Skin package and packaged personal care article

Abstract

The present invention provides a packaged oral care implement (1000) comprising a skin package (200), the skin package (200) comprising a backer panel (201) and a front cover, wherein the front cover comprises a film which takes a shape of the oral care implement (120), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200); and wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1); and the backer panel (201) comprises a receptacle means (204) for receiving and detachably securing the cover (1). In a second aspect, the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), which comprises a positioning means (5) and first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201) detachably secures the cover (1) by an adhesive means.

Description

[0001] P0001068 CPL

[0002] 1

[0003] SKIN PACKAGE AND PACKAGED PERSONAL CARE ARTICLE

[0004] Field of the Invention

[0005] 5 The present invention relates in general to packaging. More particularly, the invention relates to skin packaging for personal care article(s), particularly an oral care implement.

[0006] Background of the Invention

[0007] Various forms of packaging are known for display of personal care articles or products. Blister packaging is one such packaging, commonly used for personal care products where display is desired such as toothbrushes, eyeliners, brushes etc. Blister packages typically containing a backer card and a front panel closure which is moulded into a three- dimensional shape resembling the contours of the article being packaged. US2013256165A discloses one such blister package which allows for printing on the backer card.

[0008] 15

[0009] The blister packages however must be aligned for each article separately as the front panel closure often has to be moulded in accordance with the dimensions of the product. Moreover, the front panel is often rigid and does not allow the consumer to experience the touch or feel of the article placed inside it.

[0010] 20

[0011] With advancements in designs and consumer demands, often personal care products are now provided with surface feel or decorations. For examples, toothbrush or hairbrushes are often provided with softer or decorative handles, in varying finishes.

[0012] 25 Packaging with a film offers advantage of displaying the product in an attractive manner where consumers can not only see the product clearly but also feel the texture. Skin packaging has been mostly used for food or meat products.

[0013] W02000 / 24289 discloses a packaged brush wherein the packaging comprises a soft

[0014] 30 protective cover and a hard protective cover. The soft protective cover is in form of closefitting wrap.

[0015] JP2014172659A provides a skin package and a backing for skin pack. The document discloses a non-coated paper, a design print layer on the front and back surface of the non- P0001068 CPL

[0016] 2 coated paper, and an adhesive layer provided on the front surface side of the noncoated paper.

[0017] JP6160009B2 discloses a skin package having a protrusion on the backing sheet. The

[0018] 5 protrusion is formed by deformation of the backing sheet.

[0019] In skin package manufacturing, often the product is placed on a sheet like substrate and the film is sucked and fixed to the substrate thereby packaging the product. Given the nature of film and the backing sheet, it is always challenging to obtain a neat product, which impacts the product aesthetics and quality of packaging.

[0020] There is a need for further skin packaging solutions whereby the packaging allows not only attractive display but also enables neat and high-quality packaging. The present invention provides an innovative packaging for personal care products or articles which provides for

[0021] 15 attractive as well as superior packaging solutions.

[0022] Summary of the Invention

[0023] In a first aspect, the present invention discloses a packaged oral care implement (1000) comprising

[0024] 20 a. an oral care implement (120) comprising a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning elements (110), a handle (111) and a neck (112) connecting said handle (111) and said head (100), b. a skin package (200) for housing the oral care implement (120), said skin package (200) comprising:

[0025] 25 (i) a backer panel (201), the backer panel comprising a first front surface (201a), the first front surface (201a) being the surface facing the oral care implement (120) and a first rear surface (201b) opposite the first front surface (201a),

[0026] (ii) a front cover (202), the front cover (202) capable of coupling to the backer panel (201), said front cover (202) comprising a film which takes a shape of the oral

[0027] 30 care implement (120) and the backer panel (201), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200); wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1), and P0001068 CPL

[0028] 3 wherein the backer panel (201) comprises a receptacle means (204) for receiving and detachably securing the cover (1).

[0029] In a second aspect, the present invention discloses a packaged oral care implement (1000)

[0030] 5 comprising a. an oral care implement (120) comprising a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning elements (110), a handle (111) and a neck (112) connecting said handle (111) and said head (100), b. a skin package (200) for housing the oral care implement (120), said skin package (200) comprising:

[0031] (i) a backer panel (201), the backer panel comprising a first front surface (201a), the first front surface (201a) being the surface facing the oral care implement (120) and a first rear surface (201b) opposite the first front surface (201a),

[0032] (ii) a front cover (202), the front cover (202) capable of coupling to the backer panel

[0033] 15 (201), wherein the front cover (202) comprises a film which takes a shape of the oral care implement (120) and the backer panel (201), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200), wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning means (5)

[0034] 20 to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1), and said first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201) detachably secures the cover (1) by an adhesive means.

[0035] The packaged oral care implement according to the invention provides good visibility of the

[0036] 25 oral care implement especially the handle. With film wrap around the toothbrush, it is also possible to feel the texture of the handle, thereby making it more attractive for consumers. The package offers dual protection against movement of the implement during packaging, resulting in a more efficient and visually appealing skin-packaged product. The package according to the invention is more eco-friendly as it uses less plastic. The present inventors

[0037] 30 found that positioning the head of the toothbrush inside a cover and detachably securing the cover provides an unexpected advantage while packaging. It allows more flexibility with controlling the movement of the implement during packaging without impacting the overall aesthetic and appearance of the packaged article. P0001068 CPL

[0038] 4

[0039] Brief description of the drawings

[0040] Figure 1 shows a top view of the skin packaged article according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0041] 5 Figure 2 shows an exploded perspective view of the skin package according to the invention.

[0042] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a cover for head of oral care implement according to the invention.

[0043] Figure 4 shows a rear view of the cover for head of the oral care implement according to the invention, when in closed position, without the implement.

[0044] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the backer panel of the skin package according to one embodiment of the invention, when cut across the transverse axis B-B.

[0045] 15

[0046] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0047] As used herein the term “comprising” encompasses the terms “consisting essentially of” and “consisting of’. Where the term “comprising” is used, the listed options or components need not be exhaustive. Unless otherwise specified, numerical ranges expressed in the format

[0048] 20 "from x to y" are understood to include x and y. In specifying any range of values or amounts, any particular upper value or amount can be associated with any particular lower value or amount. Except in the examples or where otherwise explicitly indicated, all numbers are to be understood as modified by the word “about”. As used herein, the indefinite article “a” or “an” and its corresponding definite article “the” means at least one, or one or more,

[0049] 25 unless specified otherwise. The various features of the present invention referred to in individual sections above apply, as appropriate, to other sections mutatis mutandis. Consequently, features specified in one section may be combined with features specified in other sections as appropriate. Any section headings are added for convenience only and are not intended to limit the disclosure in any way. The invention is not limited to the

[0050] 30 embodiments illustrated in the drawings. Accordingly, features mentioned in the claims if followed by reference numerals, such numerals are included solely for the purpose of enhancing the intelligibility of the claims and are in no way limiting to the scope of the claims. The examples are intended to illustrate the invention and are not intended to limit the invention to those examples per se. P0001068 CPL

[0051] 5

[0052] It should be noted that relative terms such as backer, front, rear, distal, proximal, rear, top, base, front, lateral etc. are merely used to explain relative positions and are not intended to be limiting. These relative terms are used for convenience of description only and do not require the device to be constructed in a particular orientation unless otherwise stated.

[0053] 5 Terms such as ‘connected’, ‘coupled’, ‘coupling’ ‘anchored’, ‘connectable’, ‘mounted’, ‘locking means’ and similar refer to a relationship where one structure is secured to another both by movable or rigid attachments or relationship, either directly or indirectly and should not be construed as limiting as per the described aspects of the invention.

[0054] In a first aspect, the present invention discloses a packaged oral care implement (1000) comprising: a. an oral care implement (120) comprising a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning elements (110), a handle (111) and a neck (112) connecting said handle (111) and said head (100),

[0055] 15 b. a skin package (200) for housing the oral care implement (120), said skin package (200) comprising:

[0056] (i) a backer panel (201), the backer panel comprising a first front surface (201a), the first front surface (201a) being the surface facing the oral care implement (120) and a first rear surface (201b) opposite the first front surface (201a),

[0057] 20 (ii) a front cover (202), the front cover (202) capable of coupling to the backer panel (201), said front cover (202) comprising a film which takes a shape of the oral care implement (120) and the backer panel (201), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200), wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning

[0058] 25 means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1), and wherein the backer panel (201) comprises a receptacle means (204) for receiving and detachably securing the cover (1).

[0059] 30 In a second aspect, the present invention discloses a packaged oral care implement (1000) comprising a. an oral care implement (120) comprising a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning elements (110), a handle (111) and a neck (112) connecting said handle (111) and said head (100), P0001068 CPL

[0060] 6 b. a skin package (200) for housing the oral care implement (120), said skin package (200) comprising:

[0061] (i) a backer panel (201), the backer panel comprising a first front surface (201a), the first front surface (201a) being the surface facing the oral care implement

[0062] 5 (120) and a first rear surface (201b) opposite the first front surface (201a),

[0063] (ii) a front cover (202), the front cover (202) capable of coupling to the backer panel (201), said front cover (202) comprising a film which takes a shape of the oral care implement (120) and the backer panel (201), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200), wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1), and wherein said first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201) detachably secures the cover (1) by an adhesive means.

[0064] 15

[0065] Personal care articles mean and include all products intended to be applied on various external parts of the body such as skin, hair, nails, lips, external genital and anal areas, as well as teeth and mucous membrane of the oral cavity, to make them clean or protect them from germs. The personal care products comprise and may include cleansing products, hair care products, oral

[0066] 20 care products, oral care implement, sun care products, skin hydrating products, feminine care products, hair removal products, nail care products, eye care products and anal hygiene products. Personal care articles may comprise deodorant application implement, a face or body cleaning implement, a razor or shaving implement, a hairbrush, eye make-up implements, cheek make-up implements or any other brushes or the like.

[0067] 25

[0068] Oral care products comprise oral care formulations and oral care implements. Oral care formulations may be packaged inside another package such as tube, container etc., which is further packed within the skin package according to the invention.

[0069] 30 Oral care implement may comprise without limitation a manual toothbrush, an electronic toothbrush, tongue cleaner, an interdental brush, a tooth polisher, a specially designed ansate implement having cleaning elements, a tongue scraper, a gum and soft tissue cleanser, or a water pick. Any other type of implement that is commonly used for oral care but not listed herein can also be packaged according to the invention. Any portion or part of oral care

[0070] 35 implement other than the head may also further be packaged in a cover before being packaged P0001068 CPL

[0071] 7 with the skin package according to the invention. The cover used for securing the head may be separate from the cover used, if any for securing the other portion of oral care implement. In one aspect, the cover (1) comprising the positioning means to locate the head, may also extend to the other portions of the oral care implement. For example, the cover (1) may comprise

[0072] 5 positioning means for the head but also extends substantially over the neck or handle of the toothbrush.

[0073] For example, in case of electronic toothbrushes, the complete replaceable head can be housed within the cover (1) before being packaged in the skin package according to the invention.

[0074] Referring to Figures 1-3 concurrently, a packaged oral care implement (1000), is illustrated in accordance with an aspect of the present invention. The packaged oral care implement (1000) generally comprises an oral care implement with a head (100) protected in a cover

[0075] 15 (1) and a skin package (200) that retains and encloses the oral care implement (120) along with the cover (1).

[0076] Typically, the oral care implement (120) is disposed within the skin package (200) during transport from a manufacturing facility, during storage or display at a retail store. Once the

[0077] 20 user wishes to use the oral care implement (120), he or she will remove the implement from the package (200) through any means. Once opened, the user may or may not throw away the package. For example, in one aspect of the invention, the user may throw the outer skin package but retain the cover (1) to keep the cleaning elements safe during storage. Although the invention is illustrated in the drawings with the oral care implement (120) housed within

[0078] 25 the package (200), the invention in some embodiments may be directed to the package (200) by itself without the article retained therein.

[0079] In the embodiment shown in the figures, the oral care implement (120) is a manual toothbrush. However, as may be understood by a person skilled in the art, the invention can

[0080] 30 be used for any kind of product or implement where an attractive display is desired, including but not limiting to electronic toothbrushes.

[0081] As shown in the figure 2, the oral care implement comprises a handle (111), a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning elements (110), and a neck (112) connecting the handle (111)

[0082] 35 and the head (100). In the embodiment shown in drawings, the handle (111), the head (100) P0001068 CPL

[0083] 8 and the neck (112) are formed unitarily as a single component using any known process such as moulding, milling, machining. In another aspect, the head (100) and the handle (111) can also be formed separately and joined together by any suitable technique known in the art, including without limitation thermal or ultrasonic welding, a tight-fit assembly, a coupling

[0084] 5 sleeve, threaded engagement, adhesion, or fasteners. As an example of a multi-component structure, a replaceable head can be detachably attached to a handle to form an oral care implement (120).

[0085] The oral care implement (120) generally extends through a longitudinal axis A-A from a distal end (101) to a proximal end (102). The distal end (101) is the end where the head (100) terminates, and proximal end (102) is the end where the handle (111) of the oral care implement ends and is opposite to the distal end (101). The handle (111) and the neck (112) are connected to the head at a connection end (103). Usually, the head (100) begins at the connection end (103) and terminates at the distal end (101). The head is connected to the

[0086] 15 neck (112) at the connection end (103). The other end of the neck (112) opposite the connection end (103) connects with the handle (111) which terminates at the proximal end (102). Generally, decorations appear on length of the handle and the neck which extends from the proximal end (102) to the connection end (103). The handle and the neck together which extends from the proximal end (102) to the connection end (103) may comprise a

[0087] 20 length

[0088] The handle (111) and the neck (112) may be of any shape, contour, colour or configuration, preferably an elongated structure meant to be held by the user when holding the oral care implement (120) during use. The head (100), the handle (111) and the neck (112) can have

[0089] 25 further decorations, flexible regions, softer regions, elastomeric regions, none of which are limiting of the present invention.

[0090] The handle (111) may be formed of a hard or rigid plastic material, such as for example without limitation polymers and copolymers of ethylene, propylene, butadiene, vinyl

[0091] 30 compounds, and polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate. The handle (111) may also include a grip that is formed of a resilient / elastomeric material, such as a thermoplastic elastomer. Such a grip may be moulded over a portion of the handle (111) that is typically gripped by a user's thumb and forefinger during use. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that additional regions of the handle (111) can be overmolded with the resilient / elastomeric

[0092] 35 material to enhance the gripability of the handle (111) during use. For example, portions of P0001068 CPL

[0093] 9 the handle (111) that are typically gripped by a user's palm during use may be overmolded with a thermoplastic elastomer or other resilient material to further increase comfort to a user. Furthermore, materials other than those noted above can be used to form the handle (111), including metal, wood, or any other desired material that has sufficient

[0094] 5 structural rigidity.

[0095] The head (100) may be formed from any material commonly used for toothbrush head and may or may not comprise head plate. The cleaning elements (110) are generically depicted in the drawings as comprising a plurality of bristles but may include various types of elements that are used to clean teeth and other oral surfaces. The head may or may not comprise tongue cleaner (not shown in figures) on the head (100).

[0096] The term “tooth cleaning elements” or “cleaning elements” is used in a generic sense to refer to any structure that can be used to clean, wipe, or polish the teeth and / or soft oral tissue

[0097] 15 through contact. Some examples include, without limitation, bristle tufts, filament bristles, fiber bristles, nylon bristles, spiral bristles, rubber bristles, elastomeric protrusions, flexible polymer protrusions, combinations thereof. The cleaning elements may be tapered bristles, non-tapered, rounded or any combinations thereof. Any combination of the various types of cleaning elements may be used on the oral care implement (120) in different embodiments.

[0098] 20 The cleaning elements (110) may be coupled to the head (100) using any technique known in the art, such as stapling, anchor-free tufting (AFT), in-mold tufting, or the like.

[0099] As may be understood by a person skilled in the art, the invention is in no way limiting to the oral care implement or its details or its parts thereof, such as material or method of

[0100] 25 manufacture, shape, configuration, types of cleaning elements (material, shape, length, angle of attachment, coupling mechanism with head etc.). Many variations to the structure and type of the oral care implement (120) are possible within the scope of the present invention.

[0101] 30 As seen from figures 1-3, the packaged oral care implement (1000) comprises a skin package (200). The skin package (200) comprises a backer panel (201) and a front cover (202). The backer panel comprises a first front surface (201a) facing the oral care implement (120) and a rear surface (201b) (depicted in figure 5) opposite the first front surface (201a). The backer panel is made of a first material. A longitudinal axis A-A generally extends along P0001068 CPL

[0102] 10 the length of the skin package (200) and a transverse axis B-B extends perpendicularly to A- A.

[0103] The front cover (202) is capable of coupling to the backer panel (201) and / or the oral care

[0104] 5 implement (120) when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package

[0105] (200). The front cover (202) is made of a second material. Preferably, the front cover (202) is a film.

[0106] In one aspect, according to the invention, the backer panel (201) comprises a receptacle means (204) for receiving and detachably securing the cover (1) and optionally one or more portion of the oral care implement (120). Preferably, the receptacle means (204) secures the cover (1) which detachably locates the head of the oral care implement. The backer panel

[0107] (201) may comprise one or more receptacle means (204). The backer panel (201) may comprise additional receptacle means (204) (other than the one securing the cover) to hold

[0108] 15 one or more portions of oral care implement. Such receptacle means (204) may be present at various positions on the backer panel. The one or more receptacle means on the backer panel may be continuous or broken.

[0109] In context of the invention, the ‘receptacle means’ is a means for receiving and detachably

[0110] 20 securing a cover (1) and optionally one or more portion of the oral care implement. The receptacle means for example, comprises a recess, a compartment or any cavity on the backer panel. It can be integral to the backer panel or can be an additional component adhered to the backer panel. Such a receptacle means provides to reversibly hold or retain a portion of the oral care implement, a cover, or both in position such that it limits movement of

[0111] 25 the implement during packaging process and otherwise.

[0112] In one aspect, the receptacle means (204) comprises a recess (205) on the first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201). In another aspect, the receptacle means (204) comprises a recess on a preformed layer, wherein the preformed layer is adhered to the first front surface

[0113] 30 (201a) of the backer panel (201). The recess (205) may be a blind recess or a through hole recess without any limitation. Preferably, the recess (205) is a through hole recess. In another preferred aspect, the recess (205) is a blind recess.

[0114] In an aspect, the backer panel comprises at least two receptacle means, one for securing

[0115] 35 the cover (1) and one for securing a portion of oral care implement other than the cover (1). P0001068 CPL

[0116] 11

[0117] According to an aspect, the whole of the length of the handle (111) is not secured by any receptacle means (204) or recess. This helps to keep a substantial portion of the handle on the surface of the backer panel and enhance the visibility of the handle in the skin package.

[0118] 5 According to an aspect, not more than 80% of the length of the handle and the neck (length lh) is detachably secured within one or more receptacle means (205). Preferably, no more than 60% of the length of the handle and neck is secured by receptacle means (205), more preferably not more than 50%.

[0119] In an aspect, one or more receptacle means (204) receives and detachably secures the cover (1) and no more than 80% of the length of the handle and the neck defined by lh. In another aspect, one or more receptacle means (204) receives and detachably secures the cover (1) and about 0 to 80% of the length of the handle and the neck. In another aspect, one or more receptacle means (204) receives and detachably secures the cover (1) and

[0120] 15 about 10 to 60% of the length of the handle and the neck. More preferably, one or more receptacle means (204) receives and detachably secures the cover (1) and about 10 to 50% of the length of the handle and the neck.

[0121] Preferably, at least one recess secures the cover (1) and at least one recess secures the

[0122] 20 handle of the oral care implement. When held by a recess, any portion or segment of the handle (111) or the complete handle (111) itself may be retained by the receptacle means or the recess (205). Preferably, the complete handle (111) is not secured by the receptacle means or the recess. Preferably, no more than 60% of the length of the handle and neck is secured by the recess.

[0123] 25

[0124] In an aspect, depth of the recess (205) ranges from 0.5 mm to 10 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 8 mm, more preferably 0.5 mm to 6 mm.

[0125] According to a second aspect of the invention, provided is a packaged oral care implement

[0126] 30 (1000) comprising a. an oral care implement (120) comprising a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning elements (110), a handle (111) and a neck (112) connecting said handle (111) and said head (100), b. a skin package (200) for housing the oral care implement (120), said skin package

[0127] 35 (200) comprising: P0001068 CPL

[0128] 12

[0129] (i) a backer panel (201), the backer panel comprising a first front surface (201a), the first front surface (201a) being the surface facing the oral care implement (120) and a first rear surface (201b) opposite the first front surface (201a),

[0130] 5 (ii) a front cover (202), the front cover (202) capable of coupling to the backer panel (201), said front cover (202) comprising a film which takes a shape of the oral care implement (120) and the backer panel (201), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200), wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1), and said first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201) detachably secures the cover (1) by an adhesive means.

[0131] 15 In context of the invention, the ‘adhesive means’ means and comprise all means by which any one component of the skin package adheres to the other component of skin package. It also comprises all means by which a portion of the oral care implement or the cover (1) or both adhere to any component of the skin package. In an aspect, a portion of the oral care implement or the cover (1) which detachably locates the head is adhered to the first front

[0132] 20 surface (201a). In another aspect, the cover (1) along with the one or more portion of the oral care implement such as handle or neck are secured to the skin package by adhesive means.

[0133] In one aspect, the adhesive means comprises use of an external adhesive or use of self-

[0134] 25 adhesive or self-bonding materials. Any material or technique that allows a portion of the oral care implement or cover to be detachably secured to the backer panel can be used for such an adhesion. Such adhesion prevents displacement of the oral care implement during packaging and allows neat and efficient skin packaging. The adhesive means, for example can comprise hot melt adhesives, pressure sensitive adhesives, water-based adhesives,

[0135] 30 biodegradable heat seal adhesives, lamination adhesives, or use of self-bonding materials.

[0136] According to an aspect, the whole of the length of the handle (111) is not secured by adhesive means. According to an aspect, not more than 80% of the length of the handle and the neck (length lh) is detachably secured by an adhesive means. Preferably, no more than P0001068 CPL

[0137] 13

[0138] 60% of the length of the handle and neck is secured by an adhesive means, more preferably not more than 50%.

[0139] In an aspect, an adhesive means detachably secures the cover (1) and no more than 80% of

[0140] 5 the length of the handle and the neck defined by lh. In another aspect, the adhesive means detachably secures the cover (1) and about 0 to 80% of the length of the handle and the neck. In another aspect, the adhesive means detachably secures the cover (1) and about 10 to 60% of the length of the handle and the neck. More preferably, the adhesive means detachably secures the cover (1) and about 10 to 50% of the length of the handle and the neck.

[0141] Preferably, the adhesive means secures the cover (1) and the handle of the oral care implement. When secured, any portion or segment of the handle (111) or the complete handle (111) itself may be retained by the receptacle means or the recess (205). Preferably,

[0142] 15 the complete handle (111) is not secured by the adhesive means. Preferably, no more than 60% of the length of the handle and neck is secured by the adhesive means.

[0143] In context of the invention, ‘a portion of oral care implement’ means and comprises any part of the oral care implement, whether permanently or temporarily secured to the oral care

[0144] 20 implement which is sold as part of the packaged article. A portion also includes the whole implement itself. For example, in context of a toothbrush, a portion means and may comprise any part thereof such as head, handle, neck, cleaning elements, tongue cleaner or any combination of two parts and includes without limitation in some embodiments, the complete toothbrush itself. In another example, a portion of oral care implement may mean the neck

[0145] 25 and the handle of the toothbrush.

[0146] In an aspect of the invention, the front cover (202) comprises a film which takes a shape of the backer panel (201) and / or the oral care implement (120), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the package (200).

[0147] 30

[0148] In another aspect, the front cover (202) tightly fits to the oral care implement and the backer panel (201) enhancing the visibility of the oral care implement. This allows a user to feel the texture of the article packaged without direct contact with the article. P0001068 CPL

[0149] 14

[0150] As may be understood by a person skilled, the front cover (202) may be coupled to backer panel by any known technology. Without limitation, in one aspect, the front cover (202) is coupled to backer panel (201) by a method selected from the group comprising degassing, air suction, adhesion or a combination thereof. In another aspect, the adhesion may

[0151] 5 comprise techniques such as use of pressure sensitive adhesives, heat sealing techniques or use of self-bonding materials, or a combination of any of these.

[0152] The front cover (202) comprises a second front surface (202a, not shown in figures) and an opposite, second rear surface (202b). The second front surface (202a) is the surface facing the oral care implement (120) when the article is packaged. The second front surface (202a) of the front cover (202) is coupled to the first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201) along with the oral care implement (120) to form a packaged oral care implement (1000). In one aspect, the front cover (202) may or may not cover the whole of the backer panel (201). In one aspect, the front cover (202) may be coupled to the first front surface (201a) of

[0153] 15 the backer panel such that it covers the oral care implement fully but only partially extends on the first front surface (201a) of the backer panel. In another aspect, the front cover (202) extends such that it covers the oral care implement fully and also extends till the perimeter of the backer panel (201).

[0154] 20 In the example shown in figures, the front cover (202) extends fully till the edge of the backer panel (201) to facilitate a good connection, however this is not limiting, and the front cover can extend partially while still ensuring that the front cover (202) can be securely coupled to the backer panel (201). In some embodiments, the front cover (202) can also extend to the rear of the backer panel to facilitate a good connection.

[0155] 25

[0156] As seen from figure 2, in the embodiment shown, the head (100) is protected in a cover (1). The cover (1) is detachably secured to the backer panel (201) either by adhesive means or receptacle means (204).

[0157] 30 In an aspect, the receptacle means (204) receives and detachably secures the cover (1). The backer panel may or may not comprise additional receptacle means to secure any other portion of the oral care implement (120). In the embodiment shown in figure, the head (100) is protected by a cover (1) and the receptacle means (204) detachably secures the cover (1) encasing the head. In another aspect, one or more receptacle means (204) secures the

[0158] 35 cover (1), and optionally the handle (111). In a preferred aspect, the cover (1) may be used P0001068 CPL

[0159] 15 as a reusable travel cap that fully encloses the head (100) and tooth cleaning elements (110) to protect them against damage during travel and otherwise.

[0160] In yet another aspect, the cover (1) comprises a positioning means (5) to detachably locate

[0161] 5 the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1). In an aspect, the cover (1) comprises a positioning means (5) on the base part, a positioning means (6) on the top part or both. Positioning means (5) and positioning means (6) are denoted in figures separately for ease, but any one or both of (5) and (6) may be used to restrict the movement of the head in various directions as explained in following paragraphs. Preferably, both (5) and (6) are used to restrict the movement of the head.

[0162] In another aspect, the positioning means restricts movement of the head (100) in at least one of axis selected from X, Y and Z axis, preferably at least two axes. More preferably, positioning means (5) restricts movement of the head (100) in all three axis, X, Y, and Z.

[0163] 15

[0164] Figures 3-4 show one embodiment of a cover (1) which encases the head (100) of the oral care implement. The cover (1) comprises a base part (2) and a top part (3). The top part (3) is capable of being releasably closed to the base part (2) by a locking means (4). The free ends of the cleaning elements (110) when housed in the cover point towards the locking

[0165] 20 means (4).

[0166] ‘Locking means’ is intended to cover any mechanism that facilitates securing the cover (1) in a closed state. In one aspect, ‘Locking means’ comprises any component that is part of the cover, fixed to the cover or engaged with the cover by an insert, which provides a

[0167] 25 mechanism or means by which top part (3) can be releasably closed to the base part (2), for example, a ‘click fit’ or a ‘latch’ or a ‘coupling mechanism’. Such a locking can happen around the entire perimeter of the cover or only at one or more positions. In one aspect, the locking means comprising engagement of the top part and the base part such that when top part is fitted onto base part, it can maintain closed position. In an aspect, when the cover is

[0168] 30 in a closed state, a user can force the cover (1) from the closed state into open state by pulling the top part (3) and the base part (2) in opposite directions.

[0169] In one aspect, the top part (3) is coupled to the base part (2) by way of coupling mechanism in which coupling components on each of the base part and the top part interact with each

[0170] 35 other. For example, one of the base part or the top part has a recess and the other has a P0001068 CPL

[0171] 16 protuberance where the recess and protuberance can cooperate or mechanically mate with each one another to secure the cover in the closed state.

[0172] The base part (2) may comprise a first inner surface facing the head of the oral care

[0173] 5 implement and a first outer surface opposite to the first inner surface. The top part (3) also comprises a second inner surface facing the head of the oral care implement and a second outer surface (3b) opposite to the second inner surface. The dimensions of the top part (3) and the base part (2) extend beyond the periphery of at least a portion of cleaning elements (110), such that when in closed position, the base part (2) and the top part (3) together form a casing to hold the head.

[0174] In one aspect, the base part (2) of the cover (1) comprises the positioning means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position.

[0175] 15 In context of the invention, by ‘positioning means’, it is to be understood, that the ‘positioning means’ comprises any structural or mechanical component, by whatever name it is called, which is provided for the purpose of locating the head or holding it in a starting position at a predetermined place inside the cover. The head is detachably located and may not be permanently fixed. The positioning means, for example could be one or more protrusions,

[0176] 20 ridges, protuberance, nubs, flaps, bulge, obstructions, a wall, elastic bands, straps, custom inserts or like elements. The positioning means could be integral or may be placed separately. The positioning means may be present on the base part, top part or both base and top part of the cover (1). Preferably, the ‘positioning means’ also restricts the movement once the head is located; however, this is not limiting. In one aspect, the positioning means

[0177] 25 (5, 6) may be formed as single component or a combination of two or more components adapted in dimensions according to the head (100) of the oral care implement (120).

[0178] In one aspect, when the head is placed in the cover according to the invention, the positioning means (5,6) restricts movement of the head (100) in at least one of the axes

[0179] 30 selected from X, Y and Z axis. Such a movement restriction can be unilateral or bilateral in any one of the axes or all the axes. It can also be unilateral in any one axis and / or bilateral in another axis and any permutation and combinations of movement restriction is possible in this respect. P0001068 CPL

[0180] 17

[0181] In an aspect, the positioning means (5,6) restricts bilateral movement in at least one of the axes selected from X, Y and Z.

[0182] More preferably, the positioning means (5,6) restricts bilateral movement in at least two axes

[0183] 5 selected from X, Y and Z axis. Most preferably, the positioning means (5, 6) restricts bilateral movement in all the three axes. Such a bilateral movement restriction in all three axes is particularly helpful for curved or angled necks. The positioning means can restrict movement of the head inside the cover (1), when the cover (1) is in open or closed position.

[0184] The positioning means may be formed from a single component or made up of combination of two or more components. In one aspect, the positioning means comprises one or more first protrusions extending outwardly from the first inner surface (2a) of the base part (2) such that the one or more first protrusions together form a receiving space for the head (100). The dimensions of such a receiving space is generally in proportion to the dimensions

[0185] 15 of the head (100) of the oral care implement (120), preferably the width, length and thickness of the head (100).

[0186] In another aspect, the positioning means comprises at least two ridges formed transversely to one or more first protrusions in the receiving space such that the ridges together provide

[0187] 20 at least one resting point for the head (100).

[0188] As may be understood by person skilled, such ridges are optional and may not be needed in all embodiments. For example, a rectangular shaped head may rest on the base part (2) without any resting point.

[0189] 25

[0190] In one aspect, the top part (3) also comprises a positioning means (6). The positioning means (6) in the top part (3) may or may not be complementary to the positioning means (5) of the base part.

[0191] 30 In a preferred aspect, the location of the positioning means (6) in the top part (3) is complementary to positioning means (5) of the base part such that they together restrict the movement of the head (100) in at least two of axes selected from X, Y and Z axis, when the cover (1) is in closed position. P0001068 CPL

[0192] 18

[0193] Preferably, the positioning means (6) in the top part helps to restrict the movement of the head in at least the Z axis.

[0194] As seen from figure 3, the positioning means (6) comprises one or more second protrusions

[0195] 5 from the second inner surface such that the second protrusions participate to restrict the head movement in at least the Z axis. The two second protrusions are provided at a position where they can participate to restrict the movement of the length of the head (100), whereas the second protrusion is provided closer to the neck of the oral care implement. One of the second protrusions (6b) is adapted to restrict the movement of the head in all the three axes, X, Y and Z.

[0196] As seen from figure 3, in one aspect, the positioning means (5) in the top part and the base part are in contact with one or more lateral surfaces of the head (100), however this is not limiting to the invention. In certain embodiments, the contact between the positioning means

[0197] 15 (5) of the top and base may not be in direct contact with the head (100) but still restrict movement of the head (100). For example, there may be a gap between the positioning means (6) and the lateral surface of the head, but it may still restrict movement of the head in the Z axis.

[0198] 20 In one aspect, the dimension of the positioning means (5), first protrusion, ridges, and second protrusion are proportionate to dimensions of the head (100) but this is not limiting.

[0199] As may be understood by a person skilled, the positioning means (5,6) can be made of flexible material such that variations in the length, width or height of the head or the length of

[0200] 25 the bristles, are also safely accommodated by the cover (1). It is to be understood that the size, geometric shape, pattern, material or other variable parameters of the positioning means (5,6) can be adjusted depending on the specific design variant and are not construed as limited to the examples shown.

[0201] 30 The base part (2) or the top part (3) or both can take any shape, contour, size, or dimensions which allows them to encase the head (100) of the oral care implement.

[0202] In one aspect, the base part (2) is substantially flat, although it may be convex, concave, or crescent-shaped, or a combination of contours as long as it allows presence of positioning P0001068 CPL

[0203] 19 means (5) to detachably locate the head. Preferably, the base is substantially flat. The substantially flat base further helps the securing of the cover on the backer panel.

[0204] By ‘substantially flat’, it is meant that the base part (2) provides a flat or nearly flat platform

[0205] 5 such that when the cover (1) is placed on any surface with base part (2) in contact and top part (3) away from the surface, the cover (1) can rest on the surface. It is not meant to limit the invention to the extent that the base part (2) can only be formed as a continuous surface with no indentations or ridges or protuberances or like. In various embodiments, part, parts, or about all, or approximately all, or substantially all, or nearly all, or all of any of the base part (2) can be approximately flat, substantially flat, nearly flat, or completely flat.

[0206] In one aspect, the top part (3) comprises a curved surface, preferably with no sharp corners.

[0207] In one aspect, the second inner surface (3a) (not shown in figure) or the second outer

[0208] 15 surface (3b) of the top part (3) comprises a curved or substantially curved surface. The curved or substantially curved surface may be selected from hemispherical surface, parabolic surfaces, elliptical surface, semi-cylindrical surface, ellipsoidal surfaces, bi-radial surfaces, polygonal surface and the like. As may be understood by a person skilled, one or more of these shapes can be symmetrical or asymmetrical. In an aspect, some or all of

[0209] 20 the surface of the top part (3) has a curvilinear shape.

[0210] By ‘substantially curved’, it is meant that parts of or all the surface of the top part (3) is curved. The term ‘curved’ is not meant to limit the invention only to continuous curved surfaces and the surfaces which may include parts of linearity or other non-curved regions

[0211] 25 are also comprised in the invention. In various embodiments, part, parts, or about all, or approximately all, or substantially all, or nearly all, or all of any of the top part (3) can be approximately curved, substantially curved, nearly curved, or completely curved.

[0212] In an aspect, the curved surface of the top part (3) comprises one or more centre of

[0213] 30 curvatures on side facing the base part (2) or the cleaning elements (110) when head (100) is housed inside the cover (1).

[0214] In one aspect, the overall contour or shape of the base part (2) or the top part (3) can be of any shape including but not limiting to circular, semicircular, oval, elliptical, rectangular or P0001068 CPL

[0215] 20 polygonal. Preferably, the top part is substantially curved to enhance the visibility of the head.

[0216] In an aspect, the overall contour or shape of the top part (3) can be of any shape including

[0217] 5 but not limiting to from hemispherical, parabolic, elliptical, semi-cylindrical, ellipsoidal, biradial, dome shaped, polygonal, cuboid, fluidic shape, preferably dome shaped or hemispherical.

[0218] In a preferred aspect, the overall shape of the top part (3) is a dome shaped or a hemispherical shell with centre of curvature facing the first inner surface (2a). In a preferred aspect, the top part (3) has a shape which is hemispherical shell with a flattened area the side which is connected to hinge means (8). Preferably, the top part is substantially curved to enhance the visibility of the head.

[0219] 15 In one aspect, the top part (3) or the base part (2) or both have a recess (11) through which the oral care implement or the head of the oral care implement (120) enters the cover.

[0220] Figure 3 shows a recess (11) in the top part (3) which accommodates the neck of the oral care implement when it is housed within the cover (1).

[0221] 20 Figure 4 is a rear view of the cover according to one aspect of the invention, when in closed position, without the oral care implement. In one aspect, the first outer surface (2b) of the base part (2) comprises one or more vent holes (12).

[0222] As may be understood by a person skilled, any number, size of vent holes, or pattern of vent

[0223] 25 holes (12) can be made in the base part (2). In figures, the vent holes (12) have an elliptical planar shape and are arranged in a circular pattern but are not limited to this.

[0224] In one aspect, the first outer surface (2b) comprises one or more downwardly projecting protuberances (13). Such a protuberance (13) provides for resting of the cover on a

[0225] 30 horizontal surface or to locate the cover on the packaging or both. The protuberance (13) can be continuous element or can be a combination of elements spaced apart such that they together inhibit direct contact between the first inner surface (2a) and any horizontal or resting surface. The one or more protuberances (13) are present perpendicularly to the X axis, directionally opposite to the first protrusion on the first inner surface of the base part P0001068 CPL

[0226] 21

[0227] (2a). In a preferred aspect, protuberance (13) is present as a continuous element along the perimeter of the base part (2).

[0228] In context of the invention, a protuberance (13) means any projection or a structural element

[0229] 5 on the first outer surface (2b) which inhibits direct contact between base part (2) with any external resting surface. In one aspect, such a protuberance (13) acts as a spacing means and helps to create a space between the base part (2) and any resting surface.

[0230] In one aspect, the downwardly projecting protuberance (13) is integral to the base part (2) formed on the first outer surface (2b). In another aspect, the downwardly projecting protuberance (13) is distinct from the base part (2) and connected to the first outer surface (2b).

[0231] Figure 4 also shows a demarcated area (16) on the cover (1), which may be used for

[0232] 15 application of any adhesive before placing the cover (1) on the backer panel (201). As may be understood by a skilled person, this demarcated area (16) is only exemplary and any modifications in this respect are possible within the scope of the invention.

[0233] In the embodiment shown in figures, the backer panel (201) is flat having a first front surface

[0234] 20 (201a) and a first rear surface (201b) as shown in figure 5, opposite the first front surface (201a). In an aspect, either one or both first front surface and the first rear surface can be flat, planar surfaces. However, this is not limiting and in other aspects, one or both first front and first rear surfaces (201a, 201b) of the backer panel (201) may be contoured, have three- dimensional regions, or the like.

[0235] 25

[0236] In an alternative aspect, the head (100) is detachably secured in the recess (205) and then protected with a cover which covers the head (100) only from the side which faces the front cover (202), said cover comprising positioning means (5).

[0237] 30 The invention contemplates any combination of features of the recess (205), such as its number, kind, shape and size in the same backer panel (201). A recess (205) may also be called by alternative names like depressed or hollow regions, a slot, or a hole.

[0238] In yet another aspect, the complete oral care implement, including the head (100), neck (112) and the handle (111) are protected in a cover which is then detachably secured by one

[0239] 35 or more recesses (205). P0001068 CPL

[0240] 22

[0241] The recess (205) can be of any shape, size and configuration, but is preferably aligned in shape and configuration with the cover (1) and / or the portion of the oral care implement which is detachably secured within the recess (205). In the embodiment shown in figure, the recess (5) is adapted in shape and dimensions to the cover (1) and is nearly circular with a

[0242] 5 flattened side.

[0243] In a preferred embodiment, the recess (205) receives and detachably secures the cover (1) protecting the head (100). In yet another embodiment, there are at least two recesses where one recess detachably secures the head (100) or the cover (1) protecting the head (100) and the other recess detachably secures the handle (111) of the oral care implement on at least one position on the backer panel (201). In one aspect, the recess (5) is shaped and sized such that at least the entirety of the length of the oral care implement (120) is received and detachably secured by the recess (5).

[0244] 15 In one aspect, the recess (205) may be blind or through-hole recess. When blind, a recess (205) usually transverses from the first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201) towards the rear surface such that it forms a depression in the backer panel when viewed from the first front surface (201a). When a through- hole recess, it extends or transverses between the first front surface (201a) and the first rear surface (201b) such that it forms a

[0245] 20 see-through hole. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the backer panel across the axis B-B. In the embodiment shown but without limitation, the recess (205) is a blind recess.

[0246] In another aspect, the backer panel (201) may end at the recess (5) such that the upper most end of the recess (5) also forms a portion of the upper most edge of the backer panel

[0247] 25 (201) so that the package (200) ends with the recess (5) at one end.

[0248] The backer panel (201) may also include an aperture in a top thereof (other than the recess (205)) for hanging the package (200) from a hook during display in retail.

[0249] 30 Materials

[0250] The backer panel (201) and the front cover (202) may be made of variety of materials suitable for skin packaging. In an aspect, the backer panel is made of a first material. The front cover is made of a second material which comprises a film. P0001068 CPL

[0251] 23

[0252] In one aspect, the first material is selected from any material which provides a structural support for the package. Illustrative examples of the material suitable for first material include but are not limited to paperboard, corrugated paperboard, cardboard, a plastic, eco- friendly board, paper stock, wood, metal, or any opaque cellulosic material. In another

[0253] 5 aspect, without limitation, the backer panel (201) may be formed of transparent, opaque or translucent materials.

[0254] Preferably, the first material is a paperboard. In an aspect, the paperboard may or may not be porous to allow air to pass through during the sealing process. In an aspect, the backer panel may comprise one or more layers. Without limitation, any layer of the backer panel may comprise a recess. One or more such layers may be adhered to each other.

[0255] Preferably, the second material is thin and flexible film.

[0256] In one aspect, the front cover (202) or parts of the front cover (202) is formed from a

[0257] 15 transparent, opaque or translucent material capable of tightly fitting across the oral care implement and the backer panel (201). The front cover (202) is preferably transparent or translucent so that the oral care implement 120 is visible to the user.

[0258] The front cover (202) enables a customer to view and inspect the oral care

[0259] 20 implement (120) contained within the package (200) and in some cases allows the consumer to feel the texture of the implement without directly touching the implement (200) prior to opening the package (200).

[0260] As used herein, the term transparent is not limited to materials that allow 100% of light to

[0261] 25 pass therethrough, but rather also includes translucent materials, materials that are tinted with a color while allowing some (or all) of the light to pass therethrough, or the like.

[0262] In alternative aspects, parts of front cover (202) are transparent while parts are opaque or like.

[0263] 30

[0264] In one aspect, the front cover (202) comprises a film made of a second material. Illustrative examples of the second material include but are not limited to polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET, PETA PETG, PETGAG), polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), or styrol-butadiene-block copolymer (SBS), Polyvinylidene chloride

[0265] 35 (PVDC) , renewable primary products, for example of cornstarch, sugar P0001068 CPL

[0266] 24

[0267] (polyhydroxybutyrateAvalerate), cellulose diacetate, cellulose nitrate, and polylactide (PLA)biodegradable materials, such as edible films or derivatives of any of these.

[0268] Preferably, the second material is polyethylene and its various grades, copolymers, blends

[0269] 5 or like.

[0270] The cover (1) for encasing the head can be made from any material suitable for making covers for oral care implements.

[0271] In one aspect, the top part (3) or the base part (2) or both are made of same or different materials selected from opaque, transparent or translucent material. In a preferred aspect, the top part (3) is made of transparent or translucent material for better visibility of the oral care implement. In an aspect, the cover material is tinted with a color while still allowing some (or all) of the light to pass from it.

[0272] 15

[0273] In another aspect, the hinge means (8) is made from same or different materials as the top part (3) and / or the base part (2). In a preferred aspect, the top part (3), the base part (2) and the hinge means (8) may be individually or together made of polycarbonates, polypropylene, acrylic, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or any combination thereof.

[0274] 20

[0275] Illustrative examples of the material suitable to make the cover include but are not limited to polyurethane, natural rubber, silicone, neoprene, EDPM, nitrile, fluoroelastomers, styrenebutadiene rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, polyvinyl alcohol, PMMA, polyamide, polyester terephthalate, polycarbonate, polyetherimide, polyethylene (LDPE, HDPE, LLDPE,

[0276] 25 and blends), polypropylene and copolymers, polysulfone, polyvinyl chloride, viton, PUNA nitrile, carboxylated nitrile, polysulfides, alpha olefin elastomers, conjugated diene elastomers, hydrogenated diene elastomers, ethylene carboxylate SB-diblock copolymers, SBS, SEBS and SI BS-triblock copolymers, ethylene-propylene-diene elastomers, functionalized ethylene-vinyl acetate, paper, wood, aluminium, polystyrene and acrylic

[0277] 30 rubber.

[0278] In a preferred aspect, the cover (1) is made from a material selected from polypropylene, polycarbonates, acrylic or any copolymers or blends thereof or any combination of these materials.

[0279] 35 P0001068 CPL

[0280] 25

[0281] In an aspect, the materials may also be blended with antimicrobial agents to give antimicrobial effects to the oral care implement.

[0282] In one aspect, the cover (1) is made such that it is sufficiently rigid, so it does not deflect

[0283] 5 from its original position when pressed by a user. In another aspect, the cover (1) is made flexible, such that such that it deforms and / or compresses in response to the application of pressure thereto and also preferably revert to its original configuration. This enables a user to press on the cover (1) to assess characteristics of the cleaning elements (110), such that stiffness without direct contact and without permanent damage to the cover (1). This can be achieved by selecting a suitable material or material thickness. In an aspect, any combination of rigid or flexible material may be used to make the top part or the base part or both.

[0284] Method of manufacturing

[0285] 15 In an aspect, the oral care implement is manufactured using an apparatus for skin packaging. It will be appreciated that a variety of packaging devices may be utilized. The method of manufacturing generally comprises a step of thermoforming.

[0286] Generally, the steps comprise feeding the material for the backer panel or a preformed

[0287] 20 backer panel according to the invention followed by positioning the oral care implement on the backer panel. In aspects, where the oral care implement or any portion thereof is secured in a cover, such a cover is positioned on the backer panel along with the oral care implement. This is followed by the coupling of the front cover to the backer panel enclosing the oral care implement within. In a preferred aspect, the air between the backer panel and

[0288] 25 the film is evacuated to cause the film to wrap around the oral care implement and the backer panel surface, thus forming a tight skin around the oral care implement and on the backer panel.

[0289] The cover (1) for protecting the head or any other portion of the oral care implement before

[0290] 30 packaging can be manufactured by any known technique suitable for manufacture of covers. In one aspect, the cover is made by injection molding, thermoforming, compression molding, 3-D printing, machining, casting, paper forming, vacuum forming or a combination of any of known techniques, preferably by injection molding. In an aspect, the cover (1) may or may not have flange for securing to the packaging. Such a flange may be formed out of top part

[0291] 35 or the base part or both. P0001068 CPL

[0292] 26

[0293] Packaged oral care implement

[0294] In an aspect, the skin package (200) has an opening means. The opening means is meant to provide a provision from where the oral care implement is taken out from the skin package (200). Such an opening means may be provided at the front of the skin package or at the

[0295] 5 rear surface, such as a tear away opening or perforations on the first rear surface of the backer panel or any combination of these mechanisms.

[0296] In an aspect, any of the backer panel, the front cover, the oral care implement, or the cover encasing the head or a portion of the oral care implement or any combination of these or all of these may include text, logos, branding, patterns, decorations, depictions, illustrations, instructions, graphics, colors, 3-D printing or like or any combinations of these. The term "graphic" is intended to refer to written, printed, drawn or engraved characters, figures, objects, letters and / or words, numbers, and the like, including, but not limited to permanent graphics, active graphics, and the like.

[0297] 15

[0298] In one aspect, the invention comprises a multipack, the multipack comprises multiple oral care implements packaged in skin packaging according to the invention. The oral care implements are configured within the packaging such that each article is individually sealed. The packaging includes perforations between the individually sealed articles so that user

[0299] 20 may remove articles as needed.

[0300] In an aspect, the invention provides a method of displaying packaged oral care implement (1000), comprising displaying the packaged oral care implement (1000) or the package according to the invention. In another aspect, the invention provides a method of travelling

[0301] 25 with one or more oral care implements (120) comprising the step of carrying the package (200) according to the invention or carrying the packaged oral care implement(s) (1000) according to the invention by a traveller.

Claims

P0001068 CPL27CLAIMS1. A packaged oral care implement (1000) comprising: a. an oral care implement (120) comprising a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning5 elements (110), a handle (111) and a neck (112) connecting said handle (111) and said head (100), b. a skin package (200) for housing the oral care implement (120), said skin package (200) comprising:(i) a backer panel (201), the backer panel comprising a first front surface (201a), the first front surface (201a) being the surface facing the oral care implement (120) and a first rear surface (201b) opposite the first front surface (201a),(ii) a front cover (202) capable of coupling to the backer panel (201), said front cover (202) comprising a film which takes a shape of the oral care implement15 (120) and the backer panel (201), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200), wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1), and20 wherein the backer panel (201) comprises a receptacle means (204) for receiving and detachably securing the cover (1).

2. The packaged implement (1000) according to claim 1 , wherein the receptacle means (204) comprises a recess (205) on the first front surface (201a) of the backer panel25 (201) or a recess on a preformed layer, the preformed layer being adhered to the first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201).

3. A packaged oral care implement (1000) comprising: a. an oral care implement (120) comprising a head (100) having a plurality of cleaning30 elements (110), a handle (111) and a neck (112) connecting said handle (111) and said head (100), b. a skin package (200) for housing the oral care implement (120), said skin package (200) comprising:P0001068 CPL28(i) a backer panel (201), the backer panel comprising a first front surface (201a), the first front surface (201a) being the surface facing the oral care implement (120) and a first rear surface (201b) opposite the first front surface (201a),(ii) a front cover (202), the front cover (202) capable of coupling to the backer panel5 (201), said front cover (202) comprising a film which takes a shape of the oral care implement (120) and the backer panel (201), when the oral care implement (120) is housed within the skin package (200), wherein the head (100) is protected in a cover (1), said cover (1) comprising a positioning means (5) to detachably locate the head (100) at a predetermined position inside the cover (1), and said first front surface (201a) of the backer panel (201) detachably secures the cover (1) by an adhesive means.

4. The packaged implement (1000) according to claim 3, wherein the adhesive means15 comprises an external adhesive or use of self-adhesive materials in the backer panel (201) or the cover (1) or both.

5. The packaged implement (1000) according to any of preceding claims, wherein the positioning means (5) restricts movement of the head (100) in at least two axes20 selected from X, Y and Z axis.

6. The packaged implement (1000) according to any of preceding claims, wherein the cover (1) comprises a base part (2) and a top part (3), the top part (3) capable of being releasably closed to the base part (2) by a locking means (4) and wherein the base25 part (2) is substantially flat.

7. The packaged implement (1000) according to claim 6 wherein the top part (3) is substantially curved.30 8. The packaged implement (1000) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein not more than 80% of the neck (112) and the handle (111) is secured by the receptacle means (204) or the adhesive means.

9. A method of manufacturing the packaged oral care implement (1000) according to the35 preceding claims comprising a step of thermoforming.P0001068 CPL2910. A method of displaying an oral care implement (120), comprising displaying the packaged oral care implement (1000) comprised in the skin package (200) according to any of claims 1-7.

511. A method of travelling with one or more oral care implement (120) comprising the step of carrying the packaged oral care implement (1000) according to preceding claims by a traveller.10

Images