Electric toothbrush

Abstract

The application discloses a control method for an electric toothbrush, which comprises the following steps: receiving / obtaining a first signal generated by a first signal generator arranged at the bottom of the toothbrush; and controlling the brush head to move from a use position to a storage position according to the first signal. By using the method, the signal generator is arranged at the bottom of the toothbrush, and when the bottom of the toothbrush contacts a placement surface, it is generally considered that the user has finished tooth cleaning work; at this time, the controller controls the toothbrush to automatically retract, so that the brush head can be effectively prevented from being exposed to air due to the user's forgetfulness.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application number 202110977536.9, the application date of August 24, 2021, and the invention name of "A control method for an electric toothbrush". TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to the technical field of electric toothbrushes, and in particular to an electric toothbrush. BACKGROUND

[0003] With the improvement of technology, the cleaning ability of electric toothbrushes is stronger, and their use and storage are also more and more convenient, so they are favored by more and more people. An electric toothbrush generally includes a handle and a brush head arranged on the handle. Research has found that if the brush head is in contact with the outside world for a long time after cleaning the teeth, it is easy to breed a large number of bacteria in a humid environment. Therefore, the brush head needs to be replaced in about three to five months, and the brush head of an electric toothbrush is relatively expensive.

[0004] In order to prolong the use time of the brush head, some manufacturers add a toothbrush cover to the electric toothbrush. The toothbrush cover not only isolates the brush head from the outside world, but also disinfects the brush head. However, since the brush cover is a separate part, the user may forget to operate it, so that the toothbrush cover becomes a chicken rib-like existence. SUMMARY

[0005] In view of the deficiencies in the above-mentioned technology, the present application provides a control method for controlling an electric toothbrush, which can automatically retract the brush head of the electric toothbrush without the need for manual control by the user, thereby increasing convenience.

[0006] In one aspect, the present application provides a control method for an electric toothbrush, comprising

[0007] receiving / acquiring a first signal emitted by a first signal generator located at the bottom of the toothbrush;

[0008] controlling the brush head to move from the use position to the storage position according to the first signal.

[0009] Optionally, the controller is configured to control the brush head to move from the storage position to the use position in response to a second signal emitted by the first signal generator when the bottom wall leaves the placement surface.

[0010] Optionally, a second signal generator is arranged on the side wall of the shell, and the controller is configured to control the brush head to move between the storage position and the use position in response to a signal emitted by the second signal generator.

[0011] Optionally, the first signal generator has an enabled state and a disabled state, when the first signal generator is in the disabled state, the first signal generator does not send a signal or the controller does not receive the signal sent by the first signal generator.

[0012] In another aspect, the present application also provides a control method for an electric toothbrush, comprising

[0013] receiving / acquiring a first signal sent by a first signal generator located at the bottom of the electric toothbrush;

[0014] receiving / acquiring a second signal sent by a second signal generator;

[0015] controlling the brush head to move from the use position to the storage position according to the first signal and the second signal.

[0016] Optionally, the controller is configured to control the brush head to move from the storage position to the use position in response to a third signal sent by the first signal generator when the bottom wall is away from the placement surface.

[0017] Optionally, the second signal is a signal generated by the second signal generator after the electric toothbrush is in a stationary state for a preset time.

[0018] Optionally, in response to a signal sent by the electric toothbrush after it is switched from a stationary state to a non-stationary state, the controller controls the driver to drive the brush head to switch from the storage position to the use position.

[0019] In yet another aspect, the present application also provides a control method for an electric toothbrush, comprising:

[0020] receiving / acquiring a first signal sent by a first signal generator, the first signal being a signal generated by the first signal generator when the electric toothbrush is switched from a first state to a second state and has been in the second state for a first preset time;

[0021] controlling the brush head of the electric toothbrush to switch between the use position and the storage position according to the first signal.

[0022] Optionally, in response to a signal sent by the electric toothbrush after it is switched from a non-stationary state to a stationary state and has been in the stationary state for a first preset time, the controller controls the brush head to move from the use position to the storage position.

[0023] The control method for the electric toothbrush comprises: receiving / obtaining a first signal generated by a first signal generator located at the bottom of the toothbrush; and controlling the brush head to move from the use position to the storage position according to the first signal. By using the above method, the signal generator is arranged at the bottom of the toothbrush. When the bottom of the toothbrush contacts the placement surface, it is generally considered that the user has finished the tooth cleaning work. At this time, the controller controls the toothbrush to automatically retract, so that the user can effectively avoid the exposure of the brush head to the air due to forgetting to operate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 Structure schematic diagram of the electric toothbrush of an embodiment;

[0025] Figure 2 Schematic sectional view of the electric toothbrush in the storage position in an embodiment;

[0026] Figure 3 Schematic sectional view of the electric toothbrush in the use position in an embodiment;

[0027] Figure 4 Change state diagram of the brush head from the use position to the storage position after the toothbrush is placed on the placement surface in an embodiment;

[0028] Figure 5 Change state diagram of the brush head from the storage position to the use position after the toothbrush is separated from the placement surface in an embodiment;

[0029] Figure 6 Structure schematic diagram of the electric toothbrush of another embodiment;

[0030] Figure 7 Structure schematic diagram of the tooth cleaning system of still another embodiment;

[0031] Figure 8 Schematic sectional view of the electric toothbrush in the storage position in still another embodiment;

[0032] Figure 9 Schematic sectional view of the electric toothbrush in the use position in still another embodiment;

[0033] Figure 10 Change state diagram of the brush head from the use position to the storage position after the toothbrush is placed on the base in still another embodiment;

[0034] Figure 11 Change state diagram of the brush head from the storage position to the use position after the toothbrush is separated from the base in still another embodiment;

[0035] Figure 12 Flowchart of the control method for the electric toothbrush in still another embodiment. EMBODIMENTS

[0036] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments of the present application. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by a person of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort belong to the scope of protection of the present application.

[0037] It should be noted that if the embodiments of the present application involve directionality indication, the directionality indication is only used to explain the relative position relationship, movement condition and the like between components in a certain posture, and if the certain posture changes, the directionality indication also changes accordingly.

[0038] In addition, if the embodiments of the present application involve the description of “first”, “second” and the like, the description of “first”, “second” and the like is only for the purpose of description, and cannot be understood as indicating or implying the relative importance of the indicated technical features or implicitly indicating the number of the indicated technical features. Therefore, the features limited by “first”, “second” can explicitly or implicitly include at least one of the features. In addition, the meaning of “and / or” appearing throughout the text includes three parallel solutions. Taking “A and / or B” as an example, it includes A solution, or B solution, or A and B solutions. In addition, the technical solutions of each embodiment can be combined with each other, but it must be based on the fact that a person of ordinary skill in the art can realize it. When the combination of technical solutions contradicts each other or cannot be realized, it should be considered that the combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by the present application.

[0039] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms “mounting”, “connection”, “connection” should be understood in a broad sense, for example, it can be fixed connection, or detachable connection, or integrally connected; it can be mechanical connection, or electrical connection; it can be directly connected, or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium, or the connection between two elements inside. For a person of ordinary skill in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the present application can be understood through specific circumstances. Embodiments

[0040] Reference Figures 2-6 , Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an electric toothbrush in an embodiment in a storage position. Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an electric toothbrush in an embodiment in a use position. Figure 4 is a state diagram of a change of a brush head from a use position to a storage position after the toothbrush is placed on a placement surface in an embodiment. Figure 5 is a state diagram of a change of a brush head from a storage position to a use position after the toothbrush is separated from the placement surface in an embodiment.Figure 6 Fig. 1 is a schematic view of an electric toothbrush according to an embodiment of the present application. The embodiment shown in the figure discloses an electric toothbrush 1, which comprises but is not limited to a housing 11, a brush head 12, and a brush stem 13 connecting the housing 11 and the brush head 12. The housing 11 is generally configured in a shape that can be held by hand, which can be cylindrical or other shapes that are convenient to grasp, and is not limited here. The housing 11 generally comprises a bottom wall 112 and a side wall 111. The side wall 111 generally refers to the wall that can be grasped by the user, and the bottom wall 112 generally refers to the wall that is not frequently contacted by the user during normal use. For a cylindrical housing 11, the side wall 111 refers to the circumferential surface of the cylindrical housing 11, and the bottom wall 112 refers to the bottom surface of the housing 11. In some embodiments, the side wall 111 and the bottom wall 112 can be integrally formed, and in other embodiments, the side wall 111 and the bottom wall 112 can be separately provided. It can be understood that the bottom wall 112 here is not limited to being made of the same material as the side wall 111. In addition to defining the accommodation space 113 with the side wall 111, the bottom wall 112 can also have other functions or purposes, such as mounting electrical or mechanical components, etc., which are not limited here.

[0041] The accommodation space 113 is defined between the bottom wall 112 and the side wall 111, and at least part of the bottom wall 112 of the housing 11 is used to support the electric toothbrush 1 to a placement surface so that the electric toothbrush 1 is in an upright state. The bottom wall 112 can be composed of multiple different structures, and each structure can not be in the same plane, for example, part of the bottom wall 112 can be inwardly recessed for mounting some components, as long as the other parts can support the toothbrush 1. The placement surface can be a plane or a curved surface matching the bottom wall 112, depending on the shape of the bottom wall 112 of the toothbrush 1. When the bottom wall 112 is a plane, the toothbrush 1 can be placed on any plane, and at this time any plane can be the placement surface. When the bottom wall 112 is a curved surface, a special base may be needed to place the toothbrush 1, and the placement surface on the base is adapted to the curved surface of the bottom wall 112 to ensure that the toothbrush 1 can be saved on the base.

[0042] The brush head 12 is provided with bristles for cleaning teeth, of course, in other embodiments, the brush head 12 can not be provided with bristles, and the fluid jet mode can be used to clean teeth, which is not limited in detail here. The brush head 12 has a storage position and a use position. In one embodiment, the storage position means that the brush head 12 is completely stored in the accommodation space 113, so that the brush head 12 can be kept clean when the toothbrush 1 is not used. The shell 11 can also be provided with a sterilization device, such as an ultraviolet lamp, a sterilization gas generator, etc. The use position means that the user can use the electric toothbrush 1 to clean teeth after the brush head 12 is completely stretched out of the shell 11. In another embodiment, the storage position means that the brush head 12 has a part stored in the accommodation space 113, for example, the bristle part is stored in the accommodation space 113, and the other part is outside. In other embodiments, the brush head 12 can be completely outside the accommodation space 113 in the storage position, and an additional cover is needed to cover the brush head 12 to isolate it from the outside world.

[0043] The driver 14 is used to drive the brush head 12 to move between the storage position and the use position. The driver 14 is generally a driving motor, which drives the brush rod 13 through a transmission structure to drive the brush head 12 to move. The transmission structure can be any structure as long as it can achieve the transmission function. In other embodiments, the driver 14 can also be other power-providing devices, which are not limited here.

[0044] The electric toothbrush 1 further comprises a controller configured to control the driver 14. The controller generally controls the start and stop of the electric toothbrush 1, and can also control the frequency of the brush head 12 by controlling the vibration motor. The controller is provided on the circuit board and can use conventional electrical components, which are not described in detail here. The controller can also control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to move between the use position and the storage position.

[0045] In order to realize that the brush head 12 can also be automatically retracted when no one is operating, so as to ensure that the toothbrush 1 is isolated from the outside world after use, and further sterilized.

[0046] In one embodiment, the first signal generator 19 is arranged at the bottom wall 112. The arrangement at the bottom wall 112 can be directly arranged at the bottom wall 112 or indirectly arranged at the bottom wall 112, which depends on the specific structure of the toothbrush 1. The first signal generator 19 can be a mechanical switch, such as a press switch. When the bottom wall 112 does not contact any object, the switch protrudes from the bottom wall 112, and the switch is in a first state. When the bottom wall 112 is placed on the placement surface, the switch is forced to move from the first state to a second state, i.e., a signal is generated. At this time, the controller receives the signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position, thereby achieving the automatic storage function without the need for additional user operation. In other embodiments, the first signal generator 19 can also be a photosensitive sensor arranged at the bottom wall 112. When the bottom wall 112 is placed on the placement surface, the photosensitive sensor changes from a light state to a dark state, thereby generating a signal. The controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position according to the signal.

[0047] The controller is configured to receive or acquire the first signal generated by the first signal generator 19 when the bottom wall 112 approaches or contacts the placement surface, and then control the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position. The approach or contact of the bottom wall 112 to the placement surface means that when the user places the toothbrush 1, the toothbrush 1 approaches the placement surface infinitely until the bottom wall 112 contacts the placement surface, and then the user releases the toothbrush 1, which can stand by itself or be kept in the storage position. The approach herein can be between 1 mm and 10 mm. The above values are only examples and are not limited in detail. The first signal generator 19 only needs to generate a signal when the toothbrush approaches the placement surface. For example, the mechanical switch or the photosensitive sensor can generate a signal when the bottom wall 112 does not completely contact the placement surface.

[0048] The controller is further configured to receive or acquire the second signal generated by the first signal generator 19 when the bottom wall 112 moves away from the placement surface, and then control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position. For example, the first signal generator 19 is a mechanical switch or a photosensitive sensor. When the bottom wall 112 moves away from the placement surface, the second signal is generated, and the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the second signal. In this way, when the user needs to use the electric toothbrush 1, the user can directly pick up the toothbrush 1 without the need for a separate operation button, which is more convenient.

[0049] On the basis of the first embodiment, the electric toothbrush 1 further comprises a second signal generator arranged at the side wall 111 of the housing 11, and the controller is configured to receive or acquire the signal generated by the second signal generator to control the brush head 12 to move between the storage position and the use position. The second signal generator is generally a manually controlled switch, i.e., the user can control the brush head 12 to switch between the storage position and the use position by controlling the second signal generator, which can increase the operation experience and can also be manually operated when the first signal generator 19 generates an error signal.

[0050] In a further embodiment, the first signal generator 19 has an enabled state and a disabled state, and when the first signal generator 19 is in the disabled state, the first signal generator 19 does not generate a signal or the controller does not respond to the signal generated by the first signal generator 19. With this arrangement, some special scenarios can be adapted, for example, during an outing, the toothbrush 1 is packed into a travel bag, and the environment changes frequently. By disabling the first signal generator 19 from generating a signal or disabling the controller from responding to the signal generated by the first signal generator 19, the brush head 12 can be prevented from switching between the use position and the storage position at will. Of course, this arrangement can also meet the needs of different users, for example, some users prefer manual operation.

[0051] Reference Figure 12 , Figure 12 is a flowchart of a control method for an electric toothbrush in an embodiment. In this embodiment, the control method for the electric toothbrush 1 comprises

[0052] receiving / acquiring a first signal generated by a first signal generator 19 arranged at the bottom of the toothbrush 1;

[0053] controlling the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position according to the first signal.

[0054] Further, the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to a second signal generated by the first signal generator 19 when the bottom wall 112 is away from the placement surface.

[0055] Further, a second signal generator is arranged at the side wall 111 of the housing 11, and the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move between the storage position and the use position in response to a signal generated by the second signal generator.

[0056] Further, the first signal generator 19 has an enabled state and a disabled state, and when the first signal generator 19 is in the disabled state, the first signal generator 19 does not generate a signal or the controller does not receive the signal generated by the first signal generator 19. Embodiment

[0057] Reference Figures 1-6The present embodiment discloses an electric toothbrush 1, which comprises but is not limited to a housing 11, a brush head 12, and a brush rod 13 connecting the housing 11 and the brush head 12. The housing 11 is generally configured in a shape that can be held by hand, which can be cylindrical or other convenient shapes for grasping, and is not limited here. The housing 11 generally comprises a bottom wall 112 and a side wall 111. The side wall 111 generally refers to the wall that can be grasped by the user, and the bottom wall 112 generally refers to the wall that is not frequently contacted by the user during normal use. For a cylindrical housing 11, the side wall 111 refers to the circumferential surface of the cylindrical housing 11, and the bottom wall 112 refers to the bottom surface of the housing 11. In some embodiments, the side wall 111 and the bottom wall 112 can be integrally formed, and in other embodiments, the side wall 111 and the bottom wall 112 can be separately provided. It can be understood that the bottom wall 112 here is not limited to being made of the same material as the side wall 111. In addition to defining a receiving space 113 with the side wall 111, the bottom wall 112 can also have other functions or functions, such as mounting electrical or mechanical components, etc., which are not limited here.

[0058] The receiving space 113 is defined between the bottom wall 112 and the side wall 111, and at least part of the bottom wall 112 of the housing 11 is used to support the electric toothbrush 1 to a placement surface so that the electric toothbrush 1 is in an upright state. The bottom wall 112 can be composed of multiple different structures, and each structure can not be in the same plane. For example, part of the bottom wall 112 can be inwardly recessed for mounting some components, as long as the other parts can support the toothbrush 1. The placement surface can be a plane or a curved surface matching the bottom wall 112, depending on the shape of the bottom wall 112 of the toothbrush 1. When the bottom wall 112 is a plane, the toothbrush 1 can be placed on any plane, and at this time any plane can be the placement surface. When the bottom wall 112 is a curved surface, a special base may be needed to place the toothbrush 1, and the placement surface on the base is adapted to the curved surface of the bottom wall 112 to ensure that the toothbrush 1 can be saved on the base.

[0059] The brush head 12 is provided with bristles for cleaning teeth, of course, in other embodiments, the brush head 12 can not be provided with bristles, and the fluid jet mode can be used to clean teeth, which is not limited in detail here. The brush head 12 has a storage position and a use position. In one embodiment, the storage position means that the brush head 12 is completely stored in the accommodation space 113, so that the brush head 12 can be kept clean when the toothbrush 1 is not used. The shell 11 can also be provided with a sterilization device, such as an ultraviolet lamp, a sterilization gas generator, etc. The use position means that the user can use the electric toothbrush 1 to clean teeth after the brush head 12 is completely stretched out of the shell 11. In another embodiment, the storage position means that the brush head 12 has a part stored in the accommodation space 113, for example, the bristle part is stored in the accommodation space 113, and the other part is outside. In other embodiments, the brush head 12 can be completely outside the accommodation space 113 in the storage position, and an additional cover is needed to cover the brush head 12 to isolate it from the outside world.

[0060] The driver 14 is used to drive the brush head 12 to move between the storage position and the use position. The driver 14 is generally a driving motor, which drives the brush rod 13 through a transmission structure to drive the brush head 12 to move. The transmission structure can be any structure as long as it can achieve the transmission function. In other embodiments, the driver 14 can also be other power-providing devices, which are not limited here.

[0061] The electric toothbrush 1 further comprises a controller configured to control the driver 14. The controller generally controls the start and stop of the electric toothbrush 1, and can also control the frequency of the brush head 12 by controlling the vibration motor. The controller is provided on the circuit board and can use conventional electrical components, which are not described in detail here. The controller can also control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to move between the use position and the storage position.

[0062] In order to realize that the brush head 12 can also be automatically retracted when no one is operating, so as to ensure that the toothbrush 1 is isolated from the outside world after use, and further sterilized.

[0063] In the embodiment, the first signal generator 19 is arranged at the bottom wall 112. The arrangement at the bottom wall 112 can be directly arranged at the bottom wall 112 or indirectly arranged at the bottom wall 112, which depends on the specific structure of the electric toothbrush 1. The first signal generator 19 can be a mechanical switch, for example, a press switch. When the bottom wall 112 does not contact any object, the switch protrudes from the bottom wall 112, and the switch is in a first state (i.e., the brush head 12 is in the extended state). When the bottom wall 112 is placed on the placement surface, the switch is pressed, and the switch moves from the first state to a second state, i.e., a signal is generated. Meanwhile, the electric toothbrush 1 is also provided with a second signal generator, which can be an acceleration sensor or a vibration sensor, etc. Here, no detailed limitation is made as long as the second signal generator can generate a first signal when the electric toothbrush 1 changes from a moving state (generally, a state used by the user, for example, left and right shaking or vibration) to a stationary state (kept stationary when placed on the placement surface) and keeps the first preset time. The first preset time can be a very short time, i.e., the second signal is generated immediately after the electric toothbrush 1 is stationary. The first preset time can also be several seconds, tens of seconds or several minutes. When the electric toothbrush 1 keeps stationary or in the state for a period of time, it indicates that the user has completed the cleaning work, and the second signal can be generated. The controller is configured to control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to switch from the use position to the storage position after receiving the first signal and the second signal. The two signals can not be in a specific order, and the controller can control the brush head 12 to switch from the use position to the storage position as long as the two signals are received. The use of two signals to control the switching of the brush head 12 between the use position and the storage position can effectively avoid misoperation. For example, the user temporarily places the electric toothbrush 1 on one side during brushing, but does not clean it. If the brush head 12 is retracted at this time, it will pollute the cavity inside. Or the user does not place the electric toothbrush 1 on the placement surface, but holds the electric toothbrush 1 with the hand, but does not move the electric toothbrush 1. At this time, the electric toothbrush 1 is automatically retracted, which will pollute the cavity inside. Therefore, the use of the double-signal control mode can not only automatically retract the brush head 12 when the conditions are met, but also effectively avoid the false triggering of the automatic retraction condition, which affects the customer experience.

[0064] Further, on the basis of the second embodiment, the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to a third signal generated by the first signal generator 19 when the bottom wall 112 leaves the placement surface. When the user needs to use the electric toothbrush 1 to clean the teeth, the electric toothbrush 1 is taken off the placement surface. At this time, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the signal. In the whole process, the user does not need to perform additional operations, which is more convenient.

[0065] Further, based on the second embodiment, the controller is configured to control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the second signal generator generating a fourth signal when the electric toothbrush 1 is moved from the static state to the non-static state. When the user needs to use the toothbrush 1 to clean the teeth, the toothbrush 1 is removed from the placement surface, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is moved, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is changed from the static state to the non-static state, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the signal. In the whole process, the user does not need to perform additional operations, which is more convenient.

[0066] Further, based on the second embodiment, the controller is configured to control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the second signal generator generating a fourth signal when the electric toothbrush 1 is moved from the static state to the non-static state. When the user needs to use the toothbrush 1 to clean the teeth, the toothbrush 1 is removed from the placement surface, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is moved, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is changed from the static state to the non-static state, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the signal. In the whole process, the user does not need to perform additional operations, which is more convenient.

[0067] Further, based on the second embodiment, the controller is configured to control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the second signal generator generating a fourth signal when the electric toothbrush 1 is moved from the static state to the non-static state. When the user needs to use the toothbrush 1 to clean the teeth, the toothbrush 1 is removed from the placement surface, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is moved, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is changed from the static state to the non-static state, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the signal. In the whole process, the user does not need to perform additional operations, which is more convenient.

[0068] Further, based on the second embodiment, the controller is configured to control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the second signal generator generating a fourth signal when the electric toothbrush 1 is moved from the static state to the non-static state. When the user needs to use the toothbrush 1 to clean the teeth, the toothbrush 1 is removed from the placement surface, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is moved, at this time, the toothbrush 1 is changed from the static state to the non-static state, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the signal. In the whole process, the user does not need to perform additional operations, which is more convenient.

[0069] In the second embodiment, a control method for the electric toothbrush 1 is also provided, which includes:

[0070] receiving / acquiring a first signal generated by a first signal generator 19 located at the bottom of the toothbrush 1;

[0071] receiving / acquiring the second signal generated by the second signal generator;

[0072] The controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position according to the first signal and the second signal.

[0073] Further, the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to a third signal generated by the first signal generator 19 when the bottom wall 112 is away from the placement surface.

[0074] Further, the second signal is a signal generated by the second signal generator after the electric toothbrush 1 is in a stationary state for a preset time.

[0075] Further, in response to a signal generated by the electric toothbrush 1 after it is in a stationary state to a non-stationary state, the control driver 14 drives the brush head 12 to switch from the storage position to the use position. Embodiment

[0076] Reference Figure 6 Reference can also be made to Figures 2-5 In this embodiment, the basic structure of the electric toothbrush 1 is basically the same as that in Embodiment One, which will not be described in detail here. The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment One is that the electric toothbrush 1 in this embodiment is a telescopic electric toothbrush 1, which specifically comprises: a housing 11 defining a receiving space 113 having an opening 114; a bottom wall 112 of the housing 11 for supporting the electric toothbrush 1 to a placement surface so that the electric toothbrush 1 is in an upright state. A brush head 12 for cleaning teeth, the brush head 12 having a storage position and a use position. A driver 14 for driving the brush head 12 to move through the opening 114 between the storage position and the use position. A controller configured to control the driver 14. A first signal generator 19 provided at the bottom wall 112; wherein the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position after receiving or acquiring a first signal generated by the first signal generator 19 when the bottom wall 112 is close to or in contact with the placement surface. The structure of the toothbrush 1 and the signal generator in this embodiment can refer to the description in the above-mentioned embodiments, which will not be described in detail here. Embodiment

[0077] Reference Figure 6 Reference can also be made to Figures 2-5In this embodiment, the basic structure of the electric toothbrush 1 is basically the same as that of Embodiment 1, and will not be described in detail here. The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that the electric toothbrush 1 in this embodiment is a telescopic electric toothbrush 1, specifically including: a housing 11, which defines a receiving space 113 with an opening 114; the bottom wall 112 of the housing 11 is used to support the electric toothbrush 1 to the placement surface so that the electric toothbrush 1 is in a stationary state. A brush head 12 for cleaning teeth, the brush head 12 has a storage position and a use position. A driver 14 for driving the brush head 12 through the opening 114 to move between the storage position and the use position. A controller configured to control the driver 14. A first signal generator 19 (e.g., ...) disposed on the bottom wall 112. Figure 6 As shown, the controller is configured to respond to a first signal emitted by the first signal generator when the bottom wall 112 approaches or contacts the placement surface. A second signal generator (not shown) is configured to emit a second signal after the electric toothbrush 1 has been stationary for a first preset time; wherein, the controller is configured to control the driver 14 to switch the brush head 12 from the use position to the storage position after receiving the first and second signals. The toothbrush 1 structure and signal generator in this embodiment can be referred to the description in the above embodiments, and will not be detailed here. Example

[0078] refer to Figures 1-5 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electric toothbrush according to one embodiment. The electric toothbrush 1 shown in the figure has a basic structure (shell 11, brush head 12, driver 14, etc.) that is basically the same as that in embodiment one or two, and will not be described in detail here. In order to enable the brush head 12 to automatically retract when no one is operating it, so as to ensure that the toothbrush 1 is isolated from the outside world after use and is further disinfected.

[0079] The electric toothbrush 1 also includes a first signal generator (not shown in the figure), configured to generate a first signal after the electric toothbrush 1 has been stationary for a first preset time. The controller is configured to control the driver 14 to switch the brush head 12 from a use position to a storage position after receiving or acquiring the first signal. The first signal generator can be an accelerometer or a vibration sensor, etc., without specific limitations, as long as it can generate the first signal after the electric toothbrush 1 changes from a moving state (generally the user's state, such as swaying left and right or vibrating) to a stationary state (remaining stationary when placed on a surface) and remains stationary for a first preset time. The first preset time can be a very short period, i.e., the first signal is generated immediately after the electric toothbrush 1 comes to a stop. The first preset time can also be a few seconds, tens of seconds, or a few minutes. After the electric toothbrush 1 has remained stationary for a period of time, it indicates that the user has completed the cleaning work, and therefore, the brush head 12 can be retracted.

[0080] In the fifth embodiment, the controller is further configured to control the driver 14 to move the brush head 12 from the storage position to the use position after receiving or obtaining a second signal generated by the first signal generator when the electric toothbrush 1 is switched from the stationary state to the non-stationary state. When the user needs to use the toothbrush 1 to clean the teeth, the toothbrush 1 is taken off the placement surface, at this time, the first signal generator sends a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the signal. In the whole process, the user does not need to perform additional operations, which is more convenient.

[0081] Further, the control button 16 is arranged on the side wall 111 of the housing 11, and the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move between the storage position and the use position in response to the signal sent by the control button 16. The second signal generator 15 is an active control switch, that is, the user needs to actively control the conversion of the position of the brush head 12, which improves the convenience.

[0082] In the fifth embodiment, further, the first signal generator has an enabled state and a disabled state. When the first signal generator is in the disabled state, the first signal generator does not send a signal or the controller does not receive the signal sent by the first signal generator. With this arrangement, some special scenarios can be adapted, for example, during an outing, the toothbrush 1 is packed into a travel bag, and the environment changes frequently. By disabling the first signal generator to send a signal or disabling the controller to respond to the signal sent by the first signal generator, the brush head 12 can be prevented from being switched between the use position and the storage position at will. Of course, this arrangement can also meet the needs of different users, for example, some users prefer manual operation.

[0083] On the basis of embodiment five, further, the second signal generator 15 is arranged at the bottom wall 112 of the shell 11, the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the third signal emitted by the second signal generator 15 when the bottom wall 112 is away from the placement surface. The second signal generator 15 is arranged at the bottom wall 112; here, the arrangement at the bottom wall 112 can be direct arrangement at the bottom wall 112 or indirect arrangement at the bottom wall 112, depending on the specific structure of the toothbrush 1. The second signal generator 15 can be a mechanical switch, for example, a press switch, when the bottom wall 112 does not contact any object, the switch protrudes from the bottom wall 112, and the switch is in the first state (i.e., the brush head 12 is in the extended state), when the bottom wall 112 is placed on the placement surface, the switch is pressed, and the switch moves from the first state to the second state, i.e., a signal is generated, at this time, the controller receives the signal and controls the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position, realizing the automatic storage function without additional operation of the user. In other embodiments, the second signal generator 15 can also be a photosensitive sensor arranged at the bottom wall 112, when the bottom wall 112 is placed on the placement surface, the photosensitive sensor changes from the light state to the dark state, and a signal is generated, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position according to the signal.

[0084] On the basis of embodiment five, the toothbrush further comprises a second signal generator 15 arranged at the bottom wall 112 of the shell 11, the second signal generator 15 can be substantially the same as the generator in the previous embodiment, which will not be described here, and the second signal generator 15 is configured to emit a third signal when the bottom wall 112 is away from the placement surface; the first signal generator is configured to emit a second signal after the electric toothbrush 1 is from the static state to the non-static state, and the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position after receiving or obtaining the third signal and the second signal. The control mode of double signals can not only make the brush head 12 automatically return under the condition of meeting the condition, but also effectively avoid the condition of automatic return from being triggered by mistake, which affects the customer experience.

[0085] In a further embodiment, the first signal generator is configured to emit the first signal after the electric toothbrush 1 is in the static state and is placed substantially vertically on the placement surface for a first preset time. The preset time can be set by the user, and in order to avoid mistaken triggering, it can be set to tens of seconds or minutes, which will not be limited here. Embodiment

[0086] Reference Figures 1-5In the embodiment shown in the figure, the basic structure (the housing 11, the brush head 12, the driver 14, etc.) of the electric toothbrush 1 is basically the same as that in Embodiment One or Two, and will not be described in detail here. In this embodiment, the housing 11 of the electric toothbrush 1 defines a receiving space 113 with an opening 114. The brush head 12 for cleaning teeth has a receiving position and a use position. The driver 14 is configured to drive the brush head 12 to move through the opening 114 between the receiving position and the use position. The controller is configured to control the driver 14. In this embodiment, the electric toothbrush 1 further comprises a first signal generator (not shown in the figure) configured to generate a first signal after the electric toothbrush 1 is stationary for a first preset time. The controller is configured to control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to switch from the use position to the receiving position after receiving or obtaining the first signal. The structure of the toothbrush 1 and the signal generator in this embodiment can refer to the description in the above embodiments, and will not be described in detail here. Embodiments

[0087] Reference Figures 7-11 , Figure 7 A structural schematic diagram of a tooth cleaning system according to an embodiment. Figure 8 A schematic sectional view of an electric toothbrush in a receiving position according to an embodiment. Figure 9 A schematic sectional view of an electric toothbrush in a use position according to an embodiment. Figure 10 A state diagram of a change of a brush head from a use position to a receiving position after a toothbrush is placed on a base according to an embodiment. Figure 11 A state diagram of a change of a brush head from a receiving position to a use position after a toothbrush is separated from a base according to an embodiment. The tooth cleaning system in this embodiment comprises a toothbrush 1 and a base. In this embodiment, the basic structure (the housing 11, the brush head 12, the driver 14, etc.) of the electric toothbrush 1 is basically the same as that in Embodiment One or Two, and will not be described in detail here. The base is configured to dock with the toothbrush 1. The base can be configured to place the toothbrush 1 and / or charge the toothbrush 1. The shape and placement position of the base are not limited in detail. The base can be placed on a horizontal surface to support the toothbrush 1 or on a wall to support and / or charge the toothbrush 1. The charging mode can be wireless charging. The base can have multiple storage positions or charging positions to facilitate the storage and / or charging of multiple toothbrushes 1.

[0088] The toothbrush further comprises a driver 14 configured to drive the brush head 12 to move between the receiving position and the use position. The driver 14 is generally a driving motor configured to drive the brush rod 13 through a transmission structure to drive the brush head 12 to move. The transmission structure can be any structure as long as it can achieve the transmission function. In other embodiments, the driver 14 can also be other devices that can provide power, which are not limited here.

[0089] The electric toothbrush 1 further comprises a controller (not shown in the figure) configured to control the driver 14. The controller generally controls the start and stop of the electric toothbrush 1, and can also control the frequency of the brush head 12 by controlling the vibration motor. The controller is arranged on a circuit board and can use conventional electrical components, which are not described in detail here. The controller can also control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12 to move between the use position and the storage position.

[0090] The base 2 is used to dock the toothbrush 1, and can be used to place the toothbrush 1 and charge the toothbrush 1. The shape and placement position of the base 2 are not limited in detail, and the base 2 can be placed on a horizontal surface to support the toothbrush 1, or can be placed on a wall to support the toothbrush 1 or charge the toothbrush 1. The charging mode can use a wireless charging mode. The base 2 can have multiple storage positions or charging positions at the same time to facilitate the storage or charging of multiple toothbrushes 1 at the same time.

[0091] Reference Figures 10-11 In order to realize automatic retraction of the brush head 12 when no one is operating, so as to ensure that the toothbrush 1 is isolated from the outside world after use and further sterilized.

[0092] The toothbrush 1 further comprises a driver 14 for driving the brush head 12 to move between the storage position and the use position, and a controller configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position after the toothbrush 1 is docked to the base 2, or configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position after the toothbrush 1 is removed from the base 2. With this control structure, when the toothbrush 1 is placed on the base 2 or the toothbrush 1 is close to the base 2 for charging, it means that the user has finished cleaning, and at this time, the brush head 12 can be automatically moved from the use position to the storage position. In this way, the user needs to actively control the brush head 12, and after using the toothbrush 1, the brush head 12 can be automatically retracted into the cavity and can be dried and sterilized. Alternatively, the brush head 12 is removed from the base 2, which means that the user needs to clean the teeth, and therefore the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position. With the above control method, the user does not need to actively control the brush head 12, which is more convenient to use,

[0093] On the basis of embodiment seven, the toothbrush 1 is provided with a first detection device 15 (such as a gyroscope, an accelerometer, a camera, etc.) arranged on the toothbrush 1 to detect the position of the toothbrush 1 relative to the base 2. Figure 7In the embodiment shown, the first detection device 15 is configured to send a first signal after the toothbrush 1 is docked to the base 2, and the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position in response to the first signal. Specifically, the first detection device 15 can be a Hall sensor, and a magnet is provided on the base 2. When the toothbrush 1 approaches the base 2, the Hall sensor generates a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position in response to the signal. Of course, the toothbrush 1 can also be provided with a mechanical switch, which is adapted to the structure on the base 2. When the toothbrush 1 is placed on the base 2, the mechanical switch is triggered, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position. The controller can control the brush head 12 immediately. The controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position after the toothbrush 1 is docked to the base 2 for a preset time. That is, the controller can also control the brush head 12 after the preset time, which can be a few seconds or a few minutes, and the preset time can also be set by the user. It is also understood that the first detection device 15 can also be other structures or devices that can generate a signal when the toothbrush 1 is placed on the base 2. The toothbrush 1 also includes a second detection device for detecting whether the brush head 12 is in the use position. The toothbrush 1 also includes a third detection device for detecting whether the brush head 12 is in the storage position. When the third detection device detects that the brush head 12 is in the storage position, the controller controls the driver 14 to stop. In an embodiment, the toothbrush 1 also includes an alarm device configured to send an alarm signal when the brush head 12 is not in the use position and the storage position. When the brush head 12 is between the use position and the storage position for a long time, it indicates that the toothbrush 1 has an abnormality, and the alarm device sends an alarm signal at this time. The second detection device and the third detection device can also be Hall sensors, and of course can also be other structures.

[0094] Reference Figure 11 On the basis of embodiment seven, the toothbrush 1 is provided with a first detection device 15, which is configured to send a second signal after the toothbrush 1 is removed from the base 2, and the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position in response to the second signal. The first detection device 15 can be a Hall sensor, which sends a signal when the toothbrush 1 is removed from the base 2, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position in response to the signal. The toothbrush 1 also includes a second detection device for detecting whether the brush head 12 is in the use position. The toothbrush 1 also includes a third detection device for detecting whether the brush head 12 is in the storage position. When the second detection device detects that the brush head 12 is in the use position, the controller controls the driver 14 to stop. In an embodiment, the toothbrush 1 also includes an alarm device configured to send an alarm signal when the brush head 12 is not in the use position and the storage position. When the brush head 12 is between the use position and the storage position for a long time, it indicates that the toothbrush 1 has an abnormality, and the alarm device sends an alarm signal at this time.

[0095] On the basis of embodiment seven, the toothbrush 1 is provided with a rechargeable battery, and the controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to be located in the storage position when the rechargeable battery is in a charging state. Specifically, the base 2 is provided with charging contacts or a wireless charging coil, when the toothbrush 1 is placed on the base 2, the base 2 connected to the mains starts to charge the battery, at this time, the circuit board connected to the battery will generate a charging signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to move from the use position to the storage position according to the charging signal. When the toothbrush 1 is removed from the base 2, the charging signal disappears, at this time, the controller can control the brush head 12 to move from the storage position to the use position. It can be understood here that when the battery is fully charged, there will still be a charging signal, but the battery will not be charged again, but as long as the toothbrush 1 is connected to the base 2, this charging signal will exist until the toothbrush 1 is removed from the base 2.

[0096] On the basis of embodiment seven, the toothbrush 1 further includes a control button 16, which is configured to control the brush head 12 to switch between the use position and the storage position.

[0097] The controller is configured to control the brush head 12 to switch from the use position to the storage position after the brush head 12 is connected to the base 2 when the brush head 12 is in the use position. If the toothbrush 1 is already in the storage position before being placed on the base 2, the controller at this time does not need to issue instructions to control the driver 14 to drive the brush head 12. Embodiment

[0098] In this embodiment, the structure of the electric toothbrush 1 is no longer described in detail, and the control method of the electric toothbrush 1 is described in detail here. As follows:

[0099] The application discloses a control method for an electric toothbrush 1, comprising:

[0100] Receiving / acquiring the first signal generated by the first signal generator 19, the first signal being a signal generated by the first signal generator 19 when the electric toothbrush 1 switches from a first state to a second state and after a first preset time; and controlling the brush head 12 of the electric toothbrush 1 to switch between the use position and the storage position according to the first signal.

[0101] In one embodiment, the first state can be that the entire toothbrush 1 is in a non-stationary state, and the second state is that the entire toothbrush 1 is in a stationary state. When the toothbrush 1 is converted from the non-stationary state to the stationary state and maintained in the stationary state for a period of time, it indicates that the user has completed the cleaning work, at this time, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller can control the brush head 12 to switch from the use position to the storage position. In order to ensure that it is not triggered by mistake, the time of the toothbrush 1 in the stationary state can be set to be longer, for example, several minutes or tens of minutes, to give the user sufficient time.

[0102] In another embodiment, the first state can be that the brush head 12 is in a vibrating state, and the second state can be a non-vibrating state. When the brush head 12 is switched from the vibrating state to the non-vibrating state and remains in the stationary state for a period of time, it indicates that the user has completed the cleaning work. At this time, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller can control the brush head 12 to switch from the use position to the storage position. In order to ensure that it is not triggered by mistake, the time of the toothbrush 1 in the non-vibrating state can be set to be long, for example, several minutes or tens of minutes, to give the user sufficient time.

[0103] In other embodiments, the first state can be other states indicating that the user is using the toothbrush 1 in addition to the non-stationary state or the vibrating state, for example: a non-charging state of the battery, a continuous current output, or a pressure state of a pressure sensor on the handle of the toothbrush 1, and the like, which will not be described here.

[0104] In other embodiments, the first state can be the stationary state, or other states that can reflect that the toothbrush 1 is not used (for example: a charging state, etc.), and the second state can be the non-stationary state or other states that can reflect that the toothbrush 1 is about to be used (for example: a non-charging state, etc.). At this time, the first signal generator 19 generates a signal, and the controller controls the brush head 12 to switch from the storage position to the use position. In this process, the user does not need to perform additional operations, and the use is more convenient. Embodiments

[0105] In this embodiment, the structure of the electric toothbrush 1 will not be described in detail, and the control method of the electric toothbrush 1 will be described in detail as follows.

[0106] The application discloses a control method for an electric toothbrush 1, comprising:

[0107] receiving / acquiring a first signal generated by a first signal generator 19;

[0108] receiving / acquiring a second signal generated by a second signal generator;

[0109] controlling the movement of the brush head 12 of the electric toothbrush 1 between the use position and the storage position in response to the first signal and the second signal.

[0110] The first signal can be one of a charging signal of a charging battery, a Hall signal of a Hall sensor, a signal generated by a mechanical switch, and a signal generated when the toothbrush 1 changes between the stationary state and the non-stationary state.

[0111] The second signal can be another one of the charging signal of the charging battery, the Hall signal of the Hall sensor, the signal generated by the mechanical switch, and the signal generated when the toothbrush 1 changes between the stationary state and the non-stationary state.

[0112] While embodiments of the application have been disclosed in connection with the above specification, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that many modifications, substitutions, and alterations to the embodiments of the application can be made and that many specifically protected details shown can be substituted by other specifically protected details. Accordingly, it is intended that the application not be limited to the specific details shown and described, but that it be given broadest scope indicated by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An electric toothbrush, characterized in that, include: The housing includes a bottom wall, at least a portion of which is used to support the electric toothbrush on a placement surface so that the electric toothbrush is in an upright position. A brush head for cleaning teeth, the brush head having a storage position and a use position; A driver for moving the brush head between the storage position and the use position; A controller configured to control the driver; A first signal generator is installed at the bottom wall; The controller is configured to receive or acquire a first signal generated by the first signal generator when the bottom wall approaches or contacts the placement surface, and then control the brush head to move from the use position to the storage position. The storage location refers to the area where at least part of the brush head is located within the accommodating space defined by the bottom wall and side wall.

2. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The controller is further configured to receive or acquire a second signal generated by the first signal generator when the bottom wall leaves the placement surface, and then control the brush head to move from the storage position to the use position.

3. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Also includes: A control button is located on the side wall of the housing. The controller is configured to receive or acquire signals generated by the control button to control the movement of the brush head between the storage position and the use position.

4. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first signal generator has an enabled state and a disabled state. When the first signal generator is in the disabled state, the first signal generator does not generate a signal or the controller does not respond to the signal generated by the first signal generator.

5. An electric toothbrush, characterized in that, include: The housing includes a bottom wall; the bottom wall of the housing is used to support the electric toothbrush on the placement surface so that the electric toothbrush is stationary. A brush head for cleaning teeth, the brush head having a storage position and a use position; A driver for moving the brush head between the storage position and the use position; A controller configured to control the driver; A first signal generator is disposed at the bottom wall, and the controller is configured to respond to a first signal emitted by the first signal generator when the bottom wall approaches or contacts the placement surface; A second signal generator is configured to emit a second signal after the electric toothbrush has been stationary for a first preset time. The controller is configured to control the driver to switch the brush head from the use position to the storage position after receiving the first signal and the second signal; The storage location refers to the area where at least part of the brush head is located within the accommodating space defined by the bottom wall and side wall.

6. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The controller is configured to control the brush head to move from the storage position to the use position in response to a third signal generated by the first signal generator when the bottom wall leaves the placement surface.

7. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The controller is configured to control the driver to move the brush head from the storage position to the use position in response to a fourth signal emitted by the second signal generator after the electric toothbrush has changed from a stationary state to a non-stationary state.

8. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The controller is configured to drive the brush head from the storage position to the use position in response to a third signal emitted by the first signal generator when the bottom wall leaves the placement surface and a fourth signal emitted by the second signal generator when the electric toothbrush changes from a stationary state to a non-stationary state.

9. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 5, characterized in that, Also includes: A third signal generator is disposed on the side wall of the housing, and the controller is configured to control the movement of the brush head between the storage position and the use position in response to a signal generated by the third signal generator.

10. The electric toothbrush as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first signal generator has an enabled state and a disabled state. When the first signal generator is in the disabled state, the first signal generator does not emit a signal or the controller does not respond to the signal emitted by the first signal generator.

Images