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Patent 2559039 Summary

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(12) Patent: (11) CA 2559039
(54) English Title: APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR BOOSTING SOUND IN A DENTA-MANDIBULAR SOUND-TRANSMITTING ENTERTAINMENT TOOTHBRUSH
(54) French Title: DISPOSITIF ET PROCEDE POUR AMPLIFIER LE SON DANS UNE BROSSE A DENTS RECREATIVE A EMISSION SONORE DENTO-MANDIBULAIRE
Status: Granted
Bibliographic Data
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC):
  • H04B 3/00 (2006.01)
  • A61H 7/00 (2006.01)
  • G09F 27/00 (2006.01)
(72) Inventors :
  • FILO, ANDREW S. (United States of America)
  • CAPPER, DAVID G. (United States of America)
(73) Owners :
  • HASBRO, INC. (United States of America)
(71) Applicants :
  • HASBRO, INC. (United States of America)
(74) Agent: BERESKIN & PARR LLP/S.E.N.C.R.L.,S.R.L.
(74) Associate agent:
(45) Issued: 2013-10-29
(86) PCT Filing Date: 2005-11-30
(87) Open to Public Inspection: 2006-06-15
Examination requested: 2010-11-04
Availability of licence: N/A
(25) Language of filing: English

Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT): Yes
(86) PCT Filing Number: PCT/US2005/043245
(87) International Publication Number: WO2006/062778
(85) National Entry: 2006-09-07

(30) Application Priority Data:
Application No. Country/Territory Date
60/634,398 United States of America 2004-12-08
60/652,791 United States of America 2005-02-14

Abstracts

English Abstract




A device and method for transmitting sound waves between a signal source and a
user's ears, wherein the sound waves bypass the air. The sound waves are
conducted by the user's teeth and bones to the user's ears, where they are
perceived as sound. Sound~transmitting toothbrushes and the like are described
to transmit and/ or conduct sound to the user's ear, while the user is
brushing his or her teeth. The toothbrush head and a signal source are
configured to produce sound waves for transmission through the toothbrush head
to the user's mouth, and a tension controller is configured to control the
volume of the sound waves based on the pressure applied by the toothbrush
head. The signal source may produce sound waves directly or with the
assistance of a transducer. The signal source may be replaceable, connect to a
replaceable cartridge, or connect to an adaptor capable of downloading data to
allow the signal source data to be replaceable. The tension controller may
include gap spacing between the transducer coil and transducer plate. The
tension controller may also include a boost switch configured as a bypass
switch, activation signal, or force sensor.


French Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif et un procédé pour émettre des ondes sonores entre une source de signal et les oreilles d'un utilisateur, les ondes sonores n'étant pas véhiculées par l'air. Les ondes sonores sont véhiculées par les dents et les os de l'utilisateur pour atteindre les oreilles de l'utilisateur où elles peuvent être perçues en tant que son. L'invention a également pour objet des brosses à dents à émission sonore et analogue, qui servent à émettre et/ou véhiculer du son jusqu'aux oreilles de l'utilisateur, alors que l'utilisateur se brosse les dents. La tête de brosse et une source de signal sont conçues pour produire des ondes sonores destinées à être émises par la tête de brosse vers la bouche de l'utilisateur, et un dispositif de régulation de tension est conçu pour réguler le volume des ondes sonores sur la base de la pression appliquée par la tête de brosse. La source de signal peut produire des ondes sonores directement ou à l'aide d'un transducteur. La source de signal peut être interchangeable, se connecter à une cartouche interchangeable, ou se connecter un adaptateur capable de télécharger des données pour permettre aux données de la source de signal d'être remplacées. Le dispositif de régulation de tension peut comprendre un espacement entre la bobine de transducteur et la plaque de transducteur. Le dispositif de régulation de tension peut également comprendre un commutateur d'amplification conçu en tant que commutateur de dérivation, commutateur d'activation ou capteur de force.

Claims

Note: Claims are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.



-18-
What is claimed is:

1. A device to communicate sound to a user by the transmission of signals
through the user's mouth to the user's ear, the device comprising:
a signal source configured to produce signals corresponding to sound,
music, or instructional material;
a transducer operatively associated with the signal source to produce
vibrations from the signals corresponding to sound, music, or instructional
material;
a sound-transmitting element operatively associated with the
transducer to which the transducer can transmit vibrations;
a power source associated with the signal source;
a tension controller responsive to pressure applied by the device to the
user's mouth and operatively associated with the transducer, the transducer
responsive to the tension controller and modulating the vibrations produced
thereby in response to the tension controller, the modulation of the
vibrations
produced by the transducer adjusting the vibrations transmitted by the sound
transmitting element, so as to modulate the volume of the sounds perceived
by the user based on the pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth;
a housing;
an independent-selective-activity structure, associated with the sound-
transmitting element and housing, configured for use in a selectable activity
different from denta-mandibular sound transmission;
where the sound-transmitting element can transmit the vibrations to the
user's mouth upon contact of the element with the mouth, so that the
vibrations travel from the mouth to the user's ear where they can be perceived

by the user as sounds; and
where the sound-transmitting element is positioned adjacent to the
transducer so that vibrations transmitted from the transducer to the sound-
transmitting element are sufficient to be perceivable by the user as sound
when the sound-transmitting element is in contact with the user's mouth.



-19-

2. The device of claim 1, where the independent-selective-activity structure
comprises a toothbrush and the selectable activity is practicing good oral
hygiene.
3. The device of claim 1, where the signal source comprises a programmable
microchip.
4. The device of claim 3, where the programmable microchip comprises an
adaptor capable of uploading and downloading data.
5. The device of claim 1, where the sound-transmitting element comprises
toothbrush bristles.
6. The device of claim 1, where the transducer comprises an electromagnetic
coil assembly and a metal plate.
7. The device of claim 1, where the transducer comprises a piezo-electric
crystal.
8. The device of claim 1, where the power source comprises a battery.
9. The device of claim 1, where the power source comprises a series of
batteries.
10. The device of claim 1, where the tension controller comprises at least one

of a boost switch, a force sensor, a bypass switch, and a limiting resistor.
11. The device of claim 1, where the housing comprises a replaceable head
and neck assembly and a handle.
12. The device of claim 11, where the replaceable head and neck assembly
comprises the signal source, transducer, and sound-transmitting element.



-20-

13. The device of claim 11, where the replaceable head and neck assembly
comprises the transducer and sound transmitting element.
14. The device of claim 11, where the handle comprises a motor, gear box,
and grip handle to produce a reciprocating action at the toothbrush bristles.
15. A device to communicate sound to a user by the transmission of signals
through the user's mouth to the user's ear, the device comprising:
a signal source configured to produce signals corresponding to sound,
music, or instructional material;
a transducer operatively associated with the signal source to produce
vibrations from the signals corresponding to sound, music, or instructional
material;
a sound-transmitting element operatively associated with the
transducer to which the transducer can transmit vibrations;
a power source associated with the signal source;
a tension controller responsive to pressure applied by the device to the
user's mouth and operatively associated with the transducer, the transducer
responsive to the tension controller and modulating the vibrations produced
thereby in response to the tension controller, the modulation of the
vibrations
produced by the transducer adjusting the vibrations transmitted by the sound
transmitting element, so as to modulate the volume of the sounds perceived
by the user based on the pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth;
a mechanical lever-pivot;
a housing; and
an independent-selective-activity structure, associated with the sound-
transmitting element and housing, configured for use in a selectable activity
different from denta-mandibular sound transmission;
where the sound-transmitting element can transmit the vibrations to the
user's mouth upon contact of the element with the mouth, so that the



-21-

vibrations travel from the mouth to the user's ear where they can be perceived

by the user as sounds;
where the mechanical lever-pivot is placed in between the sound-
transmitting element and the transducer so as to transmit vibrations from the
transducer to the sound-transmitting element to be perceivable by the user as
sound when the sound-transmitting element is in contact with the user's
mouth.
16. The device of claim 15, where the independent-selective-activity structure

comprises a toothbrush and the selectable activity is practicing good oral
hygiene.
17. The device of claim 15, where the signal source comprises a
programmable microchip.
18. The device of claim 17, where the programmable microchip comprises an
adaptor capable of uploading and downloading data.
19. The device of claim 15, where the sound-transmitting element comprises
toothbrush bristles.
20. The device of claim 15, where the transducer comprises an
electromagnetic coil assembly and a metal plate.
21. The device of claim 15, where the transducer comprises a piezo-electric
crystal.
22. The device of claim 15, where the tension controller comprises a torsion
bar.
23. The device of claim 15, where the tension controller comprises at least
one of a boost switch, a force sensor, a bypass switch, and a limiting
resistor.



-22-

24. The device of claim 15, where the housing comprises a head and neck
assembly and a handle, wherein the head and neck assembly comprises the
sound-transmitting element.
25. The device of claim 15, where the housing comprises a head and neck
assembly and a handle, wherein the handle contains the power source,
source signal, and transducer.
26. A toothbrush device for communicating sound to a user by the
transmission of sound signals, the device comprising:
a toothbrush housing comprising a brush head assembly;
a signal source configured to produce signals corresponding to sound,
music, or instructional material;
a transducer in the brush head assembly operatively associated with
the signal source to produce vibrations from the signals corresponding to
sound, music, or instructional material inside the mouth of the user;
a power source associated with the signal source; and
a tension controller responsive to pressure applied by the device to the
user's mouth, the tension controller comprising a flex joint associated with
the
transducer, the transducer responsive to the flex joint and modulating the
vibrations produced thereby in response to the flex joint, the modulation of
the
vibrations produced by the transducer adjusting the vibrations transmitted to
the user's mouth, so as to modulate the volume of the sounds perceived by
the user based on the pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth.
27. The device of claim 26, where the independent-selective-activity structure

comprises a toothbrush and the selectable activity is practicing good oral
hygiene.

- 23 -
28. The device of claim 26, comprising a sound-transmitting element
operatively associated with the transducer to which the transducer can
transmit vibrations.
29. The device of claim 28, where the sound-transmitting element can
transmit the vibrations in the user's mouth so the sound travels from the
mouth to the user's ear, and where a mechanical lever-pivot is placed in
between the sound-transmitting element and the transducer so that vibrations
transmitted from the transducer to the sound-transmitting element are
sufficient to be perceivable by the user as sound when the transducer is in
the
user's mouth.
30. The device of claim 26, where the signal source comprises a
programmable microchip.
31. The device of claim 30, where the programmable microchip comprises an
adaptor capable of uploading and downloading data.
32. The device of claim 26, where the tension controller further comprises at
least one of a boost switch, a force sensor, a bypass switch, and a limiting
resistor.
33. The device of claim 26, where the housing comprises a head and neck
assembly and a handle, wherein the handle contains the source signal and
tension controller.
34. A method for adjusting the volume of a sound in a device to communicate
the sound to a user by the transmission of vibrations through the user's
teeth,
the method comprises the following operations:
using a tension controller to determine the amount of pressure applied
by the device to the user's mouth;
producing vibrations with a transducer; and


- 24 -

modulating the vibrations produced by the transducer in response to
the tension controller to adjust the volume of the sound perceived by the user

based on pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth.
35. A method as described in claim 34, where modulating the vibrations
comprises using a torsion bar to control the gap spacing between an
electromagnetic coil and a metal plate in the transducer.
36. A method as described in claim 34, where modulating the vibrations
comprises using a diaphragm to control the gap spacing between an
electromagnetic coil and a plate in the transducer.
37. A method as described in claim 34, where modulating the vibrations
comprises using a spring to control the gap spacing between an
electromagnetic coil and a plate in the transducer.
38. A method as described in claim 34, where modulating the vibrations
comprises using a bellows assembly to control the gap spacing between an
electromagnetic coil and a plate in the transducer.
39. A method as described in claim 34, where using a tension controller to
determine the amount of pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth
comprises using a flex joint located between a head and neck assembly and a
handle, in which the flex joint activates a switch as the head and neck
assembly applies sufficient pressure to the user's mouth, the transducer
modulating the vibrations in response to the switch.
40. A method as described in claim 34, where using a tension controller to
determine the amount of pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth
comprises using a boost switch that provides an activation signal to a signal
source.

- 25 -
41. A method as described in claim 34, where using a tension controller to
determine the amount of pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth
comprises using a bypass switch and a limiting resistor that provides an
activation signal to a signal source.
42. A method as described in claim 34, where using a tension controller to
determine the amount of pressure applied by the device to the user's mouth
comprises using a force sensor that provides an activation signal to a signal
source.
43. A device to communicate sound to a user by the transmission of signals to
the user's ear, the device comprising:
a signal source configured to produce signals corresponding to sound,
music, or instructional material;
a transducer operatively associated with the signal source to produce
vibrations from the signals corresponding to sound, music, or instructional
material,
a sound-transmitting element operatively associated with the
transducer to which the transducer can transmit vibrations in the user's
mouth;
a power source associated with the signal source;
a housing;
an independent-selective-activity structure, associated with the sound-
transmitting element and housing, configured for use in a selectable activity
different from denta-mandibular sound transmission; and
a tension controller responsive to pressure applied by the device to the
user's mouth, the tension controller associated with the transducer, the
transducer responsive to the tension controller and modulating the vibrations
produced thereby in response to the tension controller, the modulation of the
vibrations produced by the transducer adjusting the vibrations transmitted by
the sound transmitting element, so as to modulate the volume of the sounds

- 26 -
perceived by the user based on the pressure applied by the device to the
user's mouth;
where the sound-transmitting element is positioned adjacent to the
transducer so that vibrations transmitted from the transducer to the sound-
transmitting element are sufficient to be perceivable by the user as sound
when the sound-transmitting element is in contact with the user's non-sound
conductive tissue.
44. The device of claim 43, where the sound-transmitting element can
transmit the vibrations in the user's mouth so the sound travels from the
mouth to the user's ear, and where a mechanical lever-pivot is placed in
between the sound-transmitting element and the transducer so that vibrations
transmitted from the transducer to the sound-transmitting element are
sufficient to be perceivable by the user as sound when the sound-transmitting
element is in the user's mouth.
45. The device of claim 43, where the tension controller comprises at least
one of a boost switch, a force sensor, a bypass switch, and a limiting
resistor.
46. The device of claim 43, where the housing comprises a head and neck
assembly and a handle, wherein the handle contains the source signal and
tension controller.

Description

Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.


CA 02559039 2012-12-11
4 t
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR BOOSTING SOUND IN A DENTA- MANDIBULAR
SOUND-TRANSMITTING ENTERTAINMENT TOOTHBRUSH
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
This application claims priority benefits from U.S. Provisional Patent
Applications 60/634,398 filed December 8, 2004 and 60/652,791 filed February
14, 2005.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to transmitting sound waves for
entertainment via
toothbrushes, and more particularly to apparatus and methods that modulate
transmitted sound
energy through a user's teeth and bone structure to the user's ears, e.g.,
proportional to brushing
pressure.
2. Description of the Related Art
Mechanisms for transmitting sound to the ears that bypasses the air and
external ears has
been recently understood in the general denta-mandibular art. Through such
mechanisms, sound
waves are transmitted directly to the inner ears, without traveling through
the air, by conduction
through an object to bones in the user's head, from which the sound waves
travel through the
bones to the ears to be perceived as sound.
A particularly efficient way to incorporate this mechanism is through a
process termed denta-
mandibular conduction. Denta-mandibular conduction involves transmitting sound
waves
through the user's teeth and bones to the inner ear where it is perceived as
Page 1 of 30

CA 02559039 2012-12-11
sound. Because teeth are connected directly to bones in the head, they provide
an advantageous
non-airborne sound conduit to the ears.
Devices based on denta-mandibular sound transmitted are disclosed in several
U.S.
patents. As discussed in U.S. Patent No. 5,902,167, an edible substance and a
signal source are
operatively associated and configured to produce sound waves for transmission
through the
edible substance to a user's mouth, from which sound waves are conducted by
the user's teeth
and bone structure to the user's ears to be perceived as sound. As further
disclosed in U.S. Patent
6,115,477, the sound-transmitting device may embody pacifiers, teething rings,
pipes, cigarette
holders, candy dispensers, toothbrushes, and toys.
It is not believed that a denta-mandibular device has used a method to boost
or modulate
the transmitted sound wave energy proportional to certain parameters such as
the pressure
applied to the user's teeth or the like. It would be desirable to incorporate
this method into a
toothbrush as to adjust the sound waves to facilitate good brushing technique.
The invention
described herein addresses this deficiency of the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a toothbrush capable of denta-mandibular sound
transduction and also provides entertainment and tooth cleaning utility.
The denta-mandibular toothbrush contains a transducer which is mounted with a
toothbrush head. The transducer provides controlled mechanical vibration
energy to the head, in
order to provide sound waves to the user's teeth and bones.
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The toothbrush contains a signal source which may comprise a microchip having
a preprogrammed song or message. The toothbrush is preferably sealed against
moisture,
and may include a replaceable head to allow for replacing worn out bristles or
in order to
change the sound source. The toothbrush may further include a motor to agitate
the brush
head to facilitate teeth cleaning.
In one embodiment, the toothbrush precisely controls the transducer gap and
tension, such that the mechanical energy is efficiently coupled to the user's
teeth in a
range of approximately 60 to 120 grams of force.
In another embodiment, the toothbrush contains a pressure sensitive sensor and
a
"boost switch." The toothbrush precisely senses the pressure, such that the
mechanical
energy is efficiently coupled to the user's teeth in a range of approximately
40 to 100
grams of force. The boost switch acts to enhance the sound level or to
modulate sound
energy when proper brushing technique is applied. The boost switch may be
implemented
in a variety of ways, including a by-pass switch, an activation switch to
provide a boost
signal to the signal source, or as a force sensor.
By controlling the pressure applied to maximize the sound, the denta-
mandibular
toothbrush can act as an aid for developing proper brushing technique by
providing
audible sound when the pressure in the preferred range.
Additionally, the toothbrush may take on different embodiments in order to
replace or add on to the signal source data. The toothbrush may make use of
replaceable
cartridges which contain signal source date. This would allow the user to
change the
sound he or she perceives while operating the device. Alternatively, the
toothbrush may
contain an adapter capable of uploading and downloading data, in order for new
signal
Page 3 of 30

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source data to be downloaded to the toothbrush. The toothbrush would contain a
remote
pad that would allow the user to cycle through the downloaded signal source
data to
select the sound he or she prefers while operating the device. These and other
advantages
are realized with the described embodiments. The invention advantages may be
best
understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with
the drawing
figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only,

with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 shows the active components of one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is a diagram of the present invention, including a housing and base
charger;
Figs. 3A-F illustrate detailed views of the brush head transducer methods
according to embodiments of the present invention;
Figs. 4A-D illustrate several designs to control the tension and slug assembly
of
the electro-mechanical transducer, and Figs. 4E-I illustrate the slug assembly
according
to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
Figs. 5A-D illustrate alternative embodiments of the brush head design, with
Fig.
5D illustrating the toothbrush transducer head assembly according to a
preferred
embodiment of the present invention incorporating the slug assembly according
to Figs.
4E-I;
Fig. 6A illustrates the toothbrush assembly according to a preferred
embodiment
of the present invention incorporating the flexible bar assembly in a denta-
mandibular
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toothbrush and Figs. 6B-D illustrates a further alternative embodiment of the
present
invention which utilizes a motor to produce a reciprocating action at the
brush head;
Figs. 7A-C illustrate schematic diagrams of different methods for controlling
the
volume level in a denta-mandibular tooth brush;
Figs. 8A-C illustrate how the denta-mandibular boost switch controls sound
pressure in response to force applied to the brush head by employing the
flexible joint
and boost switch according to one embodiment of the present invention;
Figs. 9A-C illustrates indicia bearing surfaces for toothbrush embodiments of
the
invention;
Figs. 10A-C are side views of toothbrush embodiments illustrating toothbrush
handles including over mold features for the front recess/ switch push-button,
and rear
landing gear/ finger guard;
Figs. 11A-B illustrate an alternative embodiment of the present invention
which
allows removable cartridges containing signal source data to be used by the
denta-
mandibular toothbrush; and
Figs. 12A-B illustrate an alternative embodiment of the present invention in
which the denta-mandibular toothbrush contains an adaptor capable of uploading
and
downloading data.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERED EMBODIMENTS
The following description is provided to enable those skilled in the art to
make
and use the described embodiments set forth in the best modes contemplated for
carrying
out the invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily
apparent to those
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skilled in the art. Any and all such modifications, equivalents, and
alternatives are
intended to fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
In general, the present described embodiments relate to denta-mandibular sound-

transmitting toothbrushes and the like that transmit and/ or conduct sound to
the user's
ear, while the user is brushing his or her teeth. A toothbrush according to
the present
described embodiments generate mechanical energy in the bristles of the
toothbrush that
can be heard when the toothbrush is in use.
In an embodiment, while the user is brushing his or her teeth, the intensity
of the
sound is proportional to the pressure that the brush applies to the teeth. If
too much or too
little pressure is applied to the brush by the user, the user will perceive
too little or no
sound. Thus, the toothbrushes of the described embodiments encourage users to
apply a
moderate pressure, which facilitates good brushing technique.
One embodiment utilizes a miniature transducer that is capable of driving the
toothbrush head with sufficient mechanical energy to be denta-mandibulary
perceived by
the user while brushing. In order to provide for the efficient production of
mechanical
energy, the transducer should produce minimal aerial sound. Typically, the
toothbrush
may produce approximately 95 dB of pressure at the bristles, while only
leaking 50 dB of
aerial sound.
Fig. 1 illustrates the active components of the denta-mandibular toothbrush of
an
embodiment of the present invention. The toothbrush includes a battery power
source 112
and electrical contacts 110 to connect the battery source and a printed
circuit board (PCB)
108. The PCB 108 includes the signal source data for driving the transducer
with the
desired sounds. Typical of such a signal source is the Winbond W561S15 chip
that
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delivers 4 volts of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal for audio
applications. A push-
button style switch 106 activates the signal source. The transducer comprises
a coil
assembly 104 and a metal plate or slug 102. The slug 102 is mounted to the
brush head
100 having a platfoim with bristles. The coil assembly 104, when activated by
the signal
source located on the PCB 108, causes the slug 102 to vibrate, which in turn
vibrates the
platform and bristles locates on the brush head 100. The coil assembly 104 is
typically 32
ohms, and if capable of producing up to 30 mGuass of magnetic field for
mechanical
deflection or motion. Such a construction allows sufficient mechanical energy
to be
transmitted through the bristles located on the brush head 100.
As illustrated by Fig. 2, the components of Fig. 1 may be mounted within a
housing. A head and neck assembly 202 contains the push-button switch 106, the
PCB
204, transducer and brush head 100. The head and neck assembly 202 is
connected to the
handle 208 via a joint 206. An 0-ring type seal at the joint 206 is used to
make the
connection waterproof The handle 208 contains a rechargeable battery 210 and a

charging coil 212. The handle 208 may be placed into a charging base 214,
containing a
charging coil 216, and a 115 VAC plug 218. When the toothbrush is mounted in
the
charging base 214, the rechargeable battery 210 is charged via the charging
coils 212
216. Additionally, the head and neck assembly 202 may be replaceable. For
example, the
head and neck assembly 202 may be replaced when the bristles are worn down, or

alternatively in order to change the sounds that are generated by the signal
source.
Figs. 3A-F illustrate detailed views of an embodiment of the brush head 100,
and
particularly the brush head preloading methods according to the described
embodiments.
The transducer is mounted integral to the neck 314, and includes a coil 310, a
core 308, a
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back plate 316, and a magnet 306. A wire 312 connects the transducer to the
PCB 204. A
transducer plate or "slug" 310 is mounted to the brush head platform 302. The
brush head
platform 302 contains a plurality of standard toothbrush bristles 300. The
brush head
platform 302 is attached to the neck 314 via a bellows assembly 304. This
bellows
assembly 304 correctly spaces the gap between the slug 310 and the coil 310,
and also
allows the brush head platform 302 to vibrate, while still providing a
waterproof seal for
the transducer.
Figs. 3B-F illustrate detailed views of the brush head transducer methods
according to embodiment for respective self-centering linear coil, spring
loading, and
tension strap preloading methods facilitating sound transfer via the
toothbrush bristles of
the toothbrush head assembly 100. In addition to the bellows assembly 304 as
illustrated
in Fig. 3A, there are several methods of controlling the tension and gap
within the
transducer. Fig 3B shows the slug 310 of the transducer, weight and spring
assemblies.
The bottom view of the assembly of Fig. 3B shows a dome-shaped pressure plate
opposite the slug 310 for spring pressure. As shown and described, the
transducer is pre-
loaded at the bristle plate to ensure that the maximum vibration is sent to
the bristles,
which has been found to achieve transmission at about 120 grams of loading
force to
facilitate coupling. The loading mechanism will also permit low frequency
vibration
= sound production. As illustrated in Figs. 3C-F this may be accomplished
by using a
flexible means, such as the spring coil or dome spring, a domed rubber cap, or
the like
such as that found in a keyboard or a strap or the like. In order for the
transducer to
function properly, the amount of tension should be controlled. The transducer
configuration must control the positioning of the slug relative to the
electromagnetic coil
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such that the mechanical energy is efficiently coupled to the user's teeth in
a range of
between approximately 40 to 100 grams of force. Any less force is ineffective
for teeth
cleaning, and any more is too great a force. By controlling the pressure
applied to
maximize the sounds, the denta-mandibular toothbrush can act as an aid for
developing
proper brushing technique by providing an audible sound when the pressure is
in the
preferred range.
Various transducer methods may be employed as illustrated in Figs. 4A-I. Figs.

4A-D illustrate several designs to control the tension and slug assembly of
the electro-
mechanical transducer, showing transducer gap and tension techniques in
exploded and
assembled views. Figs. 4E-I illustrate the slug assembly according to a
preferred
embodiment. In Fig. 4A the transducer gap and tension control of slug assembly
of the
electro-mechanical transducer of item 400 illustrates a torsion bar attached
to a base of
the coil and to the slug that may be used to accurately control the gap
spacing between
the coil and the slug. In Fig. 4B the transducer gap and tension control of
slug assembly
of the electro-mechanical transducer of item 402 illustrates a diaphragm that
may be used
as shown to accurately control the gap spacing between the coil and the slug.
In Fig. 4C
the transducer gap and tension control of slug assembly of the electro-
mechanical
transducer of item 404 illustrates a spring (preferably either coated or non-
metallic)
which can be mounted between the coil and slug. In Fig. 4D the transducer gap
and
tension control of slug assembly of the electro-mechanical transducer of item
406
illustrates the aforementioned bellows assembly to accurately control the gap
spacing
between the coil and the slug. In Figs. 4E-I the slug assembly is illustrated
showing top,
side and bottom views, and a spot weld interface between the slug and the
metal film of
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the slug assembly. The shape of the slug is a cone, where the point of the
cone would
touch the bristle plate, with the mass of the slug of about 2.5 grams in the
present
described embodiment.
As described above, the transducer is generally formed using an
electromagnetic
coil in the neck of the toothbrush, and a slug mounted to a platform of the
brush head.
However, the transducer may be formed as illustrated in Figs. 5A-D. Fig. 5A
illustrates
that the transducer may be formed using a piezo-electric crystal 504 to
generate the
mechanical vibration. In construction, the piezo-electric crystal 504 may be
sandwiched
between the neck 500 and the brush head 501. Fig 5B illustrates the
positioning of the
coil 510 and the slug 512 may be reversed as compared to the embodiment
presented in
Fig. 3A, i.e. the slug 512 may be mounted in the neck 506, and the coil 510 in
the brush
head 507. Alternatively, as illustrated in Fig. 5C, the transducer may be
positioned away
from the brush as shown. The transducer 520 may be mounted in a handle 516 and
in
contact with a mechanical lever-pivot configuration 518. As the transducer
vibrates, the
mechanical energy is transmitted to the brush heard 514 via the pivoting
action of the
lever 518.
Alternatively, the transducer 520 may further provide its transducer as
operatively
associated with the signal source to produce vibrations for aerial sound from
the signals
operatively associated for sound transmission with the transducer to which the
transducer
can transmit vibrations in the user's mouth, where the sound-transmitting
element is
positioned adjacent to the transducer so that vibrations transmitted from the
signal source
to the sound-transmitting element are sufficient to be perceivable by the user
as sound
when the sound-transmitting element is in contact with the user's non-sound
conductive
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tissue. This facilitates sound production allowing the user to continue to
hear sound
signals. In Fig. 5D, the transducer has a body with added mass of about 2 to 3
grams.
Fig. 5D illustrates the toothbrush transducer head assembly according to a
preferred
embodiment incorporating the slug assembly according to Figs. 4E-I above.
In Fig. 5D, the transducer having the body with added mass of about 2 to 3
grams
provides low frequency wave production this is perceived by the user as bass.
Bass
starting at 250 Hz is best heard while brushing. The transducer includes a
ring which
holds the diaphragm to the body, with the slug welded to the diaphragm. The
assembly
magnet, coil and plate generate the magnetic force to deflect the diaphragm,
and the body
creates inertial mass for low frequency vibration and serves as an armature
for the
assembly. A PCB on the back provides a means for wire attachment. As
described, the
head assembly including the transducer is held to the bristle plate by a strap
fixed, e.g., by
two posts on the bristle plate. The housing back is welded to the bristle
plate to ensure a
watertight seal. The slug of the transducer is pressed against the back of the
bristle plate
to transfer vibrations to the bristles and ultimately the user's teeth.
Fig. 6A illustrates the toothbrush assembly according to a preferred
embodiment
incorporating the flexible bar assembly 602 in the denta-mandibular toothbrush
operable
with PCB 604. When pressure is applied at the brush head 100 causes the flex
bar
assembly 602 to bend. PCB 604 supports an underside boost switch 606 with a
chip-on-
board 608, and On/Off switch 610 being operated from an over molded front
recess/
switch push-button 612, discussed further in connection with Figs. 10A-C
concerning
over mold front recess and rear landing gear/ finger guard features. The PCB
604 is
= positioned for electrical coupling with the battery assembly 614 as
illustrated. Figs. 6B-
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D illustrate a further alternative embodiment that utilizes a motor 620 to
produce a
reciprocating action at the brush head 100. Fig. 6D illustrates an alternative
embodiment
wherein in addition to the features previously discussed, the toothbrush
includes a motor
610, a gearbox 612, and a grip handle 608 that cooperate to produce a
reciprocating
action at the brush head 100. Such an embodiment can be used to increase the
brushing
effectiveness of the denta-mandibular toothbrush. The control chip of the PCB
604 may
control the speed, direction, and duration of the motor's 610 operation to
further increase
the motor's 610 effectiveness. Thus the flexible joint at the flexible bar
assembly 602
can be used in conjunction with the boost switch 606. The body and neck are
connected
by a flex joint, and the boost switch 606 is depressed by an activation via
the neck. The
boost switch 606 is pinched between the body and neck while pressure is
applied to the
brush head 100. The boost switch 606, the on/off switch 610, and battery
source 614 are
inter-connected with the PCB 604. As described, the transducer is mounted
behind the
bristles. As shown, the hinge in the neck activates the boost switch when the
user presses
the unit up against their teeth, with the switch 610 in the front and finger
rest provided
with a soft over mold in the back. A boost switch button may be located on the
body and
depresses the boost switch 606. The boost switch thus may be provided
separately as a
= manually activated switch by the user and may also incorporate a soft
over mold if
desired.
Fig. 6A further illustrates that the flexible bar boost switch construction
may
provide the flex bar as a molded as part of the neck 1008. A flex bar lock
secures the flex
bar to the neck of the toothbrush. A flex joint/seal/button is trapped and
compressed
between the neck and the body of the toothbrush. This serves as a movable
joint, button
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cap, and body seal. The boost switch 606 and the PCB 604 are positioned at the
flex bar.
Signals from the PCB 604 are conducted to the transducer via wires. The sound
pressure
from the transducer is conducted through the seal/transmission plate and
through the
brush head 100.
By adding the small motor 610 with an eccentric weight 616 it is possible to
produce additional low frequency vibration effects for the entertainment of
the user. The
pattern 618 of these vibrations can be controlled and synchronized and
modulated by the
music chip on the PCB. The magnitude of these vibrations can be made great
enough to
also provide cleaning benefits to the user's teeth.
In other embodiments the boost switch may be physically implemented in
different ways to accomplish the sound boosting feature. In one embodiment,
the boost
switch may be implemented using a by-pass switch. Fig. 7A is a schematic
diagram of
the bypass switch as it relates to other components of the described
embodiments. A
limiting resistor, e.g., of 100 ohms, resistor 710 is in series with the
transducer 700 and
the PCB 702, suppressing the sound pressure produced by the transducer 700. A
bypass
switch 708 is placed in parallel with the limiting resistor 710 of 100 ohms.
When the
bypass switch 708 is activated it effectively shorts out the limiting resistor
710 of 100
ohms, thereby allowing for maximum sound production. Additionally Fig. 7A
illustrates
the connections between the on/off switch 706 and the PCB 702 and the battery
source
704 and the PCB 702.
Fig. 7B illustrates another embodiment in which an activation signal is
provided
by the boost switch 708 to the signal source on the PCB 702. The data from the
boost
switch 708 can be used to trigger volume levels on the PCB 702, as well as
other function
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such as timers and continuous use detection in order to measure the duration
and
technique of brushing. Additionally Fig. 7B illustrates the connections
between the
on/off switch 706 and the PCB 702, the battery source 704 and the PCB 702, and
the
transducer 700 and the PCB 702.
Fig. 7C illustrates another embodiment where the boost switch is implemented
as
a force sensor 708 such as an Interlink Electronics Force sensing Resistor FRS
#0004.
This device produces an analog signal proportional to the pressure applied to
it. The PCB
702 can measure this pressure signal and respond to the user to indicate if
too much
pressure or too little pressure is being applied to the brush by the user.
Additionally Fig.
7C illustrates the connections between the on/off switch 706 and the PCB 702,
the battery
source 704 and the PCB 702, and the transducer 700 and the PCB 702.
Figs. 8A-C illustrate how the denta-mandibular boost switch controls sound in
response to force applied to the brush head by employing the flexible joint
and boost
switch. The figures illustrate the manner in which the boost switch may be
activated with
respect to handle 800. When no pressure is applied to the user's teeth 806 by
the device,
as shown in Fig. 8A, a slight sound 804 may be perceived by the user,
indicating the
signal source is on and operating and the boost switch remains open 802. As
shown in
Fig. 8B, once contact is made with the user's teeth 806 at 10-20 grams of
force, sound
808 is perceived through the denta-mandibular sound transmitting process at a
volume,
e.g., nearly 20 dB louder. Additionally the force applied is not enough to
depress the
boost switch 802. As more pressure is applied to the user's teeth 806, as
shown in Fig.
8C, the boost switch 810 is depressed. Specifically, the boost switch 810 is
depressed
when the force applied to the user's teeth 806 is approximately 40 grams. The
level of
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increase in perceived volume is exaggerated by the boost switch 810 to produce
a much
louder sound 812. The volume increase is nearly 20 dB more than the volume
when
minimal pressure is applied as in Fig. 8B.
Figs. 9A-C illustrates indicia bearing surfaces for toothbrush embodiments,
and
Figs. 10A-C are side views of toothbrush embodiments illustrating toothbrush
handles
including over mold features for the front recess/ switch push-button 1002,
and rear
landing gear/ finger guard 1004. Decorative artwork may be provided as a
label, e.g.,
Deco Art 900 in Fig. 9B positionable at the toothbrush handle 902, or other
indicia or the
like may be provided directly at handle 902, neck 904 (Fig. 9A), or at the
back portion of
the toothbrush head for carrying indicia 906 (Fig. 9C). Figs. 10A-C side views
show the
toothbrush handles including over mold features at the front recess/ switch
push-button
1002, and rear landing gear/ finger guard 1004. The described embodiment of
the brush
shape allows for a multiple of considerations. The body is triangular to
permit
comfortable holding by youth arid adult hands. A recessed switch is provided
to prevent
accidental operation of the switch on the body. Also on the body is a thumb
break and
finger guard that conforms the user's hand for proper holding. The body length
is
appropriate for comfortable holding, and the finger guard doubles as a perch
so the brush
can horizontal postioned. The flat face of the body permits easy decoration,
which may
contain such information as music artist picture and song name indicia.
Figs. 11A-B illustrate an alternative embodiment that accommodates
removable cartridges containing signal source data to be used by the denta-
mandibular
toothbrush. As illustrated in Figs. 11A-B, the embodiments may include a
removable
cartridge 1104. In this embodiment, the removable cartridge 1104 may contain
the PCB
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itself or data to be transferred to the PCB once the removable cartridge 1104
is inserted
into the toothbrush 1100, e.g., at bottom handle portion 1102. The removable
cartridge
1104 may contain signal source data so that each removable cartridge 1104
contains a
unique collection of songs or verbal instructions. The image 1106 on the
removable
cartridge 1104 indicates to the user the signal source data that is on the
removable
cartridge 1104. Various embodiments are contemplated in connection with the
removable component architecture. To this end, components such as the
removable
cartridge 1104 may be provided for additional content, media or functionality;
alternately, the neck and brush head assembly of the toothbrush 1100 also may
be
provided as a modular component. The brush body 1102 in its most basic form
may be
provided to include simply the batteries and controls, and optionally a motor
as discussed
herein if desired. With the brush body 1102 including therein only batteries
and controls,
in its most basic form, a combination other components may be introduced as
external
modules. The brush body 1102 may include additional components, e.g.,
including
digital memory and/or computer integrated circuit devices as the removable
cartridge
1104. The transducer component in the neck and brush head assembly of the
toothbrush
1100 also may be provided as a separate removable modular component.
Additionally
the computer and memory maybe provided either as separate components or in a
single
integrated circuit, for instance a speech chip or the like such as a single
chip controller for
providing a sound and speech processing. The transducer, digital memory and/or

computer integrated circuit devices alternately may be provided as part of the
neck and
brush head assembly of the toothbrush 1100 as a separate external modular
component.
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Figs. 12A-B illustrates an alternative embodiment in which the denta-
mandibular
toothbrush contains an adaptor capable of uploading and downloading data.
Herein the
toothbrush is provided with an adaptor capable of uploading and downloading
data such
as an USB adaptor. The adaptor 1208 is connected to the PCB and is located at
the
bottom of the body 1202. A cap 1206 covers the adaptor 1208 as to give the
toothbrush a
uniform look and to protect the adaptor 1208 when it is not in use. The
adaptor 1208
allows the PCB to download signal source data to be stored onto the PCB
memory.
There is a remote pad 1204 located on the toothbrush body 1202 that allows the
user to
cycle through the downloaded signal source data to select the sound to be
transmitted
through the neck and brush head 1200.
While there have been illustrated and described particular embodiments of the
present invention, it will be appreciated that numerous changes and
modifications will
occur to those skilled in the art, and it is intended in the appended claims
to cover all
those changes and modifications which fall within the true spirit and scope of
the present
invention.
Page 17 of 30

Representative Drawing
A single figure which represents the drawing illustrating the invention.
Administrative Status

For a clearer understanding of the status of the application/patent presented on this page, the site Disclaimer , as well as the definitions for Patent , Administrative Status , Maintenance Fee  and Payment History  should be consulted.

Administrative Status

Title Date
Forecasted Issue Date 2013-10-29
(86) PCT Filing Date 2005-11-30
(87) PCT Publication Date 2006-06-15
(85) National Entry 2006-09-07
Examination Requested 2010-11-04
(45) Issued 2013-10-29

Abandonment History

There is no abandonment history.

Maintenance Fee

Last Payment of $473.65 was received on 2023-10-10


 Upcoming maintenance fee amounts

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Next Payment if standard fee 2024-12-02 $624.00
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Payment History

Fee Type Anniversary Year Due Date Amount Paid Paid Date
Registration of a document - section 124 $100.00 2006-09-07
Application Fee $400.00 2006-09-07
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 2 2007-11-30 $100.00 2007-09-27
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 3 2008-12-01 $100.00 2008-10-24
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 4 2009-11-30 $100.00 2009-10-09
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 5 2010-11-30 $200.00 2010-10-25
Request for Examination $800.00 2010-11-04
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 6 2011-11-30 $200.00 2011-10-20
Maintenance Fee - Application - New Act 7 2012-11-30 $200.00 2012-09-06
Final Fee $300.00 2013-08-20
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 8 2013-12-02 $200.00 2013-10-31
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 9 2014-12-01 $200.00 2014-11-05
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 10 2015-11-30 $250.00 2015-11-26
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 11 2016-11-30 $250.00 2016-11-17
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 12 2017-11-30 $250.00 2017-11-22
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 13 2018-11-30 $250.00 2018-11-08
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 14 2019-12-02 $250.00 2019-11-06
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 15 2020-11-30 $450.00 2020-11-04
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 16 2021-11-30 $459.00 2021-11-30
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 17 2022-11-30 $458.08 2022-10-12
Maintenance Fee - Patent - New Act 18 2023-11-30 $473.65 2023-10-10
Owners on Record

Note: Records showing the ownership history in alphabetical order.

Current Owners on Record
HASBRO, INC.
Past Owners on Record
CAPPER, DAVID G.
FILO, ANDREW S.
Past Owners that do not appear in the "Owners on Record" listing will appear in other documentation within the application.
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Document
Description 
Date
(yyyy-mm-dd) 
Number of pages   Size of Image (KB) 
Abstract 2006-09-07 2 80
Claims 2006-09-07 12 354
Drawings 2006-09-07 16 435
Description 2006-09-07 17 757
Representative Drawing 2006-11-08 1 9
Cover Page 2006-11-09 1 52
Description 2012-12-11 17 761
Claims 2012-12-11 9 313
Cover Page 2013-09-25 2 57
PCT 2006-09-07 1 41
Assignment 2006-09-07 7 256
PCT 2006-09-07 1 43
PCT 2006-09-07 1 43
Prosecution-Amendment 2010-11-04 1 44
Prosecution-Amendment 2012-06-11 3 104
Fees 2012-09-06 1 163
Prosecution-Amendment 2012-12-11 27 1,006
Correspondence 2013-08-20 1 43