U.S. patent application number 10/122868 was filed with the patent office on 2002-10-24 for electric toothbrush.
This patent application is currently assigned to DR. JOHNS PRODUCTS, Ltd.. Invention is credited to Blaustein, Lawrence A., Gall, Douglas A., Nottingham, John R., Osher, John, Spirk, John W..
Application Number | 20020152564 10/122868 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24854803 |
Filed Date | 2002-10-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020152564 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Blaustein, Lawrence A. ; et
al. |
October 24, 2002 |
Electric toothbrush
Abstract
An electric toothbrush comprising an elongated body portion and
a head including a static portion and a moving portion, a handle,
and an angled shaft between the head and the handle. The moving
portion rotates or reciprocates about an axis normal to a
longitudinal axis of the head. The moving portion can include stiff
bristles and massaging tips and the static portion can include soft
bristles and massaging tips. The elongated body portion is hollow
and further includes a motor in the hollow portion, which is
operatively connected to the moving portion for rotating or
oscillating or reciprocating the moving 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 moving 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
1100 Superior Avenue, Seventh Floor
Cleveland
OH
44114-2518
US
|
Assignee: |
DR. JOHNS PRODUCTS, Ltd.
|
Family ID: |
24854803 |
Appl. No.: |
10/122868 |
Filed: |
April 15, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10122868 |
Apr 15, 2002 |
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09710616 |
Nov 9, 2000 |
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6371294 |
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09710616 |
Nov 9, 2000 |
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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 ; 15/110;
15/28 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 17/22 20130101;
A61C 2204/002 20130101; A61C 19/02 20130101; B29C 66/54 20130101;
A61C 17/221 20130101; B29L 2031/425 20130101; A61C 17/26 20130101;
B29C 65/02 20130101; A61C 17/3436 20130101; A61C 17/34 20130101;
A61C 17/349 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/22.1 ; 15/28;
15/110 |
International
Class: |
A61C 017/22 |
Claims
Having thus described the invention, it is claimed:
1. An electric toothbrush comprising: packaging for containing the
toothbrush; an elongated body portion having opposed first and
second ends, a hollow portion and a longitudinal axis; a head
attached to said first end, wherein said head includes a moving
portion, said moving portion comprises bristles and massaging tips;
a motor located within said hollow portion of said elongated body
portion, said motor being configured to produce a moving motion for
the moving portion; a shaft operatively connected to said motor at
a first end and to the moving portion at a second end; a handle
attached to said second end of said elongated body portion; and, a
switch which is operably connected to said motor, wherein said
switch is actuated in a first manner to provide momentary operation
of said toothbrush when the toothbrush is within the packaging, and
is actuated in a second manner to provide continuous operation of
said toothbrush when the toothbrush is out of the packaging.
2. The toothbrush as defined in claim 1 wherein when said switch is
actuated in a first manner, the switch is depressed to provide the
momentary operation.
3. The toothbrush as defined in claim 1 wherein when said switch is
actuated in a second manner, the switch is depressed and slid in a
slot in said elongated body portion.
4. An electric toothbrush comprising: an elongated body having a
handle portion, a head portion, and an elongated body shaft portion
intermediate the handle portion and the head portion and wherein
the elongated body shaft portion has a smaller cross-sectional
dimension than the handle portion, the head portion comprising
static bristles and massaging tips and moving bristles and
massaging tips; and a motor disposed in the handle portion and
operatively connected to the moving bristles and massaging tips
with a gearing and shaft assembly including an elongated shaft
closely received in and extending along at least a portion of the
length of the body shaft portion for driving the moving bristles
and massaging tips.
5. The electric toothbrush of claim 4 wherein the moving bristles
include stiff bristles and the static bristles include soft
bristles.
6. The electric toothbrush of claim 5 wherein the stiff bristles
are recessed with respect to the soft bristles.
7. The electric toothbrush of claim 4 further including a switch
operatively connected to said motor which provides momentary and
continuous operation of the toothbrush.
8. The electric toothbrush of claim 7 further comprising a worm
gear and a pair of step gears located in said handle portion,
wherein said motor is operatively connected to said worm gear and
said step gears are operatively connected to said worm gear and to
each other.
9. The electric toothbrush of claim 8 wherein said elongated body
includes longitudinal axis and one of said step gears is offset
with respect to said longitudinal axis.
10. The electric toothbrush of claim 9 further comprising a shaft
located within said angled shaft and which is operatively connected
at a first end to said offset step gear and at a second end to said
moving bristles.
11. The electric toothbrush of claim 10 further including a battery
located within said handle portion for powering said motor.
12. The electric toothbrush of claim 4 wherein said moving bristles
comprise rotating bristles.
13. The electric toothbrush of claim 4 wherein said moving bristles
comprise oscillating bristles.
14. The electric toothbrush of claim 4 wherein said moving
massaging tips comprise rotating massaging tips.
15. The electric toothbrush of claim 4 wherein said moving
massaging tips comprise oscillating massaging tips.
16. 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 plurality
of static bristles and massaging tips attached to said head; a
moving portion within the head; a motor located within said hollow
portion of said elongated body portion; a gear located in said
hollow portion, wherein said motor is operatively connected to said
gear; a plurality of swivel arms, wherein one swivel arm is
pivotably connected to said gear and another swivel arm is
connected to the moving portion; and a shaft operatively connected
to said swivel arms and disposed for translating movement in a back
and forth manner to the moving portion.
17. The electric toothbrush of claim 16 wherein said moving portion
further comprises a plurality of moving bristles and massaging tips
attached to said moving portion.
18. The electric toothbrush of claim 17 wherein said moving
bristles and massaging tips are located adjacent a first end of
said head and said static bristles and massaging tips are located
adjacent a second end of said head.
19. The electric toothbrush of claim 18 wherein said moving
bristles and massaging tips are located at a center of said head
and said static bristles and massaging tips are located on opposite
sides of said head.
20. 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, and
said first gear is connected to said second gear; first, second and
third swivel arms, wherein said first swivel arm is connected to
said second gear, said second swivel arm is pivotably connected to
said first swivel arm, and said third swivel am moves in a back and
forth manner generally along said longitudinal axis; and 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 static massaging
tips and a moving portion, wherein said third swivel arm is
connected to said moving portion.
21. The electric toothbrush of claim 20 wherein said moving portion
rotates about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis.
22. The electric toothbrush of claim 20 wherein said moving portion
oscillates about an axis normal to said longitudinal axis.
23. The electric toothbrush of claim 20 wherein said first gear
rotates about said longitudinal axis and said second gear rotates
about an axis generally normal to said longitudinal axis.
24. The electric toothbrush of claim 20 further including a swivel
arm connected between said one swivel arm and said shaft.
25. The electric toothbrush of claim 20 wherein said moving portion
comprises bristles and massaging tips.
26. The electric toothbrush of claim 20 wherein said head further
comprises static bristles.
Description
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 09/382,745, filed on Aug. 25, 1999, which 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, which issued as U.S. Pat. No.
6,000,983 on Dec. 14, 1999.
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. Nos. 5,070,567;
5,186,627; 5,274,870; 5,341,534; 5,378,153; and 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 moving 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 moving portion. The stiff bristles
of the moving portion can be slightly recessed in height from the
static bristles. This particular arrangement allows for the moving
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. The static portion and the moving portion also may include
massaging tips along with the bristles.
[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 moving 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. The static portion and the moving portion also may include
massaging tips along with the bristles.
[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] In accordance with fourth and fifth preferred embodiments of
the present invention, the static portion and the moving portion
can each include bristles and massaging tips, which are used for
gently massaging the user's gums while brushing.
[0032] In the fourth preferred embodiment, the moving portion can
be located at a center of the head with the static portion located
on opposite sides of the head. In the fifth preferred embodiment,
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.
[0033] The massaging tips can be located on the perimeter of the
static and moving portions or among the bristles on the static and
moving portions.
[0034] 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.
[0035] Another advantage of the present invention is the provision
of an electric toothbrush which is inexpensive and easy to
manufacture.
[0036] 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.
[0037] 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.
[0038] 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.
[0039] 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.
[0040] 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.
[0041] Still another advantage of the present invention is the
provision of an electric toothbrush with massaging tips to permit
the user to simultaneously brush the user's teeth and massage the
user's gums.
[0042] 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
[0043] 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:
[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the electric toothbrush in
accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0045] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the electric toothbrush
of FIG. 1;
[0046] FIG. 3 is a bottom elevational view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view in cross section of the
electric toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0048] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0049] FIG. 6 is an enlarged side elevational view in cross section
of the motor and gear assembly of the electric toothbrush of FIG.
1;
[0050] FIG. 7 is an enlarged side elevational view in cross section
of the head of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 1;
[0051] FIG. 8 is a front and side elevational view of the electric
toothbrush in packaging;
[0052] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the electric toothbrush in
accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0053] FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 9;
[0054] FIG. 11 is a bottom elevational view of the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 9.
[0055] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the electric toothbrush in
accordance with a third preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0056] FIG. 13 is a bottom elevational view of the angled shaft and
head of the electric toothbrush in accordance with a fourth
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0057] FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the angled shaft and
head of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 13.
[0058] FIG. 15 is a bottom elevational view of the angled shaft and
head of the electric toothbrush in accordance with a fifth
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0059] FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of the angled shaft and
head of the electric toothbrush of FIG. 15.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0060] 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.
[0061] 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.
[0062] 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 0.75 inches to about 1.75
inches. The thickness of the brush head, dimension "Y", can range
from about 0.25 inches to about 0.50 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.
[0063] 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 moving portion 20. The moving
portion 20 is located at the center of the brush head 16. The
moving portion 20 rotates, swivels, oscillates or reciprocates
about an axis approximately normal to the longitudinal axis 19 of
the brush head 16. The moving portion 20 may rotate 360.degree. or
partially rotate or oscillate or reciprocate in a back and forth
manner.
[0064] The moving 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 0.25 inches to about 0.75
inches.
[0065] 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.
[0066] 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.
[0067] To provide power to the moving 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.
[0068] 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.
[0069] 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
moving 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.
[0070] 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.
[0071] 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.
[0072] 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.
[0073] 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.
[0074] 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.
[0075] A second preferred embodiment of the electric toothbrush
according to the present invention is shown in FIG. 9.
[0076] 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.
[0077] 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 moving 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 moving portion 100. However, it is
to be appreciated that the moving portion 100 and the static
portion 102 can be arranged in different orientations. The moving
portion 100 rotates, swivels, oscillates or reciprocates about an
axis approximately normal to the longitudinal axis 90 of the brush
head 86.
[0078] 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.
[0079] 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
moving 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.
[0080] 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.
[0081] 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.
[0082] 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.
[0083] 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.
[0084] A third preferred embodiment of the present invention is
shown in FIG. 12.
[0085] 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.
[0086] 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.
[0087] 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.
[0088] 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.
[0089] 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.
[0090] 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.
[0091] 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.
[0092] 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.
[0093] 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.
[0094] The shaft 230 is generally parallel with the longitudinal
axis 172.
[0095] 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.
[0096] 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.
[0097] 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.
[0098] 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.
[0099] The swivel arm 240 can also pivot or move slightly laterally
in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
[0100] 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.
[0101] 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.
[0102] 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.
[0103] 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.
[0104] A fourth embodiment of the present invention is shown in
FIGS. 13 and 14. The head of the electric toothbrush is
illustrated. The remaining portion of the brush, including the
handle, motor, etc. is the same as described for any of the
previously described embodiments. As shown in FIG. 13, a head 316
includes a longitudinal axis 319, a circular or moving portion or
brush head 320 and a static portion or brush head 322. The head 316
is located adjacent a first end 328 of an elongated body portion.
The static portion 322 is located on opposite sides of the moving
portion 320. The moving portion 320 is located at the center of the
brush head 316. The circular portion 320 rotates, swivels,
oscillates or reciprocates about an axis approximately normal to
the longitudinal axis 319 of the brush head. The circular portion
320 may rotate 360 degrees or partially rotate or oscillate or
reciprocate in a back and forth manner.
[0105] The moving portion 320 includes bristles 324 and massaging
tips 325. The static portion 322 includes bristles 326 and
massaging tips 327. The massaging tips 325, 327 massage the gums
while the user simultaneously brushes his or her teeth. The
massaging tips 325, 327 can be made from a rubber, soft plastic or
similar material. The massaging tips 325, 327 extend essentially
perpendicularly from the head 316 as measured along the
longitudinal axis 319. In the preferred embodiment the massaging
tips 325, 327 are located around the perimeter of the circular
portion 320 and the static portion 322, however it is to be
understood that the massaging tips can be located anywhere among
the bristles of the moving portion 320 and the static portion 322.
The length of the massaging tips 325, 327 is approximately the same
length as the bristles 324, 326. The massaging tips 325, 327 may
extend slightly above, slightly below or to the same height as the
bristles 324, 326.
[0106] In a fifth preferred embodiment of the electric toothbrush
as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, a head 486 includes a longitudinal
axis 490, a circular or moving portion or brush head 500, a static
portion or brush head 502, a first end 504 and a second end 506.
The first end 504 is located adjacent to the first end 482 of the
elongated body. The second end 506 is located opposite the first
end 504. The moving portion 500 is preferably located at the second
end 506 of the brush head 486. The static portion 502 is preferably
located at the first end 504 of the brush head 486 adjacent the
moving portion 500. However, it is to be appreciated that the
moving portion 500 and the static portion 502 can be arranged in
different orientations. The moving portion 500 can rotate, swivel,
oscillate or reciprocate about an axis approximately normal to the
longitudinal axis 490 of the brush head 486.
[0107] The moving portion 500 includes bristles 510 and massaging
tips 511. The static portion 502 includes bristles 512 and
massaging tips 513. The massaging tips 511, 513 massage the gums
while the user brushes his or her teeth. The massaging tips 511,
513 can be made from a rubber, soft plastic or similar material.
The massaging tips 511, 513 extend essentially perpendicularly from
the head 486 as measured along the longitudinal axis 490. In the
preferred embodiment the massaging tips 511, 513 are located around
the perimeter of the moving portion 500 and the static portion 502,
however it is to be understood that the massaging tips can be
located anywhere among the bristles of the moving portion 500 and
the static portion 502. The length of the massaging tips 511, 513
is approximately the same length as the bristles 510, 512. The
massaging tips 511, 513 may extend slightly above, slightly below
or to the same height as the bristles 510, 512.
[0108] 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.
1 EXHIBIT A U.S. Patents U.S. Pat. No. Issue Date D433,814 Nov. 21,
2000 D432,312 Oct. 24, 2000 6,000,083 Dec. 14, 1999 6,178,579 Jan.
30, 2000 6,189,693 Feb. 20, 2001 U.S. Patent Applications Serial
No. Filing Date 09/347,773 Jul. 6, 1999 09/536,731 Mar. 28, 2000
09/710,616 Nov. 9, 2000 09/766,703 Jan. 22, 2001 29/131,674 Oct.
26, 2000
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