U.S. patent application number 12/079265 was filed with the patent office on 2008-11-06 for modular electric toothbrushes.
Invention is credited to John Geoffrey Chan.
Application Number | 20080271271 12/079265 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29716277 |
Filed Date | 2008-11-06 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080271271 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chan; John Geoffrey |
November 6, 2008 |
Modular electric toothbrushes
Abstract
An electric toothbrush having movable and static carriers which
independently slidingly engage the receiving member of the
toothbrush head within channels defined by the surfaces of the
receiving member. Such carriers can be releasably removable to
replace or exchange the carriers. Also disclosed is a toothbrush
having a unique assembly utilizing a one-piece housing in
combination with a movable bristle carrier that is engaged on a
receiving member located at the distal end of the toothbrush, and a
static carrier such as a brush head tip which is secured thereto.
The unitary housing reduces the number of components of the
toothbrush and decreases manufacturing costs. The static and
movable carriers may be replaced with other carriers and allows a
consumer to individually tailor the brush to provide a particular
brushing configuration. An electric toothbrush having a particular
assembly, bristle configuration, and drive mechanism is disclosed.
The assembly, bristle configuration, and drive mechanism are such
that operation of the brush is highly efficient and more economical
than currently known toothbrushes. Specifically, an electric
toothbrush is disclosed comprising a body, a head, and a neck
extending therebetween. The head comprises a receiving member and
several unique and preferred arrangements of static and movable
carriers. The carriers can comprise bristles, and the static
bristle carrier(s) can at least partially surround the collection
of movable bristle carrier(s). A motor and drive train impart
motion to the movable carrier(s).
Inventors: |
Chan; John Geoffrey;
(Loveland, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CHURCH & DWIGHT CO., INC.
LAW DEPT. - PATENTS, 469 NORTH HARRISON STREET
PRINCETON
NJ
08543-5297
US
|
Family ID: |
29716277 |
Appl. No.: |
12/079265 |
Filed: |
March 25, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10730850 |
Dec 9, 2003 |
7356866 |
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12079265 |
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10274700 |
Oct 21, 2002 |
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10730850 |
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60387841 |
Jun 11, 2002 |
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60410865 |
Sep 13, 2002 |
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60410556 |
Sep 13, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
15/22.2 ;
15/167.1; 15/22.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61C 17/222 20130101;
A61C 17/3445 20130101; A61C 17/349 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
15/22.2 ;
15/22.1; 15/167.1 |
International
Class: |
A46B 13/00 20060101
A46B013/00; A46B 9/04 20060101 A46B009/04 |
Claims
1-19. (canceled)
20. A low energy consumption electric toothbrush comprising: (a) a
housing assembly including a brush head, a handle, and a neck
extending between the brush head and the handle, the housing
defining a hollow interior cavity; (b) a movable bristle carrier
disposed on the brush head; (c) a motor providing a powered
rotating shaft, a drive gear affixed to the shaft, and a power
source in electrical communication with the motor and disposed in
the hollow interior cavity, (d) a crown gear rotatably supported in
the hollow interior cavity and oriented such that the axis of
rotation of the crown gear is perpendicular to an axis of rotation
of the motor and the drive gear, the crown gear configured and
engaged with the drive gear of the motor such that the crown gear
completes one revolution for a number, from one to three, of
revolutions of the motor, the crown gear including (i) a first cam
member extending from a face of the crown gear, the first cam
having a center offset from the axis of rotation of the crown gear
and (ii) a second cam member extending from a face of the first cam
member, the second cam member having an axis of rotation
co-extensive with the axis of rotation of the crown gear; (e) a
drive shaft having a first end and a second opposite end, the first
end engaged with the first cam member and the second cam member of
the crown gear, and the second end engaged with the movable bristle
carrier; (f) a first plurality of bristles retained on the movable
bristle carrier; (g) second plurality of stationary bristles
retained on the at least one static bristle carrier; (h) wherein
upon operation of the motor, the crown gear is rotated, thereby
imparting a reciprocating motion to the drive shaft and to the
movable bristle carrier disposed on the brush head.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a divisional of application Ser. No.
10/730,850 filed on Dec. 9, 2003 which is a continuation-in-part of
application Ser. No. 10/274,700 filed on Oct. 21, 2002 which claims
priority to U.S. Provisional Applications Ser. No. 60/387,841 filed
Jun. 11, 2002; Ser. No. 60/410,865 filed Sep. 13, 2002; and Ser.
No. 60/410,556 filed Sep. 13, 2002 all of which are herein
incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to electric toothbrushes and
more particularly, modular electric toothbrushes having
interchangeable or replaceable components and electric toothbrushes
having high efficiency.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates generally to electric
toothbrushes. More particularly, it relates to an improved electric
toothbrush with replaceable or exchangeable movable and/or static
bristle carriers. Although many different electric toothbrushes
exists which offer different advantages and characteristics, these
characteristics can increase the costs associated with the
toothbrush and can be reflected in higher retail prices for the
product. Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an electric
toothbrush that was relatively inexpensive to assemble and produce,
but provides the cleaning efficacy and toothbrush characteristics
desired by the consumer.
[0004] Electric toothbrushes are also known in which certain
components of the brush may be interchanged or replaced with like
components from other toothbrushes or components that are sold
separately. For example, toothbrushes having replaceable head and
neck assemblies are known in which the entire head and at least a
portion of the neck may be removed from a toothbrush body or its
housing, and replaced with another head and neck assembly. U.S.
application Ser. No. 09/850,662 teaches an electric toothbrush
having a replaceable brush head. Although significant advantages
can be gained by such a modular system, entire toothbrush head and
neck assemblies are relatively expensive. Additionally, often a
replacement of the entire head and neck assembly is unnecessary
when only the bristles are worn. Accordingly, a need exists for an
alternative modular design for a toothbrush which can be tailored
to a consumer's particular needs. For example, a consumer could
exchange and/or replace a portion of the toothbrush head for a
particular task, or if a portion of the toothbrush head was
worn.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention relates to an electric toothbrush
comprising a handle at a first end of the toothbrush having a motor
disposed therein; a neck extending from the handle comprising a
receiving member at a second end of the toothbrush, wherein a
plurality of carriers engage the receiving member, and wherein the
carriers comprise one or more static carrier(s) and one or more
movable carrier(s), and wherein the one or more static carrier(s)
and one or more movable carrier(s) independently slidingly engage
the receiving member of the toothbrush; and a drive shaft
operatively connecting the one or more movable carrier(s) to the
motor.
[0006] The invention also relates to kits comprising the
aforementioned electric toothbrush and one or more static and one
or more movable carriers selected from the group consisting of, but
are not limited to, brush head tip carriers, static bristle
carriers, movable bristle carriers, elastomeric element carriers,
oral care composition carriers, and/or dental tool carriers, and/or
combinations thereof.
[0007] The present invention further relates to a low energy
consumption electric toothbrush comprising; a housing assembly
including a brush head, a handle, and a neck extending between the
brush head and the handle, the housing defining a hollow interior
cavity; a movable bristle carrier disposed on the brush head; a
motor providing a powered rotating shaft, a drive gear affixed to
the shaft, and a power source in electrical communication with the
motor and disposed in the hollow interior cavity, a crown gear
rotatably supported in the hollow interior cavity and oriented such
that the axis of rotation of the crown gear is perpendicular to an
axis of rotation of the motor and the drive gear, the crown gear
configured and engaged with the drive gear of the motor such that
the crown gear completes one revolution for a number, from one to
three, of revolutions of the motor, the crown gear including (i) a
first cam member extending from a face of the crown gear, the first
cam having a center offset from the axis of rotation of the crown
gear and (ii) a second cam member extending from a face of the
first cam member, the second cam member having an axis of rotation
co-extensive with the axis of rotation of the crown gear; a drive
shaft having a first end and a second opposite end, the first end
engaged with the first cam member and the second cam member of the
crown gear, and the second end engaged with the movable bristle
carrier; a first plurality of bristles retained on the movable
bristle carrier; a second plurality of stationary bristles retained
on the brush head; wherein upon operation of the motor, the crown
gear is rotated, thereby imparting a reciprocating motion to the
drive shaft and to the movable bristle carrier disposed on the
brush head.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The present invention may take form in various components
and arrangements of components, and in various techniques, methods,
or procedures and arrangements of steps. The referenced drawings
are only for purposes of illustrating embodiments, they are not
necessarily to scale, and are not to be construed as limiting the
present invention.
[0009] It is believed that the present invention will be better
understood from the following description taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the toothbrush in accordance
with the present invention.
[0011] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a
configuration of various bristle types according to the present
invention.
[0012] FIG. 3 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a
configuration of bristle arrangements according to the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 4 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a
configuration of bristle arrangements according to the present
invention.
[0014] FIG. 5 is yet another bottom view of a toothbrush head
showing a configuration of bristle arrangements according to the
present invention.
[0015] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view showing a brush
head according to the present invention.
[0016] FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view showing another
brush head according to the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of yet another
brush head according to the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 9 is a partial cross-sectional view of another brush
head according to the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cam assembly according to
the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another cam arrangement
according to the present invention.
[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a partial assembly of
a toothbrush in accordance with the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a
configuration of bristle arrangements according to the present
invention.
[0023] FIG. 14 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing
a configuration of bristle arrangements and illustrates a manner of
designating locations of certain bristles, according to the present
invention.
[0024] FIG. 15 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing
a configuration of bristle arrangements according to the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of a brush head according to the
present invention.
[0026] FIG. 17 is a side view of the brush head shown in FIG.
16.
[0027] FIG. 18 is a bottom view of another brush head according to
the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 19 is a side view of the brush head shown in FIG.
18.
[0029] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another toothbrush in
accordance with the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 21 is a partial exploded perspective view of the
toothbrush illustrated in FIG. 20, illustrating certain components
and their assembly.
[0031] FIG. 21a is a partial exploded perspective view of an
embodiment of the toothbrush, made according to the present
invention, illustrating certain components and their assembly.
[0032] FIG. 22 is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating
the assembly of a toothbrush head of the brush shown in FIGS. 21
and 22.
[0033] FIG. 22a is a partial exploded perspective view illustrating
the assembly of another embodiment of the toothbrush head.
[0034] FIG. 23 is another partial exploded perspective view of the
toothbrush head of FIG. 22 illustrating further assembly of
components therein.
[0035] FIG. 23a is another partial exploded perspective view of the
toothbrush head of FIG. 22a illustrating further assembly of
components therein.
[0036] FIG. 24 is another partial exploded perspective view of the
toothbrush head of FIGS. 22 and 23, again illustrating further
assembly of components therein.
[0037] FIG. 24a is another partial exploded perspective view of the
toothbrush head of FIGS. 22a and 23a, again illustrating further
assembly of components therein.
[0038] FIG. 25 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head of the brush illustrating one possible bristle configuration
in accordance with the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 25a is an end view of the static bristle carrier
1403.
[0040] FIG. 26 is an end view of the toothbrush head taken along
line 26-26 in FIG. 25.
[0041] FIG. 26a is an end view of the movable bristle carrier
1405.
[0042] FIG. 27 is a partial side elevational view of a toothbrush
head of the toothbrush illustrating another bristle configuration
in accordance with the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 27a is an end view of the toothbrush of FIG. 21a prior
to engagement of static and movable bristle carriers.
[0044] FIG. 28 is an end view of the toothbrush head shown in FIG.
27 taken along line 28-28.
[0045] FIG. 29 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
illustrating yet another preferred bristle configuration in
accordance with the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 30 is an end view of the toothbrush head shown in FIG.
29 taken along line 30-30.
[0047] FIG. 31 is an end view of the toothbrush head illustrating
another bristle configuration in accordance with the present
invention.
[0048] FIG. 32 is an end view of the toothbrush head in accordance
with the present invention illustrating yet another bristle
configuration.
[0049] FIG. 33 is an end view of the toothbrush head in accordance
with the present invention illustrating another bristle
configuration.
[0050] FIG. 34 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0051] FIG. 35 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0052] FIG. 36 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0053] FIG. 37 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0054] FIG. 38 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0055] FIG. 39 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0056] FIG. 40 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0057] FIG. 41 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0058] FIG. 42 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0059] FIG. 43 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0060] FIG. 44 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0061] FIG. 45 is a partial side elevational view of the toothbrush
head in accordance with the present invention illustrating another
bristle configuration.
[0062] FIG. 46 is a planar bottom view of a toothbrush head
(without bristles) of the toothbrush according to the present
invention.
[0063] FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional view of the toothbrush head
illustrated in FIG. 46, taken across line 47-47.
[0064] FIG. 48 is a partial exploded view of the toothbrush in
accordance with the present invention.
[0065] FIG. 49 is a partial exploded view of the toothbrush in
accordance with the present invention.
[0066] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a portion of the drive
mechanism in accordance with the present invention.
[0067] FIG. 51 is a side elevational view of the portion of the
drive mechanism illustrated in FIG. 50.
[0068] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the brush head and neck of
a toothbrush in accordance with the present invention.
[0069] FIG. 53 is a planar view of another brush head and neck of a
toothbrush in accordance with the present invention.
[0070] FIG. 54 is a planar view of yet another brush head and neck
of a toothbrush in accordance with the present invention.
[0071] FIG. 55 is a partially exploded view of an engagement
assembly for converting rotary motion to reciprocating motion,
preferably utilized in the present invention toothbrushes.
[0072] FIG. 56 is a top planar view of a gear of the assembly
depicted in FIG. 55.
[0073] FIG. 57 is a side elevational view of the gear shown in FIG.
56.
[0074] FIG. 58 is a partial cross-sectional view of the assembly of
FIG. 55 illustrating the engagement between a drive shaft and the
gear.
[0075] FIG. 59 illustrates the underside of an end of the drive
shaft of the assembly of FIG. 55.
[0076] FIG. 60 is a top, planar view of the assembly of FIG. 55
illustrating the operation of that assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0077] The present invention is based upon a discovery that
significant cleaning efficacy results from a toothbrush that
utilizes a combination of static bristles, and movable bristles
that are powered. Preferably, the movable bristles reciprocate when
powered, and most preferably, the movable bristles reciprocate in a
direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
toothbrush. It is contemplated that the movable bristles may also
reciprocate in a direction generally perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis. Although reciprocation is the preferred type of
movement for the movable bristle carrier, the present invention
encompasses other types of movement for the movable bristle
carrier. In all of the preferred embodiments described herein, the
various movable bristles are all powered or carried by a single
movable component. This is described in greater detail herein. The
present invention is also based upon a discovery of particular
patterns or configurations for the static bristles, particularly
when utilized in conjunction with the movable and powered bristle
set. Furthermore, the present inventive toothbrush, featuring a
movable bristle carrier that reciprocates and which is at least
partially surrounded by an array of static bristles, is
particularly well suited for large scale manufacturing. That is,
the various preferred embodiment brushes described herein are
relatively inexpensive to manufacture as a result of their
remarkable simplicity and novel structure. These and other aspects
are described herein.
[0078] The present invention is also based upon a unique design for
a unitary body or housing for an electric toothbrush that
incorporates an integral neck and brush head assembly. The
one-piece body or housing greatly simplifies assembly of the
toothbrush and reduces manufacturing costs associated with the
brush. The present invention also provides a novel modular design
for the brush head that enables a user to choose the bristles
and/or elements for the brush head. This novel modular design can
be achieved by engaging one or more static carrier(s) and one or
more movable carrier(s) with a receiving member extending from the
distal end of the neck of the toothbrush. A carrier is an element,
such as a plate, which engages the receiving member and which may
contain structures or compositions that interact with the oral
cavity tissue and/or teeth. The plurality of static and/or movable
carriers can include, but are not limited to, bristle carriers,
brush head tip carriers, elastomeric element carriers, oral care
composition carriers, and dental tool carriers, or any combination
thereof. The plurality of static and/or movable carriers can be of
many shapes and sizes, so long as the carriers can engage the
receiving member of the toothbrush. In one embodiment the static
carrier(s) can be a static bristle carrier, and/or the movable
carrier(s) can be a movable bristle carrier. The plurality of
carriers can be brush head tips. Brush head tip carriers can be
located on the distal most portion of the toothbrush head. These
brush head tips can constitute a relatively large portion of the
brush head. Certain embodiments of the invention include these
aforementioned elastomeric elements or flexible, outwardly
extending members that are disposed on the brush head. The static
carrier and the moving carrier of the toothbrush head also may
include elastomeric elements along with the bristles. The static
portion and the moving portion can each include bristles and
elastomeric elements, which are used for gently massaging the
user's gums while brushing. The elastomeric elements can be located
on the perimeter of the static and moving portions or among the
bristles on the static and moving portions of the brush head, and
can be formed from any elastomeric material including, but not
limited to, rubber. Elastomeric elements include, but are not
limited to, those discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,987,688, and
5,735,011 that are incorporated herein by reference. The dental
tool supported and/or conveyed by the carriers include, but are not
limited to, gum massaging tools, scraping tools, cleaning tools,
flossing tools, polishing cups, rubber picks and applicators. For
instance, elements and/or tools that are specifically designed for
applying whitening agents to the teeth may be used. An example of
polishing cups include, but are not limited to, those discussed in
U.S. Pat. No. 5,930,860 incorporated herein by reference.
Additionally, bristle arrangements that provide gum and interdental
stimulation may be used, such as discussed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,926,897 incorporated herein by reference. Oral care compositions
include, but are not limited to, compositions disposed on/within a
carrier or delivered by a carrier for the care or treatment of the
teeth or oral tissue, and/or other compositions placed on/within a
carrier which facilitate the treatment and/or care of the teeth and
oral tissue. Examples of oral care compositions include, but are
not limited to, tartar control compositions, tooth whitening
compositions, abrasives, fluoride, and oral sensation compositions
such as flavoring. Examples of oral care composition carriers
include, but are not limited to, those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
5,851,551, and applications WO09413870A1, WO9804167A1, incorporated
herein by reference.
[0079] Before describing the various embodiments of the inventive
toothbrush, it is instructive to define the various types of
motions that the movable bristles may undergo. As used herein, the
term "angular motion" refers to any angular displacement. "Linear
motion" is movement along a straight or substantially straight,
line or direction. "Primarily linear motion" is described below.
"Curvilinear motion" is movement that is neither completely linear
nor completely angular but is a combination of the two (e.g.,
curvilinear). These motions can be constant or periodic. Constant
motion refers to motion that does not change direction or path
(i.e., is unidirectional). Periodic motion refers to motion that
reverses direction or path. Constant angular motion (i.e., motion
that extends through 360 degrees or more) that is substantially in
the form of a circle is referred to as rotary motion. Periodic
angular motion is motion that extends through less than 360 degrees
and is referred to as oscillating motion. Curvilinear motions can
also be either constant (i.e., unidirectional) or periodic (i.e.,
reverses direction). Periodic linear motion is referred to as
"reciprocation". The above-described motions can also occur along
one or more axes of a bristle carrier.
[0080] Furthermore, it is useful to define the term "static"
bristles and the term "movable" bristles. The term static bristles
refer to bristles that are secured or static to the brush head or
body of the toothbrush or other component thereof so that the
bristles, and specifically, the base of the bristles, do not move
with regard to the toothbrush during use. Restated, static bristles
refer to bristles that are fixed to the toothbrush such that their
base or point of attachment does not move with respect to the
toothbrush, and the static bristles are not operatively connected
to the drive shaft. The static bristles can be affixed to a static
carrier. One or more of these static bristle carriers can then
engage the receiving member of the toothbrush, to form the
toothbrush head. Although these carriers and the bristles disposed
thereon are static, it is recognized that the ends of the bristles
or regions distal from the base of a bristle or group of bristles
may move as a result of flexing of the bristle, but the base of the
static bristle does not move with respect to the toothbrush.
Additionally, the static carrier on which the bristles can be
disposed can be slideably released from the toothbrush. Thus the
user can replace and/or exchange the static carriers as needed. Any
movement of the bristles does not result from an operative
connection to the drive shaft and/or motor, as opposed to movable
bristles, which do move as a result of an operative connection to
the drive shaft.
[0081] The term movable bristle refers to a bristle in which the
base of the bristle moves with respect to the toothbrush, and
preferably with respect to the longitudinal axis of the brush.
Generally, this configuration is accomplished by affixing or
supporting the base of the bristle to a mounting component, such as
a carrier that is movable with respect to the brush. The one or
more movable bristle carrier(s) can then engage the receiving
member of the toothbrush, to complete the formation of the
toothbrush head. Restated, a movable bristle is a bristle that is
movable, and preferably, slideably moves with respect to the
longitudinal axis of the brush as a result of an operative
connection with the drive shaft.
[0082] The novel modular design of the inventive toothbrush can be
achieved by the unique structure of the brush head. As used herein,
the phrase "toothbrush head" comprises one or more static
carrier(s) and one or more movable carrier(s), and the receiving
member. The one or more static carrier(s) and the one or more
movable carrier(s) engage the toothbrush via a receiving member.
The receiving member is located at the distal end of the neck of
the toothbrush and retains the carriers. The receiving member can
be provided with bristles, or the receiving member can be devoid of
bristles.
[0083] In either instance, the head of the toothbrush can be formed
by the sliding engagement of the one or more static carrier(s) and
the one or more movable carrier(s) to the receiving member. In one
embodiment, the static carrier engages the receiving member, and
can substantially surround the movable carrier. In another
embodiment a plurality of static carriers engage the receiving
member, such that when the plurality is engaged, the static
carriers can substantially surround the movable carrier.
Embodiments of the modular design of the present invention include
toothbrushes wherein the one or more static carrier(s) and the one
or more movable carrier(s) comprise bristles. The one or more
static bristle carrier(s) and the one or more movable bristle
carrier(s) independently, slidingly engage the receiving member,
located at the distal end of the neck of the toothbrush. This
receiving member can provide support for the one or more static
bristle carrier(s) and the one or more movable bristle carrier(s).
Additionally, other carriers can engage the receiving member of the
toothbrush including, but not limited to, dental tool carriers,
elastomeric element carriers, oral care composition carriers,
and/or combinations thereof.
[0084] Referring to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment toothbrush 10
according to the present invention is illustrated. The toothbrush
10 comprises a body 30, a head 20 and a neck 40 extending between
the body 30 and the head 20. The head 20 defines a distal-most end
22. The head 20 and the neck 40 generally extend along a
longitudinal axis illustrated in FIG. 1 as axis L. Disposed along
the head 20 are a plurality of static bristles 60 and a collection
of interiorly disposed bristles 50 which are movable as described
herein. The movable bristles 50 are supported on and retained by a
movable bristle carrier. The movable bristle carrier may undergo a
wide variety of motions as noted above.
[0085] FIGS. 2-5 and 13 illustrate various configurations for the
arrangement of the static bristles and the movable bristles in
accordance with the invention. FIG. 2 is a detail view of the
toothbrush 10 shown in FIG. 1 and its head 20. As can be seen from
FIG. 2, the static bristles 60 generally extend entirely around the
collection of movable bristles 50. The movable bristles 50 are
disposed and situated on a movable bristle carrier 52. The bristle
carrier 52 is preferably movable between two positions shown in
FIG. 2 as position A and position B. Preferably, the bristle
carrier 52 may be moved back and forth between position A, in which
the bristle carrier 52 is proximate the distal-most end 22 of the
brush head 20, and position B shown in FIG. 2 by dashed lines. Most
preferably, the direction of movement of the bristle carrier 52 as
it reciprocates between positions A and B is generally parallel to
the longitudinal axis of the head 20 and neck (not shown in FIG. 2)
as noted in FIG. 1 as axis L.
[0086] FIG. 3 illustrates another arrangement of bristles along a
brush head 120 of a toothbrush 100 according to the present
invention. In this embodiment, a plurality of static bristles 160
extend substantially around the periphery or perimeter of a
collection of movable bristles 150. The movable bristles 150 are
supported and retained along a movable bristle carrier 152. The
bristle carrier 152 is movable between two positions A and B shown
in FIG. 3. In this preferred configuration, the region 125 along
the brush head 120 does not contain any bristles, either static
bristles or movable bristles. As previously described with respect
to FIG. 2, the bristle carrier 152, and thus movable bristles 150,
preferably may reciprocate between positions A and B. As will be
noted from FIG. 3, position A is proximate the distal-most end 122
of the brush head 120.
[0087] FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush head
220 of a toothbrush 200 according to the present invention. In this
embodiment, a collection of static bristles 260 are located at
opposite regions of the brush head 220 around a collection of
movable bristles 250. The movable bristles 250 are supported and
retained along a movable bristle carrier 252. The movable bristle
carrier 252 is movable between position A and position B as shown
in FIG. 4. It will be noted that two regions are defined, between
the collection of static bristles 260, which do not contain any
bristles. These regions are designated in FIG. 4 as regions 227,
229. As previously noted with respect to FIG. 2, the bristle
carrier 252, and thus the movable bristles 250, preferably may
reciprocate between positions A and B. Position A is proximate the
distal-most end 222 of the brush head 220.
[0088] FIG. 5 illustrates yet another preferred embodiment
toothbrush head 320 of a toothbrush 300 in accordance with the
present invention. In this embodiment, a collection of static
bristles 360 extend only partially around a collection of movable
bristles 350 supported and retained on a movable bristle carrier
352. The movable bristle carrier 352 is movable between two
positions shown in FIG. 5 as positions A and B. It will be noted
that regions 329, 327, 325 are defined around the periphery of the
collection of movable bristles 350. These regions do not contain
any bristles and particularly do not contain any static bristles
360. As previously noted with regard to FIG. 2, the bristle carrier
352, and thus the movable bristles 350, preferably may reciprocate
between positions A and B. Position A is proximate the distal-most
end 322 of the brush head 320.
[0089] FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
head 920 of a toothbrush 900 according to the present invention. In
this embodiment, a collection of static bristles 960 are located at
opposite regions of the brush head 220 around a collection of
movable bristles 950. Specifically, the static bristles 960 are
located along the sides of the brush head 920. Regions 925 and 927
are defined between the groups of static bristles, and preferably
as shown in FIG. 13. The movable bristles 950 are supported and
retained along a movable bristle carrier 952. The movable bristle
carrier 952 is movable between position A and position B as shown
in FIG. 13. As previously noted with respect to FIG. 2, the bristle
carrier 952, and thus the movable bristles 950, preferably may
reciprocate between positions A and B. Position A is proximate the
distal-most end 922 of the brush head 920.
[0090] It will be noted that the preferred bristle configurations
are based upon the movable bristles located generally within a
middle region or interior of the brush head, and static bristles at
least partially surrounding the medially disposed movable bristles.
This is explained in greater detail herein.
[0091] For certain applications, it is preferred that the static
bristles surround 100% of the perimeter or periphery of the
collection of movable bristles. In other applications, it is
preferred that the static bristles surround or extend along about
75% to about 100% of the perimeter of the movable bristles. In
still other applications, it is preferred that the static bristles
extend along about 50% to about 75% of the perimeter of the movable
bristles. In further applications, it is preferred that the static
bristles extend along about 25% to about 50% of the perimeter of
the movable bristles. And in other applications, it may be
preferred that the static bristles extend less than 25% around the
perimeter of the movable bristles. As noted, the static bristles
preferably extend along at least a portion of the outer periphery
of the collection of movable bristles. It is not necessary for
certain embodiments that the static bristles extend continuously
about the periphery of the set of movable bristles. That is, the
present invention encompasses bristle configurations in which the
static bristles extend intermittently along or about the outer
periphery of the collection of movable bristles.
[0092] The terms "completely encircling (or encircle)",
"substantially encircling (or encircle)", "partially encircling (or
encircle)", and "partially surrounding (or encircle)" are used
herein to refer to particular configurations of static bristles and
their relative location with respect to the movable bristles. The
term "completely encircling" refers to a configuration in which the
static bristles completely encircle, or are located entirely
around, the perimeter of the movable bristles: It will be
understood that when static bristles are described as encircling or
extending along the perimeter or portion thereof of the movable
bristles, minute or relatively small spaces may exist between
individual bristles or groups of bristles. These spaces are on the
order of only 1 to 10 diameters of a typical bristle. The term
"substantially encircling" refers to a configuration in which the
static bristles extend along at least 80% of the perimeter of the
movable bristles. Specifically, substantially encircle includes
configurations in which the static bristles extend along 80% or
more, 90% or more, or 95% or more of the perimeter of the movable
bristles. The term "partially encircling" refers to a configuration
in which the static bristles extend along a portion of the
perimeter of the movable bristles, and preferably, extend along a
portion that is less than 80% of the distance along that perimeter.
The term "partially surrounding" refers to a configuration in which
the static bristles partially surround, and do not completely or
entirely surround, the movable bristles.
[0093] As noted, the movable bristle carrier may undergo a wide
variety of motions. For example, the movable bristle carrier may
undergo angular motion, linear motion, or curvilinear motion. The
movement of the bristle carrier may be constant or periodic.
Generally, the preferred motion for the movable bristle carrier is
periodic linear motion or reciprocation.
[0094] The movable bristle carrier may be in a variety of forms and
shapes. The preferred shape for the movable bristle carrier is
oval, such as generally shown in the referenced figures, such as in
FIGS. 2-5. It is generally preferred that the movable bristle
carrier is elongated in shape, more preferably oval, and most
preferably, have proportions according to a certain range of ratios
of length to width dimensions. Most preferably, the movable bristle
carrier is in the shape of an oval and has a length (as measured
along a major axis of its oval shape) to width (as measured along a
minor axis of its oval shape) of from about 4:1 to about 1.2:1. The
width of the movable bristle carrier (again, as measured along a
minor axis of its oval shape), approaches the width of the brush
head, at that location along the brush head. For those embodiments
of the present invention in which the bristle carrier is
oval-shaped, and in which the bristle carrier moves in a
reciprocating fashion, the carrier is oriented such that movement
occurs generally parallel to the major axis of the oval shape.
Preferably, the width of the movable bristle carrier is from about
50% to about 90% of the width of the brush head, and most
preferably from about 60% to about 80%.
[0095] Referring to FIG. 6, another preferred embodiment of a head
420 for a toothbrush 400 will now be described. The head 420
includes an inner bristle carrier 452 that is slidingly mounted in
slots defined along the head 420. The inner bristle carrier 452
supports and retains a plurality of movable bristles 450. The inner
bristle carrier 452 is reciprocatingly driven in the same general
longitudinal direction as the longitudinal axis of the head 420.
The inner bristle carrier 452 and bristles 450 are preferably at
least partially surrounded by an array of static bristles shown in
FIG. 6 by dashed lines. The toothbrush 400 includes an electric
motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism, the drive shaft of which
is illustrated in FIG. 6 as shaft 460. A cam 470 engaged with the
shaft 460 operatively interconnects the shaft 460 with inner
bristle carrier 452. Optionally, the shaft 460 can be supported by
shaft supports 465. The shaft supports 465 may include C or U
shaped portions (not shown) that receive the shaft 460. Other means
for retaining the shaft 460 in a support are known in the art. The
cam 470 can comprise a shaped element or bead, with an appropriate
eccentric configuration, placed or molded over and firmly secured
to the shaft 460. In one arrangement, the cam 470 is cylindrically
shaped with a pair of acutely angled surfaces 472, 473 which are
inclined in the same direction and at the same angle of
inclination, but which are disposed at opposite ends of the cam
470. In other words, the angled surfaces 472, 473 are the surfaces
resulting from a diagonal slice through the cylinder of the cam
470. The direction of inclination and angle of inclination can be
varied as desired to change the frequency and stroke of the inner
bristle carrier 452. First and second cam followers 454, 456 are
provided that are secured to or extend from the underside 453 of
the bristle carrier 452. The cam followers 454, 456 are offset or
spaced from each other so that cam 470 is disposed between the cam
followers 454, 456 which straddle and/or capture the cam 470. The
angled surfaces 472, 473 of the cam 470 slidingly engage the free
ends of the cam followers 454, 456. As the shaft 460 rotates, the
first acutely angled surface 472 of the cam 470 comes into contact
with a surface of the first cam follower 454 and drives the cam
follower, and therefore, the inner bristle carrier 452, away from
the end 422 in a direction generally the same as the direction of
the longitudinal axis of the head 420. The inner bristle carrier
452 is guided by the longitudinally extending slots. As the shaft
460 continues to rotate, the cam 470 disengages from the first cam
follower 454. The second acutely angled second surface 473 of the
cam 470 then comes into contact with a surface of the second cam
follower 456 and drives the second cam follower 456, and therefore
the inner bristle carrier 452, back toward the end 422 of the head
420.
[0096] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, another embodiment of a
toothbrush head 520 suitable for use with an electric toothbrush
500 will now be described. The head 520 includes an inner bristle
carrier 552 that is slidingly mounted in slots (not shown) defined
in the head 520. The inner bristle carrier 552 supports and retains
a plurality of bristles 550. The inner bristle carrier 552 is
reciprocatingly driven in the same general longitudinal direction
as the longitudinal axis of the head 520. The toothbrush 500
includes a motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism that includes a
rotating drive shaft 560. The head 520 extends from a neck 540 and
has a distal-most end 522. A cam 570 included on the shaft 560
operatively interconnects the shaft 560 with inner bristle carrier
552. Optionally, the shaft 560 can be supported by shaft supports
565. The shaft supports 565 may include C or U shaped portions (not
shown) that receive the shaft 560. Other means for retaining the
shaft 560 in a support are known in the art. The cam 570 is
provided in the form of a plurality of bends 572, 573 in the shaft
560. The bends are sinusoidal or curvilinear in nature in that each
bend has one or more adjacent arcuate portions. The bends each have
an apex and the apexes are disposed on opposite sides of the shaft
560. A hemispherically-shaped cam follower 554 depends from a
bottom surface 553 of the inner bristle carrier 552 and is disposed
between the apexes of the cam 570. As the shaft 560 rotates, a
surface 576 of the cam 570 comes into contact with a first surface
555 of the cam follower 554 and drives the cam follower 554, and
therefore the inner bristle carrier 552, away from the end 522 in a
longitudinal direction generally the same as the longitudinal axis
of the head 520. As the shaft 560 continues to rotate, the cam
surface 576 disengages from the first cam follower surface 555. As
shown in FIG. 8, the cam surface 576 then comes into contact with a
second surface 556 of the cam follower 554 and drives the cam
follower 554, and therefore the inner bristle carrier 552, back
toward the end 522. The motion of the bristle carrier 552 can be
varied by changing the spacing between the apexes 572, 573 and/or
the amplitude, shape, or height of the apexes 572, 573, length and
inclination of the cam surface 576, and inclination of the surfaces
555, 556 of the cam follower 554.
[0097] Referring to FIG. 9, another embodiment of a toothbrush head
620 for an electric toothbrush 600 will now be described. The head
620 includes an inner bristle carrier 652 that is slidingly mounted
in slots (not shown) defined in the head 620. The head 620 includes
a distal end 622. The inner bristle carrier 652 supports and
retains a plurality of bristles 650. The inner bristle carrier 652
is reciprocatingly driven in the same general longitudinal
direction as the longitudinal axis of the head 620. The toothbrush
600 includes a motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism that
includes a rotating drive shaft 660. A cam 670 included on the
shaft 660 operatively interconnects the shaft 660 with the inner
bristle carrier 652. Optionally, the shaft 660 can be supported by
shaft supports 665. The shaft supports 665 may include C or U
shaped portions (not shown) that receive the shaft 660. Other means
for retaining the shaft 660 in a support are known in the art. The
cam 670 is provided in the form of a cylindrically-shaped component
674 placed or molded over and firmly secured to the shaft 660.
[0098] As shown in FIG. 10, the cam 670 includes a spiral or
helical groove 672 defined along the outer surface of the
cylindrically shaped component 674. The spiral or helical groove
672 preferably extends around the circumference of the component
674 and spirals about a longitudinal axis of the component 674
which may, for example, coincide with the longitudinal axis of the
shaft 660. The stroke and frequency of the motion imparted to a cam
follower 654 (shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) by the cam 670 can be varied
by changing the shape and dimensions of the groove 672. For
example, the groove 672 defined in the component 674 would provide
one complete stroke of the inner bristle carrier 652 (i.e., one
cycle away from and back toward the end of the head 622) for one
revolution of the shaft 660.
[0099] FIG. 11 illustrates an alternate cam 770 having a helical
groove 772 which is provided in the form of a figure eight. This
would only provide one-half a stroke (i.e., only either translation
toward or away from the end of the brush head) for one revolution
of the shaft 760. A cam follower 754 is disposed in the groove 772
and is engaged to a movable bristle carrier.
[0100] Returning to FIGS. 9 and 10, a cam follower 654 depends from
a bottom surface 653 of the inner bristle carrier 652. The cam
follower 654 is slidingly received within the groove 672. As the
shaft 660 rotates, a first surface 675 of the spiral groove 672,
such as a side wall thereof, comes into contact with a first
surface of the cam follower 654 and drives the cam follower 654 and
therefore the inner bristle carrier 652, away from the end 622 of
the brush head 620, in a longitudinal direction generally the same
as the longitudinal axis of the head 620. As the shaft 660
continues to rotate, the cam follower 654 reaches an apex of the
spiral groove 672 and the first surface 675 of the spiral groove
672 disengages from the cam follower 654. A second surface 676 of
the groove 672, such as the opposite side wall of the groove 672,
then comes into contact with the cam follower 654 and drives the
cam follower 674, and therefore the inner bristle carrier 652, back
toward the end 622 of the brush head 620.
[0101] The various reciprocating bristle carriers described herein
may also utilize a drive mechanism that provides a shaft that
rotates. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that other motor and
reciprocating or rotating shaft arrangements can be substituted.
For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,226,206; 5,524,312; 5,383,242;
5,465,444; 5,504,959; 5,836,030; 4,845,795; 5,404,608; 5,359,747;
and 5,617,601, the substances of which are incorporated herein by
reference, disclose other motor and reciprocating shaft
arrangements that might be suitable. In addition, the electric
toothbrush of FIG. 9 might be provided with a replaceable head. A
suitable arrangement which can be adapted to the present invention
is disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/850,662, filed May 7,
2001, the substance of which is incorporated herein by reference.
Similarly, the drive mechanisms disclosed in U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/114,780 filed Apr. 3, 2002; and U.S. patent Ser. No.
10/128,018 filed Apr. 22, 2002, both of which are herein
incorporated by reference, are also contemplated for use in
conjunction with the present invention.
[0102] Another preferred embodiment toothbrush using a
reciprocating drive shaft is illustrated in FIG. 12. FIG. 12
illustrates an electric toothbrush 800 comprising a toothbrush head
820, a body or handle 830, and an elongated neck 840 extending
therebetween. The drive train, which includes various shafts and
gears that transmit motion from a motor to an inner bristle carrier
852 is similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,579, the
substance of which is incorporated herein by reference. The handle
830 is hollow and includes a motor 802 and batteries (not shown)
for powering the motor. In one embodiment of the invention the
toothbrush comprises a power source of one battery. In another
embodiment of the invention the toothbrush comprises a power source
of two batteries. A rechargeable power source can be substituted
for the batteries. The batteries can connect the motor via a wire,
a metal strip, direct contact, and/or any combination thereof. The
head 820 has a longitudinal axis extending therethrough. The
longitudinal axis extends in the same general longitudinal
direction as a longitudinal axis of the shaft 860. The inner
bristle carrier 852 is disposed along the head 820, wherein the end
822 is at the distal-most point of the head 820. Although the inner
bristle carrier 852 is preferably oval in shape, other shapes can
be utilized. Further, while the inner bristle carrier 852 is
disposed proximate the end 822 of the head 820, it will be
appreciated that the carrier 852 can be disposed away from the end
822 and other features, such as static bristles, can be disposed
around at least a portion of the perimeter of the inner bristle
carrier 852. In this embodiment, the inner bristle carrier 852 only
reciprocates and does not oscillate, or perform any other
rotational or oscillatory motion.
[0103] A first gear 804 is operatively connected to and powered by
the motor 802. A second gear 806 is operatively connected to the
first gear 804. The rotational axis of the second gear 806 is
approximately normal to the rotational axis of the first gear 804
such that the teeth of the first gear 804 mesh with teeth of the
second gear 806, thus causing the second gear 806 to rotate as the
first gear 804 rotates.
[0104] A first arm 808 is eccentrically and pivotably connected to
the second gear 806 via a pin 810 or other fastening device. Due to
the eccentric connection, the rotational motion of the second gear
806 is converted into a reciprocating motion of the first arm 808.
A second arm 812 is pivotably connected to the first arm 808 via a
pin 814 or other fastening device. The shaft 860 is secured, such
as by a press fit, to the second arm 812. The shaft 860 is housed
at least partially within the neck 840. The shaft 860 is also
engaged with a third arm 816. The third arm 816 is connected at its
terminal end to the inner bristle carrier 852 via a pin 818 or
other fastening device. The terminal end of the third arm 816 is
offset from the longitudinal axis of the shaft 860 so that it is
pinned adjacent the outer periphery of the inner bristle carrier
852. This offset arrangement converts the reciprocating motion of
the third arm 816 into a reciprocating motion of the inner bristle
carrier 852, wherein the inner bristle carrier 852 reciprocates
about an axis approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of
the shaft 860.
[0105] While various brush head embodiments of the present
invention have been illustrated for simplicity with tufts or groups
of bristles that extend in a direction substantially perpendicular
to the longitudinal axis of the head from which they extend, it is
contemplated that the bristles might be arranged differently to
complement or further enhance the static bristles or the motion of
the movable bristles. Some or all of the bristles might extend in a
direction which forms an acute angle with a top surface of a
bristle carrier, and may extend in a forward or rearward direction.
In another embodiment, some of the bristles might extend outwardly
away from the head, in another direction, again forming an acute
angle with respect to the top surface of the bristle carrier.
Elastomeric elements or massaging bristles or bristles of varying
height might also be used, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. Des.
330,286, and Des. 434,563, the substances of which are incorporated
herein by reference. Other preferred bristle arrangements suitable
for use include those arrangements described in whole or part in
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,006,394; 4,081,876; 5,046,213; 5,335,389;
5,392,483; 5,446,940; 4,894,880; and International Publication No.
WO99/23910; the substances of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
[0106] The electric toothbrushes of the present invention can be
provided with any combination of bristle or elastomeric tip types,
dimensions, combinations, angles and arrangements. Tufts of
bristles may alternate in height. By "tuft", herein, is meant a set
of one or more bristles fastened to the brush at a common point. In
one embodiment a plurality of tall tufts and a plurality of shorter
tufts are disposed along the brush head. The difference in length
between the tall tufts and the shorter tufts is between about 0.5
mm and about 2.5 mm in one embodiment and between about 1 mm and
about 2 mm in other embodiments. The tall and short tufts of
bristles can be provided with different characteristics. For
example, the tall tufts of bristles may be relatively soft for
gently cleaning and massaging gums of a user while shorter tufts of
bristles may be somewhat firmer for interdental cleaning (or vice
versa). This arrangement allows the longer (and typically softer)
bristles to be pressed, bent and deflected against the gums of the
user before the shorter (and typically firmer) bristles contact the
teeth and gums of the user. Therefore, for example, soft bristles
can be applied with more force while stiffer (and perhaps less
comfortable) bristles are applied with less force.
[0107] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the present
invention provides a bristle configuration in which the movable
bristles, i.e. those supported by and secured to the movable
bristle carrier, have a total bristle length that is less than the
length of the static bristles that at least partially encircle or
extend alongside the movable bristle carrier and bristles secured
thereto. A further variation of this preferred bristle
configuration features a movable bristle carrier that is slightly
elevated above the outer surface of the head such that the distal
ends of the movable bristles are approximately at the same height
as the longer static bristles extending from the outer surface of
the head. Generally, by utilizing movable bristles that have a
relatively short length, the distance or stroke of the movable
bristle carrier (when undergoing a reciprocating motion) is less
than if longer bristles were used. A shorter stroke generally leads
to decreased power requirements. This is beneficial since battery
demands are then reduced, which may further promote
manufacturability and commercialability of the resulting
toothbrush. Moreover, by utilizing relatively short length bristles
for the movable bristles, and longer bristles for the static
bristles, a greater proportion of the brushing load is assumed by
the static bristles. This generally further reduces power demands
on the motor and drive mechanism of the toothbrush.
[0108] Bristle stiffness is also a parameter that has been found to
affect brushing efficacy, power requirements of the preferred
toothbrushes described herein, and overall performance of the
toothbrush. This parameter is particularly important to consider
with regard to bristle length or height. For instance, for certain
applications, it is preferable to utilize relatively stiff and
short bristles on the movable brush head component in order to
reduce the amount of travel by the brush head component.
[0109] The bristles, collectively, have a bristle stiffness which
can be characterized numerically by the following equation:
Bristle Stiffness = D 2 E X 2 * N 30 1 .times. 10 6
##EQU00001##
Where;
[0110] D=bristle diameter, in inches
[0111] E=modulus of elasticity of the bristle material when wet,
e.g. for nylon this is a constant, 460,000 psi
[0112] X=average bristle length across the head of the brush in
inches
[0113] N=total number of bristles on brush head
The bristle stiffness for brushes of the present invention, as
determined by the above equation, preferably ranges from about 0.2
to about 0.8. However, the present invention electric toothbrushes
may utilize bristles having stiffness values outside of this
preferred range.
[0114] The initial stiffness calculation,
D 2 E X 2 ##EQU00002##
for an individual bristle is a measure of the pressure produced by
the minimum force required to deflect a single bristle according to
The Stiffness of Toothbrushes, D. W. MacFarlane, Brit. Dent. Jour.,
Oct. 5, 1945, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference.
Bristle stiffness is obtained by multiplying this single bristle
stiffness value by the total number of bristles on the brush head.
The factor 1.times.10.sup.6 used in the denominator of the
foregoing equation is an arbitrarily selected constant which
reduces the overall bristle stiffness value to reasonably small
numbers for ease of comparison. A detailed discussion of bristle
stiffness is presented in U.S. Pat. No. 5,511,275 herein
incorporated by reference.
[0115] It can be seen from the foregoing noted equation that
generally, stiffness may be increased by increasing the number of
bristles. Applying this equation to an individual tuft of bristles
suggests that the stiffness of an individual tuft of bristles may
be tailored by increasing or decreasing the number of bristles
within that tuft, i.e. the tuft density. This technique can be used
to readily provide a brush head bristle configuration having unique
and selectively tailored brushing characteristics.
[0116] Another aspect of the preferred embodiment toothbrushes
described herein relates to bristle or tuft density, and
particularly, in combination with bristle size and material.
Bristles for use herein can be made of any of the materials well
known in the art. Suitable bristle materials herein include
polyester and nylon, such as Dupont Tynex7 612 and Stylon7 612 from
STP. Suitable types of nylon include, but are not limited to Nylon
6/6, Nylon 10/10, and Nylon 12/12. The bristles are preferably of
circular cross-section but can also be of other cross-sections
including, but not limited to, rectangular, hexagonal and
trilocular. Furthermore, the diameter and length of the bristles
can vary within the usual dimensions known by a person skilled in
the art. In preferred embodiments the bristles are of circular
cross-section with a diameter of from 0.1 to 0.25 mm and length of
from 7 to 15 mm, preferably 9 to 12 mm, with each tuft comprising
from about 10 to about 50 bristles. The total number of bristles in
the head portion of brushes of the present invention is preferably
from about 1,200 to about 5,000, and even more preferably from
about 1,600 to about 3,500. In such embodiments, each tuft is
generally circular with a diameter of from about 1 to about 2 mm.
It is also contemplated to utilize bristles and/or tufts of
bristles having different diameters or spans together on a brush
head.
[0117] Fastening of the bristle tufts to the brush head can be done
using any of the methods known in the art, such as fusion, stapling
and injection molding. Preferred processes herein are stapling and
fusion. Each tuft has a base and a free end, the free ends of the
tufts forming the working surface which is used to clean the teeth.
As used herein, the "base" of the tuft is that part of the tuft at
which it meets the face of the brush head or movable bristle
carrier. It will be understood that a portion of the tuft extends
below the base into the brush head or carrier, for the purpose of
anchoring the tuft into the head or carrier. It is preferred for
the head to comprise pre-molded tuft holes for the purpose of
accommodating that portion of the tuft in this way. The tuft holes
can be of any section including square and rectangular but are
preferably circular. Their depth and diameter will be chosen by one
ordinarily skilled in the art to suit the tufts to be inserted
therein. Bristles inserted into a common tuft hole are considered
to be fastened at a common point and to be part of the same
tuft.
[0118] The length of the brush head is measured along the
longitudinal axis of the toothbrush and generally from the distal
end of the brush head to a location on the head just touching the
tuft or row of tufts nearest the handle at the points of their base
closest to the handle. Generally this brush head length is in the
range from about 15 to about 35 mm, and preferably from about 20 to
about 30 mm.
[0119] The length of the entire toothbrush is measured along the
longitudinal axis of the toothbrush and generally from the distal
end of the toothbrush head to the proximal end of the toothbrush
handle, including the end cap. Generally this toothbrush length is
greater than about 10 cm, about 12 cm, about 14 cm, about 16 cm,
about 18 cm, and/or less than about 20 cm, about 22 cm, about 24
cm, about 26 cm.
[0120] It is most preferred that the bristle or tuft density on the
movable bristle carrier is higher than the bristle density of the
groups or regions of static bristles.
[0121] The present invention also provides several particularly
preferred configurations of static bristles. The preferred
configurations utilize a specific number of rows in designated
regions of the brush head. These preferred configurations have been
found to provide reduced load and wear on bristles that are
disposed within the interior of the brush head, and particularly,
the bristles that are supported on and by a movable bristle
carrier. FIG. 14 illustrates a preferred configuration for a group
of static bristles disposed on a brush head 1020 of a toothbrush
1000. In this particular configuration, at least a single row of
bristles encircle or substantially encircle the interior region of
the brush head, i.e. the location in which the movable brush head
is disposed. Specifically, the various preferred configurations for
the static bristles 1060 may be conveniently described by referring
to various regions of the brush head as sectors, and describing the
preferred arrangements of static bristles in each of those sectors.
FIG. 14 illustrates a brush head 1020 having a centrally located
sector C (within which a movable bristle carrier resides), that is
surrounded by sectors D, E, F, and G. Sectors D and E are defined
along the lateral and opposite sides of the brush head.
Specifically, sector D is located between a first side 1031 of the
brush head and sector C. Sector E is located between a second side
1033 of the brush head and sector C. Sector F is located between
the first and second sides 1031 and 1033 of the brush head 1020,
and a distal-most tip or end 1022 of the brush head 1020 and sector
C. Sector G is defined between the first and second sides 1031 and
1033 of the brush head 1020, and the sector C and a neck 1040. Each
sector in which static bristles may be located, may contain a
certain number of rows of static bristles as follows. Before
addressing the number of rows each sector preferably contains, it
is instructive to define what is meant by a "row" of static
bristles. A row of bristles is defined herein as an array or
grouping of bristles that extends generally along a line or in a
certain direction. Rows in sector D preferably extend in a
direction that is generally parallel with the side 1031. Similarly,
rows in sector E preferably extend in a direction that is generally
parallel with the side 1033. Rows in sector F may extend in several
fashions as follows. Rows in sector F may extend along an arc or
other curved line generally following the curvature of sides 1031
and 1033 as the sides approach the distal end 1022 of the brush
head 1020. Alternatively, rows in sector F may extend in a
direction that is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis
of the brush head 1020 and the neck 1040. This latter preferred
configuration of rows is depicted in FIG. 14. Rows in sector G may
extend along an arc or other curved line; such as extending along a
line following the outer periphery of sector C. Alternatively, rows
in sector G may extend in a direction that is generally
perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the brush head 1020 and
the neck 1040. This latter preferred configuration of rows in
sector G is depicted in FIG. 14, and such rows are preferably
parallel to the rows in sector F.
[0122] The preferred number of rows of static bristles in sectors
D, E, F, and G ranges from 0 to 4 or more. However, certain
preferred combinations of rows are particularly preferred in
accordance with the present invention. These particularly preferred
combinations are set forth in Table 1:
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Preferred Configuration for Rows of Static
Bristles Bristle Configuration Number of Rows in Sector Identifier
D E F G a. 1 1 1-3 1 b. 1 1 1-3 2 c. 2 2 1-3 1 d. 2 2 1-3 2 e. 0 0
1-3 1 f. 0 0 1-3 2 g. 1 1 0 0 h. 2 2 0 0
[0123] FIG. 13, as previously noted, illustrates a preferred
configuration for the static and movable bristles. In this
configuration, rows of static bristles are located along opposing
sides of the movable bristle carrier. Within each row are groups or
tufts of bristles. Preferably, the number of rows of bristles along
each side of the bristle carrier ranges from 1 to 6. Most
preferably, the number of rows on each side of the movable bristle
carrier is either 1 or 2-6.
[0124] FIG. 15 illustrates one of the preferred static bristle
configurations noted in Table 1 (bristle configuration identifier
a). Specifically, FIG. 15 depicts a brush head 1120 of a toothbrush
1100 having a plurality of static bristles 1160 arranged in a
predetermined number and combination of rows. It will be
appreciated that although the rows depicted in FIG. 15 are shown as
generally straight or linear, particularly in sectors F and G, the
rows may follow the shape or curvature of the outer periphery of
the brush head 1120 such as extending along a portion of the sides
1131 and 1133.
[0125] Within each sector of tufts, the distance between the bases
of neighboring tufts is less than 1.3 mm, preferably from 0.6 to
1.2 mm, and more preferably from 0.8 to 1.1 mm. Distances between
the bases of the tufts, as referred to herein are measured from
tuft edge to tuft edge along a straight line drawn between tuft
centers along the bristle-bearing face. Distances between the free
ends of the tufts, as referred to herein, are measured from tuft
edge to tuft edge along a straight line drawn between tuft centers,
parallel to the bristle-bearing surface, from the free end of the
shorter tuft. Unless specifically defined otherwise, distances
between tufts refer to distances between neighboring tufts. By
"neighboring tuft" is meant the closest nearby tuft.
[0126] The distance between the bases of neighboring tufts in
adjacent groups, that is, measured across the gap between groups,
is in the range from about 1.3 mm to about 5 mm, preferably from
about 1.5 to about 3.5 mm, more preferably from about 1.7 to about
3 mm. There can be some variation across individual pairs of tufts
but all pairs, where the members of each pair are in different
groups will be at least 1.3 mm apart at their bases.
[0127] By having a relatively large distance between tufts in
adjacent groups, the groups of tufts are able to operate
independently of each other. That is, tufts from one group do not
substantially obstruct tufts from an adjacent group. This allows
tufts on the margins of the groups, in particular, to penetrate
better into the interproximal gaps and other crevices.
Nevertheless, a relatively high, overall density of tufts on the
brush head is maintained by the relatively small distance between
tufts within groups. This, in particular, provides for good bristle
coverage on individual tooth surfaces.
[0128] Additional aspects and parameters of bristles and tufts are
described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,314,605 herein incorporated by
reference.
[0129] Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in
FIGS. 16 and 17, which utilizes one or more elastomeric elements.
The head of an electric toothbrush as described herein is
illustrated. The remaining portion of the brush, including the
handle, motor, etc. is the same as described for any of the
previously described embodiments. As shown in FIG. 16, a head 1216
includes a longitudinal axis L, a circular or moving portion or
brush head 1220 and a static portion or region 1222. The head 1216
is located adjacent a first end 1228 of an elongated body portion.
The static portion or portions 1222 is located on opposite sides of
the moving portion 1220. The moving portion 1220 is located at the
center of the brush head 1216. The circular portion 1220 rotates,
swivels, oscillates or reciprocates about an axis approximately
normal to the longitudinal axis L of the brush head. The circular
portion 1220 may rotate 360 degrees or partially rotate or
oscillate or reciprocate in a back and forth manner.
[0130] The moving portion 1220 includes bristles 1224 and
elastomeric elements 1225. The static portion 1222 includes
bristles 1226 and elastomeric elements 1227. The elastomeric
elements 1225, 1227 massage the gums while the user simultaneously
brushes his or her teeth. The elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 can
be made from a rubber, soft plastic or similar material. The
elastomeric elements are preferably formed from an elastomeric
material. The elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 extend essentially
perpendicularly from the head 1216 as measured along the
longitudinal axis L. In the preferred embodiment the elastomeric
elements 1225, 1227 are located around the perimeter of the
circular portion 1220 and the static portion 1222, however it is to
be understood that the elastomeric elements can be located anywhere
among the bristles of the moving portion 1220 and the static
portion 1222. The length of the elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 is
approximately the same length as the bristles 1224, 1226. The
elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 may extend slightly above, slightly
below or to the same height as the bristles 1224, 1226.
[0131] In a further preferred embodiment of the electric toothbrush
having elastomeric elements as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a head
1386 includes a longitudinal axis L, a circular or moving portion
or brush head 1306, a static portion of brush head 1302, a first
end 1304 and a second end 1300. The first end 1304 is located
adjacent to the first end 1382 of the elongated body. The second
end 1300 is located opposite the first end 1304. The moving portion
1306 is preferably located at the second end 1300 of the brush head
1386. The static portion 1302 is preferably located at the first
end 1304 of the brush head 1386 adjacent to the moving portion
1306. However, it is to be appreciated that the moving portion 1306
and the static portion 1302 can be arranged in different
orientations. The moving portion 1306 can rotate, swivel, oscillate
or reciprocate about an axis approximately normal to the
longitudinal axis L of the brush head 1386.
[0132] The moving portion 1306 includes bristles 1310 and
elastomeric elements 1311. The static portion 1302 includes
bristles 1312 and elastomeric elements 1313. The elastomeric
elements 1311, 1313 massage the gums while the user brushes his or
her teeth. The elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 can be made from a
rubber, soft plastic or similar material. The elastomeric elements
are preferably formed from an elastomeric material. The elastomeric
elements 1311, 1313 extend essentially perpendicularly from the
head 1386 as measured along the longitudinal axis L. In the
preferred embodiment the elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 are
located around the perimeter of the moving portion 1306 and the
static portion 1302, however it is to be understood that the
elastomeric elements can be located anywhere among the bristles of
the moving portion 1306 and the static portion 1302. The length of
the elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 is approximately the same
length as the bristles 1310, 1312. The elastomeric elements 1311,
1313 may extend slightly above, slightly below or to the same
height as the bristles 1310, 1312.
[0133] The present invention is also based upon a unique design for
a unitary body or housing for an electric toothbrush that
incorporates an integral neck and brush head assembly. The
one-piece body or housing greatly simplifies assembly of the
toothbrush and reduces manufacturing costs associated with the
brush. The present invention also provides a novel modular design
for the brush head that enables a wide array of bristle sets to be
used in conjunction with the toothbrush.
[0134] Referring to FIG. 20, one embodiment of the inventive
toothbrush 1400 is illustrated. The toothbrush 1400 comprises a
body 1480, a head 1433 and an intermediate portion or neck 1440
extending between, and integrally formed with, the body 1480 and
the head 1433. Movably retained on the head 1433 are a collection
of bristles 1450 which are supported on a movable bristle carrier
described in greater detail herein. Also disposed on the head 1433
are a collection of static bristles 1460. Preferably, the static
bristles 1460 extend around the periphery of the head 1433. The
static bristles 1460 are supported and retained by the head of the
toothbrush 1433 are described and illustrated in greater detail
herein.
[0135] FIG. 21 is a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the
toothbrush 1400 shown in FIG. 20. FIG. 21 illustrates an assembly
and configuration of components utilized in the toothbrush 1400
wherein the separate static and movable bristle carriers
independently engage the receiving member to form the head of the
toothbrush. The static and movable bristle carriers can engage the
receiving member independently in either the same channel or within
separate channels. FIG. 21 illustrates the toothbrush 1400 which
further comprises an end cap or base 1482 which snaps on or is
otherwise releasably secured to the end of the body 1480. The end
cap or base 1482 may be provided in a variety of different shapes
and configurations including, but not limited to, round, oval,
square, and/or rectangular. The body 1480 also includes a region
adapted for retaining a switch or other actuator assembly 1486 for
controlling operation of a motor, battery, and drive train or
mechanism (not shown) preferably disposed in the body 1480 of the
toothbrush 1400. This switch region is illustrated in FIG. 21 as
region 1484. The switch or actuator 1486 is received and retained
at region 1484. The body 1480 provides a hollow interior cavity or
chamber in which is disposed the motor and drive mechanism. Upon
operation, the drive mechanism preferably provides a drive shaft
that reciprocates in a direction generally parallel to the
longitudinal axis of the toothbrush 1400. Referring to the
receiving member 1420 of the toothbrush 1400 in FIG. 21, it will be
noted that the receiving member is shown without any bristles
1450,1460 (as shown in FIG. 20). This is to more clearly illustrate
assembly of the toothbrush 1400. It can be seen that one face of
the receiving member 1420 is configured so as to include a
generally flat surface 1422 which defines a plurality of mounting
locations or apertures 1424 for the static bristles 1460.
Preferably this flat region 1422 and its plurality of apertures
1424 extend about the outer periphery of the receiving member 1420
as shown in FIG. 21. Most preferably, this flat region 22 extends
in a U-shape as shown in FIG. 21. Defined along the interior or
medial region of the receiving member 1420 is a receiving surface
or channel 1425 generally extending between two inwardly facing
receiving surfaces or channels 1426 and 1427. These channels are
generally in pairs and are defined by surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427
are generally sized so as to receive components 1452 and 1430 as
follows.
[0136] The embodiment of the toothbrush 1400 comprises a movable
bristle carrier 1452 which, upon engagement with the receiving
member, is retained along the receiving member 1420 and preferably
within a pair of channel defined by surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427
of the receiving member. Movable bristle carriers 1452 defines a
plurality of apertures 1454 as shown in FIG. 21. The bristle
carriers 1452 also defines an aperture 1453 that is sized and
adapted to receive a pin or other member for engagement with the
drive mechanism (not shown) disposed in the body 1480 and neck 1440
of the toothbrush 1400. The present invention includes other
engagements between the movable bristle carriers 1452 and a drive
shaft, such as but not limited to, a snap type engagement. The
toothbrush 1400 further comprises a static carrier, such as brush
head tip 1430 which, after assembly of the movable bristle carriers
1452 on the head 1433, may also be received and secured along the
head 1433. The brush head tip 1430 also defines a plurality of
apertures 1434 adapted for retaining a plurality of static bristles
1460 as shown in FIG. 20.
[0137] FIGS. 22 to 24 illustrate a sequence of assembly of the
movable bristle carriers 1452 and the brush head tip 1430 with the
receiving member 1420 to form the head 1433 of the embodiment of
the toothbrush 1400. Specifically, FIG. 22 illustrates the
receiving member 1420 and neck 1440 of the embodiment of the
toothbrush 1400. The receiving member 1420 is oriented to receive
the movable bristle carriers 1452. Specifically, the bristle
carriers 1452 can preferably slidingly engage the toothbrush head
within the channel defined by the surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427 in
the receiving member 1420. The head of the toothbrush 1433 includes
a passage 1428. The passage 1428 provides access between the head
1433 of the toothbrush and the interior of the body 1480 and neck
1440. This passage 1428 can be adapted to enclose and retain a
shaft or other component of a drive mechanism. The distal end of
the drive shaft (not shown) can be secured to the movable bristle
carriers 1452 such as by attachment at aperture 1453 of the
carriers 1452. Accordingly, the bristle carriers 1452 can be
oriented within the pairs of channels defined on the receiving
member 1420 such that the aperture 1453 is proximate the passage
1428. As previously noted, a snap-fit connection may be utilized
between the bristle carriers 1452 and the distal end of the drive
shaft.
[0138] FIG. 23 illustrates the movable bristle carriers 1452
slidingly engaged within the head 1433 of the embodiment of the
brush 1400. After engagement of the movable bristle carriers 1452
to the receiving member 1420, the brush head tip 1430 may be
secured along the distal end of the receiving member 1420. The
brush head tip 1430 preferably is also slidingly engaged within the
receiving member 1420, and specifically within the channel defined
by the surfaces 1425, 1426, and 1427. One or more retaining grooves
or channels are preferably defined along the outer surfaces of
either the tip 1430 or the channel defined by the surfaces 1425,
1426, and 1427 within which outwardly extending projections defined
on an opposing surface, reside to secure the tip 1430 within the
receiving member 1420. A wide array of channel configurations may
be utilized in accordance with the present invention. Although a
channel and corresponding channel components are used to assist in
retaining the movable bristle carriers to the brush head, it is
contemplated that other retaining assemblies or configurations may
be utilized. As previously noted, the present invention
toothbrushes are not limited to a particular motion or direction of
motion for the movable bristle carriers.
[0139] FIG. 24 illustrates final assembly of the tip 1430 along the
distal end of the receiving member 1420. It will be appreciated
that the various components noted in these figures, would include
the bristles 1450,1460. The bristles have been omitted from these
figures to more clearly illustrate assembly of the primary
components of the toothbrush 1400 and specifically along the
receiving member 1420 and the toothbrush head 1433. It will be
further appreciated that the brush head tip may be formed in a
variety of shapes and configurations. It may in some instances, be
preferred to provide a brush head tip having an arcuate or U shape.
Or, the tip may be formed so as to constitute a relatively large
portion of the brush head. Or, the arcuate or U shape may
substantially surround the movable bristle carriers.
[0140] FIG. 21a is a partially exploded view of another embodiment
of the toothbrush made according to the present invention. FIG. 21a
illustrates an assembly and configuration of components utilized in
the embodiment of the toothbrush 1401. It can be seen that the head
of the toothbrush comprises a receiving member, and bristle
carriers. The plurality of bristle carriers are shown without
bristles to more clearly illustrate the assembly of the toothbrush
1401. FIG. 22a shows that one face of the bristle carriers is
configured so as to include a generally flat surface 1435 which
defines a plurality of mounting locations or apertures 1437 for the
bristles to be inserted. The receiving member 1431 as shown in
FIGS. 21a-24a of the toothbrush is an extension from the neck,
which provides surfaces that the bristle carriers can engage.
[0141] In this embodiment of the toothbrush the head comprises the
receiving member 1431 the movable bristle carrier 1405 and the
static bristle carrier 1403. The receiving member 1431 is
configured so as to include a generally flat surface 1439 shown in
FIG. 21a. This generally flat region preferably contains guiding
elements, which engage and retain the bristle carriers. Examples of
guiding elements include, but are not limited to pairs of channels
1411 and 1413 as shown in FIGS. 21a and 27a, and rails 1407 and
1419 as shown in FIGS. 25a and 26a. The static bristle carriers and
the movable bristle carriers can independently, slidingly engage
the pairs of channels 1411 and 1413 with rails 1407 and 1419
respectively. While the static and movable bristle carriers are
illustrated herein as independently engaging separate channels it
is contemplated that the static and movable bristle carriers can
independently engage the same channel(a). The channels are defined
by the surface of the receiving member 1431 and are generally sized
so as to receive rails 1407 and 1419, as shown in FIGS. 22a to 24a.
Also, in another embodiment of the toothbrush, the brush head
comprises areas to snap (not shown) or otherwise removably attach
the movable 1405 and static bristle carriers 1403.
[0142] The embodiment of the toothbrush 1401 comprises one or more
movable bristle carrier(s) 1405 which engage the receiving member
1431, preferably within a pair of channels 1411 defined by the
surfaces of the receiving member. The surfaces of the movable
bristle carriers can serve as a guide to direct and engage the
movable bristle carriers within the channels defined by the
surfaces of the receiving member 1411. Preferably these guides are
rails 1407 sized to fit the channels 1411. The guide can be any
shape sized to fit the channels defined by the surfaces of the
receiving member, including but not limited to I-shaped, T-shaped,
C-shaped, and/or U-shaped. The guide shown in FIG. 26a is a
T-shaped rail 1407. Preferably, the movable bristles are
substantially encircled by static bristles disposed on the static
bristle carrier 1403. To form this preferred toothbrush head the
one or more static bristle carrier(s) 1405 engage the receiving
member, preferably within a pair of channels 1413. The surfaces of
the static bristle carriers can comprise guides such as rails 1419
sized to fit the pair of channels 1413. Rails 1419 direct and
engage the static bristle carriers within the pair of channels 1413
to form the head of the toothbrush. Additionally, the engagement of
the static and/or movable bristle carriers to the receiving member
to form the head of the toothbrush can be releasably removable so
that the bristle carriers can be replaced or exchanged for new or
different bristle carriers.
[0143] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21a-27a the head of the
toothbrush can be formed by the bristle carriers engaging the
receiving member within pairs of channels such as pair 1411 and
pair 1413 defined by the surfaces of the receiving member 1431
which extends from the toothbrush neck. The receiving member is
devoid of bristles prior to the engagement of the bristle carriers.
Preferably, the static 1403 and movable 1405 bristle carriers
independently, slidingly engage the receiving member within
separate channels, while in a nested arrangement. This nesting
arrangement can be formed by the capturing of the movable bristle
carrier within the aperture 1451 of the static bristle carrier
(FIGS. 22a-24a). Preferably the static bristles substantially
encircle the movable bristles. Although the bristle carriers are in
a nested arrangement 1423, the bristle carriers remain separate, as
the bristle carriers lack permanent association with each other. In
one embodiment the nesting arrangement 1423 is achieved by
slidingly engaging the one or more movable bristle carrier(s)
within an aperture 1451 of the one or more static bristle
carrier(s), and then slidingly engaging the nested bristle carriers
with the receiving member extending from the neck of the toothbrush
(FIGS. 22a-24a). Although the bristle carriers engage the receiving
member simultaneously, the movable and static bristle carriers
engage the receiving member independently of each other. The head
of this embodiment of the toothbrush is formed once the bristle
carriers, in a nested arrangement, engage the receiving member
(FIG. 23a). This independent engagement (shown in FIGS. 22a-27a) is
achieved by the static bristle carrier engaging the receiving
member within pair of channels 1413 defined by the surfaces of the
receiving member via rail 1419 defined by the surfaces of the
static bristle carrier 1403 and the movable bristle carrier
engaging the receiving member within pair of channels 1411 defined
by the surfaces of the receiving member via rail 1407 defined by
the surfaces of the movable bristle carrier 1405. It remains
possible to separate the nested bristle carriers until connected to
the receiving member, because of the lack of permanent association.
This facilitates the reciprocating movement of the movable bristle
carriers, when the movable bristle carriers are operatively
connected to the drive shaft 3205. This nesting arrangement allows
the movable bristle carriers to be substantially encircled by
static bristles, but remain movable upon operation of the
toothbrush. More than one movable bristle carrier can be nested
within the static bristle carriers. Additionally, more than one
static bristle carrier can be used to substantially encircle the
movable bristle carriers. Each bristle carriers can engage the
receiving member of the toothbrush in a separate channel, or more
than one bristle carriers can engage the receiving member within
the same channel. FIG. 24a illustrates the movable and static
bristle carriers slidingly engaged with the receiving member of
this embodiment of the toothbrush 1401. The movable and static
bristle carriers may engage the receiving member in the same
channel. In another embodiment the movable and static bristle
carriers snap onto the receiving member. The movable bristle
carriers can be retained on the receiving member by an operative
engagement with the drive shaft. Preferably both the static bristle
carriers and the movable bristle carriers can engage the receiving
member in a longitudinal direction. However, the carriers can also
engage the receiving member in a direction perpendicular to the
surface of the receiving member.
[0144] A wide array of channel configurations can be used to
slidingly engage the nested bristle carriers 1423 with the
receiving member 1431 of the toothbrush 1401. These channels should
be sized as necessary to direct and/or guide a rail, or other
guiding member, located on the bristle carriers. The channels can
be various shapes and sizes other than what is shown. Additionally,
the channels can be three sided, two sided, or even one sided, so
long as the channel is sized to receive or guide the rail, or other
guiding member located on the bristle carriers. The receiving
member can comprise as many channels as bristle carriers to be
engaged. The channels may be configured such that the movable
bristle carriers engages an inner set of channels, defined by the
surfaces located towards the center of the receiving member, and an
outer set of channels, defined by the surfaces located towards the
outward edges of the receiving member. Each bristle carriers can
have an individual channel, or the bristle carriers can engage the
receiving member in the same channel. In the alternative the
surface of the receiving member can be formed into a rail to guide
the bristle carriers into place. In addition to the channel and
rail assembly used to guide the bristle carriers onto the receiving
member, other assemblies may be used to retain the bristle carriers
on the receiving member. In one embodiment the bristle carriers are
retained on the receiving member of the toothbrush by connectors
defined by the outer surface of the receiving member, matable with
connectors defined by the inner surface of the static bristle
carriers. Such connectors include, but are not limited to,
serrations and teeth, indentations and tabs, and grooves and
protuberances. In one embodiment of the toothbrush the connectors
are one or more retaining grooves defined along the inner surfaces
of the static bristle carriers, and protuberances 1417 defined
along the outer surface of the receiving member wherein the
protuberances 1417 reside in the grooves to secure the static
bristle carriers on the receiving member. In another embodiment,
(not shown), the protuberances are defined along the inner surface
of the static bristle carriers, and the grooves are defined along
the outer surface of the receiving member, wherein the
protuberances reside in the grooves to secure the static bristle
carriers. The bristle carriers can also engage the receiving member
with a snap type engagement (not shown). In another embodiment the
one or more static carrier(s) and/or the one or more movable
carrier(s) engage the receiving member with a flexible tongue
having a latch hook and a corresponding locking undercut or recess
in the opposite attachment part as disclosed in U.S. application
Ser. No. 10/361,653.
[0145] When the one or more movable bristle carrier(s) are nested
within the static bristle carrier(s), the rail of the movable
bristle carrier(s) can extend below the static bristle carrier(s),
so that the rail of the movable bristle carrier(s) can engage the
receiving member of the toothbrush. When the nested bristle
carrier(s) engage the receiving member, the movable bristle
carrier(s) can be disposed in the middle and/or center of the head
of the toothbrush.
[0146] In another embodiment of the invention the nested
arrangement occurs only once all the bristle carriers engage the
receiving member (not shown). In this embodiment a portion of the
receiving member comprises static bristles permanently affixed
directly onto the surface of the receiving member. The movable
bristle carrier(s) can be substantially surrounded by static
bristles when a receiving member provided with bristles, receives
one or more movable bristle carrier(s) and then one or more static
bristle carrier(s).
[0147] The movable bristle carrier(s) is also operatively engaged
to the motor. This operative engagement can be achieved by
connecting the bristle carrier(s) to a drive shaft that extends
through a passage 1428 defined within a portion of the neck 1440
and receiving member 1431. The drive shaft may be rotatably or
slidingly disposed within the passage 1428. Once the brush head is
formed by the engagement of the bristle carriers to the receiving
member, the passage 1428 provides access between the brush head
1421, the neck 1440, and the interior of the body 1480. The distal
end of the drive shaft is preferably secured to the movable bristle
carrier(s) by the pin 1409, located on the movable bristle
carrier(s) 1405, engaging the aperture, located on the tip of the
drive shaft (not shown). The tip of the shaft may be flexible, and
deflects to facilitate receiving the pin on the movable bristle
carrier(s) into the aperture on the tip of the drive shaft. The
present invention includes engagement assemblies using pins,
protuberances or other fasteners that affix the drive shaft to the
movable bristle carrier(s). A snap-fit connection may be utilized
between the movable bristle carrier(s) and the distal end of the
drive shaft. Examples of snap fit connections include, but are not
limited to, serrations on teeth, and a press fit engagement. The
present invention also includes all types of motors and gearing
arrangements suitable for operating an electric toothbrush,
including but not limited to the inventive high efficiency motor
discussed herein. These motors can move the drive shaft. The
operative connection between the drive shaft and the movable
carrier(s) facilitates movement of the movable carriers. The drive
shaft, and therefore the movable carrier(s), can undergo any of the
aforementioned motions. However, in one embodiment the drive shaft
and the movable carrier(s) reciprocates.
[0148] It will be understood that the present invention includes
assemblies featuring a releasably removable static carrier(s) such
as a brush head tip, similar to tip 1430 shown in the noted
figures, and/or a releasably removable movable carrier(s). A
removable static carrier(s), and/or movable carrier(s) enables a
user to selectively tailor and customize a brush as desired. For
example, various combinations of static and/or movable carriers
include, but are not limited to, bristle carriers, brush head tip
carriers, elastomeric element carriers, oral care composition
carriers, and dental tool carriers, or any combination thereof. For
instance, carriers containing elements that are specifically
designed for applying whitening agents to the teeth may be used. It
is also contemplated that elastomeric elements or "cushioning"
elements may be provided and/or used with the present invention
toothbrushes. Such elastomeric elements are formed entirely or
partially from thermoplastic elastomers. Elastomeric elements are
particularly preferred for incorporation in toothbrushes that
utilize one or more other regions or components that are formed
from elastomers. For example, the present invention includes
toothbrushes as described herein with elastomeric elements and
which employ one or more elastomers in gripping regions along the
handle, or as "bumpers" or cushioning regions along the brush head.
Such elastomers may be co-injected when forming the brush, or may
be coated thereon.
[0149] The releasable aspect of the carrier(s) may be provided by
incorporating a release member along the underside of the brush
head that, when pressed or otherwise engaged, allows the carrier to
be removed and another carrier positioned in its place. It is
further envisioned that the releasable aspect could be achieved by
use of a tool or other component to selectively release the carrier
from the receiving member. Such a tool could be sold or otherwise
commercialized with the toothbrush. Alternatively or in addition,
such a tool could be sold or otherwise commercialized with one or
more carriers that are sold as a kit for use with the present
invention toothbrushes. More specifically, such kits might include
one or more of the following and thus incorporate a combination of
any of the following components: (i) bristle carriers, brush head
tips, elastomeric element carriers, oral care composition carriers,
and dental tool carriers, (ii) one or more toothbrushes, (iii) a
package or other housing for storing all the components, (iv) one
or more tools that might be useful when replacing or substituting
or otherwise changing carrier(s), and (v) one or more dentifrice or
other compositions for use with the carrier(s) and toothbrush. It
is further envisioned that such kits may include batteries for use
with the toothbrush, bases or other "stands" for retaining the
toothbrush when not in use, replaceable handle components that are
used to change the appearance of the toothbrush, and decorative
stickers or other types of labels that may be placed on the
toothbrush, its stand, and/or the kit housing.
[0150] FIGS. 25a through 27a further illustrate embodiments of the
static bristle carriers FIG. 25a, the movable bristle carriers FIG.
26a, and the receiving member FIG. 27a. FIG. 25a illustrates an end
view of the rails 1419 defined by the surfaces of the static
carriers 1403. This embodiment of the invention also has apertures
1435 to receive bristles. Additionally, this embodiment has a
cavity 1441 where the receiving member 1431 engages the static
carriers. FIG. 26a illustrates an end view of the movable carriers
1405, as well as the rails 1407 defined by the surfaces of the
movable carriers. FIG. 27a illustrates an end view of the inventive
toothbrush, and in particular the receiving member 1431. The static
carriers 1403 engages the receiving member via the channels 1413.
The movable carriers 1405 engages the receiving member via the
channels 1411. The static carriers can be retained on the receiving
member by the protuberance 1417, received into a groove on the
inner surface of the static carriers 1403.
[0151] A wide array of bristle configurations may be utilized in
conjunction with the toothbrushes of the present invention, and
particularly those embodiments that utilize a removable or
separately formed brush head tip. For instance, static bristles
having a height or length that is equal to that of the movable
bristles may be utilized. Any of the previously noted
configurations of the static bristles and movable bristles shown in
the referenced figures, described herein, or noted in Table 1 may
be utilized. Specifically, FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate the head of
the toothbrush 1433 and the neck 1440 of one embodiment of the
brush 1400 with a collection of static bristles 1460 disposed on a
tip 1430 at the distal end of the toothbrush head 1433 and a
collection of movable bristles 1450 disposed on a movable bristle
carriers 1452 (the carriers 1452 shown in dashed lines).
Preferably, the height of the movable bristles 1450 along the
toothbrush head 1433, designated in FIG. 25 as dimension C, ranges
from about 3 mm to about 14 mm, and preferably from about 7 mm to
about 11 mm. Generally, bristle height is the distance of a bristle
as measured from an outwardly directed surface, i.e. typically the
surface of its base or mounting component, to the end or tip of the
bristle. The noted outwardly directed surface of a bristle mounting
component is generally referred to herein as a brush-facing
surface. Although not shown in FIG. 25, it will be appreciated that
a plurality of static bristles, supported and retained directly on
the head of the toothbrush 1433, are preferably disposed around the
movable bristles 1450. It will be appreciated that such static
bristles are not shown in these figures (nor in FIGS. 27-30) for
purposes of clarity. The preferred height of the static bristles
(those disposed around the movable bristles 1450 and those disposed
on the tip 1430) also ranges from about 3 mm to about 14 mm, and
preferably from about 7 mm to about 11 mm.
[0152] It is also contemplated to provide static bristles having a
varying length, and particularly, arranged in a manner so as to
provide an inclined brushing surface. This is shown in FIGS. 27 to
33. The term "brushing surface" as used herein refers to the distal
ends of bristles or elastomeric elements that contact a user's
teeth or gums during brushing.
[0153] Specifically, FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate a toothbrush head
1520 and a neck 1540 of another embodiment of the toothbrush 1500
according to the present invention. The brush head 1520 includes a
movable bristle carriers 1552 having a plurality of movable
bristles 1550 (the carriers 1552 shown in dashed lines) supported
or retained therein. The brush head 1520 also includes a tip 1530
having a collection of static or stationary bristles 1560 supported
or retained thereon. It will be appreciated that a plurality of
stationary bristles 1560 preferably surround, or at least partially
so, the movable bristles 1550. For clarity, that portion of
bristles supported directly on the brush head 1520 is not shown in
FIG. 27. The tip 1530 preferably includes stationary bristles 1560
having different lengths and arranged so as to provide an inclined
brushing surface. When providing an inclined brushing surface, such
as specifically shown in FIG. 27, the angle A, which is the angle
of the inclined surface with respect to the longitudinal axis of
the neck 1540 and head 1520, may range from about 5 degrees to
about 85 degrees, and preferably from about 20 degrees to about 70
degrees. Most preferably, the longer bristles are disposed adjacent
the distal end of the head 1520. The height of the movable bristles
1550, designated in FIG. 27 as dimension D, ranges from about 3 mm
to about 14 mm, and preferably from about 7 mm to about 11 mm. The
height of the static bristles 1560 ranges from about 3 mm to about
18 mm, and preferably from about 7 mm to about 11 mm. The maximum
height of the static bristles 1560 and particularly those disposed
at the distal end of the head 1520 is about 18 mm. That dimension
is shown as dimension E in FIG. 27.
[0154] FIGS. 29 and 30 illustrate yet another preferred
configuration for bristle configurations. These figures illustrate
an embodiment of the toothbrush 1600 having a neck 1640, a
toothbrush head 1620, a movable bristle carriers 1652 (shown in
dashed lines) having movable bristles 1650, a toothbrush head tip
1630, and a collection of static bristles 1660 located on the end
tip 1630 disposed at the end of the toothbrush head 1620. In this
embodiment, the collection of static bristles 1660 on the tip 1630
are arranged so as to provide an inclined brushing surface. The
height of the movable bristles 1650, designated in FIG. 29 as
dimension F, ranges from about 3 mm to about 14 mm, and preferably
from about 7 mm to about 11 mm. The height of the static bristles
1660, ranges from about 3 mm to about 18 mm, and preferably from
about 7 mm to about 11 mm. The maximum height of the static
bristles 1660 and particularly those disposed at the distal end of
the head 1620 is about 18 mm. That dimension is shown as dimension
G in FIG. 29. The embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 29 and 30 differs
from that depicted in FIGS. 27 and 28 primarily in that the static
bristles 1660 disposed on the brush head tip 1630 do not linearly
vary in height from one end of the tip 230 to the other, as do the
bristles 150 in FIG. 27. Restated, the resulting surface defined by
the distal ends of the bristles 150 in FIG. 27 is generally
straight, whereas the resulting surface defined by the distal ends
of the bristles 1660 in FIG. 29 is generally arcuate.
[0155] It is also contemplated to utilize various bristle
configurations at the toothbrush head tip which provide varying
inclinations and changing bristle height across the width of the
brush head as shown in FIGS. 31 to 33. Specifically, FIG. 31
illustrates an embodiment of the toothbrush 1700 having a brush
head 1720 and a plurality of static bristles 1760. The bristles
1760 provide an inclined brushing surface that forms an angled
valley, when viewed along a line in the same direction as the
longitudinal axis of the brush head 1720 and neck (not shown in
FIG. 31). Preferably, each side of the valley formed by the distal
ends of the bristles 1760 is symmetrical and extends so as to form
an angle B with respect to a vertical line perpendicular to a
longitudinal axis of the brush head 1720 and neck (not shown).
Angle B may range from about 10.degree. to about 80.degree., and
preferably from about 30.degree. to about 60.degree.
[0156] FIG. 32 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
1800 having a brush head 1820 with a plurality of static bristles
1860 extending therefrom. The contoured or arcuate brushing surface
provided by the distal ends of the bristles 1860 may be in the form
of a concave region or surface as shown in FIG. 32.
[0157] FIG. 33 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
1900 having a brush head 1920 and a plurality of static bristles
1960 extending therefrom. The bristles 1960 may provide an
irregular brushing surface as shown.
[0158] FIG. 34 illustrates a portion of another embodiment of the
toothbrush 2000. This toothbrush comprises a brush head 2020, a
neck or intermediate portion 2040, a movable bristle carriers 2052
(shown in dashed lines), a brush head tip 2030 (shown in dashed
lines), and a plurality of bristles 2050 and a plurality of
elastomeric elements 2060. The bristles 2050 may include movable
bristles, static bristles, or both, as described herein. The
elastomeric elements 2060 massage the gums while the user
simultaneously brushes his or her teeth. The elastomeric elements
can be made from a rubber, soft plastic or similar material. The
elastomeric elements are preferably formed from an elastomeric
material. The elastomeric elements extend essentially
perpendicularly from the toothbrush head 2020 as measured along the
longitudinal axis of the toothbrush 600. In one of the embodiments
of the toothbrush 2000, the elastomeric elements 2060 are located
proximate the distal end of the toothbrush head 2020, and most
preferably along the brush head tip 2030 as described herein.
However, it is to be understood that the elastomeric elements can
be located anywhere among the moving and static bristles. The
height of the elastomeric elements 2060 is approximately the same
height as the bristles 2050. The elastomeric elements 2060 may
extend slightly above, slightly below or to the same height as the
bristles 2050.
[0159] FIG. 35 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
2100 comprising a toothbrush head 2120, a movable bristle carriers
2152 (shown in dashed lines), and a neck or intermediate portion
2140. The toothbrush 700 includes a plurality of bristles 2150 and
a second set of bristles 2160 disposed on a brush head tip 2130
(shown partially in dashed lines). In this embodiment, the bristles
2150 are arranged in groups of tufts wherein each tuft contains
bristles of various lengths or heights. The bristles of varying
height are arranged within each tuft such that the distal ends of
the bristles form an inclined surface with respect to the generally
flat surface or brush-facing surface of the brush head 2120.
Preferably, this inclined surface forms an angle H with respect to
the flat face of the brush head 2120. Angle H is in the range of
from about 10.degree. to about 90.degree. and preferably from about
20.degree. to about 45.degree.
[0160] The second set of bristles 2160 disposed on the brush head
tip 2130 are preferably also arranged in groups or tufts. The
preferred height of bristles 2160 is approximately equal to the
maximum bristle height of the bristles 2150. FIG. 35 illustrates a
particularly preferred feature of the present invention
toothbrushes, and relating to the configuration of the brush head
tip 2130. The brush head tip 2130 is provided with a region 2132
having a relatively large thickness such that its flat,
brush-facing surface generally extends above the brush-facing
surface of the carriers 2152. This difference in height between the
brush-facing surfaces of the regions of bristles 2150 and bristles
2160 is illustrated in FIG. 35 as dimension P. Preferably, P is
from about 1 to about 5 mm.
[0161] FIG. 36 is another illustration of an embodiment of the
toothbrush 2200 having a head 2220, a movable bristle carriers 2252
(shown in dashed lines), and a neck 2240. Disposed on the brush
head 2220 are a plurality of upwardly extending bristles 2250. The
toothbrush 2200 also includes a brush head tip 2230 (shown
partially in dashed lines) disposed at the distal end of the brush
and having a region 2232 that extends above the flat, brush-facing
surface of the brush head 2220 and the carriers 2252. The plurality
of bristles 2250 are preferably configured such that their
outermost ends, when viewed in planar fashion as shown in FIG. 36,
define an arcuate brushing surface, preferably having a common
radius as shown in FIG. 36, designated as I. The brush head tip
2230 includes the raised region 2232 that is preferably formed to
define a sloping surface with respect to the flat, brush-facing
surface of the brush head 2220 and the carriers 2252. This angle of
slope is shown in FIG. 36 as angle N. Angle N may range from about
10.degree. to about 80.degree., with 15.degree. to 45.degree. being
preferred. The height of the bristles 2260 may be greater or lesser
than any of the heights of the bristles 2250. The bristle
configuration depicted in FIG. 36 is exemplary.
[0162] FIG. 37 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
2300 according to the present invention. Toothbrush 2300 comprises
a brush head 2320, a movable bristle carriers 2352 (shown in dashed
lines), and a neck 2340. The toothbrush 2300 includes a plurality
of bristles 2350 and another set of bristles 2360 disposed on a
brush head tip 2330 (partially shown in dashed lines). The brush
head tip includes a raised region 2332 extending above the
brush-facing surface of the brush head 2320 and carriers 2352. The
outermost surface of the raised region 2332 of the brush head tip
2330 is preferably sloped at an angle K as shown in FIG. 37. Angle
K may range from about 10.degree. to about 80.degree., with
15.degree. to 45.degree. being preferred. The bristles 2350 are
also particularly configured such that their outermost or distal
ends define a concave brushing surface, preferably having a common
radius J as shown in FIG. 37. The height of the bristles 2360 may
be greater or lesser than any of the heights of the bristles 950.
However, it may in some applications be preferred to arrange the
bristles 2360 such that their distal ends generally extend within a
plane that is parallel with the sloping surface of the raised
region 2332 of the brush head tip 2330. This angle M preferably
corresponds to angle K, and so may range from about 10.degree. to
about 80.degree. with 15.degree. to 45.degree. being preferred.
[0163] FIG. 38 is another embodiment of the toothbrush 2400 having
a brush head 2420, a movable bristle carriers 2452 (shown in dashed
lines), a brush head tip 2430 (also shown in dashed lines), and a
neck 2440. The toothbrush 2400 includes a plurality of bristles
2450, a second set of bristles 2460 disposed on the brush head tip
2430, and a plurality of elastomeric elements 2454. The
arrangement, height, and configuration of the bristles 2450, 2460,
and elastomeric elements 2454 may be as described herein with
regard to any of the other embodiments.
[0164] FIG. 39 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
2500 having a brush head 2520, a movable bristle carriers 2552
(shown in dashed lines), and a neck 2540. The toothbrush 2500
includes a plurality of bristles 2550 and a plurality of
elastomeric elements 2554 preferably disposed at opposing angles
from each other. That is, the elastomeric elements 2554 preferably
extend at an angle .theta. as shown in FIG. 39. The collection of
bristles 2550 preferably extend in the opposite direction but at a
similar angle. The toothbrush 2500 also includes a plurality of
bristles 2560 extending from a brush head tip 2530 (shown partially
in dashed lines). The brush head tip may also include a region 2532
extending above the flat, brush-facing surface of the brush head
2520. This raised region 2532 may further provide an arcuate outer
surface that may be defined by a common radius such as radius Q
shown in FIG. 39. The arrangement, height, and configuration of the
bristles 2550, 2560 and elastomeric elements 2554 may be as
described herein with regard to any of the other embodiments.
[0165] FIG. 40 illustrates yet another embodiment of the toothbrush
2600 having a brush head 2620, a movable bristle carriers 2652
(shown in dashed lines), and a neck 2640. The toothbrush 2600
includes a brush head tip 2630 (also shown in dashed lines) having
a plurality of bristles 2660 extending therefrom. Another set of
bristles 2650 are provided on the brush head 2620, and specifically
on the movable bristle carriers 2652. In this embodiment, the
height of the bristles 2660 is significantly greater than the
height of the bristles 2650. As previously described herein, the
bristles 2650, 2660 may be arranged in groups or tufts wherein the
bristles within a particular tuft may have different lengths.
[0166] FIG. 41 illustrates yet another embodiment of the toothbrush
2700 having a brush head 2720, a neck 2740, a movable bristle
carriers 2752 (shown partially in dashed lines), a plurality of
bristles 2750 extending from the bristle carriers 2752, and another
set of bristles 2760 extending from a brush head tip 2730 (shown in
dashed lines). In this embodiment, the bristle carriers 2752 has a
relatively large thickness such that its flat, brush-facing surface
is generally elevated above or disposed closer to the user during
brushing, than the brush-facing surface of the brush head tip 2730
and other portions of the brush head 2720. The elevated portion of
the bristle carrier 2752 that extends past the adjacent regions of
the brush head 2720 and the brush head tip 2730 is designated in
FIG. 41 as 2745. For bristle configurations in which the distal
ends or brushing surfaces of the bristles 2750 and 2760 generally
extend along a common plane, the resulting shorter length of
bristles 2750 imparts an increased stiffness to those bristles. The
extent of elevation of the region 2745 of increased thickness is
shown in FIG. 41 as dimension R. R may range from about 1 mm to
about 5 mm.
[0167] FIG. 42 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
2800 having a brush head 2820 and a neck 2840. A plurality of
bristles 2850 are provided on the brush head and extend from a
bristle carrier 2852 (partially shown in dashed lines) which is
preferably movable with respect to the head 2820. The toothbrush
2800 also comprises another plurality of bristles 2860 that extend
from a brush head tip 2830 (partially shown in dashed lines). In
this embodiment, the brush-facing surface of the bristle carriers
2852 is preferably sloping, more preferably arcuate, and most
preferably convex as shown in FIG. 42. In the event this surface is
convex, it is further defined by a radius S as shown in FIG. 42.
The upwardly directed brush-facing surface of the bristle carrier
2852 is also preferably elevated above the relatively flat,
brush-facing surface of the brush head 2820, preferably by
dimension T shown in FIG. 42. Dimension T may range from about 1 mm
to about 5 mm. The elevated portion of the bristle carrier 2852
that extends past the adjacent regions of the brush head 2820 is
designated as 2845. The brush-facing surface of the brush head tip
2830 is preferably arcuate and more preferably concave. The
elevated portion of the bristle carrier 2830 that extends past the
adjacent regions of the brush head 2820 is designated as 2832. The
arrangement, height, and configuration of the bristles 2850 and
2860 may be as described herein with regard to any of the other
embodiments.
[0168] FIG. 43 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
2900 having a brush head 2920, a movable bristle carrier 2952
(shown partially by dashed lines), a brush head tip 2930 (shown by
dashed lines), and a neck 2940. A collection of bristles 2950
extend from the bristle carrier 2952. And, another collection of
bristles 2960 extend from the brush head tip 2930. The bristles
2950 are preferably disposed and retained on the movable bristle
carrier 2952. The bristle carrier 2952 provides an upwardly
directed, brush-facing surface which is depicted in FIG. 43 as
concave. Preferably, this concave surface is defined by a common
radius U. The elevated portion of the bristle carrier 2952 that
extends past the adjacent regions of the brush head 2920 is shown
as region 2945. The arrangement, height, and configuration of the
bristles 2950 and 2960 may be as described herein with regard to
any of the other embodiments.
[0169] FIG. 44 illustrates yet another embodiment of the toothbrush
3000 according to the present invention. The toothbrush 3000
comprises a brush head 3020 and a neck 3040. The toothbrush 3000
includes a plurality of bristles 3050 extending from a bristle
carrier 3052 (shown partially in dashed lines) that is movably
disposed on the brush head 3020. And, the toothbrush 3000 includes
another set of bristles 3060 extending from a brush head tip 3030
(shown partially in dashed lines). The outermost surface of the
bristle carrier 3052 may be provided such that it has one or more
sloping surfaces defined along a raised region 3045 as shown in
FIG. 44. These slopes may be carried through such that the
distal-most ends of the bristles 3050 mirror this same slope or,
another or different slope. Similarly, the outermost end of the
bristles 3060 may also reflect the sloping surface of a raised
region 3032 of the brush head end 3030. Preferably, the bristle
carrier 3052 provides at least a region having a sloping
brush-facing surface. That slope preferably extends along an angle
V as shown in FIG. 44. Angle V preferably is from about 10.degree.
to about 60.degree., and more preferably from about 20.degree. to
about 30.degree. Similarly, the brush head tip 3030 preferably
provides a sloping brush-facing surface that extends along an angle
W. Angle W preferably ranges from about 10.degree. to about
45.degree.
[0170] FIG. 45 is another embodiment of the toothbrush 3100 having
a brush head 3120 and a neck 3140. The toothbrush 3100 includes a
plurality of elastomeric elements 3162 extending from a brush head
tip 3130 (shown partially in dashed lines). The toothbrush 3100
also comprises a plurality of bristles 3150 extending from a
movable bristle carriers 3152. The bristle carriers 3152 contains a
region 3145 that is raised relative to the adjacent regions of the
brush head 3120. Similarly, the brush head tip 3130 contains a
region 3132 that is raised relative to the adjacent regions of the
brush head 3120. Either or both of the outwardly directed,
brush-facing surfaces of the bristle carriers 3152 and the brush
head tip 3130, may be flat, sloping, arcuate, convex or concave.
Furthermore, the arrangement, height, and configuration of the
bristles 3150 and elastomeric elements 3162 may be as described
herein with regard to any of the other embodiments.
[0171] Another preferred bristle configuration is similar to the
configurations shown in FIGS. 36 and 45, i.e. having an interior
group of bristles that extend "above" or have a greater height than
adjacent bristles, however features a stepped or plateau
configuration. In this configuration, the change in bristle height
is not gradual or varying as shown in FIGS. 36 and 45, but instead
is stepped. That is, the change in height from shorter bristles
disposed around the taller medially disposed bristles is rather
abrupt. The difference in height between these two groups of
bristles is about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm, and more preferably from
about 0.75 mm to about 1.5 mm.
[0172] Referring to the various bristle carriers illustrated and
described herein, it can be seen that the profile or configuration
of the outwardly facing surface of the carrier, generally referred
to herein as a brush-facing surface, may be in a variety of forms
and shapes. One particularly preferred shape is a concave shape
(when viewing the bristle carrier from its side, and its side that
generally extends along the same direction as the longitudinal axis
of the toothbrush). A concave shape promotes the retention of
dentifrice or polishing material that may be used during brushing.
Likewise, a convex surface promotes the dissipation of dentifrice
in the region of the bristles along the brush head. Most
preferably, bristle carriers in accordance with the present
invention utilize a non-flat brush-facing surface.
[0173] Another aspect of interest in the design of a brush head is
the selection, placement, and configuration of bristles along the
bristle carrier, brush head tip, and brush head. Generally, the
stiffness of a bristle or tuft of bristles increases as the length
of the bristle(s) decreases. Thus, changes in bristle stiffness may
be achieved by altering the length of the subject bristles. This
characteristic is important to consider when providing a bristle
carrier having a brush-facing surface that is non-planar. It will
be appreciated that bristle stiffness will vary at different
locations along the bristle carrier since the length or height of
the bristles extending therefrom varies. Alternatively, the
stiffness of bristles having equal heights will be generally the
same. The present invention includes a wide array of different
combinations of bristle carrier shapes and configurations; and
bristle length, materials, and configuration. Many of these
preferred configurations have been exemplified in the referenced
figures. Additionally, in some embodiments, it is preferred to
utilize diameters of bristles and/or diameters of tufts of bristles
on the movable bristle carrier that are larger than corresponding
diameters of bristles or tufts of bristles that are disposed on the
brush head tip. In yet other embodiments, it may be desirable to
utilize diameters of bristles/tufts on the carrier that are smaller
than corresponding bristles/tufts on the tip.
[0174] FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate in greater detail a preferred
brush head 3220 of an embodiment of the toothbrush 3200 according
to the present invention. The toothbrush 3200 comprises a brush
head 3220 and a neck 3240 integrally formed with and extending
therefrom. The toothbrush 3200 further comprises a movable bristle
carrier 3245 defining a plurality of holes or apertures 3254
adapted for receiving and retaining bristles or bristle tufts (not
shown). The bristle carrier 3245 provides an outwardly directed
brush-facing surface 3252. Defined along an oppositely directed
face is an under-surface 3253. A receiving aperture 3254 is also
defined along the under-surface 3253 and is sized and adapted to
receive and engage a distal end 3206 of a movable drive shaft 3205.
As will be appreciated, the drive shaft 3205 reciprocates within
the neck 3240 and imparts a similar reciprocating type motion to
the bristle carrier 3245. The toothbrush 3200 also comprises a
brush head tip 3230 defining an outwardly directed brush-face
surface 3232 and one or more apertures 3234 adapted to receive and
retain bristles or bristle tufts (not shown). The brush head 3220
may also define one or more apertures located along the brushing
face of the head 3220, such as apertures 3224 defined in the region
3222 of the head 3220.
[0175] Although the assembly shown in FIG. 47 for engaging the
bristle carrier 3245 with the shaft 3205 is generally preferred,
i.e. use of a notched distal end 3206 that is received in aperture
3254, other assemblies for engaging a movable bristle carrier with
a drive shaft may be utilized. For example, the present invention
includes engagement assemblies using pins or other fasteners that
affix the drive shaft to the carrier. Alternatively, other
assemblies may be used such as snap-fit connections, releasable
engagement assemblies, and nonreleasable assemblies. The materials
employed for the components of the engagement assemblies can be
polymeric, metal, or any other material having suitable strength
and durability properties.
[0176] FIG. 48 is a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the
toothbrush 3300 according to the present invention. This embodiment
of the inventive toothbrush 3300 comprises a body or housing 3312
and an end cap 3320. The body 3312 is essentially a one-piece body
having a major portion including a neck 3316 and an end 3318, and a
brush head 3314 extending from the neck 3316. Preferably, the brush
head 3314, neck 3316, and body 3312 are generally continuous and
integrally formed with one another. The body 3312 and portions of
the neck 3316 and head 3314, define a hollow interior region, which
house a drive mechanism. The major portion of the body 3312 also
defines a recessed region or one or more apertures along its outer
surface which receives an electrical switch (not shown) for
operating the drive mechanism of the electric toothbrush described
in greater detail herein. A protective cover 3313 preferably fits
within this recessed region. The end cap 3320 includes a closed end
3322 and an opposite open end 3324. The open end 3324 is sized to
engage and generally seal the end 3318 of the housing 3312. An
O-ring or other sealing member 3319 may be used at the interface of
the ends 3318 and 3324 of the housing components.
[0177] One of the embodiments of the toothbrush further comprises a
drive motor 3350 having a drive shaft 3352. The motor 3350 is a DC
motor similar to motors known to those skilled in the art and
includes various switching circuits and a battery or other power
source (not shown). These components are housed and retained within
the hollow interior region defined in the body 3312 and optionally
within the end cap 3320. A drive gear 3354 is engaged to the drive
shaft 3352. A lower motor mount 3330 is provided. An upper motor
mount 3340 is also provided which, together with the lower motor
mount 3330, generally cradle, retain, and secure the motor 3350
within the interior of the housing 3312 and cap 3320. The lower
motor mount 3330 includes inner and outer drive shaft supports 3332
and 3334, respectively. The lower motor mount 3330 also includes a
base or aperture 3336 for receiving a mount or axle 3358 for a
drive gear described in greater detail herein. The upper motor
mount 3340 includes an inner drive shaft support 3342 and a drive
shaft housing 3344 which preferably engages the inner mount 3342
and optionally the outer mount 3334 of the lower motor mount 3330.
The upper motor mount 3340 additionally includes a plurality of
engagement legs 3346 that preferably engage the lower motor mount
3330 for retaining motor 3350 disposed between the two assemblies.
It will be appreciated that instead of utilizing an upper and lower
motor mount, a single one-piece mount or retaining structure could
be employed.
[0178] The drive gear 3354 is engaged with a crown gear 3356. Crown
gear 3356 is rotatably supported at its center 3357 by the axle or
pivot member 3358. The crown gear 3356 includes an offset
engagement member 3355 to which is attached a pinion end 3362 of a
drive shaft 3360. The drive shaft 3360 includes the noted pinion
end 3362 that includes a receiving aperture or other engagement
member for engagement with the offset member 3355. The drive shaft
3360 further includes a distal end 3364 which is used to engage and
thus drive a movable bristle carrier described in greater detail
herein. The drive shaft 3360 extends within the interior hollow
cavity of the housing 3312 and preferably through at least a
portion of the neck 3316. The distal end 3364 of the drive shaft
3360 is engaged with a bristle carrier 3370, described below. The
end 3364 is accessible through an aperture in the brush head
3314.
[0179] This embodiment of the toothbrush 3300 further includes a
movable bristle carrier 3370 which, upon assembly in the toothbrush
3300, reciprocates along the brush head 3314. Preferably, the
movable bristle carrier 3370 reciprocates within a channel 3311
defined along the brush head 3314, and most preferably in a
direction parallel with the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush
3300. Disposed along the underside of the bristle carrier 3370 is a
ridged member 3372. This ridged member 3372 is configured to move
within, yet be retained by, the channel 3311. The bristle carrier
3370 defines a plurality of apertures 3374 within which are
disposed a plurality of bristles or bristle tufts (not shown). The
bristle carrier 3370 includes a first end 3375 which, upon assembly
with the brush head 3314, is preferably disposed adjacent a region
or edge 3315 defined between the neck 3316 and the brush head 3314
of the body or housing 3312. The opposite end of the movable
bristle carrier 3370 is end 3376 and is preferably curvilinear as
shown in FIG. 48.
[0180] This embodiment of the toothbrush 3300 further comprises a
stationary bristle carrier tip 3380 which defines a plurality of
apertures 3384 for retaining bristles or bristle tufts (not shown),
a first end 3385 which engages or is disposed adjacent to the end
3376 of the movable bristle carrier 3370, and a ridged member 3382
disposed along the underside of the tip 3380. By "stationary" it is
meant that the carrier tip 3380, once assembled and engaged with
the brush head 3314, is generally secured to the brush head 3314
and does not move with the bristle carrier 3370. Preferably, the
ridged member 3382 is sized in a similar fashion and configuration
as the ridged member 3372 of the bristle carrier 3370. Both of the
ridged members 3372 and 3382 are preferably retained within channel
3311 defined in the brush head 3314.
[0181] One or more threaded fasteners 3390 and 3392 may be utilized
to affix the body 3312 to the end cap 3320. It will be understood
that other techniques or components may be utilized to assemble the
housing together.
[0182] Upon operation of this embodiment of the toothbrush 3300, an
electrical circuit is completed between a power source such as a
battery and the motor 3350. Details as to the power source and
electrical operating characteristics of the motor are provided
herein. Rotation of the drive gear 3354 causes rotation of the
crown gear 3356. Preferably, the axis of rotation of the crown gear
3356 is perpendicular or transverse to the axis of rotation of the
drive gear 3354. Rotation of crown gear 3356 imparts a
reciprocating motion to the drive shaft 3360 extending within the
hollow interior region defined within the body 3312, neck 3316, and
optionally the head 3314. The distal end 3364 of the drive shaft is
engaged with the movable bristle carrier 3370, and so, imparts a
corresponding reciprocating motion to the carrier 3370.
[0183] FIG. 49 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
3400 in accordance with the present invention. The toothbrush 3400
includes a body portion 3412, a neck portion 3416, and an end cap
3420. The body portion 3412 defines a first end 3418 and an
opposite end 3404 which preferably includes a screw member or
threaded region. The end cap 3420 defines a closed end 3422 and an
opposite open end 3424. The open end 3424 is sized and configured
to releasably engage the end 3418 of the body portion 3412. An
O-ring or other sealing member 3419 is preferably used at the
interface between the ends 3424 and 3418. The neck 3416 includes an
end 3417 and a brush head 3414 preferably integrally formed at the
end of the neck 3416 opposite the end 3417. The end 3417 preferably
includes provisions for releasably engaging a screw member defined
at the end 3404 of the body member 3412. The brush head 3414
preferably includes a first channel member 3411 and an aperture
3403 which provides access to a hollow region extending within the
brush head 3414 and neck region 3416. An optional second channel
3402 may be defined along the brush head 3414 which further
provides guidance for a movable bristle carrier described in
greater detail herein. A guide wall 3415 is preferably defined
along the brush head 3414 and may extend around a portion of the
periphery of the surface of the brush head.
[0184] This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 further includes a
motor 3450 providing a powered drive shaft 3452. An electrical
switching circuit and a power source, although not shown, are
preferably retained within the hollow region defined within the
body 3412 and end cap 3420. A lower motor mount 3430 and an upper
motor mount 3440 preferably cradle and retain the motor 3450 within
the interior hollow region defined within the body 3412 and end cap
3420. The interior hollow region extends within the neck 3416 and
optionally within a portion of the brush head 3414. The lower motor
mount 3430 includes a base or aperture 3436 for receiving a pivot
or axle member 3458 for a drive gear described in greater detail
herein. The lower motor mount 3430 includes an inner drive support
3432 and an outer drive support 3434 as shown. The upper motor
mount 3440 includes a drive support 3442 which preferably engages
with the inner and/or outer drive supports 3432 and 3434 of the
lower motor mount 3430. A drive housing 3444 is also provided which
preferably engages the motor mount 3440. A plurality of engagement
legs 3446 are preferably formed from the upper motor mount 3440
which engage the lower mount 3430. As previously noted with regard
to FIG. 48, it will be appreciated that a one-piece motor mount
component may be utilized.
[0185] A drive gear 3454 which is secured to the drive shaft 3452
of the motor 3450 is preferably in engagement with a crown gear
3456. The crown gear is rotatably supported by the axle or pivot
member 3458 which in turn is received in the base 3436 of lower
motor mount 3430. The crown gear 3456 includes a centrally located
guide member 3457 and an offset member 3455. The offset member 3455
is engaged with a pinion end 3462 of a drive shaft component 3461.
The drive shaft component 3461 includes an end 3463 defined
oppositely from the pinion member 3462. Also provided is another
drive shaft member 3466 which includes an end 3465 and an opposite
end 3464. The end 3465 preferably engages the end 3463 of the drive
shaft component 3461. The opposite end 3464 of the drive shaft
component 3466 preferably engages a movable bristle carrier
described in greater detail herein. The drive shaft components 3466
and 3461 preferably reside within the interior hollow region of the
body 3412 and neck 3416. A releasable and protective cover 3413
preferably is attached along a recessed region or one or more
apertures defined within the body 3412. The cover 3413 serves as a
protective housing or cover for a switch, the position of which may
be changed through the cover 3413.
[0186] This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 also comprises a
movable bristle carrier 3470 and a stationary bristle carrier tip
or end 3480. The movable bristle carrier 3470 defines a plurality
of apertures 3474 for receiving and retaining a plurality of
bristles and bristle tufts (not shown). The bristle carrier 3470
includes a first end 3475 and an opposite second end 3472. The end
3475 is preferably shaped and sized to fit within the channel 3411
defined along the brush head 3414 and preferably having a similar
configuration as the guide wall 3415. The movable bristle carrier
3470 also includes a ridged member 3476 along its underside, sized
to engage the channel 3411 defined along the brush head 3414. The
distal end 3464 of the drive shaft component 3466 is engaged with
the bristle carrier 3470. Preferably, the end 3464 is accessible
through aperture 3403 defined in the brush head 3414.
[0187] The bristle carrier tip 3480 includes a plurality of
apertures 3484 adapted for receiving and retaining-bristles or
bristle tufts (not shown). The bristle carrier tip 3480 also
includes a first end 3485 adapted to face the end 3472 of the
movable bristle carrier 3470 and portions of the guide wall 3415 of
brush head 3414. The bristle carrier tip 3480 also includes an
opposite end 3482 and may further include a ridged member 183 along
its underside, to engage and reside within the channel 3411 defined
within the brush head 3414. The ridged member 3483 is preferably
configured in a similar fashion as the ridged member 3476 of the
bristle carrier 3470. Upon assembly, the bristle carrier tip 3480
is secured to the distal end of the brush head 3414.
[0188] This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 operates in a similar
fashion as the previously described embodiment of the toothbrush
3300. Upon completion or closure of an electrical circuit between
the motor 3450 and a power source, the drive shaft 3452 and drive
gear 3454 rotate. Such rotation causes rotation of the crown gear
3456 and imparts a reciprocating motion to the drive shaft members
or components 3461 and 3466. Engagement between the drive shaft
component 3466 and the bristle carrier 3470 imparts a translating
or reciprocating movement to the carrier 3470.
[0189] The present invention toothbrushes, and particularly the
embodiments of the toothbrush 3300 and 3400, have been found to
operate utilizing remarkably minor amounts of power. And
surprisingly, these electric toothbrushes provide comparable
brushing efficacy and performance as other commercially available
toothbrushes. These dramatic gains are believed to result from a
combination of one or more of the following factors: (1) the use of
translating or reciprocating motion for the movable bristle carrier
during operation of the present invention toothbrushes; (2) the
selection of the degree or extent of motion of the bristle carrier,
i.e. its "stroke"; (3) the particular type of motor utilized in the
toothbrushes; (4) the operating speed employed by the motor; (5)
the gear ratio between a motor drive gear and a crown gear used in
the drive mechanism of the present invention toothbrushes; (6) the
particular assembly of components used in the drive mechanism and
the relatively few number of components; (7) the use of static
bristles in conjunction with movable bristles; and (8) the
particular bristle configuration employed along the brush head.
[0190] The present invention approach of using a translating plate
to impart motion to a plurality of bristles has been found to
provide significant improvement in reducing energy consumption and
operating current and voltage requirements as compared to currently
known electric toothbrush assemblies. For example, comparative
tests between (i) Assignee's relatively energy efficient and hugely
popular Crest7 Spin Brush7 using an oscillating spin head and (ii)
a, translating or reciprocating bristle carrier according to the
present invention, reveals the following:
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Translating Spin Head Plate Voltage to
Initiate Movement >1.8 V >1.28 V (Under 1 lb. Loading)
Current Draw at 3.0 V 0.8 A 0.5 A (Under 1 lb. Loading)
[0191] The data presented in Table 2 illustrates that an embodiment
of the toothbrush according to the present invention, utilizing a
translating plate or bristle carrier, requires significantly less
voltage (approximately 28%) and less amperage (approximately 37%)
than a leading commercially successful toothbrush utilizing an
oscillating or spin head configuration.
[0192] Another aspect of the high efficiency drive mechanisms
according to the present invention relates to the stroke length of
the movable bristle carrier, such as bristle carriers 3370 and
3470. The preferred parameters of the movement of the reciprocating
bristle carrier are as follows. Preferably, the reciprocating
carrier has a stroke length at least about 0.5 mm, more preferably
at least about 1.0 mm, more preferably at least about 1.25 mm, and
most preferably at least about 1.5 mm; and less than about 5 mm,
more preferably less than 3.5 mm, more preferably less than 2.5 mm,
and most preferably less than 1.7 mm. It will be appreciated that
the present invention drive mechanisms may utilize stroke lengths
greater or lesser than these various preferred values. Although not
wishing to be bound to any particular theory, it is believed that
excessive amounts of power, i.e. battery power, are consumed when
stroke length is excessively long. And, if stroke length is too
short, brushing efficacy is greatly reduced. As previously noted,
the direction of movement of the bristle carrier is parallel with
the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush.
[0193] The motor used in the embodiments of the toothbrush
described herein is preferably particularly adapted to provide a
high efficiency power source for the drive mechanism. A standard
motor may be modified by using less windings and reducing the
voltage requirements to about 1.5 volts. Typical standard motors
exhibit general current draw characteristics as follows: Without
loading, a draw of about 1.06 amps is required, and with loading, a
draw of at least 1.0 amp is required. The preferred embodiment
motors used in the electric toothbrush embodiments described herein
draw less than 0.3 amps without a load, and approximately 0.4 to
about 0.6 amps under a load. The "loads" referred to are typical
operating loads placed upon the motor when operating the
embodiments of the toothbrushes described herein during routine
brushing.
[0194] The preferred operating speed for the motors used in the
embodiments of the toothbrush described herein ranges from about
1500 rpm to about 3500 rpm, and is most preferably about 2500 rpm.
An rpm of 2500 provides about 1250 stroke cycles per minute as
measured at the reciprocating bristle carrier when utilizing the
preferred embodiment drive mechanisms described herein. These
operating speeds are given with respect to the motor engaging the
drive mechanism, however, no brushing load being placed upon the
bristle carrier. It will be appreciated that upon application of a
load to the motor, the operating speed of the motor may be reduced
by about 30% to about 35%. These values are estimates and the
extent of reduction in operating speed will depend upon a host of
factors.
[0195] This relationship of motor operating speed and bristle
carrier stroke speed is an indication of the preferred gear ratio
between the drive gear engaged to the drive shaft of the motor
(such as drive gear 3354 in FIG. 48 or drive gear 3454 in FIG. 49)
and the crown gear (such as crown gear 3356 in FIG. 48 or crown
gear 3456 in FIG. 49) to which the drive shaft is engaged at the
offset member. The preferred ratio is from about 1:1 to about 3:1,
and most preferably about 2:1. Therefore, at this most preferred
ratio, for every two revolutions of the motor drive shaft, the
crown gear rotates once. The noted preferred gear ratio of 2:1 has
been found to provide a desirable combination of range of motion
and speed as measured at the bristle carrier to provide excellent
brushing characteristics in conjunction with an acceptable level of
power consumption.
[0196] The use of the noted crown gear in the preferred embodiment
drive mechanisms described herein is particularly desirable since
that type of drive component, and its orientation shown in the
referenced figures, requires relatively few components and enables
a relatively small housing to be utilized since the resulting
overall volume of the drive mechanism is small. The preferred crown
gear used in the drive mechanism described herein utilizes from
about 8 or 10 to about 40 gear teeth. Most preferably, the crown
gear has about 20 gear teeth. This is a relatively small number of
teeth for the given size and application of the crown gear. This
results in a relatively tall profile for the gear teeth of the
brown gear. Accordingly, the preferred crown gears of the present
invention utilize an offset member that must extend above the
height of the gear teeth. This is necessary so that sufficient
clearance is provided for the gear teeth of the crown gear. The
crown gear is rotatably supported by an axle having a height such
that the drive shaft engaged with the offset member is aligned with
the bristle carrier. This particular arrangement and combination of
components provides a drive mechanism utilizing a remarkably few
number of components. The fewer the number of components, the more
efficient is the transfer of motion and greater ease in assembly
and production.
[0197] Referring to FIG. 50, a portion of a preferred embodiment
drive mechanism is shown. A motor 3550 providing a powered drive
shaft 3552 and a drive gear 3554 secured to the shaft 3552 is
engaged with a crown gear 3556. The crown gear 3556 is rotatably
supported at its center 3557 by an axle 3558. An outwardly
extending offset member 3555 is provided along an outer face 3551
of the crown gear 3556. The member 3555 is disposed radially
outward from the center 3557 of the crown gear 3556. A drive shaft
3560 is engaged at its end 3562 with the offset member 3555. Upon
rotation of the drive shaft 3552 and gear 3554, the crown gear 3556
rotates about axle 3558. That movement in turn imparts a
reciprocating motion to the drive shaft 3560.
[0198] FIG. 51 is a side elevational view of the portion of the
preferred embodiment drive mechanism depicted in FIG. 50. FIG. 51
illustrates a feature of the preferred embodiment drive mechanisms,
that of the elevated orientation of the reciprocating drive shaft
with respect to the crown gear. Specifically, it can be seen that
the gear teeth of the crown gear 3556 have a profile or overall
height shown as height G. The offset member 3555 is engaged with
the drive shaft 3560 such that a distance S is maintained between
the shaft 3560 and the gear teeth. Most preferably, the distance S
is also the distance necessary to maintain alignment between the
offset member 3555 and the bristle carrier disposed on the brush
head. Most preferably, the drive shaft 3560 is the only drive
component extending between and engaging those components.
[0199] As previously noted, another aspect of the embodiments of
the toothbrush according to the invention, and particularly, of the
drive mechanisms described herein, is that a relatively few number
of drive components are utilized. This is readily apparent from the
exploded views in FIGS. 48 and 49. This design strategy reduces the
number of interconnections and engagements between drive components
and so a more direct assembly of drive components is achieved. This
approach greatly simplifies assembly, reduces overall costs of
production, and leads to a more commercially viable consumer
product.
[0200] Additionally, the use of static bristles in combination with
a plurality of movable bristles, assists in reducing the overall
load on the reciprocating bristle carrier. FIGS. 52-54 illustrate
this feature in greater detail. FIG. 52 illustrates a portion of an
embodiment of the toothbrush according to the invention 3600
comprising a brush head 3614, a neck 3616, a movable bristle
carrier 3670, and an end component 3680. The movable bristle
carrier 3670 supports and retains a plurality of bristles 3650,
designated herein as movable bristles. These are shown in dashed
lines for clarity. The end component 3680 supports and retains a
plurality of bristles 3662, designated herein as stationary
bristles. Additionally, the brush head 3614 supports and retains a
plurality of bristles 3660, also designated herein as stationary
bristles, that preferably, are disposed along the periphery of the
movable bristle carrier 3670 and the bristles 3650 disposed
thereon. The stationary bristles 3662 and 3660 are also shown in
dashed lines.
[0201] The bristle configuration shown in FIG. 52 is significant in
that the plurality of bristles that are stationary, i.e. bristles
3660 and 3662, essentially surround or partly so, the movable
bristles 3650 retained on the movable bristle carrier 3670. This
configuration has been found to reduce the load otherwise applied
to the bristles 3650 and movable bristle carrier 3670 during
brushing and operation of the toothbrush 3600. This characteristic
is believed to result from the stationary bristles 3660 and 3662
accommodating a portion of the brushing load, otherwise placed upon
the bristles 3650 and carrier 3670. The distribution of the
brushing load between the stationary bristles 3660 and 3662, and
the movable bristles 3650, is determined by a number of factors
including, but not limited to: (i) the relative heights of the
stationary and movable bristles, (ii) the materials forming the
stationary and movable bristles, (iii) the profile of the brushing
surface resulting from the distal ends of the stationary and
movable bristles, (iv) the respective densities (or bristles per
unit area) of the stationary and movable bristles, and (v) the
arrangement of the stationary bristles and movable bristles. By
adjusting one or more of these factors, the load applied to the
movable bristle carrier during brushing may be reduced by, for
example, increasing the relative height of the stationary bristles
or decreasing the height of the movable bristles. The load applied
to the movable bristle carrier may also be reduced by increasing
the density of the stationary bristles disposed around the movable
carrier. The load may also be reduced by selecting particular
materials that exhibit a high degree of stiffness for the
stationary bristles as compared to the movable bristles.
[0202] FIG. 53 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
according to the invention 3700 comprising a brush head 3714, a
neck 3716, a movable bristle carrier 3770, a plurality of movable
bristles 3750 supported and retained on the carrier 3770, a first
plurality of stationary bristles 3760 disposed on the brush head
3714, and a second plurality of stationary bristles 3762 disposed
on the end of the brush head 3714. This toothbrush embodiment 3700
utilizes a bristle configuration in which a large number of
stationary bristles, such as 3760 and 3762, are disposed around the
movable bristles 3750, or substantially so. It will be noted that
the group of stationary bristles 3762 are primarily disposed along
the end of the brush head 3714. And, the other group of stationary
bristles 3760 generally extend around the remaining periphery of
the movable bristle carrier 3770. This arrangement has been found
to offer good brushing efficacy and significant reductions in
brushing loads otherwise applied to the bristles 3750 and thus, the
bristle carrier 3770.
[0203] FIG. 54 illustrates another embodiment of the toothbrush
according to the invention 3800 comprising a brush head 3814, a
neck 3816, a movable bristle carrier 3870, a plurality of movable
bristles 3850 supported and retained thereon, and a plurality of
stationary bristles 3860 extending generally around the periphery
of the bristle carrier 3870. In this embodiment, the stationary
bristles 3860 extend around at least a majority of the outer
periphery of the bristle carrier 3870. Preferably, the bristles
3860 extend continuously, or substantially so, around the movable
bristle carrier 3870 and the movable bristles 3850 disposed
thereon. It is not necessary that the stationary bristles 3860 be
disposed in a region adjacent the movable bristle carrier that is
opposite the distal end of the brush head 3814. This region is
shown in FIG. 54 as region 3864. This particular bristle
arrangement has been found to offer good brushing performance and
significant reductions in brushing loads otherwise applied to the
bristles 3850 and thus, the bristle carrier 3870.
[0204] FIGS. 53 and 54 also illustrate brush heads utilizing
different bristle densities along their distal ends, such as in the
region of a bristle carrier tip, such as tip 3380 in FIG. 48. These
regions are shown in dashed lines. The dashed region of FIG. 53
contains six bristle tufts per unit area whereas FIG. 52 contains
five bristle tufts per unit area.
[0205] Another significant aspect that the present invention
provides is a unique engagement assembly comprising a gear that is
driven by the electric toothbrush motor and a drive shaft that
powers one or more movable bristle carriers. This engagement
assembly efficiently converts rotary motion of the gear to
reciprocating motion of the drive shaft. The assembly operates and
performs the noted conversion in a remarkably quiet and smooth
manner.
[0206] This preferred engagement assembly is illustrated in FIGS.
55-60. FIG. 55 illustrates a preferred embodiment assembly 4000
comprising a drive shaft 4100 and a gear 4200. The drive shaft 4100
includes a shaft portion 4110 and a distal end having a partially
enclosed elongated end 4120 that, as described below, provides a
unique set of surfaces for engagement with cam surfaces of the gear
4200. More specifically, FIG. 55 illustrates an oval-shaped
aperture 4125 defined within a central region of the partially
enclosed elongated end 4120. The partially enclosed end 4120
includes an end cover 4122 which defines the aperture 4125.
Disposed about the periphery of the end cover 4122 is an end wall
4126. Together, the cover 4122 and the wall 4126 provide a partial
enclosure (not shown in FIG. 55) that receives certain components
of the drive gear 4200.
[0207] FIG. 55 also illustrates the preferred gear 4200 of the
assembly 4000. The gear 4200 is similar to the gear 806 shown in
FIG. 12, gear 3356 shown in FIG. 48, gear 3456 shown in FIG. 49,
and gear 3556 shown in FIGS. 50 and 51. That is, the mounting and
function of the gear 4200 is similar to the mounting and function
of those noted gears. However, the gear 4200 utilizes a unique
collection of camming surfaces. Specifically, gear 4200 includes a
plurality of gear teeth 4210 disposed about its periphery. A drive
gear such as affixed to an electric motor is preferably engaged or
otherwise coupled to the gear 4200, and specifically to the gear
teeth 4210. A circular medial base 4220 extends along an outward
face of the gear 4200 and between opposite regions of the gear
teeth 4210. Disposed on the base 4220 and extending outward
therefrom is a first cam 4230 providing a circular cam surface 4232
extending about the periphery of the cam 4230. Extending from the
first cam 4230 is a second cam 4240. The second cam 4240 provides a
circular cam surface 4242 extending about the periphery of the
second cam 4240. It will be appreciated that the center of the
second cam 4240 coincides with the center of the base 4220, and the
center of the gear 4200. Thus, upon rotation of the gear 4200, such
as about the axis of rotation A shown in FIG. 55, the second cam
4240 and the base 4220, rotate about the same axis, i.e. axis A.
The center of the first cam 4230 is shown in FIG. 55 as axis B, is
spaced from, yet preferably parallel to, axis A.
[0208] FIG. 56 is a top planar view of the gear 4200. FIG. 56
illustrates the arrangement of the first cam 4230 and the second
cam 4240 with respect to each other, and the center of rotation A
of the gear 4200. Again, it will be noted that the center of the
circular first cam designated as center B in FIG. 56 is spaced
apart from the center (or axis of rotation) A.
[0209] FIG. 57 is a side elevational view of the gear 4200. FIG. 57
further illustrates the configuration and arrangement of the gear
teeth 4210, base 4220, the first cam 4230 and its cam surface 4232,
the second cam 4240 and its cam surface 4242.
[0210] FIG. 58 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the
assembly 4000 illustrating the elongated end 4120 of the drive
shaft 4100 engaged with the gear 4200. Specifically, it can be seen
that the second cam 4240 is disposed within the aperture 4125
defined in the end 4120. And, the first cam 4230 is enclosed by and
received within the end 4120. Preferably, the cam surface 4242 of
the second cam 4240 engages and contacts portions of the surface of
the elongated end 4120 that defines the aperture 4125. And,
preferably, the cam surface 4232 of the first cam 4230 engages and
contacts portions of the interior and specifically, portions of an
interior wall 4122 defined along the interior of the elongated end
4120.
[0211] FIG. 59 illustrates the underside, i.e. the side of the
elongated end 4120 of the drive shaft 4100 that faces the base 4220
of the gear 4200. FIG. 59 further illustrates the interior wall
4122 which the cam surface 4232 of the first cam 4230 engages when
the gear 4200 and drive shaft 4100 are engaged to form the assembly
4000. FIG. 59 also illustrates the orientation of the aperture
4125. FIG. 59 additionally illustrates two dimensions S and T as
follows.
[0212] Dimension S is the minimum span or entrance dimension of the
aperture 4125. Since the second cam 4240 is received within the
aperture 4125, the diameter of the cam 4240 should be slightly less
than dimension S. Alternatively, dimension S should be slightly
greater than the diameter of the cam 4240.
[0213] Dimension T is the minimum span or entrance dimension of the
oval shaped interior wall 4122. Since the first cam 4230 is
received within the region generally bounded by the interior wall
4122, the diameter of the cam 4230 should be slightly less than
dimension T. Alternatively, dimension T should be slightly greater
than the diameter of the cam 4230.
[0214] FIG. 59 also illustrates a preferred orientation of the
aperture 4125 within the end 4120. As can be seen, the major axis
of the oval shaped aperture 4125 depicted as axis D, is preferably
parallel and most preferably co-extensive with, the longitudinal
axis of the shaft portion 4110 of the drive shaft 4100, depicted as
axis C.
[0215] FIG. 59 additionally illustrates that the aperture 4125 is
preferably oval-shaped and oriented at right angles to the
oval-shaped interior region defined by the interior wall 4122. That
is, the major axis of the oval shaped aperture 4125 is preferably
perpendicular to the major axis of the oval shaped interior region
defined by the wall 4122.
[0216] FIG. 60 is a top, planar view of the assembly 4000 further
illustrating the arrangement, orientation, and configuration of the
drive shaft 4100 and the gear 4200. Upon rotation of the gear 4200
about axis A, such as in the direction of arrow E, the center of
the first cam 4230 is rotated about axis A generally along the
circular path G. Circular path G results from the first cam 4230
being displaced about the axis A as gear 4200 rotates. It will be
appreciated that the radius of the circular path G corresponds to
the amount of offset or spacing between the center points A and B
shown in FIG. 55.
[0217] As gear 4200 rotates, thus causing the first cam 4230 to be
displaced about axis A, along the circular path G, a portion of the
cam surface 4232 of the first cam 4230 engages various regions of
the interior wall 4122. This results in the end 4120 being linearly
translated back and forth with respect to the center point of gear
4200 and axis A. Restated, this has the effect of causing the
second cam 4240 to be linearly translated back and forth within the
aperture 4125. However, it will be appreciated that since the gear
4200 is essentially fixed at its point of rotation, i.e. axis A, it
is the end 4120 and thus the drive shaft 4100 that is translated
back and forth. The rotation of gear 4200 in the direction of arrow
E causes reciprocation of the drive shaft 4100 in the direction of
arrows F shown in FIG. 60.
[0218] The preferred embodiment assembly 4000 efficiently converts
rotary motion of the gear 4200 into 100% or substantially so,
reciprocal motion of the drive shaft 4100. That is, there is none
or only an exceedingly minor degree of motion in a direction other
than along the longitudinal axis C of the drive shaft 4100. This
characteristic is beneficial in that upon high operating speeds,
vibration of the assembly is minimal, or at least maintained to
acceptable levels.
[0219] In addition to its high operating efficiency
characteristics, the embodiments of the toothbrushes described
herein also provide relatively high brushing forces. An indication
of this is that the embodiments of the toothbrush described herein
provide a powered and relatively constant reciprocating stroke
motion at their brush head even upon application of heavy loads.
For instance, toothbrushes according to the present invention may
operate under loads as high as 30 lbs applied to their brush heads
and reciprocating bristle carriers.
[0220] An example of the relative high efficiency and low power
consumption of the preferred embodiment drive mechanisms described
herein, relates to battery usage. Nearly all comparable currently
available electric toothbrushes require two (2) AA batteries for
their operation. The embodiments of electric toothbrushes described
herein preferably require only one (1) AA battery. It is remarkable
and surprising that the present invention toothbrushes provide the
same, or substantially the same, force and power characteristics at
their brush heads, i.e. measured at the bristle ends, as comparable
commercially available brushes; and yet only require approximately
one-half of the power or battery requirements as those same
brushes. It will be appreciated that in no way are the present
invention toothbrushes limited to utilizing only a single (AA)
battery. The present invention toothbrushes may utilize a wide
variety of batteries, battery configurations, and power sources.
The references to (AA) batteries are provided for ease in
understanding and further describing the present invention
toothbrushes and their low energy consumption characteristics.
Generally, the present invention toothbrushes preferably operate
from a voltage source of from about 0.5 volts to about 2.5 volts.
More preferably, the present invention toothbrushes operate from a
power source providing 1.5 volts. Most preferably, such a power
source is rechargeable. Of course, the present invention
toothbrushes may utilize disposable batteries. This "low energy
consumption" feature is an aspect of the present invention
toothbrushes that is particularly appealing from a communicability
standpoint.
[0221] An indication of this low energy consumption feature of the
present invention toothbrushes is illustrated in the total run time
of the toothbrushes. A testing apparatus was assembled in which a
fixture and a one (1) pound weight were enclosed in a housing. A
toothbrush that is to be tested is secured in the fixture, with its
bristles directed upwards. The one pound weight is then placed on
the brushing surface of the brush, i.e. the upwardly directed
distal ends of the bristles. The surface of the weight corresponds
to that of a typical dental surface. The toothbrush is then
activated and the total elapsed time is measured until the
toothbrush stops operating. Preferably, toothbrushes according to
the present invention generally operate at least about 100 minutes,
more preferably at least 120 minutes, more preferably at least 140
minutes, more preferably at least 160 minutes, and more preferably
at least 180 minutes. It is contemplated that the present invention
toothbrushes may operate under the described conditions up to as
long as 210 to 220 minutes, and even longer. The foregoing noted
testing conditions utilize a single (AA) battery. Generally, these
total run times are measured using a voltage source of at least
about 0.9 volts to about 2.5 volts, and employing a reciprocating
bristle carrier having the noted stroke lengths and speeds.
[0222] As previously noted, an additional benefit of the
embodiments of the toothbrush described herein is a relatively
simple assembly. This results in reduced manufacturing costs.
Furthermore, it is contemplated that the preferred embodiment drive
assemblies described herein will provide increased reliability due
to their simple and straightforward design. And, the relatively few
number of components employed in these drive assemblies further
reduces the potential for failures at their interconnections.
[0223] In the event a pinned engagement assembly is utilized, it is
most preferred that the movable bristle carrier define an aperture
accessible from its underside, similar to aperture 3254 illustrated
in FIG. 47. Such aperture may extend only partially through the
thickness of the bristle carrier (as shown in FIG. 47), or may
extend entirely through that thickness to the other, top side of
the carrier. The drive shaft, and specifically, the distal end,
such as end 3206 shown in FIG. 47, is formed to either have a pin
or pin-like extension from its distal end, or be adapted to engage
a separate pin component. The pin (either a separate component or
formed as part of the shaft) is fitted within the aperture defined
in the bristle carrier. Other engagement assemblies are
contemplated for use in conjunction with the present invention
including, but not limited to, multiple pin engagement assemblies,
latching mechanisms, threaded fasteners, and assemblies which are
affixed together with adhesive or sonic welding.
[0224] It is contemplated that the various carriers described
herein may be readily replaceable, and preferably, interchangeable
with other carriers. Thus, a user could select a particular carrier
from an assortment of different types and configurations. Upon
selection, the user could readily attach that carrier to a desired
toothbrush. Furthermore, it is envisioned that so-called variety
packs or sample packs, each containing various types of carriers
could be provided separately or in conjunction with an electric
toothbrush. For example, if the movable bristle carriers described
herein utilize a readily releasable engagement mechanism for
connection to the drive mechanism, a collections or assortment of
movable carriers could be promoted separately or in conjunction
with the electric toothbrush.
[0225] It will be appreciated that any of the features and aspects
of any of the embodiments of the toothbrush described herein may be
combined with one or more of the features and aspects of other
embodiments described herein.
[0226] The present invention may utilize features, aspects,
components, materials, and characteristics from one or more of the
following published patent applications or issued patents: WO
01/29128; U.S. Pat. No. 6,000,083; U.S. Des. Pat. No. 432,312; U.S.
Des. Pat. No. 433,814; U.S. Pat. No. 6,178,579; U.S. Pat. No.
6,189,693; U.S. Pat. No. 6,311,837; U.S. published patent
application 2002/0032941; U.S. Pat. No. 6,360,395; and U.S. Pat.
No. 6,371,294; all of which are hereby incorporated by
reference.
[0227] Other than the particular materials noted or described
herein, the various embodiments of the toothbrush and any
components may be formed from conventional materials typically
utilized for producing electric toothbrushes. Generally, the
handle, neck, brush head, and other structural parts or components
are formed from polypropylene. Polymeric blends for these parts or
components may be used such as for example blends of ABS and one or
more of Celcon.TM., Acetal.TM., and/or Delrin.TM.. A wide array of
self-lubricating materials are particularly preferred for forming
drive train components.
[0228] The present invention has been described with reference to
particular embodiments. Modifications and alterations will occur to
others upon reading and understanding this specification. Although
certain arrangements for the static and movable bristles have been
shown and described, the present invention includes a variety of
other configurations. It is intended that all such modifications
and alterations are included insofar as they come within the scope
of the appended claims or equivalents thereof.
[0229] All documents cited in the Detailed Description of the
Invention are, in relevant part, incorporated herein by reference;
the citation of any document is not to be construed as an admission
that it is prior art with respect to the present invention.
[0230] While particular embodiments of the present invention have
been illustrated and described, it would be obvious to those
skilled in the art that various other changes and modifications can
be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. It is therefore intended to cover in the appended claims
all such changes and modifications that are within the scope of
this invention.
* * * * *