Personal care implement

Abstract

A personal care implement and a method of forming the same. The personal care implement includes a rigid structural body and first and second elastomeric grip components coupled thereto. The structural body has a handle portion having a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface. The first elastomeric grip has a front outer surface that is located along the front surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface. The second elastomeric grip component has a first side outer surface that is located along the first lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one second gripping feature located on the first side outer surface. The first and second elastomeric grip components are isolated from one another by the handle portion of the structural body.

Description

PERSONAL CARE IMPLEMENTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of priority to United States Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 549,850, filed February 5, 2024, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Personal care implements may be used to perform personal care functions. Personal care implements may include oral care implements which may be used for brushing teeth and performing other oral hygiene tasks and other types of implements that may be used to perform personal care tasks. In some situations, a user may be required to maintain a good grip on the implement under wet conditions. That is, the handle of the implement may get wet during use. As a result, many personal care implements have been designed with rubber gripping features to improve the user’s ability to grip the device without excessive slipping. However, such grips lack specificity to enable the user to grip the implement and adjust the orientation or rotational position of the implement with a single hand. Thus, a need exists for a personal care implement with improved gripping features.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] The present invention is directed to a personal care implement and a method of forming the same. The personal care implement includes a rigid structural body and first and second elastomeric grip components coupled thereto. The structural body has a handle portion having a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface. The first elastomeric grip has a front outer surface that is located along the front surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface. The second elastomeric grip component has a first side outer surface that is located along the first lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one second gripping feature located on the first side outer surface. The first and second elastomeric grip components are isolated from one another by the handle portion of the structural body.

[0004] In one aspect, the invention may be a personal care implement comprising: a structural body formed from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion having anouter surface comprising a front surface portion, a rear surface portion, a first lateral surface portion, and a second lateral surface portion; a first elastomeric grip component coupled to the handle portion of the structural body, the first elastomeric grip component comprising a front outer surface that is located along the front surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; a second elastomeric grip component coupled to the handle portion of the structural body, the second elastomeric grip component comprising a first side outer surface that is located along the first lateral surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one second gripping feature located on the first side outer surface; and wherein the first and second elastomeric grip components are isolated from one another by the handle portion of the structural body.

[0005] In another aspect, the invention may be a personal care implement comprising: a structural body formed from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion and a head portion, the handle portion comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface; a first monolithic mass of elastomeric material coupled to the handle portion of the structural body to form a first elastomeric grip component, the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a front outer surface that is exposed along the front surface of the handle portion and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; a second monolithic mass of elastomeric material coupled to the handle portion of the structural body to form a second elastomeric grip component, the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising: a first lateral grip portion located on the first lateral surface of the handle portion and comprising at least one second gripping feature; and a second lateral grip portion located on the second lateral surface of the handle portion and comprising at least one third gripping feature; and wherein the first and second monolithic masses of elastomeric material are distinct from one another and are spaced apart from one another by a portion of the structural body.

[0006] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a method of manufacturing a personal care implement, the method comprising: forming a structural body from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion having a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface; injection a first molten elastomeric material into a first recess in the front surface of the handle portion of the structural body to form a first monolithicmass of elastomeric material, the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a front outer surface and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; injecting a second molten elastomeric material into a first recess portion of a second recess in the first lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body to form a second monolithic mass of elastomeric material, the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a first lateral grip portion having a first side outer surface and at least one second gripping feature; and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is isolated from the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material by a portion of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0007] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0009] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of a personal care implement in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0010] FIG. 2 is an exploded rear perspective view of the personal care implement of FIG. 1;

[0011] FIG. 3 is a front view of the personal care implement of FIG. 1 ;

[0012] FIG 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV of FIG. 3;

[0013] FIG. 5 is a close-up view of area V of FIG. 3;

[0014] FIG. 6 is a close-up side view of the area shown in FIG. 5;

[0015] FIG. 7 is a close-up rear view of the area shown in FIG. 5;

[0016] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII- VIII of FIG. 7;

[0017] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX of FIG. 7;

[0018] FIG. 10 is a close-up rear view of a personal care implement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 11 is a close-up side view of the personal care implement of FIG. 10; and

[0020] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of a personal care implement in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0022] The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto.

[0023] Referring first to FIGS. 1-4, a personal care implement 100 is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the exemplified embodiment, the personal care implement 100 is a toothbrush. However, the invention is not to be so limited and the personal care implement 100 may take on other forms, such as being other types of oral care implements like flosser devices, tooth whitening devices, oral care applicators, or the like. Alternatively, the personal care implement 100 may be configured to perform a task unrelated to oral care, such as being a hairbrush, a razor, or the like.

[0024] The personal care implement 100 may comprise a structural body 200 formed from a rigid material, a first grip component (or first elastomeric grip component) 300 formed from anelastomeric material, and a second grip component (or second elastomeric grip component) 400 formed from an elastomeric material. The rigid material used to form the structural body 200 may be a hard plastic material, such as including without limitation polypropylene, polyethylene, or the like. The rigid material may be a material other than plastic, such as wood or metal in other embodiments. The elastomeric material used to form the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 may comprise a thermoplastic elastomer, a thermoplastic polyurethane, silicone, rubber, or other similar materials.

[0025] The structural body 200 may comprise a handle portion 210 and a head portion 250. In other embodiments, the structural body 200 may comprise a handle portion 210 only. In such embodiments, the handle portion 210 may comprise connection features to facilitate attachment of the handle portion 210 to a separate refill head. In the exemplified embodiment, the structural body 200 is an integral, monolithic component formed from a rigid material that comprises the handle portion 210 and the head portion 250 as a unitary structure. The head portion 250 may comprise a front surface 251 and a rear surface 252 opposite the front surface 252. The head portion 250 may comprise one or more oral hygiene tools useful for performing an oral hygiene task or function, such as tooth and gum cleaning, tooth whitening, breath freshening, or the like. In other embodiments, the oral hygiene tool may be useful for performing other tasks, such as hair brushing, shaving, ointment application, or the like.

[0026] In the exemplified embodiment, the personal care implement 100 comprises a plurality of tooth cleaning elements 253 extending from the front surface 251 of the head portion 250 for cleaning teeth and gums of a user. The tooth cleaning elements 253 may comprise bristles, such as those formed from nylon and other similar materials. The tooth cleaning elements 253 may comprise lamella, such as those formed from rubber materials like thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, and the like. The tooth cleaning elements 253 may be coupled to the head portion 250 of the structural body 200 and may extend from the front surface 251 of the head portion 250. The tooth cleaning elements 253 may be coupled to the head portion 250 using any known technique, including staples, in-mold tufting, anchor-free tufting, PTT, and injection molding.

[0027] The personal care implement 100 may further comprise a tongue or soft tissue cleaner 254 located on the rear surface 252 of the head portion 250. The tongue or soft tissue cleaner 254 may be formed from a rubber-like material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer, athermoplastic polyurethane, or the like. The tongue or soft tissue cleaner 254 may be formed by injecting an elastomeric material onto the rear surface 252 of the head portion 250. The tongue or soft tissue cleaner 254 may comprise a pad portion and nubs, ribs, ridges, or the like protruding from the pad portion and / or grooves therein to enhance the tongue and soft tissue cleaning abilities.

[0028] The structural body 200 comprises a bottom end 201, a top end 202, and a longitudinal axis A-A that extends from the bottom end 201 to the top end 202. The handle portion 201 comprises the bottom end 201 and the head portion 202 comprises the top end 202. The handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 may comprise an outer surface comprising a front surface portion 211, a rear surface portion 212 that is opposite the front surface portion 211, a first lateral surface portion 213, and a second lateral surface portion 214 that is opposite the first lateral surface portion 213. The first and second lateral surface portions 213, 214 extend between the front and rear surface portions 211, 212. The first and second lateral surface portions 213, 214 are opposing side surfaces located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis A-A that face in a direction away from the longitudinal axis A-A. The front and rear surface portions 211, 212 are opposing surfaces located on opposite sides of a coronal plane that face in a direction away from the coronal plane. While the outer surface of the handle portion 210 is continuous, the difference between the various portions thereof should be readily understood.

[0029] The handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 may comprise a proximal portion 215, a distal portion 216, and a waist portion 217 located between the proximal and distal portions 215, 216. The proximal portion 215 may be located adjacent to the head portion 250 and the distal portion 216 may comprise the bottom end 201. The first and second lateral side portions 213, 214 of the handle portion 210 may be convex (in the axial direction) along the proximal and distal portions 215, 216. The first and second lateral side portions 213, 214 of the handle portion 210 may be concave (in the axial direction) along the waist portion 217. The handle portion 210 may have a width measured between the first and second lateral side portions 213, 214. The width may decrease when moving away from each of the proximal and distal portions 215, 216 towards a center of the waist portion 217. Thus, the waist portion 217 may have an hourglass shape. The width of the handle portion 210 may be smaller along the waist portion 217 than along the proximal and distal portions 215, 216. That is, the waist portion 217 may have a reduced width relative to the proximal and distal portions 215, 216.

[0030] The handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 may comprise a hole 220 that extends from the front surface portion 211 to the rear surface portion 212. In the exemplified embodiment, the hole 220 is a through-hole that extends through the full thickness of the handle portion 210 from the front surface portion 211 to the rear surface portion 212. That is, the hole 220 extends continuously from a first opening in the front surface portion 211 to a second opening in the rear surface portion 212. Alternatively, the hole 220 may comprise one or more recesses. For example, the hole 220 may comprise a recess formed into the front surface portion 211 and extending to a floor, rather than extending all the way to the rear surface portion 212. The hole 220 may comprise a recess in the front surface portion 211 having a floor and a recess in the rear surface portion 212 having a floor. Thus, the hole 220 may be a through-hole or may be one or more blind holes or recesses.

[0031] The handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 may also comprise a recess 230 located at least partially axially below the hole 220. The recess 230 may be located axially at least partially between the hole 220 and the bottom end 201 of the structural body 200. The recess 230 may be located along the waist portion 217 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The recess 230 may extend from the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 to a floor 231 that is recessed relative to the outer surface of the handle portion 210. The recess 230 comprises a first portion 232 (see FIG. 9) located along the first lateral surface portion 213 of the handle portion 210, a second portion 233 located along the second lateral surface portion 214 of the handle portion 210, and a third portion 234 located along the rear surface portion 212 of the handle portion 210. The recess 230 may be a continuous recess that wraps circumferentially around the first lateral surface portion 213, the rear surface portion 212, and the second lateral surface portion 214 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. In some embodiments, the third portion 234 may be omitted and the recess 230 may comprise the first and second portions 232, 233 which may be circumferentially spaced apart from one another.

[0032] In the exemplified embodiment, the first and second portions 232, 233 of the recess 230 may be oval-shaped and elongated in a direction of the longitudinal axis A-A. However, the exact shape of the various portions of the recess 230 may be modified from that which is depicted in the exemplified embodiment, in accordance with the teachings set forth herein.

[0033] The recess 230 may be completely isolated from and spaced apart from the hole 220. That is, a portion of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 may extend between the recess230 and the hole 220. Thus, the recess 230 is not continuous with the hole 220, but rather the recess 230 is distinct and separate from the hole 220. The recess 230 may be defined by the floor231 and a sidewall 235 that extends from the floor 231 to the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The hole 220 may be defined by an annular sidewall 221 that extends from the front surface portion 211 to the rear surface portion 212 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. A portion of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 may extend from the annular sidewall 221 of the hole 220 to the sidewall 235 of the recess 230.

[0034] The first elastomeric grip component 300 may be coupled to the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 within the hole 220. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise a front outer surface 301 that is located along the front surface portion 211 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may further comprise a rear outer surface 302 that is located along the rear surface portion 212 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may further comprise a central portion that is located between the front and rear outer surfaces 301, 302 and that is located within the hole 220. In an alternative embodiment, the first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise two separate grip components, one located within a recess in the front surface portion 211 of the handle portion 210 and another located within a recess in the rear surface portion 212 of the handle portion 210. In still other embodiments, the hole 220 may only comprise a recess in the front surface portion 211, and the first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise only a grip component located in the recess in the front surface portion 211. Thus, variations to the details of the first elastomeric grip component 300 are possible in accordance with the invention disclosed herein. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may be exposed along both of the front and rear surface portions 211, 212 of the handle portion 210, or the first elastomeric grip component 300 may be exposed only along the front surface portion 211 of the handle portion 210. In an embodiment, the front surface 211 of the handle portion 210 may be continuous with the front surface 251 of the head portion 250 from which the tooth cleaning elements 253 extend.

[0035] The first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise at least one first gripping feature 304 located on the front outer surface 301. In the exemplified embodiment, the at least one first gripping feature 304 comprises a plurality of gripping features. Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment the first gripping features 304 comprise a plurality of protrusions or nubs protruding from the front outer surface 301. In alternative embodiments, the first gripping feature 304 may comprise one or more protrusions protruding from the front outer surface 301, one or more grooves formed into the front outer surface 301, or a combination of both protrusions and grooves. The protrusions may be nubs as shown, or they may be ridges or other shaped protruding elements to enhance a user’s grip during use of the personal care implement 100.

[0036] The first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise at least one second gripping feature 305 located on the rear outer surface 302. In the exemplified embodiment, the at least one second gripping feature 305 comprises a plurality of gripping features. Furthermore, in the exemplified embodiment the second gripping features 305 comprise a plurality of protrusions or nubs protruding from the rear outer surface 302. In alternative embodiments, the second gripping feature 305 may comprise one or more protrusions protruding from the rear outer surface 302, one or more grooves formed into the rear outer surface 302, or a combination of both protrusions and grooves. The protrusions may be nubs as shown, or they may be ridges or other shaped protruding elements to enhance a user’s grip during use of the personal care implement 100.

[0037] The first elastomeric grip component 300 is described herein such that the front outer surface 301 is located along the front surface portion 211 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 and the rear outer surface 302 is located along the rear surface portion 212 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The phrase “located along” essentially means that the front outer surface 301 is visible when the front surface portion 211 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 is being viewed and the rear outer surface 302 is visible when the rear surface portion 212 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 is being viewed. Stated another way, the personal care implement 100 comprises a front surface 101 that is formed by the front surface portion 211 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 and the front outer surface 301 of the first elastomeric grip component 300. Similarly, the personal care implement 100 comprises a rear surface 102 that is formed bythe rear surface portion 212 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 and the rear outer surface 302 of the first elastomeric grip component 300.

[0038] The first elastomeric grip component 300 may be a monolithic mass of elastomeric material, such that the first elastomeric grip component 300 is a singular, monolithic component. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may be coupled to the handle portion 210 by injecting a first molten elastomeric material into the hole 220 in the handle portion 210 and allowing the first molten elastomeric material to cool and harden into the monolithic mass of elastomeric material within the hole 220.

[0039] The second elastomeric grip component 400 may comprise a first lateral grip portion 410, a second lateral grip portion 420, and a strap portion 430. In the exemplified embodiment, the strap portion 430 is connected to each of the first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 so that the second elastomeric grip component 400 is a monolithic component. In alternative embodiments, the second elastomeric grip component 400 may comprise one or both of the first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 as separate components, with no strap connecting them together. In some embodiments, the second elastomeric grip component 400 may comprise the first lateral grip portion 410 only, with the second lateral grip portion 420 and the strap portion 430 being omitted. The first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 may be oval-shaped and may be elongated in a direction of the longitudinal axis A-A. The first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 may have a greater length than the strap portion 430, with the lengths being measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A.

[0040] The first lateral grip portion 410 may comprise a first side outer surface 411 that is located along the first lateral surface portion 213 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. That is, the personal care implement 100 comprises a first lateral surface 103 that is formed by the first lateral surface portion 213 of the handle portion 210 and the first side outer surface 411 of the first lateral grip portion 410 of the second elastomeric grip component 400. The first side outer surface 411 of the first lateral grip portion 410 may protrude relative to the first lateral surface portion 213 of the handle portion 210. The first side outer surface 411 may comprise at least one third gripping feature 412. In the exemplified embodiment, the at least one third gripping feature 412 comprises a plurality of grooves formed into the first side outer surface 411. In other embodiments, the at least one third gripping feature 412 may comprise one or more protuberances. In other embodiments, the at least one thirdgripping feature 412 may comprise a combination of protuberances and grooves. The at least one third gripping feature 412 may improve a user’s grip thereon during use.

[0041] The second lateral grip portion 420 may comprise a second side outer surface 421 that is located along the second lateral surface portion 214 of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. That is, the personal care implement 100 comprises a second lateral surface 104 that is formed by the second lateral surface portion 214 of the handle portion 210 and the second side outer surface 421 of the second lateral grip portion 420 of the second elastomeric grip component 400. The second side outer surface 421 of the second lateral grip portion 420 may protrude relative to the second lateral surface portion 214 of the handle portion 210. The first side outer surface 411 of the first lateral grip portion 410 may protrude relative to the first lateral surface portion 213 of the handle portion 210. The second side outer surface 421 may comprise at least one fourth gripping feature 422. In the exemplified embodiment, the at least one fourth gripping feature 422 comprises a plurality of grooves formed into the second side outer surface 421. In other embodiments, the at least one fourth gripping feature 422 may comprise one or more protuberances. In other embodiments, the at least one fourth gripping feature 422 may comprise a combination of protuberances and grooves. The at least one fourth gripping feature 422 may improve a user’s grip thereon during use.

[0042] The strap portion 430 may have a strap surface 431. The strap surface 431 may be smooth and devoid of any protuberances and grooves. In other embodiments, the strap surface 431 may also include gripping features such as protuberances and / or grooves similar to the first and second side outer surfaces 411, 421 of the first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420. The strap portion 430 may be located along the rear surface 212 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The strap surface 431 of the strap portion 430 may be flush with the rear surface 212 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The second elastomeric grip component 400 may not extend along the front surface portion 211 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. Thus, a portion of the front surface portion 211 may exist between the first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 of the second elastomeric grip component 400. The first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 may be spaced apart from one another by the portion of the front surface portion 211 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200.

[0043] The second elastomeric grip component 400 may be coupled to the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 within the recess 230. The second elastomeric grip component 400 maybe coupled to the handle portion 210 by injection molding a second molten elastomeric material into the recess 230 and permitting the second molten elastomeric material to cool and harden to form the second elastomeric grip component 400, which may form a monolithic mass of elastomeric material.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 5-7, the personal care implement 100 will be further described. As noted, the recess 230 may be located along the waist portion 217 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. Thus, because the second elastomeric grip component 400 is located within the recess 230, the second elastomeric grip component 400 is also located along the waist portion 217 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. However, the second elastomeric grip component 400 need not be located along the waist portion 217 in all embodiments and may be located at other positions along the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 in accordance with the teachings set forth herein.

[0045] The first lateral grip portion 410 is located on a first side of the longitudinal axis A-A and the second lateral grip portion 420 is located on a second side of the longitudinal axis A-A, with neither of the first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 being intersected by the longitudinal axis A-A. The longitudinal axis A-A does, however, intersect the first elastomeric grip component 300. The longitudinal axis A-A may also intersect the strap portion 430 of the second elastomeric grip portion 400.

[0046] The second elastomeric grip component 400 may be located along the waist portion 217 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The first lateral grip portion 410 may be located along a concave portion of the first lateral surface portion 213 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The first side outer surface 411 of the first lateral grip portion 410 may be convex or planar (in the axial direction). In the exemplified embodiment, the first side outer surface 411 of the first lateral grip portion 410 is convex. The first side outer surface 411 of the first lateral grip portion 410 is not concave in the exemplified embodiment. The second lateral grip portion 420 may be located along a concave portion of the second lateral surface portion 214 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The second side outer surface 421 of the second lateral grip portion 420 may be convex or planar. In the exemplified embodiment, the second side outer surface 421 of the second lateral grip portion 420 is convex. The second side outer surface 421 of the second lateral grip portion 420 is not concave in the exemplified embodiment.

[0047] In the exemplified embodiment, the proximal portion 215 comprises a widest portion of the structural body 200. The first and second side outer surfaces 411, 421 of the first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 of the second elastomeric grip component 400 may be located radially inwardly relative to the first and second lateral surfaces 213, 214 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 at the widest portion of the structural body 200. In an embodiment, the widest portion of the structural body 200 is aligned with the first elastomeric grip component 300.

[0048] The first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise a bottom end 310 and a top end 311, with the bottom end 310 being closest to the bottom end 201 of the structural body 200 and the top end 311 being closest to the head portion 250 of the structural body 200. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may have a central axis B-B that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A and located equidistant to the top and bottom ends of the first elastomeric grip component 300. The second elastomeric grip component 400 comprises a top end 401 and a bottom end 402, with the bottom end 402 being located closer to the bottom end 201 of the structural body 200. In the exemplified embodiment, a portion of the second elastomeric grip component 400 is located axially between the central axis B-B of the first elastomeric grip component 300 and the bottom end 310 of the first elastomeric grip component 300. Thus, the second elastomeric grip component 400 is not wholly below the first elastomeric grip component 300 in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A, but instead there is some overlap in the axial direction. By overlap, it does not mean that the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 are in contact (they are, in fact, specifically not in contact but are spaced apart as described herein). Rather, the term overlap as used here simply means that there are transverse axes (transverse to the longitudinal axis A-A) that intersect the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400.

[0049] In an alternative embodiment, the second elastomeric grip component 400 may be positioned so that an entirety of the second elastomeric grip component 400 is between the bottom end 310 of the first elastomeric grip component and the bottom end 201 of the structural body 200. In an embodiment, no portion of the second elastomeric grip component 400 is located axially above the bottom end 310 of the first elastomeric grip component 300. In an embodiment, no portion of the second elastomeric grip component 400 is located axially above the central axis (i.e., central transverse axis) B-B of the first elastomeric grip component 400.

[0050] In an embodiment, the handle portion 210 may comprise a gripping portion located between the bottom end 402 of the second elastomeric grip component 400 and the bottom end 201 of the handle portion 210. The gripping portion 210 may have a length measured in a direction of the longitudinal axis A-A that is greater than a length measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A from the bottom end 402 of the second elastomeric grip component 400 to the top end 311 of the first elastomeric grip component. The gripping portion of the handle portion 210 may rest inside of the user’s palm during use of the personal care implement 100.

[0051] In the exemplified embodiment, each of the gripping features 412, 422 of the second elastomeric grip component 400 are located between the bottom end 310 of the first elastomeric grip component 300 and the bottom end 201 of the structural body 200. Thus, even though a portion of the second elastomeric grip component 400 may extend axially to a location between the top and bottom ends 310, 311 of the first elastomeric grip component 300, in an embodiment none of the gripping features 412, 422 may be located along that portion of the second elastomeric grip component 400. As best seen in FIG. 7, the strap portion 430 of the second elastomeric grip component 400 may be located entirely below the bottom end 310 of the first elastomeric grip component 300.

[0052] The first elastomeric grip component 300 may be divided into thirds having an identical length measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A. Specifically, the first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise a lower axial portion 312 that comprises the bottom end 310, a middle axial portion 313, and an upper axial portion 314 that comprises the top end 310. The lower, middle, and upper axial portions 312, 313, 314 may have equal lengths measured in the direction of the longitudinal axis A-A. In the exemplified embodiment, there is no plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A that intersects the second elastomeric grip component 400 and the middle axial portion 313 of the first elastomeric grip component 300. Similarly, in the exemplified embodiment there is no plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A-A that intersects the second elastomeric grip component 400 and the upper axial portion 314 of the first elastomeric grip component 300. In the exemplified embodiment, there exists a reference plane PRef that intersects the second elastomeric grip component 400 and the lower axial portion 312 of the first elastomeric grip component 300. In some embodiments, the lower axial portion 312 of the first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise one-third or less of the length of the firstelastomeric grip component 300. In other embodiments, the lower axial portion 312 of the first elastomeric grip component 300 may comprise one-fourth or less, or one-fifth or less, or one- sixth or less, or one-seventh or less, or one-eighth or less of the length of the first elastomeric grip component 300. Thus, there may be very little overlap between the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 in the axial direction in some embodiments.

[0053] As discussed above, the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 may be isolated from one another such that there is no contact between the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400. However, as used herein the recitation the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 are isolated from one another by a portion of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 does not eliminate the possibility that the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 may contact one another somewhere. For example, there may be a runner formed from an elastomeric material that connects the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400. That is, a small strip of the elastomeric material may extend along the outer surface of the handle portion 210 or internally within the handle portion 210 to connect the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 so that the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 may be connected. The small strip may extend along the rear of the handle portion 210, for example. In an embodiment, the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 are separate and distinct from one another. In an embodiment, the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 are entirely spaced apart from one another so that no contact exists between the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400. However, as noted that is not necessarily required in all embodiments.

[0054] In an embodiment, the first elastomeric grip component 300 may have a first color and the second elastomeric grip component 400 may have a second color. The first and second colors may be different from one another. In an embodiment, the first elastomeric grip component 300 may have a first hardness or durometer and the second elastomeric grip component 400 may have a second hardness or durometer. The first hardness or durometer may be different than the second hardness or durometer. The first hardness or durometer may be less than the second hardness or durometer such that the second elastomeric grip component 400 may be firmer than the first elastomeric grip component 300.

[0055] In an embodiment, the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 comprises an annular portion 290 that surrounds the first elastomeric grip component 300. In an embodiment of the present invention, the outer surface of the handle portion 210 may also comprise an annular portion that surrounds the second elastomeric grip component 400. The second elastomeric grip component 300 may be spaced apart from the first elastomeric grip component 300 by the annular portion 290 of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. Thus, a portion of the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200 may extend between the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 to separate the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 from one another.

[0056] In an embodiment, the first elastomeric grip component 300 and the second elastomeric grip component 400 may be separated by the outer surface of the handle portion 210 along the front surface 211 and the first and second lateral surface portions 213, 214. That is, the first elastomeric grip component 300 may have a peripheral edge on the front surface portion 211 that is surrounded by the annular portion 290 of the handle portion 210 that ensures a space or gap exists between the first and second elastomeric grip components 300, 400 along the front surface211 and the lateral surfaces 213, 214.

[0057] Referring to FIG. 8, a cross-sectional view taken through the first elastomeric grip component 400 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis is shown. This view illustrates the first elastomeric grip component 300 located within the hole 220 formed through the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. As noted above, the hole 220 is a through-hole in the exemplified embodiment, but may be a recess formed into one or both of the front and rear surfaces of the handle portion 210 in other embodiments. The front outer surface 301 of the first elastomeric grip component 300 is shown located along, and perhaps protruding from, the front surface portion 211 of the handle portion 210. Similarly, the rear outer surface 302 of the first elastomeric grip component 300 is shown located along, and perhaps protruding from, the rear surface portion 212 of the handle portion 210. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may form a finger / thumb grip along the front surface portion 211 of the handle portion 210. The first elastomeric grip component 300 may also form a finger / thumb grip along the rear surface portion212 of the handle portion 210.

[0058] FIG. 9 illustrates a transverse cross-sectional view taken through the second elastomeric grip component 400. As noted, the second elastomeric grip component 400 may nest within arecess 230 formed into the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The recess 230 comprises the floor 231 that is recessed relative to the outer surface of the handle portion 210 of the structural body 200. The recess 230 may comprise the first, second, and third portions 232, 233, 234 which may be continuous and interconnected. The second elastomeric grip component 400 may nest within the first, second, and third portions 232, 233, 234 of the recess 230. The second elastomeric grip component 400 may be injection molded onto the handle portion 210 within the recess during manufacturing. In an embodiment, the first and second lateral grip portions 410, 420 of the second elastomeric grip component 400 may have a greater thickness than the strap portion 430 of the second elastomeric grip component 400. In other embodiments, the second elastomeric grip component 400 may be a constant thickness.

[0059] Referring briefly to FIGS. 10 and 11, an alternative embodiment of a personal care implement 500 is illustrated. The personal care implement 500 comprises a structural body 510, a first elastomeric grip component 520 coupled to the structural body 510, and a second elastomeric grip component 530 coupled to the structural body 510. In this embodiment, the structural body 510 and the first elastomeric grip component 520 are identical to the structural body 200 and the first elastomeric grip component 300 described above. The only difference between the personal care implement 500 and the personal care implement 100 is that the second elastomeric grip component 530 comprises first and second lateral grip portions 531, 532, but there is no strap portion connecting the first and second lateral grip portions 531, 532. Thus, in this embodiment the first and second lateral grip portions 531, 532 of the second elastomeric grip component 530 are separate parts that are spaced apart from one another. Each of the first and second lateral grip portions 531, 532 of the second elastomeric grip component 523 a recess on one of the lateral sides of the structural body 510.

[0060] FIG. 12 illustrates yet another embodiment of a personal care implement 600 that comprises a structural body 610, a first elastomeric grip component 620, and a second elastomeric grip component 630. In this embodiment, the structural body 610 includes an opening whereby side surfaces of the first elastomeric grip component 620 are exposed. Thus, this illustrates a modified structure of the structural body 610 and the first elastomeric grip component 620.

[0061] As used throughout, ranges are used as shorthand for describing each and every value that is within the range. Any value within the range can be selected as the terminus of the range.In addition, all references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.

[0062] While the invention has been described with respect to specific examples including presently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the above described systems and techniques. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

[0063] EXEMPLARY CLAIM SET

[0064] Exemplary Claim 1. A personal care implement comprising: a structural body formed from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion having an outer surface comprising a front surface portion, a rear surface portion, a first lateral surface portion, and a second lateral surface portion; a first elastomeric grip component coupled to the handle portion of the structural body, the first elastomeric grip component comprising a front outer surface that is located along the front surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; a second elastomeric grip component coupled to the handle portion of the structural body, the second elastomeric grip component comprising a first side outer surface that is located along the first lateral surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one second gripping feature located on the first side outer surface; and wherein the first and second elastomeric grip components are isolated from one another by a portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0065] Exemplary Claim 2. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 1 wherein the first elastomeric grip component is a first injection molded component that is injection molded onto the handle portion of the structural body and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is a second injection molded component that is injection molded onto the handle portion of the structural body.

[0066] Exemplary Claim 3. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 1 or exemplary claim 2 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a distal portion, aproximal portion, and a waist portion located between the distal and proximal portions, the waist portion having a reduced width relative to the distal and proximal portions, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is located along the waist portion of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0067] Exemplary Claim 4. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 3 wherein the first and second lateral surface portions of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body are convex along the proximal and distal portions and concave along the waist portion.

[0068] Exemplary Claim 5. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 4 wherein the structural body comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the first elastomeric grip component comprises a first top end, a first bottom end, and a central axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the structural body and located equidistant to the first top and bottom ends of the first elastomeric grip component, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component comprises a second top end and a second bottom end, the second top end of the second elastomeric grip component located axially between the central axis and the first bottom end of the first elastomeric grip component.

[0069] Exemplary Claim 6. The personal care implement according any one of exemplary claims 1 to 5 further comprising: wherein the first gripping feature comprises at least one of: (1) one or more protrusions extending from the front outer surface of the first elastomeric grip component; and (2) one or more grooves formed into the front outer surface of the first elastomeric grip component; and wherein the second gripping feature comprises at least one of: (1) one or more protrusions extending from the first side outer surface of the second elastomeric grip component; and (2) one or more grooves formed into the first side outer surface of the second elastomeric grip component.

[0070] Exemplary Claim 7. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 6 further comprising: the handle portion of the structural body comprising a through- hole that extends from the front surface portion to the rear surface portion; and the first elastomeric grip component comprising a first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising the first outer surface portion that is located along the front surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body, a second outer surface portion that islocated along the rear surface portion of the handle portion of the structural body, and a central portion that is located within the through-hole.

[0071] Exemplary Claim 8. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 7 wherein the first lateral surface portion of the handle portion of the structural body comprises a recess having a floor, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is located within the recess.

[0072] Exemplary Claim 9. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 8 wherein the second elastomeric grip component comprises a first lateral grip portion that comprises the first side outer surface and a second lateral grip portion comprising a second side outer surface located along the second lateral surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body, at least one third gripping feature located on the second side outer surface of the second lateral grip portion of the second elastomeric grip component.

[0073] Exemplary Claim 10. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 9 wherein the second elastomeric grip component comprises a strap portion extending between and connecting the first lateral grip portion to the second lateral grip portion, the strap portion being located along the rear surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component comprises a second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising the first lateral grip portion, the second lateral grip portion, and the strap portion.

[0074] Exemplary Claim 11. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 10 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a continuous recess extending along the first lateral surface portion, the rear surface portion, and the second lateral surface portion, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is located within the continuous recess.

[0075] Exemplary Claim 12. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 10 wherein the strap portion of the second elastomeric grip component is located between a bottom end of the first elastomeric grip component and a distal end of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0076] Exemplary Claim 13. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 12 wherein the first and second elastomeric grip components are separate and distinct from one another, and wherein the first and second elastomeric grip components are entirelyspaced apart from one another so that no contact exists between the first and second elastomeric grip components.

[0077] Exemplary Claim 14. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 13 further comprising: the structural body comprising a longitudinal axis; the first elastomeric grip component comprising a lower axial portion, a middle axial portion, and an upper axial portion having equal lengths, and wherein no plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis intersects the second elastomeric grip component and either of the middle and upper axial portions of the first elastomeric grip component.

[0078] Exemplary Claim 15. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 14 wherein a reference plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis intersects the second elastomeric grip component and the lower axial portion of the first elastomeric grip component.

[0079] Exemplary Claim 16. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 15 wherein the first elastomeric grip component comprises a bottom end, and wherein the at least one second gripping feature comprises a plurality of the second gripping features, and wherein each of the plurality of second gripping features is located axially between the bottom end of the first elastomeric grip component and a distal end of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0080] Exemplary Claim 17. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 16 wherein the first side outer surface of the second elastomeric grip component is convex or planar.

[0081] Exemplary Claim 18. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 17 further comprising: the structural body comprising a longitudinal axis, the longitudinal axis lying in a reference plane that is perpendicular to the front and rear surfaces of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body; wherein the reference plane intersects the front outer surface of the first elastomeric grip component; and wherein the reference plane does not intersect the first side outer surface of the second elastomeric grip component.

[0082] Exemplary Claim 19. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 18 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises an annular portion that surrounds the first elastomeric grip component and separates the first elastomeric grip component from the second elastomeric grip component.

[0083] Exemplary Claim 20. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 1 to 18 wherein the structural body further comprises a head portion coupled to the handle portion, and further comprising tooth cleaning elements extending from a front surface of the head portion.

[0084] Exemplary Claim 21. A personal care implement comprising: a structural body formed from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion and a head portion, the handle portion comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface; a first monolithic mass of elastomeric material coupled to the handle portion of the structural body to form a first elastomeric grip component, the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a front outer surface that is exposed along the front surface of the handle portion and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; a second monolithic mass of elastomeric material coupled to the handle portion of the structural body to form a second elastomeric grip component, the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising: a first lateral grip portion located on the first lateral surface of the handle portion and comprising at least one second gripping feature; and a second lateral grip portion located on the second lateral surface of the handle portion and comprising at least one third gripping feature; and wherein the first and second monolithic masses of elastomeric material are distinct from one another and are spaced apart from one another by a portion of the structural body.

[0085] Exemplary Claim 22. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 21 wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material further comprises a strap portion extending between and connecting the first lateral grip portion to the second lateral grip portion, the strap portion being located along the rear surface of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0086] Exemplary Claim 23. The personal care implement according any one of exemplary claims 21 to 22 further comprising: wherein the first gripping feature comprises at least one of: (1) one or more protrusions extending from the front outer surface of the first elastomeric grip component; and (2) one or more grooves formed into the front outer surface of the first elastomeric grip component; wherein the second gripping feature comprises at least one of: (1) one or more protrusions extending from a first side outer surface of the first lateral grip portion; and (2) one or more grooves formed into the first side outer surface of the first lateral grip portion; and wherein the third gripping feature comprises at least one of: (1) one or moreprotrusions extending from a second side outer surface of the second lateral grip portion; and (2) one or more grooves formed into the second side outer surface of the second lateral grip portion.

[0087] Exemplary Claim 24. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 23 wherein the first gripping feature comprises a plurality of the one or more protrusions and the second and third gripping features comprise a plurality of the one or more grooves.

[0088] Exemplary Claim 25. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 21 to 24 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a waist portion located between the distal and proximal portions, wherein the first and second lateral surfaces of the handle portion of the structural body are convex along the proximal and distal portions and concave along the waist portion, and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is located along the waist portion of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0089] Exemplary Claim 26. The personal care implement according to any one of exemplary claims 21 to 25 further comprising: the structural body comprising a longitudinal axis; the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a lower axial portion, a middle axial portion, and an upper axial portion having equal lengths, and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is located entirely between a bottom end of the middle axial portion of the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material and a distal end of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0090] Exemplary Claim 27. The personal care implement according to exemplary claim 26 wherein no plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis intersects the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material and either of the middle and upper axial portions of the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material.

[0091] Exemplary Claim 28. A method of manufacturing a personal care implement, the method comprising: forming a structural body from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion having a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface; injection a first molten elastomeric material into a hole in the front surface of the handle portion of the structural body to form a first monolithic mass of elastomeric material, the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a front outer surface and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; injecting a second molten elastomeric material into a first recess portion of a recess in the first lateral surface of the handle portion ofthe structural body to form a second monolithic mass of elastomeric material, the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a first lateral grip portion having a first side outer surface and at least one second gripping feature; and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is isolated from the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material by a portion of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0092] Exemplary Claim 29. The method according to exemplary claim 28 further comprising: wherein the second recess comprises the first recess portion in the first lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body, a second recess portion in the second lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body, and a third recess portion in the rear surface of the handle portion of the structural body, the second recess extending continuously along the first lateral surface of the handle portion, the rear surface of the handle portion, and the second lateral surface of the handle portion; and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprises the first lateral grip portion located in the first recess portion, a second lateral grip portion located in the second recess portion and having a second side outer surface and at least one third gripping feature, and a strap portion located in the third recess portion.

[0093] Exemplary Claim 30. The method according to exemplary claim 28 or exemplary claim 29 wherein the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprises a lower axial portion, a middle axial portion, and an upper axial portion having equal lengths, and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is located between the middle axial portion and a distal end of the structural body.

[0094] Exemplary Claim 3E The method according to any one of exemplary claims 28 to 30 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a waist portion located between the distal and proximal portions, the waist portion having a reduced width relative to the proximal and distal portions, the first and second lateral surfaces of the handle portion of the structural body being concave along the waist portion so that the waist portion has a reduced width relative to a maximum width of the proximal and distal portions, and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is located along the waist portion of the handle portion of the structural body.

[0095] Exemplary Claim 32. The method according to exemplary claim 31 wherein the first and second lateral surfaces of the handle portion of the structural body are convex along the proximal and distal portions

[0096] Exemplary Claim 33. The method according to exemplary claim 31 or exemplary claim 32 wherein the first side outer surface of the first lateral grip portion is convex or planar.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A personal care implement comprising: a structural body formed from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion having an outer surface comprising a front surface portion, a rear surface portion, a first lateral surface portion, and a second lateral surface portion; a first elastomeric grip component coupled to the handle portion of the structural body, the first elastomeric grip component comprising a front outer surface that is located along the front surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; a second elastomeric grip component coupled to the handle portion of the structural body, the second elastomeric grip component comprising a first side outer surface that is located along the first lateral surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body and at least one second gripping feature located on the first side outer surface; and wherein the first and second elastomeric grip components are isolated from one another by a portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body.

2. The personal care implement according to claim 1 wherein the first elastomeric grip component is a first injection molded component that is injection molded onto the handle portion of the structural body and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is a second injection molded component that is injection molded onto the handle portion of the structural body.

3. The personal care implement according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a waist portion located between the distal and proximal portions, the waist portion having a reduced width relative to the distal and proximal portions, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is located along the waist portion of the handle portion of the structural body, wherein the first and second lateral surface portions of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body are convex along the proximal and distal portions and concave along the waist portion.

4. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the structural body comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the first elastomeric grip component comprises a first top end, a first bottom end, and a central axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the structural body and located equidistant to the first top and bottom ends of the first elastomeric grip component, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component comprises a second top end and a second bottom end, the second top end of the second elastomeric grip component located axially between the central axis and the first bottom end of the first elastomeric grip component.

5. The personal care implement according any one of claims 1 to 4 further comprising: wherein the first gripping feature comprises at least one of: (1) one or more protrusions extending from the front outer surface of the first elastomeric grip component; and (2) one or more grooves formed into the front outer surface of the first elastomeric grip component; and wherein the second gripping feature comprises at least one of: (1) one or more protrusions extending from the first side outer surface of the second elastomeric grip component; and (2) one or more grooves formed into the first side outer surface of the second elastomeric grip component.

6. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the first lateral surface portion of the handle portion of the structural body comprises a recess having a floor, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is located within the recess.

7. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the second elastomeric grip component comprises: a first lateral grip portion comprising the first side outer surface; a second lateral grip portion comprising a second side outer surface located along the second lateral surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body, at least one third gripping feature located on the second side outer surface of the second lateral grip portion of the second elastomeric grip component; and a strap portion connecting the first lateral grip portion to the second lateral grip portion, the strap portion being located along the rear surface portion of the outer surface of the handle portion of the structural body, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component comprises asecond monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising the first lateral grip portion, the second lateral grip portion, and the strap portion.

8. The personal care implement according to claim 7 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a continuous recess extending along the first lateral surface portion, the rear surface portion, and the second lateral surface portion, and wherein the second elastomeric grip component is located within the continuous recess.

9. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the first and second elastomeric grip components are separate and distinct from one another, and wherein the first and second elastomeric grip components are entirely spaced apart from one another so that no contact exists between the first and second elastomeric grip components.

10. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 9 further comprising: the structural body comprising a longitudinal axis; the first elastomeric grip component comprising a lower axial portion, a middle axial portion, and an upper axial portion having equal lengths; wherein no plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis intersects the second elastomeric grip component and either of the middle and upper axial portions of the first elastomeric grip component; and wherein a reference plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis intersects the second elastomeric grip component and the lower axial portion of the first elastomeric grip component.

11. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the first elastomeric grip component comprises a bottom end, and wherein the at least one second gripping feature comprises a plurality of the second gripping features, and wherein each of the plurality of second gripping features is located axially between the bottom end of the first elastomeric grip component and a distal end of the handle portion of the structural body.

12. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 11 wherein the first side outer surface of the second elastomeric grip component is convex or planar.

13. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 1 to 12 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises an annular portion that surrounds the first elastomeric grip component and separates the first elastomeric grip component from the second elastomeric grip component.

14. A personal care implement comprising: a structural body formed from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion and a head portion, the handle portion comprising a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface; a first monolithic mass of elastomeric material coupled to the handle portion of the structural body to form a first elastomeric grip component, the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a front outer surface that is exposed along the front surface of the handle portion and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; a second monolithic mass of elastomeric material coupled to the handle portion of the structural body to form a second elastomeric grip component, the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising: a first lateral grip portion located on the first lateral surface of the handle portion and comprising at least one second gripping feature; and a second lateral grip portion located on the second lateral surface of the handle portion and comprising at least one third gripping feature; and wherein the first and second monolithic masses of elastomeric material are distinct from one another and are spaced apart from one another by a portion of the structural body.

15. The personal care implement according to claim 14 wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material further comprises a strap portion extending between and connecting the first lateral grip portion to the second lateral grip portion, the strap portion being located along the rear surface of the handle portion of the structural body.

16. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 14 to 15 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a waist portion located between the distal and proximal portions, wherein the first and second lateral surfaces of the handle portion of the structural body are convex along the proximal and distal portions and concave along the waist portion, and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is located along the waist portion of the handle portion of the structural body.

17. The personal care implement according to any one of claims 14 to 16 further comprising: the structural body comprising a longitudinal axis; the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a lower axial portion, a middle axial portion, and an upper axial portion having equal lengths; wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is located entirely between a bottom end of the middle axial portion of the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material and a distal end of the handle portion of the structural body; and wherein no plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis intersects the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material and either of the middle and upper axial portions of the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material.

18. A method of manufacturing a personal care implement, the method comprising: forming a structural body from a rigid material, the structural body comprising a handle portion having a front surface, a rear surface, a first lateral surface, and a second lateral surface; injection a first molten elastomeric material into a hole in the front surface of the handle portion of the structural body to form a first monolithic mass of elastomeric material, the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a front outer surface and at least one first gripping feature located on the front outer surface; injecting a second molten elastomeric material into a first recess portion of a recess in the first lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body to form a second monolithic mass of elastomeric material, the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprising a first lateral grip portion having a first side outer surface and at least one second gripping feature; and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is isolated from the first monolithic mass of elastomeric material by a portion of the handle portion of the structural body.

19. The method according to claim 18 further comprising: wherein the second recess comprises the first recess portion in the first lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body, a second recess portion in the second lateral surface of the handle portion of the structural body, and a third recess portion in the rear surface of the handle portion of the structural body, the second recess extending continuously along the first lateral surface of the handle portion, the rear surface of the handle portion, and the second lateral surface of the handle portion; and wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material comprises the first lateral grip portion located in the first recess portion, a second lateral grip portion located in the second recess portion and having a second side outer surface and at least one third gripping feature, and a strap portion located in the third recess portion.

20. The method according to any one of claims 18 to 19 wherein the handle portion of the structural body comprises a distal portion, a proximal portion, and a waist portion located between the distal and proximal portions, the waist portion having a reduced width relative to the proximal and distal portions, the first and second lateral surfaces of the handle portion of the structural body being concave along the waist portion so that the waist portion has a reduced width relative to a maximum width of the proximal and distal portions, wherein the second monolithic mass of elastomeric material is located along the waist portion of the handle portion of the structural body, wherein the first and second lateral surfaces of the handle portion of the structural body are convex along the proximal and distal portions, and wherein the first side outer surface of the first lateral grip portion is convex or planar.

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