Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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TOOTHBRUSH WITH ENHANCED CLEANING
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to powered toothbrushes, and more particularly,
to a
toothbrush having a head with two distinct moving sections with each section
providing
oral health benefits to the user.
2. Discussion of Related Art
Toothbrushes provide many oral hygiene benefits. For example, toothbrushes
remove plaque and food debris to help avoid tooth decay and disease. They
remove
stained pellicle from the surface of each tooth to help whiten the teeth.
Also, the bristles
combined with the brushing motion massage the gingival tissue for stimulation
and
increased health of the tissue.
Powered toothbrushes have been available for some time. Powered toothbrushes
have advantages over manual (non-powered) toothbrushes in that they impart
movement
to the bristles at much higher speeds than possible manually. They also may
impart
different types and directions of motion. These motions, generally in
combination with
manual movement of the toothbrush by the user, provide superior cleaning than
manual
toothbrushes. Typically, powered toothbrushes are powered by disposable or
rechargeable
batteries that power an electric motor that in turn drives the toothbrush
head.
Known powered toothbrushes include a brush head with a bristle carrier portion
that rotates, oscillates or vibrates in some manner so as to clean the teeth.
The bristles,
which typically comprise bristle tufts, are generally uniform with one end
fixed into the
bristle carrier portion and the other end free to contact the surface of the
teeth while
brushing. The free ends of the various tufts present a surface envelope that
is capable of
some deformation when the bristles bend. When in contact with the surface to
be brushed,
the bristles may deform so that the surface envelope tends to conform to the
complex
surface of the teeth. Human teeth generally lie in a "C" shaped curve within
the upper and
lower jaws, and each row of teeth consequently has a convex outer curve and a
concave
inner curve. Individual teeth often have extremely complex surfaces, with
areas that may
be flat, concave, or convex. The more precise conformation between the
bristles and the
tooth surface, the more effective the toothbrush may be in cleaning, whitening
and/or
stimulating.
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Known powered toothbrushes typically arrange the bristles in a compact conical
or
cylindrical pattern on a generally circular, disk-shaped bristle carrier. The
powered
toothbrush heads are traditionally compact, generally oval in shape and the
heads are
produced with a flat trimmed bristle pattern. Alternatively, other head shapes
and bristle
patterns are available.
One example of a powered toothbrush is depicted in U.S. Patent 5,625,916 to
McDougall, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The
toothbrush
shown in McDougall has a disc-shaped bristle carrier. The bristle carrier, and
thus the
bristles, are driven in a vibrating or oscillating manner. This type of
toothbrush is
described herein with reference to Figures lA-1C. A toothbrush 5 includes a
handle
portion 10 at a proximal end of the toothbrush 5 and a head 11 at a distal end
of toothbrush
5. Handle portion 10 has compartments for containing a powered motor 14 and
batteries
and 16. Head 11 includes a generally circular bristle holder (carrier) 13. A
rotatable
shaft 12 extends from motor 14 to head 11. A shaft coupling 17 may be located
along
15 shaft 12 and configured to provide for shaft 12 to be separated at a point
between motor 14
and head 11. This permits the shaft to be removed from toothbrush 5, e.g., for
cleaning,
servicing, or replacement.
Head 11 includes a post 18 that provides a rotational pivot axis for bristle
holder 13
containing bristle tufts 19. The distal end of shaft 12 has a journal or
offset 20 that is
radially displaced from the longitudinal axis of shaft 12, which may be
integrally formed
therewith. Bristle holder 13 has a slot 22 that receives offset 20. Offset 20
and slot 22 are
configured so as to be oriented toward the intersection of shaft 12 axis and
the longitudinal
axis of post 18. When motor 14 rotates shaft 12, the motion of offset 20
defines a circle
about shaft 12 axis and drivingly engages slot 22 such that bristle holder 13
vibrates or
oscillates about post 18 axis through a rotational angle A. The rotational
angle A is
defined by the displacement of offset 20 from shaft 12 axis relative to the
diameter of
bristle holder 13.
Although powered toothbrushes such as those described immediately above
provide advantages over manual toothbrushes, they are subject to various
limitations.
Providing a rotating or oscillating bristle holder (carrier) with a typical
oblong or oval
toothbrush head constrains the size of the moving bristle holder, and
consequently the area
of bristles available for teeth cleaning. Also, when the bristles are placed
in contact with
the teeth during brushing, there is less bristle contact with adjacent areas,
such as the
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gums. Thus, while these compact bristle patterns provide for cleaning, there
is minimal
whitening and stimulation.
One attempt to overcome the limitations associated with a small powered
bristle
area is shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,000,083 to Blaustein et al. The toothbrush
in Blaustein
et al. has a bristle area and pattern similar to a manual toothbrush, but an
area of the
bristles has simply been replaced by a powered bristle section. The result is
that the head
has a powered or moving bristle section and static bristle section. The
limitation of
Blaustein et al. is that the static bristle section provides no better
cleaning, whitening or
stimulation than a manual toothbrush.
International Application No. PCT/EPO1/07615 of Braun GmbH discloses a
powered toothbrush with two separate bristle parts that can move. Each bristle
part can
have a different range and/or type of motion. However, only one bristle part
is powered.
The other unpowered bristle part moves due to a resonance effect imparted by
the
frequency of the movement of the first bristle part.
This free resonance causes a number of difficulties. First, because any
contact
between the bristle parts will dampen or cancel any resonance of the unpowered
bristle
part, the unpowered bristle part "floats" separately from the powered bristle
part. This
necessitates separation or gaps between them. These gaps expose the internal
workings of
the head to foreign matter such as water, saliva, toothpaste, and food
particles. This
foreign matter may interfere with the workings of the unpowered bristle head.
For
example, the unpowered bristle part is spring-loaded to assist its resonance.
Foreign
matter may accumulate on or around the spring, interfering with its function.
In addition,
food particles may remain in the head and may fester and host microorganisms,
which are
undesirable if not potentially harmful when introduced directly into the
mouth.
Another limitation of such a design is that movement of the unpowered bristle
part
may be damped by contact with the teeth, or lessened when the frequency of the
powered
part shifts from the resonance frequency. This can occur due to pressure
imparted against
the powered bristle part by the teeth or gums during brushing. Finally, the
energy
imparted to the unpowered bristle part is only a portion of the energy input
into the
powered part. Therefore, the unpowered bristle part is less effective in
cleaning than the
powered part, limiting the overall effectiveness of the toothbrush.
Thus, there is a need in the art for a powered toothbrush with increased
effectiveness through a larger area of powered or driven bristles or bristles
that are
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otherwise movable. There is also a need for a toothbrush having increased
whitening
and/or stimulation than known toothbrushes. There is further a need for such
improved
toothbrushes to be comparable in manufacturing and purchasing costs as known
powered
toothbrushes.
OB.TECT OF THE INVENTION
It is a general object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush
which avoids the aforementioned deficiencies and limitation of the known
related art.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a powered toothbrush
which
enhances the cleaning effectiveness of the toothbrush head.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush
which enhances the whitening effectiveness of the toothbrush head.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush
which enhances the stimulating effectiveness of the toothbrush head.
It is yet still a further object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush which includes two separate, movable bristle sections or tuft
blocks adapted to
have a number of bristles or elastomeric cleaning members or a combination
thereof
extending therefrom to contact surfaces of the teeth and surrounding areas.
It is yet still a further object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush which includes a powered, rotationally-oscillating first bristle
section and a
second movable bristle section that includes an elastomeric platform that is
operatively
fixedly mounted on at least one portion thereof to the head and is selectively
engaged by
the first Garner to provide movement.
It is yet still a further object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush which includes a powered, rotationally-oscillating first bristle
section and a
second movable bristle section in the form of an elastomeric shock-absorbing
member that
is operatively mounted to the head and includes a number of bristle tufts,
elastomeric
cleaning members, or combination thereof extending outwardly therefrom.
It is yet still a further object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush which includes a powered, rotationally-oscillating first bristle
section and a
second movable bristle section pivotally connected to the first bristle
section and pivotally
connected to the brush section.
It is yet still a further object of the present invention to provide a powered
toothbrush which includes a powered, rotationally-oscillating first bristle
section and a
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second movable bristle section that is pivotally connected to the first
bristle section and
pivotally connected to the brush section, and that is capable of movement in a
second a
second degree of motion.
Various other objects, advantages and features of the present invention will
become readily apparent from the ensuing detailed description and the novel
features will
be particularly pointed out in the appended claims
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A powered toothbrush is provided and includes a handle portion at a proximal
end
and a head at a distal end with a neck being formed between the handle portion
and the
head. According to one embodiment, the head has two distinct movable parts
that provide
oral health benefits since each part is adapted to have a number of bristles,
elastomeric
cleaning members or a combination thereof extending therefrom to contact
surfaces of the
teeth and surrounding areas. The toothbrush has a drive mechanism that imparts
movement to one of the movable parts to deliver a cleaning, polishing,
whitening action
that supplements the cleaning efficiency of a typical powered toothbrush.
In another embodiment, the first movable head part is a first bristle carrier
that
supports a number of bristle tufts, elastomeric cleaning members, or a
combination
thereof. The first bristle carrier is operatively mounted to the head and is
coupled to the
drive mechanism such that the first bristle Garner oscillates back and forth
in a direction
about a center point of the first bristle carrier. Preferably, the oscillating
first bristle
carrier is moved back and forth in a rotational direction. The second movable
part is a
second bristle Garner in the form of an elastomeric "shock-absorbing" member
that is
operatively mounted to the head and includes a number of bristle tufts,
elastomeric
cleaning members, or combination thereof extending outwardly therefrom. During
a
brushing action, forces are applied against the second carrier and the
elastomeric nature of
the second bristle carrier causes the Garner to move in a substantially up and
down manner
to deliver additional oral health benefits including enhanced cleaning, tooth
polishing
and/or tooth whitening.
According to another embodiment of the invention, the head includes two
distinct
movable parts that each and together provide oral health benefits, each being
adapted to
have a number of bristles or elastomeric cleaning members or a combination
thereof
extending therefrom adapted to contact surfaces of one or more teeth and
surrounding
areas. The powered toothbrush is further formed with a drive mechanism that
imparts
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movement to the first movable part to deliver a cleaning, polishing, whitening
action that
supplements the cleaning efficiency of a typical powered toothbrush. The first
movable
part in turn imparts movement to the second movable part.
In another embodiment, the first movable head part is a first bristle carrier
that
supports a number of bristle tufts, elastomeric cleaning members, or a
combination
thereof. The first bristle carrier is operatively mounted to the head and is
coupled to the
drive mechanism such that the first bristle Garner oscillates back and forth
in a direction
parallel to toothbrush head. Preferably, the oscillating first bristle carrier
is moved back
and forth in a rotational direction. The second movable part is formed as a
second carrier
that includes an elastomeric platform that is operatively fixedly mounted at
at least one
portion thereof to the head and is selectively engaged by the first Garner to
provide
movement. The second Garner thus oscillates and translates in a direction
parallel and
longitudinal to the head, thereby providing a moving head section in addition
to the
oscillating section that is formed by the first bristle carrier.
In yet another embodiment, the present invention includes a powered toothbrush
having at least two moving bristle fields in a brush section to provide
increased moving
bristle area and improved cleaning, polishing, whitening, massaging and
stimulating of
teeth and gums. The first bristle field includes a plurality of bristles
attached to a first
bristle Garner that is powered and driven in an oscillating rotational manner
through a
prescribed angle. The second bristle field includes a plurality of bristles
attached to a
second bristle carrier. The second bristle Garner is pivotally connected to
the first bristle
Garner and also pivotally connected to the brush section. The second bristle
carrier is
otherwise free from the brush section. The bristles in both the first and
second bristle field
may by any type of elastomeric or non-elastomeric bristles or any combination
thereof.
In yet another embodiment, the oscillating motion of the first bristle carrier
imparts
an according oscillating motion to the second bristle carrier such that the
first and second
bristle fields oscillate in a sectorial motion. The connections between the
second bristle
carrier and the first bristle carrier and the brush section may be
sufficiently flexible or
otherwise configured so that they permit adequate pivoting of the second
bristle carrier
relative thereto. The second bristle Garner may be suspended from the brush
section to
avoid frictional contact therewith. Curtains or walls extending from the brush
section to
the second bristle carrier may be included to help prevent any debris,
toothpaste or other
objects from entering any gap therebetween.
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The second bristle carrier may also be oscillatingly driven in a second degree
of
motion in addition to sectorial motion to provide additional bristle movement
and
effectiveness. This motion may be equal to, or a multiple of, the frequency of
oscillation
of the first bristle carrier and the sectorial motion of the second bristle
carrier, or may
comprise a complex oscillatory motion.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from
the
foregoing detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
The invention accordingly comprises the several steps and the relation of one
or
more of such steps with respect to each of the others, and the apparatus
embodying
features of construction, combinations) of elements and arrangement of parts
that are
adapted to effect such steps, all as exemplified in the following detailed
disclosure, and the
scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
For a more complete understanding of the invention, reference is made to the
following description and accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure lA is a front cross-sectional view of a conventional powered toothbrush
including a head;
Figure 1B is a partial side cross-sectional view of the toothbrush head of
Figure
lA;
Figure 1C is a partial front cross-sectional view of the toothbrush head of
Figure
1 A;
Figure 2 is a front and side perspective view of a powered toothbrush
according to
embodiment of the invention showing a toothbrush head having distinct first
and second
movable carrier sections constructed in accordance with the invention;
Figure 3 is a front elevational view of the toothbrush head of Figure 2
according to
one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 4 is a side elevational view of the toothbrush head of Figure 2
according to
one embodiment of the invention;
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 5-5 of Figure 3;
Figure 6 is a front and side perspective view of a powered toothbrush head
according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention showing a
toothbrush head
having distinct first and second movable Garner sections constructed in
accordance with
the invention;
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Figure 7 is front elevational view of a toothbrush head according to another
exemplary embodiment constructed in accordance with the invention;
Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the toothbrush head of Figure 7;
Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 9-9 of Figure 7 with
parts
broken away to illustrate an elastomeric carrier in a relaxed condition;
Figure 10 is a side elevational view with parts broken away to illustrate the
elastomeric carrier of Figure 9 in a depressed condition;
Figure 11 is a front elevational view of the elastomeric Garner of Figure 10
in the
depressed condition;
Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of Figure 10;
Figure 13 is a perspective view of an elastomeric tooth care element having a
first
configuration and adapted for use in the toothbrush head constructed in
accordance with
the invention;
Figure 14 is a perspective view of an elastomeric tooth care element having a
second configuration and adapted for use in the toothbrush head constructed in
accordance
with the invention;
Figure 15 is a perspective view of an elastomeric tooth care element having a
third
configuration and adapted for use in the toothbrush head constructed in
accordance with
the invention;
Figure 16 is a perspective view of an elastomeric tooth care element
having a fourth configuration and adapted for use in the toothbrush head
constructed in
accordance with the invention; and
Figure 17 is a perspective view of an elastomeric tooth care element having a
fifth
configuration and adapted for use in the toothbrush head constructed in
accordance with
the invention.
Figure 18 is a front and side perspective view of a powered toothbrush head
according to another embodiment of a powered toothbrush constructed in
accordance with
the invention;
Figure 19 is a front and side perspective exploded view of the powered
toothbrush
head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 18;
Figure 20 is a front and side perspective cutaway view of the powered
toothbrush
head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 18;
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Figures 21A-21C are front views of the powered toothbrush head of Figure 18 in
various positions generated when in motion;
Figure 22 is a front and side perspective view of another embodiment of a
powered
toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 23 is a front and side perspective view of another embodiment of a
powered
toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 24 is a front and side perspective view of another embodiment of a
powered
toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 25 is a front and side perspective view of another embodiment of a
powered
toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 26 is a front and side perspective view of another embodiment of a
powered
toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 27 is a front and side perspective exploded view of the embodiment of
the
powered toothbrush head of Figure 26 of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figures 28A-28C are front views of the powered toothbrush head of Figure 26 in
various positions generated when in motion;
Figure 29 is a front and side perspective view of another embodiment of a
powered
toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 30 is a front and side perspective view of another embodiment of a
powered
toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figures 31A-31C are front views of the powered toothbrush head of Figure 30 in
various positions generated when in motion;
Figure 32 is a front and side exploded cut-away perspective view of another
embodiment of a powered toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 33 is a front and side perspective exploded view of another embodiment
of
a powered toothbrush head of the powered toothbrush of Figure 2;
Figure 34 is a front elevational view of a preferred embodiment of a
toothbrush
head to be used in conjunction with the toothbrush of Fig. 2;
Figure 35 is a side elevational view of the toothbrush head of Figure 34;
Figure 36 is a front elevational view of the toothbrush head of Figure 34
during an
operational mode thereof;
Figure 37 is a side partially broken away view of another preferred embodiment
of
a toothbrush head in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
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Figure 38 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 12-12 of Figure 37;
Figure 39 is a side partially broken away view of the toothbrush head of
Figure 37
to illustrate the toothbrush head during an operational mode thereof;
Figure 40 is a front elevational view of yet another preferred embodiment of a
toothbrush head in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
Figure 41 is a side elevational view of the toothbrush head of Figure 40; and
Figure 42 is a front elevational view of the toothbrush head of Figure 40
during an
operational mode thereof.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Refernng first to Figure 2 in which an exemplary powered toothbrush according
to
a first embodiment is illustrated and generally indicated at 100. Toothbrush
100 includes a
handle 102 at a proximal end thereof that defines an interior compartment (not
illustrated)
for housing various toothbrush components, and a brush section 104 that is
defined by a
neck 106 that terminates in a head 120 at a distal end of toothbrush 100.
Handle 102 has a
free proximal end 108 and an opposite end 110. Neck 106 generally extends from
a first
end 112 to a second end 114 with the first end 112 being located at end 110 of
handle 102
and second end 114 being located at head 120. In other words, neck 106 is the
portion of
toothbrush 100 that extends between handle 102 and head 120. Neck 106 also
defines an
interior compartment (not illustrated) for housing various working components
of
toothbrush 100. Head 120 is preferably generally aligned with the longitudinal
axis of the
toothbrush 100.
According to one embodiment, neck 106 and handle 102 may be
constructed as a unitary member by forming neck 106 integral to handle 102 at
the end
110 of handle 102. In another embodiment, neck 106 is detachable from handle
102 at
end 110. In accordance with this detachable embodiment, combined neck 106 and
head
120 can be removed from handle 102 to permit cleaning, servicing and/or
interchanging of
either handle 102 or combined neck 106 and head 120 (brush section 104).
Further, brush
section 104 may be detachably connected to the handle 102 at a location along
the
toothbrush. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various manners in
which this may
be accomplished, e.g., friction fit, threaded connection, interlocking or
bayonet fitting, etc.
For example, when neck 106 is formed to be detachable from handle 102, first
neck end
112 preferably includes a connector linkage (not illustrated) that is adapted
to be
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detachably joined to handle 102 using traditional techniques. It will also be
appreciated
that the point of detachment can also be between head 120 and neck 106 such
that head
120 is of a refill head type.
It will further be appreciated that the illustrated shapes of the handle 102,
neck 106
and brush section 104 are merely exemplary in nature and handle 102, neck 106
and/or
brush section 104 can be formed to have any number of shapes. The shapes of
handle 102,
brush section 104 and neck 106 may be of an aesthetic and/or ergonomic design
such that
toothbrush 100 may be easily and comfortably gripped and manipulated by the
user. The
handle 102 may include slightly recessed finger sections 118a, 118b that are
formed on
opposite sides of the handle 102. One recessed finger section 118a may be
designed to
generally accommodate a thumb of one hand and other recessed finger sections
118b may
be designed to generally accommodate one or more other fingers of the same
hand,
thereby assist the user in proper placement and secure grip of toothbrush 100
in the user's
hand. One or more of the recessed finger sections 118 may include ribs or
other types of
roughened surfaces to further assist gripping by the user. Such surfaces
having acceptable
frictional characteristics, e.g., rubber, are generally known in the art.
The toothbrush 100 according to the various embodiments disclosed herein, can
be
made from any number of materials that are suitable for use in oral care
products. For
example, many of the components that are included in toothbrush 100 are
preferably
formed from plastic materials. Accordingly, the handle 102, brush section 104
and/or
head 120 may be molded from polyolefins such as polypropylenes and
polyethylenes,
polyamids such as nylons, and polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate.
Other
suitable materials include polymethylmetllacrylate, styrene acroylonitrate and
cellulose
esters, for example cellulose propionate, natural rubber and synthetic
rubbers, and other
materials known in the art.
Referring next to Figures 3-5 an additional embodiment of the powered tooth
brush
is shown. The head 120 of the toothbrush 100 includes a head base 160 that at
least
partially defines an inner compartment 121 of the head 120. Head base 160 may
be
configured so that the distal end of the toothbrush 100 has a generally
rounded shape for
the comfort of the user during brushing.
The head 120 also includes a first movable bristle carrier 180, which in a
preferred
embodiment is located at or near the outer most distal portion of head 120 as
illustrated.
Alternatively, the first bristle Garner 180 may be located at any location on
the head 120.
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First bristle carrier 180 is preferably configured such that it may be at
least
partially rotatable around an axis. In such embodiments, the first bristle
Garner 180 may
move in an oscillating or vibrating rotational manner. For example, the first
bristle Garner
180 may have an identical or similar construction to the bristle holder 13
illustrated in
Figures lA-1C. In such embodiments, the first movable bristle carrier 180 may
be a
circular disk. It will be appreciated that the first movable bristle carrier
180 is not limited
to having a disk shape and may have any number of different shapes, e.g.,
oval, regular or
irregular shapes, so long as the first bristle Garner 180 may oscillate in a
rotational or
vibrating manner. A circular disk shape is preferable since it requires the
least amount of
clearance to accommodate the oscillating movement.
A plurality of tooth care elements 152 are coupled to and extend outwardly
from
first movable bristle carrier 180 in a direction substantially perpendicular
to a plane
defined by a face of first movable bristle carrier 180. As used herein, the
term "tooth care
elements" includes any type of structure that is commonly used or is suitable
for use in
providing oral health benefits (e.g., tooth cleaning, tooth polishing, tooth
whitening, etc.)
by making intimate contact with surfaces of the teeth and surrounding areas.
Such tooth
care elements include but are not limited to tufts of bristles that can be
formed to have a
number of different shapes and sizes, and/or various elastomeric members (see
Figures 13-
17) that can be formed to have a number of different shapes and sizes, or a
combination of
both. Bristle tufts arranged on first bristle Garner 180 are only one
exemplary
configuration and it will be understood that other bristle configurations
(such as stapled,
IMT, etc.) can be used. Bristle tufts may all be formed of the same or
different bristle
materials (such as nylon bristles, spiral bristles, rubber bristles, etc.)
Moreover, while the
tooth care elements can be arranged so that they are generally perpendicular
to the face of
first bristle carrier 180 (as noted above), some or all of the tooth care
elements can be
angled at various angles with respect to first bristle carrier 180 as desired.
When first
bristle Garner 180 includes bristle tufts, it is thereby possible to select
the combination of
bristles configurations, bristle lengths, bristle materials and bristle
orientations to achieve
specific intended results, such as to create as much movement from the moving
tuft heads
to deliver additional oral health benefits such as enhanced cleaning, tooth
polishing and/or
tooth whitening.
While first bristle carrier 180 has been defined as a movable bristle carrier
180, it
will be understood that first movable carrier 180 is not limited to having
only tufts of
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bristles as a part thereof. Instead, first movable carrier 180 is to be
broadly considered as
being a carrier for any number of suitable tooth care elements 152 or any
number of
combinations of different types of tooth care elements 152. For example, first
movable
Garner 180 may include a number of elastomeric members to provide the desired
oral
health benefits. The elastomeric members may be attached to first movable
carrier 180
using conventional techniques, including integrally forming the elastomeric
members with
an upper surface of Garner 180. Tooth care elements 152 provided as part of
first movable
carrier 180 can thus be entirely of one type (e.g., bristle tufts or
elastomeric members) or
can be formed according to a mixed arrangement.
For example, the first bristle carrier 180 preferably includes a first
plurality of
bristles, as tooth care elements 152, coupled to and extending generally
outwardly from
the first bristle carrier 180. As used herein, the term "bristle" or
"bristles" includes any
type of structure that is suitable for providing oral health benefits (e.g.,
tooth cleaning,
tooth polishing, tooth whitening, massaging, stimulating, etc.) during contact
with surfaces
of the teeth and gums. The bristles preferably have a degree of flexibility so
as to bend
during brushing thus allowing the bristles to conform to the surface and
contours of the
teeth and gums, thereby increasing bristle contact with the teeth and gum for
improved
effectiveness.
The bristles may be composed of various materials including non-elastomeric
materials or elastomeric materials. As used herein, the term "elastomeric"
means that the
material undergoes a relatively greater elongation under tensile force or
stress, wherein the
term "non-elastomeric" means that the material has a relatively lesser
elongation under
tensile force or stress. Examples of suitable generally non-elastomeric
materials include,
but are not limited to, polyamides such as nylon or polyesters such as
polybutylene
terephthalate. Examples of suitable generally elastomeric materials include,
but are not
limited to, rubbers (synthetic or natural) and block copolymers such as, e.g.,
styrenes (for
example styrene ethylene butadiene styrene, or styrene butadiene styrene),
polyolefins (for
example polypropylene/ethylene propylene diamine modified systems (i.e.
synthetic
rubber)), polyamides (for example polyamide (2 or polyamide 6), polyesters
(for example
polyester ester or polyether ester), polyurethanes (for example
polyesterurethane,
polyetherurethane or polyesteretherurethane). For either non-elastomeric or
elastomeric
bristles, it is generally desirable that such materials are formed in a manner
such that they
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are non-plastic and generally return to their original shape and size after
brushing forces
are removed.
Non-elastomeric bristles may be coupled to the head 120, e.g., the first
bristle
carrier 180, in the form of tufts. The bristles and/or tufts may be coupled by
various
means, such as stapling, may be molded (IMT) onto the head 120 during
fabrication, or by
other known means. Elastomeric bristles may be fabricated by known processes,
such as
molding, and coupled to the head by known means.
Although as shown in the Figures, tooth care elements 152 have particular
sizes,
shapes, amounts, lengths, configurations, materials and/or combinations
thereof, it should
be appreciated that this is merely illustrative and that the tooth care
element, e.g., bristles,
may be of any size, shape, amount, length, configuration, material and/or
combination
thereof suitable for oral hygiene to achieve specific results or operational
characteristics of
the bristles. By way of example, the bristles may be of different (non-
uniform) lengths to
form a particular surface envelope shape for improved effectiveness. For
example, first
movable carrier 180 may include bristle tufts having a first height as well as
bristle tufts
having a different height. This may also be done to accommodate differences
between
toothbrush users, including mouth size, teeth shape and contour, tooth and gum
sensitivity,
eating and other oral habits (e. g., smoking), and personal preferences.
One desired characteristic of certain elastomeric toothcare elements 152 is
the
capability to be fabricated into various configurations. Figures 13-17
illustrate
various exemplary elastomeric members that may serve as tooth care elements
152.
Figure 13 shows an elastomeric tooth care element in the form of a thin spike;
Figure 14
shows an elastomeric tooth care element in the form of a barrel spike; Figure
15 shows an
elastomeric tooth care element in the form of a squeegee point; Figure 16
shows an
elastomeric tooth care element in the form of an angled point; and Figure 17
shows an
elastomeric tooth care element in the form of a section of an elastomeric
wall. The
elastomeric wall of Figure 17 may be formed with a linear, planar shape, a
zigzag shape, a
serpentine shape, etc. In many contemplated embodiments, the elastomeric tooth
care
elements, e.g. bristles, may be formed having smooth textures or can have
rough surfaces.
In addition, the wall sections of the elastomeric tooth care elements may be
vertically
straight, taper inward toward one end or expand toward one end. The tops of
the
elastomeric tooth care walls may have a planar surface or have a protrusion
(i.e., hump) or
the like formed thereat. While the above describes various configurations of
elastomeric
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tooth care elements, those skilled in the at will recognize virtually any
configuration may
be achieved.
For purpose of illustration only, first movable carrier 180 will be described
as
containing a predetermined number of bristle 'tufts; however the following
features apply
equally to the situation where first movable Garner 180 is formed entirely or
partly of
elastomeric members.
First movable bristle carrier 180 is constructed so as to pivotally rotate
about a
center point thereof, thereby effectuating movement of the bristle tufts
and/or elastomeric
members that extend outwardly from first movable bristle carrier 180, or from
the plane
defined by the face positioned perpendicular to the direction of the
oscillation of first
movable bristle Garner 180. The movement of first movable bristle carrier 180
is
preferably an oscillation type movement as first movable bristle carrier 180
pivots about a
post at a center point thereof (see Figure 1). First movable bristle Garner
180 is formed
with a slot or opening (not illustrated). This slot is preferably identical to
or substantially
similar to slot 22 illustrated in figures lA-1C. Preferably, slot 22 is formed
at a peripheral
edge of first movable bristle carrier 180 and extends along a substantial
height of first
movable bristle carrier 180. For example, slot 22 preferably does not extend
to the upper
surface of first bristle carrier 180 where the tooth care elements formed or
are positioned.
Instead, slot 22 preferably has a closed upper end to prevent foreign matter,
such as saliva,
toothpaste, foreign particles, etc., from entering slot 22 when the operator
is performing a
brushing operation. The opposite end of slot 22 that is located within the
inner
compartment 121 of head 120 can be open.
Toothbrush 100 includes a drive mechanism to effectuate movement of certain
parts of toothbrush 100 and more specifically, for causing movement of at
least first
movable bristle carrier 180. One suitable drive mechanism is disclosed in U.S.
Patent
5,625,916 to McDougall, which has been previously incorporated herein by
reference and
includes a rotating drive shaft 200 that extends at least through neck 106
(i.e., the inner
compartment thereof). As described above, such a mechanism may be used to
impart
motion to the first bristle carrier. Those skilled in the art, however, will
appreciate that
variations in the details of the illustrated mechanism may be implemented as
long as it
performs its intended function. Drive shaft 200 preferably has a construction
identical to
or similar to drive shaft 12 illustrated in Figures lA-1C.
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Drive shaft 200 has one end (not illustrated) that is operatively connected to
a drive
member (not illustrated), such as a motor or any other type of drive device,
for imparting
movement to first movable bristle Garner 180. Drive shaft 200 is formed with
an opposing
distal end (not illustrated) that is bent such that the end is not axially
aligned with the
longitudinal axis of drive shaft 200. This distal bent may be formed with a
shape similar
to end 20 illustrated in Figures lA-1C or may be formed differently so long as
it performs
the intended function. In other words, the end is an offset crank end of drive
shaft 200 and
is configured to be received in slot 22 so that the 360° rotational
movement of shaft 200 is
transmitted into an oscillating back and forth rotational movement of first
movable bristle
Garner 180.
The drive mechanism for the powered toothbrush 100 may be any type of drive,
e.g., a rotating drive, an oscillating drive, an eccentric drive, an
unbalanced-generated
drive, a drive having one more gearing mechanisms, or any other type of drive
mechanism
that is capable of performing the intended function. The drive mechanism may
be realized
in the form of an electric motor or other type of motor and the movement
generated by the
drive may be imparted to one or more sections of the head 120 or to other
elements that
may be present at the brush section 104. The movement may be imparted directly
or
indirectly. Those skilled in the art will appreciate various suitable
mechanisms. The
movement can be imparted directly through a driving axle, such as drive shaft
200 or it
can be imparted through a driving post attached to the driving axle. When
toothbrush 100
includes an oscillating drive mechanism either identical to or similar to the
exemplary
drive mechanism illustrated in Figures lA through 1C, the interior compartment
of handle
102 houses a motor operatively connected to drive shaft 200 and a source to
power the
motor, such as one or more batteries.
When the drive mechanism is actuated and drive shaft 200 is rotated, the
movement of the crank end imparts an oscillating back and forth movement of
first
movable bristle Garner 180 through an angle between about 10° to about
120° and in a
preferred exemplary embodiment, the movement is through an angle between about
10° to
about 30° and in a most preferred embodiment is through an angle
between about 10° to
about 15°.
With reference to Figure 3, toothbrush 100 further includes a second movable
bristle Garner 210 that is operatively mounted on head 120. Second movable
bristle carrier
210 may be formed of an elastomeric material and is generally formed in the
form of a
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head section that has a range of movement when forces are applied to it during
normal
operation and/or normal use of toothbrush 100. Elastomeric second bristle
Garner 210 has
a first end 212 that is disposed in close proximate relation to the first
bristle carrier 180
and an opposing second end 214 that is disposed at or near the proximal end of
head 120.
Elastomeric second bristle Garner 210 further includes a first side 216 and a
second side
218 with a recessed section 220 being defined thereby between first and second
ends 212,
214 and first and second sides 218, 220. Recessed section 220 defines a
recessed
compartment that has a floor 222.
According to one embodiment, elastomeric second bristle carrier 210 is
supported
only at first side 216 and second side 218, respectively, by head base 160
such that
elastomeric second bristle Garner 210 extends across inner compartment 121 of
head 120
and is formed as a substantially "floating" elastomeric platform. The
attachment of
elastomeric second bristle carrier 210 to head base 160 can be accomplished
using
conventional techniques, such as using an adhesive, providing a mechanical
bond, or
integrally attaching the two members during a molding operation. In one
embodiment, the
side walls of the head base 160 may be formed with cut-away portions (i.e., U-
shaped in
the illustrated embodiment) that receive the first and second sides 216, 218,
which are
formed as side walls that are received in the cut-away portions of head base
160, as best
shown in Figure 4.
Because first bristle carrier 180 is preferably formed in the shape of a disk,
first
end 212 is preferably formed with an arcuate shape to accommodate the
oscillating back
and forth rotational movement of first bristle carrier 180. Second end 214 may
also be
formed with an arcuate shape, as illustrated, or it may be formed with any
other shape.
Second end 214 preferably forms a butt joint with the distal end of neck 106,
or second
end 214 may be adapted to extend slightly over the distal end of neck 106 if
additional
support of second end 214 is desired. Elastomeric second bristle carrier 210
is also
formed with a lower surface 215 that extends across inner compartment 121 of
head 120.
Lower surface 215 is therefore coupled to upper edges of the side walls of
head base 160
in this region of head 120, thereby permitting shaft 200 to extend underneath
lower surface
215 through inner compartment 121 to the slot in first carrier 180.
A bristle holder 230 is securely disposed within recessed section 220 defined
by
elastomeric second bristle carrier 210 and is designed to hold a number of
tooth care
elements 152, such as bristle tufts, elastomeric members or a combination
thereof.
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Accordingly, the shapes of bristle holder 230 and the recessed section 220
must be
complementary to one another. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the
bristle holder
230 and the recessed section 220 has an annular shape; however, each can have
any
regular shape or irregular shape (e.g., square, oval, diamond, rectangle,
etc.) Bristle holder
230 supports one or more, and preferably a plurality of, tooth care elements,
generally
illustrated at 250, which extend outwardly from a plane parallel to a face
thereof. It will
be appreciated that bristle holder 230 can hold any number of different types
of tooth care
elements and is not limited to merely support bristle tufts, since elastomeric
members can
equally be held by bristle holder 230 or be formed at part thereof. Bristle
holder 230 is
preferably a relatively rigid member that is formed of a suitable material,
such as a plastic,
that will provide the desired structural characteristics. However and
according to an
alternative embodiment, bristle holder 230 may be formed of an elastomeric
material that
can have a rigidity less than, equal to, or greater than the rigidity of the
elastomeric
material forming elastomeric second bristle carrier 210.
Elastomeric second bristle Garner 210, including the bristle holder 230, can
be
formed using conventional manufacturing methods. In one embodiment,
elastomeric
second bristle Garner 210 is formed around bristle holder 230 in a
conventional molding
process where bristle holder 230 is first positioned and properly located
within a mold and
then elastomeric material is injected around bristle holder 230 to thereby
form the
elastomeric portion of bristle carrier 210 around bristle holder 230.
Elastomeric second bristle Garner 210 is preferably formed such that bristle
holder
230 lies in a plane that is above head base 160, and more preferably above an
upper
surface of neck 106. Elastomeric second bristle carrier 210 therefore includes
a built-up
section (raised section) 225 above the upper surface of neck 106 which leads
to an upper
face 231 of bristle holder 230. In an exemplary embodiment, the built-up
section includes
a radial shoulder 237 that extends around bristle holder 230. Elastomeric
second bristle
carrier 210 thus ramps upwardly from the upper surface of neck 106 to upper
face 231 and
then carrier 210 ramps downwardly toward first bristle Garner 180. The recess
220 is
preferably defined by raised section 225.
Elastomeric second bristle carrier 210 also defines a cavity or a hollow
channel
(e.g., a through hole) 240 extending from first side 216 to the second side
218 thereof. As
best shown in the side elevation view of Figure 4 and the cross-sectional view
of Figure 5,
cavity 240 is defined underneath bristle holder 230, a top boundary of the
cavity being
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defined by an amount of elastomeric material disposed adjacent the bottom
surface of the
bristle holder 230. Cavity 240 is also preferably positioned above the side
walls of the
head base 160 to permit cavity 240 to be free of all obstructions and permit
the operator to
see clearly through cavity 240. In another embodiment, cavity 240 does not
have open
ends; but rather, its sides are defined by an enclosed pocket underneath
bristle holder 230;
or it can be formed so that only one end is open. Optionally (as best
illustrated in Figures
2 and 3), a second cavity or hollow channel (e.g., through hole) 240 is
defined and extends
longitudinally from first end 212 to the second end 214. In this embodiment,
the two
channels intersect in a central portion of second bristle carrier 210. It will
be appreciated
that the cavity 240 does not have to extend completely through second bristle
carrier 210.
Cavity 240 acts as a shock absorbing pocket and permits the elastomeric second
bristle Garner 210 to move substantially vertically (up and down) when a force
is applied
to elastomeric second bristle Garner 210. More specifically, when a force is
applied to an
upper surface of carrier 210 (e.g., to upper face 231), elastomeric second
bristle carrier
210 is compressed downward due to the deformation or partial collapse of
carrier 210
about cavity 240.
Because of its elastomeric nature, second bristle carrier 210 is restored to
its
relaxed condition when the applied force is removed. In other words, once the
applied
force is removed, cavity 240 assumes its initial shape, thereby imparting
shock absorbing
characteristics to second bristle Garner 210. It will be appreciated that by
altering the
dimensions of cavity 240, the shock absorbing characteristics of second
bristle carrier 210
can be varied. For example, as the dimensions of cavity 240 are increased,
Garner 210 will
deform more easily upon application of a force. This directly translates into
added
substantially vertical movement of elastomeric second bristle carrier 210 as
the operator of
toothbrush 100 brushes his or her teeth and the tooth care elements (bristles
and/or
elastomeric members) extending from bristle holder 230 contact teeth and
surrounding
areas. A normal brushing action will impart a number of forces at different
angles against
elastomeric second bristle carrier 210.
Moreover, the elastomeric characteristics of second bristle carrier 210 can be
further altered by the definition of one or more apertures 250 in second
bristle carrier 210
by bristle holder 230. The apertures serve to increase the resiliency of
second bristle
carrier 210 since the definition of apertures 250 results in removal of
elastomeric material.
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In yet another embodiment, an upper section of second bristle carrier 210
defines a
hollow, deformable dome-like structure. Bristle holder 230 defines an upper
surface of the
dome-like structure, and also defines at least one aperture therein to let air
in and out of
the cavity defined by bristle holder 230. Thus, when a force is applied to
bristle holder
230, as during a brushing action, the dome-like structure at least partially
collapses as air
in the cavity is evacuated through the at least one aperture.
The elastic motion of elastomeric second bristle carrier 210 delivers
additional oral
health care benefits such as enhanced cleaning, tooth polishing, and/or tooth
cleaning
since second bristle carrier 210 has a number of tooth care elements extending
therefrom
for contacting the gingival surfaces during a brushing action. It will be
understood that
tooth care elements can be located in other areas besides bristle holder 230.
For example,
some tooth care elements can be attached to and extend upwardly from the top
face of
carrier 210 surrounding bristle holder 230.
Referring next to Figures 6-12, an elastomeric second bristle Garner according
to
another embodiment of the invention is illustrated and generally indicated at
300. In
accordance with this embodiment, elastomeric second bristle carrier 300 does
not include
a bristle holder (such as bristle holder 230 of Figure 5). Rather, elastomeric
second bristle
carrier 300 is generally formed as a "floating" head section that has a range
of movement
when forces are applied to it during normal operation and/or normal use of
toothbrush 100.
Elastomeric second bristle carrier 300 is formed with a first end 302 that is
disposed in
close proximate relation to first bristle carrier 180 and an opposing second
end 304 that is
disposed at or near the proximal end of head 120. Elastomeric second bristle
carrier 300
further includes a first side 306, an opposing second side 308, an upper
surface 310 and a
lower surface 312 that faces inner compartment 121. Upper surface 310 is
preferably not
a planar surface but rather is an arcuate surface (e.g., a convex shaped
surface).
According to one embodiment, elastomeric second bristle carrier 300 is only
supported at first side 306 and second side 308, respectively, by head base
160 such that
elastomeric second bristle Garner 300 extends across and therefore defines an
upper limit
of inner compartment 121 of head 120 and is therefore formed substantially as
a "floating"
elastomeric platform. The attachment of elastomeric second bristle carrier 300
to head
base 160 can be accomplished using conventional techniques, such as using an
adhesive,
providing a mechanical bond, or integrally attaching the two members during a
molding
operation. Because first bristle carrier 180 is formed preferably in the shape
of a disk, first
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end 302 preferably is formed with an arcuate shape to accommodate the
oscillating back
and forth rotational movement of first bristle Garner 180. Second end 304 can
also be
formed with an arcuate shape, as illustrated, or it can be formed with any
other shape.
Second end 304 preferably forms a butt joint with the distal end of neck 106
or second end
304 can extend slightly over the distal end of neck 106 if additional support
of second end
304 is desired. Lower surface 312 is therefore coupled to upper edges of the
side walls of
head base 160 in this region of head 120, thereby permitting shaft 200 to
extend
underneath lower surface 312 and through the inner compartment 121 to the slot
in first
bristle Garner 180.
Second bristle carrier 300 defines an enlarged cavity, hollow channel (e.g.,
through
hole) or pocket 320 that extends not only from side 306 to side 308 but it is
also defined so
that it extends substantially from the first end 302 to the second end 304.
Cavity 320 is
defined above the upper side edges of head base 160 that serve as points for
attachment
between head 120 and second bristle carrier 300. Second bristle carrier 300 is
further
formed with a weakened section incorporated therein to facilitate movement of
second
bristle carrier 300 upon application of a force to upper surface 310. For
example, a
longitudinal or transverse groove (i.e., a score) 330 may be defined in at
least one of upper
surface 310 and a surface 317 defining an upper limit of cavity 320. In the
illustrated
embodiment, a single groove 330 is formed across surface 317. Groove 330 forms
a
weakened section longitudinally within second bristle Garner 300 (a so called
"living
hinge" is formed). It will be appreciated that groove 330 can equally be
formed
longitudinal from first end 302 to second end 304.
The cross-section of Figure 9 illustrates second bristle carrier 300 in a
relaxed
condition prior to application of a force to upper surface 310. Figures 10-12
illustrate the
second bristle carrier 300 in deformed condition after a force is applied to
upper surface
310. When a force is applied to upper surface 310, upper surface 310 deforms
about the
living hinge created by one or more grooves 330. This results in upper surface
310 at least
partially collapsing along the living hinge section. Tooth care elements 340
formed on
upper surface 310 flex inwardly toward one another as a result of such
deformation, as
illustrated in Figure 10. Elastomeric second bristle carrier 300 can thus be
thought of as a
hinged block that has shock absorbing characteristics. When the applied force
is removed,
second bristle Garner 300 returns to its relaxed condition due to its
elastomeric nature.
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Preferably, tooth care elements 340 that extend upwardly from upper surface
310
are a plurality of elastomeric members (such as those shown in Figures 13-17)
that are
formed integrally with elastomeric second bristle carrier 300. For example,
tooth care
elements 340 can be formed in the same molding operation that forms
elastomeric second
bristle carrier 300. Thus, while elastomeric second bristle carrier 300 is
described as a
bristle Garner, it will be understood that the Garner 300 does not necessarily
include any
bristle tufts.
It will also be appreciated that in any of the foregoing embodiments, the
toothbrush
head can have a number of static tooth care elements disposed thereat in a
number of
different locations.
Referring next to Figures 21A, 21B and 21C in addition to Figures 18-20 in yet
another embodiment, toothbrush 100 (and head 140) includes a head base 161
that
partially defines an inner compartment 125 of head 140, and a second movable
bristle
carrier 132 that is operatively mounted on head 140. Second movable bristle
carrier 132
comprises a platform 134 having at first end 136, a second end 138, a first
end midpoint
141, a second end midpoint 142, a midpoint 144, and a bottom 146. A protrusion
148
extends outwardly from platform 134 at first end 136 thereof and is received
into recess
130 of first movable bristle carrier 181, thereby providing a link between
first Garner 181
and second carrier 132. In a preferred embodiment, a feature, such as at least
one leg 150
is formed integral with platform 134 and is adapted to be received by head
base 161 to
support platform 134. It will be understood that the at least one leg 150 can
have a
number of different shapes and broadly, any member that can act as a support
member can
be used to couple platform 134 to head base 161.
There are numerous portions of the present invention, that when changed in
accordance with various embodiments of the invention, will change the type and
range of
motion of both first movable bristle carrier 181 and second movable bristle
Garner 132.
The movement of first movable bristle carrier 181 is outlined above and can be
altered by
varying the drive or transmission of the motion of that drive to first movable
bristle carrier
181. These variations are well known in the art.
Because movement of first movable bristle carrier 181 directly imparts
movement
to the platform 134 changes to the movement of first movable bristle Garner
181 will also
change the movement of second movable bristle Garner 132. Additionally,
changes in the
structure and anchoring of second movable bristle Garner 132 can vary its
movement as
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well. Various embodiments may be designed so that protrusion 148 of platform
134 is
rigidly received in recess 130, or protrusion 148 may be frictionally received
in recess
130.
Other changes to second movable bristle carrier may include that legs 150 and
platform 134 may be formed from either a rigid or an elastomeric material.
Different
combinations of rigid or elastomeric legs 150 and platforms 134 will result in
varied types
and ranges of motion of platform 134. Another factor that will affect the type
and range of
the motion of platform 134 is the placement and number of the legs 150. In one
of the
preferred embodiments of the present invention, illustrated in Figures 21A-
21C, is
included one leg 150 formed integral platform 134 at about the second end
midpoint 142
thereof. The movement of first movable bristle carrier 181 imparts a torsional
movement
on leg 150, as shown by arrow B and rotates platform 134 as well as imparts a
lateral shift
of first end 136 of second movable bristle carrier 132 parallel to the first
end 136.
In other embodiments of the present invention, a first leg 150 is formed
integral
with platform 134 at the first end midpoint 141 thereof and/or a second leg
150 is formed
integral with platform 134 at second end midpoint 142, as illustrated in
Figures 18 through
20. A leg 150 may also be formed integral with platform 134 at midpoint 144
thereof,
alone or in combination with other legs 150, as illustrated in Figures 22
through 25.
Figures 18-25 also illustrate differing variations and combinations of tooth
care
elements 152 including bristles and elastomeric tooth care elements. Figures
18-20
illustrate second movable bristle carrier being formed with short elastomeric
walls in
varying sizes and placement. Figure 22 illustrates second movable bristle
Garner 132
being formed with short elastomeric walls having a top surface thereof being
cupped.
Figure 23 illustrates second movable bristle carrier 132 being formed with
short
elastomeric walls being formed with an overhang. Figure 24 illustrates second
movable
bristle Garner 132 being formed with short elastomeric walls that are not all
erected
parallel, but lean or curve to one side. Referring next to Figure 25, the
second movable
bristle carrier 132 contains a combination of short elastomeric walls with
humps and a
lower bristle section. The above variations are for illustration purposes only
and it is
realized that any combination of tooth care elements may be employed.
Figures 26 through 28 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the invention
utilizing head construction. Handle 102, neck 106, drive, and head base 161
may be
formed similarly as described above. However in accordance with this
embodiment of the
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invention first movable bristle carrier 181 is formed with one or more
protrusions 202
directed toward platform 134 of second movable bristle Garner 132. Platform
134 is
formed similarly as described above, and further includes one or more
protrusion contact
points 204. The movement of first movable bristle carrier 181 imparts movement
of
S platform 134 through contact of protrusions 202 with protrusion contact
points 204.
Again, as above, the material of leg 150 and platform 134, as well as the
location of leg
150 will change the type and range of motion of second movable bristle carrier
132.
Figures 28A through 28C illustrate an example of the movement first movable
bristle
carrier 181 may impart on platform 134. As first movable bristle carrier 181
rotates along
arrow C, platform 134 is imparted a lateral shift of first end 136 parallel to
first end 136 as
well as a rotational shift in the direction of arrow C. While Figures 26-28
illustrate
protrusions 202 not being connected to platform 134, it is also contemplated
that
protrusions 202 may be connected to platform 134 at protrusion contact points
204.
Figures 29 through 31 illustrate additional embodiments generating various
movements. Figure 29 illustrates the movement of platform 134 when the leg 150
is
located solely at the midpoint 144 of platform 134. Platform 134 will
therefore rotate
along arrow D, this will impart greater movement to second end 138 of
platform. Figure
30 illustrates an embodiment where leg 150 is pivotally connected to base 161.
This will
again allow greater movement of second end 138. The above movements will be
generated regardless of how the motion from first movable bristle carrier 181
is imparted
to platform 134. Figures 31A-31C illustrate various positions generated during
movement
of the constructions illustrated in Figures 29 and 30. Both of these
constructions include
second movable bristle Garners that may rotate about the midpoint 144 thereof,
resulting in
an increase in the lateral movement of second end 138 of platform 134, as
illustrated by
arrow E, when first movable bristle carrier 181 oscillates across arrow F.
Figure 32 illustrates another exemplary head embodiment. Handle 102, neck 106,
drive, and head base 161 may be the same as described above. A second movable
bristle
carrier 232 may be operatively connected to a second drive mechanism that will
move
second movable bristle carrier 232 in a third direction. The second drive
feature may
include at least one cam surface 400 that selectively contacts second movable
bristle
Garner 232 or platform 234 to cause movement, in one preferred embodiment,
perpendicular to first movable bristle carrier 180 (in the direction indicated
by arrow G).
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Figure 33 illustrates yet another embodiment wherein leg 150 may span from
approximately second end 138 to approximately first end 136 of platform 134.
This
positioning of leg 150 may cause platform 134 to 'rock' back and forth across
the
longitudinal axis of toothbrush 100, in the directions indicated by arrows H.
Leg 150 may
also be attached to second movable bristle carrier 132 via a receiving groove
410.
Figures 36 and 37 illustrates yet another embodiment where first bristle
carrier 183
may be adapted to be pivotally rotatable around an axis, thereby effectuating
a rotational
or circular movement of the bristles 185. In various embodiments, the first
bristle carrier
183 may rotate around a post 190, although any suitable configuration that
permits such
movement may be used. The movement of the first bristle Garner 183 may be an
oscillating or vibrational movement such that the first bristle carrier 183
first pivots about
the post 190 in one direction through a range~of motion and then pivots about
the post 190
in the opposite direction through a range of motion.
In one embodiment, toothbrush 100 further includes a second movable bristle
carrier 133, which may be formed from any suitable material or materials,
e.g.,
elastomeric and/or non-elastomeric as described above. The second bristle
carrier 133 has
a first pivot 205 that is pivotally connected to the first bristle carrier 183
at a first pivot
mount 207 and a second pivot 209 that is pivotally connected to the brush
section 104 at a
second pivot mount 211. The second bristle Garner 133 is freely movable from
the brush
section 104 other than at the first pivot 205 and the second pivot 209. The
oscillation of
the first bristle carrier 183 preferably causes second bristle carrier 133 to
similarly
oscillate, with second bristle carrier 133 pivoting about first pivot 205
relative to first
bristle carrier 183 and also pivoting about second pivot 209 relative to the
brush section
104. In this manner, second bristle carrier 133 moves through an angular range
of motion
similar to that of first bristle Garner 183. As the center of rotation of the
second bristle
carrier is the second pivot 209, the second bristle carrier 133 moves in a
sectorial fashion.
The second bristle Garner 133 may reside in an indent 217 formed in the brush
section 104 so that the second bristle carrier 133 is generally flush with or
does not extend
outwardly from the surface of the brush section 104 and/or the first bristle
carrier 183. In
such embodiments, the second bristle Garner 133 and the brush section 104 may
be
configured or shaped so that the second bristle Garner 133 does not impact the
brush
section 104 during oscillation.
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In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 34, the first and second pivot mounts
207,
211 comprise a notch in the first bristle carrier 183 and brush holder 104,
respectively.
The first and second pivots 205, 209 are adapted to engage into the first and
second pivot
mounts 207, 211 respectively, and preferably in a sufficiently secure manner
so that the
second bristle carrier 133 does not readily disengage from toothbrush 100
during brushing.
This may be accomplished by various methods, for example, by force fit,
friction fit, snap
fit, etc. Although in the illustrated embodiment the pivots 205, 209 fit into
notches 207,
211, respectively, it should be recognized that the pivots and pivot mounts
may be of any
engaging configuration. For example, the pivots may be connected to the pivot
mounts by
pins (not illustrated) or other connectors.
The pivots 205, 209 are preferably adapted so that the second bristle carrier
133
may pivot relative to the first bristle carrier 183 and the brush section 104.
This may be
accomplished by various constructions. For example, the pivots 205, 209 may be
sufficiently flexible, e.g., an elastomeric or flexible non-elastomeric
material, so that it
flexes or bends relative to the first bristle carrier 180 or brush section
104. In such
embodiments, each pivot acts as a "living hinge."
In other contemplated embodiments, the pivot itself need not be flexible if
the
pivot may rotate relative its respective pivot mount, such as in a "ball and
socket"
configuration. In another embodiment the pivot may be mounted to the pivot
mount via a
pin as discussed above. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are
other
configurations that will achieve the intended function.
The second bristle carrier 133 includes a second plurality of bristles 186.
The
bristles 186 may be of any size, shape, amount, length, configuration,
material and
combinations thereof, as described previously regarding the first plurality of
bristles 185.
Accordingly, the written description above regarding the first plurality of
bristles 185 is
equally applicable to the second plurality of bristles 186, and is
incorporated therefrom.
The sectorial oscillation of the second bristle Garner 133 moves the second
plurality of bristles 186 in an accordingly sectorial oscillation. This
oscillation, which in
addition to the oscillation of the first plurality of bristles 185, provides
additional powered
bristle area and movement to clean, whiten and/or massage. In addition, as
will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art, in various embodiments the movement
of the
second plurality of bristles 186 differs from the movement of the first
plurality of bristles
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185, further enhancing the effectiveness of toothbrush 100 through the
combination of
movement.
It should be appreciated that the bristles may be incorporated into the second
bristle carrier 133 in any number of manners regardless of the material from
which the
second bristle carrier 133 is formed. By way of example, if the second bristle
Garner 133
is formed from elastomeric material, elastomeric bristles may be incorporated
during
molding thereof. However, non-elastomeric bristles may be incorporated by
including one
or more inserts (not illustrated) having such bristles as previously
described. The inserts
may, for example, include plastic inserts having tufts of non-elastomeric
bristles attached
thereto.
Conversely, if the second bristle Garner 133 is formed from non-elastomeric
material, e.g., plastic, non-elastomeric bristles may be attached thereto as
described above.
However, elastomeric bristles may be incorporated by including one or more
inserts
having elastomeric bristles in the second bristle carrier 133. Thus, the
second bristle
carrier 133 may include elastomeric bristles, non-elastomeric bristles, or any
combination
thereof. Those skilled in the art will recognize the multitude of possible
bristle
combinations and configurations.
In further embodiments such as the one illustrated in Figures 37-39, the
second
bristle Garner 133 may additionally move in a generally vertical direction,
i.e., radially
inward and outward relative to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush.
Driveshaft 330,
which may be similar to shaft 12 shown in Figures lA-1C, preferably has at
least one cam,
detent, journal or offset 340 integral therewith that is generally
longitudinally aligned with
the second bristle carrier. The offset 340 preferably extends radially from
the longitudinal
axis of the driveshaft 330 such that during rotation of the driveshaft 330 the
offset 340
contacts the second bristle carrier 133. The contact between the offset 340
and the second
bristle carrier 133 exerts a radial force against it, thereby moving the
second bristle Garner
133 in a vertical or radial direction.
As the driveshaft 330 further rotates, the offset 340 ceases its contact with
the
second bristle Garner 133, thereby permitting the second bristle carrier 133
to return to its
original position. In this manner, the second bristle carrier 133 oscillates
vertically during
powered operation of the toothbrush.
The amplitude of the second bristle carrier's vertical oscillation is
dependent upon
the radial distance that the offset 340 extends from the longitudinal axis of
the driveshaft
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330. In yet further embodiments, the second bristle carrier 133 may have a
lobe or tab 350
extending radially inwardly from the second bristle carrier 133. In such
embodiments, the
vertical amplitude of the second bristle carrier 133 depends additionally upon
the distance
that the tab 350 extends radially inwardly from second bristle carrier 133.
The second bristle carrier 133 should preferably possess sufficient
flexibility such
that it will move vertically when acted upon by the offset 340 and return to
its original
position when the vertical force is removed. This may be accomplished by using
a
generally elastomeric second bristle carrier 133 as described above, or a non-
elastomeric
(plastic) second bristle carrier 133 having sufficient flexibility. This may
also be
accomplished if the pivots 207, 211 of the second bristle carrier 133 have
sufficient
flexibility, e.g., are elastomeric. Preferably, the pivots 207, 211 have
sufficient flexibility
so that vertical movement of the second bristle carrier does not impart
undesirable vertical
or shear forces on the first bristle carrier 183, interfere with the sectorial
movement of the
second bristle carrier 133, or interfere with any other components of the
toothbrush 100.
Moreover, the driveshaft 330 and offset 340 preferably have sufficient
rigidity relative to
the second bristle carrier 133 so that neither the driveshaft 330 nor the
offset 340
undesirably deflect when in contact with the second bristle carrier 133.
Vertical oscillation of the second bristle carrier 133 imparts additional
movement
of the bristles against the teeth and/or gums. This further enhances the
cleaning and
massaging effectiveness of the bristles.
It should also be noted that the embodiment depicted in Figures 37-39
illustrates
one cam or offset. Thus, the second bristle carrier 133 undergoes one vertical
oscillation
for every one revolution of the driveshaft 330. Alternatively, the second
bristle Garner 133
may undergo additional oscillations per revolution of the driveshaft 330 by
configuring the
driveshaft 330 with additional cams (not illustrated). Those skilled in the
art will
appreciate that any number of cams may be placed on the driveshaft 330 to
obtain any
desired number of oscillations per driveshaft revolution and how the
toothbrush may be
configured to achieve such function.
The vertical movement of the second bristle carrier 133 may further be varied
by
configuring the cams with an uneven pitch around the circumference of the
driveshaft 330
and/or by varying the radial offset of the cams from the longitudinal axis of
driveshaft
330. For example, if the cams are equally spaced, the second bristle carrier
133 will
oscillate at a constant frequency. However, if the cams are not equally
spaced, the second
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bristle carrier 133 will not oscillate at a constant frequency, but rather
will oscillate in a
complex manner. Similarly, if the radial offset of the cams is varied from one
to another,
the amplitude of vertical movement of the second bristle carrier 133 may be
varied from
one oscillation to another. Variations in the vertical movement of the second
bristle
earner 133 serve to further vary the movement of the bristles against the
teeth and gums.
Referring now to Figures 40-42, still other embodiments of the invention
include a
second bristle carrier 133 that may be suspended from the brush section 104 so
as to form
a gap 360 between the second bristle carrier 133 and the brush section 104.
This may be
accomplished by including an indent 217 that is deeper than the thickness of
the second
bristle earner 133. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other manners in
which the
toothbrush components may be adapted to achieve this function. The suspension
of the
second bristle carrier 133 from the brush section 104 may reduce friction
between the two,
increasing the smoothness of the toothbrush operation, reducing wear on the
components,
and reducing power consumption, thereby increasing battery life and/or
permitting use of
smaller and less expensive drive components.
In order to prevent the possibility of debris, food, toothpaste, saliva and
other
objects from entering the gap 360, the toothbrush 100 may further include
curtains or
walls 370 extending from the brush section 104 to the second bristle carrier
133 to
generally form a seal over the gap 360. The curtains 370 may alternatively be
attached to
the second bristle carrier 133. The curtains 370 are preferably sufficiently
flexible so as to
flex with the sectorial movement of the second bristle carrier 133 and not
unduly interfere
with its movement. The curtains 370 may be made of elastomeric or non-
elastomeric
material.
A powered toothbrush made in accordance with the present invention provides a
number of advantages over known powered toothbrushes that are presently
available. For
example, in embodiments having a first earner that oscillates back and forth,
or moves
otherwise, the oscillating, tooth care elements, e.g. bristles (i.e.,
elastomeric and/or non-
elastomeric) contact the surfaces of the teeth and the surrounding areas to
deliver
enhanced cleaning, stimulation, and tooth polishing and/or whitening. Further,
embodiments having a second earner may provide additional tooth care elements
that may
be disposed in various patterns and combinations different from those of the
first carrier
such that as the operator brushes his or her teeth, the oscillating tooth care
elements
contact the surfaces of the teeth and the surrounding areas to deliver
enhanced cleaning,
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tooth polishing and/or tooth whitening. These tooth care elements may move in
a different
manner than those of the first Garner, which along with the additional number
and area of
moving tooth care elements, provide increased contact with teeth and gingival
tissues for
enhanced cleaning, and massaging thereof, and stimulating over known powered
toothbrushes.
An oscillating motion has advantages over known toothbrushes that continuously
rotate in one direction in that the variation of direction and speed of the
bristles during
oscillation provides improved cleaning and stimulation. Although in an
oscillating system
of the invention the bristles may rotate through any range of motion, it has
been found that
ranges of motion from approximately 10° to 120° are effective in
cleaning, whitening and
stimulating. It has further been found that ranges of motion from
approximately 10° to
30° are also effective, and further provide the benefits of reduced
cost and complexity of
the toothbrush drive mechanism.
It will thus be seen that the objects set forth above, among those made
apparent
from the preceding description, are efficiently attained and, because certain
changes may
be made in carrying out the above method and in the constructions) set forth
without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all
matter contained
in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be
interpreted as
illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover
all of the
generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all
statements of the
scope of the invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall
therebetween.
