U.S. patent application number 10/082503 was filed with the patent office on 2002-06-27 for electric toothbrush.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Procter & Gamble Company.. Invention is credited to Blaustein, Lawrence A., Gall, Douglas A., Nottingham, John R., Osher, John, Spirk, John W..
Application Number | 20020078514 10/082503 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23510237 |
Filed Date | 2002-06-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020078514 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Blaustein, Lawrence A. ; et
al. |
June 27, 2002 |
Electric toothbrush
Abstract
An electric toothbrush comprising an elongated body portion and
a head including a static portion and a circular portion, a handle,
and an angled shaft between the head and the handle. The circular
portion rotates or reciprocates about an axis normal to a
longitudinal axis of the head. The circular portion includes stiff
bristles and the static portion includes soft bristles. The
elongated body portion is hollow and further includes a motor in
the hollow portion, which is operatively connected to the circular
portion for rotating or oscillating or reciprocating the circular
portion. A battery is located within the hollow section for
powering the motor. A switch is operatively connected to the motor
to provide momentary and continuous operation of the toothbrush. A
worm gear and a pair of step gears are located in the hollow
portion. The motor is operatively connected to the worm gear and
the step gears are operatively connected to the worm gear and to
each other. One of the step gears is offset with respect to a
longitudinal axis of the elongated body portion. A shaft which is
operatively connected to the offset step gear and to a second end
to the circular portion. Alternately, the toothbrush comprises a
plurality of gears and swivel arms which move the brush head moving
portion in a rotating, oscillating or reciprocating manner.
Inventors: |
Blaustein, Lawrence A.;
(Moreland Hills, OH) ; Nottingham, John R.;
(Hunting Valley, OH) ; Osher, John; (Moreland
Hills, OH) ; Spirk, John W.; (Gates Mills, OH)
; Gall, Douglas A.; (Westlake, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FAY, SHARPE, FAGAN, MINNICH & McKEE, LLP
Seventh Floor
1100 Superior Avenue
Cleveland
OH
44114-2518
US
|
Assignee: |
The Procter & Gamble
Company.
|
Family ID: |
23510237 |
Appl. No.: |
10/082503 |
Filed: |
February 25, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10082503 |
Feb 25, 2002 |
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09766703 |
Jan 22, 2001 |
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6360395 |
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09766703 |
Jan 22, 2001 |
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09382745 |
Aug 25, 1999 |
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6178579 |
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09382745 |
Aug 25, 1999 |
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09236794 |
Jan 25, 1999 |
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6189693 |
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09236794 |
Jan 25, 1999 |
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09163621 |
Sep 30, 1998 |
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6000083 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
15/22.1 ;
15/28 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 17/3436 20130101;
A61C 17/349 20130101; A61C 2204/002 20130101; A61C 17/22 20130101;
A61C 17/34 20130101; B29L 2031/425 20130101; A61C 17/26
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/22.1 ;
15/28 |
International
Class: |
A61C 017/34; A61C
017/22 |
Claims
Having thus described the invention, it is claimed:
1. An electric toothbrush comprising: an elongated body portion
having opposed first and second ends, a hollow portion and a
longitudinal axis; a head attached to said first end; a motor
located within said hollow portion of said elongated body portion;
a plurality of gears located in said hollow portion, wherein said
motor is operatively connected to one of said gears; at least one
swivel arm, said at least one swivel arm being pivotably connected
to one of said gears; and a shaft operatively connected to said at
least one swivel arm at a shaft first end.
2. The electric toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said plurality of
gears comprises a first gear and a second gear, wherein said motor
is connected to said first gear, said first gear is connected to
said second gear.
3. The electric toothbrush of claim 1 further comprising a handle
located adjacent said second end of said elongated body
portion.
4. The electric toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said shaft moves in a
back and forth manner along said longitudinal axis of said
elongated body portion.
5. The electric toothbrush of claim 1 further comprising a head
which has a traditional brush head shape having dimensions of .75
inches to 1.75 inches in length and .25 inches to .50 inches in
thickness.
6. The electric toothbrush of claim 1 further comprising a switch
which is operably connected to said motor, said switch is depressed
to provide momentary operation of said toothbrush and is depressed
and slid in a slot in said elongated body portion to provide
continuous operation of said toothbrush.
7. The electric toothbrush of claim 1 further including a battery
located within said hollow portion for powering said motor.
8. The electric toothbrush of claim 1 wherein said at least one
swivel arm comprises a first swivel arm, a second swivel arm and a
third swivel arm, wherein said first swivel arm is operatively
connected to one of said gears, said second swivel arm is pivotably
connected to said first swivel arm and to said shaft first end, and
wherein said third swivel arm is operatively connected to a second
end of said shaft.
9. The electric toothbrush of claim 2 wherein said first gear
rotates about said longitudinal axis and said second gear rotates
about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis.
10. The electric toothbrush of claim 3 further comprising an angled
shaft located between said head and said handle, wherein said shaft
is located within said angled shaft.
11. The electric toothbrush of claim 8 wherein said swivel arms
move in a back and forth manner along said longitudinal axis of
said elongated body portion.
12. The electric toothbrush of claim 8 wherein said head further
comprises a moving portion and a static portion, said moving
portion and said static portion are located adjacent each
other.
13. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said moving portion
is located adjacent a first end of said head and said static
portion is located adjacent a second end of said head.
14. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said static portion
is located adjacent a first end of said head and said moving
portion is located adjacent a second end of said head.
15. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said moving portion
is located at a center of said head and said static portion is
located on opposite sides of said head.
16. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said third swivel
arm is pivotably connected to said moving portion.
17. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said moving portion
further comprises a disk which is connected to said third swivel
arm.
18. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said moving portion
rotates about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis of said
elongated body portion.
19. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said moving portion
oscillates about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis of said
elongated body portion.
20. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein said moving portion
moves in a back and forth manner along said longitudinal axis of
said elongated body portion.
21. The electric toothbrush of claim 12 wherein the moving portion
includes stiff bristles and the static portion includes soft
bristles.
22. The electric toothbrush of claim 21 wherein the stiff bristles
are recessed with respect to the soft bristles.
23. An electric toothbrush comprising: an elongated body portion
having opposed first and second ends, a hollow portion and a
longitudinal axis; a head attached to said first end; a motor
located within said hollow portion of said elongated body portion;
a first gear and a second gear located in said hollow portion,
wherein said motor is operatively connected to said first gear,
said first gear is connected to said second gear; first, second and
third swivel arms, wherein said first swivel arm is connected to
said first gear, said second swivel arm is pivotably connected to
said first swivel arm; a shaft operatively connected to said second
swivel arm at a shaft first end and operatively connected to said
third swivel arm at a shaft second end; wherein said head further
comprises a moving portion, wherein said third swivel arm is
connected to said moving portion.
24. The electric toothbrush of claim 23 wherein said moving portion
rotates about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis.
25. The electric toothbrush of claim 23 wherein said moving portion
oscillates about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis.
26. The electric toothbrush of claim 23 wherein said moving portion
moves in a back and forth manner along said longitudinal axis.
27. The electric toothbrush of claim 23 wherein said first gear
rotates about said longitudinal axis and said second gear rotates
about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 09/236,794, filed Jan. 25, 1999 which is a
continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 09/163,621, filed on
Sep. 30, 1998.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to electric
toothbrushes. More particularly, it relates to an improved battery
powered toothbrush.
[0003] The benefits of brushing one's teeth using motorized
toothbrushes are well known, and motorized movement in toothbrushes
has been the subject of much recent innovation and design activity.
Also, the commercial market has seen the introduction, over the
last several years, of many different types of motorized
toothbrushes. However, an examination of the available technology
shows a tendency toward increasingly complex, expensive, and
non-commercially feasible methods of achieving motorized motions in
the bristles and heads of toothbrushes to aid in more effectively
cleaning one's teeth.
[0004] The commercial marketplace has become divided into two price
markets. On the higher priced end are some of these more complex
motorized toothbrushes that provide various motions to the bristles
and brush head. The lower end of the market has become the province
of very simple motorized toothbrushes that only vibrate through the
use of an offset weight attached to the motor shaft, and which
provide very little true additional cleaning benefit with their
use, since no vigorous motion is transmitted to the cleaning
surface of the brush. The vibrations are also very uncomfortable to
the hand and act as a disincentive to brush one's teeth for an
adequate time.
[0005] Numerous electric toothbrushes have been developed over the
years. Some known devices are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,070,567;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,186,627; U.S. Pat. No. 5,274,870; U.S. Pat. No.
5,341,534; U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,153; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,732,433.
The intention of the present invention is to provide a low cost,
effective, ergonomically correct, motorized toothbrush wherein the
brush includes both a moving circular brush portion and a fixed
brush portion. Accordingly it has been considered desirable to
develop a new and improved electric toothbrush which would overcome
the foregoing difficulties and others while providing better and
more advantageous overall results.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention relates to an electric toothbrush.
[0007] More specifically, the electric toothbrush is used in
personal hygiene to clean one's teeth and gums using a motorized
movement.
[0008] In a first preferred embodiment, the electric toothbrush
includes an elongated body portion, a brush head attached to a
first end of the elongated body portion, a handle attached to a
second end of the elongated body portion, and an angled shaft
between the brush head and the handle.
[0009] The brush head includes a longitudinal axis, a circular or
moving portion and a static portion. The circular portion rotates,
swivels, gyrates, oscillates or reciprocates about an axis normal
to the longitudinal axis of the brush head and is incorporated into
the larger brush head. The static portion includes static bristles
located on opposite sides of the circular portion. The stiff
bristles of the circular portion can be slightly recessed in height
from the static bristles. This particular arrangement allows for
the circular portion to include stiff bristles which will aid in
the deep cleaning and plaque removal process, while the stationary
bristles would typically consist of softer bristles, so as not to
damage the gums.
[0010] The brush head has a more traditional larger brush head
shape which permits the user to brush his teeth in the typical
manner of an up and down fashion, while a motorized moving portion
of the brush head cleans more effectively. The design of the brush
head allows for inexpensive manufacture and brings effective
motorized toothbrushes within the financial reach of a larger
portion of the population.
[0011] The angled shaft provides an ergonomic benefit that has not
been utilized on a motorized toothbrush. The angle is well known
for its ergonomic benefit in permitting easier access into the back
recesses of the mouth while still contacting the tooth surface.
[0012] The elongated body portion includes a hollow portion. The
toothbrush is further comprised of a motor within the hollow
portion of the elongated body portion. The motor is operably
connected to the moving portion of the brush head for rotating,
oscillating or reciprocating the movable bristles on the head. The
motor has a longitudinal axis which is coaxial with a longitudinal
axis of the elongated body portion.
[0013] The hollow portion further includes a simplified gear
assembly. The gearing may comprise any of several embodiments. In
one embodiment, the gear assembly includes a worm gear, two step
gears and a shaft. The motor is operatively connected to the worm
gear. The step gears are operatively connected to the worm gear and
to each other. The gear assembly delivers sufficient torque and
speed, while preserving battery longevity. The first step gear
permits a second matching step gear to be offset with respect to a
longitudinal axis of the elongated body portion and placed at the
desired angle so that the shaft itself can still be straight, thus
losing no power or torque through the added friction of a flexible
shaft. The shaft is operatively connected at a first end to the
offset step gear and at a second end to the moving portion of the
brush head.
[0014] The body further includes a switch to allow operation of the
unit. The switch includes an actuator button and a metal contact.
The switch is manually depressed by pressing a molded actuator
button down, which presses against a metal contact, completing the
circuit, as in a conventional momentary switch. The switch allows
continuous operation, through a ramp design, by depressing and
sliding the actuator button forward as in a conventional continuous
switch. The forward motion, combined with the molded in ramp,
causes the actuator button to move downward, pressing against the
metal contact, and completing the circuit. By combining these two
functions in one switch, the consumer can try the unit and see its
operation prior to purchase, and still operate it continuously once
out of the package.
[0015] The electric toothbrush can further include a battery
located within the hollow portion of the elongated body portion. A
slidable, snap-on cover is depressed then released from the end of
the handle and opens to expose the hollow portion. The battery is
then inserted and then the cover is slid into position and snapped
into place.
[0016] In a second preferred embodiment, the electric toothbrush
includes an elongated body portion, a brush head attached to a
first end of the elongated body portion, a handle attached to a
second end of the elongated body portion, and an angled shaft
between the brush head and the handle.
[0017] The brush head includes a longitudinal axis, a circular or
moving portion, a static portion, a first end and a second end. The
first end of the head is located adjacent the first end of the
elongated body portion, and the second end is located opposite the
first end. The static portion is located at the first end or second
end of the head. The circular portion is then located at the
opposite end of the head. The moving portion can rotate, swivel,
gyrate, oscillate or reciprocate about an axis approximately normal
to the longitudinal axis of the brush head and is incorporated into
the larger brush head. The circular portion is preferably located
at the second end of the brush head to facilitate easier access and
cleaning of the back of the user's mouth. The static bristles are
located adjacent the circular portion. This particular arrangement
allows for the circular portion to include stiff bristles which
will aid in the deep cleaning and plaque removal process further in
the back of the user's mouth, while the stationary bristles would
typically consist of a softer bristle, so as not to damage the
gums.
[0018] In a third preferred embodiment, the electric toothbrush
includes an elongated body portion having opposed first and second
ends, a hollow portion and a longitudinal axis, and a head attached
to the first end of the elongated body portion. A handle is
attached to the second end of the elongated body portion.
[0019] An angled shaft is located between the head and the handle.
The toothbrush further includes a motor located within the hollow
portion of the elongated body portion.
[0020] A plurality of gears are located in the hollow portion. The
plurality of gears comprises a first gear and a second gear. The
motor is connected to the first gear, and the first gear is
connected to the second gear.
[0021] The toothbrush also includes three swivel arms. The first
swivel arm is pivotably connected to one of the gears. The first
and second swivel arms are pivotably connected to each other.
[0022] A shaft is operatively connected to one of the pair of
swivel arms at a shaft first end and operatively connected to the
third swivel arm at a shaft second end. The shaft is located within
the angled shaft.
[0023] The head can further comprise a moving portion and a static
portion. The moving portion and the static portion are located
adjacent each other. The third swivel arm is connected to the
moving portion. The moving portion further comprises a disk which
is connected to the third swivel arm.
[0024] The moving portion can be located adjacent a first end of
the head and the static portion is located adjacent a second end of
the head. Alternately, the static portion is located adjacent the
first end of the head and the moving portion is located adjacent
the second end of the head. The moving portion can also be located
at a center of the head with the static portion located on opposite
sides of the head.
[0025] The shaft moves in a back and forth manner along the
longitudinal axis of the elongated body portion.
[0026] The first gear rotates about the longitudinal axis and the
second gear rotates about an axis normal to the longitudinal
axis.
[0027] The swivel arms move in a back and forth manner along the
longitudinal axis of the elongated body portion.
[0028] The moving portion can rotate or oscillate about an axis
normal to the longitudinal axis of the head.
[0029] Alternately, the moving portion can move in a back and forth
manner along the longitudinal axis of the head.
[0030] A switch is operably connected to the motor. The switch is
depressed to provide momentary operation of the toothbrush and is
depressed and slid in a slot in the elongated body portion to
provide continuous operation of the toothbrush.
[0031] One advantage of the present invention is the provision of
an electric toothbrush with a brush head with a traditional larger
brush head shape to permit the user to brush teeth in an up and
down fashion.
[0032] Another advantage of the present invention is the provision
of an electric toothbrush which is inexpensive and easy to
manufacture.
[0033] Another advantage of the present invention is the provision
of an electric toothbrush with an angled shaft to permit easier
access to the back of the user's mouth.
[0034] Still another advantage of the present invention is the
provision of an electric toothbrush with a static portion and a
circular or moving portion that rotates, swivels, oscillates or
reciprocates.
[0035] Yet another advantage of the present invention is the
provision of a circular portion that rotates or reciprocates or
swivels or oscillates which is positioned at the end of the brush
head to facilitate easier access to the back of the user's
mouth.
[0036] Yet still another advantage of the present invention is the
provision of an electric toothbrush with a switch which allows
momentary operation or continuous operation of the toothbrush.
[0037] Another advantage of the present invention is the provision
of an electric toothbrush with swivel arms which provide a
simplified mechanism for rotating or oscillating the moving brush
head.
[0038] Still other advantages and benefits of the invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading and
understanding of the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0039] The invention may take physical form in certain parts and
arrangements of parts, preferred embodiments of which will be
described in detail in this specification and illustrated in the
accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and wherein:
[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the electric toothbrush in
accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0041] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the electric toothbrush
of FIG. 1;
[0042] FIG. 3 is a bottom elevational view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0043] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view in cross section of the
electric toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0044] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0045] FIG. 6 is an enlarged side elevational view in cross section
of the motor and gear assembly of the electric toothbrush of FIG.
1;
[0046] FIG. 7 is an enlarged side elevational view in cross section
of the head of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 8 is a front and side elevational view of the electric
toothbrush in packaging;
[0048] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the electric toothbrush in
accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0049] FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 9;
[0050] FIG. 11 is a bottom elevational view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 9.
[0051] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the electric toothbrush in
accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0052] Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for
the purposes of illustrating the preferred embodiments of the
invention only and not for purposes of limiting same, FIG. 1 shows
an electric toothbrush A according to a first preferred embodiment
of the present invention. The electric toothbrush can be used for
personal hygiene such as brushing one's teeth and gums.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 1, the electric toothbrush includes an
elongated body portion 10, which has a first end 12 and a second
end 14. A head 16 is attached to the first end 12 and a handle 18
is attached to the second end 14.
[0054] The head 16 has a more traditional larger brush head shape
which permits the user to brush his teeth in the typical manner of
an up and down fashion. As shown on FIG. 2, the length of the head
16, dimension "X", can range from about .75 inches to about 1.75
inches. The thickness of the brush head, dimension "Y", can range
from about .25 inches to about .50 inches. The design of the head
16 allows for inexpensive manufacture and assists in bringing
effective motorized rotational toothbrushes within the financial
reach of a large portion of the population.
[0055] Referring now to FIG. 3, the head 16 further includes a
longitudinal axis 19, a circular or moving portion or brush head 20
and a static portion or brush head 22. The static portion 22 is
located on opposite sides of the circular portion 20. The circular
portion 20 is located at the center of the brush head 16. The
circular portion 20 rotates, swivels, oscillates or reciprocates
about an axis approximately normal to the longitudinal axis 19 of
the brush head 16. The circular portion 20 may rotate 360.degree.
or partially rotate or oscillate or reciprocate in a back and forth
manner.
[0056] The circular portion 20 includes stiff bristles 24. The
static portion 22 includes soft bristles 26. The stiff bristles 24
are slightly recessed with respect to the soft bristles 26. The
stiff bristles 24 aid in the deep cleaning and plaque removal
process, while the stationary soft bristles 26 are softer so as to
not damage the gums. The thickness of the bristles, dimension "Z",
shown in FIG. 2, can range from about .25 inches to about .75
inches.
[0057] Referring again to FIG. 3, the elongated body portion 10
further includes an angled shaft 28, located between the head 16
and the handle 18. The angled shaft 28 provides an ergonomic
benefit that has not been utilized on a motorized toothbrush. The
angle is well known for its ergonomic benefit in permitting easier
access into the back recesses of the mouth while still contacting
the tooth surface.
[0058] As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the elongated body portion 10
further includes a hollow portion 30 which houses a motor 32. The
motor 32 has a longitudinal axis 34 in line with a longitudinal
axis 36 of the elongated body portion 10.
[0059] To provide power to the circular portion 20 to rotate or
oscillate or reciprocate, the motor 32 powers a worm gear 40 and a
pair of step gears 42, 43. The motor 32 is operatively connected to
the worm gear 40. Step gear 42 is operatively connected to step
gear 43 and the worm gear 40.
[0060] As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 6, the first step gear 42
permits the matching second step gear 43 to be offset with respect
to the longitudinal axis 36 of the elongated body portion 10.
[0061] As shown in FIGS. 4, 6 and 7, a shaft 44 is connected at a
first end to the offset step gear 43 and at a second end to the
circular portion 20. The second step gear 43 is placed at a desired
angle so that the shaft 44 itself can still be straight, thus
losing no power or torque through the added function of a flexible
shaft.
[0062] Referring again to FIG. 5, the motor 32 and gears 40, 42, 43
are housed with an upper housing 46 and a lower housing 48.
[0063] Referring again to FIG. 4, a switch 50 is provided to
control operation of the electric toothbrush and is operatively
connected to the motor 32. The switch 50 includes a molded actuator
button 52 and a metal contact 54. The switch 50 is manually
depressed by pressing a molded actuator button 52 down, which then
presses against a metal contact 54, which completes the circuit and
provides momentary operation of the toothbrush. The switch 50 also
allows continuous operation through a ramp design, sliding the
button 52 forward toward the head 16 to provide for continuous
operation. Moving the button 52 forward, combined with a molded in
ramp 58 in the metal contact 54, causes the button 52 to move
downward, pressing against the metal contact 54 and completing the
circuit. The toothbrush then continuously operates until the button
52 is slid back into an off position toward the handle 18 and the
button 52 disengages the metal contact 54.
[0064] By combining these two functions in one switch 50, the
toothbrush can be packaged in packaging as shown in FIG. 8 where
the consumer can depress the button 52 through the packaging and
see its operation while still inside the packaging, and then be
able to operate it continuously once out of the package. FIG. 8
illustrates one version of the button 52. It should be noted that
other sizes and shapes of buttons may be used.
[0065] Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, a battery 60 is provided
within the hollow portion 30 of the elongated body portion 10. A
battery terminal or contact 62 is provided for the battery 60. An
AA battery can be used as is illustrated in FIG. 4. To install the
battery 60 into the hollow portion 30, a slidable snap-on cover 64
is depressed and slid off the end of the handle 18 to expose the
hollow portion 30. The battery 60 is inserted, then the cover 64 is
slid back on to the housing and snapped into place. The terminal
end of the battery 60 is then in contact with the metal contact
54.
[0066] If desired, depressions or grip areas 70 and 72 can be
molded into the upper and lower housings 46, 48 as shown in FIG. 4.
The depressions 70, 72 are used to support a user's thumb and
forefinger or other fingers to make using the electric toothbrush
easier and more comfortable.
[0067] A second preferred embodiment of the electric toothbrush
according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 9.
[0068] The electric toothbrush includes an elongated body portion
80 which has a first end 82 and a second end 84. A head 86 is
attached to the first end 82 and a handle 88 is attached to the
second end 84.
[0069] Referring now to FIG. 11, the head 86 further includes a
longitudinal axis 90, a circular or moving portion or brush head
100, a static portion or brush head 102, a first end 104, and a
second end 106. The first end 104 is located adjacent the first end
82 of the elongated body portion 80. The second end 106 is located
opposite the first end 104. The circular portion 100 is preferably
located at the second end 106 of the brush head 86. The static
portion 102 is preferably located at the first end 104 of the brush
head 86 adjacent the circular portion 100. However, it is to be
appreciated that the circular portion 100 and the static portion
102 can be arranged in different orientations. The circular portion
100 rotates, swivels, oscillates or reciprocates about an axis
approximately normal to the longitudinal axis 90 of the brush head
86.
[0070] The second preferred embodiment also has a worm gear 40 and
a pair of step gears 42, 43 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6. The motor 32
powers the worm gear 40 and the pair of step gears 42,43. The step
gear 42 permits the matching step gear 43 to be offset with respect
to the longitudinal axis of the elongated body portion 80.
[0071] As shown in FIGS. 4, 6, and 7, a shaft 44 is connected at a
first end to the offset step gear 43 and at a second end to the
circular portion 100. The second step gear 43 is placed at a
desired angle so that the shaft 44 can still be straight, thus
losing no power or torque through the added function of a flexible
shaft.
[0072] Referring again to FIG. 9, a switch 130 is provided to
control operation of the electric toothbrush and is operatively
connected to the motor 32. The switch 130 includes a molded
actuator button 132. The switch 130 is manually depressed by
pressing a molded actuator button 132 down, which then presses
against a metal contact 54, which completes the circuit and
provides momentary operation of the toothbrush. The operation of
the switch 130 is identical to that shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 and as
described for the first preferred embodiment. The switch 130 also
allows continuous operation through a ramp design, sliding the
button 132 forward toward the head 86 to provide for continuous
operation. The toothbrush then continuously operates until the
button 132 is slid back into an off position toward the handle 88
and the button 132 disengages the metal contact 54.
[0073] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 for the first preferred
embodiment, the second preferred embodiment also has a battery 60
with a battery terminal or contact 62 provided within the hollow
portion 30 of the elongated body portion 80. To install the battery
60 into the hollow portion 30, a slidable snap-on cover 134 (shown
in FIGS. 9-11) is depressed and slid off the end of the handle 88
to expose the hollow portion 30. The battery 60 is inserted, then
the cover 134 is slid back on to the housing and snapped into
place.
[0074] If desired, raised grip areas 136 can be molded into the
lower housing 124 as shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 11. The raised
portions 136 are used to support a user's thumb and forefinger or
other fingers to make using the electric toothbrush easier and more
comfortable. Raised portion 140 may also be molded onto the snap-on
cover 134 to aid in gripping the cover with one's thumb and
removing the cover from the handle 88.
[0075] The electric toothbrush of the second preferred embodiment
can also be packaged in packaging as shown in FIG. 8 as shown for
the first preferred embodiment where the consumer can depress the
button 132 through the packaging and see its operation while still
inside the packaging, and then be able to operate it continuously
once out of the packaging.
[0076] A third preferred embodiment of the present invention is
shown in FIG. 12.
[0077] The electric toothbrush includes an elongated body portion
150 which has a first end 152 and a second end 154. A head 160 is
attached to the first end 152 and a handle 162 is attached to the
second end 154.
[0078] The head 160 further includes a moving portion or brush head
164, a static portion or brush head 166, a first end 168, and a
second end 170. As shown in FIG. 12, the moving portion 164 is
located adjacent the second end 170. The static portion 166 is
shown located adjacent the first end 168. However, it is to be
appreciated that the moving portion 164 could be located adjacent
the first end 168, and the static portion 166 could be located
adjacent the second end 170. Furthermore, the moving portion 164
could be positioned in the center of the brush head with static
portions 166 on opposite sides of the moving portion 164 similar to
that shown in FIG. 3.
[0079] In accordance with this embodiment, the moving portion 164
oscillates about an axis approximately normal to a longitudinal
axis 172 of the elongated body portion 150.
[0080] The moving portion 164 can include stiff bristles 178. The
static portion 166 can include soft bristles 180 which are softer
than the stiff bristles. The stiff bristles 178 may be slightly
recessed with respect to the soft bristles 180. The stiff bristles
178 aid in the deep cleaning and plaque removal process, while the
stationary soft bristles 180 are softer so as to not damage the
gums.
[0081] The elongated body portion 150 further includes an angled
shaft 190, an upper housing 192 (not shown), and a lower housing
194. The angled shaft 190 is located between the head 160 and the
handle 162. The angled shaft 190 provides an ergonomic benefit that
has not been utilized on a motorized toothbrush.
[0082] The elongated body portion 150 of the third preferred
embodiment also includes a hollow portion 196 which houses a motor
200. The hollow portion 196 is formed between the upper housing 192
and the lower housing 194. The motor 200 provides power to the
moving portion 164 to rotate or oscillate or reciprocate. Power is
provided to the motor by battery as shown and described for the
first embodiment.
[0083] A switch (not shown) can be provided which is similar to
switch 130 shown in FIGS. 9 and 11 and which functions as described
for the first and second preferred embodiments.
[0084] The third embodiment further includes a first gear 202 which
is operatively connected to and powered by the motor 200. The first
gear 202 rotates about the longitudinal axis 172 of the elongated
body portion 150. A second gear 206 is operatively connected to the
first gear 202. The second gear 206 is approximately normal to the
first gear 202. The second gear 206 rotates about an axis
approximately normal to the longitudinal axis 172. Teeth 208 of the
first gear 202 mesh with teeth 210 of the second gear 206, thus
causing second gear 206 to rotate when-first gear 202 rotates.
[0085] A first swivel arm 220 is pivotably connected to the second
gear 206 via a pin 222 or other fastening device. A second swivel
arm 224 is pivotably connected to the first swivel arm 220 via a
pin 226 or other fastening device. A shaft 230 is fixedly secured
at a shaft first end 232 to the second swivel arm 224. The shaft
230 is pivotably attached at a shaft second end 234 to a third
swivel arm 240. The shaft 230 is housed within the angled shaft
190.
[0086] The shaft 230 is generally parallel with the longitudinal
axis 172.
[0087] A guide spacer 250 is located within the angled shaft 190
and surrounds the shaft 230 adjacent the first end 232 of the shaft
230 to minimize lateral movement of the shaft 230. A second guide
spacer 252 is located adjacent the second end 234 of the shaft 230
to also minimize lateral movement of the shaft 230. Guide spacers
250, 252 align the shaft 230 within the angled shaft 190 and
minimize its movement from side to side within the angled shaft
190.
[0088] The third swivel arm 240 has a first end 244 and a second
end 246. The third swivel arm 240 is pivotably connected to the
second guide spacer 252 at the swivel arm first end 244 via a pin
253. The third swivel arm 240 is connected at the swivel arm second
end 246 to the moving portion 164 via a pin 254 or other fastening
device. The pin 254 is connected to a disk 256 of the moving
portion 164 which is housed within the head 160.
[0089] As the first gear 202 rotates, the second gear 206 is
rotated, thus moving the first swivel arm 220 in a back and forth
circular fashion about the second gear 206 and along the
longitudinal axis 172. The first swivel arm 220 also can pivot
about the pin 222. The first swivel arm 220 retains its orientation
of approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 172 of the
elongated body portion 150 during movement. The second swivel arm
224 pivots with respect to its pin connection 226 with the first
swivel arm 220 thus allowing the shaft 230 to oscillate in a back
and forth manner toward and away from the brush head with minimal
lateral motion.
[0090] During operation, the third swivel arm 240 moves back and
forth along the longitudinal axis 172 of the elongated body portion
150 along with the shaft 230.
[0091] The swivel arm 240 can also pivot or move slightly laterally
in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
[0092] The third swivel arm 240 has an offset arm 260 which is
offset from the longitudinal axis 172 and moves the disk 256 of the
moving portion 164 in a partially rotating or oscillating motion.
As the third swivel arm 240 moves back and forth, the offset arm
260 moves along an outside edge 262 of the disk 256 in a partially
rotating or oscillating fashion about an axis which is
approximately normal to the longitudinal axis 172. This causes the
bristles 178 to also move in a partially rotating or oscillating
manner about an axis approximately normal to the longitudinal axis
172.
[0093] When the third swivel arm 240 rotates, the disk 256 also
rotates about an axis approximately normal to the elongated body
portion longitudinal axis 172. The third, swivel arm 240 also
retains its orientation of approximately parallel to the elongated
body portion longitudinal axis 172 during movement.
[0094] If desired, raised grip areas (not shown) can be provided
which are similar to raised grip areas 138 and 140 shown in FIG. 9
and FIG. 11 for the second preferred embodiment. The raised grip
areas can be molded into the lower housing 194.
[0095] The electric toothbrush of the third preferred embodiment
can also be packaged in packaging as shown in FIG. 8 as shown for
the first preferred embodiment. The consumer can depress a button
(not shown) similar to button 132 shown in FIG. 9 and FIG. 11 for
the second preferred embodiment through the packaging and see its
operation while still inside the packaging, and then be able to
operate it continuously once out of the packaging.
[0096] The invention has been described with reference to the
preferred embodiments. Obviously, modifications and alterations
will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this
specification. It is intended to include all such modifications and
alterations insofar as they come within the scope of the appended
claims or the equivalents thereof.
* * * * *