolded part which, together with the overmolded part of the base body (i.e., the base body tip), forms the working tip. Furthermore, the overmolded part includes the retaining and neck covers, which, together with the base body retaining and neck sections, respectively, form the retaining and neck sections of the applicator device. The overmolded part can consist of different materials and / or different colors of the same material, e.g., one material or color for the retaining cover and a different material or color for the working tip cover. Of course, other combinations are conceivable, such as a retaining cover made of two or more materials.Colors and / or a coating of the working tip made of two or more materials or colors. The additional materials or colors can be processed in the second, third, or subsequent cavities of the injection mold.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the working tip is triangular in shape, wherein the upper tip of the triangular shape is oriented towards the top of the applicator device and is formed by a series of vertical, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements, and wherein the lower tips of the triangular shape are formed by a series of horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements. Preferably, the working tip tapers towards the foremost or free end, resulting in an overall conical triangular shape.

[0012] The bristle-shaped cleaning elements can be provided (to improve their cleaning effect in use) with supplementary flat or fan-shaped plastic sheaths at or around their free end. These plastic sheaths are thinner than the bristle-shaped cleaning element. They resemble a spade in appearance, with the bristle-shaped cleaning element forming the handle and the plastic sheath(s) forming the blade. This improves the cleaning effect of the bristle-shaped cleaning element, as the thin sheaths can penetrate even more effectively into narrow interdental spaces. The plastic sheath is of minimal thickness, i.e., less than 0.5 mm, preferably less than 0.2 mm. The plastic sheath extends 0.5 to 3 times, preferably 1 to 2 times, perpendicularly from the outer surface of the actual bristle-shaped cleaning element, relative to its maximum diameter.

[0013] This creates a cleaning arrangement that ideally mimics the natural interdental shape and enables targeted cleaning of problem areas. The vertical cleaning elements clean the interproximal space, while the horizontal cleaning elements clean along the gingival margin, thus helping to prevent gingivitis. Preferably, the base holding section and / or the holding cover is not symmetrical (relative to the longitudinal median plane). This allows the user to recognize the orientation of the applicator device and, consequently, the orientation of the triangular shape (or any other shape deviating from a circular cross-section) of the working tip, and thus the intended orientation for insertion into the interdental space.

[0014] Other cross-sectional shapes for the working tip are also conceivable, for example, a 4-, 5-, 6-, or n-sided shape, a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a closed freeform surface. The shapes can also be designed so that they are only formed on half of the cross-section, with the other half being a flat surface. Regarding terminology, it should be noted that the top of the applicator device refers to the side of the device on which the thumb is usually placed (i.e., with the bumps or ribs). The bottom of the applicator device refers to the opposite side. The left side of the applicator device refers to the side to the left of the placed thumb when the tip is pointing away from the user.The right side of the applicator device is accordingly the side which lies to the right of the thumb as intended when the tip points away from the user.

[0015] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the underside of the base body in the area of ​​the working tip is at least partially free of covering. In this way, a gliding zone is created by means of which the gums are gently massaged and stimulated during cleaning.

[0016] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, lamellar cleaning elements are arranged on the left and right sides of the triangular shape, between the vertical and horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements, as seen in a front view. Preferably, the vertical and horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements project further outwards than the lamellar cleaning elements. A particularly effective and pleasant polishing effect can be achieved by means of such lamellae, which helps to thoroughly remove both food residues and discoloration. In the present triangular shape, the vertical and horizontal cleaning elements, and optionally the lamellar cleaning elements, thus define an approximately triangular outline, the underside of which is preferably at least partially free of soft components and does not contain any cleaning elements.The underside of the triangle, with its hard component, thus offers a different coefficient of friction than the two lateral legs of the triangle, whose surface consists of a soft component.

[0017] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the vertical and horizontal cleaning elements, preferably bristle-shaped, are arranged offset from one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the working tip, wherein the lamellar cleaning elements are preferably arranged in a cross-sectional plane with the vertical, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements, and wherein the horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements are further preferably arranged in pairs opposite each other. This allows the cleaning effect of the applicator devices to be made even more effective. The two cross-sectional planes formed in this way preferably alternate.

[0018] According to a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, several supports are provided in the area of ​​the working tip. These supports are preferably in the form of recesses on the upper surface of the base body (created by the engagement of the retaining elements or pins of the injection mold) and in the form of lateral (typically cone-shaped) projections of the base body (retaining the base body against the mold wall). The supports of the base body are used as aids in the production of the overmolded part. It has been observed that a significant proportion of products without supports lack lateral bristles. Therefore, supports are necessary for both production and quality assurance to position the base body in the mold.Furthermore, the parts without supports exhibit very high variations in the soft component skin thickness (which forms the overmold), i.e. the base body may appear to pass through the overmold or even lie on the surface.

[0019] The corresponding free areas (i.e., the areas of the base body not covered with soft component due to the supports in the injection mold, or open points in the overmold of the working tip) are arranged around the working tip, particularly laterally and on top. The open points (small, circular or elliptical, dot-like recesses) in the overmold preferably have a round shape (circular or elliptical).

[0020] Preferably, the front two-thirds of the working tip's length are provided with lateral and / or upper supports. Viewed along the longitudinal axis, the distances between the upper supports preferably decrease towards the free end.

[0021] The lateral supports are preferably positioned in the central area (i.e., along the longitudinal axis of the working tip). The lateral supports are further preferably arranged opposite each other. Preferably, the number of upper supports is greater than the number of lateral supports.

[0022] The lateral supports are overmolded flush with the soft component (the second plastic component), meaning they are flush with the overmolded part. The overmolded part therefore has corresponding openings for the lateral supports, through which the lateral projections (from the first plastic component) are visible. The lateral supports enhance the cleaning effect because the surrounding soft component deforms more under pressure during cleaning than the supports made from the hard component. This creates additional cleaning and polishing agents from the material forming the base body. The surrounding soft component facilitates a continuous, smooth transition to the supports.

[0023] The upper supports of the base body in the area of ​​the working tip are preferably formed flush with the base body, with corresponding, preferably small, dot-shaped openings or holes in the overmolded part. These blind holes consist of a hard component (formed from the base body) at their base and associated side walls made of a soft component. The geometry of the openings or holes is determined by the geometry of the retaining pins in the injection mold, which are overmolded with the soft plastic component. Preferably, a round or elliptical dot-shaped cross-section is also provided here.

[0024] Preferably, the base body has 1 to 6, preferably 2 to 4, upper supports in the area of ​​the working tip. Furthermore, the base body has 1 to 3, preferably 1 to 3, lateral supports in the area of ​​the working tip (i.e., on each side).

[0025] The dimensions of the upper supports are as follows: The length (i.e. measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis) is from 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 0.7 mm, the width is from 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably from 0.15 mm to 0.4 mm.

[0026] The dimensions of the lateral supports are as follows: The length (i.e., measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis) is from 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 0.7 mm, the width (perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) is from 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm, preferably from 0.12 mm to 0.3 mm, and the height (on the axis from front to back) is from 0.1 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably from 0.2 mm to 0.5 mm.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a recess (several separate recesses are also conceivable) is provided in the underside of the base body in the area of ​​the working tip. The recess serves to keep the tip of the base body centered after being folded over (i.e., during overmolding with the second plastic component). The recess thus corresponds to the aforementioned supports and interacts with them (i.e., particularly with the upper supports). The recess is typically groove-shaped. Furthermore, the recess facilitates cleaning because it reduces the contact area and thus friction on the gums.For easy insertion into the injection molding cavity of the overmolded part, the groove-shaped recesses in the base body have a radius at their outer edge which can change along the length due to the shape of the recess; this radius is between 0.01 mm and 1 mm, preferably between 0.03 mm and 0.2 mm.

[0028] The length of the recess (or groove) is between 10 mm and 25 mm, preferably between 12 mm and 20 mm (i.e., matched to the overall length of the working tip). The depth of the recess is from 0.03 mm to 0.8 mm, preferably from 0.05 mm to 0.2 mm. The width of the recess is from (a maximum of) 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 0.6 mm.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an additional working tip is arranged at the end of the holding section opposite the working tip. This increases the variability and the range of applications of the applicator device. The additional working tip can also be used as the working tip for products such as twisted interdental brushes.

[0030] The additional working tip can comprise a pincer-shaped plastic element made of hard and / or soft material with two gripping jaws and an opening, wherein the gripping jaws preferably have inwardly directed cleaning elements or bristles. This additional working tip can, for example, be inserted between the gum and the implant and serves to brush the implant or its anchorage, or it can be used as a different type of cleaning or application element. In a further embodiment of the present invention, the additional working tip comprises a brush- or fan-shaped cleaning element made of a hard and / or soft component or of one or more bundles of bristles. The end of the fan-shaped working tip can be convex or concave. The fan can have a flat or three-dimensional (e.g., accordion-like, curved, etc.) basic shape.This embodiment serves in particular as an additional means for cleaning the gum line or the interdental spaces.

[0031] The bristle bundles (consisting of bristles) used in a particular design can be conventional extruded bristles or injection-molded bristles made from a material specifically for injection-molded bristles or from a soft component (e.g., the same soft component used for the overmolded part). One, two, three, or more bundles can be used. The bundle(s) can have a shape such as fan-shaped, cylindrical, or curved.

[0032] The additional working tip can also be in the form of a toothpick or a polishing element. The toothpick or polishing element is preferably formed from the hard component, but it can also be completely or partially covered with the soft component or consist entirely of the soft component. The polishing element can be designed with a blunt end serving as a polishing surface. Particularly for a polishing element, the soft material can be provided with abrasive particles. The polishing element can have a polishing edge that enables precise application. The polishing element can be injection-molded onto the base body or mounted by a positive and / or non-positive connection, preferably permanently. The polishing element can also be attached by deforming the base body, thereby creating a positive and / or non-positive connection.

[0033] Instead of the additional working tip, a holding section extension can also be provided at the rear end of the holding section. This provides a larger gripping surface and thus greater gripping comfort for the user.

[0034] Furthermore, instead of the additional working tip, a suction cup or a stand / support can be provided at the rear end of the holding section to allow the applicator device to be positioned vertically. The suction cup or stand is made of hard and / or soft material. The axes of symmetry of the stand or support are preferably parallel to the longitudinal axis of the working tip. The two axes can be coincident or slightly offset. In another embodiment, the axis of symmetry of the stand or support forms an obtuse angle with the longitudinal axis of the working tip.

[0035] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a label and / or a print is applied to the holding section and / or the neck section. This can provide, for example, a trademark notice, a visual effect, or operating instructions that facilitate the user's application.

[0036] The lettering is preferably produced during injection molding with a suitably designed injection mold (laser, inkjet, or pad printing are also possible) and is raised or recessed in the base body and / or in the area overmolded with the second plastic component (overmolded part), so that it is directly legible. Furthermore, preferably, a second component is injection-molded around the actual lettering – which in this case is implemented as a component of the base body – (i.e., the second component flows around the lettering), thereby improving legibility.

[0037] If laser, inkjet, or pad printing is used as a marking method, it is preferably applied to the base body's holding section or platform. The imprint is applied to one or both sides of the base body's holding section. It is also conceivable to use these methods to mark the overmolded part. Hard and / or soft materials can be printed. Preferably, the imprint is applied to the top surface. Preferably, the marking and / or imprint has a length of 5 mm to 20 mm, more preferably 7 mm to 12 mm, and a width of 2 mm to 15 mm, more preferably 3 mm to 8 mm.

[0038] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, a color pattern is printed onto the area overmolded with the second plastic component (overmolded body), preferably on the holding section. In this way, certain elements in the holding section area can be highlighted.

[0039] Products with multiple components can also be printed. This creates a multi-component look. The printing can be applied in one or more steps to different materials on the base and overmolded parts.

[0040] Preferably, the printing medium is provided with an additional function besides color. For example, the printing medium can have a flavor or a material effective for oral hygiene. In this case, the printing is preferably applied in the area of ​​the application and cleaning elements of the overmolded body and / or on the base body.

[0041] The printing is preferably applied directly on the injection molding machine. The processes are coupled via the cycle time, i.e., the injection-molded cleaning or applicator devices are printed inline, preferably without buffering agents.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the working tip has a multi-zone structure (Z1 - Zn). For example, the working tip can have one or more zones with abrasive elements (e.g., lateral lamellar or vertical roof-shaped abrasive elements). In addition, zones with a bead-like profile of the vertical and horizontal cleaning elements as well as the lamellar cleaning elements can be provided. Zones with arrow- or umbrella-shaped profiles of the vertical and horizontal cleaning elements as well as the lamellar cleaning elements are also conceivable.

[0043] The zones can extend in a ring shape or along the length of the working tip. Each zone can have different cleaning elements. Several zones can have the same cleaning elements. Preferably, the working tip is divided into two, three, four, or five such zones, with the zones that deviate from the usual triangular design preferably being located in the central area of ​​the working tip. That is, with three zones Z1, Z2, and Z3, zone Z2 would preferably be the deviating zone. With five zones Z1, Z2, Z3, Z4, and Z5, zones Z2, Z3, and Z4 would preferably be the deviating zones. Different soft or hard components can be used in different zones. Different colors of plastic components can be used in different zones. Different agents can be added to the plastic components in different zones (e.g.,Abrasive agents, odorants or flavorings, etc.). The different zones can be printed differently (e.g., different colors, additives, etc.). Zones without printing are also taken into account.

[0044] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, the working tip has a non-straight shape. A slightly curved or swept shape in side view, with a slight inclination and a more pronounced decrease in thickness approximately in the middle region, is preferred. Another preferred variant comprises a wave-like or serpentine shape in top view of the working tip, wherein, as before, the working tip tapers conically in side view. The individual waves of the serpentine shape can increase in size from the tip (the increase can be linear in the longitudinal direction from the tip or, at least in some areas, have a growing or increasing slope). The distances between the wave crests can also increase from the tip.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the inventive method, during the folding process, a folding element of the tool engages in a recess in the neck section of the base body, the recess preferably being undercut. This allows the base body to be held securely during the folding process. The recess also allows for material savings on the base body. Thanks to the essentially U-shaped cross-section in the neck section, stability in this zone is maintained despite the recess. The recess can also have a different shape. The recess and its associated edges can be used as an additional cleaning element for the mouth, palate, and tongue.

[0046] Alternatively, the outer geometry in the neck area can be designed with an undercut. This means that the parting line on the body is designed in such a way that one side of the shape has an undercut geometry.

[0047] The undercut geometry has an angular deviation of 0.1° to 3°, preferably 0.2° to 2°, in the opening direction.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of the inventive method, the base body(s) are held during overmolding with the second plastic component by one or more retaining elements of the mold on the top and bottom surfaces. More preferably, the base body(s) are additionally held by lateral projections of the base body relative to the mold.

[0049] Preferably, one injection point is provided for each comb for the first plastic component (i.e., the hard component for the base body). A comb consists of several, preferably six, adjacent applicator devices. However, a comb can also consist of 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, or more applicator devices. It is also possible to provide an injection point for every second, third, or every third applicator device. Preferably, this injection point is positioned in the holding section area at the rear end. Preferably, the injection point is located on the top side of the holding section, but it is also possible to arrange the injection point at the mold parting line or on the underside of the holding section. The hard component forms the connection between the individual applicator devices. The injection point of the hard component is preferably subsequently covered by the soft component of the overmolded body.

[0050] Preferably, one injection point is provided for each applicator device for the second plastic component (i.e., the soft component). However, it is also possible to provide one injection point for the soft component for the entire comb or for each, every second, or every third applicator device.

[0051] The injection point is preferably located at the rear end of the holding section. The soft component preferably covers the injection point of the hard component (if present on the given applicator device). In the preferred embodiment, the soft component does not extend across the connection between the individual applicator devices. If a separate injection point for the soft component is not provided for each applicator device, it is proposed to provide a connection between the applicator devices made of hard and soft materials.

[0052] The following describes further general aspects and features of the invention: Stop section

[0053] The retaining section preferably has a two- or multi-component structure (consisting of two or more hard and / or soft materials). The base body of the retaining section is formed from the first plastic component (i.e., the hard component). Particularly preferably, the retaining section is rigid only where absolutely necessary. For this purpose, one or more recesses are provided in the base body, at least in the area of ​​the retaining section. The recesses are then subsequently filled, at least partially, with the soft component. However, even after filling with the soft component, further concave zones may remain on the top or bottom surface of the retaining section. In contrast to the zones filled with the soft component, the concave zones in the hard material do not have sharp edges. Furthermore, it is also possible that concave zones remain after the application of the soft component.To save material, the holding section can have recesses in the base and the overmolded body. These recesses can occupy a significant portion of the holding section's surface area. For example, these recesses can occupy up to 25%, preferably up to 35%, and particularly preferably up to 70% of the holding section's surface area. The soft component and / or the hard component can form the boundary zones of the recesses. The corresponding material savings result in shorter cycle times. Furthermore, preferably, the entire base body is designed to be only as rigid as necessary. In addition to material savings and cycle time reduction, this method also allows for a particularly flexible product. Flexible zones can be positioned within or at the front end of the holding section.

[0054] The second plastic component, which is at least partially injected around the base body in the area of ​​the holding section, is preferably formed from a soft component and forms the overmolded body.

[0055] The soft component is preferably applied over a surface area to one side (i.e., the top or bottom) of the base body holding section and only partially to the other. Preferably, the top surface is covered with the soft component over a surface area, while the bottom surface has a smaller proportion of soft material but features one or more concave zones in the hard component. Preferably, the soft component is applied only partially to the bottom surface of the base body holding section. This can be done in a band-like, linear, or wrap-around pattern, or with wrap-around elements (e.g., around raised areas of the hard component). The application can be symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis, but not symmetrical with respect to the top and bottom surfaces. This type of soft component application (the top surface is easily distinguishable from the bottom surface, i.e., the top and bottom surfaces are not symmetrical) allows the user to recognize the intended orientation.The user immediately knows which side of the holding section should be on top or bottom. This is particularly advantageous when the working tip is not circular, for example, when it has a triangular shape and not all three sides have the same friction or cleaning properties. In other words, the asymmetrical design of the top and bottom surfaces relative to the product's longitudinal center plane conveys to the user the orientation of an asymmetrical working tip. Furthermore, the holding section preferably includes elements to improve grip. These elements can be integrated into the hard and / or soft component.

[0056] Particularly preferred surface structures or elements include bumps, ribs (the ribs can be designed as straight rods or at an angle to each other, for example in the shape of a boomerang), grid structures (e.g. in the form of grids and / or nested structures, such as nested circles or polygons, etc.), or lettering, which can also be used as elements to improve grip in the holding section. The elements are preferably arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the holding section.

[0057] Preferred dimensions of the surface structures include a height of 0.2 mm to 2 mm, preferably 0.25 mm to 0.6 mm, a width of the structure area of ​​2 mm to 10 mm, preferably 4 mm to 7 mm, and a length of the structure area of ​​4 mm to 16 mm, preferably 6 mm to 10 mm. The surface structures can be applied to one side (top or bottom) or to both sides (top and bottom). Preferably, they are arranged on the top side.

[0058] The surface textures can be implemented in the hard component and / or the soft component, for example, in both components on one side, or perhaps in the soft component on top and the hard component on the bottom, or vice versa. Furthermore, surface textures can be incorporated into the hard component, which are only covered with a leveling, thin layer of the soft component and only become perceptible / visible when held by the user.

[0059] The surface textures can be the same or different on the top and bottom. The individual elements, which are preferably arranged in element fields, can also be designed the same or differently.

[0060] The surface structures or elements can be formed either directly in the hard and / or soft component (i.e., in the injection molding process), by gluing (e.g., by gluing on sandpaper or similar), or by dusting onto a layer of adhesive.

[0061] Furthermore, a recess or concave curve can be molded into the grip section (preferably on the top, but also on the underside). This creates an ergonomically shaped support for the thumb.

[0062] The center of the surface structures or element fields is preferably positioned in the center of the holding section.

[0063] Surface structures, edges and radii in the holding section or neck section can also serve as tongue cleaners.

[0064] The holding section can also have a bend and a generally enlarged holding surface; that is, the entire holding area is curved and offers space for at least two fingers on one side – instead of just one. The bend is designed to support gripping with the fingers. For example, the device can be held with three fingers, allowing the tip to be inserted into the interdental space in the optimal direction. The bend is preferably perpendicular to the plane of the vertical cleaning elements, so that, for example, the thumb rests in the bend or the resulting indentation during use, and the other two fingers (e.g., index and middle fingers) provide the counter-pressure for holding the device in the indentation.

[0065] In a preferred embodiment, the holding section can be formed entirely from the soft component, with only the neck section and the working tip formed from the hard component. This allows for particularly high flexibility. Alternatively, only zones made of the soft component can be provided. Furthermore, the holding section can also include a handle for an applicator device and an elongated handle body with a cavity surrounded by a wall. This cavity is characterized in that the handle body is formed in one piece and the wall has at least two recesses extending through it, which are offset from each other and open into the cavity. In other words, the holding section is relatively voluminous and consists of little material. Forming preferably takes place in the hard component, resulting in good stackability since the structures can be nested together.The cavities can be partially or completely filled with a soft component. This design allows for a particularly flexible holding section.

[0066] However, at least partial shaping of the soft component is also conceivable, resulting in compressibility. This means the structure of the holding section adapts to the gripping pressure of the user. In a further preferred embodiment, the holding section has a rigid core over which the soft structure is stretched.

[0067] Furthermore, the holding section can be equipped with a very soft zone (a continuous recess in the holding section in the hard component which is filled exclusively with a soft component) in the center, i.e. the holding section is designed as a frame with a membrane-like soft center which adapts to the finger structure when gripping and can thus absorb misdirected forces.

[0068] Preferably, the holding section can be convex in the middle or at one end, i.e., ball-shaped, spherical, or ellipsoidal, wherein the ball-shaped, spherical, or ellipsoidal shape can be formed from the hard component and / or the soft component. This creates a navigation element that ensures better maneuverability of the applicator during use. However, the entire holding section can also be designed as a ball, ellipsoid, sphere, or similar shape. In a further preferred embodiment, the holding section can be foldable. This makes the product even smaller or shorter. For use, the product is unfolded or opened and locks into a final position. A film hinge can be provided in the hard component in the longitudinal or transverse direction, dividing the applicator into two or more parts.The applicator components created in this way can preferably be locked together in their intended operating position. The advantage of this embodiment lies in smaller packaging while maintaining good functionality. The hinge zone can consist of a hard and / or soft component.

[0069] The retention section can also incorporate additional functionalities. For example, a scraping edge can be provided, preferably at the rear end of the retention section – i.e., the end opposite the working tip. This scraping edge can be formed in the hard and / or soft component. Further oral hygiene functions can also be integrated into the retention section or incorporated at its rear end, such as a tongue cleaner or a cleaning blade for the gingival margin (preferably shaped similarly to the tip of a slotted screwdriver). Furthermore, beauty functions, such as a cuticle pusher, are also conceivable as functional elements at the rear end of the retention section.

[0070] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention, an additional working tip with functionality is preferably provided at the rear end of the holding section (or within the holding section).

[0071] The additional working tip is formed in the hard and / or soft component. It can be designed to be detachable from the holding section, foldable from the holding section and / or lockable to the holding section, or permanently exposed on the holding section (preferably at the rear end).

[0072] The additional working tip can include, for example, a toothpick, a flosser, a polishing element or a navigation element (i.e., to better guide the holding section in the hand, as described above).

[0073] The retaining section or the neck section adjacent to the retaining section may not be symmetrical with respect to its upper and lower surfaces. The retaining section or the neck section adjacent to the retaining section may be symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis.

[0074] Regularly spaced supports are provided as aids in the manufacturing process (depending on the shape and size of the hard and soft components). The supports preferably have a point-like or cylindrical geometry, which lies on the surface of the base body in the final product. Lateral supports are also preferably provided. The lateral supports are preferably projecting, i.e., approximately cone-shaped. The supports create visibly flat surfaces in the final product. The design of the upper supports, in particular, is preferably flush with the base body, i.e., visible depressions are formed in the overmolded body or the casing. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the supports are designed as groove-shaped depressions. neck section

[0075] The neck section generally represents the connecting element between the holding section and the working tip. Preferably, the neck section includes at least one channel for the flow of soft component from the holding area to the working tip (i.e., from the corresponding injection point in the holding section).

[0076] The neck section also provides the geometry for the transfer from the first cavity (in which the base body is produced) to the second cavity (in which the overmolded part is produced) in the injection mold. This can be provided, for example, in the form of a preferably undercut recess (essentially a U-shaped cross-section) in the part of the neck section where no soft component is applied. Preferably, this zone is located on the opposite side of the channel containing the soft component.

[0077] Another preferred feature of the neck section is its flexibility (i.e., within the neck section itself), while maintaining sufficient stability. The entire neck section can also be designed to be elastic. Several methods are available to achieve the desired flexibility.

[0078] Flexibility can be achieved through varying material thicknesses. Film hinge-like structures can also be incorporated into the neck section. Furthermore, a spring element, such as an accordion-like structure, can be integrated into the neck section. The aforementioned flexible structures are particularly preferred at the transition to the working tip, where they act as a predetermined bending mechanism. Another option is to create recesses in the hard component, which are then filled with a soft component. These recesses can be repeated (e.g., multiple recesses perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the neck section).

[0079] Furthermore, preferably, various elements such as nubs, surface textures, surface roughness, etc., can be arranged on the neck section for optional lip and / or gum massage. During use, these elements "scrape" against the oral tissue, massaging it. It is also possible to incorporate a tongue cleaner in the neck section, extending partially into the working tip or even from the holding section to the working tip. The tongue cleaner can, for example, be designed as protruding structures made of a soft component, such as lamellae, nubs, or bristles, oriented similarly to the horizontal cleaning and application elements. The tongue cleaner can also be designed as a scraping edge / lamella made of a hard and / or soft component, extending as described above.In the curved shape of the applicator device, particularly the interdental cleaner, the blade or tongue cleaner edge is preferably positioned within the bend or curve. The scraping edge can also be provided with the aforementioned structures such as blades, nubs, or bristles. Peak workload

[0080] The working tip also preferably includes various functional elements or combinations thereof.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the base tip (consisting of a hard component) is coated with a substantially smooth surface of a soft component (coating) but has no cleaning or other structural elements. The working tip thus acts almost like a toothpick with a soft surface (made of a soft component).

[0082] In another preferred embodiment, bumps made of the soft component are formed on the working tip.

[0083] Particularly preferred – in addition to or independent of the nubs – are also bristles made of a soft component on the working tip. The preferred orientation and preferred cross-sectional shapes are discussed further below.

[0084] In another embodiment, the bristle ends can have an ostrich-like shape (i.e., each bristle has multiple ends). Furthermore, lamellae are preferably arranged at the working tip (i.e., generally between the bristles as polishing lamellae to thoroughly remove both food residue and discoloration). The molded elements of the working tip can also have a different surface roughness than the soft component coating of the working tip. Preferably, the molded elements of the working tip have a higher surface roughness than the coating. Due to the different surface properties, different coefficients of friction result.

[0085] Further general characteristics of the working tip are described below.

[0086] Preferably, for safety reasons, i.e., in particular to prevent injuries, the tip of the base body is covered with a soft component in its foremost region. Specifically, the very tip of the base body (the tip itself) is completely covered with this soft component. The soft component forms a kind of cap over the hard component. The length of this tip is preferably 0.1 mm to 3 mm along the longitudinal axis, and more preferably 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0087] The cross-section of the working tip is round, elliptical, or n-sided in its basic shape, preferably triangular. For the triangular shape, an asymmetrical design is preferred, meaning that only two of the three sides have a surface made of the soft component and cleaning elements made of the soft component. The resulting triangle will be equilateral or at least isosceles. The third side defines a void (i.e., it is not occupied by cleaning elements), which is advantageous for inserting the working tip, as insertion can occur without resistance and rotation of the working tip is easily possible, thus optimizing the cleaning effect. In the case of quadrilateral cross-sections, the opposite sides are preferably unoccupied. In the case of pentagonal and polygonal cross-sections, the voids are preferably arranged alternately.

[0088] In principle, the cleaning elements can be arranged in all directions (and on all sides) of the preferably triangular working tip. However, even with round, oval, or n-sided cross-sections, empty spaces can be provided for the reasons mentioned above, preferably at opposite locations or in an alternating manner. Preferably, empty spaces and occupied sides form a symmetry (point-symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis or mirror-symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal median plane).

[0089] In the case of the triangular shape, the underside of the working tip can be made of a hard material (i.e., a hard component – ​​not enclosed by the overmolded body) and may have a different color and / or coefficient of friction and / or surface texture / roughness than the other sides. This underside then forms a gliding surface, for example, in the form of a largely flat surface. When correctly inserted into the interdental space, this surface rests on the gums. However, massage nubs or a massage structure (for example, in the form of ribs or waves) can also be applied to the underside of the working tip to stimulate the gums.

[0090] Regarding the longitudinal shape of the working tip, it should be noted that the geometry of the base body tip can differ from that of the overmolded part. For example, the base body tip can have a corrugated shape, while the overmolded part has a straight longitudinal section. This automatically results in varying degrees of hardness within the working tip, without this being visible from the outside. Alternatively, the base body tip can be straight, and the overmolded part can have a corrugated longitudinal section, in which case the different zones are clearly visible. In general, the layer thickness of the soft component (apart from the molded cleaning elements) can vary in both the longitudinal and circumferential directions, thus creating softer and harder zones.

[0091] The working tip can also be odd-shaped (i.e., not straight). For example, the working tip (i.e., the base body tip plus the casing) can have a serpentine, spiral, or crescent shape, or a curvature.

[0092] Preferably, the working tip has a conical longitudinal shape.

[0093] The conicity can increase linearly from the tip (constant slope) or increase disproportionately with increasing distance from the tip (slope increases with increasing distance from the tip).

[0094] This is for ergonomic reasons, as it makes it easier to insert the cleaning tool into interdental spaces and allows for effective cleaning of various sizes of interdental spaces. Preferably, the working tip has structures oriented transversely to the longitudinal direction, rather than longitudinally. Alternatively, longitudinally oriented elements such as lamellae, wedges, etc., are also conceivable. Furthermore, the cleaning elements, such as lamellae or bristles, are preferably arranged spirally around the working tip, for example, in the form of lamellae or bristles.

[0095] Preferred embodiments feature combinations of bristles and lamellae. In these embodiments, the lamellae and bristles are arranged alternately along the longitudinal direction of the working tip. The lamellae are preferably arranged between the bristles in the form of scraper lamellae.

[0096] In addition to a generally conical design or shape of the working tip, a threading aid or insertion aid in the form of a fine point without cleaning elements may also be provided at the free end (the fine point may, however, have a coating of a soft component or consist entirely of a soft component). Following the fine point, the first cleaning elements or bristles are then arranged in the direction of the neck section.

[0097] In another preferred embodiment, the working tip has a multi-zone structure. The bristles are arranged towards the free end of the brush. Adjoining the bristles, in the direction of the neck area, is a surface with a friction function (e.g., in the form of sandpaper, an abrasive or polishing element, or a zone with a different surface texture, etc.).

[0098] Furthermore, several different zones (i.e., with different functionalities) can be provided along the longitudinal axis. For example, there might first be a threading aid without cleaning elements, followed by a zone with bristles, which in turn might be followed by a zone with lamellae or differently shaped cleaning elements, etc. Zones without cleaning elements or with only a polishing surface can also be provided.

[0099] However, zones can also be defined in which a specific property, such as height, changes (e.g., Zone 1: Height 1, Zone 2: Height 2, Zone 3: Height 1, Zone 4: Height 2). This could refer to the height of the cleaning element and / or the cross-section of the coating.

[0100] Furthermore, the foremost tip can have (additional) retractable cleaning elements, these cleaning elements being arranged arrowhead-like towards or against the free end, thus forming a kind of arrow or shield. As they pass through the interdental area, the cleaning elements retract, thereby improving the cleaning of the relevant areas, particularly at entry and exit. Upon exit, these elements then unfold, providing a more effective cleaning action.

[0101] However, zones with different hardnesses can also be provided along the longitudinal axis; that is, softer and harder cleaning elements are arranged one after the other in zones. Different hardnesses can be achieved with different designs and / or different materials and / or different additives in the material, etc.

[0102] Further variations or features of the working tip can include bumpers (i.e., buffers or stops) located at the rear end of the working tip (i.e., towards or adjacent to the neck section). These bumpers can be, for example, in the form of a sphere, an ellipsoid, a membrane, a wall, etc., made of hard and / or soft components and positioned adjacent to the neck section.

[0103] The purpose of bumpers is to prevent the working tip from being inserted too far into the interdental spaces; the bumpers thus act as stoppers, buffers, or stops. However, a dual function combined with increased flexibility is also possible (i.e., due to the soft component of the ball, it can also act as a kind of joint together with the base). Bumpers are characterized by having a larger diameter than the rest of the working tip, thus functioning as a stopper.

[0104] The working tip preferably comprises cleaning elements arranged on bridges. These bridges can be attached to the body of the working tip at both the front and rear. The bridges are preferably curved and adapt to the tooth contour when inserted into the interdental spaces. A small recess may be provided between the bridges and the working tip.

[0105] At the transition from the neck section to the working tip, a non-spherical predetermined bending point or flexibility feature can also be provided (i.e., a flexible section within the otherwise standard rigid body). Such a flexibility feature ensures free movement during use. Furthermore, permanent bending of the neck section and / or the working tip can also be provided.

[0106] Another preferred feature is a discoloration of the applicator tip during use. This occurs when flavorings, indicators, and / or oral hygiene agents present on the tip dissolve during use (i.e., they are water-soluble) and are released into the surrounding environment. These agents may have been applied to the surface of the soft component, incorporated into the soft component as an additive, or injection-molded separately. This serves as an indicator that the applicator needs to be changed.

[0107] In an alternative design of the working tip, at least part of its length incorporates dental floss (for example, a riser floss, i.e., a swelling floss) integrated into the applicator device. Alternatively, a sufficiently long piece of dental floss can be integrated into the working tip to enable effective flossing. This means that the floss has one free end, which is grasped with the fingers, and the other end is attached to the applicator device. Thus, the floss can be used with the applicator device as a holding mechanism. A preferred length is at least six centimeters, and preferably at least eight centimeters. The dental floss is preferably fixed at the very tip.

[0108] In a further preferred embodiment, an additional or second working tip is arranged at the rear end of the holding section. The additional or second working tip generally comprises one to three bristle bundles, which can be formed from injection-molded bristles (made of bristle material) or from conventional, extruded bristles. Instead of or in addition to the bristle bundles, a cleaning element made of a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) or another soft component can be arranged at the rear end of the holding section.

[0109] In all embodiments, the two working tips preferably have different cleaning elements and / or different surface finishes. Different materials can also be used for this purpose.

[0110] In another preferred embodiment, the additional or second working tip at the rear end of the holding section has a fan-like or curtain-like geometry with fan-like or brush-like bristles. The bristles can be formed by a single tuft of bristles (consisting of conventional, extruded bristles) or by several (smaller) bristle tufts arranged accordingly, either individually or connected as a fan.

[0111] In this way, elements for cleaning the interdental spaces and / or the gum line can be provided, or elements for cleaning implants.

[0112] Preferably, the working tip also exhibits flexibility. This can be provided, for example, in the form of a multi-part working tip, where one part is fixed to the neck area and another part is designed to be articulated. For this purpose, the base body can have a thinner section in the area of ​​the working tip (e.g., in the form of a film hinge), which provides the desired flexibility.

[0113] Regarding the preferred size ratios of the molded cleaning elements made of soft material, it should be noted that the lamellae are generally less tall than the bristles, i.e., they protrude less far outwards. The increase in length of the cleaning elements (viewed from the tip) can be linear (constant slope) or disproportionate (slope increases increasingly with increasing distance from the working tip).

[0114] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the underside of the working tip or the base body tip has a recess for centering in the injection mold. The centering tip is designed as a continuous line on the underside of the working tip, wherein preferably the (imaginary) extension from the retaining pins of the mold – which preferably act on the upper side of the working tip or the base body tip – intersects the centering line.

[0115] Preferably, lateral and / or top supports of the base body are used as aids during the production of the overmolded part. It has been observed that a significant proportion of products manufactured without supports lack lateral bristles. Therefore, supports are necessary for both production and quality assurance. Furthermore, all parts manufactured without supports exhibit very high variations in the centering of the working tip, resulting in variations in the thickness of the soft component skin (coating). This means that the color of the base body may show through the overmolded part.

[0116] Generally, the front two-thirds of the working tip's length are primarily equipped with lateral and / or upper supports. Looking along the longitudinal axis, the distances between the upper supports preferably decrease towards the free end. This ensures a particularly uniform thickness of the overmolded part.

[0117] The lateral supports are preferably positioned in the middle area (i.e. in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the working tip).

[0118] The lateral supports of the base body in the area of ​​the working tip are preferably designed as cylindrical or cone-shaped projections; that is, the lateral supports are part of the base body made of a hard component and project laterally from it. The lateral supports are overmolded flush with the surface of the soft component, meaning the lateral supports are flush with the overmolded body. The overmolded body, or the plastic component that forms the overmolded body, thus flows around the supports during the process, so that the overmolded body effectively has corresponding openings for the lateral supports.

[0119] The upper supports of the base body in the area of ​​the working tip are preferably planar with corresponding, preferably point-shaped, openings or holes in the overmolded body or the working tip. The geometry of the openings or holes ultimately depends, of course, on the geometry of the retaining pins in the injection mold, which are overmolded with the soft plastic component. Preferably, the openings or holes are circular, elliptical, or n-sided.

[0120] In one variant, the injection molding of the soft component (possibly in conjunction with the geometry of the tool's retaining elements or pins) can be designed so that the soft component film is formed continuously over the base body in the final product, meaning that no gaps, openings, or holes remain in the overmolded part or the working tip. The support points are thus coated with a soft component film. To achieve this, the support pins can be retracted during the injection molding process, allowing the support point to be covered with the soft component with a slight delay. range

[0121] With a view to variable product portfolio design, the applicator devices can be manufactured in a correspondingly modular tool in combs (preferably six pieces each) with identical holding and neck areas, with only the working tip changing. This has the advantage that the transfer system (in the tool from the hard component to the soft component) can remain in place for manufacturing in the neck area, and only the (partial) cavities for the working tip need to be replaced. Alternatively, the holding area and / or the neck area can, of course, also be replaced. The three modules of the injection mold are connected by inserts. Venting is provided at the parting lines. The parting lines (also called parting seams) are visible on the applicator devices in the hard component and / or soft component.They are located in the area of ​​the transition points from the holding section to the neck section and from the neck section to the working tip.

[0122] Only the soft component, only the hard component, or both the hard and soft components can be changed.

[0123] Furthermore, different diameters can be achieved with regard to the hard component and / or soft component and / or the cleaning elements and / or the length of the cleaning elements (at the same points on the working tip), whereby the different diameters can also result in different degrees of hardness for the working tip (e.g. «Soft» or «Medium»).

[0124] Preferably, the working tips can also have different lengths.

[0125] Furthermore, by using different (material) components (see below), different degrees of hardness can be achieved with the same working tip shape. A preferred size, for example for a smaller product ("Size 1"), includes: Diameter of the working tip Di (measured on the soft component, without cleaning elements) at the free end: 0.75 mm; diameter of the working tip D2 in the area of ​​the last neck-side cleaning elements: 1.4 mm; outer diameter of the working tip D3 (with cleaning elements) at the free end: 1.5 mm; outer diameter of the working tip D in the area of ​​the last neck-side cleaning elements: 3 mm.

[0126] Another preferred size, for example for a larger product (“Size 2”), includes: Diameter of the working tip Di (measured on the soft component, without cleaning elements) at the free end: 0.75 mm; diameter of the working tip D2 in the area of ​​the last neck-side cleaning elements: 1.4 mm; outer diameter of the working tip D3 (measured on cleaning elements) at the free end: 2.4 mm; outer diameter of the working tip D4 in the area of ​​the last neck-side cleaning elements: 4.2 mm.

[0127] The following table lists the hole diameters that can be passed through with the working tip of several different sizes of interdental brushes (dimensions in mm): Brush size Passable hole diameter brush size Passable hole diameter 0 ≤ 0, 6 1 0.7 to 0.8 2 0.9 to 1.0 3 1.1 to 1.2 4 1.3 to 1.5 5 1.6 to 1.8 6 1.9 to 2.3 7 ≥ 2,4

[0128] The design can also include the fact that the change of the aforementioned properties for the design of a product range is carried out identically for each comb, and, for example, combs with version 1 and combs with version 2 are manufactured separately. Connection area to other injected applicator devices

[0129] The injection-molded applicator devices are usually manufactured in groups of several adjacent applicator devices ("combs"). The connection area between the individual applicator devices is preferably located in the holding area of ​​the applicator devices. The connection thickness is preferably chosen so that the connection area can be easily cut through while simultaneously ensuring that the products are securely held together (both during manufacturing / in the process and later by the consumer). The connection is designed and dimensioned so that no sharp edges remain after the applicator devices are separated. Additionally, the rigid component should not exceed the recommended modulus of elasticity.

[0130] In a side cross-sectional view, the longitudinal extent of the connection area is always greater than its vertical extent. The connection area is preferably oval or rectangular in shape.

[0131] The connection area preferably has a length of 1 mm to 6 mm, more preferably of 1.5 mm to 4 mm. Furthermore, the connection area preferably has a height of 0.2 mm to 1.2 mm, more preferably of 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm.

[0132] The length-to-height ratio is between 15:1 and 2:1, preferably between 7:1 and 3:1.

[0133] The distance between the applicator devices in the connection area is preferably from 0.1 mm to 1 mm, more preferably from 0.15 mm to 0.7 mm.

[0134] Measured from center to center (of the holding sections), the distance between the adjacent applicator devices is from 5 mm to 15 mm, preferably from 7.5 mm to 9.5 mm. Combs of applicator devices

[0135] The applicator devices can be manufactured in combs where all applicator devices are identical, or in combs where there are variations between the individual products.

[0136] The individual applicator units of a comb can differ in terms of the shape and length of the working tip, as well as the overall product length (i.e., one or more sections (working tip, neck section, holding section) of the applicator units can have different dimensions within a single comb). Furthermore, the individual applicator units of a comb can have different colors (for example, because the soft component is applied via separate injection points). This makes it possible to offer combs with different applicator units so that the user can find the right size for their needs (test combs).

[0137] Combs can be sold in sets. These sets can contain identical or different combs, allowing products with varying features to be sold within a single unit. Special variants of applicator devices:

[0138] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the applicator devices are provided with a label.

[0139] The lettering can be produced during injection molding, either raised or recessed in the base part or in the overmolded part. The lettering is thus directly legible.

[0140] An additional option is overmolding, where a second component is poured around the actual lettering (which is implemented as a component of the base body or the overmolded part), thus improving readability. The lettering can be raised, flush, or recessed into the surface.

[0141] Furthermore, the lettering can also be laser-etched onto the product, both onto the hard component and the soft component.

[0142] Finally, the lettering can also be printed on, for example using inkjet or pad printing. Printing is preferably done on the hard component and / or the soft component.

[0143] It is also possible to apply an embossed design (using a suitable cliché with heat and pressure). This can be done with or without colored / image foil.

[0144] The position of the lettering on the product can include the holding area and / or the neck area, depending on the method, on the hard and / or the soft component.

[0145] The size of the lettering ranges from 5 mm to 20 mm in length, preferably from 7 mm to 12 mm, and from 2 mm to 15 mm in width, preferably from 3 mm to 8 mm (generally depending on the method used).

[0146] The integration of the labeling step into the manufacturing process can take place directly during or after injection molding, after injection molding and before packaging, or directly on the packaging machine (or during packaging). Preferably, the labeling is synchronized with the injection molding process (linked processes).

[0147] During printing, a color pattern can also be applied to the soft component (for example, on the working tip and / or the holding section). This creates a visual effect by highlighting certain elements in the working tip (since it would otherwise typically consist of a single component). In effect, another component is created visually. This can indicate a specific function of a zone.

[0148] An indicator can also be applied to the working tip, showing the degree of wear (or, in the case of single-use devices, that the product has already been used). The indicator dissolves with water during use and / or is worn away mechanically; that is, when it is no longer present, the device has reached the end of its recommended service life.

[0149] Products with multiple components can also be printed. This creates a multi-component look, for example in the holding section.

[0150] Preferably, the printing medium is equipped with an additional function besides the ink. For example, the printing medium can have a taste and / or smell.

[0151] In another variant, the device can have a high-quality holding section (for multiple uses) and the working tip including the cleaning elements and possibly also the neck section are designed as replaceable parts (refill).

[0152] In another variant, the device can have an extended holding section. In particular, a larger, more comfortable holding section can be provided. This is achieved, for example, by inserting the applicator into a handle extension / holding section extension. A preferred ratio of the working tip length l4 to the extended holding section length l2 is between 1:13 and 2:7. The starting point for the calculation is a working tip length l4 between 1 cm and 2 cm and a holding section length l2' between 7 cm and 13 cm. Furthermore, it is possible to create a holding section extension (for multiple uses) which, in addition to extending the holding section, also provides a larger gripping surface; the handle extension is of secondary importance in this case. The handle extension is equipped with a receiving area into which the applicator is inserted.The applicator device is guided through a feedthrough opening with its working tip and then held in place at the free end of the applicator's holding section by a fixing element, or between the fixing element and a surface of the receiving area. An access opening is provided for forming the fixing element during the injection molding process. The handle extension can be made of either a hard or soft component. However, if made of a soft component, the shape of the handle extension, together with the chosen component, must form a stable holder for the applicator device. Of course, other receiving devices for the applicator device are also conceivable within the handle extension. However, the secure locking of the holding section onto the base body and the exposed working tip are prerequisites for all solutions.

[0153] In this second embodiment of the handle extension part, a preferred ratio of the length l 4 of the working tip to the length of the extended holding section l 2 is between 1:6 and 2:4. The starting point for the calculation is a working tip length l 4 between 1 cm and 2 cm and a holding section length l 2' between 3 cm and 7 cm.

[0154] As described, an applicator device can be inserted into the holding section extension. The extension can also simply be a cover / protective device for the applicator, into which the applicator is inserted either with the working tip or with the holding section leading. Additional functions can also be integrated into the holding section extension (e.g., a toothpick, a toothbrush, and / or a tongue cleaner).

[0155] The cover / guard protects at least the working tip. The cover / guard can be injection-molded in the same operation as the applicator and can be detached by the user before use. The cover / guard can be attached to the applicator. It can be injection-molded from hard and / or soft components in the same operation as the applicator.

[0156] In another preferred embodiment, the holding section can also be designed as a mechanical part (e.g., extending the working tip by turning, pushing, or folding, with the holding section simultaneously fulfilling a protective function).

[0157] The device can also have a multi-part design, where the products are separable. It may, for example, incorporate a bayonet locking mechanism to connect the different parts; that is, the individual parts are placed at an angle to each other and rotated until the connection is made (similar to military cutlery).

[0158] A preferred combination consists of a flosser (a dental cleaning device with a piece of floss clamped between two hard metal clips) and an interdental brush, with either the flosser or the interdental brush being attached to the neck area.

[0159] The applicator device preferably further comprises a stand or a suction cup, which is preferably arranged at the end opposite the working tip.

[0160] The stand is purely an element for setting up the applicator device and can be made from a hard and / or soft component.

[0161] The suction cup is a component used to attach the applicator device to a surface. The benefits of this additional function include improved drying and more hygienic storage (i.e., compared to lying flat).

[0162] In another preferred embodiment, fillers (e.g., in the form of additives) can be contained in or applied to the soft component, such as abrasive grains, flavorings, antibacterial substances (e.g., silver elements), cleaning agents (which are released during application), microspheres that burst during use (such as liquid-soluble gelatin spheres containing an active fluid in their core and located in the holding section or stem of an applicator device), blood-stoppers, caries inhibitors, and / or natural substances (such as chamomile).

[0163] The soft component can also be coated, printed, or scented accordingly. Injection molding / folding

[0164] In injection molding, tool modularity can be incorporated, meaning the injection mold can be designed to be interchangeable at the front (in the area of ​​the applicator tip) in both the first and second cavities (this allows for different working syringes for the same holding sections and / or different holding sections for the same working syringes). Furthermore, the injection mold can also be designed to be interchangeable at the rear (this allows for different holding sections for the same working tips).

[0165] The applicator devices can be manufactured as a single piece or as a comb (several individual pieces directly next to each other, connected), with comb manufacturing being the preferred option.

[0166] The injection points used in comb manufacturing are described below.

[0167] The hard component preferably has one injection point per comb, positioned in the holding section area at the rear end. The hard component forms the connection between the individual parts (or the individual applicator devices). The injection point of the hard component is preferably later covered by the soft component.

[0168] The soft component preferably has one injection point per individual applicator device, located in the holding section area at the rear end. The soft component preferably covers the injection point of the hard component. The soft component generally does not extend across the joint between the individual parts.

[0169] With regard to the repositioning of the base body, the recess in the neck area is essentially U-shaped and undercut (so that applicator devices are fixed to the repositioning mechanism of the mold). The geometry is injection-molded in the first step, and the undercut holds the body in place on the molded part, allowing it to be repositioned, for example, into the next cavity. The undercut geometry must then be forced demolded. Packaging

[0170] The usual sales unit is based on a comb with 6 individual applicator devices; however, it can also include 12, 24, 30, 36, 48, 60 or 72 pieces (or 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10 or 12 combs).

[0171] The combs are preferably packaged in a box, preferably stacked. A box preferably contains 1 to 4 combs, more preferably 2 or 3 combs.

[0172] A special feature of the box may be an integrated mirror (perhaps in the form of a label). Alternatively, the box may have a shiny area over which a transparent label is affixed.

[0173] The label can also have a mirror on the first side and an advertising space on the second side, all arranged in a transparent box.

[0174] The box can also simultaneously serve as the holding section or an extension of the holding section. This means that a single item can be inserted into the box accordingly. In one variation, the holding section extension can be designed as a blister pack (transparent packaging).

[0175] The box can also function as a dispenser from which a single piece can be dispensed. In one version, the applicator devices can be coiled up like a glue roller and pulled out piece by piece. Alternatively, the applicator devices can be arranged flat next to each other inside the box.

[0176] In another variant, the applicator devices are arranged in the box in a fan-like fashion, whereby the fan opens when the box is opened and exposes the interdental cleaners (comparable to a drill bit packaging).

[0177] However, the individual interdental cleaners can also be packaged in a pouch bag (i.e., loose in a bag).

[0178] In another variation, a blister pack (transparent packaging) can be used instead of a box. In this case, a hard-shell blister pack serves as the box (Ecoblister).

[0179] The blister pack can also be multi-part, so that only a single part can be taken along.

[0180] A smaller box can also be used by folding the 6 strips once, i.e., the comb is not arranged flat in the box, but folded together.

[0181] A resealable blister pack is also conceivable. In this design, a recess is formed in the blister, and the cardboard backing completely covers it. After opening the blister, the recess is exposed, and a tab is provided on the cardboard backing, which remains fixed on one side, that can be inserted into the recess.

[0182] As an additional feature, a medium, such as an interdental paste, can be provided. This medium is preferably integrated directly into the packaging as a compartment, allowing the cleaner to be dipped into it.

[0183] The medium can also be provided as an insert, such as in the form of a toothpaste tube. Furthermore, the medium can be integrated into the product, for example, in the protective cap. Additionally, the product can be packaged in such a way that the working tip is always immersed in the appropriate medium when packaged.

[0184] In another version, a small travel case (for individual items or a comb) is provided for easy transport of the interdental cleaners.

[0185] In addition, swatch and / or haptic labels (e.g., rubberized) may be applied to the blister pack - for example, to imitate the brush.

[0186] Furthermore, a forming tool may also be included in the box. With this tool, the shape is created by the user starting with a straight brush, i.e., bent by the user themselves. Areas of application

[0187] Application areas for the present applicator devices generally include brush products for medical technology (applicators), cosmetics (mascara applicators, applicators) and for oral hygiene.

[0188] Oral hygiene is categorized into manual toothbrushes, interdental cleaners, and combinations with flossers or interdental brushes. Manual toothbrushes include reusable toothbrushes (with replaceable heads), disposable toothbrushes, and single-tuft brushes.

[0189] Interdental cleaners include interdental brushes with twisted bristles, interdental brushes with injected cleaning elements, and interdental cleaners with dental floss (flossers). Cleaning elements / massage elements / polishing elements

[0190] Cleaning and / or massage elements can be attached to the working tip and / or the holding section. Cleaning and / or massage elements can also be part of the working tip and / or the holding section.

[0191] Conventional extruded bristles are generally suitable as cleaning and / or massage elements for the present applicator devices. These are composed of hard and / or soft components, are pointed or cylindrical, and are preferably made of polyamide (PA) or polyester (PBT).

[0192] Manufacturing is carried out by extrusion for a single component and by co-extrusion for more than one component. Unlike injection-molded bristles or rubber-elastic massage and cleaning elements, which are manufactured by injection molding, conventional bristles are extruded, cut, processed (e.g., rounded or pointed), and attached to the holding section using adapted methods such as anchor punching, anchor free tufting (AFT), post-tapping (PTt), or in-mold tufting (IMT).

[0193] The longitudinal shape of conventional bristles can be cylindrical, pointed (i.e., chemically pointed, especially in polyester bristles), wavy, twisted, or egg-shaped.

[0194] The cross-sectional shape of conventional bristles can be (circular), triangular, rectangular, square, elliptical, polygonal, trapezoidal, parallelogram-shaped or rhombus-shaped.

[0195] The dimensions for oral hygiene bristles preferably include a diameter of 0.075 mm to 0.25 mm and an area of ​​0.002 mm² to 0.2 mm².

[0196] The dimensions for cosmetic bristles preferably include a diameter of 0.025 mm to 0.2 mm and an area of ​​0.001 mm² to 0.15 mm².

[0197] The surface of conventional bristles can be smooth or textured.

[0198] Conventional bristles are usually bundled together. A tongue cleaner can be included as an additional element. This is preferably made of a hard component and / or a soft component and / or a combination of hard and soft components and / or a component for injection-molded bristles.

[0199] Tongue cleaners are regularly manufactured using injection molding.

[0200] Additional cleaning / massage elements can be provided. These are preferably manufactured using injection molding from a soft component.

[0201] Finally, injection-molded bristles can also be used. These are manufactured from a component for injection-molded bristles (examples are given below) using an injection molding process (Spacebrush). Components

[0202] Preferred hard components (or hard materials) used in this context are styrene polymers such as styrolacrynitrile (SAN), polystyrene (PS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene methyl methacrylate (SMMA) or styrene butadiene (SB); or polyolefins such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene (PE) (for example, also in the form of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or low-density polyethylene (LDPE)); or 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); or cellulose derivatives such as cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose acetobutyrate (CAB), cellulose propionate (CP), cellulose acetate phalate (CAP) or cellulose butyrate (CB); or polyamides (PA) such as PA 6.6, PA 6.10 or PA 6.12; or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); or polycarbonate (PC); or polyoxymethylene (POM); or polyvinyl chloride (PVC); or polyurethane (PUR); or polyamide (PA).

[0203] It should be noted that polyethylene (PE) can be used as both a hard and a soft component. Similarly, polyurethane (PU) can be used as both a hard and a soft component.

[0204] Polypropylene (PP) is preferably used with a modulus of elasticity that is preferably between 1000 N / mm2 and 2400 N / mm2, and particularly preferably between 1300 N / mm2 and 1800 N / mm2.

[0205] The hard component is preferably used for / in stable, structure-supporting elements, for example in the base body holding section, in the base body neck section and / or in the base body tip.

[0206] If several hard components are used, they can be joined, for example, by two- or multi-component injection molding or by ultrasonic welding; in this case, the hard components used preferably form a material connection with each other.

[0207] Alternatively, several hard components can be used that do not form a material bond in two- or multi-component injection molding. In these pairings, a form-fit connection is provided (e.g., by means of undercuts and / or through-holes and / or partial and / or complete overmolding, etc.). The second injected hard component then shrinks onto the first injected hard component during cooling, thus forming a shrinkage bond. Examples of possible hard component pairings that do not form a material bond are polypropylene-polyester, polypropylene-styrene acrylonitrile, etc.

[0208] The soft components used are preferably bonded to the hard components by means of overmolding in a two- or multi-component injection molding process. Thermoplastic styrene elastomers (TPE-S) are preferably used in this respect, such as a styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymer (SEPS) or a styrene-butadiene-styrene copolymer (SBS).

[0209] Other preferred soft components include thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPE-U), thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPE-A), thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers (TPE-O), thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E) or silicones.

[0210] It should be noted that polyethylene (PE) can be used as both a hard and a soft component. Similarly, polyurethane (PU) can be used as both a hard and a soft component.

[0211] The soft components (or soft materials) preferably comprise thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) with a Shore A hardness of less than 90, preferably less than 50, and particularly preferably less than 30. Injection-molded bristles, unlike conventional extruded bristles, are manufactured by injection molding.

[0212] A thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (TPE-U) is used as the preferred component for injection-molded bristles (or bristle material). Compared to standard TPE-U, this material exhibits particularly better flow properties and faster solidification (i.e., faster crystallization and molecular chains bonding even at high temperatures).

[0213] Alternative materials include thermoplastic polyester elastomers (TPE-E) or thermoplastic polyamide elastomers (TPE-A).

[0214] The components for the injection-molded bristles are 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, retaining covers, or tongue cleaners.

[0215] During the injection molding process (two- or multi-component injection molding), the components for the molded bristles generally do not form a material bond with the other soft and / or hard components used. Consequently, a form-fit connection is provided for possible connections with other hard or soft components (e.g., through undercuts and / or openings and / or partial and / or complete overmolding, etc.). The second component injected, for the molded bristles, shrinks onto the first molded hard or soft component as it cools, thus forming a shrinkage bond.

[0216] Abrasive particles can be added to the soft component or the component for the injection-molded bristles. Chalk or diamond dust, for example, can be used for this purpose. The soft component or the component for the injection-molded bristles can also contain an anti-grip or anti-stick additive, such as antistatic agents, Teflon, or silicone. This additive is intended to improve demolding in the injection mold. Furthermore, this additive should also prevent toothpaste from adhering to the bristles.

[0217] Bioplastics can also be used in the manufacture of the applicator devices, i.e., plastics that consist of or are formed from renewable raw materials, such as corn, hemp, sugar, castor oil, palm oil, potatoes, wheat, sugar cane, rubber, wood and / or castor plant / miracle tree.

[0218] These raw materials consist at least partially of the basic substances cellulose, starch, lactic acid (PLA), glucose, chitin, or chitosan. The use of water-soluble polymers is also conceivable in principle.

[0219] The soft component may contain a filler or additive that has a cooling effect. The filler preferably has low volatility and is not menthol-based. Furthermore, it must be food-safe to ensure safe use in oral hygiene.

[0220] The cooling filler itself is preferably tasteless and has only a cooling effect. This filler can be used in combination with other flavored fillers to achieve the desired effect. The cooling effect then enhances the other flavors.

[0221] In terms of application, the filler is compounded and used as an additive during the injection molding process, similar to a masterbatch. This means the filler is mixed into a carrier plastic to prepare it for processing. The amount of this carrier plastic is then added according to the desired effect. The carrier plastic can also be the same plastic to which the additive is added.

[0222] A prerequisite for processing in this way is that the filler is thermally stable and does not suffer damage during processing in the compounding and injection molding process, or that no critical byproducts are formed.

[0223] The proportion of filler in the compound is between 3% and 50%, preferably between 5% and 30%.

[0224] The cooling filler can be, for example, a cooling agent such as WS 3, WS 5, WS 23, or WS 32. Extensive tests have shown that these fillers have a positive effect on the user, encouraging more frequent use of the applicator devices.

[0225] Fillers differ, for example, in their site of action (e.g., sensation only at the front of the tongue).

[0226] In principle, the cooling filler can also function as an indicator, meaning it is dosed so that its effect diminishes after a certain period. This period is set to indicate when to change the applicator or toothbrush, i.e., that the release of the filler occurs over a defined period, for example, 2 to 3 months for a toothbrush. The reduction in effect is not linear, i.e., not uniform, over time. The effect is stronger at the beginning of use and then weakens over time. This reduction can be visualized graphically as an asymptote.

[0227] The filler dissolves from the material and / or its edges upon contact with water. Because it is at least partially located on the surface, the filler is quickly available.

[0228] By using the filler in the soft component, it is possible to achieve a refreshing effect with a disposable applicator device even without additional oral care products such as toothpaste or mouthwash.

[0229] The filler can also be incorporated into the hard component. Its position on the product, which contains the material component (hard and / or soft component) with the filler, can vary. The preferred application is in the area used for cleaning, i.e., the neck or head area. It can also be used in the handle area, but the effect will be different and will affect a different part of the body.

[0230] The applicator devices, in particular a toothbrush, may have several soft components, of which only one is coated with the aforementioned filler. It is specifically proposed that soft components in the handle area not be coated with the filler, as contact with the filler could bring mucous membranes outside the oral cavity into contact with it.

[0231] Several soft materials can also be used in the working tip of the applicator or in the brush head of the toothbrush. It is possible to apply the filler to only one soft material. For example, a tongue cleaner can have the filler on the applicator or on the back of the toothbrush head, while the soft cleaning elements within the bristle area remain free of the filler. Of course, several soft materials can also be applied to the working tip of the applicator or the brush head of the toothbrush.

[0232] The filler can also be used in one of the described additional functions of the application device or toothbrush.

[0233] As mentioned for the toothbrush, the filler can also be used in a simple tongue cleaner.

[0234] It is also possible to incorporate the filler individually or additionally into the bristle material for injected bristles.

[0235] The filler can have an additional effect or indication when used with the intended toothpaste. Processes / Manufacturing methods Injection molding

[0236] Injection molding is preferably carried out in multi-component injection molding, whereby the components either join together in the form of a material connection or a form connection (e.g. in the form of a shrinkage connection, possibly with the possibility of movement by means of a joint), so that the components do not join together.

[0237] Injection molding can be performed in a hot runner or a cold runner system. Furthermore, injection molding can be carried out as co-injection. bristles

[0238] In this case, bristles are used as an additional feature / function as part of the working tip and / or at the rear end of the applicator device.

[0239] The bristles can be attached using the anchor punching method, which includes the following steps: (1) injection molding of the base body with blind holes and (2) folding bristles and (3) attaching them with anchors.

[0240] In so-called anchorless methods, the bristles are not folded and are only half the length of those used in the anchor punching method. In principle, various anchorless methods can be used. Four different anchorless method types, A, B, C, and D, are described below.

[0241] Process type A comprises the following steps: (1) separating bristle bundles, (2) fusing bristle ends, (3) directly overmolding the bristle ends. In this process, bristle bundles can be joined together for fixation. Well-known processes from practice include Zahoransky's In Mould Tufting (IMT process), in which the overmolding also includes the injection molding of the holding section, and Zahoransky's Aero process (Integrated Anchorless Production), in which the bristles are first overmolded with the plate, and then the plates are overmolded with the holding section.

[0242] The process type B comprises the steps (1) injection molding the bristle plates with through holes, (2) providing bristles and guiding them through the bristle plate, (3) fusing bristles on the back and fusing them with the bristle plate, (4) welding the bristle-covered bristle plate to a separately manufactured holding section using ultrasound.

[0243] Well-known methods from practice include, on the one hand, the V-Air and Z. Vamp 1 by Zahoransky, in which the merging of bundles is not possible, and on the other hand, the AF method (Anchor Fee Tufting) by Boucherie and the Z. Vamp 3 method by Boucherie, in which the merging of bristles is possible.

[0244] The process type C comprises the steps (1) injection molding the holding section with through holes for the bristles in the head area, (2) providing bristles and guiding them through the through holes in the holding section, (3) fusing bristles on the back, (4) overmolding the bristle melt with a soft component.

[0245] Well-known methods from practice include the AMR method by Boucherie, in which merging of bundles is not possible, and the AMR+ method by Boucherie, in which merging of bundles is possible.

[0246] Finally, process type D comprises the following steps: (1) injection molding a holding section with blind holes for bristles in the head area, (2) providing bristles in bundles, (3) fusing bristles in bundles, (4) heating the holding section body in the head area to glass temperature, (5) inserting bristles into blind holes and anchoring them by applying pressure to the brush head (i.e., reducing the size of the blind holes or deforming the body to anchor the bristles).

[0247] A well-known method used in practice is the PTt method by Boucherie.

[0248] Finally, the so-called twisting method is also mentioned as an anchoring technique. Here, the bristles are twisted between two pieces of wire, creating a twisted brush. Production concept

[0249] The goal is to integrate manufacturing into production with a system that allows for both initial manual connections to the equipment and inline integration. The process preferably consists of the following steps: (1) Injection molding of the applicator devices: takes place in the injection mold as described above. (2) Removal by robot: a robot removes the finished products, preferably comb by comb, from the injection mold (preferably eight combs at a time). (3) Placement on the conveyor: a robot places the combs on a conveyor (preferably a conveyor belt), with all combs arranged in the same orientation. Preferably, one comb per shuttle of the conveyor is provided. The distances between the shuttles are coordinated for the placement from the injection molding process and for the transfer to the conveyor. This ensures optimal gripping and placement by the robots. On the conveyor, the combs continue in a parallel line, with the movement of the combs being timed.

[0250] Additional treatment options during operation on the conveyor system may include: dipping the applicator devices in certain ingredients such as flavorings, etc. (see above) or laser marking (laser engraving) on ​​the hard component and / or the soft component.

[0251] Furthermore, vision control can be performed to verify that the workpiece has been manufactured correctly. For a corresponding 100% inspection, several camera types are preferably used. If a workpiece is not manufactured correctly, it is preferably directed to a reject container at the end of the conveyor belt.

[0252] The conveying system preferably passes on eight combs at a time; that is, eight combs arrive at the system and eight combs leave. At most, one reserve slot is provided between each set.

[0253] (4) Removal from the conveyor and placement in the transport container: This is carried out by robots, with each robot capable of picking up four combs at a time. The combs are placed in stacks in a transport container (tray). The stacks preferably comprise six combs. However, the stacks are generally arranged according to the tray size and the desired packaging size. (5) Transfer of the transport container: The trays can be transferred directly to the packaging system. However, it is also possible for the products to be fed directly into the packaging system after removal from the conveyor.

[0254] However, this also provides an interface for manual processes. For example, products can be manually removed from the transport vehicle / tray and placed in packaging (such as a blister pack).

[0255] For the purpose of better clarity, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be illustrated.

[0256] It shows: Fig. 1: A perspective view of a single applicator device according to a first embodiment of the invention (from above); Fig. 2: A perspective view of a single applicator device according to a first embodiment of the invention (from below); Fig. 3: A top view of the applicator device according to Fig. 1 Fig. 4: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 1 Fig. 5: a top view of the applicator device according to Fig. 1 ; Fig. 6: a rear view of the applicator device according to Fig. 1 ; Fig. 7: a front view of the applicator device according to Fig. 1 Fig. 8: a sectional view along line A - A of the applicator device according to Fig. 6Fig. 9: a sectional view along line B - B of the applicator device according to Fig. 7 ; Fig. 10: Cross-section through the working tip along line C - C in Fig. 3 (without support); Fig. 11: Cross-section through the working tip along line D - D in Fig. 3 (with support); Fig. 12: Cross-section through the neck section along line E - E in Fig. 3 ; Fig. 13: Cross-section through the stopping section along line F - F in Fig. 3 Fig. 14: a top view of the base body of an applicator device according to the first embodiment of the invention; Fig. 15: a side view of the base body according to Fig. 14 ; Fig. 16: a bottom view of the base body according to Fig. 14 ; Fig. 17: a sectional view through the base body along the longitudinal axis L according to Fig. 14 Fig. 18: Top view of a comb consisting of six applicator devices according to the first embodiment of the invention; Fig. 19: Bottom view of the comb according to Fig. 18; Fig. 20: a section in the area of ​​the connection between two applicator devices along the line G - G according to Fig. 18 Fig. 21: Top view of a comb made of six base bodies according to the first embodiment of the invention; Fig. 22: Bottom view of the comb according to Fig. 21 ; Fig. 23: a section in the area of ​​the connection between two applicator devices along the line H - H according to Fig. 21 Fig. 24: Top view of a single applicator device according to a second embodiment of the invention; Fig. 25: Side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 24 Fig. 26: a bottom view of the applicator device according to Fig. 24 ; Fig. 27: a sectional view through the applicator device along the longitudinal axis L according to Fig. 26 Fig. 28: a top view of the base body of an applicator device according to the second embodiment of the invention; Fig. 29: a side view of the base body according to Fig. 28; Fig. 30: a bottom view of the base body according to Fig. 28 ; Fig. 31: a longitudinal section through the base body along the longitudinal axis L according to Fig. 30 Fig. 32: Top view of a single applicator device according to a third embodiment of the invention; Fig. 33: Side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 32 Fig. 34: a bottom view of the applicator device according to Fig. 32 Fig. 35: a top view of the base body of an applicator device according to the third embodiment of the invention; Fig. 36: a side view of the base body according to Fig. 35 ; Fig. 37: a bottom view of the base body according to Fig. 35 Fig. 38a: a top view of an applicator device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention, which has two sides with a working tip; Fig. 38b: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 38aFig. 39a: a top view of an applicator device according to a fifth embodiment of the invention, which has two sides with a working tip; Fig. 39b: a top view of an applicator device according to a sixth embodiment of the invention, which has two sides with a working tip; Fig. 39c: a top view of an applicator device according to a seventh embodiment of the invention, which has two sides with a working tip; Fig. 40a: a top view of an applicator device according to an eighth embodiment of the invention with a parasol tip (front cleaning elements longer and angled, flaps retracted in use); Fig. 40b: a top view of an applicator device with a modified parasol tip; Fig. 41a: a top view of an applicator device according to a ninth embodiment of the invention with a multi-zone working tip (three or more zones in the working tip); Fig.41b: a side view of the applicator device according to . Fig. 41a Fig. 41c: a top view of an applicator device with an additional multi-zone working tip; Fig. 41d: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 41c Fig. 42a: a top view of an applicator device according to a tenth embodiment of the invention with a combined working tip (bristles and abrasive elements); Fig. 42b: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 42a Fig. 42c: a top view of an applicator device with a further multi-zone working tip (bristles and abrasive elements); Fig. 42d: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 42c Fig. 43a: a top view of an applicator device according to an eleventh embodiment of the invention with an odd working tip; Fig. 43b: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 43a; Fig. 43c: a top view of an applicator device with an additional odd working tip (wave shape) ; Fig. 43d: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 43c Fig. 44a: a top view of an applicator device according to a twelfth embodiment of the invention with an extended holding section (better hold); Fig. 44b: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 44a Fig. 44c: a side view of another applicator device with an extended holding section; Fig. 45a: a top view of an applicator device according to a thirteenth embodiment of the invention with a modified base shape; Fig. 45b: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 45a Fig. 46a: a side view of an applicator device according to a fourteenth embodiment of the invention; Fig. 46b: a top view of the applicator device according to Fig. 46aFig. 47a: a top view of an applicator device according to a fifteenth embodiment of the invention, which has two sides with a working tip; Fig. 47b: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 47a in a first variant; Fig. 47c: a side view of the applicator device according to Fig. 47a in a second variant; Fig. 48: a top view of an applicator device according to a sixteenth embodiment of the invention with a modified base shape and a further working element; Fig. 49a: a side view of a handle extension part for an applicator device; Fig. 49b: a top view of the handle extension part according to Fig. 49a ; Fig. 49c: a rear view of the handle extension part according to Fig. 49a ; Fig. 49d: a 3D view of the handle extension part according to Fig. 49aFig. 50a: a side view of a handle extension part for an applicator device with the applicator device inserted; Fig. 50b: a top view of the handle extension part for an applicator device with the applicator device inserted. Fig. 50a ; Fig. 50c: a rear view of the handle extension part for an applicator device with the applicator device inserted according to Fig. 50a ; Fig. 50d: a 3D view of the handle extension part for an applicator device with the applicator device inserted according to Fig. 50a Fig. 51: Schematic representation of the modularity of the injection mold in a rear view of the applicator device in a first variant; Fig. 52: Schematic representation of the modularity of the injection mold in a rear view of the applicator device in a second variant; Fig. 53: Schematic representation of the modularity of the injection mold in a rear view of the applicator device in a third variant.

[0257] In Fig. 1 A perspective view of the top surface of a first embodiment of the applicator device according to the invention is shown.

[0258] The applicator device 1 is essentially divided into the holding section 2, the working tip 4, and the neck section 3 connecting the working tip 4 to the holding section 2. The working tip 4 comprises a sheath 33 made of a soft component, wherein the sheath 33 forms several cleaning and / or polishing elements in the form of vertical cleaning elements 35a, horizontal cleaning elements 35b, and lamellar cleaning elements 36 (polishing lamellae) arranged between the vertical and horizontal cleaning elements 35a, 35b.

[0259] The holding section 2 comprises a holding cover 31 made of a soft component, which covers most of the holding section 2 and which forms several nubs 31a, which are intended to provide a better grip for the finger(s) that come to rest on the holding cover during use.

[0260] The portion of the holding section 2 not covered by the soft component is formed from a hard component and is primarily referred to as the base body holding section 11. The base body holding section 11 transitions into the base body neck section 12, which is at least partially covered by a neck covering 32 made of soft component. The base body neck section 12 then transitions into the base body tip (not shown here), which is surrounded by the sheathing 33 made of soft component.

[0261] Furthermore, a holding projection 16 made of hard component is provided at the end of the holding section 2 facing the neck section 3, which is overmolded by the soft component.

[0262] In Fig. 1 In the subsequent figures showing the various sections, the depiction of the parting line was omitted. This line would form in the area between the holding section 2 and the neck section 3, as well as between the neck section 3 and the working tip 4.

[0263] In Fig. 2 The underside of the applicator device 1 according to the invention, as described in the first embodiment of the invention, is now illustrated in perspective view.

[0264] The retaining cover 31 is visible, extending around the rear end of the retaining section 2 and forming an oval ring there. The interior of the oval ring, as well as the outer edge of the retaining section 2, is formed by the base body retaining section 11 – that is, except for the rear section around which the retaining cover 31 is injection-molded from a soft component. A recess 15a is formed in the underside of the neck section 3, more precisely in the underside of the base body neck section 12. This recess 15a serves as a retaining element when transferring the base body 10 from a first cavity of the injection mold to a second cavity of the injection mold. The recess 15a is preferably undercut to ensure a particularly secure hold, resulting in forced demolding.

[0265] The working tip 4 adjoins the neck section and comprises the base body tip 13 and the sheath 33, the base body tip 13 being at least partially surrounded by the sheath 33. However, the foremost tip 34 of the sheath 33 preferably completely surrounds the front part of the base body tip 13 to prevent possible injury to the gums when threading the applicator device 1. A recess 15 is also provided in the underside of the working tip 4, more precisely in the underside of the base body tip 13, which is intended for the insertion of a centering element. This centering element interacts with the supports 14a and 14b to ensure uniform overmolding with the soft component of the sheath 33 or the overmolded body 30. The overmolded body 30 comprises the entire soft component with which the base body 10 is overmolded, i.e.,It is formed from the retaining cover 31, the neck cover 32 and the sheathing 33.

[0266] In Fig. 3 A top view of the upper surface of the applicator device 1 is shown according to Fig. 1 The design of the casing 33 is shown in more detail in the area of ​​the working tip 4. The casing 33 forms, in particular, two rows of horizontal cleaning elements 35b, which decrease slightly in length towards the free end of the working tip. Furthermore, vertical cleaning elements 35a are formed on the upper surface of the casing 33, or working tip 4, and point vertically upwards. Lamellar cleaning elements 36 are arranged to the left and right of the vertical cleaning elements 35a, and these also decrease in length towards the free end of the working tip.

[0267] On the upper surface of the working tip 4, three supports 14a are also visible. These are generally planar and serve as engagement points for corresponding retaining pins of the injection mold during the overmolding of the base body tip 13 with the soft component for the coating 33 or for the overmolded body 30. The hard component of the base body tip 13 is exposed at the supports 14a and surrounded by the coating 33. The distance between the rear support 14a and the middle support 14a is designated Xi. The distance between the middle support 14a and the front support 14a is designated X2. The distance ratio Xi to X2 is preferably between 1.5:1 and 2.5:1, most preferably approximately 2:1.The neck cover 32 of the base body neck section 12 transitions towards the rear end into the retaining cover 31, which surrounds the retaining projection 16 of the base body retaining section 11. The studs 31a of the retaining cover 31 are arranged in several rows of different row lengths, with the middle row running along the longitudinal axis L of the applicator device 1. The longitudinal rows are preferably arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

[0268] The Fig. 4 shows a side view of the applicator device 1 according to Fig. 3It is particularly noticeable that the vertical cleaning elements 35a increase in length along the longitudinal axis L of the working tip 4 towards the free end or the foremost tip 34 of the working tip 4, while the base body tip 13 simultaneously tapers towards the free end, resulting in a substantially horizontal height profile for the vertical cleaning elements 35a. In a preferred embodiment, the height profile of the vertical cleaning elements 35a has a slight inclination towards the free end or the foremost tip 34 of the working tip 4.

[0269] In the area of ​​the basic body holding section 11, which is covered with the studs 31a, the basic body holding section 11 has a concave curvature 17, 18 on both its upper and lower sides, which improves the grip ergonomics.

[0270] In the area of ​​the working tip 4, the free spaces in the casing 33, which result from the supports 14a, can also be seen. Finally, reference numeral 14b designates a lateral projection of the base body tip 13, which is flush with the casing and serves as a lateral support in the injection mold during the injection of the soft component.

[0271] The holding section 2 has a length l2, the neck section 3 a length l3, and the working tip 4 a length l4. The lengths l2 + l3 + l4 together constitute the total length of the applicator device 1. Preferably, the length l4 is slightly greater than the length l2, and the length l2 is approximately greater than the length l2. For example, with a total length of approximately 5 cm, the length l2 comprises approximately 1.7 cm, the length l3 approximately 1.3 cm, and the length l4 approximately 2 cm.

[0272] The Fig. 5shows a top view of the underside of the applicator device 1 according to Fig. 2 The retaining cover 31, in the form of an oval ring, is again visible in the area of ​​the base body retaining section 11, as is the recess 15a in the base body neck section 12. At the foremost end 34 of the working tip 4, or rather the sheathing 33, the base body tip 13 is completely enclosed by the sheathing 33, as already explained above. The length l 8 of this foremost tip 34, which completely encloses the base body tip 13 at the front, is from 0.1 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 0.2 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0273] The diameter of the working tip D1 at the free end (measured on the soft component, without cleaning elements) is approximately 0.75 mm for a smaller product; the diameter of the working tip D2 in the area of ​​the last cleaning elements on the neck side is approximately 1.4 mm. The outer diameter of the working tip D3 (with cleaning elements) at the free end is approximately 1.5 mm; the outer diameter of the working tip D in the area of ​​the last cleaning elements on the neck side is approximately 3 mm.

[0274] A rear view of the applicator device 1 according to the invention. Fig. 1 will be in the Fig. 6The illustration shows the back side of the base body holding section 11 and the holding cover 31, which surrounds the back side of the base body holding section 11 in the form of a centrally arranged strip. On the top side of the base body holding section 11, the vertical cleaning elements 35a are visible in the center, and to the left and right of these are the studs 31a of the holding cover 31 on the top side of the base body holding section 11.

[0275] A front view of the applicator device 1 according to the invention. Fig. 1 will be in Fig. 7The working tip 4 has a triangular shape in the front view (as well as in cross-section), with the upper tip 5 of the triangular shape oriented towards the top of the applicator device 1 and formed by the vertical, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements 35a. The lower tips of the triangular shapes 6 and 7 are each formed by the horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements 35b.

[0276] Between the vertical cleaning elements 35a and the horizontal cleaning elements 35b, lamellar cleaning elements 36 are stretched, which preferably do not project outwards as far as the vertical and horizontal cleaning elements 35a, 35b. The lamellar cleaning elements 36 thus form the right side 8 of the triangular shape and the left side of the triangular shape 9. On the upper side of the base body holding section 11, knobs 31a of the holding cover 31 are visible to the left and right of the vertical cleaning elements 35a.

[0277] The Fig. 8 illustrates a sectional view along line AA according to Fig. 6In the area of ​​the retaining section 3, the base body retaining section 11 has the concave bulge 17 on its upper surface and the concave bulge 18 on its lower surface. The retaining cover 31 has knobs 31a on its upper surface and encloses the rear end of the base body retaining section 11. At the end of the base body retaining section 11 facing the base body neck section 12, a further area with a soft component of the retaining cover 31 is visible on the underside, which is caused by the oval ring that the retaining cover 31 forms on the underside of the base body retaining section 11.

[0278] The base body neck section 12 is provided with the neck cover 32, and the recess 15a for the folding process can be seen schematically on the underside of the base body neck section 12. In the area of ​​the working tip 4, the covering 33 covers the upper side of the base body tip 13. The vertical, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements 35a are preferably arranged at uniform intervals on the upper side of the base body tip 13.

[0279] The foremost tip 34 completely encloses the base body tip 13 at the foremost end, which, as already mentioned, serves to protect against injuries when inserting the applicator device 1.

[0280] On the underside of the base body tip 13, the recess 15 can be seen schematically; this serves as a centering aid during injection molding of the soft component. Furthermore, a transition area 19 without a recess is provided between the base body neck section 12 and the base body tip 13. The base body tip 13 tapers towards the foremost end 34.

[0281] The Fig. 9 represents a sectional view along lines BB according to Fig. 7 In the area of ​​the retaining section 2, the bottom of the oval groove 24 in the base body retaining section 11 can be seen, which has two openings 20 in its rear area, which are filled with a soft component of the retaining cover 31. A further soft component of the retaining cover 31 is arranged at the rear end of the base body retaining section 11.

[0282] At the transition from the base body neck section 12 to the base body tip 13, a taper 22 is provided in the hard component of the base body 10, which is overmolded flush with the outer casing 33. In the area of ​​the working tip 4, the paired, opposing arrangement of lateral projections 14b of the base body tip 13 and the paired, opposing arrangement of the horizontal cleaning elements 35b, which are arranged alternately with the lamellar cleaning elements 36, can also be seen. Only in the area between the foremost three pairs of horizontal cleaning elements 35b are no lamellar cleaning elements 36 provided. The foremost tip 34 completely encloses the base body tip 13 at the front.

[0283] In Fig. 10 A cross-section through the working tip is taken along line CC. Fig. 3The figure shows the horizontal cleaning elements 35b and the vertical cleaning elements 35a together with the base tip 13, the coverings 33 that partially surround the base tip 13, and the lamellar cleaning elements 36. The horizontal cleaning elements 35b, the vertical cleaning elements 35a, and the lamellar cleaning elements 36 together form a triangular shape, which is modeled on the natural interdental shape and thus enables very targeted cleaning of problem areas in the interdental spaces. The vertical cleaning elements 35a clean in the interproximal space. The horizontal cleaning elements 35b clean along the gingival margin and thus prevent gingivitis. The lamellar cleaning elements 36 help to thoroughly remove both food debris and stains.The underside of the base tip 13 is free of covering and thus forms a gliding zone by means of which the gums are gently massaged and stimulated during cleaning. The indentation 15 in the underside of the base tip 13 is clearly visible.

[0284] The Fig. 11 shows a cross-section through the working tip along line DD in Fig. 3The triangular shape formed by the vertical cleaning elements 35a, the horizontal cleaning elements 35b, and the lamellar cleaning elements 36 is again visible. The lamellar cleaning elements 36 lie in the same plane as the vertical cleaning elements 35a, i.e., in this view, behind the horizontal cleaning elements 35b. The top surface of the base body tip 13 is free of the covering 33, as one of the supports 14a is located here. The recess 15 is again visible on the underside of the base body tip 13. The sliding zone on the underside of the triangular shape is even more pronounced here, due to the conical shape of the base body tip 13 and the working tip 4.

[0285] The Fig. 12 illustrates a cross-section through the neck section along line EE in Fig. 3The neck overlap 32 can be seen, which fills a corresponding channel 21 on the upper side of the base body neck section 12. On the underside of the base body neck section 12, the recess 15a for the transfer step from the first cavity of the tool to the second cavity of the tool can be seen.

[0286] Behind the cutting plane are the vertical cleaning elements 35a, the lamellar cleaning elements 36 and the horizontal cleaning elements 35b.

[0287] The Fig. 13 illustrates a cross-section through the stopping section along line FF in Fig. 3, i.e. at the front end of the holding section 2. On the upper side of the base body holding section 11, the holding cover 31 with a stud 31a can be seen, which extends from the left to the right edge of the base body holding section 11, as well as on the underside of the base body holding section 11 in the area of ​​the oval groove 24. Above the stud 31a, the holding projection 16 can also be seen, as well as a vertical cleaning element 35a.

[0288] Fig. 14 Figure 1 shows a top view of the base body 10 of an applicator device 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention, i.e., without an overmolded body. In the area of ​​the base body holding section 11, a recess 23 is provided at the rear end for the soft component of the holding cover 31, which is directed to the rear side at this point, among other places.

[0289] On the right and left sides at the rear, elongated openings 20 are provided in the base body holding section 11. These allow the soft component of the holding cover 31 to flow onto the underside of the base body holding section 11, filling the oval groove on the underside of the base body holding section 11. The holding projection 16 serves as a contact point for the user's thumb, as further anchoring for the soft component, and as support in the injection mold. The channel 21 is provided in the base body neck section 12 and extends to the taper 22 in the transition area to the base body tip 13.

[0290] The three supports 14a are shown schematically on the upper surface of the base body tip (these are not actually visible in the base body, as the supports lie flat on the base body and only come into play in the second injection molding step, the overmolding), where the distance from the rear support to the middle support is designated X1 and the distance from the middle support to the front support is designated X2. The distance ratio X1 to X2 is preferably between 1.5:1 and 2.5:1; preferably it is approximately 2:1. Generally, it can be said that, even in the case of more than three supports, the distances between the individual supports decrease towards the foremost end of the base body tip 13. In this way, particularly secure centering of the base body tip during overmolding with the soft component in the second mold cavity can be ensured.

[0291] It can be seen again that the base body 10, i.e., in particular the base body tip 13, tapers along the longitudinal axis L of the base body 10. Approximately in the middle of the base body tip 13, the opposing supports 14b are arranged in the form of lateral projections, which also serve as a centering aid during overmolding with the soft component. The lateral projections 14b bear against the side wall of the cavity.

[0292] Fig. 15 represents a side view of the basic body 10 according to Fig. 14The base body retaining section 11 has the concave bulge 17, which extends approximately to the retaining projection 16 on the upper surface. The base body neck section 12 has a substantially constant diameter up to the taper 22 in the transition area to the base body tip 13. The supports 14a are shown as flat areas on the upper surface of the base body tip 13 (although, as already stated, not visible). The lateral projection / lateral support 14b is also shown, with its height indicated by hi. The foremost end of the base body tip 13 has a step 25 for complete encapsulation by the soft component in this area.

[0293] The Fig. 16 illustrates a bottom view of the basic body 10 according to Fig. 14On the underside of the base body holding section 11, the oval groove 24 with the elongated openings 20 is visible, surrounded by the edge of the base body holding section 11. At the rear end of the base body holding section 11, the recess 23 is also provided, which, like the oval groove 24 and the openings 20, is filled with a soft component. Furthermore, the width bi and the length ls (in the direction of the longitudinal axis) of the lateral projection / lateral support 14b are shown.

[0294] The base body neck section 12 includes the recess 15a for the folding process. In the transition area of ​​the base body neck section 12 to the base body tip 13, the tapered section 22 is again visible. The underside of the base body tip 13, into which the recess 15 is formed, adjoins the tapered section 22. The recess 15 is preferably designed as a continuous groove; however, it can also be formed from several groove-shaped recesses, which are separated from each other, for example, by ribs. The lateral supports or projections 14b are located approximately in the middle of the base body tip 13.

[0295] The Fig. 17 illustrates a sectional view through the basic body 10 along the longitudinal axis L in Fig. 14The base body holding section 11 has a concave curve 17, 18 on both its upper and lower sides, wherein the concave curve 17 on the upper side extends approximately from the rear inner edge of the base body holding section to the holding projection 16, and wherein the lower concave curve extends between the front and rear ends of the oval groove in the underside of the base body holding section 11. The recess 23 at the rear end of the base body holding section is connected to, or extends into, the rear end of the oval groove 24.

[0296] The channel 21 of the base body neck section 12 extends approximately from the front of the retaining projection 16 across the recess 15a on the underside of the base body neck section 12 to the transition area 19, which has no recess. The recess 15 is provided on the underside of the base body tip 13 and extends approximately to the step at the foremost tip 25 or the free end of the base body tip 13.

[0297] The Fig. 18 Figure 1 shows a top view of a comb 50, which consists of six individual applicator devices 1 according to the first embodiment of the invention. The individual applicator devices 1 are connected to each other via connections 51 on the outer sides of the base body holding sections 11. The further design of the individual applicator devices 1 corresponds to that described in connection with the preceding Figures 1 to 17 was described.

[0298] In the injection mold, a injection point for the hard component is provided for the production of the base body 10 or the entire comb 50, preferably in the rear region of the cavity (or the base body holding section 11), wherein this is preferably selected such that the soft component covers the injection point of the hard component. In contrast, a separate injection point is provided for each individual applicator device 1 in connection with the injection molding of the soft component.

[0299] The Fig. 19 shows an underside view of comb 50 according to Fig. 18 The design of the underside of each applicator device 1 corresponds to the preceding ones. Figures 1 to 17As can be seen, the connection 51 between the individual applicator devices 1 is formed in the form of an elongated (optionally oval) bridge made of a hard component. This bridge preferably has a thickness that allows the user to easily detach an individual applicator device 1 from the comb 50 by bending and / or twisting it. The distance ai between the applicator devices in the connection area is preferably from 0.1 mm to 1 mm, more preferably from 0.15 mm to 0.7 mm. Measured from the center to the center of the holding sections, the distance a2 between adjacent applicator devices 1 is from 5 mm to 15 mm, preferably from 7.5 mm to 9.5 mm.

[0300] The Fig. 20 shows a section in the area of ​​the connection 51 between two applicator devices 1 along the line GG in Fig. 18The connection preferably has a length l 1 of 1 mm to 6 mm, preferably of 1.5 mm to 4 mm, and a height b 1 of 0.2 mm to 1.2 mm, preferably of 0.4 mm to 0.8 mm.

[0301] The Figures 21 and 22 Each shows a top view and a bottom view of a comb made of six base bodies 10 according to the first embodiment of the invention, which in turn are connected to each other by the connections 51 on the outer sides of the base body holding sections 11.

[0302] The design of the individual basic bodies 10 otherwise corresponds to the preceding ones. Figures 1 to 17 .

[0303] The Fig. 23 illustrates a section in the area of ​​the connection 51 between two applicator devices 1 along the line HH in Fig. 21The connection 51 is again designed in the form of an elongated web with a length l1 and a width bi. Otherwise, the design of the individual basic bodies corresponds to the preceding ones. Figures 1 to 1 .

[0304] The Fig. 24 Figure 1 illustrates a top view of a single applicator device 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The design of the neck section 3 and the working tip 4 corresponds to that described in the preceding figures. Figures 1 to 17 was described.

[0305] In other words, the differences here focus on the holding section 2. In contrast to the first embodiment of the invention, this is not oval in shape, but has an essentially octagonal form which transitions into the neck section 3.

[0306] The base body holding section 11 has two opposing lateral holding projections 28a and two opposing rear holding projections 28b. The holding cover 31 is molded around the lateral holding projections 28a and the rear holding projections 28b, so that it engages the base body holding section 11 at five points (twice laterally and once at the rear). The holding cover 31 has a ribbing formed from individual ribs 31b, which are preferably arranged symmetrically to each other in the form of an arrow pattern. Since the base body holding section 11 does not have a holding projection 16 in this embodiment, the neck cover 32 transitions directly into the holding cover 31.In other words, the holding cover 31 is only limited in the front area of ​​the base body holding section 11 by the front holding projections 28c, which in turn transition into the base body neck section 12.

[0307] In Fig. 25 A side view of the applicator device will be shown according to Fig. 24 The retaining cover 31 encompasses the lateral retaining projection 28a on both sides of the base body retaining section 11. On the upper side of the base body retaining section 11, the corrugation or rib structure 31b of the retaining cover 31 extends between the rear retaining projections 28b and the front retaining projections 28c in the direction of the longitudinal axis L.

[0308] The Fig. 26 shows a bottom view of the applicator device 1 according to Fig. 24It can be seen how the retaining cover 31 also encloses the lateral retaining projections 28a on the underside, thus ensuring secure anchoring for the retaining cover 31. Furthermore, the retaining cover 31 is also molded around the rear end of the base body retaining section 11, providing additional support.

[0309] The Fig. 27 is a sectional view through the applicator device 1 along the longitudinal axis L according to Fig. 26 It can be seen that in this embodiment, the base body holding section 11 also has a concave curvature 17, 18 on both the upper and lower sides, which improves the ergonomics of the grip area.

[0310] The overmolded body 30, consisting of the retaining cover 31, the neck cover 32, and the sheath 33 with the foremost tip 34, extends continuously in cross-section from the front to the rear end of the applicator device 1, with the retaining cover 31 being folded around the rear end. In contrast to the one in Fig. 8 In the cross-section of the first embodiment of the invention shown, no retaining projection 16 is arranged in the region of the longitudinal axis L.

[0311] The Figs. 28 to 30Figure 1 shows a top view, a side view, and a bottom view of the base body 10 of an applicator device 1 according to the second embodiment of the invention. It can be seen that the lateral recesses 23a on the upper and lower surfaces of the base body holding section 11 extend around the lateral holding projections 28a, effectively constricting them. The recess 23 at the rear end of the base body holding section 11 separates the two rear holding projections 28b from each other. The front holding projections 28c transition into the base body neck section 12, where the channel 21 for the neck cover 32 is formed. This structure also allows for very good retention of the soft component on the base body 10.

[0312] The Fig. 31 illustrates a longitudinal section through the base body 10 along the longitudinal axis L according to Fig. 30. It can be seen here that, due to the concave bulges 17, 18 on the upper and lower sides of the base body holding section 11, as well as due to the lateral indentations 23a, the lateral holding projections 28a protrude beyond the correspondingly slendered area of ​​the base body holding section 11.

[0313] The front retaining projections 28c transition into the channel 21 of the base body neck section 12. The rear retaining projection 28b protrudes opposite the cut surface of the base body retaining section on the upper side and at the rear end. The rear end of the base body retaining section 11 has a step 29, analogous to the base body tip, which serves to improve the retention of the soft component.

[0314] The Fig. 32Figure 1 shows a top view of a single applicator device 1 according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Here too, the neck section 3 and the working tip 4 are identical to those of the first and second embodiments of the invention, which are described in the preceding Figures. Figs. 1 to 31 as described. The differences lie primarily in the area of ​​stopping section 2, which will be explained in more detail below.

[0315] The retaining section 2 comprises the base body retaining section 11 and the retaining cover 31 with knobs 31a, which are preferably oval in shape. The retaining cover 31 forms a retaining point 39 made of a soft component in the front region of the base body retaining section 11, which forms the transition to the neck section 3. The retaining point 39 is formed together with the retaining cover 31 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, while the lateral edges of the retaining point 39 are formed from the hard component of the base body retaining section 11.

[0316] Fig. 33 shows a corresponding side view of the applicator device 1 according to Fig. 32, in which, in particular, the lateral extent of the retaining cover 31 or the retaining point 39 is shown. The parts of the retaining point 39 which are made of a hard component extend only to approximately the middle of the side wall of the retaining section 2, whereas the retaining cover 31 completely covers the side wall.

[0317] In Fig. 34 Furthermore, a bottom view of the applicator device 1 will be shown according to Fig. 32As shown, the retaining cover 31 on the underside encloses a central recess 26 on the underside of the base body retaining section 11 at the sides and rear end, with the retaining cover 31 essentially forming a V-shape. The central recess 26 is designed as a projection in the base body retaining section 11; a recess is formed around this element, which is filled with a soft component, so that the central recess 26 only becomes visible as such in the final product. The central recess 26 on the underside of the base body retaining section 11 is formed in the form of an elongated oval, which may taper slightly towards the rear end of the base body retaining section 11. This, in turn, forms a geometry for the thumb to rest on, namely a concave curve.

[0318] The Figs. 35 to 37show a top view, a side view and a bottom view of the base body of the applicator device according to Figs. 32 to 34 On its upper surface, the base body retaining section 11 has a centrally arranged retaining projection 16 and two lateral retaining projections 28a, which also partially surround the rear part of the base body retaining section. At the end of the base body retaining section 11 facing the base body neck section 12, front retaining projections 28c are provided, in the area of ​​which a lateral bulge 27 is arranged, which serves to receive a soft component. The lateral bulges filled with the soft component then form the retaining point 39.

[0319] Between the lateral retaining projections 28a and the front retaining projection 28c, lateral recesses 23a are provided around which the soft component is injection-molded. In the rear region of the base body retaining section 11, a further recess 23 is provided around which the soft component is also injection-molded to ensure secure anchoring. In other words, in the present embodiment, the rear and lateral recesses 23, 23a, the retaining projection 16 on the upper surface, and the central projection 26 on the underside of the base body retaining section 11 serve as anchoring structures for the soft component or as support structures during the overmolding of the base body with the soft component.

[0320] In the Figs. 38a and 38bA top view and a side view of an applicator device 1 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention are shown. In this embodiment, the applicator device 1 has a working tip at each end. The right, or front, end of the applicator device 1 has a neck section 3 and a working tip 4, as already described for the preceding embodiments.

[0321] On the left or rear side, the applicator device 1 has an additional working tip 4' in the form of a toothpick 40. The toothpick 40 is formed from the hard component, but it can also be completely or partially covered with the soft component. The retaining cover 31 has curved ribs 31c, which are oriented towards the working tip 4 and the working tip 4' respectively, so that a secure hold can be ensured when using both working tips 4 and 4'.

[0322] Two curved ribs 31c are shown for each side. However, three, four, or five ribs can also be provided, depending on the length of the retaining section 2 and the size of the individual ribs 31c. The ribs 31c are formed integrally with the soft component of the retaining cover 31, the neck cover 32, and the sheathing 33. As shown in the side view according to Fig. 38bAs can be seen, the holding section 2 has a concave curve 17, which in turn is provided for the finger rest for ergonomic reasons.

[0323] The Fig. 39a to c show a fifth, sixth and seventh embodiment of the present invention, which differs from the Fig. 38a to b They differ only with regard to the second working tip 4'. Fig. 39a The second working tip 4' illustrates a brush- or fan-like element 41, which serves in particular for cleaning the gingival margin. This element can be formed from one or more bundles of conventional, extruded bristles or injection-molded bristles. Furthermore, element 41 can also be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer (i.e., as a single piece or across the entire surface).

[0324] Fig. 39bFigure 4 shows a similar second working tip 4', whereby element 42 has a notch to allow it to also act somewhat into the interdental spaces if necessary. Here too, as already mentioned for Fig. 39a As described, conventional extruded bristles or injection-molded bristles can be used. Furthermore, it is also possible for element 42 to be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer (i.e., as a single piece or across the entire surface).

[0325] According to Fig. 39c The additional working tip 4' comprises a pincer-shaped plastic element 43 with two gripping jaws 44 and an opening 45, with inwardly directed cleaning elements 46 projecting from the gripping jaws 44. Preferably, the cleaning elements 46 project radially inwards to achieve the best possible cleaning effect. This applicator device 1 is preferably used for implant cleaning.

[0326] In Fig. 40aA top view of an applicator device 1 according to an eighth embodiment of the invention is shown. The working tip 4 has a pointed tip 34' at its foremost point, which has several cleaning elements 35b' arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis L. The cleaning elements 35b' are preferably directed forward at an angle of approximately 45° and are somewhat longer than the other horizontal cleaning elements 35b. During use, particularly when inserted into an interdental space, these cleaning elements 35b' fold back, thus providing an additional cleaning effect.

[0327] According to Fig. 40b The foremost tip is designed in the form of an umbrella tip 34'', which has several cleaning elements 35b'' arranged at an angle to the longitudinal axis L, exactly the opposite of the umbrella tip 34' according to Fig. 40aThe cleaning elements 35b'' are oriented towards the rear and preferably arranged at an angle of approximately 45° to the longitudinal axis L of the applicator device 1. Here, the cleaning elements 35b'' fold back, particularly when withdrawn from an interdental space, thus providing an additional cleaning effect.

[0328] The Figs. 41a and 41bFigure 1 shows a top view and a side view of an applicator device 1 according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. Here, the working tip 4 has a multi-zone structure. The working tip 4 is divided into three zones ZI, Z2, and Z3. Zones ZI and Z3 correspond to the usual structure described above. In zone Z2, however, the horizontal cleaning elements 35b each have a convex profile in the horizontal direction, which results in a bead-like shape for zone Z2 in the top view. The vertical cleaning elements 35a and the lamellar cleaning elements 36 also form a convex profile, which complements the bead-like horizontal profile of the horizontal cleaning elements 35b and additionally provides a convex profile in the vertical direction. In this way, a particularly strong cleaning effect can be achieved in the area of ​​the central zone Z2.

[0329] The bead-shaped zone Z2 can also be located at the front or rear of the working tip, i.e., in the position of zone ZI or Z3. Furthermore, two or three bead-shaped zones Z2 may be provided, which may replace zones ZI and Z3.

[0330] The Figs. 41c and 41d show a top view and a side view of an applicator device 1 with a different multi-zone working tip 4.

[0331] Here, the working tip 4 has five zones ZI, Z2, Z3, Z4, and Z5, with zones ZI and Z5 having the usual previously described structure. The middle zones Z2, Z3, and Z4, however, each have an arrow-shaped profile in the top view of the horizontal cleaning elements 35b and the lamellar cleaning elements 36, meaning they become shorter from back to front. Furthermore, in the side view, the cleaning elements 35a and the lamellar cleaning elements 36 have an arrow-shaped vertical profile, meaning they become shorter from back to front. Again, a particularly powerful cleaning action is provided in the center of the working tip 4. Here too, zones ZI and / or Z5 can be designed like zones Z2 to Z4, and the positions of the zones can change. For example, "normal" zones ZI and Z5 can be arranged between the arrow-shaped profiles.

[0332] The Figs. 42a and 42bFigure 1 shows a top view and a side view of an applicator device 1 according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. Here, the working tip comprises a combination of the usual horizontal cleaning elements 35b, the usual lamellar cleaning elements 36, and—instead of the usual vertical cleaning elements 35a—elongated vertical abrasive elements 37. The elongated vertical abrasive elements 37 are angled, alternating between pointing to the left and to the right. However, the elongated vertical abrasive elements 37 can all point in the same direction or in any sequence, first to the left and then to the right. In the side view, the elongated vertical abrasive elements 37 have a roof-shaped or triangular form.The elongated vertical grinding elements 37 preferably do not extend to the foremost tip 34, but leave a space for threading. Particularly efficient cleaning of the proximal space can be achieved by means of the elongated vertical grinding elements 37.

[0333] In the Figs. 42c and 42d A top view and a side view of an applicator device 1 with grinding elements 38, which has a multi-zone structure, are shown. The working tip 4 comprises three zones ZI, Z2, and Z3, with zone ZI having the usual structure described above. Zone Z2 has lateral grinding elements 38 that extend from the underside of the working tip to its upper surface. (Preferably) no vertical cleaning elements 35a are arranged between the lateral grinding elements 38.

[0334] The lateral grinding elements 38 have approximately the same extent as the lamellar cleaning elements 36. Zone Z3, which extends to the penultimate tip 34, is free of cleaning elements. It is conceivable, however, that zone Z3 also contains grinding elements 38. These grinding elements are preferably similar in design to the lamellar cleaning elements 36, but with a greater thickness. It is also conceivable that the lamellar cleaning elements 36 in zone Z3 are replaced by lateral grinding elements 38.

[0335] In the Fig. 43a to d Here, a top view and a side view of two applicator devices with an odd-numbered working tip 4 are shown. The working tips 4 otherwise have the usual, previously described design.

[0336] Peak workload 4 according to Fig. 43a and b have a slightly curved shape when viewed from the side and may also be inclined slightly downwards. This means that the thickness of the working tip 4 does not decrease linearly towards the foremost end 34, but rather exhibits a more pronounced decrease in the middle section, which then becomes linear again in the area in front of the foremost tip 34. Accordingly, the underside of the working tip is not straight but exhibits a similar curve to the upper side (albeit a slightly less pronounced one).

[0337] In the Fig. 43c and dIn plan view, the working tip 4 has a wave- or serpentine shape, whereas the cleaning elements 35a, 35b, and 36 otherwise have the previously described shape. In side view, the working tip 4 does not have a curved or wave-shaped geometry but is designed as usual with a linearly decreasing thickness (i.e., conical).

[0338] In the Figs. 44a and 44bA top view and a side view of an applicator device 1 according to a twelfth embodiment of the invention are shown. This applicator device 1 has, compared to the applicator devices described above, an extension 2' of the holding section 2, which adjoins the rear end of the holding section 2. The holding cover 31' of the extension 2' in turn has several, preferably two, curved ribs 31c', which are preferably directed outwards. The holding section 2 and the extension of the holding section 2' each have a concave curvature 17 and 17', respectively, on their upper surfaces.

[0339] In an alternative embodiment, which in Fig. 44cAs shown, the extension 2' of the retaining section 2 has a concave curve 17' on its upper surface, whereas the retaining section 2 is straight on its upper surface but has a concave curve 18 on its lower surface (and the extension 2' does not). However, it is also conceivable that the lower surface of the retaining section extension 2' has a concave curve and the upper surface of the retaining section extension 2' either also has a curve 17' or is straight.

[0340] In the Figures 45a and 45bA side view and a top view of an applicator device 1 according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention are shown. This applicator device 1 has a modified base shape, wherein the neck section 3 and the working tip 4 do not protrude straight from the holding section 2. In comparison to the embodiments shown previously, the neck section 3 is not symmetrical here, but has a straight shape on one side and a curve K on the other side.

[0341] The peak workload 4 has the usual configuration (i.e., as in the Figures 1 to 17 (described), but compared to the previous embodiments, it is rotated by 90° relative to the neck and holding section 3, 2. This is because this applicator device 1 is held vertically between the thumb and forefinger during use. Therefore, the applicator device 1, as shown in the top view according to Fig. 45b As can be seen, a concave curvature 17, 18 is visible on both sides of the holding section 2. In this way, an ergonomically favorable hold can be provided.

[0342] In the Figures 46 and 46b Finally, a top view and a side view of an applicator device 1 according to a fourteenth embodiment of the invention are shown. Here, the holding section 2 has a suction cup 47 at its rear end, which serves to stand the applicator device 1 upright. The suction cup 47 is preferably made of a soft component and has a cavity 48 (dashed line) by means of which the required negative pressure can be generated. However, instead of the suction cup 47, a normal base without suction can also be provided. Such a base is preferably made of a hard component.

[0343] In Figs. 47a, 47b and 47cA top view and a side view each of a first and a second variant of an applicator device 1 according to a fifteenth embodiment of the invention are shown. This applicator device 1 has, compared to the applicator devices described above, an extension of the holding section 2, which connects to the rear end of the holding section 2. A polishing element 46' is provided on the extension. This polishing element can, for example, be configured as in variant 1. Fig. 47b be designed as a convex curve, or as in variant 2 in Fig. 47c shown as an element with a polishing element edge 6Λ Λ . The basic shape is identical in both variants, so the top view in Fig. 47a This applies to both.

[0344] In Fig. 48A top view of an applicator device 1 according to a sixteenth embodiment of the present invention is shown. This applicator device 1 has a modified base shape, wherein the neck section 3 and the working tip 4 do not protrude straight from the holding section 2. The neck section 3 is not symmetrical here, but has a straight shape on one side and a curve K on the other side.

[0345] The peak workload 4 has the usual configuration (i.e., as in the Figures 1 to 17(described), but compared to the previous embodiments, it is rotated by 90° relative to the neck and holding section 3, 2. This is because this applicator device 1 is held vertically between the thumb and forefinger during use. In this way, an ergonomically favorable grip can be provided. A tongue cleaner edge 46Λ, which is formed from a soft component and arranged in the curve K, is designed as a further functional element.

[0346] The Figs. 49a to 49d Figure 1 shows a handle extension part 60 in various views, without the applicator device 1 inserted. Next to the receiving area 61, an access opening 62 is shown, which is required for the manufacture of the fixing element 63. The through-hole 64 is also formed; this, together with the fixing element 63, serves to hold the applicator device.

[0347] The Figs. 50a to 50dshow the handle extension part 60 from the Figs. 49a to 49d with the applicator device 1 inserted. The applicator device 1 is guided through the through-opening 64 with its working tip for mounting in the handle extension part 60 and then clamped with the free end of the holding section between the fixing element 63 and a surface of the receiving area 61. This enables the use of the applicator device 1 with the handle extension part 60.

[0348] In the Figs. 51, 52 and 53 The modularity of the injection mold is shown schematically. A rear view shows an applicator device manufactured in two cavities, with the different sections of the injection mold cavity schematically represented by dashed lines.

[0349] The Fig. 51Figure 1 shows a first variant of the modular design of the injection mold. This variant consists of three sections of the injection mold cavity. The rear section 52 of the injection mold cavity forms the base body holding section in the first cavity in a first mold and the holding cover in the second cavity in a second mold. The front section 53 of the injection mold cavity forms the base body tip in the first mold in the first cavity and the outer casing in the second mold. The fixed neck section 54 is located between these two sections. This section serves to move the base body of the applicator device from the first to the second cavity. Only the front side changes position when moving from the first to the second cavity. This fixed neck section 54 is designed as a transfer mechanism.

[0350] The modularity is designed such that the rear and front sections of the injection molding cavity 52, 53 are interchangeable, while the fixed neck section 54 remains unchanged. This allows for easy model changes, as only the non-movable cavity parts need to be replaced. The interchangeability enables the design of applicator devices with different holding sections and working tips, while the neck section remains consistent.

[0351] The Fig. 52Figure 1 shows a second variant of the modular design of the injection mold. This variant consists of two sections of an injection mold cavity. The rear section 55 of the injection mold cavity forms the base body holding section and the neck section in a first mold in the first cavity, and the holding cover and neck section in a second mold in the second cavity. The front section 53 of the injection mold cavity forms the base body tip in a first mold in the first cavity, and the outer casing in a second mold in the second cavity.

[0352] The transfer mechanism is integrated into the rear section 55 of the injection molding cavity. This allows the base body of the application device to be moved from the first to the second cavity. The modularity here is limited to the interchangeability of the front section 53 of the injection molding cavity, meaning that different working tips can be molded using the same holding and neck section.

[0353] The Fig. 53Figure 3 shows a third variant of the modular design of the injection mold. This variant consists of two sections of an injection mold cavity. The rear section 52 of the injection mold cavity forms the base body holding section in the first cavity in a first mold and the holding cover in the second cavity in a second mold. The front section 56 of the injection mold cavity forms the neck section and the base body tip in the first mold in the first cavity and the neck section and the outer casing in the second mold in the second cavity.

[0354] The transfer mechanism is integrated into the area of ​​the front section 56 of the injection molding cavity. This allows the base body of the applicator device to be moved from the first to the second cavity. The modularity here is limited to the interchangeability of the rear section 52 of the injection molding cavity, meaning that different holding sections with the same neck section and working tips can be molded.

[0355] Naturally, the embodiments described and shown here serve only as examples of applicator devices within the meaning of the present invention. Within the scope of the present invention, the individual holding sections, neck sections, working tips, additional working tips, and extensions described and shown can be combined with one another without departing from the subject matter of the invention.

[0356] The descriptions of characteristics for specific figures can of course be transferred to other figures that show the same or similar characteristics, even if the characteristics are not described in the same level of detail.

[0357] The following aspects (A) are included: (A1) Applicator device with at least one holding section (2), at least one working tip (4) and a neck section (3) connecting the holding section (2) and the working tip (4), comprising a base body (10) which is at least partially formed from a first plastic component, wherein the base body (10) is at least partially overmolded by at least one second plastic component which is softer than the first plastic component, wherein in the region of the working tip (4) the at least one second plastic component at least partially encases the base body (10) and wherein the encasement (33) comprises outwardly projecting, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35a, 35b).(A2) Applicator device according to (A1), characterized in that the working tip (4) is triangular in shape, wherein the upper tip (5) of the triangular shape is oriented towards the top of the applicator device and is formed by a series of vertical, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35a), and wherein the lower tips (6, 7) of the triangular shape are formed by a series of horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35b). (A3) Applicator device according to (A1) or (A2), characterized in that the underside of the base body (10) in the area of ​​the working tip (4) is at least partially free of sheathing (33).(A4) Applicator device according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that, viewed in a front view, lamellar cleaning elements (36) are arranged on the left and right sides (9, 8) of the triangular shape, between the vertical and horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35a, 35b), wherein preferably the vertical and horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35a, 35b) extend further outwards than the lamellar cleaning elements (36).(A5) Applicator device according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that, viewed in the direction of the longitudinal axis (L) of the working tip (4), the vertical and horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35a, 35b) are arranged offset from one another, wherein preferably the lamellar cleaning elements (36) are arranged in a cross-sectional plane with the vertical, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35a), and wherein further preferably the horizontal, preferably bristle-shaped, cleaning elements (35b) are arranged opposite each other in pairs. (A6) Applicator device according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that several supports (14a, 14b) are provided in the region of the working tip (4), wherein the supports (14a, 14b) are preferably provided in the form of recesses (14a) on the upper side of the base body (10) and in the form of lateral projections (14b) of the base body (10).(A7) Applicator device according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that one or more recesses (15) are provided in the underside of the base body (10) in the area of ​​the working tip (4). (A8) Applicator device according to any of the preceding aspects, characterized in that an additional working tip (4') is arranged at the end of the holding section (2) opposite the working tip (4). (A9) Applicator device according to (A8), characterized in that the additional working tip (4') comprises a pincer-shaped plastic element (43) with two gripping jaws (44) and an opening (45), wherein the gripping jaws (44) preferably have inwardly directed cleaning elements (46). (A10) Applicator device according to (A8), characterized in that the additional working tip (4') comprises a brush- or fan-shaped cleaning element made of a thermoplastic elastomer or of one or more bristle bundles.(A11) Applicator device according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that a label and / or print is applied to the holding section (2) and / or the neck section (3). (A12) Applicator device according to (A11), characterized in that the label is raised or recessed in the base body (10) and / or in the area overmolded with the second plastic component (overmolded body 30). (A13) Applicator device according to one of aspects (A11) or (A12), characterized in that a color pattern is printed on the area overmolded with the second plastic component (overmolded body 30), preferably on the holding section (2). (A14) Applicator device according to one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the working tip (4) has indicator substances, in particular flavorings, colorings and / or cleaning agents, which are soluble during use.(A15) Applicator device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the working tip (4) has a multi-zone structure (Z1 - Zn). (A16) Applicator device according to any one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the working tip (4) has an odd shape. (A17) Applicator device according to any one of the preceding aspects, characterized in that the first and / or the second plastic component comprises a filler with a cooling effect. (A18) Applicator device according to (A17), characterized in that the filler with a cooling effect is applied together with other flavoring fillers. (A19) Applicator device according to (A17) or (A18), characterized in that the filler with a cooling effect is a cooling agent such as WS3, WS5, WS23, or WS32.(A20) Applicator device according to one of aspects (A17) to (A19), characterized in that the filler has an indicator function, wherein the filler is preferably dosed such that its effect diminishes after a predefined time.(A21) Method for manufacturing an applicator device or a comb of applicator devices by injection molding, wherein the applicator device(s) (1) has / have at least one holding section (2), at least one working tip (4) and a neck section (3) connecting the holding section (2) and the working tip (4), wherein in a first step one or more base bodies (10) are / are injection molded which (r) are at least partially formed from a first plastic component and wherein, after a folding process, in a second step the base body(s) (10) is / are at least partially overmolded by at least a second plastic component which is softer than the first plastic component, wherein in the region of the working tip (n) (4) the second plastic component at least partially encases the base body (10) and wherein the encasement (33) forms outwardly projecting cleaning elements (35a, 35b).(A22) Method according to (A22), characterized in that, during the overmolding process, an overmolding element of the tool engages in a recess (15a) of the neck section (3) of the base body(s) (10), wherein the recess (15a) is preferably undercut. (A23) Method according to (A21) or (A22), characterized in that, during overmolding with the second plastic component, the base body(s) (10) is held by one or more retaining elements of the tool on the top and bottom, and wherein, preferably, the base body(s) (10) is additionally held relative to the tool by lateral projections (14b) of the base body (10). (A24) Method according to any one of aspects (A21) to (A23), characterized in that a filler with a cooling effect, preferably in the form of a compound, is added to the first and / or the second plastic component.(A25) Method according to (A24), characterized in that the proportion of the filler in the compound is between 3% and 50%, preferably between 5% and 30%. (A26) Tool for producing a comb of applicator devices by injection molding, comprising at least one first cavity for injection molding the first plastic component for the base body (10) and a second cavity for overmolding the base body (10) with the second plastic component, wherein the first cavity for the first plastic component is modularly constructed from at least one rear section for at least the base body holding section (11) and at least one front section for at least the base body tip (13), and wherein the second cavity for the second plastic component is modularly constructed from at least one rear section for at least the holding cover (31) and at least one front section for at least the sheathing (33).(A27) Tool according to (A26), characterized in that, by means of the modular design, the first cavity can be assembled from geometrically different rear sections and from geometrically different front sections, so that different configurations of the base body holding section (11) can be combined with different configurations of the base body tips (13). (A28) Tool according to one of aspects (A26) or (A27), characterized in that, by means of the modular design, the second cavity can be assembled from geometrically different rear sections and from geometrically different front sections, so that different configurations of the holding cover (31) can be combined with different configurations of the casing (33). Reference symbol list:

[0358] 1 Applicator device 2 Holding section 2' Extension of holding section 3 Neck section 4 Working tip 4' Additional working tip 5 Upper tip triangular shape 6 Lower tip triangular shape (left) 7 Lower tip triangular shape (right) 8 Right side triangular shape 9 Left side triangular shape 10 Base body 11 Base body holding section 11' Extension of base body holding section 12 Base body neck section 13 Base body tip 14a Supports (freestanding) 14b Supports (lateral projections) 15 Recess(s) underside of base body tip 15a Recess underside of base body neck section 16 Holding projection 17 Concave curve top side of holding section 17' Concave curve top side of extension 18 Concave curve bottom side of holding section 19 Transition area (without recess) 20 Openings in base body holding section 21 Channel base body neck section (Top side) 22 Tapering / transition area 23 Recess at the rear end of the base body holding section 23 Lateral recesses on the base body holding section24 Oval groove, underside of base body holding section 25 Step (front at base body tip) 26 Central recess (underside of base body holding section) 27 Lateral bulges in base body holding section 28a Lateral holding projections 28b Rear holding projections 28c Front holding projections 29 Step (rear at base body holding section) 30 Overmolded body 31 Holding cover 31' Holding cover extension 31a Knobs of the holding cover 31b Grooving / ribs of the holding cover 31c Curved ribs of the holding cover 31c' Curved ribs of the holding cover extension 32 Neck cover 33 Sheathing (of the working tip) 34 Front tip 34' Front tip (umbrella shape) 34" Front tip (arrow shape) 35a Vertical cleaning elements 35b Horizontal cleaning elements 35b'Cleaning elements umbrella tip 35b"Cleaning elements arrowhead 36Lamellar cleaning elements 37Vertical grinding elements 38Lateral grinding elements 39Holding point 40Toothpick-like element 41Brush- or42 fan-shaped element 43 notched brush- or fan-shaped cleaning element 44 pincer-shaped element 45 gripping jaws 46 opening 46 cleaning elements 46' polishing element 46'' polishing element edge 46‴ tongue cleaner edge 47 suction cup 48 cavity 50 comb of individual applicator devices 50' comb of individual base bodies 51 connection 52 rear half of the injection molding cavity (in the first cavity for the base body holding section, in the second cavity for the holding cover) 53 front half of the injection molding cavity (in the first cavity for the base body tip, in the second cavity for the encasing) 54 fixed neck section of the injection molding cavity 55 rear half of the injection molding cavity (in the first cavity for the base body holding section and neck section, in the second Cavity for the holding cover and neck section) 56 front half of the injection molding cavity (in the first cavity for the base body tip and neck section, in the second cavity for the encapsulation andNeck section) 60 Handle extension part 61 Receiving area 62 Access opening 63 Fixing element 64 Feedthrough opening a 1 Distance in the connection area a 2 Distance center to center b 1 Height of connection b 2 Width of lateral projection D 1 Diameter of working tip (measured on soft component, at the free end) D 2 Diameter of working tip (measured on soft component, in the area of ​​the last cleaning elements) D 3 Diameter of working tip (outer diameter with cleaning elements, at the free end) D 4 Diameter of working tip (outer diameter with cleaning elements, in the area of ​​the last cleaning elements) h 1 Height of the lateral projections K Curvature of neck section l 1 Length of connection l 2 Length of holding section l 2 , Length of extended holding section l 3 Length of neck section l 4 Length of working tip l 5 Length of lateral projection l 6 Length of recess underside of base body tip l 7 Length of recess underside of base body neck section l 8 Length of foremost tip ls Length ofSupports (lateral projections) in the longitudinal axis direction L Longitudinal axis of the applicator device / working tip X 1 Distance rear - middle support (top) X2 Distance middle - front support (top) Zl-5 Zones of the working tip or the casing A-A section line B-B section line C-C section line D-D section line E-E section line F-F section line G-G section line H-H section line

Claims

1. Applicator device with a top and a bottom and with at least one holding section (2), at least one working tip (4) and a neck section (3) connecting the holding section (2) and the working tip (4), comprising a base body (10) which is at least partially formed from a first plastic component, wherein the base body (10) is at least partially overmolded by at least one second plastic component which is softer than the first plastic component, wherein in the area of ​​the working tip (4) the at least one second plastic component at least partially encases the base body (10) and wherein the encasement (33) comprises outwardly projecting cleaning elements (35a, 35b).

2. Applicator device according to claim 1, characterized by the fact thatthe retaining section (2) has a two- or multi-component structure made of two or more hard and / or soft materials, wherein the base body (10) in the retaining section (2) is formed from the first plastic component.

3. Applicator device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that in the basic body (10), at least in the area of ​​the holding section (2), one or more recesses are provided.

4. Applicator device according to claim 3, characterized by the fact that the recesses are at least partially filled with the soft component.

5. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that Concave zones are provided in the holding section (2) on the top and / or on the bottom.

6. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact thatThe concave zones filled with soft components have sharp edges, whereas the concave zones incorporated into the hard material do not have sharp edges.

7. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the upper surface of the holding section of the base body (10) is covered with a soft component, while the lower surface has a smaller proportion of soft material, but has one or more concave zones in the hard component.

8. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the soft component is only partially applied to the underside of the retaining section of the base body (10), in particular in a band-like, linear or with wrappings of raised areas made of the hard component.

9. Applicator device according to claim 7 or 8, characterized by the fact thatThe application of the soft component is designed symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis, but not symmetrically with respect to the top and bottom surfaces.

10. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the holding section (2) comprises elements for improving grip which are integrated into the hard and / or the soft component, wherein preferably the center of the elements is positioned in the center of the holding section (2).

11. Applicator device according to claim 10, characterized by the fact that the elements comprise lettering, bumps (31a) or ribs (31b; 31c), wherein the ribs (31b; 31c) are preferably formed as straight rods or at an angle to each other, such as in the shape of a boomerang, wherein the elements preferably have a height of 0.2 mm to 2 mm, more preferably of 0.25 mm to 0.6 mm.

12. Applicator device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by the fact thatthe elements are attached to the top or the bottom or to the top and the bottom, wherein the elements on the top and the bottom are the same or different.

13. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the holding section of the base body (10) and / or a holding cover (31) is not designed symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal median plane.

14. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the neck section (3) is not symmetrical with respect to the top and bottom and is preferably symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis.

15. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that the neck section (3) of the base body (10) includes at least one channel (21) for the inflow of soft component from the holding section (2) to the working tip (4).

16. Applicator device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that a recess is formed in the holding section, preferably in the top.

Images