Toothbrush manufacturing method

Abstract

To provide a toothbrush whose brush part can be prevented from deforming during manufacturing even in manufacturing employing a 3D printing technology, can be easily manufactured, and is excellent in usability.SOLUTION: A toothbrush 1 includes a head part 12, and a grip part 14 provided in a rear end side of the head part 12. A plurality of brush parts 20 are provided in a front surface 12a of the head part 12. A connection part 22 is provided between at least one set of adjacent brush parts 20. The connection part 22 has both ends connected to each adjacent brush part 20 and is spaced from the front surface 12a of the head part 12.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a toothbrush.

Background Art

[0002] Since oral conditions vary widely among individuals and demands for the functions and performance of toothbrushes are also diverse, there is a growing need to provide a variety of toothbrushes tailored to individual users.

[0003] In recent years, 3D printing technology (three-dimensional layered manufacturing technology), which manufactures three-dimensional shaped solid objects based on data such as CAD, has been in the spotlight. Patent Document 1 discloses shaping a filamentous molded body using 3D printing technology.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] If 3D printing technology is used in the manufacture of toothbrushes, it may be possible to easily manufacture various toothbrushes tailored to individual users. However, as a result of the inventors' study, when trying to form a plurality of elongated shaped objects such as the bristle part of a toothbrush, the bristle part is deformed, adjacent bristle parts approach each other, or they adhere to each other during the shaping process. Therefore, it has been found that shaping is difficult and the usability of the toothbrush also deteriorates. If the bristle part is made thicker, it is possible to suppress the deformation of the bristle part during the shaping process. However, if the bristle part is too thick, it becomes hard and difficult to bend, which becomes a factor in reducing usability.

[0006] The present invention aims to provide a toothbrush that can be easily manufactured and has excellent usability, while also being able to suppress deformation of the brush part during manufacturing, even when using 3D printing technology. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The present invention includes the following configuration. [1] A toothbrush comprising a head portion and a gripping portion provided on the rear end side of the head portion, Multiple brush sections are provided on the front of the head section. Between at least one pair of adjacent brush sections, there is a connecting section whose ends are connected to each of the adjacent brush sections. A toothbrush in which the aforementioned joint is spaced apart from the front of the head portion. [2] The toothbrush according to [1], wherein, in a front view of the head portion as seen from the bristle tip side of the brush portion, the number of connecting portions extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head portion is three or more, or the number of connecting portions extending in a direction intersecting the long axis direction of the head portion is three or more. [3] The number of connecting parts N that extend in a direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head portion when the head portion is viewed from the bristle tip side of the brush portion, relative to the total number n of the brush portions. A The ratio is 30% or more and 150% or less, or the number of connecting parts N that extend in a direction intersecting the long axis of the head part when viewed from the tip side of the brush part, relative to the total number n of the brush parts. B A toothbrush as described in [1] or [2], wherein the ratio of is 30% or more and 150% or less. [4] The toothbrush according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the ratio of the total number of connecting parts to the total number of brush parts is 30% or more and 150% or less. [5] When the length of the bristles of the brush is L (mm), the distance from the tip of the bristles of the brush to the upper end of the joint is d1 (mm), and the distance from the tip of the bristles of the brush to the lower end of the joint is d2 (mm), Distance relative to hair length L d The proportion of 1 is between 10% and 50%, and the distance is relative to the hair length L.d A toothbrush described in any of [1] to [4], wherein the proportion of item 2 is between 20% and 60%. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a toothbrush that can be easily manufactured and has excellent usability, as it can suppress deformation of the brush part during manufacturing even when using 3D printing technology. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a side view showing the schematic configuration of a toothbrush according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of the toothbrush in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a side view showing how adjacent brush sections are joined by a connecting part. [Figure 4] This is a side view showing another example of a configuration in which adjacent brush sections are joined at a connecting section. [Figure 5] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the connection points that are counted as NA, where Figure 5(A) shows the case where the arrangement pattern of the brush parts is a staggered arrangement, and Figure 5(B) shows the case where the arrangement pattern of the brush parts is a grid arrangement. [Figure 6] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the joints that are counted as number NB, where Figure 6(A) shows the case where the arrangement pattern of the brush parts is a staggered arrangement, and Figure 6(B) shows the case where the arrangement pattern of the brush parts is a grid arrangement. [Figure 7] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating a pattern in which adjacent brush sections are joined at a connecting point. [Figure 8] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of another example toothbrush. [Figure 9] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of another example toothbrush. [Figure 10] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of another example toothbrush. [Figure 11] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of another example toothbrush. [Figure 12] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of another example toothbrush. [Figure 13] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of another example toothbrush. [Figure 14] This is a front view showing a magnified view of the area near the head of another example toothbrush. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The toothbrush of the present invention will be described below with reference to an example shown in the drawings. Note that the dimensions and other specifications shown in the following description are examples only, and the present invention is not necessarily limited to them. It can be modified as appropriate without altering its essence.

[0011] Figure 1 is a side view showing a schematic configuration of a toothbrush 1, which is an example of an embodiment. Figure 2 is a magnified front view showing the vicinity of the head portion of toothbrush 1. The toothbrush 1 of this embodiment comprises a handle body 10 having a head portion 12, a gripping portion 14 provided on the rear end side of the head portion 12, and a neck portion 16 connecting the head portion 12 and the gripping portion 14. On the front surface 12a of the head portion 12 of the handle body 10, there are multiple brush portions 20 rising from the front surface 12a.

[0012] Hereinafter, the direction from the tip of the head portion 12 to the rear end of the gripping portion 14 in the handle body 10 will be referred to as the "long axis direction". Furthermore, the direction parallel to the front surface 12a of the head portion 12 and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is defined as the "short axis direction". Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the front surface 12a of the head portion 12 is defined as the "thickness direction".

[0013] In the example shown in Figure 2, when viewed from the front of the head portion 12a from the bristle tip side of the gripping portion 14, multiple brush portions 20 are provided at the positions of points on a square grid consisting of grid lines parallel to the long axis and grid lines parallel to the short axis. Note that the arrangement pattern of the multiple brush portions 20 on the front of the head portion 12a is not limited to a square grid pattern, and may be a regular triangular grid (staggered arrangement), a rhombic grid, a rectangular grid, a parallelepiped grid, or the like.

[0014] The total number n of the brush section 20 is preferably 10 or more, more preferably 25 or more, even more preferably 50 or more, particularly preferably 75 or more, and most preferably 100 or more. If the total number n of the brush section 20 is equal to or greater than the lower limit, sufficient cleaning power is likely to be obtained. The total number n of brush bristles 20 is preferably 500 or less, more preferably 400 or less, even more preferably 300 or less, and particularly preferably 200 or less. If the total number n of brush bristles 20 is less than or equal to the upper limit, even if the size of the head 12 increases in proportion to the total number n of brush bristles 20, the head 12 will not become excessively large, similar to a typical manual toothbrush, making it easy to operate in the oral cavity. The preferred lower and upper limits for the total number n of brush bristles 20 can be arbitrarily combined; for example, 75 to 300 bristles are preferred.

[0015] The distance between adjacent brush sections 20 is preferably 0.1 mm or more, more preferably 0.2 mm or more, even more preferably 0.3 mm or more, and also preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.75 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.5 mm or less. The preferred lower and upper limits for the distance between adjacent brush sections 20 can be any combination, for example, 0.1 to 1.0 mm is preferred.

[0016] The shape of each brush section 20 can be any shape used for toothbrush bristles without any particular restrictions. For example, the brush section may be tapered so that the tip becomes thinner towards the end of the bristles, or it may be a brush section with a branched end. The cross-sectional shape when the brush portion 20 is cut in a direction perpendicular to its height is not particularly limited, and examples include circular, elliptical, quadrilateral, and polygons other than quadrilaterals.

[0017] The bristle length L of the brush portion 20 (Figure 3), that is, the length from the front surface 12a of the head portion 12 to the tip of the bristles of the brush portion 20, is preferably 6 mm or more, more preferably 8 mm or more, even more preferably 9 mm or more, and preferably 20 mm or less, more preferably 15 mm or less, and even more preferably 12 mm or less. The preferred lower and upper limits of the bristle length L of the brush portion 20 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 8 to 15 mm is preferred.

[0018] The thickness t of the brush portion 20 can be appropriately set according to the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20. If the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is a circle, the thickness t of the brush portion 20 is the diameter of the circle. If the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is elliptical, the thickness t of the brush portion 20 is the major axis and minor axis of the ellipse. If the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is a quadrilateral with two orthogonal sides (for example, a square or rectangle), the thickness t of the brush portion 20 is the length of the two orthogonal sides. If the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is a polygon other than the aforementioned quadrilateral (a polygon with two or more non-orthogonal sides, such as a triangle, parallelogram, or rhombus), the thickness t of the brush portion 20 shall be the diameter of the circumscribed circle that circumscribes the polygon.

[0019] When the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is circular, the thickness t of the brush portion 20 is preferably 0.20 mm or more, more preferably 0.25 mm or more, even more preferably 0.30 mm or more, and also preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.50 mm or less. The preferred lower and upper limits of the thickness t of the brush portion 20 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.20 to 2.0 mm is preferred.

[0020] When the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is elliptical, the minor axis is preferably 0.20 mm or more, more preferably 0.25 mm or more, even more preferably 0.30 mm or more, and also preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.50 mm or less. The preferred lower and upper limits of the minor axis can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.20 to 2.0 mm is preferred. The major axis is preferably 0.30 mm or more, more preferably 0.35 mm or more, even more preferably 0.40 mm or more, and also preferably 2.1 mm or less, more preferably 1.1 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.60 mm or less. The preferred lower and upper limits of the major axis can be any combination, for example, 0.30 to 2.1 mm is preferred.

[0021] When the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is rectangular, the lengths of the two sides are preferably 0.20 mm or more, more preferably 0.25 mm or more, even more preferably 0.30 mm or more, and also preferably 2.1 mm or less, more preferably 1.1 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.60 mm or less. The lower and upper limits can be combined arbitrarily, for example, 0.20 to 2.1 mm is preferred.

[0022] If the cross-sectional shape of the brush portion 20 is a polygon other than a quadrilateral, the thickness t of the brush portion 20 is preferably 0.20 mm or more, more preferably 0.25 mm or more, even more preferably 0.30 mm or more, and also preferably 3.0 mm or less, more preferably 2.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.0 mm or less. The preferred lower and upper limits of the thickness t of the brush portion 20 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.20 to 3.0 mm is preferred. If the dimensions of the brush portion 20, such as the length L and thickness t, are within the aforementioned range, it is easier to create a brush portion 20 with appropriate elasticity, and a toothbrush 1 with excellent cleaning power and usability can be easily obtained.

[0023] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, in toothbrush 1, a connecting portion 22 is provided between every pair of adjacent brush portions 20 in the longitudinal direction, with both ends connected to each of those adjacent brush portions 20. Furthermore, between every pair of adjacent brush sections 20 in the short axis direction, there are also connecting sections 22 whose ends are connected to each of those adjacent brush sections 20. The connecting portions 22 are all provided spaced apart from the front surface 12a of the head portion 12. The connecting portion 22 may be provided only between some pairs of adjacent brush portions 20 in the longitudinal direction. Similarly, the connecting portion 22 may be provided only between some pairs of adjacent brush portions 20 in the short direction. In other words, the toothbrush of the present invention may have brush portions without a connecting portion.

[0024] When adjacent brush sections 20 are joined at the connecting section 22, these adjacent brush sections 20 are supported by the connecting section 22, maintaining a constant distance from each other, and becoming less prone to deformation compared to a single independent brush section. In 3D printing, when multiple printed brush heads 20 are lifted from a tray containing uncured resin, surface tension causes the uncured resin to fill the spaces between the brush heads 20, reducing the exposed area. As a result, the brush heads 20 tend to be attracted to each other and cluster together. However, the connecting portion 22 maintains a constant distance between the brush heads 20, preventing them from sticking together when lifted from the tray containing uncured resin. Furthermore, when the brush part 20 is lifted from the tray and immersed in a solvent such as alcohol to dissolve any uncured, unwanted resin, and then air is blown on to remove the solvent, the air makes it less likely for the brush part 20 to bend. Furthermore, even if the brush portion 20 is positioned facing downwards when curing by applying heat in a constant temperature bath, the brush portion 20 will be less likely to bend. Thus, deformation of the brush portion 20 during the molding process is suppressed, making it easy to manufacture the toothbrush 1 using 3D printing technology. Furthermore, when using the toothbrush 1, the brush parts 20 connected at the joint 22 flex in conjunction, resulting in a toothbrush 1 with excellent usability.

[0025] As shown in Figure 3, the connecting portion 22 in this example is provided between adjacent brush portions 20, extending in a direction parallel to the front surface 12a of the head portion 12. In other words, the connecting portion 22 in this example is provided to connect perpendicularly to the brush portions 20 on both sides. This configuration has the advantage of being easy to fabricate with high precision using 3D printing technology. The connecting portion 22 may be provided so as to be inclined with respect to the front surface 12a of the head portion 12.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3, the length of the bristles of the brush section 20 is L (mm), the distance from the tip of the bristles of the brush section 20 to the upper end of the joint section 22 is d1 (mm), and the distance from the tip of the bristles of the brush section 20 to the lower end of the joint section 22 is d2 (mm). Furthermore, the ratio of the distance d1 to the bristles length L (%) is Q1 (Q1 = d1 / L × 100), and the ratio of the distance d2 to the bristles length L (%) is Q2 (Q2 = d2 / L × 100).

[0027] The percentage Q1 is preferably 10% or more, more preferably 20% or more, even more preferably 30% or more, and also preferably 50% or less, more preferably 45% or less, and even more preferably 40% or less. If the ratio Q1 is within the aforementioned range, deformation of the brush portion 20 during the molding process is easily suppressed. In addition, the brush portions 20 connected at the joint portion 22 can bend in conjunction, improving the usability of the toothbrush 1. In particular, stable and accurate molding becomes easier, the brush portion 20 can be given appropriate elasticity, and it is easy to achieve both good brushing power and a good feel. The preferred lower and upper limits of the ratio Q1 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 10 to 50% is preferred.

[0028] For the same reasons as for percentage Q1, percentage Q2 is preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, even more preferably 40% or more, and also preferably 60% or less, more preferably 55% or less, and even more preferably 45% or less. The preferred lower and upper limits for percentage Q2 can be any combination, for example, 20-60% is preferred.

[0029] The length of the connecting portion 22 between the brush portions 20 can be set according to the distance between adjacent brush portions 20. The length of the connecting portion 22 is preferably 0.10 mm or more, more preferably 0.15 mm or more, even more preferably 0.20 mm or more, and preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.75 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.50 mm or less. The preferred lower and upper limits of the length of the connecting portion 22 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.10 to 1.0 mm is preferred.

[0030] The cross-sectional shape when the joint portion 22 is cut in a direction perpendicular to its length is not particularly limited, and examples include circular, elliptical, quadrilateral, and polygons other than quadrilaterals. The thickness T of the joint 22 can be appropriately set according to the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22. If the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a circle, the thickness T of the joint 22 is the diameter of the circle. If the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is elliptical, the thickness T of the joint 22 is the major axis and minor axis of the ellipse. If the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a quadrilateral with two orthogonal sides (for example, a square or rectangle), the thickness T of the joint 22 is the length of the two orthogonal sides of the quadrilateral. If the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a polygon other than the aforementioned quadrilateral (a polygon with two or more non-orthogonal sides, such as a triangle, parallelogram, or rhombus), the thickness T of the joint 22 shall be the diameter of the circumscribed circle that circumscribes the polygon.

[0031] When the cross-sectional shape of the joint portion 22 is circular, the thickness T of the joint portion 22 is preferably 0.1 mm or more, more preferably 0.2 mm or more, even more preferably 0.3 mm or more, and also preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.0 mm or less. The lower and upper limits of the thickness T of the joint portion 22 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.1 to 2.0 mm is preferred.

[0032] When the cross-sectional shape of the joint portion 22 is elliptical, the minor axis is preferably 0.10 mm or more, more preferably 0.20 mm or more, even more preferably 0.30 mm or more, and also preferably 1.5 mm or less, more preferably 1.0 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.50 mm or less. The lower and upper limits of the minor axis of the joint portion 22 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.10 to 1.5 mm is preferred. The major axis is preferably 0.15 mm or more, more preferably 0.25 mm or more, even more preferably 0.35 mm or more, and also preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.0 mm or less. The lower and upper limits of the major axis of the joint portion 22 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.15 to 2.0 mm is preferred.

[0033] When the cross-sectional shape of the joint portion 22 is a rectangle, the lengths of the two sides are preferably 0.10 mm or more, more preferably 0.20 mm or more, even more preferably 0.30 mm or more, and also preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.0 mm or less. The lower and upper limits can be combined arbitrarily, for example, 0.10 to 2.0 mm is preferred.

[0034] If the cross-sectional shape of the joint 22 is a polygon other than a quadrilateral, the thickness T of the joint 22 is preferably 0.15 mm or more, more preferably 0.2 mm or more, even more preferably 0.3 mm or more, and also preferably 2.0 mm or less, more preferably 1.5 mm or less, and even more preferably 1.0 mm or less. The lower and upper limits of the thickness T of the joint 22 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.15 to 2.0 mm is preferred. If the dimensions of the connecting portion 22, such as its length and thickness T, are within the aforementioned range, the connecting portion 22 and the brush portion 20 can be stably and accurately molded, and the brush portion 20 can be given appropriate elasticity, even if they are made of materials with different elasticity.

[0035] The ratio (t / T) of the thickness t of the brush portion 20 to the thickness T of the joint portion 22 is preferably 0.5 or more, more preferably 0.7 or more, and even more preferably 1.0 or more. If t / T is greater than or equal to the lower limit, the joint 22 can more easily firmly support the brush portions 20 on both sides, and the brush portions 20 joined by the joint 22 can more easily flex in conjunction. t / T is preferably 2.0 or less, more preferably 1.5 or less, and even more preferably 1.2 or less. If t / T is less than or equal to the upper limit, the deflection of the joint 22 tends to be smaller than the deflection of the brush portion 20, and deformation of the brush portion 20 during the molding process is more easily suppressed. The preferred lower and upper limits of t / T can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 0.5 to 2.0 is preferred. When the cross-sectional shape of at least one of the brush portion 20 and the joint portion 22 is an ellipse or a quadrilateral with two orthogonal sides, it is preferable that the t / T values ​​calculated using the lengths of the minor axis, major axis, or the two orthogonal sides are all within the range indicated by the lower and upper limits mentioned above.

[0036] The number of connecting parts 22 that join a pair of adjacent brush parts 20 is one in the example shown in Figures 3 and 4(A), but is not limited to one, and may be two or more as shown in Figures 4(B) and 4(C). The number of connecting parts 22 that join a pair of adjacent brush parts 20 is preferably 1 to 5, more preferably 1 to 3, and even more preferably 1 to 2. If the number of connecting parts 22 is less than or equal to the upper limit, it is easier to suppress the tendency of the brush parts 20 joined by the connecting parts 22 to bend during brushing, thereby improving the usability of the toothbrush 1.

[0037] The total number N of the connecting parts 22 is preferably 3 or more, more preferably 8 or more, even more preferably 15 or more, particularly preferably 20 or more, and most preferably 30 or more. If the total number N of the connecting parts 22 is equal to or greater than the lower limit, the brush part 20 will be less likely to deform during the molding process. The total number N of the connecting parts 22 is preferably 750 or less, more preferably 600 or less, even more preferably 450 or less, and particularly preferably 300 or less. If the total number N of the connecting parts 22 is less than or equal to the above upper limit, although the overall brush part 20 tends to become harder due to the increased number of connecting parts 22, an appropriate degree of flexibility is created when the brush part 20 is pressed against the teeth or gums, resulting in a comfortable user experience. The preferred lower and upper limits for the total number N of the connecting parts 22 can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 20 to 600 is preferred.

[0038] The ratio P (P = N / n × 100) of the total number of connecting parts 22 to the total number of brush parts 20 n is preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, and even more preferably 40% or more. If the ratio P is above the lower limit, deformation of the brush parts 20 during the molding process is easily suppressed. The ratio P is preferably 175% or less, more preferably 150% or less, and even more preferably 100% or less. If the ratio P is below the upper limit, the brush parts 20 are more flexible, and the load during brushing is easily reduced. The preferred lower and upper limits of the ratio P can be arbitrarily combined, for example, 30 to 150% is preferred.

[0039] In a front view of the head portion 12 as seen from the bristle tip side of the brush portion 20, the number of connecting portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head portion 12 is N. A There are three or more of these, or the number of connecting parts 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis of the head part 12 is N. B It is preferable that there are three or more of these. This suppresses deformation of the brush portion 20 during the molding process due to the joint portion 22, and makes it easier to obtain a sufficient effect of the joined brush portions 20 bending in conjunction with each other during use. For example, in the examples shown in Figures 5(A) and 5(B), of the four connecting parts 22 that connect adjacent brush parts 20, the number of connecting parts 22 that extend in a direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head part 12 is N. A There are three of them. Furthermore, in the examples shown in Figures 6(A) and 6(B), of the four connecting parts 22 that connect adjacent brush parts 20, the number of connecting parts 22 that extend in a direction intersecting the long axis direction of the head part 12 is N. B There are three of them.

[0040] Note that the connecting part 22 extending in a direction parallel to the minor axis direction of the head part 12 (for example, the leftmost connecting part 22 in FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B), the lower left connecting part 22 in FIG. 6(A), and the second connecting part 22 from the left in FIG. 6(B)) extends in a direction intersecting the major axis direction, so the number N B is counted, but since it does not intersect the minor axis direction, the number N A is not counted. The connecting part 22 extending in a direction parallel to the major axis direction of the head part 12 (for example, the second connecting part 22 from the left in FIGS. 5(A) and 5(B), and the upper left connecting part 22 in FIGS. 6(A) and 6(B)) extends in a direction intersecting the minor axis direction, so the number N A is counted, but since it does not intersect the major axis direction, the number N B is not counted. The connecting part 22 extending in a direction intersecting the minor axis direction of the head part 12 and also intersecting the major axis direction (for example, the two right connecting parts 22 in FIGS. 5(A), 5(B), 6(A) and 6(B)) shall be counted for both the number N A and the number N B . Also, in the cases such as FIGS. 4(B) and 4(C), where it appears as one connecting part in the front view and two connecting parts in the side view, it shall be counted as two. The same applies when there are three or more.

[0041] For the brush parts 20 connected by the connecting part 22, the brush parts connected by the connecting part are more likely to flex联动 in the direction perpendicular to the "length direction of the connecting part" than in the "direction parallel to the length direction of the connecting part". That is, it can show anisotropic flexure. The number N of the connecting parts 22 extending in a direction intersecting the minor axis direction A is preferably 3 or more, more preferably 10 or more, and even more preferably 20 or more. If the number N A is at least the above lower limit value, it is easier to feel the interlocking flexure of the brush parts 20 connected by the connecting part 22 in the minor axis direction during brushing. The number N AThe number of strands is preferably 50 or less, more preferably 40 or less, and even more preferably 30 or less. A If the value is below the aforementioned upper limit, excessive deflection in the short axis direction during brushing is easily suppressed, and the brushing load in the long axis direction is reduced. A The preferred lower and upper limits can be combined in any way, for example, 3 to 50 is preferred.

[0042] Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis. B Three or more are preferred, five or more are more preferred, and ten or more are even more preferred. B If the value is above the aforementioned lower limit, it is easier to feel the coordinated bending of the brush portion 20, which is joined at the joint portion 22, in the longitudinal direction during brushing. Number N B The number of strands is preferably 30 or less, more preferably 25 or less, and even more preferably 20 or less. B If the value is below the aforementioned upper limit, excessive deflection in the long axis direction during brushing is easily suppressed, and the brushing load in the short axis direction is reduced. B The preferred lower and upper limits can be combined in any way, for example, 3 to 30 is preferred. Number N A and the number N B They may be the same or they may be different.

[0043] The number of connecting parts 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is the number of connecting parts 22 relative to the total number of brush parts 20 n. A Ratio P A (P A =N A The ratio of (n × 100) is preferably 30% or more, more preferably 40% or more, and even more preferably 75% or more. ratio P A If the ratio P is greater than or equal to the lower limit, it becomes easier to feel the coordinated bending of the brush portion 20, which is joined at the joint 22, in the short axis direction during brushing. A The ratio P is preferably 150% or less, more preferably 125% or less, and even more preferably 100% or less. AIf the ratio P is below the aforementioned upper limit, excessive deflection in the short axis direction during brushing is easily suppressed, and the brushing load in the long axis direction is reduced. A The preferred lower and upper limits can be combined in any way, for example, 30-150% is preferred.

[0044] The number of connecting parts 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis is the number of connecting parts 22 relative to the total number of brush parts 20 n. B Ratio P B (P B =N B The ratio of (n × 100) is preferably 30% or more, more preferably 40% or more, and even more preferably 75% or more. ratio P B If the ratio P is greater than or equal to the lower limit, it becomes easier to feel the coordinated bending of the brush portion 20, which is joined at the joint 22, in the longitudinal direction during brushing. B The ratio P is preferably 150% or less, more preferably 125% or less, and even more preferably 100% or less. B If the ratio P is below the aforementioned upper limit, excessive deflection in the long axis direction during brushing is easily suppressed, and the brushing load in the short axis direction is reduced. B The preferred lower and upper limits can be combined in any way, for example, 30-150% is preferred.

[0045] In this invention, ratio P A The ratio is 30-150%, and the ratio P B A ratio of 30-150% is more preferable. This allows for more stable and accurate molding, and makes it easier to obtain appropriate elasticity in the brush part 20 when used for brushing teeth with the joint 22 remaining after molding. As a result, when the brush part 20 is pressed against the teeth or gums, an appropriate amount of flex is created, making it easier to achieve both brushing power and a comfortable feel.

[0046] In the toothbrush 1 illustrated in Figures 1-3, the total number n of brush heads 20 is 127, and the number of connecting parts 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is N. A There are 118 of these, and the number of connecting parts 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis is N. B There are 112 of them, ratio P A92.9%, ratio P B That is 88.2%.

[0047] One example of a manufacturing method for toothbrush 1 is one that utilizes 3D printing technology. For example, the handle body 10 may be molded by injection molding, and then the brush portion 20 and connecting portion 22 may be fabricated on the front surface 12a of the head portion 12 using 3D printing technology, or the entire toothbrush 1 may be fabricated using 3D printing technology.

[0048] In the toothbrush 1 described above, a connecting portion 22 is provided between adjacent brush portions 20, with both ends joined to those brush portions 20. Since the brush portions 20 joined by the connecting portion 22 are less prone to deformation than a single independent brush portion 20, the toothbrush 1 is easy to manufacture using 3D printing technology. Furthermore, there is no need to make the brush portions 20 thicker to suppress deformation, and when the toothbrush 1 is used, the brush portions 20 joined by the connecting portion 22 flex in conjunction, resulting in a toothbrush 1 with excellent usability.

[0049] Furthermore, the toothbrush of the present invention is not limited to the toothbrush 1 described above. For example, the toothbrush of the present invention is not limited to a configuration in which adjacent brush portions 20 are joined by a single connecting portion 22 extending in a direction parallel to the front surface 12a of the head portion 12. As shown in Figure 4(A), adjacent brush portions 20 may be joined by a connecting portion 22 extending in a direction inclined with respect to the front surface 12a of the head portion 12. As shown in Figure 4(B), adjacent brush portions 20 may be joined by two connecting portions 22 extending in a direction parallel to the front surface 12a of the head portion 12. As shown in Figure 4(C), adjacent brush portions 20 may be joined by connecting portions 22 with an X-shaped cross configuration. Note that in Figures 4(A) to 4(C), the same reference numerals are used for parts that are the same as in Figure 3, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0050] The configuration illustrated in Figure 4(A) has the advantage of making it easier to ensure the elasticity of the brush portion 20, even when the joint portion 22 has to be made somewhat thicker due to the effects of 3D printing accuracy. The configuration illustrated in Figure 4(B) has the advantage of easily suppressing deformation of the brush portion 20 even if each connecting portion 22 is thin. The configuration illustrated in Figure 4(C) has the advantage of allowing the elasticity of the brush portion 20 to be adjusted over a wide range.

[0051] Furthermore, in toothbrush 1, all pairs of adjacent brush sections 20 in the long axis direction and all pairs of adjacent brush sections 20 in the short axis direction were connected by a connecting section 22, but the configuration is not limited to this. There may be adjacent brush sections in the long axis direction that are not connected by a connecting section. There may also be adjacent brush sections in the short axis direction that are not connected by a connecting section. In addition, there may be brush sections that are not connected by a connecting section to any adjacent brush sections.

[0052] The pattern of joining the multiple brush sections on the head with connecting sections is not particularly limited. For example, the following patterns (i) to (iv), or combinations of two or more of them, can be used as examples of joining patterns. (i) As shown in Figures 7(A) and 7(B), when viewed from the tip side of the brush part 20, one brush part 20 is connected to only one other brush part 20 at the connecting part 22. Note that Figure 7(A) corresponds to the "lattice arrangement" of the brush parts of a typical toothbrush, and Figure 7(B) corresponds to the "staggered arrangement". (ii) As shown in Figures 7(C) and 7(D), a pattern in which two or more brush sections 20 are connected by a connecting section 22 in a straight or curved linear manner when viewed from the bristle tip side of the brush section 20. (iii) As shown in Figures 7(E) to 7(H), a pattern in which three or more brush parts 20 are continuously joined by the joining parts 22, such that when viewed from the bristle tip side of the brush part 20, a region is formed surrounded by the joining parts 22. (iv) A pattern as shown in Figures 7(I) and 7(J), which includes three or more brush portions 20 and brush portions 20 joined by a connecting portion 22, as viewed from the bristle tip side of the brush portion 20.

[0053] For example, by classifying the arrangement patterns of brush parts connected by the connecting parts using the ratio A (A = N / n1 × 100) of the total number of connecting parts N to the total number of brush parts with connecting parts n1, the arrangement patterns can be classified into, for example, the following (1) to (3). (1) A sequence pattern in which proportion A is less than 100% and there is no region enclosed by a binding site. (2) A sequence pattern in which proportion A is 100% and there is a region enclosed by the bonding portion (where there are two or fewer brush portions 20 connected by a bonding portion 22 to one brush portion 20). (3) A sequence pattern in which proportion A is greater than 100% and there is a region surrounded by a bonding portion (however, this includes brush portions 20 joined by three or more brush portions 20 and bonding portions 22).

[0054] As the ratio A increases, the stiffness of the bristles of the brush portion 20 tends to increase, and the degree of bending decreases. Furthermore, even if the brush portion 20 joined at the joint portion 22 is flattened, it is easy to insert into narrow interdental spaces while maintaining high bristle stiffness. In addition, multiple brush portions 20 tend to become one large bristle bundle at the joint portion 22, making it easier to clean the tooth surface with high bristle stiffness.

[0055] The percentage A is preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more, even more preferably 40% or more, preferably 175% or less, more preferably 150% or less, and even more preferably 100% or less. The preferred lower and upper limits of percentage A can be any combination, for example, 30-150% is preferred.

[0056] In the arrangement pattern (1), it is preferable to arrange the brushes on the head such that, when viewed from the front of the head, the areas where the connecting portion 22 is not provided are at approximately equal intervals. This makes it possible to suppress deformation caused by differences in the spacing between the brush portions 20, particularly between areas with sparse and dense spacing. In the arrangement pattern (2), it is preferable that the arrangement of the regions enclosed by the connecting parts is symmetrical with respect to the axis in the direction of the long axis (not shown) when viewed from the front of the head. This allows the user to brush various parts of the oral cavity without having to think about the orientation of the toothbrush, regardless of whether they are holding it with their left or right hand. The arrangement pattern (2) may be formed by a single head or by multiple arrangement patterns. In the arrangement pattern (3), it is preferable that, when viewed from the front of the head, the outer circumference of the shape formed by the joint is located close to the outer circumference of the head (the outer edge of the head). This allows the brush portion close to the outer circumference of the head to flex in conjunction, even with a small head, thereby providing sufficient brushing power.

[0057] For example, the overall shape formed by the joint when viewed from the front of the head can be exemplified by arrangement patterns such as a structure filled with squares like toothbrush 1, a honeycomb structure, a structure filled with triangles, or a combination of these.

[0058] More specifically, we can take toothbrush 2, shown in Figure 8, as an example. In toothbrush 2, when the head portion 12 is viewed from the front, multiple brush portions 20 are arranged in a square grid pattern. Brush portions 20 aligned in the short axis direction and brush portions 20 aligned in the long axis direction at both ends of the short axis direction are all connected by connecting portions 22, while the remaining brush portions 20 aligned in the long axis direction are connected by connecting portions 22 in pairs. In toothbrush 2, The total number n of brush parts 20 is 127. The number of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is N. A There are 71 of them. Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis. B 120 of them ratio P A 55.9% ratio P B That is 94.5%.

[0059] Furthermore, toothbrush 3 shown in Figure 9 can be used as an example. In toothbrush 3, when the head portion 12 is viewed from the front, multiple brush portions 20 are arranged in a square grid pattern, all of the brush portions 20 aligned in the short axis direction are connected by a connecting portion 22, while the brush portions 20 aligned in the long axis direction are not connected by a connecting portion 22. In toothbrush 3, The total number n of brush parts 20 is 127. The number of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is N. A There are 0 of them. Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis. B 120 of them ratio P A 0%, ratio P B That is 94.5%.

[0060] Furthermore, the toothbrush 4 shown in Figure 10 can be used as an example. In toothbrush 4, when the head portion 12 is viewed from the front, multiple brush portions 20 are arranged in a square grid pattern, all brush portions 20 aligned in the long axis direction are connected by a connecting portion 22, while brush portions 20 aligned in the short axis direction are not connected by a connecting portion 22. In toothbrush 4, The total number n of brush parts 20 is 127. The number of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is N. A There are 71 of them. Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis. B There are 0 of them. ratio P A 55.9% ratio P B The percentage is 0%.

[0061] Furthermore, the toothbrush 5 shown in Figure 11 can be used as an example. In the toothbrush 5, when the head portion 12 is viewed from the front, multiple brush portions 20 are arranged in a regular triangular grid (staggered arrangement) pattern, and brush portions 20 aligned in the long axis direction, brush portions 20 aligned in the short axis direction, and brush portions 20 aligned at an angle to both the long axis and the short axis directions are all connected by a connecting portion 22. In toothbrush 5, The total number n of brush parts 20 is 123. The number of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is N. A There are 113 of them. Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis. B There are 208 of them. ratio P A 91.9% ratio P B That is 169%.

[0062] Furthermore, the toothbrush 6 shown in Figure 12 can be used as an example. In the toothbrush 6, when the head portion 12 is viewed from the front, multiple brush portions 20 are arranged in a regular triangular grid (staggered arrangement) pattern, and the multiple brush portions 20 are partially connected by the connecting portion 22 such that the shape of the area enclosed by the connecting portion 22 is a combination of a hexagon and a triangle. In toothbrush 6, The total number n of brush parts 20 is 123. The number of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is N. A There are 58 of them. Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis. B There are 112 of them. ratio P A 47.2% ratio P B That is 91.1%.

[0063] Furthermore, the toothbrush 7 shown in Figure 13 can be used as an example. In the toothbrush 7, when the head portion 12 is viewed from the front, multiple brush portions 20 are arranged in a regular triangular grid (staggered arrangement) pattern, and the area enclosed by the connecting portion 22 forms a hexagon, and the multiple brush portions 20 are partially connected by the connecting portion 22 so that these hexagons are arranged continuously along the long axis. In toothbrush 7, The total number n of brush parts 20 is 123. The number of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction is N. A There are 42 of them. Number N of joint portions 22 extending in a direction intersecting the long axis. B There are 76 of them. ratio PA 34.1% ratio P B That is 61.8%.

[0064] Furthermore, the brush portion 20 may be arranged in a pattern not included in grid patterns such as a square grid or a regular triangular grid (staggered arrangement). However, if the brush head is not arranged in a grid pattern when viewed from the front, brushes whose base cross-sections overlap by 50% or more in the longitudinal direction when viewed from the tip side of the head shall be considered to be brushes arranged in the same row in the longitudinal direction. Similarly, when viewing the head from the tip side, brush heads whose base cross-sections overlap by 50% or more in the short axis direction shall be considered to be in the same row in the short axis direction. If the overlap between brush heads is less than 50%, there shall be a gap between those brush heads.

[0065] As a specific example of a toothbrush in which the brush heads are not arranged in a grid pattern, for example, the toothbrush 8 shown in Figure 14 can be cited. For example, as shown in Figure 14, when the head portion 12 is viewed from the front, the toothbrush 8 may have brush portions 20 arranged on the circumferences of multiple concentric circles, with adjacent brush portions 20 on each circumference connected by connecting portions 22.

[0066] Furthermore, without departing from the spirit of the present invention, the components in the above embodiments may be replaced with well-known components as appropriate, and the above-described modifications may be combined as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0067] 1-8...Toothbrush, 10...Handle, 12...Head, 12a...Front view, 14...Grip, 16...Neck, 20...Brush part 、22 ...joint part.

Claims

1. It comprises a head portion and a gripping portion provided on the rear end side of the head portion, Multiple brush sections are provided on the front of the head section. Between at least one pair of adjacent brush sections, there is a connecting section whose ends are connected to each of the adjacent brush sections. The aforementioned joint is spaced apart from the front of the head portion. Let L (mm) be the length of the bristles of the brush, and let d be the distance from the tip of the bristles of the brush to the upper end of the joint. １ (mm), the distance from the tip of the bristles of the brush part to the lower end of the joint part is d. ２ When (mm), Distance d relative to hair length L １ The proportion is between 10% and 50%, and the distance d relative to the hair length L. ２ A method for manufacturing toothbrushes in which the proportion is 20% or more and 60% or less, A method for manufacturing a toothbrush, wherein at least the brush portion and the connecting portion are fabricated by three-dimensional additive manufacturing technology.

2. In a front view of the head portion as seen from the bristle tip side of the brush portion, the number of connecting portions N is the number of connecting portions extending in a direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head portion. Ａ There are three or more of these, or the number of the connecting parts N is the number of connecting parts that extend in a direction intersecting the long axis of the head portion. Ｂ A method for manufacturing a toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein there are three or more of these.

3. The number of connecting parts N, which extend in a direction intersecting the short axis direction of the head portion when viewed from the bristle tip side of the head portion, relative to the total number n of the brush portions. Ａ The ratio is 30% or more and 150% or less, or the number of connecting parts N that extend in a direction intersecting the long axis of the head part when viewed from the tip side of the brush part, relative to the total number n of the brush parts. Ｂ The method for manufacturing a toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of is 30% or more and 150% or less.

4. The method for manufacturing a toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein the ratio of the total number of connecting parts to the total number of brush parts is 30% or more and 150% or less.

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