Patent ID: 8663520
Filing Date: 2014-03-04
Classification: A46B,A61C

Abstract:
1. A method for manufacturing interdental cleaners, the method comprising: forming a slug by extruding material in a direction of extrusion, including forming a first slug portion including a first cross-section and a second slug portion including a second cross section different from the first cross-section, the extruded slug defining a midplane substantially parallel to the direction of extrusion; stamping the slug in a direction of stamping that is substantially normal to the direction of extrusion thereby removing material to produce a plurality of cleaner blanks, each cleaner blank including a handle portion and a shaft portion, and oriented along the midplane such that the shaft portions extend substantially perpendicular to the direction of extrusion; and attaching a cleaning member to each shaft portion; wherein the stamping removes material from between adjacent handle portions to define a separation slot and a plurality of connecting tabs.