CN116782795A

CN116782795A - Powered tooth cleaning device

Info

Publication number: CN116782795A
Application number: CN202180091119.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: G·K·布鲁尔; R·施瓦茨; S·哈里夫; E·布鲁尔; C·布鲁尔; C·维尼卡; C·雷丁格; H·威廉姆斯; A·普尔; J·斯基德莫尔; C·伍德; D·巴叶
Original assignee: Leica International Co ltd
Current assignee: Leica International Co ltd
Priority date: 2020-11-20
Filing date: 2021-11-19
Publication date: 2023-09-19
Also published as: CN116896996A

Abstract

The present application relates to powered toothbrush systems that provide improved bristle positioning and bristle contact with the tooth surfaces, thereby reducing the time and effort required to effectively brush the teeth. Some embodiments use alternating or oscillating pneumatic pressure and suction to move the toothbrush head. The various configurations of the brush head provide different coverage areas ranging from a single tooth to a quarter of an oral cavity (U-shaped cross section), to half (U-shaped cross section or H-shaped cross section) or the entire oral cavity (U-shaped cross section or H-shaped cross section) coverage. Some embodiments include flexible fingers and/or bladders to hold the bristle tips in proper engagement with the teeth and gums to provide bristle contact for various malocclusions. The shape of the brush head is adapted to closely conform to the shape of the user's tray and any malocclusions that may be present. The powered toothbrush automatically produces the motion of the brush head that simulates the modified Bass brushing regimen.

Description

Powered tooth cleaning device

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/116,426 entitled "POWERED TOOTHBRUSH" filed 11/20/2020, U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/169,061 entitled "ENCOMPASS POWERED TOOTHBRUSH" filed 3/2021, and U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/185,751 entitled "IMPROVED J-ARCH FIT" filed 7/2021, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in its entirety herein.

Background

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to the field of tooth cleaning and to powered toothbrushes that provide a brushing action that produces improved tooth cleaning.

Background

Cleaning teeth is a necessary but time-consuming sporadic task for good oral health. There are various manual and powered tooth cleaning products for removing dental plaque from teeth. Most manual and powered toothbrushes require two minutes or more to effectively remove plaque build-up. However, studies have shown that ordinary people brush their teeth for only thirty-seven seconds. In addition, nearly seventeen percent of the population will not be flossed every day, which may cause additional plaque build-up between teeth, resulting in poor oral health.

Powered toothbrushes have been clinically studied to demonstrate more effective plaque removal. However, less than 30% of the U.S. population uses powered toothbrushes. The effectiveness of powered toothbrushes is also very technology dependent. Small brush heads on typical toothbrushes require precise positioning to bring the bristles into contact with the correct position on the teeth. Poor techniques may result in tooth surfaces being cleaned in a non-uniform manner, which may cause plaque build-up that is more difficult to remove during subsequent cleaning. Poor brushing skills can also cause other oral health problems such as soft tissue bruising, gingival recession, neck wear (wear occurring in the neck of the teeth) and dentin hypersensitivity.

Disclosure of Invention

A system for an improved dental care device is provided that addresses the shortcomings of conventional dental care devices. Embodiments provide a powered toothbrush with improved bristle positioning and bristle contact with the tooth surfaces, which reduces the time and effort required to effectively brush the teeth. Some embodiments use alternating or oscillating pneumatic pressure and suction to move the toothbrush head. The size and orientation of the brush head may be varied to provide different coverage areas, with each coverage area ranging from a single tooth to a quarter of an oral cavity (U-shaped cross section), to half (U-shaped cross section or H-shaped cross section) or the entire oral cavity (U-shaped cross section or H-shaped cross section) coverage. Some embodiments include flexible sidewall segments (fingers) and/or bladders (air or fluid) to keep the bristle tips properly engaged with the teeth and gums, thereby providing bristle contact that accommodates variations in tooth size, shape, number and bite. The shape of the brush head is adapted to closely conform to the shape of the user's dental arch and any malocclusions that may be present. The powered toothbrush automatically produces a movement of the brush head that simulates the "modified bas method" brushing recommended by the dental professional as most effective in removing dental plaque.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a powered toothbrush is provided. The power toothbrush includes: a first tray comprising a first set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces of a first set of teeth; a second tray comprising a second set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces of a second set of teeth, the second set of teeth being opposite the first set of teeth; an inflatable bladder disposed between the first tray and the second tray; a frame holding the bladder; a first coupling mechanism coupling the first tray to the first side of the capsule; a second coupling mechanism couples the second dental tray to a second side of the capsule opposite the first side of the capsule.

The inflatable bladder may include a first membrane spanning across and coupled to a first side of the frame and a second membrane spanning and coupled to a second side of the frame opposite the first membrane.

The first coupling mechanism may include one or more attachment members coupled to the first film and one or more corresponding interface openings in the first tray, and the second coupling mechanism may include one or more attachment members coupled to the second film and one or more corresponding interface openings in the second dental arch.

The powered toothbrush may further comprise: a first paddle interposed between the first tray and the inflatable bladder, the first paddle attached to the first membrane and having one or more attachment members extending therefrom away from the bladder; and a second paddle interposed between the second tray and the inflatable bladder, the second paddle being attached to the second membrane and having one or more attachment members extending therefrom away from the bladder.

Further, the first set of cleaning surfaces and the second set of cleaning surfaces may each comprise: a fabric; and a plurality of yarn segments woven through the fabric, wherein each of the plurality of yarn segments comprises a plurality of filaments forming bristles on a first side of the fabric.

The powered toothbrush may include: a handle portion; and a pneumatic device disposed within the handle portion and coupled to the bladder.

The powered toothbrush may include: a neck extending from the frame and having a tapered opening in an end opposite the frame; and a first interlocking member positioned within the tapered opening.

The powered toothbrush may include: a handle portion having a base, a nose cone opposite the base, and a second interlocking member disposed on the nose cone and interlocking with the first interlocking member; and a pneumatic device disposed within the handle portion and coupled to the bladder via a nose cone.

These and other features, aspects, and embodiments are described below in the section entitled "detailed description of the invention".

Drawings

Details of the present invention, both as to its structure and operation, can be gleaned in part by studying the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a powered toothbrush according to embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the powered toothbrush of FIG. 1 with the brush head removed;

fig. 3A-3C illustrate various views of an exemplary internal housing of the powered toothbrush of fig. 1, according to embodiments disclosed herein;

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate an exemplary brushhead assembly of the powered toothbrush of FIG. 1 engaged with a set of teeth;

fig. 5A-5E illustrate various views of an exemplary brushhead assembly which may be used with the powered toothbrush of fig. 1, with filaments removed, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 5F illustrates a front view of an exemplary drive mechanism that may be used with the head brush assembly of FIGS. 5A-5E in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary tray that may be used with the brush head assembly of FIG. 5A according to embodiments disclosed herein;

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate schematic views of mating adjustment of the tray of figure 8 according to embodiments disclosed herein;

fig. 9 to 12 show exploded views of the drive mechanism of fig. 13;

fig. 13 and 14 illustrate cross-sectional views of different examples of drive mechanisms according to embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system that may be used with the powered toothbrush of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate various states of the pneumatic system of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary interlock system that may be used with the powered toothbrush of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

18A-18C illustrate an exemplary first interlocking component of the interlocking system of FIG. 17 that may be used with a brushhead assembly in accordance with an embodiment disclosed herein;

19A-19C illustrate an exemplary second interlocking component of the interlocking system of FIG. 17 that can be used with the handle portion of the powered toothbrush of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 20 illustrates a flow chart of operation of the interlock system of FIG. 17;

21A-21B illustrate another exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the powered toothbrush of FIG. 1, with filaments removed, according to embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 22 illustrates another exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the powered toothbrush of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein;

figures 23 and 24 illustrate additional examples of brush heads that may be used with the powered toothbrush of figure 1 according to embodiments disclosed herein;

figures 25A-25B illustrate schematic views of an exemplary tray that may be used with the brush head assembly of figure 4, according to an embodiment;

fig. 25C shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a full arch tray having all teeth designed to brush a user simultaneously.

Figures 26 and 27 illustrate schematic diagrams of examples of drive mechanisms that may be used with the brush head of figure 4, according to some embodiments;

FIG. 28 is a functional block diagram illustrating an exemplary wired or wireless processing device that may be used in connection with the various embodiments described herein; and is also provided with

Fig. 29A to 29C are various views of the woven brush pad.

Detailed Description

Various embodiments of a powered toothbrush are disclosed herein. It should be understood that while various steps, components, parties, etc. are disclosed in the following description of embodiments, the embodiments are exemplary and should not be taken as limiting the described systems and methods to only those steps, components, parties, etc. disclosed.

Systems and methods for a powered toothbrush are provided. Embodiments of the powered toothbrush may provide advantages over conventional tooth cleaning systems: compliance, adaptability, and comfort. Compliance with the proper brushing regimen includes two factors: techniques and time. Many people do not perform the correct brushing technique, and even if the technique used is correct, most people brush their teeth for much less time than the recommended effective removal of dental plaque. Both of these factors can lead to missing dental plaque, leading to poor oral health.

Embodiments of the powered toothbrush enable a user to easily perform standard-compliant brushing techniques in a much shorter period of time than is required using conventional brushing systems and methods. The time and agility required for effective brushing is also reduced, and the effectiveness of brushing can be improved for persons with limited agility, such as elderly, disabled persons, and young children. Embodiments of the present invention also provide a brush head that reduces the amount of time required to perform a standard brushing regimen by brushing multiple teeth simultaneously. For example, some embodiments include a brush head that can brush all of the teeth in the mouth at a time, brush half of the teeth in the mouth at a time (all of the teeth of the mandibular arch, all of the teeth of the maxillary arch, or one half of the teeth of the mandibular arch are simultaneous with one half of the teeth of the opposite maxillary arch). Other configurations are possible based on the disclosure provided below.

Embodiments of the powered toothbrush provide effective cleaning of teeth by providing the benefits of the "bas method" and the "modified bas method" of brushing. These techniques are the first choice for many dental professionals because they are most effective in removing bacterial plaque near and just below the gingival margin. Removal of dental plaque from the gingival margin provides an important contribution to the control of gingival and periodontal disease. In the bas method, a manual toothbrush with a flat brushing plane and circular nylon filaments is directed at the gums at an angle of approximately forty-five degrees and uses up and down motions to clean the teeth. The modified bas method adds a slight circumferential motion to the up-down motion of the bas method. While the Bass brushing method is very effective in cleaning teeth and removing plaque, it is often found that this technique is too difficult to perform properly. Thus, some dental professionals recommend improved Bass methods rather than Bass brushing. Some dental professionals believe that the modified bas method is easier to accomplish using a manual toothbrush, but the bas method provides more effective interproximal cleaning. Because relatively few people regularly use flossing, deep interdental cleaning can significantly reduce the build-up of calculus on teeth, resulting in improved oral health. Embodiments of the powered toothbrush automatically move the brush head to simulate a Bass cleaning method, enabling the user to benefit from more efficient cleaning of the Bass method without being limited by the user's manual dexterity. Embodiments of the powered toothbrush provide effective cleaning of tooth surfaces and interproximal areas while eliminating the burden of mastering and performing challenging brushing techniques.

The powered toothbrush also provides flexibility. People have a wide variety of arch shapes and sizes and a wide variety of tooth widths. In addition, the position of the teeth may vary greatly due to malocclusions of teeth that are malpositioned. Embodiments of the powered toothbrush include an adjustable brush head that enables the brush head to adapt to specific parameters of the user's mouth, regardless of the size and shape of the user's dental arch, the width of the user's teeth, and any malocclusions or misalignments of the user's teeth. Embodiments of the powered toothbrush provide improved bristle positioning that results in improved contact of the bristles with the tooth surfaces to provide more uniform cleaning of the teeth.

Powered toothbrushes also provide a comfortable brushing experience. The user is less likely to use the uncomfortable system. The brush head of the powered toothbrush system is formed of a flexible material that conforms to the shape of the user's mouth and includes thinner, softer bristles than conventional toothbrush systems, which are less likely to irritate sensitive teeth and/or gums.

Based on extended global ethnicity studies, it is apparent that the primary embodiments set forth herein provide more adjustability and user-friendly fit than previously known; jaw-to-jaw adjustment, tooth angle-to-jaw adjustment, jaw-to-jaw length adjustment, and the ability of the toothbrush to flatten out as it rests on the drive plate of the capsule. The methods set forth herein provide improved and new manners of size and shape flexibility to reduce the product size required to accommodate a large percentage of the world's population from many to just a few. This allows for greater popularity and use by all ethnic groups worldwide. The improved shape-adjusting toothbrushes described herein provide improved toothbrush contact with a wider range of oral cavity sizes and shapes, resulting in improved plaque removal. Early tests showed that plaque removal in the examples herein was more than 3-fold better than manual toothbrushes.

Embodiments of powered toothbrushes

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a powered toothbrush 100 according to embodiments disclosed herein. Fig. 1 illustrates a powered toothbrush 100 having a multi-tooth and/or multi-tray brush head assembly 400 (fig. 5A-14). The most common method of removing dental plaque is to create shear forces by the movement of the toothbrush filaments 414 of the brush head 400 over the outer surfaces of the teeth via the tray 412. According to some embodiments, powered toothbrush 100 is configured to produce a brushing motion that mimics the brushing motion of the Bass brushing regimen recommended by a dental professional.

Fig. 2 shows an exploded view of the powered toothbrush 100 of fig. 1 with the brush head 400 removed. Removable brush head assembly 400 may be removably coupled to handle portion 200 via an interlocking system (fig. 17-20) included in neck 430. Fig. 2 shows the internal components of the handle portion 200. The handle portion 200 includes a handle housing 220, an upper cover 221, and a lower cover 228. The handle housing 220 includes a cavity 225 that accommodates the internal housing 201.

The handle housing 220 also includes an opening 224 that receives an input mechanism 226 coupled to the switch 214 that enables a user to turn the powered toothbrush 100 on or off. A seal 226 may be provided between the input mechanism 226 and the housing 220 to hermetically seal the housing 220. The input mechanism 226 may be a button that deflects to operate the switch 214 in response to user input. As another example, the input mechanism may be a capacitive or other touch-sensitive surface configured to operate the switch 214 in response to user input.

Fig. 3A-3C illustrate various views of the internal housing 201 of the powered toothbrush 100. Fig. 3A shows a side view of the internal housing 201, and fig. 3B shows a perspective view of the internal housing 201 at an angle opposite to the perspective view shown in fig. 2. The internal housing 201 includes a carrier 202 to which the components of fig. 2-3C may be attached via fastener components (e.g., set screws, bolts, etc.).

The inner housing includes a bushing 206 coupled to an eccentric 205 that is driven by a motor 204 (e.g., a DC motor, etc.). The bushing 206 may have a diaphragm 207 attached to the carrier 202 via a lower portion 208 of the chassis sandwiched between the body 201 and a Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) 210. The motor 204 is electrically coupled to a battery 203 (e.g., a lithium ion battery, etc.) via a power line, and the battery 203 is attached to the carrier 202, for example, by fastener members 213 (e.g., in this example, ties, but any fastener may be used). PCBA 210 may include a switch 214 that receives input via an input mechanism 226 to activate/deactivate toothbrush 100. A seal 209 may be provided around the input device 214. The PCBA 210 may also include a processor device 215 for controlling the operation of the toothbrush 100 according to instructions stored in memory. The processor device 215 may be implemented, for example, as a processing device xxx

The upper cap 221 includes a nose cone 222 configured to be coupled to the brush head 400 via an interlocking system. For example, nose cone 222 may include a first interlocking component for interfacing with a second interlocking component included in brushhead assembly 400 (as described in more detail below in connection with fig. 17-20). The upper cover 221 may also include an inlet port 223 at one end of the tube 229. The inlet port 223 is configured to mate with the outlet port 216 of the diaphragm 206 via a coupling head or male/female pair to supply fluid (e.g., gaseous or liquid) to the brushhead assembly 400 through a passageway in the nose cone 222 between the inlet port 223 and the outlet 230. For example, operation of the motor 204 pulses the diaphragm 207 and fluid flow resulting from the pulses is supplied into the inlet port 223 and to the brushhead assembly 400 via the outlet 230. One or more of inlet port 223, tube 229, outlet port 216, diaphragm 206, and outlet 230 may be considered part of the fluid path between the pneumatic system and drive mechanism 420.

According to some embodiments, battery 203 is recharged using an external power source via a charging coil 212 electrically coupled to battery 203. The handle portion 200 may be held by or rest on the docking station 300. For example, docking station 300 may have an upper housing with a protrusion extending from the upper housing, and a lower housing, the combination of which forms a cavity that holds the charred coil. The lower cover 228 may include a recessed opening extending inwardly into the cavity 225 configured to receive a protrusion of a docking station. In some embodiments, the charging coil 212 receives power from a docking station 300 electrically coupled to an external power supply via a cable 301 that holds the powered toothbrush 100 when the toothbrush is not in use. For example, when toothbrush 100 is resting on docking station 300, charging coil 212 receives an inductance from the charging coil of the docking station to supply charge to battery 203. The cable 301 may include a plug interface that enables the powered toothbrush 100 to be plugged into a utility. Some embodiments may use disposable batteries, while other embodiments may be powered by high-capacity capacitors.

The powered toothbrush 100 includes a pneumatic system for converting electrical energy into filament movement. Referring to fig. 1, brush head assembly 400 includes a drive mechanism 420 disposed between an upper brush member 410a and a lower brush member 410b (collectively brush members 410 b). The upper brush assembly includes a tray 412a (e.g., mandibular arch) and brush filaments 414a, and the lower brush member 400b includes a tray 412b (e.g., maxillary arch) and brush filaments 414b. The drive mechanism 420 alternately drives the trays 412a and 412b apart and gathers the trays 412a and 412b together to create a brushing motion. Additional details describing exemplary head brush assembly 400 and exemplary drive mechanism 420 are provided below with respect to fig. 5A-14. According to other embodiments, other drive mechanisms may be used, such as driving a dual bladder or a bladder with multiple chambers, a bladder in the form of multiple inflatable actuator domes, or other mechanical mechanisms (such as a motor with oscillating weights that induce movement into the brush plate).

The drive mechanism 420 may extend from the sheath 530 to the first and second brush members 410. Sheath 530 is attached to neck 430, which may include an optional identification band 432 at an edge of neck 430 opposite sheath 530. Sheath 530 may surround an inlet 532 for supplying fluid from outlet 230 to a channel within drive mechanism 420 (see fig. 4A, 4B, and 10A-12). Sheath 530 may be provided to prevent the fluid path therein from becoming blocked, squeezed or distorted. The inlet 532 may be considered part of the fluid path between the pneumatic system and the drive mechanism 420.

The powered toothbrush 100 includes a pneumatic system to provide alternating or oscillating pneumatic pressure, such as a motor 204 driving the diaphragm 207 to deliver pneumatic pressure to a drive mechanism 420 via a coupling to a tube 229 in accordance with electrical energy provided by a battery 203. Tube 229 provides a portion of a fluid conduit or path from the diaphragm to drive mechanism 420. The fluid conduit may include a tube 229, an inlet 223, an outlet 230, an inlet 532, a channel in the nose cone 22 between the outlet 230 and the inlet 223, and a channel (e.g., channel 535) extending from the inlet 532 into the drive mechanism 420. According to some embodiments, the pneumatic system is closed. Additional details describing the interaction of the pneumatic system and the drive mechanism are provided below with respect to fig. 15-16C. According to some embodiments, the pneumatic system may be closed, except that a small amount of intake air is used to compensate for air leakage from the system. According to some alternative embodiments, the pneumatic system need not be closed, but may include at least one pressure relief valve for relieving pressure from the system.

Various pump designs may be used to provide pneumatic pressure to the pneumatic system of the powered toothbrush. For example, according to some embodiments, the motor 204 may be a rotary motor with a pump section (e.g., pump 207) used, while in other embodiments, the motor 204 may be a linear motor with a cam, such as a swinging weight, that pushes against a bellows or diaphragm (e.g., pump 207) that is used to generate pneumatic pressure. In still other embodiments, the motor 204 may be a linear motor with a piston pump (e.g., pump 207) used. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device may be implemented as a motor 204 that pushes a bellows (e.g., pump 207) that may be used to generate pressure.

According to some embodiments, the pneumatic system of the powered toothbrush 100 is configured to not store a supply reservoir of fluid (e.g., air) at a set pressure, as described below in connection with fig. 15-16C, unlike most conventional pneumatic systems. Instead, the pressure in the system is dynamic. Each stroke of the pump 207 has a compression stroke and a suction stroke. The valve is used to direct air toward the bladder during a compression stroke to inflate the drive mechanism. The valve also directs suction toward the drive mechanism in an out-of-phase relationship. When both pressure and suction are combined in a common fluid path, the resulting pressure differential oscillates the drive mechanism, e.g., inflates and deflates one or more bladders included therein. As the pressure in the one or more bladders decreases, the suction initiates a rapid deflation, more rapidly than merely lowering the trays 102 and 104.

In various embodiments, positive and negative cycle pressure conditions may be achieved in the drive mechanism during each pump stroke. When the pump 207 performs compression to push fluid into the drive mechanism via the fluid path or suction to pull fluid out of the drive mechanism, fluid from the pump 207 is allowed to flow into or out of the drive mechanism. In this embodiment, the optimum movement occurs by mechanical resonance or pneumatic volume adjustment of the air cavity to maintain the tray in motion. By selecting a drive frequency that is slightly higher than the resonant frequency, the amplitude or apparent brushing power increases as the entire brushing system is loaded. In this embodiment, the increase in mass may actually make movement easier and keep the movement with less applied energy.

According to some alternative embodiments, baffle values may not be used to direct air flow and increase pressure in a pneumatic system.

While the above examples provide pneumatic systems implemented using motors and diaphragms, other embodiments are possible. For example, the pneumatic system may include a micro-piston air compressor, an air delivery system coupled to the micro-piston air compressor, and a flexible resilient bladder in fluid communication with the air compressor via a manifold, such as described in connection with U.S. patent No. 8,359,692, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein as if fully set forth. An air compressor may be located in the handle portion 200 and a bladder may be placed in layers between the mandibular arch (tray 412 a) and the maxillary arch (tray 412 b) of the brush head 400. An air delivery manifold connects the air compressor to the bladder via a coupler. The coupler provides an air conduit from the air compressor to the bladder.

Referring to fig. 1, tray 412a and tray 412B are illustratively depicted as J-arches that simultaneously effect right or left sagittal plane brushing of the mandibular and maxillary arches (upper and lower teeth on one side of the mouth), as shown in fig. 4A and 4B. The brush head 400 may be used to brush either side of the mouth and the flat (side-to-side) and front-to-back tilt of the tray helps accommodate different bite angles, jaw shapes, lengths and jaw shapes and tooth angles. For example, the user may simply flip the toothbrush to brush the teeth on the other side of the oral cavity. According to some embodiments, trays 412a and 412b may be U-shaped arches that enable brushing of the entire mandibular and maxillary dental arches. According to some embodiments, the trays 412a and 412b include soft tips along the edges of the trays that massage the gums of a user as the brush head assembly 400 cleans the teeth.

Inflation and deflation of the drive mechanism 420 may be accomplished by alternating application of pressure and suction by the diaphragm 207 via the motor 204. According to some embodiments, rather than using a single large air bladder, the drive mechanism may be provided in the form of one or more dome-shaped actuators (e.g., air bladders), as described in U.S. patent No. 8,359,692. According to another embodiment, the drive mechanism may be provided in the form of a speaker cone with a rigid frame surrounding a flexible speaker cone structure attached to the circumference of the central rigid portion. A detailed description of an embodiment using a speaker cone actuator is described below with respect to fig. 13-18.

Filaments 414a are coupled to tray 412a and filaments 414b are coupled to tray 412b. Filaments 414a and 414b (collectively filaments 414) comprise a cleaning surface that can contact the surface of a tooth for cleaning. Each cleaning surface may include one or more cleaning members such as, but not limited to, bristles or any other structure that contact the surface of the teeth for cleaning. The trays 412a and 412b (collectively referred to as trays 412) apply pressure to the respective filaments 414 that causes the corresponding cleaning surfaces of the filaments to contact the surfaces of the user's teeth. Filaments 414 can conform to the tooth surface even in the presence of malocclusions. Because the pressure from the tray 412 helps to keep the cleaning surfaces of the filaments 414 in contact with the surfaces of the teeth, the length of the cleaning members used (e.g., bristles or other elements that contact the surfaces of the teeth for cleaning) may be much shorter than may be required if the cleaning members were used alone to accommodate the arches of the user's teeth. According to an embodiment, the cleaning member is a bristle set at a perpendicular to an acute angle to the surface of the tooth, wherein the distal ends of the bristle are directed towards the gingival sulcus in order to remove bacterial plaque near and directly below the gingival margin. According to another embodiment, the bristles may be angled with respect to the surface of the teeth, for example, the bristles may be angled at about 45 degrees with respect to the surface of the teeth. In another embodiment, a subset of bristles may be angled with respect to the surface of the tooth, while another subset is set perpendicular to the surface of the tooth (see, e.g., fig. 25A and 25B). In still other embodiments, the multiple bristle sub-sets may each be angled at different angles relative to the surface of the teeth. For example, the bristles may include one or more of the following: a first bristle sub-set angled at plus 45 degrees (e.g., such that the distal end extends downward from the proximal end), a second bristle sub-set angled at minus 45 degrees (e.g., such that the distal end extends upward from the proximal end), a third bristle sub-set angled at 35 degrees, a fourth bristle sub-set angled vertically, and so forth. Any number of subgroups and angles may be included to achieve the desired cleaning performance.

According to some embodiments, filaments 414 are attached to tray 412 using an adhesive. According to other embodiments, the filaments 414 include a rigid backing that may be snapped or locked into place on the tray 412. According to some embodiments, filaments 414 may be removable and replaceable to allow a user to replace filaments 414 without having to replace the entire brush head. Various techniques may be used to snap or lock filaments 414 into place. According to some embodiments, the filaments 414 may be attached to the tray using thermal or ultrasonic welding. For example, filaments 414 may have one or more posts extending from a rigid backing fused to the dental arch. According to other embodiments, a tension clasp may be used to attach the filaments 414 to the tray 412. For example, the filaments 414 may include one or more rubber tips that are stretched, inserted through openings in the tray, and released, and the rubber tips are not stretched and spread wide enough that the tips cannot come out of the openings and hold the brush pad in place. According to another embodiment, a "marble" or a plurality of marbles may be used to hold the filaments 414 in place. The marbles include molded rounded features molded onto the rigid backing of filaments 414 and snapped into corresponding openings on the dental arch. The marble enables the rigid backing of filaments 414 to rotate about the axis of the marble, which can help align the brush head with the teeth during use. According to yet another embodiment, ultrasonic welding may be used to secure filaments 414 to the dental arch. For example, the filaments 414 may be formed of a plastic material compatible with the plastic of the tray, and the filaments 414 may be ultrasonically welded to the tray.

According to an embodiment, filaments 414 include bristles, each bristle having a diameter of about 0.001 to 0.003 inches. Soft small diameter bristles having diameters less than or equal to 0.005 inches help penetrate hard to clean areas of the oral cavity, such as interdental spaces and occlusal furrows. The smaller the diameter of the bristles, the shorter the tuft can be and the relative stiffness of the bristles maintained. According to some embodiments, the bristles are about 0.003 to 0.005 inches in diameter and about 1 to 5mm in length. Filaments 414 should provide near complete coverage of the tooth surface. Thus, even minimal movement of the brush head in the oral cavity should provide complete cleaning of the tooth surfaces including interdental areas and occlusal furrows.

In some embodiments, filaments 414 may include nylon (e.g., nylon 6, 6-10, 6-12, and other polyamides), bristles, similar to conventional toothbrush designs. In conventional toothbrush designs, nylon bristles are typically attached using staple devices, molding or fusing techniques. Conventional staple device bristle forming techniques may result in toothbrushes having lower bristle densities than can be achieved using the bristle pads disclosed herein. Thus, conventional brush heads using staple technology may result in less plaque removal due to lower bristle density.

According to some embodiments, filaments 414 used by powered toothbrush 100 may be manufactured using a textile manufacturing process. According to some embodiments, bristles may be manufactured as part of the bristle pad fabric, while in still other embodiments, bristles may be attached to the surface of the fabric or inserted through the fabric. According to various embodiments, the fabric comprises various types of materials, such as films (e.g., mylar), polymers, or elastomers. The tray 412 allows the bristles to be flat while providing effective brushing pressure to the tooth surfaces. According to some embodiments, a drive mechanism is included between the trays 420 for replacing the tray 412 to apply pressure to the brush pad. The drive mechanism may be configured to push the bristles of filaments 414 against the teeth so that the brush pad conforms to the teeth.

In embodiments, toothbrush filaments 414 may comprise or consist of a woven brush mat. In this case, each of the toothbrush filaments 414a and 414b may be formed as a single woven brush pad for each of the trays 412a and 412b, or may be formed as separate woven brush pads for each of the flexible fingers 401 and 402.

Fig. 29A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a woven brush pad 2900 that may be used with toothbrush filaments 414, according to an embodiment. As shown, a plurality of yarn segments 2910 (e.g., 2910A, 2910B, 2910C, and 2910D) are woven into a backing, referred to herein as a "fabric" 2920. The fabric 2920 may comprise a polyester, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), or may comprise nylon (polyamide). However, it should be understood that the fabric 120 may be made of any material that is capable of being woven.

Each yarn segment 2910 may include a plurality of filaments. The multiple filaments may be twisted together, for example, in the same or similar manner as the yarns used to make the garment or carpet. In embodiments, the filaments comprise nylon (polyamide) or polyester (such as PBT). However, it should be understood that for improved biodegradability, the filaments may be formed from other materials, such as spun organic cellulosic materials (e.g., silk, bamboo, seaweed, etc.). The filaments may be made of the same material as the fabric 2920 or a different material than the fabric 2920.

As shown, each yarn segment 2910 may be formed substantially in the shape of a "W" when viewed in the X-Z plane. In particular, each yarn segment 2910 may include a first leg 2911, a second leg 2913, and a middle portion 2912 connected to and extending between the first leg 2911 and the second leg 2913. Fig. 29B shows a single yarn segment 2910 according to an embodiment. Yarn segment 2910 includes a plurality of filaments 2914. The yarn segment 2910 may be cut from a yarn comprising a plurality of filaments 2914 twisted together in a spiral or vortex pattern. The opposite ends of each filament 2914 extending above the fabric 2920 within the first and second legs 2911, 2913 form bristles 2915. The bundles of bristles 2915 at the end of the first leg 2911 form a first tuft 2916A, and the bundles of bristles 2915 at the end of the second leg 2913 form a second tuft 2916B. It should be appreciated that each tuft 2916 represents a set of bristles 2915 for brushing.

The yarn segment 2910 may be comprised of filaments 2914 all having the same characteristics or may include a mixture of filaments 2914 having different characteristics. These characteristics, which may be the same or different, include, but are not limited to, material (e.g., polyester, polyamide, etc.), diameter, color (e.g., natural or translucent), length, twist count, and the like.

Although a W shape is shown, each yarn segment 2910 or one or more yarn segments 2910 may be formed in a different shape (e.g., a V shape without intermediate portion 2912). Regardless of the particular shape, the legs 2911 and 2913 may be oriented along the Z-axis, substantially perpendicular to the X-Y plane of the fabric 2920, or may be angled relative to the Z-axis such that they splay (e.g., away from their respective middle portions 2912).

In an embodiment, the backside of the fabric 2920 (opposite the side of the fabric 2920 from which each tuft 2916 extends) is sealed with a sealing layer 2930. For example, the sealing layer 2930 may include an acrylic coating. However, it should be understood that other seals may be used. In any event, the sealing layer 2930 can prevent the yarn segments 2910 from unraveling and increase the stability of the woven brush pad 2900. The sealing layer 2930 may also provide a barrier to prevent moisture and/or debris from passing through the fabric 2920. In alternative embodiments, the sealing layer 2930 may be omitted.

In an embodiment, the woven brush pad 2900 may include a backing 2940. In this case, the sealing layer 2930 may include an adhesive that seals the fabric 2920 having the woven yarn segments 2910 to the backing 2940. In alternative embodiments, the backing 2940 may be omitted, in which case the fabric 2920 may be sealed directly to the tray 412 (e.g., by the sealing layer 2930).

In embodiments having a backing 2940, the backing 2940 may include foam, sponge, hard polymer, and/or other materials. The foam or sponge may be closed cell or open cell. The closed cell foam or sponge may prevent absorption of fluids through the fabric 2920, while the open cell foam or sponge may carry additives for injection of toothpaste, fluoride or other dental or oral treatments. In either case, the foam and sponge also provide additional elements of dental fit and compliance. In particular, the resiliency of the foam or sponge provides a trampoline effect that enables the woven brush pad 2900 (including the bristles 2915) to flex and better conform to and follow the contours of the teeth.

Notably, due to the orientation of the yarn segments 2910, the bristles 2915 can flex more easily along the X axis than along the Y axis. In other words, filament 2914 may be more rigid when moving along the Y axis than when moving along the X axis. This difference in stiffness can produce better cleaning when brushing by movement along the Y axis of the woven brush pad 2900, rather than along the X axis. Thus, in an embodiment, the braided brush pad 2900 may be oriented at an angle (e.g., 45 ° angle) relative to the two main cleaning axes (e.g., side-to-side and up-and-down) of the tray 412. In this case, the stiffness level of the cluster 2916 may be more uniform between the two main cleaning axes.

In an embodiment, the yarn segment 2910 may be woven according to velvet weaving techniques. However, it should be understood that other braiding techniques may alternatively be used, such as crepe corrugation techniques, corduroy braiding techniques, and the like. The appropriate braiding technique will depend on the particular braiding pattern desired.

Advantageously, the use of a braiding process to manufacture braided brush pad 2900 enables the use of narrower filaments 2914 in yarn segment 2910 than in conventional toothbrushes. For example, filaments 2914 may have a diameter between 0.03683 millimeters (0.00145 inches) and 0.0762 millimeters (0.003 inches), while most conventional manual toothbrushes utilize nylon filaments having a diameter between 0.127 millimeters (0.005 inches) and 0.2286 millimeters (0.009 inches). As one example, the filament 2914 may have a diameter of about 0.04572 millimeters (0.0018 inches) or less than 0.0508 millimeters (0.002 inches).

Advantageously, the use of the braiding process also enables shorter bristles 2915 to be incorporated into the braided brush pad 2900 than in conventional toothbrushes. For example, the lengths of the bristles 2915 may each be between 3 millimeters (0.11811 inches) and 5 millimeters (0.19685 inches). These shorter bristle heights may improve the removal of new plaque from the teeth by increasing the stiffness of the bristles 2915. In particular, the increased stiffness improves the delivery of the force applied to the bristles 2915 to the area to be cleaned. For brushing devices designed to polish teeth, the length of the bristles 2915 can be even shorter (e.g., less than 3 millimeters).

In embodiments, each filament 2914 is between 500 and 1,500 denier (for smaller diameter filaments 2914) or between 500 and 2,000 denier (for larger diameter filaments 2914). Denier is a measure of linear mass density for a fiber, representing the mass (in grams) per 9,000 meters of fiber, and represents about once denier (i.e., about one gram of weight of 9,000 meters of fiber) based on a single strand of yarn as a reference. Filaments 2914 having different denier metrics may be used in the yarn to produce yarn segments 2910 of filaments 2914 having different denier metrics.

In embodiments, additives may be added to filaments 2914 and/or fabric 2920. For example, an antimicrobial additive (e.g., silver zeolite or equivalent) may be added to neutralize lesion growth caused by water absorption into the woven brush pad 2900. Other potential additives that may be added to the filament 2914 and/or the fabric 2920 include seaweed, fluoride, and/or other beneficial dental or oral additives.

In an embodiment, the yarn used to create the yarn segment 2910 may include or consist of 28 to 120 filaments 2914. It should be appreciated that each yarn segment 2910 will have the same number of filaments 2914 as the yarn used to create it, provided that there is no loss of filaments 2914 during the braiding and cutting process. The yarn may include filaments 2914 twisted together with about 3.5 twists per foot of yarn.

Fig. 29C illustrates a top view of a portion of a woven brush pad 2900 according to an embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the woven brush pad 2900 includes overlapping or offset W-shaped yarn segments 2910. Yarn segment 2910 is woven into fabric 2920. Additional yarns 2950 may also be woven into fabric 2920. However, in embodiments, unlike the yarns used to create yarn segment 2910, the yarns 2950 are not cut into segments, but rather may extend the entire length of the fabric 2920 (e.g., the same size as the yarn segment 2910, which in the illustrated embodiment is the X-axis). Yarn 2950 may be divided into groups of one, two, or more rows of yarn segments 2910 along a dimension (e.g., Y-axis in the illustrated embodiment). Alternatively or additionally, yarns 2950 may form selvedges at the edges of fabric 2920 to prevent fraying and fraying.

According to some embodiments, a combination of conventional bristles and a bristled fabric is used. The combination of conventional bristles with a bristled fabric provides a very high bristle density, which can provide improved removal of dental plaque. According to some embodiments, groupings of bristle strands are coupled to the bristled fabric of filaments 414, and in some embodiments, the lengths of the bristles included in the bristle strands may be varied to shape the bristle strands.

According to some embodiments, filaments 414 may include bristles made of an elastomeric material (e.g., such as, but not limited to, silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) (also referred to as thermoplastic rubber), thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)), a polymer (e.g., polyimide, polyester (PBT), polyester, polyethylene, tynex, polypropylene, cellulose, etc.). For example, each bristle may be an elastomeric bristle that extends from the tray toward the cleaning surface of the teeth. The cleaning end of each bristle can be a flat end perpendicular to the length of the bristle, rounded, triangular (e.g., the entire bristle is conical or pyramidal), etc. Some embodiments may include bristles having a wiper blade shape (e.g., the bristles may be elongated in a direction parallel to the cleaning surface). In some embodiments, the tips of each bristle may be bifurcated, whereby the tip of each bristle includes a plurality of small bristles extending in all directions from the tip. In another example, each tip may be split (e.g., mechanical splitting techniques) or feathered (e.g., chemical etching techniques), e.g., each tip may be split to provide a thin, gentle tip. The pointed split or feathered bristles can be small (e.g., less than 0.001 inches in diameter) and can be well suited for removing interdental debris between teeth, gingival sulcus and occlusal surfaces. According to some embodiments, filaments 414 may comprise finger-like filaments, for example, a scrubbing pad or flat surface similar to a collodion mop or polishing cloth.

According to some embodiments, a combination of two or more of the above embodiments may be combined on a single brush head. For example, an individual filament may include segments or portions that each have a different material and/or structure than the filament.

Filaments 414 used with the powered toothbrushes described herein may require significantly lower effective brushing pressures to be applied to the tooth surfaces during brushing. Conventional brushing methods require a relatively high level of pressure to be applied to the tooth surface. For example, the effective brushing bristle pressure for a swept acoustic wave brush is about 75 to 150 grams of force applied to the entire brush plate surface, typically 2cm ² Pressure, while forces of about 150 grams or greater are typically applied to the tooth surfaces of one to two teeth. The bristle diameter of a sweeping acoustic wave brush typically varies between 0.005 and 0.007 inches and is typically composed of nylon 6-6 (e.g., dupont TYNEX filaments or equivalent) and has a bristle length of about 10 mm. Clinical studies have shown that 2 newtons are generally very effective for plaque removal. Other studies have stated that greater brushing forces remove more plaque, for example, in excess of 5 newtons for toothbrushes. High brushing pressures can also have consequences that expose themselves to greater potential for gum cracking, gum bleeding, and even premature dentin removal. This problem is solved in the embodiments described herein. Typical brushing pressures for another type of conventional toothbrush (oscillating washer) are forces of about 148 to 200 grams, with pressure typically being applied to one tooth. Typical brushing pressures for manual toothbrushes are about 350 to 750 grams, with a nominal pressure of about 500 grams. Most manual Toothbrushes include 0.007 to 0.009 inch nylon 6-6 bristles (e.g., dupont TYNEX filaments or equivalent). Another manual toothbrush for brushing gums includes nylon bristles having a diameter of 0.004 to 0.005 inches.

The brush head 400 can be designed to provide a wide range of brushing pressures. For example, the tray 412 may be designed to provide a pressure of approximately 26 grams per millimeter of displacement of the flexible fingers across the tooth surface. In some embodiments, the brush head 400 may be designed to provide a force of up to 5 newtons. While embodiments herein may provide forces in excess of 5 newtons, such forces may result in erosion of gums and dentin. The amount of force designed may be based on the amount required for cleaning while avoiding damage to gums and dentin. In some embodiments, the 2 newton force may be the full force required to remove dental plaque (e.g., with embodiments of filaments manufactured using a textile manufacturing process, such as a woven textile pad as described above). Such embodiments may be able to use less pressure on the cleaning surface to remove dental plaque, thereby reducing potential dentin loss and/or soft tissue erosion.

The oscillation of the pneumatic system, switching between pressure and suction, rapidly pulses the drive mechanism 420 to drive the trays 412a and 412b up and down relative to the surface of the teeth to create the brushing motion of the powered toothbrush 100. The drive mechanism 420 is disposed between the trays 412a and 412b, and driving the diaphragm 207 pulses the drive mechanism 420, which causes the trays 412a and 412b to alternately separate from each other and return toward each other. For example, air is alternately forced into and out of the space between trays 412a and 412b within the drive mechanism, causing the space to alternately expand and contract, thereby causing trays 412a and 412b to separate in an upward and downward motion that causes filaments 414a and 414b to brush along the tooth surfaces.

The up-and-down motion generated by the drive mechanism 420 generates a motion that mimics the brushing motion of the bas method. According to some embodiments, the drive mechanism 420 also applies side-to-side motion to the tray, mimicking the half-circle brushing motion of the modified bas method. Thus, the powered toothbrush 100 automatically provides standard-compliant brushing techniques by mimicking the action of the Bass method or modified Bass brushing method recommended by a dental professional, without requiring the user to master complex brushing actions.

Neck 430 interfaces with upper cap 222 and provides a coupling of brushhead assembly 400 to pneumatic tube 229. The interlocking features of neck 430 enable brush head assembly 400 to be removed from handle portion 200 for cleaning and/or replacement of brush head assembly 420. For example, multiple users may share the same toothbrush base by separating their brush heads from handle portion 200, or brush head assembly 400 may be disposable. Neck 430 may be allowed to rotate, which will help ensure a comfortable grip and a well-positioned brush head.

Embodiments of a brushhead assembly

Fig. 5A-5F illustrate various views of an exemplary brushhead assembly 400 which may be used with a powered toothbrush 100, with filaments removed, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Fig. 5A shows a perspective view of a brushhead assembly 400 having a neck portion 430 configured to be coupled to handle portion 200 and a drive mechanism 420 attached to neck portion 430 via a sheath 530. The drive mechanism 420 is disposed between the upper brush member 410a and the lower brush member 410 b. Fig. 5B shows a front view of the brush head assembly 400, and fig. 5C shows a top view of the brush head assembly 400. Fig. 5D and 5E illustrate views of an exploded representation of the brush head assembly 400, with fig. 5D illustrating a perspective exploded view and fig. 5E illustrating a top view similar to fig. 5C. As described above, the upper brush member 410a includes the tray 412a and filaments 414a, while the lower brush member 410b includes the tray 412b and filaments 414b. Filaments 414a and 414b are removed in fig. 5A-5E for illustrative purposes. Figure 5F shows a front view of a drive mechanism 420 that may be used with the brushhead assembly 400.

In various embodiments, upper brush member 410a and lower brush member 410b are symmetrical mirror images of each other. Thus, unless otherwise indicated, references to brush members will be collectively referred to as brush member 410. Similarly, reference to an element using a numerical value without an alphabetic value (e.g., "a" or "b") will be understood to refer to an element having a common attribute between two brush members. That is, for example, reference to tray 412 refers to either tray 412a or tray 412b, and reference to tray 412 will be understood to refer to both trays.

Each tray 412a and 412b includes a plurality of first flexible fingers on a first side and a plurality of second flexible fingers on a second side opposite the first side. For example, as shown in fig. 5A, a tray 412a has a first plurality of flexible fingers 401 and a second plurality of flexible fingers 402. The flexible fingers 401 and 402 couple to the tray 412a and hold the filaments 414a in place and provide pressure to the filaments 414a such that the cleaning surfaces of the filaments 414a contact the tooth surfaces of the user's teeth inserted into the tooth channels 417a of the tray 412a (e.g., the channels formed between the filaments 414a and the bottom section of the tray). Similarly, a plurality of flexible fingers are coupled to the tray 412b and hold the filaments 414b in place and provide pressure to the filaments 414b such that the cleaning surfaces of the filaments 414b contact the tooth surfaces of the user's teeth inserted into the tooth channels 417b of the tray 412 b. The flexible fingers provide a predictable spring force. For example, the flexible fingers may be in an uncompressed state when the tray has not been fitted to the teeth, and may transition to a compressed state when the tray is fitted to the teeth (see fig. 4A and 4B) due to the forces of the teeth pushing the flexible fingers outward from the arch. The basic width variation of the tray and flexible fingers can be adjusted to optimize fit for as large a portion of the population as possible. For example, the flexible fingers provide approximately 26 grams of pressure required for a tooth fit per 1mm of flex. The target deflection of the flexible fingers in the molar portion is about 2mm to 3mm, or approximately 50 to 75 grams of force.

In some embodiments, each filament 414a and 414b may comprise a plurality of filament segments, including segments along the tooth path and a plurality of segments each disposed on a flexible finger. In some embodiments, each filament 414a and 414b may include a first filament segment along the tooth channel, a second filament segment that is a single body extending continuously along the first plurality of flexible fingers, and a third filament segment that is a single body extending continuously along the second plurality of flexible fingers. In another embodiment, each filament 414a and 414b may be a single continuous filament positioned within each tray 412a and 412 b.

When inserted into the oral cavity for brushing, the first end 411 of the tray 412 may brush the incisors and the second end 413 may brush the molars, as shown in fig. 4A and 4B. For example, as shown in fig. 4A and 4B, a flexible finger of the first and second plurality of flexible fingers 401a of the tray 412a at the first end 411 can receive one or more incisors of the mandibular teeth for brushing, and a flexible finger of the first and second plurality of flexible fingers 401B and 402B of the tray 412B at the first end 411 can receive one or more incisors of the maxillary teeth. At the same time, the flexible fingers of the first and second plurality of flexible fingers 401a of tray 412a at second end 413 can receive one or more molars of the mandibular teeth for brushing, and the flexible fingers of the first and second plurality of flexible fingers 401b and 402b of tray 412b at second end 413 can receive one or more molars of the maxillary teeth.

Each tray 412a and 412b includes one or more flex gaps (also referred to as flex hinges) that allow the tray to flex longitudinally (relative to a longitudinal axis that generally extends along the longest length of the dental arch) to accommodate the dental arch of the user's teeth. The dental arches of humans can vary greatly due to physical differences in the size and shape of the individual's mouth and tooth alignment problems (malocclusions). Thus, according to some embodiments, the trays 412a and 412b include at least one flex gap that enables the trays 412a and 412b to flex to conform to the shape of the user's mouth. The flex gap provides significant longitudinal flex that allows the trays 412a and 412b to accommodate the user's dental arch while providing brushing pressure to the teeth, even in cases where there is a large difference in tooth width and alignment. In the illustrative example of fig. 5A, a plurality of flexural hinges 404 and 403 formed as gaps extend from the outer edge of tray 412a into tooth channel 417a at selected angles, thereby providing improved flexibility over existing toothbrushes. It should be appreciated that tray 412b may also include a plurality of flex gaps that are mirror images of flex gaps 404 and 403.

Each tray 412a and 412b also includes a plurality of interface openings each configured to receive an attachment member of the drive mechanism 420. Fig. 5A-5C illustrate attachment members 524, 526 and 522 (see, e.g., fig. 5D and 5E) of the drive mechanism 420 that extend through corresponding interface openings of the tray 412 a. Attachment members 524, 526, and 522 couple tray 412a to drive mechanism 420. Similarly, the tray 412b may be coupled to a drive mechanism via attachment members 512, 514, and 516 (see, e.g., fig. 5D and 5E). Examples of attachment members may include, but are not limited to, T-shaped studs, marbles studs (as described above), slots and pins, C-shaped receivers on trays, and O-shaped extensions from paddles on bladders, and the like. In some embodiments, the interface opening and attachment member may be configured to allow the tray to deflect in a direction parallel to the occlusal plane of the user's teeth and pivot about a center point (e.g., rotational movement in pitch, roll, and/or yaw directions) in order to accommodate the dental arch of the user's teeth, as described below in connection with fig. 7 and 8.

According to some embodiments, the trays 412a and 412b are formed of a flexible material, such as rubber or elastomer (e.g., TPE, TPU, PP, etc.), which enables the trays to flex longitudinally. In some embodiments, the flexible material may have a hardness between shore 30A and shore 85A. In some embodiments, the trays 412a and 412b are formed of a heat set elastomer, wherein the user heats the brush head in hot water to soften the elastomer of the tray. The user then places the heated brush head into his or her mouth to conform the softened tray to the arch of the user's teeth. As the elastomer cools, the tray hardens and retains the shape of the user's mouth.

Turning to fig. 5B and 5C, the trays 412a and 412B are shaped to provide increased comfort during the brushing experience. As set forth above, the trays 412a and 412b, including the flexible fingers, are made of a flexible material selected to contact the tooth surface while providing adequate pressure to ensure surface cleaning, but flexible such that for the trays 412a and 412b, the first and second plurality of flexible fingers 401a of the tray 412a can receive one or more incisors to apply pain pressure points or squeezing during use. In addition, the trays 412a and 412b are shaped to comfortably enter the user's mouth without undesirable contact and/or pressure applied to the upper and lower regions of the mouth and/or tongue.

For example, as shown in fig. 5A and 5B, the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 are angled away from the tooth channel 417 at a first end 411, at an angle θ1 from perpendicular to the tooth channel 417. At the second end 413, the flexible finger 401 may be inclined away from the dental channel 417, at an angle θ6 from perpendicular to the dental channel 417. The angles θ1 and θ6 may be the same or different. In some embodiments, the angle of inclination of each of the first set of flexible fingers is incrementally varied for each flexible finger. For example, the angle of inclination may decrease incrementally from the first end 411 to the second end 413, or alternatively, the angle of inclination may increase. The choice of angle is driven by the desire to keep the sides of the U-shaped channel extending parallel to the surface of the tooth. The flexing of the fingers helps accommodate the shape change. Teeth grow and such odd angles and spacing along the chin are irregular. Thus, the angle and flexible finger width may not be exactly the same for every person.

Similarly, the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 are angled toward the tooth channel 417 at the first end 411 at an angle θ2 from perpendicular to the tooth channel 417. At the second end 413, the flexible finger 402 may be inclined toward the tooth channel 417 at an angle θ5 from perpendicular to the tooth channel 417. The angles θ2 and θ5 may be the same or different. In some embodiments, the angle of inclination of each of the second set of flexible fingers is incrementally varied for each flexible finger. For example, the angle of inclination may decrease incrementally from the first end 411 to the second end 413, or alternatively, the angle of inclination may increase.

In some embodiments, one or more of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 and the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may include a curvature configured to facilitate structural integrity and flexibility. For example, each flexible finger may be bent to apply sufficient pressure to the teeth during brushing, while also allowing flexibility in each finger for increased comfort.

In some embodiments, the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may further include a lip 416 and the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may include a lip 415, both lips extending away from the tooth channel 417. Lips 416 and 415 may provide a curved surface that does not scratch, pinch or otherwise exert deleterious forces on the user in the event of contact with the user's mouth.

In some embodiments, the height of each of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may decrease from a first height at the first end 411 to a second, shorter height at the second end 413. The height may be gradually reduced, for example, with a slope having an angle θ4, or the height may be stepped such that each flexible finger has a constant height that varies from one finger to the next. Similarly, the height of each of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may decrease from a first height at the first end 411 to a second, shorter height at the second end 413. The height may be gradually reduced, for example, with a slope having an angle θ3, or the height may be stepped such that each flexible finger has a constant height that varies from one finger to the next. Still further, one or more of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may have the same height and one or more of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may have the same height (e.g., as shown at the first end 411 in fig. 5B). The reduced height of the flexible fingers may provide increased comfort and ease of insertion into the mouth of a user.

Further, in some embodiments, the height of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401 may be shorter than the height of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402. For example, as shown in fig. 5A and 5B, the height of the highest finger of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may be shorter than the shortest finger of the first plurality of flexible fingers. However, embodiments herein may not be limited thereto. For example, one or more of the second plurality of flexible fingers 402 may be shorter than one or more of the first plurality of flexible fingers 401.

Turning to fig. 5D and 5E, the brush head assembly 400 includes a drive mechanism 420 positioned between the brackets 412a and 412 b. In the example shown in fig. 5D and 5E, the drive mechanism 420 includes two components, a base portion 510 and a cover portion 520. The base 510 includes a J-shaped assembly having a first channel member 537 extending therefrom that is attached to the neck 430 via a sheath 530 that is coupled to the J-shaped assembly. Sheath 530 may be configured to prevent a fluid path 535 of the pneumatic system (e.g., path 535 from handle portion 200 to drive device 420) from being blocked, squeezed, or distorted. The cover 520 also includes a J-shaped assembly substantially identical to the J-shaped assembly of the base 510 and a second channel member 540. The first and second channel members 537 and 540 may each comprise a semi-tubular portion of the channel, wherein the portions correspond to form a complete tubular channel extending from the sheath 530 into the J-shaped assembly. For example, the second channel member 540 may be joined to the first channel member 537 to form a housing that constitutes a complete sheath that houses the complete channel 535. The channel extends from the inlet 532 to the J-shaped assembly of the drive mechanism 420 and may be considered part of a fluid conduit or path.

Each J-shaped assembly includes a rigid outer frame, a flexible diaphragm, and a rigid paddle. The rigidity of the outer frame is relative to the flexibility of the membrane. The rigidity may be sufficient to hold the diaphragm and allow the assembly to operate properly as a tooth cleaning device.

In the depicted embodiment, the base 510 includes a frame 515, a diaphragm 513, and a paddle 511, and the cover 520 includes a frame 525, a diaphragm 523, and a paddle 521. In general, the outer frames 515 and 525 may be collectively referred to as a frame or casing. Disposed on the paddle are a plurality of attachment members. For example, paddle 511 includes attachment members 514, 516, and 512, and paddle 521 includes attachment members 524, 526, and 522. As described above, the attachment member may be provided as a marble post, a T-post, or the like. The attachment member of each J-shaped assembly may be received by a corresponding interface opening of a corresponding tray to couple the tooth to the drive mechanism. For example, the interface openings 405b, 408b, and 407b may receive attachment members 514, 516, and 512, respectively, to couple the tray 412b to the base 510. The combination of the interface opening and its corresponding attachment member may be referred to as a gimbal that allows the tray to move relative to the rest of the assembly. The interface opening may have different shapes. For example, the slot-like shape as depicted for the cross-over openings 407a and 407b allows the associated dental tray 412a and 412b to move relative to its associated base 510/520. More specifically, the tray may ride or move along the attachment member in the slot. In this way, the tray is coupled to an associated base and may also flex or bend to be able to accommodate changes in the user's dental arch. The circular interface opening allows the tray to rotate about the associated attachment member. Tray 412a may be similarly coupled to cover 520. The combination of the attachment members and their corresponding interface openings provide first and second coupling mechanisms between each tray and the diaphragm or bladder. The coupling mechanism allows for limited deflection of the tray relative to the frame.

The filaments 414 are attached to the tray 412 as described above in connection with fig. 1. In the illustrative example of fig. 5A-5E, filaments 414 for cleaning the tooth surface are attached to flexible fingers 401 and 402, as described above, and the flexible fingers apply pressure to filaments 414 that causes the cleaning surface of the brush pad to contact the surface of the user's teeth. For example, filaments 414a may be attached to first and second pluralities of fingers 401a and 402. Optionally, filaments 414a may also be positioned within dental channel 417a. In some embodiments, filament 414a may comprise a plurality of segments. For example, a first segment of filament 414a may be attached to a first plurality of flexible fingers 401a, a second segment may be attached to a second plurality of flexible fingers 402, and (optionally) a third segment may be attached to dental channel 417a. In another example, filaments 414a may include a plurality of filaments, each attached to a flexible finger, e.g., each individual flexible finger 401a and 402 includes a different filament attached thereto. While embodiments are described with reference to component 410a, component 410b (e.g., tray 412b and filaments 414 b) will be understood to be similarly configured.

Thus, filaments 414 can conform to the tooth surface even in the presence of malocclusions. Because the pressure from the flexible fingers 401 and 402 helps to keep the cleaning surface of the filaments 414 in contact with the surface of the teeth, the length of the cleaning members used on the filaments 414 may be much shorter than may be required if the cleaning members were used alone to accommodate the dental arch of the user's teeth.

As set forth above, according to embodiments in which the cleaning member is a bristle, the bristle can be set from the flexible fingers at an acute angle to the surface of the tooth, with the distal ends of the bristle pointing toward the gingival sulcus in order to remove bacterial plaque near and directly below the gingival margin. According to another embodiment, the bristles may be angled with respect to the surface of the tooth, for example, as described above in connection with fig. 1. In some embodiments, where multiple filament segments are provided for each arch, the bristles of each segment may extend at the same or different angles, e.g., a first segment attached to flexible finger 401 may be at a 45 degree angle, a second segment attached to flexible finger 402 may be at a 45 degree angle, and a third segment in the tray may be perpendicular to the surface of the tooth. Any angular configuration may be used to achieve the desired cleaning characteristics. In another example, where each flexible finger includes different filaments, the bristles of each filament may be angled at the same or different angles, e.g., each finger 401 may have a separate filament 414a portion that is independent of the other filament 414a portions, and the bristles of the first portion may extend vertically, while the second portion may extend at 45 degrees or any desired angle as set forth herein.

According to some embodiments, filaments 414 may be attached to flexible fingers 401 and 402 using an adhesive. According to other embodiments, filaments 414 include a rigid backing that may snap or lock in place on flexible fingers 401 and 402. According to some embodiments, filaments 414 may be removable and replaceable to allow a user to replace filaments 414 without having to replace the entire brush head. Various techniques may be used to snap or lock filaments 414 into place on flexible fingers 401 and 402. According to some embodiments, the filaments 414 may be attached to the tray using thermal or ultrasonic welding. For example, filaments 414 may have one or more posts extending from a rigid backing fused to the dental arch. According to other embodiments, a tension clasp may be used to attach the filaments 414 to the tray. For example, the filaments 414 may include one or more rubber tips that are stretched, inserted through openings in the tray, and released, and the rubber tips are not stretched and spread wide enough that the tips cannot come out of the openings and hold the brush pad in place. According to another embodiment, a "marble" or a plurality of marbles may be used to hold the filaments 414 in place. The marble includes molded rounded features molded on the rigid backing of the brush pad and snapped into corresponding openings on the dental arch. The marble enables the rigid backing of filaments 414 to rotate about the axis of the marble, which can help align the brush head with the teeth during use. According to yet another embodiment, ultrasonic welding may be used to secure the brush head to the dental arch. For example, the brush pad may be formed of a plastic material compatible with the plastic of the tray, and the filaments 414 may be ultrasonically welded to the tray.

As described above, in some embodiments, filaments 414 may be manufactured using conventional toothbrush designs, for example, nylon bristles attached using staple devices, molding, or fusing techniques. In some embodiments, filaments 414 may be manufactured using a textile manufacturing process. According to some embodiments, bristles may be manufactured as part of the bristle pad fabric, while in still other embodiments, bristles may be attached to the surface of the fabric or inserted through the fabric. According to various embodiments, the fabric comprises various types of materials, such as films (e.g., mylar), polymers, or elastomers. The flexible fingers 401 and 402 enable the bristles to take on a flat shape while providing effective brushing pressure to the tooth surfaces.

The flexible fingers 401 and 402 can be designed to provide a wide range of brushing pressures. For example, according to a preferred embodiment, the pressure fingers are designed to provide a pressure of about 50 to 75 grams to the tooth surface.

Fig. 6 illustrates a top view of an exemplary tray that may be used with the brush head assembly of fig. 4, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Fig. 6 illustrates a tray 612 that may be used as a tray for the brush head assembly 400. For example, tray 412a and/or tray 412b may be implemented as tray 612. The tray 612 is substantially similar to trays 412a and 412b, except as provided herein. Accordingly, like reference numerals are used in fig. 6 to refer to like elements from the trays 412a and 412b above. For example, similar to trays 412a and 412b, tray 612 is illustratively depicted as a J-shaped arch that simultaneously achieves right or left sagittal plane brushing of the mandibular and maxillary arches. The tray 612 includes a first plurality of flexible fingers 601 and a second plurality of flexible fingers 602, similar to flexible fingers 401 and 402 above. The flexible fingers surround the dental channels 617. Accordingly, the aspects and features provided above with respect to tray 412a or tray 412b apply equally to tray 612.

As described above, the flexible fingers 601 are angled away from the dental channel 617 and the flexible fingers 602 are included toward the dental channel. Due to the varying angle of inclination as set forth above, the width of the dental channel 617 can vary along the length of the tray 612 to more comfortably accommodate different sized teeth. For example, the width of the channel 617 at the second end 613 (e.g., to more comfortably receive molars) is wider than the width at the first end 611 (e.g., to receive incisors).

In some embodiments, one or more of the flexible fingers may be larger than the other flexible fingers. For example, fig. 6 shows that two flexible fingers of the second plurality of flexible fingers 602 at the first end 611 may further extend from the dental channel 417 and then bend back into the dental channel 417.

The tray 612 also includes a plurality of flexible hinges similar to the flexible hinges 403 and 404. For example, gaps are formed between adjacent ones of the first set of flexible fingers 601 and the second set of flexible fingers 602, thereby forming independently flexing fingers. At one or more of these gaps, a flexible hinge may be formed by extending the respective gap into the dental channel 617, as shown in fig. 6. By extending the gap further into the dental channel 617, each flexible hinge provides flexibility to the tray 612 that enables the tray 612 to flex inward and longitudinally along the occlusal plane of the user's mouth (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to the top-down viewing direction shown in fig. 6) and thereby accommodate different shaped mouths and/or various malocclusions.

In the illustrative example of fig. 6, the tray 612 includes a first flexible hinge 603 and a second flexible hinge 618 formed between the flexible fingers of the first set of flexible fingers 601. In the illustrative example, the flexible hinge 603 is a linear flexible hinge that extends into the dental channel 617 and terminates at a first circular flex point. The flexible hinge 618 includes a gap that extends into the dental channel 617, bends toward the first end 611, and terminates at a second rounded bend point. The tray 612 also includes a third flexible hinge 604 formed between the flexible fingers of the second set of flexible fingers 602. In the example of fig. 6, the third flexible hinge 604 extends into the dental channel 617, angles toward the second end 613, and terminates at a third rounded flex point. In an illustrative embodiment, the first flexible hinge 603 may allow the tray 612 to bend about a first point of bending. That is, the second end 613 may flex toward the interior portion of the mount relative to the first end 611, or the first end 611 may flex away from the interior portion relative to the second end 613. Similarly, the second flexible hinge 618 may allow the tray 612 to flex about a second flex point, and the third flexible hinge 604 may allow the tray to flex about a third flex point. In the illustrative example shown in fig. 6, a circular hole provides stress relief. The width of the slot extending from around the holes is one way to provide a range of deflection limits in one direction. Slots 605 and 607 control the range of motion allowed in the other direction. By varying these relationships, the extent of U-channel deflection can be varied.

Due at least in part to the flexibility of the tray and the flexing of the flexible fingers holding the filaments in place, the length of the filaments can be much shorter and result in a smaller brush head than would be possible if the bristles provided the entire bristle tip fitting the mouth. Furthermore, due to the plurality of flexible hinges having a selected shape as set forth above, the tray may accommodate a greater number of differently shaped mouths than would otherwise be achieved. Thus, the number of different size brush head assemblies that need to be manufactured to cover all of the common population's variations in oral shape can be reduced to several different sizes, with each brush head assembly flexing and bending to accommodate the overlapping range of oral shapes and sizes.

Although specific examples and numbers of flexible hinges are shown in fig. 6, embodiments herein are not limited to only the numbers and shapes depicted. Any number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc.) of flexible hinges may be included to achieve the desired flexibility while also maintaining the structural integrity of the toothbrush. Similarly, the shape of each flexible hinge may be modified as desired to address different flexural characteristics and degrees of flexure. Thus, any desired shape may be used.

The tray of fig. 6 also includes a plurality of interface openings (e.g., a first interface opening 605, a second interface opening 608, and a third interface opening 607) that are similar to the interface openings described in connection with fig. 5A-5E. As described above, the interface opening is configured to receive an attachment member of the drive mechanism 420 (see, e.g., fig. 5D-5E) for coupling the dental tray 612 to the drive mechanism 420.

In some embodiments, the interface opening may be configured to allow the tray to be longitudinally offset and pivoted along the bite plane relative to the coupled drive mechanism 420, thereby further improving the ability to accommodate different shaped oral cavities and/or various malocclusions. For example, as shown in fig. 6, the first interface opening 605 may be a slot-shaped opening (also referred to as a t-slot opening) extending generally in a longitudinal direction across the dental channel 617. For example, fig. 7 shows a longitudinal arrow 705, which shows the direction of movement provided by slot-shaped opening 605. The slot-shaped opening 605 may be bent in the longitudinal direction to allow the corresponding attachment member of the drive mechanism to slide within the slot, for example, when the tray flexes.

Similarly, the third interface opening 607 may be a slot-shaped opening (also referred to as a T-slot opening) extending generally in a longitudinal direction across the dental channel 617. For example, fig. 7 shows a longitudinal arrow 707 that illustrates the direction of movement provided by the slotted opening 607. As with slot-shaped opening 605, opening 607 may be bent to allow for the deflection of the corresponding attachment member of the drive mechanism. Openings 605 and 607 may have similar curvatures, one having a concave curvature and the other having a convex curvature. In another example, openings 605 and 607 may be bent in the same direction.

In various embodiments, the use of t-shaped head marbles that snap into slot-shaped openings (such as one or more of openings 607 and/or 605) may provide additional support to prevent the corresponding ends of the tray from bending up and down (e.g., toward/away from the palate of the oral cavity during brushing). For example, t-head marbles that snap into opening 607 may help hold end 611 of tray 612 against accidental bending of the tray into or out of the upper jaw of the mouth. Similarly, opening 605 may receive a t-head marble holding end 613. The use of t-shaped marbles for holding the respective ends is not limited to the embodiment of fig. 6 and may be used with any of the trays disclosed herein having a slotted interface as described herein. It may be important to maintain the ends of the tray to prevent loss of vertical movement and/or loss of brushing force in the corresponding areas. An alternative to reducing such bending may be to use a retaining clip or nose hook, which may be similar to the engagement retainer described below in connection with fig. 21A and 21B. The retaining clip may be used in combination with t-head marbles to provide increased resistance to flexing.

The slot-shaped opening (and thus the t-shaped hair ball received therein) may be sized to achieve a desired deflection in the tray 612. For example, a slot that is greater in length or width may allow for greater deflection of the corresponding region. In some embodiments, slot 607 may be larger than slot 605 to allow greater deflection near the front of the oral cavity.

The tray 612 also includes a second interface opening 608 as a post opening that receives the marble post attachment member of the drive mechanism. The marbles head may be allowed to pivot in pitch, yaw, and roll directions within the post opening 608, with the marbles head being the center of rotation. For example, fig. 7 shows a rotational arrow 708, which illustrates the yaw rotational movement provided by the post opening 608, and fig. 8 shows the roll rotational movement provided by the post opening 608. Because the upper and lower arches can move in this manner, it can allow the device to accommodate differences between the user's upper and lower jaws.

While the tray 612 is shown as having a particular type of interface opening, embodiments herein are not limited to only those types or to only the illustrated configuration. For example, all of the interface openings may be slot-shaped or post openings. In another example, the interface opening 608 may be channel-shaped, while one or more of the interface openings 605 and 607 are not channel-shaped (e.g., post openings). Furthermore, the openings may be provided at any location within the dental channel 617, not just the location shown in fig. 6.

Due at least in part to the interface opening allowing the dental arch to deflect and pivot, the filament length can be shorter and produce a smaller brush head than would be possible if the bristles provided an entire bristle tip fitting the oral cavity. Furthermore, the offset and pivoting of the tray may facilitate accommodation of a greater number of differently shaped mouths than would otherwise be achieved, as set forth above. Thus, the number of different size brush head assemblies that need to be manufactured to cover all of the common population's variations in oral shape can be reduced to several different sizes, with the brush head assemblies each moving and shifting to accommodate the overlapping range of oral shapes and sizes.

In the example of a tray shown in fig. 6, even greater comfort and adaptability to a wider range of oral shapes and malocclusions may be achieved by the combination of flexible hinges and interface openings. For example, the flexible hinges and interface openings on the tray 612, alone, may provide accommodation for many different shapes of oral cavity and/or various malocclusions. Adaptation to even greater numbers of oral shapes and/or malocclusions may be provided by the combined use of both flexible hinges and interface openings. Accordingly, a single size brush head assembly 400 can be manufactured to accommodate a wide range of oral shapes and malocclusions, thereby reducing the number of separately shaped brush head assemblies that need to be constructed.

Fig. 9-12 show exploded views of the drive mechanism 420. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of an exploded view of the drive mechanism 420, fig. 10 showing an exploded view from a perspective opposite to that of fig. 9, so as to illustrate features not shown in fig. 9. Fig. 11 shows an exploded perspective view of the cover 520, and fig. 12 shows an exploded perspective view of the base 510.

As described above, the drive mechanism 420 includes two components, a base 510 and a cover 520 attached to the cover 510. The cover 520 may be bonded together by an adhesive or any bonding technique known in the art. The base 510 includes a J-shaped assembly 517 attached to a sheath 530. Sheath 530 houses a fluid path inlet 532 configured to be removably coupled to a pneumatic system of handle portion 200, as described above in connection with fig. 1 and 2. Sheath 530 may be configured to prevent the fluid path from becoming blocked, squeezed, or distorted. The cover 520 also includes a J-shaped assembly 527 substantially identical to the J-shaped assembly of the base 510 and a sheath portion 540. Sheath portion 540 may be coupled to an open portion of neck 430 along the neck of sheath 530 between the J-assembly to form a housing that forms a complete sheath to protect fluid path 535.

As shown in fig. 11 and 12, the base portion 510 includes an outer frame 515, a diaphragm 513, and a paddle 511, and the cover portion 520 includes an outer frame 525, a diaphragm 523, and a paddle 521. The paddle 511 includes attachment members 514, 516, and 512, and the paddle 521 includes attachment members 524, 526, and 522. As described above, the attachment member may be provided as a marble post, a T-post, or the like. The attachment member of each J-shaped assembly may be received by a corresponding interface opening of a corresponding tray to couple the tray to the drive mechanism. For example, the interface openings 405b, 408b, and 407b may receive attachment members 514, 516, and 512, respectively, to couple the tray 412b to the base 510. Tray 412a may be similarly coupled to cover 520.

In some embodiments, each diaphragm may be coupled to a respective outer frame, and a respective paddle may be attached to the diaphragm. An outer frame may then be attached (e.g., via adhesive or bonding techniques known in the art) to create a space within the enclosed drive mechanism between the diaphragms. Alternatively, the two outer frames 515 and 525 may be formed as a single piece and referred to as a frame holding two diaphragms or bladders.

For example, fig. 13 and 14 illustrate cross-sectional views of exemplary configurations of the drive mechanism taken along A-A' of fig. 5F. Alternatively, the two outer frames 515 and 525 may be formed as a single piece and referred to as a frame.

In the illustrative example of fig. 13, a space 550 is formed between diaphragm 523 and diaphragm 513. According to embodiments herein, the diaphragms 513 and 523 and the space 550 therebetween may be collectively referred to as a bladder. In the example of fig. 13, paddles 511 and 521 are disposed within space 550 with attachment members 526, 524, 516, and 514 protruding through respective diaphragms 513 and 523. Fig. 14 depicts another configuration similar to that of fig. 13, except that paddles 511 and 521 are provided on the opposite side of the diaphragm from space 550. As shown in fig. 13 and 14, the diaphragm may include one or more opposing bends (e.g., generally "S" shaped) and shaped in a manner similar to a speaker cone, thereby providing flexibility similar to expansion and contraction of the speaker cone. Other constructional variations include injection molding 521 and 511 during the molding process and bonding directly to 523 and 513. Polycarbonate and silicone are a common pair of materials that allow such strong adhesion. Other compatible flexible and rigid or semi-rigid materials may also be used.

According to various embodiments herein, the oscillation of the pneumatic system-switching between pressure and suction-rapidly pulses the diaphragms 523 and 513, which alternately pulses the spaces 550, thereby driving the trays 412a and 412b attached via the attachment members up and down relative to the surfaces of the teeth to produce the brushing action of the powered toothbrush 100. That is, as fluid (e.g., air) is alternately forced into and drawn out of space 550, paddles 511 and 521 alternately move away from and back toward each other, causing the space to alternately expand and contract. Thus, the trays 412a and 412b separate in an upward and downward movement, which causes the filaments 414a and 414b to brush along the tooth surfaces.

Embodiments herein provide a compound design for the drive mechanism 420. For example, diaphragms 523 and 513 may be formed of a sterile flexible material similar to the material used to make the soft elastomeric membrane of the loudspeaker diaphragm, such as, but not limited to, silicone rubber, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) (also known as thermoplastic rubber), thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), latex, vinyl, nitrile, or other flexible material capable of withstanding high frequency repeated inflation and deflation, and the paddles and outer frame may be formed of a rigid material, such as a hard plastic. The hard plastic material provides a very rigid handle that attaches to the power handle. This allows the user to fully control the positioning of the entire toothbrush inside and outside the mouth for rinsing and cleaning. The hard plastic may be molded or formed according to techniques known in the art. The material of the outer frame may have hoop strength that, together with the shear strength of the material forming the diaphragm, minimizes energy loss when the pneumatic system pulses the drive mechanism. As set forth above, by using a soft elastomeric film material in combination with a rigid material, inefficiency in forming a bladder for a pure soft elastomeric material can be avoided. For example, a bladder of pure soft elastomeric material may allow movement in a direction different from the desired direction perpendicular to the paddles. As the pressure within the bladder increases, the expansion of the soft elastomeric material progresses in all directions, resulting in a loss of efficiency. Thus, embodiments herein utilize a composite bladder design of hard rigid material and soft elastomeric material to control lost motion and force movement in one direction for optimal efficiency. In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the diaphragms 513 and 523 may help to control the direction of expansion in the desired direction and reduce efficiency losses.

The diaphragms 523 and 513, paddles 511 and 521, and rigid frames 515 and 525 may be formed by injection molding or via other methods known in the art. The membranes 523 and 513 may also be constructed of mylar, PVC or other sheets that are stretch-formed or bonded together using methods known in the art.

Since diaphragms 523 and 513 are made of a flexible elastic material, space 550 tends to inflate and expand under the positive internal pressure provided by the pneumatic system, causing the surfaces of the drive mechanisms (e.g., paddles 511 and 521) to be pushed away from the plane of positioning through the centers of diaphragms 523 and 513. When negative internal pressure is applied by the pneumatic system, the diaphragms 523 and 521 tend to deflate and contract, causing the paddles 511 and 521 to be pulled toward the center plane. Tray 412 is attached to paddles 521 and 511, respectively, and thus shares the motion of drive mechanism 420. The location of the central plane of the drive mechanism 420, while included in the brush head 400 for brushing, is dependent upon the orientation of the brush head 400 relative to the occlusal surfaces of the mandibular and maxillary teeth and the pressure exerted by the jaw muscles. As described above, the user may gently bite down on the brush head 400 to flex the tray of the brush head and conform to the shape of the user's dental arch.

One benefit of having a single large space drive mechanism between the trays is that the bite pressure is equalized by the drive mechanism across the tray, whether or not there is "tilting" of the user's bite (e.g., imbalance in bite pressure). For example, the user may apply a higher bite pressure at the rear of the mouth than at the front of the mouth. The pressure gradient is down the center of the bladder of the drive mechanism 420 and the bite pressure applied by the user is distributed by the diaphragm, enabling the powered toothbrush to accommodate the variability and irregularities in the bite pressure applied by the user. In addition, the paddles help to distribute higher bite pressure across the membrane to evenly distribute pressure across the capsule, as opposed to local pressure gradients.

Embodiments of pneumatic systems

Fig. 15 illustrates a schematic diagram of a pneumatic system 1500 that may be used to drive a drive mechanism 420 according to embodiments disclosed herein. Figure 15 shows a pneumatic system across the handle portion 200 and the brushhead assembly 400. The pneumatic system 1500 provides for conversion of electrical energy to filament movement. For example, referring to fig. 1, the pneumatic system 1500 operates to oscillate the drive mechanism 420 of the brush head 400 to alternately bring the trays 412a and 412b together and drive the trays 412a and 412b apart to produce a brushing motion.

The pneumatic system 1500 includes a diaphragm pump 1501 connected to an outlet check valve 1502 and an inlet check valve 1503. An outlet check valve 1503 is connected to an inlet shut-off valve 1504. The outlet check valve 1502 connects the outlet bypass valve 1505, the pressure transducer 1506, and the drive mechanism 1507. The diaphragm pump 1501 may be, for example, a diaphragm 207 driven by a motor 204 to create an oscillating pressure gradient between the diaphragm 207 and the lower frame portion 208 of fig. 2. The drive mechanism 1507 may be substantially the same as the drive mechanism 420 described above.

In operation, under control of a processing device (e.g., processing device 215 of fig. 2), inlet shut-off valve 1503 is open and outlet bypass valve 1505 is closed. The diaphragm pump 1501 is operated and the inlet check valve 1503 is opened to allow fluid (e.g., gaseous or liquid fluid) to enter the system 1500 and be held in the pump 1501. At the same time, the outlet check valve 1502 is opened to allow fluid to enter the drive mechanism 1507 and retain fluid therein. This configuration allows the pressure to be increased to a desired level in the system 1500.

Once the desired level is reached, the inlet shut-off valve 1504 is closed to isolate the system 1500 from additional inlet pressure and the outlet bypass valve 1505 is opened to couple the diaphragm pump 1501 to the drive mechanism 1507. When the outlet bypass valve 1505 is opened, the diaphragm pump 1501 continues to operate, which causes the drive mechanism 1507 to oscillate in synchronization with the diaphragm pump 1501.

In various embodiments, the design of the drive mechanism 1507 to move the tray in the opposite direction is desirably performed when operation of the diaphragm pump 1501 begins at a top dead center position. For example, fig. 16A-16C illustrate various operational states of the pneumatic system 1500. Fig. 16A-16C show simplified representations of a pneumatic system 1500, for example, for illustration purposes, outlet check valve 1502, inlet check valve 1503, inlet shut-off valve 1504, outlet bypass valve 1505, and pressure transducer 1506 are grouped as elements 1510. Fig. 16A shows a pressure increase phase in which the inlet shut-off valve 1503 is open, the outlet bypass valve 1505 is closed, the inlet check valve 1503 is open, and the outlet check valve 1502 is open. Once the desired pressure is reached, in a first state (fig. 16B), the diaphragm pump 1501 begins at top dead center, with the volume of fluid in the pump 1501 being maximum and the amount of fluid in the drive mechanism 1507 being minimum. This represents the upper limit of each stroke of the pump during operation and the drive mechanism 1507 being in a stationary state (e.g., no fluid is present in the pumping or drive mechanism). In the second state (fig. 16C), the pump 1501 is at the lower limit of the stroke (e.g., the fluid volume in the pump is minimal) and the fluid volume in the drive mechanism is maximized. In the first state, the trays may be spaced a minimum distance from each other, and in the second state the arches may be spaced a maximum distance from each other.

Alternatively, a closed system pump may be used. When it is activated, there is only air in the system to increase the internal pressure. However, the operation is the same as described above in connection with fig. 16A to 16C. For example, pump 1501 should be started at Top Dead Center (TDC) to enable the closed system to contain as much air as possible. Then when 1501 moves to Bottom Dead Center (BDC), all air in the pump is exhausted to bladder 1507. If 1507 has been resting in the neutral position, the first action of the pair of trays 420 will be to force them apart. As the pump moves from BDC to TDC, the trays are forced together by the vacuum action of the pump 1501.

According to some embodiments, the following method may be used to ensure that the pump 1501 starts from a top dead center position. For example, the following method may ensure that when toothbrush 100 is off, operation of pump 1501 is stopped when the diaphragm is in a top dead center position. First, the processing device monitors the motor (e.g., motor 204) current during operation and creates a current signature for a typical full revolution (e.g., full stroke of the diaphragm). Control of the motor position is based on what current is supplied to the motor supply current. The processing means may define, based on the monitoring, when to cut off the current level of the electric power to the motor power, so that top dead center is always achieved. Light emitting diodes and receivers may be provided in the handle portion 200 to detect the in-flight diaphragm position to define when to stop at TDC. As described above, the inlet check valve 1503 may be operated to allow pressure to increase from a top dead center position. Alternatively, the pressure sensor may detect an increase in pressure to ensure that the desired pressure level is reached.

Optimizing the displacement of the tooth cleaning members (e.g., brush components 410a and 410 b) to achieve the desired brushing action requires balancing the dynamic behavior of the pneumatic components of the system, including factors such as the total air volume of the system, the pressure characteristics of the pump during each stroke, the mechanical characteristics of the drive mechanism, and the flow properties of the air delivery channels and paths.

The speed of the motor 204 affects the parameters described above. The measure for the speed of the motor is the revolutions per minute. According to an embodiment, the target speed is about 30 to 80 revolutions per second. According to some embodiments, a target speed of about 48 to 55Hz may provide the best results.

As described above, the motor 204 causes a compression and suction stroke of the pump 204 for each rotation. According to some embodiments, the maximum positive pressure for the compression stroke falls within the range of 20 to 30 pounds per square inch (psi), and the maximum negative pressure is limited to an absolute vacuum of about-14.7 psi. According to some embodiments, the absolute vacuum is limited to about-6 to-9 psi. Thus, there is more pressure available on the compression stroke. However, as the pressure in the system increases, the volume of air pushed out decreases according to the state equation pv=mrt. Due to this pressure difference, there is a certain optimal positive average pressure that results in maximum drive mechanism deflection. According to some embodiments, the pressure control value may be included in the pneumatic system to release pressure if the pressure increases to a high Yu Zuijia positive average pressure. However, a positive pressure may be desirable to maintain a slight expansion of the drive mechanism to create a pleasant sensation in the oral cavity. This slight expansion may consume less energy to achieve the oscillating action.

According to an embodiment, the volume of air displaced by pump 207 per stroke may be balanced with the volume of the air delivery component and the volume of the drive mechanism (e.g., space 505). The total deflection per revolution may be related to the increased volume per stroke on the positive pressure side plus the volume subtracted from the drive mechanism on the negative pressure stroke. This volume change may also be related to the average pressure in the drive mechanism. As the average capsule pressure increases, the volume change (and corresponding tooth contact member displacement) in the drive mechanism will decrease for any given motor.

The bite force applied to the tray may supplement the average pressure in the drive mechanism, which can negatively impact the performance of the pneumatic system. According to some embodiments, the pneumatic system of the powered toothbrush includes a pressure control value that releases pressure from the system to relieve pressure exerted by the user's bite pressure. There are several valve embodiments (i.e., duckbill valve, umbrella valve or flapper valve) that may be suitable for inclusion in a replacement brush head, such as those used in power toothbrushes.

Embodiments of an interlock system

Fig. 17 illustrates an exemplary interlock system that can be used with toothbrush 100 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Fig. 17 shows an exploded view of toothbrush 100 with head 400 separated from handle portion 200, exposing nose cone 222 extending from upper cover 221. The brush head 400 shown in fig. 17 may be substantially similar to brush heads throughout the present disclosure (e.g., fig. 5A-13). The brush head 400 includes a sheath 530 extending from the drive mechanism 420. Sheath 530 is attached to neck 430 and may optionally provide an identification band at bottom edge 432 of neck 430. The identification band 420 may be a component having an aesthetic color to distinguish one brush head from another, for example, where different users plan to use different brush heads having the same handle portion 200.

In various embodiments, the neck 430 of the brush head 400 is configured to interface with the nose cone 222, such as by an inner surface of the neck 400 contacting an outer surface of the nose cone 222. The bottom edge of neck 430 (or identification band 432 in use) may contact upper cover 221.

In the illustrative example of fig. 17, an interlock system 1700 is disposed between nose cone 222 and neck 430. The interlock system 1700 is configured to removably couple the brush head 400 to the handle portion 200. For example, a first interlocking component (examples of which are provided in fig. 19A-19C) is provided on nose cone 222 that is configured to interface with a corresponding second interlocking component (examples of which are provided in fig. 18A-18C) of neck 430. In some embodiments, the brush head 400 may be placed on the nose cone 222, for example, via movement in a direction approximately parallel to the length of the handle portion 200, and then, once the brush head 400 reaches a design position relative to the nose cone 222, a rotational twisting action in a circumferential direction may be applied to the brush head 400, which causes the first and second interlocking members to interact and lock the brush head 400 to the nose cone 222 and the handle portion 200 (e.g., as shown in fig. 20). A rotational twisting action in opposite circumferential directions may unlock the first and second interface members, allowing the brush head to be removed from the nose cone 222.

In some embodiments, the interlocking of the first and second interlocking members may also allow the inlet 532 in the sheath 530 to enter into a hermetic seal with the outlet 230. For example, an O-ring or other sealing member (not shown) may be provided at one or more of the inlet 532 and the outlet 230. The inlet 532 and outlet 230 may be brought into contact with each other when the brush head 400 is placed on the nose cone 222. Subsequently, after twisting the brush head 400 to lock it in place with the nose cone, the interlock system may pull the inlet 532 closer to the outlet 230, thereby applying more pressure to the sealing member therebetween and providing an airtight seal between the inlet 532 and the outlet 230. By ensuring that the fluid path does not experience fluid loss, providing a hermetic seal may reduce pressure loss and increase the efficiency of the pneumatic system.

Fig. 18A-18C illustrate an exemplary first interlocking component of an interlocking system 1700 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 18A shows a perspective view of a first side of neck 430 with sheath 530 and the remainder of head 400 removed. Fig. 18A depicts a view from above neck 430 and toward a first side of neck 430 of handle portion 200. Fig. 18B shows a perspective view of a second side of neck 430 opposite the first side, with sheath 530 and the remainder of head 400 removed. Fig. 18B depicts a view from above neck 430 and toward a second side of neck 430 of handle portion 200, similar to fig. 18A. Fig. 18C shows a bottom view of neck 430 (e.g., from the location of handle portion 200), with handle portion 200 removed.

Fig. 18A-18C illustrate an exemplary second interlocking member 1710 included as part of neck 430. In the illustrative example, neck 430 has a tapered opening in which second interlocking member 1710 is formed. The exemplary second interlocking component 1710 illustrated in fig. 18A-18C may be referred to as an internal locking component. In some embodiments, neck 430 may be a hard plastic molded or formed to include an internal locking member according to known techniques. In another example, neck 430 may be formed and an internal locking member bonded to an inner surface of neck 430.

In the example of fig. 18A-18C, a spacer ring 1702 may be provided adjacent an upper edge of neck 430 (e.g., an edge that contacts sheath 530) upon which lip 533 of sheath 530 (see fig. 9) may rest upon assembly and function to facilitate bonding and alignment between neck 430 and sheath 530. The ring 1702 may optionally include a protrusion 1703 that extends upward in a direction toward the sheath 530 and is configured to interlock with a notch 534 included in the lip of the sheath 530.

The internal locking member 1710 may be disposed on the opposite side of the ring 1703 from the protrusion 1703. The interlocking component 1710 can include one or more locking members, such as a first locking member 1711 shown in fig. 18A and a second locking member 1715 shown in fig. 18B. First and second locking members 1711 and 1715 are illustratively shown positioned on first and second sides, respectively, of neck 430 opposite each other.

The first locking member 1711 includes a body 1712 having a rectangular front surface facing the second locking member 1715 and a locking feature 1713. The locking feature 1713 is illustratively shown as having a raised surface that extends to the angled side of the body 1712, thereby forming a wider base than the raised surface shown in fig. 18A. The locking feature 1713 is shown positioned to an end of the body 1712. In the illustrative example, the thickness of the body 1712 (e.g., the distance the body 1712 extends from the inner surface of the neck 430 in a radial direction, as shown in fig. 18C) tapers from an end that includes the locking feature 1713 to an opposite end. This may provide sealing pressure like a ramp or inclined panel.

Similarly, the second locking member 1715 includes a body 1716 having a substantially square front surface facing the first locking member 1711 and locking features 1717. The locking feature 1717 is illustratively shown as having a raised surface that extends to the angled side of the body 1716, thereby forming a wider base than the raised surface shown in fig. 18B. The locking feature 1717 is shown positioned to an end of the body 1716. In the illustrative example, the thickness of the body 1716 (e.g., the distance the body 1716 extends from the inner surface of the neck 430 in the radial direction) is constant.

Fig. 19A-19C illustrate an exemplary second interlocking component of an interlocking system 1700 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 19A shows a perspective view of a first side of nose cone 222 with brush head 400 removed. Fig. 18B shows a perspective view of a second side of nose cone 222 opposite the first side. Fig. 19C shows a top view of nose cone 222 with brush head 400 removed.

Fig. 19A-19C illustrate an exemplary first interlocking component 1720 included as part of nose cone 222. In the illustrative example, nose cone 222 includes a first interlocking member 1720 disposed at an end of nose cone 22 opposite handle portion 200. The exemplary first interlocking member 1720 shown in fig. 19A-19C may be referred to as an extraneous locking member. In some embodiments, nose cone 222 may be molded or formed to include an external locking member according to known techniques. In another example, the extraneous locking member may be separately formed and coupled to the nose cone 222.

In the example of fig. 19A-19C, an extraneous locking member 1720 may be provided on the outer circumferential side of the nose cone 222. External locking component 1720 may include one or more recesses configured to receive locking members (e.g., locking members 1711 and/or 1715). For example, the extraneous locking member 1720 may include a first recess 1721 shown in fig. 19A and a second recess 1725 shown in fig. 19B. First and second recesses 1721 and 1725 are illustratively shown positioned on first and second sides, respectively, of nose cone 222 opposite each other.

The first recess 1721 includes a plurality of regions configured to receive, for example, the first locking member 1711. For example, a first region 1722 may be provided that extends from the end of the nose cone 222 to a designed distance from the end of the nose cone 222 in an axial region from the nose cone 222. The first recess 1721 further includes a second region 1723 at a design distance that extends from the first region 1722 in the circumferential direction of the nose cone 222. The locking feature 1724 is disposed at an end of the second region 1723 opposite the first region 1722. The locking feature 1724 is illustratively shown as a recess in the axial direction from the second region 1723, with an angled side extending to the second region 1723, forming a recess adapted to receive, for example, the locking feature 1713. The width of the first region 1721 in the circumferential direction may correspond to the length of the body 1713 and the height of the second region 1722 corresponds to the width of the body 1713 in the axial direction. The locking feature 1724 is adapted to receive the locking feature 1713.

Similarly, the second recess 1725 includes a plurality of regions configured to receive, for example, the second locking member 1715. For example, a first region 1726 may be provided that extends from an end of the nose cone 222 in an axial direction from the nose cone 222 to a designed distance from the end of the nose cone 222. The second recess 1726 further includes a second region 1727 at a design distance that extends from the first region 1726 in the circumferential direction of the nose cone 222. The locking feature 1728 is disposed at an end of the second region 1727 opposite the first region 1726. The locking feature 1728 is illustratively shown as a recess in the axial direction from the second region 1727, with an angled side extending to the second region 1727, forming a recess adapted to receive, for example, the locking feature 1717. The width of the first region 1726 in the circumferential direction may correspond to the length of the body 1716 and the height of the second region 1727 corresponds to the width of the body 1716 in the axial direction. The locking feature 1728 is adapted to receive the locking feature 1717.

For example, fig. 20 shows a flowchart of the operation of the interlock system 1700. Fig. 20 shows three stages of movement of the interlock system 1700. In the first state, the second interlocking member 1710 is positioned within the first interlocking member 1720; in the second state, the second interlocking member 1710 is received by the first interlocking member 1720; and in a third state, second interlocking member 1710 interfaces with first interlocking member 1720 to couple sheath 530 (e.g., as part of brush head 400) to nose cone 222 (e.g., as part of handle portion 200).

More particularly, fig. 20 depicts a perspective view of a second side of neck 430 having a second locking member 1715 and a second side of nose cone 222 having a second recess 1725. The outer structure of neck 430 and ring 1703 has been removed for clarity, and only second locking member 1715 and sheath 530 are depicted. However, it should be understood that in practice the aspects depicted in fig. 20 are not directly observable due to neck 430 and therefore are performed within neck 430.

In operation, as outlined above, in the first state, the second locking member 1715 is positioned above the first region 1726 of the second recess 1725. The depth of the recess 1725 in the radial direction is designed to correspond to the thickness of the body 1716 in the radial direction to receive the second locking member 171. Once aligned, lateral movement of the brush head 400 in the axial direction slides the second locking member 1715 toward the bottom edge of the first region 1726 of the recess 1725. The pre-designed distance (e.g., the location of the bottom edge) is selected to allow the bottom edge of neck 400 to contact nose cone 222 or upper cap 221. From a second state (e.g., where the second locking member rests on the bottom surface of region 1726), rotational twisting force can be applied to the brush head 400 (or handle portion 200) to slide the second locking member 1715 in a circumferential direction and into the second region 1727. The locking feature 1717 exerts a force on the upper surface of the recess 1727 until the locking feature 1717 is received by the locking member 1728, as shown in fig. 20 (e.g., a third state). The pressure applied by the locking feature 1717 is released and the locking feature 1717 interfaces with the locking feature 1728 to lock the brush head 400 in place relative to the nose cone 222 and thus relative to the handle portion 200.

The angled sides of locking features 1728 and 1717 may also provide for releasing the coupling of brush head 400 to handle portion 200. For example, the angled sides allow the locking feature 1717 to slide relative to the locking feature 1728 after sufficient force is applied in the circumferential direction, thereby backing out of the locking feature 1728. The state of the second locking member 1715 relative to the second recess 1725 may then be reversed, allowing the brush head 400 to be removed from the nose cone 222.

Although the above example is described with reference to the second locking member 1715 and the second recess 1725, the first locking member 1711 and the first recess 1715 experience similar conditions with the second locking member 1715 and the second recess 1725 at the same time, as they are formed on the same component (e.g., neck 430 and nose cone 222). For example, in the first state, the first locking member 1711 is positioned above the first region 1722 of the first recess 1721. Once aligned, lateral movement (e.g., due to the application of the same force that results in lateral movement of the second locking member 1715) slides the first locking member 1711 into the first region 1722 of the recess 1721. From a second state (e.g., where the first locking member rests on the bottom surface of region 1722), the rotational torque force (e.g., application of the same force that results in rotational movement of second locking member 1715) slides first locking member 1711 into second region 1723. The locking feature 1713 is then received by the locking feature 1724 (e.g., the third state) to lock the brush head 400 in place relative to the nose cone 222.

Although specific examples of interlocking systems are provided above, embodiments herein are not limited to only those examples. For example, any number of locking members and corresponding recesses may be used. That is, a single locking member may be provided that interfaces with a single recess. Similarly, three or more pairs of locking members and recesses may be used as desired. Furthermore, the first and second locking members (and corresponding recesses) need not be positioned on opposite sides, but may be offset at any desired angle. For example, the second locking member may be offset from the first locking member by 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, etc. in the circumferential direction. The first and second recesses may be similarly offset.

Additional embodiments of the brushhead assembly

Figures 21A-21B illustrate various views of an exemplary brushhead assembly which may be used with the powered toothbrush of figure 1, with filaments removed, in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Figures 21A-21B illustrate a brush head assembly 2100 that is substantially identical to the brush head assembly 400 described above, except that the brush head assembly 2100 includes an arcuate slip joint 2110, a first of which is fixedly attached to the paddle 511 and hooked to the tray 412 a. Similarly, a second illustrated arcuate slip joint is fixedly attached to the paddle 521 and hooked over the dental arch 412 b. Alternatively, they may be firmly connected to the pressure pads 523 and 513. This type of slip joint may replace slots 607 and 605. With these types of hooks at each end of the paddle, the center marble can snap in and then rotate the entire tray in place. This is a method of replacing the entire brush plate at the end of its service life while retaining the bladder assembly 420.

Fig. 22 illustrates another exemplary brush head assembly that may be used with the powered toothbrush of fig. 1 in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. Fig. 22 illustrates a brush head assembly 2200 that is substantially similar to brush head assembly 400, except that brush head assembly 2200 includes brackets 2212a and 2212b. The trays 2212a and 2212b may be substantially identical to the trays 412a and 412b, except that the trays 2212a and 2212b have a "U" shaped cross-section. That is, for example, when brushing teeth, the flexible fingers of the trays 2212a and 2212b are substantially perpendicular to the occlusal plane of the mouth, rather than being angled as described above.

Fig. 23 illustrates an additional example of a brush head suitable for use with the powered toothbrush of fig. 1 for young children in accordance with embodiments disclosed herein. The assembly includes child-sized trays 2312a and 2312B, a drive mechanism 2320, and a neck 2330, similar to those described above in connection with fig. 5A and 5B. Similarly, the assembly depicted in fig. 9 and 10 may be used with the child-sized tray depicted. In addition, the child resistant trays 2312a and 2312b may be made of a soft elastomeric material. Similarly, the bristles 2314b may be made of a softer material than that used in adult versions.

Fig. 24 shows a clip arrangement 2400 for attaching bristles to a brushhead frame 2402. Clip 2401 includes bristles 2514b that can be easily removed as it wears.

Fig. 25A-25B schematically illustrate another exemplary tray that may be used with the system, including those depicted in fig. 1, 4, 5A-5F, and 10A and 10B. Trays 2512a and 2512b include a first side 2501 and a second side 2502 defining sides of a dental channel. Inner surface 2517 includes bristles 2514a and 2514b. The relative shallowness of the tooth channels is compensated by the angle of the side bristles. A drive mechanism, such as a bladder, is schematically illustrated as 2520. The upper tray and the lower tray are connected to a capsule, such as depicted in fig. 9-11, for example.

Fig. 25C shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a full arch tray having all teeth designed to brush a user simultaneously. The embodiment shown in fig. 25C can be considered as one of the half arch pairs described in all embodiments above with the same components and functions.

Fig. 26 and 27 illustrate schematic diagrams of examples of drive mechanisms that may be used with the brush head of fig. 4, according to some embodiments.

Processing device

Fig. 28 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary wired or wireless processing device 2800 that may be used in connection with various embodiments described herein. For example, the system 2800 may be implemented as the processor device 215 or as a component carried on the PCBA 210 of fig. 2. The system 2800 may be a processor-enabled device capable of executing instructions in the form of software and performing data communications. Other computer systems and/or architectures may also be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

The system 2800 preferably includes one or more processors, such as processor 2810. Additional processors may be provided, such as an auxiliary processor to manage input/output, an auxiliary processor to perform floating point mathematical operations, a special purpose microprocessor (e.g., a digital signal processor) having an architecture suitable for quickly executing signal processing algorithms, an additional microprocessor or controller or co-processor for a dual or multi-processor system. Such an auxiliary processor may be a discrete processor or may be integrated with the processor 2810.

The processor 2810 is preferably connected to a communication bus 2805. The communication bus 2805 may include a data channel for facilitating the transfer of information between the storage and other peripheral components of the system 2800 (e.g., to the pneumatic system 2875). In addition, the communication bus 2805 may provide a set of signals for communicating with the processor 2810, including a data bus, an address bus, and a control bus (not shown). The communication bus 2805 can include any standard or non-standard bus architecture, such as, for example, a bus architecture conforming to an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA), an extended industry standard architecture (ELISA), a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA), a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) local bus, or standards promulgated by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), including IEEE 188 general interface bus (GPIB), IEEE 696/S-100, and the like.

The pneumatic system 2875 is substantially similar to the pneumatic system disclosed herein, for example, in connection with fig. 2 and 15-16C. For example, the pneumatic system 2875 may include a motor 204 coupled to the diaphragm 207 via a bushing 206 and an eccentric 205, and the fluid path includes a tube 229 and a drive mechanism 420 (fig. 2). In addition, pneumatic system 2875 may also include diaphragm pump 1501, outlet check valve 1502, inlet check valve 1503, inlet shut-off valve 1504, outlet bypass valve 1505, pressure transducer 1506, and drive mechanism 1507 (fig. 15).

The system 2800 preferably includes a main memory 2815 and may also include a secondary memory 2820. Main memory 2815 provides storage of instructions and data, such as one or more functions of a powered toothbrush, for programs executing on processor 2810. For example, the main memory 2815 may provide storage of instructions and data for programs for performing exemplary methods of driving the pneumatic system 2875, as described above. It should be appreciated that the programs stored in memory and executed by the processor 2810 may be written and/or compiled in any suitable language, including, but not limited to, C/c++, java, javaScript, perl, visual Basic, ·net, custom language for PICs or any microprocessor, and the like. The main memory 2815 is typically a semiconductor-based memory such as Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM) and/or Static Random Access Memory (SRAM). Other semiconductor-based memory types include, for example, synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM), rambus Dynamic Random Access Memory (RDRAM), ferroelectric Random Access Memory (FRAM), etc., including Read Only Memory (ROM).

Secondary memory 2820 may optionally include internal memory 2825 and/or removable media 2830. The removable media 2830 is read from and/or written to in any well known manner. Removable storage media 2830 may be, for example, a magnetic tape drive, a Compact Disk (CD) drive, a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) drive, other optical drives, a flash memory drive, and the like.

Removable storage media 2830 is a non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon computer-executable code (e.g., the disclosed software modules) and/or data. Computer software or data stored on a removable storage medium 2830 is read into system 2800 for execution by processor 2810.

In alternative embodiments, secondary memory 2820 may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other data or instructions to be loaded into system 2800. Such means may include, for example, external storage media 2845 and communication interface 2840, which allows software and data to be transferred from external storage media 2845 to system 2800. Examples of external storage media 2845 may include an external hard disk drive, an external optical drive, an external magneto-optical drive, and the like. Other examples of secondary memory 2820 may include semiconductor-based memory such as programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory (block-oriented memory similar to EEPROM).

The system 2800 may include a communication interface 2840. Communication interface 2840 allows software and data to be transferred between system 2800 and an external device, network, or other information source. For example, computer software or executable code may be transferred from a web server to system 2800 via communication interface 2840. Examples of communication interface 2840 include a built-in network adapter, a Network Interface Card (NIC), a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) network card, a card bus network adapter, a wireless network adapter, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) network adapter, a modem, a Network Interface Card (NIC), a wireless data card, a communication port, an infrared interface, an IEEE 1394 firewire, or any other device capable of interfacing system 2800 with a network or other computing device. Communication interface 2840 preferably implements industry-published protocol standards such as the Ethernet IEEE 802 standard, fiber channel, digital Subscriber Line (DSL), asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), frame relay, asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), integrated digital services network (ISDN), personal Communication Services (PCS), transmission control protocol/Internet protocol (TCP/IP), serial line Internet protocol/point-to-point protocol (SLIP/PPP), and the like, but customized or non-standard interface protocols may also be implemented.

Software and data transferred via communications interface 2840 typically take the form of electrical communications signals 2855. These signals 2855 may be provided to communications interface 2840 via communications channel 2850. In embodiments, the communication channel 2850 may be a wired or wireless network, or any other type of communication link. The communication channel 2850 carries signals 2855 and may be implemented using a variety of wired or wireless communication means including wire or cable, fiber optics, conventional telephone lines, cellular telephone links, wireless data communication links, radio frequency ("RF") links, or infrared links, among others.

Computer executable code (i.e., computer programs such as the disclosed applications, or software modules) is stored in main memory 2815 and/or secondary memory 2820. Computer programs may also be received via communications interface 2840 and stored in main memory 2815 and/or secondary memory 2820. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the system 2800 to perform various functions of the disclosed embodiments, such as control of the pneumatic system 2875.

In this specification, the term "computer-readable medium" is used to refer to any non-transitory computer-readable storage medium for providing computer-executable code (e.g., software and computer programs) to system 2800. Examples of such media include main memory 2815, secondary memory 2820 (including internal memory 2825, removable media 2830, and external storage media 2845), and any peripheral devices communicatively coupled to communication interface 2840 (including a network information server or other network device). These non-transitory computer readable media are means for providing executable code, programming instructions, and software to system 2800.

In embodiments implemented using software, the software may be stored on a computer readable medium and loaded into system 2800 through removable media 2830, I/O interface 2835, or communication interface 2840. In such an embodiment, the software is loaded into system 2800 in the form of electrical communication signal 2855. The software, when executed by the processor 2810, preferably causes the processor 2810 to perform the features and functions described in one or more of the appendices 28-4.

In an embodiment, I/O interface 2835 provides an interface between one or more components of system 2800 and one or more input and/or output devices. In various embodiments, I/O interface 2835 provides an interface between components of system 2800 and one or more devices or systems external to system 2800 (e.g., devices in communication with system 2800 via a network). Other exemplary input devices include, but are not limited to, switches or other touch sensitive devices, biometric sensing devices, and the like. Examples of output devices include, but are not limited to, light Emitting Diode (LED) displays, liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs), vacuum Fluorescent Displays (VFDs), surface conduction electron emission displays (SED), field Emission Displays (FED), and the like. For example, the powered toothbrush may include a display on the handle portion 200 that displays the state of charge of the battery 203 or other information related to the user of the toothbrush 100.

The system 2800 can also include optional wireless communication components that facilitate wireless communication via a data network. The wireless communication components may include an antenna system 2870, a radio system 2865, and a baseband system 2860. In system 2800, radio Frequency (RF) signals are transmitted and received over the air by antenna system 2870 under the management of radio system 2865.

In one embodiment, the antenna system 2870 may include one or more antennas and one or more multiplexers (not shown) to perform switching functions to provide transmit and receive signal paths for the antenna system 2870. In the receive path, the received RF signal may be coupled from the multiplexer to a low noise amplifier (not shown) that amplifies the received RF signal and sends the amplified signal to the radio system 2865.

In alternative embodiments, the radio system 2865 may include one or more radio components configured to communicate via various frequencies. In an embodiment, radio system 2865 may combine a demodulator (not shown) and a modulator (not shown) in one Integrated Circuit (IC). The demodulator and modulator may also be separate components. In the incoming path, the demodulator strips away the RF carrier signal leaving a baseband received signal that is transmitted from the radio system 2865 to the baseband system 2860.

The baseband system 2860 also encodes the digital signals for transmission and generates baseband transmit signals that are routed to the modulator portion of the radio system 2865. The modulator mixes the baseband transmit signal with an RF carrier signal to generate an RF transmit signal that is routed to the antenna system 2870 and may pass through a power amplifier (not shown). The power amplifier amplifies the RF transmit signal and routes it to the antenna system 2870, where the signal is switched to the antenna port for transmission.

Baseband system 2860 is also communicatively coupled to processor 2810, which may be a Central Processing Unit (CPU). The processor 2810 may access data storage areas 2815 and 2820. The processor 2810 is preferably configured to execute instructions (i.e., computer programs, such as the disclosed exemplary methods) that may be stored in the main memory 2815 or the secondary memory 2820. Computer programs may also be received from the baseband processor 2860 and stored in main memory 2815 or secondary memory 2820, or executed upon receipt. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the system 2800 to perform the various functions of the disclosed embodiments. For example, data storage area 2815 or 2820 may include various software modules.

Other aspects

The various embodiments may also be implemented primarily in hardware using, for example, components such as application specific integrated circuits ("ASICs") or field programmable gate arrays ("FPGAs"). It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the relevant art to implement a hardware state machine capable of performing the functions described herein. Various embodiments may also be implemented using a combination of both hardware and software.

Furthermore, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative logical blocks, modules, circuits, and method steps described in connection with the above figures and the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application, but such implementation decisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, groupings of functions within modules, blocks, circuits or steps are for ease of description. Certain functions or steps may be transferred from one module, block, or circuit to another without departing from the invention.

Furthermore, the various illustrative blocks, modules, and methods described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed using the following: a general purpose processor, a digital signal processor ("DSP"), an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

While certain embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that the described embodiments are by way of example only. Accordingly, the systems and methods described herein should not be limited based on the described embodiments. Rather, the systems and methods described herein should be limited only in light of the accompanying claims as set forth above in connection with the foregoing description and accompanying drawings.

Claims

1. A powered toothbrush, comprising:

a first tray comprising a first set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces of a first set of teeth;

A second tray comprising a second set of cleaning surfaces for simultaneously cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces of a second set of teeth, the second set of teeth being opposite the first set of teeth;

an inflatable bladder disposed between the first tray and the second tray;

a frame holding the bladder;

a first coupling mechanism coupling the first tray to a first side of the capsule; and

a second coupling mechanism that couples the second tray to a second side of the capsule opposite the first side of the capsule.

2. The powered toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the inflatable bladder comprises a first membrane spanning across and coupled to a first side of the frame and a second membrane spanning across and coupled to a second side of the frame opposite the first membrane.

3. The powered toothbrush of claim 2, wherein the first coupling mechanism comprises one or more attachment members coupled to the first membrane and one or more corresponding interface openings in the first tray, and the second coupling mechanism comprises one or more attachment members coupled to the second membrane and one or more corresponding interface openings in a second dental arch.

4. The powered toothbrush of claim 3, further comprising:

a first paddle interposed between the first tray and the inflatable bladder, the first paddle being attached to the first membrane and having one or more attachment members extending therefrom away from the bladder; and

a second paddle interposed between the second tray and the inflatable bladder, the second paddle being attached to the second membrane and having one or more attachment members extending therefrom away from the bladder.

5. The powered toothbrush of claim 1, wherein the first and second sets of cleaning surfaces each comprise: a fabric; and a plurality of yarn segments woven through the fabric, wherein each of the plurality of yarn segments comprises a plurality of filaments forming bristles on a first side of the fabric.

6. The powered toothbrush of claim 1, further comprising:

a handle portion; and

a pneumatic device disposed within the handle portion and coupled to the bladder.

7. The powered toothbrush of claim 1, further comprising a neck extending from the frame and having a tapered opening in an end opposite the frame and a first interlocking member positioned within the tapered opening.

8. The powered toothbrush of claim 7, further comprising:

a handle portion having a base, a nose cone opposite the base, and a second interlocking member located on the nose cone and interlocking with the first interlocking member; and

a pneumatic device disposed within the handle portion and coupled to the bladder via the nose cone.

9. A toothbrush head, comprising:

a rigid outer frame having a first side and a second side and an opening therethrough;

a first membrane covering the opening of the rigid outer frame on the first side of the rigid outer frame;

a second membrane covering the opening of the rigid outer frame on the second side of the rigid outer frame, thereby defining a space between the first membrane and the second membrane;

A first coupling mechanism coupling the first tray to the first membrane; and

a second coupling mechanism coupling the second tray to the second film.

10. The toothbrush head of claim 9, wherein the first coupling mechanism comprises one or more gimbal frames that movably couple the first membrane and the first tray, and the second coupling mechanism comprises one or more gimbal frames that movably couple the second membrane and the second arch.

11. The toothbrush head of claim 10, further comprising:

a first paddle interposed between the first tray and the first film, the first paddle attached to the first film and having the one or more gimbal attached thereto; and

a second paddle interposed between the second tray and the second film and having the one or more gimbal attached thereto.

12. The toothbrush head of claim 9, further comprising a neck extending from an outer rigid frame and having a tapered opening in an end opposite the outer rigid frame and a first interlocking member positioned within the tapered opening.

13. The toothbrush head of claim 11, wherein the first set of cleaning surfaces and the second set of cleaning surfaces each comprise: a fabric; and a plurality of yarn segments woven through the fabric, wherein each of the plurality of yarn segments comprises a plurality of filaments forming bristles on a first side of the fabric.

14. The toothbrush head of claim 9, wherein the first coupling mechanism comprises one or more attachment members coupled to the first membrane and one or more corresponding interface openings in the first tray, and the second coupling mechanism comprises one or more attachment members coupled to the second membrane and one or more corresponding interface openings in a second dental arch.

15. A toothbrush head, comprising:

a first tray comprising a first plurality of flexible fingers on a first side and a second plurality of flexible fingers on a second side opposite the first side, and a first plurality of cleaning surfaces on an inner side of each of the flexible fingers for simultaneously cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces of a first set of teeth;

a second tray comprising a first plurality of flexible fingers on a first side of the second tray and a second plurality of flexible fingers on a second side of the second tray opposite the first side, and a second plurality of cleaning surfaces on an inner side of each of the flexible fingers for simultaneously cleaning a plurality of tooth surfaces of a second set of teeth opposite the first set of teeth;

A rigid outer frame having a first side and a second side opposite the first side and an opening therethrough;

a first coupling mechanism coupling the first tray to the first membrane; and

a second coupling mechanism coupling the second tray to the second film.

16. The toothbrush head of claim 15, wherein the first coupling mechanism comprises one or more gimbal frames that movably couple the first membrane and the first tray, and the second coupling mechanism comprises one or more gimbal frames that movably couple the second membrane and the second arch.

17. The toothbrush head of claim 15, further comprising:

18. The toothbrush head of claim 9, further comprising a neck extending from an outer rigid frame and having a tapered opening in an end opposite the outer rigid frame and a first interlocking member positioned within the tapered opening.

19. The toothbrush head of claim 17, wherein the first set of cleaning surfaces and the second set of cleaning surfaces each comprise: a fabric; and a plurality of yarn segments woven through the fabric, wherein each of the plurality of yarn segments comprises a plurality of filaments forming bristles on a first side of the fabric.

20. The toothbrush head of claim 18, further comprising a channel extending through the neck and in fluid communication with the space between the first and second membranes.