Abstract:
A toothbrush holder enclosure is provided which includes a three parts: a back plate, a resilient clamp and a front cover. The back plate and front cover form a housing. The clamp part has an inverted “U” shape and is made of a resilient material giving it a springy property. The clamp is shaped to urge two clamp arms towards one another in order for the clamp to grip a toothbrush. Two rollers at the tips of the clamp arms engage a toothbrush head inserted in the clamp as the clamp is spread apart from the clamped position to a deviated state. With the toothbrush inserted, the rollers exert pressure on a neck of the toothbrush to hold the toothbrush fast in place. The rolling engagement action of the rollers permits gripping toothbrushes having heads fitted with rubber sides.

Description:
[0001]    The present application is a continuation in part of PCT/CA2013/050733 filed on Sep. 26, 2013, which claims priority of US application U.S. 61/729,115 filed on Nov. 21, 2012. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    This invention relates to toothbrush enclosures, and in particular to a tidy toothbrush holder apparatus for sanitary storage of a toothbrush. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    There is a growing need for providing a tidy sanitary toothbrush enclosure. One type of toothbrush enclosure provides tidiness by affixing a toothbrush enclosure to a wall. In this regard, a number of attempts have been made for storing conventional toothbrushes. 
         [0004]    WO 1998/35585A1 describes a toothbrush rack generally having three parts: back plate for affixing the rack to a wall, a holder for engaging a toothbrush head from the sides and a shell to provide an enclosure. The toothbrush is secured in the rack by three point retention between fingers of the holder and prevented from rotating by resting on the back plate. Unfortunately such racks are less sanitary than desired because the back plate which touches the toothbrush cannot be readily removed for cleaning. Also more modern toothbrush designs incorporating soft materials tend to get lodged in which requires disassembly of the rack for removal of the toothbrush. 
         [0005]    U.S. Pat. No. 4,396,238 describes a two part enclosure. A box includes: a back plate for mounting to a wall, side panels and a bottom opening into which a toothbrush handle is inserted. A wedge shaped lid is hinged to the side walls such that its center of gravity causes the lid to rest on the box. Unfortunately, increased dexterity is required to feed the toothbrush handle through the bottom opening from the top. Not all toothbrush handles can be accommodated by a single bottom opening design. As above, the toothbrush rests against the box which is not readily removable from the wall for cleaning therefore resulting in a less than sanitary solution. 
         [0006]    U.S. Pat. No. 5,332,107 describes a snap cap enclosure having a back, sides and top walls, a bottom slot and a hinged door. A toothbrush neck is engaged in the slot. While the entire snap cap enclosure is removable from a plate attached to the wall, the toothbrush head can freely touch the inside of the snap cap enclosure requiring very frequent cleaning thereof. Also repeated snap action tends to wear the parts out very fast making this proposal impractical. 
         [0007]    U.S. Pat. No. 3,977,743 describes a similar enclosure as the snap cap above made from a single molded piece lodged in a wall bracket. The enclosure has a back part with a back wall and a slotted bottom wall, a cover part having top, front, side and partial bottom walls and hinge integral to the back and cover part. The slot is shaped to hold a toothbrush by its neck with the partial bottom wall impinging the toothbrush into the slot. While the enclosure can be made large enough for a toothbrush head to be prevented from touching the top, side, back and front walls, the toothbrush bristles rest on the partial bottom wall therefore requiring frequent cleaning. As well, the shaped slot limits compatibility with toothbrush shapes. 
         [0008]    GB 1,061,092 and EP 90 10 3657 describe toothbrush enclosures configured to directly engage the resilient bristles of a toothbrush as a means to retain the toothbrush therein. Unfortunately, such enclosures require cleaning with every use. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0009]    The above shortcomings in the prior art are addressed by employing a three-part toothbrush holder apparatus including as functional parts: a back plate, a resilient clamp and a front cover. The back plate and front cover form a housing, while the back plate, clamp and front cover provide a toothbrush enclosure. The clamp part has a general inverted “U” shape and is preferably made of a resilient material giving it a springy property. The clamp is shaped to urge two gripping arms towards one another in order for the overall clamp to act as retainer. Preferably two rollers at the tips of the gripping arms engage a toothbrush head inserted in the clamp as the clamp is spread apart from a clamped position to a deviated state. With the toothbrush inserted, the rollers exert pressure on the neck of the toothbrush to hold the toothbrush fast in place. The rolling engagement action of the rollers permits retention in the toothbrush enclosure of toothbrushes having heads fitted with rubber sides and enables a much more fluid motion of the toothbrush with respect to the toothbrush holder. Small tabs can be integrated into the clamp, which in combination with the back plate, limit the toothbrush to a single orientation as it is inserted into the enclosure. 
         [0010]    In accordance with some embodiments of the proposed solution, there is provided a toothbrush holder for a toothbrush having a head portion, bristles extending from the head portion, a handle portion and a neck portion between the head portion and the handle portion, the holder comprising: a clamp having two opposing gripping members biased towards each other and having ends with opposed rollers to be separated by insertion of the head portion, wherein the head portion can slide over the rollers until said rollers can hold the neck portion; and a cover body adapted to protect the bristles when the toothbrush is held by the clamp. 
         [0011]    In accordance with other embodiments of the proposed solution, there is provided a toothbrush holder for a toothbrush having a head portion, bristles extending from the head portion, a handle portion and a neck portion between the head portion and the handle portion, the holder comprising: a clamp having two opposing gripping members biased towards each other and having ends with opposed notches flared away from each other to be separated by insertion of the head portion and to guide the head portion to slide in the clamp until said notches hold the neck portion; and a cover body adapted to protect the bristles when the toothbrush is held by the clamp. 
         [0012]    In accordance with further embodiments of the proposed solution, there is provided a toothbrush holder for a toothbrush having a head portion, bristles extending from the head portion, a handle portion and a neck portion between the head portion and the handle portion, the holder comprising: a clamp having two opposing gripping members biased towards each other and having ends with opposed notches flared away from each other to be separated by insertion of the head portion until the clamp can hold the neck portion; at least one tab extending from a portion of at least one of said ends of said gripping members to block insertion of the head portion by engaging said tab, wherein the head can be inserted into the clamp to a side of said tab; and a cover body adapted to protect the bristles when the toothbrush is held by the clamp. 
         [0013]    In accordance with further embodiments of the proposed solution, there is provided a toothbrush holder for a toothbrush having a head portion, bristles extending from the head portion, a handle portion and a neck portion between the head portion and the handle portion, the holder comprising: a clamp having two opposing gripping members biased towards each other and including: opposed ends flared away from each other to be separated by insertion of the head portion until the clamp can hold the neck portion; and shoulders extending from a portion of said ends of said gripping members to block insertion of the head portion by engaging said shoulders until the head can be inserted into the clamp to a side of said shoulders; and a cover body adapted to protect the bristles when the toothbrush is held by the clamp. 
         [0014]    In accordance with yet other embodiments of the proposed solution, there is provided a toothbrush holder for a toothbrush having a head portion, bristles extending from the head portion, a handle portion and a neck portion between the head portion and the handle portion, the holder comprising: a clamp having two opposing gripping members biased towards each other and having ends adapted to be separated by insertion of the head portion until the clamp can hold the neck portion; a cover body adapted to protect the bristles when the toothbrush is held by the clamp; and wherein the clamp provides sides for an enclosure while the cover body provides a front and back of said enclosure for the toothbrush head and bristles. 
         [0015]    In accordance with an aspect of the proposed solution there is provided a toothbrush holder apparatus comprising: a back plate for affixing said toothbrush holder housing to a wall; a clamp configured to engage the back plate, and further configured to provide a gripping force between two opposing arms, each said arm having a corresponding tip, said clamp arms having rollers mounted substantially at the arm tips, said rollers being configured to rollingly engage a toothbrush having a head and a neck by sides of said toothbrush head and further configured to keep said toothbrush from slipping from the grip of said clamp against gravity, and a cover configured to mate with said back plate forming a substantially splash-proof housing, said housing having a bottom toothbrush insertion opening through which said toothbrush head is inserted and pulled out against said gripping force of said clamp. 
         [0016]    In accordance with another aspect of the proposed solution there is provided a toothbrush clamp for preventing toothbrush head contamination, the clamp comprising: a clip configured to provide a gripping force between two opposing gripping members holding said toothbrush in the clip against the normal force of gravity, each gripping member having: a notch positioned and configured to slippingly engage the toothbrush head by a side thereof, both notches forming a channel-like guide for at least one of said toothbrush head and a toothbrush neck to be gripped in the clamp; and a tab extending substantially perpendicular to said channel-like guide such that both tabs form a slit therebetween, said tabs having corresponding tab faces configured to prevent insertion of said toothbrush head in the clamp between said tab faces. 
         [0017]    In accordance with a further aspect of the proposed solution there is provided a toothbrush clamp for preventing toothbrush head contamination, the clamp comprising: a clip configured to provide a gripping force between two opposing gripping members, holding said toothbrush in the clip against the normal force of gravity, each gripping member having: a roller positioned and configured to rollingly engage the toothbrush head by a side thereof, both rollers forming a channel-like guide for at least one of said toothbrush head and a toothbrush neck to be gripped in the clip; and a tab extending substantially perpendicular to said channel-like guide such that both tabs form a slit therebetween, said tabs having corresponding tab faces configured to prevent insertion of said toothbrush head in the clamp between said tab faces. 
         [0018]    In accordance with a further aspect of the proposed solution there is provided a toothbrush clamp for preventing toothbrush head contamination, the clamp comprising: a clip configured to provide a gripping force between two opposing gripping members, holding said toothbrush in the clip against the normal force of gravity, each gripping member having: a distal tip positioned and configured to slippingly engage the toothbrush head by a side thereof, both tips forming a restricted passage for at least one of the toothbrush head and a toothbrush neck to be gripped therebetween; and shoulders extending substantially parallel forming a slit therebetween, said shoulders being configured to prevent insertion of said toothbrush head in the clip between said shoulders. 
         [0019]    In accordance with a further aspect of the proposed solution there is provided a toothbrush holder, the holder comprising: a back plate configured to be fixedly affixed to a substantially vertical surface; and a clip configured for attachment to said back plate, said clip providing a gripping force between at least two gripping members holding the toothbrush in the clip against the normal force of gravity, said clip gripping members forming a restriction element configured to releaseably engage a toothbrush head by a side thereof, said restriction element being configured to grip therein at least one of the toothbrush head and a toothbrush neck, and said clip having a toothbrush orientation guide configured to limit said toothbrush to a preselected orientation. 
         [0020]    In accordance with a further aspect of the proposed solution there is provided a toothbrush holder enclosure, the enclosure comprising: a back plate configured to be fixedly affixed to a substantially vertical surface; a clip configured for attachment to said back plate, said clip providing a gripping force between at least two gripping members holding the toothbrush in the clip against the normal force of gravity, said clip gripping members forming a restriction element configured to releaseably engage a toothbrush head by a side thereof, said restriction element being configured to grip therein at least one of the toothbrush head and a toothbrush neck, and said clip having a toothbrush orientation guide configured to limit said toothbrush to a preselected orientation; and a cover configured to mate with said back plate forming a splash proof enclosure at least for said toothbrush head, said enclosure having a bottom opening through which said toothbrush is inserted and pulled out against said gripping force of said clip. 
         [0021]    In accordance with yet another aspect of the proposed solution there is provided a toothbrush holder clip including grip members having double rollers for gripping a toothbrush therebetween in a selected one of two orientations. 
         [0022]    Without limiting the invention, the above mentioned engagement features for retaining a toothbrush in a toothbrush holder apparatus, in accordance with some embodiments of the proposed solution, provide synergistic advantages derived for example from an improved retention between a toothbrush holder clip having rollers and a toothbrush having rubberized toothbrush head sides. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0023]    The invention will be better understood by way of the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention with reference to the appended drawings, in which: 
           [0024]      FIG. 1A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a toothbrush holder enclosure in accordance with a first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0025]      FIG. 1B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a toothbrush holder enclosure in accordance with the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0026]      FIG. 1C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of a toothbrush holder enclosure in accordance with the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0027]      FIG. 1D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a perspective view of a toothbrush holder enclosure in accordance with the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0028]      FIG. 2A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a back plate in accordance with a first implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0029]      FIG. 2B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the back plate in accordance with the first implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0030]      FIG. 2C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the back plate in accordance with the first implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0031]      FIG. 2D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the back plate in accordance with the first implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0032]      FIG. 2E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a perspective view of the back plate in accordance with the first implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0033]      FIG. 3A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of another back plate in accordance with a second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0034]      FIG. 3B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the back plate in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0035]      FIG. 3C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the back plate in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0036]      FIG. 3D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the back plate in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0037]      FIG. 4A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0038]      FIG. 4B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0039]      FIG. 4C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0040]      FIG. 4D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0041]      FIG. 4E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0042]      FIG. 5A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a toothbrush grip element in accordance with a first implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0043]      FIG. 5B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the first implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0044]      FIG. 5C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the first implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0045]      FIG. 5D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the first implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0046]      FIG. 5E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the first implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0047]      FIG. 5F  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the first implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0048]      FIG. 5G  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the first implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0049]      FIG. 6A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a toothbrush grip element in accordance with a second implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0050]      FIG. 6B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the second implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0051]      FIG. 6C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the second implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0052]      FIG. 6D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the second implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0053]      FIG. 6E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the second implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0054]      FIG. 6F  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the second implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0055]      FIG. 6G  is a schematic diagram illustrating a another bottom perspective view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the second implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0056]      FIG. 7A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with a third implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0057]      FIG. 7B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0058]      FIG. 7C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0059]      FIG. 7D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third implementation of the proposed solution; 
           [0060]      FIG. 8A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a front cover in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0061]      FIG. 8B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the front cover in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0062]      FIG. 8C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the front cover in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0063]      FIG. 8D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the front cover in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0064]      FIG. 9A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a front cover window in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0065]      FIG. 9B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the front cover window in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0066]      FIG. 9C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a left side view of the front cover window in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0067]      FIG. 9D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the front cover window in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0068]      FIG. 9E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a perspective view of the front cover window in accordance with the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0069]      FIG. 10A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of another back plate in accordance with a fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0070]      FIG. 10B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the back plate in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0071]      FIG. 10C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the back plate in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0072]      FIG. 10D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the back plate in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0073]      FIG. 10E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the back plate in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0074]      FIG. 10F  is a schematic diagram illustrating top perspective view of the back plate in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0075]      FIG. 10G  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the back plate in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0076]      FIG. 11A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a toothbrush grip element in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0077]      FIG. 11B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0078]      FIG. 11C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0079]      FIG. 11D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0080]      FIG. 11E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0081]      FIG. 11F  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the toothbrush grip element in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0082]      FIG. 11G  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution; 
           [0083]      FIG. 12A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0084]      FIG. 12B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0085]      FIG. 12C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0086]      FIG. 12D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0087]      FIG. 12E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the back plate and toothbrush grip element combination in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0088]      FIG. 13A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a front cover in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0089]      FIG. 13B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the front cover in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0090]      FIG. 13C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the front cover in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0091]      FIG. 13D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the front cover in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0092]      FIG. 13E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the front cover in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0093]      FIG. 13F  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the front cover in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0094]      FIG. 14A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of a front cover window in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0095]      FIG. 14B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a back view of the front cover window in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0096]      FIG. 14C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of the front cover window in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0097]      FIG. 14D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the front cover window in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; 
           [0098]      FIG. 14E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the front cover window in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution; and 
           [0099]      FIG. 14F  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top perspective view of the front cover window in accordance with the fourth implementation of the first embodiment of the toothbrush holder enclosure of the proposed solution 
           [0100]      FIG. 15A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of another toothbrush holder enclosure in accordance with a second embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0101]      FIG. 15B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the toothbrush holder enclosure in accordance with the second embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0102]      FIG. 16A  is a schematic diagram illustrating a top view of a clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with a third embodiment of a toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0103]      FIG. 16B  is a schematic diagram illustrating a front view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0104]      FIG. 16C  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0105]      FIG. 16D  is a schematic diagram illustrating a right side view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; 
           [0106]      FIG. 16E  is a schematic diagram illustrating a bottom perspective view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution; and 
           [0107]      FIG. 16F  is a schematic diagram illustrating a another bottom perspective view of the clip toothbrush grip element in accordance with the third embodiment of the toothbrush holder of the proposed solution, 
       
    
    
       [0108]    wherein similar features bear similar labels throughout the drawings. References to position qualifiers such as, but not limited to “top” and “bottom”, in the present specification is made solely with reference to the orientation of the drawings as presented in the application and do not imply any absolute spatial orientation. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Toothbrush Holder 
       [0109]      FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D  illustrate a toothbrush holder  100  in accordance with a first embodiment of the proposed solution. 
         [0110]    In accordance with the first embodiment of the proposed solution, the toothbrush holder  100  generally includes a toothbrush holder enclosure  110 , or housing, and a toothbrush clamping member  200 . The housing  110  is configured to protect a toothbrush inserted in the toothbrush holder; preferably the housing  110  is a splash-proof enclosure. An opening  102  is provided at the bottom of the enclosure  110  for passing a toothbrush therethrough. 
         [0111]    In accordance with a first implementation, the toothbrush holder enclosure  110  includes a front cover  112  and a back plate  114 .  FIG. 1B  illustrates the front cover  112  of the enclosure  110 , while  FIGS. 1A, 1C and 1D  illustrate both the front cover  112  and back plate  114 , in a configuration in which the front cover  112  is mated to the back plate  114 . For example, with reference to  FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D  the front cover  112  and the back plate  114  can be configured to snap-fit together. However the front cover  112  and the back plate  114  can be glued together. Preferably, the front cover  112  is removable, for example in order to be cleaned in a dishwasher or any other appropriate means of sanitation compatible with the material from which the front cover  112  is manufactured. Without limiting the invention, as illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 1D  the front cover  112  is further configured to expose the back plate  114  as little as possible, for example to prevent splashing. The bottom of the front cover  112  forms part in defining the enclosure opening  102 . Without limiting the invention,  FIG. 1C  illustrates the front cover  112  and back plate  114  mating at an angle  116  to the vertical; in this first embodiment the back plate  114  having a general wedge shape. Further description of other details of the front cover  112  of this first embodiment are presented hereinbelow with reference to  FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D, and 9E . For clarity, the invention is not limited to a symmetric toothbrush holder enclosure  110 ; symmetric toothbrush holder enclosure  110  implementations are only illustrated for ease of description herein. 
         [0112]    Returning to the back plate  114 ,  FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, and 2E  illustrate a back plate  114  in accordance with a first implementation the first embodiment of the proposed solution. The back plate  114  has a generally flat shape, including a flat middle portion  118 . The back plate  114  is configured to be affixed to a substantially vertical wall, preferably semi-permanently for example on tile with an adhesive or permanently (with reference to  FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10F and 10G ) on wood with fasteners (not shown) such as screws and the like. A disposable toothbrush holder  100  can employ a suction cup fastener. Without limiting the invention,  FIG. 2D  illustrates an oblong central region in the flat middle portion  118  where an adhesive or two sided tape can be applied. 
         [0113]    The back plate  114  of this implementation of the first embodiment has a peripheral edge  121  partially employed in providing the snap-fit with the front cover  112 , wherein the front cover  112  has snap tabs configured to extend around and about the obround peripheral edge part of the back cover reducing back plate  114  exposure even further (not illustrated) than illustrated in  FIGS. 1A, 1C and 1D . For disposable implementations of the proposed solution, the front cover  112  can be glued to the back plate  114  around the obround peripheral rim  121  of the back plate  114 . The bottom of the peripheral edge  121  of the back plate  114  forms part in defining the enclosure opening  102 . The invention is not limited to a discontinuous peripheral edge  121 ,  FIGS. 3A, 3C and 3D  illustrate a wholly ovaloid peripheral edge  121 . 
         [0114]    The back plate  114  is further configured to engage a toothbrush grip element  200  of the toothbrush holder  100 . In accordance with the first implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution, a pair of substantially horizontal support (bottom) tabs  260  extending forward with respect to the toothbrush holder enclosure  110  as illustrated and away from the back plate  114  is provided for the toothbrush grip element  200  to rest thereon. The invention is not limited to a pair of support tabs  260  or to horizontal support tabs  260 . For certainty, the pair of symmetric support tabs  260  is illustrated only for ease of description, a single tab  260  can be sufficient as will be described hereinbelow with reference to the toothbrush grip element  200 . Preferably the back plate  114  has a wedge shape ( 166 ) when viewed from the side as illustrated in  FIG. 2C  which orients the peripheral edge  121  of the back plate  114  at an angle  116  to the middle portion  118  of the back plate  114 , and by extension at an angle  116  to the wall to which the back plate  114  is affixed. As such, the support tabs  260  can be substantially perpendicular to the wall, or substantially perpendicular to a plane of the peripheral mating edge  121  of the back plate  114 . For certainty the peripheral mating edge  121  of the back plate  114  need not lie in a plane, and the support tabs  260  can be angled towards the wall. 
         [0115]    In accordance with a second implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution,  FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D  illustrate a back plate  114  including snap tabs  270  for engaging a front cover  112  in snap-fit and a different configuration for engaging a toothbrush grip element  200 . 
         [0116]    In accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment, the snap-fit between the front cover  112  and the back plate  114  is provided by a short wall  272  extending forward from the back plate  114 , not necessarily continuously, generally around the peripheral edge  121  of the back plate  114 . The wall  272  in this second implementation enables improved snap-fit mating and can be manufactured out of a resilient material, for example a suitable polymer. The wall  272  can be discontinuous with notches  274  (For example illustrated in  FIGS. 10E, 10F and 10G ) between non-bending portions  272  of the wall  272  and bending snap tabs  270  provided in the short wall  272 . The snap-tabs  270  can include hook elements for engaging the front cover  112 . 
         [0117]    It is noted that the toothbrush is inserted in the enclosure opening  102  while the toothbrush is held in by the grip element  200 —some form of alignment between the enclosure opening  102  and the grip element  200  can be beneficial though not necessarily required in every embodiment. In accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment, support and alignment ( 260 ) is provided for the toothbrush grip element  200 . A pair of support tabs  260  is provided, however it is noted that the support tabs  260  are illustrated in  FIGS. 10A and 12A  angled towards each other. Without limiting the invention, the angle between the support tabs  260  can provide a way for the grip element  200  to return to a grip configuration, enhance the grip on the toothbrush, align the grip element  200  or any combination of thereof. 
         [0118]    Another pair of top support tabs  280  is illustrated substantially at the apex of the back plate  114  and configured to provide further support for the grip element  200  and alignment. Without limiting the invention, alignment can be provided by the top tabs  280  being slanted away from each other and/or by a slit  282  therebetween for an appropriately configured grip element  200  extending into the slit  282 , for example a spine  284  on the grip element  200  extending into the slit  282 . 
         [0119]    While not required, left and right snap-tabs  270  extend out beyond the short wall  272  and are illustrated positioned about the bottom support tabs  260 , for example enhancing the strength of the bottom support tabs  260  and/or providing further side alignment for the toothbrush grip element  200 . 
         [0120]    Another optional crown tab  290  is illustrated which enables the use of the back plate  114  and toothbrush grip  200  combination without the front enclosure  112 . The crown tab  290 , either by itself or in combination with the front cover  112  provides an opposing force while the toothbrush is inserted into the toothbrush holder  100 . The crown tab  290  can also counter the material deflection also employed in configuring the snap-tabs  270 . When the crown tab  290  is not present the front cover  112  or the short wall  272  provides the opposing force while the toothbrush is inserted into the toothbrush holder  100 . For certainty the crown tab  290  need not be crown shaped. 
         [0121]    In accordance with the second implementation of the first embodiment of the proposed solution,  FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 4E  illustrate a back plate  114  and toothbrush grip element  200  combination. The grip element  200  cooperates with the back plate  114  via the bottom support tabs  260 , the top support tabs  280  and optionally the crown tab  290 . A pair of grip element tabs  210  rest on the bottom support tabs  260  of the back plate  114 . The illustrated grip element  200  includes a guide  284  cooperating with the slit  282  between the top support tabs  280 , without limiting the invention thereto. As illustrated, the back plate  114  and toothbrush grip element  200  combination can cooperate to enable the retention of a toothbrush without the front cover  112 . 
         [0122]    Preferably the toothbrush grip element  200  is configured to mechanically engage the toothbrush by clamping thereof. In accordance with one way of using the combination, the top support tabs  280  and crown tab  290  securely engage the grip element  200 , for example via snap-hooks or another separable engagement, and the toothbrush is inserted in the grip element  200  against the crown tab  290  (and/or the wall  272  if present) and extracted from the grip element  200  against the support tabs  280 / 260 . In accordance with another way of using the combination, the top support tabs  280  operate as a hook on which the grip element  200  is hung, the grip element  200  being removed from the back plate  114  during insertion and extraction of the toothbrush therefrom and replaced thereafter. References to a “cover body” herein are intended to include the toothbrush holder enclosure  110  as a whole. 
         [0123]    For certainty the toothbrush grip element  200  engages the toothbrush, at least the toothbrush head, and is preferably removable from the enclosure for sanitation. For certainty, the invention is not limited to employing a removable toothbrush grip element  200 , in a disposable toothbrush holder  100  the toothbrush grip element  200  may not be removable. Disposable toothbrush holders  100  may be used in the hotel industry or in a hospital setting. 
         [0124]      FIG. 4C  best illustrates the angled portion ( 116 ) of the back plate  114 , in combination with the grip element  200 , the angled portion ( 116 ) of the back plate  114  can serve to urge the grip element  200  toward the wall when a front cover  112  is not employed and/or account for toothbrushes having handles curved towards to wall when inserted to prevent the toothbrush handle from urging the toothbrush grip element  200  (and the toothbrush holder  100  as a whole) away from the wall. 
         [0125]    Used with a front cover  112 , the combination of the back plate  114  and grip element  200  is configured to substantially align the travel path of the toothbrush with the enclosure opening  102 .  FIG. 4B  best illustrates ends  204  of the grip element  200  aligned with the bottom peripheral edge  121  of the back plate  114 . 
       Clip 
       [0126]      FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F and 5G  illustrate a first implementation of the toothbrush grip element  200  in accordance with the first embodiment of the proposed solution. 
         [0127]    The toothbrush grip element  200  includes a clip ( 200 ) and optionally alignment elements  210 / 284  for example as described above. For certainty, the spine  284  is present only in some implementations. As described hereinabove, the presence of the spine  284  does not imply use as the top support tabs  280  are optional. For the reminder of the description references to a “clip” include the toothbrush grip element  200 . 
         [0128]    The clip  200  includes two opposing grip members  202 , biased towards each other, cooperating to engage at least the tooth brush head. The clip  200  is configured to grip at least one of the toothbrush head and a toothbrush neck to hold the toothbrush in the toothbrush holder  100 . The grip members  202  can be biased against each other being manufactured from a resilient material, for example an elastic material not limited to polymers. A metal clip  200  could also provide the necessary resilient grip. Form a manufacturing perspective, polymers can be injection molded into the form of the clip  200 . The invention is not limited to a manufacturing technique. 
         [0129]    In some embodiments the toothbrush is held in the toothbrush holder against the normal force of gravity. 
         [0130]    The grip members  202  are separated by the insertion, and conversely by the extraction, of the head portion of the toothbrush. 
         [0131]    Preferably the engagement area between the toothbrush as a whole and the toothbrush holder  100  as a whole is minimized. Preferably engagement is reduced to grip members&#39;  202  ends  204 . 
         [0132]    With reference to the first clip implementation, chiefly illustrated in  FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F and 5G , grip member ends  204  employ rollers  206 . Each roller  206  is configured to journal around a corresponding pivot providing rolling mechanical engagement between the clip  200  and the toothbrush. The head portion of the toothbrush can slide over the rollers  206  until the toothbrush snaps into grip. In some implementations the toothbrush snaps into grip when the rollers  206  engage the neck portion of the toothbrush. 
         [0133]    For certainty, the invention is not limited to both grip members  202  being resilient. A single resilient grip member  202  impinging against a stiff grip member ( 202 ) would work. 
         [0134]    Preferably the rollers  206  form a channel-like guide  208  for the toothbrush head and/or neck. For example the rollers  206  can include a circumferential notch  212  defining the channel-like guide  208  therebetween. 
         [0135]    The circumferential notches  212  (either singly or in combination) present a concave depression at the bottom of the toothbrush holder  100  to the toothbrush head leading into the channel-like guide  208  between the gripping members  202 . 
         [0136]    Preferably the clip  200  includes a pair of clip tabs  210  extending from said ends  204  generally away from the clip ends  204  in a desired orientation of the bristles of the toothbrush.  FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G  (and  6 A,  6 B,  6 C,  6 D,  6 E,  6 F,  6 G) illustrate clip tabs  210  extending towards the back of the toothbrush holder  100  for inserting a toothbrush in with the bristles towards the wall. The clip tabs  210  form a slit  214  between them. The slit  214  allows the bristles to pass between the tabs  210 . 
         [0137]    In accordance with the proposed solution, the clip tabs  210  are configured to prevent the toothbrush head from being inserted into the clip  200  while the toothbrush head can be inserted between the clip rollers  206  forcing a particular orientation of the toothbrush. While  FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G  (and  6 A,  6 B,  6 C,  6 D,  6 E,  6 F,  6 G) illustrate clip tabs  210  generally perpendicular to the direction of travel of the toothbrush head into the clip  200 , the invention is not limited to blocking toothbrush travel. Alternatively, the clip tabs  210  can be configured to present a convex overall surface to the incoming toothbrush head deflecting the toothbrush head away. As well the clip tabs  210  can be in the same plane angled away or askew ( FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11E and 11F ) with respect to the direction of travel of the toothbrush head to provide deflection. 
         [0138]    For certainty, the invention is not limited to the use of two rollers  206 . More than two rollers  206  can be employed (not shown) which need not engage the neck of the toothbrush. A single roller  206  impinging against the other grip member  202  would also work. Employing rollers  206  enables use of toothbrushes with rubberized head sides. 
         [0139]      FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F and 6G  illustrate a second implementation of the toothbrush grip element  200  in accordance with the first embodiment of the proposed solution. For brevity description of structures and elements similar to the first toothbrush grip element  200  implementation is not repeated. The second clip  200  implementation does not employ rollers ( 206 ) per se, instead grip member ends  204  include opposing notches  212  defining the channel-like guide  208  between them. The notches  212  are configured to engage at least the toothbrush head via sliding mechanical engagement. The notches  212  are further flared away from each other presenting to an incoming toothbrush head a concave depression leading into the channel-like guide  208 . Similar variations can be employed as with rollers  206 , variations in the number of notches  212  and material resilience of the grip members  202 . 
         [0140]    Best illustrated in  FIGS. 5F, 5C, 5D, 6C, 6D and 6G  are tab  210  tips which extend beyond the toothbrush bristles, in combination with the notches  212 , to space the bristles away from the back plate  114 . 
         [0141]    The invention is not limited to spacing the bristles away from the back plate  114  via tab  210  tips.  FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F, 5G, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, 6E, 6F and 6G  illustrate a clip  200  body deflected and extending towards the back plate  114  in the direction of the bristles to space the bristles away from the back plate  114 . 
         [0142]    For certainty the invention is not limited to the use of clip tabs  210  to orient the toothbrush in the toothbrush holder  100 .  FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D  illustrate a third implementation of the toothbrush grip element  200  in accordance with the first embodiment of the proposed solution. For brevity description of structures and elements similar to the first toothbrush grip element  200  implementation is not repeated. 
         [0143]    Toothbrush orientation is provided via a pair of shoulders  216 . The grip members  202  are shaped to flare away at the ends  204  presenting the concave depression to the incoming toothbrush head while the shoulders  216  are configured to provide a restricted passage allowing only the bristles to pass therebetween. The shoulders  216  can be flared also but with a tighter radius or even present edges to the incoming toothbrush head while defining a slit ( 214 ) therebetween for the bristles to pass through and forcing a toothbrush orientation with respect to the clip  200 . The shoulders  216  can include an edge extending substantially parallel to the grip members  202  defining the channel-like guide  208  and/or include another edge extending substantially perpendicular to the grip members  202  defining the slit  214 . For spacing the bristles away from the back plate  114 , shoulders  216  extend towards the back plate  114  more than the length of the bristles. 
         [0144]    Notably in this implementation the spine alignment element  284  is replaced by two bumps  284  configured to engage corresponding openings (not shown) in the back plate  114 . The back plate  114  would also not require bottom support tabs  260 . 
       Front Cover 
       [0145]    Returning to the description of the front cover  112 , the front cover is not necessarily a single piece.  FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D  illustrate a first front cover element  120  generally but not necessarily opaque configured to engage the back plate  114  via an adhesive. Preferably the cover  112 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 13B, 13D, 13E and 13F , engage the back plate  114  via a snap-fit engagement  270  as described herein above. 
         [0146]    Preferably the front cover  112  includes flared sides  103  best illustrated in  FIGS. 1B, 1C, 1D, 8B, 8C and 8D  providing further guidance for the insertion of the toothbrush head into the toothbrush holder  100 . 
         [0147]    The front cover  112  can be provided with a window  130  into the toothbrush holder enclosure  110 .  FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D and 9E  illustrate a second front cover element  130 , a window. For example the front cover window  130  can be tear drop shaped and can have features of shape and configuration adapted for snap-fit into the first front cover element  120 . 
       Preferred Embodiment 
       [0148]    In accordance with a fourth implementation of the first embodiment on the proposed solution  FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E, 10F and 10G  illustrate a reusable sanitary back plate  114 . Features in common with the back plate  114  illustrated in  FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D  are not repeated. 
         [0149]    The back plate  114  has an overall ovaloid shape with an interrupted peripheral wall  272 . Via material choice, for example a polymer, and/or material thickness freely extending snap tabs  270  can be configured to provide more bending than the peripheral wall  272  in engaging the front cover  112 . The peripheral wall  272  can be configured to provide improved rigidity in engaging the front cover  112 , whereas the snap tabs  270  act to pull the front cover  112  shut towards the back plate  114 . 
         [0150]    As illustrated in  FIG. 10B  an obround region  118  for affixing a double sided tape or an adhesive is provided on the back surface of the back plate  114 , as well a reinforced opening is provided, as best illustrated in  FIGS. 10A, 10B, 10F and 10G , for receiving and engaging a fastener or a suction cup (not shown) for secure engagement with a bathroom wall. 
         [0151]    In accordance with the fourth implementation, the support tabs  270  are reinforced. The bottom support tabs  260  are integral with the peripheral wall  272  as best observable in  FIGS. 10A, 10F and 10G . As best illustrated in  FIGS. 10A, 10D and 10G  the top support tabs  280  are reinforced via spines. 
         [0152]      FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F and 11G  illustrate a reusable sanitary toothbrush grip element  200  or clamp  200 . Features in common with the clamp  200  illustrated in  FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F and 5G  are not repeated. 
         [0153]    The clamp  200  employs a pair of toothbrush grip element tabs  210  reinforced by corresponding spines best illustrated in  FIGS. 11B, 11E and 11F . It is noted that the clamp tabs  210  are not in the same plane as illustrated in  FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11E and 11F . 
         [0154]      FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, and 12E  illustrate an assembled reusable sanitary toothbrush grip element  200  and back plate  114  combination. Features in common with the combination illustrated in  FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 4E  are not repeated. 
         [0155]      FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E and 13F  illustrate a reusable sanitary front cover  112 / 120 . Features in common with the front cover  120  illustrated in  FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D  are not repeated. 
         [0156]    The front cover  120  lacks flared lateral walls ( FIGS. 13A, 13B and 13E ) while a reinforcing bridge  140  is provided between the two sides forming the window ( 130 ). The bridge  140  best illustrated in  FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C and 13F  can also be configured to participate in securing the window  130  as will be described herein below. A number of reinforcing spines are visible in  FIGS. 13B and 13E  providing improved rigidity around the bottom opening of the housing  110 . Snap fit openings  170  for mechanically engaging the snap fit tabs  270  of the back plate  114  are best illustrated in  FIGS. 13B, 13D, 13E and 13F . The snap fit tabs  270  are guided by channels  172  best illustrated in  FIGS. 13B, 13E and 13F . 
         [0157]      FIGS. 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E and 14F  illustrate a reusable sanitary front cover window  130 . Features in common with the front cover window  130  illustrated in  FIGS. 9A, 9B, 9C, 9D and 9E  are not repeated. 
         [0158]    Notably the window  130  employs a bottom hook  132  for engaging the bridge  140  and a top snap fit bump  134  for engaging to top of the front cover  120 . Both hook  132  and bump  134  act to releasably retain the window  130  in snap fit engagement with the front cover  120 . 
       Integral Toothbrush Holder 
       [0159]    In accordance with a second embodiment of the proposed solution, an integral toothbrush holder enclosure  110  is illustrated in  FIGS. 15A and 15B . The toothbrush holder  100  includes a generally flat back plate  114  configured to be affixed to a wall. 
         [0160]    The front cover  120  can be integral with, mountable to, fixedly adhered to, etc. the back plate  114  generally having a “U” shaped cross-section. Opposing resilient grip members  202  of a clip  200  form the side walls of the toothbrush holder enclosure  110 . 
         [0161]    Preferably the grip members  202  have flared ends ( 103 )  204  to guide the toothbrush into the toothbrush housing enclosure  110 . 
         [0162]    Preferably a suction cup fastener or a suitable removable fastener is provided, the toothbrush holder enclosure  110  being adapted for travel. 
       Double Rollers 
       [0163]    In accordance with a third embodiment of the proposed solution, another toothbrush holder clip  200  is illustrated in  FIGS. 16A, 16B, 16C, 16D, 16E and 16F . The toothbrush holder clip  200  includes double rollers  206  configured to permit a toothbrush to be inserted into the toothbrush holder clip  200 , and therefore by extension in a toothbrush holder enclosure  110 , in either of two orientations: with the bristles facing forward or with the bristles facing away. While clip tabs ( 210 ) such as shown in  FIGS. 5C, 5D, 5E, 5F and 5G  are not employed, the second pair of rollers  206  spaces the bristles, and therefore the toothbrush head, from coming in contact with structures, surfaces, objects, etc. external to the toothbrush holder clip  200  in either orientation. Opposing resilient grip members  202  of the clip  200  can form the side walls of a corresponding toothbrush holder enclosure  110 . In some implementations the toothbrush enclosure  110  is configured to better cooperate with a toothbrush having a specific shape to reduce toothbrush positional play within the toothbrush holder clip  200 . The illustrated toothbrush holder clip  200  is illustrated to have an “A” shape which can provide reduction in toothbrush positional play therein. Other details of an optional back plate ( 114 ) and an optional front cover ( 112 ), for example as mentioned hereinabove, are omitted for brevity. 
         [0164]    While the invention has been shown and described with referenced to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.