Ion toothbrush

Abstract

This disclosure provides an ionic toothbrush having an elongated body that can be configured to have a one-piece design, or alternatively, one or more components of the ionic toothbrush may be detachable and / or replaceable. In some embodiments, this disclosure provides an ionic toothbrush comprising: a handle portion; a brush head portion including a plurality of bristle tufts; and circuitry configured to transmit a negative charge through at least a portion of the brush head, wherein the circuitry includes one or more conductive resin segments present on the outer surfaces of one or both of the handle portion and the brush head portion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to electric toothbrushes, and more particularly to electric toothbrushes with ionic properties, which optionally have a replaceable brush head section, a handle portion, and one or more movable bristle heads within the brush head section. Background Technology

[0002] Electric toothbrushes have been documented in patent literature since at least the 1930s. See U.S. Patent No. 2,044,863. Discussions of different types of electric toothbrushes can be found in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003 / 0084527A1. Early powered toothbrushes were bulky and unnecessarily complex. See U.S. Patent No. 2,657,321. Over the years, basic electric toothbrushes and their components—from the handle to the brush head (including the brush head itself), their motion and bristle arrangement, materials, dimensional distribution, material patterns, and the grouping and stiffness of the brush head bristles—have seen steady improvements and developments. These technologies have also shown toothbrushes designed specifically to solve particular problems. See U.S. Patent No. 8,677,542.

[0003] Powered toothbrushes have recently incorporated a component for generating ionic charges in the user's mouth. Such ionic toothbrushes typically include a power source, a metal rod extending to the brush head, and metal contacts on the handle. Previously, it was difficult to achieve the same ion production effect as the mechanical benefits of a movable brush head due to the need for internal charge conduction components. Therefore, there remains a technical need for further powered toothbrushes that can provide the combined benefits of mechanical movement and ion production. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure relates to personal hygiene devices, and more specifically, to ionic electric toothbrushes for cleaning human teeth and / or gums, which have improved performance characteristics compared to currently commercially available ionic and / or electric toothbrush products. In some embodiments, the ionic toothbrush according to this disclosure may include replaceable brush head segments, which have fewer parts and lower manufacturing costs compared to other commercially available products.

[0005] Some aspects of this disclosure provide an ionic toothbrush comprising: a handle portion; a brush head portion including a plurality of bristle tufts; and circuitry configured to transmit a negative charge through at least a portion of the brush head, wherein the circuitry includes one or more conductive resin segments located on the outer surfaces of one or both of the handle portion and the brush head portion. In some embodiments, the handle portion includes conductive resin segments located on its outer surface and positioned to contact a person's hand when the ionic toothbrush is in use. In some embodiments, the brush head portion includes conductive resin segments located on its outer surface. In some embodiments, the handle portion and the brush head are integrally designed. In other embodiments, the brush head portion may be detachable and / or replaceable.

[0006] In some embodiments, the handle portion includes a housing, a power source, positive ion contacts, and negative ion contacts, wherein the power source, positive ion contacts, and negative ion contacts are all located within the housing. In some embodiments, the handle portion further includes a first conductive surface and a second conductive surface separate from the first conductive surface, both the first and second conductive surfaces being located on the outer housing of the handle portion. In some embodiments, one or both of the first and second conductive surfaces comprise conductive resin. In some embodiments, the first conductive surface is electrically connected to the positive ion contacts, the second conductive surface is electrically connected to the negative ion contacts, and both conductive surfaces are electrically connected to the power source to form a circuit.

[0007] In some embodiments, the circuit is activated when a user's hand contacts the first conductive surface to close the circuit. In some embodiments, when activated, a negative charge is generated in the conductive resin located on the outer surface of the brush head. In some embodiments, the first and second conductive surfaces are positioned sufficiently separated from each other to prevent the user from contacting both conductive surfaces simultaneously during use. In some embodiments, the second conductive surface extends from the top portion of the housing of the handle portion by no more than about 15 millimeters (mm). In some embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may further include a conductive head ring adapted to engage between the handle portion and the brush head portion to form an elongation. In some embodiments, the conductive head ring includes a segment of conductive resin located on its outer surface. In some embodiments, the conductive resin maintains continuous contact in at least a portion of the brush head portion, the conductive head ring, and the handle portion.

[0008] In some embodiments, the conductive resin may include a conductive thermoplastic polymer or resin material. In some embodiments, the brush head portion may further include a translation head attached to a bristle support member having the plurality of bristle tufts thereon. In some embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may further include a motor and a drive rod positioned within a handle portion, wherein the drive rod is configured to engage the translation head when the ionic toothbrush is in use. In some embodiments, the motor may be operatively coupled to the drive rod in the handle portion such that actuation of the motor linearly and bidirectionally achieves movement of the drive rod in communication with the translation head, thereby achieving movement of the bristle support member in at least one direction in a linear or rotational manner.

[0009] This disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following embodiments.

[0010] Example 1: An ionic toothbrush includes: a handle portion; a brush head portion including a plurality of bristle tufts; and a circuit configured to transmit a negative charge through at least a portion of the brush head, wherein the circuit includes one or more conductive resin segments located on the outer surfaces of one or both of the handle portion and the brush head portion.

[0011] Example 2: An ionic toothbrush according to Example 1, wherein the handle portion includes a conductive resin segment located on its outer surface and positioned to contact the user's hand when the ionic toothbrush is in use.

[0012] Example 3: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 2, wherein the brush head portion includes a conductive resin segment located on its outer surface.

[0013] Example 4: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the handle and the brush head are designed as a single piece.

[0014] Example 5: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the brush head is detachable and / or replaceable.

[0015] Example 6: An ion toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein the handle portion includes a housing, a power source, a positive ion contact, and a negative ion contact, wherein the power source, the positive ion contact, and the negative ion contact are all located within the housing.

[0016] Example 7: An ion toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the handle portion further includes a first conductive surface and a second conductive surface separate from the first conductive surface, both the first conductive surface and the second conductive surface being positioned on the outer shell of the handle portion.

[0017] Example 8: An ion toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein one or both of the first conductive surface and the second conductive surface comprise conductive resin.

[0018] Example 9: An ion toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein a first conductive surface is electrically connected to a positive ion contact, a second conductive surface is electrically connected to a negative ion contact, and the two conductive surfaces are electrically connected to a power source to form a circuit.

[0019] Example 10: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the circuit is activated when the user's hand contacts the first conductive surface to close the circuit.

[0020] Example 11: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein, when activated, a negative charge is generated in the conductive resin located on the outer surface of the brush head.

[0021] Example 12: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the first conductive surface and the second conductive surface are positioned to be sufficiently separated from each other in order to prevent the user from contacting the two conductive surfaces simultaneously during use.

[0022] Example 13: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the second conductive surface extends from the top portion of the outer casing of the handle portion by no more than about 15 mm.

[0023] Example 14: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 13 further includes a conductive head ring adapted to be engaged between the handle portion and the brush head portion to form an elongated body.

[0024] Example 15: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the conductive head ring includes a conductive resin segment located on its outer surface.

[0025] Example 16: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 15, wherein the conductive resin maintains continuous contact in at least a portion of the brush head portion, the conductive head ring, and the handle portion.

[0026] Example 17: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the conductive resin comprises a conductive thermoplastic polymer or a resin material.

[0027] Example 18: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the brush head portion further includes a translation head attached to a bristle support member having said plurality of bristle clusters formed thereon.

[0028] Example 19: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 18 further includes a motor and a drive rod located within the handle portion, wherein the drive rod is configured to engage a translation head when the ionic toothbrush is in use.

[0029] Example 20: An ionic toothbrush according to any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein a motor and a drive rod are operably connected in the handle portion such that the actuation of the motor linearly and bidirectionally realizes the movement of the drive rod connected to the translation head, so as to realize the movement of the bristle support member in at least one direction in a linear or rotational manner.

[0030] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below. The invention includes any combination of two, three, four, or more embodiments pointed out above, as well as any combination of two, three, four, or more features or elements set forth in this disclosure, regardless of whether such features or elements are explicitly combined in the specific embodiments described herein. This disclosure is intended to be read holistically such that, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, any separable features or elements of the disclosed aspects and embodiments of the invention should be considered as intended to be composable. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Having thus described aspects of this disclosure in the foregoing general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0032] Figure 1 A front perspective view of an ion toothbrush according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0033] Figure 2 An enlarged side perspective view of the brush head portion of an ion toothbrush according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0034] Figure 3 An enlarged front view of a brush head portion according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0035] Figure 4 Example embodiments according to this disclosure are shown. Figure 3 An exploded view of the brush head section;

[0036] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view of the handle portion of an ion toothbrush according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0037] Figure 6An enlarged view of a control component assembly, including a power supply negative terminal and a power supply positive terminal, a motor negative terminal and a motor positive terminal, a positive ion terminal, a negative ion terminal, an input terminal, and an indicator terminal, is shown according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 7 A horizontal rear view of an ionic toothbrush according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0039] Figure 8 An enlarged perspective view of the conductive head ring of an ion toothbrush according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0040] The present disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof. These exemplary embodiments are described in order to make the disclosure thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. In fact, the disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that the disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. As used in this specification and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly requires otherwise. As used herein, the term “forward” refers to the direction in which the toothbrush handle extends toward the brush head, while the term “backward” refers to the direction in which the brush head section travels toward the handle end of the device. The term “longitudinal” refers to the longitudinal aspect of an element or object as observed in a plan view of the element or object. A “longitudinal axis” is an axis that corresponds to or substantially coincides with the longitudinal direction of the element or object. Each of the respective longitudinal axes may not lie in the same plane when the head or neck is angled relative to each other or relative to the handle, but in a top plan view, the axes do indeed extend in the same overall longitudinal direction.

[0041] Some aspects of this disclosure relate to toothbrushes with ionic properties (e.g., referred to herein as "ionic electric toothbrushes" and / or "ionic toothbrushes"). Generally, it should be noted that dental plaque (an undesirable component that accumulates on human teeth over time) has been shown to carry a positive charge, which attracts such plaque to human teeth, particularly due to the slight negative charge on the tooth surface. This phenomenon makes plaque removal difficult using conventional brushing techniques, as the positively charged plaque molecules remain adsorbed onto the negatively charged surface of the user's teeth. However, advantageously, brushing with an ionic toothbrush (e.g., an ionic toothbrush as described herein) can provide greater plaque removal and better brushing efficiency because a negative electric field is generated on and / or around the ionic brush head during use, which attracts plaque molecules away from the user's tooth surface. Without being theoretically limited, it should be noted that during brushing with an ionic toothbrush, a mixture of saliva and salts (contained in a detriate formulation) creates a negatively charged solution in the oral cavity that further attracts plaque molecules. Some embodiments of this disclosure provide an ionic toothbrush (which is also electronic) that, for example, provides better brushing efficiency by combining the advantages of an ionic brush head with the advantage of providing mechanical movement of some or all of the bristles in the ionic brush head during use.

[0042] In one aspect, this disclosure provides an electric toothbrush having one or more ionic properties (e.g., configured to deliver a negative charge to a user's mouth during use). For example, in some embodiments, a negative charge can be generated by a power source within the ionic toothbrush, and this negative charge can be transferred to a brush head segment of the ionic toothbrush via one or more contacts (e.g., terminals, wires, circuits, hardwires, etc.) and / or conductive surfaces (e.g., conductive resins or polymers) on or within the ionic toothbrush, the brush head segment being inserted into the user's mouth during use. Figure 1An embodiment of an ionic toothbrush 100 is shown, which includes both a brush head portion 102 and a handle portion 104. In some embodiments, the handle portion and the brush head portion may be integrally designed, for example, wherein the brush head portion and the handle portion are permanently connected to form a single elongation. In other embodiments, the brush head portion and the handle portion may represent two separate and distinct parts of the ionic toothbrush. For example, in such embodiments, the brush head portion and the handle portion may be adapted to engage therebetween. This engagement may be a screw-fit engagement, a press-fit engagement, a magnetic engagement, a snap-fit ​​engagement, or any other type of engagement suitable for forming a connection between the brush head portion and the handle portion. In such embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may form a single elongation when engaged. In yet another embodiment, the ionic toothbrush may include one or more other components adapted to engage with or between the brush head segment and the handle portion of the ionic toothbrush (e.g., a conductive head ring). Typically, the brush head portion 102 and the handle portion 104 are at least substantially collinear along a longitudinal axis. Similarly, both the brush head portion 102 and the handle portion 104 may have generally parallel longitudinal axes. Alternatively, the brush head portion 102 may have a longitudinal axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the handle portion 104 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1 (As shown). Suitable angular arrangements achievable according to this disclosure are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0199165 and U.S. Patent No. 6,360,395, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Preferably, the handle portion is ergonomically designed, including recesses and gripping areas to provide ease of use and comfort with the ionic toothbrush. Various embodiments, features, and configurations of the ionic toothbrush and its various components will be discussed in further detail below.

[0043] As noted above, the ionic toothbrush according to this disclosure may include both a brush head portion 102 and a handle portion 104. In some embodiments, such as Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, the brush head portion may include an elongated body 105 having a plurality of bristle tufts 106. Typically, the brush head portion 102 can be molded from a variety of different materials. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the elongated body 105 of the brush head portion may be molded from plastic and / or polymeric materials. Suitable materials for molding the brush head portion may include, but are not limited to, plastics, polymers, epoxy resins, resins, rubbers, metals, etc. In some embodiments, the outer surface 108 of the brush head portion may include a conductive resin thereon. The conductive resin can be applied to the outer surface of the brush head segment via any method common in the art (e.g., molding, overmolding, stamping, etc.). For example, the conductive resin can be applied to the outer surface of the housing via injection molding (e.g., 2K injection molding), overmolding, insert molding, runner molding, etc. As used herein, “conductive resin” refers to any type of natural or synthetic resin and / or polymeric material that can effectively conduct electrical charges (e.g., configured for the movement of ions through it). For example, in some embodiments, the conductive resin may include a conductive thermoplastic polymer or a conductive resin material. In some embodiments, the conductive resin may include a variety of different materials, including but not limited to plastic materials, polymer materials, resin materials, etc. Some examples of conductive resins include, but are not limited to: acrylic acid, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), polybenzimidazole (PBI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethersulfone (PES), polyethylene oxide (POM), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene (PE), polyphenoxyethylene (PPO), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), various epoxy resins and adhesives, etc. The conductive resin may have inherent conductivity, such as so-called intrinsically conductive polymers (ICPs). Alternatively or additionally, the conductive resin may be partially, primarily, or completely conductive due to the presence of conductive particles (such as metal particles) dispersed within the conductive resin.

[0044] Typically, the configuration and / or features of the brush head portion 102, the positioning, arrangement, and / or composition of the plurality of bristle tufts 106 thereon, and their functions may vary. For example, in some embodiments, the arrangement of the bristle tufts, bristle stiffness, geometry, and three-dimensional orientation may be varied. In some embodiments, the plurality of bristle tufts may be attached to or attached to one or more bristle support members 110 within the brush head portion 102. For example, bristles may be positioned on their respective support members in different patterns and grouped or mixed according to stiffness, thickness, and / or length. Bristles may be oriented in a vertical configuration orthogonal to the surface of the respective bristle support member, or offset at an angle from the vertical relative to their respective bristle support member. In some embodiments, the brush head portion may include one or more additional components, configurations, and / or functions. For example, in some embodiments, the brush head portion may include more than one plurality of bristle tufts, such as at least two, at least three, at least four, or more bristle tufts positioned thereon. In some embodiments, one or more bristle tufts 106 may be independently attached to one or more bristle support members 110, which may optionally be connected to one or more other components within the brush head portion (e.g., such as...). Figure 4 The drive rod or translation head 46 shown engages, and this other component facilitates the movement of multiple bristle clusters, for example, linearly and / or rotationally. In some embodiments, each individual multiple bristle cluster can be independently configured for its movement, for example, linear or rotational movement. In such embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may be characterized by having a "dual-action" and / or "multi-action" brush head portion capable of providing independent movement of two or more bristle segments positioned thereon.

[0045] Examples of brush head segments (especially dual-action brush head segments) suitable for use in ionic toothbrushes as described herein (excluding the conductive resin located on its outer surface 108) are described in more detail in the following documents: for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0199165 of Nikitczuk, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. (See, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0199165) Figures 2 to 8 The replaceable multi-action brush head segment described herein, in particular, describes a brush head segment 16 formed by a neck segment 22 having a rear segment 24 and a front segment 26. The rear segment 24 is adapted for quick and easy attachment to a handle 14 at its front end 28, such as by inserting the brush head segment into the handle and turning it to lock it in place with a handle clip. Figure 2As shown more clearly, in the preferred embodiment, the brush head 16 is a multi-head segment having a first tufted bristle pad support or lower head 32 and a second tufted bristle pad support or upper head 34. In the preferred embodiment, the first bristle pad support 32 has a partially elliptical geometry, and the second bristle support pad 34 has a circular or rounded configuration. The first bristle pad 32 is formed by a bristle support 36 and a plurality of bristles or bristle tufts 38. The second bristle pad 34 is similarly formed by a bristle support 40 and a plurality of bristles or bristle tufts 42. Figure 3 An exploded partial assembly view of brush head section 16 is shown in perspective. Brush head section 16 is composed of many easily assembled component parts. As shown, brush head section 16 is formed by an oscillating head 44, a translation plate or head 46, a lower head housing 48, an upper head housing 50, and a return mechanism 52. It should be noted that the brush head section 16 included in the Nikitczuk (including its various functions and / or components, such as those described herein) Figure 3 and Figure 4 (As shown) can be adapted for use as the brush head portion 102 described herein, the brush head portion including a conductive resin segment located on its body.

[0046] As noted above, the ionic toothbrush 100 may also include a handle portion 104. Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments, the handle portion 104 may include a power source 112 and a housing 114. In some embodiments, the power source 112 may be at least partially located within the housing 114. In some embodiments, the power source 112 may include any suitable form of battery capable of powering the ionic toothbrush. Examples of useful power sources include rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, such as rechargeable lithium-manganese dioxide batteries. In particular, lithium polymer batteries can be used as such batteries to provide increased safety. Other types of batteries may also be used, such as N50-AAA CADNICA nickel-cadmium batteries. Typically, the power source may include two 1.5V AA batteries, which generate a combined voltage of approximately 3V leaving the batteries. Furthermore, the power source may be lightweight enough to make the ionic toothbrush easy to use.

[0047] In some embodiments, the housing 114 may be accessible for, for example, removing and replacing one or more batteries. For instance, the housing 114 may include a battery cover 116, which may be in the form of a snap-on or hinged latch on a cover within the housing (e.g., typically located near the rear or lower section of the handle portion), allowing access to the battery when the cover is removed. Such a configuration allows easy access to the power-receiving portion of the housing, for example, for removing and replacing the power source.

[0048] Typically, the outer housing 114 of the handle portion can be molded from various different materials, and in some embodiments, the handle portion can be molded from the same material as the brush head portion. For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer handle can be molded from plastic and / or polymer materials. Generally, the outer handle can include various different materials or combinations of materials, such as, but not limited to, plastics, polymers, epoxy resins, resins, rubber, metals, etc. In some embodiments, a portion of the housing can include a conductive resin. For example, as... Figure 3 As shown, conductive resin may be located on at least a portion of the outer surface 118 of the housing of the handle portion. The conductive resin can be applied to the outer surface of the housing by any method common in the art (e.g., molding, covering, stamping, etc.). For example, the conductive resin can be applied to the outer surface of the housing via injection molding (e.g., 2K injection molding), overmolding, insert molding, runner molding, etc. Any conductive resin as described herein can be suitable for use as a conductive resin located on the outer surface of the handle portion.

[0049] In some embodiments, the handle portion may include a negative ion contact 120 and a positive ion contact 122, both at least partially positioned within the housing 114. In some embodiments, the negative ion contact 120 may include any number of separate components, including but not limited to metal contact plates, metal screws, metal springs, metal clips, and / or any other type of metal contact configured to allow ions to pass through it. For example, as... Figure 5 As shown, the negative ion contact may include a screw 124 and a metal clip 126 that contacts the negative ion metal plate 128. In some embodiments, the positive ion contact 122 may include any number of separate components, including but not limited to metal contact plates, metal screws, metal springs, metal clips, and / or any other type of metal contact configured to allow ions to pass through it. For example, as Figure 5 As shown, the positive ion contact may include a screw 130 and a metal spring 132 that contacts the positive metal plate 134. In some embodiments, the negative ion contact 120 and the positive ion contact 122 may be electrically connected to a conductive resin located on the outer surface of at least a portion of the housing of the handle portion.

[0050] In some embodiments, the handle portion may include one or more conductive surfaces; for example, handle portion 104 may include, for instance, a conductive surface. Figure 5The first conductive surface 136 and the second conductive surface 138 are shown. In other embodiments, one of the first and second conductive surfaces may be absent, and / or one or more other components may be used to replace one or more conductive surfaces, such as conductive components positioned on or within the handle portion. Typically, one or more conductive surfaces can be formed of a variety of different materials, such as conductive resin, metal, metal alloy, etc. For example, in some embodiments, one or both of the first conductive surface 136 and the second conductive surface 138 may at least partially comprise a conductive resin as defined herein. Figure 5 As shown, for example, the conductive resin in the handle portion 104 may be located at the first conductive surface 136 and the second conductive surface 138, both independently positioned on the outer shell 114 of the handle portion 104. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the first conductive surface 136 is in physical contact with at least a portion of the positive ion contact 122, and the second conductive surface 138 is in physical contact with at least a portion of the negative ion contact 120. Typically, the first conductive surface, the second conductive surface, the negative ion contact, and the positive ion contact are all electrically connected to at least a power source (and optionally, one or more components within the handle portion, such as control components, motor assemblies, etc.).

[0051] In some embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may include a control component 140 positioned within a handle portion 104. Typically, the control component may include one or more components, including processing circuitry and / or electronic components, designed to control various functions within the ionic toothbrush, such as voltage delivery (e.g., to various components within the toothbrush), timing mechanisms (e.g., a 30-second brushing timer, a 1-minute brushing timer, a 1.5-minute brushing timer, a 2-minute brushing timer, etc.), motor functions (e.g., motor speed), battery life, etc. In some embodiments, the control component may be in the form of a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA). In some embodiments, the control component may include a boost circuit capable of delivering a desired voltage from the battery to the brush head portion, for example, by delivering a negative charge to the brush head portion via a conductive resin. In such embodiments, the boost circuit is designed to increase the typical voltage output (3V) from the battery before reaching the brush head portion of the ionic toothbrush. For example, the boost circuit may deliver a voltage of at least 4V, at least 5V, at least 6V, at least 7V, at least 8V, at least 9V, at least 10V, at least 11V, or at least 12V to the brush head portion of the ionic toothbrush. In some embodiments, the boost circuit may supply a voltage in the range of about 3V to about 12V, about 4V to about 11V, about 5V to about 10V, or about 6V to about 9V to the brush head portion.

[0052] In some embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may include an input element 142, which is at least partially located on the outer housing 114 of the handle portion 104. In some embodiments, the input element may be electrically connected to a control component located within the handle portion. In some embodiments, the input element, alone or in conjunction with the control component, may control one or more functions of the ionic toothbrush (e.g., activation and / or movement of one or more components) and / or provide on / off control of the ionic toothbrush. In some embodiments, the input element and the control component may control various brushing features of the ionic toothbrush. For example, the control component may facilitate a brushing timer function that can be triggered by the user of the toothbrush; for example, the user may use the input element to select a desired brushing time (or the brushing time may have been programmed into the control component), and the control component may be configured to direct power from a power source to the motor to activate the motor for the desired brushing time. In some embodiments, the user may also be able to use the input element to control the motor speed to adjust the degree of brushing / gingival massage delivered by the toothbrush. For example, a user can select one or more different motor speed settings, which are controlled by a control unit, providing a gentler (slower motor speed) or a more aggressive (faster motor speed) brushing experience. Any component or combination of components can be used as an input element for controlling the functions of the ionic toothbrush. For example, in some embodiments, the input element may be in the form of a button, such as a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) button molded onto the outer shell of the handle portion.

[0053] In some embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may include a visual indicator 144, which is at least partially positioned on the outer housing 114 of the handle portion 104. In some embodiments, the visual indicator may be configured to provide various indications, such as indicating the on / off state of the ionic toothbrush, and / or indicating the charging status and / or indicating the remaining battery life. Example visual indicator components may include, but are not limited to, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), quantum dot-based LEDs, etc., which can illuminate when the ionic toothbrush is activated or in use. Typically, the type of visual indicator and the indications it provides may differ.

[0054] Typically, the control unit 140 may be electrically connected to the power supply 112, and / or the negative ion contact 120, and / or the positive ion contact 122, and / or the first conductive surface 136, and / or the second conductive surface 138, and / or the input element 142, and / or the visual indicator 144, and / or one or more other components of the ion toothbrush (e.g., the motor 146). For example, as Figure 6As shown, the control unit 140 (e.g., a printed circuit board assembly) is electrically connected to the power supply via the power supply negative terminal 112a and the power supply positive terminal 112b, electrically connected to the motor via the motor negative terminal 146a and the motor positive terminal 146b, electrically connected to the positive ion contact plate 128 via the positive ion terminal 128a, electrically connected to the negative ion contact plate 134 via the negative ion terminal 134a, electrically connected to the input element via the input terminal 142a, and electrically connected to the visual indicator 144 via the indicator terminal 144a.

[0055] Come back for reference Figure 5 The conductive resin located on the first conductive surface 136 is electrically connected to the positive ion contact 122, and the conductive resin located on the second conductive surface 138 is electrically connected to the negative ion contact 120, forming an open circuit with the power supply 112 and the control component 140. In some embodiments, the open circuit can be activated when the user's hand contacts the first conductive surface 136 (e.g., closing the circuit), or in other embodiments, the open circuit can be activated by the user via an input element, for example, when the user presses the on / off button on the outside of the toothbrush. When the circuit is closed, it should be noted that ions are allowed to flow freely in the circuit and its components (e.g., positive and negative contacts, conductive resin, power supply, control component, and / or motor). For example, when the circuit is closed, the negative charge generated by the power supply can be transferred through the closed circuit to the conductive resin located on the outer surface of the brush head portion (e.g., providing a negative charge in the brush head segment of the ion toothbrush). In some embodiments, the first conductive surface 136 and the second conductive surface 138 are positioned sufficiently separated from each other to prevent the user from simultaneously contacting both conductive surfaces during use (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 7 (As shown). In some embodiments, the second conductive surface 138 may extend a defined length (L) from the top portion 150 of the outer housing 114 of the handle portion 104. For example, the second conductive surface may extend from the top portion of the housing by a length not exceeding about 30 mm, not exceeding about 25 mm, not exceeding about 20 mm, not exceeding about 15 mm, or not exceeding about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the second conductive surface may extend from the top portion of the housing by a length of about 5 mm to about 30 mm, about 7.5 mm to about 20 mm, or about 10 mm to about 15 mm.

[0056] As noted above, the brush head portion 102 and the handle portion 104 can be detachable and / or replaceable (multi-piece design), or they can be permanently connected to form a single elongated body (one-piece design). Regardless of the design, typically at least a portion of the conductive resin in the brush head portion 102 is in contact with at least a portion of the conductive resin in the handle portion 104. For example, as... Figure 7As shown, at least a portion of the conductive resin located on the outer surface 108 of the brush head portion 102 can be in physical contact with the conductive resin located on the second conductive surface 138 of the handle portion 104. When the circuit is activated, this configuration provides a continuous electrical connection through the conductive resin (e.g., through the continuous flow of ions therein). Therefore, when the circuit is activated by the user of the toothbrush, a negative charge is transferred to the conductive resin located on the outer surface of the brush head portion. Then, when the brush head portion is inserted into the user's mouth, the negative charge is transferred to the user's mouth. As noted above, the voltage delivered to the user's mouth (via the conductive resin located on the outer surface of the brush head portion) can be in the range of about 4V to about 12V, or in some embodiments, in the range of about 6V to about 9V. Without being theoretically limited, it should be noted that providing a higher voltage in the brush head portion (e.g., in the range of about 4V to about 12V, or preferably in the range of about 6V to about 9V) can advantageously provide an optimal user experience and desired performance characteristics.

[0057] In some embodiments, the ion toothbrush 100 may further include a conductive head ring 152 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 (As shown). In some embodiments, the conductive head ring may be adapted to engage between the handle portion 104 and the brush head portion 102 to form an elongated body, for example, as shown. Figure 7 As shown. In some embodiments, the conductive headband may be detachable and / or replaceable, or in the case of an integrated design, the conductive headband may be permanently attached to both the brush head portion and the handle portion. Typically, conductive resin may be located on at least a portion of the outer surface 154 of the conductive headband 152. Positioning the conductive resin on the outer surface of the conductive headband maintains at least a portion of the conductive resin positioned on the outer surface of the brush head portion and continuous contact between the conductive headband and the handle portion. The conductive resin may be molded onto at least a portion of the outer surface of the conductive headband by any method common in the art. For example, the conductive resin may be applied to the outer surface of the conductive headband via injection molding (e.g., 2K injection molding), overmolding, insert molding, runner molding, etc. Any conductive resin as described herein may be suitable as a conductive resin located on the outer surface of the conductive headband.

[0058] As noted above, in some embodiments, the ionic toothbrush may include a motor 146 within the housing 114 of the handle portion 104. The motor may be used to facilitate one or more functions within the ionic toothbrush, such as actuating movement of one or more components (e.g., a drive lever) within the handle portion 104 and transmitting such movement to one or more components (e.g., a translation head and / or bristle support member) within the brush head portion 102. For example, refer back to [reference]. Figure 5An ionic toothbrush may include a drive rod 148, one end of which is at least partially positioned within a handle portion 104, and returns to reference. Figure 4 The brush head segment 16 may include a translation head 46 attached to the bristle support member 32, which has a plurality of bristle clusters formed thereon.

[0059] In such embodiments, for example, when the brush head portion and handle portion are engaged, the drive rod 148 may be attached, connected, and / or coupled to the motor 146 within the handle portion 104, and simultaneously attached, connected, and / or coupled to the translation head 46 positioned within the brush head section 16. In such embodiments, the drive rod 148 may be configured to engage the translation head 46 when the ion toothbrush is in use. For example, during use of the ion toothbrush, a linkage mechanism may be formed between the drive rod 148 and the translation head 46, such that movement of the drive rod 148 is directly transferred to the translation head 46 to facilitate its movement. Typically, this linkage mechanism may be formed directly between the drive rod and the translation head, or in some embodiments, one or more mechanical components, gears, and / or connectors may be used to facilitate the linkage mechanism and movement between the drive rod 148 and the translation head 46. In some embodiments, the drive rod may be a single, continuous drive rod (e.g., the brush head portion and handle portion are permanently connected, making the ionic toothbrush a one-piece design), or the drive rod may be temporarily detachable at one or more connection points along the drive rod (e.g., to facilitate embodiments, one or more of the brush head portion, handle portion, and conductive head ring are movable and / or replaceable, making the ionic toothbrush a multi-piece design). Typically, the drive rod may comprise a generally rigid material, such as a plastic or metal material. In some embodiments, the drive rod may be manufactured using an injection molding process.

[0060] As noted above, in some embodiments, the motor 146 is operatively coupled to the drive rod 148 in the handle portion 104, such that actuation of the motor linearly and bidirectionally moves the drive rod 148. In such an embodiment, the movement of the drive rod 148 is transmitted to the translation head 46 (as noted above) to ultimately move one or more bristle support members (e.g., Figure 2 The 110 shown and Figure 3 As shown in 32), movement is possible in at least one direction, for example, linearly or rotationally. Generally, it should be noted that movement of the bristle support member results in movement of the multiple bristle clusters contained thereon (e.g., Figure 2 The 106 shown and Figure 3(As shown in 38). As noted above, the number of bristle support members and / or the plurality of bristle tufts contained thereon can vary. Therefore, each individual bristle support member (including the plurality of bristle tufts contained thereon) can be independently configured to move in the same or different directions and / or at the same or different speeds. For example, in some embodiments, one bristle support member can be configured to move linearly, while another bristle support member can be configured to move rotationally. In some embodiments, one bristle support member can be configured to move faster, slower, or at the same speed as the other bristle support member therein. Generally, the configuration and movement of the bristle tufts and / or support members in the brush head portion are not considered limited to the exemplary embodiments provided herein.

[0061] As used herein, the terms “approximately” or “roughly” can mean that a particular value or condition is intended to be understood to include the explicitly referenced value or condition, as well as values ​​or conditions that are relatively close to it. For example, a value of “approximately” a particular quantity or “roughly” a particular value can mean a specific quantity or value, and a quantity or value that differs from it (+ or -) by 5% or less, 4% or less, 3% or less, 2% or less, or 1% or less. Similarly, the expression of a particular condition “approximately” or “roughly” a particular condition can indicate that the condition is fully met, or that the condition includes normal variations that are expected to occur during the production process and / or acceptable variations that do not affect the cause or purpose of said condition. In some embodiments, a value or condition can be defined as expressed, and therefore, the terms “approximately” or “roughly” (and thus the differences noted) can be excluded from the expressed value.

[0062] Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will be conceived by those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, who will benefit from the teachings presented in the foregoing description. Therefore, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terminology is used herein, it is used only in a general and descriptive sense and not for limiting purposes.

Claims

1. An ionic toothbrush, comprising: The handle portion has an outer surface that is configured to be accessible to the user's hand during use of the ionic toothbrush; The brush head portion has an outer surface and includes a plurality of bristle tufts; A first conductive portion is disposed on the outer surface of the handle portion, and the first conductive portion includes conductive resin. The second conductive portion is disposed on the outer surface of the handle portion and is separated from the first conductive portion. The second conductive portion includes conductive resin. The third conductive portion is disposed on the outer surface of the brush head portion. The third conductive portion includes conductive resin. When the brush head portion is engaged with the handle portion, the third conductive portion is in physical contact with the second conductive portion or is engaged through a conductive head ring to achieve continuous contact between the third conductive portion and the second conductive portion. as well as A circuit configured to transfer negative charge from the second conductive portion to the third conductive portion and flow through at least a portion of the brush head.

2. The ion toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein, One of the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion is positioned to come into contact with the user's hand when the ionic toothbrush is in use.

3. The ion toothbrush according to claim 1, wherein, The handle and the brush head are designed as a single unit.

4. The ion toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The brush head is detachable and / or replaceable.

5. The ion toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The handle portion includes a housing, a power source, positive ion contacts, and negative ion contacts, wherein the power source, the positive ion contacts, and the negative ion contacts are all located within the housing.

6. The ion toothbrush according to claim 5, wherein, The first conductive portion is electrically connected to the positive ion contact, the second conductive portion is electrically connected to the negative ion contact, and both conductive portions are electrically connected to the power source, thereby forming the circuit.

7. The ion toothbrush according to claim 6, wherein, The circuit is activated when the user's hand comes into contact with the first conductive part, thereby closing the circuit.

8. The ion toothbrush according to claim 7, wherein, Upon activation, a negative charge is delivered to the third conductive portion on the outer surface of the brush head.

9. The ion toothbrush according to claim 5, wherein, The first conductive portion and the second conductive portion are positioned to be fully separated from each other in order to prevent the user from contacting both conductive portions simultaneously during use.

10. The ion toothbrush according to claim 9, wherein, The second conductive portion extends no more than 15 mm from the top portion of the outer casing of the handle portion.

11. The ion toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The conductive head ring is adapted to engage between the handle portion and the brush head portion to form an elongated body.

12. The ion toothbrush according to claim 11, wherein, The conductive head ring includes a conductive resin segment present on its outer surface.

13. The ion toothbrush according to claim 12, wherein, The conductive resin maintains continuous contact in at least a portion of the brush head portion, the conductive head ring, and the handle portion.

14. The ion toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The conductive resin includes conductive thermoplastic polymers or resin materials.

15. The ion toothbrush according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The brush head portion further includes a translation head attached to a bristle support member having the plurality of bristle clusters formed thereon.

16. The ionic toothbrush of claim 15, further comprising a motor and a drive rod positioned within the handle portion, wherein, The drive rod is configured to engage the translation head when the ionic toothbrush is in use.

17. The ion toothbrush according to claim 16, wherein, In the handle portion, the motor is operably connected to the drive rod, such that actuation of the motor linearly and bidirectionally realizes movement of the drive rod connected to the translation head, thereby realizing linear or rotational movement of the bristle support member in at least one direction.

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