RU2295318C2 - Modular electric toothbrush - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: medical engineering.

SUBSTANCE: device has handle on its first end, having the electric motor established in it, and neck projecting from mentioned handle and having container member on the second end. A set of holders are engageable with the mentioned container member. The set of holders has one or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders. One or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders independently make contact with container member when sliding. The brush has the driven shaft operatively connecting one or more mentioned movable holders with the electric motor. Three toothbrush versions and complete set are designed.

EFFECT: prolonged service life.

20 cl, 67 dwg

Description

Technical field

The present invention relates to an electric toothbrush, and in particular to modular electric toothbrushes having replaceable or replaceable components, and to electric toothbrushes having high efficiency.

State of the art

The present invention generally relates to electric toothbrushes. In particular, the invention relates to an improved electric toothbrush with removable or replaceable movable and / or fixed bristle holders. There are many different electric toothbrushes that provide different benefits and characteristics, but these characteristics can cause an increase in the cost of toothbrushing and can affect the retail prices of products upward. Accordingly, it is desirable to provide an electric toothbrush that is relatively inexpensive to assemble and manufacture, but which will provide the cleaning efficiency and characteristics of the toothbrush that the consumer needs.

Electric toothbrushes are also known in which some components of the brush can be replaced or replaced with similar components from other toothbrushes or components that are sold separately. For example, toothbrushes are known having interchangeable head and neck assemblies, and in which the entire head and at least part of the neck can be removed from the housing or casing and replaced with another head and neck assembly. US Application No. 09/850662 discloses an electric toothbrush having a replaceable brush head. Although such a modular system can provide significant benefits, the nodes of the head and neck of the toothbrush are generally relatively expensive. At the same time, frequent replacement of the whole head and neck assembly is not necessary if only the bristles are worn. Accordingly, there is a need to provide an alternative modular design for a toothbrush that can be individualized to the specific needs of the consumer. For example, a consumer could change and / or replace a part of the head of a toothbrush for a specific task, or if any part of the toothbrush is worn out.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an electric toothbrush comprising a handle at a first end of a toothbrush having an electric motor mounted therein; a neck extending from the handle and containing an accommodating element at the second end of the toothbrush; and characterized in that a plurality of holders engage the enclosing element; and the fact that the holders contain one or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders that are independently in contact with the possibility of sliding with the containing element; and a drive shaft operatively connecting one or more holders to the electric motor.

The invention also relates to kits comprising said electric toothbrush and one or more fixed and one or more movable holders selected from the group consisting, inter alia, of brush head tip holders, fixed bristle holders, movable bristle holders, elastomeric element holders, holders of an oral care composition and / or holders of a dental instrument, and / or combinations thereof.

The invention also relates to an low energy consumption electric toothbrush, comprising: a housing assembly comprising a brush head, a handle and a neck extending between the brush head and the handle; a casing bounding the hollow internal cavity; a movable bristle holder mounted on the brush head; an electric motor with a rotating shaft operating from it, a gear wheel mounted on the shaft and a power source electrically connected to the electric motor and located in the hollow internal cavity; a flat gear rotatably mounted in the hollow internal cavity and oriented in such a way that the axis of rotation of the flat gear is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the electric motor and the driving gear; wherein the flat gear has such a configuration and engages the driving gear of the electric motor in such a way that the flat gear makes one rotation based on one to three rotations of the electric motor; wherein the flat gear comprises (i) a first eccentric element extending from the surface of the flat gear, the first eccentric element having a center offset from the axis of rotation of the flat gear, and (ii) a second eccentric element extending from the surface of the first eccentric element, moreover, the second eccentric element has an axis of rotation coinciding with the axis of rotation of the flat gear; a drive shaft having a first end and a second opposite end, the first end engaging the first eccentric element and the second eccentric element of the flat gear, and the second end engaging the movable bristle holder; a first plurality of bristles mounted on a movable bristle holder; a second set of fixed bristles mounted on the brush head; moreover, during operation of the electric motor, the flat gear rotates, thereby giving reciprocating motion to the drive shaft and the movable bristle holder located on the bristle head.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention can be carried out with different components and layouts of components and different methods, methods or with different orders of execution of the corresponding operations. The drawings listed below are for the purpose of explaining exemplary embodiments of the invention only, they are not necessarily scaled drawings, and should not be construed as drawings limiting the present invention.

The invention is illustrated by the following description together with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is a bottom view of the head of a toothbrush, showing a configuration of different types of bristles according to the present invention;

Figure 3 is another bottom view of the head of the toothbrush, showing a configuration of the location of the bristles according to the present invention;

Figure 4 is another bottom view of the head of a toothbrush, showing a configuration of the location of the bristles according to the present invention;

Figure 5 is another bottom view of the head of the toothbrush, with a depiction of the configuration of the bristles according to the present invention;

6 is a partial cross section showing a brush head according to the present invention;

7 is a partial cross section showing another brush head according to the present invention;

Fig. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view showing yet another brush head according to the present invention;

Fig.9 is a partial cross section showing another brush head according to the present invention;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of an eccentric assembly according to the present invention;

11 is a perspective view of another eccentric device according to the present invention;

12 is a perspective view showing a partial assembly of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

13 is a bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a configuration of bristle arrangements according to the present invention;

Fig is another bottom view of the head of the toothbrush, showing the configuration of the locations of the bristles and the order of designation of the locations of certain types of bristles according to the present invention;

FIG. 15 is another bottom view of a toothbrush head showing a configuration of bristle arrangements according to the present invention; FIG.

16 is a bottom view of a brush head according to the present invention;

FIG. 17 is a side view of the brush head shown in FIG. 16;

Fig. 18 is a bottom view of yet another brush head according to the present invention;

Fig. 19 is a side view of the brush head shown in the drawing of Fig. 18.

Fig. 20 is a perspective view of another toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig.21 is a partial perspective view with a spatial separation of the parts of the toothbrush shown in the drawing of Fig.20, with the image of some components and their assembly;

Figa is a partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of parts, the implementation of the toothbrush according to the present invention, with the image of some components and their assembly;

Fig.22 is a partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of the parts, the site of the head of the toothbrush shown in the drawings Fig.21 and 22;

Figa is a partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of the parts, showing the assembly of another implementation of the head of the toothbrush;

Fig - another partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of the parts, the head of the toothbrush shown in the drawing Fig.22, with the image of another assembly of its components;

Figa - another partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of the parts, the head of the toothbrush shown in the drawing Figa, with the image of another assembly of its components;

Fig - another partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of the parts, the head of the toothbrush shown in the drawing Fig.22 and 23, also with the image of another assembly of its components;

Figa - another partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of the parts, the head of the toothbrush shown in the drawing Figa and 23a, also with the image of another assembly of its components;

Fig - another partial image in perspective, with a spatial separation of the parts, the head of the toothbrush, with the image of another possible configuration of the bristles according to the present invention;

Figa is an end view of a fixed bristle holder 1403;

Fig is an end view of the head of the toothbrush along the line 26-26 shown in the drawing of Fig;

Figa - end view of the movable bristle holder 1405;

Fig - partial lateral vertical projection of the head of the toothbrush, with the image of another configuration of the bristles;

Figa - end view of the toothbrush shown in the drawing Figa, before engaging the fixed and movable bristle holders;

FIG. 28 is an end view of the head of the toothbrush shown in FIG. 27 taken along line 28-28; FIG.

29 is a partial side elevational view of a toothbrush depicting yet another preferred bristle configuration according to the present invention;

FIG. 30 is an end view of the head of the toothbrush shown in FIG. 29 taken along line 30-30;

Fig is an end view of the head of the toothbrush, showing another configuration of the bristles according to the present invention;

Fig. 32 is an end view of a toothbrush head according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 33 is an end view of a toothbrush head according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 34 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 35 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 36 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 37 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 38 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 39 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

40 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 41 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 42 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

43 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 44 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 45 is a partial side elevational view of the head of a toothbrush according to the present invention, showing another bristle configuration;

Fig. 46 is a horizontal projection from below of a head of a toothbrush (without bristle) of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig. 47 is a section taken along line 47-47 of the head of the toothbrush shown in Fig. 46;

Fig. 48 is a partial exploded view of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig. 49 is a partial exploded view of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig. 50 is a perspective view of a portion of a drive mechanism according to the present invention;

Fig. 51 is a perspective view of a brush head and a drive mechanism shown in Fig. 50.

Fig. 52 is a perspective view of the head and neck of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig - horizontal projection of another head and neck of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig. 54 is a horizontal projection of yet another head and neck of a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig. 55 is a partial exploded view of an engagement assembly for converting rotational motion into reciprocating motion, preferably used in a toothbrush according to the present invention;

Fig. 56 is a horizontal projection of the gear of the assembly shown in Fig. 55;

Fig. 57 is a side elevational view of the gear wheel shown in Fig. 56;

Fig. 58 is a partial sectional view of the assembly shown in Fig. 55, showing an engagement between the drive shaft and the gear;

Fig - bottom side of the end of the drive shaft of the node shown in the drawing Fig.

Fig. 60 is a horizontal projection of the assembly shown in Fig. 55, showing the operation of the assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is based on the discovery that significant cleaning effectiveness is provided by a toothbrush that uses a combination of a fixed bristle and a movable bristle driven by an electric motor. The movable bristles preferably reciprocate, receiving movement from the electric motor, and, most preferably, the movable bristles reciprocate in a direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush. It is contemplated that the movable bristle can also reciprocate in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Although reciprocating motion is the preferred type of motion for the movable bristle holder, the present invention also includes other types of motion of the movable bristle holder. In all preferred embodiments described herein, all of the various movable bristle types are all actuated or secured by a single movable component. This feature is described in more detail below. The present invention is also based on the development of specific layouts or configurations for a fixed bristle, in particular when used with a bristle set with a movable and motor driven motor. In addition, the toothbrush according to the present invention, having a movable brush holder that reciprocates and is partially surrounded by a plurality of fixed bristles, is particularly suitable for mass production. That is, the various brushes described herein, according to their preferred embodiments, have a relatively low cost due to their considerable simplicity and novel structure. These and other features of the invention are set forth herein.

The present invention is also based on the special design of a single case or casing for an electric toothbrush, comprising a neck and brush head assembly made as a single unit. A one-piece housing or casing for an electric toothbrush greatly simplifies the assembly of the toothbrush and reduces its factory cost. The present invention also provides a novel modular brush head design that provides the user with a choice of bristles and / or elements for the brush head. This novel modular design is made by engaging one or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders with a holding member extending from the distal end of the neck of the toothbrush. The holder is an element, such as a plate, that engages the enclosing element and which may contain structures or compositions that interact with the tissue of the oral cavity and / or teeth. The plurality of fixed and / or movable holders may include, but are not limited to, bristle holders, brush head tip holders, elastomeric element holders, oral care composition holders and dental instrument holders, or any combination thereof. Many fixed and / or movable holders can have many shapes and sizes - provided that the holders can engage the enclosing element of the toothbrush. According to one implementation: the stationary carrier (s) may be a stationary carrier of the bristles, and / or the movable holder (s) may be a movable holder of the bristles. Many holders may be the tips of the brush head. Holders of the tip of the brush head can be located on the farthest part of the head of the toothbrush. These ends of the brush heads may form a relatively large portion of the brush head. Some embodiments of the present invention include these mentioned elastomeric elements or flexible, extending outwardly, elements located on the brush head. The fixed holder and the movable toothbrush head holder may contain elastomeric elements along with bristles. The fixed part and the movable part, each of them, may include bristles and elastomeric elements, which are used to easily massage the user's gums during brush operation. The elastomeric elements can be located around the perimeter of the fixed and moving parts or between the bristles on the fixed and moving parts of the brush head, and they can be formed from any elastomeric material, including, but not limited to, rubber. Elastomeric materials include, but are not limited to, materials disclosed in US Pat. Nos. 5,987,688 and 5,735,011, which are incorporated herein by reference. Dental instruments mounted on and / or delivered by the holders include, but are not limited to, a gum massage tool, scraping tool, cleaning tool, cleaning threads, polishing caps, rubber rods and applicators. For example, elements and / or tools specially designed for applying whitening agents to teeth can be used. An example of polishing caps includes, but is not limited to, caps described in US Pat. No. 5,930,860, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In addition, bristle configurations that provide gum stimulation and interdental stimulation can be used, for example, location options according to US Pat. No. 5,926,897, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Compositions for caring for the oral cavity include, but are not limited to, formulations located on the holder or in the holder, or distributed by the holder for caring for the teeth, or for treating teeth or tissue of the oral cavity; and / or other formulations placed on the holder or in the holder and facilitating the processing and / or care of the teeth and tissues of the oral cavity. Examples of oral care compositions include, but are not limited to, tartar prevention formulations, tooth whitening compositions, abrasives, fluoride, and oral sensitizing compositions such as flavors. Examples of holders of oral care compositions are examples, among others, disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,851,551 and in WO09413870A1 and 9804167A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Before describing various embodiments of the toothbrush according to the present invention, it is advisable to characterize the different types of movements that the movable bristles can perform. As used herein, the term "angular movement" refers to any angular displacement. "Linear motion" is movement in a straight line, or substantially straight line, line or direction. “Basically linear motion” is described below. A “curvilinear motion” is a motion that is either not completely linear or perfectly angular, but is a combination of these two movements (for example, curvilinear). These movements can be constant or periodic. Constant movement indicates a movement that does not change its direction or trajectory (for example, unidirectional). Periodic movement indicates a movement that reverses its direction or trajectory. A constant angular motion (i.e., motion passing 360 degrees or more), which is essentially circular, is here referred to as rotational motion. Periodic angular motion that passes less than 360 degrees is indicated as an oscillatory motion. Curvilinear motions can also be either constant (for example, unidirectional), or periodic (i.e. reversing their direction). Periodic linear motion is indicated as “reciprocating”. The motions mentioned above may also occur along one or more axes of the bristle holder.

It is also advisable to define the term “fixed” bristles and the term “movable” bristles. The term “fixed bristles” refers to bristles that are fixed or fixed relative to the head of the brush or the body of the toothbrush or other component thereof, and the bristles and, in particular, the base of the bristles do not move relative to the toothbrush while using it. That is, a fixed bristle refers to a bristle that is fixed to the toothbrush in such a way that its base or attachment point does not move relative to the toothbrush, and the fixed bristle is not operatively connected to the drive shaft. The fixed bristles can be attached to the fixed holder. In this case, one or more of these fixed holders can engage the enclosing element of the toothbrush and thereby form the head of the toothbrush. Although these holders and the bristles located on them are stationary, it is believed that the ends of the bristles or areas farther with respect to the bristle base or group of bristles can move due to bending of the bristles, but the base of the fixed bristles will not move relative to the toothbrush. In addition, the fixed holder, on which the bristles can be located, can be disconnected from the toothbrush due to its translational movement. Therefore, the user can replace and / or replace the fixed holder if necessary. Any movement of the bristles is not the result of operational communication with the drive shaft and / or electric motor, as opposed to a movable bristle, which moves as a result of operative connection with the drive shaft.

The term "movable bristles" refers to bristles in which the base of the bristles moves relative to the toothbrush, and preferably with respect to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush. Typically, this configuration is accomplished by attaching or installing the bristle base on a mounting component such as a holder that is movable relative to the toothbrush. In this case, one or more movable bristle holders can engage the enclosing element of the toothbrush, completing the formation of the head of the toothbrush. That is, the movable bristle is a bristle that is movable and preferably translationally moves with respect to the longitudinal axis of the brush as a result of operative connection with the drive shaft.

The novel modular design of the toothbrush according to the present invention can be realized due to the special structure of the brush head. As used herein, the phrase “toothbrush head” means one or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders and an enclosing member. One or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders engage a toothbrush through an enclosing member. The accommodating element is located at the far end of the neck of the toothbrush and secures the holders. The enclosing element may have bristles, or the bristles may not be present on the enclosing element.

In both cases, the head of the toothbrush can be formed by contacting, with the possibility of sliding, one or more fixed holders, and one or more movable holders with a containing element. According to one implementation: the fixed holder engages the enclosing element and can essentially surround the movable holder. According to another embodiment: a plurality of fixed holders engages the enclosing member, as a result of which, when engaged, the fixed holders can substantially surround the movable holder. Embodiments of the modular design of the present invention include toothbrushes in which one or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders comprise bristles. One or more fixed bristle holders and one or more movable bristle holders independently engage the accommodating member located at the far end of the neck of the toothbrush by slidingly engaging. One or more movable bristle holders may be located on this enclosing member. In addition, other holders may engage the accommodating element of the toothbrush, including but not limited to dental tool holders, elastomeric element holders, holders of oral care compositions and / or combinations thereof.

Turning to FIG. 1: a toothbrush 10 is shown according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The toothbrush 10 comprises a housing 30, a head 20 and a neck 40 extending between the housing 30 and the head 20. The head 20 defines the farthest end 22. The head 20 and the neck 40 extend substantially along a longitudinal axis, which is shown in FIG. 1 as an axis L. Along the head 20, there are a plurality of fixed bristles 60 and a plurality of bristles 50 located inside, which are movable as described herein. The movable bristles 50 are located on the holder of the movable bristles and are mounted on it. The holder of the movable bristles can perform the various movements mentioned above.

Figures 2-5 and 13 show various configurations of the arrangement of the fixed bristles and the movable bristles according to the present invention. Figure 2 depicts in detail the toothbrush 10 shown in Figure 1 and its head 20. According to Figure 2: the fixed bristles (bristles) 60 extend substantially completely around the plurality of movable bristles 50. The movable bristles (bristles) 50 are located on the movable holder 52 bristles. The bristle holder 52 is preferably movable between the two positions shown in FIG. 2: position A and position B. The bristle holder 52 is preferably movable back and forth between position A, in which the bristle holder 52 is near the farthest end 22 the brush head 20, and the position B shown in the figure 2 by a dotted line. Most preferably: the direction of travel of the bristle holder 52 during its reciprocating movement between positions A and B is essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the head 20 and neck (not shown in FIG. 2), indicated in FIG. 1 as the axis L.

Figure 3 shows another arrangement of the bristles on the head 120 of the toothbrush 100 according to the present invention. In this embodiment, a plurality of fixed bristles 160 extend substantially along the perimeter of the plurality of movable bristles 150. The movable bristles 150 are located on and fixed to the movable bristle holder 152. The bristle holder 152 is movable between two positions A and B of FIG. 3. In this preferred configuration: the portion 125 along the brush head 120 does not contain bristles — neither fixed nor movable bristles. As mentioned above with reference to FIG. 2: the bristle holder 152 and, therefore, the movable bristles 150 can preferably reciprocate between positions A and B. Referring to FIG. 3: position A is near the farthest end 122 of the brush head 120.

4 shows yet another embodiment of a head 220 of a toothbrush 200 according to the present invention. In this embodiment: a plurality of fixed bristles 260 are located in opposite portions of the brush head 220 around a plurality of movable bristles 250. The movable bristles 250 are located on and attached to the movable bristle holder 252. The holder 252 of the movable bristles is arranged to move between positions A and B of FIG. 4. It should be noted that two sections are defined between the set of fixed bristles 260 and do not have bristles. These sections in the drawing of FIG. 4 are shown as sections 227, 229. As indicated above with reference to FIG. 2, the bristle holder 252 and therefore the movable bristle 250 can preferably reciprocate between positions A and B. Position A is close to the far end 222 of the brush head 220.

Figure 5 shows another preferred embodiment of the head 320 of the toothbrush 300 according to the present invention. According to this embodiment: the set of fixed bristles 360 extends only partially around the set of movable bristles 350, which is located and secured to the movable bristle holder 352. The movable bristle holder 352 is movable between the two positions shown in FIG. 5: A and B. It should be noted that portions 329, 327, 325 are defined around the entire perimeter of the movable bristle 350. These portions do not have bristles and, in particular do not have a fixed bristle 360. As described above with reference to FIG. 2: the bristle holder 252 and therefore the movable bristle 250 can preferably reciprocate between positions A and B. Position A is near the farthest end 322 of the brush head 320 and.

13 shows another embodiment of a head 920 of a toothbrush 900 according to the present invention. In this embodiment: a plurality of fixed bristles 960 are located in opposite portions of the brush head 220 around a plurality of movable bristles 950. In particular, a fixed bristle 960 is located along the sides of the brush head 920. Sections 925 and 927 are defined between the groups of the fixed bristles, and preferably according to the image in the drawing of FIG. 13. A movable bristle 950 is mounted and secured to the movable bristle holder 952. The movable bristle holder 952 is movable between position A and position B of FIG. 13. As mentioned above with reference to FIG. 2: the bristle holder 952 and therefore the movable bristle 950 are preferably arranged to reciprocate between positions A and B. Position A is near the farthest end 922 of the brush head 920.

It should be noted that preferred bristle configurations are based on a movable bristle located substantially in the middle region or inside the brush head; and a fixed bristle at least partially surrounds a centrally located movable bristle. These features are explained in more detail below.

In some cases, it is preferred that the fixed bristles surround 100% of the perimeter of the plurality of movable bristles. In other cases, it is preferable that the fixed bristles surround or extend from about 75% to 100% of the perimeter of the movable bristles. In other cases, it is preferable that the fixed bristles extend along approximately 50-75% of the perimeter of the movable bristles. In other cases, it is preferable that the fixed bristles extend along approximately 25-50% of the perimeter of the movable bristles. In other cases, it may be preferable that the fixed bristles extend less than 25% of the entire perimeter of the movable bristles. As mentioned above, the fixed bristle preferably extends along at least a portion of the outer perimeter of the plurality of movable bristles. In some implementations, it is not necessary that the fixed bristles extend entirely along the perimeter of the plurality of movable bristles. That is, the present invention includes bristle configurations in which a fixed bristle runs discontinuously along or around the outer perimeter of the movable bristle.

The terms "completely surrounds", "essentially surrounds" and "partially surrounds" are used here to indicate specific configurations of the fixed bristles and its relative location with respect to the movable bristles. The term "completely surrounds" indicates a configuration in which a fixed bristle completely surrounds or is located completely around the perimeter of the movable bristles. It is understood that when a fixed bristle is referred to as or part of the surrounding perimeter of a moving bristle, small or relatively small spaces may exist between individual bristle units or bristle groups. These spaces are only of the order of 1 to 10 diameters of a conventional bristle. The term “substantially surrounding” refers to a configuration in which a fixed bristle extends along at least 80% of the perimeter of the movable bristle. In particular, the term “substantially surrounds” means configurations in which a fixed bristle extends along a part of the perimeter of the movable bristle and preferably extends along a portion less than 80% of the distance along the perimeter. The term "partially surrounds" indicates a configuration in which a fixed bristle partially, but not completely, surrounds a movable bristle.

As indicated above, the holder of the movable bristles can perform various movements. For example, the holder of a movable bristle can make an angular motion, a linear motion, or a curved motion. The movement of the bristle holder may be continuous or intermittent. As a rule, for the holder of the movable bristles, the preferred motion is a periodic linear motion or a reciprocating motion.

The movable bristle holder may have various shapes. For the holder of the movable bristle, the preferred shape is oval, shown in the above-mentioned drawings, in particular in the drawings of Figures 2 to 5. It is generally preferred that the movable bristle holder has an elongated shape, more preferably an oval shape, and most preferably has proportions according to a certain range of ratios of length and width. Most preferably, the movable bristle holder has an oval shape and a ratio of length (measured along the major axis of its oval shape) and width (measured along the minor axis of its oval shape) in approximate values from 4: 1 to 1.2: 1. The width of the movable bristle holder (also measured along the small axis of its oval shape) approaches the width of the brush head, at this location along the brush head. For these implementations of the present invention, according to which the bristle holder is oval and the bristle holder moves reciprocally, the holder is oriented so that the movement occurs essentially parallel to the main axis of the oval shape. The preferred width of the movable bristle holder is from about 50% to 90% of the width of the brush head, and most preferably from about 60% to 80%.

Turning to FIG. 6: a further preferred embodiment of the head 420 for the toothbrush 400 is described. The head 420 comprises an internal bristle holder 452 that is mounted for translation in slots formed along the head 420. The internal bristle holder 452 is mounted and secured to a plurality of movable bristles 450. The inner bristle holder 452 is reciprocated in the same general longitudinal direction as the longitudinal axis of the head 420. The inner bristle holder 452 and etina 450 preferably at least partially surrounded by a plurality of stationary bristles being shown in phantom in Figure 6. Toothbrush 400 has an electric motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism, the drive shaft of which is shown in FIG. 6 as shaft 460. An eccentric 470 engaged by shaft 460 operatively couples shaft 460 to internal bristle holder 452. Or, shaft 460 can be mounted on shaft supports 465. The shaft supports 465 may include parts (not shown) made in the form of letters C or U and containing the shaft 460. Other means of fastening the shaft 460 in the support are known from the prior art. The eccentric 470 may contain a shaped element or tide of the corresponding eccentric configuration located or molded and firmly fixed on the shaft 460. According to one technical solution, the eccentric 470 has a cylindrical shape with a pair of acute-angled surfaces 472, 473 that are inclined in the same direction and with the same angle of inclination, but which are located at opposite ends of the eccentric 470. That is, the angled surfaces 472, 473 are surfaces obtained by a diagonal cut ilindra eccentric 470. The tilt angle and direction can be changed respectively desired change in the frequency and stroke inner bristle holder 452. The first and second eccentric rollers 454, 456 are attached to or extend from the bottom side 453 of the bristle holder 452. The eccentric rollers 454, 456 are offset or spaced apart so that the eccentric 470 is located between the eccentric rollers 454, 456 that are mounted on and / or surround the eccentric 470. The eccentric 470, made at an angle to the surface 472, 473, slides in contact with the free ends of the rollers 454, 456 operating from the eccentric. When the shaft 460 rotates, the first acute-angled surface 472 of the eccentric 470 contacts the surface of the first eccentric roller 454 and drives the working from the eccentric roller, and therefore, the holder of the inner bristles 452 from the end 422 in a direction essentially the same as the direction of the longitudinal axis of the head 420. The holder 452 of the inner bristles is guided by cutting and extending in the longitudinal direction. As the shaft 460 continues to rotate, the eccentric 470 moves away from the first eccentric roller 454. The second acute-angled surface 473 of the eccentric 470 then contacts the surface of the second eccentric roller 456 and drives the second eccentric roller 456 and therefore the holder 452 inner bristles, back to end 433 of head 420.

Turning to FIGS. 7 and 8: a further embodiment of a toothbrush head 520 for use with an electric toothbrush 500 is described. Head 520 includes an internal bristle holder 552 that is mounted to move in progress in slots (not shown) made in a head 520. A plurality of bristles 550 are mounted and secured to the internal bristle holder 552. The internal bristle holder 552 is reciprocated in the same substantially longitudinal direction as the longitudinal axis ovki 520. Toothbrush 500 includes a motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism having a rotatable drive shaft 560. The head 520 extends from neck 540, and has the distal end 522. The cam 570 on the shaft 560 operatively connects shaft 560 with the holder 552 inside the bristle. Or the shaft 560 can be supported by the shaft supports 565. The shaft bearings 565 may have parts (not shown) in the form of letters C or U containing the shaft 560. Other means of fixing the shaft 560 in the support are known from the prior art. The eccentric 570 is made in the form of a set of bends 572, 573 in the shaft 560. The bends are sinusoidal or curved, and each bend has one or more adjacent arc parts. Each fold has a vertex, and the vertices are located on opposite sides of the shaft 560. A hemispherical eccentric roller 554 protrudes from the bottom surface 553 of the inner bristle holder 552 and is located between the vertices of the eccentric 570. When the shaft 560 rotates, the surface 576 of the eccentric 570 makes contact with the first surface 555 of the eccentric roller 554 and drives the eccentric roller 554 and therefore the inner bristle holder 552 from the end 522 in the longitudinal direction, which is essentially This is the same as the longitudinal axis of the head 520. As the shaft 560 continues to rotate, the eccentric surface 576 moves away from the first surface 555 of the eccentric roller. 8, the eccentric surface 576 then contacts the second surface 556 of the eccentric roller 554 and drives the eccentric roller 554 and therefore the inner bristle holder 552, back to the end 522. The movement of the bristle holder 552 can be changed by changing the interval between the vertices 572, 573 and / or the amplitude, shape or height of the vertices 572, 573, the length and inclination of the surface of the eccentric 576 and the inclination of the surfaces 555, 556 of the eccentric roller 554.

Turning to FIG. 9, a further embodiment of a toothbrush head 620 for an electric toothbrush 600 is described. Head 620 includes an internal bristle holder 652 that is mounted in a slot (not shown) made in head 620 by sliding movement. Head 620 has a distal end 622. The inner bristle holder 652 is mounted and rests on a plurality of bristles 650. The inner bristle holder 652 is reciprocated in the same general longitudinal direction as the longitudinal axis of the head 620. Toothbrush and 600 comprises an electric motor (not shown) and a drive mechanism that includes a rotary drive shaft 660. An eccentric 670 formed on the shaft 660 operatively couples the shaft 660 to the inner bristle holder 652. Or, shaft 660 can be supported by shaft supports 665. The shaft supports 665 may comprise parts (not shown) in the form of letters C or U containing the shaft 660. Other means of fixing the shaft 660 in the support are known in the art. The eccentric 670 is made in the form of a cylindrical component 674, which is installed or molded and firmly fixed to the shaft 660.

As shown in FIG. 10: the eccentric 670 comprises a helical groove 672 formed on the outer surface of the cylindrical component 674. The helical groove 672 preferably extends around the circumference of the component 674 and spirally around the longitudinal axis of the component 674, which, for example, may coincide with the longitudinal axis of the shaft 660 The stroke and frequency of movement given to the eccentric roller 654 (shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) by the eccentric 670 can be changed by changing the shape and dimensions of the groove 672. For example, the groove 672 made in component 674 will provide Vat one full stroke of the inner holder 652 bristles (ie one cycle from and back to the end of the head 622) for one revolution of the shaft 660.

11 shows an alternative cam 770 with a spiral groove 772 made in the form of the number eight. This will provide only half the stroke (ie, only either translational movement to or from the end of the brush head) for one revolution of the shaft 760. The eccentric-operated roller 754 is located in the groove 772 and engages with the movable bristle holder.

Referring again to FIGS. 9 and 10: an eccentric driven roller 654 protrudes from the bottom surface 653 of the inner bristle holder 652. The eccentric-driven roller 654 enters the groove 672 by translating. When the shaft 660 rotates, the first surface 675 of the spiral groove 672, such as its side wall, comes into contact with the first surface of the eccentric-driven roller 654, and drives the eccentric the roller 654 and, therefore, the inner bristle holder 652, from the end 622 of the brush head 620, in the longitudinal direction, essentially the same as the longitudinal axis of the head 620. When the shaft 660 continues to rotate, the eccentric roller 654 reaches the grooves of the spiral groove 672, and the first surface 675 of the spiral groove 672 moves away from the eccentric roller 654. The second surface 676 of the groove 672, such as the opposite side wall of the groove 672, then comes into contact with the eccentric roller 654 and drives the the eccentric roller 674 and therefore the inner bristle holder 652, back to the end 622 of the brush head 620.

The reciprocating bristle holders described herein can also use a drive mechanism — a rotating shaft. It should also be noted that it is possible to provide other solutions for the electric motor and the shaft, performing a reciprocating motion or rotating. For example, US Patent Nos. 5,226,206; 5,524,312; 5,383,242; 5,465,444; 5,549,959; 5,836,030; 4,845,795; 5,404,608; 5359747 and 5617601, the essence of which is incorporated herein by reference, disclose other technical solutions of the electric motor and the shaft reciprocating, which may be appropriate. Moreover, the electric toothbrush according to Fig. 9 may have a replaceable head. The corresponding technical solution that can be applied to this invention is disclosed in US patent application No. 09/850662, filed May 7, 2001, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Similarly, the drive mechanisms disclosed in US patent applications No. 10/114780, filed April 3, 2002, and No. 10/128018, filed April 22, 2002, which are incorporated herein by reference, also correspond to the application together with this invention.

Another toothbrush of the preferred embodiment using a reciprocating drive shaft is shown in FIG. 12. 12 shows an electric toothbrush 800 comprising a toothbrush head 820, a body or handle 830, and an elongated neck 840 extending between them. A kinematic chain comprising various shafts and gears transmitting movement from an electric motor to an internal bristle holder 852 is similar to a chain, described in US patent No. 6178579, the essence of which is incorporated herein by reference. The handle 830 is hollow and includes an electric motor 802 and batteries (not shown) for powering the electric motor. According to one implementation of the present invention, the toothbrush contains a power source consisting of two batteries. Instead of batteries, you can use a rechargeable power source. Batteries can be connected to the electric motor through a wire, a metal strip, due to direct contact and / or using any combination of them. The head 820 has a longitudinal axis passing through it. The longitudinal axis extends in the same substantially longitudinal direction as the longitudinal axis of the shaft 860. The inner bristle holder 852 is located along the head 820, with the end 822 being the farthest point of the head 820. Although the holder 852 is preferably oval, other forms. Although the inner bristle holder 852 is located near the end 822 of the head 820, it should be noted that the holder 852 may be located from the end 822; and other components, such as a fixed bristle, may be arranged around at least a portion of the perimeter of the inner bristle holder 852. In this embodiment, the inner bristle holder 852 performs only reciprocating motion and does not oscillate and does not perform any other rotational or oscillatory motion.

The first gear wheel 804 is operatively connected to and driven by an electric motor 802. The second gear 806 is operatively connected to the first gear 804. The axis of rotation of the second gear 806 is approximately perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the first gear 803, and therefore the teeth of the first gear 804 engage with the teeth of the second gear 806, thereby turning the second gear 806 when rotation of the first gear 804.

The first lever 808 is eccentrically and pivotally coupled to the second gear 806 using a pin 810 or other mounting device. Due to this eccentric connection, the rotational movement of the second gear 806 is converted into the reciprocating motion of the first lever 808. The second lever 812 is pivotally connected to the first lever 808 using a pin 814 or other mounting device. The shaft 860 is attached, for example, by press fit to the second lever 812. The shaft 860 is located at least partially in the neck 840. The shaft 860 is also engaged with the third lever 816. The third lever 816 is connected at its end to the inner bristle holder 852 using a pin 818 or another mounting device. The end of the third lever 816 is offset from the longitudinal axis of the shaft 860 and therefore adjacent to the outer perimeter of the inner bristle holder 852. This offset converts the reciprocating motion of the third arm 816 into the reciprocating motion of the inner bristle holder 852, while the inner bristle holder 852 reciprocates about an axis approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis of the shaft 860.

Various implementations of the brush heads of the present invention are set forth for simplicity, indicating tufts or groups of bristles that extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the head from which they extend, but it is contemplated that the bristles may be positioned differently to complement or improve the fixed bristles or movement of the movable bristles. Some or all of the bristles may extend in a direction that forms an acute angle with the upper surface of the bristle holder, and may extend in the forward or reverse direction. According to another implementation: some of the bristles can extend outward from the head, in the other direction, also forming an acute angle with respect to the upper surface of the bristle holder. Elastomeric elements, or massage bristles, or bristles of different heights can also be used, for example, according to US patents for industrial design No. 330286 and 434563, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other preferred bristle arrangements suitable for use include arrangements fully or partially described in US Pat. Nos. 6,006,394; 4081876; 5,062,213; 5,335,389; 5,392,483; 5,446,940; 4894880 and in international publication No. WO99 / 23910, the essence of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The electric toothbrushes of the present invention can be provided with any combination of types, sizes, combinations, angles or arrangements of bristles or elastomeric elements. The bristle tufts may have a variable height. The term “bundle” here means a collection of one or more bristles attached to a brush at a common point. In one embodiment, a plurality of high tufts and a plurality of shorter tufts are located along the brush head. The difference in length between the high beams and shorter beams is from about 0.5 mm and 2.5 mm in one embodiment and from about 1 mm to 2 mm in other embodiments. High and short beams can have different characteristics. For example, high tufts of bristles may be relatively soft for gentle cleaning and massaging of the user's gums, and shorter bristles may be slightly stiffer for interdental brushing (or vice versa). With this arrangement, the longer (and usually softer) bristles can be compressed, bent and deflected by the user's gums before the shorter (and usually more rigid) bristles come into contact with the user's teeth and gums. Therefore, for example, soft bristles can be pressed with greater force, and stiffer (and possibly less comfortable) bristles can be pressed with less effort.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment: the present invention provides a bristle configuration in which a movable bristle, i.e. a bristle located and secured to a movable bristle holder has a total bristle length shorter than the length of a fixed bristle that at least partially surrounds or moves along the movable bristle holder and a bristle attached to it. Another embodiment of this preferred bristle configuration has a movable bristle holder that rises slightly above the outer surface of the head, whereby the distal ends of the movable bristles are approximately at the same height as the longer fixed bristles extending from the outer surface of the head. Typically, when using a movable bristle of a relatively shorter length, the distance or stroke of the movable bristle holder (when reciprocating) is shorter than when using a longer bristle. A shorter stroke usually requires less power. This is advisable, since the battery is consumed to a lesser extent, which can also increase the manufacturability and cost-effectiveness of manufacturing such a toothbrush. In addition, when using a relatively shorter bristle for the movable bristles and a longer bristle for the fixed bristles, the fixed bristles account for a larger proportion of the cleaning load. As a result of this, as a rule, power consumption in the electric motor and the drive mechanism is reduced.

The stiffness of the bristles also turned out to be a parameter that negatively affects the efficiency of the brush, the power consumption in the preferred toothbrushes described here and on the general characteristics of the toothbrush. This parameter is especially important in relation to the length or height of the bristles. For example, in some cases, it is preferable to use relatively stiff and short bristles on the movable component of the brush head to reduce the stroke of the component of the brush head.

Bristle, in aggregate, has rigidity, which in numerical terms can be characterized by the following equation:

,Bristle stiffness =

,

where D = diameter of the bristles, inches;

E = modulus of elasticity of the wet material of the bristles, for example, for nylon, this value is constant - 460000 psi;

X = average length of the bristles on the brush head, in inches;

N = average number of bristles on the brush head.

The stiffness of the brush bristles of the present invention according to the above equation is preferably in the approximate range of 0.2 to 0.8. But the electric toothbrushes according to this invention can use brushes with stiffness beyond the indicated preferably limit.

Initial stiffness calculation

for an individual bristle is a measure of the pressure produced by the minimum force required to deflect a single bristle according to The Stiffness of Toothbrushes, DW MacFarlane, Brit. Dent. Jour., October 5, 1945, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The bristle stiffness is determined by multiplying the stiffness value of a single bristle by the total number of bristles on the brush head. The 1 x 10 ⁶ factor used in the denominator of this equation is an arbitrarily chosen constant that reduces the overall value of the stiffness of the bristles by suitably small numbers to facilitate comparison. A detailed description of the stiffness of the bristles is presented in US patent No. 5511275, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

From the above equation it follows that, as a rule, stiffness can be increased by increasing the number of bristles. Application of this equation for an individual bristle tuft shows that the stiffness of an individual bristle tuft can be controlled by increasing or decreasing the number of bristles in a given tuft, i.e. due to the beam density. This method can be conveniently used to ensure the configuration of the bristles of the brush head with a special and selectively individualized cleaning characteristic.

Another aspect of the toothbrushes described herein according to a preferred embodiment relates to the density of the bristles or tufts, and in particular in combination with the size and material of the bristles. The bristles for use in accordance with this invention can be made of any known material. Suitable bristle materials for this invention are polyester and nylon, for example: Dupont Tynex7 612 and Stylon7 612 from STP. Suitable nylon types are, but are not limited to, Nylon 6/6, Nylon 10/10, Nylon 12/12. The bristles preferably have a circular cross section, but another cross section may also be used, including but not limited to rectangular, hexagonal and trihedral. The diameter and length of the bristles can vary within the usual sizes known from the prior art. According to preferred embodiments, the bristles have a circular cross section with a diameter of 0.1 to 0.25 mm and a length of 7 to 15 mm, preferably 9 to 12 mm, with each tuft containing 10-50 single bristles. The total number of bristles in the brush head according to the present invention is preferably from 1200 to 5000 approximately, and more preferably from 1600 to 3500, approximately. The use of bristles and / or tufts of bristles with different diameters or at different intervals on the brush head is also contemplated.

The attachment of bristle tufts to the brush head can be accomplished by any known method, for example, melting, stapling and injection molding. In this case, the preferred methods are stapling (stapling) and melting. Each bundle has a base and a free end; while the free ends of the tufts form the working surface used for brushing your teeth. In the present invention, the term “base” of the beam means that part of the beam that intersects with the surface of the brush head or the movable bristle holder. It should be noted that part of the beam passes under the base into the brush head or holder to secure the beam in the head or holder. The head preferably contains preformed holes for the beams to accommodate this part of the beam in this way. The openings for the bundles can have any section, including square and rectangular, but preferably round. Their depth and diameter can be selected according to the prior art respectively inserted into the beams. Bristles inserted into a common hole under the bundle are considered to be attached at a common point and are part of this bundle.

The length of the brush head is measured along the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush and essentially from the far end of the brush head to the location on the head that is adjacent to the beam or row of tufts closest to the handle at the points of their base closest to the handle. Typically, this brush head length is in the range of 15 to 35 mm, and preferably 20 to 30 mm, approximately.

The length of the entire toothbrush is measured along the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush and usually from the far end of the head of the toothbrush to the proximal end of the handle of the toothbrush, including the end cap. Typically, this length of the toothbrush exceeds an approximate length of about 10 cm, 12 cm, 14 cm, 18 cm, and / or less, about 20 cm, 22 cm, 24 cm, 26 cm.

Most preferably, the density of the bristles or tufts on the movable bristle holder is greater than the density of the bristles of groups or sections of the fixed bristles.

The present invention also provides particularly preferred fixed bristle configurations. Preferred configurations use a certain number of rows in predetermined areas of the brush head. It has been found that these preferred configurations provide reduced load and less wear on the bristles that are located inside the brush head, and in particular on the bristles that are mounted on the movable bristle holder. Fig. 14 shows a preferred configuration for a group of fixed bristles located on the head 1020 of the toothbrush 1000. In this specific configuration, at least a portion of one row of bristles surrounds or substantially surrounds the inner portion of the brush head, i.e. location in which the movable brush head is located. Moreover, different preferred configurations for the fixed bristles 1060 can be conveniently characterized by calling different sections of the brush head “sectors” and the preferred locations of the fixed bristles in each of these sectors can be characterized. 14 shows a brush head 1020 with a centrally located sector C (in which the movable bristle holder is located) surrounded by sectors D, E, F and G. Sectors D and E are bounded along the side and opposite sides of the brush head. In particular, sector D is located between the first side 1031 of the brush head and sector C. Sector E is located between the second side 1033 of the brush head and sector C. Sector F is located between the first and second sides 1031 and 1033 of the brush head 1020 and the farthest end 1022 of the head 1020 brushes and sector C. Sector G is limited between the first and second sides 1031 and 1033 of the brush head 1020 and sector C and the neck 1040. Each sector in which the fixed bristle can be located may contain a certain number of rows of fixed bristles in the following order. Before determining the number of rows, preferably contained in each sector, it is advisable to determine the meaning of the term "row" of fixed bristles. A set of bristles is here defined as an aggregate or group of bristles that extends essentially along a certain line or in a certain direction. Rows in sector D preferably extend in a direction that is substantially parallel to side 1031. Similarly, rows in sector E preferably extend in a direction that is substantially parallel to side 1033. Rows in sector F can extend in accordance with several of the following schemes. Rows in sector F may extend in an arc or other curved line substantially repeating the curvature of sides 1031 and 1033, which approach the distal end 1022 of brush head 1020. Or, rows in sector F can extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the brush head 1020 and neck 1040. This last preferred row configuration is shown in FIG. 14. Rows in sector G may extend along an arc or other curved line; for example, along a line repeating the outer perimeter of sector C. Either the rows in sector G can extend in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the brush head 1020 and neck 1040. This last preferred row configuration in sector G is shown in FIG. 14, and these rows are preferably parallel to the rows in sector F.

The preferred number of rows of fixed bristles in sectors D, E, F and G: from 0 to 4 or more. But for the present invention, certain preferred row combinations are preferred. These preferred combinations are shown in Table 1.

Preferred fixed bristle row configurations

Table 1. Bristle configuration indicator The number of rows in the sector D E F G a. one one 1-3 one b. one one 1-3 2 c. 2 2 1-3 one d. 2 2 1-3 2 e. 0 0 1-3 one f. 0 0 1-3 2 g. one one 0 0 h. 2 2 0 0

As mentioned above, FIG. 13 shows preferred configurations for the fixed and movable bristles. In this configuration, rows of fixed bristles are located along opposite sides of the movable bristle holder. Each row contains groups or tufts of bristles. The number of rows of bristles along each side of the bristle holder: 1 to 6. Most preferably, the number of rows on each side of the movable bristle holder is either 1 or 2-6.

Fig. 15 shows one of the preferred fixed bristle configurations shown in Table 1 (bristle configuration indicator 1). FIG. 15 shows a head 1120 of a toothbrush 1100 having a plurality of fixed bristles 1160 located in a predetermined number and a given combination of rows. It should be noted that although the rows according to FIG. 15 are essentially straight or linear, in particular in sectors F and G, the rows can repeat the shape or curvature of the outer perimeter of the brush head 1020, for example along some part of the sides 1131 and 1133.

In each sector of the beams, the distance between the bases of adjacent beams is less than 1.3 mm, preferably from 0.6 to 1.2 mm, and more preferably from 0.8 to 1.1 mm. The distances between the bases of the beams according to the present invention are measured from the edge of the beam to the edge of the beam in a straight line passing between the centers of the beam along the surface on which the beams are located. The distances between the free ends of the beams according to the present invention are measured from the edge of the beam to the edge of the beam in a straight line between the centers of the beams, parallel to the surface on which the beams are located, from the free end of the shorter beam. Except where otherwise specified: distances between beams are distances between adjacent beams. The term “adjacent beam” means the nearest adjacent beam.

The distance between the bases of adjacent beams in adjacent groups, i.e. measured by the gap between the groups is an approximate distance of 1.3 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1.4 to 3.5 mm, and more preferably 1.7 to 3 mm, approximately. In some individual pairs of beams, these values can vary, but in cases where the elements of each pair are in different groups, the distance between their bases will be at least 1.3 mm.

Having a relatively large distance between the beams in adjacent groups, the groups of beams can act independently of each other. That is, the bundles of one group essentially will not interfere with the bundles of the adjacent group. Due to this, the beams at the edges of the groups, in particular, will be able to better penetrate into adjacent gaps and other depressions. However, a relatively high overall density of the beams on the brush head is achieved due to the relatively small distance between the beams in the groups. Thus, a good coverage of the bristles of individual tooth surfaces is ensured.

Other characteristics and parameters of bristles and tufts are described in US patent No. 6314605, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Another embodiment of the present invention is shown in the drawings of Figures 16 and 17, and one or more elastomeric elements are used in it. The following is a description of the head of an electric toothbrush according to the present invention. The rest of the brush, including the handle, electric motor, and other elements, is the same as in the implementations described above. As shown in FIG. 16: the head 1216 comprises a longitudinal axis L, a circular or movable part or brush head 1220, and a movable part or portion 1222. The head 1216 is located near the first end 1228 of the elongated body portion. The fixed portion or portions 1222 are located on opposite sides of the movable portion 1220. The movable portion 1220 is located in the center of the brush head 1216. The circular portion 1220 rotates, oscillates or reciprocates around an axis approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the brush head. The circular portion 1220 can rotate 360 degrees, or partially rotate, or oscillate, or make a reciprocating movement back and forth.

The movable part 1220 contains bristles 1224 and elastomeric elements 1225. The fixed part 1222 contains bristles 1226 and elastomeric elements 1227. Elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 massage the gums when the user brushes his teeth. The elastomeric elements 1225 and 1227 may be made of rubber, soft plastic or similar material. The elastomeric elements are preferably made of an elastomeric material. The elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 extend substantially perpendicularly from the head 1216, if measured along the L axis. According to a preferred embodiment, the elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 are located around the perimeter of the circular part 1220 and the fixed part 1222, but it is assumed that the elastomeric elements can be located elsewhere among the bristles of the movable part 1220 and the fixed part 1222. The length of the elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 is approximately the same as the length of the bristles 1224, 1226. The elastomeric elements 1225, 1227 may extend slightly higher, slightly lower or at the same height as the bristles 1224, 1226.

In other preferred embodiments of the electric toothbrush with elastomeric elements shown in the figures 18 and 19: the head 1386 has a longitudinal axis L, a circular or movable part or brush head 1306, a fixed part of the brush head 1302, a first end 1304 and a second end 1300. The first end 1304 is located near the first end 1382 of the elongated body. The second end 1300 is located opposite the first end 1304. The movable part 1306 is preferably located on the second end 1300 of the brush head 1386. The fixed portion 1306 is preferably located on the first end 1304 of the brush head 1386 in contact with the movable portion 1306. But it should be noted that the movable portion 1306 and the stationary portion 1302 may be in different orientations. The movable part 1306 is configured to rotate, oscillate or reciprocate about an axis approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the brush head 1386.

The movable part 1306 has a bristle 1310 and elastomeric elements 1311. The fixed part 1302 contains a bristle 1312 and elastomeric elements 1313. The elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 massage the gums when the user brushes his teeth. The elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 may be made of rubber, soft plastic or similar material. The elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 extend substantially perpendicularly from the head 1386, if measured along the longitudinal axis L. In a preferred embodiment, the elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 are located around the perimeter of the moving part 1306 and the fixed part 1302, but it is assumed that the elastomeric elements can be located in another place among the bristles of the movable part 1306 and the fixed part 1302. The length of the elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 is approximately the same as the length of the bristles 1310, 1312. The elastomeric elements 1311, 1313 may extend slightly higher lower, or at the same height with bristles 1310, 1312.

The present invention also relies on the special design of a single housing or casing for an electric toothbrush, consisting of a single neck assembly and brush head. One-piece housing or casing greatly simplifies the assembly of the toothbrush and reduces the factory cost of the brush. The present invention also provides a novel modular brush head design that allows the use of a variety of toothbrush bristle groups.

Turning to FIG. 20: one embodiment of a toothbrush 1400 according to the present invention is shown. Toothbrush 1400 comprises a housing 1480, a head 1433 and an intermediate portion or neck 1440 extending between the housing 1480 and the head 1433 and formed integrally with them. A plurality of bristles 1450 that are mounted on a movable bristle holder, described in detail herein, are movably fixed to the head 1433. A plurality of fixed bristles 1460 are also located on the head 1433. The fixed bristles 1460 preferably extend around the perimeter of the head 1433. The fixed bristles 1460 mounted and secured to the head of the toothbrush 1433 are described in detail herein.

FIG. 21 shows a partial exploded view of an embodiment of the toothbrush 1400 shown in FIG. 21 shows the assembly and configuration of components used in toothbrush 1400; while separate fixed and movable bristle holders autonomously engage the enclosing element and form the head of the toothbrush. Fixed and movable bristle holders can engage the enclosing element autonomously either in the same channel or in separate channels. FIG. 21 shows a toothbrush 1400, which also includes an end cap or base 1482 that is snapped into place at the end of the housing 1480 or otherwise removably secured. The end cap or base 1482 may have various shapes and configurations, including but not limited to a circle, oval, square, and / or rectangle. The housing 1480 also includes a portion configured to install a switch or other actuator assembly 1486 to control the operation of an electric motor, battery, and kinematic chain or mechanism (not shown), preferably located in the housing 1480 of the toothbrush 1400. This portion of the switch is shown in FIG. 21 as section 1484. A switch or actuator 1486 is placed on section 1484 and secured thereto. Housing 1480 provides a hollow interior cavity or chamber in which an electric motor and a drive mechanism are mounted. In operation: the drive mechanism drives a drive shaft that reciprocates in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush 1400. Referring to the accommodating element 1420 of the toothbrush 1400 of FIG. 21: it should be noted that the accommodating element is shown without bristles 1450, 1460 (as shown in FIG. 20). This is done to better illustrate the assembly of the toothbrush 1400. It is shown that one side of the enclosing member 1420 has a configuration with a substantially flat surface 1422 that defines a set of mounting locations or holes 1424 for the fixed bristles 1460. This flat section 1422 and its set of holes 1424 preferably extend along the outer perimeter of the enclosing element 1420 - Fig.21. This flat portion 22 most preferably extends along a path in the shape of the letter U — FIG. 21. Along the inner or middle portion of the enclosing element 1420 is enclosed enclosing surface or channel 1425, which essentially extend between two turned inward enclosing surfaces or channels 1426 and 1427. These channels are made essentially in pairs and bounded by surfaces 1425, 1426 and 1427, and their size corresponds accommodate components 1452 and 1430.

The implementation of the toothbrush 1400 comprises a movable bristle holder 1452 which, when engaged with the enclosing member, is fixed along the enclosing member 1420 and preferably within a pair of channels delimited by the surfaces 1425, 1426 and 1427 of the enclosing member. The movable bristle holders 1452 define an opening 1453, the size and design of which allows the pin or other element to engage with a drive mechanism (not shown) mounted in the housing 1480 and the neck 1440 of the toothbrush 1400. The present invention also provides other engagements between the movable bristle holders 1452 and a drive shaft, for example, inter alia, snap engagement. The toothbrush 1400 also includes a fixed holder, such as a tip 1430 of the brush head, which, after assembling the movable bristle holder 1452 on the head 1433, can also fit and attach to the head 1433. The tip 1430 of the brush head also limits the set of mounting holes 1434 sets of fixed bristles 1460 - Fig.20.

FIGS. 22-24 show the assembly sequence of the movable bristle holders 1452 and the tip 1430 of the brush head with the accommodating member 1420 to form the head 1433 of the implementation of the toothbrush 1400. In particular, FIG. 22 shows the accommodating element 1420 and the neck 1440 of the implementation of the toothbrush 1400. Holding element 1420 is oriented to accommodate movable bristle holders 1452. In particular, the bristle holders 1452 are preferably slidably contacted with a toothbrush head in a channel delimited by surfaces 1425, 1426 and 1427 in the enclosing member. The head of the toothbrush 1433 has a passage 1428. The passage 1428 provides access between the head 1433 of the toothbrush and the interior of the housing 1480 and the neck 1440. This passage 1428 can be configured to enclose and secure a shaft or other component of the drive mechanism. The far end of the drive shaft (not shown) can be secured to the movable brush holders 1452, for example by attaching the holders 1452 in the hole 1453. Accordingly, the bristle holders 1452 can be oriented in pairs of channels bounded on the accommodating element 1420 so that the hole 1453 is near passage 1428. As indicated above, a snap connection can be applied between the bristle holders 1452 and the distal end of the drive shaft.

FIG. 23 shows movable bristle holders 1452 that slide in contact in the head 1433 for implementing the brushes 1400. After engaging the movable bristle holders 1452 with the accommodating member 1420, the brush head tip 1430 can be fixed to the distal end of the holding member 1420. The brush head tip 1430 is also preferably contacts, with the possibility of sliding, inside the enclosing element 1420, and in particular in the channel bounded by the surfaces 1425, 1426 and 1427. One or more fixing grooves or channels is preferably og bounded along the outer surfaces of either tip 1430 or a channel bounded by surfaces 1425, 1426 and 1427, inside of which outwardly extending protrusions bounded on the opposite surface, attach tip 1430 to the accommodating member 1420. A variety of channel configurations can be used in accordance with the present invention. Although the channel and associated channel components are used to facilitate the attachment of the movable bristle holders to the brush head, it is contemplated that other locking assemblies and configurations may be used. As mentioned above, the toothbrushes of the present invention are not limited to any particular movement or direction of movement of the movable bristle holders.

24 shows the final assembly of the tip 1430 along the distal end of the housing member 1420. It should be noted that the various components indicated in these drawings include bristles 1450, 1460. The bristles are not shown in these drawings to explain the assembly of the primary components of the toothbrush 1400 and in particular along the accommodating member 1420 and the toothbrush head 1433. It should also be noted that the tip of the brush head can be formed in different shapes and configurations. In some cases, it is preferable to provide the tip of the brush head in the form of an arc or the letter U. Or the tip can be formed so that it makes up a relatively large part of the brush head. Either an arcuate shape or a U shape may substantially surround the movable bristle holders.

21 a shows a partially exploded view of another embodiment of a toothbrush made in accordance with the present invention. Figa shows the assembly and configuration of components used in the implementation of the toothbrush 1401. It is shown that the head of the toothbrush contains a accommodating element and bristle holders. A plurality of bristle holders are shown without bristles to illustrate the assembly of the toothbrush 1401 more clearly. FIG. 22a shows that one surface of the bristle holders has a substantially flat surface 1435 that defines a plurality of mounting locations or holes 1437 for the input bristles. The accommodating element 1431 of FIGS. 21a-24a of the toothbrush is a continuation of the neck and provides surfaces with which bristle holders can engage.

In this embodiment of the toothbrush, the head comprises a holding member 1431, a movable bristle holder 1405, and a fixed bristle holder 1403. The enclosing member 1431 has a substantially flat surface 1439 - Fig.21a. This substantially flat portion has guide elements that engage and secure the bristle holders. Examples of guide elements include, but are not limited to, pairs of channels 1411 and 1413 according to FIGS. 21a and 27a and grooves 1407 and 1419 according to FIGS. 25a and 26a. The fixed bristle holders and the movable bristle holders can independently slide together into pairs of channels 1411 and 1412 with grooves 1407 and 1419, respectively. Here, the fixed and movable bristle holders are shown to be separate channels that can slide, independently sliding, but it is assumed that the fixed and movable bristle holders can independently engage the same channel (s). The channels are limited by the surface of the enclosing element 1421 and have a size to accommodate the grooves 1407 and 1419 - Figa and 24a. Also in another embodiment of the toothbrush: the brush head has snap-in portions (not shown) or portions that otherwise removably attach movable bristles 1405 and fixed bristle holders 1403.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 1401 has one or more movable bristle holders 1405 that engage the enclosing member 1431, preferably within a pair of channels 1411 defined by the surfaces of the enclosing member 1411. The surfaces of the movable bristle holders can serve as guides to guide and engage the movable bristle holders in channels bounded by the surfaces of the enclosing element 1411. These guides are preferably rails 1407, the size of which corresponds to the placement of the channels 1411. I direct The liner may have any shape corresponding to the placement of channels bounded by the surfaces of the enclosing element, including, but not limited to, channels in the form of letters I, T, C and / or U. The guide according to Fig. 26a is a groove 1407 in the shape of the letter T. surrounded by a fixed bristle located on the fixed bristle holder 1403. To form this toothbrush head, one or more fixed bristle holders 1405 engages the accommodating element, preferably within a pair of channels 1413. The surfaces of the fixed bristle holders may include guides such as grooves 1419, the size of which corresponds to a pair of channels 1413. The grooves 1419 guide and engage the fixed bristle holders in a pair of channels 1413 and form the head of the toothbrush. The engagement of the fixed and / or movable bristle holders with the accommodating element for forming the head of the toothbrush can be disengaged to change or replace the bristle holder with new or other bristle holders.

The embodiments according to FIGS. 21 a – 27 a can be formed on the head of the toothbrush because the bristle holders will engage the enclosing member in pairs of channels, for example in pair 1411 and pair 1413 defined by the surfaces of the enclosing member 1431 that extends from the neck of the toothbrush. The containing element does not have bristles until it engages with the bristle holders. The fixed 1403 and movable 1405 bristle holders preferably independently, with the possibility of sliding, engage the enclosing element in separate channels, being in the nesting arrangement. This nesting arrangement can be implemented by gripping the movable bristle holder in the opening of the fixed bristle holder 1451 (Figs. 22a-24a). The fixed bristles essentially surround the movable bristles. Although the bristle holders are in the nesting arrangement 1423, the bristle holders remain separate since the bristle holders are not permanently connected to each other. According to one implementation: the nesting arrangement 1423 is carried out by contacting, with the possibility of sliding, one or more movable bristle holders in the hole 1451 of one or more fixed bristle holders and subsequent contacting, slidingly located in the nesting arrangement of the bristle holders with a holding element passing from the neck of the toothbrush (Figa-24a). Although the bristle holders engage the enclosing element at the same time, the movable and fixed bristle holders engage the enclosing element independently of each other. The brush head in this embodiment is formed due to the fact that the bristle holders, in the nesting arrangement, engage the enclosing element (Figa). This independent engagement (Figs. 22a-27a) is ensured by the fact that the fixed bristle holder engages the enclosing element within a pair of channels 1413 defined by the surfaces of the enclosing element using a groove 1419 defined by the surfaces of the fixed bristle holder 1403; and the movable bristle holder engages the enclosing member in a pair of channels 1411 defined by the surfaces of the enclosing element, using a groove 1407 defined by the surfaces of the movable bristle holder 1405. At the same time, it is possible to separate the bristle holders located in the nesting arrangement before connecting to the containing element due to the lack of a permanent connection between them. This facilitates the reciprocating movement of the movable bristle holders when the movable bristle holders are operatively connected to the drive shaft 3205. This nesting arrangement allows the movable bristle holders to be surrounded by a fixed bristle, but they remain movable during operation of the toothbrush. In the fixed bristle holders, movable bristle holders of more than one number can be installed in the nesting arrangement. In addition, the fixed bristle holder can be used to surround the movable bristle holders. Each bristle holder may engage the accommodating element of the toothbrush in a separate channel, or several bristle holders may engage the enclosing element in the same channel. Figa shows a movable and fixed bristle holders in contact, with the possibility of sliding, with the accommodating element of the toothbrush 1401 according to this implementation. The movable and fixed bristle holders can engage the enclosing element in the same channel. According to another embodiment: the movable and fixed bristle holders snap onto the enclosing element. The movable bristle holder can be fixed to the enclosing element by operative engagement with the drive shaft. Both the fixed bristle holder and the movable bristle holder can preferably engage the accommodating member in the longitudinal direction. But the holders can also engage the enclosing member in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the enclosing member.

For contacting, with the possibility of sliding, located in the nesting arrangement of the holders 1423 bristles with the host element 1431 of the toothbrush 1401, you can use different configurations of the channel. These channels should be sized to guide the groove or other guide element located on the bristle holders. Channels can have various shapes and sizes besides those shown. Moreover, the channels can have three sides, two sides and even one side, provided that their size will correspond to the need to accommodate or direct the groove or other guide element located on the bristle holders. The enclosing element may contain as many channels as there are contactable bristle holders. The channels can be configured to allow the movable bristle holders to engage the inner group of channels limited by surfaces directed toward the center of the containing element and the external group of channels limited by surfaces located towards the outer edges of the containing element. Each bristle holder may have a separate channel, or the bristle holders may engage an enclosing element in the same channel. In an alternative implementation: the surface of the enclosing element may be formed in the form of a groove to guide the bristle holders accordingly. In an alternative implementation: the surface of the enclosing element may be formed in the form of a groove to guide the bristle holders accordingly. In addition to the channel assembly and the groove used to guide the bristle holders to the enclosing element, other nodes can be used to fix the bristle holders to the enclosing element. According to one implementation: the bristle holders are fixed on the enclosing element of the toothbrush using connectors bounded by the outer surface of the enclosing element, mating with connectors bounded by the inner surface of the fixed bristle holders. These connectors are, inter alia, notches and serrations, hollows and petals and grooves and protrusions. According to one embodiment of the toothbrush: the connectors are one or more fixing grooves bounded along the inner surfaces of the fixed bristle holders, and protrusions bounded on the outer surface of the enclosing element 1417, the protrusions being made in the grooves to attach the fixed bristle holders to the enclosing element. According to another implementation (not shown): the protrusions are made on the inner surface of the fixed bristle holders, and the grooves are made on the outer surface of the fixed bristle holders of the containing element; while the protrusions are located in the grooves to secure the fixed bristle holders. The bristle holders can also engage the enclosing member with snap engagement (not shown). According to another implementation: one or more fixed holders and / or one or more movable holders engage the enclosing element using a flexible spike having a snap hook and a corresponding locking slice or recess in the opposite mounting part according to US patent application No. 10/361653.

If one or more movable bristle holders are installed in the fixed bristle holders in the nesting arrangement, then the groove of the movable bristle holder can extend below the stationary bristle holders, and therefore the groove of the movable bristle holder can engage the enclosing element of the toothbrush. If the bristle holders located in the nesting arrangement engage the enclosing element, then the movable bristle holders may be located in the middle and / or in the center of the head of the toothbrush.

According to another embodiment of the present invention: the nesting arrangement is performed only when all the bristle holders engage the enclosing member (not shown). In this embodiment, a part of the enclosing element has a fixed bristle permanently fixed directly to the surface of the enclosing element. The movable bristle holders can be substantially surrounded by a fixed bristle if the holding element having a bristle holds one or more movable bristle holders, and therefore one or more fixed bristle holders.

The movable bristle holders are also operatively connected to the electric motor. This operative connection can be accomplished by connecting the bristle holders to a drive shaft that extends through a passage 1428 defined by a portion of the neck 1440 and an accommodating member 1431. The drive shaft can be mounted in the passage 1428 for rotation or translation. After the brush head is formed by connecting the bristle holders to the accommodating element, the passage 1428 provides access between the brush head 1421, the neck 1440 and the interior of the housing 1480. The far end of the drive shaft is preferably fixed to the movable bristle holders with a pin 1409 located on the bristle holders 1405, engaging the hole located at the end of the drive shaft (not shown). The shaft end may be flexible and tilted to facilitate placement of the pin on the movable bristle holders in the hole on the end of the drive shaft. The present invention includes engaging means using pins, protrusions, and other fastening means that secure the drive shaft to the movable bristle holders. A snap connection can be used between the movable bristle holders and the distal end of the drive shaft. Examples, inter alia, of snap-fit connections are notches or teeth and a press fit connection. The present invention also includes all types of electric motors and gears suitable for use with an electric toothbrush, including, but not limited to, the high efficiency electric motor as set forth herein. These electric motors are arranged to drive a drive shaft. An operative connection between the drive shaft and the movable holders enables the movement of the movable holders. The drive shaft and, therefore, the movable holders can make any of these movements. But according to one implementation, the drive shaft and the movable holders are reciprocating.

It should be noted that the present invention provides nodes with removable fixed holders, such as the tip of the brush head, similar to the tip 1430 shown in the above drawings, and / or removable movable holders. Removable fixed holders and / or movable holders allow the user to adjust the brushes as desired. For example, various combinations of fixed and / or movable holders include, but are not limited to, bristle holders, brush head tip holders, elastomeric element holders, oral care composition holders and dental instrument holders, or any combination thereof. For example, you can use holders with elements that are specially made for applying whitening substances to the teeth. It is also contemplated that the toothbrushes of the present invention may have or be used with elastomeric elements, or “shock absorbing” elements. These elastomeric elements are formed in whole or in part from thermoplastic elastomers. Elastomeric elements are particularly preferred for use in toothbrushes that use one or more other areas or components made of elastomer. For example, the present invention provides for toothbrushes described herein with elastomeric elements that use one or more elastomers in areas of hand grip on the handle, or “bumpers”, or shock absorbing areas on the brush head. These elastomers can be injected during the formation of the brush, or they can be applied to it.

The ability to remove the holders can be provided with the help of a disconnecting element on the underside of the brush head, which - when pressed on it or under other influence - will allow you to remove the holder and install another holder instead of it. It is also contemplated that the release member can be provided by using a tool or other component to selectively release the holder from the containing member. This tool can be sold or otherwise sold with a toothbrush. Either, or also, this tool can be sold or otherwise sold with one or more holders that are sold as a kit for use with the toothbrushes of the present invention. In particular, these kits may contain one or more of the following and include a combination of any of the following components: (i) bristle holders, brush head ends, elastomeric element holders, oral care composition holders, and dental instrument holders, (ii) one or more toothbrushes, (iii) a package or other case for storing all components, (iv) one or more tools used to change or replace the holders, and (v) one or more toothbrushes or other compositions for and Use with holders and toothbrush. These kits may also include batteries for the toothbrush, bases, or other “stands” for the toothbrush when not in use, interchangeable grip components used to change the appearance of the toothbrush, and decorative stickers or other labels that can be replaced with Toothbrush, its rack and / or on the set box.

Figa-27a show the implementation of the fixed bristle holders according to Fig.25a and the movable bristle holders according to Figa and the accommodating element according to Figa. Figa shows an end view of the grooves 1419, limited by the surfaces of the fixed holders 1403. This embodiment of the invention also provides holes 1435 for receiving bristles in them. This embodiment also provides a cavity 1441, in which the enclosing element 1431 engages the fixed holders. Fig. 26a shows an end view of the movable holders 1405 and also the grooves 1407 defined by the surfaces of the movable holders. Fig. 27a shows an end view of a toothbrush according to the present invention, and in particular, a holding member 1413. The fixed holders 1403 engage the holding member via channels 1413. The movable holders 1405 engage the holding member through channels 1411. The fixed holders can be fixed to the holding member using the protrusion 1417, which fits in a groove on the inner surface of the fixed holders 1403.

Various bristle configurations can be used in the toothbrush of the present invention, especially in implementations that use a removable or separately formed tip of the brush head. For example, you can use fixed bristles with a height and length equal to the height and length of the movable bristles. Any of the mentioned fixed bristle and movable bristle configurations shown in the drawings, set forth herein or referred to in table 1 may be used. In particular, Figs. 25 and 26 show the head of the toothbrush 1433 and the neck 1440 of one embodiment of the brush 1400 with multiple fixed bristles 1460 located at the tip 1430 at the far end of the toothbrush head 1433, and a plurality of movable bristles 1450 located on the movable bristle holders 1452 (the holders 1452 are indicated by a dotted line). The height of the movable bristles 1450 on the toothbrush head 1433 indicated in FIG. 25 by the designation C is preferably from about 3 mm to 14 mm, and preferably from 7 mm to 11 mm, approximately. Typically, the height of the bristles is the distance of the bristles, measured from the outward facing surface, i.e. usually from the surface of its base or mounting component to the end or end of the bristles. Said outwardly facing surface of the bristle mounting component is here referred to as the surface facing the brush. 25 is not shown in the drawing, but it should be noted that a plurality of fixed bristles mounted and fixed directly on the head of the toothbrush 1433 are preferably located around the movable bristles 1450. It should be noted that this fixed bristles are not shown in these figures (FIG. 27 -30) for clarity. The preferred height of the fixed bristles (located around the movable bristles 1450 and at the tip 1430) is also from 3 mm to 14 mm, approximately, and preferably from 7 mm to 11 mm, approximately.

It is also contemplated to make fixed bristles of different lengths, and in particular arranged so as to provide an inclined brush surface. This is shown in the drawings Fig.27-33. The term “brush surface” here refers to the distal ends of the bristles or elastomeric elements that come into contact with the user's teeth or gums during brushing.

In particular, Figs. 27 and 28 show a head 1520 of a toothbrush and a neck 1540 of yet another embodiment of a toothbrush 1500 according to the present invention. The brush head 1520 comprises movable bristle holders 1552 having a plurality of movable bristles 1550 (holders 1552 are indicated by a dotted line) mounted or fixed therein. The brush head 1520 also includes an extremity 1530 having a plurality of fixed bristles 1560 mounted or secured to it. It should be noted that a plurality of fixed bristles 1560 preferably surrounds, or at least partially surrounds, the movable bristles 1550. For clarity: that portion of the bristles that are directly mounted on the brush head 1520 is not shown in FIG. 27. The tip 1530 preferably comprises a fixed bristle 1560 having different lengths and arranged to provide an inclined brush surface. When providing an inclined brush surface, for example, according to FIG. 27, the angle A, which is the angle of the inclined surface with respect to the longitudinal axis of the neck 1540 and head 1520, can have from 5 to 85 degrees and preferably from 20 degrees to 70 degrees, approximately. Most preferably: a longer bristle is located near the far end of the head 1520. The height of the movable bristles 1550 indicated in the drawing of Fig. 27 under the designation D has values from 3 mm to 14 mm, approximately, and preferably from 7 mm to 11 mm, approximately . The height of the fixed bristles 1560 is from 3 mm to 18 mm and preferably from 7 mm to 11 mm, approximately. The maximum height of the fixed bristles 1560, and in particular the bristles located at the far end of the head 1530, is about 18 mm. This dimension in the drawing of Fig. 27 is indicated as dimension E.

Figures 29-30 show another preferred bristle configuration. These drawings illustrate the implementation of a toothbrush 1600 having a neck 1640, a toothbrush head 1620, movable bristle holders 1652 (shown in dashed lines) having a movable bristle 1650, a brush head tip 1630 and a set of fixed bristles 1660 located at a tip 1630 at the end of the tooth head 1620 brushes. In this embodiment, the plurality of fixed bristles 1660 at tip 1630 are configured to provide an inclined brush surface. The height of the movable bristles 1650, in the drawing of FIG. 29 indicated by the designation F, is from 3 mm to 14 mm and preferably from 7 mm to 11 mm, approximately. The height of the fixed bristles 1660 is from 3 mm to 18 mm and preferably from 7 mm to 11 m, approximately. The maximum height of the fixed bristles 1660, and in particular the bristles located at the far end of the head 1620, is about 18 mm. This dimension is indicated by the designation G in the drawing of Fig. 29. The implementation according to Fig.29 and 30 differs from the implementation according to Fig.27 and 28 mainly in that the fixed bristle 1660 located on the tip 1630 of the brush head does not vary linearly in height from one end of the tip 230 to the other, as is the case in case of bristles 150 according to Fig.27. That is, the surface bounded by the distal ends of the bristles 150 in the drawing of FIG. 27 is substantially straight, while the surface bounded by the distal ends of the bristles 1660 in the drawing of FIG. 29 is substantially arcuate.

It is also envisaged to use different configurations of the bristles at the tip of the head of the toothbrush, which provides different tilts and changes in height of the bristles along the width of the head of the brush according to FIGS. 31 to 33. In particular, FIG. 31 shows an embodiment of a toothbrush 1700 with a brush head 1720 and a plurality of fixed bristles 1760. The bristle 1760 provides an inclined brush surface forming an angled valley when viewed along a line in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the brush head and neck 1720 (not shown in FIG. 31). Each side of the valley, preferably formed by the distal ends of the bristles 1760, is symmetrical and extends in such a way that it forms an angle B with respect to a vertical line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the brush head 1720 with respect to a vertical line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the brush head and neck 1720 ( not shown). Angle B can range from 10 ° to 80 °, and preferably from 30 ° to 60 °.

Fig. 32 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 1800 having a brush head 1820 and a plurality of fixed bristles 1860 extending from it. The contoured or arched surface created by the distal ends of the bristles 1860 may take the form of a concave portion or surface — FIG. 32.

FIG. 33 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 1900 having a brush head 1920 and a plurality of fixed bristles 1960 extending from it. Bristle 1960 can create an uneven brush surface - as shown in this drawing.

Fig. 34 shows a part of yet another embodiment of a toothbrush 2000. This toothbrush comprises a brush head 2020, a neck or an intermediate portion 2040, movable bristle holders 2052 (shown with a dashed line), a tip 2030 of the brush head (shown with a dashed line) and a plurality of bristles 2050, and a plurality elastomeric elements 2060. The bristles 2050 may consist of a movable bristle fixed bristles, or both, as described herein. The elastomeric elements 2060 massage the gums when the user simultaneously brushes his teeth. The elastomeric elements may be made of rubber, soft plastic or similar material. The elastomeric elements are preferably formed from an elastomeric material. The elastomeric elements extend substantially perpendicularly from the head of the toothbrush 2020 if the measurement is made along the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush 600. According to one embodiment of the toothbrush 2000: the elastomeric elements 2060 are located near the distal end of the toothbrush head 2020, and most preferably along the tip end 2030 brushes as described. But it should be noted that the elastomeric elements can be located in another place among the movable and fixed bristles. The height of the elastomeric elements 2060 is approximately the same as the height of the bristles 2050. The elastomeric elements 2060 may extend slightly higher, slightly lower, or at the same height as the bristles 2050.

Fig. 35 shows yet another embodiment of a toothbrush 2100 comprising a toothbrush head 2120, movable bristle holders 2152 (shown in dashed lines), and a neck or spacer 2140. Toothbrush 700 includes a plurality of bristles 2150 and a second group of bristles 2160 located at tip 2130 (shown partially in dashed lines) of the brush head. In this embodiment, the bristles 2150 are located in groups of tufts, with each tuft containing bristles of different lengths or heights. Bristles of different heights are located in each tuft so that the distal ends of the bristles form an inclined surface with respect to a substantially flat surface or surface of the brush head 2120 facing the brush. This inclined surface preferably forms an angle H with the flat surface of the brush head 2120. The angle H has a value of from 10 to 90 degrees, and preferably from 20 to 45 degrees, approximately.

The second group of bristles 2160, located at the tip 2130 of the brush head 2130, is preferably also made in groups or tufts. The preferred height of the bristles 2160 is approximately equal to the maximum height of the bristles 2150. FIG. 35 shows a particularly preferred feature of a toothbrush according to the present invention relating to the configuration of the tip 2130 of the brush head. The tip portion 2130 of the brush head has a portion 2132 of relatively large thickness and is flat; the surface facing the brush essentially extends on the surface facing the brush of the holders 2152. This height difference between the surfaces of the bristles 2150 facing the brush and the bristles 2160 is shown in FIG. 35 under the designation P. The values of P are preferably from 1 to 5 mm , approximately.

Fig. 36 shows an embodiment of a toothbrush 220 having a head 2220, movable bristle holders 2252 (dotted) and a neck 2240. A plurality of upwardly extending bristles 2250 are located on the brush head 2220. The toothbrush 2200 also includes a tip 2230 (shown partially dashed) of the brush head located at the far end of the brush and having a portion 2232 that extends over the flat brush-facing surface of the brush head 2220 and holders 2252. The plurality of bristles 2250 preferably have a configuration in which its outer ends, if agreed but Fig. 36 to see their planes, define an arcuate brush surface, preferably having a common radius according to Fig. 36 and designated as I. The tip 2230 of the brush head has a raised portion 2232, which preferably defines an inclined surface with respect to the flat brush surface of the head 2220 brushes and to the holders 2252. This angle of inclination is indicated in Fig. 36 as the angle N. The angle N can have values from 10 to 80 degrees, approximately and preferably from 15 to 45 degrees, approximately. The height of the bristles 2260 may exceed any height of the bristles 2250 or be less than it. The configuration of the bristles shown in the drawing of Fig. 36 is given as an example.

Fig. 37 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 2330 according to the present invention. Toothbrush 2300 has a brush head 2320, movable bristle holders 2352 (shown with a dashed line) and a neck 2340. Toothbrush 2300 has a plurality of bristles 2350 and another set of bristles 2360 located at the tip 2330 of the brush head (partially shown with a dashed line). The tip of the brush head has a raised portion 2332 extending over the brush face of the brush head 2320 and over the holders 2352. The outer surface of the raised portion 2322 of the tip 2330 of the brush head has a preferred inclination at an angle K — FIG. 37. The angle K can have values from 10 to 80 degrees, preferably 15-45 degrees. The bristle 2350 also has a configuration in which its outer or distal ends form a concave brush surface, preferably with a common radius J according to Fig. 37. The height of the bristles 2360 may exceed any height of the bristles 950 or less. In some cases, the preferred arrangement of the bristles 2360 will be the arrangement in which its distal ends will essentially extend in a plane parallel to the inclined surface of the raised portion 2332 of the tip 2330 of the brush head. This angle M preferably corresponds to the angle K and can have values from 10 to 80 degrees, approximately, preferably from 15 to 45 degrees.

Fig. 38 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 2400 having a brush head 2420, movable bristle holders 2452 (shown with a dotted line), tip 2430 (also shown with a dotted line) of the brush head and neck 2440. Toothbrush 2400 has a plurality of bristles 2450, second bristle group 2460 located at the tip 2430 of the brush head and a plurality of elastomeric elements 2454. The location, height and configuration of the bristles 2450, 2460 and elastomeric elements may correspond to any other embodiment set forth herein.

Fig. 39 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 2500 having a brush head 2520, movable bristle holders 2552 (shown with a dashed line) and a neck 2540. Toothbrush 2500 comprises a plurality of bristles 2550 and a plurality of elastomeric elements 2554, preferably located at opposite angles to each other. That is, the elastomeric elements 2554 are preferably located at an angle O - Fig. 39. The set of bristles 2550 preferably extends in the opposite direction, but at a similar angle. Toothbrush 2500 also includes a plurality of bristles 2560 extending from the tip 2530 (indicated by a dotted line) of the brush head. The tip of the brush head may also have a portion 2532 extending over the flat brush-facing surface of the brush head 2520. This raised portion 2532 may also have an arcuate outer surface, which may be limited to such a common radius as radius Q - Fig. 39. The location, height, and configuration of the bristles 2550, 2560, and elastomeric elements may correspond to any other embodiment set forth herein.

40 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 2600 having a brush head 2620, movable bristle holders 2652 (shown with a dashed line) and a neck 2640. Toothbrush 2600 has a tip 2626 (shown with a dashed line) of the brush head containing a plurality of bristles 2660 extending from it. On the bristle head 2620, and in particular on the movable bristle holders 2652, there is another group of bristles 2650. In this embodiment, the height of the bristles 2660 is significantly greater than the height of the bristles 2650. As indicated above, the bristles 2650, 2660 may be located in groups or tufts in which the bristles in this bundle may have different lengths.

FIG. 41 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 2700 having a brush head 2720, a neck 2740, movable bristle holders 2752 (partially shown with a dotted line), a plurality of bristles 2750 extending from the bristle holders 2752, and another bristle group 2760 extending from the tip 2730 (dotted line) of the brush head. In this embodiment: the bristle holders 2752 have a relatively large thickness, as a result of which their flat surface facing the brush is substantially higher or closer to the user while using the brush than the brush facing end surface 2730 of the brush head and other parts of the head 2720 brushes. A higher portion of the bristle holder 2752 extending past adjacent portions of the brush head 2720 and brush head tip 2730 is indicated in FIG. 41 by 2745. In configurations in which the distal ends or brush surfaces of the bristles 2750 and 2760 extend substantially along a common plane, the resulting shorter bristle length 2750 gives increased rigidity to this bristle. The degree of elevation of the increased thickness section 2745 is shown in FIG. 41 under the designation R. Moreover, R may have a value of 1 to 5 mm.

Fig. 42 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 2800 having a brush head 2820 and a neck 2840. A plurality of bristles 2850 are provided on the brush head and extend from the holder 2852 (partially shown by a dotted line) of the bristles, which is preferably movable relative to the head 2820. Toothbrush 2800 also contains another set of bristles 2860, which extends from the tip 2830 (partially shown by a dotted line) of the brush head. In this embodiment, the surface of the bristle holder 2852 facing the brush preferably has an inclination, preferably arched and most preferably convex: according to FIG. 42. If this surface is convex, then it is determined by the radius S - Fig. 42. The upwardly facing brush surface is also preferably raised above the relatively flat, brushing face of the brush head 2820, preferably by a value T according to FIG. 42. The value of T may have values from 1 to 5 mm, approximately. The raised portion of the bristle holder 2852 extending past adjacent portions of the brush head 2820 is indicated by 2845. The surface of the tip 2830 of the brush head facing the brush is preferably arched and more preferably concave. The raised portion of the bristle holder 2830, which extends past adjacent portions of the brush head 2820, is designated 2832. The location, height, and configuration of the bristles 2850, 2860, and elastomeric elements may correspond to any other embodiment set forth herein.

FIG. 43 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 2900 having a brush head 2920, a movable bristle holder 2852 (partially shown with a dashed line), a brush head tip 2930 (shown with a dashed line), and a neck 2940. A plurality of bristles 2950 extend from the bristle holder 2952. Another set of bristles 2960 extends from the tip 2930 of the brush head. The bristles 2950 are preferably located and attached to the movable bristle holder 2952. The bristle holder 2952 has an upwardly facing brush surface that is concave in FIG. 43. This concave surface is preferably limited by the total radius U. The raised portion of the bristle holder 2952, which extends past adjacent portions of the brush head 2920, is shown as portion 2945. The location, height and configuration of the bristles 2950, 2960 and elastomeric elements may correspond to any other embodiment set forth herein. .

Fig. 44 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 300 according to the present invention. Toothbrush 3000 includes a brush head 3020 and a neck 3040. Toothbrush 3000 has a plurality of bristles 3050 extending from a holder 3052 (shown partially dashed) of the bristles, which is movably located on the head 3020 of the brush. Toothbrush 3000 contains another group of bristles 3060, which extends from the tip 3030 (partially shown by a dotted line) of the brush head. The outer surface of the bristle holder 3052 may have one or more inclined surfaces delimited along a raised portion 3045, as shown in FIG. 44. These tilts can be designed so that the farthest ends of the bristles 3050 will be a mirror image of the same tilt or another tilt. Similarly, the distal end of the bristles 3060 may also be a mirror image of the inclined surface of the raised portion 3032 of the end 3030 of the brush head. The bristle holder 3052 preferably has at least one portion with an inclined surface facing the brush. This slope preferably extends at an angle V, according to FIG. Angle V preferably ranges from 10 to 60 degrees, approximately, and more preferably from 20 to 30 degrees, approximately. Likewise, tip 3030 of the brush head preferably has an inclined surface facing the brush that is at an angle W. The angle W preferably has a value of 10 to 45 degrees.

Fig. 45 shows yet another embodiment of a toothbrush 3100 having a brush head 3120 and a neck 3140. Toothbrush 3100 comprises elastomeric elements 3162 extending from a tip 3130 (partially shown by a dotted line) of the brush head. Toothbrush 3100 also comprises a plurality of bristles 3150 extending from movable bristle holders 3152. The bristle holders 3152 comprise a portion 3145 that is raised relative to adjacent portions of the brush head 3120. Similarly, the tip 3130 of the brush head includes a portion 3132 that is raised relative to the adjacent portions of the brush head 3120. One or the other, or both outwardly facing the brush, the surfaces of the bristle holders 3152 and the tip ends 3130 of the brush head may be flat, inclined, arched, convex or concave. The location, height, and configuration of the bristles 3150 and elastomeric elements 3162 may correspond to any other embodiment set forth herein.

Another preferred bristle configuration is similar to the configurations of FIGS. 36 and 45, i.e. has an internal group of bristles that extends “above” or has a greater height than the adjacent bristles, but has a configuration in the form of a ledge or elevation. In this configuration, the change in bristle height is not as gradual or varying as in FIGS. 36 and 45, but stepwise. That is, the change in height from the shorter bristles located around the higher, located in the middle, the bristles are sharper. The height difference between the two bristle groups is from 0.5 to 3 mm, approximately, and more preferably from 0.75 mm to 1.5 mm.

Turning to the various bristle holders set forth and explained here: the profile or configuration of the outward facing surface of the holder, which is referred to herein as the brush facing surface, may take various forms. One preferred shape is a concave shape (if you look at the bristle holder from the side and from its side, which essentially extends in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush). The concave shape helps to hold the dentifrice or polisher that can be used while the brush is working. Likewise, the convex surface facilitates the dispersion of cleaning agents in the bristle region along the brush head. According to the present invention, it is most preferred that the bristle holders use a non-planar, brush-facing surface.

Another feature of the design of the brush head is the selection, location and configuration of the bristles on the brush holder, the tip of the brush head and on the brush head. Typically, the stiffness of the bristles or bristle tufts increases with decreasing bristle length. That is, the stiffness of the bristles can be changed by changing the length of the bristles. This characteristic must be taken into account for the bristle holder having a non-planar surface facing the brush. It should be noted that the stiffness of the bristles will vary at different locations on the bristle holder, since the length or height of the bristles passing from it changes. Or the stiffness of the bristles of equal height can be essentially the same. The present invention includes various combinations of shapes and configurations of the bristle holder, combinations of length, materials and configuration of the bristles. In the illustrated drawings, many preferred configurations are simplified. Moreover, according to some implementations, it is preferable to use the diameters of the bristles and / or the diameters of the bristle tufts on the movable bristle holder, larger than the corresponding diameters of the bristles or bristle tufts located at the tip of the brush head. In other implementations, it may be desirable to use bristle / tuft diameters on the holder smaller than the diameter of the corresponding bristle / tuft at the tip.

Figures 46 and 47 show in more detail a preferred brush head 3220 of an implementation of a toothbrush 3200 according to the present invention. Toothbrush 3200 has a brush head 3220 and a neck 3240 formed with and extending from it. Toothbrush 3200 also includes a movable bristle holder 3245 having a plurality of holes 3254 into which bristles or tufts of bristles (not shown) enter and fasten there. The bristle holder 3245 has an outwardly facing surface 3252. The lower surface 3253 is located on the opposite surface. The accommodating hole 3254 is also formed on the lower surface 3253, and its size and design correspond to accommodating and installing the distal end 3206 of the movable drive shaft 3205 therein. note that the drive shaft 3205 reciprocates in the neck 3240 and transmits a similar reciprocation to the bristle holder 3245. Toothbrush 3200 also includes a brush head tip 3230 that defines the outwardly facing brush face 3232, and includes one or more openings 3234, the size and design of which corresponds to accommodating and securing bristles or tufts of bristles (not shown) therein. The brush head 3220 may also limit one or more holes located on the brush surface of the head 3220, for example, holes 3224 in a portion 3222 of the head 3220.

Although substantially preferred, the assembly of FIG. 47 is for engaging the bristle holder 3245 with the shaft 3205, i.e. the use of a notched distal end 3206 included in the hole 3254, but other nodes can also be used to connect the movable bristle holder to the drive shaft. For example, the present invention provides connecting means using pins or other mounting means that attach the drive shaft to the holder. Alternatively, other means such as snap connections, separable fasteners and non-separable fasteners can be used. The materials used for the components of the connecting means may be polymers, metals or other materials of appropriate strength and durability.

48 shows a partial exploded view of an embodiment of a toothbrush 3300 according to the present invention. This embodiment of the toothbrush 3300 according to the present invention has a housing or cover 3312 and an end cap 3320. The housing 3312 is an essentially integral housing having a main body including a neck 3316 and an end 3318, and a bristle head 3314 extending from the neck 3316. Head 3314 brushes, neck 3316 and housing 3312 are preferably substantially continuous and integral with each other. The housing 3312 and parts of the neck 3316 and head 3314 define a hollow interior region in which the drive mechanism is mounted. The main body of the housing 3312 also delimits a recessed portion or one or more holes on its outer surface in which an electric switch (not shown) is located to actuate the drive mechanism of the electric toothbrush, described in detail below. Protective cover 3313 is preferably mounted in this recessed portion. The end cap 3320 has a closed end 3322 and an opposite open end 3324. The open end 3324 has a size corresponding to accommodating and sealing the end 3318 of the casing 3312. A sealing ring or other sealing element 3319 can also be used at the junction of the ends 3318 and 3324 of the casing components.

One of the implementations of the toothbrush also includes a drive motor 3350 having a drive shaft 3352. The motor 3350 is a direct current electric motor, similar to electric motors of the prior art, and contains various switching circuits and a battery or other power source (not shown). These components are located and secured in the hollow inner region bounded in the housing 3312 and possibly in the end cap 3320. The drive gear 3354 engages the drive shaft 3352. A lower motor base 3330 is provided. Also provided is the presence of an upper motor base 3340, which, together with the lower motor base 3330, accommodates, secures the electric motor 3350 inside the housing 3312 and cap 3320. The lower motor base 3330 includes internal and external bearings 3332 and 3334, respectively, of the drive shaft. The lower motor base 3330 also includes a base or hole 336 for receiving the base or axle 3358 for the drive gear described herein. The upper base 3340 of the electric motor comprises an internal support 3342 of the drive shaft and a casing 3344 of the drive shaft, which is preferably in contact with the internal base 3342 and, optionally, with the external base 3334 of the lower base 3330 of the electric motor. The upper motor base 3340 also includes a plurality of struts 3346 that engage the lower motor base 3330 and secure the motor 3350 located between these two parts. It should be noted that instead of using the upper and lower bases of the electric motor, a solid base or a fixing structure can be used.

The driving gear 3354 engages with the flat gear 3356. The flat gear 3356 is rotatably mounted in its center 3357 on an axle or swivel member 3358. The flat gear 3356 has an offset engaging member 3355 to which an end 3365 of the drive shaft gear is attached. 3360. The drive shaft 3360 has a gear end 3362 that includes a housing hole or other engaging member for engaging the biased member 3355. The drive shaft 3360 also includes a distal end 3364 that engages and therefore dit operated movable bristle holder, described in detail herein. The drive shaft 3360 extends within the inner hollow cavity of the housing 3312 and preferably through at least a portion of the neck 3316. The distal end 3364 of the drive shaft 3360 engages with the bristle holder 3370 described below. Access to end 3364 is provided through an opening in brush head 3314.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3000 also includes a movable bristle holder 3370, which, when assembled with the toothbrush 3300, moves back and forth along the brush head 3314. The movable bristle holder 3370 preferably reciprocates in a channel 3311 defined along the brush head 3314, and most preferably in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush 3300. A comb 3372 is located along the bottom side of the bristle holder 3370. The comb 3370 is movable and fixing it in the channel 3311. The bristle holder 3370 defines a plurality of holes 3374 in which a plurality of bristles or bristle tufts (not shown) are located. The bristle holder 3370 comprises a first end 3375, which, when assembled with the brush head 3314, is preferably located near a portion or edge 3315 defined between the neck 3316 and the brush head 3314 of the housing or housing 3312. The opposite end of the movable bristle holder 3370 is the end 3376 and is preferably curved according to Fig. 48.

This implementation of the toothbrush 330 also comprises a stationary tip 3380 of the bristle holder that defines a plurality of holes 3384 for attaching bristles or tufts of bristles (not shown); a first end 3385 that contacts or is located near the end 3376 of the movable bristle holder 3370, and a ridge 3382 on the lower side of the tip 3380. The term "stationary" indicates that the tip 3380 of the holder, after assembly and contact with the brush head 3314, is essentially attached to the head 3314 brushes and does not move with a bristle holder 3370. Comb 3382 preferably has the same design and configuration as comb 3372 of bristle holder 3370. Both ridges 3372 and 3382 are preferably fixed within the channel 3311 in the brush head 3314.

One or more threaded fasteners 3390 and 3392 can be used to attach the housing 3312 to the end cap 3320. Other methods or components can also be used to assemble the housing.

During operation of this embodiment of the toothbrush 3300, an electrical circuit is closed between a power source, such as a battery, and an electric motor 3350. The following describes a power source and operating characteristics of an electric motor. The rotation of the driving gear 3354 causes the rotation of the flat gear 3356. The axis of rotation of the flat gear 3354 is preferably perpendicular or transverse to the axis of rotation of the driving gear 3354. The rotation of the flat gear 3356 transmits reciprocating motion to the drive shaft 3360, which extends into the hollow inner region in the housing 3312, the neck 3316, and, alternatively, the head 3314. The far end 3364 of the drive shaft is in contact with the movable bristle holder 3370 and thus transfers the corresponding reciprocating movement on the holder 3370.

49 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 3400 according to the present invention. Toothbrush 3400 comprises a housing 3412, a neck 3416, and an end cap 3420. The housing 3412 delimits a first end 3418 and an opposite end 3404, which preferably comprises a screw member and a threaded portion. The end cap 3420 defines the closed end 3422 and the opposite open end 3424. The size and configuration of the open end 3424 allows it to be detachably connected to the end 3418 of the housing 3412. An o-ring or other sealing element 3419 is preferably used at the junction of the ends 3424 and 3418. The neck 3416 has an end 3417 and a brush head 3414, preferably made integral with the end of the neck 3416 opposite the end 3417. The end 3417 is preferably made for contacting it, with the possibility of connection, with a screw element at the end 3404 of the housing 3412. The brush head 3413 preferably comprises a first channel 3411 and an opening 3403 that provides access to the hollow region formed in the brush head 3414 and in the neck region 3416. An additional second channel 3402 may be provided along the brush head 3414 and further directs the movable bristle holder described in detail here. The guide wall 3415 is preferably formed along the brush head 3414 and can extend around a part of the perimeter of the surface of the brush head.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 also includes an electric motor 3450 with a drive shaft 3452. The electrical switching circuit and power supply (not shown) are preferably mounted in a hollow region inside the housing 3412 and the end cap 3420. The lower motor base 3430 and the upper motor base 3440 preferably comprise and attach the motor 3450 in the inner hollow region inside the housing 3412 and the end cap 3420. The inner hollow region is formed inside the neck 3416 and, optionally, in the part of the heads Ki 3414 brushes. The lower base 3430 of the electric motor comprises a base or hole 3436 for receiving the articulated or axial element 3458 for the drive gear described here in detail. The lower base 3440 of the electric motor comprises an internal drive support 3430 and an external drive support 3434 according to the drawings. The upper motor base 3440 comprises a drive support 3443, which preferably engages the internal and / or external drive supports 3432 and 3434 of the lower motor base 3430. A drive casing 3444 is also provided, which preferably contacts the motor base 3440. A plurality of contact struts 3446 are also formed on the upper motor base 3440, which are in contact with the lower base 3430. As indicated above with reference to FIG. 48: an integral motor base can be used.

The drive gear 3454 attached to the drive shaft 3453 of the electric motor 3450 preferably engages the flat gear 3456. The flat gear is rotatably mounted on an axis or on a swivel element 3458, which, in turn, fits in the base 3436 of the lower base 3430 of the motor . The flat gear 3456 includes a centrally located guide member 3457 and an offset member 3455. The offset member 3455 engages the gear end 3462 of the drive shaft component 3461. The drive shaft component 3461 comprises an end 3463 delimited opposite to the gear member 3462. Another drive shaft element 3466 is also provided that includes an end 3465 and an opposite end 3464. The end 3465 preferably engages the end 3463 of the drive shaft component 3461. The opposite end 3464 of the drive shaft component 3466 preferably engages the movable bristle holder described herein. The drive shaft components 3466 and 3461 are preferably located in the inner hollow region of the housing 3412 and the neck 3416. The removable and protective cover 3413 is preferably mounted in a recessed area or in one or more holes in the housing 3412. The cover 3413 serves as a protective cover or switch cover, the position of which can be changed through cover 3413.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 also includes a movable bristle holder 3470 and a stationary tip or end 3480 of the bristle holder. The movable bristle holder 3470 has a plurality of holes 3474 for receiving and securing a combination of bristles or tufts 3472 (not shown) therein. The bristle holder 3470 comprises a first end 3475 and an opposite second end 3472. The end 3475 preferably has a size and design corresponding to its position in the channel 3411 defined on the brush head 3414 and preferably having the same configuration as the guide wall 3415. The movable bristle holder 3470 on its lower side also has a comb 3476, the size of which allows contact with the channel 3411, limited on the head 3414 of the brush. The distal end 3464 of the drive shaft component 3466 is in contact with the bristle holder 3470. Access to the end 3464 is preferably provided through a hole 3403 in the brush head 3414.

The tip 3480 of the bristle holder has a plurality of holes 3484 in which bristles or bristle tufts (not shown) are received and secured. The tip 3480 of the bristle holder also has a first end 3485 facing the end 3472 of the movable bristle holder 3470 and parts of the guide wall 3415 of the brush head 3414. The tip 3480 of the bristle holder also contains the opposite end 3482 and may also include a ridge 183 on its lower side to engage with and be in the channel 3411 defined inside the brush head 3414. Crest 3483 preferably has a configuration similar to crest 3476 of bristle holder 3470. Assembled: tip 3480 of the bristle holder attached to the distal end of the bristle head 3414.

This embodiment of the toothbrush 3400 acts similarly to the above described embodiment of the toothbrush 3300. When the electrical circuit between the electric motor 3450 and the power source is shorted, the drive shaft 3452 and the driving gear 3454 rotate. This rotation causes the rotation of the flat gear wheel 3456 and transmits reciprocating motion to the elements or components 3461 and 3466 of the drive shaft. The engagement between the drive shaft component 3466 and the bristle holder 3470 transfers the translational or reciprocal motion to the holder 3470.

It has been found that the energy consumption of the operation of the toothbrush according to the present invention, and in particular the implementations of the toothbrush 3300 and 3400, is very low. Moreover, these electric toothbrushes provide efficiency and performance comparable to other toothbrushes produced by the industry. It is assumed that these advantages are the result of a combination of one or more of the following factors: (1) the use of translational or reciprocal motion for the movable bristle holder during operation of the toothbrushes according to the present invention, (2) the choice of degree or distance of movement of the bristle holder, t. e. its “stroke”, (3) the specific type of electric motor used in toothbrushes, (4) the operating speed used by the electric motor, (5) the gear ratio between the drive gear of the electric motor and the flat gear used in the drive mechanism of the toothbrush according to the present invention , (6) a specific assembly of components used in the drive mechanism, and a relatively small number of components, (7) the use of a fixed bristle with a movable bristle, and (8) a specific configuration of the bristles per head Sheep brush.

It has been determined that, according to the present invention, the use of a translational plate for transmitting motion to a plurality of bristles provides a significant reduction in energy consumption, while less operating voltage and lower current are required compared to known electric toothbrushes. For example, comparative tests were carried out for (i) the very popular Crest7 Spin Brush7 toothbrush owned by this Assignee, which is relatively energy efficient and uses an oscillating rotation head, and (ii) moving the holder according to the present invention with translational or reciprocal movements, which gave the following results.

table 2 Rotation head Translational plate Tension to initiate movement (under a load of 1 lb) > 1.8 B > 1.28 B Selected Current at 3.0 V (1 lb load) 0.8 A 0.5 A

The data presented in Table 2 show that the implementation of the toothbrush according to the present invention, using a plate or holder of the bristles of translational movement, requires much lower voltage (about 28%) and lower current strength (about 37%) than for the most successful from a commercial point of view view of a toothbrush using a head that oscillates or rotates.

Another feature of the high efficiency drive mechanisms according to the present invention relates to the stroke value of the movable bristle holder, such as the bristle holders 3370 and 3470. Preferred motion parameters of the reciprocating bristle holder are as follows. The stroke of the reciprocating holder is at least about 0.5 mm, preferably at least about 1.25 mm, and most preferably at least about 1.5 mm; and at least less than about 5 mm, more preferably less than 3.5 mm, more preferably less than 2.5 mm, and most preferably less than 1.7 mm. It should be noted that the drive mechanisms according to the present invention can use a stroke value greater or less than these various preferred values. Not limited to any particular theory: it is believed that excess energy, i.e. battery power, consumed when stroke is too large. And if the stroke is too short, the cleaning efficiency is greatly reduced. As indicated above, the direction of movement of the bristle holder is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the toothbrush.

The electric motors used in embodiments of the toothbrush described herein are preferably configured to provide a high efficiency power source for the drive mechanism. A standard electric motor can be modified by using fewer windings and by reducing the required voltage to approximately 1.5 V. Conventional standard electric motors have the following characteristics for the selected current: without a load, about 1.06 A is required, and with a load of at least at least 1.0 A. Electric motors according to preferred embodiments used in the embodiments of the electric toothbrush described herein, take 0.3A and about 0.4-0.6 A under load without load. As used herein, the term “load” refers to normal operating loads on an electric motor during operation with the toothbrush implementations described herein during normal brushing.

The preferred operating speed for the motors used in the implementations of the toothbrush described herein has an approximate value of 1500 to 3500 rpm and most preferably about 2500 rpm. A speed of 2500 rpm gives 1250 strokes / min of the reciprocating bristle holder using the preferred drive mechanisms described herein. These operating speeds are given for the electric motor from which the drive mechanism operates, but without applying the cleaning load applied to the bristle holder. When a load is applied to the electric motor, the operating speed of the electric motor can decrease by approximately 30-35%. These values are estimates and the degree of reduction in operating speed will depend on many factors.

This relationship between the operating speed of the electric motor and the speed of the bristle holder is an indication of the preferred gear ratio between the drive gear associated with the drive shaft of the motor (for example, the drive gear 3354 according to FIG. 48, or the drive gear 3454 according to FIG. 49) and flat a gear (such as a flat gear 3356 according to FIG. 48 or a flat gear 3456 according to FIG. 49) with which the drive shaft engages on an offset member. A preferred number is about 1: 1 to 3: 1, and most preferably about 2: 1. Therefore, with this most preferred number, for every two turns of the drive shaft of the electric motor, the flat gear rotates once. It turned out that the preferred gear ratio of 2: 1 provides the desired combination of travel distance and speed of the bristle holder with good cleaning characteristics along with an acceptable level of energy consumption.

The use of said flat gear in the preferred embodiments of the drive mechanisms described herein is particularly desirable since this type of drive component and its orientation according to the drawings require a relatively small number of components and allow a relatively small casing to be used since the resulting total volume of the drive mechanism is small. The preferred flat gear used in the drive mechanism described herein uses from 8-10 to 40 teeth. Most preferably, the flat gear has about 20 teeth. This is a relatively small number of teeth for a given size and application of a flat gear. The result is a relatively high profile for the teeth of a flat gear. Accordingly, the preferred flat gears according to the present invention use an offset member that must extend above the height of the gear teeth. This is necessary in order to provide sufficient clearance for the teeth of the flat gear. A flat gear wheel, with the possibility of its rotation, is mounted on an axis, the height of which is such that the drive shaft that engages the displaced element is centered with the bristle holder. This arrangement and combination of components provides a drive mechanism employing a very small number of components. The smaller the number of components, the more efficient the transmission of motion will be and the easier it will be to assemble and manufacture.

Turning to FIG. 50: a portion of a drive mechanism of a preferred embodiment is shown. An electric motor 3550, having a drive shaft 3552 and a driving gear 3554 attached to the shaft 3552, engages the flat gear 3556. The flat gear 3556, with the possibility of rotation, is mounted on its center 3557 on the axis 3558. The outwardly displaced element 3555 is located on the outer surface 3551 of the flat gear 3556. The element 3555 is located radially in the outer direction from the center 3557 of the flat gear 3556. The drive shaft 3560 engages its offset 3562 with its end 3562. When the drive shaft 3552 is rotated, the gear wheel 3554: the flat gear 3556 rotates on the axis 3558. This movement, in turn, transfers the reciprocating motion to the drive shaft 3560.

Fig. 51 shows a side elevational view of a portion of a preferred embodiment of the drive mechanism shown in Fig. 50. Fig.51 shows a feature of the drive mechanisms of the preferred implementation: the vertical orientation of the reciprocating drive shaft with respect to the flat gear. In particular, the teeth of the flat gear 3556 have a profile or total height G. The offset member 3555 engages the drive shaft 3560 such that a distance S is provided between the shaft 3560 and the teeth. The distance S is most preferably also the distance necessary to provide centering between the offset member 3555 and a bristle holder located on the brush head. Most preferably, the drive shaft 3560 is the only drive component passing between these components and engaging them.

As mentioned above, another feature of the implementation of the toothbrush according to the present invention, and in particular the drive mechanisms described herein, is the relatively small number of drive components used. This is illustrated in the drawings of Figures 48 and 49, showing images with a spatial separation of the parts. This design reduces the number of interconnections and engagements between the drive components, and thereby enables more direct assembly of the drive components. This technical solution greatly simplifies assembly, reduces production costs and provides more commercially viable products.

In addition, the use of a fixed bristle in combination with a plurality of movable bristles helps to reduce the overall load on the reciprocating bristle holder. Figures 52-54 show this feature in more detail. Fig. 52 shows a part of an embodiment of a toothbrush according to the invention 3600, comprising a brush head 3614, a neck 3616, a movable bristle holder 3670 and an end component 3680. A plurality of bristles 3650, which is referred to as movable bristles, are mounted and held on the movable bristle holder 3670. For clarity, it is shown here by a dotted line. At the end component 3680, a plurality of bristles 3662 are installed and fixed, which is here indicated as a fixed bristle. On the brush head 3614, a plurality of bristles 3660 are also mounted and fixed, which is also referred to as a fixed bristle and which is preferably located around the perimeter of the movable bristle holder 3670 and the 3650 bristles located thereon. The fixed bristles 3662 and 3660 are also shown with a dashed line.

The bristle configuration according to FIG. 52 is characterized in that the bristle set is stationary, i.e. the bristles 3660 and 3662 essentially surround or partially surround the movable bristles 3650 mounted on the movable bristle holder 3670. It turned out that this configuration reduces the load on the bristles 3650 and on the movable bristle holder 3670 during cleaning and operation of the toothbrush 3600. It is assumed that this characteristic is ensured by the fact that the fixed bristles 3660 and 3662 take on part of the cleaning load, which otherwise attached to the 3650 bristles and holder 3670. The distribution of the cleaning load between the fixed bristles 3660 and 3663 and the moving bristles 3650 is determined by several factors, including the following: (i) the relative height of the fixed and movable bristles, (ii) ma the series of the fixed and movable bristles, (iii) the brush surface profile created by the distal ends of the fixed and movable bristles, (iv) the corresponding density values (number of bristles per unit area) of the fixed and movable bristles, and (v) the location of the fixed bristles and movable bristles. By adjusting one or more of these factors, the load on the movable bristle holder during brushing can be reduced, for example, by increasing the relative height of the fixed bristles or by reducing the height of the movable bristles. The load on the movable bristle holder can also be reduced by increasing the density of the fixed bristles around the movable holder. The load can also be reduced by selecting certain materials with a high degree of stiffness for the fixed bristles compared to the moving bristles.

Fig. 53 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 3700 according to the present invention, comprising: a brush head 3714 a neck 3716, a movable bristle holder 3770, a plurality of movable bristles 3750 mounted and secured to a holder 3770; a first plurality of fixed bristles 3760 on the brush head 3714, and a second plurality of fixed bristles 3762 on the end of the brush head 3714. This toothbrush implementation 3700 uses a bristle configuration in which a large number of fixed bristles, 3760 and 3762, are located around or substantially around the movable bristles 3750. It should be noted that the group of fixed bristles 3762 is essentially located at the end of the brush head 3714. Another group of fixed bristles 3760 extends substantially around the rest of the perimeter of the movable bristle holder 3770. This arrangement provides high cleaning efficiency and a significant reduction in the cleaning load applied to the bristles 3750 and, therefore, to the holder 3770 bristles.

Fig. 54 shows another embodiment of a toothbrush 3800 according to the invention, comprising: a brush head 3814, a neck 3816, a movable bristle holder 3870, a plurality of movable bristles 3850 mounted and fixed therein, and a plurality of fixed bristles 3860 that are substantially perimeter holder 3870 bristles. In this embodiment, the fixed bristle 3860 is positioned around at least a major portion of the outer perimeter of the bristle holder 3870. The bristles 3860 preferably extend completely or substantially entirely around the movable bristle holder 3870 and the movable bristles 3850 disposed thereon. It is not necessary that the fixed bristles 3860 are located in a region adjacent to the movable bristle holder opposite the distal end of the brush head 3814. This portion is shown in FIG. 54 under designation 3864. This arrangement of bristles provides good brushing performance and a significant reduction in brushing loads on the bristles 3850 and, therefore, on the bristle holder 3870.

FIGS. 53 and 54 also show brush heads using different bristle densities at their distal ends, such as a tip portion 3380 of the bristle holder of FIG. 48. These areas are indicated by a dotted line. The dotted portion in the drawing of Fig. 53 has six tufts of bristles per unit area, and according to Fig. 52 has five tufts of bristles per unit area.

Another significant feature of the present invention provides a particular meshing unit comprising a gear wheel, which is driven by a toothbrush electric motor and a drive shaft, from which one or more movable bristle holders are operated. This meshing unit converts the rotational movement of the gear into the reciprocating motion of the drive shaft. This node performs the specified conversion very silently and smoothly.

This preferred engagement assembly is shown in FIGS. 55-60. 55 shows a preferred embodiment 4000 including a drive shaft 4100 and a gear 4200. The drive shaft 4100 includes a shaft 4110 and a distal end having a partially covered elongated end 4120, which, as described below, provides a specific group of surfaces for contacting curved surfaces gear 4200. In particular, FIG. 55 shows an oval hole 4125 formed in a central portion of a partially covered elongated end 4120. The partially covered end 4120 contains an end roof in 4122, in which an opening 4125. On the perimeter of the end cap 4122 disposed end wall 4126. Cover 4122 and wall 4126 jointly create partial shell (not shown in 55, a) in which some components are the driving gear 4200.

Fig. 55 also shows a preferred gear wheel 4200 of the assembly 400. The gear wheel 4200 is similar to the gear wheel 806 of the drawing of Fig. 12, the gear wheel 3356 of the drawing of Fig. 48, the gear wheel 3456 of the drawing of Fig. 49 and the gear wheel 3556 of the drawings of Figs. 50 and 51. That is, the gear 4200 is installed and functions similarly to the installation and operation of these gears. But the 4200 gear uses a special set of curved surfaces. In particular, the gear wheel 4200 has a set of teeth 4210 located along its perimeter. A drive gear attached to an electric motor is preferably engaged or otherwise connected with gear 4200 and gear teeth 4210. A circular metal base 4220 is located on the outer surface of the gear 4200 and between opposing portions of the gear teeth 4210. A first eccentric 4230 having a circular eccentric surface 4232, which extends around the perimeter of the eccentric 4230, is located and extends externally from the base 4220. A second eccentric 4240 extends from the first eccentric 4230. The second eccentric 4240 has a circular eccentric surface 4242 that extends around the perimeter the second eccentric 4240. The center of the second eccentric 4240 coincides with the center of the base 4220 and the center of the gear 4200. When the gear 4200 is rotated, for example around the axis of rotation A, as shown in FIG. 55, Torah cam 4240 and base 4220 are rotated about the same axis, i.e., axis A. The center of the first eccentric 4230 is shown in FIG. 55 as axis B and is separated from axis A by an interval and preferably parallel to it.

Fig. 56 shows a horizontal projection of the gear 4200. Fig. 56 shows the location of the first eccentric 4230 and the second eccentric 4240 with respect to each other and the center of rotation A of the gear 4200. The center of the circular first eccentric is denoted as center B in Fig. 56 and is spaced apart from the center (or axis of rotation) A.

Fig. 57 shows a side elevational view of the gear 4200. Fig. 57 also shows the configuration and arrangement of the teeth 4210 of the gear, the base 4220, the first eccentric 4230 and its curved surface 4232, the second eccentric 4240 and its curved surface 4242.

Fig. 58 shows a partial cross section of a node 4000, depicting an elongated end 4120 of a drive shaft 4100 meshed with a gear 4200. In particular, a second eccentric 4240 is located in a hole 4125 at the end 4120. The first eccentric 4230 is enclosed at the end 4120 and is located in him. The curved surface 4242 of the second eccentric 4240 preferably engages and contacts parts of the surface of the elongated end 4120 defining the opening 4125. The curved surface 4232 of the first eccentric 4230 is preferably engaged and in contact with the inner space and, in particular, with parts of the inner wall 4122 defined by the inner space of the elongated end 4120.

Fig. 59 shows a bottom side, i.e. the side of the elongated end 4120 of the drive shaft 4100, which faces the base 4220 of the gear wheel 4200. FIG. 59 also shows the inner wall 4122 that the curved surface 4232 of the first cam 4230 contacts when the gear wheel 4200 and the drive shaft 4100 are connected to form a node 4000. Fig. 59 also shows the orientation of the hole 4125. Fig. 59 also shows two dimensions S and T.

Dimension S is the minimum opening or entry dimension of hole 4125. Since the second eccentric 4240 fits in the hole 4125, therefore, the diameter of the eccentric 4240 must be slightly smaller than the dimension S. Either the dimension S must slightly exceed the diameter of the eccentric 4240.

Dimension T is the minimum target or input dimension of the inner wall 4122, having an oval shape. Since the first eccentric 4230 fits inside a portion substantially bounded by the inner wall 4122, therefore, the diameter of the eccentric 4230 must be slightly smaller than the dimension T. Either the dimension T should slightly exceed the diameter of the eccentric 4230.

59 also shows the preferred orientation of the bore 4125 inside the end 4120. It is shown that the main axis of the bore oval 4125, indicated as the D axis, is preferably parallel and most preferably equal to the C axis indicated by the longitudinal axis of the shaft portion 4110 of the drive shaft 4100.

59 also shows that the hole 4125 is preferably oval and oriented at right angles to the oval-shaped inner portion defined by the inner wall 4122. That is, the main axis of the oval-shaped hole 4125 is preferably perpendicular to the main axis of the oval inner portion defined by the wall 4122.

60 is a horizontal projection of the assembly 4000 and shows the location, orientation and configuration of the drive shaft 4100 and gear 4200. When the gear 4200 is rotated about axis A, for example, in the direction of arrow E, the center of the first eccentric 4230 rotates about axis A essentially of a circular path G. A circular path G is created when the first eccentric 4230 rotates, which is shifted about axis A when the gear 4200 rotates. It should be noted that the radius of the circular path G corresponds to the amount of displacement or the shaft between the central points A and B - 55, a.

When the gear 4200 is rotated, with the corresponding offset of the first eccentric 4230 around the axis A, along a circular path G, part of the curved surface 4232 of the first eccentric 4230 contacts different parts of the inner wall 4122. As a result, the end 4120 linearly translates back and forth with respect to the central point of the gear 4200 and axis A. That is, as a result, the second eccentric 4240 linearly translates back and forth in the hole 4125. It should be noted that since the gear 4200 along essentially fixed at this point of rotation, i.e. axis A, therefore, it is the end 4120 and the drive shaft 4100 that are translationally moving back and forth. The rotation of the gear 4200 in the direction of arrow E causes the reciprocating movement of the drive shaft 4100 in the direction of the arrows F shown in Fig. 60.

The assembly 4000 according to a preferred embodiment converts the rotational movement of the gear 4200 into a 100 percent or substantially 100 percent reciprocating motion of the rotary shaft 4100. That is, except in the direction along the longitudinal axis C of the drive shaft 4100, there is no other movement, or it is only to a very small extent. This characteristic is advantageous in that, at high operating speeds, the oscillation of the assembly is minimal, or at least maintained within acceptable limits.

The toothbrush embodiments described herein, in addition to high efficiency, also provide a relatively high cleaning effect. This is evidenced by the fact that the implementation of the toothbrush described here provides a relatively constant motion of the brush head reciprocating from the electric motor even in the case of significant loads. For example, the toothbrushes of the present invention can operate under significant loads, such as 30 pounds, applied to their heads and reciprocating bristle holders.

An example of the relatively high efficiency and low energy consumption of the drive mechanisms of the preferred embodiment described herein relates to the use of a battery. Almost all comparable toothbrushes currently available require two AA batteries to operate. To implement the electric toothbrushes described herein, preferably only one AA battery is required. It should be noted that the toothbrushes according to the present invention provide the same or substantially the same force and power characteristics on their heads, i.e. measured at the ends of the bristles, as are comparable brushes currently manufactured by the industry; and at the same time they require approximately half the power or characteristics of the batteries needed for the same brushes. It should be noted that the toothbrushes of the present invention are in no way limited to using only one AA battery. The toothbrushes of the present invention can use a variety of batteries, battery configurations, and energy sources. References to AA batteries are provided to explain the toothbrush of the present invention and their low power consumption characteristics. Typically, the toothbrushes of the present invention operate from a voltage source of 0.5 to 2.5 V, approximately. More preferably, the toothbrushes of the present invention are powered by an energy source that provides 1.5 V. Most preferably, this energy source is rechargeable. Of course, the toothbrushes of the present invention can use disposable batteries. The sign of "low power consumption" is a feature of the toothbrush according to the present invention, particularly promising from a commercial point of view.

An indicator of the low power consumption of the toothbrush according to the present invention is the cumulative operating time of the toothbrush. A test device was assembled in which a mount and a weight of 1 pound was installed inside the casing. The test toothbrush was mounted in the mount, and its bristles were pointing up. Then a one pound weight was placed on the brush’s cleaning surface, i.e. on upward distant ends of the bristles. The surface of the balance corresponded to the typical surface of the teeth. The toothbrush was then activated and the cumulative time until the toothbrush stopped working was measured. The toothbrushes of the present invention preferably last at least 100 minutes, more preferably at least 120 minutes, and more preferably at least 140 minutes, more preferably at least 160 minutes, and more preferably at least 180 minutes. It is contemplated that the toothbrushes of the present invention can operate under the conditions mentioned above for up to 210-220 minutes or even longer. These test conditions use one AA battery. Typically, the total runtime is measured using a voltage source of at least 0.9 to 2.5 V, approximately; and a reciprocating bristle holder with the indicated stroke values and operating speeds is used.

As mentioned above, an additional advantage of the implementations of the toothbrush described herein is a relatively simple assembly. As a result, factory cost is reduced. In addition, the drive units of the preferred embodiment described herein increase reliability due to their simple construction. And the relatively small number of components used in these drive units reduces the likelihood of failures in their connections.

In the case of using the pin engagement assembly: it is most preferable that the movable bristle holder has an opening for access from below from the bottom, similar to hole 3254 shown in FIG. 47. This hole may only partially extend through the thickness of the bristle holder (shown in FIG. 47) or may extend completely through this thickness to the other, upper, side of the holder. The drive shaft, and in particular the distal end such as the end 3206 of FIG. 47, has either a pin or a pin extension of its distal end, or engages a separate pin component. The pin (as a separate component or made as part of the shaft) is installed in the hole made in the bristle holder. Other engagement assemblies contemplated for use with this invention include, but are not limited to, multi-pin engagement assemblies, snap mechanisms, threaded fasteners, and assemblies that are bonded with glue or ultrasonic welding.

It is contemplated that the various holders described herein can be easily replaced and preferably interchanged with other holders. Therefore, the user will be able to choose a specific holder from the range of different types and configurations. After selecting, the user only needs to attach the holder to the desired toothbrush. It is also contemplated that so-called kits of different types of holders can be provided separately or together with a toothbrush. For example, if the movable bristle holders described herein use a detachable engagement mechanism to connect to the drive mechanism, sets or assortment of movable holders can be sold separately or with a toothbrush.

It should be noted that any features and characteristics of any of the implementations of the toothbrush described herein may be combined with one or more features and features of the other implementations described herein.

The present invention may use the features, features, components, materials and characteristics of one or more of the following patent publications or issued patents: WO 01/29128; US patent 6000083; U.S. Patent Design No. 432312; 4,33814; U.S. Patent Nos. 6178579; 6,189,693; 6,311,837; U.S. Published Patent Application 2002/0032941; U.S. Patent Nos. 6,390,395; 6371294, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

In addition to the materials referred to or described herein, various implementations of the toothbrush and any components can be formed from conventional materials commonly used to make an electric toothbrush. Typically, the handle, neck, brush head, and other structural parts or components are made of polypropylene. Polymer mixtures can be used for these parts or components, such as a mixture of a copolymer of acrylonitrile, butadiene and styrene, and one or more of the following materials: Celcon, Acetal and / or Delrin. Various self-lubricating materials are particularly preferred for forming a kinematic chain.

The invention is set forth with reference to specific embodiments. By studying this description, possible modifications and changes to this invention will become apparent. Shown and set forth certain locations of the fixed and movable bristles, but this invention includes in its scope and various other configurations. It is implied that all these modifications and changes are included in the scope of this invention, if they fall within the scope of the attached claims or their equivalents.

All documents referred to in the "Detailed Description of the Invention" section are included, in their respective aspects, in this document by reference; the mention of any document does not mean that it is considered the prior art in relation to this invention.

Although specific examples of carrying out the invention are set forth herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other changes and modifications may be made within the spirit and scope of the present invention. It is intended that the claims include all such changes and modifications that fall within its scope.

Claims (20)

1. An electric toothbrush comprising (a) a handle on a first end of a toothbrush having an electric motor mounted therein, (b) a neck extending from said handle and containing a holding member at a second end of the toothbrush, wherein a plurality of holders engage said holding member , the plurality of holders includes one or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders, and one or more fixed holders and one or more movable holders independently with sliding contact iruyut with the receiving member, and (c) a drive shaft operatively connecting said one or more movable holders with an electric motor. 2. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which the containing element has bristles. 3. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which the holders contain bristles. 4. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which the said holders are selected from the group consisting of fixed and movable holders containing the tip of the brush head, fixed bristle holders, movable bristle holders, elastomeric elements, medical elements, dental calculus prevention elements, and dental instruments and any combination thereof. 5. The electric toothbrush of claim 1, wherein said holders comprise a plurality of fixed bristle holders. 6. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which a plurality of holders with the possibility of their detachment engage the enclosing element. 7. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which the holders engage the enclosing element within the channels defined by the surface of the enclosing element. 8. The electric toothbrush according to claim 7, in which one or more movable holders and one or more fixed holders engage the enclosing element within individual channels defined by the surface of the enclosing element. 9. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which one or more movable holders are planted inside one or more fixed holders. 10. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which one or more fixed holders are held on the enclosing element using connectors defined by the outer surface of the enclosing element, mating with connectors defined by the inner surface of one or more fixed holders. 11. The electric toothbrush of claim 10, in which the mating connectors also have sawtooth teeth. 12. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which one or more movable holders engage the drive shaft by accommodating the protrusion in the hole. 13. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which one or more movable holders are moved in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the containing element of the toothbrush. 14. The electric toothbrush of claim 13, wherein the one or more movable holders reciprocate. 15. The electric toothbrush according to claim 1, in which the containing element and the neck of the toothbrush are a single unit. 16. A kit containing (a) the toothbrush according to claim 1 and (b) one or more holders selected from the group consisting of brush head tip holders, fixed bristle holders, movable bristle holders, elastomeric element holders, oral care holders and dental instrument holders, and any combination thereof. 17. An electric toothbrush containing (a) a handle on the first end of the toothbrush having an electric motor mounted therein, (b) a neck extending from the handle and containing a accommodating element without bristles at the second end of the toothbrush, the enclosing element containing a plurality of bristle holders for forming a toothbrush head, wherein said plurality of bristle holders comprises one or more fixed bristle holders, and one or more movable bristle holders, and one or more movable bristle holders fitted inside one or more stationary bristle holders, and one or more fixed bristle holders and one or more movable bristle holders Bristle teley independently slidably contacted with the receiving member collar, and (c) a drive shaft operatively connecting one or more movable bristle holders to an electric motor. 18. An electric toothbrush containing (a) a handle on the first end of the toothbrush having an electric motor mounted therein; (b) a neck extending from the handle and containing a holding element having a bristle located at the second end of the toothbrush, the containing element holding a plurality of bristle holders for forming a toothbrush head, said plurality of holders comprising one or more fixed bristle holders and one or more movable the bristle holders, and one or more fixed bristle holders, independently slidingly contact the enclosing member, and (c) a drive shaft operatively connecting one or more movable bristle holders to an electric motor. 19. The electric toothbrush according to claim 18, wherein the fixed holder is selected from the group consisting of holders of the tip of the brush head, fixed bristle holders, holders of elastomeric elements, holders of the oral care composition and holders of dental instruments, or any combination thereof. 20. An electric low-energy toothbrush comprising (a) a casing assembly comprising a brush head, a handle and a neck extending between the brush head and the handle, the casing defining a hollow internal cavity, (b) a movable holder of bristles located on the brush head, (c) an electric motor with a rotating shaft operating from it, a drive gear attached to the shaft, and a power source electrically connected to the electric motor and installed in the hollow internal cavity, (d) a rotatable flat gear mounted in the hollow internal cavity and oriented so that the rotational axis of the flat gear is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the electric motor and the driving gear, the flat gear having this configuration and engages with the driving gear of the electric motor so that the flat gear makes one revolution based on one to three revolutions of the electric motor, and the flat gear contains (i) a first eccentric an eccentric element extending from the surface of the flat gear, the first eccentric element having a center offset from the axis of rotation of the flat gear, and (ii) a second eccentric element extending from the surface of the first eccentric element, the second eccentric element having an axis of rotation coinciding with the axis of rotation of the flat gear (e) the drive shaft has a first end and a second opposite end, the first end engaging the first eccentric element and the second eccentric element of the flat gear, and the second end engaging the movable bristle holder, (e) a first plurality of bristles mounted on a movable bristle holder, (g) a second set of fixed bristles mounted on the brush head, (h) wherein, during operation of the electric motor, the flat gear rotates, thereby providing reciprocating motion to the drive shaft and the movable bristle holder located on the brush head.

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