JP2009216497A - Electric toothbrush - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electric toothbrush allowing various tests by using a daily useable toothbrush. <P>SOLUTION: This electric toothbrush 1 with its brush part 41 electrically driven includes a detection member (such as a biosensor) for detecting a measuring object containable in secretion within an oral cavity. This toothbrush is characterized in that the detection member is provided so as to be attachable/detachable with respect to an electric toothbrush body 2 having a drive source therewithin or a component (a brush component 4 or a cap) made attachable/detachable with respect to the toothbrush body 2. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an electric toothbrush.

  Conventionally, various tests have been performed based on secretions contained in the oral cavity such as saliva and exhaled breath. Specific tests include a positive or negative determination test for influenza virus, a pregnancy test, the degree of mental stress, the presence or absence of periodontal disease, the degree of dryness in the oral cavity, and a bad breath test.

  These tests are generally performed using dedicated markers and reagents. Therefore, since the user usually performs these tests only when there is some indication, there are cases where the disease cannot be prevented in advance. It is desirable to perform these tests regularly from the viewpoint of preventing diseases. However, since tests are not routinely performed in daily life, it is easy to forget to test.

  Here, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique related to a toothbrush biosensor. According to such a technique, a sample contained in the oral cavity is collected by a brushing operation. And the measurement of the measuring object contained in this extract | collected sample can be performed using a biosensor.

  However, in such a technique, the test is not performed using a toothbrush used in daily life because the instrument for collecting a sample is a toothbrush type. That is, in the case of such a technique, the sample is held inside the toothbrush body, and only one sample is collected. That is, the toothbrush type biosensor in the art is used to perform one test. In other words, it is a toothbrush dedicated to testing.

Thus, in the case of the technique disclosed in Patent Document 1, the instrument for collecting a sample is merely a toothbrush type and is not assumed to be used as a toothbrush used in daily life. In this technique, since the sample remains held inside the toothbrush body, it is difficult to consider a usage mode that is repeatedly used for tooth brushing from the viewpoint of hygiene.
JP 2002-181812 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide an electric toothbrush that enables various tests using a toothbrush that can be used on a daily basis.

  The present invention employs the following means in order to solve the above problems.

That is, the present invention is an electric toothbrush in which the brush portion is driven by electricity.
Detects measurement objects that can be contained in oral secretions (for example, substances contained in saliva and exhalation, the same applies hereinafter) (detects the presence or absence of measurement objects) In addition to the case, the case of measuring the amount and concentration of the measurement object is included. Hereinafter, the same applies.) Detection member (for example, a biosensor or a test paper can be cited as an example. The same applies hereinafter. )
Examples of the detection member include an electric toothbrush main body having a drive source therein or a part configured to be detachable from the electric toothbrush main body (for example, a brush part having a brush part, a cap, etc.). The same applies to the above).

  According to the present invention, the detection member is detachably provided to the electric toothbrush main body or a component configured to be detachable from the electric toothbrush main body. Therefore, even when the detection member is contaminated with secretions and the like, and it is difficult to wash with the detection member attached, the detection member can be taken out and the secretions can be washed away. it can. Thereby, a test can be repeatedly performed without any problem in terms of hygiene. Even if the detection member cannot be used, it is possible to detect (test) the measurement object again simply by replacing the detection member with a new one.

Further, the present invention provides an electric toothbrush in which the brush portion is driven by electricity.
A detection member for detecting a measurement object that can be contained in a secretion contained in the oral cavity,
The detection member is provided integrally with a component configured to be detachable from an electric toothbrush body having a drive source therein.

  According to the present invention, the detection member is integrally provided on a part configured to be detachable from the electric toothbrush body. Therefore, even if the part or the detection member cannot be used, it is possible to detect (test) the measurement object again simply by replacing the part with a new one.

  The collection part which collects secretions in the oral cavity may be provided in a region inserted into the oral cavity when brushing teeth.

  Thereby, the secretion contained in an oral cavity can be extract | collected only by brushing teeth.

  The detection member may be provided integrally with a base body configured to be detachable from an insertion hole having an opening near the brush portion.

  As a result, when toothbrushing is performed, secretions contained in the oral cavity are collected from the opening of the insertion hole (which becomes the collection part), and the collected secretion is guided to the base body (detection member) through the insertion hole. It is burned.

  In a state where the base is mounted in the insertion hole, an introduction hole for guiding secretion to the base may be provided separately from the insertion hole.

  Thereby, secretions can be more reliably guided to the substrate (detection member).

  The introduction hole is preferably closed by a film made of a breathable material that blocks liquid and allows gas to pass through.

  Thereby, when the measurement object is a substance contained in exhaled breath, saliva can be prevented from being guided to the substrate, and detection with higher accuracy is possible.

  A region including a region where the detection member is provided in the base body may be exposed to the outside through the introduction hole.

  As a result, it is possible to easily wash the vicinity where the detection member is provided with the base mounted.

  The detection member may be provided integrally with an annular member configured to be detachable on an outer peripheral surface in the vicinity of the brush portion.

  Thereby, a detection member can be easily mounted near the brush portion. Further, the vicinity of the detection member can be easily washed.

  A processing unit that performs a determination process from information detected by the detection member may be provided inside the electric toothbrush.

  In addition to the insertion hole for mounting the base when collecting secretions contained in the oral cavity, an insertion hole for mounting the base may be provided when performing the determination process by the processing unit.

  Thereby, it becomes possible to provide the process part which performs a determination process in the position away from the insertion hole which mounts | wears a base | substrate when extract | collecting a secretion.

  It is good for the electric toothbrush main body to be equipped with the alerting | reporting part which notifies the result determined by the said process part.

  Thereby, the user can easily know the determination result.

  It is also preferable that a processing unit that performs a determination process based on information detected by the detection member is provided in a charger that charges a power source provided inside the electric toothbrush body.

  In this case, it is preferable that the charger is provided with a notification unit that notifies the result determined by the processing unit. Thereby, the user can easily know the determination result. Moreover, when providing an alerting | reporting part in the charger side, the space which provides an alerting | reporting part can be ensured more compared with the case where it provides in an electric toothbrush main body. Therefore, for example, when the notification unit is configured by a light emitting unit that notifies by light, the area of the light emitting region can be further increased. Also, a larger one can be applied to a buzzer or a speaker that is notified by sound. Therefore, it is possible to inform the user of the determination result in an easy-to-understand manner.

  A transmission unit may be provided that transmits information detected by the detection member to an external device.

  Thereby, the information (or the data which processed this) detected by the detection member can be managed outside.

The detection member has a property of exerting a detection function by electric power,
An element that generates power by vibration and supplies power to the detection member may be provided.

  Thereby, even if the detection member requires electric power, the electric power necessary for the detection member is obtained by power generation of the element, so that the electric power that is originally necessary is not affected.

  In addition, said each structure can be employ | adopted combining as much as possible.

As described above, according to the present invention, various tests can be performed using a toothbrush that can be used daily.

  The best mode for carrying out the present invention will be exemplarily described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, and the like of the components described in this embodiment are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only to those unless otherwise specified. .

Example 1
With reference to FIGS. 1-7, the electric toothbrush which concerns on Example 1 of this invention is demonstrated.

<Whole electric toothbrush>
With reference to FIGS. 1-3, the structure of the whole electric toothbrush etc. which concern on Example 1 of this invention are demonstrated. 1 is an exploded perspective view of parts of an electric toothbrush according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state where the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention is placed on the charger.

  The electric toothbrush 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes an electric toothbrush main body 2, a stem 3 as a vibration transmission component, and a brush component 4 including a brush portion 41.

  The electric toothbrush body 2 includes a case 21, a power source 22 and a motor 23 housed in the case 21 (a power source is constituted by the power source 22 and the motor 23), a switch 24 for turning on / off the power source, and various modes. And an operation unit 25 including a group of buttons for changing the setting. One end side of the eccentric shaft 26 is fixed to the rotating shaft 23 a of the motor 23. The eccentric shaft 26 is configured to protrude from the opening at the tip of the case 21 to the outside of the case 21. The eccentric shaft 26 is provided with a weight 26a provided at a position where the center of gravity deviates from the axis. The other end side of the eccentric shaft 26 is supported by a bearing 31 provided on the stem 3.

  The brush component 4 is mounted so as to cover the stem 3. The main body portion of the brush component 4 is formed of a cylindrical member so that it can be attached to the stem 3, and a brush portion 41 is provided at the tip thereof. The brush part 4 is a consumable part, and is configured to be detachable from the stem 3 so that it can be replaced with a new one at the appropriate time.

<Description of operation of electric toothbrush>
Operation | movement of the electric toothbrush 1 comprised as mentioned above is demonstrated. When the power is turned on by the switch 24, the rotating shaft 23a of the motor 23 rotates, and the eccentric shaft 26 fixed to the rotating shaft 23a rotates. As described above, the eccentric shaft 26 is provided with the weight 26a provided at a position where the center of gravity is shifted from the axis. Therefore, if the eccentric shaft 26 is rotated in a state where the tip of the eccentric shaft 26 is not supported by the bearing 31, the eccentric shaft 26 turns around the axis while the eccentric shaft 26 itself rotates. Exercise. Thus, when the eccentric shaft 26 is rotated while the eccentric shaft 26 is supported by the bearing 31, the outer wall surface near the tip of the eccentric shaft 26 repeatedly collides with the inner wall surface of the bearing 31 many times in a short time. Such an operation can be performed.

  By performing such an operation, the stem 3 provided with the bearing 31 can be vibrated via the bearing 31. Then, by vibrating the stem 3, the vibration can be transmitted to the brush component 4 fixed to the stem 3. Therefore, since the brush part 41 vibrates due to the vibration of the brush component 4, the tooth can be brushed by applying the brush part 41 to the tooth.

  After finishing the tooth brushing, as shown in FIG. 3, the electric toothbrush 1 is placed on the charger 6 that has a function of charging the power source 22 and also has a function as a mounting table on which the electric toothbrush 1 is placed.

<Configuration related to testing>
The electric toothbrush 1 according to the present embodiment is configured so that various tests can be performed based on secretions contained in the oral cavity at the same time as being used as a toothbrush for toothbrushing habitually performed in daily life. Yes. Hereinafter, this point will be described in detail.

  The brush component 4 according to the present embodiment is provided with a slot 42 as an insertion hole having an opening at the tip of the brush portion 41. The test chip 5 is configured to be detachable from the slot 42. As for a mechanism (structure) for detachably configuring the chip 5 with respect to the slot 42, for example, a publicly known structure in which an SD memory card is detachably configured with respect to a slot provided in a device such as a mobile phone or a personal computer. The mechanism (structure) can be adopted.

  The test chip 5 according to the present example is a bio MEMS sensor, and a biosensor as a detection member is integrally provided on a base by using the MEMS technology. Note that “MEMS” is an abbreviation of “Micro Electro Mechanical System (micro electro mechanical system)”. Biosensors are composed of molecular recognition materials (receptors) that accept and convert substances, and various transducers that convert this information into detectable signals such as electrical signals. With this biosensor, it is possible to detect the presence / absence of a measurement object and to measure the amount and concentration of the measurement object. Various tests can be performed by using a biosensor corresponding to the measurement object. Specific examples of the test include a positive / negative determination test for influenza virus, a pregnancy test, the degree of mental stress, the presence or absence of periodontal disease, the degree of dryness in the oral cavity, and a bad breath test.

<Test method>
In particular, a test method performed using the electric toothbrush 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a test procedure for the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. 6 and 7 are schematic front views of the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 4, block B100 shows the main configuration of the electric toothbrush 1 (main configuration of the portion excluding the chip 5), block B200 shows the main configuration of the chip 5, and block B300 shows the main configuration of the charger 6. .

  The charger 6 includes a power supply unit B301 and a power transmission unit B302 that transmits electricity transmitted from the power supply unit B301 to the power supply unit (power reception unit) B101 (power supply 22) of the electric toothbrush body 2. In the electric toothbrush body 2, the driving force of the brush drive source B102 (motor 23) is obtained by the electric power of the power supply unit B101.

The chip 5 includes a detection unit B201 (biosensor) that detects a measurement target and a data transmission unit B202 that transmits a signal (data) obtained by the detection unit B201. In addition, the detection unit B201 and the data transmission unit B202 require power to exhibit their functions. For this reason, the chip 5 is also provided with a power generation unit B203 and a power supply unit B204 that stores electricity obtained by the power generation unit B203. Note that an element that generates power by vibration can be suitably applied to the power generation unit B203. For example, a power generation system applied to a wristwatch or the like can be used (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-298868, paragraphs 13 and 14, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-65640, paragraphs 84 to 88, and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-224879, 19 and 47). Paragraph, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-95967, paragraphs 9 and 10). If comprised in this way, in the case of the electric toothbrush 1 which concerns on a present Example, since the brush component 4 vibrates as above-mentioned, electric power generation is attained by this vibration.

  Then, the data transmitted from the data transmission unit B202 of the chip 5 is transmitted to the data reception unit B103 provided in the electric toothbrush 1. The data sent to the data receiving unit B103 is processed by the input / output processing unit B104 provided in the electric toothbrush 1. The data receiving unit B103 and the input / output processing unit B104 constitute a “processing unit” that performs a determination process. And according to the content of this process, the notification part B105 notifies the user of the determination result as appropriate. The input / output processing unit B104 and the notification unit B105 are supplied with power from the power supply unit B101.

  As the notification method, for example, light or sound can be used. As an example of the former, as shown in FIG. 6, the electric toothbrush 1 is provided with a light emitting unit 27, and the determination result is notified to the user according to the light emission method (emission / absence of light emission, blinking speed, change in emission color, etc.) Can do. FIG. 6 shows, as an example, a case where the emission color changes (the emission color differs between (a) and (b)). As an example of the latter, as shown in FIG. 7, a buzzer (or speaker) 28 is provided on the electric toothbrush 1, and the user is notified by the manner in which sound is generated (the presence or absence of sound, changes in melody, volume, etc.). The judgment result can be notified. FIG. 7 shows, as an example, a case where a warning sound is emitted ((a) is a case where no sound is produced and (b) is a case where a warning sound is produced). Of course, light and sound can be combined.

  As a more specific example of the test, a case of performing a positive or negative determination test for influenza virus will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In this case, the biosensor provided in the chip 5 is composed of a receptor that recognizes the influenza virus and a transducer that converts the information into an electrical signal when the influenza virus is recognized. .

  First, when the power is turned on, the brush component 4 vibrates, and at the same time, the input / output processing unit B104 starts a positive or negative determination test for influenza virus (S1). In the input / output processing unit B104, it is constantly monitored during the power-on whether or not there is no positive reaction to the influenza virus (S2). When the collected secretion does not contain the influenza virus as the measurement target, no electrical signal is emitted from the biosensor. On the other hand, when the influenza virus is contained in the secretion, an electrical signal is obtained by the biosensor (detection unit B201), and the electrical signal is transmitted from the data transmission unit B202 to the data reception unit B103. By this electric signal, the input / output processing unit B104 informs that it is positive for the influenza virus by light or sound (S3), and ends the process (S4).

<Excellent points of this embodiment>
According to the electric toothbrush 1 which concerns on a present Example, various tests can be performed for every toothpaste simultaneously with the toothpaste customarily performed in daily life. Therefore, the test can be performed on a daily basis without forgetting to perform the test.

Here, when the vicinity of the brush part 41 is washed after tooth brushing, the secretions adhering to the tip 5 may not be sufficiently washed away. However, according to the electric toothbrush 1 according to the present embodiment, the test tip 5 is configured to be detachable from the slot 42 provided in the brush component 4. Therefore, the chip 5 can be easily washed by removing the chip 5 from the slot 42. Therefore, the test can be repeatedly performed without any problem in terms of hygiene. If the function of the biosensor or the like is not performed and the chip 5 cannot be used, the test can be performed again by replacing the chip 5 with a new one.

  Further, according to the electric toothbrush 1 according to the present embodiment, the secretions contained in the oral cavity are collected from the opening of the slot 42. The opening is provided at a position farther than the brush portion 41, and is always located in a region to be inserted into the oral cavity when brushing teeth. Therefore, whenever a toothpaste is made, the secretion contained in the oral cavity is collected.

  Moreover, according to the electric toothbrush 1 which concerns on a present Example, the data transmitted from the data transmission part B202 of the chip | tip 5 are sent to the data reception part B103, and the said data are processed by the input / output processing part B104. Moreover, according to the content of this process, the notification part B105 notifies the user of the determination result as appropriate. The data receiving unit B103, the input / output processing unit B104, and the notification unit B105 are all provided in the electric toothbrush 1. Therefore, even if no work is performed other than the operation of brushing teeth, a test determination process is automatically performed. Further, the user can easily know the determination result by the light and sound from the notification unit B105.

  Further, according to the electric toothbrush 1 according to the present embodiment, the electric power necessary for the detection unit B201 (biosensor) and the data transmission unit B202 is obtained by the power generation unit B203 provided in the chip 5, and thus the electric toothbrush 1 There is no effect on the power required.

  Depending on the test content, the secretions may need to be agitated. However, in the case of the electric toothbrush 1 according to the present embodiment, since the brush component 4 to which the tip 5 is attached vibrates, the collected secretion is forcibly agitated. Therefore, it is not necessary to separate the stirring operation from the tooth brushing operation.

(Example 2)
FIG. 8 shows a second embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, a configuration in the case where the position of the slot provided in the brush component is different from that in the first embodiment will be described. Since other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the first embodiment, the configuration in which the opening portion of the slot 42 for mounting the test chip 5 is provided at the position of the tip of the brush portion 41 in the brush component 4 is shown. On the other hand, in the case of the present embodiment, an opening portion of the slot 42 a for mounting the test chip 5 is provided at a position on the side surface side of the brush portion 41 in the brush component 4.

  Also in the case of the present embodiment, the opening of the slot 42a is always located in a region that is inserted into the oral cavity when brushing teeth. Therefore, whenever a toothpaste is made, the secretion contained in the oral cavity is collected. The configuration other than the positional relationship of the slot openings is the same as that of the first embodiment.

(Example 3)
FIG. 9 shows a third embodiment of the present invention. In the first and second embodiments, the case where the chip in which the biosensor as the detection member is integrally provided on the base body is configured to be detachable in the slot provided in the brush component is shown. In this embodiment, a case where a biosensor as a detection member is integrally provided on an annular member configured to be detachable on the outer peripheral surface of a brush component will be described. Since other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9A shows a state before mounting the annular member 5a, and FIG. 9B shows a state after mounting. In the present embodiment, the test annular member 5 a is configured to be detachable on the outer peripheral surface of the brush component 4 in the vicinity of the brush portion 41. In the present embodiment, the annular member 5a is a bio MEMS sensor. In the same manner as described in the first embodiment, a biosensor as a detection member is integrally provided on an annular base body using the MEMS technology.

  Here, a specific example in which the annular member 5a is configured to be detachable from the brush component 4 will be described. For example, the annular base body is made of an elastic material, and the entire annular member 5a can be detachable by making the diameter larger than that of the brush portion 41. In addition, as a configuration in which one portion of the annular member 5a made of an elastic material is cut, the gap formed by the cut portion can be made larger and wider than the diameter of the brush component 4 so that the ring member 5a can be detached. it can.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the annular member 5a is mounted on the outer peripheral surface of the brush component 4 in the vicinity of the brush portion 41. Therefore, when tooth brushing is performed, the annular member 5a and the detection provided integrally therewith are performed. Secretions contained in the oral cavity always adhere to the member (biosensor). Thereby, similarly to the case of Examples 1 and 2, various tests can be performed for each tooth brushing simultaneously with the tooth brushing.

  In the case of the present embodiment, since the annular member 5a is exposed, the annular member 5a and the detection member (biosensor) provided integrally therewith can be easily washed.

  The annular member 5a may be configured to fit at an appropriate position on the outer peripheral surface of the brush part 4, but in the case of the present embodiment, in order to position the annular member 5a, FIG. ), An annular groove 43 is provided at a desired position of the brush component 4. Thereby, the annular member 5a can be positioned by fitting the annular member 5a into the annular groove 43. In addition, it is also possible to position the annular member 5a by performing an appropriate anti-slip process such as providing a large number of minute irregularities on the inner peripheral surface of the annular member 5a.

Example 4
FIG. 10 shows a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, a configuration in which an introduction hole for introducing secretions is added to the chip is shown in the configuration shown in the first and second embodiments. Since other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. 10A is a perspective view of the vicinity of the brush component, and FIG. 10B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the brush.

  In the case of Examples 1 and 2, secretions contained in the oral cavity are collected from the opening of the slot. However, since the chip 5 is mounted in the slot, it may be difficult to secure a sufficient gap between the inner wall surface of the slot and the chip 5 so that secretions can be collected. Therefore, in this embodiment, a configuration in which a plurality of introduction holes 44 communicating with the inside of the slot is provided on the surface of the brush component 4 opposite to the brush portion 41 is employed.

According to this embodiment, since the introduction hole 44 for guiding the secretion to the chip 5 is provided separately from the slot in a state where the chip 5 is mounted in the slot, the secretion can be more reliably transferred to the chip 5. (A biosensor provided integrally with the chip 5). In addition, the position of the opening part of the slot in a present Example may be anywhere as long as it is the brush part 41 vicinity (in the area | region inserted in an oral cavity at the time of brushing). For example, as shown in the first embodiment, the brush portion 41 may be provided at the position of the tip, or as shown in the second embodiment, the brush portion 41 may be provided on the side surface side.

(Example 5)
FIG. 11 shows a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The present embodiment shows a configuration in which the introduction hole is closed with a film made of a gas-permeable material that blocks liquid and allows gas to pass, in contrast to the configuration shown in the fourth embodiment. Since other configurations and operations are the same as those in the fourth embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted. FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  In the case of the fourth embodiment, the configuration in which the introduction hole 44 communicating with the inside of the slot is provided on the surface of the brush component 4 opposite to the brush portion 41 is employed. However, in the case where the measurement object is a substance contained in exhaled breath, if saliva is also introduced from the introduction hole 44, the detection accuracy is lowered. Therefore, in this embodiment, a configuration is adopted in which the introduction hole 44 is closed by films 71 and 72 made of a gas-permeable material that blocks liquid and allows gas to pass. In addition, as shown in FIG. 11A, the introduction hole 44 may be closed by the film 71 outside the introduction hole 44, or the film is formed inside the introduction hole 44 as shown in FIG. The introduction hole 44 may be closed by 72.

  According to the present embodiment, saliva can be prevented from being guided to the chip 5. Therefore, when the measurement object is a substance contained in exhaled breath, detection with higher accuracy is possible.

(Example 6)
12 and 13 show Embodiment 6 of the present invention. The present embodiment shows a configuration in which the opening area of the introduction hole is increased and most of the chip is exposed to the outside in the configuration shown in the fourth embodiment. Since other configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  12 and 13 are schematic views of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. 12A and 13A are perspective views of the vicinity of the brush component, and FIGS. 12B and 13B are schematic cross-sectional views of the vicinity of the brush.

  Also in the case of the present embodiment, as in the case of the above-described fourth embodiment, a configuration in which an introduction hole communicating with the inside of the slot 42 is provided on the surface of the brush component 4 opposite to the brush portion 41 is employed. . However, in the case of the fourth embodiment, a configuration in which a plurality of introduction holes 44 having a small opening area is provided is adopted, whereas in the case of this embodiment, one introduction hole having a large opening area is provided. The structure to provide is adopted. FIG. 12 shows a case where the introduction hole 44a is provided by forming a hole penetrating into the slot 42 from the surface of the brush component 4 opposite to the brush portion 41. On the other hand, FIG. 13 shows a case where the introduction hole 44b is provided by forming a groove on the surface of the brush component 4 opposite to the brush portion 41.

  In this embodiment, the opening areas of the introduction holes 44a and 44b are set large so that at least the entire region where the detection member (biosensor) is provided is exposed to the outside, and most of the chip 5 is exposed to the outside. Is configured to do.

According to the present embodiment, most of the chip 5 is exposed to the outside, and secretions are more reliably attached to the chip 5 (biosensor integrated with the chip 5) than in the case of the fourth embodiment. Can lead. Moreover, the secretions adhering to the chip 5 can be easily washed away.

(Example 7)
FIG. 14 shows a seventh embodiment of the present invention. In the said Examples 1-6, it showed about the case where the chip | tip or annular member which is integrally provided with the biosensor as a detection member is comprised with respect to brush components so that attachment or detachment is possible. On the other hand, a present Example shows about the case where the chip | tip provided with the biosensor as a detection member integrally is provided in a brush component. Since other basic configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted.

  FIG. 14 is a schematic view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. 14A is a perspective view of the vicinity of the brush component, and FIG. 14B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the brush.

  In the present embodiment, a chip 5b that is integrally provided with a biosensor as a detection member is provided integrally with a brush component 4a that is configured to be detachable from the electric toothbrush body 2. The brush part 4a is provided with an introduction hole 4b for guiding secretions to the tip 5b. In the present embodiment, the opening of the introduction hole 4b is configured to be positioned at the tip of the brush component 4a. The position of the opening is in the vicinity of the brush 41 (in the region inserted into the oral cavity when brushing teeth). ) As long as it is. Moreover, if the structure which exposes the chip | tip 5b on the surface of the brush component 4a is employ | adopted, the introduction hole 4b is unnecessary.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the tip 5b cannot be removed from the brush component 4a as in the first to sixth embodiments. However, when the function of the biosensor or the like is not performed and the chip 5b cannot be used, the test can be performed again by replacing the brush part 4a, which is a consumable item, with a new one.

(Example 8)
FIG. 15 shows an eighth embodiment of the present invention. In the above Examples 1 to 7, all the tests are performed in a state where the chip or the annular member integrally provided with the biosensor as the detection member is arranged in the vicinity of the brush portion (collection of secretions, and The case of determination of collected secretions) is shown. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a configuration in which an insertion hole for mounting a chip when performing a determination process is provided separately from the insertion hole for mounting a chip when collecting secretions. Since other basic configurations and operations are the same as those in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an electric toothbrush according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

  As described above, the electric toothbrush 1 includes a data receiving unit B103 that receives data transmitted from the data transmitting unit B202 of the chip 5, an input / output processing unit B104 that processes the data, and a user according to the processing content. A notification unit B105 is provided to notify the determination result.

  The various parts constituting the data receiving unit B103, the input / output processing unit B104, and the notification unit B105 may be basically disposed at any position on the electric toothbrush 1. However, it may be difficult to arrange these various parts with respect to the stem 3 and the brush part 4 in terms of space. In addition, since these components vibrate vigorously, some components may not be able to withstand the vibrations. Furthermore, since the brush part 4 is a consumable item, it is not desirable to arrange various parts on the brush part 4 in terms of cost.

From the above, it is desirable to arrange the various parts constituting the data receiving unit B103, the input / output processing unit B104, and the notification unit B105 in the electric toothbrush body 2. However, in this case, when the configurations of the first to seventh embodiments are employed, the data receiving unit B103 is arranged at a position away from the chip 5 mounted in the slot. Therefore, depending on the performance of the data transmission unit B202 and the data reception unit B103, data transmitted from the data transmission unit B202 provided in the chip 5 cannot be received by the data reception unit B103.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, various components constituting the data receiving unit B103, the input / output processing unit B104, and the notification unit B105 are arranged in the electric toothbrush body 2 and the insertion is performed to attach the chip 5 when performing the determination process. The structure which provides the slot 29 as a hole in the electric toothbrush main body 2 is employ | adopted. The slot 29 is also configured so that the chip 5 is detachable.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the chip 5 is mounted in the slot 42a provided in the brush component 4 at the time of brushing teeth (when collecting secretions). Then, after brushing the teeth, the chip 5 is removed from the slot 42a, and the taken-out chip 5 is mounted in the slot 29 provided in the electric toothbrush body 2 to perform the determination process.

  As described above, when data cannot be transmitted / received when the distance between the data transmission unit B202 and the data reception unit B103 is long, the distance of the data transmission unit B202 can be shortened by adopting the configuration of the present embodiment. it can. That is, by providing the slot 29 in the electric toothbrush main body 2 and providing at least the components constituting the data receiving unit B103 at a position close to the slot 29, the data transmitting unit B202 of the chip 5 is used in the determination process. And the data receiving unit B103 are shortened.

  As described above, the components constituting the data receiving unit B103 and the various components constituting the input / output processing unit B104 and the notification unit B105 can be provided at positions away from the slot 42a in which the chip 5 is mounted when brushing teeth. . Therefore, it is possible to arrange these various parts on the electric toothbrush main body 2 with less vibration and sufficient space.

Example 9
FIG. 16 shows a ninth embodiment of the present invention. In the said Examples 1-8, the structure which extract | collects a secretion simultaneously with toothpaste operation | movement was shown by arrange | positioning the chip | tip or annular member which is integrally provided with the biosensor as a detection member in the brush part vicinity. On the other hand, in a present Example, the structure which provides the collection | recovery hole which extract | collects a secretion on the rear end side of an electric toothbrush is shown. The same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an electric toothbrush according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention.

  In the electric toothbrush 1 according to the present embodiment, a slot 20 a as an insertion hole is provided in a cap 20 provided at the rear end of the case 21 and detachable from the case 21. The test chip 5 is configured to be detachable from the slot 20a. The cap 20 is provided with a plurality of collection holes 20b communicating with the slot 20a in order to collect secretions in the oral cavity.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the test can be performed by blowing in the breathing hole 20b or dripping the saliva before brushing teeth. In addition, in the case of a present Example, although a secretion cannot be extract | collected simultaneously with toothpaste like the case of Examples 1-8, a secretion is extract | collected using the electric toothbrush 1 used daily. Since it is configured as described above, it is possible to prevent a test from being forgotten.

Further, as described in the eighth embodiment, it is desirable to arrange various parts constituting the data receiving unit B103, the input / output processing unit B104, and the notification unit B105 in the electric toothbrush body 2.
In the case of the present embodiment, the slot 20a for mounting the chip 5 is mounted near the rear end of the electric toothbrush body 2. Therefore, the distance between the data transmission unit B202 and the data reception unit B103 of the chip 5 can be shortened by providing at least the components constituting the data reception unit B103 at a position close to the slot 20a.

(Example 10)
FIG. 17 shows a tenth embodiment of the present invention. The present embodiment is a modification of the ninth embodiment. That is, in the ninth embodiment, the configuration in the case where the slot for mounting the chip is provided in the cap is shown, but in this embodiment, the configuration in the case where the slot is provided in the case is shown. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the rear end of the electric toothbrush according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention.

  In the case of the present embodiment, a slot 29 a as an insertion hole is provided near the rear end of the case 21. The test chip 5 is detachably attached to the slot 29a. The cap 20 detachable from the case 21 is provided with a plurality of collection holes 20b communicating with the slot 29a in order to collect secretions in the oral cavity.

  Also in the case of the present example, as in the case of Example 9, the test can be performed by blowing in toward the collection hole 20b or dropping saliva before brushing teeth.

(Example 11)
18 and 19 show an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. The present embodiment is a modification of the ninth embodiment. That is, in the above-described embodiment 9, the configuration in the case where the cap is provided with the collection hole for collecting the secretion is shown. In this embodiment, the collection hole is arranged from the front end of the brush part to the vicinity of the rear end of the case. The structure in the case of being provided is shown. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the rear end of the electric toothbrush according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an electric toothbrush according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

  In the electric toothbrush 1 according to the present embodiment, a slot 20a as an insertion hole is provided in the cap 20 provided at the rear end of the case 21 and detachable from the case 21 as in the case of the ninth embodiment. It has been. Further, the test chip 5 is configured to be detachable from the slot 20a.

  In the case of this embodiment, a sampling hole T is provided which has an opening at the tip of the brush part 41 in the brush part 4 and guides the secretion to the position of the tip 5 mounted in the slot 20a. Yes. In addition, this collection hole T is formed by providing a groove | channel and a hole in the appropriate location of the brush component 4, the stem 3, and the electric toothbrush main body 2. FIG.

  In the case of the present embodiment, the slot 20a for mounting the chip 5 is mounted near the rear end of the electric toothbrush body 2 as in the case of the above-described embodiments 8 to 10. Therefore, after arranging various parts constituting the data receiving unit B103, the input / output processing unit B104, and the notification unit B105 in the electric toothbrush body 2, the distance between the data transmitting unit B202 of the chip 5 and the data receiving unit B103 is determined. Can be shortened.

In the case of the present embodiment, the opening of the sampling hole T is provided at a position farther than the brush portion 41. Therefore, as in the case of Examples 1 to 8, secretions can be collected simultaneously with brushing teeth. In the case of the present embodiment, the distance from the site for collecting the secretion (opening portion of the collection hole T) to the chip 5 becomes long. Therefore, when the measurement object is a substance that can be contained in saliva, it is somewhat difficult to guide the amount of saliva that can be tested by one brushing to the position of the chip 5. However, there is no problem when the measurement object is a substance that can be included in exhaled breath. In this case, as shown in the fifth embodiment, it is desirable to close the vicinity of the tip of the sampling hole with a film made of a breathable material that blocks liquid and allows gas to pass.

Example 12
FIG. 20 shows a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. In the said Example 1, the structure in case the process part (data receiving part and input / output process part) and alerting | reporting part which perform a determination process are provided in the electric toothbrush was shown. On the other hand, in a present Example, the structure in case these are provided in the charger is shown. FIG. 20 is a block diagram of an electric toothbrush according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 20, block B110 shows the main configuration of the electric toothbrush 1 (main configuration of the portion excluding the chip 5), block B210 shows the main configuration of the chip 5, and block B310 shows the main configuration of the charger 6. .

  The charger 6 includes a power supply unit B311 and a power transmission unit B312 that transmits electricity transmitted from the power supply unit B311 to a power supply unit (power receiving unit) B111 (power supply 22) of the electric toothbrush body 2. In the electric toothbrush body 2, the driving force of the brush drive source B112 (motor 23) is obtained by the electric power of the power supply unit B111.

  The chip 5 includes a detection unit B211 (biosensor) that detects a measurement target and a data transmission unit B212 that transmits a signal (data) obtained by the detection unit B211. In addition, the detection unit B211 and the data transmission unit B212 require power to exhibit their functions. Therefore, the chip 5 is also provided with a power generation unit B213 and a power supply unit B214 that stores electricity obtained by the power generation unit B213. Note that a specific example of the power generation unit B213 is as described in the first embodiment.

  Then, the data transmitted from the data transmission unit B212 of the chip 5 is transmitted to the data reception unit B313 provided in the charger 6. The data sent to the data receiving unit B313 is processed by the input / output processing unit B314 provided in the charger 6. And according to the content of this process, the notification part B315 notifies the user of the determination result as appropriate. The input / output processing unit B314 and the notification unit B315 are supplied with power from the power supply unit B311.

  As described above, in the present embodiment, the charger 6 includes the processing units (the data reception unit B313 and the input / output processing unit B314) that perform the determination process and the notification unit B315. As described above, in the present embodiment, since the configuration in which the notification unit B315 is provided in the charger 6 is adopted, the configuration in which the notification unit is provided in the electric toothbrush body 2 of the electric toothbrush 1 as in the case of the first embodiment. Compared with the case where it employ | adopts, more installation space of alerting | reporting part B315 can be ensured. Therefore, as illustrated in Example 1, when the notification unit is configured by a light emitting unit, the area of the light emitting region can be increased. Also, a larger one can be applied to a buzzer or a speaker that is notified by sound. Therefore, it is possible to inform the user of the determination result in an easy-to-understand manner.

  In addition, when data transmission / reception is possible only when the distance between the data transmission unit B212 and the data reception unit B313 is short, the electric toothbrush 1 is placed on the charger 6 after toothbrushing, whereby the secretion collected at the time of brushing You can test things.

(Example 13)
FIG. 21 shows Embodiment 13 of the present invention. In the said Example 1, the structure when the process part (data receiving part and input / output process part) which performs a determination process is provided in the electric toothbrush is shown, and in the Example 12, the said process part is a charger. The configuration when it is provided is shown. On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the processing unit is provided in an external device, and information (signal / data) obtained by the detection unit (biosensor) is transmitted to the external device. Will be explained. FIG. 21 is a block diagram of an electric toothbrush according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 21, block B120 shows the main configuration of the electric toothbrush 1 (main configuration of the portion excluding the chip 5), block B220 shows the main configuration of the chip 5, block B320 shows the main configuration of the charger 6, and block B400 shows the main configuration of the first external device, and block B500 shows the main configuration of the second external device. The first external device is, for example, a personal computer installed at home, and the second external device is, for example, a data management computer installed in a hospital.

  The charger 6 includes a power supply unit B321 and a power transmission unit B322 that transmits electricity transmitted from the power supply unit B321 to a power supply unit (power receiving unit) B121 (power supply 22) of the electric toothbrush body 2. In the electric toothbrush body 2, the driving force of the brush drive source B122 (motor 23) is obtained by the electric power of the power supply unit B121.

  The chip 5 includes a detection unit B221 (biosensor) that detects a measurement object and a data transmission unit B222 that transmits a signal (data) obtained by the detection unit B221. In addition, the detection unit B221 and the data transmission unit B222 require electric power to exhibit their functions. For this reason, the chip 5 is also provided with a power generation unit B223 and a power supply unit B224 that stores electricity obtained by the power generation unit B223. A specific example of the power generation unit B223 is as described in the first embodiment.

  Then, the data transmitted from the data transmission unit B222 of the chip 5 is transmitted to the data reception unit B401 provided in the first external device. The data sent to the data receiving unit B401 is processed by the input / output processing unit B402 provided in the first external device. The data processed by the input / output processing unit B402 is transmitted from the data transmission unit B403 provided in the first external device to the data reception unit B501 provided in the second external device. The data received by the data receiving unit B501 is stored in the data management unit B502 provided in the second external device.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the detection data sent from the electric toothbrush 1 is processed by the first external device such as a personal computer at home, and the processed data is the second such as a computer installed in the hospital. Sent to an external device. Thereby, since daily test data can be managed by the second external device, disease prevention and the like can be suitably performed. In addition, when managing data in a hospital, it is necessary to specify who each data belongs to. Therefore, more specifically, the electric toothbrush body 2 is provided with unique identification information (a unique number may be sufficient) for each product. The replaceable biosensor unit also stores the sensor product ID (which may be a unique number). Moreover, in the computer installed in the hospital, the user information linked with the unique identification information of the electric toothbrush body 2 is stored.

  And when sending data to the computer installed in the hospital, the unique identification information of the electric toothbrush body 2 is sent together with the processed data. Thereby, the user can be specified with respect to the sent data. In addition, by sending the sensor product ID at the time of data transmission, it is possible to manage which sensor is the result of data measurement.

  In this embodiment, the example in which data is stored and managed in the second external device such as a computer installed in the hospital has been described. However, the data is stored and managed in the first external device installed in the home. It is also possible.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the case where data is transmitted from the data transmission unit B222 provided in the chip 5 to the data reception unit B401 provided in the first external device is shown. However, the charger 6 is provided with a function for transmitting and receiving data, and the data of the data transmission unit B222 provided in the chip 5 is once sent to the charger, and the data is sent from the charger to the first external device. It doesn't matter. In this case, a processing unit for processing data may be provided in the charger.

(Other)
In the embodiments so far, the case where the detection member is a biosensor has been described. As described above, this biosensor has a function of accepting and converting a substance and a function of converting the obtained information into a detectable signal such as an electric signal, and is very small. Therefore, it can be suitably applied in the present invention. However, in the present invention, the detection member is not limited to a biosensor.

  For example, a test paper having a property of changing color with respect to a certain substance can be applied. In this case, when the discoloration phenomenon can be visually observed, the test paper may be provided detachably with respect to the brush component or the like so that the discolored portion can be observed from the outside. In addition, when visual observation is difficult, an appropriate known technique that can detect discoloration using a photodiode, a barcode, or a color sensor may be used. Note that the color sensor determines whether or not the color to be measured matches a desired color. This color sensor has a structure in which a color filter is combined with a photodiode. The principle of operation is a mechanism in which the measured color is decomposed into RGB components by a color filter, and the intensity of each color component is detected by a photodiode.

1 is an exploded perspective view of parts of an electric toothbrush according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing a state where the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention is placed on the charger. FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a test procedure for the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a schematic front view of the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a schematic front view of the electric toothbrush according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the third embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a schematic view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a schematic view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a schematic view of the vicinity of the brush component in the electric toothbrush according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an electric toothbrush according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an electric toothbrush according to the ninth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the rear end of the electric toothbrush according to the tenth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the vicinity of the rear end of the electric toothbrush according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an electric toothbrush according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a block diagram of an electric toothbrush according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a block diagram of an electric toothbrush according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Electric toothbrush 2 Electric toothbrush main body 20 Cap 20a Slot 20b Sampling hole 21 Case 22 Power supply 23 Motor 23a Rotating shaft 24 Switch 25 Operation part 26 Eccentric shaft 26a Weight 27 Light emission part 28 Buzzer 29, 29a Slot 3 Stem 31 Bearing 4, 4a Brush Component 4b Introduction hole 41 Brush part 42, 42a Slot 43 Annular groove 44, 44a, 44b Introduction hole 5 Tip 5a Annular member 5b Tip 6 Charger 71, 72 Film T Extraction hole

Claims (15)

In the electric toothbrush in which the brush part is driven by electricity,
A detection member for detecting a measurement object that can be contained in secretions in the oral cavity,
The electric toothbrush characterized in that the detection member is detachably provided to an electric toothbrush main body having a drive source therein or a part configured to be detachable from the electric toothbrush main body. In the electric toothbrush in which the brush part is driven by electricity,
A detection member for detecting a measurement object that can be contained in secretions in the oral cavity,
The electric toothbrush is characterized in that the detection member is provided integrally with a part configured to be detachable from an electric toothbrush body having a drive source therein.   The electric toothbrush according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a collection part for collecting secretions in the oral cavity is provided in a region inserted into the oral cavity when brushing teeth.   4. The electric motor according to claim 1, wherein the detection member is integrally provided on a base configured to be detachable from an insertion hole having an opening near the brush portion. toothbrush.   5. The electric toothbrush according to claim 4, wherein an introduction hole for guiding a secretion to the base is provided separately from the insertion hole in a state where the base is mounted in the insertion hole.   6. The electric toothbrush according to claim 5, wherein the introduction hole is blocked by a film made of a breathable material that blocks liquid and allows gas to pass.   The electric toothbrush according to claim 5, wherein a region including a region where the detection member is provided in the base body is exposed to the outside through the introduction hole.   4. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein the detection member is provided integrally with an annular member configured to be detachable on an outer peripheral surface in the vicinity of the brush portion.   The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein a processing unit that performs a determination process from information detected by the detection member is provided inside the electric toothbrush.   In addition to the insertion hole for mounting the base when collecting secretions contained in the oral cavity, an insertion hole for mounting the base is provided when performing the determination process by the processing unit. The electric toothbrush according to claim 9.   The electric toothbrush according to claim 9 or 10, wherein an electric toothbrush main body is provided with a notifying unit for informing a result determined by the processing unit.   The processing unit for performing a determination process from information detected by the detection member is provided in a charger for charging a power source provided in the electric toothbrush body. Electric toothbrush described in one.   The electric toothbrush according to claim 12, wherein the charger is provided with a notification unit that notifies the result determined by the processing unit. The electric toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a transmission unit that transmits information detected by the detection member to an external device. The detection member has a property of exerting a detection function by electric power,
The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, further comprising an element that generates electric power by vibration and supplies electric power to the detection member.

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