METHOD FOR PRODUCING A BRUSH, AND BRUSH

Abstract

A method of producing a brush as well as a brush (1), in particular a toothbrush, which has at least one bristle bundle (3) which includes at least one bristle filament having a curved and/or kinked profile.

Description

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The following documents are incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth: German Patent Application No. 10 2020 117 049.1, filed Jun. 29, 2020.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a method for producing a brush, in particular a toothbrush. The invention furthermore also relates to a brush, in particular a toothbrush.

BACKGROUND

Brushes, in particular toothbrushes, are available in the most varied embodiments. Despite the existing diversity, there continues to be great demand for further embodiments of brushes having shapes and/or properties which are often difficult to implement. The challenge here lies in the economical production of brushes of this type.

SUMMARY

It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method and a brush of the type mentioned at the outset which meet this demand in an ideally economical manner.

In order for the object to be achieved, firstly a method for producing a brush that has one or more features of the disclosure directed toward a method of this type is provided.

In order for the object to be achieved in the case of the method mentioned at the outset it is provided according to the invention that at least one bristle bundle of the brush, proceeding from a non-deformed initial shape, is permanently formed in such a manner that at least one bristle filament of the bristle bundle upon deformation has a curved and/or kinked profile.

The design of the bristle complement of the brush is essential with a view to the functioning and the useful properties of said brush. Specific properties of the brush, for example the durability thereof or else the cleaning effect thereof, can be influenced in a targeted manner by way of the targeted deformation of at least one bristle bundle.

In one embodiment of the method it is provided that the at least one bristle bundle upon fastening the latter to a bristle carrier, for example a brush head, of the brush, proceeding from the non-deformed initial shape of said bristle bundle, is permanently formed in such a manner that at least one bristle filament of the bristle bundle upon deformation has a curved and/or kinked profile. The bristle bundles can be fastened in a conventional manner in this way. The individualized shaping of the brush can take place in a separate processing step. This can simplify the manufacturing even of brushes of complex design.

If required, it is thus possible for a bristle field or a bristle complement of a brush to be formed in a targeted manner so as to form the shape of at least one bristle bundle in order to be suitable for a specific function, for example.

The properties of the bristle bundle can be specifically modified by deforming said bristle bundle. By deforming a bristle bundle it is possible, for example, for the cleaning effect of the brush to be modified in a targeted manner. The deformation of the at least one bristle bundle can have the effect of reinforcing the bundle or else softening the bundle, for example. A bundle-reinforcing deformation of the bristle bundle can lead to an increase in the abrasiveness of the bristle bundle. The formed bristle bundle can be stiffer in comparison to the non-deformed initial shape of said bristle bundle and thus have a stronger cleaning effect.

When the deformation of the bristle bundle leads to a softening of the bundle, this can contribute toward increasing the sensitivity of the bristle bundle and thus of the entire bristle complement of the brush. In the case of toothbrushes, this increase in sensitivity can contribute toward particularly gentle cleaning of teeth.

Due to the targeted deformation of the bristle bundle it is also possible to increase the cleaning accuracy of the bristle bundle. For example, due to the targeted deformation it is possible for individual bristle filaments to project from a free end of the bristle bundle. These bristle filaments can be particularly suitable for cleaning intermediate spaces between teeth and/or for cleaning so-called tooth fissures, for example.

In one embodiment of the method of the type mentioned at the outset it is provided that at least one bristle bundle, proceeding from a non-deformed initial shape, is permanently formed in such a manner that the bristle bundle at the free bundle end thereof has a cross section which is not rotationally symmetrical.

In one embodiment of the method it is provided that at least two bristle bundles are unified in a common bundle portion, for example in a common bundle end portion. In this way it is possible for a joint bristle bundle which is larger at the end side to be generated from two smaller bristle bundles.

A few large bristle bundles can be generated by unifying a plurality of individual bristle bundles as described in the unification of bundles above.

In another embodiment of the method it is provided that at least one bristle bundle at the free end thereof is divided into at least two mutually separate bristle bundles which can also be referred to as bundle end portions. In this way it is possible for at least two or more smaller bristle bundles to be generated from one bristle bundle.

Where a plurality of large bristle bundles are provided in a basic design of a brush, it is possible for this plurality of large bristle bundles to be in each case divided into a plurality of small bristle bundles, if required. Proceeding from a basic process for producing a basic shape of a brush, it is thus possible to subsequently impart to the brush another design by deforming individual bristle bundles or a plurality of bristle bundles, without having to modify the basic process.

In one embodiment of the method it is provided that bristle filaments of at least one bristle bundle for generating a clearance in the bristle bundle are displaced. This can take place, for example, with the aid of a displacement means. The bristle bundle can be more compliant due to the clearance generated in the bristle bundle. It is also possible for the clearance in the bristle bundle to be used for receiving an active ingredient and/or a cleaning agent, for example toothpaste.

The clearance here can be disposed between a first closed bundle portion which is in particular adjacent to a free end of the bristle bundle and a second closed bundle portion which is in particular adjacent to an end of the bristle bundle that is proximal to the bristle carrier. The clearance can also be generated by way of a closed cross section in the at least one bristle bundle that is defined by the bristle filaments of the bristle bundle.

Due to the preferably subsequent deformation of bristle bundles, it is furthermore possible for said bristle bundles to be formed toward regions which said bristle bundles by virtue of technical limitations in the production of a bristle field, thus when individual bristle bundles are fastened to a bristle carrier or are unified so as to form a bristle carrier, could not occupy.

Due to the subsequent deformation of at least one bristle bundle, it is possible for effective bundle positions in the bristle complement of the brush to be imparted to the bristle bundles, said effective bundle positions to date not having been able to be economically implemented in this way when incorporating the bristle bundle in the bristle field or the bristle complement.

It is to be mentioned at this point that the bristle bundles can be stuffed into the bristle field or the bristle complement of the brushes or may be fastened without anchoring.

It is also possible for a bristle bundle to be formed in such a manner that said bristle bundle has cross sections which in terms of the longitudinal axis of said bristle bundle are axially spaced apart from one another and differ from one another in terms of shape and/or size.

When being deformed, at least one bristle bundle can also be imparted a helical, conical, frustoconical or chalice-shaped design. It is furthermore possible for a bristle bundle to be spread out when being deformed. The bristle bundle can be imparted a fan shape in this way.

In one embodiment of the method it is provided that at least two, preferably helical, bristle bundles are conjointly twisted such that said bristle bundles wrap one another. The bristle bundles here can be conjointly twisted at a mutual spacing or so as to contact one another.

It can be provided in the method that at least one bristle bundle, proceeding from the initial shape, is formed to a desired target shape under the influence of heat and/or with the aid of a shape-imparting tool, for example a shape-imparting bundle pocket. Due to the influence of heat, a molecular structure of the bristle filaments of the bristle bundle can adapt to a shape in which the bristle filaments are held in a deformed manner in the previously mentioned bundle pocket, for example. In a manner similar to that of a stress relief heat treatment, stresses which are present in the individual bristle filaments due to the latter being held in a deformed manner and would actually ensure that the bristle filaments are restored to the initial shape can be relieved by the heat. This stress relief has the consequence that the bristle bundle after cooling permanently maintains its formed design.

In one embodiment of the method it is provided that at least one bristle bundle for supporting another bristle bundle is brought to bear on the other bristle bundle. A bristle bundle supported in such a manner has improved stability and, on account thereof, an improved cleaning effect, when penetrating into the intermediate spaces between teeth and/or tooth fissures between a tooth and the gum.

In one embodiment of the method it is provided that at least two bristle bundles for supporting a third bristle bundle, which can be disposed between the two bristle bundles, are brought to bear on the third bristle bundle. The third bristle bundle, due to the second bristle bundle or optionally also a plurality of bristle bundles, bearing thereon, is imparted improved stability.

In one embodiment of the method it is provided that at least one bristle bundle, in particular at the free bundle end thereof, due to the previously described deformation, is imparted a cross section having an angular and/or polygonal internal geometry and/or an angular and/or polygonal external geometry. Angular and/or polygonal internal geometries and/or external geometries can increase the abrasiveness of the correspondingly formed bristle bundles. In this way, the bristle bundles formed in such a manner are suitable for correspondingly intensive cleaning.

With a view to a gentle cleaning effect it is provided in one embodiment of the method that the at least one bristle bundle, in particular at the free bundle end thereof, is imparted a cross section having a round or circular internal geometry, and/or having a round or circular external geometry.

In order for the object to be achieved, a brush, in particular a toothbrush, of the type mentioned at the outset and which has one or more features of the disclosure directed toward a brush of this type is also provided. In order for the object to be achieved a brush is thus in particular proposed having at least one bristle bundle having at least one bristle filament having a curved and/or kinked profile.

It is furthermore possible for at least one bristle bundle of the brush at the free bundle end thereof to have a cross section which is not rotationally symmetrical.

Brushes of this type can be produced by the method having one or more of the features disclosed herein.

In one embodiment of the brush it is provided that at least two bristle bundles are unified in a common bundle portion. The common bundle portion can in particular be a common bundle end portion at the free end of the mutually unified bristle bundles.

In one embodiment of the brush it is provided that at least one bristle bundle at the free bundle end thereof is divided into at least two mutually separate bundle end portions.

In one embodiment of the brush it is provided that a bristle bundle has a clearance. The clearance can be generated by displacing and/or deforming bristle filaments of the bristle bundle.

In one embodiment of the brush it is provided that a bristle bundle in terms of the longitudinal axis thereof has two bundle cross sections which are axially spaced apart from one another and which differ from one another in terms of shape and/or size.

It is furthermore possible for a bristle bundle to have a helical, conical, frustoconical or chalice-shaped design. It is also possible for at least one bristle bundle of the brush to be spread out and thus be fan shaped.

In one embodiment of the brush it is provided that at least two, preferably in each case helical, bristle bundles are conjointly twisted such that said bristle bundles wrap one another.

The conjointly twisted bristle bundles here can be conjointly twisted at a mutual spacing or be conjointly twisted so as to contact one another.

In one embodiment of the brush it is provided that at least one bristle bundle comprises crimped and/or undulated bristle filaments. It can furthermore be provided that at least one bristle bundle comprises bristle filaments of different thickness and/or bristle filaments from different materials, in particular materials of variable stiffness. It can furthermore be provided that at least one bristle bundle comprises bristle filaments with added grain and/or with an added antibacterial substance.

The cleaning effect of the bristle bundle can be correspondingly adapted by adding grain. An added antibacterial substance in the bristle filaments of the bristle bundle can avoid or at least reduce the formation of a biofilm on the bristle filaments.

At least one bristle bundle at the free bundle end thereof can have a convex or concave end contour. It is furthermore possible for at least one bristle bundle at the free bundle end thereof to be spread out.

At least one bristle bundle for supporting another bristle bundle can bear on the other bristle bundle. The one bristle bundle here, by way of the free bundle end thereof, preferably bears on the other bristle bundle in order for the other bristle bundle to be supported. In another embodiment of the brush it is provided that at least two bristle bundles for supporting a third bristle bundle, which is in particular situated between the two bristle bundles, bear on the third bristle bundle. Here too, the at least two bristle bundles by way of the free bundle ends thereof can bear on the third bristle bundle in order for the third bristle bundle to be supported.

When the brush has at least one bristle bundle, in particular at the free bundle end thereof, having a cross section having an angular and/or polygonal internal geometry and/or having an angular and/or polygonal external geometry, at least this one bristle bundle can have a higher degree of abrasiveness and thus a more intensive cleaning effect.

In one embodiment of the brush it is provided that at least one bristle bundle, in particular at the free bundle end thereof, has a cross section having a round or circular internal geometry and/or having a round or circular external geometry. This bristle bundle, by virtue of the round or circular internal geometry and/or the round or circular external geometry, can have a lower degree of abrasiveness and thus facilitate comparatively gentle cleaning.

The properties of the bristle bundle can furthermore be influenced by using tapered or pointed bristle filaments and/or bristle filaments which in terms of the cross-section are triangular, round, quadrangular, X-shaped, diamond-shaped and/or cruciform.

The bristle filaments can be composed from the materials PA6.12, PA6.10, PA10.10, PA11, PA4.10, PBT, PP, for example, or else from mixtures of said materials (for example PA6.12 with a PBT casing). The bristle filaments can, for example, have filament thicknesses of 2 to 15 mils, and/or be radiused or else unfinished at the end side.

In order for the deformation of at least one bristle bundle to be performed as described above, a device described hereunder for forming bristle bundles of a bristle complement or bristle field of a brush can be used. The device comprises at least one bundle pocket having at least one bundle receptacle, preferably at least two bundle receptacles, configured therein and a heating device. Bristle bundles which have been incorporated into the at least one bundle receptacle can be heated by the heating device. The at least one bundle receptacle is bundle-forming and specified for forming bristle bundles which have been incorporated into the bundle receptacle under the effect of heat discharged by the heating installation to a design which differs to that of said bristle bundles before being incorporated into the bundle receptacles, so as to set the shaping of the bristle bundle incorporated in the bundle receptacle as predefined by the bundle receptacle.

A plurality of bundle receptacles here can be combined in at least one group, wherein a group comprises a number of bundle receptacles which corresponds to a number of bristle bundles of a bristle complement or a bristle field of which the bristle bundles are to be formed by the device. In this way, all of the bristle bundles of the bristle field of a brush can be formed in one operating step, using the device for individualizing the brush.

To this end, the bundle receptacles within one group are expediently disposed like the bristle bundles in the bristle complement of the brush to be processed.

At least one bundle receptacle of the bundle pocket of the device in terms of a longitudinal axis of the bundle receptacles can have at least two cross sections which are axially spaced apart from one another and differ from one another in terms of shape and/or size. A device which permits brushes to be individualized in a diverse manner is achieved in this way.

In one embodiment of the previously described device, a bundle receptacle of the bundle pocket has an introduction duct which opens into at least two ducts of the bundle receptacles that are disposed downstream of the introduction duct. Using such a device, bristle bundles which spread out in the profile thereof can be formed. The downstream ducts of the bundle receptacles can have longitudinal axes which are mutually aligned at a defined angle, in particular at an acute angle. A bristle bundle which has a Y-shaped design can thus be formed, for example.

In one embodiment of the previously described device at least one bundle receptacle of the bundle pocket has a bundle receptacle portion which is defined by the envelope faces of two cones or truncated cones. Longitudinal central axes of the cones or truncated cones here can be congruent. The cones or truncated cones can have different radii. A bristle bundle having a chalice-shaped bundle portion can be generated using such a device.

In one embodiment of the previously described device at least one bundle receptacle of the bundle pocket, in particular proceeding from a cross section of the bundle receptacles, can fan out or spread out in a preferably chalice-shaped and/or conical manner.

In order for bristle bundles which are mutually unified in a bundle portion to be generated, the bundle pocket of the device can have at least two bundle receptacles which open into a common bundle receptacle portion.

In order for bristle bundles which are mutually unified in a bundle portion to be generated, the bundle pocket can, for example, also have at least one bundle receptacle which is specified for receiving at least two bristle bundles and/or which comprises a common bundle receptacle portion for at least two bristle bundles.

In order to facilitate an ideally rapid forming of bristle bundles, the at least one bundle pocket can have at least one heat exchanger element which facilitates a thermal transfer. With the aid of the at least one heat exchanger element of the bundle pocket, the bundle pocket by way of the heating device can more rapidly be brought to the temperature required for forming or deforming the bristle bundles. The at least one heat exchanger element of the bundle pocket can accelerate cooling of the bundle pocket and of a bristle bundle situated therein after a bristle bundle has been successfully formed.

A cooling and/or heating rib and/or a cooling and/or heating fin can serve as a heat exchanger element, for example.

Alternatively or additionally to the at least one heat exchanger element, the bundle pocket can have a surface structure which facilitates a thermal transfer. It is thus possible, for example, for the bundle pocket on the external side thereof to be provided with a surface roughness Ra of 1.6 μm to 50 μm. An external surface of the bundle pocket can be enlarged clue to the surface roughness, this accelerating an absorption of heat when heating the bundle pocket as well as a discharge of heat when cooling the bundle pocket.

For preferably fully automated handling of bristle bundles and/or bundle pockets when using the device, the latter can have at least one bundle gripper and/or at least one bundle pocket gripper. In one embodiment of the device, the at least one bundle gripper as well as the at least one bundle pocket gripper can be movable between an initial position and a processing position.

In order for the introduction of bristle bundles into the at least one bundle pocket of the device to be facilitated, the at least one bundle pocket gripper and/or the at least one bundle gripper, can preferably in each case be assigned a vibrator. The bundle pocket and/or a bristle bundle held by the bundle gripper can be set in vibration with the aid of the at least one vibrator. Due to the vibrations, the bristle filaments of the at least one bristle bundle can more easily slide into the bundle pocket.

In order to be able to heat the bundle pocket uniformly and/or swiftly in order to form or deform bristle bundles, the at least one bundle pocket can have a wall with a constant and preferably ideally thin wall thickness. An inner contour of the bundle pocket here can be adapted to an external contour of the bundle pocket. An external contour of the bundle pocket here can be identical to an internal contour of the bundle pocket.

The introduction of bristle bundles into the bundle pocket is facilitated when the introduction opening of the at least one bundle pocket is provided with an introduction funnel. The bundle pocket can furthermore form or be a monolithic unit which is preferably materially homogenous. A particularly high degree of design freedom in terms of the shaping of the bundle pocket can be achieved when the bundle pocket is 3D-printed. In this way, the bundle pockets can have particularly complex internal structures. Bundle pockets which, for example, have a helical internal structure for receiving a bristle bundle and, by virtue of the shaping of said bundle pockets, impart to a bristle bundle which is disposed therein for deformation or formation a helical target shape are thus conceivable.

Depending on the specific application, it may be advantageous to post-process bristle bundles that have been formed with the aid of the bundle pocket. For this purpose, the at least one bundle pocket of the device can have an exit opening which is preferably disposed in or on a side of the bundle pocket that is opposite the introduction opening of the bundle pocket. Free filament ends of a bristle bundle that is disposed in the bundle pocket can protrude from the bundle pocket at this exit opening and be accessible for post-processing, for example for processing by milling and/or grinding.

The bundle pocket of the device can furthermore be provided with an introduction opening for a bristle bundle and with at least one lateral cut-out. At least one bristle bundle can be introduced into the bundle pocket through the introduction opening of the bundle pocket. A displacement element of the device for profiling a bristle bundle that has been introduced into the bundle pocket and/or generating a clearance within the bristle bundle can be incorporated into the bundle pocket through the lateral cut-out of the bundle pocket.

By means of the bundle pocket, this device is also specified for forming a bristle bundle that has been introduced into the bundle pocket, proceeding from a non-deformed initial shape, to a desired target shape under the influence of heat, the latter discharged by the heating device to the bundle pocket and thus also to the bristle bundle situated therein.

In this way, a device for forming bristle bundles which permits bristle bundles to be individualized and thus ultimately widens the design potential for individualizing brushes which are equipped with the formed bristle bundles is achieved. The device according to the invention moreover also offers the possibility of improving the effectiveness of bristle bundles by imparting a technically effective shape. Depending on the specific application, it is conceivable for bristle bundles to be shaped in the most diverse shapes. It is thus conceivable for particularly aggressively tapered bristle bundles, bristle bundles of which the bristle filaments follow a helical line, or else bristle bundles which at one end thereof have a first cross-sectional shape and at the second end thereof have a second cross-sectional shape while the cross section of the bristle bundles continuously varies in the profile from the first end toward the second end, to be produced.

The shape predefined by the bundle pocket is imparted to the bristle bundle that has been introduced into the bundle pocket of the device. The bristle bundle which has not yet been deformed can thus have a cylindrical or a slightly conical initial shape, for example, before said bristle bundle is introduced into the bundle pocket. Should the bundle pocket, in particular a receptacle of the bundle pocket into which the bristle bundle is introduced, now have a shape which deviates from this initial shape, the bristle bundle in terms of shape or design inevitably adapts to the shape predefined by the bundle pocket when said bristle bundle is introduced into the bundle pocket.

The shape which is predefined by the bundle pocket and which has been assumed by the bristle bundle situated in the bundle pocket can be set by the heat of the heating device that has been discharged by way of the bundle pocket to the at least one bristle bundle situated in the latter. The heat discharged by the heating device has the effect similar to that of a stress relief heat treatment of the bristle bundle held in a deformed manner in the bundle pocket. The bristle filaments of the bristle bundle that are held in a deformed manner by and/or in the bundle pocket can thus correspondingly change their structure under the influence of heat, clue to which the modified shaping of the bristle bundle can ultimately be set.

The displacement element can be introduced into the bundle pocket and hereby between bristle filaments of the at least one bristle bundle situated in the bundle pocket by way of the lateral cut-out of the bundle pocket. Bristle filaments of the bristle bundle are laterally displaced by the displacement element. The bristle bundle situated in the bundle pocket can be provided with a clearance configured within the bristle bundle with the aid of the displacement element. The heat discharged by the heating device herein has the effect that the clearance generated by the displacement element within the bristle bundle is maintained once the bristle bundle has been removed from the bundle pocket. It can be advantageous herein for the displacement element to be left in the displacing position thereof within the bundle pocket, while the bundle pocket and the bristle bundle situated therein are heated by the heating device. The displacement element can be introducible and/or introduced into the bundle pocket in a manner transverse or orthogonal to an introduction direction of a bristle bundle.

Bristle bundles of a particularly complex design which enable a high degree of individualization of brushes equipped with said bristle bundles can thus be generated with the aid of the device for forming bristle bundles.

The bundle pocket can have two mutually opposite lateral cut-outs. The two cut-outs can be disposed on the bundle pocket such that a receptacle space of the bundle pocket into which the at least one bristle bundle can be introduced lies between the two cut-outs. The displacement element of the device can be pushed through the receptacle space of the bundle pocket by way of the one cut-out and exit from the bundle pocket by way of the other cut-out of said bundle pocket. It is thus ensured that the displacement element completely penetrates the bundle pocket, in particular the receptacle space thereof, and due to this generates the desired clearance within the bristle bundle by displacing the bristle filaments of a bristle bundle situated in the bundle pocket.

The at least one cut-out of the bundle pocket can be so large that said cut-out generates a clearance in the bristle bundle that is delimited by a first closed bundle portion which lies between the clearance and a free end of the bristle bundle, on the one hand, and by a second closed bundle portion which lies between the clearance and an end of the bristle bundle that is proximal to the bristle carrier, on the other hand.

The closed bundle portion which is disposed so as to neighbor the free end of the bristle bundle, like the closed bundle portion which is disposed so as to neighbor the end of the bristle bundle that is proximal to the bristle carrier, can have a length which is, for example, 5% of an overall length of the bristle bundle, measured in the direction of longitudinal extent of the bristle filaments of the bristle bundle.

Applied to the bundle pocket, this can mean that a first portion of the bundle pocket that is closed or free of any cut-out and is disposed between the cut-out and the introduction opening of the bundle pocket, and a second portion of the bundle pocket that is closed or free of any cut-out and disposed between the cut-out and an end of the bundle pocket that is disposed opposite the introduction opening of the bundle pocket, have in each case a length of at least 5% of an overall length of the bundle pocket.

In one embodiment of the device the at least one cut-out of the bundle pocket can have a length, measured between the introduction opening of the bundle pocket and an end of the bundle pocket that is disposed so as to be opposite the introduction opening of the bundle pocket, which is between 10% and 90% or 95%, in particular between 50% and 90%, of the overall length of the bundle pocket measured in the same direction.

In order to be able to close the at least one cut-out of the bundle pocket while a bristle bundle is introduced into the bundle pocket, it can be advantageous for the device to have at least one closure element. The closure element of the device can be specified for at least temporarily closing the at least one lateral cut-out of the at least one bundle pocket. By way of the closure element it can be effectively prevented that bristle filaments of a bristle bundle introduced into the bundle pocket are inadvertently pushed out or make their way out of the cut-out of the bundle pocket.

It can be furthermore advantageous for the device to have at least one processing device for processing a bristle bundle, in particular a milling tool and/order grinding tool.

In order to accelerate cooling of the bundle pocket and of a bristle bundle situated therein, the device can furthermore have a cooling device.

In one embodiment of the device, the heating device extends across a region which covers an annular segment with an angular range between 180° and 270°. A cooling device of the device, for example the cooling device already mentioned above, can extend across a region which covers an annular segment with an angular range between 180° and 90°.

In one embodiment of the device the heating device has a heating plate which preferably extends across a region which covers an annular segment with an angular range between 180° and 270°, for example. A cooling device of the device, for example the cooling device already mentioned above, can have a cooling plate which preferably extends across a region which covers an annular segment with an angular range between 180° and 90°, for example.

This type of heating device and cooling device is particularly suitable for use in a brush production machine as will be described in more detail hereunder and has a rotary indexing table by which bundle pockets and bristle bundles situated therein can be transported between different stations of the brush production machine.

In one embodiment of the device it is provided that said device has a bundle spreading device. The bundle spreading device is specified for spreading out, in particular neighboring, bristle bundles before being introduced into the bundle pocket. This can simplify the introduction of the bristle bundles into the bundle pocket. A spacing between two neighboring bundles can be enlarged by spreading the bristle bundles.

The device can furthermore have a moisturizing device for moisturizing and/or steaming the bristle bundles. Bristle filaments of which the bristle bundles are composed can be held together by moisturizing and/or steaming the bristle bundles. The bristle bundles can thus at least temporarily assume a more compact design. This facilitates introducing the bristle bundles into the bundle pocket, in particular into the bundle receptacles of the bundle pocket.

The device can have a controller which is specified for actuating the heating device such that the bristle bundles in the bundle pocket are heated according to defined heat profile curves. The heating device and/or the bundle pocket, here in particular the bundle receptacles, can be specified for heating the bristle bundles by heat conduction by mechanical contacting, by induction and/or convection, preferably by f a temperature-controlled fluid and/or by thermal radiation.

A cooling device of the device, for example the cooling device already mentioned above, can be specified for cooling the bristle bundles by a temperature-controlled fluid, in particular by compressed air and/or by nitrogen. To this end, the cooling device can comprise, for example, a cold-air gun, a vortex tube and/or a cyclone tube.

The bundle pocket can be produced by eroding and/or by 3D-printing and/or by milling and/or from thin layers and/or plates which are subsequently connected to one another.

The bundle receptacles of the bundle pocket can have a surface roughness of at most 6.3 μm. This can facilitate introducing the bristle bundles into the bundle receptacles. The bundle receptacles can furthermore be ground, in particular flow-ground, and/or polished in the push-in direction of the bristle bundles. This can also reduce any resistance when introducing the bristle bundles and facilitate a targeted introduction of the bristle bundles into the bundle receptacles. It is furthermore possible for the bundle receptacles to have a surface coating in order to reduce the surface roughness of said bundle receptacles.

The device can have a suction device by way of which a vacuum can be applied to the bundle pocket, in particular to the bundle receptacles. This can also facilitate introducing the bristle bundles into the bundle pocket, in particular the bundle receptacles. The bristle bundles can be suctioned into the bundle receptacles of the bundle pockets by way of the applied vacuum.

The bundle pocket can be perforated, in particular laterally. This can facilitate a thermal transfer when heating and subsequently cooling the bristle bundles by way of the bundle pocket. Furthermore, the bundle pocket can have at least one flow duct. It is thus possible for a heated and/or a cooled fluid to be directed through the bundle pocket so as to input heat and/or cool the bristle bundles, for example.

The device can further have a discharge device by way of which fluid heated by the heating device, in particular warm air, can be discharged into the environment. When the device, in particular the heating device, is to be operated in a recirculating operation, it can be advantageous for the device, in particular the heating device, to have a closed system, in particular a recirculating air system, in which fluid heated by the heating device, in particular heated air, can circulate. The use of a closed system, for example a recirculating air system, can aid in saving energy when heating the bundle pocket and the bristle bundles situated therein.

In order for a thermal input into the bundle pocket to be monitored, the device can have a controller, for example the controller already mentioned above, and/or a regulator. The device can furthermore have at least one temperature sensor by way of which a temperature of the bundle pocket can be determined. In one preferred embodiment of the device, a plurality of temperature sensors by way of which the temperature of the bundle pocket can be determined at various locations are provided. A more exact distribution of temperature on and/or at least indirectly also in the bundle pocket can be determined using a plurality of temperature sensors.

When a temperature-controlled fluid is to be used for heating the bristle bundle situated in the bundle pocket, it can be expedient for the device to have at least one temperature sensor on the heating device and/or in or on an inflow duct and/or in or on an outflow duct.

All of the temperature sensors mentioned above can be utilized when monitoring the thermal input into the bundle pocket by the control unit and/or the regulator of the device.

In one embodiment of the device, a cross-sectional area of a bundle receptacle can be at least 20% larger than an overall cross-sectional area of individual bristle filaments which are to be introduced into this bundle receptacle. The bundle receptacle is thus oversized in comparison to the bristle bundles, clue to which the bristle bundles can be more easily introduced into the bundle receptacle. In one embodiment of the device, at least part of the heating device is integrated in the bundle pocket of the device. This can facilitate an efficient heating of bristle bundles situated in the bundle pocket.

The device can have a guide for a bundle gripper, for example the bundle gripper already mentioned above, a guide for the at least one displacement device and/or a guide for the at least one closure element of the device already mentioned above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION FO THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described in more detail by means of exemplary embodiments. The invention is however not limited to these exemplary embodiments. Further exemplary embodiments are derived by combining the features of individual claims or a plurality of claims and/or by combining individual features or a plurality of features of the exemplary embodiments.

In the figures:

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a toothbrush having a brush head, configured on which is a bristle field having a plurality of bristle bundles;

FIG. 2 shows the toothbrush shown in FIG. 1 with the brush head removed;

FIGS. 3 to 5 show tabulated data of various shapes for the purpose of visualizing potential bundle geometries to which the bristle filaments in the bristle field of toothbrush from FIGS. 1 and 2 can be formed; and

FIGS. 6 to 8 show three different bristle fields having bristle bundles of which at least individual bristle bundles have geometries from the tabulated data of FIGS. 3 to 5.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1 and 2 show a brush which in its entirety is provided with the reference sign 1 and is configured as a toothbrush.

The brush 1 has a bristle field 2 which comprises a plurality of bristle bundles 3. The bristle field 2 is configured on a bristle carrier 4 which as a brush head can be inserted into a receptacle 5 on a handle 6 of the brush 1.

The bristle field 2 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 shows the bristle bundles 3 still prior to being deformed and thus according to the unmodified initial shape of said bristle bundles 3. The design which such a bristle field 2 can assume after deformation of at least a few of the bristle bundles 3 is shown in an exemplary manner in FIGS. 6 to 8.

By applying the method for producing a brush 1 as has already been described in detail above and is also set forth in the claims, at least one of the bristle bundles 3 of the bristle field 2 is permanently formed in such a manner that at least one bristle filament of the bristle bundle 3 upon deformation has a curved and/or kinked profile.

Additionally or alternatively thereto, at least one bristle bundle 3 at the free bundle end thereof can have a cross section which is not rotationally symmetrical, as displayed by the two external bristle bundles 3A and 3B of the bristle carrier 4 according to FIGS. 1 and 2. The bristle bundle 3 can also be imparted the cross section which is not rotationally symmetrical by deformation.

Due to the deformation of the bristle bundle 3 of the bristle field 2, the bristle bundles 3 of the bristle field 2 that at least in part are not yet deformed can in principle assume each of the shapes shown in the tabulated data of FIGS. 3 to 5.

Each of the shapes shown facilitates the individualization of brushes and herein also has a specific technical effect which can positively influence, for example, the useful properties such as the cleaning effect or scrubbing effects, or else the economy in the production of the brushes.

By resorting to the shapes shown in the tabulated data of FIGS. 3 to 5, a brush 1 in which at least two bristle bundles 3 are unified in a common bundle portion can thus be achieved, for example. A bristle bundle 3 of this type is shown in the illustrations B16 and C16 of FIG. 5, for example. It is furthermore also possible to provide a brush 4 which has at least one bristle bundle 3 which at the free bundle end thereof is divided into at least two mutually separate bundle end portions. A bristle bundle 3 of this type is reproduced in illustrations A18 to C18 of FIG. 5, for example.

It is furthermore possible to provide a brush 1 in which at least one bristle bundle 3 has a clearance as shown in the illustration D18 or else in illustrations A17 to D17 of FIG. 5, for example.

The shape according to illustration D18 shows a clearance 7 in a bristle bundle 3. The clearance 7 here has been generated by displacing and/or deforming bristle filaments of the bristle bundle 3 with the aid of a displacement element, in particular with the aid of a needle-shaped displacement pin.

Many of the embodiments of bristle bundles 3 shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 in terms of a longitudinal axis of the bristle bundle 3 have two bundle cross sections which are axially spaced apart from one another and differ from one another in terms of shape and/or size, thus in the images A19 to H19 of FIG. 5, for example. Bristle bundles 3 which upon deformation thereof in the bristle field 2 of the brush 1 have a helical, conical, frustoconical or chalice-shaped design, or are spread out so as to form a fan, are likewise shown in illustrations A19 to H19 of FIG. 5.

Illustration E18 of FIG. 5 shows a helically wound or coiled bristle bundle 3. Illustration F18 shows three bristle bundles 3 which per se are in each case formed in helical shape and which are moreover conjointly twisted. Bristle bundles 3 having crimped and/or undulated bristle filaments 3 are reproduced in illustrations E16 to J16 of FIG. 5 and in part also in FIGS. 7 and 8. In principle, it is possible for bristle bundles 3 to be composed of bristle filaments which have different thicknesses and/or are composed from different materials, in particular materials with variable stiffness, or elastic materials. Furthermore, bristle filaments with an added grain and/or an added antibacterial substance can be used for the bristle bundles 3.

Illustration I18 of FIG. 5 shows two curved bristle bundles 3 which for supporting a third bristle bundle 3, which is disposed between the two bristle bundles 3, bear on the third bristle bundle 3. The two outer bristle bundles 3 by way of the free bundle ends thereof here contact the third bristle bundle 3.

In order for a brush 1 which has at least one bristle bundle 3 having a cross section which has an angular and/or polygonal internal geometry and/or an angular and/or polygonal external geometry to be generated, the shapes A15 to D15 can be resorted to, for example. Other shapes of FIGS. 3 to 5 also have cross sections which have an angular and/or polygonal internal geometry and/or an angular and/or polygonal external geometry.

In order for a brush 1 which, in particular at the free bundle end thereof, has at least one bristle bundle 1 which has a cross section having a round or circular internal geometry and/or having a round or circular external geometry to be generated, the corresponding shapes in lines 8 to 13 of the tabulated data of shapes from FIG. 4 can be resorted to, for example.

In order for the at least one bristle bundle 3 of the brush 1, proceeding from a non-deformed initial shape, to be permanently formed such that at least one bristle filament of the bristle bundle 3 upon deformation has a curved and/or kinked profile, it can be advantageous for the bristle bundle 3 and the bristle filaments of the bristle bundle 3 first to be brought to a target shape, then to be maintained in the target shape and to simultaneously apply heat. A molecular structure of the bristle bundles 3 held in a deformed manner can be modified according to the target shape by the application of heat such that the bristle bundle 3 remains in the formed target shape after the cooling of the bristle bundle 3.

Tools such as, for example, displacement element and/or preferably heatable bundle pockets can be used for deforming the bristle bundle 3. The bundle pockets can have shape-imparting bundle receptacles which are shaped according to the shapes of bristle bundles 3 shown in FIGS. 3 to 8. The bundle pockets are thus used as forming tools for forming the bristle bundles 3.

Due to the modification of the geometry of the bristle bundles 3, the latter can be imparted advantageous properties which said bristle bundles did not have prior to their deformation. These properties can be grouped according to cleaning effect, design/marketing, and product properties. These groups can in turn be refined as follows:

Cleaning Effect

The stiffness of the bristle bundles 3 can be modified by a targeted deformation of bristle bundles. Specific deformations which will be explained further below here act in a manner

increasing abrasiveness or reinforcing the bundle, respectively; or else

increasing sensitivity or softening the bundle, respectively.

The cleaning effect of the bristle bundle 3 can also be adapted by a targeted deformation. A bristle bundle 3 can be imparted a bundle end that tapers toward a tip, for example, by a targeted deformation of the bristle bundle 3. Individual bristle filaments which form the tip of the bristle bundle here have a projection in relation to the remaining bristle filaments and thus reach locations, for example in intermediate spaces between teeth, in tooth trenches, or else in tooth fissures which said bristle filaments would not be able to reach without deformation.

The geometries that increase the abrasiveness of the bristle bundle 3 from the tabulated data of FIGS. 3 to 5 are shown in the illustrations listed below:

The bristle bundles 3 are imparted a higher degree of abrasiveness and/or a reinforcement of the bundle with the aid of polygon internal geometries and/or external geometries according to shapes A1, C1, E1, J1, A2, B2, C2, D2, F2, G2, H2, I2, J2, A3, B3, C3, D3, E3, G3, J3, C4, E4, G4, A6, H8, I8, J8, A9, B9, D9, E9, F9, H9, I9, J9, A10, B10, G10, H10, C11, E11, H11, E12, A13, A15. Bristle bundles 3 shaped in such a manner may be stiffer than non-deformed bristle bundles 3.

Supporting bundle positions such as according to shape I18, can also contribute toward increased stiffness of the supported bristle bundles 3.

The abrasiveness of a bristle bundle can likewise be increased with the aid of a polygonal milled cut as according to shapes D16, C18 (partially), A20 (partially) and B20 (partially).

Furthermore, the scrubbing properties of the bristle bundles 3 can be influenced by a targeted combination of the bristle filaments from which the bristle bundles 3 are formed. Bristle bundles 3 can thus be formed from bristle filaments which have different filament geometries and/or different material thicknesses and/or are composed of different materials. Furthermore, bristle filaments with added grain, from a stiffer filament material such as PBT or mixtures of the materials already mentioned above and/or with a higher filling ratio (before and/or after the deformation) can be formed.

Shapes which increase sensitivity or mitigate abrasiveness, respectively, from the tabulated data in FIGS. 3 to 5 are shown in the following illustrations:

Softer bristle bundles 3 can be generated with the aid of soft internal geometries and/or external geometries such as the shapes B1, D1, G1, H1, I1, H3, I3, H4, I14, C5, D5, E5, F5, A8, B8, C8, D8, E8, F8, G8, C9, C10, D10, E10, F10, I10, A11, I11, J11, A12, B12, C12, D12, H12, I12, J12, D15.

Bristle bundles 3 are imparted a certain spring elasticity by deformation to one of the geometries of illustrations E16 to J16, E18, F18, A20 (central part) which display helical bristle bundles 3.

Bristle bundles 3 which facilitate gentle cleaning are generated with the aid of a soft milled cut such as according to the shapes: H16, E18, F18, G18, H18, A20 and B20.

A combination of bristle filaments of variable thickness, undulated bristle filaments and/or crimped bristle filaments, or else a lower filling ratio in a bristle bundle 3 can have an effect of increasing sensitivity (cf. to this end shape A19, for example).

The combination of bristle bundle geometries that increase abrasiveness and sensitivity in one bristle field 2 of a brush 1 can have the advantage of mitigating excessive sensitivity or abrasiveness caused by the shape or characteristics of the bristle bundles 3.

A particularity of curved formed or transformed bristle bundles 3 lies in that said bristle bundles 3 can reduce as well as increase abrasiveness, depending on the direction in which said bristle bundles 3 are curved and in which direction scrubbing takes place. Illustrations G18, H18, F19, G19, H19 show examples of shapes which act so as to reduce abrasiveness in one scrubbing direction but act so as to increase abrasiveness in another scrubbing direction.

An increase of abrasiveness as well as sensitivity depending on the scrubbing direction results in the shapes F1, E2, F3, A4, B4, D4, F4, J4, A5, B5, G5, H5, I5, J5, J10, B11, D11, F11, G11, F12, G12. An abrasive external geometry paired with a sensitive internal geometry, as in the shape C15, can ensure a positive scrubbing performance on the external side and on the internal side initiate an effect that polishes surfaces of teeth.

Design/Marketing

Structures such as, for example, flags, logos, letters, symbols and colored profiles in the bristle bundle 3 can be generated in the bristle field 2 by a targeted deformation of bristle bundles 3.

Production Characteristics

A few large bristle bundles 3 can be generated from a plurality of small bristle bundles by way of the deformation of a plurality of bristle bundles 3 and the unification that takes place herein.

A plurality of small bristle bundles 3, which in this instance may also be referred to as sub-bundles, are made by deforming a few large bristle bundles 3 and by the segmentation that takes place herein.

In the so-called anchoring technology in which bristle bundles 3 are stuffed into holes, the bristle bundles 3 can initially be stuffed into the holes of a bristle carrier in a straight manner, thus without assuming an oblique position, and then be curved obliquely according to a desired oblique position. The subsequent deformation can significantly simplify the stuffing procedure and thus the production of the brush.

Due to a deformation that takes place after the fastening of bristle bundles 3, said bristle bundles 3 can be formed toward regions which they would otherwise not reach.

Bundle positions which previously have been difficult or even impossible to achieve by virtue of the rounded finish of bristle bundles, can now be implemented by a subsequent deformation of the bristle bundles 3. A sensitive external geometry paired with an abrasive internal geometry, such as in the shape B15, can externally be gentle on a sensitive gum, on the one hand, and internally nevertheless ensure a satisfactory cleaning effect on the teeth.

Illustrations A16 to D16 when viewed in the plan view would show the identical bundle geometry. This bundle geometry can however be implemented in different ways. The bundle geometry from illustration A16 is formed from one bundle 3, while the bundle geometry from illustration B16 is formed from two bristle bundles 3. The bundle geometry from illustration C16 is formed from four bristle bundles 3. The bundle geometry from illustration D16 has been generated by a so-called contour cut. With the contour cut, free bundle ends can be trimmed in a desired manner in order to generate a contour on the end side on the bristle bundle 3, for example.

Illustrations E16 to J16 also show identical or at least similar bundle geometries which have been implemented in different ways.

The bristle bundles 3 of illustrations F16, G16, H16 and J16, due to the swept or helical design of the bristle filaments thereof, are more sensitive than the bristle bundles 3 of illustrations E16, I16, the bristle filaments thereof having a profile with less curvature. Furthermore, it can be seen in the bundle geometry of illustration G16 that the non-deformed bristle bundle 3 in the initial shape thereof does not have to be round. Such a bristle bundle 3 can be fastened by the anchorless method, for example.

Illustrations A17 to D17 show bristle bundles 3 having an internal geometry that is formed in a straight manner or formed in a helical manner, respectively.

Illustrations B6 to F6 and E17 visualize how bristle bundles 3 with comparatively complex logos and/or a flags can be configured for individualizing brushes 1 in a targeted manner.

Illustrations A18 to C18 visualize the segmentation of a bristle bundle 3 into two bristle bundles 3 (A18), the segmentation of two bristle bundles 3 into three bristle bundles 3 (B18) and the segmentation of a bristle bundle 3 into three bristle bundles 3 (C18). Illustrations D18, G19 and H19 show bristle bundles 3 which with the aid of a clearance 7, which can also be referred to as a recess, achieve a reservoir for receiving a cleaning agent, for example toothpaste.

Illustrations E18 and F18 show a helical or else helix-shaped bristle bundle 3 having a contour cut such that the bristle filaments of the bristle bundle 3 in the completed state form a dome at the tip, thus are convex. Such a helical bristle bundle 3 may stand alone or be conjointly twisted or wrapped with further helical bristle bundles 3.

Illustrations G18 and H18 show bristle bundles 3 which have been formed or transformed so as to be hook-shaped. The bristle bundle 3 of illustration G18 here has been stuffed perpendicularly to the bristle surface and the bristle bundle 3 of illustration H18 stuffed at an angle. This is intended to visualize that the bristle bundles 3 do not necessarily have to be stuffed perpendicularly in order to be transformed.

Illustration A19 shows a bristle bundle 3 which, for example with the aid of displacement units, in particular needle-shaped displacement units, fans out toward the top and thus facilitates particularly sensitive cleaning.

Illustrations C19 to E19 show bristle bundles 3 having various funnel shapes. Illustrations F19 to H19 show that the bristle bundles may also end in a curved manner. It can be seen in illustrations I19 and J19 how a bristle bundle 3 that has been cut in a straight manner is pointed by forming. The bristle filaments due to the deformation of said bristle bundle 3 are curved in such a manner that bristle filaments which are on the inside of the curve project beyond the bristle bundles 3 which are further toward the outside, such that the bristle bundle 3 is imparted a pointed end side.

FIGS. 6 to 8 show exemplary bristle fields 2 in which bristle bundles 3 which have shapes from the tabulated data of FIGS. 3 to 5 are combined with one another.

The invention relates to improvements in the technical field of brush production. Proposed to this end is inter alia a brush 1, in particular a toothbrush, which has at least one bristle bundle 3 which comprises at least one bristle filament having a curved and/or kinked profile.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

1 Brush

2 Bristle field

3 Bristle bundle

3a Bristle bundle

3b Bristle bundle

4 Bristle carrier

5 Receptacle

6 Handle

7 Clearance in 3

Claims

1. A method for producing a brush (1), comprising:

proceeding from a non-deformed initial shape, permanently forming at least one bristle bundle (3) of the brush (1) such that at least one bristle filament of the bristle bundle (3) upon deformation has at least one of a curved or kinked profile.

2. The method as claimed claim 1, further comprising:

fastening the at least one bristle bundle (3) to a bristle carrier (4) of the brush (1), with the at least one bristle filament of the bristle bundle (3) having the permanently deformed at least one of the curved or kinked profile.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one bristle bundle (3), proceeding from the non-deformed initial shape, is permanently formed such that the bristle bundle (3) at a free bundle end thereof has a cross section which is not rotationally symmetrical.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one bristle bundle includes at least two of the bristle bundles (3), and the method further comprises unifying the at least two bristle bundles in a common bundle portion

5. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising dividing the at least one bristle bundle (3) at a free bundle end thereof into at least two mutually separate bundle end portions.

6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one bristle filament comprises bristle filaments, and the method further comprises displacing the bristle filaments of the at least one bristle bundle (3) for generating a clearance (7) in the bristle bundle (3).

7. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising forming the at least one bristle bundle (3) such that said bristle bundle (3) has at least two bundle cross sections which in terms of an longitudinal axis of said bristle bundle (3) are axially spaced apart from one another and differ from one another in terms of at least one of a shape or size.

8. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising imparting the at least one bristle bundle (3) with at least one of a helical shape, a conical shape, a frustoconical shape, a chalice-shape, or a spread-out shape.

9. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising forming at least two of the bristle bundles (3) with a conjointly twisted shape.

10. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising forming the at least one bristle bundle (3) at least one of (a) under the influence of heat or (b) with a shape-imparting tool.

11. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising forming at least one said bristle bundle (3) for supporting another of the bristle bundles (3) such that said bristle bundle (3) bears on the other bristle bundle (3), or forming two of said bristle bundles (3) for supporting a third one of the bristle bundles (3), such that the two bristle bundles bear on the third bristle bundle (3).

12. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising imparting at least one of the bristle bundles (3) with a cross section having at least one of an angular or polygonal internal geometry or an angular or polygonal external geometry.

13. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising imparting at least one of the bristle bundles (3) with a cross section having at least one of a round or circular internal geometry or having a round or circular external geometry.

14. A brush (1), comprising at least one of:

(a) at least one bristle bundle (3) having at least one bristle filament having at least one of a curved or kinked profile, or

(b) at least one bristle bundle (3) which at a free bundle end thereof has a cross section which is not rotationally symmetrical.

15. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle bundle (3) includes two of the bristle bundles that are unified in a common bundle portion, or the at least one bristle bundle (3) at a free bundle end thereof is divided into at least two mutually separate bundle end portions.

16. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle filament includes bristle filaments, and the at least one bristle bundle (3) includes a clearance (7) generated by the bristle filaments of the bristle bundle (3) being at least one of displaced and permanently deformed.

17. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein at least one of (a) the at least one bristle bundle (3) in terms of the longitudinal axis thereof has two bundle cross sections which are axially spaced apart from one another and which differ from one another in terms of at least one of a shape or size, or (b) the at least one bristle bundle (3) has a helical shape, a conical shape, a frustoconical shape, a chalice-shape, or a spread-out shape.

18. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle bundle includes at least two of the bristle bundles, and the at least two bristle bundles (3) are conjointly twisted.

19. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle bundle (3) comprises at least one of (a) crimped bristle filaments, (b) undulated bristle filaments, (c) crimped and undulated bristle filaments, (d) bristle filaments of different material thickness, (e) bristle filaments from different materials, (f) bristle filaments with added grain, bristle filaments with an added antibacterial substance, or (g) bristle filaments with added grain and an added antibacterial substance.

20. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle bundle (3) includes the free bundle end, and the free bundle end has a convex or concave end contour.

21. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle bundle (3) includes a plurality of bristle bundles, and one of the bristle bundles bears on another of the bristle bundles (3) as a support, or two of the bristle bundles (3) bear on a third of the bristle bundles (3) as a support.

22. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle bundle (3) has a cross section having at least one of an angular or polygonal internal geometry or at least one of an angular or polygonal external geometry.

23. The brush (1) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one bristle bundle (3) has a cross section having at least one of a round or circular internal geometry or a round or circular external geometry.