Oral care system with sanitizing function

Abstract

An oral care system (10) comprises an oral care device (12). The oral care device is designed to comprise or be attached to a cleaning or treatment portion (14), such as a brush head or mouthpiece. The oral care device thus has a cleaning or treatment function. The oral care device is further provided with an electromagnetic (EM) field or radiation generator (22) adapted to generate and emit radio or microwave frequency electromagnetic energy in a space (disinfection zone) around an emitter arrangement (24) for emitting the radiation or field. The EM emission is configured to have electromagnetic properties suitable for heating water or aqueous fluid located within the disinfection zone (34). This allows a disinfection or sterilization function in a dedicated mode, wherein the EM emission of the EM generator causes heating of water on any surface of the cleaning or treatment portion located within the disinfection zone to a temperature of at least 50°C, preferably a temperature of at least 70°C, the heating having a disinfection or sterilization effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an oral care system including oral care equipment, and more particularly to an oral care system with a disinfection function. Background Technology

[0002] WO2017216606A1 and US2008288007A1 disclose prior art oral care devices.

[0003] Disinfection is a process designed to kill or inactivate bacteria and other microorganisms on a surface. Disinfection is a useful feature for oral care devices that include parts placed in the mouth, as introducing microorganisms into the mouth can have health effects. Examples of oral care devices include electric toothbrushes, brush-and-mouth attachment devices, oral irrigators, and electric dental floss. Each of these includes at least one part (cleaning and / or handling part) that is received in the mouth during use (e.g., the brush head or mouth attachment part).

[0004] Existing sterilization techniques for the mouthpiece of oral care devices are often inefficient or cumbersome and inconvenient. One example involves the use of UV light. This is often ineffective or inefficient because some surfaces are blocked from irradiation due to the shadowing effect caused by parts of the oral care device, such as the bristle area. This often requires long exposure times (up to 15 minutes), or, alternatively, potentially unsafe or impractical very high intensities. Another limitation of UV light sterilization, particularly for brush heads or brush mouthpieces, is that the light primarily interacts with the surface of the bristles and cannot penetrate to the surface at the base of the platform between the bristles. Furthermore, the radiation that does reach these surfaces may be of low intensity due to the accumulation of toothpaste residue (leading to absorption or reflection of UV radiation), rendering UV light sterilization ineffective at these locations.

[0005] Therefore, UV light will not reach microorganisms, such as those at the base of the brush bristles or between the bristles. Insufficient disinfection in these areas can lead to mold growth.

[0006] Furthermore, existing disinfection solutions typically require the use of larger external accessories to perform the disinfection process, such as dedicated cleaning stations. If these are to actively disinfect the oral cleaning and / or treatment portions of oral care equipment, they will need to provide their own power supply and may also require the provision of cleaning agents.

[0007] Therefore, it is desirable to achieve a more efficient and effective cleaning and disinfection process for the mouth receiving portion of oral care devices. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This invention is defined by the independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0009] According to an example of one aspect of the invention, an oral care system is provided, the oral care system including an oral care device including or operatively coupled to a cleaning and / or treatment section for being at least partially received in a user's oral cavity to perform cleaning or treatment functions.

[0010] Oral care devices include a signal generator operable to generate radio frequency (RF) and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation (and / or alternating electromagnetic fields) when the generator is operably coupled to a transmitter device (e.g., a conductor device or an electroactive material or metamaterial device).

[0011] The signal generator can selectively operate in a disinfection mode, in which it is adapted to generate a signal that causes a connected transmitter device to generate radio frequency (RF) and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation in a disinfection area surrounding the transmitter device. This radiation is suitable for heating (at least) water or an aqueous fluid that comes into contact with any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment section located in the disinfection area. This is used to perform disinfection of the cleaning and / or treatment sections.

[0012] The radiation is preferably suitable for heating water that comes into contact with any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment section to a temperature of at least 50°C, preferably at least 70°C.

[0013] In some examples, it can be additionally adapted to heat other liquids or gases, such as ethylene glycol, ethanol, methanol, and acetic acid. These can be included, for example, in specialized cleaning solvents used during the cleaning and / or disinfection of treated areas.

[0014] In the context of this disclosure, the term "suitable for heating water" can mean suitable for heating water or aqueous substances (such as, for example, toothpaste or toothpaste paste, saliva, mouthwash, or combinations thereof). More generally, microwave radiation can be suitable for heating any substance containing polar molecules.

[0015] Embodiments of the present invention are based on providing sterilization of the cleaning or treatment portion (CTP) of an oral care device (e.g., a toothbrush head or brush mouthpiece unit) by generating electromagnetic (EM) energy or radiation at a frequency suitable for causing heating and optionally evaporation (steaming) of water within a space containing the oral cleaning or treatment portion. At least any aqueous fluid (liquid or gas) in contact with the surface of the CTP will be heated. This can be residual fluid left after oral cleaning or treatment, or the CTP can be immersed in a fluid during sterilization. It can be, for example, toothpaste paste.

[0016] Control parameters can be optionally set such that water is heated to a desired threshold temperature, and preferably heated for a desired threshold time, thereby sterilizing CTP. For example, it has been shown that generating EM energy to heat water to at least 70°C for at least 10 seconds is sufficient for sterilization, killing 99.9% of bacteria. This can be based on, for example, an assumed volume of water to be heated starting at 15-25°C, such as about 1 ml of water. Given knowledge of the emission characteristics and structural configuration of the transmitter device, a control procedure can be provided to achieve the desired heating level for the desired time.

[0017] In some examples, control parameters can be set such that the material on the surface of the clean or treated portion exposed to EM radiation is heated to a desired threshold temperature, and preferably heated for a desired threshold time, thereby sterilizing the CTP. For example, the exposed surfaces of the clean and / or treated portions in the sterilization area can be heated to at least 50-70°C.

[0018] It is known that heating water requires the application of EM radiation or energy within a specific frequency range, which is suitable for efficiently interacting with water molecule dipoles to cause the dipoles to oscillate. For example, a generator can be adapted to drive an emitter device in a sterilization mode to generate EM radiation with frequencies between 300 MHz and 300 GHz, for example, between 2 and 300 GHz, or for example, between 2 and 30 GHz.

[0019] A disinfection zone simply refers to an area, space, or zone exposed to electromagnetic radiation emitted by a transmitter device (when driven by a generator). Therefore, it is a space in which water or other materials are heated, and thus disinfection can occur.

[0020] Different options are available for the location and configuration of the transmitter device. The transmitter device can be located in or above the cleaning or treatment section. This means that the disinfection area around the transmitter device inherently includes a section of the CTP. The transmitter device can be located at, within, or near the area intended to be disinfected during use. When the CTP is outside the oral cavity, disinfection modes can be performed.

[0021] Alternatively, the transmitter device may be located in a separate unit, such as a disinfection station, which may define a disinfection area, such as a chamber, in which cleaning or treatment components may be accommodated.

[0022] In both cases, the oral care device includes a signal generator and is adapted to be electrically coupled to a transmitter device, at least during sterilization. For example, the device can be electrically interfaced with a separate sterilization station. Having a generator in the oral care device avoids the need for active electronics in a separate sterilization unit. Only passive components (the transmitter device) are required. The oral care device may already include a local power supply, such as a local power supply for generating oscillating motion. This can be efficiently utilized to provide the dual function of powering either an EM field or radiation generation.

[0023] Alternatively, when the transmitter device is included in or on a cleaning or treatment section (CTP), the transmitter device is arranged to be electrically coupled to the generator when the cleaning or treatment section is coupled to the device, or the transmitter device can be permanently electrically connected to the generator. Therefore, the transmitter device is carried by the CTP. Thus, the disinfection area corresponds to an area containing at least a CTP and including a section with conductive elements. An oral care system may include a CTP, or the CTP may be an auxiliary unit.

[0024] According to one or more embodiments, the signal generator can also selectively operate in a cleaning or treatment mode, in which the generator is adapted to generate a signal for causing a connected transmitter device to generate an electromagnetic field or radiation to perform an oral cleaning or treatment function. This function is intended to be performed when the transmitter device is received in the oral cavity.

[0025] Therefore, in this embodiment, the oral care device includes an integrated electromagnetic cleaning or treatment function designed to drive a transmitter device in the cleaning or treatment section to generate an EM field or EM radiation to perform cleaning or treatment.

[0026] In this case, optionally, the same transmitter device and signal generator are used to perform the dual function of also performing disinfection.

[0027] In cleaning or treatment mode, compared to disinfection mode, the generator can produce EM fields or EM radiation at lower electromagnetic frequencies. It can also produce fields or emissions with lower electromagnetic power and / or lower power density.

[0028] For example, the disinfection mode can operate with EM emissions in the range of several hundred MHz or GHz (e.g., 0.3-300 GHz), while the cleaning or treatment mode can generate EM emissions in the range of approximately 1-300 MHz (e.g., 1-100 MHz). For example, in the cleaning or treatment mode, the generator can drive the transmitter device to generate EM radiation at frequencies less than 100 MHz, such as less than 50 MHz, such as between 1-20 MHz, such as between 1-10 MHz.

[0029] According to one or more embodiments, in disinfection mode, the generator may be adapted or controlled to generate a signal that causes the transmitter device to generate an EM field or EM radiation having an average power of at least 10-20 W and lasting for a period of at least 10-20 seconds. This can be accomplished by generating a drive signal for causing the transmitter device to generate electromagnetic radiation, the drive signal having an average power of at least 10-20 W, and the signal being generated for a period of at least 10-20 seconds. This has been found to be sufficient to heat a small amount of water, such as that possibly found on the surface of an oral care device, to a temperature of at least 70°C. The generator may also be adapted to subsequently generate EM radiation with an average power of 10-20 W for an additional 10-20 seconds. This has been found to be sufficient to maintain the water at the temperature of at least 70°C for 10-20 seconds.

[0030] According to one or more embodiments, the disinfection mode may include a disinfection control procedure in which an electromagnetic field or radiation is generated at a suitable power and for a suitable time period to heat a predetermined minimum volume of water (e.g., at least 1 ml) to a temperature of at least 70°C and maintain the temperature at or above 70°C for at least 10 seconds.

[0031] According to one or more embodiments, the oral care device may further include a mechanical actuator for providing a source of mechanical movement. The actuator is arranged such that the mechanical movement is mechanically coupled to the cleaning or treatment section, or the mechanical movement is adapted to be mechanically coupled to the section when the section is operatively connected. Preferably, the mechanical actuator is controlled to be activated during a sterilization mode.

[0032] This provides a combination of mechanical cleaning (agitation) and electromagnetic sterilization for cleaning or treatment. Mechanical cleaning can remove larger debris particles (from, for example, the bristle area or mouthpiece of a toothbrush, or from the emitter device), while the emitted EM energy can kill or deactivate microorganisms.

[0033] According to one or more embodiments, the oral care system may include a transmitter device and may also include an electromagnetic shield unit configured in a deployment location in which the shield unit is arranged in a defined spatial relationship with respect to a disinfection area surrounding the transmitter device and is adapted to at least partially suppress electromagnetic radiation or energy from escaping from the disinfection area.

[0034] The shielding unit improves water heating efficiency, thus reducing the time and energy required for disinfection. It also provides safety features to protect users from EM radiation exposure.

[0035] The shielding unit is adapted to at least partially contain electromagnetic radiation or energy within the disinfection area. In some cases, it can redirect or concentrate radiation through reflection.

[0036] It can include multiple shielding walls arranged around and facing the disinfection area.

[0037] The shielding unit may include one or more electromagnetic reflective elements or surfaces adapted to at least partially reflect electromagnetic energy generated by the transmitter device in a disinfection mode, for at least partially containing the energy within the disinfection area when the shielding unit is placed in a deployment configuration. When in a deployment configuration, it may reflect EM energy back to the transmitter, or otherwise reflect EM energy back to the disinfection area.

[0038] The reflective surface or element should reflect the radiation at the frequency generated by the generator in disinfection mode.

[0039] Preferably, the EM reflective surface or element is configured to reflect at least 20%, for example at least 50%, for example at least 60%, for example at least 80%, of any electromagnetic energy incident thereon (generated by the sterilization mode).

[0040] The reflective surfaces can be integrated with the shielding unit. For example, they can be inherently provided by the material of the shielding unit itself, such as in the case where the shielding unit is formed of an EM reflective material.

[0041] According to one or more embodiments, an oral care system may include a cleaning or treatment section, wherein a shielding unit includes a cap or cover defining an internal chamber or space and is arranged to mount on at least a segment of the cleaning or treatment section in a deployment configuration, wherein the section is at least partially received within the chamber.

[0042] When the shield unit is in the deployment configuration, the section of the cleaning and / or processing unit, including the transmitter device, is housed in the chamber.

[0043] The cap or cover is arranged to contain at least part of the EM emissions generated by the transmitter device within the cavity.

[0044] According to one or more embodiments, when a cover or cap is deployed over at least a segment of the CTP, the total unoccupied volume of the chamber can be 1 cm³. 3 and 10cm 3The unoccupied volume can form a fluid receiving space, which can be completely or partially filled with the fluid to be heated during operation. The disinfection mode can include a disinfection control program configured to heat the water filling the total unoccupied volume to at least 50-70°C and maintain said temperature for 10-20 seconds. This can be based on the assumption that the water starts at room temperature (e.g., between 15-25°C).

[0045] In an advantageous example, the disinfection control procedure can be configured to heat all exposed surfaces of the cleaning or treatment section within the cover or cap (when deployed) to at least 50-70°C. This can be inherently achieved by heating the water in contact with said surfaces, or additionally by forming surfaces of materials susceptible to heating via electromagnetic emission.

[0046] By way of one example, the oral care device can be a toothbrush, and the cap can be designed to be mounted on the platform of the brush head, wherein the platform supports the emitter assembly and the bristle area. By way of another example, the oral care device can be a toothbrush, wherein the emitter assembly is integrated into the handle portion of the device and arranged to extend from the handle to a position adjacent to the brush head. The cap can be mounted on the brush head and the emitter assembly.

[0047] According to one or more embodiments, the protective shield unit can be physically separable from the oral care device. In a non-deployment configuration, it can be separable from the oral care device. In a deployment configuration, it can be mechanically mounted or connected to the oral care device. In one or more embodiments of this group, the oral care system may include a cleaning or treatment section, and wherein the cleaning or treatment section includes a transmitter device.

[0048] According to one or more embodiments, the shield unit may be adapted to be mechanically (manually or electronically) movable between a non-deployment configuration and a deployment configuration, the shield unit being mechanically connected or mounted to the oral care device in both locations, and

[0049] In the deployed configuration, the shield unit is arranged to at least partially cover or face the disinfection area (e.g., a section of the cleaning or treatment area), and in the non-deployed configuration, the shield unit is in a different position. This different position allows the shield unit to be in a retracted configuration, in which it does not cover or face the disinfection area.

[0050] In one or more of these embodiments, the oral care system may include a cleaning or treatment section, wherein the cleaning or treatment section includes a transmitter device. Therefore, in this configuration, the shield unit at least partially covers or faces the area containing at least a segment (e.g., the head of a toothbrush) of the cleaning or treatment section.

[0051] For example, in one set of examples, the oral care device may have a main body having an operating end and a handle end. An oral cleaning or treatment section may be adapted to connect to the operating end. A protective cover unit may be adapted to slide along the main body of the oral care device between the operating end and the handle end.

[0052] According to one or more embodiments, the oral care system may further include a covering unit configured in a deployment configuration in which the covering unit is arranged to surround or enclose a sterilization area to at least partially restrict heat escape, to promote steam generation in the sterilization area / volume, and the covering unit has pressure relief openings to permit controlled steam escape.

[0053] Coverage units can be reversibly located in the deployment configuration, for example, removably installed onto a CTP.

[0054] The protective unit may be, for example, a cover or cap arranged to be fitted over a portion of the cleaning and / or processing section. It may, for example, surround and enclose at least a portion of the cleaning and / or processing section.

[0055] In addition to pressure relief outlets or openings, it can be arranged to provide a fluid seal around the disinfection area and possibly around sections of the cleaning or treatment area.

[0056] By way of two non-limiting examples, the covering unit may include a silicone or rubber airbag or cap.

[0057] Optionally, the covering unit may also be adapted to at least partially prevent the escape of EM energy, for example, by including an EM reflective surface or element.

[0058] According to one or more embodiments, the generator and transmitter devices can form a generating circuit, and the oral care device further includes a sensing module arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit and adapted to:

[0059] The presence of moisture in the disinfection area is detected based on the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit; and / or the temperature in the disinfection area is detected based on the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit.

[0060] Alternatively, the controller can detect the presence of moisture and / or temperature based on the output from the sensing module.

[0061] Moisture detection can be particularly useful for applications combined with the steam generation embodiments described above. For example, moisture detection can be used to detect the presence of steam within a sterilization area / volume. This allows monitoring of the progress of the sterilization cycle of the equipment, which may include the conversion of fluid / water into steam and the escape of the steam, thereby removing moisture from the area (volume). Therefore, when the moisture level falls below a defined moisture threshold, the termination of steam generation or steam sterilization cycle can be detected.

[0062] It can be used, either additionally or alternatively, to detect when a disinfected area has dried. This indicates that disinfection is complete.

[0063] Temperature detection also allows monitoring of the progress of the equipment's disinfection cycle. The operation of the EM generator can optionally be controlled based on sensing to adjust the temperature or guide the disinfection area through the intended disinfection cycle.

[0064] For example, according to one or more embodiments, the aforementioned sensing module is provided, which is arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit and is adapted to detect the temperature within the disinfection area based on the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit. The oral care system may also include a controller adapted to implement a disinfection control procedure, the disinfection control procedure including heating a fluid in the disinfection area to a temperature of at least 50-70°C and maintaining the fluid at said temperature for at least 10-20 seconds, wherein the controller is arranged to receive a temperature sensing signal from the sensing module for use in implementing the control procedure (i.e., for sensing when a minimum temperature has been reached) and for adjusting the EM output of the generator circuit to maintain the temperature for a time window of at least 10-20 seconds.

[0065] According to one or more embodiments, the generator and transmitter devices form a generating circuit, and the oral care device further includes a sensing module arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit.

[0066] The shielding unit includes one or more electromagnetic reflective surfaces or elements adapted to at least partially reflect electromagnetic fields or radiation generated by the transmitter device, and

[0067] The sensing module is suitable for detecting the placement of the shield unit in the deployment configuration based on electrical characteristics.

[0068] Alternatively, the controller can detect placement based on the output from the sensing module. The sensing module or controller can compare the detected signal characteristics with a reference signal associated with the correct placement of the shroud unit. The sensing module or controller can detect defined changes in one or more electrical characteristics exceeding a threshold amount or matching a defined electrical flag associated with the cap placement.

[0069] According to one or more embodiments, an oral care device may include a handle or body portion for an electric toothbrush or mouthpiece.

[0070] Another aspect of the invention provides a cleaning or treatment section comprising:

[0071] Cleaning or treatment elements for performing cleaning or treatment functions in a user's oral cavity; and

[0072] A transmitter device operable to generate radio frequency (RF) and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation when the transmitter device is operably coupled to a signal generator.

[0073] The cleaning or treatment section may be selectively operated in a disinfection mode, in which radiation generated by the transmitter device is suitable for heating water in contact with any exposed surfaces of the cleaning or treatment section in the disinfection area surrounding the transmitter device to a temperature of at least 50°C, preferably at least 70°C, to perform disinfection of the cleaning or treatment section.

[0074] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for disinfecting at least a cleaning or treatment portion of an oral care device, wherein the cleaning or treatment portion is intended to be received in the oral cavity or by a user to perform a cleaning or treatment function, the method comprising:

[0075] A signal generator is used to generate a signal that causes a connected transmitter device to generate radio frequency and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation in a disinfection area around the transmitter device. This radiation is suitable for heating water present on any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment portion located in the disinfection area.

[0076] The radiation is preferably suitable for heating water present on any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment area to a temperature of at least 50°C, preferably at least 70°C.

[0077] The embodiments of the cleaning or treatment components and methods match the above-described embodiments of the system.

[0078] These and other aspects of the invention will become apparent from and be set forth with reference to the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description

[0079] To better understand the invention and to more clearly illustrate how the invention can be implemented, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings by way of example only, in which:

[0080] Figure 1 The components of an example oral care system are illustrated schematically;

[0081] Figure 2 The illustration schematically shows the use of EM energy to heat a fluid (in contact with the surface of the part being cleaned or processed);

[0082] Figure 3 An example oral care device is shown schematically;

[0083] Figures 4 to 5 An example oral cleaning or treatment device including a transmitter assembly with generator circuitry is shown;

[0084] Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 A variation of the device in which the transmitter device is embedded in the surface of the cleaning or treatment section;

[0085] Figures 7 to 8 It shows Figure 5 Another variation of the device, wherein the transmitter device is embedded in the surface of the cleaning or processing section and includes one or more loop coils;

[0086] Figure 9 The illustration shows an example of oral cleaning and / or treatment.

[0087] Figures 10 to 12 The illustration shows an example EM shield unit in the form of a cap or cover for mounting on a portion of the oral cleaning and / or treatment section;

[0088] Figures 13 to 15 The diagram shows... Figures 9 to 12 A variation of the cap or cover, the variation including a shaped reflector portion at the base, the shaped reflector portion including a concave reflector region;

[0089] Figures 16 to 18 The illustration shows another example of an EM shield unit in the form of an umbrella-shaped unit;

[0090] Figure 19 The illustration shows a charging stand for an oral cleaning or treatment device, or another example of an EM shield unit incorporated into such a charging stand;

[0091] Figure 20 Another example EM shield unit is schematically illustrated in a storage or travel case incorporated into an oral hygiene or treatment device;

[0092] Figure 21 The illustration shows another example EM shield unit including a sleeve article that can slide along the body of the oral care device to be placed in a deployment position;

[0093] Figures 22 to 24 The illustration shows another example EM shield unit that can be folded in an accordion manner for deployment and retraction;

[0094] Figures 25 to 26 The illustration shows a covering unit used to retain heat to promote steam generation;

[0095] Figure 27 The diagram illustrates an EM generating circuit with sensing capabilities for sensing temperature and / or moisture in a disinfection area.

[0096] Figure 28 The diagram illustrates an EM generation circuit having a means for sensing the placement of an EM shield on a transmitter device; and

[0097] Figure 29 An example workflow for the operation of the disinfection protocol is outlined. Detailed Implementation

[0098] The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0099] It should be understood that while the detailed description and specific examples indicate exemplary embodiments of the devices, systems, and methods, they are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the devices, systems, and methods of the present invention will become better understood from the following description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the drawings are merely schematic and not drawn to scale. It should also be understood that the same reference numerals are used in all the drawings to indicate the same or similar parts.

[0100] This invention provides an oral care system with an oral care device. The oral care device is designed to include or be attached to a cleaning or treatment section for performing cleaning or treatment functions, such as a brush head or mouthpiece, when received in the mouth. The oral care device thus has a cleaning or treatment function during normal use. The oral care device is also provided with an electromagnetic (EM) field or radiation generator adapted to generate and emit radio frequency or microwave frequency electromagnetic energy in a space or volume (“disinfection zone”) surrounding a transmitter device for emitting radiation or a field. The EM emission is configured to have electromagnetic properties suitable for at least heating water located within the disinfection zone. This allows for a disinfection function in a dedicated mode, wherein the EM emission of the EM generator causes heating of water on or in contact with any surface of the cleaning or treatment section within the disinfection zone, which has a disinfection effect.

[0101] For example, in some examples, water can be heated to at least 50-70°C for at least 10-20 seconds. During sterilization, with the transmitter device in a separate unit from the oral care equipment (but, for example, electrically connected to it), the cleaning or treatment portion can be brought into the sterilization area. Alternatively, the transmitter device can be included in the cleaning or treatment portion itself, such that the sterilization area around the transmitter device inherently includes the surface of the cleaning or treatment portion therein.

[0102] Figure 1 The overall architecture of an oral care system according to an embodiment of the present invention is schematically outlined. The system includes an oral care device 12, which includes or is operatively coupled to a cleaning or treatment section 14 for reception in a user's mouth to perform cleaning or treatment functions. The cleaning and / or treatment section (abbreviated herein as CTP) can be, for example, a toothbrush head or the head of an oral irrigator. In some cases, the entire oral care device is received in the mouth (e.g., in the case of a cleaning mouthpiece unit). Here, the entire device forms a CTP (i.e., this section can form the entire device). Figure 1 In this illustration, CTP 14 is shown as a removable brush head physically separate from oral care device 12, such as decoupled from an electric toothbrush. This is for illustrative purposes only and will become clear in the following examples.

[0103] The oral care device 12 includes an integrated signal generator 22 operable to generate radio frequency (RF) and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic (EM) emission 32 (e.g., alternating EM field and / or EM radiation) when operably coupled to a transmitter device 24. The generator is an oscillating signal generator, such as an oscillator. It can generate an alternating drive signal coupled to the transmitter device, thereby causing the emission of EM radiation or the generation of an EM field. The oral care device may include a local power storage device, such as a battery, for powering the generator 22.

[0104] The transmitter device may include, for example, a pair of electrodes driven by a generator in cyclic opposite polarities to generate an alternating field between the electrodes. Alternatively, each electrode may be driven by a separate alternating current or voltage to emit EM radiation. Another possibility is to use one or more induction coils or loops driven by alternating current to induce an alternating field along the axial direction of the loop or coil. The generation of the alternating field can also lead to the generation of propagating EM radiation (waves). Yet another possibility is to use a metamaterial-based antenna, which responds to the application of an alternating voltage by generating electromagnetic emissions, but utilizes metamaterial structural designs to achieve miniaturization, wider bandwidth, and improved efficiency. In this document, reference will be made to the generation of EM radiation. However, it should be understood that in some embodiments, an alternating EM field may be generated additionally or alternatively.

[0105] The signal generator can selectively operate in a disinfection mode, in which it is adapted to generate a signal that causes the connected transmitter device 24 to produce RF or microwave frequency EM radiation 32 in the disinfection zone or area 34 surrounding the transmitter device. The generated EM radiation is suitable for heating at least water or an aqueous substance, such as water present on or in contact with any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment section 14 located in the disinfection zone.

[0106] Optionally, the system may include a controller operably coupled to the signal generator 22 during use for selectively switching the generator to a disinfection mode or activating the disinfection mode. When the disinfection mode is selectively activated, the controller can implement the disinfection mode by controlling the operation of the signal generator. In some examples, activation of the disinfection mode may be user-actuated, such as using a physical button on or outside the device, or using operably coupled software (e.g., a smartphone app). The controller may be included in the device, or may be external to the device but operably connected to the signal generator. In other examples, the signal generator itself may include a processor or IC chip that enables local activation and implementation of the disinfection mode.

[0107] The disinfection zone refers to the volumetric region (space or volume) surrounding the transmitter device that becomes exposed to the generated EM radiation. It may be bounded or unbounded. Any water present in this zone will be heated by absorbing EM energy. Therefore, the disinfection zone can be understood as an area where water heating occurs due to the effects of EM radiation. Figure 1 The diagram is schematically illustrated using dashed loops. This may not represent the actual physical shape or extent of the generated field or emitted radiation, or the region in which water heating or steam generation will occur.

[0108] Figure 2 An example cleaning and / or treatment section (CTP) 14 in the form of a toothbrush head is schematically illustrated. A side view of the platform forming the support 42 of the brush head is shown, with multiple cleaning elements, such as bristle bundles 46, erected from the upper surface 44 of the support 42. Residual aqueous fluid 38 (e.g., water, saliva, toothpaste paste) is schematically illustrated on the exposed surfaces of the bristles 46 and the upper surface 44 of the CTP 14 support 42. During sterilization mode, the CTP 14 is placed in a sterilization zone 34 exposed to EM radiation 32 generated by generator 22, such that the fluid 38 is exposed to the EM radiation. This causes heating of the aqueous material, enabling sterilization as the water temperature rises, thereby killing microorganisms present on the surfaces of the bristles 46 and the CTP support 42 due to the thermal contact from the water to the surface.

[0109] For heating water for disinfection, EM radiation with frequencies in the 300 MHz to 30 GHz range is preferred. It is known that efficient heating of water (e.g., to temperatures of 70°C or higher) requires the application of EM energy within a certain frequency range to induce oscillations of the dipoles in water molecules. For example, below approximately 300 MHz, alternating EM fields or radiation will only induce frictional heating (ion agitation) in the water, thus generating heat. In contrast, at higher frequencies above 300 MHz, EM energy is absorbed more efficiently by water molecules, resulting in oscillatory changes in dipole orientation and molecular vibrations (kinetic energy). This allows the water to heat up more quickly.

[0110] Therefore, in the disinfection mode, according to at least one set of embodiments, the generator 22 can drive the transmitter device 24 to generate EM radiation at a frequency of at least 300MHz, for example, between 300MHz and 30GHz, such as at least 2.4GHz, such as at least 2.45GHz.

[0111] Furthermore, ideally, the sterilization cycle or operation may involve passing water through a heating cycle or protocol that includes heating the water to a defined minimum temperature and then maintaining that temperature for a predetermined minimum time. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the water is heated to at least 70-75°C for at least 10-15 seconds. This has been shown to be sufficient for sterilization, particularly killing 99.9% of bacteria and other microorganisms (sterilization = log3 reduction = 99.9% microorganisms). By reference, pasteurization of milk involves heating at 70-75°C for 15 seconds.

[0112] This heating to a specific threshold temperature can be achieved in different ways. For example, based on assumptions about the size and surface area of ​​the CTP to be cleaned (and therefore the volume of water to be heated) and the relative spatial arrangement of the transmitter device with respect to the surface of the CTP, specific electrical characteristics (e.g., frequency, amplitude, power) of the EM signal generated by generator 22 can be specifically pre-configured to achieve the desired heating in use. Another option is to include a sensing device for sensing the temperature in the disinfection zone 34 or on the surface of the CTP, and to control generator 22 based on the output of the temperature sensing to raise the temperature to a threshold level and then maintain said temperature for (at least) a defined or minimum time period.

[0113] In one advantageous embodiment, in disinfection mode, generator 22 is adapted or controlled to generate a signal for causing transmitter device 24 to produce electromagnetic radiation 32, which has an average power output of, for example, at least 10-20 W, for a period of at least 10-20 seconds. This can be achieved by utilizing generator 22 to generate a drive signal having an average power of 10 W, and the signal being generated for at least 10-20 seconds.

[0114] This configuration can be understood from the following exemplary calculation.

[0115] Using the specific heat capacity of water, the amount of energy E required to heat approximately 1 ml (mass m = 1 g) of water from room temperature (20°C) to 70°C (ΔT = 50°C) and maintain that temperature for 15 seconds can be calculated. The specific heat capacity of water, C, is 4200 joules per kilogram per degree Celsius (J / kg°C). This means that raising the temperature of 1 kg of water by 1°C requires 4200 J. Therefore, the energy E required to heat approximately 1 ml (0.001 kg) of water to 50°C can be calculated as follows: E = m·C·ΔT = 1.0 × 10⁻¹⁰ -3 kg × 4200 J / (kg℃) × 50℃ = 0.210 kJ = 210 joules

[0116] Therefore, the electrical energy required to perform this temperature increase (from 1 ml of clean fluid or water to ΔT = 50°C) is approximately 210 J. This can be achieved, for example, by driving the EM field or generating EM radiation with a power of 10 W for 21 seconds (by generating a drive signal with a voltage of 10 V and a current of 1 A from generator 22 for approximately 21 seconds), or by driving the EM field or generating EM radiation with a power of 20 W for approximately 10 seconds.

[0117] This is well within the typical charging capacity range of batteries that can be included in electric oral care devices. For example, the total energy obtainable from a single AA lithium battery cell (3.7-4.2V, 500mAh) is approximately 7200J (capacity 500mAh: 0.5A × 3600s × 4V = 7200J).

[0118] In summary, EM radiation created by a generator driving the transmitter device with a power P of at least 10W (e.g., between 10-12W) for at least 20 seconds will typically be sufficient to heat residual water (assuming a volume of approximately 1 ml) on the surface of the CTP of an oral care device from room temperature to a temperature of 70°C. Similarly, the power or time can be adjusted upwards or downwards so that the total delivered energy over the period of radiation generation is approximately 200 J, for example, 210 J as described above. If it is desired to heat a larger or smaller volume of water in use, the total delivered energy can be adjusted accordingly.

[0119] After the heating (temperature gradient) phase, there is preferably another temperature maintenance phase in which the water is maintained at a preferred threshold temperature (e.g., at least 70°C) for a minimum period of time, such as 10-15 seconds.

[0120] For example, to maintain the sample target temperature of 70°C for a period of t = 15 seconds (sample target disinfection time), this theoretically requires an additional energy consumption E, E = P × t = 10W × 15s = 150J. It should be noted that this assumes the heat is immediately dissipated into the space. Therefore, this effectively represents the additional energy requirement in the maximum or worst-case scenario.

[0121] Therefore, in this example, the total (maximum) energy requirement for both the heating phase and the temperature maintenance phase is 210J + 150J = 360J.

[0122] For a lithium AA battery with an energy capacity of 7200J, the energy consumption of a complete sterilization procedure / process according to this example with two stages is up to approximately 1 / 20 (360J / 7200J) of the available battery energy.

[0123] Then, in this case, the complete disinfection process takes approximately 36 seconds. In this case, an average power of at least 10W is sufficient to power generator 22 to generate the necessary EM field or radiation to perform the desired disinfection.

[0124] The above calculations represent only one example. The precise drive characteristics required for generator 22 to achieve the threshold fluid temperature and maintain it within a defined time window can depend on: the size and surface area of ​​the CTP intended to be sterilized, the spatial configuration of the transmitter device relative to the surface of the CTP intended to be sterilized, and the heat capacity of the aqueous fluid (water, saliva, toothpaste paste) exposed to the EM field.

[0125] For example, assuming a standard 1ml fluid capacity for the brush head, it would require up to approximately 360J of energy, which translates to about 10W for a total sterilization process of 36 seconds. In some cases, for instance, a fluid retention cap can be placed over the brush head (while it is submerged) to trap a certain volume of water within the cap's internal chamber, surrounding the brush head and bristles. A typical volume of this cap could be (by way of example) approximately 1ml.

[0126] However, if less water is present at the brush head, for example if only residual water on the bristles is used for disinfection, less power and / or energy may be required. In this case, the amount of energy required can be significantly less. In some examples, the power level can be user-configurable, depending on whether the CTP is to be submerged or only the residual water is to be heated. Alternatively, this can be detected automatically using a sensing module in some examples.

[0127] As mentioned above, there are different options for the location of the transmitter device.

[0128] In one set of embodiments, the transmitter device 24 is included by an external unit (e.g., a sterilization station), which may define a dedicated sterilization area or chamber for receiving the CTP 14 during sterilization. In this case, the oral care device 12 may be electrically docked or coupled to the sterilization station, establishing an electrical coupling between the generator 22 of the oral care device and the transmitter device. This avoids the need to provide a separate power supply or any active electrical components in a separate sterilization unit. Oral care devices may typically already include a power supply, such as a mechanical actuator for driving the device (e.g., an electric toothbrush).

[0129] In another set of embodiments, which will be discussed in detail herein, the transmitter device 24 may be included by the cleaning and / or treatment section (CTP) 14 of the oral care system itself. This integrated CTP and transmitter device can be understood as forming a disinfection unit when the system is in disinfection mode. CTP refers to a portion of an oral care device that can be received in the mouth to perform cleaning or treatment functions, such as a toothbrush head or a brushing mouthpiece unit. This may be part of (either integrally included with or removably coupled to) the oral cleaning or treatment device 12, or it may be a separate portion and operatively coupled to the device 12. In other words, according to one aspect of the invention, the oral care device may be provided by itself, provided that it includes the generator 22 and is at least coupled to the CTP 14.

[0130] Figure 3 An example oral care system 10 is schematically illustrated, comprising an oral care device 12 in the form of an electric toothbrush, which is coupleable to a detachable CTP 14 in the form of a brush head attachment. The brush head's platform 42 includes a transmitter device 24. Electrical coupling is provided between a signal generator 22 integrated in the body portion 15 of the oral care device 12 and the transmitter device 24 integrated in the CTP 14. The electrical connection is established when the brush head 14 is attached to or mated to the body portion 15. The toothbrush is merely one example of a suitable oral care device. Other examples include a brushing nozzle unit, and oral irrigators or electric dental floss devices. The system 10 of the present invention may comprise only the body portion 15 of the oral care device 12, or may include both the body portion 14 and the cleaning and / or treatment portion 14.

[0131] Figure 4 A more detailed schematic illustration shows an example CTP 14 having a transmitter assembly 24 carried thereon. In this example, the CTP includes a support 42, such as a brush head. Figure 4 A platform (brush bristles not shown) forms the transmitter device 24, from which a pair of electrodes 52a, 52b extend from the upper surface 44 of the support 42. The electrodes are connected to a signal generator 22, which drives an alternating voltage or current between the electrodes. For example, they are driven in cyclically opposite polarities, thereby generating an alternating EM field or EM radiation in the space between and around the electrodes (the disinfection area). Optionally, a controller 26 may be provided, operatively coupled to the generator 22 to control the operation of the generator. For example, the controller may control the selective implementation of disinfection modes. Both the signal generator and the controller can be located at (…). Figure 3 It is implemented in the main body of the oral care device (not shown in the image).

[0132] like Figure 5As shown, electrodes 52a and 52b may be surrounded on one or both sides by cleaning elements such as bristle bundles 46. For example, the electrodes may be located within a bristle group. A disinfection area 34 formed by the transmitter device 24 is schematically illustrated. In this case, the disinfection area is the area between and around the transmitter devices (electrode pairs), which includes at least a portion of the cleaning and / or processing portion 14, such as at least the support 42, which carries the cleaning element 46 (e.g., bristles) that is received in the mouth during use. Thus, the bristles and the upper surface of the support 42 to which they are attached are exposed to electromagnetic energy for disinfection during disinfection mode.

[0133] In the alternative examples ( Figure 6 The transmitter device 24 may include electrodes 52a, 52b integrated below the surface 14 of the support 42 (e.g., a platform) of the CTP 14. These electrodes may be flush with the upper surface 44 of the support 42 and have exposed conductive surfaces, or they may be embedded below that surface. Otherwise, the operation of the electrodes 52a, 52b may be the same as described above.

[0134] Figure 7 and Figure 8 Another variation is shown. Here, instead of electrodes, the transmitter device 42 may include one or more induction loops or coils 19, which are driven by generator 22 with alternating current or voltage to generate an alternating electromagnetic field along the axial direction of the loop. The alternating field also causes EM waves to radiate into the surrounding space.

[0135] According to a set of advantageous embodiments, the signal generator 22 can also selectively operate in a cleaning or treatment mode, in which the generator is adapted or controlled to generate a signal for causing the connected transmitter device 24 to generate electromagnetic radiation to perform oral cleaning or treatment functions in the oral cavity.

[0136] In cleaning or treatment mode, generator 22 can induce the generation of an EM field or radiation with a lower electromagnetic frequency than in disinfection mode. For example, electromagnetic fields or radiation at radio frequency are known to be effective for cleaning or treating tooth surfaces or gingival tissue. For example, they can weaken biofilms on tooth surfaces, which can actively aid during tooth cleaning with cleaning or treatment section 14. Radio frequency can also stimulate gingival tissue, which can have a localized heating effect. A suitable frequency range for cleaning or treatment mode may be, for example, between 1 MHz and 300 MHz, such as between 1 MHz and 30 MHz.

[0137] In contrast, for disinfection mode, a suitable frequency range can be between 300MHz and 300GHz, for example, between 2GHz and 30GHz.

[0138] The controller 26 can be configured to be operatively coupled to the generator 22 and is adapted to control the selective activation of disinfection and cleaning or treatment modes. Selective activation of different modes can be performed in response to user control signals from user input elements, such as one or more buttons disposed on the outer surface of the oral care device or an external computing device such as a smartphone or tablet computer.

[0139] Therefore, the same signal generator 22 and transmitter device 24 are used for both the electromagnetic cleaning function and the electromagnetic disinfection function. In embodiments where the transmitter device is included by the CTP, the integrated RF cleaning device is thus reconfigured as an integrated disinfection unit.

[0140] In some examples, the disinfection mode can be automatically triggered when the oral cleaning cycle is completed. An oral cleaning cycle can refer to the use of the device, for example, during its normal oral cleaning or treatment functions, such as brushing teeth with an electric toothbrush or cleaning teeth with an electric mouthpiece device. Therefore, the cleaning or treatment portion is automatically disinfected after each use of the oral care device.

[0141] According to one or more embodiments, the oral care device 12 may also include a mechanical actuator for providing a source of mechanical movement mechanically coupled to the cleaning or treatment section 14 during use, or adapted to be mechanically coupled to the cleaning or treatment section when said section is operably connected. The mechanical actuator may be controlled to be active during a sterilization mode to provide combined mechanical agitation and EM sterilization during sterilization. This can improve sterilization efficacy. The actuator may, for example, be a drive mechanism of an electric toothbrush arranged to transmit oscillating motion to the brush head during use. However, this is merely an example, and many types of oral care devices include moving actuators.

[0142] According to a set of advantageous embodiments, the oral care system 10 also includes an electromagnetic (EM) shield unit 62 for helping to contain the generated electromagnetic energy within the disinfection zone 34. Therefore, by preventing EM radiation 32 from leaking out of the disinfection space, the efficiency of the disinfection process can be improved.

[0143] The EM shield unit 62 can be configured in a deployment location for use during disinfection mode, in which the shield unit is arranged in a defined spatial relationship relative to the disinfection area 34 and adapted to at least partially suppress leakage of electromagnetic energy from the disinfection area. In some examples, it can also be configured in a non-deployment location, for example to permit normal use of the CTP 14.

[0144] In embodiments where the transmitter device 24 is not included by the oral care device 12 or by the cleaning or treatment section (CTP) 14, the shield may be part of the housing of the disinfection station, for example, the housing at least partially surrounding the disinfection chamber in which the cleaning or treatment section may be housed.

[0145] In other embodiments, it may be a component configured to be connected to or mounted to the oral care device 12 or CTP section 14 in a fixed spatial relationship relative to the disinfection area 34 in a deployment configuration.

[0146] Generally, the shielding unit 62 should be formed of a construction or material suitable for preventing electromagnetic energy from passing through it. The shielding unit may include one or more shielding surfaces arranged in a deployment configuration to face the sterilization area to interrupt the escape of electromagnetic field energy from the sterilization area. Therefore, it serves to contain electromagnetic radiation at least partially within the sterilization area. The shielding unit may be arranged to at least partially define or demarcate the sterilization area. The sterilization area may be defined as the area at least partially defined by the shielding unit. The shielding unit may include one or more units. The shielding unit can concentrate electromagnetic radiation within the sterilization area.

[0147] In a preferred embodiment, the shielding unit 62 may be configured to at least partially reflect incident electromagnetic radiation toward the disinfection area 34. The shielding unit may include one or more electromagnetic reflective surfaces adapted to at least partially reflect the electromagnetic energy generated by the transmitter device 24 in disinfection mode, for containing the radiation at least partially within the disinfection area when the shielding unit is placed in a deployment configuration.

[0148] In the deployment configuration, the shield unit may include at least one surface portion arranged to face the disinfection area and to deflect EM radiation (if intercepted by the at least one surface portion) back to the disinfection area.

[0149] Therefore, in a deployment configuration, reflective surface portions or elements can be arranged to deflect radiation toward the disinfection area from one or more sides surrounding the disinfection area.

[0150] This can also provide an amplification effect. For example, if the shielding unit is shaped to at least partially define or surround the disinfection area, the shielding unit can form a partially resonant chamber containing the disinfection area and the CTP.

[0151] In some examples, the shielding unit can form a partial chamber composed of one or more metamaterial units.

[0152] The shielding unit may include multiple shielding walls arranged in the interior space or around the chamber of a defined disinfection area.

[0153] In embodiments where the CTP is a toothbrush head, the deployment configuration may have a shield unit that reflects EM waves toward the bristles or table surface of the cleaning or treatment section (CTP).

[0154] Several possible embodiments of the shield unit will now be outlined.

[0155] According to the first set of embodiments, the shield unit 62 is physically separable from the oral care device 12 in a non-deployment configuration, and is adapted to be mechanically installable or connectable to the oral care device in a deployment configuration.

[0156] Different examples based on this first set of embodiments will now be outlined.

[0157] According to a set of examples, the shield unit 62 may take the form of a cap or cover that defines an internal chamber or space and is arranged in a deployment configuration to mount on at least a portion of the cleaning or treatment section 14, wherein the portion is at least partially received within the chamber.

[0158] The cap has a defining wall formed of material, which is configured to at least partially retain EM radiation within the cavity. It preferably reflects or redirects the EM energy toward the surface of the CTP.

[0159] This type of shield unit is suitable for embodiments in which the transmitter device 24 is included as part of the CTP 14.

[0160] The transmitter unit included by CTP 14 is arranged to be received in the chamber when the shield unit is in the deployment configuration.

[0161] In a preferred embodiment, the cap or cover includes an electromagnetically reflective surface or cover on the inner surface of the cap, facing inward toward the chamber defined by the cap or cover. Therefore, these serve to reflect or deflect electromagnetic radiation toward the sterilization area surrounding the transmitter device 24 included by the CTP 14.

[0162] The reflective surface can be formed from metals such as (polished or perforated) aluminum, silver, or copper. The reflective surface may include a coating or mesh cladding of the relevant material.

[0163] The reflective surface can alternatively be formed of a non-metallic material (such as silicon) or a dielectric material with metallic intercalations.

[0164] exist Figures 9-12 An example is shown in the figure.

[0165] Figure 9A cleaning or treatment section (CTP) 14 is shown, to which a cap can be configured to be fitted. In this example, the CTP takes the form of a toothbrush head. The brush head includes a platform 42 forming a support from which multiple bristle bundles extend. The location of an example transmitter device 24 is schematically shown.

[0166] Figure 10 The cap shield unit 62 is shown in its deployment position, mounted on the support 42 of the CTP 14. The orientation towards... Figure 9 The cross-section is indicated in the z-direction. As shown, the cap surrounds the transmitter assembly (electrodes 52a, 52b) and support 62 on at least the upper, side, and rear surfaces. In some cases, the bottom of the cap may be open, as it is already substantially blocked by the support 42. In some cases, the front surface may also be open.

[0167] As shown, the protective unit cap 62 includes an EM reflective surface portion 64 on its inner surface, which reflects the incident portion of the EM field or radiation back to the sterilization area 34 (towards the transmitter device and CTP 14, as well as the brush area). The conductive surface 64 can be a metallic coating or a metallic mesh structure (such as in a Faraday cage). In some cases, microwave metamaterial elements can be provided.

[0168] Metamaterials are an emerging technology and involve engineered materials characterized by their structure (the geometric arrangement of one or more materials) rather than by their material composition. Metamaterials enable the realization of new physical properties and characteristics that are unavailable or difficult to utilize in naturally occurring materials, such as, for example, negative refractive index.

[0169] Microwave metamaterials consist of multiple unit cells with exotic effective properties (refractive index, dielectric constant, magnetic permeability) that are uncommon in natural materials, thus allowing for EM wave manipulation of desired frequency bands (e.g., promoting superreflection or focusing). A more detailed discussion of microwave metamaterials can be found, for example, in the following article: Tie Jun Cui, Microwave metamaterials, National Science Review, Vol. 5, No. 2, March 2018, pp. 134-136.

[0170] The body of the cap protector unit 62 can be formed from different materials (e.g., plastic). In some cases, such as supplying a plastic protective cap to a toothbrush to protect the bristle area, the same cap can be modified to form the protector unit 62.

[0171] Figure 11A side front view of the shield unit 62 in a deployment configuration is shown, which is mounted (e.g., slidably) on top of the CTP and transmitter assembly. The front end 65 of the shield unit 62 may be open to allow the top of the CTP 14 to be received into the cap.

[0172] In the deployment configuration, the cap 62 is mounted on the portion of the CTP 14 that includes the transmitter assembly. In the non-deployment configuration, the cap slides off the CTP 14, allowing the CTP to be used in conjunction with the oral cleaning or treatment device 12 for oral cleaning or treatment functions.

[0173] Figure 12 The shield cap 62 is shown in a non-deployment configuration. Therefore, in the non-deployment configuration, the shield unit 62 is physically separable from the CTP 14, and in the deployment configuration, the shield unit 62 is mechanically mounted to the CTP. The shield unit 62 has a shielding wall 63 surrounding an internal chamber 66. A reflective surface portion 64 may be formed on the inner surface of the wall, or the wall itself may have an inner surface forming the reflective surface portion.

[0174] Figure 13 An example shield unit 62 in cap form is shown, and it includes a shaped lower portion facing the disinfection area 34 and, in this example, facing the support 42 and the bristle area. This shaped lower portion has a notch / recess 72 with a reflective surface 64 for providing directional deflection of the electromagnetic field or EM wave radiated by the transmitter device 52. This can form a portion 62a of the shield unit 62, wherein, for example, the remaining outer shell of the shield unit surrounding the disinfection area 34 forms a second portion 62b.

[0175] The lower portion 62b can, for example, be formed with a concave surface 72. This concave surface can be provided with a coated metal disk resonator 64, and this portion 62b is located on the side of the cap facing the bristles. This can facilitate optimal reflection characteristics. For example, the curved shape of the reflector 64 can be configured to achieve direct reflection directionality within the cap to maximize sterilization efficiency. In some examples, the reflective surface can be made frequency-selective.

[0176] The lower part can be formed, for example, by 3D printing.

[0177] The continuous reflective surface 64 can be formed in the notch 72, or as... Figure 14 As shown, reflective elements 64 are spatially spaced around the inner surface to provide the desired directional reflectivity. The result can be seen as... Figure 15 As shown, a planar EM reflection front is formed in the form of a parabolic or other concave reflector. The continuous reflective surface 64 or reflective element can be formed of any suitable EM reflective material, including, for example, EM metamaterials.

[0178] In the case of a combination of EM disinfection and mechanical agitation cleaning provided by a mechanical actuator (e.g., a toothbrush drive mechanism), the cap may generate noise due to contact between the cap edge and the CTP 14. The cap may optionally be formed of conductive rubber to mitigate noise. Alternatively, it may be formed of a combination of acoustic and microwave metamaterials that attenuate sound radiation and avoid noise problems.

[0179] Microwave metamaterials have been discussed above. Acoustic metamaterials can be formed exhibiting negative or near-zero dynamic density and / or elastic modulus. Acoustic metamaterials can be composed of subwavelength unit cells, for example, in a periodic arrangement. Acoustic metamaterials are characterized by exhibiting mechanical (acoustic) bands in which wave propagation through the material cannot occur. These non-propagation bands are called the band gaps of the material. Different unit cells of the material can have different band gaps. These enable unconventional ways of manipulating energy. Combined metamaterials can be formed into structures designed to achieve both EM wave manipulation (reflectivity) and suppression of certain resonant acoustic vibrations (to reduce noise).

[0180] According to one or more embodiments, the upper surface of the platform 42 (or other support structure) facing the disinfection area may be provided with one or more reflective surface portions for reflecting or redirecting electromagnetic energy toward the disinfection area.

[0181] Figures 16-18 Another example of a shield unit 62 is shown. This shield is in the form of an umbrella-shaped structure 72, which is a cover formed above the CTP 14 of the oral care device and extends partially along the length of the CTP 14. The umbrella-shaped structure 72 may include an EM reflective coating on its lower surface facing the CTP 14 to provide the function of at least partially confining EM radiation within the disinfection area 34.

[0182] The umbrella-shaped element 72 can be integrated into an inner bore channel formed by the axial core of the CTP (e.g., the neck of the toothbrush head in this example) and arranged to be slidable along the bore channel to move it from a non-deployment position (retracted into the neck of the toothbrush head) and a deployment position (protruding from the top of the toothbrush head). A user control element (e.g., a control lever) 76 can be configured to protrude outward from the neck of the toothbrush head to allow the user to manually move the cover to the deployment configuration.

[0183] Figure 19Another example of an electromagnetic shield unit 62 is illustrated, wherein the shield unit is a component of or integrally incorporated into the body of a charging station for an oral care device 12. In the example shown, the charging station includes a cup 112 that can be placed on top of a base portion 110, the base portion including inductive electronics for inductively charging the oral care device (e.g., a toothbrush). The shield unit 62 may include shielding walls, such as reflective walls, incorporated into the base portion 110 to reflect electromagnetic fields or radiation from the base of the charging station. The shield unit 62 may be further incorporated around the base edge of the cup 112. This can be used in conjunction with the shield 62 described above in some examples.

[0184] exist Figure 20 Another example is schematically illustrated in the form of a storage or travel case in which an oral care device 12 can be accommodated. This example depicts an oral care device 12 in the form of a mouthpiece unit, which can be accommodated in the mouth to perform oral cleaning functions. The case for holding the mouthpiece unit may have an electromagnetically reflective inner surface for at least partially preventing the escape of electromagnetic fields or radiation generated by the transmitter device 24 included in the mouthpiece unit.

[0185] The shielding unit 62 can also be incorporated into the walls and / or lid of the travel case. In some examples, the travel case is designed to receive an electric toothbrush and is designed to at least partially deflect electromagnetic fields or radiation toward the toothbrush. In this way, the toothbrush received in the travel case can be sterilized, thus allowing for portable sterilization capabilities. It also allows the toothbrush to be dried by the evaporation of residual water on the surface of the cleaning or treatment section 14. The sterilization mode can be activated during travel. When the user arrives at their destination, the toothbrush head is both dry and sterilized.

[0186] According to the second set of embodiments, the shield unit 62 may be adapted to be mechanically (manually or electronically) switchable between a non-deployment position and a deployment position, wherein the shield unit is mechanically connected or mounted to the oral care device in both positions. The deployment position may allow the shield unit to at least partially cover or face the disinfection area (e.g., the cleaning or treatment section), and the non-deployment configuration may allow the shield unit to be in a different position (e.g., retracted and not facing the disinfection area).

[0187] Therefore, in these embodiments, the oral care device and / or cleaning or treatment portion 14 may have a shield unit 62 integrated therein.

[0188] exist Figure 21 An example is shown, which takes the form of a retractable sleeve article 82 designed to slide along the body of an oral care device.

[0189] Generally, in this arrangement, the oral care device 12 has a main body portion 15, which has an operating end 84 and a handle end 86. An oral cleaning or treatment portion 14 can be connected to the operating end 84 of the main body portion 15, and wherein the shield units 62, 82 are adapted to slide along the main body portion of the oral care device 12 between the operating end and the handle end.

[0190] In the example shown, the protective unit is in the form of a sleeve that coaxially wraps around the body 15 of the electric toothbrush. Figure 21 The left side shows the sleeve in a non-deployment configuration. Figure 21 The right side shows a sleeve in a deployment configuration where the sleeve is arranged to surround the cleaning or treatment section 14 (in this case, the brush head). Reflective surface portions or elements may be provided on the inner surface of the sleeve to help reflect electromagnetic fields or radiation toward the disinfection area 34 within the sleeve.

[0191] Sleeves 62, 82 (similar) Figures 10-12 The cap provides dual protection for the brush head's bristles and enhances disinfection.

[0192] In another example embodiment, when in a deployment configuration, the shield unit 62 may be adapted to at least partially cover the disinfection area, and wherein the shield unit is adapted to fold and unfold to move it between a non-deployment configuration and a deployment configuration.

[0193] exist Figures 22-24 An example is schematically illustrated. In the illustrated example, the shield 62 is designed for use with oral care devices 12, 14 in the form of a mouthpiece unit. The shield can be deployed in an accordion-like manner from a retracted position, in which the shield is received in a chamber in the top or bottom surface of the mouthpiece unit. The shield can be integrated into the mouthpiece or provided as a separate accessory. Figure 22 The shielding unit 62 is shown unfolding from its retracted position. Figure 23 The shield is shown in its deployment position, in which the shield can completely surround the nozzle unit. Figure 24 The illustration shows the shield unit 62 retracted into an arcuate cavity on the back side of the top surface of the mouthpiece unit. The mouthpiece unit typically includes two projecting upper wall portions 92a, 92b that define a tooth receiving passage 16 therebetween. An additional arcuate passage may be provided, for example, on the outer periphery of the mouthpiece unit, within which the shield can be foldably retracted. In the retracted position, preferably, the shield unit is not visible.

[0194] According to one or more advantageous embodiments, in the disinfection mode, generator 22 may use transmitter device 24 to generate an electromagnetic (EM) field or EM radiation to convert the water-containing fluid within the disinfection space 34 into steam, typically at atmospheric pressure and 100°C. The conversion of water into steam makes disinfection more efficient because it enables sterilization.

[0195] For example, residual water on the surface of the cleaning or treatment section (CTP) 14 can be heated to the temperature at which water turns into steam using an electromagnetic field or radiation. Referring, for example, with a toothbrush, it has been found that after the wet brush has been moistened and removed from the water source, there is typically less than 0.1g of water on the wet brush. By way of example, if all or most of the electromagnetic energy is absorbed by the residual water, this volume of water, when heated by energy generated from an electromagnetic field or radiation at a power of 10W, would make it possible to generate steam in a timeframe of just 4 seconds.

[0196] To facilitate efficient absorption of EM energy to generate steam, this embodiment may employ a covering to contain or retain heat. This can be a thermally stable (and ideally insulating) covering, and optionally, it may also perform EM shielding, as described in any of the examples discussed above. It may have sufficient structural strength to withstand the pressure generated by the steam within the covering.

[0197] By way of example, a cover unit with a deployment configuration can be provided in which the cover unit is arranged to surround the sterilization area to at least partially limit the escape of heat to promote the generation of steam in the sterilization area, and the cover unit has a pressure relief opening (or valve) to allow controlled escape of steam (if, for example, the pressure continues to increase).

[0198] In one set of examples, the cover unit can take the form of an airbag or cap, which may be formed from temperature-stable rubber in some examples. In sterilization mode, a slightly damp or pre-wetted brush head can be received within the airbag. The airbag has pressure relief holes or vents. The cover unit can be integrated into the oral care device (e.g., movable between deployment and retractable configurations) or supplied as a separate component. In some examples, this component can be mounted onto the CTP for placement in a deployment configuration. In examples where the transmitter assembly is separate from the CTP 14, the cover unit can be formed from, for example, the housing of a separate sterilization unit, which can be sealed around the sterilization area designed to receive the CTP 14.

[0199] In another example, the cover unit can take the form of a cap, for example, having the same EM shielding options mentioned above and referencing... Figures 9-12 The hats discussed have similar external shapes and configurations.

[0200] exist Figure 25and Figure 26 An example is shown. In this example, CTP 14 is in the form of a toothbrush head. A cover unit 102 is provided in the form of a cap surrounding a portion 42 of the CTP 14, which carries cleaning elements in the form of bristles and also carries a transmitter device 24. Figure 25 (Not visible in the middle). Figure 25 A cover unit 102 is shown in its deployment position, mounted on a support 42 of the CTP 14. A cap may surround the transmitter device and the support 42 on at least its upper, side, and rear surfaces. The cap is arranged to enclose a sterilization area formed on the support 42 around the transmitter device to contain the generated heat, thereby promoting more efficient steam generation.

[0201] like Figure 26 As shown, the cap unit can be arranged to seal around the CTP 14 using a sealing lip 108, thereby sealing the portion of the CTP received within the cap. It seals the sterilization area to ensure that steam can be generated most efficiently. Therefore, the cap can fluidly seal the sterilization area except for the pressure relief opening 104. This better contains heat within the space and allows for controlled steam release.

[0202] Optionally, the covering unit may also include one or more electromagnetic reflective surfaces 64 or elements for reflecting electromagnetic fields or radiation at least partially toward the disinfection area 34.

[0203] Generator 22 can be selectively operated in a steam mode (e.g., a "flash steam" mode), which can be understood as a specific example of a disinfection mode. The steam mode can be designed for use with the covering unit 102 (particularly if only a very small amount of fluid is present in the disinfection area (e.g., a slightly damp brush head after cleaning and shaking off excess water)). In steam mode, the generator can produce EM radiation, for example, for a shorter period than during normal disinfection mode. For example, as described above, the generator can produce radiation at a power of at least 10W for approximately 4-10 seconds. In some examples, generator 22 can be selectively operated in either steam mode or normal disinfection mode. A controller can be provided to facilitate switching between modes.

[0204] According to one or more embodiments, the system may include means for detecting moisture and / or temperature in the disinfection area by means of analyzing the electrical characteristics of the transmitter device.

[0205] For example, and as Figure 27As schematically illustrated, generator 22 and transmitter device 24 can be understood as forming a generating circuit. The oral care device 12 may also include a sensing module 114 arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit and adapted to detect the presence of moisture in the sterilization area based on the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit or changes therein. Depending on the output of the sensing module, the operation of the generator can optionally be adjusted. This can be accomplished using, for example, an optional controller 26, which can be arranged to receive the output from the sensing module 114 and is operatively coupled to generator 22. For example, the sterilization cycle or process can be controlled to stop based on the sensed moisture level being below a predetermined threshold (dryness detection) and / or the temperature level being above a predetermined threshold.

[0206] For example, if used in conjunction with an optional steam mode, the steam mode cycle should end when (essentially) all the steam has evaporated. This can be detected using a sensing module, and the steam sterilization mode ends when the moisture level falls below a threshold associated with steam evaporation.

[0207] Due to the difference in dielectric constant between air and water, the voltage or current detected across electrodes 52a, 52b or within the circuitry of one or more coils 92 will vary depending on the moisture level (humidity) of the atmosphere within the disinfection zone 34. For example, the effective capacitance between electrodes 52a, 52b will vary according to the atmospheric moisture level, which can then be detected by the sensing module in the voltage or current of the generator circuitry. Figure 27 In the example, sensing module 114 is detecting voltage changes, but it can alternatively be connected in series with generator circuitry to detect current. Lookup tables or predefined functions or algorithms can be stored locally within sensing module 114 or controller 26, thereby allowing the sensed electrical characteristics (or changes therein) to be correlated with a specific moisture or humidity level (or changes therein).

[0208] In this way, it is possible to detect when (essentially) all the steam has evaporated. Additionally or alternatively, this sensing can be used to determine if sufficient moisture remains on the bristles or in the sterilization area to perform a sterilization mode. In some cases, this can be done after running a standard (non-steam) sterilization mode to determine if there is enough residual moisture to perform a steam flash mode.

[0209] Furthermore, the dielectric constant of water varies with temperature. This is illustrated, for example, in the following article... Figure 1The reference is: Andrei Andryieuski et al., Water: Promising Opportunities For Tunable All-dielectric Electromagnetic Metamaterials. August 2015, Scientific Reports 5: 13535.

[0210] These known relationships can be used to determine the temperature of the water in the disinfection zone 132, or at least the changes therein, based on the output from the sensing module 114 representing changes in the current or voltage of the sensed power generation circuit. This can be used to control the power or duration of the generator 22's operation, for example, to prevent overheating, or to detect when a certain threshold temperature has been reached, for example, to detect the end of the heating portion of the disinfection cycle (as described above) and to begin the temperature maintenance portion.

[0211] Because moisture levels and temperature change during the sterilization cycle (time), a reference lookup table or function can be used to associate different combinations of temperature and moisture level values ​​with different predetermined sets of measured electrical characteristics of one or more generating circuits. This can be determined experimentally in some examples, thereby defining the factory calibration master curve and lookup table.

[0212] According to one or more embodiments, a sensing module 114 may be provided, which is arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit, and wherein the output of the sensing module is adapted to detect, based on the electrical characteristics, the placement of the EM shield unit 62 relative to the disinfection area 34 in a deployment configuration. Thus, a transmitter device is used to sense the correct placement of the shield unit over the disinfection area 34 (e.g., a portion of CTP 14). In a preferred example, as in the various examples discussed above, the shield unit may include EM reflective surface portions or elements.

[0213] When the cap is placed correctly, the EM field characteristics within the disinfection area will change compared to when the cap is not placed correctly, due to EM field or radiation blocking or reflection. This can be detected by the sensing module 114 in the change in voltage or current generated in the circuit. Therefore, the placement of the cap can be detected.

[0214] exist Figure 28 An example circuit layout for implementing this embodiment is shown.

[0215] The placement sensor can be triggered in response to a control command from a user control element (e.g., by a user pressing the disinfection button 122). Figure 28 As shown, the sensing module 114 outputs an indication of the signal characteristics sensed by the generation circuit. Figure 28The sensor signal 130 (which can sense voltage in the system, but in an alternative arrangement, current can be sensed) is used. This sensor signal 130 is compared with a reference signal REF indicating the presence (or absence) of the shielding unit. Depending on the result, (e.g., as implemented by controller 26) the control electronics activate disinfection mode 126 (“Y”), or reset system 128 (“N”) and enter an inactive sleep mode. Optionally, a timeout mechanism is implemented, whereby the controller automatically shuts off the disinfection mode if no sensor signal is received from sensing module 114 within a predetermined time window.

[0216] Depending on each of the sensing options described above, a sensing function can be performed based on monitoring the electrical characteristics of a circuit including transmitter device 24 (e.g., first electrode 52a and second electrode 52b or at least one loop coil 19). For example, a signal generator 22 may be electrically connected to the first electrode 52a and second electrode 52b and arranged to apply an AC drive signal across the electrodes. The circuit including generator 22 and the first and second electrodes forms an RF generation circuit. Sensing is then based on monitoring the electrical characteristics of the generation circuit, such as complex impedance or inductance. For example, a change in capacitance can be measured based on sensing a voltage change over the electrode pair formed by the first and second electrodes. Current changes can also be detected and used. Current and / or voltage can be directly used as the sensed electrical characteristics.

[0217] Note that, although in Figure 27 and Figure 28 In the example, the sensing module is shown as a separate physical unit, but this module could simply be a functional module. Its functionality could be performed by circuitry or processing components included in another unit (e.g., controller 26).

[0218] According to one or more embodiments, the oral care device may include sensory output elements, such as one or more visible lights on the outer surface of the device, or acoustic or tactile feedback elements. Optionally, after the disinfection mode is completed, the controller may use the output elements to provide sensory feedback to the user, such as triggering an alarm sound, vibration, or illumination of one or more lights.

[0219] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method is provided for disinfecting at least a cleaning or treatment portion 14 of an oral care device 12, wherein the cleaning or treatment portion is intended to be received in a user's oral cavity to perform a cleaning or treatment function.

[0220] The method includes using a signal generator 22 to generate a signal that causes a connected transmitter device 24 (including one or more conductive elements) to generate a radio frequency and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic field or radiation in a sterilization area 34 surrounding the transmitter device, the EM field or radiation being suitable for heating water or an aqueous fluid present on any exposed surface of the cleaned or treated portion in the sterilization area.

[0221] According to one or more advantageous embodiments, controller 26 can be configured to implement a cleaning protocol that includes two or more of the following ordered steps.

[0222] Step 1: Mechanical cleaning of the cleaning or treatment section 14 of the oral care device is achieved based on the activation of a mechanical actuator included in the device and arranged to couple mechanical movement to the oral cleaning or treatment section (CTP). For example, this could include an oscillating mechanism or transmission mechanism that activates an electric toothbrush or cleaning mouthpiece unit. This can be accomplished by immersing the cleaning or treatment section in water (with or without the addition of active ingredients). This mechanical cleaning step can remove larger dirt or debris particles, such as toothpaste or food debris.

[0223] Step 2: Activate the standard disinfection mode, in which EM radiation is generated to heat the water on or around the CTP to at least 70°C and maintain said temperature for at least 10 seconds. This can be performed with or without a shielding unit according to any of the examples above.

[0224] Step 3: Implement a sterilization / sterilization mode, which involves generating electromagnetic radiation to heat the water on or around the CTP 14 to turn the water into steam. This can be accomplished using a cover unit deployed over the sterilization area (e.g., over the bristle area of ​​a toothbrush head), the cover unit being used to at least partially retain the heat within the sterilization area, and the cover unit having steam pressure relief vents.

[0225] To achieve optimal results, these three distinct steps (“cleaning-disinfection-sterilization”) can be performed sequentially as part of a defined cleaning control procedure or protocol. The execution of steps 2 and / or 3 can be based on sensed atmospheric conditions in the disinfection area, such as sensed temperature and / or moisture levels as described above.

[0226] Optionally, steps 1 and 2 can be performed simultaneously. For example, the CTP can be submerged in water and a mechanical actuator can be triggered to induce mechanical cleaning. Simultaneously, generator 22 can be controlled to generate an electromagnetic field or radiation for performing disinfection. Since the CTP is in contact with water, the water can be heated to perform disinfection.

[0227] exist Figure 29 The example control workflow of the cleaning protocol is outlined below. Each step in the process has already been described in detail separately above, so these details will not be repeated here. This method is described in relation to an electric toothbrush, but can be applied in a similar manner to any example oral care device 12 that has any example cleaning or treatment section 14.

[0228] The protocol begins when the user presses the sterilization button on the oral care device 302. Optionally, the controller can detect whether the shield unit 62 is correctly positioned based on the electrical characteristics of the generator circuitry monitored by the sensing module 304. If the shield is not correctly positioned, the sterilization button 306 can be reset. If the shield is detected to be correctly positioned, sterilization mode 308 can be initiated.

[0229] The controller can detect whether the brush head (310) is submerged in water based on a sensed moisture level (the sensed moisture level is based on the electrical characteristics of the monitoring generator circuitry). If submersion is detected, steps 1 and 2 of the cleaning protocol described above are executed. This involves performing mechanical cleaning (314) by triggering the actuation mechanism of the oral care device, and simultaneously or subsequently executing a sterilization mode (316) in which microwave or radio frequency electromagnetic radiation is generated to heat the water to a sterilization level. The controller then detects whether the moisture level in the sterilization space is low enough (e.g., the surface of the bristle area is sufficiently dry) to activate a steam mode. If not, sterilization mode (316) continues until a dryness level is reached. Once the dryness level is reached, a steam flash mode (322) for sterilization is activated. The controller also senses (324) whether substantially all the water has evaporated based on a sensed moisture level in the sterilization space (the sensed moisture level in the sterilization space is based on the electrical characteristics of the monitoring generator circuitry). If the desired dryness level has not yet been reached, steam flash mode (322) continues. Otherwise, the sterilization protocol (326) ends, and preferably sensory feedback is generated to communicate this sensory feedback to the user.

[0230] Embodiments of the present invention provide advantages over known disinfection methods used in oral care equipment.

[0231] One advantage of UV disinfection compared to UV disinfection, which cannot penetrate all surfaces of the cleaning or treatment parts of oral hygiene equipment, is the improved disinfection efficacy.

[0232] Another advantage is the shorter disinfection time, typically less than 30 seconds.

[0233] Another advantage is the low power / energy requirement (e.g., 10-20W, and less than 100-200J for clean cycles).

[0234] As described above, the embodiments utilize a controller. The controller can be implemented in various ways, using software and / or hardware, to perform a variety of desired functions. A processor is one example of a controller employing one or more microprocessors, which can be programmed using software (e.g., microcode) to perform the desired functions. However, the controller can be implemented with or without a processor, and can also be implemented as a combination of dedicated hardware performing some functions and processors (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry) performing other functions.

[0235] Examples of controller components that may be employed in various embodiments of this disclosure include, but are not limited to, conventional microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0236] In various implementations, the processor or controller may be associated with one or more storage media, such as volatile and non-volatile computer memories (e.g., RAM, PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM). The storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and / or controllers, perform the required functions. The various storage media may be fixed within the processor or controller, or may be portable, such that one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into the processor or controller.

[0237] By studying the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims, those skilled in the art can understand and implement variations of the disclosed embodiments in practicing the claimed invention. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite articles "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality.

[0238] A single processor or other unit can perform the functions of several items as described in the claims.

[0239] Measures described in mutually different dependent claims can be advantageously combined.

[0240] If the term “suitable” is used in the claims or specification, it should be noted that the term “suitable” is intended to be equivalent to the term “configured as”.

[0241] Any reference numerals in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. An oral care device (12) comprising or operatively coupled to a cleaning or treatment portion (14) for being at least partially received in a user's oral cavity to perform a cleaning or treatment function, the oral care device (12) comprising: A signal generator (22) operable to generate radio frequency (RF) and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation when the signal generator is operably coupled to a transmitter device (24). For oral care purposes, the signal generator (22) can selectively operate in a cleaning or treatment mode, in which the signal generator is adapted to generate a signal that causes the transmitter device (24) to generate electromagnetic radiation to perform oral cleaning or treatment functions. In order to perform disinfection of the cleaning or treatment section, the signal generator is selectively operable in a disinfection mode in which the signal generator is adapted to generate a signal for causing the transmitter device (24) to generate electromagnetic radiation of RF and / or microwave frequencies in a disinfection area (32) around the transmitter device, the radiation in the disinfection mode being adapted to heat water in contact with any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment section located in the disinfection area to a temperature of at least 50°C.

2. The oral care device (12) according to claim 1, wherein in the cleaning or treatment mode, the signal generator (22) is adapted to generate a signal for causing the transmitter device (24) to generate electromagnetic radiation having a lower electromagnetic frequency than in the disinfection mode.

3. The oral care device (12) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature is at least 70°C.

4. The oral care device (12) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein in the disinfection mode, the signal generator (22) is adapted to generate a drive signal for causing the transmitter device (24) to generate electromagnetic radiation, the drive signal having an average power of 10W to 20W, and the drive signal being generated for a period of 10 to 20 seconds.

5. The oral care device (12) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the oral care device (12) further comprises a mechanical actuator for providing a source of mechanical movement and is arranged to couple the movement to the cleaning or treatment section (14) in use, and wherein the mechanical actuator is activated during the disinfection mode.

6. The oral care device (12) according to any one of claims 1-3. The signal generator (22) and the transmitter device (24) form a generation circuit when coupled, and the oral care device (12) further includes a sensing module (114) arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generation circuit and adapted to: The presence of moisture in the disinfection area (34) is detected based on the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit; and / or The temperature within the disinfection area is detected based on the electrical characteristics of the generating circuit.

7. The oral care device (12) according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the device (12) includes the cleaning or treatment part (14), and wherein the cleaning or treatment part (14) includes the transmitter device (24).

8. An oral care system (10), comprising: The oral care device (12) according to any one of claims 1-7; A transmitter device (24) for operatively coupling with the signal generator (22); as well as An electromagnetic shield unit (62) is configured in a deployment configuration in which the electromagnetic shield unit is arranged in a defined spatial relationship with respect to the disinfection area (32) surrounding the transmitter device (24) and is adapted to at least partially suppress electromagnetic radiation from escaping from the disinfection area (32).

9. The oral care system (10) of claim 8, wherein the shield unit (62) includes one or more electromagnetic reflective elements or surfaces (64) adapted to at least partially reflect the electromagnetic radiation generated by the transmitter device (24) in the disinfection mode for containing the electromagnetic radiation at least partially in the disinfection area (32) when the shield unit is placed in the deployment configuration.

10. The oral care system (10) according to claim 8 or 9. The oral care system includes the cleaning or treatment section (14), and the cleaning or treatment section includes the transmitter device (24); and The shield unit (62) includes a cover unit that defines an internal chamber and is arranged to be mounted on at least a section of the cleaning or treatment section (14) in the deployment configuration, wherein the section is at least partially received in the chamber.

11. The oral care system (10) according to claim 8 or 9. The oral care system includes the cleaning or treatment section (14), and the cleaning or treatment section includes the transmitter device (24); and The shield unit (62) can be configured in a deployment configuration and a non-deployment configuration, and the shield unit can be physically separated from the oral care device (12) to place the shield unit in the non-deployment configuration, and the shield unit is adapted to be mechanically mounted or connected to the oral care device to place the shield unit in the deployment configuration.

12. The oral care system (10) according to claim 8 or 9. The oral care system includes the cleaning or treatment section (14), and the cleaning or treatment section includes the transmitter device (24); and The shield unit (62) is adapted to be mechanically movable between a non-deployment configuration and a deployment configuration, the shield unit being mechanically connected or mounted to the oral care device (12) in both positions, and In the deployment configuration, the shield unit is arranged to at least partially cover or face the disinfection area (32), and in the non-deployment configuration, the shield unit is in a different location.

13. The oral care system (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the signal generator (22) and the transmitter device (24) form a generation circuit, and wherein the oral care device (12) further includes a sensing module (114) arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generation circuit, and The shield unit (62) includes one or more electromagnetic reflective surfaces or elements (64) adapted to at least partially reflect electromagnetic radiation generated by the transmitter device, and The sensing module is adapted to detect the placement of the shield unit in the deployment configuration based on the electrical characteristics.

14. An oral care system (10), comprising: The oral care device (12) according to any one of claims 1-7; as well as A covering unit (102) is configured in a deployment configuration in which the covering unit is arranged to surround or enclose the disinfection area (34) to at least partially restrict heat escape, to promote steam generation in the disinfection area, and the covering unit (102) has a pressure relief opening to allow steam to escape.

15. An oral care system (10), comprising, The oral care device (12) according to any one of claims 1-7; The signal generator (22) and the transmitter device (24) form a generation circuit when coupled, and the oral care device (12) further includes a sensing module (114) arranged to sense the electrical characteristics of the generation circuit and adapted to detect the temperature within the disinfection area based on the electrical characteristics of the generation circuit. The oral care system further includes a controller adapted to implement a disinfection control procedure, which includes heating a fluid in the disinfection area to a temperature of 50-70°C and maintaining the fluid at that temperature for 10-20 seconds, wherein the controller is arranged to receive a temperature sensing signal from the sensing module for use in implementing the control procedure.

16. A cleaning or treatment component (14), comprising: Cleaning or treatment element (46, 92) for performing cleaning or treatment functions in the user's oral cavity; as well as A transmitter device (24) operable to generate radio frequency (RF) and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation when operably coupled to a signal generator (22). For oral care purposes, the cleaning or treatment section (14) can selectively operate in a cleaning or treatment mode, in which the radiation generated by the transmitter device (24) is suitable for performing oral cleaning or treatment functions, and In order to perform disinfection of the cleaning or treatment section (14), the cleaning or treatment section (14) can be selectively operated in a disinfection mode in which the radiation generated by the transmitter device (24) is adapted to heat water in contact with any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment section (14) in the disinfection area (32) surrounding the transmitter device (24) to a temperature of at least 50°C.

17. The cleaning or treatment section (14) according to claim 16, wherein the temperature is at least 70°C.

18. A method for disinfecting at least a cleaning or treatment portion (14) of an oral care device (12), wherein the cleaning or treatment portion is intended to be received in a user's oral cavity to perform a cleaning or treatment function, the method comprising: A signal is generated using a signal generator (22) included in the oral care device, the signal being used to cause a connected transmitter device (24) to generate radio frequency and / or microwave frequency electromagnetic radiation in a disinfection area surrounding the transmitter device, the radiation being suitable to heat water in contact with any exposed surface of the cleaning or treatment portion located in the disinfection area to a temperature of at least 50°C. For oral care purposes, the signal generator (22) can selectively operate in a cleaning or treatment mode, in which the signal generator is adapted to generate a signal that causes the transmitter device (24) to generate electromagnetic radiation to perform oral cleaning or treatment functions.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the temperature is at least 70°C.

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