Oral care device
By setting up multiple shooting modules on the electric toothbrush and using light-transmitting openings to introduce light, the problems of limited camera observation range and easy obstruction in existing technologies are solved, enabling real-time observation and interactive information provision of a wide range around the device, thus improving the user experience.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- GUANGZHOU STARS PULSE CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-01
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-23
AI Technical Summary
The cameras in existing electric toothbrushes are limited by their installation location, making it impossible to fully observe the area around the mouth. They are also easily obstructed or contaminated, resulting in insufficient interactive information.
Multiple imaging modules are installed on the body of the electric toothbrush. Light is introduced into the imaging modules inside the body through the light-transmitting holes to ensure that the modules are stably fixed and cover multiple angles, so as to realize real-time observation of the care device and its surrounding area.
It provides a larger real-time observation area, ensuring users receive sufficient interactive information, reducing the probability of the camera being obstructed or contaminated, and improving the user experience.
Smart Images
Figure CN224387580U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of oral care, and more particularly to oral care devices. Background Technology
[0002] Electric toothbrushes can clean teeth in the mouth by vibrating on their own. They are highly effective, save time and effort, and have an increasingly broad user base. A wide variety of electric toothbrush products are constantly emerging in the market.
[0003] In related technologies, electric toothbrushes often incorporate cameras inside the handle or brush head to better capture information about the oral cavity and provide more accurate user interaction. However, these cameras are limited by their installation location and can typically only observe a portion of the area. When the camera is obstructed by environmental objects or its surface is contaminated, the visible area becomes even smaller, failing to provide sufficient information for user interaction. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of this, the present invention proposes an oral care device that aims to simultaneously capture real-time images of the care device and its surroundings from multiple areas, providing users with sufficient decision-making and interactive information.
[0005] The oral care device proposed in this utility model includes a handle and a care component. The handle includes: a body, which includes a motor, a handle housing, and a bracket. The handle housing has a mounting cavity and a light-transmitting opening that communicates with the mounting cavity. The motor and the bracket are disposed in the mounting cavity, and the motor shaft extends from the mounting cavity and connects to the care component. Multiple imaging modules are mounted on the bracket, with the light-receiving surfaces of the multiple imaging modules facing the light-transmitting opening. The multiple imaging modules are spaced apart and arranged circumferentially on the motor shaft. Each imaging module has a different imaging direction, which is directed towards the side with the care component. The field of view of the multiple imaging modules can cover at least a portion of the care component or the area surrounding the care component.
[0006] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the oral care device proposed in this utility model allows the motor shaft extending from the body to connect to the care component. Multiple camera modules can simultaneously observe the care component and its surrounding area from multiple angles during operation, thereby obtaining real-time images of most or even the entire circumference of the care component. The observation area is large, continuously providing sufficient information for user interaction. Users can observe the brushing area, adjust brushing posture, and change brushing time based on the real-time images fed back by multiple cameras. By setting a light-transmitting opening on the handle, the camera modules can be placed inside the body, resulting in better uniformity of the body's appearance. Since the light-inlet surface of the camera module faces the light-transmitting opening, it ensures that the camera module can fully perceive light, achieving wide-range image capture. The bracket can be used to support the camera module, ensuring that the light-inlet surface of the camera module faces the light-transmitting opening and that the camera module is stably fixed in the mounting cavity. The camera module does not wobble relative to the handle, thus ensuring high image quality.
[0007] In some embodiments of this application, multiple imaging modules are evenly arranged with the axis of the motor shaft as the central axis. When arranged at intervals, there is sufficient space for the imaging modules, and after each imaging module is arranged on the machine body, real-time observation of most areas around the nursing device can be achieved.
[0008] In some embodiments of this application, the plurality of imaging modules includes two modules, which are symmetrically arranged in the mounting cavity with the axis of the motor shaft as the axis of symmetry; or, the two imaging modules include a first imaging module and a second imaging module, wherein a first line is drawn connecting the geometric center of the first imaging module to the axis of the motor shaft, and a second line is drawn connecting the geometric center of the second imaging module to the axis of the motor shaft, with the included angle between the first and second lines being an obtuse angle. By using only two imaging modules, real-time observation of most of the area around the nursing device can be achieved, saving on the number of imaging modules required.
[0009] In some embodiments of this application, the fields of view of the multiple imaging modules are completely different or partially overlap; or, the fields of view of the multiple imaging modules correspond to different areas of the nursing care device. Therefore, by setting multiple imaging modules, the area that the multiple imaging modules can observe in real time can be as large as possible, so that the nursing care device and most of its surrounding area, or a 360° area around the nursing care device, can be observed in real time through each imaging module, and the data provided by the multiple imaging modules is more accurate.
[0010] In some embodiments of this application, the mounting axis of the shooting module is parallel to or intersects with the axis of the motor shaft. When the mounting axis of the shooting module is parallel to the axis of the motor shaft, the shooting module is horizontally mounted on the surface of the body, which is convenient for installation; when the mounting axis of the shooting module intersects with the axis of the motor shaft, the shooting module is tilted and mounted on the surface of the body, and the visible area of multiple shooting modules is sufficiently large.
[0011] In some further embodiments of this application, the angle formed by the intersection of the mounting axis of the imaging module and the axis of the motor shaft is an acute angle. This allows multiple imaging modules to be visible from the side containing the motor shaft and the care device, or from the area surrounding the care device, ensuring a sufficiently large overall imaging area and preventing water accumulation on the module surface.
[0012] In some further embodiments of this application, the imaging module is arranged at an angle downwards from the end near the motor shaft to the end away from the motor shaft, wherein the direction of the handle relative to the care piece is considered downwards. In these examples, the visible area of the imaging module faces the area surrounding or part of the care piece. Because the lower end of the imaging module is close to the outer side of the device, when water accumulates on the imaging module, water droplets will flow obliquely down the surface of the imaging module to the outer side of the device, thus keeping the imaging module and the device tend to remain dry and ensuring that the images captured by the imaging module are relatively clear.
[0013] In some embodiments of this application, a surface perpendicular to the length extension direction of the handle shell is used as a reference surface, and the orthographic projection of the lens of the shooting module on the reference surface is located within the orthographic projection of the handle shell on the reference surface. That is to say, the lenses of the shooting modules in this application do not extend beyond the edge position of the width extension direction of the handle shell. Therefore, the shooting modules of this application are located inside the handle shell and do not protrude from the handle shell, thereby ensuring good consistency in the appearance of the handle.
[0014] In some further embodiments of this application, the light-transmitting opening faces the care device; or, the light-transmitting opening faces the area surrounding the care device; or, the light-transmitting opening has an optical axis that intersects the axis of the motor shaft, and at least a portion of the care device or the area surrounding the care device is within the shooting range of the imaging module. The opening direction of the light-transmitting opening needs to match the shooting direction of the imaging module so that the light-transmitting opening does not obstruct the visible area of the imaging module as much as possible, ensuring that the imaging module can fully capture light and photograph the care device or the area surrounding the care device.
[0015] In some further embodiments of this application, the cross-sectional dimension of the light-transmitting aperture is greater than or equal to the cross-sectional dimension of the lens of the imaging module; or, the orthographic projection of the lens of the imaging module onto any cross-section of the light-transmitting aperture lies within that cross-section. In these regions, the light-transmitting aperture has a large light-entry area, and the wall of the light-transmitting aperture does not obstruct the light-entry surface of the imaging module, allowing the imaging module to enter light to the maximum extent, achieving complete imaging by the lens of the imaging module, and ensuring that the field of view of the imaging module is not obstructed.
[0016] In some embodiments of this application, the oral care device further includes a light-transmitting element that covers the light-transmitting opening and seals the opening. The light-transmitting element not only allows light to pass through, enabling the imaging module to capture images normally, but also seals the light-transmitting opening, isolating external dust and moisture from the mounting cavity and creating a better working environment for the imaging module.
[0017] In some further embodiments of this application, the number of light-transmitting openings is the same as the number of shooting modules and light-transmitting elements. Multiple light-transmitting openings are formed on the handle housing, each light-transmitting opening is covered with a light-transmitting element, and a shooting module is disposed at each light-transmitting opening; alternatively, a light-transmitting opening extends circumferentially along the motor shaft, and multiple light-transmitting elements are spaced apart on the light-transmitting opening, with multiple shooting modules positioned at different locations within the same light-transmitting opening. The light-transmitting openings can be sealed by the light-transmitting elements. The number and arrangement of the light-transmitting openings and elements can be flexibly selected according to actual needs to meet the shooting requirements of the shooting modules and the overall integrity of the device. Different shooting modules can be positioned facing different light-transmitting openings, or different shooting modules can be positioned facing different locations within the same light-transmitting opening.
[0018] In some further embodiments of this application, the light-transmitting element has a first end near the motor shaft and a second end away from the motor shaft. The light-transmitting element is inclined downwards in the direction from the first end to the second end, with the direction of the handle relative to the care piece considered downwards. This facilitates water droplets on the light-transmitting element sliding downwards to the outside of the handle, preventing water accumulation on the light-transmitting element and the handle.
[0019] In some embodiments of this application, the downward tilt angle of the light-transmitting element ranges from 10 degrees to 40 degrees. By controlling the tilt angle of the light-transmitting element, the water flowing onto the element can smoothly slide down, and the field of view of the imaging module can be kept within a reasonable range.
[0020] In some embodiments of this application, the body includes a grip section and a transition section, the grip section connecting the transition section, the motor shaft extending outward from the transition section, and at least a portion of the transition section having a gradually decreasing cross-sectional size in the direction approaching the motor shaft; a light-transmitting opening is provided on the transition section, and the imaging module is positioned directly opposite the light-transmitting opening. In these embodiments, the surface of the transition section with its changing cross-section has a certain angle with the motor shaft. Typically, to accommodate the motor shaft's central arrangement in the transition section, the cross-section of the transition section near the motor shaft is smaller than the cross-section near the grip section. Therefore, the surface of the transition section with its changing cross-section is inclined downwards relative to the motor shaft. When a light-transmitting opening is provided on the transition section with its changing cross-section, the opening is also inclined downwards relative to the motor shaft. The imaging module can also be installed at an angle, thus preventing water accumulation on the surface of the imaging module and allowing the imaging module's field of view to be adjusted to a larger area around the care device.
[0021] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit the disclosure of the embodiments of this utility model. Attached Figure Description
[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0023] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the handle proposed in some embodiments of this utility model;
[0024] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of a portion of the handle structure proposed in some embodiments of this utility model;
[0025] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the arrangement of two shooting modules relative to the motor shaft in some embodiments of this utility model, wherein the angle γ is an obtuse angle;
[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the three shooting modules arranged at uniform intervals relative to the motor shaft according to some embodiments of this utility model;
[0027] Figure 5 This is a longitudinal sectional view of the handle proposed in some embodiments of this utility model;
[0028] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A magnified schematic diagram of the structure of a portion of region A in the middle;
[0029] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A schematic diagram omitting the light-transmitting component;
[0030] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the positional relationship between the light-transmitting element and the motor shaft according to some embodiments of this utility model, wherein angle α is the angle formed by the intersection of the vertical plane passing through the light-transmitting element and the axis of the motor shaft; angle β is the angle formed by the intersection of the plane parallel to the cross-section of the light-transmitting element and the axis of the motor shaft;
[0031] Figure 9 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of an electric toothbrush proposed in some embodiments of the present invention;
[0032] Figure 10 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the electric toothbrush proposed in some embodiments of this utility model from another angle;
[0033] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram showing that the field of view of the two shooting modules of the electric toothbrush proposed in some embodiments of the present invention can cover at least a portion of the brush head;
[0034] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing that the field of view of the two shooting modules of the electric toothbrush proposed in some embodiments of this utility model can cover the area around the brush head.
[0035] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0036] 100. Handle;
[0037] 10. Body;
[0038] 11. Installation cavity;
[0039] 12. Light-transmitting aperture; 120° optical axis;
[0040] 121. First light-transmitting section; 122. Second light-transmitting section;
[0041] 13. Handle shell;
[0042] 14. Motor; 141. Motor shaft; 142. First connection; 143. Second connection;
[0043] 15. Bracket;
[0044] 161. Holding section; 162. Transition section;
[0045] 18. Circuit board;
[0046] 20. Light-transmitting component; 21. First end; 22. Second end;
[0047] 30. Shooting module; 32. Lens;
[0048] 1000, Electric toothbrush; 200, Brush head. Detailed Implementation
[0049] The technical solutions of the present utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of the embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present utility model, not all embodiments. Other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of the present utility model without creative effort are all within the protection scope of the present utility model.
[0050] Where there is no conflict, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.
[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, embodiments of this application propose an oral care device capable of providing the power required for vibration or oscillation to a care device, enabling the care device to achieve efficient cleaning of teeth. The care device here can be, for example... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The brush head 200 shown can also be a rinsing unit or a rinsing integrated unit; the oral care device can be Figure 10 The electric toothbrush 1000 shown can also be a water flosser, a dental cleaning device, or an oral endoscope. In this application, the electric toothbrush 1000 is used as the oral care device and the brush head 200 is used as the care component for illustration.
[0052] An electric toothbrush 1000 according to an embodiment of this application is an oral care device, combined with... Figure 5 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, it includes a brush head 200 (brush head 200 is a type of care product) and a handle 100.
[0053] Combination Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the handle 100 includes: a body 10 and multiple shooting modules 30.
[0054] Among them, combined Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the body 10 includes a motor 14, a handle housing 13, and a bracket 15. The handle housing 13 has a mounting cavity 11 and a light-transmitting opening 12 that connects to the mounting cavity 11. The motor 14 and bracket 15 are located within the mounting cavity 11. The motor shaft 141 of the motor 14 extends from the mounting cavity 11 and connects to the brush head 200. The motor shaft 141 can connect to the brush head 200.
[0055] Figure 10 like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, multiple shooting modules 30 are mounted on the bracket 15, with the light-inlet surfaces of the multiple shooting modules 30 facing the light-transmitting port 12. It should be noted that the light-inlet surface can be the lens 32 of the shooting module 30 (e.g., ...). Figure 2 The light-facing surface (as shown) can be curved, flat, or a combination of both. Here, "aligned" can be understood as the vertical line from the geometric center of the light-receiving surface coinciding with or coinciding with the vertical line from the geometric center of the light-transmitting aperture 12, ideally maximizing light intake. (Combined with...) Figure 1 and Figure 10 As shown, multiple shooting modules 30 are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the motor shaft 141. Here, the multiple shooting modules 30 can be arranged at equal angles or at unequal angles.
[0056] Furthermore, the shooting directions of each shooting module 30 are different. Different shooting directions refer to the different orientations of the shooting modules 30 during the shooting process, or to the different visible areas of the field of view of the shooting modules 30 on the object plane with equal spacing.
[0057] Furthermore, the shooting direction is towards the side with the brush head 200, and the shooting field of view of the multiple shooting modules 30 can cover at least a portion of the brush head 200 or the area surrounding the brush head 200. It should be noted that at least a portion of the brush head 200 includes any part or all parts of the brush head 200, such as the bristles, brush shank, and bristle-embedding section; see reference. Figure 11 As shown, taking a vertical field of view of 180 degrees for the shooting module 30 as an example, when the field of view of one of the shooting modules 30 covers a part of the brush head 200, it also includes the surrounding area of the brush head 200. In this case, the two shooting modules 30 can not only capture different parts of the brush head 200, but also capture a portion of the area surrounding the brush head 200. This facilitates quickly obtaining the position and posture information of the brush head 200, providing sufficient information for user interaction. In some specific embodiments, the head of the brush head 200 is located in the middle area of the field of view of the shooting module 30, making the brush head 200 captured by the shooting module 30 clearer and preventing image distortion.
[0058] It should also be noted that the reference Figure 12 The area around the brush head 200, excluding the space occupied by the brush head 200 and within a certain distance from the surface of the brush head 200, is such that, taking the vertical field of view of the shooting module 30 as 90 degrees as an example, these shooting modules 30 can observe the area around the brush head 200, but not the specific part of the brush head 200. When the brush head 200 is inserted into the mouth to brush the teeth, these shooting modules 30 can capture information about the face around the brush head 200, thus providing the user with the necessary interactive information.
[0059] As can be seen from the above technical solution, the electric toothbrush 1000 proposed in this application has a motor shaft 141 extending from the body 10 that can connect to the brush head 200. During operation, multiple camera modules 30 can simultaneously observe the brush head 200 and its surrounding area from multiple angles, thereby obtaining real-time images of most or even the entire area around the brush head 200. The observation area is large, and it can continuously provide sufficient information for user interaction. Users can observe the brushing area, adjust brushing posture, and change brushing time based on the real-time images fed back by multiple cameras, thereby improving the user experience.
[0060] Since the body 10 of this application is equipped with multiple shooting modules 30, the probability of multiple shooting modules 30 being damaged, contaminated, or blocked at the same time is extremely low. In other words, during the operation of the handle 100, at least one shooting module 30 can work normally and capture real-time images of the brush head 200 or the brush head 200 and its surrounding area. This ensures that during the process of the handle 100 driving the brush head 200 to clean teeth, the position of the brush head 200 can be observed in real time or the position of the brush head 200 in the oral cavity can be predicted through the observed images. This allows the user to interact based on the information observed by the shooting module 30.
[0061] By providing a light-transmitting opening 12 on the body 10, the shooting module 30 can be placed inside the body 10—in the mounting cavity 11—resulting in better aesthetic consistency for the body 10. The bracket 15 supports the shooting module 30, ensuring that the light-inlet surface of the shooting module 30 faces the light-transmitting opening 12 and that the shooting module 30 is stably fixed in the mounting cavity 11. The shooting module 30 does not wobble relative to the handle housing 13, thus guaranteeing high shooting quality. Because the light-inlet surface of the shooting module 30 faces the light-transmitting opening 12, it can be fully exposed to light, enabling wide-range image capture.
[0062] Understandably, compared to related technologies where a single camera is placed on the toothbrush, the camera is easily obstructed by environmental objects (such as brush bristles) or its surface becomes contaminated during use, reducing the camera's visible area and making it unable to provide sufficient interactive information to the user. The electric toothbrush 1000 of this application has a shooting module 30 on its handle 100 that allows multiple shooting modules 30 to operate simultaneously and capture images of the brush head and multiple areas around it in real time, providing the user with the necessary interactive information. During use, at least one of the shooting modules 30 is functioning normally.
[0063] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 10Multiple imaging modules 30 are evenly arranged around the axis of the motor shaft 141. When arranged at intervals, the imaging modules 30 have ample space, and once all modules are positioned on the body 10, real-time observation of most of the area surrounding the brush head 200 is possible. Because the multiple imaging modules 30 are evenly distributed around the motor shaft 141, the total visible area of all the imaging modules 30 can cover as much of the area around the brush head 200 as possible, greatly reducing blind spots around the brush head 200. When the electric toothbrush 1000 is inserted into the mouth for cleaning, each imaging module 30 can promptly acquire information about the inside of the oral cavity when the mouth is open.
[0064] For example, such as Figure 1 and Figure 10 As shown, the plurality of shooting modules 30 include two shooting modules 30, which are symmetrically arranged with the axis of the motor shaft 141 as the central axis. At this time, the two shooting modules 30 are arranged at a distance of 180 degrees.
[0065] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the multiple shooting modules 30 include three shooting modules 30, which are arranged at 120-degree intervals from each other with the axis of the motor shaft 141 as the central axis.
[0066] For example, the multiple shooting modules 30 may include four shooting modules 30, which are arranged at 90-degree intervals from each other with the axis of the motor shaft 141 as the central axis. Similarly, the number of multiple shooting modules 30 can be more, such as five or six, which can be flexibly selected according to actual needs. At the same time, factors such as processing costs, electrical connection and control difficulty should also be taken into account to reasonably determine the number of multiple shooting modules 30.
[0067] In some embodiments of this application, the plurality of shooting modules 30 includes two, combined Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the two imaging modules 30 are symmetrically arranged in the mounting cavity 11 with the axis of symmetry of the motor shaft 141 as the axis of symmetry. Therefore, in these examples, by selecting two imaging modules 30, not only is the installation cost of the imaging modules 30 saved, but it also meets the real-time observation of the brush head 200 or multiple areas around it, satisfying the user's interactive needs. Since both imaging modules 30 are located within the mounting cavity 11, the imaging modules 30 are relatively concealed, which can, to some extent, prevent some dust or sewage from adhering to the light-receiving surface of the imaging modules 30; the imaging modules 30 also do not need to protrude from the surface of the body 10, resulting in good external integrity and high consistency in appearance for the body 10.
[0068] In other embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 3The two shooting modules 30 include a first shooting module and a second shooting module. A first line 142 is formed by the perpendicular line between the geometric center of the first shooting module and the axis of the motor shaft 141. A second line 143 is formed by the perpendicular line between the geometric center of the second shooting module and the axis of the motor shaft 141. When the geometric centers of the first and second shooting modules are arranged at intervals along the extension direction of the motor shaft 141, the first line 142 and the second line 143 are moved to intersect on the same cross section perpendicular to the motor shaft 141. The included angle between the first line 142 and the second line 143 after they intersect on the same cross section is denoted as γ, where γ is an obtuse angle. When the geometric centers of the first and second shooting modules are located on the same cross section perpendicular to the extension direction of the motor shaft 141, the first line 142 and the second line 143 are intersected on the motor shaft 141. At this time, the included angle between them is the aforementioned γ, and γ is an obtuse angle. Even with two imaging modules 30 arranged at non-equidistant intervals, real-time observation of most of the area surrounding the brush head 200 is still possible. The asymmetrical arrangement of the two imaging modules 30 offers greater flexibility, and it is easier to wire and connect them to the same battery or circuit board 18 (the structure of circuit board 18 is as follows). Figure 2 As shown in the figure, electrical connections are more convenient.
[0069] In some embodiments of this application, combined with Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 10 As shown, the shooting fields of view of the multiple shooting modules 30 are completely different; or, the shooting fields of view of the multiple shooting modules 30 partially overlap. Therefore, by setting up multiple shooting modules 30, the area that the multiple shooting modules 30 can observe in real time can be maximized, so that the brush head 200 and most of its surrounding area can be observed in real time through all the shooting modules 30, and the data provided by the multiple shooting modules 30 is more accurate. Taking the arrangement of two shooting modules 30 as an example, as... Figure 10 As shown, when the two imaging modules 30 are symmetrically arranged relative to the axis of the motor shaft 141, and the horizontal field of view of both imaging modules 30 is 180 degrees, then the two imaging modules 30 can capture images of a 360-degree area surrounding the motor shaft 141. Figure 3 As shown, when the two shooting modules 30 are asymmetrically staggered in the circumferential direction with the axis of the motor shaft 141 as the reference center line, if the horizontal field of view of the two shooting modules 30 is still 180 degrees, the two shooting modules 30 can capture the image of most of the area around the motor shaft 141.
[0070] In some embodiments of this application, the shooting fields of the multiple shooting modules 30 correspond to different areas of the brush head 200. Thus, the multiple shooting modules 30 can capture as much of the area around the brush head 200 as possible, for example, capturing the entire circumference of the brush head 200; or, for example, capturing most of the brush head 200. This allows the user to adjust their actions when using the electric toothbrush 1000, such as adjusting brushing posture or brushing time, based on the real-time image information provided by each shooting module 30. In some embodiments of this application, the mounting axis of the shooting module 30 is parallel to the axis of the motor shaft 141. In this case, the shooting module 30 is horizontally mounted on the surface of the body 10, facilitating installation. The overall shape of the body 10 is relatively flat, making it easy to manufacture.
[0071] In some other embodiments of this application, the mounting axis of the imaging module 30 intersects the axis of the motor shaft 141. In this case, the imaging module 30 is mounted at an angle on the surface of the body 10, and the visible area of the multiple imaging modules 30 is sufficiently large. The inclined imaging modules 30 can also be configured such that their light-receiving surfaces all face the motor shaft 141 or the brush head 200, so that the visible area of the imaging module 30 can include the entire circumference of the brush head 200. The inclined imaging modules 30 can also be configured such that their light-receiving surfaces all face the area around the brush head 200 and the outer edge of the body 10, so that water does not easily accumulate on the surface of the imaging module 30, and the imaging module 30 can also observe more of the area around the brush head 200.
[0072] In some further embodiments of this application, the angle formed by the intersection of the mounting axis of the imaging module 30 and the axis of the motor shaft 141 is an acute angle. Thus, multiple imaging modules 30 are visible from the side containing the motor shaft 141 and the brush head 200, or multiple imaging modules 30 are visible from the area surrounding the brush head 200, making the overall imaging area of the multiple imaging modules 30 sufficiently large and preventing water accumulation on the surface of the imaging modules 30.
[0073] In some further embodiments of this application, such as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the shooting module 30 is arranged at an angle downwards from the end near the motor shaft 141 to the end away from the motor shaft 141, with the direction of the handle 100 relative to the brush head 200 being considered downwards. In these examples, the visible area of the shooting module 30 faces the area around or part of the brush head 200. Since the lower end of the shooting module 30 is close to the outer side of the body 10, when water accumulates on the shooting module 30, water droplets will flow obliquely down the surface of the shooting module 30 to the outer side of the body 10, making the shooting module 30 and the body 10 tend to stay dry, ensuring that the image captured by the shooting module 30 is relatively clear. It also ensures that the shooting module 30 is not obstructed by the handle 13 of the body 10 during shooting.
[0074] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2 Using a plane perpendicular to the length extension direction of the handle housing 13 as a reference plane, the orthographic projection of the lens 32 of the shooting module 30 onto the reference plane lies within the orthographic projection of the handle housing 13 onto the reference plane. In other words, none of the lenses 32 of the shooting module 30 in this application extend beyond the edge of the handle housing 13 in the width extension direction. Therefore, the shooting module 30 of this application is located inside the handle housing 13 and does not protrude from the handle housing 13, thereby ensuring good appearance consistency of the handle 100.
[0075] In some further embodiments of this application, the light-transmitting opening 12 faces the brush head 200. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the light-transmitting opening 12 faces the area surrounding the brush head 200. Still others, in yet another embodiment, the light-transmitting opening 12 has an optical axis 120 that intersects the axis of the motor shaft 141, and at least a portion of the brush head 200 or the area surrounding the brush head 200 is within the shooting range of the imaging module 30. The orientation of the light-transmitting opening 12 needs to match the shooting direction of the imaging module 30, so that the light-transmitting opening 12 does not obstruct the visible area of the imaging module 30 as much as possible, ensuring that the imaging module 30 can fully capture light and photograph the brush head 200 or the area surrounding the brush head 200.
[0076] In some further embodiments of this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, the light-transmitting opening 12 has an optical axis 120, and the angle formed by the intersection of the optical axis 120 and the axis of the motor shaft 141 is an acute angle. In these embodiments, the light-transmitting opening 12 is inclinedly opened on the body 10, which makes it convenient for the shooting module 30 to be tilted and can capture more of the brush head 200 and its surrounding area.
[0077] In some further embodiments of this application, the cross-sectional dimension of the light-transmitting aperture 12 is greater than or equal to the cross-sectional dimension of the lens 32 of the imaging module 30. In these examples, when the cross-sectional dimension of the lens 32 is less than or equal to the cross-sectional dimension of the light-transmitting aperture 12, the light-transmitting aperture 12 can have a large light-receiving area without obstructing the light-receiving surface of the imaging module 30, provided that the light-receiving surface of the imaging module 30 is directly opposite the light-receiving surface of the imaging module 30. This allows the imaging module 30 to receive light to the maximum extent, achieving complete imaging through the lens 32 of the imaging module 30, and ensuring that the field of view of the imaging module 30 is not obstructed.
[0078] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made to Figure 2The orthographic projection of the lens 32 of the imaging module 30 onto any cross-section of the light-transmitting aperture 12 lies within that cross-section. As an optical element, the lens 32 of the imaging module 30 can focus the light from the object to be photographed onto the sensor (not shown) inside the imaging module 30. The light-facing surface of the lens 32 serves as the light-entry surface of the imaging module 30. When the orthographic projection of the lens 32 onto any cross-section of the light-transmitting aperture 12 lies within the contour of that cross-section, the light-transmitting aperture 12 has a large light-entry area, allowing sufficient light to enter from the outside through the light-transmitting aperture 12 without obstructing the imaging of the lens 32 of the imaging module 30.
[0079] In some embodiments of this application, the outline of the light-transmitting opening 12 is circular, elliptical, square, or irregular. The light-transmitting opening 12 can be processed according to actual needs, making the shape design of the light-transmitting opening 12 more flexible.
[0080] In some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the handle 100 also includes a light-transmitting element 20, which covers the light-transmitting opening 12 and seals the light-transmitting opening 12. The light-transmitting element 20 not only allows light to pass through, enabling the imaging module 30 to normally sense light and form images, but it also seals the light-transmitting opening 12, isolating external dust and moisture from the outside of the mounting cavity 11, thus creating a better working environment for the imaging module 30.
[0081] In some further embodiments of this application, the thickness of the light-transmitting element 20 is greater than or equal to 0.3 mm and less than or equal to 1.5 mm. This allows the light-transmitting element 20 to transmit sufficient light and enables sufficient light to enter the light-receiving surface of the imaging module 30, ensuring the desired imaging effect. For example, the thickness can be 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.2 mm, 1.4 mm, or 1.5 mm, etc., so that the entire light-transmitting element 20 has a certain strength, is easy to assemble, is easy to seal the light-transmitting opening 12, and can also transmit sufficient light to facilitate the light entering the imaging module 30 and forming an image.
[0082] In some embodiments of this application, the light-transmitting element 20 is bonded to the surface of the body 10 to seal the light-transmitting opening 12. For example, an adhesive backing can be applied to the side of the light-transmitting element 20 facing the light-transmitting opening 12, allowing the light-transmitting element 20 to be adhered to the first light-transmitting segment 121 (the first light-transmitting segment 121 is as follows). Figure 7 (As shown). For example, adhesive can be applied to the side of the light-transmitting element 20 facing the light-transmitting opening 12, allowing the light-transmitting element 20 to be adhered to the light-transmitting opening 12, thus saving adhesive usage. In other words, in these embodiments, the light-transmitting element 20 and the handle housing 13 are separate components; the light-transmitting element 20 can be assembled independently onto the handle housing 13 and seal the light-transmitting opening 12.
[0083] In some embodiments of this application, the light-transmitting element 20 is made of glass or plastic. Both glass and plastic parts have good light transmittance and a certain strength, allowing sufficient light to pass through the light-transmitting element 20 and ensuring sufficient light enters the light-receiving surface of the imaging module 30, thus guaranteeing the desired imaging effect. When the light-transmitting element 20 is made of plastic, it also facilitates integration with the handle shell 13 of the body 10 (the structure of the handle shell 13 is as follows...). Figure 2 As shown, the light-transmitting element 20 of this application can be integrally molded with the handle shell 13, or it can be separately assembled onto the handle shell 13 to seal the light-transmitting opening 12, as described in the foregoing embodiments.
[0084] In some further embodiments of this application, the number of light-transmitting openings 12 is the same as the number of shooting modules 30 and light-transmitting elements 20. Multiple light-transmitting openings 12 are provided on the body 10, each light-transmitting opening 12 is covered with a light-transmitting element 20, and each light-transmitting opening 12 is equipped with a shooting module 30. In these embodiments, different shooting modules 30 can be arranged facing different light-transmitting openings 12, so that each shooting module 30 can capture external images through its corresponding light-transmitting opening 12 and light-transmitting element 20. The number of light-transmitting openings 12, light-transmitting elements 20, and shooting modules 30 can be two, three, four, etc., in a one-to-one correspondence, and is not limited here.
[0085] In other embodiments of this application, a light-transmitting opening 12 extends circumferentially from the motor shaft 141, and multiple light-transmitting elements 20 are spaced apart on the light-transmitting opening 12. Multiple imaging modules 30 are located at different positions within the same light-transmitting opening 12. In these embodiments, different imaging modules 30 can be positioned opposite different locations of the same light-transmitting opening 12. That is, the light-transmitting opening 12 and the light-transmitting elements 20 cooperate to form a viewing window, which saves on the cost of setting the light-transmitting opening 12 and facilitates processing. In these embodiments, adjacent light-transmitting elements 20 can be sealed with opaque shells, thereby effectively sealing the entire light-transmitting opening 12. That is, a complete light-transmitting opening 12 is first opened on the handle shell 13, and then the entire light-transmitting opening 12 is alternately sealed by light-transmitting elements 20 and opaque shells, thereby allowing light to pass through different parts of the light-transmitting opening 12 while ensuring that the entire light-transmitting opening 12 is sealed.
[0086] It is understood that the light-transmitting opening 12 of this application can be sealed by the light-transmitting element 20. The number and matching form of the light-transmitting opening 12 and the light-transmitting element 20 can be flexibly selected according to actual needs to meet the shooting needs of the shooting module 30 and the overall needs of the body 10.
[0087] In some further embodiments of this application, such as Figure 8As shown, the light-transmitting element 20 has a first end 21 near the motor shaft 141 and a second end 22 away from the motor shaft 141. The light-transmitting element 20 is inclined downwards in the direction from the first end 21 to the second end 22, with the direction of the handle 100 relative to the brush head 200 considered downwards. It can be understood that the light-transmitting element 20 is designed to be lower in the direction away from the motor shaft 141. Since foam is highly likely to flow down the brush head 200 onto the light-transmitting element 20 during teeth cleaning, the inclined arrangement of the light-transmitting element 20 facilitates the downward sliding of water droplets onto the handle 100, preventing water accumulation on the light-transmitting element 20 and the handle 100. This allows the surface of the light-transmitting element 20 to dry quickly and does not obstruct light from entering through the light-transmitting opening 12.
[0088] In some embodiments of this application, when the handle 100 is in a natural vertical state, the downward tilt angle of the light-transmitting element 20 relative to the horizontal plane ranges from 10 degrees to 40 degrees. By controlling the tilt angle of the light-transmitting element 20, the water flowing onto the light-transmitting element 20 can be smoothly slid down, and the field of view of the shooting module 30 can be kept within a reasonable range. For example, the downward tilt angle of the light-transmitting element 20 can be 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, or 40 degrees, and can be selected as needed. Figure 8 As shown, the angle formed by the intersection of the perpendicular plane of the light-transmitting element 20 and the axis of the motor shaft 141 is α, and α is an acute angle. That is, the angle formed by the intersection of the plane parallel to the cross-section of the light-transmitting element 20 and the axis of the motor shaft 141 is β, and β is an acute angle. Figure 8As shown, the downward tilt angle of the light-transmitting element 20 can be understood as the angle formed between the plane containing the light-transmitting element 20 and the plane perpendicular to the motor shaft 141. This angle is the same as angle α, and its sum with angle β is 90 degrees. Therefore, when a smaller tilt angle is selected, such as 10 degrees or 20 degrees, the field of view of the imaging module 30 can be closer to the motor shaft 141, and the field of view of the imaging module 30 can cover the brush head 200 on the motor shaft 141 as much as possible. This allows the imaging module 30 to observe real-time information during the teeth cleaning process, facilitating the provision of necessary information for user interaction. When a larger tilt angle is selected, such as 40 degrees or 30 degrees, the field of view of the imaging module 30 is further away from the motor shaft 141, and the imaging module 30 can capture more information around the motor shaft 141, such as facial information and environmental information. It should also be noted that in these examples, since the light-transmitting element 20 is set at the light-transmitting opening 12, the optical axis 120 of the light-transmitting opening 12 can also have a certain angle with the motor shaft 141, corresponding to the inclined structure of the light-transmitting element 20. When the optical axis 120 of the light-transmitting opening 12 coincides with the central axis of the light-transmitting element 20, the angle between the optical axis 120 of the light-transmitting opening 12 and the motor shaft 141 can be regarded as the aforementioned angle α. That is to say, the entire light-transmitting opening 12 is also inclined relative to the motor shaft 141. Therefore, when the light-transmitting element 20 is installed at the light-transmitting opening 12, it is naturally inclined to the motor shaft 141.
[0089] In some specific examples, the central axis of the photosensitive center of the imaging module 30 coincides with or is parallel to the optical axis 120 of the light-transmitting port 12. In this case, the imaging module 30 is also tilted relative to the motor shaft 141. It can be seen that by synchronously adjusting the tilt of the light-transmitting element 20, the light-transmitting port 12, and the imaging module 30, all three can be tilted relative to the motor shaft 141.
[0090] In some embodiments of this application, reference is made again. Figure 2 And refer to Figure 7The light-transmitting opening 12 includes a first light-transmitting segment 121 and a second light-transmitting segment 122. The first light-transmitting segment 121 connects to the second light-transmitting segment 122. The cross-section of the first light-transmitting segment 121 is larger than that of the second light-transmitting segment 122. A light-transmitting element 20 is connected to the first light-transmitting segment 121 and seals the second light-transmitting segment 122. The imaging module 30 is positioned close to the second light-transmitting segment 122. In these examples, the light-transmitting opening 12 has a certain depth. The first light-transmitting segment 121 is located at a position connecting to the external environment, while the second light-transmitting segment 122 is located at a position connecting to the mounting cavity 11. For the connection points of the first light-transmitting segment 121 and the second light-transmitting segment 122 with different cross-sections, a certain stepped transition structure can be formed. Therefore, the side of the second light-transmitting segment 122 facing the first light-transmitting segment 121 can also serve as the side of the first light-transmitting segment 121, and this side can be used to mount the light-transmitting element 20. The light-transmitting element 20 is located in the first light-transmitting section 121 with a larger cross-section. The light-transmitting element 20 is not easy to slip out of the second light-transmitting section 122 with a smaller cross-section. This not only makes it easy to fix the light-transmitting element 20, but also allows the light-transmitting element 20 to completely block the second light-transmitting section 122 with a smaller cross-section, providing the necessary structural foundation for the design of the light-transmitting element 20 to be embedded in the first light-transmitting section 121. Since the overall size of the imaging module 30 is larger than that of the second light-transmitting segment 122, the imaging module 30 can be positioned close to the second light-transmitting segment 122, but the imaging module 30 will not be completely enclosed within the second light-transmitting segment 122. Therefore, for a lens 32 with a certain curvature, the closest distance between the imaging module 30 and the second light-transmitting segment 122 is such that part of the lens 32 extends into the second light-transmitting segment 122. However, for a lens 32 with a flat surface, the closest distance between the imaging module 30 and the second light-transmitting segment 122 is such that the gap between the lens 32 and the bottom surface of the second light-transmitting segment 122 is minimized, at which point the lens 32 will not extend into the second light-transmitting segment 122. Therefore, the light-facing surface of the lens 32 in this application will maintain a certain distance from the bottom surface of the light-transmitting element 20 located in the first light-transmitting segment 121.
[0091] In some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 1 and Figure 10 As shown, the body 10 includes a gripping section 161 and a transition section 162. The gripping section 161 connects to the transition section 162. The motor shaft 141 extends outward from the transition section 162. At least a portion of the transition section 162 has a gradually decreasing cross-sectional size in the direction toward the motor shaft 141. At this time, at least a portion of the surface of the transition section 162 is inclined relative to the motor shaft 141, and there is a certain angle between the surface of at least a portion of the transition section 162 and the motor shaft 141. In a specific embodiment, since the space required for the motor shaft 141 to extend out of the body 10 is small, the cross-sectional size of the transition section 162 closer to the motor shaft 141 is generally smaller, while the cross-sectional size of the transition section 162 closer to the gripping section 161 is larger. Therefore, the surface of the transition section 162 with the final change in cross-sectional size is inclined downward relative to the motor shaft 141.
[0092] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 and Figure 10 As shown, a light-transmitting opening 12 is provided on the transition section 162; refer to... Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the shooting module 30 is positioned directly opposite the light-transmitting opening 12. In these embodiments, the transition section 162 is closer to the top surface of the body 10 than the grip section 161. Therefore, when the light-transmitting opening 12 is opened on the transition section 162 with a change in cross-sectional size, the light-transmitting opening 12 is positioned close to the top surface of the body 10. The light-transmitting opening 12 is also inclined downward relative to the motor shaft 141. At this time, the shooting module 30 can also be installed at an angle, which makes it less likely for water to accumulate on the surface of the shooting module 30, and the visible range of the shooting module 30 can be adjusted to a larger area around the brush head 200.
[0093] In some further embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, the body 10 also includes a bracket 15 located in the mounting cavity 11, one end of which extends to the transition section 162, and a shooting module 30 is mounted on the bracket 15 near the light-transmitting port 12. This arrangement ensures that the light-inlet surface of the shooting module 30 faces the light-transmitting port 12, and that the shooting module 30 is located at the light-transmitting port 12, facilitating the rapid transmission of light from the light-transmitting port 12 to the shooting module 30, which is beneficial for the shooting module 30 to capture images.
[0094] In some embodiments of this application, the shooting module 30 is activated and begins operation when the motor 14 of the handle 100 starts working. In other embodiments, the shooting module 30 is activated and begins operation when the handle 100 is picked up by the user from a static standby state and its posture changes. In other examples, the handle 100 is provided with a separate control button to control the shooting module 30 to independently open or close the shooting screen. The activation and deactivation modes of the shooting module 30 can be set according to actual needs, and no limitations are imposed here.
[0095] In some embodiments of this application, such as Figure 2 As shown, the main body 10 also includes a circuit board 18, which is connected to the imaging module 30 via wires. The circuit board 18 is fixed to one side of the bracket 15, thus fixing both the circuit board 18 and the imaging module 30 relative to the mounting cavity 11. After electrical connection, signal transmission is stable. The circuit board 18 can provide control commands to the imaging module 30, and can also receive electrical signals (such as the electrical signals corresponding to the captured image) from the imaging module 30, process and analyze them, thereby generating information for user decision-making.
[0096] In some embodiments of this application, the body 10 also includes a battery (not shown in the figure). The battery is connected to the shooting module 30 via wires and is electrically connected to the circuit board 18. The battery is also mounted on the bracket 15, thereby fixing the battery in position relative to the mounting cavity 11. The battery is electrically connected to the shooting module 30 and the circuit board 18, respectively, and can provide the necessary power for the normal operation of the shooting module 30 and the circuit board 18.
[0097] In this application, the principles and related structures of how the motor 14 drives the brush head 200 to vibrate and / or oscillate are prior art well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here. Similarly, the principles and related structures of how the imaging module 30 captures images of the external environment are also prior art well known to those skilled in the art and will not be described in detail here.
[0098] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this utility model, but the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model, and these modifications or substitutions should all be covered within the protection scope of this utility model. Therefore, the protection scope of this utility model should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. An oral care device, characterized in that, Includes a handle and a care device; the handle includes: The body includes a motor, a handle housing, and a bracket. The handle housing has a mounting cavity and a light-transmitting opening that communicates with the mounting cavity. The motor and the bracket are located in the mounting cavity, and the motor shaft extends from the mounting cavity and connects to the care unit. Multiple imaging modules are mounted on the bracket, with the light-incoming surfaces of the multiple imaging modules facing the light-transmitting port. The multiple imaging modules are arranged at intervals along the circumference of the motor shaft. Each imaging module has a different imaging direction, which is directed towards the side with the nursing component. The field of view of the multiple imaging modules can cover at least a portion of the nursing component or the area surrounding the nursing component.
2. The oral care device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple shooting modules are evenly arranged with the axis of the motor shaft as the central axis.
3. The oral care device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The plurality of shooting modules includes two, and the two shooting modules are symmetrically arranged in the mounting cavity with the axis of the motor shaft as the axis of symmetry; or, the two shooting modules include a first shooting module and a second shooting module, wherein a first line is drawn connecting the geometric center of the first shooting module and the axis of the motor shaft perpendicularly, and a second line is drawn connecting the geometric center of the second shooting module and the axis of the motor shaft perpendicularly, and the included angle between the first line and the second line is an obtuse angle.
4. The oral care device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The shooting fields of view of the multiple shooting modules are completely different or partially overlap; or, the shooting fields of view of the multiple shooting modules correspond to different areas of the nursing device.
5. The oral care device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The mounting axis of the shooting module is parallel to or intersects with the axis of the motor shaft.
6. The oral care device as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The angle formed by the intersection of the mounting axis of the shooting module and the axis of the motor shaft is an acute angle.
7. The oral care device as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The shooting module is arranged at an angle downwards from one end near the motor shaft to the other end away from the motor shaft, wherein the direction of the handle relative to the care piece is downwards.
8. The oral care device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Using a plane perpendicular to the length extension direction of the handle as a reference plane, the orthographic projection of the lens of the imaging module on the reference plane is located within the orthographic projection of the handle on the reference plane.
9. The oral care device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The light-transmitting opening is oriented toward the care device; or, the light-transmitting opening is oriented toward the area surrounding the care device; or, the light-transmitting opening has an optical axis that intersects with the axis of the motor shaft, and at least a portion of the care device or the area surrounding the care device is within the shooting range of the shooting module.
10. The oral care device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The cross-sectional dimension of the light-transmitting opening is greater than or equal to the cross-sectional dimension of the lens of the imaging module; or, the orthographic projection of the lens of the imaging module onto any cross-section of the light-transmitting opening is located within that cross-section.
11. The oral care device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a light-transmitting element, which covers the light-transmitting opening and seals the light-transmitting opening.
12. The oral care device as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The number of light-transmitting openings is the same as the number of shooting modules and light-transmitting components. Multiple light-transmitting openings are formed on the handle shell, each light-transmitting opening is covered by a light-transmitting component, and a shooting module is located at each light-transmitting opening; or... A light-transmitting opening extends circumferentially from the motor shaft, and multiple light-transmitting elements are spaced apart on the light-transmitting opening. Multiple imaging modules are located at different positions within the same light-transmitting opening.
13. The oral care device as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The light-transmitting element has a first end near the motor shaft and a second end away from the motor shaft. The light-transmitting element is inclined downward in the direction from the first end to the second end, wherein the direction of the handle relative to the care element is downward.
14. The oral care device as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The downward tilt angle of the light-transmitting element ranges from 10 degrees to 40 degrees.
15. The oral care device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The body includes a grip section and a transition section, the grip section is connected to the transition section, the motor shaft extends outward from the transition section, at least a portion of the transition section has a gradually decreasing cross-sectional size in the direction toward the motor shaft; a light-transmitting opening is provided on the transition section, and the shooting module is positioned directly opposite the light-transmitting opening.