Abstract: An apparatus for end-rounding bristles in a brush having different heights. The apparatus includes pins disposed in pre-determined locations such that they will contact selected bristles in a brush abutting the apparatus when the pins travel a two-dimensional path. The height of the pins is adjusted according to the heights of the selected bristles.

Abstract: A cleaning device and method of manufacture comprising (1) a cleaning tape element comprising a plurality of individual filaments such as bristles or fibers, the plurality of individual filaments each having (i) a cleaning tip disposed at a first end of the filament, and (ii) a second end, and (iii) means for maintaining the plurality of individual filaments in at least one, single filament-wide row, thereby forming a tape and (2) a base portion, the plurality of individual filaments coupled to the base portion adjacent their respective base ends.

Abstract: Apparatus for rounding the ends of brush fibers made of thermoplastic material includes a system for moving a smooth treatment surface relative to brush fiber ends at a relative speed and for a selected time to cause the brush fiber ends to be heated to their plastic deformation temperature to cause the brush fiber ends to become rounded. The treatment surface includes at least a portion which has substantially no abrasion, grinding or impacting properties relative to the brush fibers but only substantially friction heating properties relative to the fibers. A method for rounding brush fiber ends is described using the described apparatus.

Abstract: This invention refers to a device for selective separation of toothbrush bristles that allows the toothbrush bristles to be cut into different lengths and profiles in different selected areas. According to this invention, the device ;for selective separation of toothbrush bristles comprises a base with fixation means for a toothbrush having bristles, and a support assembled over the base, wherein the support comprises a pair of simetrically pivoting stems over a first geometric plane, the support being displaceable over a portion of the base along a geometric axle that is parallel to the first geometric plane, from a resting position to a position of contact between the stems and the bristles and a cam means cooperating with the respective portions of the stems, during at least part of the displacement of the support over the base, in order to cause the symmetrically pivoting movement of the stems.