EP1006839B1 - Toothbrush bristle - Google Patents

Toothbrush bristle Download PDF

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Publication number
EP1006839B1
EP1006839B1 EP97910344A EP97910344A EP1006839B1 EP 1006839 B1 EP1006839 B1 EP 1006839B1 EP 97910344 A EP97910344 A EP 97910344A EP 97910344 A EP97910344 A EP 97910344A EP 1006839 B1 EP1006839 B1 EP 1006839B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
bristle
sections
bristles
areas
brush
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP97910344A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1006839A1 (en
Inventor
Rainer Hans
Georges Driesen
Armin Schwarz-Hartmann
Norbert Schaefer
Ahmet Cem Firatli
Mingchih M. Tseng
Helge Zimmet
Scott Batson
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Braun GmbH
Original Assignee
Braun GmbH
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Filing date
Publication date
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Publication of EP1006839A1 publication Critical patent/EP1006839A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1006839B1 publication Critical patent/EP1006839B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46BRUSHWARE
    • A46DMANUFACTURE OF BRUSHES
    • A46D1/00Bristles; Selection of materials for bristles
    • A46D1/02Bristles details
    • A46D1/023Bristles with at least a core and at least a partial sheath
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A46BRUSHWARE
    • A46DMANUFACTURE OF BRUSHES
    • A46D1/00Bristles; Selection of materials for bristles
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/29Coated or structually defined flake, particle, cell, strand, strand portion, rod, filament, macroscopic fiber or mass thereof
    • Y10T428/2913Rod, strand, filament or fiber
    • Y10T428/2929Bicomponent, conjugate, composite or collateral fibers or filaments [i.e., coextruded sheath-core or side-by-side type]
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/29Coated or structually defined flake, particle, cell, strand, strand portion, rod, filament, macroscopic fiber or mass thereof
    • Y10T428/2913Rod, strand, filament or fiber
    • Y10T428/2929Bicomponent, conjugate, composite or collateral fibers or filaments [i.e., coextruded sheath-core or side-by-side type]
    • Y10T428/2931Fibers or filaments nonconcentric [e.g., side-by-side or eccentric, etc.]
    • YGENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10TTECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T428/00Stock material or miscellaneous articles
    • Y10T428/29Coated or structually defined flake, particle, cell, strand, strand portion, rod, filament, macroscopic fiber or mass thereof
    • Y10T428/2913Rod, strand, filament or fiber
    • Y10T428/2933Coated or with bond, impregnation or core
    • Y10T428/2964Artificial fiber or filament
    • Y10T428/2967Synthetic resin or polymer
    • Y10T428/2969Polyamide, polyimide or polyester

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a bristle of a toothbrush, the bristle being made of plastic and seen in cross section two areas with different properties having.
  • Such a bristle is, for example, from German published patent application DE 34 00 941 A1 known. There is described a plastic bristle that has a hard core, which is surrounded concentrically by a softer wear layer. Core and wear layer can consist of different plastics and have different colors. When using this bristle, the wear and tear of the bristle is reduced Wear layer and the resulting emergence of the different colored core automatically displayed to a user. However, the two areas of the bristle have none Influence on the cleaning effect of a brush with a large number of such bristles is provided.
  • a toothbrush is known from German published patent application DE 31 31 014 A1 which cleans the buccal labial side and the lingual side of the teeth at the same time and thus an improved cleaning effect can be achieved.
  • the Cleaning bristles of the toothbrush the shape of two, for example, bent bundles of nylon threads, the ends of which face each other.
  • the cleaning bristles are made by wrapping the nylon threads around a mandrel enough times and be hardened. Then the bent cleaning bristles, for example glued to the bristle holder of the toothbrush.
  • DE-AS 1 014 964 describes a bristle made of synthetic bristle material known that seen in cross section two areas with different properties has, the centroids of the areas do not coincide. At least A grinding or polishing agent is added to an area as an additive.
  • the object of the invention is to provide a bristle of the type mentioned, which improved and gentler tooth cleaning.
  • the bristle can be easily attached to a bristle holder.
  • this object is achieved in that the areas to each other are arranged so that the centroids of the areas do not coincide and the two areas have different stretch properties due to moisture absorption and / or have heating.
  • This arrangement of the two areas results in different properties of the two areas, their coefficient of expansion in moisture, heat or the like, can no longer compensate each other. Stretch the two areas differ from each other, causing a curvature of the bristle along the Bristle longitudinal axis is reached. The bristle thus becomes lateral from the longitudinal axis of the bristle deflected.
  • the bristle according to the invention also enables a due to the curvature gentler treatment of the object to be cleaned. Furthermore, the lateral deflection of the bristle from the bristle longitudinal axis achieved that the bristle Better enclose the object to be cleaned and thus clean it much better can.
  • the bristle according to the invention does not have to be manufactured using special manufacturing processes, such as wrapping.
  • the two areas have different elongation properties due to moisture. If the bristle comes into contact with moisture, this has the consequence that the two areas differ in direction expand the bristle longitudinal axis. This in turn causes the curvature already mentioned the bristle along the longitudinal axis of the bristle. In a toothbrush, for example in an electric toothbrush, the bristle is exposed to humidity. The two Areas of the bristle expand differently and the curvature arises or lateral deflection of the bristle from the longitudinal axis of the bristle. This already has mentioned advantages with regard to the cleaning effect of the bristle and the gentle Treatment of the object to be cleaned by the bristle. As alternative or in combination, the two areas have different shrinkage properties due to warming up.
  • the bristle in this case is in the course of manufacture warmed and cooled again. This has a different extent and shrinkage of the two areas along the longitudinal axis of the bristles and thus one Bristle curvature.
  • the deflection of the bristle from the longitudinal axis of the bristle can be adjusted during production by appropriate heating and cooling become. In this case, however, the deflection mentioned is not reversible.
  • the bristle forms a cross section of the two areas a circular segment surface, the connecting line of the two areas for example a substantially straight, an arcuate or a curved one Line is.
  • the lateral deflection is not only due to the different Characteristics of the two areas influenced, but also by the distribution of the two areas across the cross section of the bristle.
  • the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas has a value between have about 0.25 and about 1.0 or 1.0 and 1.4, depending on whether the smaller or larger Area is used as a reference.
  • the plastic is in one of the two areas with a filler and / or a nucleating agent, for example with kaolin, talc or the like.
  • a filler and / or a nucleating agent for example with kaolin, talc or the like.
  • a nucleating agent for example with kaolin, talc or the like.
  • dyes is also possible. In this way it is achieved that the two areas are different Have properties, and thus the bristle deflection from the bristle longitudinal axis having.
  • the two areas are off different plastics. This in turn means that the two areas have different properties, and thus the bristle when using one Deflection from the bristle longitudinal axis.
  • plastics and fillers and / or nucleating agents can be provided alternatively or cumulatively.
  • the bristle consists of polyamide and / or polyester. These plastics have particular turned out to be particularly advantageous for toothbrushes. Either only one can of the two plastics are used, which then in one of the two areas with a Filler and / or a nucleating agent is provided, or it can be different Types of a plastic group can be used in the two areas of the bristle.
  • the bristle according to the invention has a curvature or a lateral deflection Bristle longitudinal axis. This brings about the advantages already explained with regard to the improved cleaning effect of the bristle and gentler treatment of the to be cleaned Object through the bristle. Furthermore, the bristle according to the invention allows the use of known, simple manufacturing processes without complex Manufacturing steps for generating the curvature are required.
  • the deflection of the bristle has one Value between about 10% and about 90% of the length of the bristle, in particular one Value of about 50% of the length of the bristle. This has changed in practice with regard to the cleaning effect the bristle proved to be particularly useful.
  • the two areas have different Colors on. It is possible to visualize the effect of the bristle curvature make visible. Especially when using a variety of bristles for example in a toothbrush, a user recognizes the lateral deflection of the individual Bristles due to the different colors and this is particularly due the advantages with regard to the cleaning effect of the bristles pointed out.
  • the free ends of the bristles form a brush surface.
  • the bristles are individual Bristle tufts combined, each forming a tuft surface.
  • the tuft areas all tufts of bristles then form the brush surface.
  • the individual bristles are also supported by the lateral deflection and due to the random orientation of the deflection of each other from, so that the bristles can escape less to the outside. Overall, this will an improved cleaning effect and a gentler treatment with the cleaning object reached.
  • the properties of the two areas of each of the bristles depending on the placement of the bristle within the brush surface are different.
  • the bristles near the outer edge of the Brush surface have a smaller curvature than the bristles in the inner field of the brush surface. This is particularly advantageous for a toothbrush Arrangement of the individual bristles. Due to the greater deflection of the bristles in the inner field the toothbrush encloses the tooth to be cleaned particularly well and thus cleaned particularly well. It is also possible that essentially only that Bristles in the inner field of the toothbrush have a curvature.
  • the direction is Deflection of the bristles distributed randomly. This means that the deflections of the bristles have no preferred direction in a tuft of bristles. As a result, the Bristle tips have different orientations and the individual bristles bend in different directions. This represents a further improvement in particular a toothbrush with a view to being as uniform and extensive as possible Enclosing the tooth to be cleaned by the bristles. Furthermore, by the random orientation of the bristles in different directions always achieves that one of the bristles is just arranged so that it is particularly good in the one to be cleaned Interdental space can penetrate without the toothbrush especially against this the tooth surfaces would have to be pressed or turned. This represents one at the same time gentler handling of the toothbrush according to the invention with the gums one User.
  • a bristle 1 is shown in cross section in FIGS a toothbrush, for example an electric toothbrush can.
  • the bristle 1 is made of plastic and has an approximately circular shape Cross sectional area.
  • the bristle 1 has two areas 2, 3, which are extend continuously along the bristle longitudinal axis.
  • the two areas 2, 3 are not arranged concentrically or point-symmetrically to each other.
  • the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 are of different sizes.
  • the area 2 forms a circular segment area and the area 3 represents the remaining area to the circular cross-sectional area of the bristle 1.
  • the connecting line between area 2 and area 3 is a circular arc.
  • the The ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas 2, 3 has a value between about 0.25 and about 1.0 or 1.0 and 4.0.
  • the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 are the same size.
  • the relationship of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas 2, 3 is therefore 1.
  • Each of the two areas 2, 3 form a semicircular surface.
  • the line connecting the two Areas 2, 3 are essentially rectilinear.
  • area 2 represents a circular area within area 3.
  • the radius of the circular area of area 2 is smaller than the radius of the circular area of area 3.
  • the circular area of area 2 is not concentric to Arranged circular area of area 3.
  • the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas 2, 3 has a value between approximately 0.25 and approximately 1.0 or 1.0 and 4.0.
  • the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 have different properties.
  • the bristle 1 not only from two areas 2, 3 but from three or more areas. In this case the areas differ from each other in such a way that the Cross section of the bristle 1 give overall asymmetrical properties.
  • the different properties the areas 2, 3 are based on the area 2 being made of a different plastic exists as area 3, or that it is in areas 2, 3 different types of the same plastic group. It is also possible that the plastic one of the areas 2, 3 with one or more fillers and / or is provided with one or more nucleating agents. Furthermore dyes can also be used in this context. all of this are options that, alternatively or cumulatively, can lead to the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 of Figures 1 to 3 different properties exhibit.
  • Polyamide or polyester can be used as plastics.
  • fillers and / or nucleating agents can be calcium carbonate, talc or a silicate, such as kaolin or the like can be used.
  • the bristle 1 different stretching properties infoge the recording of moisture, in particular of water in the two areas 2, 3.
  • area 2 will absorb moisture different in the longitudinal direction of the bristles, for example expanding more than the area 3 of the bristle 1.
  • This process is usually reversible, i.e. if the Bristle is dried, the expansion mentioned goes again essentially back to the initial state.
  • the bristle 1 Due to the different properties of the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1, for example, by the different elongation properties due to the Absorption of moisture and / or due to the different shrinkage properties due to heating, and due to the non-concentric arrangement of the two areas 2, 3 to each other, the bristle 1 along its bristle longitudinal axis curved. This means that the bristle 1 from its bristle longitudinal axis is laterally deflected or tilted.
  • the deflection of the bristle 1 can have a value between approximately 10% and approximately 90 % of the length of the bristle 1. A value of approximately is particularly preferred 50% of the length of the bristle 1. Bristle 1 corresponds to FIG Equipped equally large areas 2, 3, the deflection mentioned at a length of the bristle 1 of about 8 mm due to differences in the elongation or shrinkage of the two areas 2, 3 between about 0.15% and about 1.5% reached.
  • the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 of FIG. 1 and of FIG. 2 can be different colors. This can be the case when choosing different plastics for the two areas 2, 3 and / or when choosing the filler for one of the two areas 2, 3 are taken into account.
  • FIG. 4 shows a cutout from a brush 4 with a tuft of bristles 5 shown.
  • the bristle tuft 5 has a plurality of bristles 1, the Bristles 1 of Figures 1 to 3 can correspond.
  • the brush 4 can act as a toothbrush, for example an electric toothbrush.
  • the Free ends of the bristles 1 of the bristle tuft 5 form a tuft surface 6.
  • the plurality of bristles 1 of the bristle tuft 5 are with the help of an anchor or the like fastened in a bristle carrier 7.
  • the individual bristles 1 of the bristle tuft 5 have different orientations attached in the bristle carrier 7. This means that the bristles 1 in point in different directions.
  • the deflection of the bristles 1 in the tufts of bristles 5 is random, so that the direction of the individual bristles 1 in the bristle tuft 5 is purely coincidental. In other words, this means that no preferred direction for the deflection of the bristles 1 in the bristle tuft 5 exists. This can also be seen in FIG. 3.
  • the brush 4 in FIG. 4 has a plurality of bristle tufts 5. All in all the bristle tufts 5 can thus be arranged within the brush 4 be that the tuft surfaces 6 of the bristle tufts 5 to an approximately circular Assemble the brush surface. In this case, the curvature of the Bristles 1 of the bristle tufts 5 near the outer edge of the brush surface be smaller than the curvature of the bristles 1 of the bristle tufts 5 in the inner field the brush 4. It is also possible that essentially only the bristles 1 of the Bristle tufts 5 of the inner field of the brush 4 have a curvature.
  • An extrusion tool 8 can be used for this purpose, for example be, as shown in Figure 5.
  • This extrusion tool 8 has a plurality of equally large nozzle bores 9 on a circular ring are arranged at approximately equal distances from one another.
  • Each of the nozzle holes 9 divides into two channels within the extrusion die 8. On the connection of the two channels creates a connecting line 10 at which the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 are brought together.
  • the connecting line 10 shown in FIG. 5 is approximately straight. So far through the extrusion tool 8 shown in Figure 5, the bristle 1 of the figure 2 generated. All connecting lines 10 form approximately according to Figure 5 a circle and are therefore rotated by an angle to each other, each have a different position from one another.

Abstract

The invention is directed to a bristle (1) suitable for use in a brush (4) or the like, and in particular in a toothbrush. The bristle (1) is made of a plastic material and includes preferably a circular area of cross-section. When viewed in cross-section, the bristle (1) includes two sections (2, 3) with different properties. These sections (2, 3) are not in concentric relative arrangement. As a result, the bristle (1) curves along its longitudinal axis. The curvature produces an improved cleaning action of the brush (4).

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Borste einer Zahnbürste, wobei die Borste aus Kunststoff besteht und im Querschnitt gesehen zwei Bereiche mit unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften aufweist.The invention relates to a bristle of a toothbrush, the bristle being made of plastic and seen in cross section two areas with different properties having.

Eine derartige Borste ist beispielsweise aus der deutschen Offenlegungsschrift DE 34 00 941 A1 bekannt. Dort ist eine Kunststoffborste beschrieben, die einen harten Kern besitzt, der konzentrisch von einer weicheren Nutzschicht umgeben ist. Kern und Nutzschicht können aus verschiedenen Kunststoffen bestehen und weisen verschiedene Farben auf. Bei der Benutzung dieser Borste wird der Verschleiß derselben durch das Abtragen der Nutzschicht und das daraus resultierende Hervortreten des andersfarbigen Kerns automatisch einem Benutzer angezeigt. Die beiden Bereiche der Borste haben jedoch keinen Einfluß auf die Reinigungswirkung einer Bürste, die mit einer Vielzahl derartiger Borsten versehen ist.Such a bristle is, for example, from German published patent application DE 34 00 941 A1 known. There is described a plastic bristle that has a hard core, which is surrounded concentrically by a softer wear layer. Core and wear layer can consist of different plastics and have different colors. When using this bristle, the wear and tear of the bristle is reduced Wear layer and the resulting emergence of the different colored core automatically displayed to a user. However, the two areas of the bristle have none Influence on the cleaning effect of a brush with a large number of such bristles is provided.

Aus der deutschen Offenlegungsschrift DE 31 31 014 A1 ist eine Zahnbürste bekannt, mit der die Bukkal-Labial-Seite und die Lingual-Seite der Zähne gleichzeitig gereinigt und damit eine verbesserte Reinigungswirkung erzielt werden kann. Zu diesem Zweck weisen die Reinigungsborsten der Zahnbürste die Gestalt von zwei beispielsweise gebogenen Bündeln von Nylonfäden auf, deren Enden einander gegenüberstehen. Die Reinigungsborsten werden dadurch hergestellt, daß die Nylonfäden genügend oft um einen Dorn gewickelt und gehärtet werden. Danach werden die gebogenen Reinigungsborsten beispielsweise mit dem Borstenhalter der Zahnbürste verklebt.A toothbrush is known from German published patent application DE 31 31 014 A1 which cleans the buccal labial side and the lingual side of the teeth at the same time and thus an improved cleaning effect can be achieved. To this end, the Cleaning bristles of the toothbrush the shape of two, for example, bent bundles of nylon threads, the ends of which face each other. The cleaning bristles are made by wrapping the nylon threads around a mandrel enough times and be hardened. Then the bent cleaning bristles, for example glued to the bristle holder of the toothbrush.

Aus der DE-AS 1 014 964 ist eine aus synthetischem Borstenmaterial bestehende Borste bekannt, die im Querschnitt gesehen zwei Bereiche mit unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften aufweist, wobei die Flächenschwerpunkte der Bereiche nicht zusammenfallen. Wenigstens einem Bereich ist als Zusatzstoff ein Schleif- oder Poliermittel beigefügt.DE-AS 1 014 964 describes a bristle made of synthetic bristle material known that seen in cross section two areas with different properties has, the centroids of the areas do not coincide. At least A grinding or polishing agent is added to an area as an additive.

Aus der US 3 327 339 ist die Herstellung einer Borste durch Koextrusion zwei Materialien mit unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften bekannt.From US 3,327,339, the production of a bristle by coextrusion is two materials known with different properties.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, eine Borste der eingangs genannten Art zu schaffen, die eine verbesserte und schonendere Zahnreinigung bewirkt. Nach einem Nebenaspekt soll die Borste einfach an einem Borstenträger befestigbar sein.The object of the invention is to provide a bristle of the type mentioned, which improved and gentler tooth cleaning. According to a secondary aspect the bristle can be easily attached to a bristle holder.

Nach der Erfindung wird diese Aufgabe dadurch gelöst, daß die Bereiche derart zueinander angeordnet sind, daß die Flächenschwerpunkte der Bereiche nicht zusammenfallen und die beiden Bereiche unterschiedliche Dehnungseigenschaften infolge Feuchtigkeitsaufnahme und/oder Erwärmung aufweisen.According to the invention, this object is achieved in that the areas to each other are arranged so that the centroids of the areas do not coincide and the two areas have different stretch properties due to moisture absorption and / or have heating.

Diese Anordnung der beiden Bereiche hat zur Folge, daß sich unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften der beiden Bereiche, deren Ausdehnungskoeffizienten bei Feuchtigkeit, Wärme oder dergleichen, nicht mehr gegenseitig ausgleichen können. Die beiden Bereiche dehnen sich somit unterschiedlich stark aus, wodurch eine Krümmung der Borste entlang der Borstenlängsachse erreicht wird. Die Borste wird also aus der Borstenlängsachse seitlich ausgelenkt. Die erfindungsgemäße Borste ermöglicht aufgrund der Krümmung auch eine schonendere Behandlung des zu reinigenden Gegenstands. Des weiteren wird durch die seitliche Auslenkung der Borste aus der Borstenlängsachse erreicht, daß die Borste den zu reinigenden Gegenstand besser umschließen und damit wesentlich besser reinigen kann. Die erfindungsgemäße Borste muß nicht durch besondere Herstellungsverfahren, wie zum Beispiel Wickeln, gekrümmt werden. Statt dessen wird die seitliche Auslenkung in einfacher Weise durch die erfindungsgemäße Anordnung der beiden Bereiche mit unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften erreicht. Dies hat den weiteren Vorteil, daß die erfindungsgemäßen Borsten auch mit Hilfe von herkömmlichen, einfachen Herstellungsverfahren in einer Bürste befestigt werden können. Bei dem Einsatz der erfindungsgemäßen Borste in einer Zahnbürste, beispielsweise in einer elektrischen Zahnbürste, wird durch die erfindungsgemäße Anordnung der beiden Bereiche und durch die daraus resultierende Krümmung der Borste eine wesentlich bessere und gleichzeitig schonendere Reinigung der Zähne erreicht. Zusätzlich zu diesen Vorteilen kann durch die Krümmung der Borste diese wesentlich besser in die Interdentalräume der Zähne eindringen und diese ebenfalls wesentlich besser und gleichzeitig schonender reinigen. Die Möglichkeit der einfachen und kostengünstigen Herstellung einer derartigen Zahnbürste ist ein weiterer Vorteil der erfindungsgemäßen Borste. Dabei weisen die beiden Bereiche unterschiedliche Dehnungseigenschaften infolge Feuchtigkeit auf. Kommt somit die Borste mit Feuchtigkeit in Berührung, so hat dies zur Folge, daß sich die beiden Bereiche unterschiedlich stark in Richtung der Borstenlängsachse ausdehnen. Dies wiederum bewirkt die bereits erwähnte Krümmung der Borste entlang der Borstenlängsachse. Bei in einer Zahnbürste, beispielsweise in einer elektrischen Zahnbürste, ist die Borste der Luftfeuchtigkeit ausgesetzt. Die beiden Bereiche der Borste dehnen sich dadurch unterschiedlich aus und es entsteht die Krümmung bzw. seitliche Auslenkung der Borste aus der Borstenlängsachse. Dies hat die bereits erwähnten Vorteile hinsichtlich der Reinigungswirkung der Borste und der schonenden Behandlung des zu reinigenden Gegenstands durch die Borste zur Folge. Als Alternative oder in Kombination weisen die beiden Bereiche unterschiedliche Schrumpfungseigenschaften infolge Erwärmung auf. Die Borste wird in diesem Fall im Verlauf der Herstellung erwärmt und wieder abgekühlt. Dies hat eine unterschiedlich starke Ausdehnung und Schrumpfung der beiden Bereiche entlang der Borstenlängsachse und damit eine Krümmung der Borste zur Folge. Die Auslenkung der Borste aus der Borstenlängsachse kann dabei bei der Herstellung durch eine entsprechende Erwärmung und Abkühlung eingestellt werden. Die genannte Auslenkung ist in diesem Fall jedoch nicht reversibel.This arrangement of the two areas results in different properties of the two areas, their coefficient of expansion in moisture, heat or the like, can no longer compensate each other. Stretch the two areas differ from each other, causing a curvature of the bristle along the Bristle longitudinal axis is reached. The bristle thus becomes lateral from the longitudinal axis of the bristle deflected. The bristle according to the invention also enables a due to the curvature gentler treatment of the object to be cleaned. Furthermore, the lateral deflection of the bristle from the bristle longitudinal axis achieved that the bristle Better enclose the object to be cleaned and thus clean it much better can. The bristle according to the invention does not have to be manufactured using special manufacturing processes, such as wrapping. Instead, the lateral deflection in simply by the arrangement according to the invention of the two areas with different Properties achieved. This has the further advantage that the invention Bristles also using conventional, simple manufacturing processes in can be attached with a brush. When using the bristle according to the invention in a toothbrush, for example in an electric toothbrush, is achieved by the invention Arrangement of the two areas and the resulting curvature the bristle a much better and gentler cleaning of the Teeth reached. In addition to these advantages, the curvature of the bristle can cause these penetrate the interdental spaces of the teeth much better and these also significantly clean better and at the same time more gently. The possibility of simple and Inexpensive manufacture of such a toothbrush is another advantage of the invention Bristle. The two areas have different elongation properties due to moisture. If the bristle comes into contact with moisture, this has the consequence that the two areas differ in direction expand the bristle longitudinal axis. This in turn causes the curvature already mentioned the bristle along the longitudinal axis of the bristle. In a toothbrush, for example in an electric toothbrush, the bristle is exposed to humidity. The two Areas of the bristle expand differently and the curvature arises or lateral deflection of the bristle from the longitudinal axis of the bristle. This already has mentioned advantages with regard to the cleaning effect of the bristle and the gentle Treatment of the object to be cleaned by the bristle. As alternative or in combination, the two areas have different shrinkage properties due to warming up. The bristle in this case is in the course of manufacture warmed and cooled again. This has a different extent and shrinkage of the two areas along the longitudinal axis of the bristles and thus one Bristle curvature. The deflection of the bristle from the longitudinal axis of the bristle can be adjusted during production by appropriate heating and cooling become. In this case, however, the deflection mentioned is not reversible.

Bei einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung bildet im Querschnitt der Borste einer der beiden Bereiche eine Kreissegmentfläche, wobei die Verbindungslinie der beiden Bereiche beispielsweise eine im wesentlichen gerade, eine kreisbogenförmige oder eine gekrümmte Linie ist. In diesem Fall wird die seitliche Auslenkung nicht nur durch die unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften der beiden Bereiche beeinflußt, sondern auch durch die Verteilung der beiden Bereiche über den Querschnitt der Borste.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the bristle forms a cross section of the two areas a circular segment surface, the connecting line of the two areas for example a substantially straight, an arcuate or a curved one Line is. In this case, the lateral deflection is not only due to the different Characteristics of the two areas influenced, but also by the distribution of the two areas across the cross section of the bristle.

Bei einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung bildet im Querschnitt der Boste jeder der beiden Bereiche eine Halbkreisfläche. Die seitliche Auslenkung der Borste wird in diesem Fall im wesentlichen nur durch die unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften der beiden Bereiche erreicht. Auf diese Weise wird eine besonders gute und gleichmäßige seitliche Auslenkung der Borste aus der Borstenlängsachse erreicht. Ebenfalls kann durch diese Weiterbildung die genannte Auslenkung besonders gut berechnet und damit vorherbestimmt werden. Schließlich hat die Ausbildung der beiden Bereiche als Halbkreisflächen wesentliche Vorteile im Hinblick auf die Herstellung der Borste, insbesondere im Hinblick auf eine Vereinfachung und Vereinheitlichung der Werkzeuge für die Herstellung der Borste.In an advantageous development of the invention, everyone forms the cross section of the bost a semicircular area of the two areas. The lateral deflection of the bristle is in this Case essentially only due to the different properties of the two areas reached. In this way, a particularly good and even lateral deflection the bristle is reached from the bristle longitudinal axis. Also through this training the deflection mentioned is calculated particularly well and is therefore predetermined become. Finally, the formation of the two areas as semicircular areas has essential Advantages with regard to the manufacture of the bristle, in particular with regard to a Simplification and standardization of the tools for the production of the bristle.

Aufgrund von wesentlichen Vorteilen bei der Herstellung ist es besonders zweckmäßig, wenn das Verhältnis der Querschnittsflächen der beiden Bereiche einen Wert zwischen etwa 0,25 und etwa 1,0 bzw. 1,0 und 1,4 aufweisen, je nach dem ob die kleinere oder größere Fläche als Bezugsgröße Anwendung findet. Because of the significant advantages in production, it is particularly expedient to if the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas has a value between have about 0.25 and about 1.0 or 1.0 and 1.4, depending on whether the smaller or larger Area is used as a reference.

Bei einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist der Kunststoff in einem der beiden Bereiche mit einem Füllstoff und/oder einem Nukleiermittel versehen, beispielsweise mit Kaolin, Talkum oder dergleichen. Die Verwendung von Farbstoffen ist ebenfalls möglich. Auf diese Weise wird erreicht, daß die beiden Bereiche unterschiedliche Eigenschaften besitzen, und damit die Borste eine Auslenkung aus der Borstenlängsachse aufweist.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the plastic is in one of the two areas with a filler and / or a nucleating agent, for example with kaolin, talc or the like. The use of dyes is also possible. In this way it is achieved that the two areas are different Have properties, and thus the bristle deflection from the bristle longitudinal axis having.

Bei einer anderen vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sind die beiden Bereiche aus unterschiedlichen Kunststoffen gebildet. Dies hat wiederum zur Folge, daß die beiden Bereiche unterschiedliche Eigenschaften besitzen, und damit die Borste bei Benutzung eine Auslenkung aus der Borstenlängsachse aufweist.In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, the two areas are off different plastics. This in turn means that the two areas have different properties, and thus the bristle when using one Deflection from the bristle longitudinal axis.

Die Verwendung von unterschiedlichen Kunststoffen und von Füllstoffen und/oder Nukleierungsmitteln kann dabei alternativ oder kumulativ vorgesehen sein.The use of different plastics and fillers and / or nucleating agents can be provided alternatively or cumulatively.

Besonders zweckmäßig ist es, wenn bei den beschriebenen Ausgestaltungen die Borste aus Polyamid und/oder aus Polyester besteht. Diese Kunststoffe haben sich insbesondere bei Zahnbürsten als besonders vorteilhaft herausgestellt. Dabei kann entweder nur einer der beiden Kunststoffe verwendet werden, der dann in einem der beiden Bereiche mit einem Füllstoff und/oder einem Nukleiermittel versehen ist, oder es können verschiedene Typen einer Kunststoffgruppe in den beiden Bereichen der Borste verwendet werden.It is particularly expedient if, in the embodiments described, the bristle consists of polyamide and / or polyester. These plastics have particular turned out to be particularly advantageous for toothbrushes. Either only one can of the two plastics are used, which then in one of the two areas with a Filler and / or a nucleating agent is provided, or it can be different Types of a plastic group can be used in the two areas of the bristle.

Die erfindungsgemäße Borste weist eine Krümmung bzw. eine seitliche Auslenkung zur Borstenlängsachse auf. Dies bewirkt die bereits erläuterten Vorteile im Hinblick auf die verbesserte Reinigungswirkung der Borste und die schonendere Behandlung des zu reinigenden Gegenstands durch die Borste. Des weiteren erlaubt die erfindungsgemäße Borste die Verwendung von bekannten, einfachen Hestellungsverfahren, ohne daß aufwendige Herstellungsschritte für die Erzeugung der Krümmung erforderlich sind.The bristle according to the invention has a curvature or a lateral deflection Bristle longitudinal axis. This brings about the advantages already explained with regard to the improved cleaning effect of the bristle and gentler treatment of the to be cleaned Object through the bristle. Furthermore, the bristle according to the invention allows the use of known, simple manufacturing processes without complex Manufacturing steps for generating the curvature are required.

Bei einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung der Erfindung weist die Auslenkung der Borste einen Wert zwischen etwa 10 % und etwa 90 % der Länge der Borste auf, insbesondere einen Wert von etwa 50 % der Länge der Borste. Dies hat sich in der Praxis hinsichtlich der Reinigungswirkung der Borste als besonders zweckmäßig erwiesen. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the deflection of the bristle has one Value between about 10% and about 90% of the length of the bristle, in particular one Value of about 50% of the length of the bristle. This has changed in practice with regard to the cleaning effect the bristle proved to be particularly useful.

Bei einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung weisen die beiden Bereiche unterschiedliche Farben auf. Damit ist es möglich, den Effekt der Krümmung der Borste visuell sichtbar zu machen. Insbesondere bei der Verwendung einer Vielzahl von Borsten beispielsweise in einer Zahnbürste erkennt ein Benutzer die seitliche Auslenkung der einzelnen Borsten aufgrund der verschiedenen Farben und wird dadurch insbesondere auf die Vorteile hinsichtlich der Reinigungswirkung der Borsten hingewiesen.In an advantageous development of the invention, the two areas have different Colors on. It is possible to visualize the effect of the bristle curvature make visible. Especially when using a variety of bristles for example in a toothbrush, a user recognizes the lateral deflection of the individual Bristles due to the different colors and this is particularly due the advantages with regard to the cleaning effect of the bristles pointed out.

Besonders vorteilhaft ist es, eine Vielzahl der erfindungsgemäßen Borsten in einer Bürste, einem Pinsel oder dergleichen, insbesondere in einer Zahbürste zu verwenden, wobei die freien Enden der Borsten eine Bürstenfläche bilden. Die Borsten sind dabei zu einzelnen Borstenbüscheln zusammengefaßt, die jeweils eine Büschelfläche bilden. Die Büschelflächen aller Borstenbüschel ergeben dann die Bürstenfläche. In diesem Fall können sich die einzelnen Borstenbüschel bei einer etwa in Richtung der Büschellängsachse einwirkenden Kraft besser und insbesondere in alle Richtungen aufspleißen. Dies ergibt eine gleichmäßigere Verteilung der freien Enden der Borsten und deren seitliche Auslenkung. Diese Auslenkung der Borsten ist dabei zufällig orientiert bzw. es existiert keine Vorzugsrichtung für diese Auslenkung. Ebenfalls stützen sich die einzelnen Borsten durch die seitliche Auslenkung und aufgrund der zufälligen Orientierung der Auslenkung gegenseitig ab, so daß die Borsten weniger nach außen ausweichen können. Insgesamt wird dadurch eine verbesserte Reinigungswirkung sowie eine schonendere Behandlung mit dem zu reinigenden Gegenstand erreicht.It is particularly advantageous to have a large number of the bristles according to the invention in one brush, to use a brush or the like, in particular in a toothbrush, the free ends of the bristles form a brush surface. The bristles are individual Bristle tufts combined, each forming a tuft surface. The tuft areas all tufts of bristles then form the brush surface. In this case, you can the individual tufts of bristles acting approximately in the direction of the tuft longitudinal axis Power up better and especially in all directions. This gives one more uniform distribution of the free ends of the bristles and their lateral deflection. This deflection of the bristles is randomly oriented or there is no preferred direction for this deflection. The individual bristles are also supported by the lateral deflection and due to the random orientation of the deflection of each other from, so that the bristles can escape less to the outside. Overall, this will an improved cleaning effect and a gentler treatment with the cleaning object reached.

Bei einer besonders vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung sind die Eigenschaften der beiden Bereiche von jeder der Borsten abhängig von der Anordnung der Borste innerhalb der Bürstenfläche. Mit anderen Worten bedeutet dies, daß insbesondere die Krümmung einer bestimmten Borste abhängig ist von der Anordnung dieser Borste innerhalb der Bürstenfläche. Auf diese Weise ist es möglich, insgesamt eine Bürste zu schaffen, bei der die Krümmung der einzelnen Borsten zum Beispiel an den Zweck der Bürste angepaßt ist.In a particularly advantageous development of the invention, the properties of the two areas of each of the bristles depending on the placement of the bristle within the brush surface. In other words, this means that in particular the curvature a certain bristle depends on the arrangement of this bristle within the brush surface. In this way, it is possible to create a brush in which the Curvature of the individual bristles, for example, is adapted to the purpose of the brush.

Besonders zweckmäßig ist es dabei, wenn die Borsten in der Nähe des Außenrands der Bürstenfläche eine geringere Krümmung aufweisen als die Borsten im Innenfeld der Bürstenfläche. Dies stellt insbesondere bei einer Zahnbürste eine besonders vorteilhafte Anordnung der einzelnen Borsten dar. Durch die größere Auslenkung der Borsten im Innenfeld der Zahnbürste wird der zu reinigende Zahn besonders gut umschlossen und damit besonders gut gereinigt. Dabei ist es auch möglich, daß im wesentlichen nur die Borsten im Innenfeld der Zahnbürste eine Krümmung aufweisen.It is particularly expedient if the bristles near the outer edge of the Brush surface have a smaller curvature than the bristles in the inner field of the brush surface. This is particularly advantageous for a toothbrush Arrangement of the individual bristles. Due to the greater deflection of the bristles in the inner field the toothbrush encloses the tooth to be cleaned particularly well and thus cleaned particularly well. It is also possible that essentially only that Bristles in the inner field of the toothbrush have a curvature.

Bei einer weiteren vorteilhaften Weiterbildung der Erfindung ist die Richtung der Auslenkung der Borsten zufällig verteilt. Dies bedeutet, daß die Auslenkungen der Borsten in einem Borstenbüschel keine Vorzugsrichtung aufweisen. Dies hat zur Folge, daß die Borstenspitzen unterschiedliche Orientierungen aufweisen und sich die einzelnen Borsten in unterschiedliche Richtungen biegen. Dies stellt eine weitere Verbesserung insbesondere einer Zahnbürste im Hinblick auf ein möglichst gleichmäßiges und weitreichendes Umschließen des zu reinigenden Zahns durch die Borsten dar. Des weiteren wird durch die zufällige Ausrichtung der Borsten in unterschiedliche Richtungen erreicht, daß immer eine der Borsten gerade so angeordnet ist, daß sie besonders gut in den gerade zu reinigenden Interdentalraum eindringen kann, ohne daß hierzu die Zahnbürste besonders gegen die Zahnflächen gedrückt oder gedreht werden müßte. Dies stellt gleichzeitig einen schonenderen Umgang der erfindungsgemäßen Zahnbürste mit dem Zahnfleisch eines Benutzers dar.In a further advantageous development of the invention, the direction is Deflection of the bristles distributed randomly. This means that the deflections of the bristles have no preferred direction in a tuft of bristles. As a result, the Bristle tips have different orientations and the individual bristles bend in different directions. This represents a further improvement in particular a toothbrush with a view to being as uniform and extensive as possible Enclosing the tooth to be cleaned by the bristles. Furthermore, by the random orientation of the bristles in different directions always achieves that one of the bristles is just arranged so that it is particularly good in the one to be cleaned Interdental space can penetrate without the toothbrush especially against this the tooth surfaces would have to be pressed or turned. This represents one at the same time gentler handling of the toothbrush according to the invention with the gums one User.

Weitere Merkmale, Vorteile und Anwendungsmöglichkeiten der Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen, die in der Zeichnung näher dargestellt sind.Further features, advantages and possible uses of the invention result from the following description of exemplary embodiments in the drawing are shown in more detail.

Fortsetzung Seite 8, Abs. 3 der ursprünglichen Unterlagen. Continued on page 8, paragraph 3 of the original documents.

In der Zeichnung zeigt:

Figur 1
eine schematische Darstellung eines ersten Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Borste im Querschnitt,
Figur 2
eine schematische Darstellung eines zweiten Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Borste im Querschnitt,
Figur 3
eine schematische Darstellung eines dritten Ausführungsbeispiels einer erfindungsgemäßen Borste im Querschnitt,
Figur 4
eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Bürste, die aus einer Vielzahl der Borsten der Figur 1 oder der Figur 2 oder der Figur 3 besteht, in einer Seitenansicht, und
Figur 5
eine schematische Darstellung eines Werkzeugs zur Herstellung der Borsten der Figur 2 in einer Draufsicht.
The drawing shows:
Figure 1
1 shows a schematic illustration of a first exemplary embodiment of a bristle according to the invention in cross section,
Figure 2
1 shows a schematic illustration of a second exemplary embodiment of a bristle according to the invention in cross section,
Figure 3
2 shows a schematic illustration of a third exemplary embodiment of a bristle according to the invention in cross section,
Figure 4
2 shows a schematic illustration of a brush according to the invention, which consists of a plurality of the bristles of FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 or FIG. 3, in a side view, and
Figure 5
a schematic representation of a tool for producing the bristles of Figure 2 in a plan view.

In den Figuren 1 bis 3 ist jeweils eine Borste 1 im Querschnitt dargestellt, die in einer Zahnbürste, beispielsweise einer elektrischen Zahnbürste verwendet werden kann. Die Borste 1 besteht aus Kunststoff und besitzt eine etwa kreisförmige Querschnittsfläche. Die Borste 1 weist zwei Bereiche 2, 3 auf, die sich durchgehend entlang der Borstenlängsachse erstrecken. Die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 sind nicht konzentrisch bzw. nicht punktsymmetrisch zueinander angeordnet.A bristle 1 is shown in cross section in FIGS a toothbrush, for example an electric toothbrush can. The bristle 1 is made of plastic and has an approximately circular shape Cross sectional area. The bristle 1 has two areas 2, 3, which are extend continuously along the bristle longitudinal axis. The two areas 2, 3 are not arranged concentrically or point-symmetrically to each other.

In der Figur 1 sind die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Borste 1 unterschiedlich groß. Der Bereich 2 bildet eine Kreissegmentfläche und der Bereich 3 stellt die Restfläche zur kreisförmigen Querschnittsfläche der Borste 1 dar. Die Verbindungslinie zwischen dem Bereich 2 und dem Bereich 3 ist kreisbogenförmig. Das Verhältnis der Querschnittsflächen der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 besitzt einen Wert zwischen etwa 0,25 und etwa 1,0 bzw. 1,0 und 4,0.In Figure 1, the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 are of different sizes. The area 2 forms a circular segment area and the area 3 represents the remaining area to the circular cross-sectional area of the bristle 1. The connecting line between area 2 and area 3 is a circular arc. The The ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas 2, 3 has a value between about 0.25 and about 1.0 or 1.0 and 4.0.

In der Figur 2 sind die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Borste 1 gleich groß. Das Verhältnis der Querschnittsflächen der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 ist damit 1. Jeder der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 bildet eine Halbkreisfläche. Die Verbindungslinie der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 ist im wesentlichen geradlinig.In Figure 2, the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 are the same size. The relationship of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas 2, 3 is therefore 1. Each of the two areas 2, 3 form a semicircular surface. The line connecting the two Areas 2, 3 are essentially rectilinear.

In der Figur 3 stellt der Bereich 2 eine Kreisfläche innerhalb des Bereichs 3 dar. Der Radius der Kreisfläche des Bereichs 2 ist kleiner als der Radius der Kreisfläche des Bereichs 3. Die Kreisfläche des Bereichs 2 ist nicht konzentrisch zur Kreisfläche des Bereichs 3 angeordnet. Das Verhältnis der Querschnittsflächen der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 besitzt einen Wert zwischen etwa 0,25 und etwa 1,0 bzw. 1,0 und 4,0.In FIG. 3, area 2 represents a circular area within area 3. The radius of the circular area of area 2 is smaller than the radius of the circular area of area 3. The circular area of area 2 is not concentric to Arranged circular area of area 3. The ratio of the cross-sectional areas of the two areas 2, 3 has a value between approximately 0.25 and approximately 1.0 or 1.0 and 4.0.

Die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der in den Figuren 1 bis 3 dargestellten Borste 1 besitzen unterschiedliche Eigenschaften.The two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 have different properties.

Des weiteren ist es denkbar, die Borste 1 nicht nur aus zwei Bereichen 2, 3 zusammenzusetzen, sondern aus drei oder mehr Bereichen. In diesem Fall müssen sich die Bereiche derart voneinander unterscheiden, daß sich über den Querschnitt der Borste 1 insgesamt asymmetrische Eigenschaften ergeben. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the bristle 1 not only from two areas 2, 3 but from three or more areas. In this case the areas differ from each other in such a way that the Cross section of the bristle 1 give overall asymmetrical properties.

Bei der Borste 1 der Figuren 1 bis 3 können die unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften der Bereiche 2, 3 darauf beruhen, daß der Bereich 2 aus einem anderen Kunststoff besteht als der Bereich 3, oder daß es sich in den Bereichen 2, 3 um verschiedene Typen derselben Kunststoffgruppe handelt. Ebenfalls ist möglich, daß der Kunststoff eines der Bereiche 2, 3 mit einem oder mehreren Füllstoffen und/oder mit einem oder mehreren Nukleiermitteln versehen ist. Des weiteren können in diesem Zusammenhang auch Farbstoffe eingesetzt werden. Dies alles sind Möglichkeiten, die alternativ oder kumulativ dazu führen können, daß die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Borste 1 der Figuren 1 bis 3 unterschiedliche Eigenschaften aufweisen.With the bristle 1 of Figures 1 to 3, the different properties the areas 2, 3 are based on the area 2 being made of a different plastic exists as area 3, or that it is in areas 2, 3 different types of the same plastic group. It is also possible that the plastic one of the areas 2, 3 with one or more fillers and / or is provided with one or more nucleating agents. Furthermore dyes can also be used in this context. all of this are options that, alternatively or cumulatively, can lead to the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 of Figures 1 to 3 different properties exhibit.

Als Kunststoffe können Polyamid oder Polyester verwendet werden. Als Füllstoffe und/oder Nukleiermittel können Calciumcarbonat, Talkum oder ein Silikat, wie Kaolin oder dergleichen verwendet werden.Polyamide or polyester can be used as plastics. As fillers and / or nucleating agents can be calcium carbonate, talc or a silicate, such as kaolin or the like can be used.

Als unterschiedliche Eigenschaften der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Figuren 1 bis 3 kann die Borste 1 unterschiedliche Dehnungseigenschaften infoge der Aufnahme von Feuchtigkeit, insbesondere von Wasser in den beiden Bereichen 2, 3 aufweisen. Dies bedeutet, daß der Bereich 2 sich bei der Aufnahme von Feuchtigkeit in Borstenlängsrichtung anders, zum Beispiel stärker ausdehnt als der Bereich 3 der Borste 1. Dieser Vorgang ist üblicherweise reversibel, d.h. wenn die Borste getrocknet wird, so geht die genannte Ausdehnung wieder im wesentlichen in den Ausgangszustand zurück.As different properties of the two areas 2, 3 of FIGS. 1 to 3 can the bristle 1 different stretching properties infoge the recording of moisture, in particular of water in the two areas 2, 3. This means that area 2 will absorb moisture different in the longitudinal direction of the bristles, for example expanding more than the area 3 of the bristle 1. This process is usually reversible, i.e. if the Bristle is dried, the expansion mentioned goes again essentially back to the initial state.

Alternativ oder kumulativ kann als unterschiedliche Eigenschaften der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Figuren 1 bis 3 die Borste 1 unterschiedliche Schrumpfungseigenschaften bei Erwärmung und nachfolgender Abkühlung aufweisen. Dies bedeutet, daß der Bereich 2 bei der Abkühlung anders, zum Beispiel stärker schrumpft als der Bereich 3 der Borste 1. Dieser Vorgang ist nicht reversibel, d.h. die Schrumpfung infolge Erwärmung und Abkühlung verbleibt auch nach der Abkühlung der Borste 1. Alternatively or cumulatively, different properties of the two Regions 2, 3 of Figures 1 to 3 the bristle 1 different shrinkage properties in the event of heating and subsequent cooling. This means that area 2 cools differently, for example more strongly shrinks as the area 3 of the bristle 1. This process is not reversible, i.e. the shrinkage due to heating and cooling remains even after the Cooling down the bristle 1.

Durch die unterschiedlichen Eigenschaften der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Borste 1, beispielsweise durch die unterschiedlichen Dehnungseigenschaften infolge der Aufnahme von Feuchtigkeit und/oder durch die unterschiedlichen Schrumpfungseigenschaften infolge Erwärmung, und durch die nicht konzentrische Anordnung der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 zueinander wird die Borste 1 entlang ihrer Borstenlängsachse gekrümmt. Dies bedeutet, daß die Borste 1 aus ihrer Borstenlängsachse seitlich ausgelenkt oder schräggestellt wird.Due to the different properties of the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1, for example, by the different elongation properties due to the Absorption of moisture and / or due to the different shrinkage properties due to heating, and due to the non-concentric arrangement of the two areas 2, 3 to each other, the bristle 1 along its bristle longitudinal axis curved. This means that the bristle 1 from its bristle longitudinal axis is laterally deflected or tilted.

Die Auslenkung der Borste 1 kann einen Wert zwischen etwa 10 % und etwa 90 % der Länge der Borste 1 aufweisen. Besonders bevorzugt ist ein Wert von etwa 50 % der Länge der Borste 1. Wird die Borste 1 entsprechend der Figur 2 mit gleich großen Bereichen 2, 3 ausgestattet, so wird die genannte Auslenkung bei einer Länge der Borste 1 von etwa 8 mm durch Unterschiede in der Dehnung bzw. Schrumpfung der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 zwischen etwa 0,15 % und etwa 1,5 % erreicht.The deflection of the bristle 1 can have a value between approximately 10% and approximately 90 % of the length of the bristle 1. A value of approximately is particularly preferred 50% of the length of the bristle 1. Bristle 1 corresponds to FIG Equipped equally large areas 2, 3, the deflection mentioned at a length of the bristle 1 of about 8 mm due to differences in the elongation or shrinkage of the two areas 2, 3 between about 0.15% and about 1.5% reached.

Die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Borste 1 der Figur 1 wie auch der Figur 2 können verschiedenfarbig sein. Das kann bei der Wahl der unterschiedlichen Kunststoffe für die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 und/oder bei der Wahl des Füllstoffs für einen der beiden Bereiche 2, 3 berücksichtigt werden.The two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 of FIG. 1 and of FIG. 2 can be different colors. This can be the case when choosing different plastics for the two areas 2, 3 and / or when choosing the filler for one of the two areas 2, 3 are taken into account.

In der Figur 4 ist ein Auschnitt aus einer Bürste 4 mit einem Borstenbüschel 5 dargestellt. Das Borstenbüschel 5 weist eine Vielzahl von Borsten 1 auf, die den Borsten 1 der Figuren 1 bis 3 entsprechen können. Bei der Bürste 4 kann es sich um eine Zahnbürste, beispielsweise eine elektrische Zahnbürste handeln. Die freien Enden der Borsten 1 des Borstenbüschels 5 bilden eine Büschelfläche 6. Die Vielzahl der Borsten 1 des Borstenbüschels 5 sind mit Hilfe eines Ankers oder dergleichen in einem Borstenträger 7 befestigt.FIG. 4 shows a cutout from a brush 4 with a tuft of bristles 5 shown. The bristle tuft 5 has a plurality of bristles 1, the Bristles 1 of Figures 1 to 3 can correspond. The brush 4 can act as a toothbrush, for example an electric toothbrush. The Free ends of the bristles 1 of the bristle tuft 5 form a tuft surface 6. The plurality of bristles 1 of the bristle tuft 5 are with the help of an anchor or the like fastened in a bristle carrier 7.

In der Figur 4 ist die Krümmung der einzelnen Borsten 1 entlang der Borstenlängsachse erkennbar. Es ist ebenfalls erkennbar, daß die Büschelfläche 6 des Borstenbüschels 5 aufgrund der Auslenkungen der Vielzahl der Borsten 1 größer ist als die Querschnittsfläche des Borstenbüschels 5 der Borsten 1 im Bereich des Borstenträgers 7.4 shows the curvature of the individual bristles 1 along the longitudinal axis of the bristles recognizable. It can also be seen that the tuft surface 6 of the Bristle tufts 5 larger due to the deflections of the plurality of bristles 1 is the cross-sectional area of the bristle tuft 5 of the bristles 1 in the area the bristle holder 7.

Die einzelnen Borsten 1 des Borstenbüschels 5 sind mit unterschiedlichen Orientierungen in dem Borstenträger 7 befestigt. Dies bedeutet, daß die Borsten 1 in verschiedene Richtungen weisen. Die Auslenkung der Borsten 1 in dem Borstenbüschel 5 ist dabei zufallsbedingt, so daß die Richtung der einzelnen Borsten 1 in dem Borstenbüschel 5 rein zufällig ist. Mit anderen Worten bedeutet dies, daß keine Vorzugsrichtung für die Auslenkung der Borsten 1 in dem Borstenbüschel 5 existiert. Dies ist aus der Figur 3 ebenfalls erkennbar.The individual bristles 1 of the bristle tuft 5 have different orientations attached in the bristle carrier 7. This means that the bristles 1 in point in different directions. The deflection of the bristles 1 in the tufts of bristles 5 is random, so that the direction of the individual bristles 1 in the bristle tuft 5 is purely coincidental. In other words, this means that no preferred direction for the deflection of the bristles 1 in the bristle tuft 5 exists. This can also be seen in FIG. 3.

Die Bürste 4 der Figur 4 weist eine Mehrzahl von Borstenbüscheln 5 auf. Insgesamt können die Borstenbüschel 5 derart innerhalb der Bürste 4 angeordnet sein, daß sich die Büschelflächen 6 der Borstenbüschel 5 zu einer etwa kreisförmigen Bürstenfläche zusammensetzen. In diesem Fall kann die Krümmung der Borsten 1 der Borstenbüschel 5 in der Nähe des Außenrands der Bürstenfläche kleiner sein als die Krümmung der Borsten 1 der Borstenbüschel 5 im Innenfeld der Bürste 4. Ebenfalls ist es möglich, daß im wesentlichen nur die Borsten 1 der Borstenbüschel 5 des Innenfelds der Bürste 4 eine Krümmung aufweisen.The brush 4 in FIG. 4 has a plurality of bristle tufts 5. All in all the bristle tufts 5 can thus be arranged within the brush 4 be that the tuft surfaces 6 of the bristle tufts 5 to an approximately circular Assemble the brush surface. In this case, the curvature of the Bristles 1 of the bristle tufts 5 near the outer edge of the brush surface be smaller than the curvature of the bristles 1 of the bristle tufts 5 in the inner field the brush 4. It is also possible that essentially only the bristles 1 of the Bristle tufts 5 of the inner field of the brush 4 have a curvature.

Zur Herstellung der Borsten 1 findet eine Coextrusion von Filamenten statt, die dann auf die gewünschte Länge der Borsten 1 geschnitten, zu Bündeln zusammengefaßt und in dem Borstenträger 7 durch Stopfen und mit Hilfe eines Ankers befestigt werden. Bei der Coextrusion wird eine nicht konzentrische bzw. nicht punktsymmetrische Materialverteilung entsprechend der Bereiche 2, 3 der Figuren 1 bis 3 eingestellt.To produce the bristles 1, a coextrusion of filaments takes place then cut to the desired length of the bristles 1, combined into bundles and in the bristle carrier 7 by plugging and with the help of an anchor be attached. With coextrusion, a non-concentric or non-concentric point-symmetrical material distribution corresponding to areas 2, 3 of the figures 1 to 3 set.

Zu diesem Zweck kann beispielsweise ein Extrusionswerkzeug 8 verwendet werden, wie es in der Figur 5 dargestellt ist. Dieses Extrusionswerkzeug 8 weist eine Mehrzahl von gleich großen Düsenbohrungen 9 auf, die auf einem Kreisring mit etwa gleichen Abständen zueinander angeordnet sind. Jede der Düsenbohrungen 9 teilt sich innerhalb des Extrusionswerkzeugs 8 in zwei Kanäle auf. An dem Zusammenlauf der beiden Kanäle entsteht eine Verbindungslinie 10, an der die beiden Bereiche 2, 3 der Borste 1 zusammengeführt werden.An extrusion tool 8 can be used for this purpose, for example be, as shown in Figure 5. This extrusion tool 8 has a plurality of equally large nozzle bores 9 on a circular ring are arranged at approximately equal distances from one another. Each of the nozzle holes 9 divides into two channels within the extrusion die 8. On the connection of the two channels creates a connecting line 10 at which the two areas 2, 3 of the bristle 1 are brought together.

Die in der Figur 5 gezeigte Verbindungslinie 10 ist etwa geradlinig. Insoweit wird durch das in der Figur 5 dargestellte Extrusionswerkezug 8 die Borste 1 der Figur 2 erzeugt. Sämtliche Verbindungslinien 10 bilden entsprechend der Figur 5 etwa einen Kreis und sind dadurch zueinander jeweils um einen Winkel gedreht angeordnet, weisen also zueinander jeweils eine unterschiedliche Lage auf.The connecting line 10 shown in FIG. 5 is approximately straight. So far through the extrusion tool 8 shown in Figure 5, the bristle 1 of the figure 2 generated. All connecting lines 10 form approximately according to Figure 5 a circle and are therefore rotated by an angle to each other, each have a different position from one another.

Mit Hilfe des Extrusionswerkzeugs 8 können zwei unterschiedliche Kunststoffe zu einem Filament coextrudiert werden. Alternativ oder kumulativ ist es möglich, mit Hilfe des Extrusionswerkzeugs 8 dem Kunststoff in jeweils einem der Kanäle zu den Düsenbohrungen 9 einen Füllstoff und/oder ein Nukleierungsmittel beizumischen.With the help of the extrusion tool 8, two different plastics can coextruded into a filament. Alternatively or cumulatively, it is possible with the help of the extrusion tool 8 the plastic in each of the channels add a filler and / or a nucleating agent to the nozzle bores 9.

Claims (13)

  1. A bristle (1) of a toothbrush, said bristle (1) being made of a plastic material and including, when viewed in cross-section, two sections (2, 3) with different properties, characterized in that the relative arrangement of said sections (2, 3) is such that the centers of gravity of the surface areas of said sections (2, 3) do not coincide and that said two sections (2, 3) have different expansion properties due to the absorption of humidity and/or heating.
  2. The bristle (1) as claimed in patent claim 1, characterized in that, when viewed in cross-section of the bristle (1) one of said two sections (2) forms a circular-segment-shaped surface area, with the connecting line between said two sections (2, 3) being, for example, an essentially straight line, a line shaped in the manner of the arc of a circle, or a curved line.
  3. The bristle (1) as claimed in patent claim 1, characterized in that when viewed in cross-section of the bristle (1) each of said two sections (2, 3) forms a semicircular surface area.
  4. The bristle (1) as claimed in any one of the patent claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the ratio of the cross-sectional areas of said two sections (2, 3) has a value of between 0.25 and 1.0, approximately.
  5. The bristle (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that a filler material and/or a nucleating agent, for example, kaolin, calcium carbonate or the like is/are added to the plastic material of one of said two sections (2, 3).
  6. The bristle (1) as claimed in any one of the patent claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said two sections (2, 3) are formed of different plastic materials.
  7. The bristle (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the bristle (1) is fabricated from polyamide and/or polyester.
  8. The bristle (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the bristle (1) exhibits a curvature or a lateral deflection relative to the bristle's longitudinal axis.
  9. The bristle (1) as claimed in patent claim 8, characterized in that the amount of deflection of the bristle (1) is in the range of between 10 % and 90 %, approximately, of the length of the bristle (1), amounting in particular to about 50 % of the length of the bristle (1).
  10. The bristle (1) as claimed in any one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that said two sections (2, 3) differ in color.
  11. A toothbrush which includes a plurality of bristles (1) as claimed in any one of the patent claims 1 to 10, in which the free ends of the bristles (1) form a brush surface area, characterized in that the different expansion properties of said two sections (2, 3) of each bristle (1) are dependent upon the individual positioning of the bristle (1) within the brush surface area.
  12. The brush (4) as claimed in patent claim 11, characterized in that the curvature of the bristles (1) in the proximity of the outer edge of the brush surface area is smaller than that of the bristles (1) in the inner zone of the brush surface area.
  13. The brush (4) as claimed in any one of the patent claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the directions of deflection of the bristles (1) are randomly distributed.
EP97910344A 1996-10-02 1997-09-24 Toothbrush bristle Expired - Lifetime EP1006839B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19640726 1996-10-02
DE19640726A DE19640726A1 (en) 1996-10-02 1996-10-02 Bristle for a toothbrush
PCT/EP1997/005239 WO1998014092A1 (en) 1996-10-02 1997-09-24 Toothbrush bristle

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1006839A1 EP1006839A1 (en) 2000-06-14
EP1006839B1 true EP1006839B1 (en) 2002-03-20

Family

ID=7807724

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97910344A Expired - Lifetime EP1006839B1 (en) 1996-10-02 1997-09-24 Toothbrush bristle

Country Status (11)

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US (2) US6327736B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1006839B1 (en)
JP (1) JP2001503650A (en)
CN (1) CN1178611C (en)
AT (1) ATE214564T1 (en)
AU (1) AU708948B2 (en)
DE (2) DE19640726A1 (en)
DK (1) DK1006839T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2174228T3 (en)
HK (1) HK1021122A1 (en)
WO (1) WO1998014092A1 (en)

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DE10115556A1 (en) * 2001-03-28 2002-10-02 Pedex & Co Gmbh Thermoplastic monofilament for bristles
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CN1232374A (en) 1999-10-20
US6497458B2 (en) 2002-12-24
DE19640726A1 (en) 1998-04-23
HK1021122A1 (en) 2000-06-02
JP2001503650A (en) 2001-03-21
US20020004965A1 (en) 2002-01-17
ATE214564T1 (en) 2002-04-15
WO1998014092A1 (en) 1998-04-09
DE59706713D1 (en) 2002-04-25
AU4777897A (en) 1998-04-24
DK1006839T3 (en) 2002-07-22
AU708948B2 (en) 1999-08-19
EP1006839A1 (en) 2000-06-14
US6327736B1 (en) 2001-12-11
CN1178611C (en) 2004-12-08
ES2174228T3 (en) 2002-11-01

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