U.S. patent application number 11/503566 was filed with the patent office on 2007-02-22 for toothbrush.
Invention is credited to Puneet Nanda.
Application Number | 20070039109 11/503566 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37758193 |
Filed Date | 2007-02-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070039109 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Nanda; Puneet |
February 22, 2007 |
Toothbrush
Abstract
Disclosed herein are toothbrushes. The toothbrushes are
self-standing and are oriented in an upright position when resting
on a support surface. In some arrangements, the toothbrush can have
a stamp. A closure of the toothbrush can be removed to expose the
stamp. The toothbrush has an ink source that deposits ink on the
stamp. A receiving stand configured to receive the lower portion of
the toothbrush can maintain the toothbrush in a generally vertical
orientation.
Inventors: |
Nanda; Puneet; (Cerritos,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET
FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
37758193 |
Appl. No.: |
11/503566 |
Filed: |
August 11, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60707388 |
Aug 11, 2005 |
|
|
|
60709215 |
Aug 18, 2005 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
15/105 ;
15/143.1; 15/167.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A46B 15/0097 20130101;
A46B 5/00 20130101; A46B 2200/1066 20130101; A46B 15/0089 20130101;
B41F 17/001 20130101; A46B 15/0055 20130101; A46B 15/0087
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
015/105 ;
015/143.1; 015/167.1 |
International
Class: |
A46B 9/04 20060101
A46B009/04 |
Claims
1. A toothbrush comprising: an upper portion having a plurality of
bristles configured to clean teeth; and a lower portion being
removably coupled to the upper portion, wherein when the lower
portion is separated from the upper portion, a stamp is
exposed.
2. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the stamp is coupled to the
upper portion.
3. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the stamp is coupled to the
lower portion.
4. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein at least one of the lower
portion and the upper portion comprises an ink source.
5. The toothbrush of claim 4, wherein the ink source comprises an
ink pad or an ink reservoir.
6. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the lower portion is a
rounded closure.
7. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the toothbrush is a
self-standing toothbrush that moves to a generally upright position
when the toothbrush is placed upon a support surface.
8. The toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the upper portion comprises a
handle.
9. The toothbrush of claim 1, further comprising a stand member,
said stand member configured to receive the lower portion and
maintain the toothbrush in a substantially vertical position.
10. The toothbrush of claim 9, wherein the stand member comprises
at least one support member.
11. The toothbrush of claim 1, further comprising at least one
illumination circuit, said illumination circuit comprising at least
one lighting element and a switch.
12. The toothbrush of claim 11, wherein the illumination circuit
further comprises a timing circuit.
13. A self-standing toothbrush comprising: a toothbrush head
comprising a plurality of cleaning elements; and a body having an
upper end and a bottom, the head being coupled to the upper end of
the body, the bottom is configured such that the toothbrush assumes
a neutral position when gravity acts on the toothbrush resting on a
support surface.
14. The toothbrush of claim 13, wherein the bottom is sufficiently
heavy to cause the toothbrush to bias to a generally upright
position when the toothbrush is placed on a generally flat support
surface.
15. The toothbrush of claim 13, further comprising a base on which
the toothbrush is configured to be positioned, wherein the bottom
comprises at least one magnet and the base comprises at least one
repelling magnet to cause the toothbrush to bias to a generally
upright position when the toothbrush is placed on the base.
16. The toothbrush of claim 13, wherein the bottom comprises a
closure that is temporarily coupled to a body-mounting portion of
the body, when the closure is separated from the body-mounting
portion a stamp is exposed, when the closure is attached to the
body-mounting portion the stamp is covered.
17. The toothbrush of claim 13, further comprising at least one
illumination circuit, said illumination circuit comprising at least
one lighting element and a switch.
18. The toothbrush of claim 17, wherein the illumination circuit
further comprises a timing circuit.
19. A stand member configured to receive and support a toothbrush
in a generally vertical position, said stand member comprising: a
shell portion comprising an internal space into which a toothbrush
can be positioned; and at least one support member attached to the
shell portion and configured to maintain the position of the stand
member on a generally flat surface.
20. The stand member of claim 19, wherein the at least one support
member is shaped like a foot.
21. The stand member of claim 19, wherein the shell comprises at
least one opening.
22. The toothbrush of claim 19, further comprising at least one
illumination circuit, said illumination circuit comprising at least
one lighting element and a switch.
Description
PRIORITY INFORMATION
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 60/707,388, filed Aug. 11, 2005, and U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/709,215, filed Aug. 18, 2005,
both herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present inventions relate to dental hygiene and, more
particularly, to toothbrushes.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] To ensure proper oral care, dentists recommend that we brush
our teeth more than once a day for at least two to three minutes
each time. Despite this recommendation, the average adult person
does not brush his or her teeth for two to three minutes. This
problem is worse with children, who have notoriously short
attention spans and often view brushing their teeth as a chore.
Accordingly, there is a general need for a device that encourages
people, specially children, to brush their teeth more often and for
longer periods of time. See e.g., U.S. Patent Publication No.
2004-0143920, filed Jan. 24, 2003 and published on Jul. 29, 2004,
the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference
herein.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In some embodiments, a self-standing toothbrush comprises a
stamp. The stamp is configured to leave an impression on a surface.
In some arrangements, the stamp is unexposed when the toothbrush is
in a first position. When the toothbrush is in a second position,
the stamp can be exposed for stamping. In some arrangements, a
closure is used to cover and conceal the stamp. The first position
can correspond to when the closure is attached to the toothbrush.
The second position can correspond to when the closure is separated
from the toothbrush. In some arrangements, the toothbrush comprises
an ink source. Ink from the ink source can be deposited on the
stamp.
[0007] In some embodiments, a toothbrush comprises an upper portion
and a lower portion. The lower portion is removably coupled to the
upper portion. When the lower portion is separated from the upper
portion, a stamp is exposed. The stamp can be coupled to the upper
portion. Alternatively, the stamp can be coupled to the lower
portion. In some embodiments, lower portion is a closure. The stamp
can be concealed when the closure is attached to the upper
portion.
[0008] In some embodiments, the toothbrush further includes a stand
member which is configured to receive the lower portion of the
toothbrush and maintain it in a substantially vertical position. In
another embodiment, the stand member includes at least one support
member.
[0009] In some embodiments, the toothbrush further includes one or
more illumination circuits. The illumination circuits can include a
lighting element, a switch, a timing circuit, a resistor, a power
supply and/or the like.
[0010] In some embodiments, a toothbrush comprises a head that
includes a plurality of cleaning elements. A body of the toothbrush
has an upper end and a bottom. The head is coupled to the upper end
of the body. The bottom is configured such that the toothbrush
assumes a neutral position, when gravity acts on the toothbrush
resting on a support surface. In some embodiments, the toothbrush
is a self-standing toothbrush. In other embodiments, the toothbrush
further includes one or more illumination circuits. The
illumination circuits can include a lighting element, a switch, a
timing circuit, a resistor, a power supply and/or the like.
[0011] In some embodiments, the toothbrush further comprises a base
on which the toothbrush is configured to be positioned. The bottom
of the toothbrush and the base include magnets which are configured
to repel each other so as to bias the toothbrush in generally
upright position when the toothbrush is placed on the base.
[0012] In some embodiments, a toothbrush has a stamp configured to
make an impression. The toothbrush can have an ink supply that can
deliver ink to the stamp. The stamp can be used before, during,
and/or after the toothbrush is utilized.
[0013] In some embodiments, a stand member is configured to receive
and support a toothbrush in a generally vertical position. The
stand member may include a shell portion having an internal space
into which a toothbrush can be positioned and one or more support
members, attached to the shell portion and configured to maintain
the position of the stand member on a generally flat surface. In
other embodiments, the support members are shaped like feet. In yet
another embodiment, the shell of the stand member includes at least
one opening.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] These and other features, aspects and advantages of the
present invention are decsribed with reference to drawings of
certain preferred embodiments, which are intended to illustrate,
but not to limit, the present invention. The drawings include
twenty-one (21) figures. It is to be understood that the attached
drawings are for the purpose of illustrating concepts of the
present invention and may not be to scale.
[0015] FIG. 1 is an elevation front view of a self-standing
toothbrush;
[0016] FIG. 1A is an elevation front view of a self-standing
toothbrush in accordance with another embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a body of the toothbrush of
FIG. 1, wherein the body has a stamp;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the toothbrush of FIG. 1
taken along a line 3-3;
[0019] FIG. 4 illustrates the toothbrush of FIG. 1 resting on a
support surface, the toothbrush is in an oblique position;
[0020] FIG. 5 illustrates the toothbrush of FIG. 4 in a generally
upright position;
[0021] FIG. 6A is an elevation side view of a bottom of a
toothbrush in accordance with another embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 6B is an elevation side view of a bottom of a
toothbrush in accordance with yet another embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a toothbrush having a
removable closure with a stamp;
[0024] FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the closure of FIG. 7A;
[0025] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of a toothbrush having a
removable closure;
[0026] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the toothbrush of FIG. 8,
wherein the closure has been removed;
[0027] FIG. 8C is another perspective view of the toothbrush of
FIG. 8A;
[0028] FIG. 9A is an elevation front view of a toothbrush with a
receiving stand according to one embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 9B is an elevation front view of the self-standing
toothbrush and receiving stand of FIG. 9A;
[0030] FIG. 9C is an elevation side view of the toothbrush and
receiving stand of FIG. 9B taken along section 9C-9C;
[0031] FIG. 10 is an elevation front view of a toothbrush with a
receiving stand according to another embodiment;
[0032] FIG. 11 is a schematic of an illumination circuit for a
toothbrush according to one embodiment;
[0033] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of an illumination circuit
without a power supply according to one embodiment;
[0034] FIG. 12B is a bottom view of the illumination circuit of
FIG. 12A;
[0035] FIG. 12C is a top perspective view of the illumination
circuit of FIG. 12A; and
[0036] FIG. 13 is a side view of one embodiment of a toothbrush
grip portion and the illumination circuit of FIG. 12A.
NOTICE OF MATERIAL SUBJECT TO COPYRIGHT PROTECTION
[0037] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to (copyright or mask work) protection.
The (copyright or mask work) owner has no objection to the
facsimile reproduction by any-one of the patent document or the
patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office
patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all (copyright or
mask work) rights whatsoever.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates a self-standing toothbrush 40 that is in
a generally upright position on a support surface 44. The
toothbrush 40 comprises a toothbrush head 48, a body 50, and a
closure 60 attached temporarily to the body 50. The closure 60 is
configured so that the toothbrush 40 assumes a preferred position
(e.g., a neutral position) when the toothbrush 40 rests on the
support surface 44. A stamp is concealed when the closure 60 is
attached to the body 50. However, the closure 60 can be removed
from the body 50 to expose the stamp 70 (FIG. 2). The stamp 70 can
be used to place ink onto a surface before, during, and/or after a
person brushes with the toothbrush 40. For example, after a person
(e.g., a child) brushes their teeth, the person can stamp their
skin to indicate that they have brushed their teeth. A child can
stamp their skin to indicate that they have brushed their teeth. A
parent can use the presence or absence of the stamp on the child's
skin to determine whether the child has brushed their teeth.
Additionally, the stamping process can increase enjoyment of the
brushing process.
[0039] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the head 48 can comprise
a plurality of cleaning elements 74 configured to clean a person's
teeth. The toothbrush head 48 is integrally mounted to the body 50,
which extends downwardly and is attached to the closure 60. The
illustrated cleaning elements 74 are in the form of a plurality of
bristles extending from a mounting head 76. The bristles 74 are
fixedly coupled to the mounting head 76. However, the bristles 74
can also be rotatably mounted to the mounting head 76. For example,
the toothbrush 40 can be an automatic toothbrush (e.g., a motorized
toothbrush) that rotates the bristles 74 when turned ON. The
toothbrush can comprise a power source, motor (e.g., an electric
motor), a drive mechanism, etc. for rotating the bristles 74. The
power source can comprise one or more batteries, a power outlet, or
other power supply that power an automatic toothbrush. For the sake
of convenience, the illustrated toothbrush 40 is a manual
toothbrush.
[0040] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the body 50 extends from
the mounting head 76 to the closure 60 and comprises one or more
decorative elements 66. In the illustrated embodiment, the
decorative element 66 comprises a chamber 100 that can contain one
or more fluids. In other embodiments, the decorative element may
include two or more chambers. The illustrated chamber 100 contains
a first fluid 102 and a second fluid 104. The first fluid 102 has a
different density and color than the first fluid 104, such that the
fluids 102, 104 separate to form somewhat discrete layer, each
having a different color. When the toothbrush 40 is moved, the
fluids 102, 104 can mix and produce an eye-catching mixture. The
mixing effect can encourage a person to brush their teeth. Any
number of fluids of any color can be contained within the chamber
100. However, the toothbrush 40 may not have a chamber in some
embodiments. For example, the body 50 can be of a solid
construction.
[0041] One or more decorative members 106 can extend through the
chamber 100 and is surrounded by the fluids 102, 104. The
illustrated decorative member 106 comprises an elongated member
upon which a character, in the form of a bird, is mounted. It will
be appreciated, however, that one or more other decorative members,
such as for example, other animals, cartoon characters and the
like, can be included in the chamber 100, either in lieu of or in
addition to the illustrated bird. In other embodiments, the
decorative member 106 can include text, a logo, a symbol, an
identifier and/or other type of graphic. For example, the
manufacturer's name and/or trademark may be included in the chamber
100. In another embodiment, the decorative member 106 may comprise
text identifying a user's name. In yet other embodiments, the user
may be allowed to freely customize the toothbrush by removing or
installing one or more decorative members 106. Any number of
decorative members can be positioned within the body 50. In some
embodiments, the decorative member comprises one or more lighting
elements that can be activated for a desired length of time. The
illustrated toothbrush 40 has a single lighting element 107.
[0042] One or more lighting elements or other sensory devices, such
as, for example, audible members, vibrating members, articulating
members or the like, can be activated at any time. For example, the
lighting element 107 of the toothbrush 40 can be activated when the
toothbrush 40 is moved, such as during normal brushing.
Alternatively, the lighting elements can be activated when the
toothbrush 40 undergoes a target temperature change or is exposed
to a fluid, such as water. In some embodiments, the lighting
elements are activated when the closure 60 is removed, the stamp 70
is pressed against a surface, or a switch is moved to an ON
position.
[0043] The lighting element can remain activated for a desired
length of time, preferably corresponding to a desired brush period.
The lighting element can effectively function as a timer to ensure
that a person utilizes the toothbrush 40 for a target period of
time.
[0044] The lighting element 107 can comprise a light source (e.g.,
a diode) powered by a power source (e.g., a battery). The lighting
element can pulse, remain continuously activated for the entire
brushing period, or have a programmed sequence of activation. The
lighting element can be activated to make brushing more
enjoyable.
[0045] The lighting elements can be positioned within the closure
60, coupled to the decorative element 66 (illustrated), in the
fluid contained in the chamber 100, within the body 50, or so at
any other suitable location for a lighting element.
[0046] FIG. 1A illustrates a toothbrush in accordance with another
embodiment. A lighting element 107A is positioned proximate to the
closure 60. The illustrated lighting element 107A is positioned
above the stamp (see FIG. 2) and can blink as desired. In some
embodiments, when the closure 60 is removed, the lighting element
107A blinks for a target length of time. The lighting element 107
illuminates at least a portion of the body 50, such as the fluid
102 in the chamber 100. The fluid 102 can be an oil or other
suitable liquid for illumination.
[0047] For purposes of powering, controlling and/or effecting the
lighting element 107 or other sensory device, the toothbrush 40
includes one or more illumination circuits. In some embodiments, an
illumination circuit can be positioned within the chamber 100 or
any other location of the toothbrush 40.
[0048] As illustrated schematically in FIG. 11, the illumination
circuit 80 includes a lighting element 107 (or sensory element), a
resistor 82, a timing circuit 84 and a power source 86. The
illumination circuit 80 may also include a switch 87. These parts
are preferably joined by conductors, which may serve structural
functions. FIGS. 12A-12C show one embodiment of an illuminating
member conductor 88 that provides a support structure extending the
lighting element 107 a distance away from the timing circuit 84.
The negative terminal conductor 90 is a spring which presses
against the power source 86 (FIG. (13). The positive terminal
conductor 92 extends away from the timing circuit 84 to embrace one
or more. For example, in one embodiment, the positive terminal
conductor 92 embraces three batteries. The positive terminal
conductor 92 may also be also sized to stabilize the illumination
circuit 80 within one or more enclosures located within the body of
the toothbrush.
[0049] In one embodiment, the lighting element 107 is a light
emitting diode (LED). Alternatively, the lighting element 107 can
be an incandescent lightbulb or any other device capable of
providing illumination and/or other sensory output.
[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the power source 86 includes one
or more batteries (e.g., micro cell model number G3-ACNB). For
example, three batteries can be placed in serial within the space
defined by negative terminal conductor 90 and positive terminal
conductor 92 (FIG. 13). In some embodiments, the timing circuit 84
functions to illuminate the lighting element 107 for approximately
60 seconds. The lighting element 107 can also be configured to
blink intermittently for the time period during which it is
activated. Alternately, the lighting element 107 or other sensory
output may remain activated continuously. It will also be
appreciated that the time period during which the lighting element
107 remains activated may be less or more than 60 seconds.
[0051] As illustrated in FIG. 13, the grip portion 94 of the
toothbrush body 50 may comprise a flexible material. Preferably,
the grip portion 94 also functions as a switch. Thus, as shown in
the depicted embodiment, the grip portion 94 may include an
extending piece or switch 96 of flexible material. Such a piece 96
moves the positive terminal metal conductor 92 so that it contacts
the power source 86. Alternatively, the piece 96 may move the power
source 86 so that it contacts the positive terminal metal conductor
92. Consequently, the piece 94 moves the illumination circuit 80
from an unilluminated position to a luminated position. The grip
portion 94 can be made of a flexible material (e.g., rubber, soft
plastic, etc.). Alternatively, the grip portion 94 may be
constructed of one or more hard materials, but may have a flexible
portion that may be used to engage the positive terminal conductor
92 to contact the power source 86.
[0052] The illustrated decorative element 66 floats in the fluid
102. Any number of decorative elements can be utilized. For
example, the toothbrush 40 can contain at least three decorative
elements floating in the fluid 102. In other embodiments, as
illustrated in FIG. 10, the fluid may include a plurality of "snow"
elements 68 that move within the one or more chambers 100 of the
toothbrush. The "snow" elements 68 are preferably configured to
easily move within the chambers 100 when the toothbrush is used or
handled, such as for example, when a user is brushing his or her
teeth. As depicted, the "snow" elements 68 have a generally square
shape. However, it will be appreciated that the "snow" elements 68
may have any other shape, either in lieu of or in addition to
square. For example, the "snow" elements 68 may include a
rectangular, circular, triangular, star-shaped, elongated and/or
other shape. The "snow" elements 68 may be manufactured from
plastic, ceramic, sand and/or other durable materials.
[0053] With reference again to FIG. 1, the body 50 can comprise any
material suitable for forming a toothbrush 40. Transparent
materials can be utilized so as to permit a person to view the
fluids 102, 104, and the elongated member 106. For example, the
body 50 can comprise a somewhat clear hard plastic that can be
formed, for example, by a molding process (e.g., an injection
molding process, a compression molding process, etc.).
Alternatively, the toothbrush can comprise opaque materials. The
body 50 can comprise polymers, metals, combinations thereof, or
other materials having suitable mechanical properties for forming
the body 50. The illustrated body 50 is a handle that can be
conveniently gripped to hold the toothbrush 40.
[0054] The closure 60 is removably coupled to the body 50 and forms
a bottom 200 of the toothbrush 40. As used herein, the term
"closure" is a broad term and is used in its ordinary meaning and
includes, without limitation, a cap, a cover, or other structure
that can be attached to the body 50. The somewhat rounded closure
60 provides a self-standing toothbrush 40. When the toothbrush 40
is not used, the toothbrush 40 can be in a neutral orientation
(e.g., an upright position) when it rests on a support surface 44,
such as a bathroom countertop. The closure 60 can cover and conceal
the stamp 70. When a person cleans their teeth with the toothbrush
40, the closure 60 can remain attached to the body 50. At any time
the closure 60 can be removed to use the stamp 70.
[0055] When the closure 60 is separated from the body 50, the stamp
70 is exposed as shown in FIG. 2. The stamp 70 can comprise one or
more indicia 110 that are configured to make a stamp image when the
stamp 70 is pressed on a surface, such as a person's skin. As used
herein, the term "stamp" is a broad term and is used in its
ordinary meaning and includes, without limitation, self-inking
stamps, pre-inked stamps, stamps for use with separate inkpads,
roller stamps, and other type of stamps for making an image. The
stamp 70 may or may not be interchangeable with another stamp. A
single toothbrush 40 can be used in combination with a single stamp
or a plurality of stamps. The stamp can comprise rubber, polymers,
or other material suitable for forming a stamp.
[0056] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the indicium 110 can
comprise one or more of the following: a character (illustrated),
text, a pattern, a symbol, a picture, or other stamping feature(s),
as are known in the art. In some embodiments, the stamp 70
comprises indicia 110 in the form of text. For example, the indicia
110 can comprise text that indicates that a person has brushed
their teeth. Alternatively, the indicium 110 can be related to the
decorative element 66 of the toothbrush 40. In some embodiments,
for example, the indicium 110 is a depiction of the decorative
elements 66. The indicium 110 can protrude from the stamp 70 as
known in the art.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 3, the body 50 comprises a body-mounting
portion 130 that holds permanently or temporarily the stamp 70. The
stamp 70 can be securely attached to a mounting surface 132 of the
body-mounting portion 130. Any suitable mounting arrangement can
couple the stamp 70 to the body-mounting portion 130. For example,
adhesives, mechanical fasteners, press fittings, snap fittings, or
other suitable coupling means can be employed to couple securely
the stamp 70 to the body-mounting portion 130. In some embodiments,
the stamp 70 is temporarily attached to the body-mounting portion
130. The stamp 70 can be removed and replaced with another stamp.
Alternatively, the stamp 70 can be monolithically formed with the
body.
[0058] In some embodiments, the closure 60 is temporarily secured
to the body-mounting portion 130. A closure-mounting portion 140 of
the closure 60 is releasably coupled to the body-mounting portion
130 of the body 50. The closure-mounting portion 140 can have
threads that are configured to mate with corresponding threads of
the body-mounting portion 130. As such, the closure 60 can be
screwed on and off of the body 50 as desired.
[0059] Alternatively, the closure-mounting portion 140 and the
body-mounting portion 130 can each have snap coupling structure.
The closure 60 can be conveniently snapped on and off of the body
50. It is contemplated that the body-mounting portion 130 and the
closure-mounting portion 140 can have any suitable arrangement for
temporarily securing the closure 60 to the body 50.
[0060] The closure 60 can have an ink source 144 that is positioned
and configured to deposit ink on the stamp 70. When the closure 60
is attached to the body-mounting portion 130 as illustrated, the
stamp 70 can press against the ink source 144 so that ink is
deposited on the stamp 70. The closure 60 can be removed to expose
the inked stamp 70. The outwardly facing indicium or indicia 110
can be pressed against a surface to leave an image.
[0061] The ink source 144 can be in the form of an inkpad
preferably containing ink. Non-limiting exemplary ink sources 144
can also include ink sponges, ink reservoirs, or other suitable ink
storage devices. The type and location of the ink source 144 can be
selected based on the type of stamp employed. The ink source 144
may or may not be refillable and/or replaceable.
[0062] The illustrated ink source 144 mates with the outwardly
facing surface of the stamp 70. However, the ink source 144 can be
positioned within the body-mounting portion 130 to supply ink to
the stamp 70 in the form of a self-inking stamp. To make each
impression, the ink source 144 re-inks the self-inking stamp 70.
The toothbrush 40 may have an actuating mechanism to move the stamp
70 into engagement with the ink source 144. Alternatively, the
stamp 70 can be a pre-inked stamp, wherein the ink source 144 is a
reservoir of ink positioned behind the stamp 70. Ink from the
reservoir 144 can saturate the stamp 70. Ink is deposited by the
stamp 70 to make an impression on a surface.
[0063] The ink source 144 can be at any suitable location for
delivering ink to the stamp 70 and can contain permanent ink,
temporary ink, quick dry ink, or other suitable ink for use with a
stamp. In some embodiments, the toothbrush does not have an ink
source. For example, the stamp 70 can be used with a separate ink
pad that is not attached to the toothbrush.
[0064] A kit can be provided with one or more of the following:
instructions for use, a toothbrush, a stamp, and an ink source.
Packaging can be provided to hold the components of the kit. The
stamp and the ink pad may or may not be attached to the toothbrush.
In some embodiments, the kit comprises an assortment of stamps,
each configured to produce a different image.
[0065] With respect again to FIG. 1, the toothbrush 40 can have the
bottom 200 and a weight distribution such that the toothbrush is
self-standing. When the toothbrush 40 is in a non-neutral position
(FIG. 4), the toothbrush moves, as indicated by the arrow 202, from
the non-neutral position to the neutral position (FIG. 5). The
toothbrush 40 has a neutral position corresponding to a generally
upright position when the toothbrush 40 rests on a surface, the
toothbrush biases towards its neutral position. However, the
toothbrush 40 can be in order orientations when it is occupying its
neutral position. The bottom 200 can be weighted and contoured to
ensure that the toothbrush 40 occupies a neutral position when an
external force is not applied to the toothbrush 40.
[0066] With reference again to FIG. 3, the closure 60 can include
one or more self-standing weights 210 that are preferably
positioned near the bottom surface 212. The illustrated bottom
surface 212 forms a generally rounded closure 60 that can easily
roll along a support surface. The weight 210 can comprise a
relatively dense material, such as metal (e.g., steel, iron, lead,
etc.) or other somewhat dense materials. As such, when the
toothbrush 40 is in the non-neutral position, gravity can act on
the weight 210 to move the toothbrush 40 to its neutral position.
The mass, position, material density, and other properties of the
weight 210 or bottom 200 can be selected to achieve a desired
center of gravity of the toothbrush 40. The location of the center
of gravity of the toothbrush 40 and the closure configuration can
be selected to result in a self-standing toothbrush 40.
[0067] Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the
self-standing features described herein may be incorporated into a
toothbrush that does not include a stamp. Further, the
self-standing features may be included in a toothbrush that does
not comprise a grip configured to activate a lighting element or
other sensory device. Thus, in some embodiments, a simple
toothbrush that does not include a stamp, a character and/or an
illuminating member may be configured to assume a generally upright
position when the toothbrush rests on a surface.
[0068] The bottom surface of the toothbrush can define a partially
spherical surface. In some embodiments, including the illustrated
embodiment of FIG. 6A, the closure 197 has a bottom surface 198
that has a generally flat portion 199. FIG. 6B illustrates a
closure 209 that comprises a plurality of curved surfaces 215, 217,
219, 221, 223. Any number of curved surface, flat surfaces, and
combinations thereof can be utilized for a desired neutral
position.
[0069] Alternatively, the toothbrush can be configured to assume a
vertical neutral position by using one or more magnetic members. In
some embodiments, the toothbrush can include one or more magnets of
a first polarity near its bottom portion, such as, for example, at
or in the vicinity of the closure 60 (FIG. 3). A first portion of
the support structure 44 on which the toothbrush rests may include
one or more magnets of a second polarity, opposite of the first
polarity, so as to create an attractive magnetic force between the
toothbrush and the this first portion of the support structure 44.
In addition, the support structure 44 can include an area
surrounding the first portion that includes one or more magnets of
a first polarity that repels the magnets situated on the
toothbrush. In one embodiment, this surrounding area of the support
member 44 may be a circular magnetic ring that concentrically and
continuously surrounds the first portion of the support structure
44. Thus, the support structure 44 can be a dedicated plate on
which the toothbrush can be placed. The resulting repelling
magnetic forces between the support structure 44 and the toothbrush
act to maintain the toothbrush in a vertical or substantially
vertical orientation.
[0070] FIGS. 7A and 7B depict another embodiment of the toothbrush,
which may be generally similar to the embodiments illustrated in
FIGS. 1-6B, except as further detailed below. Where possible,
similar elements are identified with identical reference numerals
in the depiction of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6B.
[0071] The closure 260 comprises the stamp 270. The stamp 270
engages an ink source 280 positioned adjacent the stamp 270. To use
a stamp 270, a user can pull the closure 260 from the body-mounting
portion 130, and the stamp 270 can be pressed against a surface to
leave an impression. It is contemplated that ink can be deposited
on the stamp 270 in any manner.
[0072] FIGS. 8A-8C illustrate a toothbrush 300 that is not
self-standing. In the illustrated embodiment, the toothbrush 300
comprises a first portion 301 and a second portion 302. The first
portion 301 is releasably coupled to the second portion 302. When
the first portion 301 is separated from the second portion 302, a
stamp 310 is exposed. As shown in FIGS. 8B and 8C, the stamp 310 is
attached to the first portion 301. Alternatively, the stamp can be
attached to the second portion 302, although not illustrated.
[0073] The illustrated second portion 302 is generally in the form
of a closure configured to cover the stamp 310. The second portion
302 can be moved away from the first portion 301, as indicated by
the arrow 312 of FIG. 8B. Then user can then stamp a surface, such
as the back of their hand, to make an impression thereon. After the
user has used the stamp, the second portion 302 can be reattached
to the first portion 301. The toothbrush 300 can be used to
repeatedly make any number of impressions on any surface.
[0074] In FIG. 9A, the bottom portion of the toothbrush 40 is
configured to fit within a receiving stand 410. In the illustrated
embodiment, the receiving stand 410 includes two support members
420 that contact the support structure 44. The receiving stand 410
can be constructed of one or more rigid or semi-rigid materials,
such as, for example, plastic, metal or the like. The interior
cavity of the shell 414 of the receiving stand 410 is preferably
configured to match the exterior shape of the toothbrush base, so
as to provide a substantially snug fit. This ensures that the
toothbrush will not unnecessarily wobble or otherwise move while
positioned within the receiving stand 410. As shown in FIG. 9A, the
shell 414 of the receiving stand 410 may include one or more holes
418 along its surface. The holes 418 may provide a decorative
and/or a functional purpose. For example, the holes 418 may serve
as outlets for air, water or other fluid present within the
receiving stand 410 as the toothbrush is being placed in or removed
from the receiving stand 410.
[0075] In FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C, the receiving stand 410 includes two
support members 420, which are shaped like human feet. Of course,
the support members 420 can have any other shape. In addition, a
receiving stand 410 may include fewer or more support members 420
than shown in the illustrated embodiments. For example, a single
support member 420 may be used. Alternatively, the receiving stand
410 can comprise three or more support members 420. In other
embodiments, the receiving stand 410 may not have any support
members at all. Instead, the bottom of the receiving stand 410 can
be configured to be securely positioned on the support structure
44. Regardless of the exact shape, size, dimensions, materials of
construction and other characteristics of the receiving stand 410
and/or the support members 420, the receiving stand 410 is
preferably configured to resist tipping when the toothbrush 40 is
positioned within it.
[0076] The various methods and techniques described above provide a
number of ways to carry out the invention. Of course, it is to be
understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages
described may be achieved in accordance with any particular
embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in
the art will recognize that the methods may be performed in a
manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of
advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other
objectives or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
[0077] Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the
interchangeability of various features from different embodiments
disclosed herein. The toothbrushes may or may not be self-standing
and may or may not comprise a stamp. For example, the toothbrushes
described herein can be self-standing without a stamp. In some
embodiments, the stamp is positioned along a side of the
toothbrush. The toothbrushes can have any number of stamps at any
suitable location along the toothbrush. Other types of brushes can
be self-standing and/or comprise a stamp. For example, the brushes
described above can be modified to form hair brushes.
Alternatively, the stamp can be attached to other hygiene products,
such as flossers, containers (e.g., mouthwash containers), picks,
interdental brushes, or other hygiene products, including, but not
limited to, dental products.
[0078] Similarly, the various features and steps discussed above,
as well as other known equivalents for each such feature or step,
can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to
perform methods in accordance with principles described herein.
Additionally, the methods which is described and illustrated herein
is not limited to the exact sequence of acts described, nor is it
necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth.
Other sequences of events or acts, or less than all of the events,
or simultaneous occurrence of the events, may be utilized in
practicing the embodiments of the invention.
[0079] Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those
skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof.
Accordingly, the invention is not intended to be limited by the
specific disclosures of preferred embodiments herein.
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