GB2462540A

GB2462540A - A sterilisation device for toothbrushes

Info

Publication number: GB2462540A
Application number: GB0914312A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Jerry Francis Mahony
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2008-08-15
Filing date: 2009-08-17
Publication date: 2010-02-17
Also published as: GB0818512D0; GB0814937D0; GB0914312D0; GB2462647A; WO2010018382A1

Abstract

A sterilisation apparatus 10, for sterilising a part of an oral hygiene device such as the bristles 13 of a toothbrush 12, includes a body 14 having an opening 18 in which the oral hygiene device 12 is received, a sterilisation location 18b, a container 20 for containing sterilisation fluid inside the body 14, a dispensing device 24 for dispensing sterilisation fluid from the container, and an operating member 28 for causing the dispensing device 24 to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container 20 into the sterilisation location. The operating member 28 may be a user activated button (fig 1; 28), a switch (fig 9; 228) which operated by contact of the item on a surface inside the body 14 or sensor (fig 10;328) that detects the presence of the item 12 to be sterilised. The sterilization fluid may be an antibacterial and/or a cleaning fluid. The device may also comprise clips to hold the item 12 in the opening or a rubber diaphragm (fig 9; 245).

Description

Sterilisation apparatus This invention relates to a sterilisation apparatus, particularly for use in sterilising oral hygiene devices, for example toothbrushes.

It is desirable to ensure that oral hygiene devices, for example toothbrushes are kept clean and relatively free from bacteria and other micro-organisms, so that during use, the oral hygiene device is effective in maintaining and/or improving oral hygiene, rather than acting as a carrier of micro-organisms into the mouth of the user. It is recommended to replace a toothbrush or at least a head part of the toothbrush regularly. However, users are prone to forgetting to replace the toothbrush, or may not be able to replace the toothbrush regularly as recommended. Furthermore, even if the toothbrush is replaced 1 5 regularly, the number of micro-organisms on the toothbrush generally increases over the lifetime of the toothbrush, if the toothbrush is simply rinsed with water after use.

It is known to provide sterilisation apparatuses for reducing the number of micro-organisms present on an oral hygiene device, for example a toothbrush, particularly the head part of the toothbrush, to at least give the user the impression that their toothbrush is clean before use. It is known to provide sterilisation apparatuses for sterilising toothbrushes which include a bath of sterilisation fluid, in which the head of the toothbrush may rest during storage. A disadvantage of such apparatuses is that the user must remember that it is necessary to replenish or replace the sterilisation fluid at regular intervals, to ensure that the fluid serves the purpose of sterilising a toothbrush which is immersed therein, rather than providing a breeding ground for bacteria and other micro-organisms.

It is also known to provide complex sterilisation apparatuses which are intended to sterilise a plurality of toothbrushes, and perform a time consuming sterilisation cycle which may include moving the plurality of toothbrushes through a sterilisation fluid, and drying the toothbrushes.

Disadvantages of such sterilisation apparatuses are that they are bulky and require a source of electrical energy. If fewer toothbrushes are sterilised than the maximum capacity of the sterilisation apparatus, sterilisation fluid and electrical energy may be wasted, meaning that such apparatuses are not environmentally friendly.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a sterilisation apparatus for sterilising a part of an oral hygiene device, the sterilisation apparatus including a body having an opening in which the part of the oral hygiene device is receivable, the opening including a sterilisation location, the body supporting a container for containing sterilisation fluid, the sterilisation apparatus further including a dispensing device for dispensing sterilisation fluid from the container, and an operating member for causing the dispensing device to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container into the sterilisation location.

The operating member may be operated manually by a user. For example, it may be in the form of a push button.

The operating member may be activated by the oral hygiene device, such that sterilising fluid is dispensed automatically when the part of the oral hygiene device is received in the sterilisation location. (.

For example, the operating member may comprise a sensor operable to detect the presence of an oral hygiene device in the sterilisation location.

The operating member may comprise a switch arranged to be activated by the presence of the part of the oral hygiene device in the sterilisation location. For example, the switch may comprise a rocker switch which in use is operated by contact with the oral hygiene device.

1 0 Advantages of such a sterilisation apparatus are that the container of sterilisation fluid is normally sealed between uses of the apparatus, and therefore micro-organisms are unlikely to enter the container. The apparatus may be intended to sterilise a single oral hygiene device at any one time, and only a desired dose of sterilisation fluid is dispensed 1 5 from the container during a single use, thus making the apparatus economical and hygienic to use. The oral hygiene device to be sterilised does not have to be held in the apparatus for a prolonged period (although, if desired, the sterilising apparatus may be used as a convenient location to store the oral hygiene device), thus reducing the likelihood of micro-organisms being transferred from an oral hygiene device to the apparatus, which may then be transferred back onto the oral hygiene device after sterilisation or on to another oral hygiene device. A further advantage of the present invention is that the sterilisation fluid may be dispensed directly from the container into the sterilisation location, without having to pass along pipes or channels, for example. This also reduces the number of sites which are liable to harbour micro-organisms, thus increasing the level of hygiene.

Such a sterilisation apparatus may be for a single oral hygiene device.

If the sterilisation apparatus were used for multiple oral hygiene devices there is a risk of cross contamination, that is micro-organisms etc present on one oral hygiene device might be spread to one or more others in the same sterilisation apparatus.

The sterilisation apparatus has fewer moving parts than some known sterilisation apparatuses, which reduces the likelihood of malfunction or breakage.

The sterilisation apparatus may include a locating formation for locating the part of the oral hygiene device to be sterilised in the sterilising location. This may ensure that the oral hygiene device is kept in the correct position for sterilisation fluid to be dispensed thereon. The holding device need not hold the oral hygiene device in position for prolonged periods, since the sterilisation of the toothbrush is carried out 1 5 quickly by the sterilisation apparatus.

The opening may extend generally horizontally relative to the body. In some embodiments the opening preferably subtends an angle of less than 450 to the horizontal.

The sterilisation apparatus may be treated with an anti-microbial agent.

The interior of the sterilisation apparatus, and in particular the opening, may be anti-microbial. The exterior of the apparatus may be anti-microbial.

The dispensing device may dispense sterilisation fluid in a substantially downward direction. The substantially horizontal orientation of the opening and the substantially downward dispensing direction may encourage dispensed sterilisation fluid to remain in contact with the oral hygiene device. For example a toothbrush is received in the sterilisation apparatus in substantially the same orientation as the toothbrush would be held during preparation for use, for example during the application of toothpaste, and transfer towards a user's mouth, therefore, the sterilisation fluid is unlikely to drip or pour from the toothbrush between sterilisation and use. Furthermore this orientation enables the oral hygiene device to be held comfortably by the user during sterilisation.

The sterilisation apparatus may include a guide member for guiding the part of the oral hygiene device to be sterilised into a desired position relative to the dispensing device. This may assist in ensuring that sterilisation fluid comes into contact with the correct part of the oral hygiene device when the sterilisation fluid is dispensed.

The dispensing device may include a nozzle for spraying the quantity of 1 5 sterilisation fluid into the opening. This assists in ensuring that the sterilisation fluid is dispensed in the desired direction, but also encourages the sterilisation fluid to disperse to a desired degree as it is dispensed, so that the whole part of the oral hygiene device which is required to be sterilised is contacted by sterilisation fluid.

The container may be pressurised, so that the dispensing of the sterilisation fluid can be performed efficiently.

The sterilisation fluid may be dispensed as an aerosol spray.

The sterilisation fluid may perform both a cleaning and a disinfecting function. The sterilisation fluid may comprise a cleansing agent and/or an anti-microbial agent.

The sterilisation apparatus may include a holding member for holding the oral hygiene device in position relative to at least one of the opening and the dispensing device.

The container may be replaceable, thus avoiding the need to replace the entire apparatus when the sterilisation fluid is expended.

The body may include an access portion for providing access to at least one of the opening and the container. This enables the cleaning and/or 1 0 maintenance of the sterilisation apparatus, for example the replacement of the container, and/or the cleaning of the opening.

The access portion may be provided by the body having at least two parts which are disconnectable from and reconnectable to one another.

The part of the oral hygiene device may be a head part of a toothbrush,

for example.

The sterilisation apparatus may further include an identification device which is able to recognise an associated oral hygiene device, so as to enable operation of the sterilisation apparatus when the associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.

The identification device may be operable to prevent the operation of the sterilisation apparatus when an oral hygiene device other than the associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.

The operating member may be operable to cause the dispensing device to automatically dispense sterilisation fluid from the container in response to a signal from the identification device that an associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.

The operating member may be inoperable in the absence of a signal from the identification device indicating that an associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an oral hygiene device including an identifier for associating the oral hygiene device with a sterilisation apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention.

At least a part of the oral hygiene device may be treated with an anti- 1 5 microbial agent.

The oral hygiene device may include a cleaning part which is manufactured from one of rubber and a plastics material. The cleaning part may be treated with an anti-microbial agent.

According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a sterilisation apparatus for sterilising a part of an oral hygiene device, the sterilisation apparatus including a body having an opening in which the part of the oral hygiene device is receivable, the opening including a sterilisation location, the body supporting a container for containing sterilisation fluid, the sterilisation apparatus further including an operating member operable to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container into the sterilisation location.

According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a sterilisation apparatus for sterilising at least a part of an oral hygiene device, the sterilisation apparatus including a body having an opening in which the oral hygiene device is receivable, the opening including a sterilisation location, the body supporting a container for containing sterilisation fluid, the sterilisation apparatus being operable to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container into the sterilisation location, the sterilisation apparatus including an identification device which is able to recognise an associated oral hygiene device, so as to 1 0 enable operation of the sterilisation apparatus when the associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus, and to prevent the operation of the sterilisation apparatus when an oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.

1 5 The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which: FIGURE 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of a sterilisation apparatus, showing parts inside a body of the apparatus in dotted lines, and a toothbrush received in the apparatus; FIGURE 2 is a front elevation of the sterilisation apparatus; FIGURE 3 is further side view of the sterilisation apparatus; FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the sterilisation apparatus; FIGURE 5 is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the sterilisation apparatus, shown with two parts of the apparatus separated, so that part of the interior of the sterilisation apparatus is visible; FIGURE 6 is a front view of a third embodiment of a sterilisation apparatus; FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of the sterilisation apparatus of Figure 6; FIGURE 8 is a plan view of the sterilisation apparatus of Figures 6 and 7; FIGURE 9 is a cross sectional view of the sterilisation apparatus of Figures 6, 7 and 8 taken along the line A-A shown in Figure 6; and Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of Figure 10 of a fourth embodiment of the invention.

Referring to Figures 1 to 3, there is shown a sterilisation apparatus 1 0 for sterilisation of at least a part of an oral hygiene device, for example a toothbrush 12. The toothbrush 12 includes a head part 13, having a front surface 13a, from which a cleaning part 13b, for example a plurality of bristles, extends, and a rear surface 13c, which is substantially opposite the front surface 13a.

The sterilisation apparatus 10 includes a body 14, having an outer surface 15. In this example the outer surface 15 of the body 14 is substantially spherical, but it will be appreciated that the body 14 may be any shape as desired. The body 14 preferably includes a support part 16, which in this example is a flattened portion of the outer surface of the body 14. The support part 16 may alternatively or additionally include one or more feet or legs for supporting the body 14 of the sterilisation apparatus 10.

The body 14 includes an opening 18 which extends from the outer surface 15 of the body 14, inwardly of the body 14, for receiving a part of the toothbrush 12, in particular for receiving a head part 12a of the toothbrush 12. The opening 18 extends generally horizontally into the body 14, in this case subtending an angle of less than 45° to the horizontal. The opening 18 is in the form of a passage, having a first end 18a at the outer surface 15 of the body 14 and a second end 18b.

The cross-sectional area of the passage is selected so that the head part 12a of at least the majority of types of toothbrush 12 can pass along the opening 18 without coming into contact with a side wall of the opening 18. Alternatively, the body 14 of the sterilisation apparatus 10 may be substantially hollow, the opening 18 in that case comprising the hollow interior of the apparatus 10.

The body 14 supports a container 20 for containing sterilisation fluid, such as an antibacterial and/or cleaning liquid. The container 20 includes an outlet 22 which is directly connectable to a dispensing device 24 for dispensing a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container 20. In the example shown the container 20 is pressurised, and the sterilisation fluid is dispensed as an aerosol spray. In this example, the dispensing device 24 includes a nozzle 26 for directing the quantity of sterilisation fluid in a desired direction. In this example, the dispensing device 24 is positioned such that the nozzle 26 dispenses sterilisation fluid substantially downwardly towards a sterilisation location 25 which is at or near the second end 18b of the opening 18.

The dispensing device 24 is positioned at or near the second end 1 8b of the opening 18, for dispensing the quantity of sterilisation fluid into the sterilisation location.

The container 20 may be housed completely within the body 14 of the sterilisation apparatus 10, or a part of the container 20 may protrude therefrom, whilst the dispensing device 24 is located inside the body 14.

In this example the container 20 is replaceable. The dispensing device 24 may be generally permanently connected to the container 20, so that the dispensing device 24 is replaceable with the container 20, or may be connected to the body 14 of the sterilisation apparatus 10, and disconnectable from and reconnectable to the container 20.

The sterilisation apparatus 10 includes an operating member 28, for 1 5 example a push button or lever, which is operable by a user, and operates the dispensing device 24 for dispensing a quantity of sterilisation fluid. The operating member 28 may directly contact the dispensing member 24, for example so that pressing the operating member 28 applies pressure to a part of the dispensing member 24, so as to release the quantity of sterilisation fluid. In the present example, the operating member 28 is positioned at or near a top part of the sterilisation apparatus 10, so that the operating member 28 is easily accessible by a user. However, the operating member 28 may be located anywhere on the body 14 of the sterilisation apparatus 10, preferably on the outer surface 1 5 of the sterilisation apparatus 10.

Alternatively the operating member 28 may remain stationary relative to the body 14, such that applying pressure to a part of the container 20 causes the dispensing device 24 to impinge on the operating member 28, thus operating the dispensing device 24 to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid. In the example where it is necessary for a user to handle part of the container 20, the part of the container 20 which is handled is preferably spaced and/or isolated from the nozzle 26 of the dispensing device 24.

The operating member 28 may be arranged such that insertion of the toothbrush 12 into the opening 18 and location of the toothbrush 12 in the sterilisation location operates the dispensing device 24, so as to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container 20.

The body 14 may include a holding member for holding the oral hygiene device in position relative to the dispensing device. In this example a guide member 30 is provided for guiding a toothbrush 12 along the opening 18 towards the sterilisation location 25. In this example the guide member 30 includes a shelf, along which the rear surface 13c of the toothbrush 12 can slide towards the second end 1 8b of the opening 18, with the cleaning part 13b of the toothbrush 12 facing generally upwards. In this example the guide member 30 is inclined, so that the guide member 30 extends generally horizontally and downwardly into the body 14. The guide means 30 may be provided with a cradle to support the toothbrush in the sterilisation location 25.

The holding member may alternatively, or additionally, include a locating formation 32, for example an end-stop at or near the second end 18b of the opening 18 for locating the toothbrush 12 relative to the sterilisation location and the dispensing device 24. The end-stop 32 assists in preventing the toothbrush 12 being inserted too far into the opening 18.

The sterilisation apparatus 10 may include a further holding formation, for example a clip (not shown), for holding the toothbrush 12 in position relative to the opening 18, and/or the dispensing device 24.

The body 14 includes an access portion 34, for providing access to at least one of the container 20 and the opening 18. In this example the body 14 is provided in two parts 14a, 14b which are disconnectable from and reconnectable to one another. The two parts 14a, 14b preferably include corresponding threaded portions for enabling the two parts 14a, 14b to be threadedly connected and disconnected. It will be appreciated that any type of connecting formation may provided, for example the two parts 14a, 14b of the body 14 may be connectable together by a push-fit connection, or bayonet-type connection. The body 14 may include a seal between the two parts 14a, 14b, for example a rubber gasket. The access portion 34 may intersect the opening 18, or may be separate therefrom.

The body 14 may be a moulded plastics material, but it will be appreciated that other materials may be used, for example rubber. The guide member 30 may also be manufactured from a plastics material.

The material(s) from which the sterilisation apparatus 10 is manufactured may be impregnated or coated with an antimicrobial agent.

In use, the sterilisation apparatus 10 is preferably positioned near to a tooth brushing location, for example in a bathroom. The sterilisation apparatus 10 may be used before and/or after use of the toothbrush 12.

The sterilisation apparatus may be used briefly, to clean the toothbrush or other oral hygiene device, or may be used for a more prolonged period, to store the oral hygiene device.

To carry out sterilisation of the toothbrush 12, a user inserts the toothbrush 12 into the first end 1 8a of the opening 1 8, with the cleaning part 13c of the toothbrush 12 facing generally upwards. Where a guide member 30 is provided, the toothbrush 12 is slid along the guide member 30, until the end-stop 32 is reached. The head 13a of the toothbrush 12 is positioned in the sterilisation location, adjacent and substantially beneath the nozzle 26 of the dispensing device 24. The user may hold the toothbrush 12 in position relative to the opening 18, and the dispensing device 24, or the toothbrush 12 may be engaged with the holding formation (where provided), so that the toothbrush 30 12 is held in position relative to the dispensing device 24, with the head 13 of the toothbrush 12 in the sterilisation location. The location of the part of the toothbrush 12 to be sterilised in the sterilisation location can be carried out by the user moving the toothbrush 12 in a single direction, for example by simply pushing the toothbrush 12 towards the second end 18b of the opening 18. There is no requirement for the toothbrush 12 to be hooked over the locating formation in order to retain the toothbrush in the correct position. Even if the user releases the toothbrush 12 once it is in position, the rear surface 13c of toothbrush 12 will rest on the guide member 30 and the toothbrush 12 will remain in the correct position. Alternatively, if the user releases the toothbrush 12 before the correct position has been reached, the inclined guide member 30 will encourage the toothbrush 12 to slide towards the second end 18b of the opening 18, and hence into the sterilisation location.

The user operates the dispensing device 24, for example by applying pressure generally downwardly on the operating member 28. The operating member 28 operates the dispensing device 24, so as to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container 20 on to the head 13 of the toothbrush 12. In this example, the quantity of sterilisation fluid is sprayed through the nozzle 26, so that a mist of sterilisation fluid settles on the head 13 of the toothbrush 12.

Alternatively one or more droplets of sterilisation fluid may be dispensed ontothe head 13 of thetoothbrush 12.

The quantity of sterilisation fluid dispensed from the container 20 during a single operation of the operating member 28 is preferably selected so as to be sufficient to adequately sterilise the toothbrush 12.

Alternatively, the user could operate the operating member 28 more than once, so as to dispense a plurality of quantities of sterilisation fluid from the container 20 on to the head 13 of the toothbrush 12.

1 5 Any sterilisation fluid which misses the toothbrush 12, or does not remain in contact with the toothbrush 12 is contained within the body 14 of the sterilisation apparatus 10, so that sterilisation of the toothbrush 12 can be completed quickly and cleanly.

Once the sterUisation fluid has been dispensed on to the toothbrush 12, the user may withdraw the toothbrush 12 from the opening 18 of the sterilisation apparatus 10, and may use or store the toothbrush 12 in any manner desired (including storing the toothbrush inside the sterilisation apparatus).

In this embodiment, the fact that the opening 18 extends generally horizontally means that the toothbrush 12 can be held comfortably by the user during sterilisation of the toothbrush 12. The generally upward orientation of the cleaning part 13c of the toothbrush 12 during sterilisation means that the quantity of sterilisation fluid which is dispensed on to the toothbrush is likely to remain thereon, rather than dripping off the toothbrush 12 either during withdrawal of the toothbrush from the apparatus 10, or during preparation of the toothbrush 12 for use. For example the toothbrush 12 can be maintained in substantially the same orientation during the application of toothpaste and whilst transferring the toothbrush 12 to the mouth of the user.

When the steritisation fluid has been expended, or a different type of sterilisation fluid is desired, the container 20 may be replaced. The body 14 is openable by the user, by separating the two parts of the body 14a, 14b, for example by unscrewing the two parts 14a, 14b. This provides access to the container 20, which can then be removed from the sterilisation apparatus 10, and replaced with a full container 20.

1 5 The sterilisation apparatus 10 may be provided with a container 20 of sterilisation fluid installed, or may be provided separately from the container 20. Replacement containers 20 of sterilisation fluid may be provided separately. In use the dispensing device 24 is housed within the body 14 of the sterilisation apparatus 10, which reduces the likelihood of the dispensing device 24 being contaminated with micro-organisms.

The access portion 34 of the sterilisation device may also provide access to the opening 18, for example to enable the opening 18 to be cleaned.

The sterilisation apparatus 10 may include an indicator for indicating when the amount of sterilisation fluid in the container 20 has fallen below a predetermined limit, thus indicating that the container 20 will need to be replaced shortly, for example within a particular number of uses.

A second embodiment of the sterilisation apparatus is shown generally at 110 in Figures 4 and 5. The features of the second embodiment of the sterilisation apparatus 110 which are similar to those of the first embodiment of the sterilisation apparatus 10 will be referred to by similar reference numerals pre-fixed by a 11.111 The sterilisation apparatus 110 includes a body 114, having an outer surface 115. The body 114 is provided in two parts, an upper part 114a, and a lower part 114b which are disconnectable from and reconnectable to one another. The base 114b of the sterilisation apparatus 110 includes a support part 116, which in this example is a flattened portion of the outer surface 115 of the base 114b. The support part 116 may alternatively or additionally include one or more feet or legs for supporting the body 114 of the sterilisation apparatus 110.

The upper part 114a and the base 114b of the body 114 may include a connecting formation for enabling the two parts 114a, 114b to be connected and disconnected. In the example shown, the two parts 114a, 1 14b clip together, but alternatively may include any other type of connecting formation for example corresponded threaded portions, a push fit connection, or a bayonet type connection. The body 114 may include a seal between the two parts 114a, 114b, for example a rubber gasket.

The base 114b is preferably manufactured from moulded rubber which is treated with an antimicrobial additive, for example by coating or impregnating the base 114b with such an additive. Manufacturing the base 1 14b from rubber or a similar material means that the sterilisation device 110 reduces the likelihood of the sterilisation apparatus 110 slipping on a surface on which it rests. The upper part 1 14a of the body 114 is preferably manufactured from a moulded plastics material, which may also be impregnated or coated with an antimicrobial additive.

The body 114 includes an opening 118 which extends from the outer surface 115 of the body 114, inwardly of the body 114, for receiving the part of a toothbrush 112, in particular for receiving a head part 113 of the toothbrush 112. The opening 118 extends generally downwardly into the body 114. The opening 118 is a passage, having a first end 118a at the outer surface 115 of the body 114, and a second end 118b inside the body 114.

The base 114b includes a support 117 for supporting a container 120 for containing sterilisation fluid adjacent the opening 118. The sterilising fluid may comprise a cleansing and/or anti-microbial agent. The container 120 includes a dispensing device in the form of an outlet 122 which, when the container 120 is supported by the support member 117, is located towards a lower region of the container 120. The support member 117 is generally tubular, and at least an upper part of the support member 117 is generally hollow, so as to be able to receive at least a part of the container 120.

The support member 117 includes an aperture 119 which is located towards a lower end of the support member 117. A connecting passage 121 extends from the aperture 119 of the support member 117 towards the opening 11 8 of the body such that sterilisation fluid released from the container 120 is directed from the outlet 122 of the container 120, through the aperture 119, to a sterilisation location 129 which is at or near the second end 11 8b of the opening 118. The connecting passage 121, or at least an internal surface of the connecting passage 121 flares generally outwardly, such that as the connecting passage 121 extends towards the opening 118, the cross-sectional area of the passage 121 increases.

In this example the container 120 is housed completely within the body 114 of the sterilisation apparatus 110.

The sterilisation apparatus 110 includes an operating member 128, in the form of a push button. The operating member 128 includes a portion of flexible material which is depressible and thus deformable by user's finger, such that a rear part of the operating member 128 is able to come into contact with an upper part of the container 120, and is able to 1 5 move the container 120 relative to the body 114 of the sterilisation apparatus 110. The flexible material may be a rubber or plastics material, and may include formations, for example ridges or dimples, to indicate the appropriate location for applying pressure to the operating member 128, and to maintain the engagement of a user's finger with the operating member 128 during use.

The operating member 128 is positioned at or near a top part of the sterilisation apparatus 110, so that the operating member 128 is easily accessible by the user. It will be appreciated that the operating member 128 may be located anywhere on the body 114 of the sterilisation apparatus 110, preferably on the outer surface 115 of the sterilisation apparatus 110.

The sterilisation apparatus 110 includes a locating formation 132, for example an end-stop at or near the second end 118b of the opening 118. The locating formation assists in locating the toothbrush 12 relative to the sterilisation location and the connecting passage 121. The locating formation 132 includes a plurality of raised portions 132a which extend over an area which is similar to the cross sectional area of the tip of the head portion 13 of a toothbrush 12.

The sterilisation apparatus 110 is operated in a similar fashion to the first embodiment of the sterilisation apparatus 10. A toothbrush 12 is inserted into the opening 118, but in a generally downward direction, until it comes to rest against the locating formation 132. The user then depresses the operating member 128, such that a rear part of the operating member 128 comes into contact with the container 120, and further depression of the operating member causes the container 120 to move relative to the body 114. Movement of the container 120 against 1 5 the support member 117 causes sterilisation fluid to be dispensed from the opening 122 of the container 120, through the aperture 119 into the connecting passage 121. Since the connecting passage 121 is flared outwardly, towards the opening 118, the sterilisation fluid is caused to disperse over an area which is similar in size to a head part 113 of a toothbrush 112. This reduces the likelihood of the sterilisation fluid missing the toothbrush completely, or being dispersed over too wide an area, so that the sterilisation capabilities of the fluid are reduced.

Any sterilisation fluid which misses the toothbrush 112, or does not remain in contact with the toothbrush 112 is contained within the body 114 of the sterilisation apparatus 110, so the sterilisation of the toothbrush can be completed quickly and cleanly.

As with the first embodiment of the sterilisation apparatus 110, the quantity of sterilisation fluid dispensed from the container 120 during a single operation of the sterilisation apparatus 110 is preferably selected so as to be sufficient to adequately sterilise the toothbrush 112.

Alternatively the user may operate the operating member 128 more than once, so as to dispense a plurality of quantities of sterilisation fluid from the container onto the head 113 of the toothbrush 112.

Once the sterilisation fluid has been dispensed onto the toothbrush 112, the user withdraws the toothbrush 112 from the opening 118 of the sterilisation apparatus 10 and may use or store the toothbrush 112 in any manner desired (including storing the toothbrush inside the sterilisation apparatus).

When the sterilisation fluid had been expended, or a different type of sterilisation fluid is desired, the container 120 may be released. The body 114 is openable by the user, by separating two parts of the body 114a, 114b, to provide access to the container, 120 which can then be removed from the sterilisation apparatus 110 and replaced with a different container 120.

The sterilisation apparatus 10, 110 may be associated with a particular oral hygiene device 112, or a particular brand of oral hygiene devices.

For example, the sterilisation device 110 in Figures 4 and 5 is provided with an identification device 140, which comprises for example, a microprocessor or RFID (radio-frequency identification) tag, which enables the sterilisation device to be associated with a particular toothbrush 112, or particular make or type of toothbrushes 112. The associated toothbrush 112 also includes an identification device 142, for example a further microprocessor or RFID tag.

The identification devices 140, 142 enable the sterilisation device 10, to be operated only when the associated toothbrush 112 is inserted into the opening 1 8, 118. This enables either a single toothbrush 112 to be sterilised by operation of the sterilisation device 10, 110 or if a particular brand or type of toothbrush 112 has an identification device 142, only toothbrushes 12 of that brand or type will be able to be sterilised by operation of the sterilisation device 10, 110. This would encourage a user of the sterilisation device 10, 110 to make repeat purchases of the brand or type of toothbrush 12 which is associated 1 0 with the sterilisation device 1 0.

The identification device 140 could be programmable, for example, to recognise that an associated toothbrush 112 has been inserted into the opening 118 of the sterilisation apparatus 110. In response to the associated toothbrush 112 being received in the opening 118, the sterilisation device may operate automatically. For example the sterilisation apparatus may include an operating member in the form of a valve 131 which usually seals the outlet 122 of the container, and which is openable to dispense sterilisation fluid from the container 120 in response to an indication from the identification device that the associated toothbrush is received in the opening 118. In this case, it is not necessary for the user to depress the manual operating member 128 in order to dispense sterilisation fluid from the container 120.

Alternatively, the operating member 128 may be operable only in response to an identification by the identification device that an associated toothbrush 112 is being received in the opening 118. In other circumstances the operating member 128 may be inoperable, such that the sterilisation devices will not work when a device other than an associated toothbrush 112 being inserted into the opening 118.

The associated toothbrush 112 may include a cleaning part, for example bristles, manufactured from rubber or plastics material. The bristles may be treated with an anti-microbial agent, for example by impregnating or coating the bristles with anti-microbial agent. The body or handle of the toothbrush 112 may also be impregnated or coated with an anti-microbial agent.

A further feature which could be included in the sterilisation device 10, is a timer. Such a timer preferably is a countdown timer which times two minutes, which is the recommended length of time to brush one's teeth. The timer may also time parts or multiples of two minutes. There may be an indicator for example a light or sound, which indicates the amount of time elapsed since activation of the timer. The timer may be mechanical, for example clockwork, or may be electronic, for example a digital timer having few or no moving parts.

In this example, the sterilisation device 10, 110 includes a timer activation apparatus 144. In the example shown in figure 4, the activation apparatus 144 is located in the lower part 1 14b of the body 114. The activation apparatus 144 is rotatable relative to the base 114b, so as to tighten a coiled spring for example, to activate the timer.

Alternatively, the sterilisation apparatus 10, 110 may include a switch or button to activate the timer.

Referring to Figures 6 to 9, there is shown a further embodiment 210 of a sterilising apparatus. As before, similar numerals correspond to like parts, this time preceded by a 2'.

The sterilisation device 210 comprises a housing 214. The housing comprises an opening 218 within which a part of an oral hygiene device, such as the head 213 of a toothbrush 212, may be received. The housing has an upper cover part 214a which can be removed from a lower base part 214b so as to access a container 220 comprising sterilisation fluid comprising a cleansing and/or anti-microbial agent.

The container 220 comprises a dispensing device 224, having a nozzle 226, which in use dispenses a spray 227 of sterilising fluid into a sterilising location 229 disposed within the opening 218.

In this embodiment, rather than a user needing to manually operate an operating member to cause the dispensing device to spray or otherwise treat the oral hygiene device with the sterilising solution, an automatic operating member is provided. The operating member comprises a switch 228 which in use is operated by the oral hygiene device to activate the dispensing device to release a spray 227 of sterilising solution.

Referring to Figure 9, the switch 228 has a first inactive position 228a, and a second active position 228b. The switch can be pushed from the first position 228a into the second position 228b by an oral hygiene device as it is pushed or dropped into the sterilisation location. As the switch moves into position 228b it contacts the dispensing device 224 and presses it into the container 220 to produce a spray. Thus the sterilisation device can be operated by the user with one hand, as there is no need to manually press a button. When the oral hygiene device is removed from the sterilisation location the switch returns to the inactive position under the influence of gravity.

In this embodiment the opening 218 is provided with a sealing member 245, in the form of a slit rubber diaphragm. The sealing member is operative to open to allow an oral hygiene device to pass, and to close around or above the oral hygiene device as it passes. In the example shown the slits allow the diaphragm to part as the oral hygiene device presses against the rubber. The resilience of the rubber means the diaphragm presses against the oral hygiene device, substantially sealing around it, when the sterilisation device is in use, and causes the diaphragm to spring back into place as best as it can once an oral hygiene device is removed. In another example, the sealing member could comprise one or more brush strips which extend across the opening.

The provision of a sealing means helps to keep the interior of the sterilisation device sealed from the external environment, so reducing the risk or bacteria or dirt contaminating an oral hygiene device when it is inside the opening of the sterilisation device. Thus the sterilisation device may provide a convenient and clean location to store an oral hygiene device when it is not in use.

The sterilisation device further comprises a display 250, such as one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), operatively connected to one or more sensors 240 to indicate to a user information about the status of the sterilisation device, For example, a fluid level sensor 240a may be provided to detect that the level of sterilisation fluid is low, or empty, and that may be indicated to the user by the illumination of one or more LEDs (e.g., orange for low', red for empty'). Alternatively, or in addition, a proximity sensor 24Db may be provided to detect when the switch has been activated, to indicate to the user that the sterilisation device is functioning.

Alternatively, or additionally, a speaker 254 may be provided to indicate audibly to a user that the device is functioning. Holes 256 in the housing 214 may be provided to assist in transmitting the sound to the user. The speaker may also provide a timing function, as discussed above.

A battery 260 is provided to provide power for the LEDs and/or speaker.

A microprocessor may be provided to control the operation of the sensors, LEDs and speaker.

The upper housing 214a is coated with an antibacterial material, for O example an anti-microbial plastics or rubber material.

Another embodiment of a sterilisation device 310 is shown in Figure 10.

The sterilisation device 310 of Figure 10 is similar to that of Figure 9 except that the operating member 228 has been replaced with an alternative operating member 328, comprising a sensor. in this example, the sensor is a motion sensor, operable to detect when an oral hygiene device 312 is inserted into an opening 318 of the sterilisation device. Alternatively the sensor could comprise a proximity sensor, which detects when an oral hygiene device is within a predefined range, or could comprise a light beam, which when broken triggers a signal.

The sterilisation device 310 is further provided with a container support 370 operatively connected to a motor arrangement 375 comprising a motor control means (such as a microprocessor), and a motor. The motor arrangement 375 is powered by a battery 360 (which may also power any LEDs, speakers, etc, comprised within the sterilisation device).

In use, when the motion sensor 328 detects the presence of an oral hygiene device, a signal is sent to a motor control means. The motor control means activates the motor to move the container support 370 in a generally downward direction so as to operate a dispensing device 324. Thus a spray 327 of sterilising fluid is released into the sterilising location to clean and/or sterilise the oral hygiene device.

The sterilisation device 310 further comprises an ultrasonic emitter 380.

In this embodiment the emitter is provided in addition to the container comprising sterilisation fluid. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments the sterilisation device 310 might comprise an ultrasonic emitter alone.

In operation, the ultrasonic emitter is activated in the same way as the 1 5 sterilisation fluid dispenser, namely by receiving a signal from an operating member that a part of an oral hygiene device is within the sterilisation location. The ultrasonic emitter then emits high frequency sound waves (generally in the order of 15-400 kHz) for a duration sufficient to clean the oral hygiene device.

Various other modifications could be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The apparatus could be of any suitable size and shape, and formed of any suitable material. The sterilisation fluid could be of any suitable composition including a suitable anti-microbial agent and/or a suitable cleansing agent.

It will be appreciated that a feature described with respect to one embodiment is not necessarily limited to use in that embodiment and, when appropriate, may be used in combination with other embodiments described herein. For example, the use of a sealing means is not limited to the embodiments shown in Figures 6 to 10, and may be used in the sterilisation devices shown in Figure 1 to 5. Various other operating arrangements could be provided in addition to or instead of the operating members described herein.

The sterilisation apparatus may be treated with an antimicrobial agent.

The exterior of the apparatus, and in particular the upper housing and upper side of the self sealing member (where present), may be treated with an antimicrobial agent. The interior of the apparatus, and in particular the opening and the underside of the seal sealing member (where present) may be treated with an antimicrobial agent.

The body 14, 114, 214, 314 of the sterilisation apparatus 10, 110, 210, 310 is preferably aesthetically pleasing, and may be decorated in any 1 5 manner desired. The sterilisation apparatus may be decorated in accordance with an intended user. For example the sterilisation apparatus may be decorated to encourage its use by children.

The sterilisation fluid is sealed within the container 20, 120, 220, 320 until the fluid is dispensed by the user, which reduces the likelihood of contamination.

Although the invention has been described in terms of sterilisation of a "standard' toothbrush 12, it will be appreciated that the sterilisation apparatus 10, 110, 220, 320 can be used for sterilisation of any oral hygiene device, for example replaceable toothbrush heads, for example heads for use with electric toothbrushes, dental floss holders and tongue cleaners.

The use of the term "anti-microbial" is intended to include the meaning "anti-bacterial", but is not intended to be limited solely to that meaning.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A sterilisation apparatus for sterilising a part of an oral hygiene device, the sterilisation apparatus including a body having an opening in which the part of the oral hygiene device is receivable, the opening including a sterilisation location, the body supporting a container for containing sterilisation fluid, the sterilisation apparatus further including a dispensing device for dispensing sterilisation fluid from the container, and an operating member for causing the dispensing device to dispense a quantity of sterilisation fluid from the container into the sterilisation location.
2. A sterilisation device according to claim 1 wherein the operating member is activated by the oral hygiene device, such that sterilising 1 5 fluid is dispensed automatically when the part of the oral hygiene device is received in the sterilisation location.
3. A sterilisation apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the operating member comprises a sensor operable to detect the presence of an oral hygiene device in the sterilisation location.
4. A sterilisation apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the operating member comprises a switch arranged to be activated by the presence of the part of the oral hygiene device in the sterilisation location.
5. A sterilisation apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the switch is a rocker switch which in use is operated by contact with the oral hygiene device.
6. A sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim including a locating formation for locating the part of the oral hygiene device to be sterilised in the sterilising location.
7. A sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim wherein the opening comprises a sealing member operable to open to allow the pail of the oral hygiene device to be received in the opening, and to substantially close around or above the part of the oral hygiene device whilst the oral hygiene device is within the opening.
8. A sterilisation apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the sealing member comprises a slit rubber diaphragm.
9. A sterilisation apparatus according to any one of the preceding 1 5 claims wherein the dispensing device includes a nozzle for spraying the quantity of sterilisation fluid into the opening.
10. A sterilisation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is pressurised.
11. A sterilisation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the sterilisation fluid is dispensed as an aerosol spray.
12. A sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim including a holding member for holding the oral hygiene device in position relative to at least one of the opening and the dispensing device.
13. A sterilisation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the container is replaceable.
14. A sterilisation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the body includes an access portion for providing access to at least one of the opening and the container.
15. A sterilisation apparatus according to claim 14 wherein the access portion is provided by the body having at least two parts which are disconnectable from and reconnectable to one another.
16. A sterilisation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the part of the oral hygiene device is a head part of a toothbrush.
17. A sterilisation apparatus according to any preceding claim, the 1 5 sterilisation apparatus further including an identification device which is able to recognise an associated oral hygiene device, so as to enable operation of the sterilisation apparatus when the associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.
18. A sterilisation device according to claim 17 wherein the identification device is operable to prevent the operation of the sterilisation apparatus when an oral hygiene device other than the associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.
19. A sterilisation apparatus according to claim 17 or claim 18 wherein the operating member is operable to cause the dispensing device to automatically dispense sterilisation fluid from the container in response to a signal from the identification device that an associatedVoral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.
20. A sterilisation apparatus according to claim 19 wherein the operating member is inoperable in the absence of a signal from the identification device indicating that an associated oral hygiene device is received in the opening of the sterilisation apparatus.
21. An oral hygiene device including an identifier, for associating the oral hygiene device with a sterilisation apparatus according to any of claims 17 to 20.
22. An oral hygiene device according to claim 21 wherein at least a part, preferably a cleaning part, of the oral hygiene device is treated 1 5 with an anti-microbial agent.
23. A sterilisation apparatus substantially as described herein, and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.
24. An oral hygiene device substantially as disclosed herein and/or as shown in the accompanying drawings.