HK1203132B - Oral hygiene implement - Google Patents

Description

Oral hygiene implement

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an oral hygiene implement, and more particularly to an oral hygiene implement including an indicator element.

Background

The use of toothbrushes to clean one's teeth has long been known. There are two main types of toothbrushes available to the user, manual toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes. For manual toothbrushes, the user typically provides the majority of the cleaning motion. In contrast, for a power toothbrush, most of the cleaning motion is provided by the toothbrush. Power toothbrushes typically include a drive mechanism for driving the brush head. Because the toothbrush includes a drive mechanism, electric toothbrushes are generally more expensive to produce than manual toothbrushes. The electric toothbrush can also provide additional features to the user. For example, some power toothbrushes can track when the brushhead is used and indicate to the user when to replace the brushhead. As another example, some electric toothbrushes provide an indication to a user when the user has brushed for a predetermined amount of time.

These indicator members are conventionally positioned in the front of the toothbrush, either in the area or on the side having the bristles. However, during use, the toothbrush is moved in many directions such that the indicator member positioned in only one side or region of the toothbrush may not be always visible to the user. Accordingly, there is a need for a personal hygiene implement that provides a visible indicator to the user during use.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention provides an oral hygiene implement comprising a handle having a circumference, a head and a neck disposed between the handle and the head, the head comprising a plurality of contact elements, the oral hygiene implement further comprising an indicator element having an outer side surface; an electromagnetic energy output source; a transmission element in electromagnetic energy communication with the output source; a transmission element ring having a bottom edge in electromagnetic energy communication with a transmission element; and a reflective core disposed within the transmission element, wherein the reflective core redirects electromagnetic energy from the output source to the indicating element.

The present invention provides an oral hygiene implement comprising a handle, a head and a neck disposed between the handle and the head, the head comprising a plurality of contact elements, the oral hygiene implement further comprising an indicating element having an outer side surface; an electromagnetic energy output source; a transmission element in electromagnetic energy communication with the output source; a transmission element ring in electromagnetic energy communication with the transmission element having an outer periphery; wherein the transmission element loop redirects electromagnetic energy from the output source to the indicating element.

The present invention provides an indicator mechanism comprising an indicating element; an electromagnetic energy output source; a transmission element in electromagnetic energy communication with the output source; the transmission element ring includes one or more surface profiles in electromagnetic energy communication with the transmission element; wherein the transmission element loop redirects electromagnetic energy from the output source to the indicating element.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a side view illustrating an oral hygiene implement, such as a toothbrush, constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a plan view illustrating an oral hygiene implement, such as a toothbrush, constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a front view illustrating an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 3C is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 4A is a close-up view showing a portion of fig. 3.

Fig. 4B is a close-up view showing a portion of fig. 3.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

6A-6F are close-up views illustrating a portion of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a close-up view illustrating a portion of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the portion of the indicator mechanism of FIG. 7 taken along section line 7A-7A.

FIG. 8 is a close-up view illustrating a portion of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the indicator mechanism portion of FIG. 8 along section line 8A-8A.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 9A is a plan exemplary view of fig. 9 taken through section line 9A-9A.

Fig. 9B is a close-up view illustrating a portion of a transfer element ring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9C is a close-up view illustrating a portion of a transfer element according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9D is a side view of a transmission element and transmission element ring according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 9E is a perspective view of a transfer element and a transfer element ring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 11A-11D are cross-sectional views of exemplary LEDs suitable for use with the oral hygiene implement of the present invention.

Detailed Description

The following sets forth a broad description of numerous different embodiments of the invention. The description is to be construed as exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment since describing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if not impossible, and it will be understood that any feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described herein can be deleted, combined with or substituted for, in whole or in part, any other feature, characteristic, component, composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described herein. Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using either current technology or technology developed after the filing date of this patent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.

It will be further understood that, unless a term is defined in this patent using the sentence "as used herein, the term '______' is defined to mean …" or a similar sentence, and is not intended to be limited, either explicitly or implicitly, to the extent that such term is not limited, except as to the language of the claims, to any statement made in any part of this patent that is based on the express or implied limitation of that term. No term is essential to the invention unless so stated. To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of this patent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with a single meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to not confuse the reader, and it is not intended that such claim term by limited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally, unless a claim element is defined by the description of the word "means" and functionality without describing any structure, it is not intended that the scope of any claim element be construed in accordance with the application of 35u.s.c. § 112 sixth paragraph.

As used herein, "personal hygiene implement" refers to any implement that can be used for personal hygiene purposes. Some suitable examples include oral hygiene implements such as toothbrushes, manual or electric; razors, manual or electric; shavers, manual or electric; trimmers, and the like.

As used herein, "oral hygiene implement" refers to any device that can be used for oral hygiene purposes. Some suitable examples of such devices include toothbrushes (manual and powered), flosses (manual and powered), dental floaters, and the like.

For ease of explanation, the oral hygiene implement described below will be a power toothbrush; however, as noted above, oral hygiene implements constructed in accordance with the present invention are not limited to electric toothbrush constructions. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are equally applicable to blades, razors, other personal hygiene implements, and the like.

As shown in fig. 1, toothbrush 10 includes a handle 12, a head 14, and a neck 16 extending between the handle 12 and the head 14. A contact element region 20 including one or more contact elements extends from the first surface 14A of the head 14. Tongue scrapers, soft tissue cleaners, massage elements, etc. may be provided on the second surface 14B of the head 14. Tongue scrapers, soft tissue cleaners, massage elements, and the like are discussed below.

The indicator element 30 may be disposed between the handle 12 and the neck 16, adjacent the proximal end 90. The indicator element 30 may provide a visual signal to the user corresponding to a variety of conditions. For example, a visible signal may be provided when the user has brushed for an appropriate amount of time, such as two minutes, when the toothbrush needs to be replaced, or when the user brushes too hard (as excessive pressure may damage the gums).

The indicator element 30 can be positioned in any suitable location on the toothbrush 10. For example, in some embodiments, the indicator element 30 may surround the neck 16 or may surround the handle 12. As another example, the indicator element 30 may surround a portion of the handle 12, a portion of the neck 16, or both. As another example, the indicator element 30 may be disposed on the rearward facing surface 40B of the handle 12, the neck 16, or both. As another example, the indicator element 30 may be disposed on a forward facing surface 40A of the handle 12, the neck 16, or both.

Referring to fig. 1 and 2, the contact zone element 20 may be mounted on the head 14 such that it is rotatable about an axis 31. The axis 31 may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 21 of the neck 16. The axis 31 may also be angled with respect to the longitudinal axis 21 of the neck 16. The handle 12 includes a housing 212 forming an interior portion of the handle 12 with the seat 35 disposed therein. Secured to base 35 is a drive motor 36, a power source such as a battery 37, and other electronic components such as a charging coil 38. Furthermore, the rocker arm 39 may be mounted on the base 35 such that it can pivot about a rocker arm axis 40. The rocker arm axis 40 extends transverse to a longitudinal axis 55 of the handle 12. Rocker arm 39 projects out of shank 12. The neck 16 may be releasably attached to the protruding end of the rocker arm 39. Thus, the neck 16 may rock about the rocker axis 40 along with the rocker arm 39.

The annular space between rocker arm 39 and housing 212 of the handle is sealed by sealing element 270; thereby reducing the likelihood of leakage into the cavity of the housing 212. Sealing element 270 may include any suitable sealing feature. Some examples of sealing features include deformable materials, O-rings, etc. that can be compressed and then recovered within the cavity of housing 212. In some embodiments, a soft material may be overmolded onto base 35, and during assembly of base 35 and housing 212, the soft material may engage housing 212 to form a seal. In other embodiments, a soft material may be overmolded to housing 212, and then base 35 may be inserted into housing 212 and engaged with the soft material. In other embodiments, the soft material may be discrete elements that are placed on the housing 212 before the base 35 is attached to the housing 212 and placed on the base 35 or before the base 35 is attached to the housing 212. In certain embodiments, indicator element 30 may seal the annular space between rocker arm 39 and housing 212.

Additionally, in some embodiments, electromagnetic energy, such as light, provided to indicator element 30 may also be provided to sealing element 270. In the case where the sealing member 270 is transparent, light may be provided to a user through the indicating member 30 and the sealing member 270. Where the sealing element 270 is translucent, the light may have an intensity or color contrast between that of the sealing element 270 and the indicator element 30. In cases where the sealing member 270 is colored and translucent or transparent, the light provided to the indicator member 30 may blend with the pigment color of the sealing member 270 to create a unique visual effect. Thus, the provided light may comprise a first color and the colored sealing element 270 may comprise a second color.

A first drive shaft 42 is provided inside the rocker arm 39. In embodiments having a detachable head 14 and neck 16, the first drive shaft 42 engages the second drive shaft 43 in a rotationally fixed manner when the neck 16 is attached to the handle 12. The second drive shaft 43 in turn drives the contact area element 20 via the bevel gear section 44 into rotation about the axis of rotation 31. The motor end of the first drive shaft 42 is connected to the drive motor 36 through a gear mechanism 45. The electric toothbrush 10 further includes a motor shaft 46 within the handle 12 protruding from the drive motor 36. The continuous rotary motion of the motor shaft 46 is converted into a rotary oscillating motion of the first drive shaft 42 by means of the gear mechanism 45. As a result, the contact area element 20 is driven to rotate in a reciprocating manner.

In certain embodiments, the translational travel or rejection motion of the contact zone element 20 along the axis 31 may be produced by a pivotable arrangement of the rocker arm 39. The rocker arm 39 sits on a cyclically movable drive element 47 (here, a cam), which is designed to be eccentric and sits itself on a motor shaft 46. The end of the rocker arm 39 facing away from the contact zone element 20 forms a follower 48. The follower 48 follows the curved surface or the cyclic movement of the cam 47, so that the rocker arm 39 performs a reciprocating rocking motion. For this purpose, a prestressing device 49, for example a spring, biases the follower 48 of the rocker arm 39 against the cam 47. The offset forces the contact patch element 20 in the direction of its operating side through the rocker arm 39, while the cam 47 forces the contact patch element 20 in the opposite direction through its corresponding curved surface.

Various electronic components may be disposed within housing 212. For example, timing circuitry, a processor 240, a Printed Circuit Board (PCB)242, or an electromagnetic output source (output source) 245, such as a sound source, a light source, an LED, or a combination thereof, may be enclosed within the housing 212. The housing 212 may house multiple power sources where additional voltage is needed, such as providing a threshold voltage for the LED.

The base 35 may provide support for the processor 240 or the output source 245. The power source 37 may be electrically connected to the processor 240, the printed circuit board 242, or both, and the processor 240 or the printed circuit board 242 may be electrically connected to the output source 245. As shown in fig. 2 and 3A, an output source 245, such as an LED, may be in electromagnetic communication with the transmission element 33. Transmission element 33 may transmit electromagnetic energy, such as light from output source 245, to transmission element ring 65 and indicator element 30.

Referring to fig. 3A, there is shown an indicator mechanism 61 which, in this embodiment, comprises a transmission element 33, a transmission element ring 65 and an indicator element 30. The transmission element 33 is configured to transmit electromagnetic energy, such as light, from the output source 245 to the indicating element 30. For example, if the output source 245 is an LED, the transmission element 33 may be a light pipe, fiber optic, or the like. The transmission element 33 may also comprise a transmission element ring 65. The transmission element ring 65 extends laterally from the transmission element 33 such that it partially or completely traverses the circumference of the toothbrush handle to spread the distribution of light throughout the indicator element 30. The material selected for the transmission element 33 may be a light transmissive material, a transparent material, a translucent material, or a combination thereof, which transmits light from the LED through the transmission element 33 to the indicator element 30. Some examples of suitable materials for the transmission element 33 include glass, polymethylmethacrylate, polycarbonate, copolyester, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, silicone, combinations thereof, such as polyester and polycarbonate, and the like.

In some embodiments, the indicator element 30 and the transmission element 33 may be integral. For example, the transmission element 33 and the indicator element 30 may be integrally constructed of the first material during the injection molding process. In some embodiments, the transmission element 33 may be a separate component from the indicator element 30. In those embodiments in which transmission element 33 and indicating element 30 are discrete components, elements 30, 33 may be positioned relative to each other in any manner that allows electromagnetic energy to be transmitted from output source 245 to indicating element 30 through transmission element 33. For example, the indicator element 30 may be positioned over the transmission element 33, as shown in fig. 3B, or the transmission element 33 may be partially embedded within the indicator element 30, as shown in fig. 3C. Referring back to fig. 2, in some embodiments, the indicator element 30, the transmission element 33, and the base 35 may be integrally formed. In some embodiments, the indicating element 30 and the transmitting element 33 may be integrally formed and subsequently attached to the base 35. In some embodiments, the indicator element 30, transmission element 33, and housing 212 may be integrally formed. In some embodiments, the indicator element 30 and the housing 212 may be integrally formed and the transmission element 33 would then be attached to the housing 212. An advantage of such embodiments is that the number of components required for the brush is reduced, which may reduce the cost and/or time of assembly.

The transmission element 33 may transmit electromagnetic energy, such as light, to the indicator element 30 via internal or external reflection. External reflection is reflection in which light originates from a material with a low refractive index (e.g., air) and is reflected from a material with a higher refractive index (e.g., aluminum or silver). Common domestic mirrors work according to external reflection.

Internal reflection is reflection in which light originates from a higher refractive index material (e.g., polycarbonate) and reflects from a material with a lower refractive index (e.g., air or vacuum or water). Fiber technology works on the principle of internal reflection. Refractive index is an optical property of any material that measures the tendency of light to refract or bend as it passes through the material. Even materials that do not conduct light (such as aluminum) have a refractive index.

In general, external reflection is most efficient when the incident angles of the light are approximately orthogonal (i.e., the light approaches normal to the surface) and worsens as the incident angle increases (approaches the surface at a steep angle). In contrast, internal reflection is most efficient at high angles of incidence and cannot be reflected at low angles, e.g. normal to the surface. To obtain internal reflection, the angle of incidence should be greater than the critical angle. The critical angle is the angle below which light is no longer reflected between a pair of materials.

Referring back to fig. 2, for those embodiments of the invention that utilize external reflection, a foil or some other highly reflective material may be utilized within the housing 212, the base 35, or both. A highly reflective material such as a metal foil may be disposed on the inner surface 375 of the housing 212 or the inner surface 377 of the base 35. In other embodiments, a highly reflective material such as a metal foil may be wrapped around the transmissive element 33.

For those embodiments that utilize internal reflection, materials with high refractive indices, such as above 1.0, may be selected. For example, the materials selected for the transmission element 33 may include the following refractive indices: greater than about 1.4, greater than about 1.5, greater than about 1.6, or less than about 1.7, less than about 1.6, less than about 1.5, or any value within the provided values or any range within the provided values. In some embodiments, the material selected for the transmission element 33 has a refractive index between about 1.4 to about 1.6.

Referring to fig. 4A-4B, in such embodiments, the outer surfaces 429, 1429 of the transmission elements 33, 233 may be polished. The polished outer surfaces 429, 1429 of the transmissive elements 33, 233 can reduce the amount of light that leaks from the transmissive elements 33, 233.

In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 4A, the transmission element 33 may include a receptacle 453 for receiving an output source 245, such as an LED. A socket 453 may be provided on the end 455 of the transmission element 33. One benefit of providing the receptacle 453 on the end 455 of the transmission element 33 is that the output source 245, such as an LED, may be inserted into the receptacle 453 during manufacture, thereby reducing the likelihood of misalignment of the output source 245 relative to the transmission element 33. This may help reduce the amount of light leaking between the output source 245 and the transmission element 33.

As previously mentioned, to achieve internal reflection, the impinging light may be above the critical angle. The angle at which light strikes the transmissive element 33 may be affected by the distribution angle (discussed below) of the output source 245 or 1450 (shown in fig. 4B). For those output sources having a small distribution angle, the design of the receptacle 453, e.g., having sides 453A and 453B perpendicular to the face 453C, may be sufficient to capture a substantial portion of the light emitted from the output source 245 for internal reflection. However, any light not above the critical angle will generally not be internally reflected. Accordingly, sides 453A, 453B and/or face 453C may be configured to increase the amount of light above the critical angle. For example, sides 453A, 453B may be tapered toward or away from face 453C. Similarly, the facet 453C can include an angled surface, a polygonal surface, a curved surface such as a lenticular shape (convex or concave curvature) to increase the amount of emitted light above the critical angle.

Referring to fig. 4B, in some embodiments, the transmission element 233 can be configured to have a flat surface on the end 1455, as shown in fig. 4B. In such embodiments, an output source 1450, such as an LED, may be positioned a distance 1460 away from the end 1455. To reduce the amount of light leaking from the output source 1450, the distance B (1460) should generally be within the following criteria.

Where α is the half angle α of the light output source available from the manufacturer's specifications, and where A (1457) is the cathetus projection on the transmission element 233. The cathetus projection 1457 is the linear distance from the midpoint of the output source 1450 projected onto the transmission element 233 to the edge 1459 of the transmission element 233.

For those embodiments that utilize internal reflection, the angle of distribution of the output source 245, 1450, such as an LED, should be considered. If the distribution angle is too wide, a portion of the light provided to the transmission element 33, 233 may not be internally reflected and instead will leak out of the transmission element 33, 233. Any suitable distribution angle may be utilized. Some examples of suitable distribution angles include greater than about 0 °, greater than about 1 °, greater than about 2 °, greater than about 5 °, greater than about 6 °, greater than about 8 °, greater than about 10 °, greater than about 12 °, greater than about 14 °, greater than about 16 °, greater than about 18 °, greater than about 20 °, greater than about 22 °, or less than about 22 °, less than about 20 °, less than about 18 °, less than about 16 °, less than about 14 °, less than about 12 °, less than about 10 °, less than about 8 °, or any value within the provided values or any range within the provided values.

Referring to FIG. 3A, as previously described, transmission element 33 may transmit electromagnetic energy, such as light, from output source 245 to indicator element 30. To reduce the energy leakage through the transmission element 33, a reflective core 461 disposed in the transmission element 33 may be utilized. Reflective core 461 can reduce the amount of light lost into the handle or neck of the brush through transmission element 33 and transmission element ring 65. Additionally, reflective core 461 may help distribute light through indicator element 30 to outer surface 87 of indicator element 30.

As shown in fig. 5, the reflective core 461 may include one or more faces 467, which may be polished, disposed inside the transmissive element 33. Face 467 may be configured to redirect light 71 transmitted through the transmission element to indicator element 30.

Face 467 of reflective core 461 may be configured as a wedge shape or any other shape, such as a conical shape, that will facilitate the dispersion of electromagnetic energy, such as light, toward indicator element 30. Face 467 of reflective core 461 may have any shape to facilitate the dispersion of electromagnetic energy toward indicating element 30, for example, as shown in fig. 6A, 6B, 6C, one or more of faces 467 may be curved, straight, serrated, U-shaped, or any combination thereof, along any portion of its length or along its normal length. In addition to facilitating the dispersion of electromagnetic energy to the indicator element, the reflective core may have any number of facets, as shown in FIGS. 6D and 6E. For example, as shown in fig. 6E, the reflective core 461 has seven faces 467A, 467B, 467C, 467D, 467E, 467F, 467G. In addition, as shown in fig. 6F, the transmission element 33 may also have a front side 134 and a back side 135, and the shape of the reflective core 461 on the front side 134 of the transmission element 33 may be different from the shape of the reflective core 461 on the back side 135 of the transmission element 33. In certain embodiments, the reflective core 461 penetrates completely through the transmission element 33 to form a passage from the front face 134 of the transmission element 33 to the back face 135 of the transmission element 33. In other embodiments, the reflective core 461 does not completely penetrate the transmission element 33. In still other embodiments, the reflective core 461 does not pass through the transmission element 33 at all, but instead is integral with the transmission element 33, e.g., the reflective core 461 may comprise a reflective surface embedded within the transmission element 33. Additionally, in cross-section, the faces of the reflective core may be angled, curved, or otherwise profiled to increase the reflection of light towards the indicator element. For example, as shown in fig. 7 and 7A, a face 467 of the reflective core 461 may be curved in cross-section, while fig. 8 and 8A show that the face 467 is angled away from the front face 134 of the transmissive element 33 toward the back face 135 of the transmissive element 33.

Referring back to fig. 5, the reflective core 461 shown can be a recess that remains empty in the final product. In certain embodiments, the reflective core 461 may be partially filled with a material. In the case where the reflective core 461 is partially filled, an air gap between the filler material and the face 467 may be provided. The presence of such an air gap ensures that internal reflection is maintained within the indicator piece 30. In some embodiments, the reflective core 461 may be completely filled with a material having a lower refractive index than the refractive index of the material of the reflective core.

It is believed that in the absence of the reflective core 461, less than about 10% of the light provided by the output source will be emitted by the indicator element 30. Also, it is believed that with the reflective core 461, about 90% or more of the light provided by the output source 245 will be emitted by the indicator element 30. In certain embodiments, the light emitted by the indicator element 30 is greater than about 10%, greater than about 20%, greater than about 30%, greater than about 40%, greater than about 50%, greater than about 60%, greater than about 70%, greater than about 80%, greater than about 90%, less than about 100%, less than about 90%, less than about 80%, less than about 70%, less than about 60%, less than about 50%, less than about 40%, less than about 30%, less than about 20%, or any value within the above list or any range including and/or within the above values. Test methods for measuring luminous efficiency are discussed below.

Fig. 9 shows electromagnetic energy, such as light 71, from an output source 245, such as an LED, traveling along transmission element 33 toward indicator element 30. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the light traveling along the transmission element 33 toward the indicating element 30 is reflected off of the face 467 of the reflective core 461 back toward the transmission element 33. The light is redirected towards the bottom edge 67 of the transmission element 65. In certain embodiments that produce a constant light distribution around the circumference of indicator element 30, reflective core 461 redirects beam 71 from output source 245 through transmission element 33 in such a way that a constant intensity of beam 71 is obtained at bottom edge 67 of transmission element ring 65. By choosing the correct angle and shape of the reflective core (e.g., curved), spreading of the light can be achieved-by creating a constant optical density at the bottom edge 67. For purposes of illustration, fig. 9A (which is a depiction of fig. 9 with the side cut through the transfer element 33 and the resulting transfer element 33 and transfer element ring 65 open and flattened) shows how the reflective cores 461 distribute the light beams 71 around the circumference of the transfer element ring 65.

The bottom edge 67 of the transmission element ring 65 has a reflective surface to further redirect the light towards the indicator element 30. The reflective surface of the transmission element ring may be coated with a reflective material or may be formed with a surface profile 83 formed as shown in fig. 9 in such a way as to redirect the light towards the indicator element 30, or both a reflective coating and a surface profile may be employed.

Fig. 9 shows a series of surface profiles 83, in this case in the shape of a reflective tooth comprising two angled sides to create a triangular protrusion. In some embodiments, to substantially utilize internal reflection, the surface profile has an orientation (angles α 1 and α 2) such that the light-contacting surface profile 83 is at a surface having an angle below the critical angle, as shown in FIG. 9B. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the angles (α 1 and α 2) may vary depending on the location of the surface profile on the transmission element ring 65, e.g., the angles may vary depending on the distance from the reflective core. The angle α 1 and α 2 may be in the range of 0-45 °. Fig. 9C shows that instead of a triangular surface profile, an arched surface profile can be used, which can spread out the light to produce a more uniform light distribution over the indicator piece. In some embodiments, the surface profile may have the following dimensions: a height (H); a width (W); and distance (D) between adjacent surface profiles:

H≤W/2

D≥0

the height H of the surface profile can be H ≦ 3mm, such as 0.5mm ≦ H ≦ 1mm in certain embodiments. Additionally, the location of the surface profile on the transmission element ring may affect H, W or D.

As shown in fig. 9, the redirection of light due to the surface profile 83 of the bottom edge 67 of the transmission element ring 65 allows light to be emitted from all of the outside surfaces 87 of the indicating element 30, providing a 360 ° ambient effect. In some embodiments, a smaller surface profile 83 may be used near the reflective core 461 (where the light has a high intensity), while further away from the reflective core 461 such as on the back surface 101 (where the light density has been reduced), a larger surface profile 83 may be used to obtain a similar light intensity along the indicator element 30. Otherwise, the indicator element 30 may appear lighter near the reflective core 461/output source 245 and much darker further away from the reflective core 461/output source 245.

In certain embodiments, the transmission element 33 may be non-linear along its length, as shown in fig. 9D and 9E, such that the transmission element 33 may include one or more angles, or one or more bends, as shown in fig. 9D and 9E. In certain embodiments, such an orientation of the transmission element 33 is beneficial, for example as in a power toothbrush, where an obstruction such as a motor or battery may be present between the output source and the indicator element. Thus, the non-linear orientation of the transmission element 33 allows light to be transmitted from the output source 245 to the transmission element ring 65 and the indicator element 30 even when the direct path is blocked. The transmission element may also be connected to the transmission element ring at any point along the transmission element ring that allows light to be output from the output element. Furthermore, the surface profile may be present on any surface of the transmission element ring. For example, as shown in fig. 9E, surface profile 83 is positioned on the inner surface of transmission element ring 65 such that the light is reflected outward toward indicating element 30, which in this embodiment is positioned at least partially along outer periphery 66 of transmission element ring 65. Fig. 9D and 9E also show that the reflective core is not present in certain embodiments because the transmission element 33 and the transmission element ring 65 are capable of distributing light to the indicator element.

Referring back to fig. 9, the redirected light from the bottom edge 67 of the transmission element ring 65 enters the indicating element 30 where it is directed toward the outer side surface 87 of the indicating element 30, or in some embodiments will be reflected off of a surface of the indicating element 30, such as the top surface 91 or the inner surface 93, which may be coated with a reflective material. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 10, the top surface 91, the inner surface 93, or both, are shaped to some extent to redirect light 71 toward the outer side surface 87 of the indicator element 30, e.g., either the top surface 91 or the inner surface 93 may be curved or the surfaces may be angled in the case of the embodiment shown in fig. 10.

Additionally, embodiments are contemplated that include multiple output sources. For example, the receptacle may be configured such that two LEDs may be positioned therein. In certain embodiments in which the LEDs provide signals, a first LED may provide a first output signal for one condition, such as brushing time, and a second LED may provide a second output signal for a second condition, such as time for brush replacement, where the first and second output signals are different. Similarly, in embodiments where the transmission element does not include a jack, multiple output sources, such as LEDs, may be utilized.

Furthermore, certain embodiments are also contemplated in which the output source comprises an LED with a plurality of dice as described in U.S. patent application publication 2005/0053896a 1. As shown in fig. 11A, the LED815 may include a lens 830 and one positive lead 821 and one negative lead 809. The LED815 may include more than one light emitter and more than one semiconductor substrate, and may have more than two leads. Embodiments are envisaged in which the LEDs comprise two dice. In addition, embodiments are envisaged in which the LEDs comprise more than two dice.

For example, the LED815 may include a plurality of light emitting dice 805 and 817 and wire bonds 807 and 818. The wire bonds 818 may serve as a connection between the dice 805 and 817. The connection may be a parallel connection or a series connection.

As shown in fig. 11B, the LED815B (a two-wire LED) may include a plurality of dice 805 and 817 connected in series. The LED815B may include a positive lead 809 and a negative lead 827. As shown, each die 805 and 817 may have a single base 837 and 839. The dice have a series connection 811 connecting the top of the dice 805 to the bottom of the dice 817, and a wire bond 813 connects the top of the dice 817 to the negative lead 827. All of the light from the light emitting sources may be combined to produce a single light output at the lens 830 of the LED 815B.

As shown in fig. 11C, the LED815C may include multiple dice 805 and 817 connected in parallel. The LED815C may include a single light output, a lens 830, and one positive lead 809 and one negative lead 827. These dice may have parallel connections, wire bonds 837 connecting the top of the dice 805 to the top of the dice 817, and wire bonds 807 connecting the top of the dice 817 to the top of the common negative lead 827. All of the light from the light sources may be combined to produce a single light output at the lens 830 of the LED 815C.

As shown in fig. 11D, the LED815D (three-wire LED) may include a plurality of dice 805 and 817. The LED815D may include a lens 830, two semiconductor substrates, dice 805 and 817 shown connected in parallel, wire bonds 819 and 821, one positive lead 833, and two negative leads 831 and 835. The LED815D also emits light from a single light output, lens 830. Each die may have a single base 837 and 839. It is also contemplated that LED815D may include two positive leads and one negative lead; and the dice 805 and 817 may be connected in series.

In addition, an LED may comprise a plurality of semiconductor substrates having light emitting characteristics, and an LED may comprise a plurality of electrodes. The LEDs may have a common electrode or each semiconductor substrate having light emitting properties may have a separate electrode. In addition, each semiconductor substrate having light emitting characteristics may be individually powered by a separate power source, such as a battery.

One advantage of a three-wire LED, such as LED815D, is that the dice 805 and 817 can be operated independently. For example, if the LED815D includes two positive leads, the dice may be controlled independently. Thus, the first die 805 may be operated at 80% capacity while the second die 807 is operated at 20% capacity. As another example, the first die 805 may be operated at 50% while the second die 817 is operated at 100%. There are countless combinations of operating levels for the first die 805 and the second die 817. It is believed that such combinations may result in a color mix that creates a unique visual effect for the user.

For a two-wire LED, light mixing is also possible. For example, the polarity of the supply voltage may be switched at a sufficiently high rate, for example above 70Hz, so that the dice may be driven and produce a mixed color effect. When the polarity of the supply voltage is in a first state, the first die may be energized. When the polarity of the supply voltage is in the second state, the second die may be energized. If the polarity of the supply voltage is switched fast enough, the color mixing is perceptible to the user. The slew rate of the supply voltage polarity may be greater than about 70Hz, greater than about 80Hz, greater than about 90Hz, greater than about 100Hz, greater than about 110Hz, greater than about 120Hz, greater than about 130Hz, less than about 120Hz, less than about 110Hz, less than about 100Hz, less than about 90Hz, or any value within or including any range of values provided.

As mentioned above, the dice may be electrically connected in parallel or in series. When they are connected in series, all current considerations are the same as for the single dice. The overall voltage can be roughly estimated by the following equation:

V＝V_f1+V_f2+…+V_fn

where n is equal to the number of dice, and V_fThe forward voltage of a particular die. If the dice are connected in parallel, the total voltage is about the voltage of a single die.

When the dice are connected in series, they automatically adjust their forward voltage and their luminous intensities become very close, in either arrangement, the two dice have about 1.6 × P_iLuminous intensity of (2), wherein P_iIs the light intensity of a single die, three die LEDs will likely have a power of about 2.26 × P_iThe light emission intensity of (1). (interference between dice may affect the luminous intensity calculated by multiplying by the dice number.) these dice may deliver the same color of light or they may have different colors of light. However, if each individual light emitter emits the same light, the luminous intensity of that color light from that one individual LED is greater than that of a single standard LED emitting one color light.

A single LED may also include two dice emitting different colors of light, for example, wavelengths selected in a range greater than about 370, 380, 390, 400, 425, 440, 450, 475, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, or 1,000 nanometers. The dice may also be selected such that the dice emit light having different wavelengths within the same color range; for example, the dice may emit light having different wavelengths that result in a blue color. In addition, the combination of different wavelengths of light in the individual light outputs (lenses) of the LEDs can produce specific color combinations that provide oral care benefits. Some colors are difficult to obtain with a single wavelength of light; the present invention can be used to produce light having one of these unique colors. Thus, the combination of different colors in a single light output may produce colors that cannot be realized by one tile alone.

For those embodiments that include multiple LEDs or LEDs with multiple dice, the oral hygiene implement of the present invention may provide multiple signals to the user. For example, a first die may be energized to provide a first visual indication to a user. The first visual indication may be associated with, for example, a predetermined amount of time the user is brushing. A second die may be energized to provide a second visual indication to the user. The second visual indication may indicate to the user that it is time to replace the oral care device. In such embodiments, the first visual indication may comprise a first color and the second visual indication comprises a second color different from the first color. Any suitable color may be utilized.

Toothbrushes constructed in accordance with the present invention can provide feedback to a user via an indicator element corresponding to a variety of conditions. For example, a visual signal may be provided when a user has brushed their teeth for a predetermined time, such as two minutes, three minutes, etc., during a brushing period. As another example, a visual signal may be provided to the user as to when the brush should be replaced. As another example, the user may be provided with a visual signal regarding the user's brushing time in a number of brushing routines. As another example, a user may be provided with a visual signal when too much force is applied to the brush head, and then given the possibility that the user may damage their gums. In such embodiments, a first signal may be provided in which the user has successfully brushed for a predetermined number of brushing routines for a necessary length of time, such as two minutes. A second signal may be provided to the user wherein the user does not brush for the requisite time for each of the predetermined number of brushing routines. Additional signals may be transmitted from the toothbrush, for example, by using light in the infrared spectrum, such as at a wavelength of about 950 nanometers. The indicator element can distribute the infrared signal in all directions to ensure that the receiver can receive the signal even if the toothbrush is held in various positions.

The signal provided to the user can be constant, for example, providing a signal to the user throughout the brushing routine. Alternatively, the signal provided to the user can be provided at the end of daily brushing. For example, if the user has not brushed for a predetermined amount of time, e.g., two minutes, in a previous brushing routine, the signal provided to the user may flash red or show a red visible signal for a predetermined length of time during a subsequent brushing routine. As another example, if the user has brushed for a predetermined amount of time during a previous brushing routine, the signal provided to the user may flash green or show a green visible signal for a predetermined length of time.

In other embodiments, the signal may be provided to the user intermittently during routine brushing. For example, the signal may be provided to the user at predetermined time intervals. For example, the signal may be provided to the user every 20 seconds. Any suitable time interval may be selected. For example, the time interval between signals may be greater than about 0.1 second, greater than about 0.2 second, greater than about 0.3 second, greater than about 0.4 second, greater than about 0.5 second, greater than about 0.6 second, greater than about 0.7 second, greater than about 0.8 second, greater than about 0.9 second, greater than about 1 second, greater than about 2 seconds, greater than about 3 seconds, greater than about 4 seconds, greater than about 5 seconds, greater than about 6 seconds, greater than about 10 seconds, greater than about 15 seconds, greater than about 20 seconds, greater than about 25 seconds, greater than about 30 seconds, greater than about 40 seconds, greater than about 50 seconds, greater than about 60 seconds, and/or less than about 60 seconds, less than about 50 seconds, less than about 40 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 25 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 15 seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 5 seconds, less than about 4 seconds, less than about 3 seconds, less than about 2 seconds, less than about 1.5 seconds, less than about 1.9 seconds, less than about 0.8 seconds, less than about 0.6 seconds, less than about 0.5 seconds, less than about 0.4 seconds, less than about 0.2 seconds, or less than about 0.1 seconds.

The time intervals between signals are discussed previously. In some embodiments, the processor may be configured to adjust the time interval between signals provided to the user, the adjustment occurring during a particular brushing routine or during a series of brushing routines. For example, during a first brushing routine, if the user brushes for a predetermined amount of time, such as two minutes, the interval between signals provided to the user may be a first time interval. If, in the second brushing routine, the user does not brush for the predetermined amount of time, the signal provided to the user may be provided at a second time interval. In such an embodiment, the first time interval may be greater than the second time interval, thereby providing more feedback to the user. In some embodiments, the time interval may be switched such that more feedback is provided to the user to brush for the predetermined amount of time.

With respect to the materials from which the toothbrush is constructed, housing 212 can be any suitable material. Some examples of suitable materials include polypropylene, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer), ASA (acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate), copolyester, POM (polyoxymethylene), combinations thereof, and the like. Additional suitable materials include polypropylene, nylon, high density polyethylene, other moldable stabilizing polymers, and the like and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the handle, neck, and/or head may be formed of a first material and include notches, channels, grooves for receiving a second material different from the first material. For example, the handle may include a resilient gripping member or a plurality of resilient gripping members. The elastomers in the plurality of elastomeric gripping structures may be similar materials or may be different materials, such as colors, hardness, combinations thereof, and the like.

Sealing element 270 may comprise any suitable material. Some examples of suitable materials include thermoplastic elastomers, silicone-based materials, NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber), EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer), Viton^TMAnd the like.

In some embodiments, recycled and/or plant-derived plastics may be utilized. For example, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) may be utilized in some embodiments. The PET may be bio-based. For example, PET may comprise from about 25 wt.% to about 75 wt.% of a terephthalate component and from about 20 wt.% to about 50 wt.% of a diol component, wherein at least about 1 wt.% of at least one of the terephthalate component and/or the diol component is derived from at least one bio-based material. Similarly, the terephthalate component can be derived from bio-based materials. Some examples of suitable biobased materials include, but are not limited to, corn, sugar cane, sugar beets, potatoes, starch, citrus fruits, woody plants, cellulosic lignin, vegetable oils, natural fibers, oily wood materials, and combinations thereof.

Some specific components of PET may be biobased. For example, monovinyl ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid are formed from bio-based materials. The formation of bio-based PET and its manufacture are described in U.S. patent application publications 20090246430a1 and 20100028512a 1.

As previously mentioned, in certain embodiments, for example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the toothbrush 10 may include a replaceable head 14, neck 16, or both. Specifically, the head 14 may be removable from the neck 16 and/or the neck 16 may be removable from the handle 12. Such replaceable elements will be referred to herein as "replacements," whether the head 14 is removable from the neck 16 or the neck 16 is removable from the handle 12. In such embodiments, the processor may be programmed with a variety of algorithms to establish a cumulative usage period for a particular replacement and/or identify a period of time for a particular use. Some suitable examples of oral care implements that can identify specific alternatives are described in U.S. patent publication 7,086,111; 7,207,080, respectively; and 7,024,717.

Interconnectivity between the neck 16 and handle region 12 may be provided in any suitable manner. Some suitable embodiments are discussed with respect to U.S. patent publications 7,086,111, 7207080, and 7,024,717.

The toothbrush of the present invention may also include a power source as previously discussed. The power source can be any suitable element that can provide power to the toothbrush. One suitable example includes that one or more batteries can be sized so as to minimize the amount of real estate required within the toothbrush. For example, if the output source is comprised of light emitting elements, the power source may be sized relatively small, e.g., smaller than a three a battery. The battery may be rechargeable or may be disposable. In some embodiments, the power source may comprise alternating current power as provided by a utility company to a residence. Other suitable power sources are described in U.S. patent application serial No. 12/102881, entitled "personal careproductsadmethods," filed on 15.4.2008.

In some embodiments, a user-operated switch may be provided that may allow the user to control when the timing indication begins. The switch may be in electrical communication with the power supply and the output signal element and/or the timer.

The resilient gripping structure of the handle may be used to at least partially overmold a portion of the timer, the output signal element, the processor, the cap, and/or the power source. In such embodiments, the components may be in electrical communication via circuitry that may resemble overmolding. The resilient gripping member may include a portion positioned for gripping by the palm of a user's hand and/or a portion positioned for gripping by the thumb and forefinger of a user. These resilient gripping structures may be composed of the same material or may be composed of different materials, such as color, shape, composition, hardness, etc., and/or combinations thereof.

Further, as used herein, the term "contact element" is used to refer to any suitable element that can be inserted into the oral cavity. Some suitable elements include bristle tufts, elastomeric massage elements, elastomeric cleaning elements, massage elements, tongue scrapers, soft tissue cleaners, hard surface cleaners, combinations thereof, and the like. The head may include a variety of contact elements. For example, the head may include bristles, abrasive elastomeric elements, elastomeric elements of a particular orientation or arrangement, such as pivoting fins, prophy cups, and the like. Some suitable examples of elastomeric cleaning elements and/or massage elements are described in U.S. patent application publication 2007/0251040; 2004/0154112, respectively; 2006/0272112, respectively; and U.S. patent nos. 6,553,604; 6,151,745. The cleaning elements may be tapered, notched, crimped, recessed, etc. Some suitable examples of such cleaning and/or massaging elements are described in U.S. patent nos. 6,151,745; 6,058,541, respectively; 5,268,005, respectively; 5,313,909, respectively; 4,802, 255; 6,018,840; 5,836,769, respectively; 5,722,106, respectively; 6,475,553; and U.S. patent application publication 2006/0080794.

The contact element may be attached to the head in any suitable manner. Conventional methods include net-fastening, anchor-free tufting and injection-molded tufting. For those contact elements that include an elastomer, the elements may be integrally formed with one another, such as having an integral base portion and extending outwardly therefrom.

The head may comprise a soft tissue cleanser constructed of any suitable material. Some examples of suitable materials include elastomeric materials; polypropylene, polyethylene, and the like; and/or combinations thereof. The soft tissue cleaner may include any suitable soft tissue cleaning elements. Some examples of such elements on toothbrushes and the configuration of soft tissue cleaners are described in the following patents: U.S. patent application 2006/0010628; 2005/0166344, respectively; 2005/0210612, respectively; 2006/0195995, respectively; 2008/0189888, respectively; 2006/0052806, respectively; 2004/0255416, respectively; 2005/0000049, respectively; 2005/0038461, respectively; 2004/0134007, respectively; 2006/0026784, respectively; 20070049956, respectively; 2008/0244849, respectively; 2005/0000043, respectively; 2007/140959, respectively; and U.S. patent 5,980,542; 6,402,768, respectively; and 6,102,923.

For those embodiments that include an elastomeric element on a first side of the head and an elastomeric element on a second side of the head (opposite the first side), the elastomeric element may be integrally formed through a channel or gap extending through the material of the head. These channels or gaps may allow the elastomeric material to flow through the head during the injection molding process so that the two elastomeric elements of the first and second sides may be molded in one injection molding step.

Test method for determining light emission efficiency

Three samples of the brush to be tested and three samples of the output source for that brush are taken. The sample of output sources should be the same as the output sources used in the brush. All samples, i.e., three brush samples and three output source samples, were taken to a separate testing device. The test apparatus will test each of the three brush samples and each of the output source samples in an appropriately sized integrating sphere. For example, a 12 inch integrating sphere may be adapted to fit a brush sample.

The test equipment will calibrate all the equipment before measuring any samples. A sample of the output source will be tested before the test brush. The test equipment will place a sample of the output source in the integrating sphere according to standard test procedures. The output source will be powered by the same voltage as provided in the brush. Specifically, if the brush utilizes a 3.6 volt lithium iron battery, the output source should similarly be powered by a 3.6 volt lithium iron battery.

The output source should be energized, the integrating sphere closed, and all light emitted from the output source should be measured. Each of the remaining output source samples should be similarly measured. All light output of each of the output source samples will be recorded and labeled by each sample.

The sample output source is removed from the integrating sphere before the sample brush is tested. The sample brush is placed in an integrating sphere constructed in such a way as to activate the output source of the brush without obstructing the light emitted from the indicator element of the brush. For example, if the indicator element provides a visual indication that too high a pressure is being applied, the head/neck of the brush may be moved using the harness to ensure that the indicator element/output source is activated. All light emitted from the sample brush was measured. The remaining brush samples were repeated.

All light emitted from sample output source one is divided by all light emitted from the sample brush. The quotient is then multiplied by 100 to determine the percentage one. All light emitted from sample output source two is divided by all light emitted from sample brush two. The quotient is then multiplied by 100 to determine the percentage of two. All light emitted from sample output source three is divided by all light emitted from sample brush three. The quotient is then multiplied by 100 to determine the percentage of three. Percent one, percent two, and percent three were averaged to obtain the efficiency percentage.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood as being strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean both the recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding that value. For example, the disclosed dimension "40 mm" is intended to mean "about 40 mm".

Each document cited herein, including any cross-referenced or related patent or patent application, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

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.

Claims (15)

1. An oral hygiene implement comprising a handle, a head, and a neck disposed between the handle and the head, the head comprising a plurality of contact elements, the oral hygiene implement further comprising:

an indicator element having an outer side surface;

an electromagnetic energy output source;

a transmission element in electromagnetic energy communication with the output source;

a transmission element ring having an outer periphery and in electromagnetic energy communication with the transmission element;

wherein the output element ring redirects electromagnetic energy from the output source to the indicating element, and the transmission element ring extends laterally from the transmission element such that it partially or completely traverses the circumference of the handle so as to spread the distribution of light throughout the indicating element.

2. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 1, wherein the transmission element comprises at least one bend or angle.

3. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 1 or 2 having a reflective core disposed within the transmission element, wherein the reflective core redirects electromagnetic energy from the output source to the indicator element.

4. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 3, wherein the reflective core comprises one or more reflective surfaces.

5. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 1 or 2, wherein the transmission element ring comprises one or more surface profiles.

6. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 5, wherein the transmission element ring comprises at least three surface contours and the distance between the surface contours varies.

7. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 6, wherein the farther a surface profile is from the transmission element, the distance between the surface profiles increases.

8. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 5, wherein the one or more surface profiles are positioned on an inner surface of the transmission element ring.

9. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 1 or 2, wherein the transmission element ring traverses the circumference of the handle.

10. The oral hygiene implement in accordance with claim 1 or 2, wherein the indicator element is positioned along an outer periphery of the transmission element ring.

11. An indicator mechanism comprising:

an indicating element;

an electromagnetic energy output source;

a transmission element in electromagnetic energy communication with the output source;

a transmission element ring comprising one or more surface profiles in electromagnetic energy communication with the transmission element;

wherein the transmission element ring redirects electromagnetic energy from the output source to the indicating element, and the transmission element ring extends laterally from the transmission element such that it partially or completely traverses a circumference of a handle of an oral hygiene implement so as to spread a distribution of light throughout the indicating element.

12. The indicator mechanism of claim 11 comprising a reflective core.

13. An indicator mechanism according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the transmission element ring comprises one or more surface profiles.

14. The indicator mechanism of claim 13 wherein the transmission element ring comprises at least three surface profiles and the distance between the surface profiles varies.

15. The indicator mechanism of claim 14, wherein the farther a surface profile is from the transmission element, the greater the distance between the surface profiles.