U.S. patent application number 11/173313 was filed with the patent office on 2006-10-19 for oral care device with multi-structural contact elements.
Invention is credited to James A. JR. Gavney.
Application Number | 20060230563 11/173313 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37605106 |
Filed Date | 2006-10-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060230563 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gavney; James A. JR. |
October 19, 2006 |
Oral care device with multi-structural contact elements
Abstract
A contact device with resilient contact elements is disclosed.
The resilient contact elements have primary structures and
secondary structures. The primary structures and secondary
structures have contact surfaces for engaging a working surface.
The primary structures are preferably molded structures with
hardness value between 10 to 90 Shores A. The secondary structures
are nodules, squeegees, bristles or combinations thereof. In
accordance with the embodiment of the invention a toothbrush
includes resilient bristle boots that surround groups of bristles
and have squeegees, nodules, bristles, or combinations thereof,
that protrude from surfaces of the resilient bristle boots.
Inventors: |
Gavney; James A. JR.; (Palo
Alto, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HAVERSTOCK & OWENS LLP
162 NORTH WOLFE ROAD
SUNNYVALE
CA
94086
US
|
Family ID: |
37605106 |
Appl. No.: |
11/173313 |
Filed: |
June 30, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10925582 |
Aug 24, 2004 |
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11173313 |
Jun 30, 2005 |
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09957302 |
Sep 19, 2001 |
6865767 |
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10925582 |
Aug 24, 2004 |
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60233580 |
Sep 19, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
15/117 ;
15/110 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 15/0032 20130101;
A47L 13/12 20130101; A46B 5/0025 20130101; A46B 9/06 20130101; A47L
13/10 20130101; A46B 2200/1066 20130101; A46B 9/005 20130101; A61C
17/222 20130101; A46B 9/065 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
015/117 ;
015/110 |
International
Class: |
A47L 13/12 20060101
A47L013/12 |
Claims
1. A device comprising a cleaning head, the cleaning head
comprising; a) a support structure; b) resilient contact element
protruding from a surface of the support structure, the resilient
contact element comprising a primary squeegee structure and a
secondary structure protruding from a surface of the primary
squeegee structure; and c) bristles.
2. The device of claim 1, wherein the secondary structure is a
squeegee.
3. The device of claim 1, wherein the secondary structure is a
nodule.
4. The device of claim 1, wherein the primary squeegee structure
surrounds a portion of the bristles.
5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a handle configured to
couple to the cleaning head.
6. The device of claim 1, further comprising squeegees protruding
from the surface of the support.
7. The device of claim 6, where the squeegee are curved.
8. A device comprising: a) a support with a plurality of bristle
boots; b) bristle tufts protruding from compartments of the bristle
boots; and c) resilient contact structures protruding one or more
surface of the bristle boots
9. The device of claim 8, wherein resilient contact structures
comprise squeegees.
10. The device of claim 8, wherein resilient contact structures
comprise nodules.
11. The device of claim 8, further comprising a handle configured
to couple to the cleaning head.
12. The device of claim 8, further comprising of squeegees
protruding from a surface of the support.
13. The device of claim 12, where the squeegees are curved.
14. A device comprising: a) elongated bristle boots that extend
along opposed sides of a cleaning head and that surround a first
set of bristle tufts; and b) a second set of bristle tufts
protruding from a region of the cleaning head between elongated
bristle boots,
15. The device of claim 14, further comprising squeegees protruding
from the region of the cleaning head between the elongated bristle
boots.
16. The device of claim 14, further comprising secondary resilient
structures protruding from surfaces of the elongated bristle
boots.
17. The device of claim 16, wherein the secondary resilient
structures include one or more squeegees or nodules.
18. A device comprising a cleaning head with resilient contact
elements resiliently coupled to the cleaning head, the resilient
contact elements including primary structures, secondary structures
and bristle.
19. The device of claim 18, further comprising an electric powered
handle for coupling to the cleaning head and moving the resilient
contact elements.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The Patent application is a continuation in part Application
of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/925,582, filed Sep. 24,
2004, titled "ORAL-CARE DEVICE WITH MULTI-STRUCTURAL CONTACT
ELEMENTS," which is a continuation in part Application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/957,302, filed Sep. 19, 2002, titled
"APPARATUS WITH MULTI-STRUCTURAL CONTACT ELEMENTS, now U.S. Pat.
No. 6,865,767 B1. The U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/957,302,
filed Sep. 19, 2002, titled "APPARATUS WITH MULTI-STRUCTURAL
CONTACT ELEMENTS" claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119 (e)
from the co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
60/233,580, filed Sep. 19, 2000, and titled "APPARATUS WITH
MULTI-STRUCTURAL CONTACT ELEMENTS". The U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/925,582, filed Sep. 24, 2004, titled "ORAL-CARE DEVICE
WITH MULTI-STRUCTURAL CONTACT ELEMENTS," the U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/957,302, filed Sep. 19, 2002, titled
"APPARATUS WITH MULTI-STRUCTURAL CONTACT ELEMENTS," now U.S. Pat.
No. 6,865,767 B1 and the Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
60/233,580, filed Sep. 19, 2000, and titled "APPARATUS WITH
MULTI-STRUCTURAL CONTACT ELEMENTS" are all hereby incorporated by
reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates generally to devices with contact
elements. More specifically, the invention relates to devices with
resilient contact elements.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Devices with resilient contact elements are typically used
to clean surfaces or to apply cleaners and other materials to
surfaces. For example, brush devices have bristle contact elements.
The bristles are provided in the appropriate configuration and are
chosen with the appropriate geometry, flexibility, hardness and
resiliency to suit the intended purpose. As one example of these
devices, a paintbrush is typically configured with long flexible
bristles that conform to surfaces and facilitate the application of
paints to surfaces. Other brush devices are configured with short
rigid bristles to scour, scrub or clean surfaces.
[0004] Sponges and other absorbent materials are also used as
resilient contact elements. Sponges and related materials are
typically soft and used in cleaning devices and applicator
devices.
[0005] Squeegees are also used in contact devices. Because
squeegees are often made from non-absorbent materials, such as
rubber, they are not generally used in applicator devices.
Squeegees are flexible and resilient and tend to be too soft to be
used in scrubbing or scouring devices. Squeegees are most commonly
used to wipe or squeegee water and water solutions from smooth
glass surfaces.
[0006] There have been attempts to combine the cleaning properties
of an absorbent sponge-like element with a squeegee element. In the
U.S. Pat. No. 6,065,890 issued to Weitz, Weitz describes a cleaning
device with a squeegee element and a sponge element attached to a
yoke support for combining washing and wiping.
[0007] Devices with brush-like contact elements molded form
non-absorbent rubber-like materials have also been described. For
example, in the U.S. Pat. No. 5,966,771, issued to Stroud, Stroud
describes a polymeric sweeping device that is formed from a
polymeric head with a soft polymeric bristle portion. In the U.S.
Pat. No. 6,032,322, issued to Florsline, Florsline describes a
device with a silicone tip configured to be used as a paint
applicator or an artist's tool.
[0008] Molded rubber-like or resilient contact elements have also
been described in dentition cleaning and oral care devices. In the
U.S. Pat. No. 5,032,082 issued to Herrera, Herrera describes a
device for removing adhesives from a palate. The device is
configured with a plurality of rubber nodules having resiliencies
that are sensitive to temperature. Tveras, in the U.S. Pat. No.
5,810,556, discloses an oral hygiene device configured with a
plurality of wiping elements at one end of the device and a brush
section at the other end; the wiping elements are configured for
scraping plaque from a tongue. In the U.S. Pat. No. 6,067,684,
issued to Kweon, Kweon describes a toothbrush with silicone rubber
bristles. The silicone bristles are plate-shaped bristles extending
in a parallel arrangement along the sides of the cleaning head. The
cleaning head is attached to a handle through a hole in the handle.
In the U.S. Pat. No. 4,584,416, issued to DeNiro et al., DeNiro et
al. describe a resilient chewing device for cleaning teeth and
gums. The device is a spool-shaped member formed of a resilient
material. The interior regions of the spool-shaped member have
protrusions to facilitate the cleaning of gums and teeth when a
user chews on the device. The U.S. Pat. No. 5,970,564, issued to
Inns et al., describes bristle sections that are coupled through an
elastomeric bridge. The elastomeric bridge provides for the ability
to anchor sets of bristles that are attached to a flexible
platform. Mori et al., in U.S. Pat. No. 6,021,541, describe a
toothbrush with composite monofiliment fibers. The composite
monofiliment fibers have a polyester sheath with 2-5 polyamide
cores. The polyamide cores protrude from the composite cores by a
predetermined distance.
SUMMARY
[0009] The current invention is directed to a device with at least
one resilient contact element. The device of the present invention
is configured for applying materials to a surface, cleaning a
surface, texturing materials or massaging tissues. The contact
element has a least two structures. For this description and for
simplicity of understanding, the invention is described in terms of
primary and secondary structures. Primary structures refer to
structures that protrude from a supporting non-contact structure or
portion thereof, such as a handle or a cleaning head. Secondary
structures refer to structures that are coupled to primary
structures such that the secondary structures exhibit cooperative
displacement with the primary structure. Preferably, both the
primary and the secondary structure contribute to the contact
properties of the contact elements.
[0010] The primary structure and the secondary structure are made
of the sane material or of different materials. The primary
structure and the secondary structure are formed in multiple steps,
as a monolithic element, or in parts that are later attached
together. A device in accordance with the instant invention is
configured with any number contact elements depending on the
intended use. Further, it is understood that contact elements and
the corresponding supporting structure or structures of the device
are monolithic or formed in parts. The primary and secondary
structures are preferably formed from resilient materials such as
plastics, elastomers, rubber or rubber-like materials. However, in
an embodiment of the instant invention the secondary structure
comprises metal bristles. The primary and the secondary structures
are, nodule structures, arrays of nodules, squeegee structures,
squeegee matrix structures, bristles and combinations thereof. The
contact surfaces provided by the device of the present invention
are configured to be collectively planar, curved or
three-dimensional. The primary structure preferably protrudes from
a support structure by a distance in a range of 0.2 to 6.0 mm. The
maximum thickness of any nodule protrusion, squeegee wall, or
matrix wall is preferably not greater that 2.0 mm and is more
preferably less than 1.0 mm and greater than 0.3 mm. However, it is
clear that contact devices with contact elements of larger
dimensions than the preferred dimensions, recited herein, can have
industrial applications.
[0011] The primary structure provides first contact surfaces and
the secondary structure provides second contact surfaces.
Preferably, the primary structure is molded and is larger than the
secondary structure, wherein the secondary structure protrudes from
a surface portion of the primary structure. Accordingly, the
secondary structure exhibits cooperative displacement, wherein
displacing the primary structure from its equilibrium resting
position will also displace the secondary structure. Depending on
the geometries of the structures and the materials used to make the
contact elements, the primary structure may also exhibit
cooperative displacement with the secondary structure.
[0012] According to an embodiment of the instant invention, the
primary and secondary structures of a contact element are
configured such that only the contact surfaces of either the
primary or secondary structure will engage a working surface when a
first force is applied to a working surface through the primary
structure. By applying a sufficiently greater force to the working
surface through the primary structure, the contact surfaces of the
secondary and primary structure engage the working surface.
Accordingly, multiple types of contact surfaces are provided within
a single multi-structural contact element or device. Further,
applying more or less force to the working surface through the
contact element controls the types contact surfaces that engage the
working surface.
[0013] According to another embodiment of the instant invention,
the primary structure is more flexible than the secondary
structure. The primary structure provides a cushion for the second
structure. Thus the force that is required to deform the primary
structure limits the force that may be applied to a working surface
through the contact element or elements.
[0014] According to yet another embodiment of the instant invention
a device is configured with a contact element having a primary
structure and a secondary structure capable of engaging a working
surface concurrently through out an entire range of forces as
applied to a working surface through the contact element.
[0015] In accordance with the embodiments of the invention, the
device is a dentition cleaning device. According to this preferred
embodiment, a contact element includes a squeegee primary element
that surrounds bristles. The primary squeegee element has
protruding wall that are preferably configured to guide bristles
and wipe teeth and gums while brushing. The primary squeegee
element can also include a secondary structure. The secondary
structure can include smaller squeegee elements, nodules, bristles
or combinations thereof, that protrudes from a wall and/or edge of
the squeegee element
[0016] The primary structure and/or the secondary structure
preferably have hardness values in a range of 10 to 90 Shores A as
determined by a method described in Document ASTM D2240-00,
Developed by the American Society for Testing Materials, entitled
"Standard Test Method for Rubber Property-Durometer Hardness", the
contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Where the
secondary structure includes bristles, the bristles can be formed
from polyester, polyamide or any other suitable resin for forming
fibers.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0017] FIG. 1a shows an exemplary nodule structure.
[0018] FIG. 1b show an exemplary squeegee structure.
[0019] FIG. 1c illustrates a perspective view of a squeegee
matrix.
[0020] FIG. 2a shows a contact element with nodule structure and a
squeegee structure protruding from top surfaces of the nodule
structure.
[0021] FIG. 2b illustrates a contact element with tubular squeegee
structure and bristles protruding from edge surfaces of the
squeegee structure.
[0022] FIGS. 2c-l show contact elements with primary nodule
structures with secondary nodule structures, bristles, squeegee
structures and textured or patterned walls, in accordance with the
embodiments of the present invention.
[0023] FIGS. 3a-j show a contact element with primary squeegee
structures with secondary nodule structures, bristles, squeegee
structures and textured or patterned walls, in accordance with the
embodiments of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 4a shows a contact element with a tapered squeegee
structure and bristles protruding from edge surfaces of the
squeegee structure.
[0025] FIG. 4b is a cross-sectional view of the contact element
shown in FIG. 4a, illustrating bristles extending through the
squeegee structure.
[0026] FIG. 5a shows a contact element with a contoured squeegee
structure and with bristles protruding from between depressed
regions of the contoured squeegee structure.
[0027] FIG. 5b shows a contact element with nodular protrusions and
with bristles protruding from surfaces between the nodular
protrusions of the contact element.
[0028] FIGS. 6a-h illustrate several exemplary symmetrical nodular
structures.
[0029] FIGS. 7a-7g illustrate several exemplary asymmetric nodular
structures.
[0030] FIGS. 8a-f illustrate several exemplary contoured tip and
edge surfaces.
[0031] FIG. 9a shows a contact element with a nodular structure and
a bristle structure protruding from tip surfaces of the nodular
structure.
[0032] FIG. 9b illustrates the contact element shown in the FIG. 9a
bending at the body portion of the nodule structure and
concurrently displacing the bristle structure attached thereto.
[0033] FIG. 10a shows a cross-sectional view of a contact element
with a structure having an L-shaped cross-section and bristles
protruding from inner walls of the L-shaped cross-section.
[0034] FIG. 10b shows cooperative displacement of bristle
structures protruding from the L-shaped cross-section of the
contact element illustrated in the FIG. 10a.
[0035] FIG. 10c shows cooperative displacement of a selective set
of bristles protruding from the structure L-shaped cross-section of
the contact element illustrated in the FIG. 10a.
[0036] FIGS. 11a-c illustrate several views of a dentition cleaning
device, in accordance with the embodiments of the invention.
[0037] FIGS. 12a-c illustrate several views of a dentition cleaning
device, in accordance with the further embodiments of the
invention.
[0038] FIGS. 13a-c illustrate several views of a dentition cleaning
device, in accordance with yet further embodiments of the
invention.
[0039] FIGS. 14a-c illustrate several views of a squeegee
structures or bristle boots that surround bristles, in accordance
with yet further embodiments of the invention.
[0040] FIGS. 15a-b illustrate a dentition cleaning devices, in
accordance with still further embodiments of the invention.
[0041] FIG. 16 shows an electric powered oral-care device
comprising a power cleaning head with one or more movable regions,
in accordance with the embodiments of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] Although the following detailed description contains many
specifics for the purposes of illustration, anyone of ordinary
skill in the art will appreciate that many variations and
alterations to the following details are within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, the following preferred embodiment of the
invention is set forth without any loss of generality to, and
without imposing limitations upon, the claimed invention.
[0043] To facilitate the clarity of the ensuing description, words
listed below have been ascribed the following meanings:
1) A nodule is a protruding structure with outer surfaces.
2) A squeegee is an elongated and protruding structure, i.e. a
nodule that is on the average thinner in one dimension that the
other, the wider dimension being referred to herein as the
elongation direction.
3) An array is a grouping of protruding structures.
4) A matrix is a protruding structure that has an extended network
of edges, walls and cavities.
5) Softness is the ease with which the surface of a structure
yields or deforms to an applied force.
6) Hardness is the magnitude of force required for a structure to
yield or deform to an applied force as measured with durometer
hardness meter and reported in units of Shore A.
[0044] 7) Resiliency is the ability of a structure to return
substantially to its original form or geometry after a deformation
to the structure or portion thereof. Structures that substantially
return to their original form or geometry quickly after a
deformation are described herein, as being more resilient than
those structures, which substantially return to their original form
or geometry slowly after a deformation.
8) Resilient materials are materials that exhibit resiliency.
[0045] 9) Flexibility is a measure of the ability of a resilient
structure or a measure of the ability of a resilient structure to
be displaced from an equilibrium rest position without damage to
the structure. A structure that is less flexible is more rigid.
[0046] FIG. 1a shows a typical nodule structure 50. The nodule
structure protrudes from support surfaces 55 in a protruding
direction 54 and preferably extends to distances in a range of 0.2
to 6.0 mm from the support surfaces 55. The nodule 53 has wall
surfaces and tip surfaces 51. Preferably, the averaged thickness 56
of the nodule 50 is not greater than 2.0 mm and is most preferably
less than 1.0 mm measured from distances 57 between the tip 51 of
the structure 50 and 0.2 mm down from the tip 51 of the structure
50.
[0047] FIG. 1b shows a section of a squeegee structure 100. The
squeegee structure 100 protrudes from support surfaces 105 in a
protruding direction 104 and preferably extends to distances in a
range of 0.2 to 6.0 mm. The squeegee structure 100 has squeegee
wall surfaces 102, squeegee edge surfaces 101 and squeegee ends 103
and 103'. According to the current invention, squeegee structures
extend in the elongation direction 108 to any distance and takes on
any number of shapes and forms. Squeegee structure herein refers to
an elongated structure with two ends as shown in FIG. 1b, an
elongated structure with one end, an elongated structure without
ends (viz. a continues squeegee structure) and combinations
thereof. Preferably, the averaged thickness 106 of the squeegee
wall 102 is not greater than 2.0 mm and is most preferably less
than 1.0 mm measured distances 107 between the edge surfaces 101 of
the structure 100 and 0.2 mm down from the edge surfaces 101 of the
structure 100.
[0048] FIG. 1c shows a two-cavity matrix structure 150. The matrix
structure 150 protrudes from support surfaces 155 in a protruding
direction 159 and preferably extends to distances in a range of 0.2
to 6.0 mm. The matrix structure 150 has edge surfaces 151, wall
surfaces 153, and cavities 154 and 156. Matrix structures in
accordance with the instant invention have any number of geometries
and shapes. The matrix structure has a symmetrical or an
asymmetrical network of wall surfaces, edge surfaces and cavities.
Preferably, the averaged thickness 157 of the walls 153 are not
greater than 2.0 mm and is most preferably less than 1.0 mm
measured from distances 160 between the edge surfaces 151 of the
structure 150 and 0.2 mm down from the edge surfaces 151 of the
structure 150.
[0049] According to the current invention a contact device is
configured to have at least one a resilient contact element. The
contact element has a primary structure that is a nodule, a
squeegee, an array or a matrix. The primary structure provides for
first contact surfaces that are capable of contacting a working
surface. The resilient contact element has at least one secondary
structure that is coupled to the primary structure. The secondary
structure is capable of exhibiting cooperative displacement with
the primary contact structure. Cooperative displacement, herein,
refers to the displacement of one structure through the
displacement of another structure. Preferably, the secondary
structure protrudes from surfaces or a surface region of the
primary structure. Most preferably, the secondary structure
protrudes from wall surfaces, edge surfaces or tip surfaces of the
primary structure. The secondary structure is a nodule, a squeegee,
an array, a matrix or a bristle structure. The secondary structure
provides second contact surfaces that are capable of contacting the
working surface.
[0050] Both the primary and the secondary structures are preferably
resilient and formed from resilient materials including, but not
limited, to plastics, rubbers, silicones, urethanes, latex and
other elastomeric materials. The primary structure preferably has
durometer hardness in a range of 10 to 90 Shores A. The secondary
contact structure preferably comprises a bristle structure. The
primary structure is preferably formed by injection molding or any
other suitable molding technique known in the art. The secondary
structures are preferably formed by fiber drawing techniques for
forming bristles from plastic resin materials. Alternatively, the
secondary structure is a nodule, a squeegee, any array or matrix
also formed by molding techniques. The contact element can be
modified by incorporating non-resilient materials such as abrasive
particles into the primary and/or secondary structures.
[0051] FIG. 2a illustrates a contact element 200 with a nodule 203
protruding from support surfaces 205. The nodule 203 has contact
surfaces 201 that are capable of engaging a working surface (not
shown). The contact element 200 has a squeegee structure 206
coupled to the nodule 203 and protruding from the contact surfaces
201 of the nodule 203. The squeegee structure 206 provides the
contact element 200 with a second set of contact surfaces that are
capable of engaging the working surface. In accordance with the
instant invention, the contact element 200 will engage the working
surface with the squeegee 206 when a first force is applied to the
working surface through the nodule 203. When a second and
sufficiently greater force is applied to the working surface
through the nodule 203, surfaces of the nodule 203 will also engage
the working surface.
[0052] FIG. 2b illustrates a contact element 250 with a tubular
squeegee 253 protruding from support surfaces 255. The squeegee 253
has contact surfaces 251 that are capable of engaging a working
surface (not shown). The contact element 250 has a bristle
structure 256 coupled to the squeegee 253 and protruding from the
surfaces 251 of the squeegee 253. The bristle structure 256
provides the contact element 250 with bristle surfaces that are
capable of engaging the working surface. In accordance with the
instant invention, the contact element 250 will engage a working
surface with the bristles 256 when a first applied force is applied
to the working surface through the squeegee 253. When a second, and
sufficiently greater, force is applied to the working surface
through the squeegee 253, surfaces 251 of the squeegee 253 will
also engage the working surface.
[0053] FIGS. 2c-h show top views of contact elements with primary
nodule structures and secondary squeegee structures or nodules
protruding from top surfaces of the primary nodule structures, in
accordance with the embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 2c
shows a contact element 220 comprising a plurality of wave-like or
serpentine squeegee structures 223 protruding from a top surface of
a nodule structure 221. FIG. 2d shows a contact element 230
comprising a plurality of cross-shaped squeegee structures 233
protruding from a top surface of a nodule structure 231. FIG. 2e
shows a contact element 240 comprising a plurality of curved
squeegee segments 243 protruding from a top surface of a nodule
structure 241. FIG. 2f shows a contact element 250 comprising a
plurality of continuous and concentrically positioned squeegee
structures 253 and 255 protruding from a top surface of a nodule
structure 231. FIG. 2g shows a contact element 260 comprising a
plurality of linear squeegee segments 263, 265 and 267 protruding
from a top surface of a nodule structure 261 and positioned at a
range of angles with respect to each other. FIG. 2h shows a contact
element 270 comprising a nodules structure 271 and plurality of
smaller nodules structures 273 and 273' protruding from a top
surface of a nodule structure 270. The contact elements illustrated
in FIGS. 2a-h are provided as examples and it will be clear to one
skilled in the art that contact elements can include a primary
nodule structure with secondary squeegee structures protruding from
a top surface that have any number of geometries or combinations of
geometries.
[0054] FIGS. 2i-l show perspective views of contact elements with
primary nodule structures and secondary structures protruding from
side surfaces of the primary nodule structures, in accordance with
the embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 2i shows a contact
element 280 comprising a nodule structure 285 protruding from a
support surface 281, wherein protruding walls 281 of the nodule
structure 285 are contoured with alternating ring-like protrusions
282 and depressions 283. FIG. 2j shows a contact element 290
comprising a nodule structure 295 protruding from a support surface
291, wherein protruding walls 292 of the nodule structure 295 are
contoured with depressions or cavitations 1201. FIG. 2k shows a
contact element 1200 comprising a nodule structure 1205 protruding
from a support surface 291, wherein protruding walls 1203 of the
nodule structure 1205 have squeegees extending in the protruding
direction of the nodule structure 1205. FIG. 2L shows a contact
element 1210 comprising a nodule structure 1215 protruding from a
support surface 1211, wherein protruding walls 1213 of the nodule
structure 1215 have nodule protrusions 1212 and 1212'.
[0055] FIG. 3a illustrates a contact element 300 with a squeegee
structure 302. The squeegee structure 302 has edge surfaces 301 for
engaging a working surface (not shown). Protruding from wall
surfaces 303 of the squeegee 302, there are several bristles or
bristle sections 304, 304' and 304''. Preferably, the bristle
sections 304, 304' and 304'' and the squeegee surfaces 301 are
cable of engaging the working surface simultaneously or
individually depending on presentation angle of the contact element
300 relative to the working surface and the force that is applied
to the working surface through the contact element. The contact
element 300 provides the contact properties of a squeegee and
bristles in a single multi-structural contact element. The bristles
304, 304' and 304'' can at any angle 306 relative to the protruding
wall surfaces 303 suitable for the application at hand.
[0056] FIG. 3b illustrates a contact element 350 with a squeegee
structure 352. The squeegee structure 352 has edge surfaces 351 for
engaging a working surface (not shown). Protruding from wall
surfaces 353 of the squeegee 352 there are several secondary
squeegees 354, 354' and 354''. Preferably, the secondary squeegee
structures 354, 354' and 354''and the squeegee surfaces 351 are
cable of engaging the working surface. The secondary squeegees 304,
304' and 304''and the squeegee surfaces 351 engage the working
surface simultaneously or individually depending on presentation
angle of the contact element 350 relative to the working surface
and the force that is applied to the working surface through the
contact element as explained in detail above.
[0057] FIGS. 3c-f show schematic representation of contact elements
with a primary squeegee structures and secondary squeegee
structures protruding from wall surfaces of the primary squeegee
structures, in accordance with the embodiments of the invention.
FIG. 3c shows a contact element 320 with a squeegee structure 321
and a plurality of wave-like of serpentine squeegee structures 323
protruding from a wall of squeegee structure 321. FIG. 3d shows a
contact element 330 with a squeegee structure 331 and a plurality
of cross-shaped squeegee structures 333 and 335 protruding from a
wall of squeegee structure 331. The squeegee structure 335 includes
a longer squeegee segment with a plurality of smaller squeegee
segments that intersect with the longer squeegee segment forming a
backbone-shaped squeegee 335. FIG. 3e shows a contact element 350
with a squeegee structure 351 and a plurality of continuous
squeegee structures 335 and 345 protruding from a wall of squeegee
structure 331. The continuous squeegee structures 345 surrounds the
smaller squeegee structures 355. FIG. 3f shows a contact element
360 with a squeegee structure 361 and a plurality of linear
squeegee segments 363 protruding from a wall of squeegee structure
361.
[0058] FIGS. 3g-j show perspective views of contact elements with
primary squeegee structures and secondary structures protruding
from side surfaces of the primary structures, in accordance with
the embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3g shows a contact
element 370 comprising a squeegee structure 375 protruding from a
support surface 371, wherein protruding walls 374 of the squeegee
structure 375 have curved squeegees 373 and 373' protruding
therefrom. FIG. 3h shows a contact element 380 comprising a
squeegee structure 385 protruding from a support surface 381,
wherein protruding walls 384 of the squeegee structure 385 are
contoured with depressions or cavitations 383. FIG. 3i shows a
contact element 390 comprising a squeegee structure 395 protruding
from a support surface 391, wherein protruding walls 394 of the
squeegee structure 395 have nodule structure 393 and 393'
protruding therefrom. FIG. 3j shows a contact element 1300
comprising a squeegee structure 1305 protruding from a support
surface 1301, wherein protruding walls 1304 of the squeegee
structure 1305 are patterned with circular depressions or holes
1303 and 1303.
[0059] FIG. 4a illustrates a contact element 400 with a tapered
squeegee 402 protruding from support surfaces 405. The squeegee 402
has wall surfaces 403 and edge surfaces 401 that are capable of
engaging a working surface (not shown). The contact element 400 has
a bristle structure 404 couple to the squeegee 402 and protruding
from the edge surfaces 401 of the squeegee 402. The bristle
structure 404 provides the contact element 400 with bristle
surfaces that are also capable of engaging the working surface. The
contact element 400 will engage the working surface with the
bristles 404 when a first force is applied to the working surface
through the squeegee 402. When a second, and sufficiently greater,
force is applied to the working surface through the squeegee 401,
the edge surfaces 401 and wall surfaces 403 of the squeegee 402
will also engage the working surface.
[0060] FIG. 4b shows a cross-sectional view of the contact element
400 illustrated in the FIG. 4b. The tapered squeegee 402 has wall
surfaces 403 and 403' and the edge surfaces 401 that are capable of
engaging a working surface, as described above. The bristles 404
are preferably attached to the support 405 extend through a portion
of the squeegee 402 and protrude from wall surfaces 403 and 403' or
edge surfaces 401, as shown. The bristles of the bristle structure
404 are not required to extend through the entire squeegee 402 to
practice the invention and may be couple to surfaces of the
squeegee structure 402 by other means known in the art.
[0061] FIG. 5a illustrates a contact element 500 that has a
squeegee structure 512 which protrudes from support surfaces 505
with protruding squeegee walls 510. The squeegee element 512 is
contoured with teeth 501, 503, 505, 507, and 509. Between the teeth
501, 503, 505, 507, and 509 there are notches or depressions 511,
513, 515 and 517. On the surfaces of the notches 511, 513, 515 and
517 there are bristle sections 502, 504, 506 and 508, respectively.
The squeegee teeth 501, 503, 505, 507, and 509 and the bristle
sections 502, 504, 506 and 508 are made to be longer or shorter
relative to each other depending on the application at hand. When
squeegee teeth 501, 503, 505, 507, and 509 are longer than the
bristle sections 502, 504, 506 and 508, as shown, then the squeegee
teeth 501, 503, 505, 507, and 509 (or a portion thereof) will
engage a working surface (not shown) when a first force is applied
to the working surface through squeegee structure 512. When a
second, and sufficiently greater, force is applied to the working
surface through the squeegee structure 512, then the bristle
sections 502, 504, 506 and 508 (or a portion thereof) will also
contact the working surface. Alternatively, the squeegee teeth 501,
503, 505, 507, and 509 and the bristle sections 502, 504, 506 and
508 are made to have the same length such that the teeth 501, 503,
505, 507, and 509 and bristle sections 502, 504, 506 and 508 engage
a working surface simultaneously. The contact device of the instant
invention is configured with any number of teeth and bristles
sections suitable for the application at hand.
[0062] FIG. 5b illustrates a contact element 550 that has an
extended nodular structure 562 that protrudes from support surfaces
555 with protruding nodules 551, 553, 555 and 557. Between the
protruding nodules 551, 553, 555 and 557, there are depressed
surfaces 559, 561, and 563. Protruding from the depressed surfaces
559, 561 and 563 there are bristle sections 552, 554, and 556. The
nodules 551, 553, 555 and 557 and the bristle sections 552, 554,
and 556 are made to be longer or shorter or the same, as explained
above relative to each other depending on the application at hand.
Alternatively, the nodules 551, 553, 555 and 557 and the bristle
sections 552, 554, and 556 are made to have the same length so that
the nodules 551, 553, 555 and 557 and bristle sections 552, 554,
and 556 contact a working surface simultaneously. Further, the
contact device of the instant invention is configured with any
number of teeth and bristles sections suitable for the application
at hand.
[0063] FIGS. 6a-h illustrate several symmetrical nodule structure
geometries that are useful in the contact device of the instant
invention. FIG. 6a shows a nodule 610 with cylindrical protruding
walls 611 and a rounded tip portion 612; FIG. 6b shows a nodule 620
with cylindrical protruding walls 621 and a flat top 622; FIG. 6c
shows a nodule 630 with contoured protruding walls 631 and a flat
top 632; FIG. 6d shows a pointed nodule 640 with tapered protruding
walls 641 and a tip 642; FIG. 6e shows a rectangular nodule 650
with planar walls 651 and a flat top 652; FIG. 6f shows a nodule
660 with planar walls 661 and a rounded tip portion 662; FIG. 6g
shows a star shaped nodule 670 with protruding walls 671 and a
star-shaped top 672; FIG. 6h shows a triangular nodule 680 with
protruding walls 681 and triangular-shaped top 682.
[0064] FIGS. 7a-g illustrate several asymmetrical nodule structure
geometries that are useful in the contact device of the instant
invention. FIG. 7a shows a wedge-shaped nodule 700 with protruding
walls 701 and a top 702; FIG. 7b shows a nodule 710 with contoured
walls 711 and a bow-tie shaped top 712; FIG. 7c shows a curved
nodule 720 with protruding walls 721 (curved in the elongation
direction) and a flat top 722; FIG. 7d shows a curved nodule 730
with protruding walls 733 (curved in the protruding direction) and
a top 732; FIG. 7e shows a wedge shaped nodule 740 with tapered
walls 743, triangular walls 741 and an edge 742; FIG. 7f shows a
nodule 750 with grooved walls 753, bow-tie shaped walls 752 and a
flat top 751; and FIG. 7g shows a nodule 760 with contoured walls
762 and a top 761. It will be clear to one of average skill in the
art that any number of symmetric and asymmetric nodule geometries
and combinations thereof are useful in the contact device of the
instant invention.
[0065] FIG. 8a-f illustrate several edge and tip contours of
contact structures used in the instant invention. FIG. 8a shows a
contact structure segment 80 with a planar contact edge 81; FIG. 8b
shows a contact structure segment 82 with a V-shaped contact edge
83; FIG. 8c shows a contact structure segment 84 with a curve
convex contoured contact edge 85; FIG. 8d shows a contact structure
segment 86 with a concave contoured contact edge 87; FIG. 8e shows
a contact structure segment 88 with a diagonally contoured contact
edge 89; and FIG. 8f shows a contact structure segment 90 with a
pointed contact edge 91.
[0066] FIG. 9a shows a contact element 900 with a primary nodular
structure 905 that protrudes from a support structure 906 in a
protruding direction 907. The support structure 906 is rigid or
flexible depending on the intended application. The support 906 and
the nodule 905 are formed of the same or different material and are
made in parts or are co-molded as a monolithic unit. According to
an embodiment of the invention, a contact device has one or more
contact elements or an array of contact elements such as the one
shown in the FIG. 9a.
[0067] Still referring to the FIG. 9a, the contact element 900 has
a bristle structure 901 comprising bristle groupings 902 protruding
from top surfaces 903 of the nodule 905. Alternatively, a bristle
structure protrudes from wall surfaces or edge surfaces 904 of the
nodule 905 or any combination of surfaces and edges. The bristle
structure 901 is comprised of bristles that are formed from
resilient materials, including but not limited to, natural hair,
plastics, rubbers, silicones, urethanes latex and elastomeric
materials. Bristles, while typically hard, are made to be flexible
and resilient by virtue of their thin elongated geometries.
[0068] Now referring to FIG. 9b, when the nodule structure 905 of
the contact element 900 is displaced in the direction 907, then the
bristle structure 901 exhibits cooperative displacement with the
nodule structure 905. Accordingly, the contact behavior of the
element 900 depends on the relative flexibility or rigidity of the
primary 905 and secondary 901 contact structures. For example, when
the bristle structure 901 is made to be sufficiently rigid relative
to the nodule structure 905, then engaging the bristle structure
901 with a working surface (not shown) and applying a force to the
working surface through the nodule 905 will cause the nodule 905 to
deflect as shown in the FIG. 9b. Making the nodule structure 905
more flexible that the bristle structure 901 allows the nodule
structure 905 to function as a cushion for the more rigid abrasive
bristle structure 901. Alternatively, when the bristle structure
901 is made to be more flexible relative to the nodule structure
905, then engaging the bristle structure 901 with the working
surface and applying a force to the working surface through the
nodule 905 will cause the bristle structure 901 to be displaced
from its equilibrium resting position. If the bristles are
sufficiently flexible, then the bristles of the bristle structure
901 will be completely displaced and surfaces of the nodule 905
will also contact the working surface. When the nodule structure
905 and the bristles of the bristle structure 901 are made to
exhibit similar flexibility, then engaging the bristle structure
901 with the working surface and applying a force to the working
surface through the nodule 905 displaces both the nodule 905 and
the bristle structure 901 from their respective equilibrium resting
positions.
[0069] FIG. 9c shows a contact element 1910, in accordance with
further embodiments of the invention. The contact element has a
primary nodular structure 1903 that protrudes from a surface 1906
of a support structure 1901. The contact element 1901 has primary
nodule structures or fingers 1905 and 1905' protruding from a top
surface 1904 of the nodule structure 1903. It will be clear to one
skilled in the art that the contact element 1910 can also includes
bristles, squeegees or have patterned or contoured walls, such as
described above with reference to FIGS. 2c-l and FIGS. 3a-j.
[0070] FIG. 10a shows a cross-sectional view of a contact element
10 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention.
The primary structure 17 is a bent nodule or squeegee structure.
The primary structure 17 protrudes from a support structure 12 that
is either rigid or flexible or a combination of rigid and flexible
components. The primary structure 17 protrudes from the support 12
with a base portion 18 in a direction 14 and further extends with a
wall portion 19 in a second direction 16. Protruding from the
interior surfaces of the base portion 18 and the wall portion 12 of
the structure 17 are bristle structures 11, 13 and 15. Depending on
where the structure 17 is bent from or displaced, different groups
of the bristle structures 11, 13 and 15 will exhibit cooperative
displacement. The structures 11, 13 and 15 are preferably imbedded
in the primary structure 17 through bristle boats 38 and 37 that
can be formed from a rigid or semi-rigid plastic which help to
anchor or hold the bristle 11, 13 and 15 into the primary structure
17.
[0071] Now referring to FIG. 10b, displacement of the structure 17
from its equilibrium resting position in the direction 14 will
causes all of bristle structures 11 13 and 15 to be displaced as
shown. Now referring to the FIG. 10c, displacement of the structure
17 from its equilibrium resting position in the direction 16 will
cause the bristle structures 11 and 13 to be displace as shown and
leave the bristle structure 15 in substantially the same position
relative to the support structure 12. Bristle structures such as 11
13 and 15 can be configured to protrude for the structure 17 at any
angle relative to the surfaces of the base portion 18 and the wall
portion 12, but preferably protrude from the wall portion at an
angle 9 between 90 and 10 degrees relative to the wall portion
12.
[0072] FIG. 11a shows a top view of a contact device in accordance
with the preferred embodiment of the invention. The device 20 is
preferably configured for cleaning dentition. The device 20 has a
handle portion 27 for griping and manipulating the device 20 during
a cleaning operation. The device 20 has at least one primary
structure 29 that preferably forms two sides 21 and 21' giving the
device 20 a cleaning cavity or channel. Preferably, the primary
structure 29 has a plurality of nodular protrusions 21 that contact
surfaces of teeth and gums or dentures during a cleaning operation.
The device 20 also preferably has a plurality of bristle structures
23 and 24 that protrude from inner surfaces of the primary
structure 29. The primary structure 29 is attached to the handle
portion 27 through a support structure 28. The support structure 28
is preferably a channel support structure that is formed of rigid
or flexible materials. Alternatively, the channel 28 comprises
interspersed flexible segments 25 and rigid segments 26, which
allow the channel structure 28 to bend and deform as required
during use. Protruding from the channel structure 28 are bristle
sections 22 and 23 that have any number of bristles with any number
bristle arrangements or configurations. The bristle sections 22 and
23 are comprised of needle-like bristles having any resiliency,
texture, geometry or hardness required to facilitate the cleaning
of teeth and dentures. The bristles are preferably formed by fiber
drawing procedures known in the art. The bristles are formed from
nylon, polyester, polyamide or any other suitable plastic
resin.
[0073] FIG. 11b shows a perspective side view of the dentition
cleaning device 20 shown in FIG. 11a. The nodular protrusions on
sides 21 and 21' preferable protrude farther than the bristle
structures 22 and 23 such that the primary structure 19 cups teeth
and dentition within the channel of bristles.
[0074] The preferred embodiment of the instant invention is
particularly useful for guiding and controlling contact positions
and angles of the bristle on gums and teeth. The device 20 is also
particularly useful for cleaning teeth and gums of persons wearing
orthodontia. The device 20 allows bristles to be positioned at
angles relative orthodontia that are difficult or impossible to
obtain with a conventional toothbrush.
[0075] FIG. 11c illustrates a cross-sectional view 30 of a contact
device in accordance with the instant invention. The L-shaped
primary structures 31 and 31' are attached to a support structure
36. The support structure 36 is formed of rigid or flexible
materials. The support structure 36 preferably has interspersed
flexible segments and rigid segments, as described above and shown
in FIG. 11a, which allow the support structure 36 to bend and
deform as required during use. Protruding from the support
structure 36 are bristle structures 32 and 32'. Protruding from
inner surfaces of the structures 31 and 31' are bristles structures
33/33' and 34/34', respectively. The flexible backbone structure 36
described is also useful in numerous other devices that are
configured to contact and/or clean protruding and/or elongated
structures with complex geometries, such as teeth and dentures. In
accordance with an embodiment of the invention, the L-shaped
primary structures 31 and 31' extended to form a continuous channel
or a channel section.
[0076] FIG. 12a shows a cross-sectional view of a dentition device
40 in the elongated direction of the dentition device 40. The
dentition device 40 includes a handle 41 and support structure 41'
that are formed from a first polymeric material. The dentition
device 40 preferably includes bristles 43 that protrude the support
structure 41'. The dentition device 40 also includes a resilient
contact structure 45 (primary structure) that is formed from a
second polymeric material. The resilient contact structure 45
preferably includes end nodules and/or squeegees 47 that protrude
upward in a direction similar to the bristle 43. The first material
that forms the handle 41 and the support structure 41' is
preferably a hard semi-rigid polymeric material with a hardness
value that is greater than 90 Shores. The second material that
forms the resilient contact structure 45 is preferably a softer
resilient material with a hardness value that is less than 90
Shores, such that portions of resilient contact structure 45,
including the nodules and/or squeegees 47 can be resiliently
displaced from the support structure 41', as described in detail
above.
[0077] FIG. 12b shows a cross-sectional view of the dentition
device 40 along the width of the dentition cleaning device 40. The
dentition device 40 is shown in FIG. 2b with the resilient contact
structure 45 and being resilient displaced outward from the support
structure 41' along both sides of the dentition device 40. Form the
view shown in FIG. 2b it can be seen that there are also bristles
43' and 42'' that protrude upward from portions of the resilient
contact structure 45 and are resiliently displaced from the support
structure 41' along with side nodules and/or squeegees 48 and 48'.
The bristles 43 and 43' are preferably set onto the resilient
contact structure 45 through bristle boat structures 46 and 46'
that are formed from the same material as the support structure 41'
or a different material that is suitable for securing or anchoring
the bristles 43' and 43'' to the resilient contact structure
45.
[0078] FIG. 12c shows a top schematic view of the dentition device
that includes the handle 41, the support structure 41', the
resilient contact structure 45, the bristle boats 46 and 46', the
bristles 43, 43' and 43'', the end nodules and/or squeegees 47 and
the side nodules and/or squeegees 48' and 48''. For completeness,
FIG. 12d shows a perspective view of the dentition device 40. The
bristles 43' and 43'' shown in FIGS. 12a-c have been removed from
FIG. 12d for clarity. Note that the support structure 41' is over
molded by the resilient contact structure 45, as indicated by the
dotted line.
[0079] FIG. 13a shows a cross-sectional view of a dentition device
50 in the elongated direction of the dentition device 50, in
accordance with yet further embodiments of the invention. The
dentition device 50 includes a handle 51 and support structure 51'
that are formed from a first polymeric material. The dentition
device 50 preferably includes bristles 53 and 53' that protrude the
support structure 51' and a bristle boat 56, respectively. The
bristle boat 56 is formed from a material that is suitable for
holding and securing the bristles 53', as described above. The
dentition device 50 also includes a resilient contact structure 55
that is formed from a second polymeric material. The resilient
contact structure 55 preferably includes end nodules and/or
squeegees 57 that protrudes upward in a direction similar to the
bristle 43. The first material that forms the handle 51 and the
primary structure 51' is preferably a hard semi-rigid polymeric
material with a hardness value that is greater than 90 Shores. The
second material that forms the resilient contact structure 55 is
preferably a softer resilient material with a hardness value that
is less than 90 Shores, such that portions of resilient contact
structure 55, including the end nodules and/or squeegees 57 can be
resiliently displaced from the support structure 51'.
[0080] FIG. 13b shows the a cross-sectional view of the dentition
device 50 in the elongated direction of the dentition device 50 and
with the resilient contact structure 55 being resiliently displaced
from the support structure 51' through a flexible region 55' of the
secondary structure 55. Note that the bristles 53' are displaced in
the elongated direction with the with the resilient contact
structure 55.
[0081] FIG. 13c shows a top schematic view of the dentition device
50 that includes the handle 51, the support structure 51', the
resilient contact structure 55, the bristle boat 56, the bristles
53 and 53', the end nodules and/or squeegees 57 and the side
nodules and/or squeegees 58' and 58''. For completeness, FIG. 12d
shows a perspective view of the dentition device 50. Note that the
support structure 51' and the bristle boat 56 are over molded by
the resilient contact structure 55, as indicated by the dotted
lines. FIGS. 14a-c illustrate several views of contact elements
that include primary squeegee structures that surround bristles
also referred to herein as bristle boots.
[0082] FIGS. 14a-b show a prospective view and side view of a
contact element 1400 that includes a primary squeegee or bristle
boot 1403 that protrudes from a support 1401 and surrounds bristles
1407 and 1407'. The bristles 1407 and 1407' can also protrude from
the support 1401 and/or a portion of the bristle boot 1403. The
contact element 1400 also preferably includes a secondary squeegee
structure or squeegee wall 1405 that protrudes from a top portion
1404 of the bristle boot 1403 and provides a wiping edge 1409.
Where the contact element 1400 is used in a dentition cleaning
device, the secondary squeegee or squeegee wall 1405 helps to guide
bristles 1407 and 1407' between teeth and under the gum-line, while
the bristle boot 1403 provides structural integrity for the
bristles 1407 and 1407', which is particularly beneficial when the
bristles 1407 and 1407' are very fine and/or soft. Alternatively,
or in addition to the secondary squeegee or squeegee wall 1405, the
contact element 1400 includes nodules or finger that protrude from
the top portion 1404 of the bristle boot 1403.
[0083] Referring to FIG. 14b, the bristles 1407 and 1407' can
extend through a compartment 1406 of the primary squeegee structure
of bristle boot 1403, as indicated by the dotted or dashed lines
and can be anchored or secured to the support 1401 through a
bristle boat or bristle anchor structure 1402, such as described
previously above.
[0084] FIG. 14c shows a prospective view of a contact element 1410
that includes a cylindrical bristle boot 1413 that protrudes from a
surface 1406 of a support 1411 and surrounds bristles 1415. The
bristles 1415 can protrude from the support 1401 and/or a portion
of the bristle boot 1403. The contact element 1403 also preferably
includes secondary squeegees or squeegee walls 417 and 1419 that
protrude from a top portion 1416 of the bristle boot 1403 and
provides wiping edges 1421 and 1423. Alternatively, or in addition
to the secondary squeegees or squeegee walls 1417, the contact
element 1410 can include nodules or finger that protrude from the
top portion 1416 of the bristle boot 1413.
[0085] FIGS. 15a-b show schematic representations of cleaning heads
1500 and 1510 of dentition cleaning devices or systems that
includes bristle boots that surround bristles and that preferably
includes one or more secondary squeegee structures 1417 and 1419
and/or nodule structures, such as described above with reference to
FIGS. 14a-c.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 15a, the cleaning head 1500 includes a
neck portion 1502 that is configured to attach to, or is attached
to, a manual or electric handle (not shown). The cleaning head 1500
includes a plurality of bristle boots 1503 and 1503' that surround
bristles protruding from a support surface 1501 of the cleaning
head 1500. The cleaning head 1500 can also includes a plurality of
squeegees 1505 and 1505' that can be straight, curved or otherwise
contoured, that also protrude from the support surface 1501 of the
cleaning head 1500. Further, the cleaning head 1500 can include
bristle tufts and/or nodules 1507 that also protrude from the
support surface 1501 of the cleaning head 1500.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 15b the cleaning head 1510 includes a neck
portion 1512 that is configured to attach to, or is attached to, a
manual or electric handle (not shown). The cleaning head 1510
includes a plurality of elongated bristle boots 1513 and 1513' that
extend along opposed sides or edges of the a support surface 1511
and surround bristles protruding from a support surface 1511 of the
cleaning head 1510. The cleaning head 1510 can also includes a
plurality of squeegees 1515 and 1515' that can be straight, curved
or otherwise contoured, that also protrude from the support surface
1511 of the cleaning head 1510. Further, the cleaning head 1510 can
include bristle tufts and/or nodules 1517 that also protrude from
the support surface 1511 of the cleaning head 1510.
[0088] FIG. 16 shows an electric powered oral-care apparatus 1600
comprising a power cleaning head 1601 with one or more regions 1603
and 1605 that move and that include one or more contact elements
that includes primary structures, secondary structures and
bristles, such as described above with reference to FIGS. 2a-l,
3a-j, 4a-b, 5a-b, 9a-c, and 14a-c. In accordance with the
embodiments of the invention, the electric powered oral-care
apparatus 1600 comprises a power or recharging station 1609 for
docking a body portion 1611 of the oral-care apparatus 1600. The
power or recharging station 1609 comprises means 1615 for plugging
the power or recharging station 1609 into an electrical receptacle
and recharging a battery (not shown) housed within the body portion
1611 of the oral-care apparatus 1600, wherein the battery is
configured for providing power to a driver mechanism (not shown)
that moves one or both of the regions 1603 and 1605. Alternatively,
or in addition to the power supply mechanism described above, the
apparatus 1600 can be configured to be powered with disposable
batteries (not shown) that are housed in the body portion 1611 of
the oral-care apparatus 1600. Preferably, the oral-care apparatus
200 has a power switch 1613 for energizing the power head 1601 to
move the power cleaning head 1601 on or turn it off. Also, the
oral-care apparatus 1600 can include any number of timer mechanisms
to indicate to a user a preferred amount of time to clean teeth and
gums with the oral-care apparatus 1600. For example, the oral-care
apparatus 1600 can be configured to automatically shut off in a
predetermined period of time after being energized with the power
switch 1613. The power cleaning head 1601 and/or the one or more
regions 1603 and 1605 power cleaning head 1601 can be configured to
rotate, oscillate, vibrate or otherwise move.
[0089] It will be clear to one skilled in the art that the above
embodiment may be altered in many ways without departing from the
scope of the invention. While the present invention has been
described for use in oral-care, it can be used in any number of
contact cleaning devices and applicators devices. Further any
number of structural geometries, combinations of geometries,
materials and combinations of material may be used to configure a
device with a multi-structural contact element in accordance with
the instant invention. Devices of the instant invention can be
configured any number or multi-structural contact elements and
configured with handles having any number of shape, sizes and
extension angles relative to the multi-structural contact elements.
Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined by the
following claims and their legal equivalents.
* * * * *