Oral cleaning system, oral cleaning device and procedure

Abstract

The oral cleaning system (900) disclosed herein includes an oral cleaning device (100) and a processing system (500) configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device (100). The processing system (500) includes a response receiving unit (612), a drive information generation unit (613), and a transmission processing unit (616). The response receiving unit (612) receives and answers questions relating to at least one of the user's oral cleaning and the state of the user's oral cavity. The drive information generation unit (613) generates drive information relating to the drive mode of the drive unit (13) of the oral cleaning device (100) based on the received response. The transmission processing unit (616) sends the generated drive information to the oral cleaning device (100). The oral cleaning device (100) includes a drive unit (13) and a control unit (14). The control unit (14) drives the drive unit (13) according to the drive information sent from the processing system (500).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to an oral cleaning system, an oral cleaning device, and a procedure. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an oral cleaning system having an oral cleaning device and a processing system capable of communication, an oral cleaning device used in the oral cleaning system, and a procedure used in the oral cleaning system and the oral cleaning device. Background Technology

[0002] Patent document 1 discloses a system that enables an electric toothbrush to operate in more than one action mode during a brushing event. The system includes an electric toothbrush and a user interface.

[0003] An electric toothbrush has a toothbrush body, a brush head, a motor that drives the brush head, and a controller for the motor. The controller is pre-programmed to generate at least one mode / time curve for the action that, during a brushing event, after the electric toothbrush operates in one action mode at one selected time, automatically changes to at least one other action mode different from the initial action mode at other selected times. The total selection time associated with these action modes constitutes the time of one brushing event.

[0004] The user interface allows users to interact with the interface to initiate actions on the pattern / time curve.

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Publication No. 2009-534081 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0009] In oral cleaning systems used to clean a user's mouth, it is sometimes desirable to improve user convenience.

[0010] The purpose of this disclosure is to improve user convenience.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] One aspect of this disclosure relates to an oral cleaning system comprising an oral cleaning device and a processing system configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device. The processing system includes a response receiving unit, a drive information generation unit, and a transmission processing unit. The response receiving unit receives answers to questions relating to at least one of the following: oral cleaning of a user's mouth and the state of the user's mouth. The drive information generation unit generates drive information related to the drive mode of a drive unit included in the oral cleaning device based on the answers received by the response receiving unit. The transmission processing unit transmits the drive information generated by the drive information generation unit to the oral cleaning device. The oral cleaning device includes the drive unit and a control unit that drives the drive unit according to the drive information transmitted from the processing system.

[0013] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a program used to cause one or more processors in a processing system configured to communicate with an oral cleaning device that drives a drive unit based on drive information to perform response acceptance processing, drive information generation processing, and transmission processing. The response acceptance processing includes accepting and responding to a question relating to at least one of the user's oral cleaning and the state of the user's oral cavity. The drive information generation processing includes generating drive information relating to the drive mode of the drive unit based on the response received through the response acceptance processing. The transmission processing includes sending the drive information generated by the drive information generation processing to the oral cleaning device.

[0014] One aspect of this disclosure relates to an oral cleaning device configured to communicate with a processing system. The oral cleaning device includes a drive unit and a control unit that drives the drive unit based on drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit, transmitted from the processing system.

[0015] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a program used to cause one or more processors in an oral cleaning apparatus having a drive unit and configured to communicate with a processing system to perform drive processing. The drive processing includes driving the drive unit according to drive information related to the drive unit's drive mode sent from the processing system.

[0016] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to an oral cleaning system comprising an oral cleaning device and a processing system configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device. The oral cleaning device includes a brush head, a drive unit, and a detection unit. The drive unit reciprocates the brush head. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head while it is reciprocating under the drive unit's influence. The processing system includes a presentation unit that presents an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head on a portion of the oral cavity based on the physical quantity detected by the detection unit.

[0017] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a program used to cause one or more processors used in a processing system to perform presentation processing, wherein the processing system is configured to communicate with an oral cleaning device that detects physical quantities related to the amplitude of the brush head when the brush head is being reciprocated. The presentation processing includes: presenting an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head on a portion of the oral cavity based on the physical quantities detected by the oral cleaning device.

[0018] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to an oral cleaning device configured to communicate with a processing system having the function of presenting information. The oral cleaning device includes a brush head, a drive unit, a detection unit, and a transmission unit. The drive unit is used to reciprocate the brush head. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head while it is being reciprocated by the drive unit. The transmission unit transmits the physical quantity detected by the detection unit so that the processing system presents an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head on a part of the oral cavity based on the physical quantity detected by the detection unit.

[0019] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to an oral cleaning system comprising an oral cleaning device and a processing system configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device. The processing system includes a camera unit and a display control unit. The display control unit displays a demonstration animation illustrating a cleaning method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device and an image of the perioral region captured by the camera unit, overlapping each other on the same display unit for at least a portion of the display period.

[0020] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a program used to cause one or more processors in a processing system equipped with a camera and configured to communicate with an oral cleaning device to perform display control processing. The display control processing includes displaying a demonstration animation illustrating a cleaning method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device and an image of the perioral region captured by the camera, including a region of the user's oral cavity, on the same display unit in a manner that overlaps with each other for at least a portion of the display period.

[0021] The effects of the invention

[0022] This disclosure has the advantage of improving user convenience. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an oral cleaning system that includes an oral cleaning apparatus and a processing system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view of the oral cleaning device described above.

[0025] Figure 3 This is an explanatory diagram showing the operation of the drive unit of the oral cleaning device described above.

[0026] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a query screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0027] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a query screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0028] Figure 6 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a query screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0029] Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a change screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0030] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing sequence display screen generated by the aforementioned processing system.

[0031] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing sequence setting screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0032] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a process setting screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0033] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a process selection screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0034] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0035] Figure 13 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0036] Figure 14This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0037] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0038] Figure 16 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0039] Figure 17 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a brushing screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0040] Figure 18 This is an explanatory diagram showing the relationship between the amplitude of the brush head of the oral cleaning device described above and the detected physical quantity.

[0041] Figure 19 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a result display screen generated by the aforementioned processing system.

[0042] Figure 20 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a calendar screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0043] Figure 21 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the initial consultation screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0044] Figure 22 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a recommended mode display screen generated by the aforementioned processing system.

[0045] Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing in the oral cleaning system described above.

[0046] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing in the oral cleaning system described above.

[0047] Figure 25 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a deletion screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0048] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing in the oral cleaning system described above.

[0049] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the processing in the oral cleaning system described above.

[0050] Figure 28 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a calendar screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system.

[0051] Figure 29This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a calendar screen displayed by the aforementioned processing system. Detailed Implementation

[0052] The oral cleaning device 100, the processing system 500, and the oral cleaning system 900 according to the embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The figures described in the following embodiments are schematic, and the ratios of the size and thickness of each component in the figures may not reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0053] (1) Summary

[0054] like Figure 1 As shown, the oral cleaning system 900 includes an oral cleaning device 100 and a processing system 500. The oral cleaning system 900 operates by exchanging and receiving data between the oral cleaning device 100 and the processing system 500.

[0055] The oral cavity cleaning device 100 is an electrically powered device for cleaning a user's oral cavity. The oral cavity cleaning device 100 includes a drive unit 13 comprising a motor and a control unit 14 for controlling the drive unit 13. In this embodiment, the oral cavity cleaning device 100 drives the brush head 30 (see reference 100) by the movement of the drive unit 13. Figure 2 The so-called electric toothbrush 1.

[0056] The processing system 500 includes a processing unit 56 and a communication unit 54. The processing unit 56 performs various processes by executing a program (application program). The communication unit 54 is an interface for communicating with the oral cleaning device 100. That is, the processing system 500 is configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device 100.

[0057] The processing unit 56 of the processing system 500 includes a response acceptance unit 612, a drive information generation unit 613, and a transmission processing unit 616.

[0058] The response handling department 612 handles response requests. Response handling includes responding to questions related to at least one of the following: the cleaning of the user's mouth and the condition of the user's mouth.

[0059] The drive information generation unit 613 performs drive information generation processing. The drive information generation processing includes generating drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit 13 provided by the oral cleaning device 100 based on the response received by the response acceptance unit 612 through the response acceptance processing.

[0060] The sending processing unit 616 performs sending processing. The sending processing includes sending the driving information generated by the driving information generation unit 613 through the driving information generation processing to the oral cleaning device 100.

[0061] The control unit 14 (drive control unit 141) of the oral cleaning device 100 drives the drive unit 13 according to the drive information sent from the processing system 500.

[0062] In this embodiment of the oral cleaning system 900, drive information (device operation setting data) is generated based on the answer to a question related to at least one of the user's oral cleaning and the state of the user's oral cavity. Furthermore, the control unit 14 (drive control unit 141) of the oral cleaning device 100 drives the drive unit 13 according to the generated drive information. That is, drive information suitable for the user's oral cavity can be generated simply by the user answering a question. In addition, the generated drive information enables the oral cleaning device 100 to operate in a manner consistent with the state of the user's oral cavity. Therefore, according to this embodiment of the oral cleaning system 900, drive information suitable for each user can be easily created, and the drive unit 13 can be operated according to the created drive information, thus providing the advantage of improved user convenience.

[0063] Furthermore, the program of this embodiment is used to cause one or more processors used in a processing system 500 configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device 100 to perform response acceptance processing, drive information generation processing, and transmission processing, wherein the oral cleaning device 100 drives the drive unit 13 according to the drive information. The response acceptance processing includes accepting and answering questions related to at least one of the user's oral cleaning and the state of the user's oral cavity. The drive information generation processing includes generating drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit 13 based on the answer received through the response acceptance processing. The transmission processing includes sending the drive information generated by the drive information generation processing to the oral cleaning device 100.

[0064] Furthermore, the oral cleaning device 100 of this embodiment is configured to communicate with the processing system 500. The oral cleaning device 100 includes a drive unit 13 and a control unit 14 (drive control unit 141), which drives the drive unit 13 according to drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit 13 sent from the processing system 500.

[0065] Furthermore, the program of this embodiment is used to cause one or more processors used in the oral cleaning device 100 to perform drive processing, wherein the oral cleaning device 100 includes a drive unit 13 and is configured to communicate with the processing system 500. The drive processing includes driving the drive unit 13 according to drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit 13 sent from the processing system 500.

[0066] The above-described procedures and oral cleaning device 100 also improve user convenience.

[0067] Furthermore, in the oral cleaning system 900 of this embodiment, the drive unit 13 of the oral cleaning device 100 is configured to reciprocate the brush head 30. The oral cleaning device 100 also includes a detection unit 19 that detects physical quantities related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 when it is reciprocated by the drive unit 13. Additionally, the processing system 500 includes a presentation unit 633 that performs presentation processing. The presentation processing includes presenting an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head 30 on areas within the oral cavity based on the physical quantities detected by the detection unit 19.

[0068] In this embodiment of the oral cleaning system 900, the estimated state of pressure exerted by the brush head 30 on a part of the oral cavity (e.g., teeth) is presented based on physical quantities related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 detected by the detection unit 19. Therefore, the oral cleaning system 900 of this embodiment has advantages such as being able to notify the user of excessive pressure from the brush head 30, thereby improving user convenience.

[0069] Furthermore, the program of this embodiment is used to cause one or more processors used in the processing system 500 to perform presentation processing, wherein the processing system 500 is configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device 100, which detects physical quantities related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 when the brush head 30 is reciprocating. The presentation processing includes: presenting an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head 30 on a part of the oral cavity based on the physical quantities detected by the oral cleaning device 100.

[0070] Furthermore, the oral cleaning device 100 of this embodiment is configured to communicate with a processing system 500 having the function of presenting information. The oral cleaning device 100 includes a brush head 30, a drive unit 13, a detection unit 19, and a transmission unit (communication unit 20). The drive unit 13 reciprocates the brush head 30. The detection unit 19 detects physical quantities related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 while it is being reciprocated by the drive unit 13. The transmission unit transmits the physical quantities detected by the detection unit 19 so that the processing system 500 can present an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head 30 on the oral cavity based on the physical quantities detected by the detection unit 19.

[0071] The above-described procedures and oral cleaning device 100 also improve user convenience.

[0072] Furthermore, in the oral cavity cleaning system 900 of this embodiment, the processing system 500 includes a camera unit 55 and a display control unit 62. The display control unit 62 performs display control processing. The display control processing includes displaying a demonstration animation W10, which is an example of a cleaning method for cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cavity cleaning device 100, and an image of the perioral cavity obtained by the camera unit 55 capturing an area including the user's oral cavity, on the same display unit 51 in a manner that overlaps with each other for at least a portion of the display period (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0073] In this way, in the oral cleaning system 900 of this embodiment, the demonstration animation W10 and the image of the oral cavity periphery W210 are simultaneously displayed on the display unit 51. Therefore, the oral cleaning system 900 according to this embodiment has the following advantages: the user can clean the oral cavity while simultaneously viewing both the demonstration animation W10 and the image of the oral cavity periphery W210, thereby improving user convenience.

[0074] Furthermore, the program of this embodiment is used to cause one or more processors used in the processing system 500 to perform display control processing, wherein the processing system 500 includes a camera unit 55 and is configured to communicate with the oral cavity cleaning device 100. The display control processing includes displaying a demonstration animation W10, which is an example of a cleaning method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cavity cleaning device 100, and an image of the perioral cavity obtained by the camera unit 55 capturing an area including the user's oral cavity, on the same display unit 51 in a manner that overlaps with each other at least for a portion of the display period.

[0075] The above procedures can also improve user convenience.

[0076] (2) Detailed content

[0077] The oral cleaning device 100, the processing system 500, and the oral cleaning system 900 of this embodiment will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0078] As described above, the oral cleaning device 100 of this embodiment is a so-called electric toothbrush 1. Therefore, in the following description, the oral cleaning device 100 will sometimes be referred to as "electric toothbrush 1".

[0079] Furthermore, the processing system 500 of this embodiment includes a portable information terminal (terminal device) 5. In particular, in this embodiment, the processing system 500 only includes the information terminal 5.

[0080] (2.1) Oral cleaning device

[0081] First, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2The oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) will be described.

[0082] like Figure 2 As shown, the electric toothbrush 1 includes a main body 10 and a brush head 30. The brush head 30 is mounted to the main body 10 in a manner that allows it to be detached from the main body 10.

[0083] Below, as an example, we define three mutually orthogonal axes: the X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. Specifically, the axis along the length of the main body 10 is designated as the "Z-axis," and the axis along the direction in which the bristles 31 of the brush head 30 extend when the brush head 30 is mounted on the main body 10 is designated as the "X-axis." The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis are all virtual axes; the arrows representing "X," "Y," and "Z" in the figure are merely for illustrative purposes and do not represent actual objects. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the direction from the main body 10 to the brush head 30 along the Z-axis when the brush head 30 is mounted on the main body 10 will sometimes be referred to as "up," and the opposite direction as "down." However, these directions are not intended to limit the direction in which the electric toothbrush 1 is used.

[0084] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 As shown, the main body 10 includes a housing 11, a shaft 12, a drive unit 13, a control unit 14, a storage unit 15, a power supply unit 16, an operation unit 17, a status display unit 18, a detection unit 19, and a communication unit 20.

[0085] The housing 11 includes a main housing 111, a cover 112, and a bottom 113. The housing 11 is used to hold the shaft 12, drive unit 13, control unit 14, storage unit 15, power supply unit 16, operation unit 17, status display unit 18, detection unit 19, and communication unit 20.

[0086] like Figure 2 As shown, the main housing 111 is a cylindrical shape extending along the Z-axis, with openings at both ends (upper and lower). A cover 112 is mounted to the main housing 111 such that it covers the opening at the upper end of the main housing 111. A bottom 113 is mounted to the main housing 111 such that it covers the opening at the lower end of the main housing 111. The cover 112 has an opening that allows the shaft 12 to protrude to the outside when mounted to the upper end of the main housing 111.

[0087] The shaft 12 is a shaft extending along the Z-axis. The brush head 30 is detachably mounted on the shaft 12. More specifically, the upper end of the shaft 12 protrudes from the top of the housing 11, and the brush head 30 is detachably mounted at this upper end. On the other hand, the lower end of the shaft 12 is housed within the housing 11 and connected to the drive unit 13 inside the housing 11. Thus, the power generated by the drive unit 13 is transmitted to the brush head 30 via the shaft 12.

[0088] The drive unit 13 is configured to drive the shaft 12. The drive unit 13 includes a first drive unit 131 and a second drive unit 132.

[0089] The first drive unit 131 is configured to cause the shaft 12 to reciprocate linearly along its axial direction (along the Z-axis). Specifically, the first drive unit 131 includes a linear motor that reciprocates along the Z-axis. When the shaft 12 reciprocates linearly along the Z-axis via the first drive unit 131, the brush head 30 also reciprocates linearly along the Z-axis. In summary, the drive unit 13 (first drive unit 131) is configured to reciprocate and drive the brush head 30. The first drive unit 131 causes the shaft 12 to reciprocate linearly at a frequency of several hundred hertz (Hz) and an amplitude on the order of millimeters. As an example, the first drive unit 131 causes the shaft 12 to reciprocate linearly at a frequency of 260 Hz.

[0090] The second drive unit 132 is configured to vibrate the shaft 12 in the X-axis direction. Specifically, the second drive unit 132 includes a vibration motor, which is mounted eccentrically on the output shaft of the motor with its weights on it. The second drive unit 132 is driven by the motor to provide a force to the shaft 12 to vibrate in the X-axis direction.

[0091] The control unit 14 is electrically connected to the drive unit 13, storage unit 15, power supply unit 16, operation unit 17, status display unit 18, detection unit 19, and communication unit 20. The control unit 14 controls the operation of the drive unit 13, storage unit 15, power supply unit 16, status display unit 18, detection unit 19, and communication unit 20.

[0092] The control unit 14 includes, for example, a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. The microcontroller performs the functions of the control unit 14 by executing programs stored in one or more memories through one or more processors. The programs can be pre-recorded in memory, provided on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, or provided via electrical communication lines. In other words, the program described above is a program used to enable one or more processors to function as the control unit 14.

[0093] The control unit 14 includes a drive control unit 141 and an action setting unit 142.

[0094] The drive control unit 141 drives the drive unit 13 according to an electrical signal from the operation unit 17. The drive control unit 141 controls the operation of the drive unit 13 according to a predetermined drive mode (pre-set during the manufacture of the electric toothbrush 1). The drive mode includes the amplitude and frequency of the linear motor of the first drive unit 131 and the frequency of the motor of the second drive unit 132. That is, the drive control unit 141 controls the amplitude and frequency of the linear motor of the first drive unit 131 and the frequency of the motor of the second drive unit 132 according to the drive mode. The electric toothbrush 1 of this embodiment has multiple drive modes as drive modes. The drive control unit 141 drives the drive unit 13 according to any one of the multiple drive modes.

[0095] Here, multiple drive modes include five drive modes: drive mode 1 through drive mode 5.

[0096] The first drive mode is a mode in which both the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 operate to move the brush head 30 along the Z-axis and X-axis directions. Hereinafter, the first drive mode is sometimes referred to as the "W-CLEAN mode".

[0097] The second drive mode is a mode in which only the first drive unit 131 is activated to cause the brush head 30 to reciprocate along the Z-axis. That is, the second drive mode is a mode in which there is no amplitude in the X-axis direction. Hereinafter, the second drive mode is sometimes referred to as the "NORMAL mode".

[0098] The third drive mode is a mode in which only the first drive unit 131 is activated to cause the brush head 30 to reciprocate along the Z-axis. Compared to the second drive mode, the third drive mode has a smaller amplitude of linear motor (and therefore a smaller amplitude of brush head 30). Hereinafter, the third drive mode is sometimes referred to as "SOFT mode".

[0099] The fourth drive mode is a mode in which only the first drive unit 131 is activated to cause the brush head 30 to reciprocate along the Z-axis. The fourth drive mode has a smaller amplitude of linear motor compared to the third drive mode. Hereinafter, the fourth drive mode is sometimes referred to as the "SENSITIVE mode".

[0100] The fifth drive mode is a mode in which both the first drive unit 131 and the second drive unit 132 operate to move the brush head 30 along the Z-axis and X-axis directions. Drive modes 1 through 4 are primarily for brushing teeth; in contrast, drive mode 5 is primarily for gum massage. Hereinafter, drive mode 5 will sometimes be referred to as the "W-GUMCARE mode".

[0101] The drive control unit 141 controls the operation of the first drive unit 131 in such a way that the amplitude of the linear motor of the first drive unit 131 is a fixed value preset for each drive mode.

[0102] Figure 3 This is a graph showing the changes in the back electromotive force voltage L1 generated by the linear motor and the current L2 output to the linear motor over time when the amplitude of the linear motor of the first drive unit 131 is controlled to a fixed value by the drive control unit 141. Figure 3 As shown, observing the linear motor during one reciprocating cycle (T1), the current L2 output to the linear motor is set to 0 during a predetermined period T2 immediately following the reciprocating turning point P1. During this period T2, the linear motor moves due to the inertial force of the reciprocating motion, generating a back electromotive force voltage L1 in the linear motor that is approximately proportional to the amplitude of the reciprocating motion. Figure 3 As shown, the change of back electromotive force voltage L1 during the period T2 can be approximately represented by a linear function. The larger the slope of this linear function, the larger the back electromotive force voltage L1, and therefore the linear motor drives with a larger amplitude. Conversely, the smaller the slope, the smaller the back electromotive force voltage L1, and therefore the linear motor drives with a smaller amplitude.

[0103] The drive control unit 141 reads the value of the back electromotive force voltage L1 at time point P2, which is a predetermined time (< period T2) elapsed from the turnaround point P1. Then, the drive control unit 141 uses a conversion table representing the correspondence between the back electromotive force voltage L1 value and the electrical power to determine the electrical power corresponding to the read back electromotive force voltage L1 value. The drive control unit 141 supplies a current L2 corresponding to the determined electrical power to the linear motor. Thus, the drive control unit 141 controls the amplitude of the reciprocating motion of the linear motor to a fixed amplitude. Alternatively, the drive control unit 141 may use an arithmetic expression representing the correspondence between the back electromotive force voltage L1 value and the electrical power instead of a conversion table, or it may use an arithmetic expression in addition to using a conversion table to determine the electrical power. Furthermore, the conversion table is pre-stored in the storage unit 15 for each of the multiple drive modes (drive modes 1 to 5).

[0104] The drive control unit 141 drives the drive unit 13 according to a "course". The "course" followed by the drive control unit 141 is selected by the action setting unit 142.

[0105] In this embodiment, the action setting unit 142 selects a process from a predetermined number (3) of processes stored in the storage unit 15 based on the operation of the operation unit 17.

[0106] For example, after the user operates the operation button 171 of the operation unit 17 to turn on the power of the electric toothbrush 1, the action setting unit 142 selects a process from a predetermined number of processes based on the number of times the operation button 171 is operated within a predetermined time.

[0107] In this disclosure, "process" refers to information indicating the driving content of the drive unit 13 when a user performs oral cleaning once using the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1).

[0108] The process includes a combination of the duration of the action time for driving the drive unit 13 and the drive mode for driving the drive unit 13. The action time in the process is the time required for one complete cleaning of the user's oral cavity. The drive mode in the process is a drive mode selected from the first to fifth drive modes mentioned above.

[0109] In a process, the operation time is divided into multiple cleaning times, and different drive modes can be set for each cleaning time. For example, the operation time is divided into 16 cleaning times, from the first cleaning time to the 16th cleaning time, and one of the drive modes, from the first drive mode to the 5th drive mode, can be set for each of the 1st to the 16th cleaning times. That is, when the drive control unit 141 drives the drive unit 13 according to this "process", it drives the drive unit 13 in the drive mode set for the first cleaning time during the first cleaning time. In addition, after the first cleaning time ends, the drive control unit 141 drives the drive unit 13 in the drive mode set for the second cleaning time during the second cleaning time. The drive control unit 141 performs the same operation until the 16th cleaning time ends.

[0110] The "process" can be created by the user using the processing system 500 (information terminal 5), and the created process is sent from the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) to the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1), as detailed later. The process sent from the processing system 500 is stored in the storage unit 15 via the action setting unit 142. Hereinafter, the process will also be referred to as "drive information".

[0111] The storage unit 15 may include, for example, electrically rewritable non-volatile memory such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) and volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory). Alternatively, the storage unit 15 may be an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 15 stores process information (drive information) received from the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) via the communication unit 20. The storage unit 15 may also serve as the memory for the microcontroller constituting the control unit 14.

[0112] The power supply unit 16 supplies power for operation to various parts of the electric toothbrush 1. The power supply unit 16 includes, for example, a rechargeable battery and a charging / discharging circuit. The rechargeable battery is, for example, a lithium-ion battery. The charging / discharging circuit controls the charging and discharging of the rechargeable battery. The charging / discharging circuit includes, for example, a receiving coil. The receiving coil receives energy from the power supply coil through electromagnetic induction with an external power supply coil and outputs it to the rechargeable battery. That is, the charging / discharging circuit charges the rechargeable battery in a contactless manner.

[0113] The operation unit 17 receives user operations. The operation unit 17 outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the received user operation to the control unit 14. The operation unit 17 may include, for example, a mechanical switch such as a push-button switch or a slide switch. In this embodiment, the operation unit 17 includes an operation button 171 that includes a mechanical switch. Figure 2 As shown, the operation button 171 is located on the side of the main housing 111 of the housing 11.

[0114] The operation unit 17 handles the start and stop of the operation of the drive unit 13 based on the user's operation of the operation button 171. In addition, the operation unit 17 handles process switching based on the user's operation of the operation button 171.

[0115] More specifically, in the electric toothbrush 1 of this embodiment, when the operation button 171 is operated while the drive unit 13 is stopped, the power to the electric toothbrush 1 is turned on. Furthermore, the action setting unit 142 selects the first process out of a predetermined number (3 processes), and the drive control unit 141 causes the drive unit 13 to begin operating according to the process selected by the action setting unit 142 (the first process). Additionally, when the operation button 171 is operated within a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) from the start of the operation of the first process by the drive unit 13, the action setting unit 142 selects the second process out of the three processes, and the drive control unit 141 causes the drive unit 13 to begin operating according to the process selected by the action setting unit 142 (the second process). Furthermore, when the operation button 171 is operated within a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) from the start of the second process from the start of the operation from the drive unit 13, the action setting unit 142 selects the third process out of the three processes, and the drive control unit 141 causes the drive unit 13 to start operating according to the process (the third process) selected by the action setting unit 142. Additionally, when the operation button 171 is operated within a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) from the start of the third process from the start of the operation from the drive unit 13, the drive control unit 141 causes the operation of the drive unit 13 to end.

[0116] In other words, the control unit 14 (action setting unit 142) accepts process switching during a predetermined time (e.g., 5 seconds) from the start of each process from the drive unit 13. On the other hand, when the predetermined time has elapsed since the start of each process from the drive unit 13, the control unit 14 (action setting unit 142) determines the process.

[0117] When operation button 171 is operated after the process has been determined, drive control unit 141 pauses the operation of drive unit 13. If operation button 171 is operated again within a predetermined standby time (e.g., 5 seconds) since the operation of drive unit 13 was paused, drive control unit 141 resumes the operation of drive unit 13 according to each process. Conversely, if operation button 171 has not been operated and the standby time has elapsed since the operation of drive unit 13 was paused, drive control unit 141 terminates the operation of drive unit 13 according to the process.

[0118] When the control unit 14 changes the operation of the drive unit 13 (start, end, pause, resume, process switching) according to the operation of the operation unit 17, the communication unit 20 sends a status signal indicating the status of the changed drive unit 13 to the processing system 500 (information terminal 5).

[0119] The status display unit 18 displays the status of the electric toothbrush 1. The status display unit 18 has multiple light sources, and displays multiple statuses of the electric toothbrush 1 by switching the illumination states of the multiple light sources. The status display unit 18 is disposed on the side of the main housing 111 of the housing 11. The status display unit 18 includes a progress display unit 181, a charging display unit 182, a connection display unit 183, and a communication display unit 184. The progress display unit 181, charging display unit 182, connection display unit 183, and communication display unit 184 are arranged in a row along the Z-axis on the side of the main housing 111 of the housing 11, together with the operation button 171.

[0120] The process display unit 181 has multiple display windows (here, the number of processes stored in the storage unit 15: 3) and multiple light sources corresponding to each of the multiple display windows (here, 3). The process display unit 181 displays the selected process by illuminating one of the multiple light sources.

[0121] The charging display unit 182 has multiple (three in this case) display windows and multiple (three in this case) light sources corresponding to each of the multiple display windows. The charging display unit 182 displays the remaining capacity of the rechargeable battery by illuminating one or more of the three light sources.

[0122] The connection display unit 183 includes a display window and a light source corresponding to the display window. The connection display unit 183 displays whether the charging coil of the charging and discharging circuit is energized with the power supply coil (i.e., whether the rechargeable battery is charging) by switching the light source on and off.

[0123] The communication display unit 184 includes a display window and a corresponding light source. The communication display unit 184 displays whether a wireless connection (link) has been established between the communication unit 20 and the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) by switching the light source on and off.

[0124] The process display unit 181, charging display unit 182, and communication display unit 184, which are equipped with multiple light sources, use, for example, blue LEDs (i.e., Light Emitting Diodes), while the light source connected to display unit 183 is, for example, a red LED. However, this is not a limitation; the multiple light sources may each include LEDs of any emitting color, or they may include light sources other than LEDs. Furthermore, it is not necessary for the process display unit 181 and charging display unit 182 to have multiple display windows. For example, one display window may correspond to multiple light sources of different emitting colors, and different states may be displayed by switching the lit light sources.

[0125] The detection unit 19 detects a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 when the brush head 30 is reciprocated by the drive unit 13 (first drive unit 131). As described above, in the reciprocating motion of the linear motor, at the turning point P1 (reference point P1), the detection unit 19 detects a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head 30. Figure 3 The back electromotive force voltage L1 generated in the linear motor during the specified period T2 is approximately proportional to the amplitude of the brush head 30. Therefore, the detection unit 19 detects the value of the back electromotive force voltage L1 at time point P2 within each period T1 as a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head 30. For convenience, the value of the back electromotive force voltage L1 at time point P2 (a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head 30) will be referred to as the "SPD value".

[0126] The detection unit 19 sends information indicating the detected physical quantity (SPD value) to the control unit 14. The control unit 14 then sends a detection signal containing the information (SPD value) received from the detection unit 19 to the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) via the communication unit 20. In summary, the communication unit 20 functions as a transmitter that sends the physical quantity (SPD value) detected by the detection unit 19. Furthermore, the control unit 14 may also transmit all SPD values ​​detected in each cycle as a detection signal, or it may transmit the detection signal at appropriate time intervals (e.g., every few cycles).

[0127] The communication unit 20 has a communication function for wireless communication using radio waves. The communication unit 20 has a function for receiving wireless signals from the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) and a function for transmitting wireless signals to the processing system 500 (information terminal 5). The communication unit 20 performs wireless communication, for example, using Bluetooth Low Energy. However, it is not limited to this; the communication method of the communication unit 20 may also be other wireless communication methods such as Wi-Fi. Furthermore, the communication unit 20 may also have a communication interface that allows it to connect to the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) via a wired connection.

[0128] (2.2) Structure of Information Terminal

[0129] Next, refer to Figure 1 The structure of the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) will be described. As described above, in this embodiment, the processing system 500 only includes the information terminal 5.

[0130] Information terminal 5 is implemented, for example, through a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or tablet owned by the user of the oral cleaning device 100 or their family member, or a personal computer. In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the user's smartphone is the information terminal 5.

[0131] like Figure 1 As shown, the information terminal 5 includes a display unit 51, an operation unit 52, a voice interface unit 53, a communication unit 54, a camera unit 55, a processing unit 56, and a storage unit 57. In this embodiment, as described above, the information terminal 5 is a general-purpose smartphone. This information terminal 5 has dedicated application software installed, and functions as an information terminal 5 by launching this application software.

[0132] Display unit 51 includes, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display. Display unit 51 displays various images based on user input to operation unit 52. In other words, display unit 51 displays various information to the user.

[0133] The operation unit 52 receives user operations and outputs signals corresponding to those operations. In this embodiment, the information terminal 5 is a general-purpose smartphone, and the operation unit 52 and the display unit 51 are integrated to form a touch panel display. In the touch panel display, the information terminal 5 determines that an operation has been performed on an object such as a button by detecting operations (tapping, sliding, or dragging) on ​​various screens displayed on the display unit 51 by the operation unit 52. In other words, in addition to displaying various information, the display unit 51 and the operation unit 52 also function as a user interface for receiving user input.

[0134] The voice interface unit 53 has both voice input and voice output functions. That is, the voice interface unit 53 receives the user's voice through a microphone and outputs sound through a speaker. Through the voice interface unit 53, the user can operate the information terminal 5 via voice input and receive information from the information terminal 5 via voice output.

[0135] The communication unit 54 has a communication function that enables wireless communication via radio waves with the communication unit 20 of the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1). The communication unit 54 performs wireless communication, for example, using Bluetooth Low Energy. However, it is not limited to this; the communication method of the communication unit 54 can also be other wireless communication methods such as Wi-Fi. Furthermore, the communication unit 54 may also have a communication interface that allows for wired connection with the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1).

[0136] The camera unit 55 is a so-called camera used to capture images. The camera area of ​​the camera unit 55 is set such that, in the normal state where the user is viewing the display unit 51 of the information terminal 5, the area including the user's mouth is included within the camera area. That is, when the image captured by the camera unit 55 while the user is viewing the display unit 51 is displayed on the display unit 51, the display unit 51 displays an image obtained from a frontal view of the area around the user's mouth.

[0137] The processing unit 56 controls the operation of each part of the information terminal 5. The processing unit 56 is primarily structured as a computer system having one or more processors and one or more memories. In the information terminal 5, the functions of the processing unit 56 are achieved by one or more processors executing programs recorded in memory. The programs can be pre-recorded in memory, provided via electrical communication lines such as the Internet, or provided via non-transitory recording media such as memory cards. The processing unit 56 will be described later.

[0138] The storage unit 57 may include, for example, electrically rewritable non-volatile memory such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) and volatile memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory). Alternatively, the storage unit 57 may be an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 57 stores information (drive information) of the process created by the processing unit 56 (the process creation unit 610 described later). The storage unit 57 may also serve as the memory of the microcontroller constituting the processing unit 56.

[0139] (2.3) Processing Department

[0140] The processing unit 56 will now be explained.

[0141] like Figure 1 As shown, the processing unit 56 includes a process control unit 61, a display control unit 62, and an evaluation unit 63. The process control unit 61, the display control unit 62, and the evaluation unit 63 do not represent physical structures, but rather the functions implemented by the processing unit 56.

[0142] (2.3.1) Process

[0143] like Figure 1 As shown, the process control unit 61 includes a process creation unit 610 and a process setting unit 615.

[0144] The process creation unit 610 is configured to create the aforementioned process (driver information). The process creation unit 610 uses the display unit 51 and operation unit 52 (touch panel display) of the information terminal 5 to create a process suitable for the user in a manner that interacts with the user.

[0145] As mentioned above, process (driving information) includes a combination of information about the action time and information about the driving mode.

[0146] Here, the process (driving information) contains basic action data, and optionally, can contain specific action data.

[0147] Basic motion data refers to the data used to clean the entire dental arch in the mouth using an electric toothbrush 1. Basic motion data includes a combination of motion time and drive mode information.

[0148] Specific motion data refers to data used when an electric toothbrush 1 is used to clean a specific arrangement of teeth in a user's dentition. Specific motion data includes a combination of motion timing information and drive mode information.

[0149] The process creation unit 610 presents a question to the user. Based on the answer to the question, the process creation unit 610 determines the action time and driving mode in the basic action data, and determines whether the driving information contains specific action data. If specific action data is included, the process creation unit 610 determines the action time and driving mode in the specific action data.

[0150] like Figure 1 As shown, the process creation unit 610 includes a questioning unit 611, an answer receiving unit 612, and a driving information generation unit 613.

[0151] The question-and-answer section 611 presents questions to the user that relate to at least one of the user's oral hygiene or the state of the user's oral cavity. The answer-receiving section 612 handles the answers to the questions presented by the question-and-answer section 611.

[0152] Here, the question-asking unit 611 presents a question to the user by displaying various screens on the display unit 51. The screens displayed on the display unit 51 by the question-asking unit 611 can include multiple options (option objects). That is, the question presented by the question-asking unit 611 is a selection question. The answer-receiving unit 612 receives an answer based on the user's operation on the screens of the display unit 51. The answer-receiving unit 612 receives an answer to the question based on the user's operation on one of the multiple option objects included in the screens displayed on the display unit 51.

[0153] In this embodiment, the questions presented by the questioning unit 611 include questions related to the cleaning of the user's mouth and questions related to the state of the user's mouth. That is, the questioning unit 611 presents multiple questions.

[0154] Questions related to oral hygiene include questions about brushing teeth. For example, questions about how a user usually brushes their teeth (i.e., questions about their usual brushing routine).

[0155] Questions related to the user's brushing include questions about the intensity of brushing. The intensity of brushing refers, for example, to at least one selected from the group consisting of the pressure applied to the teeth by the brush head 30 (bristles 31) and the speed at which the brush head 30 (bristles 31) moves relative to the teeth. The questioning unit 611 presents questions related to the intensity of brushing as questions, and the answer processing unit 612 processes answers related to the intensity of brushing as answers.

[0156] Questions related to brushing include those concerning the length of time brushing, i.e., brushing time. Question department 611 presents questions related to brushing time as questions, and answer processing department 612 processes answers related to brushing time as answers.

[0157] Questioning department 611 and answer receiving department 612, for example Figure 4 The basic question screen D1 shown is displayed on the display unit 51, and answers related to the intensity and duration of brushing are received based on the user's operation on the basic question screen D1.

[0158] Figure 4 This is an example of a basic question screen D1 displayed on the display unit 51. The basic question screen D1 includes a first question area R1, a first answer area R2, a second question area R3, and a second answer area R4. In this embodiment, when the basic question screen D1 is divided into four areas along the longitudinal direction (along the direction of the long side of the basic question screen D1), the first question area R1, the first answer area R2, the second question area R3, and the second answer area R4 are set in a top-to-bottom order.

[0159] The first question area R1 is used to display questions related to brushing intensity. For example, it displays a string like "Please select intensity" as a question related to brushing intensity. The first answer area R2 is used to handle responses to questions related to brushing intensity. For example, it displays multiple option objects. These multiple option objects include four options: "Stronger," "Normal," "Weaker," and "Very Weak" (B1-B4).

[0160] The second question area R3 is used to display questions related to brushing time. For example, it displays a string like "Please select a brushing time" as a question related to brushing time. The second answer area R4 is used to answer questions related to brushing time. It displays multiple options, such as "Normal (approximately 2 minutes)," "Slightly longer (approximately 3 minutes)," and "Careful brushing (approximately 4 minutes)" (B5-B7).

[0161] Questions related to the state of the user's oral cavity include questions related to the state of the user's gums. That is, the questioning unit 611 presents questions related to the state of the gums as questions, and the answer receiving unit 612 receives answers related to the state of the gums as answers. Here, the answer receiving unit 612 receives inputs regarding the state of the oral cavity for each of the multiple segmented regions Cn (n is a natural number) obtained by segmenting the oral cavity.

[0162] Questioning department 611 and answer receiving department 612, for example Figure 5 The status query screen D2 shown is displayed on the display unit 51, and answers are given to questions related to the status of the gums based on the user's operation on the status query screen D2.

[0163] Figure 5 This is an example of a status query screen D2 displayed on the display unit 51. The status query screen D2 includes a third question area R5 and a third answer area R6. In this embodiment, the third answer area R6 is set below the third question area R5 in the status query screen D2.

[0164] Question area R5 (Section 3) is used to display questions related to the user's gum condition. For example, it might display a string like "Please select the location of swollen, bleeding, or painful gums on the dental diagram" as a question related to gum condition. In other words, questions related to gum condition include those prompting users to select areas of the gums that require more attention when brushing compared to other areas.

[0165] The third response area, R6, is used to answer questions related to the condition of the gums. For example, an image simulating the inside of the oral cavity, namely oral image W1 (dental diagram), is displayed in the third response area R6. Oral image W1 includes multiple segmented regions Cn (n is a natural number), and multiple selection objects are set corresponding to each segmented region Cn.

[0166] Here, the oral cavity image W1 includes 12 segmentation regions Cn, from the first segmentation region C1 to the 12th segmentation region C12.

[0167] The first segment, C1, is the anterior region of the maxilla, corresponding to the upper left fourth molar (upper left first molar) to the upper left seventh molar (upper left second molar). The second segment, C2, is the anterior region of the maxilla, corresponding to the upper left third canine (upper right canine) to the upper right third molar (upper right canine). The third segment, C3, is the anterior region of the maxilla, corresponding to the upper right fourth molar (upper right first molar) to the upper right seventh molar (upper right second molar).

[0168] The fourth segment, C4, is the inner region of the maxilla, corresponding to the upper left fourth molar (upper left first molar) to the upper left seventh molar (upper left second molar). The fifth segment, C5, is the inner region of the maxilla, corresponding to the upper left third canine (upper left canine) to the upper right third molar (upper right canine). The sixth segment, C6, is the inner region of the maxilla, corresponding to the upper right fourth molar (upper right first molar) to the upper right seventh molar (upper right second molar).

[0169] Section 7 (C7) is the anterior region of the mandible, corresponding to the lower left fourth molar (lower left first molar) to the lower left seventh molar (lower left second molar). Section 8 (C8) is the anterior region of the mandible, corresponding to the lower left third canine (lower left canine) to the lower right third molar (lower right canine). Section 9 (C9) is the anterior region of the mandible, corresponding to the lower right fourth molar (lower right first molar) to the lower right seventh molar (lower right second molar).

[0170] Section 10 (C10) is the inner side of the mandible, corresponding to the lower left fourth molar (lower left first molar) to the lower left seventh molar (lower left second molar). Section 11 (C11) is the inner side of the mandible, corresponding to the lower left third canine (lower right canine) to the lower right third molar (lower right canine). Section 12 (C12) is the inner side of the mandible, corresponding to the lower right fourth molar (lower right first molar) to the lower right seventh molar (lower right second molar).

[0171] That is, multiple segmented regions Cn are defined as groups consisting of one or more (here, multiple) teeth.

[0172] Furthermore, in the oral image W1, to aid user understanding, unlike typical dental diagrams, the user's left teeth are shown on the left and the user's right teeth on the right. Additionally, in Figure 5 In the example shown, the oral image W1 does not include the third molar (wisdom tooth), but the oral image W1 may also include the third molar.

[0173] The response processing unit 612 processes inputs regarding the state of the gingival portion of the corresponding segment region Cn based on whether a selection object corresponding to each of the first segment region C1 to the twelfth segment region C12 is selected. That is, when a selection object corresponding to a certain segment region Cn is selected, the gingival portion of the segment region Cn corresponding to that selection object is considered an area that requires more attention during brushing compared to other areas. Figure 5 In the example shown, the area selected by the user is represented by dotted lines (here, the 6th segment C6 and the 8th segment C8).

[0174] In summary, the response processing unit 612 will process the input of the gingival status of each segmented region of the multiple segmented regions Cn obtained by dividing the oral cavity as a response.

[0175] Questions related to the state of the user's oral cavity include questions related to the alignment of the user's teeth. That is, the questioning unit 611 presents questions related to the alignment of the user's teeth as questions, and the answer receiving unit 612 receives the input of the type of teeth and the position of the teeth in a specific tooth arrangement from the user's dentition as an answer.

[0176] Questioning department 611 and answer receiving department 612, for example Figure 6 A tooth alignment question screen D3, as shown, is displayed on the display unit 51. Based on the user's operation on the tooth alignment question screen D3, answers are given to questions related to tooth alignment.

[0177] In this embodiment, the specific tooth arrangement can include double teeth, irregular teeth, and skewed teeth. Double teeth are teeth that grow overlapping each other; for example, it can refer to a canine tooth that protrudes outward (anteriorly) relative to its two adjacent teeth. Irregular teeth can refer to a situation where the front end of a tooth is not aligned with the front ends of its two adjacent teeth in the anteroposterior direction. Skewed teeth can refer to a situation where a tooth rotates around its long axis, causing the left and right ends of the tooth to be misaligned with the two adjacent teeth in the anteroposterior direction.

[0178] Figure 6This is an example of a teeth alignment question screen D3 displayed on the display unit 51. The teeth alignment question screen D3 includes a fourth question area R7 and a fourth answer area R8. In this embodiment, the fourth answer area R8 is located below the fourth question area R7 in the teeth alignment question screen D3.

[0179] Question area R7 (Section 4) is used to display questions related to the user's tooth alignment. For example, it might display a string like, "Do your teeth have any of the following alignments?" That is, questions related to tooth alignment include those prompting the user to select the type of tooth and its position within a specific alignment.

[0180] The fourth answer area, R8, is used to answer questions related to the user's tooth alignment. R8 displays multiple selection options corresponding to the type of teeth in a specific tooth alignment, as well as a simulated intraoral image, namely the oral image W3 (dental diagram).

[0181] Here, the multiple selection objects include three selection objects B8 to B10: "double teeth", "irregular", and "crooked". In addition, in the oral cavity image W3, selection objects are set for multiple (here, 28) teeth.

[0182] The response unit 612 accepts input from the user who selects any one of the selection objects B8 to B10 for a specific tooth arrangement, and then selects one or more teeth (selection objects) from multiple teeth to accept input for the type of tooth and position of the selected tooth.

[0183] That is, teeth in a specific arrangement are selected on a per-teeth basis. Figure 6 In the example shown, the teeth selected by the user as a specific tooth arrangement (here, double teeth) are represented by dotted lines (top right 1 and top right 4).

[0184] Furthermore, in the fourth response area R8, multiple selected objects B8 to B10 representing specific tooth arrangements are assigned different colors. Additionally, when a specific tooth arrangement (selected object) is selected in the oral cavity image W3, that tooth is assigned a color representing the specific tooth arrangement type (the same color as one of the selected objects B8 to B10).

[0185] The drive information generation unit 613 generates drive information (process) based on the response received by the response acceptance unit 612. As described above, the drive information includes basic action data, and optionally, it can include specific action data.

[0186] The drive information generation unit 613 generates basic motion data based on the answers to questions about "brushing time", "brushing intensity", and "gum condition".

[0187] As mentioned above, basic motion data is data used to clean the entire dental arch within the user's mouth. Within the basic motion data, the user's oral cavity is divided into, for example... Figure 7 The oral cavity image W4 shows multiple cleaning regions Em (m is a natural number), and cleaning time and driving mode are assigned to each cleaning region Em.

[0188] exist Figure 7 In the example shown, the multiple cleaning zones Em include 16 zones from cleaning zone 1 E1 to cleaning zone 16 E16.

[0189] Cleaning area E1 corresponds to the anterior side of the upper left fourth molar (upper left first molar) to the upper left seventh molar (upper left second molar). Cleaning area E1 is associated with (corresponds to) segmentation area C1. Cleaning area E2 corresponds to the anterior side of the upper left third molar (upper right canine) to the upper right third molar (upper right canine). Cleaning area E2 is associated with segmentation area C2. Cleaning area E3 corresponds to the anterior side of the upper right fourth molar (upper right first molar) to the upper right seventh molar (upper right second molar). Cleaning area E3 is associated with segmentation area C3.

[0190] Cleaning area E4 corresponds to the inner side of the upper left fourth molar (upper left first molar) to the upper left seventh molar (upper left second molar). Cleaning area E4 is associated with subdivision area C4. Cleaning area E5 corresponds to the inner side of the upper left third molar (upper right canine) to the upper right third molar (upper right canine). Cleaning area E5 is associated with subdivision area C5. Cleaning area E6 corresponds to the inner side of the upper right fourth molar (upper right first molar) to the upper right seventh molar (upper right second molar). Cleaning area E6 is associated with subdivision area C6.

[0191] Cleaning area E7 corresponds to the anterior side of the lower left fourth molar (lower left first molar) to the lower left seventh molar (lower left second molar). Cleaning area E7 is associated with segment C7. Cleaning area E8 corresponds to the anterior side of the lower left third canine (lower left canine) to the lower right third molar (lower right canine). Cleaning area E8 is associated with segment C8. Cleaning area E9 corresponds to the anterior side of the lower right fourth molar (lower right first molar) to the lower right seventh molar (lower right second molar). Cleaning area E9 is associated with segment C9.

[0192] Cleaning area E10 corresponds to the inner side of the lower left fourth molar (lower left first molar) to the lower left seventh molar (lower left second molar). Cleaning area E10 is associated with segment C10. Cleaning area E11 corresponds to the inner side of the lower left third canine (lower left canine) to the lower right third molar (lower right canine). Cleaning area E11 is associated with segment C11. Cleaning area E12 corresponds to the inner side of the lower right fourth molar (lower right first molar) to the lower right seventh molar (lower right second molar). Cleaning area E12 is associated with segment C12.

[0193] The first cleaning region E1 to the twelfth cleaning region E12 are associated with and correspond to the first segmentation region C1 to the twelfth segmentation region C12, respectively.

[0194] Cleaning area E13 corresponds to the occlusal surfaces of the upper left fourth molar (upper left first molar) to the upper left seventh molar (upper left second molar). Cleaning area E14 corresponds to the occlusal surfaces of the upper right fourth molar (upper right first molar) to the upper right seventh molar (upper right second molar). Cleaning area E15 corresponds to the occlusal surfaces of the lower left fourth molar (lower left first molar) to the lower left seventh molar (lower left second molar). Cleaning area E16 corresponds to the occlusal surfaces of the lower right fourth molar (lower right first molar) to the lower right seventh molar (lower right second molar).

[0195] In addition, Figure 7 In the oral cavity image W4, for ease of understanding, the reference numerals for the first cleaning region E1 to the 12th cleaning region E12 are shown by labeling the segmentation region Cn associated with them.

[0196] First, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the action time in the basic action data based on the answer to the question about "brushing time" received by the answer receiving unit 612. If the "normal" option B5 in the second answer area R4 is selected, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the action time to be 2 minutes. If the "slightly longer" option B6 is selected, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the action time to be 3 minutes, and if the "careful" option B7 is selected, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the action time to be 4 minutes.

[0197] Furthermore, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the cleaning time for each cleaning zone Em based on the determined action time. The cleaning time may be, for example, the time obtained by dividing the action time (e.g., 2 minutes) equally into the number of cleaning zones Em (e.g., 16) (e.g., 7.5 seconds), or it may be the time obtained by appropriately dividing the action time for each cleaning zone Em according to a pre-allocated ratio.

[0198] Next, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the drive mode in the basic motion data based on the answers to questions about "brushing intensity" and "gum condition" received by the response receiving unit 612. The drive information generation unit 613 determines the drive mode for each cleaning area in the multiple cleaning areas Em.

[0199] First, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the basic drive mode based on the answer to the question about "brushing intensity". More specifically, if the "stronger" option B1 in the first answer area R2 is selected, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the basic drive mode as "Drive Mode 1 (W-CLEAN mode)". If the "normal" option B2 is selected, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the basic drive mode as "Drive Mode 2 (NORMAL mode)". If the "weaker" option B3 is selected, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the basic drive mode as "Drive Mode 3 (SOFT mode)". If the "very weaker" option B4 is selected, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the basic drive mode as "Drive Mode 4 (SENSITIVE mode)".

[0200] Next, the drive information generation unit 613, based on the answers to questions related to "gingival condition," modifies the determined basic drive mode in units of cleaning areas Em. Specifically, the drive information generation unit 613 modifies the drive mode of the cleaning area Em associated with the segmentation area Cn selected by the user in the third answer area R6 from the first cleaning area E1 to the 12th cleaning area E12 to a drive mode with an amplitude one level smaller than the basic drive mode. For example, if the basic drive mode is "first drive mode," the drive information generation unit 613 modifies the drive mode of the cleaning area Em associated with the selected segmentation area Cn to "second drive mode." Furthermore, if the basic drive mode is "second drive mode," the drive information generation unit 613 modifies the drive mode of the cleaning area Em associated with the selected segmentation area Cn to "third drive mode." Furthermore, when the basic driving mode is "Drive Mode 3", the driving information generation unit 613 corrects the driving mode of the cleaning region Em associated with the selected segmentation region Cn to "Drive Mode 4". When the basic driving mode is "Drive Mode 4", since there is no driving mode with an amplitude smaller than that of Drive Mode 4, the driving information generation unit 613 does not correct the driving mode and maintains it as "Drive Mode 4".

[0201] Furthermore, the driving mode for cleaning zones 13 through 16 can be set to the basic driving mode regardless of the answer to questions related to "gingival condition". Alternatively, the driving mode for cleaning zones 13 through 16 can be set to the modified driving mode if the driving mode of any of the adjacent cleaning zones in the anterior-posterior direction (or cleaning zones 1 and 4 in the case of cleaning zone 13, E1 and E4) has been modified.

[0202] In summary, the drive information generation unit 613 sets one of multiple drive modes (first drive mode to fourth drive mode) for each of the multiple cleaning regions Em obtained by dividing the oral cavity.

[0203] In this embodiment, the basic motion data in the driving information is created through the process described above. Figure 7 In the example shown, the first drive mode (W-CLEAN mode) is set for each cleaning area from the first cleaning area E1 to the 16th cleaning area E16.

[0204] The drive information generation unit 613 generates specific motion data based on the answers to questions related to "tooth alignment". As described above, specific motion data is data used to clean teeth with a specific tooth alignment. If "teeth with a specific tooth alignment" is not selected in the answers to questions related to "tooth alignment", the drive information generation unit 613 does not generate specific motion data. Therefore, in this case, the drive information (process) only contains basic motion data and does not contain specific motion data.

[0205] The drive information generation unit 613 determines the action time in specific action data based on the type of tooth selected as a specific tooth arrangement. For example, a reference time is stored (set) separately in the storage unit 57 for the type of tooth in a specific tooth arrangement (double teeth, misalignment, twisting). The drive information generation unit 613 reads the reference time from the storage unit 57 according to the type of tooth selected as a specific tooth arrangement and sets the read reference time as the action time. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the reference time is the same as the type of tooth in the specific tooth arrangement (double teeth, misalignment, twisting).

[0206] Furthermore, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the drive mode in specific motion data based on the position of the tooth selected by the receiving unit 612 as a tooth arrangement for a specific tooth arrangement. For example, the drive information generation unit 613 extracts multiple cleaning regions Em including the selected tooth, and determines the drive mode in specific motion data for the selected tooth based on the drive mode in the basic motion data of the extracted multiple cleaning regions Em. For example, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the drive mode with the smallest amplitude among the drive modes in the basic motion data of the multiple cleaning regions Em including the selected tooth as the drive mode in the specific motion data. For example, the tooth selected as a tooth arrangement for a specific tooth arrangement is designated as "upper left fourth tooth (upper left first molar)". In this case, the multiple cleaning regions Em including the selected tooth (upper left fourth tooth) are the first cleaning region E1, the fourth cleaning region E4, and the thirteenth cleaning region E13. Furthermore, the drive mode for the first cleaning area E1 is set to "drive mode 2", the drive mode for the fourth cleaning area E4 is set to "drive mode 3", and the drive mode for the thirteenth cleaning area E13 is set to "drive mode 2". In this case, the drive mode with the smallest amplitude is "drive mode 3". Therefore, in this case, the drive information generation unit 613 determines the drive mode from the specific motion data for the selected tooth (top left, fourth tooth) as "drive mode 3".

[0207] When multiple teeth are selected as part of a specific tooth arrangement in response to a question about "tooth alignment," the drive information generation unit 613 determines the action time and drive mode for each of the selected teeth. In this case, the specific action data includes a combination of information on the action time and drive mode for each of the selected teeth.

[0208] In the drive information (process), the action of the drive unit 13 corresponding to specific action data is set to be executed after the action of the drive unit 13 corresponding to basic action data is completed. That is, when the drive unit 13 is driven according to the drive information (process), the electric toothbrush 1 cleans the teeth in the mouth as a whole based on the basic action data, and then cleans the teeth of a specific tooth arrangement (if there are multiple teeth, they are cleaned sequentially for each tooth).

[0209] The process creation unit 610 creates driver information (process) according to the above process. As can be seen from the above process, the driver information generation unit 613 generates driver information for the period from the start to the end of the brushing time received by the response acceptance unit 612.

[0210] The driver information (process) created by the process creation unit 610 is associated with the identification information used to identify the driver information (e.g., the "name of the process" created by the user) and stored in the storage unit 57.

[0211] The process creation unit 610 also includes a change acceptance unit 614. The change acceptance unit 614 accepts input for changing the driver information generated by the driver information generation unit 613.

[0212] In this embodiment, the change acceptance unit 614 accepts input for change drive information for each of the multiple cleaning areas Em obtained by dividing the oral cavity.

[0213] Change Receiver 614 is used for, for example, to handle changes to driver information. Figure 7 The change screen D4 shown is displayed on the display unit 51, and input for changing driver information is accepted based on the user's operation on the change screen D4. Here, the change acceptance unit 614 accepts changes to the basic motion data in the driver information.

[0214] For example, when the process creation unit 610 creates driver information (process), the change receiving unit 614 displays the change screen D4 on the display unit 51. Furthermore, the change receiving unit 614 can display the change screen D4 on the display unit 51 at any time after the driver information is generated, based on the user's operation on the operation unit 52.

[0215] Figure 7This is an example of a change screen D4 displayed on the display unit 51. The change screen D4 includes an explanation display area R9, a selection image display area R10, and a decision area R11. In this embodiment, when the change screen D4 is divided into three areas along the vertical direction, the explanation display area R9, the selection image display area R10, and the decision area R11 are set in a top-to-bottom order.

[0216] In the explanation display area R9, a string such as "Your dedicated process is complete! For detailed customization, please make the settings in the screen below" is displayed as a statement explaining to the user that the process (drive information) can be changed. In addition, in the explanation display area R9, a string such as "Method of change (1) Select the mode to be changed (2) Select the part whose intensity to be changed from the gear diagram" is displayed as a statement explaining the operation method for changing drive information.

[0217] The selection diagram display area R10 is used by the user to select the cleaning area Em for which the drive mode is to be changed, and the area for the changed drive mode. The selection diagram display area R10 displays an image of the simulated oral cavity, namely the oral cavity image W4 (dental diagram), as well as multiple selection objects corresponding to multiple drive modes (drive mode 1 to drive mode 4).

[0218] In the oral cavity image W4, selection targets are set for each of the multiple (here, 16) cleaning regions Em. That is, the change receiving unit 614 receives selections for the cleaning regions Em for which the driving mode needs to be changed, based on the multiple cleaning regions Em obtained by segmenting the oral cavity (cleaning regions 1 through 16, E16). Furthermore, the driving mode of each cleaning region from cleaning region 13 to cleaning region 16, E13 to E16, can be selected individually, or it can be changed based on changes in the driving mode of adjacent cleaning regions Em in the anterior-posterior direction.

[0219] Additionally, here, there are multiple selection objects, including four selection objects B11 to B14: "Drive Mode 1 (W-CLEAN Mode)," "Drive Mode 2 (NORMAL Mode)," "Drive Mode 3 (SOFT Mode)," and "Drive Mode 4 (SENSITIVE Mode)." Different colors are assigned to each of the four selection objects B11 to B14.

[0220] Before the user changes the driving information (process), each of the multiple cleaning areas Em in the oral cavity image W4 displays a color corresponding to a driving mode set for each cleaning area Em in the driving information (basic motion data) that is the object of the change.

[0221] When a user selects one of the four selection objects B11 to B14, and then selects more than one cleaning region Em from the multiple cleaning regions Em (selection objects) in the oral cavity image W4, a new driving mode is set for the selected cleaning region Em. Furthermore, the selected cleaning region Em displays a color corresponding to the new driving mode, allowing the user to intuitively understand that the driving mode has been changed.

[0222] The decision object B15 is displayed in the decision area R11. When the decision object B15 is operated by the user, the change handling unit 614 changes the drive mode of each cleaning area for multiple cleaning areas Em in the drive information (process) to the drive mode shown in the oral cavity image W4 in the selection diagram display area R10.

[0223] The change receiving unit 614 stores the changed driver information (process) in the storage unit 57. Alternatively, the change receiving unit 614 may store the changed driver information together with the identification information (process name) associated with the original driver information in the storage unit 57 (i.e., update the driver information associated with the identification information). Or, the change receiving unit 614 may store the changed driver information in the storage unit 57 in association with new identification information.

[0224] As described above, the driving information (process) includes a combination of action time and driving mode. In this embodiment, the driving information also includes information about the brushing sequence. In this embodiment, the brushing sequence is set by default when the process is created.

[0225] Figure 8 This is an example of a brushing sequence display screen D5 that shows the default brushing order. The brushing sequence display screen D5 includes a brushing sequence display area R15. The brushing sequence display screen D5 can be displayed based on the user's operation of the operation unit 52.

[0226] The brushing sequence display area R15 shows the brushing sequence image W5, which uses circled numbers 1-8 and arrows to indicate the order of cleaning within the oral cavity. (Example:) Figure 8 As shown, the default brushing order is to brush the teeth in the following order: cleaning area E1, cleaning area E2, cleaning area E3, cleaning area E9, cleaning area E8, cleaning area E7, cleaning area E10, cleaning area E11, cleaning area E12, cleaning area E6, cleaning area E5, cleaning area E4, cleaning area E13, cleaning area E14, cleaning area E16, and cleaning area E15.

[0227] The Change Response Department 614 also accepts input for changing the brushing order. For example, the Change Response Department 614 uses the following for processing changes to the brushing order: Figure 9 The brushing order setting screen D6 shown is displayed on the display unit 51, and input for changing the brushing order is accepted based on the user's operation on the brushing order setting screen D6.

[0228] Figure 9 This is an example of a brushing sequence setting screen D6 displayed on the display unit 51. The brushing sequence setting screen D6 includes an explanation display area R16, a brushing sequence display area R17, and a start position reception area R18. In this embodiment, when the brushing sequence setting screen D6 is divided into three areas along the vertical direction, the explanation display area R16, the brushing sequence display area R17, and the start position reception area R18 are set in a top-to-bottom order.

[0229] The instruction display area R16 displays a string such as "Please select the starting position for brushing" as a statement to prompt the user to change the brushing order.

[0230] The brushing sequence display area R17 displays an image W6 showing the brushing sequence, which uses circled numbers 1-8 and arrows to indicate the order of cleaning in the mouth.

[0231] The starting position reception area R18 displays multiple option objects for selecting the starting position for brushing. These multiple option objects include four objects (B16-B19) for selecting which corner of the mouth to start brushing from: "upper left," "lower left," "upper right," and "lower right." There are also three object options (B20-B22) for selecting which front or back position to start brushing from: "cheek side," "occlusal area of ​​upper and lower molars," and "lingual side." In total, the user selects the starting position for brushing from a total of 12 options, formed by combinations of the four options (objects B16-B19) and the three options (objects B20-B22).

[0232] The change processing unit 614 determines the starting position for brushing teeth (e.g., "upper left" and "cheek side") based on the user's selection of option objects B16 to B22, and displays circled numbers 1 to 8 and arrows indicating the brushing order in the brushing order display area R17 according to the determined starting position for brushing teeth.

[0233] In this embodiment, when the starting position for brushing (the cleaning area Em that serves as the starting position) is determined, the brushing order for the remaining cleaning areas is automatically determined based on the cleaning area Em that serves as the starting position.

[0234] The Change Response Department 614 changes the brushing order in this way. Additionally, the driver information is updated based on the changed brushing order.

[0235] As described above, the process control unit 61 can create new processes (drive information) through the process creation unit 610. In addition, more than one process is pre-created in the information terminal 5 (the program used to implement the functions of the processing unit 56).

[0236] The process setting unit 615 sets a predetermined number (here, 3) of processes from these multiple processes (process candidates) for actually driving the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1.

[0237] Hereinafter, the specified number of processes set by the process setting unit 615 will also be referred to as "setting processes".

[0238] The process setting unit 615 enables processes to be set up using, for example... Figure 10 The process setting screen D7 shown is displayed on the display unit 51 to allow the user to select and set the process.

[0239] Figure 10 This is an example of a process setting screen D7. The process setting screen D7 includes a predetermined number (3) of setting areas R21 to R23, corresponding to a predetermined number (3) of setting processes. In this embodiment, setting areas R21, R22, and R23 are set in a top-to-bottom order along the long side of the process setting screen D7. The topmost setting area R21 corresponds to the first setting process, the middle setting area R22 corresponds to the second setting process, and the bottommost setting area R23 corresponds to the third setting process.

[0240] In this embodiment, the first setting process is a process created by default within the program. In this embodiment, the first setting process is one where the action time in the basic action data is set to unlimited (continuous) and the driving mode is set to the first driving mode (W-CLEAN mode). Furthermore, the first setting process does not contain specific action data. In this embodiment, the first setting process cannot be changed by the user.

[0241] The second and third setting processes are selectively set from multiple process candidates based on user actions. The selected object B32 is displayed in setting area R22, and the selected object B33 is displayed in setting area R23.

[0242] For example, when the user performs an operation on the selected object B32 or the selected object B33, the process setting unit 615 causes the display of, for example, the process selection option. Figure 11 The process selection screen D8 is shown in the image.

[0243] Figure 11 This is an example of the process selection screen D8. The process selection screen D8 can include multiple option objects. Here, each option object corresponds one-to-one with a candidate process. Figure 11 The option objects B34 to B36 of “CUSTOM2”, “Father” and “Mother” among the multiple option objects shown correspond to the process (drive information) created by the process creation unit 610 and stored in the storage unit 57. Figure 11 The option objects B37 to B41 of "W-CLEAN", "NORMAL", "SOFT", "W-GUMCARE", and "SENSITIVE" among the multiple option objects shown correspond to the processes (driver information) created by default within the program. In this embodiment, multiple option objects B34 to B41 are arranged side by side along the long side of the process selection screen D8.

[0244] When the user selects one of the multiple option objects B34 to B41 included in the process selection screen D8, the process setting unit 615 sets the process (driver information) corresponding to the selected option object as the setting process.

[0245] like Figure 1 As shown, the process setting unit 615 includes a transmission processing unit 616. The transmission processing unit 616 transmits information about the setting process set by the process setting unit 615 to the electric toothbrush 1 via the communication unit 54. In summary, the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) includes a transmission processing unit 616 that transmits the drive information (process) generated by the drive information generation unit 613 to the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1).

[0246] When the control unit 14 (action setting unit 142) of the electric toothbrush 1 receives setting process information via the communication unit 20, it causes the storage unit 15 to store the received setting process information. That is, the electric toothbrush 1 and the information terminal 5 synchronize the stored process (drive information) by communicating with each other.

[0247] (2.3.2) Display

[0248] The display control unit 62 controls the screen to be displayed on the display unit 51. Based on the control in the process control unit 61 described above, the display control unit 62 causes various screens (basic question screen D1, change screen D4, process setting screen D7, etc.) to be displayed on the display unit 51.

[0249] Furthermore, when the electric toothbrush 1 drives the drive unit 13 according to the drive information, the display control unit 62, for example, causes... Figures 12-17The brushing screens D11 to D16 shown are displayed on the display unit 51.

[0250] Figures 12-17 This is an example of brushing screens D11 to D16 displayed on display unit 51. Each of the brushing screens D11 to D16 includes a first region R31 and a second region R32. In this embodiment, when each brushing screen of D11 to D16 is divided into two regions along the vertical direction, the first region R31 is displayed on the upper side and the second region R32 is displayed on the lower side. The second region R32 is a region within each brushing screen D11 to D16, and is a region different from the first region R31. More specifically, the second region R32 is a region that does not overlap with the first region R31.

[0251] Region R31 is the area for displaying demonstration animation W10. Demonstration animation W10 is an animation demonstrating a cleaning method for cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1). Demonstration animation W10 is stored in storage unit 57. Display control unit 62 displays demonstration animation W10 in region R31 in response to a status signal (a signal indicating the status of drive unit 13) sent from electric toothbrush 1. In short, when the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) drives drive unit 13 according to drive information (process), display control unit 62 displays demonstration animation W10 on display unit 51.

[0252] For example, when the electric toothbrush 1 receives a status signal indicating that the drive unit 13 should start operating according to the first process, the display control unit 62 starts playing the demonstration animation W10 corresponding to the first process (setting process). Additionally, when the display control unit 62 receives a status signal from the electric toothbrush 1 indicating that the operation of the drive unit 13 should be paused, the playback of the demonstration animation W10 is paused. If, before a predetermined standby time (e.g., 5 seconds) has elapsed since the pause of the demonstration animation W10, a status signal indicating that the operation of the drive unit 13 should resume is received from the electric toothbrush 1, the display control unit 62 resumes the playback of the demonstration animation W10. If no status signal indicating that the operation of the drive unit 13 should resume has been received since the pause of the demonstration animation W10, and the standby time has elapsed, the display control unit 62 ends the playback of the demonstration animation W10.

[0253] In summary, when the operation unit 17 of the oral hygiene device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) detects the start of an action, the display control unit 62 starts playing the demonstration animation W10. Furthermore, when the operation unit 17 of the oral hygiene device 100 detects the stop of an action, the display control unit 62 pauses or ends the playback of the demonstration animation W10. Additionally, if the operation unit 17 of the oral hygiene device 100 detects a request to resume the action before a predetermined standby time has elapsed since the pause of the demonstration animation W10, the display control unit 62 resumes the playback of the demonstration animation W10. Finally, if the operation unit 17 of the oral hygiene device 100 does not detect a request to resume the action after a standby time has elapsed since the pause of the demonstration animation W10, the display control unit 62 ends the playback of the demonstration animation W10.

[0254] The playback duration of the demonstration animation W10 is consistent with the duration of the action in the drive information (process information). Therefore, in the electric toothbrush 1, when the drive unit 13 finishes its action according to the process, the playback of the demonstration animation W10 on the display unit 51 also ends simultaneously. In short, when the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) drives the drive unit 13 according to the drive information, the display control unit 62 displays the animation (demonstration animation W10), which demonstrates the cleaning method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device 100, on the display unit 51 in a manner that is linked to the brushing time from start to finish.

[0255] In the demonstration animation W10, an image W12 simulating the brush head 30 of an electric toothbrush 1 is overlaid on an image W11 simulating the inside of a human mouth. For example... Figures 12-14 As shown, in the demonstration animation W10, the position of the brush head in the image W12 of the simulated brush head 30 is moved over time (by pressing...). Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 12 (The order). This instructs the user on which areas of the mouth should be cleaned using the electric toothbrush 1. For example... Figure 12 , Figure 14 As shown, the demonstration animation W10 may also include explanations (suggestions) on brushing techniques.

[0256] In the brushing screens D11-D16, a progress bar W13 is displayed below area 1 R31 (between area 1 R31 and area 2 R32). The progress bar W13 indicates the elapsed time of the demonstration animation W10.

[0257] An image different from the demonstration animation W10 is displayed in the second region R32. That is, while displaying the demonstration animation W10 in the first region R31, the display control unit 62 displays an image different from the demonstration animation W10 in the second region R32.

[0258] The candidates for the images displayed in region 2 R32 include camera image W21 and status image W22.

[0259] The image W21 is a real-time image captured by the camera unit 55. As described above, the camera area of ​​the camera unit 55 is set to include the perioral area of ​​the user's mouth in the normal state when the user is viewing the display unit 51. Therefore, when the user is viewing the display unit 51, the image W21 is a perioral image W210 obtained by the camera unit 55 capturing the area including the user's mouth. In summary, the candidates for the image displayed in the second region R32 include the perioral image W210 and the status image W22. In addition, it can be said that the display control unit 62 causes the demonstration animation W10 to be displayed in the first region R31 within the display unit 51, and causes the perioral image W210 to be displayed in the second region R32 within the display unit 51, which is different from the first region R31 (see reference). Figure 12 ).

[0260] like Figure 12 As shown, the angle of the demonstration animation W10 is approximately the same as the angle of the image W210 around the mouth (from the angle of a person's frontal view).

[0261] like Figure 13 As shown, status image W22 displays information related to the operational status of oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1).

[0262] Status image W22 includes image W23 representing the remaining capacity of the rechargeable battery of electric toothbrush 1. (As shown) Figure 13 As shown, image W23 includes a frame simulating the shape of a battery, and multiple scales that increase or decrease within the frame based on the remaining capacity of the rechargeable battery.

[0263] The status image W22 includes an image W24 representing the processes currently in use among multiple processes. For example... Figure 13 As shown, image W24 includes three markers corresponding to a specified number (3) of set processes. In image W24, the marker corresponding to the process currently in use (set process) is displayed in a different color than the other two markers, thereby indicating the process currently in use.

[0264] The status image W22 includes an image W25 representing the elapsed time. For example... Figure 13 As shown, image W25 displays the elapsed time from the start of the operation of the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 (i.e., the start of the demonstration animation W10) in a positive time-out manner. Alternatively, the elapsed time can be displayed in a countdown manner.

[0265] The status image W22 includes an image W26 representing the driving mode. For example... Figure 13 As shown, image W26 illustrates the driving mode of the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 (in... Figure 13 In the example, it is the character "W-CLEAN" corresponding to the first drive mode.

[0266] The status image W22 also includes an image W27 simulating the inside of a human mouth. Image W27 displays the cleaning area Em, which is the object to be cleaned, in a different color than other areas.

[0267] The display control unit 62 switches the image displayed in the second area R32 between the perioral image W210 and the status image W22 according to the user's selection. For example, when the display control unit 62 receives an operation of sliding left or right in the second area R32 (sliding a finger while the finger is in contact with the touch panel display), it switches the image displayed in the second area R32. For example, when the second area R32 is slid from right to left while the camera image W21 (perioral image W210) is displayed in the second area R32, the display control unit 62 displays the status image W22 in the second area R32. Conversely, when the second area R32 is slid from left to right while the status image W22 is displayed in the second area R32, the display control unit 62 displays the camera image W21 in the second area R32.

[0268] Furthermore, the display control unit 62 can also enable, for example Figure 12 As shown, images W24 to W26, which are related to the operating state of the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1), are also displayed (overlaid) in the camera image W21 (perioral image W210).

[0269] Furthermore, if the capture of images by the camera unit 55 is not permitted, or if the display of images captured by the camera unit 55 on the display unit 51 is not permitted, the display control unit 62 may also display a reminder image W29 (see reference). Figure 14 The notification image W29 is displayed in area 2, R32. It may include statements indicating that the capture of images by the camera unit 55 was not permitted, or that the display of images captured by the camera unit 55 was not permitted.

[0270] As described above, the driving information (process) includes basic motion data, and optionally, can include specific motion data. Therefore, the demonstration animation W10 also includes a basic demonstration animation W101 corresponding to the basic motion data, and optionally, can include a specific demonstration animation W102 corresponding to specific motion data (see reference). Figure 17 ).

[0271] The display control unit 62 includes a basic display control unit 621 and a specific display control unit 622.

[0272] The basic display control unit 621 displays the basic demonstration animation W101 on the display unit 51 (first area R31).

[0273] The basic demonstration animation W101 includes multiple partial animations. Each partial animation demonstrates a cleaning method for one cleaning area Em. In this embodiment, the basic demonstration animation W101 includes 16 partial animations corresponding to 16 cleaning areas Em. The basic display control unit 621 displays the multiple (16) partial animations sequentially in the first area R31 according to the "brushing sequence" of the currently used process. Therefore, the display unit 51 displays the basic demonstration animation W101 corresponding to the currently used process (action time, drive mode, brushing sequence).

[0274] The playback duration of the basic demonstration animation W101 is the same as the duration of the motion in the basic motion data. Therefore, when the motion based on the basic motion data of the drive unit 13 ends, the playback of the basic demonstration animation W101 also ends.

[0275] like Figures 12-16 As shown, the basic demonstration animation W101 includes an image W11 simulating the inside of a human mouth and an image W12 simulating a brush head 30. (As...) Figures 12-16 As shown, the demonstration animation W10 (basic demonstration animation W101) includes an image W11 of the inside of the mouth of a person with their mouth open, viewed from the front of the person.

[0276] The specific display control unit 622 displays the specific demonstration animation W102 on the display unit 51 (first area R31). The specific display control unit 622 starts playing the specific demonstration animation W102 after the basic demonstration animation W101 has finished playing.

[0277] The specific display control unit 622 causes the display of a specific demonstration animation W102 corresponding to the type of teeth in a specific tooth arrangement (double teeth, misalignment, crookedness). That is, the storage unit 57 stores multiple candidates of specific demonstration animations W102 corresponding to the type and position of teeth in a specific tooth arrangement. The specific display control unit 622 displays the animation corresponding to the type and position of teeth in a specific tooth arrangement on the display unit 51 (first area R31). The playback duration of the specific demonstration animation W102 is consistent with the reference time for the corresponding tooth type.

[0278] When multiple teeth are selected as teeth in a specific tooth arrangement, the specific display control unit 622 can continuously display multiple specific demonstration animations W102.

[0279] In summary, when the control unit 14 (drive control unit 141) of the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) drives the drive unit 13 according to specific motion data, the display control unit 62 (specific display control unit 622) displays an animation (specific demonstration animation W102) that serves as a demonstration of a cleaning method for cleaning teeth selected by the response unit 612 on the display unit 51 in a manner that is linked to the operation of the drive unit 13 based on specific motion data.

[0280] like Figure 17 As shown, the specific demonstration animation W102 includes an image W11 simulating the inside of a human mouth and an image W12 simulating the brush head of an electric toothbrush 1. Specifically, image W12 in the specific demonstration animation W102 is an image of a simulated point brushing brush head used for cleaning teeth with a specific tooth arrangement.

[0281] In addition, such as Figure 17 As shown, when a specific demonstration animation W102 is displayed in the first region R31, the display control unit 62 (specific display control unit 622) also displays the camera image W21 or the status image W22 in the second region R32. However, in Figure 17 In the example, since the shooting by the camera unit 55 was not permitted, a reminder image W29 is displayed in the second area R32.

[0282] The specific display control unit 622 may also display an image prompting the user to replace the brush head 30 after the basic demonstration animation W101, which is being played by the basic display control unit 621, has finished playing. Alternatively, the specific display control unit 622 may start playing the specific demonstration animation W102 when the operation unit 52 is operated during the display of the image prompting the user to replace the brush head 30, or when a predetermined time (e.g., 60 seconds) has elapsed since the start of the image display. Alternatively, when the specific demonstration animation W102 starts playing, the information terminal 5 may send a signal indicating this intention to the electric toothbrush 1, causing the electric toothbrush 1 to begin performing an action corresponding to specific action data.

[0283] (2.3.3) Evaluation

[0284] Evaluation unit 63 evaluates the usage method of electric toothbrush 1. Here, evaluation unit 63 evaluates the user's usage method of electric toothbrush 1 based on the pressing state of brush head 30 during the operation of electric toothbrush 1. Specifically, evaluation unit 63 evaluates the usage method of electric toothbrush 1 based on the physical quantity (SPD value) detected by the detection unit 19 of electric toothbrush 1.

[0285] like Figure 1As shown, the evaluation unit 63 includes an acquisition unit 631, an estimation unit 632, a presentation unit 633, and a determination unit 634.

[0286] The acquisition unit 631 acquires a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head 30. Specifically, the acquisition unit 631 receives a detection signal from the electric toothbrush 1 via the communication unit 54, thereby acquiring a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head 30. Here, the physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 is the SPD value.

[0287] The estimation unit 632 estimates the pressing state of the brush head 30 on the target object. When the user is cleaning their mouth with the electric toothbrush 1, the target object pressed by the brush head 30 is a part of the user's mouth (the part that the brush head 30 contacts).

[0288] Specifically, the estimation unit 632 estimates the pressure state of the brush head 30 on the target object (the part inside the mouth) based on the physical quantity (SPD value) detected by the detection unit 19. The pressure state of the brush head 30 on the target object estimated by the estimation unit 632 includes states related to the level of pressure applied by the brush head 30 to the target object (the part inside the mouth).

[0289] As described above, the larger the amplitude of the brush head 30, the larger the physical quantity (SPD value) detected by the detection unit 19; conversely, the smaller the amplitude of the brush head 30, the smaller the physical quantity (SPD value). For example, the amplitude of the brush head 30 and the physical quantity (SPD value) related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 have the following relationship: Figure 18 The relationship is roughly proportional, as shown.

[0290] Furthermore, a large amplitude of brush head 30 means that brush head 30 is being reciprocated without being subjected to excessive load. Conversely, a small amplitude of brush head 30 means that the reciprocating motion of brush head 30 is inhibited (hindered) due to a large load being applied to it. In short, a small amplitude of brush head 30, or in other words, a small SPD value, indicates that the pressure applied by brush head 30 to the object is large (excessive).

[0291] The estimation unit 632 uses the physical quantity (SPD value) detected by the detection unit 19 to estimate the magnitude of the pressing force. For example, the estimation unit 632 sets the value obtained by substituting the physical quantity (SPD value) into a prescribed formula (e.g., stored in the storage unit 57) as the estimated value of the pressing force.

[0292] The estimation unit 632 compares the obtained pressing force (estimated value) with a predetermined threshold. The threshold includes a first threshold and a second threshold that is larger than the first threshold (the second threshold > the first threshold). The estimation unit 632 compares the pressing force with the first threshold and the second threshold. The thresholds (the first threshold and the second threshold) are stored, for example, in the storage unit 57.

[0293] The presentation unit 633 presents the estimation result of the pressing state of the brush head 30 on the object, as estimated by the estimation unit 632. In this embodiment, the presentation unit 633 displays the estimation result on the display unit 51. In short, the presentation unit 633 presents the estimation result by display.

[0294] The presentation unit 633 displays whether the magnitude of the pressing pressure is above or below a threshold. In this embodiment, the presentation unit 633 displays whether the magnitude of the pressing pressure is less than a first threshold, or is above or below the first threshold and less than a second threshold, or is above or below the second threshold.

[0295] When the pressure applied is above the first threshold but below the second threshold, section 633 is presented as follows. Figure 15 As shown, a thin border F1 of a specified color (e.g., light red) is displayed around the demonstration animation W10 (region R31). Thus, the presentation unit 633 notifies (warns) the user that the pressure applied is too high.

[0296] Additionally, when the pressure applied is above the second threshold, section 633 is displayed as follows. Figure 16 As shown, a thick outline F2 of a specified color (e.g., dark red) is displayed around the demonstration animation W10 (region R31). Additionally, in this case, the presentation unit 633 displays a warning message such as "over-press" within the outline F2. Thus, the presentation unit 633 notifies (warns) the user that the pressing pressure is too high.

[0297] In summary, the presentation unit 633 issues a warning when the pressure applied is above a threshold. Furthermore, the presentation unit 633 issues different warnings depending on whether the pressure applied is above a first threshold but below a second threshold, or when the pressure applied is above the second threshold.

[0298] The display unit 633 displays a warning approximately in real time based on the pressure applied (display of frame lines F1, F2). However, for ease of viewing by the user, it is preferable that once the warning display is displayed, the warning display continues to be displayed until a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed, even if the pressure becomes lower than the threshold.

[0299] In addition to the method of calculating the pressure based on the SPD value as described above, the estimation unit 632 can also simply estimate that the pressure is large when the SPD value is below a certain predetermined threshold.

[0300] In this case, the estimation unit 632 compares the SPD value with a predetermined threshold. The threshold includes a third threshold and a fourth threshold smaller than the third threshold (the third threshold > the fourth threshold). The estimation unit 632 compares the SPD value with the third threshold and the fourth threshold. The thresholds (the third threshold and the fourth threshold) are stored, for example, in the storage unit 57.

[0301] The presentation unit 633 presents whether the SPD value is less than a threshold. In this embodiment, the presentation unit 633 presents whether the SPD value is above the third threshold, below the third threshold but above the fourth threshold, or below the fourth threshold.

[0302] When the SPD value is less than the third threshold but greater than the fourth threshold, the presentation unit 633, as shown... Figure 15 As shown, a thin border F1 of a specified color (e.g., light red) is displayed around the demonstration animation W10 (region R31). Thus, the presentation unit 633 notifies (warns) the user that the pressure applied is too high.

[0303] Additionally, when the SPD value is less than the fourth threshold, the presentation unit 633, as shown... Figure 16 As shown, a thick outline F2 of a specified color (e.g., dark red) is displayed around the demonstration animation W10 (region R31). In this case, the presentation unit 633 displays a warning statement such as "over-pressing" within the outline F2. Thus, the presentation unit 633 notifies (warns) the user that the pressing pressure is too high.

[0304] In summary, the presentation unit 633 issues a warning when the SPD value is less than the threshold. Furthermore, the presentation unit 633 issues different warnings depending on whether the SPD value is less than the third threshold but greater than or equal to the fourth threshold, or when the SPD value is less than the fourth threshold.

[0305] The presentation unit 633 displays warnings approximately in real time based on the SPD value (display of frame lines F1 and F2). However, for ease of viewing by the user, it is preferable that once the warning is displayed, the warning continues to be displayed until a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) has elapsed, even if the SPD value becomes higher than the threshold.

[0306] By displaying a warning on the display unit 51, users who see the warning can realize that the brush head 30 is applying excessive pressure to the object being cleaned (teeth or gums). Therefore, it is possible to prevent excessive load from being applied to the object being cleaned during brushing, which helps to promote oral health for the user.

[0307] As mentioned above, the amplitude of the brush head 30 varies depending on the driving mode (amplitude in the second driving mode > amplitude in the third driving mode > amplitude in the fourth driving mode). Therefore, the back electromotive force voltage L1 representing the period T2 under no-load conditions (refer to...) Figure 3 The slope of the linear function also varies depending on the drive mode, and the SPD value under no-load conditions also varies depending on the drive mode. Therefore, in this embodiment, the storage unit 57 stores different thresholds (different first thresholds and different second thresholds) for multiple drive modes. Furthermore, the estimation unit 632 reads the threshold corresponding to the drive mode during the current operation of the drive unit 13 from the storage unit 57 and compares it with the magnitude of the pressing pressure.

[0308] In summary, the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) has multiple driving modes with different amplitudes of the brush head 30. Moreover, the threshold is set to different values ​​for each of the multiple driving modes.

[0309] Furthermore, in the electric toothbrush 1 of this embodiment, when the drive unit 13 is driven in the fourth drive mode (SENSITIVE mode), the amplitude of the brush head 30 is relatively small. Therefore, it is difficult to accurately measure the value of the back electromotive force voltage at time point P2, and thus difficult to accurately estimate the magnitude of the pressing force. Therefore, in the information terminal 5 of this embodiment, it is preferable that when the drive unit 13 is driven in the fourth drive mode, the estimation unit 632 does not estimate the pressing force, and the presentation unit 633 does not display a warning.

[0310] The determination unit 634 determines the user's skill level in operating the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) based on the estimation result of the pressing state by the estimation unit 632. Specifically, the determination unit 634 determines the user's skill level in operating the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) based on the magnitude of the pressing force estimated by the estimation unit 632. Here, the user's skill level determined by the determination unit 634 is the contact intensity of the brush head 30 with the target object (the part inside the mouth).

[0311] The judgment unit 634 determines the level of the user's operating skill based on the estimated pressure when the entire oral cavity has been cleaned according to the driving information.

[0312] First, the determination unit 634 determines the magnitude of the pressing pressure for each of the multiple cleaning zones Em (the first cleaning zone E1 to the 16th cleaning zone E16).

[0313] As described above, the electric toothbrush 1 switches drive modes sequentially according to the brushing order of the multiple cleaning areas Em included in the drive information. Additionally, the information terminal 5 displays multiple animation segments of the basic demonstration animation W101 sequentially according to the brushing order of the multiple cleaning areas Em included in the drive information. The determination unit 634 determines that the user is using the electric toothbrush 1 to clean the cleaning areas Em displayed in the basic demonstration animation W101, based on the example of W101, and determines the amount of pressure applied to each cleaning area Em.

[0314] The judgment unit 634 determines the pressure level of each cleaning area Em in three levels.

[0315] For example, when the first determination condition is met, the determination unit 634 determines that it is "too strong (intensity too high)". The first determination condition is, for example, a condition in the cleaning time corresponding to each cleaning zone Em where the pressure exceeds the second threshold for a period of time that is more than or equal to the first threshold.

[0316] For example, when the second determination condition is met, the determination unit 634 determines that it is "slightly too strong (strong)". The second determination condition is, for example, a condition in the cleaning time corresponding to each cleaning zone Em where the time when the pressure exceeds the second threshold is less than the first threshold time and is at least the second threshold time (< the first threshold time).

[0317] For example, if none of the cleaning zones Em meet the second determination condition (if the time the pressure exceeds the second threshold is less than the second threshold time), the determination unit 634 determines it to be "suitable (appropriate)".

[0318] The determination unit 634 determines the user's skill level based on the determination results regarding the magnitude of the pressing pressure for each of the first cleaning area E1 to the 16th cleaning area E16.

[0319] Presentation unit 633, after the determination unit 634 has completed its determination, makes, for example... Figure 19 The result display screen D21 shown is displayed on the display unit 51.

[0320] Figure 19 This is an example of a result display screen D21 displayed on the display unit 51. The result display screen D21 includes a first result display area R41, a second result display area R42, and an explanation display area R43.

[0321] The first result display area R41 is used to display information corresponding to the user's operating skill as determined by the determination unit 634. For example, suggestion information corresponding to the user's operating skill determination result is displayed in the first result display area R41 as information corresponding to the user's operating skill. Different suggestion information is displayed in the first result display area R41 depending on the level of operating skill determined by the determination unit 634.

[0322] In one example, in the first result display region R41, as shown... Figure 19 As shown in the example, the message "Please brush your teeth consciously, cleaning each tooth thoroughly" is displayed as a suggestion. In another example, in the first result display area R41, the message "There were areas where the brush head pressed too hard. Please check that next time you use the appropriate pressure so that the tips of the brush head bristles don't spread out" is displayed as a suggestion. In yet another example, in the first result display area R41, the message "You were able to brush your teeth with good pressure. Please continue with the appropriate pressure" is displayed as a suggestion.

[0323] In summary, the presentation unit 633 presents different suggestion information based on the user's skill level as determined by the determination unit 634.

[0324] The second result display area R42 is used to display the determination results of the magnitude of the pressing pressure at each of the multiple cleaning areas Em, as determined by the determination unit 634. For example... Figure 19 As shown, the simulated intraoral image, namely oral image W31 (dental diagram), is displayed in the second result display area R42. Oral image W31 includes the first cleaning area E1 to the 16th cleaning area E16. In oral image W31, each cleaning area Em is assigned a color corresponding to the determination result of the magnitude of the pressing pressure.

[0325] The explanation display area R43 is used to display the explanation of the determination result for the magnitude of the pressing force. For example... Figure 19 As shown, in the explanatory display area R43, an explanatory image W32 is displayed showing the relationship between the level of the judgment result indicating the magnitude of the pressure and the corresponding color assigned to it.

[0326] exist Figure 19 In the example, cleaning zones E4 (4th), E5 (5th), E7 through E11 (7th), and E13 through E15 (13th) were all deemed "too strong." Cleaning zone E1 (1st) was deemed "slightly too strong." Cleaning zones E2 (2nd), E3 (3rd), E6 (6th), and E12 (12th) were deemed "appropriate." Furthermore, in... Figure 19In the example, the operation unit 17 was operated before the operation for cleaning the 16th cleaning area E16 began, so the operation of the drive unit 13 had ended. Therefore, the 16th cleaning area E16 was judged as "unevaluated".

[0327] Furthermore, the presentation unit 633 can also display the result display screen D21 only when the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 has been driven for a specified proportion (e.g., 75%) or more of the action time in the drive information (basic action data). Figure 19 In the example, a reminder text is displayed in the first result display area R41, indicating that the result display screen D21 will only be displayed when the drive unit 13 has been driven for a specified period of time or more.

[0328] The determination result (based on pressure magnitude) of the determination unit 634 is stored in the storage unit 57 in association with the date and time. The user, for example, can access this information by using... Figure 20 When the calendar screen D22, which includes the calendar image W33, is displayed on the display unit 51, the object B50 with the date marked with simulated teeth can be operated to confirm the chart (circular chart) W34 that shows the determination result of the oral cleaning performed on that day.

[0329] Furthermore, in the electric toothbrush 1 of this embodiment, the detection unit 19 detects a physical quantity (SPD value) related to the amplitude of the brush head. The amplitude of the brush head may decrease not only when the movement of the bristles 31 of the brush head 30 is suppressed, but also when the movement of the handle of the brush head 30 is suppressed. Therefore, according to the oral cleaning system 900 of this embodiment, it is also possible to detect, for example, contact between the handle of the brush head 30 and the inside of the user's cheek.

[0330] (3) Actions

[0331] The following describes an example of the operation of an oral cleaning system 900, which includes an oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) and a processing system 500 (information terminal 5). As described above, the information terminal 5 functions as an information terminal by launching dedicated application software (program). Hereinafter, this application software will also be referred to as a "collaboration application".

[0332] (3.1) Initial Actions

[0333] The information terminal 5 performs initial actions upon first launching the collaborative application. These initial actions may include, for example, presenting instructions on how to use the collaborative application, establishing a wireless connection between the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) and the information terminal 5, and presenting recommended basic driving modes.

[0334] Information terminal 5, for example, presents instructions on how to use the collaborative application by displaying an appropriate screen on display unit 51.

[0335] For example, the information terminal 5 establishes a wireless connection with the electric toothbrush 1 by receiving a wireless signal from the electric toothbrush 1 while displaying an appropriate screen (a screen that prompts the user to connect with the electric toothbrush 1) on the display unit 51. For example, the electric toothbrush 1 sends a wireless signal when the operation unit 17 (operation button 171) is operated, or when the charging coil and power supply coil of the power supply unit 16 are electrically connected or disconnected.

[0336] Information terminal 5 presents a basic recommendation-driven model based on questions about the user's oral cavity condition. For example, information terminal 5 may include multiple questions... Figure 21 The initial consultation screen D31 shown is displayed on the display unit 51. Based on the user's operation on the initial consultation screen D31, answers to multiple questions are processed, and based on the processed answers, a recommended basic driving mode is presented.

[0337] Figure 21 This is an example of an initial consultation screen D31 displayed on the display unit 51. The initial consultation screen D31 includes an explanation display area R51, an initial questioning area R52, and a decision area R53. In this embodiment, when the initial consultation screen D31 is divided into three areas along the vertical direction, the explanation display area R51, the initial questioning area R52, and the decision area R53 are set in a top-to-bottom order.

[0338] The description display area R51 is the area to display statements used to explain the initial question, such as the string "Please tell me your oral condition and care status".

[0339] The initial question area R52 is used to display questions and receive answers to them. For user convenience, the question presented in the initial action is a two-choice question where users select an answer from two options.

[0340] The initial question area R52 displays multiple questions, and two option objects B51 and B52 for each of the multiple questions. Figure 21In the example, multiple questions include inquiries about dental visits, experiences using electric toothbrushes, bleeding gums, swollen gums, gum pain, the overall condition of the gums, and the presence of wisdom teeth. The operating object B53 is displayed in the area R520 where questions about the gum condition are shown. When the user operates the operating object B53, the camera unit 55 captures images of the area around the user's mouth, and the images are displayed on the display unit 51. This allows the user to confirm the condition of their gums.

[0341] Decision object B54 is displayed in decision area R53. When the user enters answers to multiple questions (selects options) and manipulates decision object B54, the user's input is determined. Preferably, decision object B54 cannot be manipulated until answers to all questions have been entered.

[0342] When the decision object B54 is operated and receives an answer to a question, the information terminal 5 determines the recommended basic driving mode based on the received answer. Additionally, the information terminal 5 enables... Figure 22 The recommended mode display screen D32, as shown, is displayed on the display unit 51, presenting the recommended basic driving mode (in...). Figure 22 The example is "W-CLEAN mode".

[0343] In this way, by presenting recommended basic driving patterns during the initial action, users can grasp the driving pattern corresponding to their own oral cavity conditions, thus improving user convenience. For example, when answering questions related to "brushing intensity," users can refer to the recommended basic driving patterns.

[0344] In the initial operation, the information terminal 5 can also drive the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 based on the recommended basic drive mode, so that it can clean the user's mouth.

[0345] Alternatively, the initial consultation screen D31 can be displayed at any time other than when the collaborative application is first launched, based on the user's operation of the operation unit 52.

[0346] (3.2) Basic movements

[0347] Next, the basic operation of the oral cleaning system 900 based on a collaborative application will be explained.

[0348] (3.2.1) Process settings

[0349] As described above, the control unit 14 of the electric toothbrush 1 drives the drive unit 13 according to a process selected from a predetermined number (3) of processes stored in the storage unit 15 based on the operation of the operation unit 17. Furthermore, the information terminal 5 displays a demonstration animation W10 corresponding to the process selected by the operation unit 17 on the display unit 51. (See reference...) Figure 23 The method for setting up this process is explained. Figure 23 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of process configuration processing.

[0350] In the initial state (S1), a predetermined number (3) of processes (setting processes) are set by default in the storage unit 57 of the information terminal 5. For example... Figure 10 As shown, one of the three default processes is, for example, a process that only contains basic motion data, has unlimited (continuous) motion time, and uses the first driving mode (W-CLEAN mode). Another process is, for example, a process that only contains basic motion data, has unlimited (continuous) motion time, and uses the second driving mode (NORMAL mode). The remaining process is, for example, a process that only contains basic motion data, has unlimited (continuous) motion time, and uses the third driving mode (SOFT mode).

[0351] Furthermore, in the initial state, the storage unit 15 of the electric toothbrush 1 also stores the same three processes (setting processes) as the three processes (setting processes) of the information terminal 5. In other words, the three processes stored in the storage unit 15 of the electric toothbrush 1 and the three setting processes stored in the storage unit 57 of the information terminal 5 are synchronized in the initial state.

[0352] If the user wants to change the process of electric toothbrush 1 ("Yes" in S2), the user operates information terminal 5 to make... Figure 10 The process setting screen D7 is displayed on the display unit 51. The process setting screen D7 displays selection objects B32 and B33 for selecting which of the three processes to change. Furthermore, as described above, in this embodiment, the process corresponding to the setting area R21 cannot be changed by the user. When the user selects either of the two selection objects B32 or B33, the display unit 51 displays... Figure 11 The process selection screen D8 is shown as shown. The process selection screen D8 includes multiple option objects B34 to B41 that represent multiple process candidates stored in the storage unit 57. That is, multiple process candidates are presented to the user (S3).

[0353] As described above, one or more of the multiple process candidates can be processes (driver information) created by the process creation unit 610. Figure 11In the example, the processes corresponding to the option objects B34 to B36 for "CUSTOM2", "Father", and "Mother" are processes (driver information) created by the process creation unit 610.

[0354] When the user selects any option on the process selection screen D8 ("Yes" in S4), the process corresponding to the selected option is set to the position of the selected option on the process setting screen D7. Thus, the changed process is set in the information terminal 5 (process setting) (S5).

[0355] Additionally, update object B42 is displayed on the process setting screen D7. When the user operates on update object B42, the information terminal 5 wirelessly communicates with the electric toothbrush 1, sending a process signal (drive information signal) containing the changed process (drive information) to the electric toothbrush 1 (S6). When the electric toothbrush 1 receives the process signal, it updates the process stored in the storage unit 15 to the process specified by the process signal (S7). Thus, the process (setting process) of the information terminal 5 and the process of the electric toothbrush 1 are synchronized. Furthermore, the process signal may contain only information related to the changed process, or it may contain information related to all (3) processes.

[0356] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, in the process setting screen D7, operation objects B43 to B45, which are used to change the details of the process, are displayed adjacent to the three setting areas R21 to R23. When operation objects B43 to B45 are operated, for example, a screen can be displayed to change the brushing order, brushing time, etc.

[0357] (3.2.2) Process Creation

[0358] As described above, the information terminal 5 can use its display unit 51 and operation unit 52 to create a user-friendly process in a dialogue manner. (See also...) Figure 24 The method for creating this process is explained. Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of process creation processing.

[0359] When a user wishes to create a process, they operate the information terminal 5 to display a process creation screen on the display unit 51. Here, the process creation screen includes... Figure 4 The basic question screen D1 shown is shown. Figure 5 The status prompt screen D2 and Figure 6 The tooth alignment question screen D3 is shown. For example, the basic question screen D1, the status question screen D2, and the tooth alignment question screen D3 can be switched sequentially by scrolling the screen displayed on the display unit 51 up and down.

[0360] The process creation screen includes multiple questions related to the user's oral hygiene and the state of the user's oral cavity. These questions are presented to the user by displaying the process creation screen on the display unit 51. In summary, the process creation method includes a question presentation process (S101) that presents questions related to at least one of the user's oral hygiene and the state of the user's oral cavity. Furthermore, the information terminal 5 (response receiving unit 612) receives answers to the questions by the user interacting with the process creation screen. In summary, the process creation method includes an answer receiving process (S102) that receives answers to the questions.

[0361] Information terminal 5 (drive information generation unit 613) generates drive information (process) based on the received response. The drive information is information related to the drive mode of drive unit 13 of electric toothbrush 1. In summary, the process creation method includes drive information generation processing (S103) that generates drive information related to the drive mode of drive unit 13 based on the response received through the response acceptance processing.

[0362] Furthermore, after generating the driving information, the information terminal 5 sends the driving information (process) to the electric toothbrush 1 according to the user's operation. More specifically, as explained in the item "(3.2.1) Process Setting", when the update object B42 of the process setting screen D7 is operated while the created process is set as a setting process, a process signal containing information related to the process is sent to the electric toothbrush 1. In summary, the process creation method includes a sending process (S104) that sends the driving information generated by the driving information generation process to the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1).

[0363] Furthermore, the information terminal 5 accepts changes to the created process. When the user wants to change the driver information (process information), they operate the information terminal 5 to display a change screen D4 on the display unit 51. The information terminal 5 (change acceptance unit 614) changes the process (driver information) based on the user's operation on the change screen D4. In summary, the process creation method includes a change acceptance process (S105) that accepts input for changing the driver information generated by the driver information generation process.

[0364] When the driver information is changed through the change acceptance process ("Yes" in S105), the information terminal 5 sends the changed driver information (process) to the electric toothbrush 1 according to the user's operation (S104).

[0365] In addition, the information terminal 5 handles the deletion of created processes. When a user wants to delete a process (driver information), they operate the information terminal 5 to display a deletion selection screen on the display unit 51. The deletion selection screen is, for example, similar to... Figure 11The process selection screen D8 also includes one or more option objects representing the created processes. When the user selects any of these option objects, the information terminal 5 displays... Figure 25 The deletion screen D41 is shown. Deletion screen D41 includes a mode display area R61 and a decision area R62. The mode display area R61 displays, for example, an image simulating the inside of the oral cavity, namely, an oral image W41 (dental diagram). In the oral image W41, each cleaning area Em is assigned a color corresponding to its corresponding drive mode. The decision object B61 is displayed in the decision area R62. When the decision object B61 is operated by the user, the process is deleted. Furthermore, a cancellation object is displayed in the area above the mode display area R61; when the cancellation object is operated by the user, the deletion of the process is canceled.

[0366] (3.2.3) Linked Display

[0367] The collaborative application displays the demonstration animation W10 on the display unit 51 in conjunction with the user's oral cleaning actions using the electric toothbrush 1. (See reference...) Figure 26 The method for controlling this display is explained. Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of control processing that displays the demonstration animation W10 on the display unit 51 in a manner that is linked to the user's oral cleaning actions.

[0368] The electric toothbrush 1 begins to operate according to the selected process based on the user's operation of the operation button 171 on the operation unit 17 (S201). In addition, when the electric toothbrush 1 starts operating, it sends a status signal indicating that the operation has started (hereinafter also referred to as "start signal") to the information terminal 5 to notify the information terminal 5 that the operation has started.

[0369] When a start signal is received from the electric toothbrush 1, the information terminal 5 displays brushing images D11 to D16 on the display unit 51 and displays demonstration animation W10 in the first area R31, thus starting playback of demonstration animation W10 (S202). Additionally, the information terminal 5 displays the image W21 captured by the camera unit 55 in the second area R32 according to the user's operation (S203). As described above, the image W21 captured by the camera unit 55 can be a perioral image W210 obtained by capturing an area including the user's oral cavity. In summary, the display control method includes display control processing (S202, S203) in which the demonstration animation W10, which demonstrates a method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1), and the perioral image W210 obtained by the camera unit 55, which captures an area including the user's oral cavity, overlap with each other in the same display unit 51 in a manner that overlaps with each other for at least a portion of the display period.

[0370] When the drive unit 13 is driven according to the drive information, the electric toothbrush 1 determines whether the action time has elapsed (S204). When the action time has elapsed ("Yes" in S204), the electric toothbrush 1 stops the action of the drive unit 13, and the information terminal 5 stops the playback of the demonstration animation W10 (S205).

[0371] When the operation unit 17 is operated to stop the operation of the drive unit 13 before the operation time has elapsed ("No" in S204) ("Yes" in S206), the electric toothbrush 1 stops the drive unit 13 (S207). Additionally, the electric toothbrush 1 sends a status signal indicating that the operation has stopped (hereinafter also referred to as a "stop signal") to the information terminal 5. When the stop signal is received from the electric toothbrush 1, the information terminal 5 stops the playback of the demonstration animation W10 (S208).

[0372] The electric toothbrush 1 operates the operation unit 17 to wait for a predetermined standby time from the time the operation is received by the operation unit 17 until the operation stops, in order to determine whether the operation of the drive unit 13 should be resumed (S209). When the operation unit 17 receives a request to resume the operation ("Yes" in S209), the electric toothbrush 1 resumes the operation of the drive unit 13 from the middle of the process (S210) and sends a status signal indicating that the operation has resumed (hereinafter also referred to as "resumption signal") to the information terminal 5. When the electric toothbrush 1 receives the resumption signal, the information terminal 5 resumes the playback of the demonstration animation W10 from the middle (S211).

[0373] On the other hand, when the electric toothbrush 1 has not received a request to continue the operation since the operation was stopped by the operation unit 17 ("No" in S209) and a standby time has elapsed ("Yes" in S212), it stops the operation of the drive unit 13 (S205). Additionally, when the information terminal 5 has not received a request to continue the operation since the electric toothbrush 1 received the stop signal ("No" in S209) and a standby time has elapsed ("Yes" in S212), it stops the animation playback (S205). Furthermore, if the electric toothbrush 1 has not received a request to continue the operation ("No" in S209) but the standby time has not elapsed ("No" in S212), it waits again for the operation unit 17 to be operated (S209).

[0374] Furthermore, the order of each process is not limited to Figure 26 The sequence shown. For example, processes S202 and S203 can be performed simultaneously, as can processes S207 and S208.

[0375] Furthermore, the collaborative application displays the user's skill level in operating the oral hygiene device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) on the display unit 51. (See reference...) Figure 27 The method for controlling this display is explained. Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of display control processing used to show the level of a user's operational skills.

[0376] The electric toothbrush 1 begins to operate according to the selected process based on the user's operation of the operation button 171 on the operation unit 17 (S301). In addition, when the electric toothbrush 1 starts operating, it sends a start signal to the information terminal 5 to notify the information terminal 5 that the operation has started.

[0377] During the operation of the drive unit 13, the detection unit 19 of the electric toothbrush 1 detects a physical quantity (SPD value) related to the amplitude of the brush head 30. In summary, the display control method includes a detection process (S302) that detects the physical quantity (SPD value) related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 while the brush head 30 is being reciprocated by the drive unit 13. Additionally, the electric toothbrush 1 sends a detection signal containing the SPD value to the information terminal 5, and the information terminal 5 (acquisition unit 631) acquires the SPD value by receiving the detection signal. In summary, the display control method includes a transmission process (S303) that sends a physical quantity (SPD value) related to the amplitude of the brush head 30 from the electric toothbrush 1 to the information terminal 5.

[0378] When the SPD value is obtained, the information terminal 5 (estimation unit 632) uses the obtained SPD value to estimate the magnitude of the pressing force (S304), and compares the estimated magnitude of the pressing force with a predetermined threshold (S305).

[0379] When the detected pressure level exceeds a threshold ("Yes" in S306), the information terminal 5 (display control unit 62) performs presentation processing to display a warning on the display unit 51 (S307). In summary, the display control method includes presentation processing that presents an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head 30 on the oral cavity based on the physical quantity detected by the detection unit 19. Furthermore, the display control method includes warning processing that issues a warning when the estimated pressure level exceeds a threshold. If the detected pressure level does not exceed the threshold ("No" in S306), the information terminal 5 (display control unit 62) does not display a warning on the display unit 51.

[0380] Furthermore, when the drive unit 13 is driven according to the drive information, the electric toothbrush 1 determines whether the action time has elapsed (S308). When the action time has elapsed ("Yes" in S308), the electric toothbrush 1 stops the action of the drive unit 13 (S309).

[0381] When the operation of the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 ends, the information terminal 5 (determination unit 634) determines the user's skill level in operating the electric toothbrush 1 based on the estimated pressure applied (S310). Additionally, the information terminal 5 (presentation unit 633) performs presentation processing to display a result display screen D21, representing the determination of the user's skill level, on the display unit 51 (S311).

[0382] When the operation unit 17 is operated to stop the operation of the drive unit 13 before the operation time has elapsed ("No" in S308) ("Yes" in S312), the electric toothbrush 1 stops the drive unit 13. In addition, the electric toothbrush 1 sends a stop signal to the information terminal 5 and waits for the standby time to elapse before ending the operation of the drive unit 13 (S313).

[0383] If the operation of the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 ends midway (S313), the information terminal 5 (determination unit 634) determines whether the ratio of the time the drive unit 13 was driven to the operation time is a predetermined ratio (e.g., 75%) or more (S314).

[0384] Information terminal 5 (determination unit 634) determines the user's skill level in operating the electric toothbrush 1 only when the ratio of the time the drive unit 13 is driven to the action time is above a predetermined ratio ("Yes" in S314) (S310), and displays a result display screen D21 indicating the determination result of the user's skill level (S311).

[0385] (3.3) Other functions

[0386] The other functions of the oral cleaning system 900 of this embodiment will now be described.

[0387] The information terminal 5 has a replacement period notification function that provides a general target for the replacement period of the brush head 30, indicating the replacement date.

[0388] For example, when users use Figure 28 When the calendar screen D51, including the calendar image W33, is displayed on the display unit 51, an appropriate date is selected from the object B71, and appropriate operations are performed to set the date (use start date) for starting to use the brush head 30. When the use start date is set, the information terminal 5 automatically sets the date after a predetermined period from the use start date as the brush head replacement date. Furthermore, the information terminal 5... Figure 29 As shown in calendar screen D52, the string "Brush Head Replacement Date" is displayed in the calendar image W33 at the date corresponding to the brush head replacement date. Furthermore, in... Figure 29In the example, the "specified period" is 3 days, but it is not limited to this. The specified period can also be 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, etc. The "specified period" can also be changed by the user.

[0389] In addition, the information terminal 5 has the function of determining the start (including continuing) and stop (including pausing) of the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 based on the sound obtained by the sound interface unit 53 (microphone).

[0390] The drive unit 13 (first drive unit 131) of the electric toothbrush 1 drives the motor at a frequency included in the audible sound frequency band. Therefore, during the operation of the drive unit 13, a sound with a frequency corresponding to the motor's drive frequency is generated. Thus, the information terminal 5 determines whether the electric toothbrush 1 is in a driving state based on whether a sound with a frequency corresponding to the motor's drive frequency is received by the sound interface unit 53. In other words, the information terminal 5 has a sound mode that determines whether the electric toothbrush 1 is operating based on the drive sound of the drive unit 13.

[0391] In addition, the information terminal 5 can also control the playback / stop of the demonstration animation W10 based on the start / stop of the drive sound of the drive unit 13.

[0392] In addition, the information terminal 5 has the function of communicating with an external server. The server collects data related to the operation of the electric toothbrush 1 from the information terminal 5. For example, the server can also collect data on the pressure applied to each of the multiple cleaning areas Em, estimated by the estimation unit 632.

[0393] (4) Variations

[0394] The above-described embodiments are merely one of the various embodiments of this disclosure. Various modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments based on design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. The following are examples of variations of the embodiments. The variations described below can be appropriately combined and applied.

[0395] The oral cleaning system 900 of this disclosure includes a computer system in the processing unit 56 of the processing system 500 and the control unit 14 of the oral cleaning device 100. The computer system is primarily structured with a processor and memory as hardware. The functions of the processing unit 56 or control unit 14 in this disclosure are realized by the processor executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program can be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, provided via electrical communication lines, or recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, optical disc, or hard disk drive that can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) or large-scale integrated circuits (LSIs). The ICs or LSIs referred to here are named differently depending on the degree of integration, including integrated circuits called system LSI, VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) programmed after LSI fabrication, or logic devices capable of reconfiguring the internal bonding relationships or circuit partitioning of LSIs, can also be used as processors. Multiple electronic circuits can be integrated onto a single chip or distributed across multiple chips. Multiple chips can be integrated into a single device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system described here includes microcontrollers with one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, microcontrollers also consist of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits or large-scale integrated circuits.

[0396] Furthermore, integrating multiple functions of the processing system 500 and the oral cleaning device 100 into a single housing is not a necessary structure for the oral cleaning system 900; the constituent elements of the processing system 500 and the oral cleaning device 100 can also be distributed across multiple housings. Additionally, at least some functions of the processing unit 56 and other components in the processing system 500 can be implemented, for example, via a server or cloud (cloud computing).

[0397] The oral cleaning device 100 is not limited to an electric toothbrush 1. In a variation, the oral cleaning device 100 may also be an oral irrigator that cleans the oral cavity by means of water flow.

[0398] In one variation, the drive unit 13 of the electric toothbrush 1 may not have both a first drive unit 131 and a second drive unit 132, but may only have one (e.g., only the first drive unit 131).

[0399] In a variation, the program that implements the function of the control unit 14 can also be rewritten via the communication unit 20.

[0400] In one variation, the number of processes that can be stored in the storage unit 15 is not limited to 3, but can also be 1, 2, or more than 4.

[0401] In one variation, the power supply unit 16 may replace the rechargeable battery with a primary battery, or it may have a primary battery in addition to a rechargeable battery.

[0402] In one variation, the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) may also include a camera unit. In this case, the display control unit 62 of the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) may also display the image captured by the camera unit of the oral cleaning device 100 on the second area R32 of the display unit 51. In this case, the demonstration animation W10 may also be an animation of the angle inside the mouth when viewed from the camera unit of the oral cleaning device 100. In short, the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) may also send the data captured by the camera unit of the oral cleaning device 100 to the processing system 500 (information terminal 5). In addition, the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1) may also generate basic image construction data. The basic image construction data is data used to link the data captured by the camera unit of the oral cleaning device 100 with drive information to construct the image data in the processing system 500 (information terminal 5).

[0403] In one variation, the information terminal 5 is not limited to a general-purpose device, but can also be a dedicated device.

[0404] In one variation, the processing system 500 may also include multiple devices (e.g., a portable information terminal 5 and a fixed processing device). For example, the function of the processing unit 56 in the processing system 500 may also be implemented by devices other than the information terminal 5 (a fixed processing device, a server, etc.).

[0405] In one variation, the display unit 51 may be a monitor or the like installed in the washroom, replacing a mirror. In this case, it is preferable that the camera unit 55 is also installed in the washroom along with the monitor.

[0406] In one variation, the questioning unit 611 may present the question in a manner other than display. For example, the questioning unit 611 may present the question by sound via the voice interface unit 53 or via an external sound-emitting device (speaker, etc.) connected to the communication unit 54.

[0407] In a variation, the processing unit 56 may not include the question-asking unit 611. In other words, the processing unit 56 may not have the function of processing question presentation. For example, the answer receiving unit 612 may also receive answers to questions presented through other media such as paper.

[0408] In one variation, the questions presented by the questioning unit 611 are not limited to questions with a selection method. For example, the questions presented by the questioning unit 611 may also include questions with a free-response method. For example, a question related to brushing time may also be a question with a free-response method.

[0409] In a variation, the questions presented by the questioning unit 611 are not limited to those exemplified in the above embodiments. For example, questions related to the user's brushing of teeth may also include questions related to the method of using toothpaste (use / not use, amount used, etc.). Furthermore, questions related to the state of the user's oral cavity may include questions related to the whiteness of the user's teeth, the state of the user's tongue, the state of stains on the user's teeth, orthodontic treatment, and the user's wisdom teeth. Additionally, the questions presented by the questioning unit 611 may include questions related to the user's dominant hand (the hand holding the electric toothbrush 1 when brushing) and questions related to the user's age (e.g., questions asking whether the user is an adult or a child).

[0410] In one variation, the operation unit 52 may also have an interface other than a touch panel display (e.g., a physical button). The response receiving unit 612 may also receive responses via an interface other than a touch panel display (e.g., a physical button).

[0411] In one variation, the response receiving unit 612 may also receive responses via a component other than the operation unit 52. For example, the response receiving unit 612 may also receive responses via voice through the voice interface unit 53 or via an external listening device (microphone, etc.) connected to the communication unit 54.

[0412] The method by which the drive information generation unit 613 corrects the drive mode is not limited to the method of the embodiment. In one variation, the drive information generation unit 613 may also correct the drive mode of the cleaning region Em associated with the selected segmentation region Cn to a predetermined specific drive mode (e.g., the fourth drive mode) regardless of the basic drive mode. Alternatively, if the basic drive mode is the "fourth drive mode", the drive information generation unit 613 may correct the drive mode of the cleaning region Em associated with the selected segmentation region Cn to a fifth drive mode with an amplitude smaller than that of the fourth drive mode.

[0413] In a variation, the drive information generation unit 613 may also generate a drive pattern. That is, instead of selecting a drive pattern from a plurality of predetermined drive patterns, the drive information generation unit 613 may generate a new drive pattern and assign the newly generated drive pattern to any cleaning region Em.

[0414] In a variation, the number, range, etc. of at least one of the components selected from the group consisting of the segmented region Cn and the cleaning region Em can also vary depending on the user's operation of the processing system 500 (information terminal 5).

[0415] In a variation, the change receiving unit 614 may also be able to change the order of cleaning areas Em, excluding the starting cleaning area Em, based on the user's operation.

[0416] In a variation, the demo animation W10 can also be selected from the animations for the right-handed user and the animations for the left-handed user, depending on the user's dominant hand.

[0417] In a modified example, the display control unit 62 may also identify only the area including the oral cavity in the overall image captured by the camera unit 55, cut it out, and display the cut-out area as an image of the perioral region W210 on the display unit 51.

[0418] In a variation, the display control unit 62 may not display the demonstration animation W10 and the perioral image W210 in different areas (first area R31 and second area R32). For example, the display control unit 62 may also overlay the demonstration animation W10 (line image) onto the perioral image W210.

[0419] In one variation, the standby time (the waiting time from when the drive unit 13 pauses until the drive unit 13 finishes its operation) can also be variable. For example, the processing system 500 (information terminal 5) may also include a standby time setting unit that accepts changes to the standby time and sets the standby time accordingly.

[0420] In a variation, the processing system 500 may also allow the user to select the start position for the playback of the demonstration animation W10. For example, if the demonstration animation W10 is 2 minutes long, it may be possible to start playing the demonstration animation W10 from any position within the 2 minutes (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, 1 minute 17 seconds, etc.). In this case, the control unit 14 of the oral cleaning device 100 can drive the drive unit 13 based on the drive information after the time corresponding to the start position of the playback of the demonstration animation W10 in the action time (2 minutes) of the drive information.

[0421] In a modified example, the display control unit 62 can also display the camera image W21 (oral perioral image W210) on the display unit 51 at any time point independent of the operation of the electric toothbrush 1.

[0422] In a modified example, the estimation unit 632 may also estimate states other than those related to the pressure applied by the brush head 30, based on the physical quantity (SPD value) detected by the detection unit 19. For example, the estimation unit 632 may also estimate excessive movement of the brush head 30 based on the frequency of changes in the SPD value.

[0423] In one variation, part or all of the estimation unit 632 may also be provided in the control unit 14 of the oral cleaning device 100 (electric toothbrush 1). For example, the control unit 14 of the oral cleaning device 100 may estimate the pressing pressure based on the SPD value and send the estimated pressing pressure to the processing system 500. Alternatively, the control unit 14 of the oral cleaning device 100 may also compare the pressing pressure with a threshold and send the comparison result to the processing system 500.

[0424] The warning display method performed by the presentation unit 633 is not limited to the display of frame lines F1 and F2. In a variation, the presentation unit 633 may also display a bar graph representing the magnitude of the pressing pressure at an appropriate position on the display unit 51 (e.g., the area between the first region R31 and the second region R32).

[0425] In one variation, the presentation unit 633 may also present the estimation results (including warnings) in a manner other than display. For example, the presentation unit 633 may also present the estimation results (warnings) through sound (e.g., a beeping sound).

[0426] In a modified example, the oral cleaning system 900 (oral cleaning device 100 or processing system 500) can also determine whether the brush head 30 is in contact with a part of the oral cavity (i.e., whether brushing is actually being performed) based on a physical quantity (SPD value) detected by the detection unit 19. That is, when a load is applied to the brush head 30, the amplitude of the brush head 30 is smaller compared to when the brush head 30 is driven without load. Therefore, by using the change in the SPD value, it is possible to determine whether brushing is actually being performed.

[0427] (5) Method

[0428] Based on the embodiments and variations described above, the following methods are disclosed.

[0429] The oral cleaning system (900) of the first type includes an oral cleaning device (100) and a processing system (500) configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device (100). The processing system (500) includes a response receiving unit (612), a drive information generation unit (613), and a transmission processing unit (616). The response receiving unit (612) receives and answers questions related to at least one of the user's oral cleaning and the state of the user's oral cavity. The drive information generation unit (613) generates drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit (13) of the oral cleaning device (100) based on the answer received by the response receiving unit (612). The transmission processing unit (616) sends the drive information generated by the drive information generation unit (613) to the oral cleaning device (100). The oral cleaning device (100) includes a drive unit (13) and a control unit (14). The control unit (14) drives the drive unit (13) according to the drive information sent from the processing system (500).

[0430] According to this method, it is easy to create drive information suitable for each user. In addition, the drive unit (13) can be made to operate according to the created drive information, thus improving the convenience for users.

[0431] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the second method, in the first method, the processing system (500) also includes a display control unit (62). When the oral cleaning device (100) drives the drive unit (13) according to the drive information, the display control unit (62) displays an animation on the display unit (51) as a demonstration of a cleaning method for cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device (100).

[0432] This method allows users to clean their mouths while watching a demonstration animation, thus improving user convenience.

[0433] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the third method, in the first method, the questions include questions related to the user's brushing of teeth.

[0434] This method allows for the easy creation of driving information tailored to the user's brushing habits, thereby improving user convenience.

[0435] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the fourth method, in the third method, the questions include questions related to the length of brushing time, i.e., brushing time. The response receiving unit (612) receives the input of brushing time as a response. The drive information generation unit (613) generates drive information for the period from start to end of the brushing time received by the response receiving unit (612). The processing system (500) also includes a display control unit (62). When the oral cleaning device (100) drives the drive unit (13) according to the drive information, the display control unit (62) displays an animation demonstrating a cleaning method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device (100) on the display unit (51) in a manner linked to the period from start to end of the brushing time.

[0436] This method allows users to clean their mouths while watching a demonstration animation, thus improving user convenience.

[0437] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the fifth method, in any of the methods 1 to 4, the questions include questions related to the condition of the user's gums. The response receiving unit (612) receives the input of the condition of the gums for each of the multiple segmented regions (Cn) obtained by dividing the oral cavity as a response.

[0438] According to this method, it is easy to create driving information suitable for the state of the gingiva in multiple segmented regions (Cn) obtained by dividing the user's oral cavity, thereby improving user convenience.

[0439] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the sixth method, in any of the methods 1 to 5, the oral cleaning device (100) has multiple driving modes as driving modes. The driving information generation unit (613) sets one of the multiple driving modes for each of the multiple cleaning areas (Em) obtained by dividing the oral cavity.

[0440] According to this method, the driving mode can be set for multiple cleaning areas (Em) obtained by dividing the user's oral cavity according to the state of the oral cavity, thereby improving the user's convenience.

[0441] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the seventh method, in any of the methods 1 to 6, the question includes a question related to the user's tooth arrangement. The response receiving unit (612) receives the user's input of selecting the type of teeth in a specific tooth arrangement and the position of the teeth in that specific tooth arrangement as a response. The drive information generation unit (613) generates drive information in such a way that the drive information includes specific motion data for cleaning the teeth selected by the response receiving unit (612). When the control unit (14) of the oral cleaning device (100) drives the drive unit (13) according to the specific motion data, the processing system (500) displays an animation (specific demonstration animation W102) as a demonstration of the cleaning method for cleaning the teeth selected by the response receiving unit (612) on the display unit (51) in a manner that is linked to the period when the drive unit (13) moves based on the specific motion data.

[0442] This method allows users to watch an animated demonstration while cleaning specific tooth arrangements, thus improving user convenience.

[0443] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the eighth method, in any of the methods 1 to 7, the processing system (500) further includes a change acceptance unit (614). The change acceptance unit (614) accepts input for changing the drive information generated by the drive information generation unit (613).

[0444] This method allows for the modification of the generated driver information, thereby improving user convenience.

[0445] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the ninth method, in the eighth method, the change receiving unit (614) receives input for change driving information for each of the multiple cleaning areas (Em) obtained by dividing the oral cavity.

[0446] This method allows for changes to the drive information for each cleaning zone (Em) across multiple cleaning zones, thereby improving user convenience.

[0447] The procedure of the 10th method is used to cause one or more processors used in a processing system (500) configured to communicate with an oral cleaning device (100) that drives the drive unit (13) according to drive information to execute a response acceptance process (S102), a drive information generation process (S103), and a transmission process (S104). The response acceptance process (S102) includes: accepting a question related to at least one of the cleaning of the user's oral cavity and the state of the user's oral cavity. The drive information generation process (S103) includes: generating drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit (13) based on the answer received by the response acceptance process (S102). The transmission process (S104) includes: sending the drive information generated by the drive information generation process (S103) to the oral cleaning device (100).

[0448] This approach offers the following advantages: it makes it easy to create driver information tailored to each user, thereby improving user convenience.

[0449] The oral cleaning device (100) of the 11th type is configured to communicate with the processing system (500). The oral cleaning device (100) includes a drive unit (13) and a control unit (14). The control unit (14) drives the drive unit (13) according to drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit (13) sent from the processing system (500).

[0450] According to this method, the following advantages are available: the driver unit (13) can be driven based on driver information suitable for each user, thereby improving user convenience.

[0451] The 12th method involves executing a drive processing procedure on one or more processors used in an oral cleaning device (100) equipped with a drive unit (13) and configured to communicate with a processing system (500). The drive processing includes driving the drive unit (13) according to drive information related to the drive mode of the drive unit (13) sent from the processing system (500).

[0452] According to this method, the following advantages are available: the driver unit (13) can be driven based on driver information suitable for each user, thereby improving user convenience.

[0453] The oral cleaning system (900) of the 13th type includes an oral cleaning device (100) and a processing system (500) configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device (100). The oral cleaning device (100) includes a brush head (30), a drive unit (13), and a detection unit (19). The drive unit (13) is used to reciprocate the brush head (30). The detection unit (19) detects physical quantities related to the amplitude of the brush head (30) when the brush head (30) is reciprocated by the drive unit (13). The processing system (500) includes a presentation unit (633). The presentation unit (633) presents an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head (30) on the oral cavity based on the physical quantities detected by the detection unit (19).

[0454] According to this method, for example, it has the following advantages: it can notify the user of the state of excessive pressure of the brush head (30), thereby improving the user's convenience.

[0455] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 14th method, in the 13th method, the presentation unit (633) presents the estimation results by display.

[0456] This method allows users to intuitively grasp the estimation results, thereby improving user convenience.

[0457] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 15th method, in the 13th or 14th method, the pressing state of the brush head (30) on the oral cavity includes a state related to the level of the pressing force of the brush head (30) on the oral cavity.

[0458] According to this method, for example, it has the following advantages: it can notify the user of the state of excessive pressure of the brush head (30), thereby improving the user's convenience.

[0459] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 16th mode, in the 15th mode, the presentation unit (633) issues a warning when the pressure applied exceeds a threshold value.

[0460] This method can alert the user when the pressure applied exceeds a threshold, thereby improving user convenience.

[0461] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 17th method, in the 16th method, the threshold includes a first threshold and a second threshold that is larger than the first threshold. The presentation unit (633) issues different warnings when the pressure applied is greater than or equal to the first threshold but less than the second threshold, and when the pressure applied is greater than or equal to the second threshold.

[0462] This method allows for tiered alerts to users, thereby improving user convenience.

[0463] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 18th method, in the 16th or 17th method, the oral cleaning device (100) has multiple drive modes with different amplitudes of the brush head (30). The threshold is set to a different value for each of the multiple drive modes.

[0464] According to this method, a threshold suitable for the driving mode can be used to remind the user, thereby improving user convenience.

[0465] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 19th method, in any of the 13th to 18th methods, the processing system (500) further includes an estimation unit (632). The estimation unit (632) estimates the pressure state of the brush head (30) on the part of the oral cavity based on the physical quantity detected by the detection unit (19).

[0466] According to this method, since the estimation unit (632) is provided in the processing system (500), the processing load of the oral cleaning device (100) can be reduced.

[0467] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 20th method, in any one of the 13th to 19th methods, a determination unit (634) is also provided. The determination unit (634) determines the user's level of skill in operating the oral cleaning device (100) based on the estimation result of the pressing state.

[0468] This method allows for control that corresponds to the user's skill level.

[0469] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 21st method, in the 20th method, the presentation unit (633) presents different suggestion information based on the level of operational skill determined by the judgment unit (634).

[0470] This approach allows users to receive suggestions tailored to their skill levels, thereby improving user convenience.

[0471] The procedure of method 22 is used to cause one or more processors used in the processing system (500) to perform presentation processing (S307, S311), wherein the processing system (500) is configured to communicate with an oral cleaning device (100) that detects physical quantities related to the amplitude of the brush head (30) when the brush head (30) is reciprocating. The presentation processing (S307, S311) includes: presenting an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head (30) on a part of the oral cavity based on the physical quantities detected by the oral cleaning device (100).

[0472] According to this method, for example, it has the following advantages: it can notify the user of the state of excessive pressure of the brush head (30), thereby improving the user's convenience.

[0473] The oral cleaning device (100) of the 23rd type is configured to communicate with a processing system (500) having the function of presenting information. The oral cleaning device (100) includes a brush head (30), a drive unit (13), a detection unit (19), and a transmission unit (communication unit 20). The drive unit (13) is used to reciprocate the brush head (30). The detection unit (19) detects a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head (30) when the brush head (30) is reciprocated by the drive unit (13). The transmission unit transmits the physical quantity detected by the detection unit (19) so that the processing system (500) presents an estimate of the pressure state of the brush head (30) on the oral cavity based on the physical quantity detected by the detection unit (19).

[0474] According to this method, for example, it has the following advantages: it can notify the user of the state of excessive pressure of the brush head (30), thereby improving the user's convenience.

[0475] The oral cleaning system (900) of the 24th type includes an oral cleaning device (100) and a processing system (500) configured to communicate with the oral cleaning device (100). The processing system (500) includes a camera unit (55) and a display control unit (62). The display control unit (62) displays a demonstration animation (W10) demonstrating a cleaning method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device (100) and an image of the perioral cavity obtained by the camera unit (55) capturing an area including the user's oral cavity (W210) in an overlapping manner during at least a portion of the display on the same display unit (51).

[0476] According to this method, the following advantages are available: users can simultaneously view both the demonstration animation (W10) and the images of the oral cavity periphery (W210) while cleaning their mouths, thereby improving user convenience.

[0477] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 25th method, in the 24th method, the demonstration animation (W10) includes an image of the inside of the mouth from the frontal view of the person with their mouth open.

[0478] According to this method, it is easy to make the angle of the demonstration animation (W10) consistent with the angle of the perioral image (W210), and users can easily compare the demonstration animation (W10) with the perioral image (W210), thereby improving user convenience.

[0479] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 26th method, in the 24th or 25th method, the display control unit (62) displays the demonstration animation (W10) in the first area (R31) of the display unit (51), and displays the oral cavity periphery image (W210) in the second area (R32) of the display unit (51) which is different from the first area (R31).

[0480] This method allows users to easily compare the demonstration animation (W10) with the images of the oral cavity perioral area (W210), thereby improving user convenience.

[0481] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 27th embodiment, in the 26th embodiment, the candidates for the image displayed in the second region (R32) include an image of the perioral area (W210) and a status image (W22) related to the operating state of the oral cleaning device (100). The display control unit (62) switches the image displayed in the second region (R32) between the perioral area image (W210) and the status image (W22) according to the user's selection.

[0482] This method allows users to confirm the information they want to know, thereby improving user convenience.

[0483] Regarding the oral cleaning system (900) of the 28th embodiment, in any of the 24th to 27th embodiments, the oral cleaning device (100) includes a drive unit (13) and an operation unit (17). The operation unit (17) is used to receive the start and stop of the operation of the drive unit (13). When the operation unit (17) of the oral cleaning device (100) receives the start of the operation, the display control unit (62) starts playing the demonstration animation (W10), and when the operation unit (17) of the oral cleaning device (100) receives the stop of the operation, the display control unit (62) pauses or ends the playback of the demonstration animation (W10).

[0484] According to this method, demonstration animation (W10) can be played based on the operating state of the drive unit (13) of the oral cleaning device (100), thereby improving user convenience.

[0485] The program of the 29th method is used to cause one or more processors in a processing system (500) equipped with a camera unit (55) and configured to communicate with an oral cleaning device (100) to perform display control processing (S202, S203). The display control processing (S202, S203) includes displaying a demonstration animation (W10) which is an example of a cleaning method of cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cleaning device (100) and an image of the perioral cavity obtained by the camera unit (55) capturing an area including the user's oral cavity (W210) in which they overlap each other in the same display unit (51) for at least a part of the display period.

[0486] According to this method, the following advantages are available: users can simultaneously view both the demonstration animation (W10) and the images of the oral cavity periphery (W210) while cleaning their mouths, thereby improving user convenience.

[0487] Regarding the oral cleaning device (100) of the 30th embodiment, the 11th embodiment further includes a storage unit (15) and an operation unit (17). The storage unit (15) stores two or more predetermined numbers of drive information. The operation unit (17) is used to receive user operations. The control unit (14) includes a drive control unit (141) and an action setting unit (142). The action setting unit (142) selects a drive information from the predetermined number of drive information stored in the storage unit (15) based on the user's operation on the operation unit (17). The drive control unit (141) drives the drive unit (13) based on the drive information selected by the action setting unit (142).

[0488] Regarding the oral cleaning device (100) of the 31st method, in the 30th method, when the action setting unit (142) receives a drive information signal containing drive information from the processing system (500), it updates at least one drive information in a predetermined number of drive information stored in the storage unit (15) according to the received drive information signal.

[0489] The oral cleaning device action setting system (oral cleaning system 900) of the 32nd method operates by sending and receiving data between the information terminal (5) and the oral cleaning device (100). The information terminal (5) includes, in order to generate device action setting data (drive information) that triggers the operation of the oral cleaning device (100): a user question and response unit (response receiving unit 612), which receives user answer data while engaging in question and response with the user when device action setting data is input from the information terminal (5); a device action setting data generation unit (drive information generation unit 613), which parses and transforms the user answer data received by the user question and response unit to generate device action setting data; and a device action setting data sending unit (sending processing unit 616), which sends the data generated by the device action setting data generation unit to the oral cleaning device (100). The oral cleaning device (100) includes: a device action setting unit (action setting unit 142), which receives device action setting data as a trigger for action from an information terminal (5) and sets the action of the oral cleaning device (100); and an oral cleaning device action execution unit (drive control unit 141), which executes the action set by the device action setting unit.

[0490] The information terminal (5) of the 33rd method includes, in order to generate device action setting data that triggers the operation of the oral cleaning device (100): a user question and response unit (response receiving unit 612), which receives user answer data while engaging in question and response with the user when device action setting data is input from the information terminal (5); a device action setting data generation unit (drive information generation unit 613), which parses and transforms the user answer data received by the user question and response unit to generate device action setting data; and a device action setting data transmission unit (transmission processing unit 616), which transmits the data (drive information) generated by the device action setting data generation unit to the oral cleaning device (100).

[0491] Regarding the information terminal (5) of the 34th method, in the 33rd method, the user question and response unit (questioning unit 611) has the function of asking the user questions about daily brushing of teeth and the state of the oral cavity.

[0492] Regarding the information terminal (5) in the 35th mode, in the 33rd mode, the device action setting data causes the oral cleaning device (100) to operate in a manner that conforms to the user's brushing of teeth and the state inside the mouth.

[0493] The information terminal (5) of the 36th type is an information terminal that transmits and receives data with the oral cleaning device (100). The information terminal (5) displays the brushing method (demonstration animation W10) and the perioral image of the mouth of the person using the oral cleaning device (100) (perioral image W210) simultaneously on the brushing status display unit (display unit 51) for displaying the data transmitted and received with the oral cleaning device (100).

[0494] The information terminal (5) of the 37th type is an information terminal that transmits and receives data with the oral cleaning device (100). The information terminal (5) includes: an oral cleaning device pressure estimation unit (estimation unit 632) that receives a brush head amplitude signal (a physical quantity related to the amplitude of the brush head) from the oral cleaning device (100) and estimates the pressure; and a display unit (display unit 51) that displays an image corresponding to the pressure estimated by the oral cleaning device pressure estimation unit.

[0495] The oral cleaning device (100) of the 38th method is an oral cleaning device (100) that receives device action setting data (drive information) from the information terminal (5) as a trigger for the action of the oral cleaning device (100). The device action setting data is the parsing result of user response data received while asking and answering questions with the user when the device action setting data is input from the information terminal (5).

[0496] The oral cleaning device (100) of the 39th type is an oral cleaning device that transmits and receives data with an information terminal (5). The oral cleaning device (100) sends brushing status display data (status signal) to the information terminal (5) to enable the information terminal (5) to display the brushing status display data (status signal) for transmitting and receiving data with the oral cleaning device (100). The oral cleaning device (100) sends brushing method display data (status signal) to simultaneously display the brushing method (demonstration animation W10) and the perioral image (perioral image W210) of the person using the oral cleaning device (100).

[0497] The oral cleaning device (100) of the 40th method is an electric toothbrush that transmits and receives data with an information terminal (5). In order to enable the information terminal (5) to estimate the pressure and display an image corresponding to the estimated pressure, the oral cleaning device (100) sends a brush head amplitude signal from the oral cleaning device (100) to the information terminal (5).

[0498] Regarding the oral cleaning device (100) of the 41st method, in any one of the 38th to 40th methods, data captured by the camera unit of the oral cleaning device (100) is sent to the information terminal (5).

[0499] Regarding the oral cleaning device (100) of the 42nd method, in the 41st method, the data captured by the camera unit of the oral cleaning device (100) and the device action setting data are linked and processed to generate basic data for constructing the screen data in the information terminal (5).

[0500] Industrial availability

[0501] This disclosure provides an oral cleaning system, oral cleaning device, and program that improves user convenience.

[0502] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0503] 100: Oral cleaning device; 13: Drive unit; 131: First drive unit; 132: Second drive unit; 14: Control unit; 17: Operation unit; 19: Detection unit; 20: Communication unit (transmission unit); 30: Brush head; 500: Processing system; 51: Display unit; 55: Camera unit; 612: Response receiving unit; 613: Drive information generation unit; 614: Change receiving unit; 616: Transmission processing unit; 62: Display control unit; 632: Estimation unit; 6 33: Presentation Unit; 634: Judgment Unit; 900: Oral Cleaning System; Cn: Segmentation Region; Em: Cleaning Region; R31: Region 1; R32: Region 2; W10: Demonstration Animation; W102: Specific Demonstration Animation; W210: Perioral Image; S102: Response Acceptance Processing; S103: Drive Information Generation Processing; S104: Sending Processing; S202, S203: Display Control Processing; S307, S311: Presentation Processing.

Claims

1. An oral cavity cleaning system comprising: an oral cavity cleaning device; and a processing system configured to communicate with the oral cavity cleaning device, the processing system comprising: a response receiving unit that receives a response to a question about at least one of a cleaning of an oral cavity of a user and a state in the oral cavity of the user; a drive information generating unit that generates drive information about a drive mode of a drive unit included in the oral cavity cleaning device, based on the response received by the response receiving unit; and a transmission processing unit that transmits the drive information generated by the drive information generating unit to the oral cavity cleaning device, the oral cavity cleaning device comprising: the drive unit; and a control unit that drives the drive unit in accordance with the drive information transmitted from the processing system, the question including a question about tooth brushing of the user, the question including a question about a length of time for which tooth brushing is performed, the response receiving unit receiving an input of the length of time for which tooth brushing is performed as the response, the drive information generating unit generating the drive information for a period from a start to an end of the length of time for which tooth brushing is performed, the processing system further comprising a display control unit that causes an animation that is a demonstration of a cleaning method for cleaning the oral cavity using the oral cavity cleaning device to be displayed on a display unit in conjunction with the period from the start to the end of the length of time for which tooth brushing is performed, when the drive unit is driven by the oral cavity cleaning device in accordance with the drive information.

2. An oral cavity cleaning system comprising: an oral cavity cleaning device; and a processing system configured to communicate with the oral cavity cleaning device, the processing system comprising: a response receiving unit that receives a response to a question about at least one of a cleaning of an oral cavity of a user and a state in the oral cavity of the user; a drive information generating unit that generates drive information about a drive mode of a drive unit included in the oral cavity cleaning device, based on the response received by the response receiving unit; and a transmission processing unit that transmits the drive information generated by the drive information generating unit to the oral cavity cleaning device, the oral cavity cleaning device comprising: the drive unit; and a control unit that drives the drive unit in accordance with the drive information transmitted from the processing system, the question including a question about tooth arrangement of the user. ​ wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ wherein ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The answer accepting section accepts, as the answer, input of a type of tooth to be selected from the user's dentition and a position of the tooth to be selected, the drive information generating section generates the drive information so as to include specific action data for cleaning the tooth selected by the answer accepting section, and the processing system displays, in the display section, an animation that demonstrates a cleaning method for cleaning the tooth selected by the answer accepting section in linkage with a period during which the drive section moves based on the specific action data.

3. The oral cavity cleaning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the questions include questions about a state of the user's gingiva, the answer accepting section accepts, as the answer, input of the state of the gingiva for each of a plurality of divided regions obtained by dividing the oral cavity.

4. The oral cavity cleaning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the oral cavity cleaning device has a plurality of drive modes as the drive mode, the drive information generating section sets one of the plurality of drive modes for each of a plurality of cleaning regions obtained by dividing the oral cavity.

5. The oral cavity cleaning system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the processing system further includes a change accepting section that accepts input for changing the drive information generated by the drive information generating section.

6. The oral cavity cleaning system according to claim 5, wherein the change accepting section accepts input for changing the drive information for each of a plurality of cleaning regions obtained by dividing the oral cavity.

7. A program product including a program for causing one or more processors used in a processing system configured to communicate with an oral cavity cleaning device that drives a drive section in accordance with drive information to perform the following processes: an answer accepting process that accepts an answer to a question about at least one of cleaning of an oral cavity of a user and a state in the oral cavity of the user; a drive information generating process that generates the drive information about a drive mode of the drive section based on the answer accepted by the answer accepting process; and a transmission process that transmits the drive information generated by the drive information generating process to the oral cavity cleaning device, wherein the question includes a question about tooth brushing of the user, the question includes a question about a length of time during which tooth brushing is performed, i.e., a tooth brushing time, the program is further for causing the one or more processors to perform the following processes: a process that accepts input of the tooth brushing time as the answer; a process that generates the drive information for a period from the start to the end of the tooth brushing time accepted by the answer accepting process; and a process that transmits the drive information generated by the drive information generating process to the oral cavity cleaning device. In a case where the oral cavity washing device drives the drive section in accordance with the drive information, an animation that is a demonstration of a washing method for washing the oral cavity using the oral cavity washing device is displayed on a display section in a manner linked to a period from the start to the end of the brushing time.

8. A program product including a program for causing one or more processors used in a processing system configured to communicate with an oral cavity washing device that drives a drive section in accordance with drive information to execute the following processing: a reply acceptance processing that accepts a reply to a question regarding at least one of a washing of an oral cavity of a user and a state in the oral cavity of the user; a drive information generation processing that generates the drive information regarding a drive mode of the drive section based on the reply accepted by the reply acceptance processing; and a transmission processing that transmits the drive information generated by the drive information generation processing to the oral cavity washing device, wherein the question includes a question regarding tooth arrangement of the user, the program is further for causing the one or more processors to execute the following processing: a processing that accepts, as the reply, an input of a type of tooth of a specific tooth arrangement selected from a dentition of the user and a position of the tooth of the specific tooth arrangement; a processing that generates the drive information in a manner such that the drive information contains specific action data for washing the tooth selected by the reply acceptance processing; and a processing that, in a case where the oral cavity washing device drives the drive section in accordance with the specific action data, causes an animation that is a demonstration of a washing method for washing the tooth selected by the reply acceptance processing to be displayed on a display section in a manner linked to a period in which the drive section acts based on the specific action data.

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