WO2023110768A1 - Oral care implement comprising replaceable head - Google Patents
Oral care implement comprising replaceable head Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2023110768A1 WO2023110768A1 PCT/EP2022/085434 EP2022085434W WO2023110768A1 WO 2023110768 A1 WO2023110768 A1 WO 2023110768A1 EP 2022085434 W EP2022085434 W EP 2022085434W WO 2023110768 A1 WO2023110768 A1 WO 2023110768A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- handle
- core component
- coupling mechanism
- cross
- head
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000008358 core component Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 40
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 28
- 239000000306 component Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 230000005291 magnetic effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000017166 Bambusa arundinacea Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000017491 Bambusa tulda Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 241001330002 Bambuseae Species 0.000 claims description 2
- 235000015334 Phyllostachys viridis Nutrition 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000956 alloy Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910045601 alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011425 bamboo Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 229910052752 metalloid Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 2
- 150000002738 metalloids Chemical class 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 15
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 5
- 210000003813 thumb Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 230000001680 brushing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000005022 packaging material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000008447 perception Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000004743 Polypropylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000013013 elastic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001971 elastomer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000806 elastomer Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000002474 experimental method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005294 ferromagnetic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003302 ferromagnetic material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009408 flooring Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 210000004247 hand Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 238000009863 impact test Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001746 injection moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003475 lamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004806 packaging method and process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- -1 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920001169 thermoplastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000002087 whitening effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B5/00—Brush bodies; Handles integral with brushware
- A46B5/0095—Removable or interchangeable brush heads
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A46—BRUSHWARE
- A46B—BRUSHES
- A46B2200/00—Brushes characterized by their functions, uses or applications
- A46B2200/10—For human or animal care
- A46B2200/1066—Toothbrush for cleaning the teeth or dentures
Definitions
- This invention relates to a handle for an oral care implement comprising a coupling mechanism for interlocking detachable attachment with a head of the implement.
- the brush head may be replaced periodically, especially when it has worn out.
- EP3501334 B1 discloses an oral care implement comprising a head repeatedly attachable to and detachable from a handle.
- the head is made from a material whose density is 0.5 to 1.2 g/cm 3 whereas the handle is made of a material whose density is 2.1 to 3.1 g/cm 3 .
- the material of the head is non-magnetic and/or non-ferromagnetic, preferably polypropylene and that of the handle comprises at least one of a magnetic or a ferromagnetic material.
- the technology provides more comfort and improved quality perception as well as better maneuverability of the oral care implement in the oral care cavity during brushing.
- the relatively high weight of the handle material provides a user with high-quality perception and comfortable feeling during use of the oral care implement.
- US2018235356 A1 discloses a toothbrush having a base structure with a transparent shell component that surrounds a core component.
- the core is formed of a rigid material and has decorative elements embedded within its body which are visible through the shell.
- US2015164211 A1 (Hohlbein Douglas) discloses an oral care implement having a handle that includes a core comprising recycled material and a sheath.
- the head is connectable to the handle. Due to the use of recycled material, there is comparatively lesser impact the environment. In addition, the user gets a firm surface to hold during use the product is safe to use.
- the recycled material may comprise a polymer, such as a thermoplastic polymer like ABS.
- toothbrushes and in this case, more particularly the handles, often tend to slip from a user’s hands and fall on the ground which is usually composed of tiles or hard flooring. In such case, it is necessary that the handle has a certain minimum impact resistance.
- the extent of force that is required for locking and unlocking via the inter-engaging locking means is also an important feature, especially where the locking means involves an interference- or snap- fit such as the one disclosed in CN212938595U (Shanghai Shift).
- a handle for an oral care implement comprising a coupling mechanism for an interlocking detachable attachment of said handle with a head of said oral care implement, where said handle comprises a non-movable core component having weight (wi) inside a sheath component having weight (W2), wherein, ratio of wi:w2 is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.05 and cross-sectional area of said core component accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle, wherein said coupling mechanism comprises a base part embedded inside said handle and an operative part that projects outwardly for said detachable attachment.
- an oral care kit comprising a handle of the fist aspect and a head comprising a counterpart mechanism for said detachable attachment.
- the invention relates to a handle for an oral care implement, said handle comprising a coupling mechanism for interlocking detachable attachment of said handle with a head of said oral care implement, where said handle comprises a non-movable core component having weight (wi) inside a sheath component having weight (W2), wherein, ratio of wi:w2 is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.05 and cross-sectional area of said core component accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle.
- area of said core component accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle, wherein said coupling mechanism comprises a base part embedded inside said handle and an operative part that projects outwardly for said detachable attachment.
- Oral care implement means and includes all implements for oral care.
- the implement is a manual toothbrush, tongue cleaner or an interdental brush.
- the head part is preferably a brush head.
- it is a tongue cleaning head.
- the head is formed of lightweight plastic and comprises an array of bristles.
- the head part is preferably formed of a recycled or recyclable plastic material.
- it comprises a tongue cleaner.
- a brush head comprising bristles and a tongue cleaner.
- the head and the first part of the handle are preferably formed of a plastic material.
- the head which is to be replaced regularly, may be produced relatively efficiently and with a relatively low weight to reduce manufacture and transport costs.
- the plastic material may be a recyclable plastic material, hence further reducing unsustainable waste with the product in comparison to known toothbrushes.
- the bristles may be used to clean the teeth and mouth.
- Different embodiments of the invention may include different types of bristle designs to achieve different types of cleaning, e.g., standard, sensitive, whitening.
- the user may interchange heads with different bristle designs to achieve different types of cleaning while using the same handle. Therefore, the invention allows a user to have greater flexibility in their teeth-cleaning habits without having to own multiple different toothbrushes.
- Function of the interlocking detachable attachment is to enable a user to inter-engage a replaceable head with the handle so that the implement becomes usable. After single use the implement may be kept aside, without dismantling, until the need arises next time. A head may need to be changed in case it is worn out or when the user may want to change for a related application, like tongue cleaning after brushing, with the same handle but changing the head.
- the coupling mechanism comprises a base part embedded inside the handle and an operative part that projects outwardly for the detachable attachment.
- the operative part may have any kind of means for interlocking with the head.
- the operative part comprises press-fitting means, screw threads, bayonet or magnetic means for detachable attachment with correspondingly configured head.
- the coupling mechanism in the handle comprises a shaft provided with a card slot and the corresponding head has an elastic clip provided on the cavity wall of the connection cavity where the elastic clip can be engaged with the card slot.
- the coupling mechanism comprises a bayonet element and a socket; the bayonet being comprised in the operative part of the handle and the socket being formed within the head.
- the socket preferably comprises an axis, an opening and first and second channels which channels are positioned transversely opposite one another, wherein each channel comprises: a first channel portion extending axially from the opening and having a first transverse dimension, and a second channel portion extending axially from the first channel portion having a second transverse dimension larger than the first transverse dimension; and the bayonet element comprises an axis and first and second protrusions, which protrusions are positioned diametrically opposite one another, wherein each protrusion extends outwardly from the bayonet element, is axially receivable by a respective first channel portion and is transversely receivable by a respective second channel portion.
- the bayonet element may be inserted into the socket by first aligning each of the first and second protrusions with the respective first channel portion and then moving the bayonet element axially into the socket. Once the bayonet element is moved axially into the socket such that each protrusion moves through the respective first channel portion and into the respective second channel portion, the bayonet element may be rotated about its axis relative to the socket such that each protrusion moves transversely across the respective second channel portion.
- the core component is integral with the coupling mechanism.
- the core component is separate from said coupling mechanism with a space or spacer therebetween.
- the coupling mechanism is so configured that the force necessary to disengage a handle from a head is from 8 to 45 Newtons.
- length of the core component is 55 to 90 % of the length of the handle.
- the length of said handle needs to be proportionate and should be sufficiently long to allow a user to grip it comfortably. It is preferred that length of the handle is from 8 cm to 16 cm. It is further preferred that length of the handle is 10 to 14 cm.
- the handle is elongated, and it may be of any shape such that the cross-section of the handle is preferably a regular polygon such as triangular or square. Alternatively the cross section of the handle is preferably circular or oval. That us because such shapes are comparatively easier to mould and manufacture. Further preferably when said cross-section is circular, the diameter reduces progressively from the rear end which is the widest part towards the front end which is the narrowest part of said handle. The ratio of the cross-sectional area at said rear end to that at the front end is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.8. It is further preferred that diameter of the handle at the rear end is 1 to 3 cm and at the front end is from 0.5 to 2.5 cm.
- weight of the sheath component of the handle is from 8 to 16 grams, more preferably 8 to 16 grams, more preferably 10 to 14 grams. Weight of the sheath component of the handle is less than weight of the core component.
- the sheath component is composed of plastic, preferably ABS.
- the core component comprises an end section at the rear end opposed to said coupling mechanism at the front end.
- the handle comprises a resilient gasket between said core component and said end section.
- the handle comprises an end cap after said end-section.
- the end cap is preferably made of plastic, or an elastic material or even a hard material such as a metal. It is preferred the length of the end cap is 0.5 to 1.5 cm, more preferably 0.6 to 1.2 cm.
- the core component is elongated and is composed of a metal, alloy, metalloid, high-density plastic, wood, bamboo, ceramic or glass. More preferably the core component is made of steel. It is preferred that length of the core component is from 12 cm to 8 cm.
- the shape or cross-section of the core component is not a limiting feature however it is preferred that the cross-section of the core component is circular. In such a case, it is preferred that diameter of the core component is 0.3 to 0.6 cm.
- Weight of the core component is preferably from 10 to 20 grams, more preferably 12 to 18 grams, more preferably 14 to 16 grams.
- the total weight of the handle is 20 to 35 grams, more preferably 25 to 32 grams.
- the sheath is secured to the core by interference fit. This could be achieved by variety of means. It is preferred that the core comprises knurlings for the interference fit. Preferably the sheath is laid over the core by moulding, layering or lamination. Preferably the sheath is laid over by injection moulding.
- the handle comprises a thumb-rest. It is meant for a user to rest his/her thumb for proper grip.
- the thumb rest is preferably made of an elastomer having Shore A hardness from 30 to 60.
- the thumb grip is 1.2 to 2.6 cm.
- the thumb-rest comprises a gripenhancing feature.
- the sheath component is transparent such that said core component is visible therethrough.
- the core component comprises decoration.
- the decoration could be in the form of artwork, designs, inscription, emblem, logo, hallmark that can be so seen through the sheath.
- the head may be replaced on a regular basis by the user (once every 3 to 4 months for example), may be formed from substantially less material than known toothbrushes, thereby reducing the waste associated with regularly replacing the head.
- packaging material required per head is much less than the packaging material required per toothbrush for known toothbrushes.
- waste associated with packaging of the invention is reduced compared with that of known toothbrushes.
- Fig.1 is exploded view of an embodiment of a handle in accordance with the invention.
- Fig.2 is sectional view of an embodiment of a handle in accordance with the invention.
- Fig.1 which shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a handle (1) in accordance with the invention
- the handle (1) with the coupling mechanism (2) for interlocking detachable attachment of the handle (1) with a head of the oral care implement. Thbe head is not shown/included in this figure.
- the handle (1) has circular cross-section throughout.
- the non-movable core component (3) is inside the sheath component (4).
- the core component (3) is not integral with the coupling mechanism (2) because the two are separated by a space created by a spacer (5) therebetween.
- Diameter of the handle (1) reduces progressively from the rear end (B), which is the widest part, towards the front end (A) which is the narrowest part of said handle (1).
- Length of the core component (3) is about 75% % of the length of the handle (1).
- the core component (3) has an end section (6) at the rear end opposed to said coupling mechanism (2) at the front end.
- Handle (1) has an end cap (7) after the end-section (6).
- the handle has thumb-rest (8).
- the coupling mechanism (2) comprises a base part (2A) embedded inside the handle (1) and an operative part (2B) that projects outwardly for the detachable attachment.
- Fig.2 is sectional view of an embodiment of a handle in accordance with the invention in assembled form. To explain the features seen in this view, use will be made of numerals 21 to 29, where 21 would correspond with feature 1 of the Fig.1 and so on.
- Seen here is the handle (21) with the coupling mechanism (22) for interlocking detachable attachment with a head of the oral care implement.
- the handle (21) has circular cross-section throughout. The head is not shown in the figure.
- the non-movable core component (23) is inside the sheath component (24).
- the core component (23) is integral with the coupling mechanism (22).
- Diameter of the handle (21) reduces progressively from the rear end (B) which is the widest part, towards the front end (A) which is the narrowest part of the handle (21).
- Length of the core component (23) is about 75% % of the length of the handle (21).
- the core component (23) has an end section (26) at the rear end (B) opposed to the coupling mechanism (22) at the front end (A).
- Handle (1) has an end cap (27) after the end-section (26).
- the handle has thumb-rest (28).
- the coupling mechanism (22) comprises a base part (22A) embedded inside the handle (21) and an operative part (22B) that projects outwardly for the detachable attachment.
- Handle cross-section circular, tapering towards the front end (as in Figures 1 and 2) Diameter at front end - 0.9 cm, at rear end 1.5 cm.
- a handle was held with a clamping torque of 0.7 ⁇ 0.03 Nm.
- the tuft-hole plane was perpendicular to the bottom plane of the clamping unit.
- the clamping unit was set on the impact tester so that the striker edge could hit the handle at the centre of the tuft-hole area from the opposite side of the tuft-hole surface.
- Length between the top plane of the clamping unit and the centre of the tuf thole area was adjusted to 55 mm.
- the impact velocity of the striker was dependent on its height at the beginning of the test, or the vertical distance of fall of the pendulum striking edge.
- the Initial energy was kept at 2.75 ⁇ 0.1 Joules. After the test, all samples were labelled and separated into two sets as fractured (F) or not fractured (NF). In the case of fractured toothbrushes, the angle of the pendulum and the absorbed energy were determined.
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- Brushes (AREA)
Abstract
Disclosed is a handle for an oral care implement, said handle comprising a coupling mechanism for an interlocking detachable attachment of said handle with a head of said oral care implement, where said handle comprises a non-movable core component having weight (w1) inside a sheath component having weight (w2), wherein, ratio of w1:w2 is from 1:0.5 to 1:0.05 and cross-sectional area of said core component accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle, wherein said coupling mechanism comprises a base part embedded inside said handle and an operative part that projects outwardly for said detachable attachment.
Description
ORAL CARE IMPLEMENT COMPRISING REPLACEABLE HEAD
Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a handle for an oral care implement comprising a coupling mechanism for interlocking detachable attachment with a head of the implement. The brush head may be replaced periodically, especially when it has worn out.
Background of the Invention
EP3501334 B1 (Gillette) discloses an oral care implement comprising a head repeatedly attachable to and detachable from a handle. The head is made from a material whose density is 0.5 to 1.2 g/cm3 whereas the handle is made of a material whose density is 2.1 to 3.1 g/cm3. The material of the head is non-magnetic and/or non-ferromagnetic, preferably polypropylene and that of the handle comprises at least one of a magnetic or a ferromagnetic material. The technology provides more comfort and improved quality perception as well as better maneuverability of the oral care implement in the oral care cavity during brushing. The relatively high weight of the handle material provides a user with high-quality perception and comfortable feeling during use of the oral care implement.
US2018235356 A1 (Colgate) discloses a toothbrush having a base structure with a transparent shell component that surrounds a core component. The core is formed of a rigid material and has decorative elements embedded within its body which are visible through the shell.
US2015164211 A1 (Hohlbein Douglas) discloses an oral care implement having a handle that includes a core comprising recycled material and a sheath. The head is connectable to the handle. Due to the use of recycled material, there is comparatively lesser impact the environment. In addition, the user gets a firm surface to hold during use the product is safe to use. The recycled material may comprise a polymer, such as a thermoplastic polymer like ABS.
While ergonomics, aesthetics and grip of the handle are features important from a user’s perspective; consumer safety, impact resistance and ease of assembly/disassembly are also important. For example, toothbrushes, and in this case, more particularly the handles, often tend to slip from a user’s hands and fall on the ground which is usually composed of tiles or hard flooring. In such case, it is necessary that the handle has a certain minimum impact resistance. On the other hand, the extent of force that is required for locking and unlocking via the inter-engaging locking means is also an important feature, especially where the locking
means involves an interference- or snap- fit such as the one disclosed in CN212938595U (Shanghai Shift). While certain extent of force is necessary to lock and unlock every type of fitment, if too much force is required for unlocking, some users such as the aged and children, may not be able to use the brush with ease. On the other hand, if the fitment unlocks under too little force, then there is technical problem of consumer safety, because the disengaged head may enter the mouth of the user leading to choking hazard.
Summary of the Invention
It has been determined that at least some of the aforesaid problems can be solved by the present invention.
In accordance with a first aspect disclosed is a handle for an oral care implement, said handle comprising a coupling mechanism for an interlocking detachable attachment of said handle with a head of said oral care implement, where said handle comprises a non-movable core component having weight (wi) inside a sheath component having weight (W2), wherein, ratio of wi:w2 is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.05 and cross-sectional area of said core component accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle, wherein said coupling mechanism comprises a base part embedded inside said handle and an operative part that projects outwardly for said detachable attachment.
In accordance with a second aspect disclosed is an oral care kit comprising a handle of the fist aspect and a head comprising a counterpart mechanism for said detachable attachment.
Detailed Description of the Invention
The invention relates to a handle for an oral care implement, said handle comprising a coupling mechanism for interlocking detachable attachment of said handle with a head of said oral care implement, where said handle comprises a non-movable core component having weight (wi) inside a sheath component having weight (W2), wherein, ratio of wi:w2 is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.05 and cross-sectional area of said core component accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle. area of said core component accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle, wherein said coupling mechanism comprises a base part embedded inside said handle and an operative part that projects outwardly for said detachable attachment.
Oral care implement means and includes all implements for oral care. It is preferred that the implement is a manual toothbrush, tongue cleaner or an interdental brush. Depending on the purpose and application of the oral care implement the head part is preferably a brush head. Alternatively, it is a tongue cleaning head. Preferably when the implement is a manual toothbrush, the head is formed of lightweight plastic and comprises an array of bristles. When the implement is a manual toothbrush the head part is preferably formed of a recycled or recyclable plastic material. Alternatively, it comprises a tongue cleaner. Further alternatively it comprises a brush head comprising bristles and a tongue cleaner.
In embodiments of the invention the head and the first part of the handle are preferably formed of a plastic material.
In such embodiments of the invention, the head, which is to be replaced regularly, may be produced relatively efficiently and with a relatively low weight to reduce manufacture and transport costs. Further, the plastic material may be a recyclable plastic material, hence further reducing unsustainable waste with the product in comparison to known toothbrushes.
In such embodiments of the invention, the bristles may be used to clean the teeth and mouth. Different embodiments of the invention may include different types of bristle designs to achieve different types of cleaning, e.g., standard, sensitive, whitening. The user may interchange heads with different bristle designs to achieve different types of cleaning while using the same handle. Therefore, the invention allows a user to have greater flexibility in their teeth-cleaning habits without having to own multiple different toothbrushes.
Function of the interlocking detachable attachment is to enable a user to inter-engage a replaceable head with the handle so that the implement becomes usable. After single use the implement may be kept aside, without dismantling, until the need arises next time. A head may need to be changed in case it is worn out or when the user may want to change for a related application, like tongue cleaning after brushing, with the same handle but changing the head.
The coupling mechanism comprises a base part embedded inside the handle and an operative part that projects outwardly for the detachable attachment. The operative part may have any kind of means for interlocking with the head. Preferably the operative part comprises press-fitting means, screw threads, bayonet or magnetic means for detachable attachment with correspondingly configured head.
It is particularly preferred that the coupling mechanism in the handle comprises a shaft provided with a card slot and the corresponding head has an elastic clip provided on the cavity wall of the connection cavity where the elastic clip can be engaged with the card slot.
Alternatively, the coupling mechanism comprises a bayonet element and a socket; the bayonet being comprised in the operative part of the handle and the socket being formed within the head.
The socket preferably comprises an axis, an opening and first and second channels which channels are positioned transversely opposite one another, wherein each channel comprises: a first channel portion extending axially from the opening and having a first transverse dimension, and a second channel portion extending axially from the first channel portion having a second transverse dimension larger than the first transverse dimension; and the bayonet element comprises an axis and first and second protrusions, which protrusions are positioned diametrically opposite one another, wherein each protrusion extends outwardly from the bayonet element, is axially receivable by a respective first channel portion and is transversely receivable by a respective second channel portion.
The bayonet element may be inserted into the socket by first aligning each of the first and second protrusions with the respective first channel portion and then moving the bayonet element axially into the socket. Once the bayonet element is moved axially into the socket such that each protrusion moves through the respective first channel portion and into the respective second channel portion, the bayonet element may be rotated about its axis relative to the socket such that each protrusion moves transversely across the respective second channel portion.
In one aspect, preferably the core component is integral with the coupling mechanism.
Alternatively, the core component is separate from said coupling mechanism with a space or spacer therebetween.
It is further preferred that the coupling mechanism is so configured that the force necessary to disengage a handle from a head is from 8 to 45 Newtons.
It is preferred that length of the core component is 55 to 90 % of the length of the handle.
The length of said handle needs to be proportionate and should be sufficiently long to allow a user to grip it comfortably. It is preferred that length of the handle is from 8 cm to 16 cm. It is further preferred that length of the handle is 10 to 14 cm.
The handle is elongated, and it may be of any shape such that the cross-section of the handle is preferably a regular polygon such as triangular or square. Alternatively the cross section of the handle is preferably circular or oval. That us because such shapes are comparatively easier to mould and manufacture. Further preferably when said cross-section is circular, the diameter reduces progressively from the rear end which is the widest part towards the front end which is the narrowest part of said handle. The ratio of the cross-sectional area at said rear end to that at the front end is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.8. It is further preferred that diameter of the handle at the rear end is 1 to 3 cm and at the front end is from 0.5 to 2.5 cm. Further, it is preferred that weight of the sheath component of the handle is from 8 to 16 grams, more preferably 8 to 16 grams, more preferably 10 to 14 grams. Weight of the sheath component of the handle is less than weight of the core component. In one embodiment, the sheath component is composed of plastic, preferably ABS.
It is preferred that the core component comprises an end section at the rear end opposed to said coupling mechanism at the front end. In such cases, the handle comprises a resilient gasket between said core component and said end section. Preferably the handle comprises an end cap after said end-section. The end cap is preferably made of plastic, or an elastic material or even a hard material such as a metal. It is preferred the length of the end cap is 0.5 to 1.5 cm, more preferably 0.6 to 1.2 cm.
It is preferred that the core component is elongated and is composed of a metal, alloy, metalloid, high-density plastic, wood, bamboo, ceramic or glass. More preferably the core component is made of steel. It is preferred that length of the core component is from 12 cm to 8 cm. The shape or cross-section of the core component is not a limiting feature however it is preferred that the cross-section of the core component is circular. In such a case, it is preferred that diameter of the core component is 0.3 to 0.6 cm. Weight of the core component is preferably from 10 to 20 grams, more preferably 12 to 18 grams, more preferably 14 to 16 grams.
Preferably the total weight of the handle is 20 to 35 grams, more preferably 25 to 32 grams.
It is preferred that the sheath is secured to the core by interference fit. This could be achieved by variety of means. It is preferred that the core comprises knurlings for the interference fit. Preferably
the sheath is laid over the core by moulding, layering or lamination. Preferably the sheath is laid over by injection moulding.
Further preferably the handle comprises a thumb-rest. It is meant for a user to rest his/her thumb for proper grip. The thumb rest is preferably made of an elastomer having Shore A hardness from 30 to 60. Preferably the thumb grip is 1.2 to 2.6 cm. Preferably the thumb-rest comprises a gripenhancing feature.
Further preferred features of the handle
It is preferred that the sheath component is transparent such that said core component is visible therethrough. Preferably the core component comprises decoration. The decoration could be in the form of artwork, designs, inscription, emblem, logo, hallmark that can be so seen through the sheath.
The head may be replaced on a regular basis by the user (once every 3 to 4 months for example), may be formed from substantially less material than known toothbrushes, thereby reducing the waste associated with regularly replacing the head.
Further, as the packaging material required per head is much less than the packaging material required per toothbrush for known toothbrushes. Hence the waste associated with packaging of the invention is reduced compared with that of known toothbrushes.
Brief Description
Fig.1 is exploded view of an embodiment of a handle in accordance with the invention.
Fig.2 is sectional view of an embodiment of a handle in accordance with the invention.
Detailed Description
Referring to Fig.1 which shows an exploded view of an embodiment of a handle (1) in accordance with the invention, seen here is the handle (1) with the coupling mechanism (2) for interlocking detachable attachment of the handle (1) with a head of the oral care implement. Thbe head is not shown/included in this figure. The handle (1) has circular cross-section throughout.
The non-movable core component (3) is inside the sheath component (4). In this embodiment, the core component (3) is not integral with the coupling mechanism (2) because the two are separated by a space created by a spacer (5) therebetween.
Diameter of the handle (1) reduces progressively from the rear end (B), which is the widest part, towards the front end (A) which is the narrowest part of said handle (1).
Length of the core component (3) is about 75% % of the length of the handle (1).
The core component (3) has an end section (6) at the rear end opposed to said coupling mechanism (2) at the front end. Handle (1) has an end cap (7) after the end-section (6). The handle has thumb-rest (8).
The coupling mechanism (2) comprises a base part (2A) embedded inside the handle (1) and an operative part (2B) that projects outwardly for the detachable attachment.
Fig.2 is sectional view of an embodiment of a handle in accordance with the invention in assembled form. To explain the features seen in this view, use will be made of numerals 21 to 29, where 21 would correspond with feature 1 of the Fig.1 and so on.
Seen here is the handle (21) with the coupling mechanism (22) for interlocking detachable attachment with a head of the oral care implement. The handle (21) has circular cross-section throughout. The head is not shown in the figure.
The non-movable core component (23) is inside the sheath component (24). In this embodiment, the core component (23) is integral with the coupling mechanism (22).
Diameter of the handle (21) reduces progressively from the rear end (B) which is the widest part, towards the front end (A) which is the narrowest part of the handle (21).
Length of the core component (23) is about 75% % of the length of the handle (21).
The core component (23) has an end section (26) at the rear end (B) opposed to the coupling mechanism (22) at the front end (A). Handle (1) has an end cap (27) after the end-section (26). The handle has thumb-rest (28). In this embodiment, the coupling mechanism (22) comprises a base part (22A) embedded inside the handle (21) and an operative part (22B) that projects outwardly for the detachable attachment.
The invention will now be explained with the help of non-limiting examples.
Examples
Example 1 : Impact test
This experiment was done to evaluate resistance of the materials with which the toothbrush is made, and as aforesaid, were conducted at 23±5°C and relative humidity 50±10 %. Size and dimensions pertaining to the handle were as follow:
Handle length: 12.5 cm
Handle cross-section: circular, tapering towards the front end (as in Figures 1 and 2) Diameter at front end - 0.9 cm, at rear end 1.5 cm.
Weight of the handle 28 grams
Weight of core component - 12 grams; weight of core component (steel) = 16 grams Coupling mechanism - as described in CN212938595U
Briefly, the procedure was as follows:
A handle was held with a clamping torque of 0.7 ± 0.03 Nm. The tuft-hole plane was perpendicular to the bottom plane of the clamping unit. The clamping unit was set on the impact tester so that the striker edge could hit the handle at the centre of the tuft-hole area from the opposite side of the tuft-hole surface.
Length between the top plane of the clamping unit and the centre of the tuf thole area was adjusted to 55 mm.
The impact velocity of the striker was dependent on its height at the beginning of the test, or the vertical distance of fall of the pendulum striking edge.
The Initial energy was kept at 2.75 ± 0.1 Joules. After the test, all samples were labelled and separated into two sets as fractured (F) or not fractured (NF). In the case of fractured toothbrushes, the angle of the pendulum and the absorbed energy were determined.
Claims
1. A handle (1) for an oral care implement, said handle comprising a coupling mechanism (2) for an interlocking detachable attachment of said handle with a head of said oral care implement, where said handle (1) comprises a non-movable core (3) component having weight (wi) inside a sheath component (4) having weight (W2), wherein, ratio of wi:w2 is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.05 and cross-sectional area of said core component (3) accounts for 50 to 90% of cross-sectional area of said handle (1) , wherein said coupling mechanism (2) comprises a base part (2A) embedded inside said handle and an operative part (2B) that projects outwardly for said detachable attachment.
2. A handle (1) as claimed in claim 1 wherein said core component (3) is integral with said coupling mechanism (2).
3. A handle (1) as claimed in claim 1 wherein where said core component (3) is separate from said coupling mechanism (2) with a space or spacer (5) therebetween.
4. A handle (1) as claimed in claim 1 wherein length of said core component (3) is 55 to 90 % of the length of said handle (1).
5. A handle (1) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4 wherein said core component (3) comprises an end section (6) at the rear end (B) opposed to said coupling mechanism (2) at the front end (A).
6. A handle (1) as claimed in claim 5 wherein said handle comprises a resilient gasket between said core component (3) and said end section (6).
7. A handle (1) as claimed in any of claims 5 or 6 wherein said handle (1) comprises an end cap (7) after said end-section (6).
8. A handle (1) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7 wherein cross-section of said handle (1) is circular or oval.
A handle (1) as claimed in claim 8 wherein when said cross-section is circular, the diameter reduces progressively from the rear end (B) which is the widest part, towards the front end
(A) which is the narrowest part of said handle (1). A handle (1) as claimed in claim 8 wherein ratio of the cross-sectional area at said rear end
(B) to that at the front end (A) is from 1 :0.5 to 1 :0.8. A handle (1) as claimed in claim 9 or 10 wherein diameter of said handle (1) at the rear end is 1 to 3 cm and at the front end (A) is from 0.5 to 2.5 cm. A handle (1) as claimed in any of claims 4 to 11 wherein length of said handle (1) is from 8 to 16 cm. A handle (1) as claimed in any of claims 1 to 12 wherein said core component (3) is elongated and is composed of a metal, alloy, metalloid, high-density plastic, wood, bamboo, ceramic or glass. A handle as claimed in claim 13 wherein said operative part (2B, 22B) comprises press-fitting means, screw threads, bayonet or magnetic means for said detachable attachment with correspondingly configured head.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CNPCT/CN2021/138370 | 2021-12-15 | ||
CN2021138370 | 2021-12-15 | ||
EP22152172.7 | 2022-01-19 | ||
EP22152172 | 2022-01-19 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2023110768A1 true WO2023110768A1 (en) | 2023-06-22 |
Family
ID=84799658
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/EP2022/085434 WO2023110768A1 (en) | 2021-12-15 | 2022-12-12 | Oral care implement comprising replaceable head |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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WO (1) | WO2023110768A1 (en) |
Citations (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6298516B1 (en) * | 1998-03-06 | 2001-10-09 | Gillette Canada Company | Toothbrushes |
US8387197B2 (en) * | 2007-10-03 | 2013-03-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having an adjustable mass centroid |
US20150164211A1 (en) | 2012-05-17 | 2015-06-18 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement and method of manufacturing an oral care implement |
WO2016105367A1 (en) * | 2014-12-23 | 2016-06-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having multi-component handle |
US20180235356A1 (en) | 2012-05-17 | 2018-08-23 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Implement and method of forming the same |
EP3501334A1 (en) * | 2017-12-20 | 2019-06-26 | The Gillette Company LLC | Oral care implement |
US10603147B2 (en) * | 2017-12-12 | 2020-03-31 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
CN212938595U (en) | 2020-06-28 | 2021-04-13 | 上海携福电器有限公司 | Tooth brush |
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2022
- 2022-12-12 WO PCT/EP2022/085434 patent/WO2023110768A1/en active Search and Examination
Patent Citations (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6298516B1 (en) * | 1998-03-06 | 2001-10-09 | Gillette Canada Company | Toothbrushes |
US8387197B2 (en) * | 2007-10-03 | 2013-03-05 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having an adjustable mass centroid |
US20150164211A1 (en) | 2012-05-17 | 2015-06-18 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement and method of manufacturing an oral care implement |
US20180235356A1 (en) | 2012-05-17 | 2018-08-23 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Implement and method of forming the same |
WO2016105367A1 (en) * | 2014-12-23 | 2016-06-30 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement having multi-component handle |
US10603147B2 (en) * | 2017-12-12 | 2020-03-31 | Colgate-Palmolive Company | Oral care implement |
EP3501334A1 (en) * | 2017-12-20 | 2019-06-26 | The Gillette Company LLC | Oral care implement |
EP3501334B1 (en) | 2017-12-20 | 2020-06-24 | The Gillette Company LLC | Oral care implement |
CN212938595U (en) | 2020-06-28 | 2021-04-13 | 上海携福电器有限公司 | Tooth brush |
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